2014
Answer Book A community & relocation guide
WELCOME HOME Community and business leaders talk why you’re living in the right place
PLACES TO KNOW
Parks, schools, hospitals and more of the places around North Fulton and South Forsyth
MAYORS SOUND OFF
Local leaders give an inside look to their cities
from Appen Media Group
The only good thing about
CONCUSSIONS is that they can be
T R E AT E D . Knowing the facts could save your athlete’s life. Recognition and proper management of concussions when they first occur can prevent further injury or even death. Most athletes can safely return to play after a concussion, but must recover at their own rate. The Concussion Institute at Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth is the first facility of its kind in the Southeast, and its experts help athletes return to the field as quickly, and as safely, as possible. Learn more about concussions and how to protect your athlete. Download A Parent’s Guide to Concussion Care at gwinnettsportsmed.com/resources.
2 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Transforming Healthcare
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 3
Letter from the publisher
CONTENTS
Welcome to our Relocation Answer Book – our best one ever! We included more local and custom maps than any of our previous issues. We love maps because they give you great reasons to keep the Answer Book on your coffee table all year. In addition to all of the maps, there is plenty of important information that new and longtime residents will find useful. We now create four different Answer Books – one each quarter. We publish the education edition, the relocation edition, the medical edition and the lifestyles edition, in that order. All of these editions are great resources for residents. They are also incredibly wise advertising values. They tend to 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 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. All of the editions are great advertising buys. If you
You’ve got mail, Page 8
Get on the Greenway, Page 14 An inside look at North Fulton and South Forsyth’s most unique bike trail
Hospital Profiles, Page 20
Get familiar with the hospitals in your area Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth, 20 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 22 North Fulton Hospital, 24
Parks & Rec, Page 48
Find out what each city park has to offer Park facility chart, 48-49 City park map, 51 National and local leaders National and State officers, Fulton County, 56 Alpharetta, Johns Creek, City Halls, 58 Forsyth County, Voting qualifications, 59 Milton, Fulton county voting precincts, 60 Forsyth County voting precincts, Precinct map, 61
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Relocation Answer Book™ PUBL I S HE R S
Ray & Christina Appen E D I TO R I AL
Ray Appen, Publisher, Appen Media Group
PAGE 12
Letters from city Mayors, county leaders
Government, Page 56
have suggestions about content that we might want to include in the next edition, let me know and we’ll consider your ideas! My email is Ray@NorthFulton.com. The Answer Books are available to most chambers of commerce, cities, homeowner associations and real estate companies. We also home-deliver 45,000 throughout North Atlanta.
From left: Kathy and Kelle McConnell, celebrate their 10th anniversary with Tuscany Fine Furnishings along with William O'Connor, economic development manager for City of Milton; Samir Abdullahi, economic development manager for city of Alpharetta; Steve Stroud, executive director for Roswell Inc. and Courtney Barnardi, chief executive officer for Johns Creek Advantage. Photo by Abby Breaux.
Mapping it out
Overviews of places to know Chattahoochee parks and facilities, 44 Wills Park offers activities and amenities, 46 Places to know, 53 Hit the link, 54 Downtown Atlanta destinations, 62 Metro counties, 63 Metro Atlanta, 64
Features
A city ready for your business... Growth, 18 The real “Real Estate Trenches” in North Fulton, 18 Volunteering at North Fulton Hospital, 26 Delightful daytrip, 28 On with the show, 30 Renew Health Medical, 32 MARTA explained, 34 How to get your Ga. drivers license, 38 Avalon update, 40 Fun ways to help furry friends, 42 Johns Creek arts alliance, 43 Fresh from the farm to your kitchen table, 65 Calendar, 66 Resource Table, 70
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson Jonathan Copsey Will Houp Hatcher Hurd Aldo Nahed Ryan Peroni Marla Price Katie VanBrackle Caitlin Wagenseil PRO D UC TI O N
David Brown Arthur J. McNaughton Suzanne Pacey ADV E R TI S I N G
Phyllis Anderton Hans Appen Abby Breaux James Carr Mike Dorman Wendy Goddard Susan Hernandez June Meltzer Becky Nelson Jade Rodgers advertising@northfulton.com
To Advertise In The 2015 Answer Book Call: (770) 442-3278 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. 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 www.northfulton.com Email additions/corrections for the next edition to news@northfulton.com
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 5
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CHILDREN’S AT FORSYTH - 410 PEACHTREE PKWY., CUMMING CHILDREN’S AT NORTH POINT - 3795 MANSELL ROAD, ALPHARETTA Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 7
You’ve got mail 5 unread messages
Community leaders from Alpharetta, Forsyth County, Johns Creek, Milton and Roswell give you an inside look on what's happening north of Atlanta.
Milton on my mind As always, I’d like to thank Appen newspapers for letting speak directly to you through this Answer Book. They couldn’t have picked a better time to let me highlight the many wonderful things we’ve got happening in our beautiful city. If you drive around Milton, you’ve definitely noticed the four major road projects at intersections across the city. These include: Ga. 140 at New Providence Road: In July, CMES, Inc. began intersection improvements at Ga. 140 (Arnold Mill Road) and New Providence Road. Plans include redirecting the intersection approach, adding turn lanes and installing a traffic light. Work should be done by this summer. Ga. 372 at Providence Road/New Providence Road: In August, Bartow Paving Company, Inc. began intersection improvements at Ga. 372 (Birmingham Highway) and Providence and New Providence Roads. Plans include redirecting the intersection approach and installing a roundabout.
By Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood
We expect the intersection to be functional by late winter or early spring of 2015. Hopewell Road at Francis and Cogburn roads: In August, Baldwin Paving Company, Inc. also began intersection improvements at Hopewell Road at Cogburn and Francis roads. Plans include installing a roundabout. Crews should be finishing up in late summer or early fall. Bell Memorial Park: Additionally, the City of Milton is currently in the process of more than doubling the size of Bell Memorial Park. The new park design will have four dedicated baseball fields with centerfield dimensions of 180, 200, 200 and 280 feet. There will be two rectangular fields with at least one being synthetic turf. Both fields will be lined for football, soccer and lacrosse. The second field will also be set up as a 200-foot baseball field. Programming between spring, summer and fall will vary the configuration of four baseball fields and two rectangular fields versus five baseball fields
and one rectangular field. Hopewell Youth Association baseball will continue to operate normally through spring 2014. On Memorial Day, the park will be closed. Construction will start June 1. The city is currently negotiating with Forsyth County Parks and Recreation, City of Alpharetta Parks and Recreation and Fulton County Schools to house activities normally planned at Bell Memorial. This is just a quick look at the major things we’ve got going on – and we’re adding more and more exciting projects and programs almost every day. So come to our Web site, www.cityofmiltonga. us, or visit us on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube to stay up-to-date on everything we’ve got happening. You’ll be glad you did.
State of Forsyth County
It is a great privilege to represent the citizens as the District 1 Commissioner for Forsyth County and to serve as chairman of the Board of Commissioners. In this, my fourth year as a county commissioner, I can honestly say that I have an even greater appreciation for our community than ever before. There are a number of exciting projects taking place throughout Forsyth County, not the least of which are the new courthouse and jail being constructed in downtown Cumming. We broke ground for these new buildings last July and the progress that has been made since is remarkable. I hope you have had a chance to view the time-lapse videos showing the construction progress, which are updated weekly on the county Web site at www.forsythco.com.
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By Forsyth County Commission Chairman R.J. “Pete” Amos
The new courthouse and jail are funded by the voter-approved SPLOST VII program, so we certainly extend our thanks and appreciation to our citizens for making the new buildings a reality. They are important enhancements to the county’s judicial and public safety services that will serve our community well for many years to come. Both have been designed not only to serve our residents today but also keeping the county’s continued future growth in mind. The new courthouse and jail will be connected to one another, providing for improved and secure inmate movement between the two and overall improved efficiency, and will include enhanced security systems. Forsyth County’s commitment to public safety doesn’t stop with these projects. Last July, new Fire Station 3 in the Matt community of northwest Forsyth County opened, with funding coming from SPLOST VI and Impact Fees. Another project that is underway and nearing completion is our new
Continued on page 70
Johns Creek: Your ‘home’town By Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker
Growing up Roswell By Roswell Mayor Jere Wood
When Roswell incorporated as a city in 1854, its city limits extended one mile in every direction from the Presbyterian Church. Barrington King, along with everyone else in town walked to work, to the store, to church, and everywhere else they needed to go every day. When I was growing up, Roswell was transforming into a suburban city where you needed a car to go anywhere. New developments did not have sidewalks because no one walked. Today Roswell is one of the largest cities in Georgia, and I still need a car or bicycle to get anywhere, but residents who live in Old Town Roswell (the corridor along Highway 9 south of Holcomb Bridge Road including Canton Street) can walk everywhere they need to go. Roswell is not the only city that is developing a walkable community. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) found that during the recent recession, more than 50% of the new construction in Metro Atlanta occurred on less than 5% of the land in areas identified as walkable communities, including Roswell. Sandy Springs and Alpharetta are spending a total of $85 million to create walkable communities in their cities. The “New Millennial”
Continued on page 70
In Johns Creek we want to put the ‘home’ in hometown Here in Johns Creek, we believe that one of the most important characteristics of a hometown can be summed up in one word—home. Although we are one of the largest cities in the State of Georgia, we never lose sight of the knowledge that so many of us came here to find the perfect place to raise a family. We built outstanding schools, top-notch recreation opportunities, and a burgeoning cultural landscape. As a City we work to support and enhance that. Our citizens and businesses continue to thrive while their local government ensures that we continue to invest wisely, in the best interest of residents and businesses, while protecting this place that we all call home. Building our home has included significant investment in our quality of life—and not just on the recreation side. In just a few years, Johns Creek has installed a state-of-the-art traffic control center and our major roadways, once some of the most congested in metro Atlanta, have seen improvement through our fiber optic Intelligent Traffic System. Road improvements are currently proceeding on a pace never before seen in north Fulton County. Dissatisfied with the 911 system our citizens had under previous government, the City partnered with other municipalities to build Chatcomm, one of the most advanced 911 centers in the nation. In the first year, we cut response times by
thirty percent. At the same time we have steadily enhanced leisure opportunities in Johns Creek. A weekly farmers market in the summer, Movies in the Park, and the Johns Creek Arts Festival are just a few of the offerings our citizens now enjoy. The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center has received steady renovation and upkeep to their historical buildings so that the volunteers there can focus on preserving the natural landscape and culture of our region. Several new multi-purpose fields have been built at Shakerag Park, which lies along our eastern edge, bordered by the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. This summer we will open an amphitheater at Newtown Park and welcome all to an outdoor summer concert series. Simply put—when you come to Johns Creek, you know you have arrived. So come, and enjoy a cup of coffee or a walk in the park. Visit the Johns Creek Arts Center, or take in a symphony concert. Perhaps a visit to a library is more your style? Well, we’ve got two of the largest circulation libraries in Fulton County, right here. Our hometown is a little gem just south of the mountains and north of Atlanta. It will take a minute to get here, and we kind of like that. As Mayor of Johns Creek, it is an honor to invite you to stop in and see all we have to offer. My bet is that you will stay awhile.
Alpharetta, this native Atlantan’s hometown
By Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle I was born a fifth-generation Atlantan in good ol’ Crawford Long Hospital, boasting a 555 Peachtree Street address. Most of my formative years, however, were spent in Gainesville, Ga. So, which one is my hometown? Atlanta or Gainesville? Neither. It’s no secret. One of my biggest desires for Alpharetta is that it be a hometown for the majority of her residents. But, how? Or perhaps more importantly, why? Life can be good, and even meaningful, in a town that is not your hometown. So, why care? It starts with design. At the heart of it, I believe we were designed for community. When a person heads off into the wilderness for a week with only the things
he can carry, we do not call it living, we call it survival. We were each designed with a unique set of skills, interests, and abilities. These differences allow us to contribute to others and ourselves in a very efficient way, making possible a very agreeable quality of life, which we call community. Likewise, I also believe we were designed for connection. This is why when you arrive at a large event or meeting you immediately scan the room for familiar faces. And, when you find one, you make a beeline towards your “long lost” friend. It’s why you perk up when you learn someone whom you’ve never met grew up in the same town or attended the same high school. Community and connection, however, do not by
Continued on page 70 Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 9
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Cathi Lund Licensed Broker Realtor® 770-403-0360
Top 3 Team in Coldwell Banker
Roswell—SOLD
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Lakeside@Ansley ~ 225 Ansley Close 4 Br · 5.5 Ba · Amazing Terrace with Upscale 2nd Kitchen FMLS# 5260241 $789,000—SOLD
Lakeside@Ansley ~ 525 Grove Park 5 Br · 6.5 Ba · Spectacular Backyard · Private Cul De Sac FMLS# 5194569 $824,500
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Tiffany Schrader Transaction Coordinator Licensed Agent
770-993-9572 Alpharetta—SOLD
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White Columns ~ 150 White Columns 6 Br · 6.2 Ba · Fitness Room · Steam Shower & Sauna · Pool FMLS# 5108686 $775,000
Thornberry ~ 10530 Stanyan 6 Br · 5.5 Ba · Completely Renovated · Updates Throughout FMLS# 5216143 $634,000
Roswell—SOLD Lakeside@Ansley ~ 330 Inman Pl 5 Br · 4.5 Ba · Huge Fenced Yard · Cul de Sac · Finished Terrace FMLS# 5194564 $635,000
Estates@Riverbirch ~ 160 Boulder 6 Br · 4.5 Ba · On Boulder Creek · Renovated Kitchen · Pool FMLS# 5156429 $650,000
Roswell—UNDER CONTRACT
Canton—UNDER CONTRACT Woodmont ~ 108 Brightmoor 5 Br · 4.5 Ba · New Construction · Incredible Master Suite FMLS# 5171334 $599,900
Roswell—SOLD Creekside ~ 740 Charleston 4 Br · 425 Ba · Renovated Kitchen & SS Appliances · Potential 5th Br FMLS# 5215583 $420,000
Roswell—NEW LISTING Lakeside@Ansley ~ 315 Inman Place 6 Br · 6.2 Ba · Incredible Outdoor Kitchen & Fireplace · Finished Terrace FMLS# 5265522 $949,000
Roswell—UNDER CONTRACT Brookfield ~ 890 Ferncroft Court 5 Br · 4.5 Ba · Renovated Kitchen · New Appliances, Renovated Master FMLS# 5261340 $475,000
Milton—SOLD
Roswell—SOLD Chickering ~ 855 S Abbeywood 6 Br · 5 Ba · Finished Terrace Level · Private Setting FMLS# 5243115 $491,000
Crabapple Crossing ~ 711 McCaus 4 Br · 3.5 Ba · Gourmet Kitchen · Fireside Family Room FMLS# 5219713 $500,000
Cumming—UNDER CONTRACT Lake Astoria ~ 2810 Astoria Ave 6 Br · 5 Ba · Large Screened Porch & Grilling Deck · Private Backyard FMLS# 5266638 $435,000
Becky Beaver Realtor® 678-772-7801
Roswell—SOLD Lakeside@Ansley ~ 455 Prado Ter 5 Br · 4.5 Ba · Amazing Backyard · Recirculating Stream w/2 Waterfalls FMLS# 5176982 $769,000
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Average Days on Market 22 Days for 2014 99% List Price to Sales Price Ratio
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 11
Designing a unique community By CAROLYN RIDDER ASPENSON The managers of community development from Johns Creek, Roswell, Alpharetta and Milton gathered recently at Tuscany Fine Furnishings to talk about business development for North Fulton. In keeping with celebrating Tuscany’s 10th anniversary, owners Kelle and Kathy McDonnell wanted to celebrate their success, but also position themselves for the future. “It’s exciting to see a store that’s been a part of the community for so long, make it through the tough times and come out a success,” said Steve Stroud, executive director of Roswell Inc, the economic development arm
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of the city of Roswell. “It says great things not only about the store but the commitment of the McConnell’s to the North Fulton community.” Stroud was one of four community development leaders invited to Tuscany Fine Furnishings to discuss economic and community development in North Fulton. Courtney Bernardi, CEO of Johns Creek Advantage, attended the meeting along with Milton and Alpharetta Economic Development Managers, William O’Connor and Samir Abdullahi, respectively. “We had some rough times,” Kelle McConnell said. “But we made a commitment to the community and worked hard to keep moving forward.” Their efforts worked and the store,
a fine furnishings and interior design center located at 1570 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell , is going stronger than ever. The shop is located in the Connection Holcomb Bridge, which Hawthorne Retail Partners took ownership of in 2011. Hawthorne has been key to the renovation and redevelopment of the entire center that is nearly 30 years old,” McConnell said. “They have beautified the center with a new face lift and the center landscaping has never looked better in an effort to revitalize the area,” she said. The Tuscany Fine Furnishings store offers a wide assortment of furniture and accessories for every room along with interior design services from
professional designers. Kathy McConnell is a designer herself and makes the purchases for the store “We realized with the downturn in the economy in 2004, people were staying home and their homes became even more important to them,” Kathy McConnell said. “So we directed our efforts at helping the community make their homes comfortable and a place for family and friends to gather.” Through guerrilla marketing efforts and a commitment to their customer base, the couple pushed through the rough times and came out on top. “We don’t want to sell a piece of furniture and then never see our customer again,” Kathy McConnell said. “Our goal is to establish relationships
with our customers and help them design the perfect space, whether it’s one room or an entire house.” “We don’t stick to just one or two companies,” she said. “I’m constantly looking for the perfect pieces and if that means one company has two pieces and another has five, then I’ll work with them.” She said they have dealers from all across the country and if something isn’t in the store, they can get it. “We work with our customers to make their rooms perfect for them,” she said. Their commitment to their customer base is working: Tuscany Fine Furnishings has received the best furniture store in Roswell award for the past four years. “We are certainly pleased with our success,” Kelle McConnell said, “especially during the tough economic times. Now we feel like we are well positioned for the next 10 years.” “Retail follows rooftops,” William O’Connor, economic development manager for the City of Milton, said. “Businesses are much like parks, they’re an amenity and we all must work together to encourage businesses to the area.” “We like to think of ourselves as a team, working together for the betterment of the North Fulton area,” Bernardi said. “Without one of the cities, the process is just not complete.” The process, she said, is a collective effort to encourage businesses and residents to move to the North Fulton area. “Each city has its niche market,” Stroud said. “For example, Roswell’s core industry is restaurants and retail.” Stroud said Roswell’s economic team works to target restaurants because the city attracts them. “Our community expects Roswell to have good dining,” he said. “And that good dining attracts customers from all over the area, which in turn, is good for the community.” Though each city has a niche, they all expressed an important element of community development: The people. “Ultimately it’s about the people,” Samir Abdullahi, economic development manager for Alpharetta, said. “Alpharetta is a player in the office market so we work deliberately to attract those employees to live here instead of drive here from other cities every day.” He said about 90 percent of the city’s residents leave the city daily for jobs elsewhere. Conversely, of the 100,000 people in Alpharetta every day, 70 percent of
Ultimately it’s about the people. Alpharetta is a player in the office market so we work deliberately to attract those employees to live here instead of drive here from other cities every day.” Samir Abdullahi, Economic development manager for Alpharetta them live elsewhere. “Therefore it is our goal to provide a community and lifestyle beneficial not only to the people who live here but the people who work here, too,” he said. All said the trend in community growth is heading in the direction of living and shopping communities. “The new development, Avalon, in Alpharetta is a perfect example of a live and shop community,” Stroud said. “The younger professionals as well as the empty-nesters are looking to live in a community with a social lifestyle, without having to get in the car.” Each city representative said having a mix of people in different phases of their lives living and working in North Fulton is a common goal. “We’ve already got C-level executives and are working toward offering an appealing environment to the younger crowd through the city amenities, housing options and businesses,” Stroud said. The group said developing North Fulton to appeal to both older and younger residents requires careful, detailed planning. “We strive to create a lifestyle for both,” Abdullahi said. “For example, with amenities like the Verizon Amphitheater we have a place for all ages to see performers of all types of music.” All four cities are focusing on bringing in more small businesses in order to keep residents from having to drive to Atlanta to shop. “Fifteen years ago we didn’t have stores like Tuscany Fine Furnishings,” Stroud said. “But now the North Fulton corridor has several unique shops and no one has to drive into the city to shop anymore.” “We realize each of our cities can and do stand alone,” Bernardi said. “But we’re working together to create a uniqueness to North Fulton County so that when people come here to visit or work, they leave wanting to live here and hopefully, they will.”
Business/Economic Developers in North Fulton Samir Abdullah, Economic Development Manager for the City of Alpharetta 678-297-6024 sabdullahi@alpharetta.ga.us www.alpharetta.ga.us Courtney Bernardi, Johns Creek Advantage CEO 706-870-7334 cbernardi@johnscreekadvantage.org www.JohnsCreekAdvantage.org William F. O’Connor III, Economic Development Manager for the City of Milton 678-242-2534 and 518-605-7510 William.O’Connor@cityofmiltonga.us www.cityofmiltonga.us Steve Stroud, Executive Director of Roswell Inc. steve@roswellinc.org 678.823.4004 x 1001 www.roswellinc.org
Tuscany Fine Furnishings has many elegant pieces that have garnered them best furniture store in Roswell award for the past four years. Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 13
Get on the Greenway By WILL HOUP and CAITLIN WAGENSAIL Since its inception, the Big Creek Greenway has proven to be a communal gem for Alpharetta, Roswell and Forsyth County. It has an intergenerational reach giving residents means of transportation and recreation. But what lies in the future for this nature trail? City of Alpharetta officials say there’s more path to come. “Our goal is to get our section extended north to somewhere near McGinnis Ferry and Ronald Reagan Parkway,” said Mike Perry, Alpharetta Parks and Recreation director. The current path ends at Marconi Drive. By extending the path, Perry said, they would want to meet up with Forsyth County’s Greenway. The Forsyth Greenway’s southernmost tip is on McFarland Parkway. The 6.8-mile trail in Forsyth County offers a 12foot wide concrete and boardwalk path and plans to span about 15 miles in Forsyth County alone, in addition to connecting to the Greenway in Alpharetta. “We’re looking at different options to get it to that point,” Perry said. “We’re trying to negotiate with some of the property owners along that route to see what is the most feasible route.” Predicting when this future trail would develop is still difficult to say because of cost estimates and finding the right route. The project would be between $1.5 million and $3 million for the future section, according to Perry. The current trail stretches for about eight miles and has numerous entry points in the city. It’s also considered a linear park with about a 12-foot-wide concrete path that skims along Big Creek, which connects to the Chattahoochee River. In addition to walkers and runners, the Greenway also offers popular bike paths. Expect crowds on good weather days.
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Hit the trail • Use trail only during daylight hours • No littering • No smoking • No alcohol or drugs • No off-road vehicles or golf carts • No horseback riding • No camping off of Greenway • Pets permitted on a leash • 10-mph speed limit Forsyth Expansion:
Construction on a new phase of Big Creek Greenway in Forsyth County is expected to begin soon, officials say. The project, funded by the 2008 voter-approved Parks, Recreation and Green Space Bond, will likely be finished by October 2014. The cost of the project totals about $2.8 million, coming in under the $3.6 million estimated cost. “Phase four of the Big Creek Greenway consists of constructing a 12-foot-wide multi-use trail out of concrete and boardwalk along Big Creek and Kelly Mill Road,” said Jodi Gardner, director of communications for Forsyth County. The project starts at the Bethelview Road trail head, continues along Big Creek for approximately
2.1 miles and then runs parallel to Kelly Mill Road for approximately 0.75 miles, ending at Johnson Road, Gardner said. Once phase four is completed, the trail will span approximately 9.65 miles in Forsyth County. Tim Allen, Forsyth County assistant director of engineering, said the fourth phase will consist of about 1.85 miles of concrete trail, 0.96 miles of boardwalk and two bridges. And a project is in sight to connect the Forsyth Greenway to the Alpharetta Greenway. “We are working on a project that will add a sidewalk connection between Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Shiloh Road to connect Big Creek trail to the multi-use trail in 2014,” Allen said. He added that the City of Alpharetta is working to complete a connection from Ronald Reagan Boulevard down McGinnis Ferry Road to the greenway in Alpharetta. A time frame for constructing a fifth phase of the greenway has not yet been decided, but Allen said funding is available for it under the Parks, Recreation and Green Space Bond. The project will move forward once the board of commissioners authorizes right of way for purchasing and construction.
Legend Exsisting Greenway Planned Greenway Conceptual Greenway River Road
Bi g
Cr ee
k
Restroom
6.3 mi Bethelview Rd., End Forsyth Greenway 3.6 mi
Fowler Park
0 mi Begin Forsyth Greenway at McFarland Rd. 7.2 mi Webb Bridge Rd., End of Alpharetta/Roswell Greenway
Big Creek
6.4 mi YMCA
5.9 mi Old Milton Parkway Crossing 4.1 mi
Rock Mill Park, Kimball Bridge Crosswalk
2.3 mi Haynes Bridge Rd. 1.5 mi
Cr
r eR ive oc he ho at ta
0 mi Begin Trail at Roswell’s Big Creek Park
Big
1 mi Mansell Road Alpharetta/ Roswell City Limits
eek
North Point Parkway
Ch
“We live close to the Greenway and love the variety of routes we can take. It’s great that it goes for miles and miles,” said Christine and Dale Gray, of Alpharetta.
Alpharetta / Roswell
KEVIN O’BRIEN
Forsyth
Parking
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 15
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Phone: 678-254-2333 www.BiancoPrimaryCare.com Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 17
A city ready for your business… Growth By STEVE STROUD & DOREEN SCASCITELLI Opening a small business in any city is an investment in the community. Roswell, GA recognizes that small businesses are important to the economy and provide quality jobs. The City of Roswell offers great resources for entrepreneurs starting or expanding a small business. One unique resource for businesses is Roswell Inc. Roswell Inc promotes economic development through a public private partnership with the City of Roswell. Roswell Inc works with business owners to grow and expedite success. Roswell Inc and the City of Roswell realize that opening a business is a significant undertaking. Roswell Inc, in partnership with the City of Roswell, provides new businesses the tools they need to be successful. These tools include assistance with permitting and licensing, support for owners looking for a place for their company to open, educational workshops and connections to qualified employees, other professionals and business experts. This wide array of programs and initiatives support
small business growth and help entrepreneurs maximize their investments. Regardless of the size or phase of business, Roswell Inc supports entrepreneurs. Roswell Inc is at the forefront of the City of Roswell’s effort to provide direct assistance to business owners on a variety of levels. Small businesses are at the core
of Roswell’s economy in every industry - from culinary arts, to design, technology, medical and more. Roswell is a community where entrepreneurs looking to expand or open a business feel welcome, appreciated and are given the tools and assistance to succeed. Roswell, GA is committed to encouraging the continuous growth of small businesses, ensuring their success and
positioning them for future growth. Contact Roswell Inc to learn more about how your small business makes a big impact in Roswell, GA! www.roswellinc.org 678.823.4004 617 Atlanta Street, Suite 100 Roswell, GA 30075 info@roswellinc.org
The real “Real Estate Trenches” in North Fulton By CATHI LUND, LICENSED BROKER The Lund Group, Inc./Coldwell Banker Top Agent/Team in Roswell since 2001/Top 3 Team Companywide - 24 Million in Sales in 2013 As licensed realtors who are “in the real estate trenches” each day, we are often asked about the current state of the market, and what we expect to see. Having just weathered the real estate recession, we are finally seeing a rise in North Fulton home prices! When reviewing the media reports, one has to understand the source of the information and specifically what the data is referring to. When we hear that prices are up 15%, sellers get excited and tend to think that their home should be worth 15% more than it was last year. That is not typically the case. Normally, the reports are referring to the increase in median price…by averaging all areas and all price points. It is important to evaluate the specific price point and specific area of the home, when attempting to calculate the actual percentage of increase in price. When determining a price on their home, sellers will sometimes order an appraisal. Appraisers are looking in the rear view mirror…that is, they are
looking at the sales which have already occurred and those which have closed within the past 6 months. When pricing, it is important to also review the supply and demand for a particular area and to look at the homes which have recently gone under contract. In addition, the improvements to the property can add a great deal of value. There are many ways of evaluating pricing and quite a few sources of data that can be obtained. One thing is very clear…when selling a home… proper pricing is critical! Supply and demand is influencing home sales more than ever, since the inventory is quite low. In some areas of town, the low inventory is causing multiple offer situations. In those situations, homes will often sell for more money than the asking price. If you find yourself in a competitive bid, there are many things you can do to increase your chances of becoming the successful bidder. Consider seeking the
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expertise of a highly experienced, licensed real estate professional, who has dealt with competitive bids in the past…and who can guide you in the process. Finding the right house to become your new home is the fun and easy part. Making sure that the transaction makes it to the closing table with all parties still shaking hands, is where a realtor earns your respect. We expect prices to continue to rise throughout the year. It is likely that the rise will be slower than it was in 2013. As we see a gradual increase in prices, fewer and fewer homeowners are “underwater”, that is, owing more on their property than the property is worth. This allows some people to buy and sell properties, who were unable to do so in the past. A couple of factors which will slow down the price increases are 1) an increase in mortgage rates and 2) the new home construction. During the recession, new home building virtually came to a stop. Now, with the improving economy, many new homes are being built. The demand for new homes is high. New homes offer stiff competition for the resale market. This impact may cause the price gains on resale homes to slow, somewhat. Whether buying or selling...now is certainly a great time!
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Hospital Profiles
What hospital is right for you? We provide profiles the best hospitals in the area looking at areas of specialty, number of beds, locations and more.
WORLD-CLASS CARE WITH COMMUNITY ROOTS:
Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth Gwinnett Medical Center is an award-winning notfor-profit healthcare network including two hospitals, Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth and Gwinnett Medical Center-Lawrenceville, and various other support facilities. At GMC, we are transforming healthcare, and every facet of our healthcare system is designed with the patient in mind. This transformation is evident through state, regional and national accolades including being repeatedly ranked in the top five percent in the nation for clinical quality. Our staff includes some of the country’s most renowned, well-trained and well-educated physicians, specialist and employees. GMC-Duluth combines a quiet, healing environment with the latest in medical technology. Founded in 1946, the original hospital was a true community effort, built by dimes and dollars from farmers and businesses. Today GMC-Duluth is renowned for maintaining its warm and caring personality while offering top technology, the latest procedures and treatments, and the area’s best doctors and nurses.
Conveniently nestled between Peachtree Industrial Boulevard and Pleasant Hill Road, Gwinnett Medical Center–Duluth is the first all-digital hospital in north Atlanta serving Duluth, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Suwanee and surrounding communities. With private, spacious patient rooms and comfortable family suites, the hospital promotes patient healing while offering the very latest medical care for efficient treatment and quick recovery times. GMC–Duluth features six floors, 81 beds and six family suites; a natural, healing environment to enhance patient comfort, restaurant-style room service, patient-directed visitation program and other hotellike amenities. Specialty care includes: • The Concussion Institute • Glancy Rehabilitation Center • Center for Orthopedics • 24-hour Emergency Department GMC-Duluth is also home to the state’s leading
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Sports Medicine program. The dedicated surgical team and rehabilitation specialists help athletes prevent injury, heal and manage pain. In addition, GMC-Duluth is known for: • The Center for Weight Management at GMCDuluth offers comprehensive programs for surgical and non-surgical weight loss. (gwinnettbariatrics.org) • A national leader in minimally invasive surgery, GMC-Duluth offers the daVinci Robotic Surgery system that offers patients a virtually scarless surgery that minimizes hospital stay and recovery time. • Hudgens Professional Building houses the Center for Cancer Care, a service of Gwinnett Medical Center, Center for Screening Mammography and Gwinnett SportsRehab. • Outpatient Center at Gwinnett Medical CenterDuluth offers the Center for Women’s Diagnostic Imaging as well as Outpatient Surgery & Diagnostics. Visit us at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/Duluth or call 678-312-5000 for a physician referral. Gwinnett Medical Center–Duluth 3620 Howell Ferry Road Duluth, GA 30096 678-312-6800
Only in Alpharetta
From the simple pleasure of the outdoors to the vast array of events, shops and dining, Alpharetta has it all. The historic downtown district is a favorite destination to explore the quaint boutiques along Main Street and there is certainly no shortage of wonderful restuarants in the area.
www.AlpharettaChamber.com | (770) 817-7570 Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 21
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, a not-for-profit organization, is dedicated to making kids better today and healthier tomorrow. To help make kids healthier tomorrow, Children’s is dedicated to research and strives to find cures for pediatric diseases and disorders. Researchers at Children’s are actively involved in studies on issues ranging from autism and cystic fibrosis to cancer and neurological disorders. In collaboration with Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, pediatric neurosurgeon Barun Brahma, M.D., and Tobey MacDonald, M.D., Director of the Pediatric Neuro-oncology Program at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, are participating in groundbreaking brain tumor research that could one day help treat inoperable brain tumors. Like every Children’s location, the radiology centers are also created just for children and young adults, from the equipment and radiation doses to the protocols and staff. The Radiology Center at Webb Bridge, located in Alpharetta, offers X-ray and advanced imaging such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Children’s has worked hard to reduce radiation exposure on some scans by as much as 50 percent compared to adult facilities. The specialized care helps many children get better fast and live healthier lives. Managing more than half a million patient visits annually at three hospitals and more than 20 neighborhood locations, Children’s is the largest healthcare provider for children in Georgia and one of the largest pediatric clinical care providers in the country. From radiology and sports medicine to rehabilitation and urgent care, Children’s has pediatric services to help families in many counties, including Fulton. In order to help patients find the quickest care, the Children’s Urgent Care Centers and Emergency Departments post wait times online at choa. org/wait. Wait times for the Urgent Care Centers and the Emergency Departments at Scottish Rite and
Egleston hospitals can also be sent to a mobile phone by texting CHOA to 4ER411 (437411).* Children’s offers access to more than 60 pediatric specialties and programs and is ranked among the top children’s hospitals in the country by U.S.News & World Report. With generous philanthropic and volunteer support, Children’s has made an impact in the lives of children in Georgia, the United States and throughout the world. Visit choa.org/location for a full list of locations and directions.
North Fulton Neighborhood Locations Children’s at Forsyth 410 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 300 Cumming, GA 30041 404-785-3100 Services at this location include: • Diabetes and Endocrinology • Laboratory services • Neurophysiology (EEG) • Orthotics and prosthetics • Radiology • Rehabilitation services
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• Specialty care • Sports medicine • Urgent care Children’s at North Point 3795 Mansell Road Alpharetta, GA 30022 • Fracture Care • Specialty Services • Scoliosis Screening • Urgent Care Children’s at Old Milton Parkway 3300 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 370 Alpharetta, GA 30005 Orthotics and prosthetics Children’s at Webb Bridge 3155 North Point Parkway, Building A • Alpharetta, GA 30005 • Laboratory Services • Radiology • Sports Medicine
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hospitals Egleston hospital 1405 Clifton Road NE Atlanta, GA 30322
404-785-6000 Hughes Spalding hospital 35 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-785-9500 Scottish Rite hospital 1001 Johnson Ferry Road NE Atlanta, GA 30342 404-785-5252 * In case of an urgent concern or emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away. Wait times are updated every 15 minutes and are estimates based on the average time it takes for a patient to be placed in an exam room. Standard messaging fees will apply for texting. Hughes Spalding wait times may only be found online. Hughes Spalding is owned by Grady Health System® and managed by HSOC Inc., an affiliate of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Some physicians and affiliated healthcare professionals on the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta team are independent providers and are not our employees.
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North Fulton Hospital Since 1983, North Fulton Hospital has been your community hospital. While in our care, you’ll experience not only a warm, caring, “high-touch” environment but also a “high tech” atmosphere of expertise and know how. With our outstanding team members, remarkable doctors, and cutting –edge technology, we are proud to make a tremendous difference in healthcare every day. Our 202-bed facility serves North Fulton and surrounding counties through our team of more than 80 employees, 400 staff physicians, and 200 volunteers, many of whom have been with us since our founding. We are also one of three hospitals in Metro Atlanta with the Level II Adult Trauma Center designation. With this combination of commitment and expertise, we are able to cater our services to your unique healthcare needs.
Awards and Distinctions We won’t ask you to go by our claim alone for high quality care. In addition to earning Joint Commission accreditation, North Fulton Hospital has received numerous third-party recognitions, some of which include: Nursing Excellence Awards • American Association of CriticalCare Nurses: Beacon Award for Excellence Recognition from Insurers • United Health Premium Specialty Center designation for Surgical Spine • Blue Cross/Blue Shield Center of Excellence for Spine Surgery • Aetna: Elective Delivery Infant Safety Recognition
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Clinical Quality Recognition • American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer: Community Hospital Cancer Program Accreditation Award with Commendations • National Quality Measures for Breast Centers: Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence • Leapfrog Group: Hospital Safety Score – “A” • Joint Commission: Advance Primary Stroke Certification • Joint Commission: Top Performer on Key Quality Measures • Joint Commission: Hospital Accreditation • American Heart Association Get with the Guidelines • American Heart Association Achievement Awards: Gold Plus for Heart Failure and Gold Plus for Stroke Care • American Academy of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Certification • American Association for Respiratory Care Quality Respiratory Care
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Recognition American College of Radiology Accreditation for North Fulton Hospital Radiology: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computated Tomography (CT), and Ultrasound American College of Radiology Accreditation for North Fulton Hospital Outpatient Imaging Center: Mammography, Computed Tomography (CT) and Ultrasound Institute for Healthcare Improvement 5 Million Lives Campaign participant and partner
Hospital Accomplishments • Georgia Hospital Association Quality Honor Roll: Chairman Category • Georgia Hospital Association Core Measures Honor Roll: Trustee Category • Georgia Hospital Association2013 Quality and Patient Safety Award Winner: Time is Brain – Multidisciplinary Approach to the Emergency Care of the Stroke Patient (Third Place)
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Volunteering at North Fulton Hospital Since North Fulton Hospital (NFH) opened in 1983, volunteers have been an active, visible, and invaluable resource to patients and their families. Nurses, doctors, technicians, and administrators can each impact a patient’s stay, but frequently, patients and families are touched by the kindness and generosity of a volunteer in an entirely different way.
The Face of a Volunteer The NFH volunteers range in age from 18 to nearly 90, and more than half of the volunteers find the work to be so rewarding that they stay for more than 10 years. Some volunteers have been with the hospital since the day its doors opened, and their backgrounds encompass every possible career path including corporate, military, sales, IT, non-profit, and education. Before joining NFH as a volunteer, Pat Oxford served as a Cheerleader Moderator at Marist School. During the last 28 years, she has volunteered more than 30,000 hours to see that patients and families at North Fulton Hospital received the care they deserved. She has served in the Emergency Room, the Operating Room, and the Welcome Desk. “I chose to volunteer at North Fulton Hospital because I wanted to be able to work directly with the patients,” said Pat. “I worked 5 days a week in the beginning, and it never felt like work because I knew I was making a difference and we were building a great hospital.” Sandra Stratton worked for 32 years as a stewardess with Delta Airlines, and after retiring, she decided to volunteer at NFH. “I live three miles away from North Fulton Hospital,” said Sandra, “and over the years several of my family members have been patients here. The decision to volunteer at North Fulton was an easy one, and I love being able to help families in their time of need.”
Volunteering Then and Now Over the last 30 years, volunteers at NFH have had a remarkable impact on patients and the community as a whole. They have raised funds for scholarships, assisted with programs
I chose to volunteer at North Fulton Hospital because I wanted to be able to work directly with the patients. I worked 5 days a week in the beginning, and it never felt like work because I knew I was making a difference and we were building a great hospital.” Pat Oxford, North Fulton Hospital volunteer to provide teddy bears to children and blankets for cancer patients, hosted bake sales, participated in fundraisers such as the Relay for Life, and supported many of hospital’s community education efforts. Greg Norris joined NFH as a volunteer 6 years ago and one of his duties in that time was to chair the Scholarship Committee for the group. He also served as a driver for the shuttle and worked in transportation, which encompasses delivering flowers, transporting patients from their room to the entrance at the time of discharge and more. “Working with the Scholarship Committee was one of the most rewarding things I’ve done here,” said Greg. “Whether it was from a student who received a scholarship or a patient who was glad to receive flowers, the ‘Thank you!’ we get is the best part of the job – and we get lots of them!” In much the same way that all parts of a hospital grow and change with time, the typical duties have grown and changed over time. For 20 years, Pat Oxford was a Trauma Volunteer in addition to her other volunteer duties. This entailed being on call 24 hours a day to assist staff at the hospital in locating family members for injured patients. “Now we have cell phones, and frequently, family members actually make it to the scene of an accident before the ambulance even leaves to come to the hospital,” said Pat. “That hasn’t always been the case. We used to get paged when a trauma patient would come in, and then we would begin the process of searching phone books and eventually the internet to locate family members.”
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Making a Difference Many of the volunteers at NFH decided to become a volunteer because they were touched by a volunteer in a hospital and wanted to return that kindness to others. Lynn Lommer, who began volunteering 15 years ago, was touched by a volunteer when her mother was ill. A volunteer had come into her hospital room, and offered to make her mother some soup.” “That was the first time I had encountered a volunteer,” said Lynn, “and I was quite thankful for her kindness. After my mom died, I wanted to do the same for someone else. That was 15 years ago and I have enjoyed every minute of volunteering.” After working as a nurse for 12
years and then working for in retail for 22 years, Bobbie Bryant began volunteering at NFH because she wanted to make a difference for patients. She has been a friendly face at the hospital’s Welcome Desk since February 2004. “Of all the volunteers,” said Dan Oakley, Security Director at North Fulton Hospital, “Bobbie is the one that gets missed most often. I can’t tell you how many people have come through here and asked about her.” Bobbie knows that patients and their families are often upset or stressed, and aside from working with the other volunteers, making someone’s day better is the best part of her job. “I can’t fix their hurts,” said Bobbie, “but I can make them smile and brighten their day!”
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Delightful daytrip By KATIE VanBRACKLE When Jim Gibbs began designing his 220-acre public garden in Ball Ground, Ga., he sought the advice and approval of his mother, Margaret, who would join him for long walks through the wooded property. When she reached a particularly Jim scenic spot, Margaret would stop and Gibbs say, “This looks like a good place to sit for a spell,” and the two would pause to admire the view and listen to the sounds of water flowing through streams and birds singing in the treetops. Gibbs later installed a bench in each of his mother’s favorite spots. Today, 126 benches dot the grounds of Gibbs Gardens, inviting visitors to pause and soak up the beauty of this delightful hidden gem, located less than an hour’s drive from the North Fulton area. Gibbs Gardens is a labor of love for Jim Gibbs, retired president and founder of Gibbs Landscape Company and founding member of the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The gardens, which opened to the public one year ago, are the legacy he will leave behind for his children and grandchildren as well as people everywhere who share his love of the artistry of landscape design. This is also his home. The Gibbs’ manor house sits atop a natural ridge overlooking the North Georgia mountains with beautiful terraced gardens leading down to the valley below. Flowing streams and rolling hills create a shady setting for 16
The Manor House Terrace Gardens.
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28 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Dawsonville
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 29
On with the show Sarah Chandler brings lifelong love of theater to Roswell Cultural Arts Center By KATIE VanBRACKLE Just across a shady footbridge from Roswell City Hall lies the Roswell Cultural Arts Center (CAC), a 600-seat house offering a comfortable and intimate theater experience for local residents. Every seat is a good seat, and guests are often able to chat with artists after the show. The Roswell facility has long been the venue of choice for local dance companies, symphonies and the Georgia Ensemble Theatre, which produces five outstanding stage shows each year. Lately, the CAC has expanded beyond its role as a rental house to offer more original productions such as the LIVE! in Roswell concert and performing arts series (www.roswellpresents.com), now in its second year. Blazing the trail in this exciting endeavor is the CAC’s new coordinator, Sarah Chandler, who brings to her position a lifelong love of theater and an extensive background in the performing arts. Chandler, who grew up in Macon, Ga., jokes that her own stage debut was made at the tender age of 6, as a farmer in the kindergarten production of “Which Came First – the Chicken or the Egg?” But it was a high school English professor who first inspired her to take her theatrical talent seriously, after praising her emotional reading of a literary monologue. Chandler’s love of the theater world was cemented when she attended a musical based on the songs of 1970s performer Harry Chapin. “I found myself weeping during ‘Mr. Tanner,’ and it was the first time that I had that moment of… WOW,” she said. “Theater can change your life and make you feel so many things.” Chandler attended Wesleyan College in Macon where she worked on every play produced by the theater department for four years. She knew that she had found what she wanted to do with her life.
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By the time she traveled to Virginia Tech to receive her graduate degree in theater management, she had made the decision to focus her energies behind the stage rather that upon it. “My mother envisioned me acting on Broadway, and I’ll admit that was a fleeting dream of mine for a time at Wesleyan, but at some point, I realized that my true talents were in the creative process and technical side of theater,” she recalled. “It really helped, though, to have experienced the churning stomach and sweaty palms that come with stage acting. It helped me to become an even better theater creator.” Chandler spent 11 years working nationally and internationally in stage management, most recently in Philadelphia, a city she describes as hugely supportive of the arts. But she felt the strong need to return home to the South, encouraged especially by her beloved grandmother from Marietta who regularly sent newspaper clippings announcing theater opportunities in the metro Atlanta area, with notes attached saying, “You could do this!” When the Roswell Cultural Arts Center position became available, Chandler knew it was the right fit. “This is a great time to be in Roswell,” she said. “This area is exploding with new businesses, a burgeoning arts scene and youthful energy.” G. Morgan Timmis, manager of historic and cultural affairs for the city of Roswell, was pleased to find such a highly qualified candidate to manage the CAC. “Sarah brings great experience and innovative ideas for how to enhance everything about the center,” Timmis said. “I had applicants from across the country for this position. All three of the short-list candidates were from out of state, which I feel is a positive statement about our facility – what we’ve been doing and have the potential to do going forward.” Chandler is already exploring ways for the CAC to be more active in the community, including partnering with local businesses for “Locals Only” events like open mic nights, readings and trivia nights. She also hopes to connect with other arts
Sarah Chandler, Roswell Cultural Arts Center Coordinator. groups in metro Atlanta with the goal of making the CAC “a hub and an incubator for the arts in North Fulton.” “There are so many great things going on in the arts all over metro Atlanta, and we are lucky to have quality entertainment so close to home. We want to continue to enhance the live/work/play possibilities in Roswell,” she said. Chandler is especially excited about the current LIVE! in Roswell concert and performing arts series, kicked off in October 2013 by American Idol alum Crystal Bowersox, followed by Sixpence None the Richer in December. Masters of Soul, an energetic Motown cover group will perform in February – a show complete with costumes and acting that Chandler calls “a whole lot of fun.” Singer-songwriter and pianist Spencer Day will croon Mel Torme-style standards in May, and June will see the return of the ever-popular Second City improv comedy troupe from the legendary Chicago theater that served as the training ground for numerous famous comedians including John Belushi, Mike Myers, Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Steve Carrell and Stephen Colbert. “Second City sold out last summer, so we are adding two shows this year,” said Chandler. To keep abreast of CAC’s many offerings, visit www.roswellcac.com and make plans to add more cultural experiences to your calendar in 2014. Chandler, who says her favorite activity in the world is hosting people, is ready to welcome you. “The CAC is a beautiful space right here in the heart of Roswell. You can have dinner at your favorite Canton Street restaurant, then stroll over to see a show,” she said. “What better way to support the arts in your local community?”
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Q: What was your particular condition? A: I went to Renew for Health because I have suffered from constipation my entire life and ulcers/heartburn since my early 20s. Both have gotten worse over time Q: What have you tried in the past? A: I have been to numerous specialists who offered who provided no help. I tried every over the counter medicine that is available, some of which provided short-term benefits; none provided long term benefits. Q: Describe how this condition might have affected you, your work, your family and social life? A: There have been occasions when I didn’t go to a social gathering and many times when I left early. I rarely left work early, but I did a few times when the heartburn was extremely painful. Q: Who referred you or how did you find our office? A: I asked my family doctor if there was one type of doctor or clinic that I could go to get help. She said that there wasn’t and that I needed to continue to see specialists. Soon thereafter one of my dear friends told me she was planning to make an appointment at
Q: How has Renew Health Medical Center changed or improved your life? A: I have found the one place that can help me. The Renew for Health clinic has been a godsend. For the first time the right medical tests were run so that the actual health issues could be treated (inflamed gut, non-functioning adrenal system, low glutathione, parasites, and high lead and arsenic). No other medical professionals, including gastroenterologists, ever ran these types of tests. For the first time in decades I don’t suffer from daily heartburn and my “intestinal issues” are much improved. It will take more time to fully repair my gut, but I am well on my way to 100% improvement. Q: Describe your impression of the Renew Health Team. A: Every member of the Renew for Health team makes you feel welcome to the clinic. Every time I have had a question or needed help with an issue, the team is available and ready to help. Without reservation I whole-heartedly recommend Renew for Health. Call today for your free consultation. Renew Health Medical 678-688-9996.
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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? A: Easy Planning - Call 404-8485000 and give our highly trained Customer Information operators your departure and destination points. We have a complete staff of operators who speak multiple languages. 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
It’s a breeze 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. 34 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
(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 $1 will be added to the purchase of a Breeze Card. Bus riders may drop exact 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 Transfers are only available on a Breeze Card or Ticket 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/Ticket 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. Q: How much does it cost to ride MARTA? A: MARTA is $2.50 for a one-way fare (no pennies); 10 Trips: $25; 20 Trips (discounted price): $42.50; 7-Day Pass: $23.75 (unlimited rides); 30-Day Pass: $95.00 (unlimited rides). 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: When does MARTA operate? A: Buses: 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. Monday-Friday; 6 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. weekends & holidays. Rail: 4:45 a.m. to 1 a.m. MondayFriday; 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. weekends & holidays. Run every 10 minutes during peak hours weekdays, and every 15 minutes Saturdays, Sundays & holidays. Renovation Work Schedules: Call
404-848-5000 or look for posted material. 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 404-848-5665 between 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Q: How can I use MARTA to/from the airport? A: A rail station is inside HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport near the baggage claim area, at the north end of the airport. After 9 p.m. you must change trains at Lindbergh Station to reach Buckhead, Medical Center, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and North Springs Stations. More information available at www.itsmarta.com.
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Roswell, GA is a place dedicated to being local. With thriving small businesses and an entrepreneurial atmosphere, residents and business owners alike find it all in Roswell. Whether you are looking to relocate your family, your business or just yourself - you will find all the assistance you need to be a part of a classic, southern town with a distinct quality of life. Roswell, GA has the tools in place to help our local businesses thrive, directly contributing to the strong local economy. With an active, diverse and unique community, Roswell, GA is the place to become a local, and stay a local. a big impact
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ON THE ROAD AGAIN:
How to get your Ga. drivers license You must apply for a Georgia driver license within 30 days of becoming a Georgia resident. All Customer Service Centers can transfer an out-of-state license to a Georgia driver license. Note: Knowledge (written) testing must begin at least 30 minutes before the center closes.
Requirements Exchange a Valid (or expired less than 2 years) Out-of-State Driver License for a Georgia Driver License • Be at least 18 years of age. • Surrender a valid out-of-state license or an out-of-state license expired less than two years. If you do not have the license in your possession, see Lost or Expired Out of State License section on this page. xx An out-of-state driver license is defined as one issued by one of the other 49 states and District of Columbia. xx By surrendering a license as described above, you are exempt from the written and road test. Exception: Driver Licenses from US Territories must pass the written and road tests. • You will need to pass the vision exam.
Documents Required Primary Identification (You must present 1 of the following unless otherwise noted): US Citizen • Valid, unexpired US Passport • An original or certified copy of a US Birth Certificate/Amended Birth Certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Statistics or equivalent agency in the Applicant's state of birth (including US Territories and the District of Columbia). An original or photocopy "Keepsake" birth certificate issued by Georgia hospitals that can be verified through the Georgia Department of Public Health's Vital Records system may be acceptable.
Proof of Social Security Number (You must present 1 of the following unless otherwise noted): • Social Security Card - Original, lami-
38 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
nated original or copy • W-2 form with Applicant's name & full or partial SSN* • SSA-1099 form with Applicant's name & full or partial SSN* • Non-SSA 1099 form with Applicant's name & full or partial SSN* • Pay stub with Applicant's name & full or partial SSN* • SSN Denial Letter / SSA Refusal Letter*. • SA Print-out containing office stamp and SSA employee signature as well as Applicant's name & SSN*. • 1-797C with Applicant's name, demographic info & SSN - For NonCitizens only* • Federal / State Tax Return with Applicant's name & SSN (also acceptable for proof of SSN for Dependents)* • Medicare / Medicaid card with Applicant's name & SSN* • Social Security Annual Statement. • Selective Service Notice with Applicant's name & SSN*
Proof of Residential Address (You must present 2 of the following unless otherwise noted): IMPORTANT: The two (2) documents must be from separate/independent sources. For example, a bank account statement for two differing statement periods is not acceptable. In addition to the document showing your current residential address, it must also show your name. Customers can cross out non-essential information on Proof of Residential Address documents such as account numbers, financial figures or other information that does not obstruct your name and address. • Utility bill issued within the last two (2) years for services installed at your residential address (ex. water, sewer, gas, electricity, cable/satellite TV, internet, telephone/cell phone, or garbage collection) • Financial statement for bank/credit union account, investment account, credit card account, or loan/credit financing issued within the last two (2) years. • Employer verification, including, but not limited to, one of the following: xx Paycheck or paycheck stub issued within the last two (2) years.
xx Letter from your employer on company letterhead issued within the last two (2) years. xx W-2 for earnings issued within the last two (2) years. xx Military orders issued within the last two (2) years. • An unexpired GA driver’s license, permit, or ID card issued to parent, guardian, spouse or other immediate family member residing in the same household. The immediate family member must be present and provide their GA driver’s license, permit or ID card in person. • Health insurance statement or explanation of benefits (EOB) for claim or a health care bill/invoice issued within the last two (2) years. • State of Georgia or Federal income tax return or refund check issued within the last two (2) years. • Social Security documentation including Social Security Annual Statement issued within the last two (2) years, Numident record, or Social Security check. • Statements for Federal, State, and Local assistance programs including Medicare, Medicaid, unemployment insurance claims, or WIC • School record or transcript, report card, student loan application, or form DS-1 issued within the last two (2) years. • Homeowners insurance policy or premium bill issued within the last two (2) years. • Mortgage, payment coupon, deed, escrow statement or property tax bill issued within the last two (2) years. • Voter Registration Card issued within the last two (2) years. • Auto-Insurance Policy with Applicant’s name and address issued within the last two (2) years. • Auto-Registration with Applicant’s name and address issued within the last two (2) years. • Unexpired Firearms License (Gun Permit) • Unexpired Merchant Marine License • I-797A • I-797C • Other Documents issued by the Federal/State/Municipal Government • Refugee Address Verification Affidavit (DS-20) – a second document for verification of residency is not
Where to go Driver’s license offices are open Tuesday through Saturday. Tuesday is typically a very busy day, so plan ahead. For more information, visit www.dds.ga.gov
Fulton County
8610 Roswell Rd, Suite 710, Sandy Springs, GA 30350 Hours: Tue. – Fri. 7:30 am – 6:30 pm Saturday 7:30 am – 12 noon
Forsyth County
400 Aquatic Circle, Cumming, GA 30040 Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am – 12 noon required with this document • Georgia Department of Corrections Residency Verification Form (DS-752) – a second document for verification of residency is not required with this document • Georgia or Federal Income Tax Return or Refund Check issued within the last two (2) years. • Correspondence from DDS • Current, valid rental contract/agreement and/or rent payment receipts issued within the last two (2) years (includes rental agreement/leases for a home, apartment, mobile home, dorm, extended stay motel, retirement/assisted living home, and letter from a shelter) • Any postmarked mail showing your name and delivered by the U.S. Post Office to your current address within the last two (2) years (includes marketing materials, personal letters, periodicals and magazines where your name, residential address and evidence that postage was paid to the U.S. Post Office within the last two (2) years to deliver). • Mail forwarded to your new address by the U.S. Post Office displaying the yellow re-routing sticker. Please Note: Your social security number will be verified with the Social Security Administration and personal information must be consistent with both Agencies to be issued a driver license.
The ‘street name’ game Seems like everywhere you turn the roads are getting nicknamed or renamed… In the Atlanta airport there used to be a poster/picture in the terminal of just how many Peachtree Streets there are in Georgia. I believe there are 14 in Atlanta city alone. Peachtree Street, Peachtree Road, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard... Or you could have simply gone too far on one road and missed the sign where it turned into another and all of this depends on where you travel… For example: • Alpharetta Highway is Highway 9 or South Main Street or North Main Street or
Ga.
Atlanta Highway. • Jimmy Carter Boulevard becomes Holcomb Bridge Road becomes Highway 92 becomes Crossville Road then Woodstock Road. • Webb Bridge Road becomes Academy Street becomes Milton Avenue becomes Mid-Broadwell Road, which merges into Mayfield Road just before it becomes Crabapple Road, which eventually merges into Highway 9, which is Alpharetta Street going south into Roswell, which becomes Atlanta Street as it leaves Roswell and then becomes Roswell Road, which eventually merges into Peachtree Road in Buckhead.
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Lenox Rd
Exit 3
Glenridge Perimeter Connector
Exit 4
Interstate 285
Exit 5
Abernathy Road
Exit 5C
MARTA Northsprings Station
Exit 6
Northridge Road Holcomb Bridge Road
Exit 8 Exit 9 Exit 10
Mansell Road Haynes Bridge Road
Exit 11
Windward Parkway
Old Milton Parkway
ROSWELL ALPHARETTA
Exit 7
SANDY SPRINGS
Exit 2
ATLANTA
Sidney Marcus Blvd
A - West B - East
1050 Northfield Court, Suite 400 Roswell, GA 30076
Exits
Exit 1
Exit 12
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Call (770)442-3278 for advertising information. Also, view past editions on NorthFulton. com (home page bottom left). Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 39
A rendering of the finished Avalon.
Avalon update By HATCHER HURD & JONATHAN COPSEY Avalon had a party in April to celebrate another milestone – the “topping out” of the property. That is the setting of the last beam in the last building of the retail quarter of what will eventually be North American Properties’ $600 million mixed-use residential, commer-
cial and office playland of North Fulton. But North American Properties Managing Partner Mark Toro and his associates had much more to celebrate than the end of principal construction. Toro has a whopping 93 percent of the property signed to leases with another 4 percent of the property in the last stages of negotiations for leases. “In effect, we are 100 percent
leased with six months to go. That is practically unheard of,” Toro said. In all, there will be 500,000 square feet of retail on 87 acres. There has been so much interest in the residential components of the property – both single-family and luxury rental units (Avalon doesn’t use the word “apartment”) – that they won’t discuss prices yet. Michael Davis, service development manager for NAP, said there are 1,400 firm letters of interest for the 101 Monte Hewitt homes on Avalon property. So-
theby’s International Realty, the leasing agency, received more than 900 letters of interest in the first three weeks of solicitation. “We’re still six months away from opening. We just don’t know yet what sort of numbers these properties are going to generate,” Davis said. Avalon officials did say they expect the250 luxury units above the retail to start around $2 per square foot. One bedroom units will range from around 812 square feet to 1,100 square feet. The two-bedroom, 2.5 bath units range
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from 1,200 square feet to 1,789 square feet. Likewise, Monte Hewitt Homes has not yet set home values for the 22 single-family homes and some 75 courtyard attached-homes planned. With around 1,500 letters of interest in hand and construction more than a year away, the company has not been able to establish value yet. The 108,000 square feet of office loft space above retail is 54 percent pre-leased. Even the architect is moving in. Lamar Wakefield of Wakefield Beasley and Associates will relocate corporate offices from Norcross to a prime spot with 3,200 square feet overlooking the central fountain of Avalon. Retail Avalon space begins at $32 per square foot and tops at $45 a square foot. Most shells for retailers to finish are around 225 square feet. It will also be a gigabyte community, which means for $99 a month, anyone can have a gigabyte of data online, some of the fastest speeds commercially available. Speaking to his guests at the topping out party, Toro said they were surrounded by the first $370 million of investment coming up out of the ground.
It is all for what Toro calls “experiential lifestyle.” People won’t come to just shop or just eat at one of Avalon’s “killer” restaurants. Instead it will all be part of an Avalon experience that in turn pampers, amazes and spoils visitors and residents alike. And there is more to come. When the market is ready, another $350 million in Class A office space is ready for development. Alpharetta officials also are negotiating a public-private partnership in a five-star hotel and convention center. “No one has been more supportive than the city of Alpharetta,” Toro said. “That didn’t mean they made it easy for us though. But they helped make it great.” Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle in turn had words of praise for Avalon. “It is just one more great thing – a marvelous thing – that makes this city a special place,” Belle Isle said. Fulton County Commissioner Liz Hausmann echoed those thoughts calling Avalon “one more piece of the puzzle” that generates tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts more jobs and development to Fulton County. “Avalon will generate $21 million in sales tax alone. Another $4.5 million in
The final girder of Avalon was raised April 23 amid great ceremony. Avalon will open Oct. 30. property taxes and $2.1 million for the hotel-motel tax will come from Avalon. When you have to deal with Fulton County’s $100 million shortfall and cutting much needed services, you can really appreciate what Avalon has done here,” Hausmann said. Greater North Fulton Chamber of
Commerce President Brandon Beach branded Avalon as an “iconic and transformational” development for North Fulton. “Today, we can see that this is true. It is iconic, and it is transformational. And you just don’t see many $600 million developments being built,” he said.
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JohnsCreekChamber.com Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 41
Fun ways to help furry friends Volunteer opportunities at Humane Society of Forsyth County By KATIE VaNBRACKLE If you are an animal lover with a bit of spare time, you can make a big difference in the life of an animal in need simply by taking a dog for a walk or playing with a kitten or two. The Humane Society of Forsyth County (HSFC) is a no-kill shelter that relies heavily on volunteers to help care for the many orphaned dogs, cats, kittens and puppies who are looking for a loving new home. At the HSFC adoption center, 4440 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming, volunteers are always needed in the following areas:
Cat Socialization
Kitties in the adoption center look forward to loving attention seven days a week--cuddling, brushing, and playing. Socializing cats is very important to their development and helps to expedite adoption. Friendly, “well-
42 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
mannered” cats are much more likely to find a forever home.
Rescue Walker
Volunteers receive special training in rescue walking techniques. This interaction encourages behavior that makes the dog more adoptable. Dogs can be walked anytime between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. Rescue walker opportunities are also avail-
able in Alpharetta at The Pet Lodge Pet Resort. Contact rescuewalkers@ forsythpets.org.
Dog Bather
Dogs need to look spiffy before heading out to an offsite adoption event. Friday is the big day for bathing dogs. Join in the fun of soaping, rinsing and grooming.
Animal Care
Breakfast (9 a.m.) and dinner (5 p.m.) are busy times. The adoption center animals patiently wait for their fresh food and water and watch for the Squeaky Clean Brigade. They love to have their living areas cleaned and tidied. If you have a little spare time at the beginning or end of your day, consider being part of this crew. There are many other ways to volunteer with HSFC. For full details, visit www.forsythpets.org/volunteer. Thanks in advance from many furry friends.
Arts Alliance of Johns Creek says art matters Goal to make city center for art, music, dance, theater By HATCHER HURD Before there was a city of Johns Creek, there were the arts in Johns Creek. Dance, fine art, music and theater not only stimulate the mind but help create an awareness of place that is Johns Creek. With the city’s incorporation, the arts have continued to grow – nurtured by seven women who have set as a mission to promote all of the visual, performing and cultural arts to raise the quality of life in the Johns Creek area. The seven women who came together to create the Arts Alliance of Johns Creek are already full-time administrators of their individual nonprofit arts organizations with all the headaches and responsibilities that they entail. They are: • Sue Haggerty, executive director of the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, • Kitty Garrison, executive director
of Atlanta Dance Theater, • Margarita Moldovan, artistic director of Performing Arts North, • Dorota Lato, president and founder of Chopin Society of Atlanta, • Gail Hisle, executive director of the Johns Creek Art Center, • Joan Compton, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center Board vice president, • Linda Johnson, founder and president of Johns Creek Beautification Inc. These women are the backbone of the organizations that are raising arts consciousness in the community. Five years ago, these ladies came together to form the Arts Alliance and play off the synergies that would create a common identity for the Johns Creek area as a center for the arts. “There was a flurry of meetings, ideas and action to make this come together,” said the JC Symphony’s Haggerty who also chairs the Arts Alliance. “Everybody is already so busy running a viable organization. But we see opportunities that will allow all arts
organizations to become stronger.” Garrison of Atlanta Dance Theater agrees. It is a way to promote all the arts, she said. That led to the Arts Alliance Village with all of the arts under one tent at Arts on the Creek last year. “As we grow stronger together, the more visibility we have – and the louder our voice becomes,” said Chopin Society’s Lato. Another catalyst for the arts, the Alliance Board, has been the emergence of the Verizon Amphitheatre, which gives all of North Fulton legitimacy as an arts center. “But that still points to a big hole for all of us. We need a performing arts center, we all need a venue,” said Moldovan, of Performing Arts North. Nevertheless, the Arts Alliance has become a force in the community.
The board members, all women, were asked why that was so? Moldovan said it is that nurturing instinct that continues on even after the children go on to college. “Women roll up their sleeves when a job needs doing. It’s a PTA thing,” said Haggerty. The arts are a male-dominated field. But the organizations that support them are driven by “amazing women who do a lot with a little money, and do it quickly,” said Haggerty. Meanwhile, these ladies continue to hunt around for venues and scrape for nickels and dimes to keep the lights turned on and the tickets printed. They're driven to succeed. “This is our legacy. That is our motivation for doing this,” said Johnson of Johns Creek Beautification.
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 43
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area parks and facilities Listed in geographic order from Buford Dam south to Atlanta. Note: All units with parking places now require a $3 parking fee, or you can buy a $25 pass that lasts one full year. Call 678-538-1200 or visit www.nps.gov/chat.
Bowman’s Island Unit
Location: Just south of Buford Dam southeast of Cumming Size: 720 acres Facilities: Boat, canoe and raft launch; river and woodland trails; picnic area; pedestrian bridge over river at base of Buford Dam. Public Uses: Hiking, fishing, picnicking.
McGinnis Ferry Unit
Location: McGinnis Ferry Road west of Peachtree Industrial Boulevard and north of Duluth Size: 161.9 acres Facilities: None. Park has not been developed for public use. Directions: Follow Ga. 120 east from Alpharetta to Ga. 141. Go north on Ga. 141 to McGinnis Ferry Road. Follow McGinnis Ferry Road to the park on the west side of the river.
Abbotts Bridge Unit
Location: Abbotts Bridge Road in Duluth Size: 214 acres Facilities: Boat, canoe and raft launch; picnic area; restrooms; parking. Public Uses: Fishing, picnicking. Directions: Follow Ga. 120 east from Alpharetta. Access the park off of Abbotts Bridge Road (Ga. 120) either from Boles Road west of the river or the park access road on the east side. The park includes land on both sides of the river and both north and south of Abbotts Bridge Road.
44 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Medlock Bridge Unit
Location: Ga. 141 (Medlock Bridge Road) south of Old Alabama Road in Gwinnett County Size: 43 acres Facilities: Boat, canoe and raft launch; river trails; moderate and difficult woodland trails; picnic areas; parking. Public Uses: Fishing, picnicking, hiking. Directions: Follow Ga. 120 from Alpharetta or Old Alabama Road from Roswell to Ga. 141 (Medlock Bridge Road). Go south on Ga. 141. The park is on the south side of the river on the east side of Medlock Bridge Road.
Jones Bridge Unit
Location: Off Barnwell Road north of Holcomb Bridge Road in Fulton County Size: 48 acres Facilities: Boat, canoe and raft launch; river trails; easy to moderate woodland trails; picnic areas; remains of bridge structure; restrooms; parking. Public Uses: Fishing, picnicking, hiking. Directions: From Roswell take Holcomb Bridge Road east to Barnwell Road. Turn left on Barnwell Road and park entrance will be on the right. From Alpharetta take Jones Bridge Road south until it becomes Barnwell Road. Park entrance will be on the left.
Island Ford Unit
Island Ford is the headquarters for the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The visitors and
information center is located in this unit. Location: Off Roberts Drive south of Roswell in Dunwoody Size: 293 acres Facilities: Ranger station; picnic areas; river trail; easy, moderate and difficult woodland trails; restrooms; parking. Public Uses: Fishing, picnicking, hiking Directions: Either follow Ga. 9 (Atlanta Street) south from Roswell to Roberts Drive on the south side of the river and follow Roberts Drive to the park entrance on the left or take Ga. 400 south to Northridge Road then cross Northridge Road to Dunwoody Place. Turn right onto Roberts Drive and the park will be on the right.
Vickery Creek Unit
Location: North of the river in Roswell along
Vickery Creek Size: 254 acres Facilities: Picnic areas; creekside trails; easy, moderate and difficult woodland trails; bike trail; access to historic Roswell dam; ruins of Ivy Woolen Mill; high cliffs; parking. Public Uses: Hiking, bicycle riding, picnicking, fishing, historic interpretation. Directions: Follow Ga. 9 (Atlanta Street) in Roswell south to Riverside Drive/Azalea Drive north of the river. Turn left onto Riverside Drive the park entrance will be immediately on the left. Gold Branch Unit Location: South of Roswell on the west side of the river in Cobb County Size: 385 acres including Chattahoochee Nature Center. Facilities: Picnic areas; trails along Bull Sluice Lake on river; easy, moderate and difficult woodland trails, parking. Public Uses: Hiking, fishing, picnicking. Directions: Follow Ga. 9 (Atlanta Street) in Roswell south to Riverside Drive/ Azalea Drive north of the river. Turn right andw follow Azalea Drive until it ends at Willeo Road. Left on Willeo Road and follow it until it ends at Lower Roswell Road. Left on Lower Roswell Road and the park entrance will be on the left.
Johnson Ferry Road Unit
Location: Johnson Ferry Road on west side of the river in Cobb County Size: 176 acres Facilities: Canoe and raft launch; raft and canoe rentals; shuttle bus service; picnic areas; river trail; easy woodland trails; concession area; parking. Public Uses: Rafting, fishing, hiking, picnicking. Directions: Follow Ga. 120 (Marietta Highway) west from Roswell to Johnson Ferry Road. Turn left on Johnson Ferry Road and follow it to the river. The main park entrance will be on your left before you cross the river.
Cochran Shoals, Sope Creek, Powers Island Units
Location: These three units are located next to one another. Cochran Shoals and Sope Creek units are located on the west side of the river north of Powers Ferry Road in Cobb County. The Powers Island unit is located on the east side of the river off of New Northside Drive in Fulton County. Size: 968 total acres Facilities: Powers Island: Raft and canoe rental; canoe and raft launch; shuttle bus service; concession area; moderate and difficult woodland trails; parking. Sope Creek: Picnic areas; moderate and difficult woodland trails; bike trail; paper mill ruins; parking. Cochran Shoals: Picnic areas; fitness trail; moderate to difficult woodland trails; river trail; bike trail; parking; handicap access. Public Uses: Hiking, jogging, bicycling, fishing, picnicking, rafting and canoeing, historic interpretation. Directions: Powers Island: Take I-285 West from Ga. 400 to Powers Ferry/New Northside Drive (exit 15). Follow New Northside Drive to Interstate North Parkway and the park entrance will be on the right. Sope Creek: Take Ga. 120 (Marietta Highway) west from Roswell to Johnson Ferry Road. Left on Johnson Ferry Road and follow it to Paper Mill Road. Turn right and follow Paper Mill Road to the park, which will be on the left. Cochran Shoals: Follow New Northside Drive past the Powers Island section (see above) to Powers Ferry Road. Right on Powers Ferry Road and the park entrance will be on the right.
Palisades Unit
This unit is comprised of two sections: East Palisades and West Palisades. This unit is more rugged and less developed than other units. East side is better than west. This is the final take-out point for canoes and rafts.
Location: Near the junction of I-285 and I-75 just north of the Atlanta City Limits Size: 695 total acres Facilities: East Palisades: River trails; easy, moderate and difficult woodland trails; scenic river overlook, and parking. West Palisades: Raft rental return point; raft and canoe launch; river trail; easy and difficult woodland trails; concession area; Akers Mill ruins;
restrooms; parking. Public Uses: Hiking, rafting, fishing, picnicking, historic interpretation. Directions: East Palisades: Take I-285 West from Ga. 400 to Powers Ferry/New Northside Drive (exit 15). Turn left on Northside Drive and cross back over I-285. Stay on Northside Drive and one entrance to the park is off of Indian Trail Road. Another entrance can be reached by
continuing on Northside Drive, turning left on Harris Trail and left on Whitewater Creek Road. West Palisades: Follow above directions to Powers Ferry/ New Northside Drive. After crossing back over I-285, turn right on Powers Ferry Road. Turn left on Akers Drive. The park entrance will be on the left just after the entrance to Wood Mill apartments.
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Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 45
Wills Park offers activities and amenities Baseball
Wills Park boasts eight baseball diamonds and two tee-ball fields. It also hosts games for the Alpharetta Youth Baseball Association. Visit www. wpyba.org for more information on the AYBA and its schedules.
Disc Golf
Wills Park has an 18-hole disc golf course. The Professional Disc Golf Association includes Wills Park’s course and more than 1,000 other courses throughout the U.S. Call 678-297-6162 for more information on the course and suggested equipment.
Legend START - END
Swimming
The Olympic-sized pool at Wills Park has high and low diving boards as well as a covered kiddie pool for babies and toddlers. The hours until Aug. 12 are noon to 5 p.m., then 730 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Weekend hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Special holiday hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Swim
Trail Markers
Basketball Courts
Stream
Buildings
Streets
Equestrian Arenas
Walking Trails
Playgrounds
Sidewalk
Swimming Pool
Walking Trail
Tennis Courts Fields Parking
lessons are also offered to swimmers of all levels and ages. Call 678-297-6100 for more information.
Equestrian Center
There are eight shed row-type barns with covered aisles accompanied with 298 stalls at the equestrian center.
It has one covered ring that is 150 feet by 350 feet and two uncovered 125-foot by 225-foot rings as well as two schooling rings. There are also
St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church Where we are family
Mass Schedule Saturday Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. Sunday Masses at 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Teen Mass at 5:00 p.m.
Reconciliation (Confessions) Wednesday Saturday
7:15 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. or by appointment
Rosary recited prior to the 8:30 a.m. weekday Masses
Perpetual Adoration in the Chapel
Reverend Monsignor Peter J. Rau, V.F., Pastor
11330 Woodstock Road, Roswell, Georgia 30075 Office 678-277-9424 www.stpeterchanel.org Fax 678-277-9423 46 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
hookups to accommodate 30 RV campers.
Tennis
Six tennis courts are in the park. Two are saved for lessons, two are on reservation only and the other two are first come first serve. There is no cost to play, but there is one to reserve. The courts are lighted at night.
Recreation Center
The recreation center offers basketball courts, karate and aerobics. Summer classes for each are also offered. For those schedules and registration information, call 678-297-6130 or email wprcprograms@ alpharetta.ga.us.
Community Center
This building has two gymnasiums, a gymnastics center, dance room, locker room, showers and an outdoor track. It hosts a men’s fall basketball league as well as a coed adult volleyball league. Call 678-297-6100 or contact accprograms@alpharetta.ga.us for information about available camps.
Dog Park
Waggy World Paw Park is Wills Park’s area for dogs. It is open from 8 a.m. to sunset and allows for canines to explore without a leash. All handlers must pick up after their pets, and there is a limit of three dogs per handler. No dogs in heat are allowed at the park or any aggressive ones. In addition, all dogs must wear valid rabies tag and have current vaccinations. Children must be at least 8 years old and accompanied by an adult to enter. A dog handler must be at least 16 years old and have a leash present.
Facilities
Wills Park has three different children’s playgrounds nested under park trees. The first is Wacky World Playground with towers, slides and bridges. Second, designed for smaller children, is the Yellow Playground. It has slides and swings and a tire spin. The last one behind the baseball fields has a canopy overtop and is called the Purple Playground. It has multi-level slides, swings and climbing areas. Four picnic pavilions are scattered throughout the park. There’s also a walking trail for park-goers.
Wills Park’s equestrian center hosts numerous horse shows through the year.
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 47
Parks & Rec City of Alpharetta The wildly popular city of Alpharetta Parks and Recreation Department offers a wealth of activities for multiple age groups. With over 13 parks and recreation facilities and the Big Creek Greenway, the city is the place to be for residents who like to do things. City parks include Rock Mill Park, 3100 Kimball Bridge Road; Cogburn Road Park, 12825 Cogburn Road; Wills Park, the Wills Park Equestrian Center and the Wills Park Recreation Center located on Wills Road at the corner of Old Milton Parkway (west of Ga. 400 and west of Highway 9); the Alpharetta Community Center, 175 Roswell Street; the Crabapple Government Center/Alpharetta Arts Center, 12624 Broadwell Road; the Alpharetta City Pool, 1815 Old Milton Parkway, the Alpharetta Adult Activity Center, 13450 Cogburn Road; Union Hill Park, 1590 Little Pine Trail; Webb Bridge Park, 4780 Webb Bridge Road and the Windward Soccer Facility, 6435 Windward Parkway. The city of Alpharetta provides several playgrounds with interactive play features for children of all ages at Cogburn Road Park, North Park, Webb Bridge Park, Westside Park and Wills Park. City parks offer 14 youth baseball fields, four soccer fields, a dance and gymnastics facility, the North Park Adapted Sports Complex, an arboretum, 17 tennis courts, eight softball fields, seven playgrounds, four indoor gyms, two hockey rinks, two football fields, an Olympicsized outdoor swimming pool, a dog park, a community garden, a disk golf course and five walking trails and paths in addition to the Big Creek Greenway. There are two parks for both small and larger dogs, and water fountains are available for both the pups and their human companions. The city offers seven arts and craft rooms with three at the adult activity center at North Park, 13450 Cogburn Road, and four at the Crabapple Government Center/Alpharetta Arts Center, 12624 Broadwell Road. For more information, check out the city website at www.alpharetta.ga.us.
City of Johns Creek Parks The city of Johns Creek offers four fun parks where residents can play, exercise and relax. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, is a true nature preserve, a passive park with 46 acres of ravine forest and about two miles of walking trails. The park is popular with nature buffs and families looking to enjoy nature at its finest. Autrey Mill’s Heritage Center includes several historical buildings with replica Native American dwellings and a visitor’s center that houses live animal displays. Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, offers three softball/ baseball fields, three multi-purpose athletic fields, six tennis courts, two outdoor basketball courts and a two-mile multi-use path for walking, running and hiking. The courts were recently refurbished and repainted. The park includes 13 picnic pavilions and a popular dog park along with a community garden, two playgrounds with all-new equipment and a small lake. Residents 62 years old and up especially like Park Place at Newtown School, the city’s premier adult center. The center offers free and low-cost activities such as bridge, movie matinees and bingo as well as yoga, Zumba, potluck lunches, day trips to the Georgia Aquarium and North Georgia wineries and computer classes.
Continued on page 50 48 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
LEGEND. See corresponding map, page 51 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
Multipurpose Courts
Volleyball Courts
Dog Park
Picnic Pavilion/ Tables
Walking Trails/Paths
Alpharetta Parks: (678) 297-6100 1. Alpharetta Adult Center 13450 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta 2. Alpharetta Community Center 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta 3. Cogburn Road Park (5 acres) 12825 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta 4. Crabapple Government Center/Arts Center 12624 Broadwell Road, Alpharetta 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
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
9. Fowler Park (85 acres) 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming 10. H aw Creek Park (85 acres) 2205 Echols Road, Cumming 11. J oint Venture Park (16 acres) 3660 Melody Mizer Lane, Cumming
4. East Roswell Park (69.8 acres) 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell
5. Garrard Landing Park (22 acres) 8000 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta
12. M idway Park (40 acres) 5100 Post Road, Cumming
6. Grimes Bridge Park (11.3 acres) 830 Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell
13. O ld Atlanta Park ( 39 acres) 810 Nichols Road, Suwanee
7. Hembree Park (34.5 acres) 850 Hebree Road, Roswell
14. P oole’s Mill Park (10 acres) 7725 Poole’s Mill Road, Ballground 15. S awnee Mountain Park (44 acres) 3995 Watson Road, Cumming 16. S awnee Mountain Preserve (963 acres) 2500 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road, Cumming 17. S hady Grove Campground (107 acres) 7800 Sharon Road, Cumming 18. S haron Springs Park (58 acres) 1950 Sharon Road, Cumming 19. S outh 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™ 2014 • 49
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center is a true nature preserve, a passive park with 46 acres of ravine forest and about two miles of walking trails.
The Johns Creek Veterans Association is located at Park Place. The JCVA enriches the lives of Johns Creek’s veterans through events, programs and activities tailored to the interests of military men and women. The association had embarked on a project to build the Johns Creek Veterans Memorial Walk at Newtown Park, a landscaped trail with black-granite monuments for each major conflict dating from World War I. The Newtown Community Garden, managed by the Johns Creek Garden Association, is located within the park and contains 41 4-by-8 raised beds, two handicapped beds and four tall planting tables. Ocee Park, 10900 Buice Road, is another active park with eight lighted softball/baseball fields, a playground, two recently re-sealed and re-striped tennis courts, two sand volleyball courts and two outdoor basketball courts. The park also includes four picnic pavilions and half-mile walking/ jogging track. For a quick park run during errands, Ocee is the park of choice and you’ll find toddlers and elementaryaged school children playing on the playground all summer long. Shakerag Park, 10945 Rogers Circle, includes a 3.8-acre lake, a playground and three picnic shelters, all perfect for enjoying a fun day close to home. For the athlete, there are three multi-purpose athletic fields, a refurbished quarter-mile track and a nature trail. For more information on the city’s park and recreation programs, visit www.johnscreekga.gov.
City of Roswell The city of Roswell offers a variety of programs and services ranging from sports and recreation activities to special and historical events. Roswell pays
50 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Jim Cregge, Milton's parks and recreation director, explains the changes coming to Bell Memorial Park this summer.
special attention to all age groups and offers something for everyone. With several locations for activities spread throughout the city, finding an event or program based on convenience and location is simple. A community of tradition and history, Roswell offers a wide variety of yearly special events including springtime on the Chattahoochee, an annual Easter egg hunt and Christmas activities. Roswell also offers a variety of programs for their senior community. Residents over 50 or can participate in the many programs, special events, classes and activities held at the Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road. The center has a billiards room, computer learning center, arts and crafts room, library and a ballroom. The fitness center there is a new 2,500-square-foot facility with state of the art cardio and strength equipment, a private stretching room, lockers and showers. Don’t worry if you’re not
experienced with working out, the facility is designed with novice and expert fitness buffs in mind. Soon to be one of the city’s most popular activities in Roswell is its spraygrounds, the city’s two premiere outdoor water entertainment centers. Both the Splash ‘n Play, Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road and the Spray Station, East Roswell Park, 9000 Fouts Road, open Memorial Day Weekend. Both locations offer a different variety of spray features, a concession stand and a rental pavilion. Passes can be purchased at one location and used at both or the pass can be added to the Roswell Area Park Pool Pass. Both parks are available for rental for birthday parties and special events. The Roswell Area Park Pool, 10495 Woodstock Road, is a 50-meter Olympic size pool with eight lap lanes, a diving well with two spring boards, and it includes a children’s wading pool with a mushroom waterfall. Family members can participate
in swimming lessons, aquatic exercise, swim team, free swim and other events. The pool includes a Bermuda grass beach and concession stand so bring the whole family for a fun day of swimming. The pool is open Saturday, May 25 through Labor Day and season passes are available through the city. Make sure to check the city website for special events held throughout the summer at the pool. Roswell Rapids Swim Team is a competitive swim team offered through the city with practices held at the community pool. It offers a comprehensive program of instruction and training for competitive swimming for swimmers aged 5 to 18 years old. For more information on the swim team, visit www. roswellrapids.org. The Roswell Parks and Recreation program includes youth and adult sports for all seasons such as lacrosse, basketball, baseball, football and soccer. Activities and sports-related programs are available for most age
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Since the city of Milton’s inception, government officials have worked hard to give the city a small town community feel and offer programs and activities focused on entertaining and enhancing
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the community. Known as an equestrian-friendly community, you’ll find Milton’s Parks and Recreation Department offers a growing list of programs and special events for more than just the horse lover. The city offers three parks and two community centers and has worked with the Fulton County Board of Education on shared parks located throughout Milton. Bell Memorial Park, 15245 Bell Park Road, is an active-use park with four baseball fields, pavilions, picnic areas, parking, concessions and a
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groups for those who aren’t interested or ready to be on a team. For more information about programs and activities offered through the Roswell Parks and Recreation Department, visit their website at www. roswellgov.com.
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See corresponding charts, pages 48-49 playground. It will be getting a face lift starting Memorial Day 2014 until Memorial Day 2015. The park will be closed for the duration of the update. Bethwell Community Center, 2695 Hopewell Road, was recently renovated where many of the parks and recreation programs and activities and summer camps are held. Birmingham Park, 750 Hickory Flat Road, is a 200-acre park, located behind Fire Station No. 43 at 750 Hickory Flat Road. The park is currently undeveloped, but is a hot spot for hikers, dog walkers
and horseback riders. Crabapple Community Center, 12615 Broadwell Road, is not currently open, but once plans for the property are developed, the city will notify residents. Friendship Community Park, 12785 Birmingham Highway, is a 1.81 acre park that opened Dec. 1, 2012. The park is a joint venture with the Fulton County School System. Located between Crabapple Crossing Elementary and Northwestern Middle School, it
Continued on page 52 Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 51
Fowler Park in Forsyth boasts an impressive skate park that has something to offer for skaters of all skill levels. features a small picnic pavilion, walking path, half-court basketball and a play field. The park is closed to the general public during school hours, so children at both schools can enjoy the park. Freedom Park, 13200 Deerfield Parkway, is an exercise center for runners, cyclists and walkers and is also where the city holds its patriotic events. It has a .15 mile trail and equipment for sit ups and body curls, as well as rowing and elliptical machines. Providence Park, 13440 Providence Park Drive, is a 40 acre park currently under possession for maintenance by Fulton County and will belong to the city of Milton once the cleanup plan is complete. Since the city is still young, they’ve partnered with the city of Alpharetta to offer Alpharetta Parks and Recreation programs without non-resident fees. This arrangement allows Milton families a long list of activities for all age groups in both Milton and nearby Alpharetta. The city offers specialty summer and athletic camps through arrangements with the Hopewell Youth Base-
52 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
ball Association, the YMCA and the city of Alpharetta. They’ve also partnered with other sport programs such as lacrosse, listing all of their programs in their activity guide. For more information about what the Milton Parks and Recreation Department has to offer, visit the city website at www.cityofmiltonga.us.
Forsyth County The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department offers recreational programs for people of all ages. With 22 parks and three recreation centers and about 2,400 acres of passive and active use land, you’re sure find something for every family member to enjoy. The county offers athletic fields for all of the popular rectangular and diamond field sports, tennis courts, playgrounds, lake access, camping, trail and track running and walking paths, an outdoor mountain bike path, dog parks, indoor gyms and a skate park.
The county also offers outdoor programs including nature awareness, adventures such as tree climbing and indoor programs such as arts and crafts, fitness, dance and music. The county’s parks and recreation system includes about 36 miles of trails and the award-winning Sawnee Mountain Preserve, 4075 Spot Road in Cumming. The 963 acres include the beautiful views from the historic rock formations known as the Indian Seats, where birdwatchers and hikers spend afternoons enjoying a little slice of heaven. The spot is a popular place for high school boys to request prom dates with signs and surprises, using the rocking chair porch to add a romantic touch. For the adventure seekers in the county, one can choose to climb the rocks or enjoy the tree canopy walk to view the mountain from the treetops. Another popular offering of the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department is the 6.8-mile Big Creek Greenway. Forsyth County Parks and Recreation has three recreation centers, all
offering amenities for fun, hobbies and fitness. The centers feature basketball gymnasiums, indoor walking tracks and cardio/weight membership rooms, and offer a variety of programs and activities. The recreation centers are located at: Central Park Recreation Center, 2300 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming; Fowler Park Recreation Center, 4110 Carolene Way in Cumming; and Old Atlanta Park Recreation Center, 810 Nichols Road in Suwanee. For more information and a schedule of events, visit the county website at www.forsythco.com. The city of Cumming also offers county residents a place to cool off and go for dip. The Aquatic Center and Water Park, 201 Aquatic Circle, off Pilgrim Mill Road and off Exit 16 on Ga. 400. Inside the center are Olympic swimming pools for training and competition. During the spring and summer, the outdoor water park opens for children of all ages. For more information, visit www.cummingaquaticcenter.com.
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Johns Creek in top 10 for home value By HATCHER HURD In a recent study to determine the best place to buy a home, North Fulton stood out with Johns Creek ranked No. 6, Milton No. 8 and Alpharetta No. 20. Nerdwallet, the consumer research firm, ranked the 68 cities in Georgia
with populations of more than 15,000 residents. Analyst Maggie Clark looked at the factors relating to home buying that fell into three major value areas: availability, affordability and future growth. First, researchers looked at the
number of residents who own their homes rather than rent. Johns Creek led North Fulton with a staggering homeowner rate of 82.1 percent, followed by Milton with a healthy 72.2 percent and Alpharetta nearer the bottom at 65 percent of
residents owning their homes. “The homeownership rate is a measure of stability in the community,” Clark said. “It says the residents of this community are a pretty stable bunch.
Continued on page 71 Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 53
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13. Lanier Golf Club 2080 Buford Dam Rd Cumming, GA 30041 770.887.6114, laniergolfclub.com
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1a. Alpharetta Athletic Club (East) 3430 Highway Nine N. Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.475.2300, alpharettaac.com 1b. Alpharetta Athletic Club (West) 1785 Dinsmore Road Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.475.2300, alpharettaac.com
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4. Atlanta National Golf Club 350 Tournament Players Drive Milton, GA 30004 770.442.8801, atlantanationalgolfclub.com
2. Ansley Golf Club, Settindown 1605 Settindown Drive Roswell, GA 30075 770.640.4620, ansleygolfclub.org
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, capitalcityclub.org
3. Atlanta Athletic Club 1930 Bobby Jones Drive Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.448.2166, atlantaathleticclub.org
7. Cherokee Town & Country Club 665 Hightower Trail Atlanta, Georgia 30350-1710 770.993.4407, cherokeetcc.org
54 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
15. Polo Golf & Country Club 6300 Polo Club Drive Cumming, GA 30040 770.887.7656, pologolfandcountryclub.com 16. River Pines Golf 4775 Old Alabama Rd Johns Creek, GA 30022 770.442.5960, riverpinesgolf.com 17. Rivermont Golf & Country Club 3130 Rivermont Pkwy Alpharetta, GA 30022 770.993.2124, rivermontcountryclub.com 18. Standard Club 6230 Abbotts Bridge Rd Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.497.0055, standardclub.org
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14. Manor Golf & Country Club 15951 Manor Club Dr Alpharetta, GA 30004 678.366.3886, manorgcc.com
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12. Horseshoe Bend Country Club 2057 Steeplechase Ln Roswell, GA 30076 770.992.2310, horseshoebendcc.com
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19. St. Ives Country Club 1 St Ives Country Club Dr Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.623.1239, stivescountryclub.org 20. St Marlo Country Club 7755 St Marlo Country Club Pkwy Duluth, GA 30097 770.495.7725, stmarlo.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 9. Echelon Golf Club 501 Founders Dr E Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.888.4653, echelonliving.com
21. Trophy Club of Atlanta 15135 Hopewell Rd Alpharetta, GA 30004 770.343.9700 americangolf.com/trophy-club-atlanta 22. White Columns Country Club 300 Clubhouse Dr Milton, GA 30004; 770.343.9025 whitecolumnscountryclub.com
10. The Golf Club of Georgia 1 Golf Club Dr Alpharetta, GA 30005 770.664.8644, golfclubofgeorgia.com
23. Windermere Golf Club 5000 Davis Love Dr Cumming, GA 30041 678.513.1000, canongategolf.com
11. The Golf Club of Georgia 1100 Hawks Club Drive Ball Ground, GA 30107 770.205.6889, hawksridge.com
24. Woodmont Golf & Country Club 3105 Gaddis Rd Canton, GA 30115 770.345.9260, woodmontgolfclub.com
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 55
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Government Representative Tom Price (R), District 6 house.gov/tomprice 3730 Roswell Rd, Ste 50 Marietta, GA 30062; 770-565-4990
National Officers President Barack Obama (D) president@whitehouse. gov The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20500; 202-456-1414 Vice President Joe Biden (D) vice_president@white house.gov Executive Building Washington, D.C. 20505 202-456-1414
State Officers State Officers State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 404-656-2000
Senators Saxby Chambliss (R) chambliss.senate.gov Ga. Office: 100 Galleria Pkwy, Ste 1340 Atlanta, GA 30339 770-763-9090 Johnny Isakson (R) isakson.senate.gov Ga. Office: One Overton Park 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Ste 970 Atlanta, GA 30339; 770-661-0999
Fulton County John Eaves District 1 (At Large), Chairman 404-6128206 john.eaves@fultoncountyga.gov
Robb Pitts District 2 (At Large) robb.pitts@fultoncountyga.gov 404-612-8210
Governor Nathan Deal (R) gov.state.ga.us Office of the Governor Georgia State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 404656-1776 Lt. Governor President of the Senate Casey Cagle (R) ltgov.georgia.gov 240 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 404-6565030; 770-536-999 Speaker of the House David Ralston (R), District 7, 332 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 404-656-5020
Local elections were held May 20, 2014. Please check NorthFulton.com for updated information.
Attorney General Sam Olens (R) 404-656-3300
Secretary of State Brian Kemp (R) sos.state.ga.us 214 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 404-6562881 404-584-2006 State Representatives Jan Jones (R), District 47 jan.jones@house.ga.gov 340 State Capital Atlanta, GA 30334 404-656-5072 Harry Geisinger (R), District 48 harry.geising@house. ga.gov 601-F Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, Georgia 30334 404-6560254
State Senator John Albers (R), District 56 info@senatoralbers.com 301-A Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 404-463-8055 Brandon Beach (R), District 21 303-B Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 404-463-1378 David Shafer (R), District 48, 321 State Capital Atlanta, GA 30334 404-656-0048
Chuck Martin (R), District 49 chuck@martinforgeorgia. com; 417 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 404-656-5064
Liz Hausmann District 3 404-612-8213 liz.hausmann@fultoncountyga.gov
Joan Garner District 6 404-612-8226 joan.garner@fultoncountyga.gov
Tom Lowe District 4 404-612-8218 tom.lowe@fultoncountyga.gov
William Edwards District 7 404-612-8230 commissioner.edwards@fultoncountyga. gov
Emma Darnell District 5 404-612-8222 emma.darnell@fultoncountyga.gov
56 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Lynne Riley (R), District 50, lynne.riley@house. ga.gov 504-E Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 404-656-0188
REACH MORE HOUSEHOLDS When Marketing in North Atlanta is Critical APPEN CIRCULATION REACHES MORE OF YOUR TARGET CUSTOMERS: More than double the AJC and 40% more than the Neighbor. We connect your business to the future. Why settle for less!
Circulation Comparison
APPEN 73,500
NEIGHBOR 36,500
AJC WEEKDAY
AJC SUNDAY 29,241
TOTAL
AJC Weekday 16,481
AJC Sunday 29,241
NEIGHBOR 36,500
APPEN 73,500
Roswell Alpharetta
9,984
16,429
31,325
28,000
Johns Creek
2,500
5,500
0
20,000
South Forsyth
1,858
2,318
0
17,000
Milton
2,139
4,994
5,175
8,500
16,481
Successful marketing of your company in North Fulton / South Forsyth starts with APPEN. We connect you with your target audience better than any other newspaper or media. Call us now at 770-442-3278 for more advertising information. We connect you to your future.
*2013 ABC Audit for the Atlanta Journal Constitution, 2013 CVS Audit Appen, 2013 CAC Audit Neighbor
REVUE & NEWS • JOHNS CREEK HERALD • MILTON HERALD FORSYTH HERALD • NORTHSIDE WOMAN • NorthFulton.com Design Services – Direct Mail – Social Media Mgmt – Printing Brand Management – Custom Publishing – News Letters 770-442-3278 • Appen@NorthFulton.com Ray Appen, Publisher
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 57
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Post 3 Chris Owens 404-518-5505 cowens@ alpharetta.ga.us Post 4 Jim Gilvin jgilvin@ alpharetta.ga.us
Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle 678-297-6020 dbelleisle@alpharetta. ga.us City Council members Post 1 Donald Mitchell dmitchell@ alpharetta.ga.us Post 2 Mike Kennedy 404-507-2123 mkennedy@alpharetta. ga.us
Recreation & Parks Director Mike Perry 1825 Old Milton Parkway 678-297-6103 mperry@alpharetta.ga.us
Post 6 D. C. Aiken 770-667-6219 770-596-6746 DCAiken@ alpharetta.ga.us
Finance Director Tom Harris 2790 Webb Bridge Road 678-297-6094 tharris@alpharetta.ga.us
Community Development Director Richard Mcleod 217 Roswell St. 678-297-6070 rmcleod@alpharetta.ga.us
Information Technology Director Randy Bundy 2 South Main Street 678-297-6045 rbundy@alpharetta.ga.us
Economic Development Director Peter Tokar 2 South Main Street 678-297-6075 ptokar@alpharetta.ga.us
Mayor Mike Bodker 678-512-3327 Mike.bodker@johnscreekga.gov
Post 3, Cori Davenport 678-512-3337 cori.davenport@johnscreekga.gov
Police Chief, Ed Densmorem Ed.densmore@johnscreekga.gov
Post 4 Vacant
Community Development Director, Mike Williams Mike.williams@johnscreekga.gov
Post 5, Kelly Stewart 678-512-3339 Kelly.stewart@johnscreekga.gov
City Council members Post 1, Lenny Zaprowski 678-512-3335 lenny.zaprowski@johnscreekga.gov
Post 6 Vacant City Manager, Warren Hutmacher Warren.hutmacher@johnscreekga.gov Finance Director, Monte Vavra Monte.vavra@johnscreekga.gov City Attorney, Bill Riley Bill.riley@johnscreekga.gov
Alpharetta City Hall 2 South Main St., Alpharetta, Ga. 30009; 678-297-6000 alpharetta.ga.us
Johns Creek City Hall 12000 Findley Road, Suite 400 Johns Creek, Ga. 30092-1412 678-512-3200 johnscreekga.gov
58 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Police Services 678-297-6300
Engineering / Public Works Pete Sewczwicz 1790 Hembree Road 678-297-6200 psewczwicz@alpharetta.ga.us
City Administrator Bob Regus 2 South Main Street 678-297-6012 bregus@alpharetta.ga.us
Post 2, Brad Raffensperger 678-512-3336 Brad.raffensperger@johnscreekga.gov
Fire Services 678-297-6270
Court Services Director Elizabeth Sahlin 12624 Broadwell Road 678-297-6250
Post 5 Michael Cross mcross@ alpharetta.ga.us
Johns Creek
Public Safety Director Gary George 2565 Old Milton Parkway 678-297-6302 ggeorge@alpharetta.ga.us
Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard 2 South Main Street 678-297-6014 jdrinkard@alpharetta.ga.us
Milton City Hall Deerfield Professional Centre 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107, Milton, GA 30004 678.242.2500 cityofmiltonga.us
Fire Chief, Jeff Hogan Jeff.hogan@johnscreekga.gov
Human Resources/Support Services Director, Mary Ann Haskins Maryann.haskins@johnscreekga.gov Director of Public Works, Tom Black Thomas.black@johnscreekga.gov City Clerk, Joan Jones Joan.jones@johnscreekga.gov Community Relations Director, Grant Hickey Grant.hickey@johnscreekga.gov
Forsyth County Administration Building, 110 East Main Street,Cumming, Ga. 30040 770-781-2101 forsythco.com
Roswell City Hall 38 Hill St., Roswell, Ga. 30075 770-641-3721, roswellgov.com
Forsyth County Chairman District 1 R.J. “Pete” Amos 678-513-5881 rjamos@ forsythco.com Commission Members Secretary, District 2 Brian Tam (678) 513-5882 brtam@forsythco.com District 3 Todd Levent 678-513-5883 tlevent@forsythco.com District 4 Cindy Jones Mills 678-513-5884 cjmills@forsythco.com District 5 Jim Boff 678-513-5885 jjboff@forsythco.com
County Manager Doug Derrer 770-781-2101 dederrer@forsythco.com
Finance Director David Gruen 770-781-3088 dggruen@forsythco.com
Deputy County Manager Tim Merritt trmerritt@forsythco.com
Parks and Recreation Director Jerry Kinsey 770-781-2215 parkweb@forsythco.com
Fire Chief Danny Bowman 770-781-2180 ddbowman@forsythco.com
Dept of Planning and Community Development Tom Brown Director 770-781-2115 lakyle@forsythco.com
Sheriff Duane Piper 770-781-3056 twpaxton@forsythco.com Communications Director Jodi Gardner 770-781-2101 forsythpr@forsythco.com Water and Sewer Department Tim Perkins Director 770-781-2160 tmperkins@forsythco.com
Code Enforcement Supervisor Steve Zaring 678-513-5893 sazaring@forsythco.com Clerk of Court Greg G. Allen 770-781-2120 ggallen@forsythco.com Voter Registration and Elections Barbara Luth Supervisor 770-781-2118 blluth@forsythco.com
Voter Qualifications To register to vote in the state of Ga., you must be: • A citizen of the United States. • A legal resident of Georgia and of the county in which you wish to vote. • At least 18 years of age by election day.
Also, you may not register to vote if you are currently:
• Serving any sentence imposed by the conviction of a felony. • Judicially determined to be mentally incompetent. In the state of Georgia, you do not have to register by political party to vote in the state’s regular primaries or general elections. You may register to vote at any time, but you must be registered by the close of registration prior to an election if you wish to vote on election day, i.e., the application must be postmarked by the voter registration dead-
line. If you are not registered to vote, register today. If you are registering for the first time in Georgia, and you register by mail, you are required to show one of the acceptable types of identification by: • Mailing a copy of the identification with your voter registration application • Providing a copy of the identification to the registrar during the absentee voting process. If you have misplaced or have not received your precinct card within two to three weeks of submitting your voter registration application, please contact your local county registration office to request a new precinct card or to check the status of your application. For more information regarding voter registration, please contact the Voter Registration Division at 404-730-7072.
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 59
G Roswell Mayor Jere Wood 770-594-6288 mayorwood@roswellgov. com City Council members Post 1 Rich Dippolito 770-641-3757 rdippolito@roswellgov.com
Post 2 Becky Wynn 770-641-3757 bwynn@roswellgov.com Post 3 Betty Price 770-641-3757 bprice@roswellgov.com Post 4 Kent Igleheart 770-641-3757 kigleheart@roswellgov. com Post 5 Jerry Orlans 770-641-3757 jorlans@roswellgov.com
Post 6 Nancy Diamond 770-641-3757 ndiamond@roswellgov. com City Administrator Kay Love 770-641-3727 klove@roswellgov.com Deputy City Administrator Michael Fischer 770-594-6271 mfischer@roswellgov.com Director of Community Development Alice Wakefield 770-641-3780 awakefield@roswellgov.com Chief of Police Rusty grant 770-640-4100 rgrant@roswellgov.com
Director of Recreation and Parks Joe Glover 770-641-3705 jglover@roswellgov.com Director of Finance Keith Lee 770-641-3759 klee@roswellgov.com Fire Chief Ricky Spencer 770-641-3730 rspencer@roswellgov.com Director of Transportation Steve Acenbrak 770-594-6420 sacenbrak@roswellgov.com Director of Public Works Stuart Moring 770-641-3715 smoring@roswellgov.com
What to do if you are a victim of identity theft Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft IRS.gov/identitytheft We know identity theft is a frustrating process for victims. We take this issue very seriously and continue to expand on our robust screening process in order to stop fraudulent returns. What is identity theft? Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information such as your name, Social Security number (SSN) or other identifying information, without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes. How do you know if your tax records have been affected? Usually, an identity thief uses a legitimate taxpayer’s identity to fraudulently file a tax return and claim a refund. Generally, the identity thief will use a stolen SSN to file a forged tax return and attempt to get a fraudulent refund early in the filing season. You may be unaware that this has happened until you file your return later in the filing season and discover that two returns have been filed using the same SSN. Be alert to possible identity theft if you receive an IRS notice or letter that states that: More than one tax return for you was filed, You have a balance due, refund offset or have had collection actions taken against you for a year you did not file a tax return, or IRS records indicate you received wages from an employer unknown to you. What to do if your tax records were affected by identity theft?
60 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
If you receive a notice from IRS, respond immediately. If you believe someone may have used your SSN fraudulently, please notify IRS immediately by responding to the name and number printed on the notice or letter. You will need to fill out the IRS Identity Theft Affidavit, Form 14039. For victims of identity theft who have previously been in contact with the IRS and have not achieved a resolution, please contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit, toll-free, at 1-800-908-4490. How can you protect your tax records? If your tax records are not currently affected by identity theft, but you believe you may be at risk due to a lost/stolen purse or wallet, questionable credit card activity or credit report, etc., contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. How can you minimize the chance of becoming a victim? Don’t carry your Social Security card or any document(s) with your SSN on it. Don’t give a business your SSN just because they ask. Give it only when required. Protect your financial information. Check your credit report every 12 months. Secure personal information in your home. Protect your personal computers by using firewalls, anti-spam/virus software, update security patches, and change passwords for Internet accounts. Don’t give personal information over the phone, through the mail or on the Internet unless you have initiated the contact or you are sure you know who you are dealing with. -Information courtesy of IRS
COMING THIS JULY FAST
Through a state of the art website with daily updates, weekly newsletters, and the monthly print publication you will always have finger tip access to the latest and breaking business news in north Atlanta.
STRONG
Appen Media Group has a 30 year tradition of award winning, nationally recognized work. In 2014 alone it has already received 18 awards for its work in news coverage, newspaper layout, and ad design.
ABLE
Appen Media Group is in a unique position to give clients and readers a top notch product from day one. It’s staff, experience, and existing role in the north Atlanta community bodes well for the success of the Business Post.
To take advantage of this unique marketing opportunity, call 770-442-3278 today. northatlantabusinesspost.com
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 61
G MILTON Mayor Joe Lockwood joe.lockwood@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2484 City Council members District 1/Post 1 Karen Thurman karen.thurman@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2493 District 2/Post 2 Matt Kunz matt.kunz@cityofmiltonga. us 678-242-2494
District 2/Post 1 Bill Lusk bill.lusk@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2495
678-242-2570
District 1/Post 2 Burt Hewitt burt.hewitt@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2497
Community Development Director Kathleen Field kathleen.field@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2555
District 3/Post 1 Joe Longoria joe.longoria@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2498 District 3/Post 2 Rick Mohrig rick.mohrig@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2496 City Manager, Chris Lagerbloom chris.lagerbloom@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2488
Code Enforcement, Bill Hayes bill.hayes@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2549 Arborist, Mark Law mark.law@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2552 Chief Judge, Barry Zimmerman barry.zimmerman@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2525 Carter Lucas, Public Works Director carter.lucas@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2626
City Solicitor, Fran Schoenthal fran.schoenthal@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2500 Communications Manager Jason Wright jason.wright@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2523 Finance Director , Stacey Inglis stacey.ingliss@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2508 City Attorney, Ken Jarrard kjarrard@jarrard-davis.com 678-455-7150 City Clerk, Sudie Gordon sudie.gordon@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2522
Police Chief, Deborah Harrell deborah.harell@cityofmiltonga.us
North Fulton Precincts and Voting Locations 13. Shakerag Elementary 1. New Prospect ElemenSchool, 10885 Rogers tary School, 3055 KimCircle ball Bridge Road 14. Johns Creek United 2. Alpharetta Community Methodist Church, Center, 175 Roswell St. 11180 Medlock Bridge 3. Roswell Neighborhood Road Senior Center, 1250 15. Findley Oaks ElemenWarsaw Road; tary School, 5880 Findley 4. Alpharetta Crabapple Chase Drive Government Center, 16. Abbotts Hill Elementary 12642 Broadwell Road School, 5575 Abbotts 5. Windward Fire Station, Bridge Road 3070 Market Place 17. Northview High School, 6. Alpharetta Elementary 10625 Parsons Road School, 192 Mayfield 18. Medlock Bridge ElRoad ementary School, 10215 7. St. James United Medlock Bridge Parkway Methodist Church, 3000 19. Robert E. Fulton ReWebb Bridge Road gional Library, 5090 8. Creek View ElemenAbbotts Bridge Road tary School, 3995 Webb 20. Chattahoochee High Bridge Road School, 5230 Taylor Road 9. Milton Center, 86 School 21. Messiah Lutheran Drive Church, 4774 Kimball 10. Alpharetta High School, Bridge Road 3595 Webb Bridge Road 22. State Bridge Elemen11. Webb Bridge Middle tary School, 5530 State School, 4455 Webb Bridge Road Bridge Road 23. Northeast/Spruill Oaks 12. Ocee Elementary Library, 9560 Spruill School, 4375 Kimball Road Bridge Road
62 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Fire Chief, Robert “Bob” Edgar robert.edgar@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2570
Brooke Lappin, Municipal court Clerk of Courts brooke.lappin@cityofmiltonga.us 678-242-2526
24. Autry Mill Middle School, 4110 Old Alabama Road 25. Dolvin Elementary School, 10495 Jones Bridge Road 26. Ocee Elementary School, 4375 Kimball Bridge Road 27. Haynes Bridge Middle School, 10665 Haynes Bridge Road 28. Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 10250 Haynes Bridge Road 29. Mount Pisgah United Methodist Church, 2850 Old Alabama Road 30. Barnwell Elementary School, 9425 Barnwell Road 31. Northwestern Middle School, 12805 Birmingham Highway 32. Birmingham Falls Elementary, 14865 Birmingham Highway 33. Summit Hill Elementary School, 13855 Providence Road 34. Hopewell Middle School, 13060 Cogburn
Road 35. Cogburn Woods Elementary School, 13080 Cogburn Road 36. Manning Oaks Elementary School, 405 Cumming St. 37. Hopewell Baptist Church, 15730 Hopewell Road 38. Roswell Community Activity Center, 10495 Woodstock Road 39. Teaching Museum North, 793 Mimosa Blvd. 40. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 888 Zion Circle 41. Rivers Eves Elementary School, 9000 Eves Road 42. Elkins Pointe Middle School, 11290 Elkins Road 43. Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2400 Old Alabama Road 44. Mimosa Elementary School, 1550 Warsaw Road 45. Crosspointe Community Church, 77 E. Crossville Road, Suite 203 46. Union Primitive Baptist Church, 335 Cox Road
47. Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Blvd. 48. First Baptist Church of Roswell, 710 Mimosa Blvd. 49. First Christian Church of Roswell, 11365 Crabapple Road 50. Saint Mary’s Orthodox Church, 1950 Old Alabama Road 51. Roswell High School, 11595 King Road 52. Roswell Assembly of God Church, 11440 Crabapple Road 53. Jackson, Esther S. Elementary School, 1400 Martin Road 54. Lebanon Church, 11250 Crabapple Road 55. North River Baptist Church, 12090 Hardscrabble Road 56. Bridge to Grace Church, 1385 Holcomb Bridge Road 57. Hillside Elementary School, 9250 Scott Road 58. Centennial High School, 9310 Scott Road
15
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Forsyth County Precincts and Voting Locations 1. Big Creek; First Redeemer Church 2100 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming 30041 2. Brandywine; Calvary Chapel 200 James Rd., Alpharetta 30004 3. Browns Bridge; Browns Bridge Community Church 3860 Browns Bridge Rd., Cumming 30041 4. Chestatee; Harmony Grove Baptist Church 5470 Keith Bridge Rd., Cumming, 30041 5. Coal Mountain; Coal Mountain Park Community Building 3560 Settingdown Rd., Cumming 30028
6. Crossroads; Hampton Park Library 5345 Settingdown Rd. , Cumming 30041 7. Cumming; Cumming City Hall 100 Main St., Cumming 30040 8. Mashburn; Lanier United Methodist Church 1979 Buford Hwy., Cumming 30041 9. MIDWAY; Midway Park Community Building 5100 Post Rd., Cumming 30040 10. Heardsville; Sawnee Mountain Park Community Bldg. 3995 Watson Rd., Cumming 30028 11. Otwell; First Baptist Cumming 1597 Sawnee Dr., Cumming 30040
12. Old Atlanta; Olde Atlanta Clubhouse 5745 Olde Atlanta Pkwy., Suwanee 30024 13. South Forsyth; Sharon Springs Park Community Building 1950 Sharon Rd., Cumming 30041 14. Windermere; Windermere Lodge 4444 Front Nine Dr., Cumming 30041 15. Concord; Concord Baptist Church 6905 Concord Rd., Cumming, GA 30028 16. Polo; Grace Chapel Church of Christ 6755 Majors Rd., Cumming 30040
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 63
10th St
Piedmont Park
10th St
Argonne Ave
Piedmont Ave
Juniper
85
Peachtree PeachtreeSt
Georgia Institute of Technology
West Peachtree
75
Spring St NW
19/29
Fox Theatre
n De Leo Ponce
North Avenue NE
Baker St 41
Courtland St NE
Ang i
er A ve N
Piedmont Ave
E
Civic Center
Baker St
Centennial Olympic Park
Georgia World Congress Center
Pine St NE
Spring St NW
World of Coca Cola
Peachtree
West Peachtree
North Avenue NE
John Portman Blvd
Peachtree Center
10
Andrew Young International Blvd
Magnolia St
Georgia Dome
Morris Brown College
Andrew Young International Blvd
Ellis St NE
CNN Center
John Dobbs Ave
Philips Arena
Woodruff Park
Auburn Ave
Martin Luther King Jr Dr
tch
ell
rS t Wa lke
Tri n
ity
Av e
State Capital Building
Martin Luther King Jr Dr Memorial Dr
t iel S
Pryor St
Dan
64 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
85 75
Pheonix Park
154
20
Capital Ave
t ll S
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ite Wh
Pulliam St
Spellman College
t SE Decatur S
85
75
sS t
41
154
Pe te r
Morehouse College
Georgia State Univ
Co ur tl
an
Underground Atlanta
E
Mi
3
Municipal Market
Edgewood Ave
dS tS
Clark Atlanta University
Central Park Pl NE
Georgia Aquarium
Simpson St
Mc
Downtown Atlanta Destinations
Botanical Gardens
High Museum of Art
14th St
20
Washington Park Glenwood Ave
Fulton St
Zoo Atlanta
GORDON
PICKENS Ball Ground
140
60
400
9
53
CHEROKEE
306
FORSYTH
20
985
75
575
Cumming
Flowery Branch
Woodstock
Rest Haven
Milton
400
Alpharetta
140
92
Mountain Park
5
120
Roswell
FULTON
Kennesaw
41
176
Braswell
PAULDING Dallas
120
92
Powder Springs
Hiram
120
75
Marietta 360
3
COBBSmyrna
278
5
Vinnings
Austel 61
92
Lithia Springs
Villa Rica
20
Avondale Estates
DOUGLAS
Atlanta 92
70
166
29
FULTON
5
East Point College Park Hapeville Forest Park
CARROLL
Riverdale
138
Fairburn
85
81
Loganville
78
DEKALB 278
Walnut Grove
Lithonia
20
212
81
Conyers
ROCKDALE
675
Covington
155
Morrow
NEWTON
Stockbridge
Jonesboro 70
Peachtree City 34
COWETA
85
54
29
Hampton
41
16
75
Sunny Side Brooks
92
SPALDING
Senoia
Locust Grove
155
Griffin
Haralson
BUTTS
16
16
MERIWETHER TROUP
HENRY
20
Woolsey
Sharpsburg
Moreland Grantville
FAYETTE
81
McDonough
3
74
Turin
HEARD
Fayetteville
85
Newnan
34
54
20
23
Lovejoy
29 16
212
41
92
Tyrone
Monroe
WALTON
Stone Mountain
285
54
Palmetto
Grayson
Snellville
CLAYTON
Union City
154
23
316
124
Tucker
154
Winder
GWINNETT
Lilburn
Clarkston Midtown Decatur
29
8
Dacula Lawrenceville
29
Chamblee 141
285
139
BARROW Auburn
120 316
85
Buckhead
Douglasville
78
9
85
20
124
Norcross Doraville
400
JACKSON
Braselton
23
Duluth
Dunwoody Sandy Springs
53
23
Buford
Sugar Hill Suwanee
Johns Creek 141
Acworth
POLK
Gillsville
129
20
Holly Springs
61
Gainesville
52
Oakwood 369
9
Cartersville
HALL 369
372
Canton
Lula
284
136
5
20
BARTOW
DAWSON
23
52
129
Murrayville Dawsonville
Waleska 108
278
Clermont
LUMPKIN
PIKE
41
Orchard Hill
LAMAR
Metro Counties s:\art\maps\Greater Atlanta Area
Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 65
Metro Atlanta
EXIT 13 141
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MILTON
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NORTH POINT MALL
JOHNS CREEK
66 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Fresh from the farm to your kitchen table Discover your local farmers market By MARLA PRINCE In an effort to improve their diets, many Americans are rediscovering local farmers markets, which give consumers access to locally grown, farm-fresh produce that is often organically grown. Locally grown offers many benefits to the consumer including fresher food, seasonal food, food that is transported fewer miles, food that has less refrigeration and food that has spent less time in storage. Locally grown also means food that isn’t loaded with toxic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, fungicides or synthetic hormones. But farmers markets don’t just help Americans eat healthier, they also help communities lower their carbon footprint since the food is not transported as far as when it is shipped to grocery stores. Locally grown food also helps the economy by helping farmers stay in business. Farmers markets can also reflect local culture by selling items other than fruits and vegetables. At some markets, you might find locally raised honey, grass-fed meat, apple cider, free-range eggs, home-baked goods and even arts and crafts.
A visit to your farmers market is also a fun family outing where you can chat with farmers, gardeners, bakers, bee-keepers and soap-makers. Northside residents have their pick of weekend farmers markets including the following:
ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET
Saturdays through Oct. 12; 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., the corner of Old Canton Street and Milton Avenue, Alpharetta. Fruits, veggies, natural meats, fresh flowers, herbs, homemade desserts, breads, sauces, jellies and soaps and local raw honey. www.alpharettafarmersmarket.com
RIVERSIDE FARMERS MARKET (ROSWELL)
Saturdays through Sept. 27; 8 a.m. – noon, Roswell City Hall parking lot, 38 Hill Street, Roswell. Fruits and veggies, herbs, flowers and plants, organic compost, artisan cheeses, organic herbal soaps. www.roswellfam.com
JOHNS CREEK FARMERS MARKET
Saturdays through Sept. 7; 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. Organic and/or sustainable
foods and produce, demonstrations, children’s activities. www.johnscreekga.gov
BROOKWOOD FARMERS MARKET
Every Friday through October; 4 – 7 p.m. Caney Creek Preserve, 2755 Caney Road, Cumming. Locally grown produce, meat, eggs, bread, flowers, soaps and more. Live music and kids’ activities. Started in 2010 by a local mom. www.brookwoodfarmersmarket.com
CUMMING FARMERS MARKET
Wednesdays and Saturdays through September 7; 6:30 a.m. – noon. Cumming Fairgrounds parking lot, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. Fresh flowers, veggies, baked goods and more. www.cummingfair.net –Marla Prince has worked in the environmental industry for over 20 years and was green before green was cool.
Summer planting can make yards beautiful
Gardening tips for beginners and pros
Summer months can be grueling to be outdoors, but if you’re out in the garden, you might as well enjoy it. Forsyth County Master Gardener, Craig Rattleff has suggestions for plants that can survive the summer heat. The local expert says this is the ideal time to grow Knock Out roses, Gumpo azaleas, Hydrangeas- lime light, Oak Leaf and vanilla strawberry hydrangea. Summer is also time to plant tomatoes, string beans, green peppers and squash. Summer annuals such as zinnias, marigolds, sun impatiens, coleus, dragon wing begonias, salvias, calibrachoa, wave petunias and bee balm for a few touches Appleblossom pink Yarrow. of color. These need a lot of water for the first two weeks, then as needed. Here are some suggestions for your mailbox area or inside stone edging: Appleblossom pink Yarrow, Autumn Joy Sedum, Bath’s Pink Dianthus, Goldstrum coneflower, w and Powis Castle Artemisia. Happy gardening!
Spring is the optimum time for planting a variety of shrubs, trees, annuals, perennials and seeds but, before tilling the earth, it is important to consider your specific plant needs and your area's climate. Fulton County Cooperative Extension Agents are available to provide guidance to assist residents with growing successful gardens and beautifying their yards. The University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UGA CAES) provide helpful tips on line to help you get started. “Spring is one of our favorite seasons simply because we get to help budding gardeners achieve their dreams of producing a successful garden,” states Menia, Director of Fulton County Cooperative Extension. “Whether it’s a flower garden or vegetable garden, our extension agents are able to provide expert guidance to county residents.” According to UGA, garden location is very important. When possible, locate the garden in full sunlight, near the house, on good soil and near a water supply. Sunlight: Most vegetables need full sunlight for growth and development. Plant leaf crops such as broccoli, collards and spinach in areas likely to be in partial shade. Don’t plant any vegetable in complete shade. Large hedges, hedgerows and trees not only create too much shade, but they also compete with the garden for moisture and nutrients. Trees and large shrubs shade the garden and compete for moisture and
Continued on page 70 Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 67
Top events in North Fulton and South Forsyth
Events compiled by Ryan Peroni
Alpharetta:
Brew Moon Fest June 7, 2014. 6:30 – 11 p.m. and October 4, 2014. 6:30 – 11 p.m. The city of Alpharetta’s third annual Brew Moon Fest, in both June and October, is a celebration of beer, wine and food from Alpharetta’s best restaurants held in historic downtown Alpharetta. Come down and join the rest of the city for one big street party with live music and merriment all night long. Historic Downtown Alpharetta, 35 Milton Avenue, Alpharetta. For more information, please visit awesomealpharetta.com. Food Truck Alley Through October 2014. 5 – 9 p.m. Alpharetta’s Food Truck Alley sees a rotating assortment of food trucks rolling through Old Roswell Street each Thursday from April to October, with live music on April 24, May 29 and June 26. A great way to kick the weekend off a little bit early. Old Roswell Street, Alpharetta. For more information, please visit awesomealpharetta.com. Taste of Alpharetta May 2015 The Taste of Alpharetta, the premiere dining festival of the Southeast and now in its 24th year, will be held in historic downtown Alpharetta. The festival, which attracts 50,000 families and foodies each year, will have more than 60 local restaurants selling samples of their wares. Historic Downtown Alpharetta. For more information, please visit awesomealpharetta.com. Wire and Wood Songwriters Festival October 17 – 18. 4 – 9 p.m. The Wire and Wood Songwriters Festival will fill the streets of Alpharetta with music performed by both local and nationally touring artists. The event
68 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
The Brew Moon Fest in Alpharetta is one of the biggest festivals in North Fulton. is free and open to the public, and is sure to be a great time for the whole family. 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta. For more information, please visit awesomealpharetta.com. Fourth of July Celebration July 4. Celebrate Independence Day with friends, family and neighbors at Wills Park, where there will be Alpharetta’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show. In addition, there will be music, food, and activities for the kids. Wills Park, 1825 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta. For more information, please visit awesomealpharetta.com.
Milton:
Crabapple Fest October 4. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The city of Milton and the Crabapple Community Association team up to host a massive festival with over 15,000 attendees. The Fest will feature hundreds of juried vendors selling antiques and art, a music and entertainment stage, activities for the kids, and beer and wine on festival grounds. 765 Broadwell Road, Milton. For more information, please visit cityofmiltonga.us.
Summer Series at Friendship Community Park June 14, July 12 and August 3. 7 p.m. each night. Each month this summer, come down to Friendship Community Park to enjoy Milton’s Summer Movie Series. This free event will show three fun and family friendly movies: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in June, Back to the Future in July, and The Princess Bride in August. Friendship Community Park, 12785 Birmingham Highway, Milton. For more information, please visit cityofmiltonga. us.
day music favorites, a holiday bounce house, hot chocolate and photos with Santa Claus, a bonfire and the return of the “North Pole Passport” program featuring local businesses. Downtown Crabapple, Milton. For more information, please visit cityofmiltonga.us.
Cumming:
Milton Tree Lighting November 28. 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Kick off the holiday season in Milton with the fifth annual tree lighting. The event will feature plenty of holiday festivities alongside the lighting of the Christmas tree at the corner of Highway 9 and Webb Road. Corner of Highway 9 and Webb Road, Milton. For more information, please visit cityofmiltonga.us.
Cumming Country Fair and Festival October 2 – 12. 4 – 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. – Midnight Friday, 10 a.m. – Midnight Saturday and 12:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Sunday. The Cumming Country Fair and Festival is a fun and affordable family event with plenty for everyone to enjoy. Carnival rides, petting zoo, live music and a Heritage and Indian Village. The Heritage Village is a slice of living history, while the Indian Village represents the rich Cherokee heritage in Forsyth county. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. For more information, please visit cummingfair.net.
Christmas in Crabapple December 6. 2 – 5 p.m. There’s sure to be heaps of holiday cheer in Milton as the city, in partnership with the CCA, hosts the seventh annual Christmas in Crabapple. There will be Christmas, Hanukkah and holi-
Fourth of July Celebrations July 3, 6 – 11 p.m. July 4, 10 a.m. On July 3, the Cumming Fairgrounds will be holding a celebration for Independence Day, with festivities including food, children’s activities, a dance contest and, of course, fire-
The City of Roswell celebrates Black History Month every February with the annual Roswell Roots festival. Roswell Roots is one of the largest and most comprehensive Black History celebrations in the state of Georgia and celebrates black history and culture by sponsoring a variety of art exhibits, history and cultural events. For more information, please visit roswellgov.com.
The annual Taste of Forsyth takes place at the Cumming Fairgrounds. works to end the night. On the Fourth, there will be a parade featuring steam engines, antique cars, and much more. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. Parade begins at the intersection of Tribble Gap and Woodland Drive in Cumming. For more information, please visit cummingfair.net or cummingjuly4parade.com. IPRA World Championship Rodeo August 29 – 31. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m. Sunday, 7 p.m. A seven event rodeo that is part of the International Professional Rodeo Association’s competitions. A great event for the whole family with a fair-like atmosphere in addition to the rodeo events. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. For more information, please visit cummingfair. net or iprarodeo.com. Christmas in Cumming December 13 – 14. Friday, 4 – 10 p.m and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. A Christmas event featuring an arts and crafts festival, photos with Santa, hay rides and more. Come down and celebrate Christmas in Cumming. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. For more information, please visit cummingfair.net. Taste of Forsyth April 2015, exact date TBD. The annual Taste of Forsyth and Easter Egg Hunt return to the Cumming Fairgrounds. The event will feature more than 25 restaurants, the Egg Hunt, and a Touch-a-Truck event for kids. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. For more information, please visit cummingfair.net.
Roswell:
Flying Colors Butterfly Festival June 7 – 8. Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. and Sunday, Noon – 5 p.m. A weekend festival at the Chattahoochee Nature Center featuring hundreds and hundreds of butterflies. The event will also have arts and crafts, activities for kids, a plant sale and live entertainment. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. For more information, please visit chattnaturecenter.org. Roswell Arts Festival September 20 -21. Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Roswell, the Roswell Arts Festival is held on the Roswell Town Square. Entertainment featuring local singers, dance companies, and children’s entertainers begins daily at noon on both days of the festival. Children’s painting, sand art and other activities are also available. Food vendors on site. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. For more information, please visit roswellartsfestival.com.
Colors Festival of Arts May 2015, exact date TBD. Artists and craftsmen arrive from areas around the Southeast, joining with Roswell and North Fulton artists to present a magnificent show. Entertainment is scheduled throughout the day and ranges from storytelling to vocalists, instrumentalists to dance performances. An array of festive food vendors are on hand to satisfy the appetite. For more information, please visit visitroswellga.com.
Johns Creek:
Farmers Market Through September 6. Every Saturday, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Held during the summer at Newtown Park, each market features local farmers and vendors with organic and/ or sustainable foods and produce. 3150 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta. For more information, please visit johnscreekga.gov. Movies at Newtown Park June 14, July 12, and August 9. Movies start at dusk, activities begin two hours prior. A summer outdoor series of familyfriendly movies presented on a huge inflatable screen at Newtown Park.
Pre-show activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, children’s activities, giveaways, entertainment, food and drinks, along with displays from local businesses/organizations. 3150 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta. For more information, please visit johnscreekga.gov. Fall Family Festival September 6. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Johns Creek “Fall Family Festival” at Newtown Park features music, carnival games, activities, art and crafts, moonwalks, giant slide, obstacle course, food and fun for the entire family – including the final Farmers Market of the season. 3150 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta. For more information, please visit johnscreekga.gov. Johns Creek Arts Festival October, exact date TBD. A juried arts festival featuring a lot of other entertainment as well, from a pet parade to fireworks. Support all sorts of local artists, and just all around have a great time. Athletic Fields across from 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek. For more information, please visit johnscreekartsfestival.com. Johns Creek Founder’s Day Celebration Through the week of December 1. Kicking off with the annual Founder’s Day parade, this week long event celebrates the founding of Johns Creek in 2007. Other events for the week are the Santa Jam and the City Hall Tree Lighting. Various locations in Johns Creek. For more information, please visit johnscreekga.gov.
Christmas in Roswell Throughout the month of December. A variety of celebrations in various locations throughout the city. The Southern Trilogy historical sites will all be decorated for the holidays and open for tours. Additional events include Santa sightings, holiday tours, musical performances, high teas, re-enactments of Mittie Bulloch’s Christmastime 1853 wedding to Theodore Roosevelt, theatrical performances, art and more. For more information, please visit visitroswellga.com. Roswell Roots Februrary 2015, exact date TBD.
Johns Creek Arts Festival draws thousands of visitors every October. Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 69
Gardening tips for beginners and pros, (continued from 65) nutrients. Nearness to the House: Locate the garden near your house so you can observe it regularly. Being close to your garden will help you notice insect, disease and weed problems and let you take necessary control measures before they can cause serious damage. A convenient location will also allow you to spend short periods of spare time tending to garden chores or harvesting the fruit. Soil: When looking for a garden site, keep in mind
that the exact soil type is less important than factors such as high fertility, good internal drainage, ease of tilling, good moisture-holding capacity and deep topsoil. Water: You will get only moderate results if you try to grow a garden without watering it as needed. Mulches and organic matter will improve the soil’s moisture-holding capacity and reduce evaporation loss; however, they will not guarantee an ample supply of moisture at all times. If possible, locate the gar-
den near a good water supply so it can be watered as often as needed. Residents can have their soil tested for $8 per sample at their local extension offices: North Fulton Office – North Fulton Government Service Center, 7741 Roswell Road, NE, Suite 202, Atlanta, Ga. 30350. Call 404-613-7670. Forsyth County Office – 875 Lanier 400 Parkway, Suite 158, Cumming, Ga. 30040. Call 770-8872418.
Alpharetta, this native Atlantan’s hometown, (continued from 9) themselves make a hometown. They are merely the starting point. A city is just a place to live until you have faith in and love for your neighbors; until you are rooted and invested in your city; until you have purpose and pride in the things and places around you. This is important to me because, like so many of you, I have come to find that in a hometown, people care more, give more, serve more, trust more, give
thanks more, and worship more. A hometown is full of homes, not houses. It carries a sense of stability and longevity. In a hometown, you can better see the good in people and the heart of the person in front of you. In 30 years, Alpharetta has grown from a city of 3,000 people to 62,000 people. I did not grow up here, and chances are you didn’t either. So, Alpharetta will not be your
hometown, or mine, unless we choose to make it so. This is why we are focused on building a new City Center with a park, a square, a new City Hall, and new places for restaurants and shops. It’s why we started events like Food Truck Alley, the Farmers Market, the Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival, Brew Moon Festival, Grilling and Gridiron, and so many other great events.
It’s why we’re focused on attracting new restaurants like Hop Alley, Salt, Mugs on Milton, Tin Roof, and South Main Kitchen. We want to create an irresistible environment; one built on food and music; one that draws families and neighbors out and together for community and connection. It’s the stuff of which hometowns are made. This is Alpharetta. It’s my hometown. I hope you’ll make it yours.
Growing up Roswell, (continued from 9) generation (our children and grandchildren) are more interested in smart phones and social networking than cars, and they want to live in walkable communities. Aging baby boomers (people like me) want to downsize and spend less time in their cars, and they are demanding housing in walkable communities. This is very good news for cities. Because walkable communities are more compact, they cost less to construct and maintain than typical suburban communities. Walkable communities take less land, less asphalt, less electric lines, less water lines, and less sewer lines. Because walking is encouraged and cars are not necessary, walkable communities generate less traffic. Because it is compact, Old Town Roswell can absorb all of Roswell’s
growth for the next twenty years. The growth and success of Canton Street has helped all of Roswell by creating an attractive and lively town center. The growth of Old Town Roswell will build on the success of Canton Street. Converting half empty strip centers and aging apartments into walkable neighborhoods will raise property values, lower crime rates, and improve the health of nearby property. Because the size of a walkable community is limited to walking distances, growth in Old Town Roswell will not encroach on established subdivisions. ARC classified Old Town Roswell as a “Silver” Walkable community because it is still in the process of redevelopment and needs governmental assistance to reach its full potential. The Roswell City
Council is providing such assistance. They recently approved a new zoning code called the “Unified Development Code” to allow more compact redevelopment with a mixture of residential and commercial uses. The Roswell Transportation Department is looking for ways to make more street and sidewalk connections. Our Public Works Department is studying multiparty detention ponds to handle storm water runoff from small developments. The City Council is drafting Design Guidelines to insure new construction is in line with what Roswell wants. Single Family subdivisions will remain the primary form of housing in Roswell, but in Old Town Roswell there is now another housing choice for those who want to live in a walkable community.
State of Forsyth County, (continued from 8) county animal shelter. The voters once again made this project possible, as it is funded by the SPLOST VII program. The new shelter will be located on County Way just off of GA 400 in northern Forsyth County. We look forward to opening the new shelter this summer. The extension of the very popular Big Creek Greenway is under construction, and when completed will add approximately 2.85 miles to the multi-use path. This work is being funded by the Parks, Recreation and Green Space
70 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Bond voters approved in 2008, and is expected to be completed late this year. The Big Creek Greenway is just one of the many parks and recreation offerings residents can enjoy. I believe that our great parks system was without question a contributing factor in the recent naming of Forsyth County as the healthiest county in Georgia for the second year in a row. What an accolade this is for our community! I take a lot of pride in talking about Forsyth County and all of the great things taking place here. I also take a
great deal of pride in discussing our financial stability. We continue to be one of only three counties in the state of Georgia with the Aaa rating from Moody’s. Because of this exceptional rating, the county is able to bond important transportation, water and sewer, and public safety infrastructure improvements and projects at very low rates, enabling us to more effectively plan and build for the future. Forsyth County’s tax rates remain among the lowest in the metro Atlanta area, continuing our focus on providing
top-notch county services while keeping the tax levy as low as possible to minimize the impact on taxpayers. Forsyth County is a great place to live, raise a family and do business, and certainly a community I am proud to represent. On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, I would like to say thank you for allowing us the opportunity to serve you and most importantly thank you for your support, without which the tremendous progress taking place throughout our community would not be possible.
Johns Creek in Ga.’s Top 10 for home value, (continued from 53) “It also signals that if you move there, most of the neighbors will be vested in that community,” she said. “It tells homebuyers they are not alone in their choice to buy a home.” Then Nerdwallet looked at affordability of homes in the community. Here, the researchers looked at median income compared to median home costs. “The standard is the home should not cost you more than 30 percent of your gross income,” Clark said. “The less monthly income spent on homeowner costs, the more affordable the community is presumed to be.” When Nerdwallet compared median home costs with median home value, Johns Creek was second among the top 20 cities with home values with a ratio of 25.0 percent. Only Martinez near Augusta, with a costs-to-home-value ratio of 24.9 percent, was better. However, median home value in Martinez is $152,900. Alpharetta’s costs-to-value ratio was 28.0 percent and Milton had a rate of 28.5 percent. Finally, the survey looked at population growth from 2010 to 2012. This was chosen as an indicator showing people had reasons to go there.
“It signals that people want to be there. There is something there that attracts people,” Clark said. “Conversely, it says it’s not a violent place and they won’t be the only new people in town.” Milton had a healthy growth of 11.3 percent – the second-highest on the survey. Johns Creek followed with 6.4 percent growth and Alpharetta at 6.1 percent growth. The data was then grouped into thirds. 1. Homeownership rate 2. Affordability (derived from the homeowner costs-home value ratio) 3. Growth rate Each variable is ranked 1 to 100 and compared to the rankings of the other cities. Of course, there are factors that can skew the comparisons. For instance, Milton’s 11 percent growth was second in the survey, while Johns Creek and Alpharetta don’t have much residential land left, so their pedestrian growth rates of around 6 percent don’t help their scores much. Also, 15 of the cities on the list have median values of less than $200,000. Two were in the $200,000s. The three North Fulton cities left the other cities in the dust in home value comparison
The less monthly income spent on homeowner costs, the more affordable the community is presumed to be.” Maggie Clarke, Analyst with Milton ($462,000), Johns Creek ($336,000) and Alpharetta ($324,300). Also looking among the three North Fulton scores, Milton showed second-highest in growth rate at 11.3 percent, which was one-third of the score. So she cautioned not to read into the data things that are not there. “There is no value judgment in this. This is what the data has told us, and it is a snapshot in time. No one wins an award,” she said. “It is only one tool in evaluating these cities.”
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Emergency & Community
Resource Table ORGANIZATION
PURPOSE
PHONE #
Website
United Way
To find help
211 or 404-6141000
211online.unitedwayatlanta. org/
North Fulton Community Charities
Help in Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton
770-640-0399
www.nfcchelp.org
Community Assistance Center
Help in Sandy Springs/Dunwoody
770-552-4015
www.ourcac.org
DFACS
Food Stamps/TANF/ Medicaid
404-252-2180
dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/fultoncounty-dfcs-office
FACAA/LIHEAP
Energy Assistance
404-320-0166
www.facaa.org
St. Vincent de Paul
Financial Assistance
770-458-9607
www.svdpatl.org
404-730-5841
www.hafc.org
Housing & Homeless Housing Authority of Fulton Co.
Section 8 and Public Housing
Did we miss your resource? Contact Susan at 770-442-3278 ex.100
PURPOSE
ORGANIZATION
PHONE #
Website
Credit Counseling/ Legal/ Police CredAbility
Consumer Credit Counseling
404-527-7630
www.credability.org
NID Housing Counseling Agency
Foreclosure Information/ assistance
404-612-0405
www.atlhca.com
HOPE
24 Hour HotlineForeclosure assistance
888-995-4673
Atlanta Legal Aid
Legal Assistance
404-524-5811
www.atlantalegalaid.org
Anonymous Police Tip Hot Line
Roswell – Crime/ Drugs
770-641-3959
www.roswellgov.com
City of Alpharetta
Alpharetta – Crime/ Drugs
678-297-6307
www.alpharetta.ga.us
City of Johns Creek
Johns Creek – Crime/Drugs
678-474-1610
www.johnscreekga.gov/ services/police.aspx
City of Milton
Milton Police Department General
678-242-2570
www.cityofmiltonga.us/index
Homestretch/Housing Initiative
Transitional Housing
770-642-9185
www.homestretch.org
Roswell Public Housing
Public Housing
770-993-6226
www.roswellhousing.org
Rape Hotline
24 Hour Hotline
770-887-1121
www.fultoncountyga.gov/ contact-us-solicitor
The Drake House
Emergency housing women with children
770-587-4712
www.thedrakehouse.org
Grady Rape Crisis Center
Crisis line
404-616-4861
www.gnesa.org/content/ grady-rape-crisis-center
Metro Fair Housing
Housing Discrimination
404-524-0000
www.metrofairhousing.com
Salvation Army
General Assistance
404-352-3597
www.salvationarmy.org
Birth/Death Records
404-613-1260
www.fultoncountyga.gov/ dhw-vital-records
Gateway Center
Emergency Shelter
404-215-6600
www.gatewayctr.org
IRS
Tax Issues
800-829-1040
www.irs.gov
Travelers Aid/Hope Atlanta
Homeless prevention, newcomers
Social Security
800-772-1213
www.ssa.gov
404-817-7070
www.hopeatlanta.org/
Social Security, Disability, SSI
Tags/Titles
Fulton County Office
404-730-6100
motor.etax.dor.ga.gov
North Fulton Career Center
VA Health, Housing, Benefits
www.va.gov
404-612-2273
Veterans Administration
800-827-1000
Employment
EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Com)
Info on County programs
404-613-7944
Employment Discrimination
www.fultoncountyga.gov/ divisions-and-programs
800-669-4000
Fulton County Housing & Human Services MARTA
bus, rail schedules, fares
404-848-4711
www.itsmarta.com
Department of Labor
Unemployment Office
866-873-5676
Georgia Crisis & Access Line
24 hour -mental health, addiction & crisis service
800-715-4225
bhlweb.com/tabform/
www.fultoncountyga.gov
Employment www.fultoncountyga.gov/ wia-home www.eeoc.gov/field/atlanta www.dol.state.ga.us
Family & Childrens Services
Government Fulton County Records
Health
A Beacon of Hope
Pregnancy Counseling
678-893-5290
www.abeaconofhope.com
Child Abuse and Neglect
To report abuse
404-699-4399
dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/howreport-child-abuse
North Fulton Regional Health Center
Public Health (in Alpharetta)
404-332-1958
GA Council on Child Abuse
Info, resources
800-532-3208
www.preventchildabusega. org
North Fulton Service Center
Common Ground (co-located services)
404-612-3917 or 404-612-6372
Child Support Assistance
Child Support Enforcement
877-423-4746
dcss.dhs.georgia.gov/
North Fulton Health Center Grady
Primary Care clinic in NF (Sandy Springs)
404-616-1550
www.gradyhealthsystem.org/
Northside Behavioral Health
Mental Health
404-851-8960
www.northside.com/ medical_services
Children’s at NorthPoint (Mansell Rd)
pediatric primary care
770-643-1792
www.choa.org/AboutChildrens/Locations-andDirections
Good Samaritan Atlanta
primary care clinic downtown
404-523-6571
www.goodsamatlanta.org/
Georgia Highlands
primary care clinic serving North GA
678-887-1668
www. georgiahighlandsmedical.org
North Fulton Hospital
Hospital - Roswell
770-751-2500
www.nfultonhospital.com
Grady Memorial Hospital
Hospital
404-616-1000
www.gradyhealth.org/
Scottish Rite (Childrens Hospital)
Pediatric Hospital
404-785-5252
www.choa.org/
Emory Johns Creek
Hospital - Johns Creek
678-474-7000
www.emoryjohnscreek.com/
Northside Hospital
Hospital - Sandy Springs or Forsyth
404-851-8000
www.northside.com/
Families First
Counseling
404-853-2844
www.familiesfirst.org
Fulton County Schools
General Information
404-678-3600
www.fultonschools.org
Fulton Co. School Social Workers
Information
404-763-6774
www.fultonschools.org
G.E.D.
Enrollment Opportunities at NFCC
678-387-4458
www.nfcchelp.org/ education
Head Start
3-4 Year Olds
678-585-9100
www.georgiaheadstart.org
Child Dev. Center North Fulton
Child Care
770-992-4006
www.cdakids.org
Family Haven (NF & Forsyth)
24 Hour HotlineDomestic Violence
770-887-1121
www. forsythcountyfamilyhaven. info
PADV (Partnership Against Domestic Violence)
24 Hour HotlineDomestic Violence
404-873-1766
padv.org/
Jewish Family and Career Services
Family and Career Counseling
770-677-9300
www.yourtoolsforliving.org
St. Joseph Hospital of Atlanta
Hospital - Sandy Springs
404-581-7001
www.stjosephsatlanta.org
Senior Services North Fulton
Meals on Wheels, Transportation
770-993-1906
www.ssnorthfulton.org
Gwinnett Medical Center - Duluth
Hospital
678-312-6800
www.gwinnettmedical center.org
72 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014
Life should be fun…let us help!
• Visual Arts – Clay, Photography, Painting, and Collage • Performing Arts – Dance and Drama for all ages and interest levels • Gymnastics – Learn, have fun or compete in our state of the art gymnasium • Adult Recreation Center – for Active Adults 50+ • Fitness • Youth and Adult Athletics • Family Fun – at our Parks, Pools and Playgrounds • Spray Grounds
Get connected…
The Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs Department is a proud finalist of the National Recreation and Park Association 2011, 2012 and 2013 Gold Medal Award of Excellence in Recreation and Park Management.
Details available at
www.roswellgov.com • 770-641-3705 or pick up a brochure at any of our recreation facilities
Follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/cityof roswellga Relocation Answer Book™ 2014 • 73
74 • Relocation Answer Book™ 2014