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Deal says state Economy on rise State attracting more jobs, new businesses ►►PAGE 4

Heritage Society seeks return to core values Recapturing America’s greatness begins at home ►►PAGE 11

Teen videographer ‘drives’ home message Courtney Pulicella winner In safety video contest ►►PAGE 12

February 20, 2014 | northfulton.com | 73,500 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 18, No. 8

Broadbent enters race for JC City Council Will seek Post 4 By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Johns Creek’s operations room is preparing for the coming storm. Foreground is city Communications Manager Doug Nurse who will not get much sleep the next two days.

North Fulton takes advantage of Snow Daze Forewarned, residents bundle up, stay home By HATCHER HURD & JONATHAN COPSEY NORTH FULTON – For the second time in as many weeks, snow fell in Georgia, coating the streets and clos-

ing schools and businesses. Chastened by the chaos of the first snow and ice storm, this time North Fulton residents fared far better. They stayed off the roads and in their homes.

And while there was plenty of ice on the roads, North Fulton was spared the ice on its power lines so power outages were rare. Johns Creek Communications Manager Doug Nurse

See SNOW DAZE, Page 5

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Steve Broadbent, the current chairman of the Johns Creek Planning Commission, declared Feb. 17 he will seek the City Council Post 4 seat left vacant after BROADBENT the resignation of Ivan Figueroa. Broadbent, who is running for the second time, said he is running for office because of his desire to serve the residents of Johns Creek. “I think I can add a lot to the leadership of the City Council. And I am a fiscal conservative, which I think fits in well with the direction that Johns Creek has chosen in the past and will continue,” he said. Broadbent said he has led

The Broadbent file Age: 60 Occupation: Executive benefits consultant Family: Wife Mary and two daughters Education: Bachelor’s degree in nuclear science at University of Virginia; master’s degree in business administration at University of North Carolina; master’s degree in public policy at George Washington University. Public Service: Johns Creek Planning Commission Military Service: U.S. Navy, 22 years active and reserve large organizations in the past including 22 years in the U.S.

See COUNCIL, Page 4

State allows flexibility for lost time Resolution to waive makeup days ATLANTA – School systems across the state may have flexibility in how they make up school days lost to the unusually severe weather this winter. Many school systems across the state have lost at least a week of classroom time, with some districts in the more

northern parts of the state nearing two weeks off so far this year. According to officials with the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE), districts have four emergency days that they do not need to make up under state law. Emergency situations include disasters,

acts of God, civil disturbance or shortfall in resources. Beyond those four days, there may be options for further waivers. “We are planning to take a resolution to the State Board [this week] giving systems the flexibility to not make up the days that were declared a state of emergency [Jan. 29-30],” said Matt Cardoza, director of communication for GDOE.

Teacher students scramble to make up snow days. See Page 10 “We are also adding the days from [last] week to the resolution,” he said. “I want to stress that it gives flexibility to not make up those days. Districts can certainly still make

them up if they wish.” The state law applies to all districts, including charter systems such as the Fulton School System. Fulton Schools has already waived four

PUBLIC SAFETY

2 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Local discovers $5K in fraudulent charges to bank 770-442-3278 northfulton.com

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Someone charged more than $5,000 to a local woman’s bank account fraudulently. The victim told police she was notified Feb. 5 by the clothing store Diesel that two large charges were made using her

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

Virginian charged with dealing drugs ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A suspected drug dealer was arrested Feb. 4 on Ga. 400 after he was allegedly caught speeding. Police on Ga. 400 noted that about 2 p.m., a vehicle with Virginia plates was driving erratically, speeding, changing lanes frequently and braking hard. The officer pulled over

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

DUI arrests ►► Ralphy Gonzalez, 35,

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of Falls Landing Drive, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 26 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI, stop sign violation and display of license plate. ►► Derrick James McMillan, 23, of Waters Mill Drive, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 28 on Waters Road in Alpharetta for DUI, too fast for conditions, suspended registration, no license, reckless driving and failure to exchange insurance information. ►► Bradley Lawrence Asten, 35, of Champion Hills Drive,

credit card for $1,200 total. She claimed she never made such purchases. A check of her bank account showed several other expensive purchases – Delta Airlines for $511, Shopmall.com for $3,099, NHL for nearly $200 and other

charges for $300. The victim’s bank has refunded the money and claimed they had an Atlanta address from the Shopmall.com purchase; however they would not divulge the information.

Earnest Lee Akins Jr., 54, of Herndon, Va., who admitted his license was suspended. A search of his car turned up nearly $9,000 in cash and 280 grams of marijuana in the trunk. A further $895 was found on him. Akins claimed the money belonged to his millionaire athlete brother-in-law and denied any knowledge of the drugs. Akins was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, following vehicles too closely and driving with a suspended license.

Farms Drive home was burgled Feb. 7, with more than $2,000 in items stolen. The victim said she returned home from work at about 5 p.m. to find her back door pried open. Inside, drawers and doors were found open, with a 17inch Acer laptop missing along with a white pearl necklace and a box containing more jewelry.

$2K in items taken from home

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – An Alpharetta man was arrested Feb. 2 on Haynes Bridge Road after a traffic stop turned up marijuana.

MILTON, Ga. – A Wyndham Milton, was arrested Jan. 30 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Cheryl Ann Simpson, 49, of Dancliff Trace, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 30 on Westside Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane and speeding. ►► Deborah Kay Charme, 42, of Orchid Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 31 on Marietta Street in Alpharetta for DUI. ►► John Edward Hill, 46, of Deer Creek Place, Milton, was arrested Feb. 1 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI and speeding. ►► Matthew E. Matejick, 28, of Leeward Walk Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 28 on Webb Bridge Road in Alpharetta for DUI, possession of marijuana, possession of drug-related items and failure to maintain lane.

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While on patrol on North Point Drive, near the mall, an officer saw the vehicle driven by David Lamont Hawthorne, 21, of Morris Road, Alpharetta, stopped at a red light but over the balk line. The officer stopped Hawthorne to inform him he had to stop behind the line at traffic lights. The officer reports that, while speaking with Hawthorne, he could smell marijuana coming from the car. A search resulted in a small baggie of suspected pot on the passenger seat, a pot cigarette in his hat and, in the trunk, a backpack with more baggies, each with pot in them.

See BLOTTER, Page 3

32, of Ivy Brook Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb. 4 on Birmingham Highway in Milton for DUI and following too closely. ►► Charles Frederick Osborn, 35, of Marietta was arrested Feb. 7 on Haygood Road in Milton for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► David Caroll Hegner, 56, of Edgecomb Drive, Roswell, was arrested Jan. 25 on Willeo Road in Roswell for DUI and impeding traffic. ►► Oscar Telles-Manzanares, 34, of Woodstock was arrested Jan. 27 on Alpharetta Highway in Roswell for DUI, failure to maintain lane and open container. ►► Bruce Long, 43, of Statesboro was arrested Jan. 24 on Ga. 400 in Roswell for DUI, failure to maintain lane and suspended license. ►► Jason Paul Crysler, 29,

of Willow Stream Court, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 3 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Luis Andres-Virosta, 47, of Sandy Springs was arrested Feb. 3 on Magnolia Street in Roswell for DUI, failure to maintain lane, expired license and possession of a controlled substance. ►► Brittney L. Rau, 30, of Oakwood was arrested Feb. 1 on Pine Grove Road in Roswell for DUI and failure to maintain lane. ►► Anselm Ore, 25, of Sandy Springs was arrested Feb. 1 on Riverside Road in Roswell for DUI, violation of a limited permit and failure to maintain lane. ►► Meghan Leigh Edwards, 23, of Lantern Ridge Court, Alpharetta, was arrested Feb.

See ARRESTS, Page 25

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Continued from Page 2 Hawthorne was arrested for possession of marijuana and failure to obey a traffic device.

Purse, jewels taken from Milton home MILTON, Ga. – Someone stole an expensive purse Feb. 4 after breaking into a home while the owners were asleep. The victims, on Richmond Glen Drive, told police when they went to sleep at 11 p.m. the night before, the garage

door was closed and locked. When they woke up the following morning, the door was open and a Prada handbag, valued at $1,500, was missing from the vehicle parked in the garage, along with all its contents – a $2,000 piece of jewelry, a checkbook and credit cards. One of the credit cards was used at a Chevron in Norcross that morning. There are no suspects.

Lawyer arrested for warrant, drugs ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A Cumming-area attorney was arrested Feb. 8 on drug charges.

Police were on patrol on Old Milton Parkway when they pulled over a vehicle with expired tags. When asked for his driver’s license, the driver, Kenneth Howard Schatten, 56, of Cumming, instead handed the officer his Georgia Bar Association card, claiming he left his license at home. A check on Schatten returned an active warrant out of Doraville for failure to appear in court after a speeding ticket. A search of Schatten’s car turned up some marijuana and a glass pipe. Schatten was arrested for possession of marijuana, outstanding warrant and failure to register the vehicle.

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4 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Gov. Deal paints rosy picture for Ga. Economy Speaks at Fulton GOP breakfast By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com ROSWELL, GA. – Gov. Nathan Deal was the guest speaker Feb. 8 for the Fulton County Republican Party breakfast at Country Club of Roswell, and the party faithful turned out to hear what he had to say. More than 200 packed the country club’s ballroom to hear Deal fire the opening salvo on his re-election campaign, and he had some talking points to boast about. The state’s economy is picking up after the recession doldrums, and is making progress. Among the highlights are his policies that are paying off for the state. Deal said no to expansion of Medicaid in Georgia. Instead of incurring more healthcare costs, Deal wanted to get people working again. That has paid off with 217,000 new jobs in the state. “If we get people working, then their employers’ insurance will cover them,” Deal said. Fiserv, a financial services company, will be bringing 2,000 jobs to Alpharetta, the governor pointed out. North Fulton “is a magnet for tech jobs,” Deal said. That is why the state is

Council: Continued from Page 1 Navy, which gives him the kind of organizational experience that is needed for the job of councilperson. “I think I bring strong leadership skills to the City Council,” Broadbent said. “I know how to tackle complex problems. For instance, my undergraduate degree is in nuclear engineering. If nothing

investing heavily in technical colleges. Georgia is a leader in technical training to provide high-tech employers with a quality workforce. At one time, Georgia was the buckle on the textile belt. The state was a center for mills producing carpet and other industrial fibers. “Just about every town in Georgia had mills turning out fibers, and employing workers. But that industry was labor intensive, and it went overseas for cheaper labor. Those jobs are coming back to Georgia through new technology.” Georgia is now a flooring leader using new technologies to expand beyond just carpeting. New plants in that industry have added 1,400 jobs. Tax reform that allows more incentives to large companies has paid off as well, the governor said. Caterpillar would not have brought a new manufacturing plant from Japan to Athens without the new legislation, he said. Another key factor was eliminating the energy tax in manufacturing – if local governments approved – that make it more attractive for companies to come to Georgia. And just last week, State Farm announced plans to add 3,000 metro Atlanta jobs in a

else, you are taught to analyze complex problems and to bring them to a successful resolution. “I think that is the skill I can offer to the city of Johns Creek and the City Council,” he said. Asked what he saw as the biggest issue facing the city, Broadbent said there were several issues that are immediately clear. First, as a fiscal conservative, he wants to keep the tax rate stable so that neither

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huge new campus planned for Dunwoody. “That shows what local communities can do when we remove the barriers. They make things happen,” Deal said. The state has moved forward to encourage dual enrollment which allows students to take college-level courses that count toward their high school and college diplomas. Legislation was passed so that local high schools would not lose the funding for students enrolled in dual courses. That money is now picked up by the Hope lottery funds. Perhaps the biggest potential boost to Georgia’s economy is the expansion and deepening of the port of Savannah. Ideally, it will be timed to coincide with the Panama Canal’s expansion that will service the largest container ships in the world. Savannah could be the first port of call for U.S.-bound cargo ships, but the port has to be ready to serve these super container ships. Deal said Congress has held up the money for the project despite having Georgia’s check for matching contribution already in the bank. That has set the project back at least two years. The good news for Georgia is the Panamanians are at least one year behind – and Deal says

commercial nor residential property owners are asked to accept a tax increase. The answer to more revenue to the city is to expand its tax base by recruiting more businesses to the city. “We want to narrow the huge gap between commercial and residential properties. I think it is at an 80-20 split right now between commercial and residential taxpayers,” he said. “We need to narrow that gap but still maintain the unique characteristics of Johns Creek.” The other issue that the city must address is that of traffic management and roads, he said. “If there is one complaint I hear about Johns Creek, it is how difficult it is to travel through the city,” Broadbent said. “We need to continue to search for solutions on improving traffic, yet at the same time we have to put money into resurfacing our roads – not only on the main arteries but down into the subdivisions,” he said. Broadbent plans on a doorto-door campaign so that he can hear directly from residents what their concerns are

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Gov. Nathan Deal addresses the Fulton County Republican Party at its monthly breakfast at Country Club of Roswell.

they are likely being over optimistic. With I-16 leading out of Savannah to Macon and on to Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the state has the infrastructure to be the leading in distribution center on the eastern seaboard. “If Georgia is ready, we can off-load these new super containers directly into waiting trucks that will haul them to Atlanta. We plan to be ready,” Deal said.

and what they want to see for the city. “I think it’s the best way to get to know the city and what’s on the voters’ minds.” Broadbent said he is active in his community, a successful businessman and an experienced leader. He is a successful small business owner where he provides specialized financial consulting services to publicly traded companies and large, privately held corporations. His previous business experience includes 11 years with AT&T where he last served as a sales vice president in Los Angeles. Broadbent also was appointed by President George H.W. Bush to serve as a deputy assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of the Treasury where he worked throughout the Bush Administration. He began his career as an officer in the U.S. Navy where he served in assignments at sea in the Mideast and in Washington, D.C. He retired from the Navy as a commander following 22 years on active duty and in the Navy reserves. Broadbent said he will have his campaign website www. voteBroadbent.com launched shortly.

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 5

A child is determined to get some use out of his sled at last.

Snow Daze: Continued from Page 1 was in the city emergency operations center for a good deal of the storm. He watched the events unfold. After a light dusting Monday that mostly melted away by midafternoon, the full first thrust came that night. “Fortunately the storm arrived overnight. So people got up the next morning and saw everything covered in snow and ice. They wisely made the decision to stay home,” Nurse said. “Not having people on the road made things a whole lot easier.” There was no gridlock to untangle this time around. Despite a longer lasting storm, city officials found it easier to do their jobs. Although crews were working longer and condi-

tions were worse on the roads, it was less “complicated,” Nurse said. “We didn’t have the stress of making sure kids weren’t stranded on school buses. No outages, no cars abandoned on the roads. We didn’t have accidents to answer. I think there was one accident reported in Johns Creek and no injuries,” he said. It did require more crews and materials. Johns Creek used 150 tons of sand and salt for the first storm this month. The second storm used an estimated 700 tons. This time the city had two road graders instead of one. It will be some weeks before the full price tag is known. Unlike Jan. 28, when businesses and governments were caught off guard by the snowfall and, worse, everyone tried to get home at the same time.

This neighborhood off Abbotts Bridge Road did the sensible thing – button up and stay home. That created metro-wide traffic jams that lasted more than 12 hours in some places, this Valentine’s week of snow was greeted with caution from everyone – governments, schools and businesses closed. Kids being kids, plenty of snowmen abounded and sleds came up out basements. The difference between this snowstorm and that of two weeks ago was “night and day,” said Jason Wright, communications director of Milton. “The thing that helped was

everyone had lots of time to prepare; they were able to stay in their homes and stay safe,” Wright said. “We really did not have many accidents.” Public works crews were on the roads promptly, spreading sand and salt on the streets. With bright sun and higherthan-freezing temps Thursday, the roads were easily passable. There were still spots of ice in shaded areas and on some bridges. The story was similar across North Fulton.

“We were prepared for worse,” said Alpharetta Deputy Administrator James Drinkard. “That’s always what you want.” In anticipation of the storm, Alpharetta opened its fire stations as emergency shelters in case of power outages, and the salt trucks began early in the storm. However, people stayed home, leading to few issues, especially with abandoned vehicles left in the roadways, which hampered road clearing efforts.

6 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The death of Leanne Hecht Bearden, 33, a graduate of Roswell High School, has been ruled a suicide by Garden Ridge Police, a suburb of San Antonio, Texas. Her death left family and friends “devastated” and wondering why a woman who seemed to get so much out of life would end her own. The woman had been visiting her in-laws and was last seen Jan. 17 when she left their house to go for a walk. The cause of death has been ruled asphyxiation by hanging. She and her husband Josh Bearden had recently returned from a two-year jaunt around the world that included visits to Asia, Africa, Europe and South America. Exotic locations included China, Cambodia, Myanmar, India, Rwanda, Ukraine and Bolivia. The Bearden’s blog indicates they visited a base camp at Mt. Everest, the Dead Sea, Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Africa’s Serengeti Plain. Yet in a Facebook page dedicated to finding Bearden, the family described the 5-foot 3-inch woman as “extremely vulnerable” and “her mental and physical status is uncertain.” Authorities suggest Bearden may have had trouble re-adjusting to “normal life” when the couple returned to their Colorado home. During the couple’s visit to Bearden’s in-laws, Bearden simply disappeared after say-

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Former Roswell resident Leanne Hecht Bearden was found in Texas. ing she was going for an hour’s walk. Her body was found a week later in some woods near the home where she was staying. Toxicology and forensic reports are still pending, but police say all evidence points to suicide. A Facebook page post from the family stated, “Leanne was a lovely and remarkable young woman, and we will all miss her greatly.”

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Rotary of Johns CreekNorth Fulton donates to Arts Center, Symphony Club raises money for local nonprofits JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The Rotary Club of Johns CreekNorth Fulton presented the Johns Creek Arts Center and Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra with checks for $1,125 each during a Feb. 5 social gathering. The Rotary held fundraising events in order to donate to the two local nonprofit organizations. “These two organizations are very deserving of these funds,” said Mike Kopp, president of the Rotary Club of Johns Creek-North Fulton. “Both the Arts Center and Symphony are vital to the Johns Creek community and

we are happy to support them in any way we can.” The Johns Creek Rotary assists organizations such as the local libraries, as well as military families. The club also supports Habitat for Humanity, awareness of human trafficking, as well as Rotary International’s global initiatives to eradicate polio and bring clean drinking water to people in less-developed countries in the world. The Rotary Club of Johns Creek-North Fulton meets each Wednesday at noon at the Atlanta Athletic Club, 1930 Bobby Jones Drive in Johns Creek. For information about the club, call 678-824-2403 or email info@RotaryJohnsCreek. com.

COMMUNITY

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 7

From left are Rotary Club of Johns Creek-North Fulton President-elect Bev Miller, Johns Creek Arts Center Executive Director Gail Hisle, Johns Creek Arts Center Board of Directors President Susan Grissom and Rotary Club of Johns Creek-North Fulton President nominee Ron Jones.

SPORTS

8 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Six local teams qualify for state in AAAAAA JCHS boys advance, defeating West Forsyth By MIKE BLUM news@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – All six North Fulton schools in Class AAAAAA sent one basketball team to the state tournament, with four boys’ teams and two girls’ teams advancing. The Alpharetta, Chattahoochee and Johns Creek boys advanced from Region 6-AAAAAA along with the Centennial girls. The Milton boys and Roswell girls advanced from 5-AAAAAA. The girls begin play in the state tournament Friday, Feb. 21, with the boys’ games scheduled for Saturday. The top two teams from each region will host first round games, with the teams from Region 6 playing teams from Region 8, and teams from Regions 5 and 7 squaring off in state openers. This weekend’s winners will play Monday (girls) and Tuesday (boys), with the quarterfinals Wednesday and

Thursday. The semifinals are set for Friday and Saturday at neutral sites.

Sheffield sparks Cougars’ upset CUMMING, Ga. – The Chattahoochee boys pulled off a mild upset in the first round of the 6-AAAAAA tournament Saturday, Feb. 15, at West Forsyth, knocking off third-seeded Centennial 64-54 behind a monster game from junior standout Marcus Sheffield. Sheffield, a rangy 6-foot-6 guard with an all-court game, scored 24 of his 40 points in the second half, hitting 10 straight free throws in the final period to preserve the Cougars’ lead. The Knights led by as many as seven points in the third quarter, but Brett Bartlett, Sheffield and Avery Ward connected on consecutive threepointers for the Cougars to give them a lead they would not relinquish. Ward and Caleb Miles hit three-pointers for Chattahoochee after the Knights closed within one point early in

the fourth quarter. Centennial struggled offensively down the stretch, with Sheffield, who averages 27 points a game, clinching the win at the foul line. Tre Hansbrough scored 19 points for Centennial, and Xavier Jackson added 17. Adam Saeed kept the Knights in the game scoring his team’s first seven points in the final period.

Johns Creek advances Johns Creek defeated host West Forsyth 54-49 in the 4 vs. 5 match-up, pulling the game out late after the Wolverines rallied from an 18-point deficit to take the lead with less than 2:30 to play. Sophomore Ian Joseph scored 13 of his 20 points in the second half to lead the Gladiators, who managed just 23 points in the final two periods. Peyton Smith added 13 points for Johns Creek, including three three-pointers.

See STATE, Page 9

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Kiki, a Corgi mix, is LifeLine Animal Project’s pet of the week.

LifeLine Animal Project’s Pet of the Week: Kiki FULTON COUNTY, Ga. – Good things come in small packages, especially Fulton County Animal Service’s Pet of the Week, Kiki. If you are looking for a sweet, calm and loving small dog, then Kiki is your girl. Kiki is a well-behaved 8-year-old Corgi mix. She is already spayed, vaccinated and microchipped. She is currently living in the shelter’s adoption office, and is ready to go home today. Kiki gets along great with kids and other dogs. And as part of Fulton County Animal Service’s “My Furry Valentine” special, Kiki can be adopted for only $14. Regular adoption screening criteria still applies to ensure Kiki gets a good home. Managed by LifeLine Animal Project, Fulton County Animal Service’s mission is to provide a humane environment for Fulton County’s homeless pets while placing them into loving, permanent homes. To learn more, visit www.fultonanimalservices.com.

State: Continued from Page 8

Alpharetta beats South Forsyth Second-seeded Alpharetta defeated South Forsyth 71-56, breaking the game open when junior standout DeVontae Cacok scored 18 of his 28 points in the third quarter.

Centennial girls whip Chattahoochee The Centennial girls, seeded third in the region, advanced to state with a 7058 win over Chattahoochee. Jazmine Estwick scored 19 points for Centennial and sophomore Brianna Perry added 18, as the Knights

scored 39 points in the second half after taking a 31-18 halftime lead. Siena Gore scored 22 for the Cougars. A late rally by Alpharetta came up just short in a 56-51 loss to West Forsyth, while Johns Creek was ousted by No. 1 seed North Forsyth.

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 9

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SCHOOLS

Teachers, students face dilemma as snow days pile up NORTH FULTON, Ga. – While students across the Fulton School System enjoyed a long mid-winter vacation last week, teachers and administrators were scrambling to find ways to keep students on track academically and make up the days lost to snow and ice. So far this year, seven days of class have been missed by students, while a few additional school days were disrupted with early release and general chaos. Fulton Schools officials waived making up the four days lost in January, but indicated any additional days off would be made up at some point before the end of the school year. So far, students have stayed home seven days because of weather. “We haven’t decided [when to make up days] but there are several options that will be considered and forwarded to the school board as recommendations,” said Samantha Evans, communications director for Fulton Schools. Options on the table include tacking the days onto the end of the year, using the planned teacher work day in March, adding minutes onto each day and other ways of recouping days before school ends on May 26.

Evans said the system is soliciting feedback from principals as they formulate their plans to make up days. One event likely to remain intact is Spring Break since administration officials understand the importance of the break for parents and students. Rumors students will be required to return to school after graduation ceremonies is also unlikely for obvious reasons of trying to corral kids, especially seniors, back to school for makeup days. The system could opt to waive the entire seven days off, based on a little-used provision in Georgia law regarding a “state of emergency.” [See sidebar] But the bottom line is ensuring students are well prepared not only for the dayto-day coursework, but also for the upcoming CRCTs in the elementary and middle schools, and Advanced Placement tests in May. Evans said the three weather days last week were anticipated by teachers and many made plans to continue teaching their students over the extended break. “In many cases, teachers were reaching out and sharing assignments and trying to keep the kids engaged during the

We haven’t decided [when to make up days] but there are several options that will be considered... SAMANTHA EVANS Communications director for Fulton Schools break,” said Evans. For Thomas Washburn, who teaches the law and justice curriculum at Cambridge High School, his pre-planning began days before the snow fell, as he looked at ways to adjust his curriculum and move some items to homework. Before the break, his plan for staying on track was presented to the students so that the expectations would be clear. “I explained we needed to stay on target [and] we could rush through material and double up assignments when we got back, or we could do a little work each day over break [which they agreed to],” he said. The fact that Washburn functions in a “digital classroom,” where all course content is online, made it easier to stay in touch with students and make assignments.

“The digital classroom has all the assignments and resources the students need. I was even able to send the password to parents so the students could take their vocabulary quiz online,” said Washburn, who estimates he spent about five hours each day communicating with students over the weeklong break. For Northwestern social studies teacher Paula Perque, the class was just beginning a unit on meteorology so the weather provided a lot of teachable moments. “I tweaked the lessons plans a bit on Monday when I knew we would be out for the week, and made it relevant to what was going on,” said Perque. “I also gave them homework to write a journal entry for each day they were gone related to the curriculum.”

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 11

American Heritage Society seeks return to core values of the past By HATCHER HURD hatcher@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – What made the Greatest Generation great? Just what was old Milton County? These and other topics will be part of the discussions Tuesday, Feb. 25 at Alpharetta City Hall in which local elected officials will lecture on North Fulton’s new cities and Milton County. Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle, Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood, Roswell Mayor Jere Wood, Mountain Park Mayor Jim Still and Councilman Steve Raffensperger representing Johns Creek will all participate. Vesta Smith, president and founder of the American Heritage Society of Georgia, said the ultimate goal of what will be a monthly series of talks is to get back to the ideals of the Founding Fathers. “The first program is called ‘Unifying Our Communities.’ We have so many people who live here now, but they do not really know what are the common ideals and goals that we all share,” Smith said. Artifacts and old Milton County maps will be avail-

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Artifacts and maps will also be on display that deal with the history of North Fulton and old Milton County. able for viewing as well as a voter registration signup table. The American Heritage Society of Georgia will meet every fourth Tuesday of the month at Alpharetta City Hall at 7 p.m. It is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization of volunteers and groups that share civic-minded ideals. “There are like-spirited American citizens of all ages who have a passion in life to share their talents, gifts, ex-

pertise and work ethic to help restore America to its strong founding principles. That begins with their families and communities,” Smith said. Signups will be available for those interested in the American Heritage newsletter, emergency survival preparedness retreat and genealogy classes. “Our mission is to restore, preserve, renew and rebuild our true American heritage and patriotism,” she said.

Vesta Smith, one of the founders of the American Heritage Society of Georgia, displays some of the artifacts that will be used in the discussions of Old Milton. Smith envisions the American Heritage Society as a sort of clearing house where local civic organizations such as the VFWs, American Legions, Rotary clubs, church groups and others can create synergies to revive what is best in the community. “That is what we mean by unifying our communities. We can create a network of organizations that can we can tap into to do things for the community,” she said.

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Teens steer Road to Safety Video contest teaches safe driving BY JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com MILTON, Ga. – Is it any wonder North Fulton schools participate in the annual video competition to raise awareness in student drivers about the need for driver safety? Car crashes are the No. 1 killer of teenagers nationwide, claiming 6,000 lives each year. A further 300,000 are injured. That is, one life is lost every 90 minutes. Many of the accidents can be attributed to distractions, speed and general inexperience of the drivers. Unfortunately, most teenagers have an “it won’t happen to me” mindset. It is this thinking that the Road to Safety video competition hopes to change. Now in its fourth year, the competition pits students from all the high schools in the North Fulton area to create videos highlighting the dangers of driving or promoting safe driving practices. For the first year, there were four videos and six teens taking part. This year, at the Feb. 7 awards ceremony at Milton High School, there were 50 videos from 150 teenage vid-

eographers. Many of the videos concerned the loss of a loved one due to driving mistakes. “It’s very important the kids do this,” said Lisa Cauley, organizer of the program. “The kids are sending a message to other kids, their friends. Whenever there is an accident, the kids think about it for about a week. This keeps it going.” Bill Richardson, of “It won’t happen to me, inc.,” a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to spreading information about safe driving. “When you get your driver’s license, it’s one of the most important responsibilities in your life,” Richardson said. “You’re not only responsible for yourself and the passengers, but also everyone you pass on the road.” The winning video came from Alpharetta High students Megan English, Sylvia Leong and Abby Lloyd with their video “Recounting the Crash.” Johns Creek High School student Courtney Pulicella claimed second place for her short film “Cut Short.” Third place winners were Tyler Clack, Alec Vitale, Alex Leveto and Grant Shippel from

For more information and a look at the winning videos, visit www. road2safety.com and click on “videos.”

We are all working toward a goal – to save all of us from getting into an accident.”

Johns Creek High School student Courtney Pulicella claimed second place for her short film “Cut Short.”

LISA CAULEY Organizer of the Road to Safety program

Alpharetta High School with their video, “My Worst Nightmare.” “What you are doing in putting videos together is putting the message out to your peers,” Cauley told the students. “We are all working toward a goal – to save all of us from getting into an accident.”

Alpharetta High students, from left, Megan English, Sylvia Leong and Abby Lloyd won the Road to Safety video contest with their video “Recounting the Crash.” With them is teacher Tracy Misner.

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 13

River Eves Foundation sets Spring Bash March 8 Funds go to technology, science classroom enrichment ROSWELL, Ga. – The River Eves Education Foundation (REEF) is having its fourth annual Spring Bash, “Caddyshack: An ’80s Golf ParTee,” Saturday, March 8. Festivities are at the Horseshoe Bend Country Club in Roswell. Community members are invited to don their best “Bushwood Country Club attire” for this year’s costume contest and fundraiser. Join the community from 7 p.m. to midnight for live music and dancing, a fabulous silent auction and raffle, delicious food and a cash bar. Tickets are $65 per person until Feb. 28 and $75 after March 1. Tickets and sponsorship packages for $250 and $500 can be purchased online on the REEF Caddyshack Page. At the bash, supporters and the community will celebrate REEF’s many successes, including the new technology coach, Lizzie Fragale. “River Eves placed Fulton County’s ﬁrst foundation-funded technology coach last spring and based on the success, we unanimously voted to continue the program again this year,” said River Eves Principal Neil Pinnock. “Mrs. Fragale is helping our teachers integrate a

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OPINION

Come out of the closet or stay in? st That’s the 21 century question In light of a recent college football player’s announcement that he was “coming out,” I was moved to think that perhaps I should add my voice to those who have decided to make a personal declaration to the world. I do not do this for any shock value or to gain undue attention. It is simply an expression of who I am. I merely wish to say that I am a Homo sapiens, and I intend to live my life as a Homo sapiens freely and openly and without regret or remorse. I don’t think this is a surprise to those who know me, but it is important for me personally to deal with my identity. Often, when I tell my friends, they often ask when I knew I was Homo sapiens. I can quite honestly tell them that I cannot remember a time when I was not Homo sapiens. It has always seemed to me to be a most natural state, and I have found myself to be at ease with the knowledge and I am in no way inhibited by it. I must tell you that I engage in sapient activities and find the experience quite elevating and even exhilarating.

HATCHER HURD

Executive Editor hatcher@northfulton.com

I must tell you that I engage in sapient activities and find the experience quite elevating and even exhilarating. Nor do I find myself constrained by polite society. My peers accept me for who I am and what I do, just as I accept them for who they are. In the workplace, we work for a common goal and enjoy the fruit of

our shared labor. I don’t make a big thing about my sapience, but it is always there and I do nothing to hide it. To be sapient is both a gift and a curse. It can make some people uncomfortable, but I always say that is their problem and not mine. So I just refuse to internalize it. I even felt moved to tell My Lady Wife that I was Homo sapiens and she replied that she did not see how this would change our marriage. Indeed she told me that she was Homo sapiens as well. So it really hasn’t changed our lives at all. To the contrary, we find we have even more in common now. We attend many gatherings of Homo sapiens at restaurants, concerts and even sporting events. We always find the company stimulating and enjoyable. In all, our life is enriched by expanding our social horizons. We are even going on a Caribbean cruise next month and everyone on board will be Homo sapiens. We are quite looking forward to relaxing on exotic beaches, snorkeling and just getting away from the rat race.

Submit your opinions to news@northfulton.com

Lessons learned from a snowstorm It seems we had barely weathered one winter storm when another one was on our doorstep. Now that North Fulton and Forsyth County are viewing the latest wintry mix through the rearview mirror, I hope that all of our friends and neighbors have escaped the snow, sleet and freezing rain unharmed. While most of us heeded the meteorologists’ and the governor’s many warnings and sat out this latest ice storm in the comforts of our homes, I, for one, am thankful for the types of heroes that showed their colors to a cold, scared, irritable and trapped populace three weeks ago – when all of North Georgia came to a standstill. By now, we’ve all heard stories of how everyone pitched in and helped during the snow. We all pulled together. People took people in. They fed them. They gave them rides. They opened their homes and their businesses. They opened their wallets generously. They checked on homebound friends and

RAY APPEN

Publisher ray@northfulton.com

strangers. They simply helped – no questions asked. Each and every one of you deserves a special shout-out. I would like to add a personal shoutout to my delivery folks – the moms and other carriers who made sure that 99 percent of all of our papers got out. But I also want to give a shout-out to a group of people in our community who often go unnoticed – or noticed for the wrong reasons. Our youth. It can be easy for “grownups” to overlook or dismiss the efforts of our young people. Take for instance, the “mudders” that are becoming more visible throughout North Fulton and Forsyth

See SNOW, Page 15

LETTER TO THE EDITOR »

Albers: Winter storm To Fulton County Commission: Reduced response done right LETTER TO THE EDITOR »

library hours hurt county residents Please help your county constituents. The reduced library hours are terrible and this action really hurts your constituents. What happens to people looking for jobs who do not have home internet access or library resources to search out jobs? What about young children learning to read, students who need resources?

Seniors on fixed income need their libraries for newspapers and magazines. All ages need access to reference materials, books, CD’s magazines and computer time. The 2014 reduced hours are terrible for them — this is like cutting off a hand and expecting full capability to function. All other metro counties

have better hours — why can’t Fulton County? Please move back to the 2013 hours and better serve your constituents. We deserve better and we challenge you to step up to the place and make that happen. –NANCY PUCKETT Former Library Board commissioner Friend of the Library Roswell

Taking a leap on bended knee Given how it’s (about) Valentine’s Day, I think I shall share my story. After two years of dating, I finally decided to take the plunge – I proposed to my girlfriend, Kellie. And she said yes. We actually met here at the newspaper. It was the age-old story – she was in production; I was in editorial. It was never meant to be. But somehow we overcame the odds and managed to eke out a solid relationship.

JONATHAN COPSEY

Revue & News Editor jonathan@northfulton.com

I had decided about six months ago to pop the question, and was fairly certain of the response. The real ques-

tion became where and when to do it. That required some thought. If I am going to make such a decision, it was going to be on my timeline and it would be a surprise. Unfortunately, life has a way of testing you. We went to Disney World in December. This was my first time there and it was sure to be great – she loves it. However, everyone I spoke to told me Disney is the perfect place

See LEAP, Page 15

A couple of weeks ago, a snowstorm battered several Southern states, including Georgia. There was much blame to pass around from individuals, government, schools and businesses. Often we judge others by their actions and ourselves by our intentions. Anybody can be a Monday-morning quarterback and criticize. Real leaders take responsibility, adjust, prepare and plan for a better future. This week, everyone got it right. Schools were canceled early and over communicated with parents. Cities and counties prepared public safety personnel, sent our clear communications and cleared roads. People exercised personal responsibility staying home and off the roads while power companies continue to work tirelessly to keep the lights on. Gov. Nathan Deal was exceptional with his leadership, management, communication and tireless efforts to protect Georgians. I want to personally thank everyone for their hard work and dedication. Critics often focus on the negative and forget to acknowl-

JOHN ALBERS U.S. Senator

edge the positive. In Georgia, we have so much to be positive about and celebrate. One of my most favorite movie scenes is from Rocky Balboa, when Rocky said these words to his son: “The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a very mean and nasty place, and I don’t care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard you’re hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done.” Everyone got it right this time and Georgia is prospering. Thank you, and may God bless you.

Submit your opinions to news@northfulton.com

Leap: Continued from Page 14 to get on one knee. I’m sure this is true. It also turned out to be a good weekend for engagements – while on the trip, several of her friends posted on Facebook they were getting engaged. So it was with not a little amount of stress that I chose not to propose in front of Mickey Mouse. I only later found out Kellie, her friends and her family were taking bets on whether I would. She was sure of it. But I blew it. Then came Christmas. Oh boy, did Christmas come. We spent it with her family and her mother made a note Christmas morning that she expected a ring in one of the boxes. It was not. Knowing this

certainly made the day a little awkward! So then our anniversary came up. Two years with a great woman. I made up my mind I would do it then, after carefully navigating a labyrinth of arguments over whether I wanted to get married. I couldn’t let her know my plans but also had to pacify her that eventually I would do it. I made reservations at Milton’s Cuisine in Crabapple. The guys there are amazing and it was the site of some of our earliest dates. With their help, I set it up so that when we ordered dessert, instead of the chocolaty treat, they would bring out the ring on a plate. As luck would have it, the timing could not have been more perfect. I had just finished telling Kellie how I was “willing to give

OPINION

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 15

it another year,” and “We don’t want to rush into anything.” It doesn’t sound right in print, but I can assure you it was said in a loving and tongue-in-cheek way. Honest. During all this, I was cool as a cucumber. However once it came time to order dessert, I became anxious. Sweating, I wondered if she really would say yes, or what if the ring had been lost? What if I couldn’t go through with it? At last, the ring did come out. I got down on one knee and opened the box, much to her surprise. I didn’t even get a word out before she happily said “yes.” And that’s the best story I have for a belated Valentine’s Day. So Kellie, I’m looking forward to not just one more year with you, but many, many more. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Snow: Continued from Page 14 County. These are the kids who have taken to off-roading in four-wheel vehicles. They’re out in tricked-out jeeps, trucks and sport utility vehicles. In general, they’re good kids; though their hobby can lead some of them to go at times where they should not go (private property or parks after closing). Those who do this create a negative perception for all, but not all of the kids who drive jacked-up trucks deserve the bad image. On the worst day of the January “snowpocalypse,” many of those mudders were out in their trucks pulling people out of ditches. Instead of watching TV, off-roading, playing video games or hanging out, they were carrying gas and getting cars started. They started early – really early – and they kept it up until very late. When they saw someone who needed help, they helped. In one area where there were two consecutive hills in a row, one kid watched as the line of cars sat and sat and sat. When they finally moved, they were able to navigate the hills – until the line in front stopped again and those on the slope would start sliding backward. It was a mess. The kid watched and then pulled his truck out into the road – parking perpendicular to the lanes. No car could move because he was blocking the road. He must have had a megaphone or a speaker attached to his subwoofers or something because he started calling out instructions to the line of traffic. “Be patient. We have to let the cars get all the way through these hills before the

SCOTT LONG

Downtown Roswell was deserted during the snow storm. next group of you go. As soon as they’re through, I’ll let the next group of you go. We’ll get you through this.” Imagine the gall this kid had. He was probably breaking the law. He was way out of line, I guess. What was he thinking? “We’re almost ready to let the first group of you go.” On the side of the road – almost on the sidewalk – a car powered toward the truck and almost hit it. A man stormed out of the vehicle and started chewing the kid out, but the kid held his ground. As the man aggressively moved toward the kid, a few cars back another door opened and an angry mom yelled at the man, not the kid. “Get back in your car you idiot,” she said. “Can’t you see he is trying to help us get through this jam? What is wrong with you? Get out of his way.” Several minutes later, the kid lets the first group of cars by and they successfully make it through the two hills without mishap. In the line is the man, fuming, but also successfully moving on. In another part of town, a mudder saw a police car slide slowly off the road and into a

ditch. After some thought, he pulled over in his truck and offered to pull the cruiser out. A kid helping a cop? Huh? One of my heroes is a former principal of Alpharetta Elementary School on Mayfield Road named Jackie Littlefield. Though she has since passed

This is the photo Kellie took shortly after I proposed to her. She will most likely hurt me when she finds out I used it in the paper. away, she was a leader’s leader. All of my kids had the rare opportunity to have attended Alpharetta Elementary School while Jackie was the principal – and all of them for various reasons spent more than the average amount of time in her office. But that is not the point. The point is that one day, after I had spent the morning sitting in on one of Jackie’s sessions where she had groups of school kids critique how effectively her teachers were doing teaching them, I asked Jackie what it was that she did that allowed her to motivate, inspire and generally lead these teachers and kids. She looked at me with a surprised look on her face and then simply said, “Ray, I never talk down to the kids or the teachers. Never. The kids come into my office and I

listen to them. I really listen. I’m a 50-year-old talking to a 7-year-old, but you know, they have as much to say as I do.” I’ll never forget that. Let the kids have skin in the game. Give them parameters, but then get out of their way. Have high expectations and guess what, you often will get high achievement. Listen to them. Respect them. They can’t respect you if you don’t respect them first. They can simply amaze you if you let them. That’s what Jackie Littlefield believed. And that’s what events like three weeks ago can show us all. If the Jan. 28 snow jam proved anything, it’s that leaders come in all different shapes, sizes and ages. And yes, some of them wear their caps backward and drive big trucks.

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16 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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Kia dealership raises quality, character Changing mindset: Kias penetrate upscale market By ALDO NAHED aldo@northfulton.com ROSWELL, Ga. – Richard Lewis has been tasked with raising awareness of his car dealership while turning around a car brand that many motorists have associated with a “throw away” car. In August, Lewis was named general manager and asked to steer North Fulton Kia dealership, 1400 Upper Hembree Road in Roswell., into success. So far, the upbeat Lewis, 37, has reached all his company goals. “He's professional, positive and always finds ways to fix problems,” said Walter Mercedes, a certified premium specialist at North Fulton Kia. “He's very fair, and in addition to being a boss, he's a friend." Lewis comes to North Fulton Kia with previous dealership experience in Dallas, Texas and Panama City Beach, Fla. What do you think are people's perceptions of Kia today? Lewis: Originally Kia was considered a throw-away vehicle and they were very inexpensive. They primarily went after the subprime market. But now they are a competitor in the high-end market place. We're the underdog because people don't know us. Tell me about the dealer-

Richard Lewis, general manager at North Fulton Kia. ship's new owner? Lewis: We are a familyowned business, our owner is Greg Shottenkirk. He's 47-year-old and has obtained 10 dealerships in 26 years, two in Georgia. I also manage our Honda of Conyers location. What are some of your business challenges? Lewis: I've given myself a challenge of turning this dealership around. Not only are we trying to change the reputation of the previous ownership, but we're also trying to change awareness and reputation of the Kia brand, which is a fantastic brand and a very competitive brand. Kia has a fantastic product and

in the last few years they've become a more desired product in reliability, design and overall class. How have you been able to turn this car dealership into a profitable business? Lewis: I've put procedures in place to maximize the customer and employee experience. Our employees are as important to us as our customers, because they are the ones dealing with customers on a day-to-day. We have good quality individuals who understand customer satisfaction. What makes a successful business? Lewis: Being more than

ALDO NAHED/STAFF

just a business partner, but a community partner makes a successful business. The accountability we hold to our staff and our facility. We meet daily. We hold a conference call each morning with both of our dealerships. We discuss opportunities and community awareness and community involvement opportunities that allow us a strong stature in the community. What are some of the challenges you encounter on a day-to-day? Lewis: The biggest challenge is overall awareness, let people know where we are at and who we are. The size of our facility is also a chal-

lenge. Our goal is to build a facility that is much better for our staff and our customers. We are looking for a six-acre facility in Roswell and that is going to allow us to take better care of our customers and store all of our car on the lot. We currently have to lease a separate property 10 miles away, which houses over half of our inventory. This makes it very difficult for our day-to-day operations. What would you say is a difficult part of your job? Lewis: It's not that difficult. The challenge is motivating the staff and maintaining the consistency around the store to make this a place a pleasure to come and work for. Do you have a good rapport with other car dealerships? Lewis: Absolutely, we have what is called dealer trading. You have so many packages that is available on inventory, so you're forced to have a good rapport with one another to get the available inventory. When a customer comes in and they want the SXL Sorento and they want it in white and all we have is black and gray, we dealer trade. Probably half of cars sold are dealer-to-dealer, so you have to maintain a positive relationship. How is the economy impacting your business? Lewis: Business is coming back around, there's a lot of pent up demand for car sales and people are starting to trade their vehicles in that they have been holding on to for a long time.

See KIA, Page 18

BusinessBriefs

Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 17

HEALTHCARE »

All of the events will take place at North Fulton Hospital classrooms, 3000 Hospital Boulevard, Roswell. The dates are: Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, March 4 at 6:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 18 at 6:30.p.m. In addition to the event, trained enrollment counselors are available during regular business hours to answer questions and assist with the enrollment process. Visit www.pathtohealth.com or call Letrice Lewis, health plan enrollment representative for North Fulton Hospital, at 770-751-2756 for more information.

Emory infusion services expand at Emory Johns Creek North Fulton Hospital launches ‘Go Red, North Fulton!’ ROSWELL, Ga. — North Fulton Hospital has launched a “Go Red, North Fulton!” campaign modeled after the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign. The campaign raises awareness for heart disease in women and encourages women to take action – to learn about their risks, find activities they enjoy, nourish their bodies and share the message. Each day throughout February, North Fulton Hospital will share heart-healthy information via Facebook and Twitter (@NFultonHospital).

HEALTHCARE »

Monday through Friday. For additional information, call 770-751-2830.

Care More Chiropractic Center welcomes Dr. Debbie Estimé

North Fulton Hospital offering wound care ROSWELL, Ga. — North Fulton Hospital recently added a new service line focused on aiding patients with chronic wounds. North Fulton Hospital Wound Care and Hyperbarics opened on Jan. 20 and will work to find the cause of wounds and provide advanced therapies tailored to meet each specific wound’s needs. The types of wounds treated include diabetic ulcers, non-healing surgical wounds, trauma wounds and burns. The program offers therapies for wound treatment including conventional and specialty dressings, compression therapy, negative pressure wound therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. North Fulton Wound Care and Hyperbarics offers outpatient services, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,

ROSWELL, Ga. — Care More Chiropractic Wellness Center welcomes Dr. Debbie Estimé to the practice. Estimé, a recent graduate of Life University in Marietta, brings expertise in multiple techniques. Estimé’s background as a college athlete provides her with an understanding of what it takes to maintain an active lifestyle. Care More Chiropractic is locatESTIME ed at 1580 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 20 in Roswell’s Market Center. Call 770-6406600 for more information.

North Fulton Hospital offers health care classes ROSWELL, Ga. — As part of the “Path to Health” campaign, an education initiative to raise awareness and understanding of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), North Fulton Hospital will be hosting community education events on the ACA. “The Path to Health initiative provides an excellent opportunity for members of our community to get answers to the questions they have about health insurance basics, the enrollment process and the health care law,” said Debbie Keel, chief executive officer for North Fulton Hospital.

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Emory University Hospital Midtown has expanded its infusion therapy services at the Emory Johns Creek Hospital campus to provide better care to more patients. The center now has 19 chairs for infusion services, up from six chairs when the center opened in 2012. It provides referring physicians and their patients access to a full range of outpatient infusion and injection services, chiefly chemotherapy, injections, blood transfusions, IV medication and antibiotic therapy. For information about Emory University Hospital Midtown’s Infusion Centers, visit www. emoryhealthcare.org/infusion.

ANNOUNCEMENT »

Handy Hero earns 2013 Angie’s List Super Service Award CUMMING, Ga. — Handy Hero, Cumming’s local handyman services and remodeling company, has earned an Angie’s List Super Service Award for the second year. Angie’s List Super Service Award winners have to meet strict requirements, which include an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade and review period grade. The company must also pass a background check. Visit www.handyhero.net for more information.

TECHNOLOGY »

Future of Technology exhibit ROSWELL, Ga. — The Computer Museum of America and Roswell NEXT present Apple Pop Up Exhibit’s “The Future of Technology.” The event takes place Thursday, Feb. 27, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tours of COMA’s Apple Pop Up exhibit take place at 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., presentation and conversation at 7:30 p.m. about the technology needs of North Fulton. At Kings Shopping Center, 1425 Market Boulevard in Roswell. Visit www.facebook.com/roswellnext.org. Admission is $10 and free for Roswell NEXT members.

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18 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

Kia: Continued from Page 16 How has the internet affected business? Lewis: It's very good. About 95 percent of all the business that we encounter on a day-to-day basis starts on the internet. Before they even come to the car showroom floor, they've gone online, researched and narrowed it down. Normally what they are doing when they come here, is making sure we're the ones they want to give their money to and to make sure they like how the product drives because that's about the only thing they can't do on the internet. What I let my staff know is that the customer still wants that buying experience. What's something you're excited about? Lewis: We have a brand new product that is being released this month. The Kia K900 is going to be the new

BusinessPosts

luxury Kia and it's comparable to the high line BMW 750i and the S550 Mercedes-Benz. It's a full size luxury sedan offering all the technology available in its class with all the unbelievable options available. It's a great car for this market. What's your top seller? Lewis: The Kia Optima is one of the best seller. It has great body lines and payments in the $300s. The second best seller is the family-friendly Sorento, a seven passenger sport utility vehicle. What is something that will surprise readers about Kia? Lewis: Both Optima and Sorento are made locally here in Georgia. Many residents trade-in or buy the car for that purpose and to help local jobs. Their plant is located in West Point, near LaGrange and about 80 percent of the car is manufactured here. We've had some of our local residents trade their Mercedes and BMW to the Kia product.

Submit your business news & photos to businessnews@northfulton.com

Richard Lewis, inspects the Kia dealership lot in Roswell.

ALDO NAHED/STAFF

Distressed Properties on Endangered List

Getting ideas on improving your small business online

Between payroll employment, participation rate, the stock market, home sales and retail numbers you could make an argument that the economy is on a steady mend or still floundering. The economy isn’t firing on all cylinders yet but it is definitely improving. Of course economic improvements vary across the country as well as around Metro Atlanta. Here along the 400 corridor the recovery is much more solid. Only 1.4% of metro Atlanta’s mortgaged properties are in the foreclosure process, which is less than the national average. While distressed sales are down 24% nationally, they are down 47% in Forsyth County and 84% in North Fulton January, compared to a year earlier. Most of the distressed properties are being purchased on the courthouse steps and short sales are the majority of distressed sales that the typical buyer sees now. There is more good news beyond the decrease in foreclosures. New construction has rebounded and permits for single family homes in our area are close to the numbers we saw prior to the recession. New construc-

Have you been racking your brain trying to come up with ideas to improve your small business? Are you coming up short on ways to improve your sales production or streamline your operations? Creativity is great, but getting ideas on improving your small business online is certainly quicker. For the past two years, I have been writing this small business advice column for the Appen newspapers. This happens to be article No. 100. I do a lot of homework online before selecting a topic to write about, and I am always looking for ideas that a small business owner can easily use to help them improve their business. As a small business owner, there is no reason you can’t do the same thing. Search engines like Google, Yahoo and Bing allow you to use keywords to find information on a specific subject. Key in some keywords on your computer about issues or challenges you are facing and you’ll be amazed on how much information you will find. And by the way, you’ll also find out that you aren’t the only one who has this specific challenge!

ROBERT STRADER

Local Realtor Keller Williams Realty

tion is important because that means jobs, more disposable income, durable goods purchases and growth in GDP. Available inventory is down - for now. As we move into spring we’ll see a lot of those new homes mentioned above come online. In addition to new construction, more home owners are finding themselves in a position to sell as their equity rises. And we know equity will be rising because…prices are up. Average sales prices in North Fulton are up 22% year-over-year and up 13% in Forsyth County. Price appreciation will continue to be reinforced by the new construction and economic development in the area.

DICK JONES

Founder & President Jones Simply Sales

In addition to highlighting the challenges or issues small businesses have, a lot of articles have step-by-step directions on how to solve it. By keying in your problem and quickly getting some improvement ideas, you’ll streamline the process of improving your small business. The Internet is a powerful tool for small businesses, and going online to get ideas on improving your small business will really help you. Dick Jones is the founder and president of Simply Sales in Alpharetta. Call him at 770-663-4681 or visit www.simplysalesllc.com.

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CALENDAR EVENTS » POETRY READING

RYAN PIERONI

Calendar Editor ryan@northfulton.com Submit your event to northfulton.com or email with photo to calendar@ northfulton.com. For a more complete list of local events including support groups, volunteer opportunities and business meetings visit the calendar on northfulton.com.

LOCAL LIVE MUSIC »

SOUTHEASTERN PASTEL SOCIETY EXHIBITION

Pastel Renaissance is a juried event that features more than 50 exquisite pastel paintings by members of the Southeastern Pastel Society. Paintings are available for purchase. Every Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through March 7. Johns Creek Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek. Please call 770-623-8448 or visit johnscreekarts.org.

The Forsyth County Public Library will host a poetry reading of 15 broadsides pieces provided by the University of North Georgia for their “No Small Measure: Collaborations Between Artists and Poets” exhibit. Guest readers will include local authors and artists such as Gloria Bennett, Ezekiel Black, Karen Dodson, Kyle McCord, Samuel Prestridge, B.J. Robinson and Heidi Staples. 6:30 p.m. Feb. 20. Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Road, Cumming. Please visit forsythpl.org.

YOUNG ARTISTS CONCERTO COMPETITION

Join the Georgia Philharmonic as they welcome the finalists of the Young Artists Concerto Competition. These exceptional young musicians from all over the Southeast recently competed in person before an esteemed panel of judges for a position within one of three categories based on age group. In addition to the three winners, three additional young laureates were selected to perform as well. One exceptional string player will be awarded a $500 scholarship sponsored by Atlanta Violins. 7 p.m. Feb. 22. Cambridge High School, 2845 Bethany Bend, Milton. Please visit georgiaphilharmonic.org.

THEATER »

ART » ‘THE BOLD AND THE ELEGANT’

Das Gallery Fine Art is holding its public opening for “The Bold and the Elegant” exhibit, featuring the mystical and vibrant collection by Joanne Rafferty. The show also includes captivating Georgia landscapes by John Torina; the eclectic mixed media works of Kevin Foltz; the prismatic wood abstractions of Dan Strothers; the improvisational abstracts of Ben Henderson; and intricate sculptures by Hung Nguyen. Noon – 9 p.m. March 1 at 2225 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 400, Alpharetta. Please call 678-995-3463 or visit dasgalleryfineart.com.

‘ANNE OF GREEN GABLES’ AT THE DANCING GOAT THEATRE

Set in the early 1900s, on Prince Edward Island off the coast of Nova Scotia in Canada. The story depicts life of Edwardian times, and tells the story of Anne and her move to Green Gables. The story has all the elements of life: youth, age, families, joy, sorrow, hope, disappointment, love and rivalry. Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 1 – 8. 10700 State Bridge Road, Suite 6, Johns Creek. Please call 770-772-0762 or visit performingartsnorth.org.

STAR BRIGHT WINTER CAMPFIRE

Join park naturalist Jerry Hightower for a campfire, guided hikes and a beautiful winter evening with the glowing stars overhead. Roast marshmallows over an open fire and walk along a forest trail. Discover new facts about the wildlife of the park and their nocturnal habits. Enjoy the campfire, the crisp winter air, the stars and the nocturnal sights and sounds of the Chattahoochee. 6 – 8:30 p.m. Feb. 22 at 8615 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek. Please call 678-5381200 or visit nps.gov.

TOP FIVE EVENTS

STUDENT AND INSTRUCTOR JEWELRY MARKET

The Spruill Center for the Arts will hold the sixth annual Student and Instructor Jewelry Market, showcasing student to professional-level jewelry artists who will sell their unique, handcrafted items to the public. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Feb. 23. Spruill Education Center, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta. Please call 770-394-3447 or visit spruillarts.org.

RACES & BENEFITS » WIPHAN WARTHOG WADDLE 5K

SEDGWICK GALLERY HOSTS LIVE ART AUCTION AND CHANDON TASTING

The live auction at the Sedgwick Gallery will be a chance to purchase original large oil paintings. Tastings will feature Chandon by Möet & Chandon. Featured are works of 20th century Masters including Peter Max, Marc Chagall, LeRoy Neiman and Salvador Dalí. The Sedgwick Gallery, a fine art gallery located 61 Roswell Street in Alpharetta. The event is open to the public. A $20 ticket is payable upon entry. 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28. Visit www. sedgwickgallery.com or call 404-281-9998.

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 19

FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY EXHIBIT

Computer Museum of America and Roswell NEXT present Apple Pop Up Exhibit’s “The Future of Technology.” On Thursday, Feb. 27, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tours of COMA’s Apple Pop Up exhibit at 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., presentation and conversation at 7:30 p.m. about the technology needs of North Fulton. Located at Kings Shopping Center, 1425 Market Boulevard in Roswell. Networking, beer, wine and light appetizers. Visit www.facebook.com/ roswellnext.org. Admission is $10 and free for Roswell NEXT members.

A 5K and 1K Fun Run benefitting impoverished widows and orphans living in HIV/AIDS-ravaged Zambia. Wiphan Care Ministries provides skills training to widows and an education, discipleship, uniform, shoes, basic medical care, plus five meals-a-week to orphans. This race is a chip-timed Peachtree qualifier. 8 a.m. Feb. 22. Fellowship Bible Church, 480 West Crossville Road, Roswell. Please visit wiphan.org.

‘CLIMB A MOUNTAIN, SAVE A LIFE’ KARAOKE FUNDRAISER

FORSYTH COUNTY YMCA FIRST ‘Y IT MATTERS’ SWIM-A-THON

“On Golden Pond” tells the story of an elderly couple returning to their summer home for the 48th year and their experiences there. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Through March 9. Please visit playhousecumming.com for ticket information.

This swim-a-thon will raise money for the annual “Y It Matters” campaign. “Y It Matters” raises money for children, adults and families in the metro Atlanta area. All funds raised go to Forsyth County. A cookout will immediately follow the swimming. From 2 to 6 p.m. Feb. 22. 6050 Y St., Cumming. Please call 770-888-2788 or visit spiritonline.ymcaatlanta. org.

FOCUS ON YOUR HEALTH: DIABETES PROGRAM AT POST ROAD LIBRARY

The Post Road Library, 5010 Post Road, Cumming, will explore the symptoms and treatment of diabetes. Nurse Karen Adams will share her knowledge and answer questions. Adams has more than twenty five years of professional experience, including medical, surgical nursing, labor and delivery nursing, community nursing, staff development, and diabetes education. Free event takes place Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m. To reserve a seat, call 770-781-9840 or visit www. forsythpl.org.

A karaoke fundraiser for the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Collecting donations in support of a local mountain climber as part of the Fred Hutchinson 2014 climb team for breast cancer research. 9:30 p.m. Feb. 28 at 555 South Atlanta Street, Roswell. Call 404-826-5862 or visit getinvolved.fhcrc.org.

‘ON GOLDEN POND’

CASA SUPERHERO 5K RUN/WALK Come join the Court-Appointed Special Advocate program of Forsyth County for their sixth annual Superhero 5K Run/Walk. This is a chip-timed race and Peachtree Road race qualifier. From 8 a.m. to noon on Feb. 22 at 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming. Please call 770-886-2800, ext. 3126 or visit forsythcountycasa. org.

5K SCRUB RUN

The Scrub Run is hosted by the University of North Georgia’s Associates of Science of Nursing class of 2014. The cost to register is $25 in advance or $35 day of race. The race is located at Lake Zwerner at Yahoola Creek Reservoir, and the trail is a 5K around the reservoir. 8 a.m. Feb. 22. 1026 Morrison Moore Parkway East, Dahlonega. Please call 770-629-1410 or visit ngscrubrun.com.

LEAP FOR LITERACY POLAR BEAR PLUNGE

Wee Books will be holding their annual Leap for Literacy where people brave the cold Lake Lanier water to support childhood literacy. From 10 to 11 a.m. Feb. 22 at 4081 War Hill Park Road, Dawsonville. Please call 706-216-6323 or visit kinseyfamilyfarm.com.

20 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

enAble honors special education teachers Awards luncheon for seven educators By JADE RODGERS jade@northfulton.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Saturday, Feb. 1, marked the third annual Special Education Teacher of the Year Award Celebration Luncheon at enAble of Georgia. Seven local teachers gathered to be honored and to learn more about the services enAble offers. Founded in 1979, enAble helps people with developmental disabilities lead fulfilled lives – physically, intellectually and socially. Employees of enAble gathered to expand on their high opinions of the nonprofit and its goals for the future. The enAble employees congregated to thank the special education teachers. As children with developmental disabilities grow, they experience a vital transition period in their early years in which it is very important for them to develop according to their personal needs. Many people mistake this transitional period as a time to coddle or even ignore potential behavioral issues, when in fact it is extremely important to do just the opposite. Special education teachers play an essential role

in helping children with disabilities to not only acknowledge their individuality, but also to grow as a unique and independent human being. Amy Vergith, support manager of day and employment services in Roswell, said that before she began working with the nonprofit, she had never worked with adults with developmental disabilities. “It’s the kids in that transitional period that we need to work with,” she said. As a community resource, enAble reaches out to the special education teachers of the area to ensure collaboration amongst those who work with people with developmental disabilities. Vernard Williams, enAble’s coordinator of community living support services, made sure to tell the teachers at the luncheon, “We appreciate what you do.” Together, special education teachers are the first stepping stone to such examples of success for people with developmental disabilities. EnAble seeks to honor the efforts of these teachers and ensure that the community acknowledges and appreciates the extraordinary accomplishments that

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The seven teachers awarded Teacher of the Year, from left, are Sarah Jones, Dr. Karla Wade, Cheryl Horacek, Jim McCaffrey, Jessica Kasten, Andrea Wheeler and Kim Mullis. they make every day. The third annual “Celebration Luncheon” is only the beginning of enAble’s mission to credit such wonderful teachers. March 8, enAble will host its 26th annual “Dare to Dream” gala at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel, where one teacher will be honored with the Special Education Teacher of the Year Award.

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“We greatly value our relationship with the transition specialists who work tirelessly to support students with special needs in our network of high schools; this award is one modest way of saying thank you to them,” said Harry Stern. The winner of the Special Education Transition Teacher of the Year Award 2013-2014 will receive a crystal award

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with their name and enAble logo etched upon it, a $2,000 cash award and a $500 gift certificate for the School Place of Roswell. To learn more about tickets and sponsorships for the 26th annual “Dare to Dream” gala, contact Nancy Lindgren at 770-664-4347, ext. 121 or email her at nlindgren@ enablega.org.

Recycled paper | Submit your news & photos to news@northfulton.com

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 21

We Connect You.

Top 10 Wealthiest Georgia Communities with Income over $150k (Milton Herald)

Druid Hills – 26% Sandy Springs – 25% Alpharetta – 23%

(Johns Creek Herald)

Roswell – 22%

Berkeley Lake – 41% Milton – 36% Johns Creek – 30%

(Revue & News)

Skidaway Island – 27% Dunwoody – 26%

(Revue & News)

Peachtree City – 21%

Per the Atlanta Business Chronicle Sept. 16-22, 2011

The Milton Herald, The Johns Creek Herald, and The Alpharetta/Roswell Revue & News are the primary local newspapers in the 2nd, 3rd, 8th and 9th wealthiest cities in Georgia.

Our Readers Should be Your Customers: • • • • •

Reach over 139,650 Loyal Readers 61% of Appen Readers earn $100,000+ 33% of Appen Readers earn $150,000+ 65% Are College Graduates or Post Grad. 75% Use our Newspapers to Purchase Goods and Services

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22 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

SCHOOLS

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‘Grease’ is the word at Chattahoochee High School JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – The musical theater department at Chattahoochee High School is pleased to present the timeless coming of age classic, “Grease” this March. A cast of more than 40 has been hard at work preparing to wow audiences with hit songs from the 1978 movie that starred John Travolta and Olivia Newton John. The play, set in the 1950s, weaves the love story of an unlikely couple, bad boy Danny Zuko and good girl Sandy Dumbrowski, who find themselves attending the same high school after having a summer love affair at the beach. The Hooch cast, led by Ian Prost as Danny and Paula Ruiz as Sandy, brings this bubblegum musical to life in a way that will have people dancing in the aisles. Hits like “Summer Nights,” “You’re the One that I Want” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You” made the Billboard Top 10 when the cast’s parents were in high school. “We have an exceptional cast performing an amazing script, but we’re equally excited about our talented musicians, technicians and set designers. There will definitely be unexpected surprises for our audience,” said Director Jennie Blevins. “This show will sell out; it’s one of those shows that is great for families, for date night and for emptynesters who remember the movie. We’re just so excited to be able to perform it at Chattahoochee.” The show runs March 6 – 9. Tickets

FSA Private School sweeps regional Science Olympiad tournament

Paula Ruiz as Sandy rehearses for Chattahoochee High School’s production of “Grease.” can be reserved in advance or purchased at the door – $12 for students and $15 for adults. For more information and advance ticket purchase, email hoochtickets@gmail.com.

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. – In a recordbreaking performance, Fulton Science Academy Private School Science Olympiad teams took first, second and third places at the Science Olympiad middle school regional tournament held at the University of North Georgia Gainesville campus on Saturday, Feb. 15. FSA sixth-, seventh- and eighthgrade students won gold medals in 18 of the 23 events covering earth science, biology, chemistry, physics and engineering. The 41 team members won a total of 107 medals. “Our students worked incredibly hard preparing for this tournament,” said head coaches Pam Walsh and Gloria Stathos. “We started in August. Each event meets at least an hour a week after school or on weekends, and each student participates in three to six events. A lot of our parents help out as well, so it’s a big commitment for the entire family.” The school now qualifies to send

one team of 15 students to the state tournament to be held March 22 at Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta. “Under Science Olympiad rules, only one team from each school can advance to state,” said Walsh. Events in which the school did particularly well include Boomilever (a balsa building and engineering event), Disease Detectives (epidemiology), Dynamic Planet (glaciers and climate change), Entomology (insects), Experimental Design, Helicopters, Road Scholar (map interpretation), Rotor Egg Drop (a balsa building and engineering event) and Sounds of Music (physics of sound and instrument construction). The team will now focus on the finer details in preparing for the state tournament. “Our goal is to qualify for the national tournament by placing first or second at state,” said Stathos. “Georgia has some really strong teams, and every year the competition gets tougher.”

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COMMUNITY

northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 23

Sunshine Academy team state Lego champs Fifth-graders It is indeed qualify for a remarkable World Festival achievement for ROSWELL, Ga. – A team of fifth-graders from Fulton Sunshine Academy Elementary School were the overall champions at the FIRST Lego League (FLL) state championship in Athens held Feb. 1. The team also placed first in the performance category at the competition. “It is indeed a remarkable achievement for a team made up of fifth-grade students to compete alongside eighthgraders and emerge as champions,” said Murat Cetin, Fulton Sunshine Academy’s principal. “Congratulations to these students and their families who helped the TechnoPandas reach such a goal.” Some 32 teams from elementary and middle schools across the state competed in the statewide competition, each demonstrating a robot in keeping with the competition’s theme of “Nature’s Fury.” Each team was required to identify a specific severe weather situation and a problem associated with it. The teams then had to come up with an innovative solution to the problem. The FSA TechnoPanda team’s winning entry was a Techno Beat, a neighborhoodscale emergency siren that operates on the emergency radio frequency. In its research, the team discovered that city sirens often couldn’t be heard inside homes. Their solution was to deploy more, smaller devices closer to homes so that they would be more likely to be heard inside. The TechnoPandas, coached by parent volunteers, consist of Priya Soneji, Sohum Rao, Advait Amdekar, Meghana Raj, Sedat Akgun and Aarni Iyer.

a team made up of fifthgrade students to compete alongside eighth-graders and emerge as champions.”

MURAT CETIN Fulton Sunshine Academy’s principal

Lego League is a robotics competition held annually in cities around the world and is rapidly gaining popularity in Georgia. More than 500 teams of students ranging from ages 9 to 14 competed in Georgia this year. The next stop in the team’s journey is the Lego League World Festival, held annually in St. Louis at the end of April. This event encompasses all levels of robotics competitions and teams from all over the world. Fulton Sunshine Academy Elementary School is a tuitionfree charter school in Roswell. Its mission is to instill a love of learning in a nurturing environment through engaging and stimulating learning opportunities.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PUBLIC NOTICE PURPOSE An Alcoholic Beverage License Application was submitted to the City on January 23, 2014 for Retail Package of Wine and Malt Beverages. BUSINESS NAME HR Convenience Stores Inc. d/b/a Shell Food Mart 11580 Jones Bridge Rd Johns Creek, GA 30022 OWNER/OFFICERS HR Convenience Stores Inc. d/b/a Shell Food Mart 11580 Jones Bridge Rd Johns Creek, GA 30022 Subhash Vemareddy, Owner

The TechnoPandas celebrate their first-place finish at the first Lego League state championship. In front, from left, are Advait Amdekar and Sohum Rao. In back are Sedat Akgun, Priya Soneji, Meghana Raj and Aarni Iyer. City of Johns Creek RESCHEDULED Public Meeting for SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project) Project CSHPP-0007-00(310), P.I. No. 0007310 On Thursday, February 20, 2014 at the City of Johns Creek, City Hall, 12000 Findley Road, Council Chambers, Johns Creek, GA 30097, the City of Johns Creek will hold a Public Meeting concerning SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project), Project CSHPP-0007-00(310); P.I. No. 0007310 in the northern part of Fulton County. SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road (Operational Improvement Project) proposes to reduce traffic congestion by providing turn lane improvements along an approximately 1 mile section of roadway. A 5-foot sidewalk will be installed along the south side with an 8 to 10-foot sidewalk on the north side of SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road. The purpose of this meeting is to provide the public with an opportunity to view the proposed project, ask questions and comment on the project. The meeting will be conducted between the hours of 4:30p.m. and 6:30p.m. The meeting will be informal and the public is invited to attend anytime during these hours. There will be no formal presentation. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) information: The meeting site is accessible to persons with disabilities. Accommodations for people with disabilities can be arranged with advance notice by calling (Cindy Jenkins, Transportation Engineer – 678-512-3269). Comments concerning this project will be accepted until Thursday, March 6, 2014. Please submit your comments to: Tom Black, P.E. Director of Public Works Attn: Cindy Jenkins City of Johns Creek 12000 Findley Rd., Ste. 400 Johns Creek, GA 30097 Email: info@johnscreekga.gov (678) 512-3200

PUBLIC SAFETY

24 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF JOHNS CREEK SPECIAL CALLED ELECTION Qualifying Information for May 20, 2014 Special Elections The City of Johns Creek has CALLED for a SPECIAL ELECTION FOR MAY 20, 2014 and will hold QUALIFYING for the May 20, 2014 Special Election for Council Seats of Post 4 and Post 6. The qualifying dates will be Monday, March 3, 2014 thru Wednesday, March 5, 2014, between the hours of 8:30am and 12:30pm, and 1:30pm and 4:30pm (GA Election Code 21-2-132). Qualifying will be held in the City Clerk’s Office at Johns Creek City Hall which is located at 12000 Findley Road, Suite 400, Johns Creek, Georgia 30097. The qualifying fee is $450.00 for each Council Seat which is 3% of the total gross salary for the preceding year. Each candidate must meet the qualifications of the Charter and Code of the City of Johns Creek, as well as all applicable state and constitutional laws. Joan Jones, City Clerk

Two sought in Costco thefts Could be related to multiple crimes By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@northfulton.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Two men are “persons of interest” after a series of smash and grab robberies at metro-area Costco stores. Alpharetta Police released photos and video footage of two men sought in the Jan. 2 robbery of the Windward Parkway Costco in Alpharetta. Two men in the photos are seen entering the store at 11 a.m. and looking at the jewelry cases. They then leave. At 7:40 p.m., two men police suspect are the same from earlier enter the store and, using a hammer, smash the display cases and place jewels

CITY OF ALPHARETTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The following items will be heard at a public hearing held by the Planning Commission on Thursday, March 6, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. Items forwarded by the Planning Commission will be considered by the City Council on Monday, March 24, 2014 commencing at 7:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia. a. Z-14-02 Broadwell House Consideration of a request to rezone approximately 1 acre from SU/O-P to R8A in order to develop 6 for-sale condominium units. A change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan to allow “High Density Residential” is also requested. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1170, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. b. Z-13-15/V-13-18 Stonewalk Mayfield Corners Consideration of a request to rezone 2.4 acres from R-15 to R-10MHD and O-P (Historic District) in order to permit “for-sale” single family attached and detached homes as well as office. A variance to the required City stream setbacks are also requested. The property is located at the southeast corner of Mayfield Road and Canton Street and legally described as being located in Land Lots 1197, 1252 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. c. Z-14-05/CLUP-14-03/V-14-06 Winthrope Park Townhomes Consideration of a request to rezone approximately 6 acres from C-2 to R8A in order to develop 47 townhomes. A change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan to allow “High Density Residential” is also requested as well as a reduction in the required undisturbed buffer adjacent to the commercial property northeast of the site. The property is legally described as being located in Land Lot 1124, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. d. Z-14-04/CLUP-14-02/V-14-02 Marietta Street Townhomes Rezone from CUP & R-10M TO R-8A in order to develop townhomes. A variance to the required City creek buffers and setbacks is also requested as well as well as a change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan from “High Density Residential” to permit “Medium Density Residential”. The property is located in Land Lot 1270 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia. e. PH-14-02 Unified Development Code – Special Event Facilities Consideration of an amendment to the Unified Development Code in order to permit special event facilities (amphitheaters) to hold events up to 30 days without obtaining City Council approval. Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 South Main Street.

into a bag before fleeing on foot. They fled with several thousand dollars’ worth of jewelry. “In less than 10 seconds, the crime was over,” said George Gordon, spokesman for Alpharetta Department of Public Safety. Investigators found the hammer suspected of use in the crime. Despite the footage and the hammer, there is little to go on. Because of this, police are seeking the public’s help identifying the men. Gordon stressed the men are not suspects yet but “persons of interest.” “Once we identify them, then the investigation moves forward. We will determine if the persons of interest in the photos taken by cameras earlier in the day are the same suspects filmed breaking into the jewelry displays. We need the public to identify these men,” Gordon said. Gordon said police are investigating a similar incident with similar suspects at the Costco store near Cumberland Mall. Police are looking into incidents at other retailers for

Alpharetta Police are looking for these two men in relation to a series of smash and grab robberies at Costco stores. These men were in the Windward Costco at 7:40 p.m. Jan. 2. possible connections as well. Anyone with information can call in a tip at 678-297-6307. Tips can be anonymous.

Notice of Public Internet Auction Johns Creek Police Department The following is a list of property located at the Johns Creek Police Dept. If you believe that you are the owner of this property, please call 678-474-1572 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM. Proof of ownership and a valid ID will be required to claim any property. A public internet auction of the following items will begin the week of March 17th. The auction’s website is www.propertyroom.com. Items:

Pocket Knives Apple iPad in pink colored case Plastic Pouch Key to pressure washer Wallets Ford car key & set of keys BB Gun metro pcs Huawei cellphone Samsung Cellphone mens tan colored shoes Money Pouch credit card Kate Spade brand purse Fantasy Master brand knife Backpacks iPhone in red case Purse 18 pieces of jewelry: (Skagen Denmark watch, 3 silver colored bangles, 1 pair of gold heart shaped earrings, 1 silver bangle, 1 pearl & silver bracelet, 1 silver watch with stones, 2 silver studded rings, 1 gold bracelet & misc. pieces)

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Arrests:

►► Recardo Von McGriff, 37, of

Continued from Page 2 1 on Atlanta Street in Roswell for DUI, failure to maintain lane and possession of drugrelated items. ►► Vicente DominguezVelasco, 34, of Worthington Hills Manor, Roswell, was arrested Feb. 1 on Alpharetta Street in Roswell for DUI. ►► Ali Dehghan, 34, of Atlanta was arrested Feb. 2 on Roswell Road in Sandy Springs for DUI and failure to obey a traffic control device.

Drug arrests ►► Quentin Martesses Winfrey,

27, of Decatur was arrested Jan. 26 on State Bridge Road in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana.

NORTHSIDE CHAPEL

Stone Mountain was arrested Jan. 27 on North Point Drive in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and failure to maintain lane. ►► Thainkhane Ngaoluangrath, 34, of Kennesaw was arrested Feb. 1 on Haynes Bridge Road in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana, failure to maintain lane and failure to obey a traffic control device. ►► Cristian Visoso, 20, of Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, was arrested Jan. 28 on Morris Road in Milton for possession of marijuana and brake light violation. ►► Lucas John Wirth, 18, of Ivey Hill Drive, Cumming, was arrested Feb. 2 on Highway 9 in Milton for possession of marijuana and brake light violation. ►► Kenneth Harold Roberts, 22, of Birch Hollow Drive,

Rex T. Grizzle, Owner Locally Owned and Operated 12050 Crabapple Rd. Roswell, GA 30075

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northfulton.com | Johns Creek Herald | February 20, 2014 | 25 Roswell, was arrested Feb. 2 on Highway 9 in Milton for possession of marijuana, open container, possession of drugrelated items and failure to maintain lane. ►► Vugar I. Huseynov, 23, of Colony Glen Drive, Johns Creek, was arrested Feb. 4 on Morris Road in Milton for possession of marijuana and tag light requirement. ►► Jason C. Freeman, 43, of Lithonia was arrested Feb. 7 on Highway 9 in Milton for possession of marijuana and loitering. ►► Shermanita V. Green, 43, of Woodstock was arrested Feb. 7 on Highway 9 in Milton for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drugrelated items and loitering. ►► Adam Zeya Golden, 22, of Athens was arrested Jan. 25 on Steeplechase Drive in Roswell for possession of mari-

juana and tag light requirement. ►► Kyle Matthew Dewberry, 24, of College Park was arrested Jan. 26 on Alpharetta Highway in Roswell for possession of marijuana. ►► Jose Manuel MendiataOlvera, 39, of Lowe Lane, Alpharetta, was arrested Jan. 26 on Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana and loitering. ►► Mario Griffin, 33, of Tucker was arrested Jan. 27 on Alpharetta Highway in Roswell for possession of marijuana. ►► Sarah Mae Williams, 28, of Canton was arrested Jan. 27 on Alpharetta Highway in Roswell for possession of marijuana and brake light violation. ►► Christa Elise Stalnaker, 27, of Auburn was arrested Feb. 1 on Ingram Avenue in Cumming for possession of

heroin with intent to distribute and possession of alprazolam with intent to distribute. ►► Joshua Jeffrey Davis, 28, of Independence Trail, Cumming, was arrested Feb. 1 on Ingram Avenue in Cumming for possession of heroin with intent to distribute and possession of alprazolam with intent to distribute.

Earl Ake, 84, of Woodstock, passed away February 9, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Diane Mabry, 58, of Woodstock, passed away February 2, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Frank T. Ventre, 90, of Alpharetta, passed away February 9, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Orma Austin, 91, of Roswell, passed away February 4, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Paul Matos, 66, of Alpharetta, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

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DEATH NOTICES

Robert Emory Bolton III, 70, passed away February 5, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Willie Fowler, 88, of Duluth, passed away February 1, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Merlin Frances, 86, of Lawrenceville, passed away February 2, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Catherine Hartman, 88, of Woodstock, passed away February 9, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Ligia Quesada, 98, of Atlanta, passed away February 4, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Charles Sheffield, 71, of Woodstock, passed away February 8, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Jack Stiles Stribling, 63, of Roswell, passed away February 8, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Patricia Jane Sundin, 63, of Flowery Branch, passed away February 7, 2014. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Franciene Justus, 64, of Jonesboro, passed away February 4, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

David Alan Vella, 52, of Cumming, passed away February 6, 2014. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Sharon Vickery, 66, of Canton, passed away February 9, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Junior Roger Wheeler, 74, of Cumming, passed away February 08, 2014. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Larry Williams, 73, of Alpharetta, passed away February 8, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Barry Wilson, 65, of Jasper, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society.

Herman Clay Young, 66, of Roswell, passed away February 3, 2014. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

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28 | February 20, 2014 | Johns Creek Herald | northfulton.com

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