Milton Herald, June 24, 2015 by Appen Media Group

Empty Nest

Greenway options

Alpharetta, Milton look to connect ►►PAGE 4

Sponsored section ►►PAGE 20

Play the game together Local game studio, Make a Wish team up ►►PAGE 12

Selfless actions

Yoga therapist restores broken links ►►PAGE 26

June 24, 2015 | miltonherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 10, No. 26

FULTON PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS »

N.F. homeowners suffering from sticker shock But commissioners promise to roll back millage rate By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON – Many North Fulton homeowners are expressing dismay if not outrage over their recent property assessments that will only be somewhat eased by a promise

from the Fulton County Commission to roll back the millage rate to revenue neutral. Nevertheless, county officials are preparing for ELLIS around 40,000 assessment challenges. North Fulton property

See ASSESSMENTS, Page 28

AL LEVINE

The members of the 2015 Milton Girls Lacrosse team raise two hands in the air to signal the program's 10th state title in 11 years.

Milton Lady Eagles continue their winning ways By CAMERON OSBURN news@appenmedia.com MILTON, Ga. – To call the Milton High School girls lacrosse team a dynasty would be a bit of an understatement. The program recently captured its 10th state title in the 11-year history of Georgia having a state lacrosse championship, with a 9-6 victory over Walton on May 16. The only slip-up was a 2009 loss to Chattahoochee in the state championship that year. In fact, that loss was the last time Milton was defeated by an opponent from the state of Georgia.

“This season we had a lot of key injuries late in the season, but we were able to win state despite that,” said Head Coach Tim Godby. “Which is a tribute to players stepping up to overcome the injuries.” Godby, who has been with Milton for all of its titles, hasn’t seen any complacency from his teams despite seemingly controlling the state for the last decade. “Our players are always motivated because they don’t want to be the team that doesn’t win state,” he said. “We have a tradition that we have built here and the girls do their best to uphold it.” Godby attributes the con-

tinued success at Milton to the growth of lacrosse in the community. “A lot of parents don’t know about lacrosse because it wasn’t a big sport when they were growing up,” he said. “But the growth of the sport in this area has helped a lot with our success. We try to get youth involved in the sport, and we see a lot of girls now switching from soccer and softball to lacrosse due to the high pace of play of the sport.” The Lady Eagles are the only team from Georgia to be consistently ranked in the

See EAGLES, Page 28

Canine flu spreading in region Virus can be deadly By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON – Just as humans can catch the flu and all the associated nasty symptoms, so too can our canine companions catch a potentially deadly new strain making the rounds in the dog population.

The Canine Influenza – dog flu – has popped up in Georgia recently, with at least one known case in Alpharetta, with many other potential cases nearby. Dr. Beatriz M. Segarra, with The Village Animal Hospital in Johns Creek, said the dog flu is extremely contagious to dogs, with nearly a 100 percent

See FLU, Page 29

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2 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Two arrested for musical instrument thefts

770-442-3278 319 North Main Street Alpharetta, Georgia 30009

Found with $200,000-worth of instruments

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ROSWELL, Ga. -- On Wednesday, June 10, 2015, the Roswell Police Department recovered over $200,000-worth of stolen instruments from a search warrant executed at the Studio Six apartments, located at 9955 Old Dogwood Road, Roswell. On Saturday, June 6, 2015, Atlanta Violins, located at 387 South Atlanta Street, Roswell, reported that five violins were taken from the store sometime between May and June. The owner of the store did not know that the instruments were taken until he was contacted by a violin store in Raleigh, North Carolina who informed him that they had his violins. According to Roswell Police Spokeswoman Officer Lisa Holland, the North Carolina store said two men had come to them and sold a violin. Then the next month, they returned and sold another. And again the following month. Thinking this was strange, the store went to the Internet on music vendors’ emails and websites, asking if anyone

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.

She almost has enough for sandwiches ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A woman was arrested June 4 after allegedly trying to steal nearly $50-worth of meat and cheese. Employees of the Public on Haynes Bridge Road told police they saw the woman walking out of the deli department carrying a selection of meat and cheese. As she walked, she was seen concealing the items in her purse. She then tried to leave the store. In her purse, employees found some salami, turkey, roast beef and ham, as well as provolone and yellow cheddar cheese. The suspect, from Cumming, was arrested for theft.

was missing violins. The Roswell store turned up. “The store didn’t even know [the violins] were missing,” Holland said. Then one of the suspects allegedly came into the same Roswell store and asked to buy three violin cases. Police were called and spoke with the man. A warrant was issued for the man’s hotel, at Studio Six. Inside they found several other musical instruments, all believed stolen. A violin was found, belonging to a store in Gwinnett County, and a trumpet taken from a music store in Alpharetta. Two oboes, two trumpets and a clarinet were also located inside the room. Police are searching for the owners of these instruments. “We are asking people to check their inventories,” Holland said. Anyone with information or questions can contact Det. Farabaugh at (770) 640-4100 with the Roswell Police Department. Two men were arrested for felony

Two Roswell men are suspected of stealing more than $200,000-worth of musical instruments from local music shops. theft by receiving stolen property - Gary Donald Crouse, 60, of Roswell, and Leslie Edwards Fields, 52, also from Roswell.

The victims told police they keep their jewelry in a box in the bathroom closet. The last time they saw the items was June 7. When they checked again June 9, the items were missing. Reportedly stolen were a 14 karat diamond cluster ring (worth $1,660), a platinum diamond wedding band ($2,050), a platinum diamond engagement ring ($11,200) and a platinum diamond ring ($15,660). At the time of the theft, there were several people in the home, including the children of the couple, a long-time friend and two homecare workers.

Lost phone turned over to thief JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A potential good Samaritan was thwarted by a thief June 9, leading to a phone reported stolen. The victim told police she was shopping at the Goodwill store on Jones Bridge Road about 11:36 a.m. when she set her Iphone down. She returned to find it gone. A store employee reported seeing a well-dressed man pick up the phone and move toward the front desk to turn it in. He was approached by a young woman who asked him if he found her phone. He handed it to her and she left with it.

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$50K jewels reportedly stolen from home

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JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A local couple reported nearly $50,000-worth of jewels stolen from their home between June 7 and 8.

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Alpharetta names firefighter, officer of the quarter ALPHARETTA, Ga. -- Representing the first quarter of 2015, the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety’s command staff has selected police officer Arthur “Art” Handley and Fire Battalion Chief Scott McCullers as the employees of the quarter. Officer Handley was chosen because of his compassion and hard work investigating an incident in February involving the brutal attack upon a dog resulting involving 24 stab wounds. After the attack, the suspect left the dog outside for hours to let it die. The dog’s owner came home and took it to a local veterinarian’s clinic. A veterinarian contacted Alpharetta authorities based upon the observed wounds to the animal. Officer Handley responded and began an investigation which ultimately led to the arrest and subsequent indictment of the suspect. The dog survived and is fine, police say. Battalion Chief McCullers was chosen by the city as the fire fighter of the quarter. He was selected due to his leadership related to Alpharetta’s fire services division recently being awarded the prestigious ISO 1 rating by the Insurance Service Office organization. The ISO is the gold standard used by fire departments throughout the nation to determine the insurance risks of communities based upon hundreds of measurable standards. Out of 48,000 fire departments in the United States, only 102 agencies have obtained the ISO rating of 1. Alpharetta’s fire services almost obtained the unheard of perfect score. McCullers played a pivotal role in ensuring compliance to ISO’s standards during the pre-evaluation period ensur-

PUBLIC SAFETY 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 ►► Jacqueline L. Grenier,

McCullers. ing all areas of staffing, operations and equipment met the requirements. “I am so proud of Officer Handley and Chief McCullers,” said Alpharetta Public Safety Director Gary D. George states. “They exemplify a service attitude to our community and jobs, and they are dedicated employees. Chief McCullers’s dedication to fire services is without peer, and that’s a big reason our firefighters are recognized as being the best there are. The ISO 1 rating confirms this as well as the outstanding support we receive from our mayor, city council and most importantly, our community.” —Jonathan Copsey

51, of Mid Broadwell Road, Alpharetta, was arrested June 7 on Wills Road in Alpharetta for DUI, failure to maintain lane, brake light requirements and taillight requirements. ►► Evelyn Michelle Olivera, 26, of Gran Crique Drive, Roswell, was arrested June 6 on Ga. 400 in Alpharetta for

Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 3

DUI, speeding, no license and failure to change address on license. ►► Mercedes E. Saghini, 68, of Atlanta was arrested June 5 on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI, open container, failure to maintain lane, failure to obey a traffic control device and use of multiple beam road lighting equipment. ►► Colby Jordan Wagoner, 28, of Little Mill Road, Cumming, was arrested June 3 on Davis Drive in Alpharetta for DUI and no license. ►► David Alvarado-Camposano, 33, of Longview, Texas, was arrested June 3 on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta for DUI. ►► Elisangela Caetano Ryan, 43, of Wood Branch Drive,

Alpharetta, was arrested June 11 on Redd Road in Milton for DUI and stop sign violation.

DRUG arrests ►► Edward H. Hines, 31, of Suwanee was arrested May 23 on Woodstock Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana, DUI, possession of drug-related paraphernalia and failure to obey traffic control devices. ►► Brett Michael Cortiss, 29, of Cumming was arrested May 24 on East Crossville Road in Roswell for possession of schedule III drugs, giving a false name to police, driving with a cracked windshield and driving on a suspended license.

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4 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

NEWS

Arnold Mill form based code deferred Public meetings will be held before August By SHANNON WEAVER shannon@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — A four-person city council deferred the vote on the Arnold Mill form based code to hear more community feedback at the June 15 meeting.

The form based code was deferred 60 days to be heard at the Aug. 10 work session and considered at the Aug. 17 city council meeting. Two community meetings will be held before Aug. 17. The meetings are set to be in the Arnold Mill study area to be convenient for residents. As of deadline, those dates had not been set. “Let’s give everybody an opportunity to weigh in on this,” said Councilmember Bill Lusk.

The form based code encompasses properties along Arnold Mill Road and offers guidelines for development and in those properties. Most of the area is the equivalent of AG-1, with single family homes on a minimum of one acre lots, but bookended with higher density “hamlets” near the intersections of Chadwick Farm Boulevard and Cox Road. In the hamlet areas, the code allows for higher density in exchange for transfer devel-

opment rights. “Vernacular” or farmhouse-style architecture designs were approved for the area. There is also a proposal to extend Cox Road to New Providence Road. The form based code recommendation came from a 4-3 vote from the planning commission. Mayor Joe Lockwood and councilmembers Matt Kunz and Burt Hewitt were absent

See ARNOLD, Page 29

Alpharetta, Milton look to connect greenway Cities explore options By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. – While Milton has quite a lot of parks and recreation amenities, with more coming online yearly, there is one amenity the city does not have – a greenway. The neighboring city of Alpharetta does have one – the Big Creek Greenway, a series of multi-modal paths in the woods allowing residents to bike, walk or relax away from traffic and in a natural setting. The cities are exploring options how to link the greenway in Alpharetta to North Park by a series of multi-use paths, allowing Milton residents to enjoy the benefits. “Greenways and trails are probably the most popular and supported facilities in Alpharetta and other cities,” said Mike Perry, Alpharetta’s director of Parks and Recreation. The cities of Milton, Johns Creek as well as Forsyth County are all hoped to eventually be joined to the greenway, Perry said. Roswell is already connected at Mansell Road. “Longer connected trails simply give our users more options,” Perry said.

The cities received a grant from the North Fulton Community Improvement District (CID) to explore options and possible paths such a link would take. Andrew Kohr, with Stantec, the consultants hired for the study, said his team was looking at alternatives the cities could approve. “Our ultimate goal is to identify a singular project to put before GDOT,” Kohr said. Once approved by the state body, funding options Alpharetta and Milton are exploring ways to connect Milton to the Big Creek can be sought to Greenway via multi-modal paths. This map shows several different possibilibuild it. ties along major roadways. The project area is from the greenway in the east to Cogburn route in mind. This would go He admitted there would be Road in the west, from North from the greenway’s northern issues with this route, notaPark in the north to Webb trailhead at Marconi Drive, bly there are few places along Bridge Road in the south. off Windward Parkway, along Windward where such paths Within this area are plenty of Windward to Deerfield Parkway could be placed. possible routes a trail could to Webb Road and then followA path following Westside take. ing Cogburn Road up to North Kohr said he has a possible Park and Bethany Bend. See GREENWAY, Page 5

GARAGE SALES See more garage sales in the classifieds • Page 29

ALPHARETTA, ThornBerry Subdivision, 860 Thornberry Drive 30022. Friday-Sunday 6/26-6/28, 9am-3pm. Furniture, electronics, household; too much to list! Cash only. JOHNS CREEK, Riverwalk Subdivision; Sundial Court 30024. Saturday 6/27 9am-1pm. Antiques, housewares, decor’. JOHNS CREEK, HUGE! Oxford Mill Subdivision, 210 Eden Bridge Place 30022. Saturday 6/27, 8am-2pm. Collectibles, Games, Household, Furniture, Clothes, MORE!!. MILTON, Saturday 6/27, 8:30am-3pm. Multi-family yard sale. Wood Valley Subdivision. Corner Dinsmore and Highgrove.

MILTON, Huge estate sale! Hickory Mill Estates Subdivision, 570 Hickory Mill Lane. Saturday 6/27 and Sunday 6/28, 8am-5pm. Moving. Master bedroom suite, curio cabinets, outdoor decor’, paintings, framed artwork, kitchen accessories, etc. ROSWELL, Brookfield Country Club; 11820 Mountain Laurel Drive 30075. Friday 6/26 and Saturday 6/27, 8am-3pm. Downsizing! Household items, childrens’ clothes and toys, furniture, treadmill, books, office items. Something for all! SUWANEE, Hawthorne Subdivision multi family. Off Southers Circle, off James Burgess, Saturday 6/27, 8am-2pm.

DEADLINE

To place garage sale ads: Noon Friday prior week • Call 770-442-3278 or email classifieds@appenmediagroup.com

NEWS Milton could see lower insurance premiums for ISO rating Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

MILTON, Ga. – Due to the decrease in Milton’s Insurance Services Organization (ISO)

Greenway: Continued from Page 4 Parkway up to Deerfield would also be possible. Another possibility is creating either a bridge or a tunnel crossing Ga. 400 north of Windward Parkway. This could be in conjunction with a road, which would help traffic east-west flow as well as pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Kohr said funding sources are still being sought, including state and federal monies, but both Milton and Alpharetta will likely have to put up some funds as well. For Alpharetta’s part,

rating, homeowners and business owners could see savings on insurance premiums.

councilmembers seem hesitant to pay to link Milton to their greenway. Instead, some members want trail expansion further south than Windward, connecting the new city center and Avalon to the greenway, preferably along Webb Bridge Road. Both Mayor David Belle Isle and Councilmember D.C. Aiken said their city’s focus was more at the heart of town, not necessarily linking up with their neighbor. Kohr said he hopes to have a preferred plan ready to submit to GDOT by next month, with public meetings on the choice possibly in August.

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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 5

ISO provides property and casualty insurance risk information, particularly fire department information to help ensure proper fire insurance premiums for commercial and residential properties. ISO evaluates fire departments through its Public Protection Classification Program. A Public Protection Classification program number is then determined for the community with lower numbers being deemed safer. Milton’s rating decreased

from four to a dual rating of two and two-X. “This was a lot of work, including extensive evaluation of equipment, station locations, training, and community risk reduction efforts, and it feels great to have it pay off,” said Fire Chief Robert Edgar. The rating will apply to community members within five miles of a fire station and 1000 feet from a hydrant. This accounts for 97 percent of properties within Milton.

The two-X rating applies to any properties failing to meet the two rating criteria. Edgar said the fire department is working to locate the two-X properties and see if they have a credible water source. Insurance company standards shape how ISO ratings are actually implemented, therefore Edgar says any interested community members should check with their providers to see if their premiums will undergo any change. — Hillary Hunnings

COMMUNITY

6 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Crabapple walking parade returns July 4

JONATHAN COPSEY/ STAFF

The Crabapple Community Association will again put on its annual 4th of July Walking Parade. It’s free to the public and will go through historic Crabapple.

MILTON, Ga. – The Crabapple Community Association’s 4th of July Walking Parade will be held Saturday, July 4 at 10 a.m. Attendees are asked to decorate their tricycles, bicycles, strollers, Barbie cars, wagons, wheelchairs, pets and themselves Prizes will be awarded for festiveness. Participants are asked to arrive by 9:30 a.m. and gather across from the Broadwell Pavilion on Broadwell Road. The parade will proceed

e e d r o F m e t R a r o • 5 1 W 0 I 2 L b , L ’ d 4 S e P 3 A l e Y R L e K o U C J

through historic Crabapple along Dunbrody Avenue and Danesfeld Drive, concluding at the Broadwell Pavillion. A children’s activity area will be set up to be enjoyed after the parade. This patriotic celebration is a great opportunity to get out, meet neighbors and share our American Pride. Registration for this free event is requested. To register, please go to https://events. r20.constantcontact. com/register/eventR eg?oeidk=a07eb49gi scbb677bce&oseq=& c=&ch. —Cameron Osburn

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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 7

8 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

OPINION

Submit your opinions to news@appenmediagroup.com

About (organic) real food

My desk garden surrounds one of a journalist’s most important items, pens.

It’s easy being green Growing up, I loved helping my mom in our garden. We would pick out colorful flowers and plants to fill the spaces around our house. My mom rarely said no to any flower that piqued my interest, unless she knew it wouldn’t survive due to lack of sunshine or some other problem. From then on, I always had a gardening bug in me. I love going to the garden store in early summer and selecting new and old favorites. We try to stay within a color scheme, but every year, without fail, we end up picking the prettiest and say our color scheme is rainbow. In addition to our pretty flowers, we also have a small corner space in our yard dedicated to growing vegetables. We’ve had success in past years growing jalapeños peppers, but this year we are branching out and attempting to grow squash, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes and corn. It’s fun to see what we can create with such little space. Also new this year is the concept of vertical gardening. Can we convince the squash and zucchini plants to climb up a trellis instead of spreading out on the ground? Only time will tell if this small experiment yields enough veggies to share later in the summer. My history of loving flowers and bright colors has followed me into my working life. When I got my first real job and had a desk I could call my own, I was so excited. I got to decorate any way I liked and with whatever I liked, as long as it was appropriate and functional. Thus, my desk garden was born. To date, I have seven different flowers on my desk — all

KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com

living. I started small with two succulents thinking they are hard to kill and good for the work environment where they might not get as much attention as they would at home. I later added a third succulent because it matched a teacup I bought to put it in. I next acquired an African Violet and a cute little orange plant from a grocery store. Unfortunately I can’t remember the name of the plant, so it was really hard to bring it back to life when it started to die. That worried me because I didn’t want my cute little desk plants to die because I’m a sub-par plant parent. So I researched, babied it and eventually it started to bud and now it is filled with blooms. I’m pretty proud of that. Eventually, I added a tree that looks like long, green toenail clippings (sounds gross but it’s cool to look at) and a lucky bamboo. My desk garden now feels complete. I have lots of colors, textures and variations of plants that help give my eyes and brain a break from the hustle and bustle of the newsroom. If you are hesitant or worried about not having a green thumb, I say go for it. More than likely, if you give your plant water, sunlight and attention, it will brighten your desk and your life.

A long time ago (?), I can vaguely remember a time when there was no such thing as food labeled “Organic.” Nowadays, to be labeled organic a farmer has to pass about a dozen standards concerning things such as: lack of pesticides, use of chemical-free soil and breeding standards to name a few. These labels are used to differentiate the organic foods from other foods, which may contain GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms). In our typical grocery store, there are usually less organic items than not, and the organic foods are noticeably more expensive. Genetic modification does seem to have some benefits. There is no chance for plant disease, no pests or insects, and large, consistent sizing and colors. These GMOs, made at factory farms are almost all produced by one company in the USA. However, since the creation of GMOs, the honeybee species (the main insect responsible for pollinating our plants) has been experiencing a drastic dying off like the world has never seen. Some experts

agree that in the near future, honeybees could make the endangered list. Honeybees have been around making honey and helping our plants grow longer than we can remember. If bees are having this type of reaction to the pesticides and chemicals used when producing GMO food, what do you think these foods are doing to our bodies? In Western society, we mostly believe that when we get sick we should go to the doctor and get a prescription or procedure, and most behave accordingly. This puts us into a reactive pattern. When slightly shifted, this pattern can become proactive. Instead of waiting until we have a problem or pain to concern ourselves with our health, as a society perhaps we can put more of the focus onto preventing disease and pain by concerning ourselves with what we’re putting into our bodies. Organic food is more expensive than “regular food,” but when you weigh the cost you could spend over a year on organic foods against the costs of being hospitalized, needing prescription drugs or having a

CIARA M. RUBIN Guest Columnist ciaramrubin11@ gmail.com

procedure, the price of the organic celery doesn’t seem so offensive. It’s unfortunate that food that helps us to a better state of health hurts us in the wallet. The more we can buy organic, the more we support the organic farmers, and the closer we get to organic food turning back into just “food.” I do not recommend immediately switching to all organic before checking and reworking your budget. There are lists online that talk about the “dirty dozen,” foods that are typically more contaminated when not grown organically. I strongly encourage you to do your own research. Never blindly believe something just because it’s written. All of the facts are there for you to discover and use to make positive choices for your life.

The joys of home ownership For those who do not know, I am now experiencing the unique joys of home ownership. And what joys there are to be had. We spent months looking for just the right home that would be a perfect fit for the wants of both of us – close to where we work, fenced-in back yard, double-paned windows, walls – you know, the nice things. It helps that we had a good friend who is a real estate agent who was able to patiently help us. Otherwise we would have gone mad, I’m sure. We saw dozens of homes, had several we thought were “the one” which turned out to be less “the one” and more “undone.” Finally, we settled on a

JONATHAN COPSEY

Revue & News Editor jonathan@appenmedia group.com

home we both could enjoy. It was the perfect location with the perfect amenities for just the right price. We breathed a sigh of relief it was over. And then the real work began. Beyond the hassle of moving for the fourth time in six years, homes are a lot of work! Why did no one tell me this? First order of business was to paint the interior walls. Apparently beige is old hat for walls. Grey is the new fashion statement.

Now, several weeks after moving in, we are still not done painting. Someone decided, once we were finished, that she did not like the color of the walls. Oh joy! It’s a good thing I like painting. (Sarcasm is difficult to get across in print. Did you catch that? It was there. Look again.) Buying lawnmowers and mowing lawns, watering grass, fixing fences and doors, pressure washing the siding… the list of things to do goes on. It never ends. Always there is something that needs attention. Should I turn my eye and relax for a moment, something breaks. Good lord, it’s like having kids or something. Surely they can’t be this exhausting, right? Right?

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COMMUNITY

Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 9 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Southern Cigar Festival lights up Verizon Amphitheater hosts cigar merchants in largest smoke event in southeast By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Cigar aficionados enjoy cigar festivals around the U.S., so three years ago Ross Sutton, owner of Cutters Cigar Emporium on Windward Parkway, thought Atlanta and the southeast deserved its own. Thus was born the Southern Cigar Festival at Verizon Amphitheater, and the June 6 edition was its best edition yet. With upward of 850 visitors from several states and dozens of cigar companies in attendance, lot cigars went up in smoke. Sutton calls it a labor of love. “This is the first big smoke event Atlanta has ever had. I thought the city deserved one, and I wanted to share the experience,” Sutton said. “It’s a great event.”

Bellaterre Cigar & Winery owner Catherine Murphy and Cutters Managing Partner Jim Fox enjoy a moment at the festival.

Cigar lovers also find the Cigar Festival a learning experience. It appeals to more than just the metro area. An informal poll saw people come from Tennessee, Florida and North Carolina to participate. But it is not an easy thing to put together. In addition to sending out invitations to smoking clubs and lining up 36 manufacturers, the festival featured two bands – one Cuban and one southern rock – a magician and several other entertainers. “We spent a year Tiffany and Ken Apple made the trip planning the event and from Knoxville to enjoy the festival. our whole staff spent three days setting it up,” he said. perfect way to showcase what Cigar merchants and the ci- they have to offer. gar smokers were pleased with “I was inspired by my the results. grandfather to start the winery. Catherine Murphy, coAnd I guess it was only natural owner of Bellaterra Cigars and to add cigars. When I first met Winery in Napa, California, said my husband, he was smoking she is expanding her operations a cigar,” Murphy said, holding into the Carolinas, Georgia and her own lit cigar. Florida, and this event was a Tiffany and Ken Apple, both

HATCHER HURD/STAFF

Pablo Romay shows just how to wrap a cigar to get the slow even burn the connoisseur wants.

Cigar rolling art learned early ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Pablo Romay is deftly cutting a tobacco leaf to shape to complete what any great cigar must have – a great blend of tobacco and a leaf expertly wound around the body of the cigar. He should be an expert. He has been rolling cigars for 30 years since he learned how as a boy in Havana City, Cuba. Now a master blender too, Romay says there are three parts to a great cigar: “You need a good blend of tobacco to have good flavor to start. Then it must

have good construction to have easy draw. Then it must have a good wrapper to burn even,” Romay said. “When you have all of those, you can really enjoy your cigar.” You can spot some things right away in your cigar. The easy draw and even burn are immediately apparent. But you should look at the ash that is produced. “If the ash is white or gray that is best. If the ash is black, that means you are smoking young tobacco. It was not aged properly,” he said. — Hatcher Hurd

cigar aficionados, made the trip from Knoxville, Tennessee, for the event. “We love Cutters and cigar smoking. Ross [Sutton] has a

great place to meet and have a good cigar. He has a saying, ‘We’re all friends who just haven’t met yet.’” Ken Apple said.

10 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

SCHOOLS

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Computer issues abound with Milestones Assessments

Vendor to provide $4.5 million in free services as a result BY CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA — After glitches and delays impacted thousands of students during the Georgia Milestones testing in April, the company responsible for developing the statewide assessment will provide $4.5 million in services to mitigate against future issues (see sidebar). But that dollar amount is a drop in the bucket for CTB/McGraw-Hill, which stands to collect nearly $108 million through a five-year contract with Georgia to develop and administer the annual assessment. Officials with the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) said students across the state had issues logging on, and staying on line, to finish Milestones. This is the first year of the Milestones assessments, given in grades 3-12,

which replace the previous state assessments—CRCTs. “Many schools tested students online, and some of those schools experienced periodic connection issues,” said Matt Cardoza, a spokesman for the GDOE. “These were attributed, in many cases, to the lengthy delay in the test administration system’s ability to sync student information.” Other students encountered test “freezing” or prolonged periods of time to load the next test question. While the issues were found across the state, it appears the glitches were most evident with students who were granted test accommodations to take an oral version of the Milestones using test readers. Officials said the problems peaked during a two-day period of April 21 and 22 at the height of the spring test season when user rates were the highest.

“On April 21 and 22, we had 97 additional districts [come on line] and that created a bottleneck,” said Melissa Fincher, deputy superintendent of testing and accountability for the GDOE. “We had previously tested about 140,000 students with no issues.” Many school districts took the Milestones earlier in the school year, but the majority of districts opted to take the assessments during the traditional spring window. That meant a user load that had never been tested. Fincher said the glitches were “an equal opportunity bug” that impacted districts across the state, but the vast majority of students were able to take and finish the Milestones without incident. “Some schools had no problems and others had larger problems with [up to] five percent of their students having issues,” said Fincher. Officials with the Fulton County School System confirmed its students experienced

Vendor to provide $4.5 million in services including new math assessments CTB/McGraw-Hill will provide $4.5 million in safeguards to ensure future administrations of the Georgia Milestones test take place with no similar issues. The services include: • $2.64 million to create and implement end-of-course assessments serving the new traditional/discrete math course options. • Up to $120,000 for an in-state program manager to serve as a point of contact for the GDOE for one year. • Up to $60,000 toward an independent analysis of the problems that took place in 2015-16. • Over $1.6 million in additional services. State School Superintendent Richard Woods said the issues were not user error by the districts, and holding CTB/McGraw-Hill accountable was “nonnegotiable.” “It was essential that we ensure this never happens again,” said Woods. “The vendor has worked to ensure safeguards are in place, and to ensure Georgia is compensated for the services that were not rendered effectively.”

testing problems, primarily with sporadic connection in the first few days. The problems, however, were quickly fixed, according to school officials. “Once the vendor corrected the [early] issues and isolated the remaining problems, we

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had very few problems during the rest of the End of Grade and End of Course testing window,” said Susan Hale, spokesperson for Fulton Schools. She noted Fulton successfully tested approximately 84,000 students during the spring Georgia Milestones administration. Controversy over its test administration is not new to CTB/McGraw-Hill, the nation’s

See MILESTONES, Page 27

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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 11

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12 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald

COMMUNITY

Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

CO-OP »

Hi-Rez Games, Make-AWish Foundation team up

By JIM LICHTENWALTER news@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – In conjunction with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, local video game developer Hi-Rez Studios granted 17-year old Marus Ellis his wish. Marcus, who was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis four years ago, is an avid gamer. Some of his favorite games are made by Hi-Rez including their newest one, “Smite.” In the game, players battle one another in online arenas, controlling a deity or god from a number of religions. On June 11, Marcus, his brother, sister and mother, where flown in from their home near Sacramento, Ca. and put up in a hotel in Roswell. They were then treated to a tour of Hi-Rez Studios, where Marcus got to meet developers of his favorite games and see how the games where made. He got to see where the animators create the game’s characters and environments and even received a drawing from one of the animators. “I’ve been following ‘Smite’ for a long time,” said Marcus. By far his favorite part of the tour was “prepping the play test.” Joined by his brother, sister and the employees of Hi-Rez, Marcus was able

JIM LICHTENWALTER/STAFF

Marcus Ellis begins the test-play of “Smite”.

to play a new version of “Smite” that has not been released to the public. “He got to see stuff what won’t be released until the future,” said Gabriel Mughelli, a representative for Hi-Rez. “He really is the first person from outside who will play it.” Following the play test, Hi-Rez threw Marcus a party where he received numerous gifts from the company including an Xbox One, several “Smite” figurines and other “Smite” and Hi-Rez merchandise. “We’re super ecstatic because we’ve never done anything like this before,” said Mughelli.

JIM LICHTENWALTER/STAFF

Marcus Ellis (center) shares a laugh with his older brother and a few Hi-Rez employees. Brandon Nance, an employee of HiRez and a “Smite” commentator for its competitive e-sports presence, emphasized how the studio initially started off small. “Seeing someone want to cross the country to see us is really great,” he

said. If you’d like to donate to the MakeA-Wish Foundation or learn more about the Atlanta chapter, visit georgia.wish. org. To learn about Hi-Rez studios and “Smite,” visit hirezstudios.com.

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COMMUNITY Roswell library hosts new programs

Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 13 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Celebrate July 4th with music at Gibbs Gardens BALL GROUND, Ga.-– The Fourth of July at Gibbs Gardens is a melodic event with opportunities to enjoy music during the day and in the evening. Come early and stay late. This is the last event of the summer Twilight Series. The Gardens will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. From 12:30-3:30 p.m., enjoy thousands of colorful daylilies and hundreds of roses and waterlilies, as well as annuals and perennials, as flutists, harpists and violinists fill the air with enchanted sounds as you inhale the Gardens’ sweet scents.

During Twilight in the Gardens, guest favorite Bill Pound returns, playing rock-and-roll to soft country, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Bill has opened for the Beach Boys, the Classics IV, Jimmy Buffet and more. Wine, beer and food will be available for purchase. There is no extra charge beyond the price of admission to attend these events. Gibbs Gardens is located at 1987 Gibbs Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit our web siteat www.gibbsgardens.com or call us at 770-893-1881.

ROSWELL, Ga. Musician Bruce Bernstein will present Music is Magic July 16 at 11 a.m. at the Roswell public library. All ages are welcome. Registration is required. Morning storyteller Storytelling with Mr. Tariq will later be held for young readers July 20 at 10:30 a.m. STEAM program A Hands-On Minds-On STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) program debuts at the library July 21 at noon. Young readers can participate in hands on projects pertaining to STEAM subject matter. See “Super Me” A live theater production, “Super Me,” will be told through animation, video, magic, music and puppets July 28 at 2 p.m. at the Roswell public library. All ages are welcome. Registration is required.

Create comics Kyle Putkammer will host a comic book how to workshop for children ages 8-12 July 30 at noon and 2 p.m. at the Roswell Library. Yoga Laugh your way through yoga July 23 at 12:30 p.m. at the Roswell library. The class is open to adults and registration is required. Kids and teens can learn bridge The Atlanta Junior Bridge Club invites kids and teens to learn and play bridge at the Roswell Branch library. Hone your math and logic skills while learning the game. The club will meet July 6-10 from 3-5 p.m. The Roswell library is located at 115 Norcross Street. For more information call 770640-3075. —Hillary Hunnings

Roswell’s annual July 4th ‘Extravaganza’ ROSWELL, Ga.—The City of Roswell will host an Independence Day community celebration at its 4th of July Extravaganza at Sweet Apple Elementary School. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy giant inflatables, carnival games, food trucks, face painting and other family-friendly activities. Live music featuring the Last Call Band and Banks and Shanewill begin at 6 p.m. The fireworks show will begin at dark. Sweet Apple Elementary School is located at 12025 Etris Rd., Roswell. —Cameron Osburn

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14 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

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By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – When Kate Boccia’s son, Daniel, 23, was found to have a drug problem, she didn’t know what to do. Daniel is currently serving a 15 year mandatory sentence in prison for armed robbery. “He had no priors, no weapons and stole nothing,” Boccia said. However, she said he was a heroin addict when he went to prison, where he was forced to get clean. “The reason my son is alive is because he is in prison,” she said. Yet only afterward did she find out an addiction specialist lived almost in her back yard. She is convinced her family would not be where they are now had she had a resource to help connect her to the help she needed. “My son wouldn’t be in prison if I had the Hub,” she said. The Hub Family Resource

Center is a newly-formed nonprofit on State Bridge Road in Johns Creek. It aims to be the primary connecting point for families and the community in times of crisis with entities that can help. When someone is in need of mental wellness help, or rehab from a drug problem, it can be difficult to find the appropriate entity who can help. Executive Director Remco Brommet and the people at the Hub want to be that clearing house, pointing people to the resources they need. Working with local police departments for several years, Brommet said he met people in all stages of distress. “I met a lot of families and individuals in a wide range of crises,” Brommet said. “Everything from suicides to house fires and court issues. I began to hear a common theme People tell us to get help, but we don’t know where to get it and who to trust.” So the idea for The Hub was formed. The Hub hopes to help people and families find substance abuse recovery programs, psychological and counseling services and mental wellness programs, connecting them to non-profits and educational

People tell us to get help, but we don’t know where to get it and who to trust.” REMCO BROMMET Executive director of The Hub Family Resource Center

programs that can help. “We want to be the central community place where families can come and be connected to service providers,” Brommet said. The need is evident, he said. One recent issue is the one Boccia is familiar with – heroin use. Prescription use of opioid drugs among teenagers has skyrocketed in recent years along with the similar drug, heroin. Brommet said most children are able to become addicted to the drug first through their own home’s medicine cabinet. Sending addicted teens and the mentally ill through the judicial process can be daunting and expensive. Public safety and legal service policy is changing across the country, Brommet said. It is becoming

clear that many of society’s ills – drug use, domestic violence, crime – often have a mental health aspect. Milton’s Police Chief Steven Krokoff, came to his post from Albany, New York. He said when he first started policing, the policy was to arrest drug offenders and fine them. If they cannot pay the fine, they get jail. “For a decade, the mantra was ‘the more you lock up, the better,’” he said. He then realized he was arresting the same people repeatedly, with jail having little effect on them. One day, he tried to help one drug user find help. He spent a day trying to get help from services and was told it would be 60 days before any rehab center could accept

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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 15

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16 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

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Alpha Family Medicine Are you having a hard time finding a primary care doctor? According to a recent report by the Georgia Board for Physician Workforce, the state ranked 39th in the ratio of doctors per 100,000 population. The doctor shortage continues to limit patients’ access to care and is most critical in primary care. Some doctors have stopped taking new patients altogether. If you do find a doctor that will accept you as a new patient, you may still have to wait if you want to schedule a routine visit. If you are on Medicare or Medicaid you might not be able to find a doctor and may have to visit the emergency room. In which case, you will have to wait and may not see the same doctor again. There is a solution – the best time to find a new primary care doctor is when a new practice opens. You need to sign up early on, even if it’s for a routine physical. Most insurances pay for a physical once a year without requiring any co-pay. If you sign up early on, the doctor will be familiar with your medical history and it will be easier to get an appointment later on when you have a medical condition. You need to sign up before the doctor stops accepting new patients! Fortunately, for residents of North Atlanta, signing up with an experienced primary care doctor just got easier with the opening of a new clinic in Alpharetta. Alpha Family Medicine is a primary care clinic that specializes in Family and Geriatric Medicine for all ages – children, adults and elders.

The clinic is centrally located on North Main Street (Highway 9), close to City Hall. Currently, the clinic is accepting new patients. You can walk-in or schedule a same day appointment with the Doctor. Or if you cannot make it during office hours, you can schedule an appointment for early mornings late evenings, or weekends. The clinic is operated by Shyla Reddy, MD and her medical staff. Dr. Reddy has more than 15 years of primary care experience in Family & Geriatric Medicine. She is board certified in Family and Geriatric Medicine. She taught/supervised medical students and resident doctors in an university setting. She also obtained a fellowship in Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology from Emory University. To sign up as a new patient or to schedule an appointment, contact 678-619-1974 or visit www.alphafammed.com

miltonherald.com | Milton Herald

Ask Pam... The Expert in Senior Care Since 2006! What happens next? How do we get the care for mom that she needs? Dad just isn't the same, why has he changed? Why is my husband getting angry and how has he forgotten my name? These are questions that are heard everyday at Senior Helpers. Change is difficult, especially when it is unplanned, unexpected and uncertain. After nearly 10 years of providing care, the Senior Helpers team is still here to help guide you through these major life transitions. As a family owned and managed company, Senior Helpers knows the value of trust, honesty and accountability. All Senior Helpers clients are treated like family. Senior Helpers is proud to announce their new Veteran's Aid and Attendance program which helps veterans, spouses and surviving spouses with at home care benefits! Call Senior Helpers at 770-442-2154 to learn more about this VA program and if you or a loved one qualifies! Q: Pam, it was so nice running into you the other day at Avalon with your parents! Your father is a hoot :) I know that I quickly mentioned that I needed help with my parents... My father has fallen twice and has had a total hip replacement. Mom is his primary caregiver and it is too much, she just can't help him with bathing, dressing, making meals... Can you help?? -Cindy P. Pam: Lovely seeing you the other day Cindy and yes we can help! The best next step is for us to meet and

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Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 23 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com

Students compete in history bee

ALPHARETTA, Ga. – On May 23 and 24, Alejandro Lim and Akaash Para, 8th graders from River Trail Middle School, competed in the National History Bee and Bowl in Louisville, Kentucky. To be eligible to compete at the Nationals, both students had to qualify at the Atlanta Regional Tournament held at River Trail MS on April 28. Alejandro took the title as Regional Champion. At the History Bee Nationals, Akaash made it to the quarterfinals and tied for 9th place out of 540 participants from all over the US. Alejandro advanced to the championship finals and made it to the final four on stage, where he tied for second place. The following day, Akaash and Alejandro competed as a team against 71 other teams and the two tied for fifth place. Both are going to Northview High School in the fall where they hope to contribute to the school’s Academic Bowl Team. Their impressive finish in the Nationals qualify them, both as individuals and as a team, for the International History Olympiad which will be held in Williamsburg, Virginia from July 9 to 15. Alejandro Lim (left) and Akaash Para (right) competed in the —Jim Lichtenwalter National History Bee and Bowl in Louisville, Ky.

HOPEWELL YOUTH ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES TRAVEL TEAM TRYOUTS FOR 2015/2016 SEASON.

Winston is looking for a good home.

Fulton Animal Services Pet of the Week: Winston ATLANTA – LifeLine Animal Project wants you to meet Winston, a 2-year-old dog who is extremely outgoing. Don’t let his 36-pound size fool you, Winston has a huge personality that makes everyone love him. This friendly guy loves meeting new people, making new doggie friends and playing with toys. During the “Spring into Adoption” promotion, the fees on all pets over 25 pounds

are waived, so qualified adopters will pay nothing to adopt this precious puppy. This includes his neuter, microchip and vaccines too. Simply drop by the shelter, email adoptions@fultonanimalservices.com or call 404613-0357. To view dogs or cats available for adoption, please visit the shelter at 860 Marietta Blvd NW, Atlanta, 30318 or go to www.fultonanimalservices.com/adopt. —Jonathan Copsey

Beautiful New Homes in Milton, Roswell & East Cobb

The Hopewell Youth Association provides: Travel Baseball for residents of the City of Milton and surrounding communities. Tryouts for the 2015/2016 Season will be held during July. To find out more information regarding the tryout dates and times for a specific age group, please visit the Hopewell Youth Association website at www.hopewellbaseball.org then click on “Travel Teams”.

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24 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

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Concorde Fire Central Black win tournament MILTON, Ga.— Concorde Fire Central Black won the championship title in the Scenic City Cup in Chattanooga on May 2-3. The girls played four games during the tour-

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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 25

Cambridge LAX ends successful third season MILTON, Ga. - The Cambridge High School boys lacrosse team ended its third year as a varsity program with many first-time accomplishments. The Cambridge boys went 11-0 in area play to earn their first area championship, earning the Bears their first top-seed in the playoffs. The Bears would reach the final four. First-year coach Mike D’Andraia joined the Bears after coaching the 6A Harrison Hoyas to a 17-2 re-

cord. “After the opening day blow-out loss, if you told me we’d end up 15-3 [in the regular season] and undefeated in area play, I’d have thought you were crazy. But this team pulled together, worked hard and took to a different coaching style and approach than they were used to,” said D’Andraia. “What I am most proud of is the character this squad displayed all season.”

Senior Captain Jake Leddy and junior defenseman Chase Darnell were names second-team All-State. Junior midfielder Jamie Wilkins was named third-team All-State. “This team was a pleasure to coach and with 26 returning varsity players next year, plus a junior varsity team that went 9-2-1, the future of this program is very bright,” said D’Andraia. ~Cameron Osburn

Atlanta Junior Rowing Association MILTON, Ga. - After placing third at the Southeast Regional Youth Championship May 10, the Atlanta Junior Rowing Association men’s varsity team headed to the June U.S. Rowing Youth National Championships in Sarasota, Florida. AJRA has over 125 total rowers from 20 high schools who compete in southeast crew competitions. They also have middle school and recreational rowing squads. This summer the association is hosting its annual Learn to Row camp for 12 - 18 year old students. To learn more go to www.ajracrew.com. Pictured From left to right are Assistant Coach Zach Smarr, Matt Morelli, Robbie Osborne, Duke Brody, Chandler Boyd, Kevin Bower, Hunter Smith, Joe Cecil, Michael Stagnaro, Sarah Bower (coxswain) and head coach Rob Canavan. — Hillary Hunnings

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LUNCH – Campers should bring their lunch with them daily. PARENT WATCH DAY – Parents may join us on Friday as the kids show off their skills! Camp Cost for the week: $149.00 FCG Employees for the week: $100

Franklin signs to play Wallace State College baseball MILTON, Ga. -- Several Milton High School students, having signed letters of intent, are set to play college sports. Kris Franklin, center, will play baseball for Wallace State College. —Hillary Hunnings

www.cambridgebears.com/Sports/Cheerleading

26 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald

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Client Lamont McLeod with his dad William (right) and Diane Grant.

Lisa Z. Hughes

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A single selfless action Yoga therapist Lisa Hughes and Project Walk Atlanta taking steps to restore broken links By KIMBERLY BROCK JOHNS CREEK, Ga. - There are many common medical conditions where exercise, instead of restoring vitality, is actually depleting it,” said Johns Creek resident and longtime physical therapist and certified yoga therapist Lisa Hughes. It may be a surprising idea to many, but it’s one that resonated with Project Walk Atlanta, a nonprofit facility that provides one-on-one physical training for people with spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury and multiple sclerosis. Recently, Hughes took her passion and began volunteering her time with the program, teaching classes as a means of not only healing the physical body, but as a way of healing emotional and energetic needs. “When I completed my yoga therapy certification last

year, it was with the intention of restoring the broken link between medicine and spirituality, both in acute injury as well as with common medical conditions and especially in disability,” Hughes explained. This is where yoga therapy is most effective in the case of severe physical trauma, when a life is changed dramatically and quite suddenly, Hughes says. “I learned about Project Walk Atlanta, which was founded in 2011 by Paul and Jeannie Pickard to help their son Chris who had suffered a spinal cord injury,” she said. “The program now serves clients from all over the world. I approached Paul last September with an idea for a class.” That single step started a journey for Hughes and her clients that has changed lives, including her own.

“One student has been practicing daily since we started. His entire body has changed. Not only that, but he leads all of us in a new way to show up in the world,” she said. “He is a leader of peace in the mind, peace in the world. “Another student leads by showing others alternate ways to transfer, alternate ways of mobility. He practiced getting from the floor to his wheelchair for 18 months before having even a hint of success with that,” Hughes said. “He is now independent with that and a leader in perseverance. “Another student leads the group in spirit and musical meditation,” she said. “She models and leads in her ability to drop right into the practice. She has been nicknamed ‘Gumby’ as she is a leader in not only flexible body, but flexible mind. “Another student leads in entertaining us with humor. Another student leads by always being willing to try something new,” Hughes said. “A newer young student is just locating her ability to lead, her ability to stand inside her own power. “I love every single one of these gifts because I never would have seen the limitless capacity of human spirit were it not for each and every one of them,” she said. “It was unimaginable to me. Really. I never knew the reach of a single selfless action.” That same selflessness is reflected in Hughes’ dedication to creating ways for her clients to give back. “I decided to make the class donation only, meaning the students bring a canned good instead of a monetary donation,” she said. “We donate all of the canned goods biweekly to No Longer Bound, a

residential treatment facility in Cumming, Georgia, for men in addiction recovery. “In this way, my yoga students see and feel their contribution to something far beyond our adaptive yoga class,” she said. “Because of their donations, these men are not only fed well, but they will return to their families having stopped the cycle of addiction. The community impact goes on infinitely. One person can make an enormous change in their community regardless of physical limitation.” When she’s not serving clients, Hughes is busy recruiting much needed volunteers. She calls them by name, openly expressing how they are beloved. “Anyone can volunteer. Class cannot continue without the amazing individuals that come to help weekly. We have PTs, trainers, yoga teachers, a surgeon, caregivers and friends of caregivers that help,” she said. “No medical degree is required. Just an open, compassionate heart and an ability to follow a lead. “There is a Gofundme page to purchase necessary props (bolsters, blocks, blankets, straps, sandbags and eye pillows),” she said. “Currently, we have the ability to safely serve eight students. We always need assistants and more props.” Hughes’ faith in the program is unwavering. “A few weeks ago, I sat in meditation on the new moon with this idea of how I would love so much just to be seen and understood for the vision and knowledge of blending medicine and emotional/ spiritual health within the therapeutic community,” Hughes said. “It’s all so new and yet we are on the eve of something huge with Emory University leading the way. The

Client Saba Abdullah with Lisa Hughes and Nika Golshani.

surgeon that comes to help has just received a grant to begin designing a new paradigm in pain control and in death and dying that focuses on yoga and mindfulness.” Hughes reflects on the last year with a sense of wonder that is contagious. “I’ve learned from each and every client how to lead by example,” she said. “I’ve learned that it’s not enough to survive. We have to find a way, when the time is right, to pass the knowledge, to lead by the example of a survivor.” Learn more about Project Walk Atlanta and how you can volunteer: http://www.projectwalkatlanta.org/ Make donations here: http://www.gofundme.com/ adaptiveyoga Learn more about Lisa Hughes’ yoga therapy practice: https://noboundariesyogatherapy.wordpress.com/.

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Milestones: Continued from Page 10 second largest testing company. Last year it was fired by Oklahoma for a failure of its state assessment process. It faced similar issues over the past two years in Indiana, but remains the state’s testing vendor. But despite its track record, Fincher remains confident CTB/McGraw-Hill can successfully implement Georgia’s assessment plans. She stressed the issues were not about the test, but the delivery platform. “You can do everything you can to avoid issues, but still encounter something that goes wrong,” said Fincher. She said she still supports the vendor and would not have recommended their renewal this year if she had any concerns. The test is moving away from paper and pencil and into an all online format. By 2019, all Milestones assessments will be online. Hale said Fulton test coordinators support electronic testing, noting aside from the first day issues, the “online testing ran smoothly and they feel this is much better than answer documents and test booklets.”

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Georgia Milestones: An overview The Georgia Milestones Assessment System (Georgia Milestones) was introduced in spring 2015 in grades 3-12 and will measure a student’s knowledge in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The Milestones will be the state’s mandated assessment tool and replaces the previous assessments: CRCTs in elementary and middle school, and End of Course Tests (EOCTs) in high school. Students in grades 3-8 will now take an end-of-grade (EOG) Milestones assessment in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. High school students will now take an end-of-course (EOC) Milestones assessment in eight courses designated by the State Board of Education. The test will count for 20 percent of the student’s final grade in that subject. Teachers and administrators will also be evaluated on students’ performance.

miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 27

City of Milton PUBLIC NOTICE OF SALE OF PROPERTY PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the City of Milton will offer the following property for sale at auction beginning Thursday, July 9, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. and the final auction ending Thursday, July 23, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. Full property descriptions, as well as the bidding process, will be available through the city’s website’s home page at www.cityofmiltonga.us by following the link provided for www.GovDeals.com. Vehicle: 2004 Dodge 2500 Utility Body Truck The buyer will have up to 5 business days to pay with cash, money order, or cashier’s check and 10 business days to remove the vehicle. The vehicle will be available for inspection, by appointment only, at 750 Hickory Flat Rd, Milton GA 30004. Please direct all inquiries to mark. stephens@cityofmiltonga.us.

The Milestones assessments differ from previous multiple choice formats, and includes open-ended response items, a writing component, nationally normed questions to provide a comparison of how Georgia students compare to their national peers, and a transition to online administration, replacing paper-pencil. For more information on the Georgia Milestones Assessment, visit the Georgia Department of Education at http://www.gadoe.org.

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28 | June 24, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com

Assessments:

DEATH NOTICES Garnet Barkus, of Alpharetta, passed away June 3, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Billy Thomas Burke, 57, of Cumming, passed away June 14, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Martha S. Coursey, of Roswell, passed away June 8, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Lynette Eachus, of Alpharetta, passed away June 5, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Christopher Esposito, of Roswell, passed away June 3, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

James Eugene Glaze, Sr., 80, of Cumming, passed away June 4, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Alfred Harry, 78, of Alpharetta, passed away June 9, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society. Lila Henretta Johnson, 76, of Cumming, passed away June 13, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Jebby Leighton, of Roswell, passed away June 6, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

T. L. McBrayer, 85, of Dawsonville, passed away June 9, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral.

Robert Neumister, 62, of Roswell, passed away June 7, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society. Charles O’Rear, 93, of Cumming, passed away June 13, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Kenneth Charles Priddy, 74, of Concord, NC passed away May 31, 2105. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Travis M. Pruitt, 55, of Cumming, passed away June 8, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Raymond P. Rollins III, of Roswell, passed away June 3, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Elia Romera, 89, of Johns Creek, passed away June 8, 2015. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society. Ethel Davis Scott, 93, of Cumming, passed away June 8, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Rodney G. Smith, 83, of Cumming, passed away June 9, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Betty Sue Stahl, 79, of Cumming, passed away June 14, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home Ruth Eva Tallant, 96, Cumming, passed away June 4, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Roy Tastet, of Alpharetta, passed away June 5, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.

Continued from Page 1

values are on the rise as the county and state begin put distance behind the effects of the recession. Countywide the preliminary numbers are startling: Residential property increase of 9.04 percent Commercial property increase of 45.5 percent Industrial property increase of 52.0 percent The good news for taxpayers is the Fulton County Board of Commissioners voted June 17 to advertise a revenue neutral millage rate of 10.911 mills. This is nearly 1 mill less (0.87 mills) than the 2014 millage rate of 11.781. The county set the advertised rate at its June 5 County Commission meeting, but the commissioners left open the door to reduce the millage

Eagles: Continued from Page 1 top 100 nationally, and they play several of the top-ranked schools in the nation annually. This year one of the Lady Eagle’s losses came to national powerhouse and the consensus top-ranked team in the country, McDonough High School, in Maryland, who have won

rate even further once the new budget is adopted. However, advertising the 10.911 means the millage rate is capped at that amount but it could be less if the commissioners so desire. Residents are assured of a 7 percent reduction in the millage rate of 11.781. How much of that reduction is eaten up by an increase in the valuation will depend on the individual revaluation. The amount of tax collected will be revenue neutral or a little less than collected in 2014. Every year, Fulton County is required to publicly advertise the maximum proposed millage rate for the current year. Commissioner Bob Ellis said it is important to note that this will not necessarily be the final millage rate that will be applied in 2015. At the meeting, the Board of Commissioners discussed reducing the millage rate further if the

134 straight games. The team plays a grueling out-of-state scheduling annually and Godby sees 2016 being no different. “We try to challenge ourselves as much as we can,” he said. “Playing all of these good out-of-state teams shows us where our weaknesses are so we can see what we need to improve on.” The Lady Eagles will have to overcome the loss of 12

City of Milton Notice of Public Hearing Variances Public Hearing:

Board of Zoning Appeals July 21, 2015 7:00 P.M.

Location:

City of Milton City Hall 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Bldg 100 Suite E Milton, Georgia 30004-6119 678-242-2500

Consideration of Primary Variances: Barbara Lynn Wehunt, 68, of Alpharetta, passed away June 5, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Jessie Lee Woody, 80, of Cumming passed away June 9, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.

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a. V15-022, 1660 Birmingham Road, Jeffrey Cook Request(s): • To allow a guest house be located in the side yard (Section 64-1598, 5)

Fulton assessments may be appealed Anyone who disagrees with the county’s assessed property value has the right to file an appeal with Fulton County. To get the details on the appeals process go online at www.fultonassessor. org. digest allows. It will also depend on the county’s mid-year revenue and expense projections for the remainder of 2015, Ellis said. The budget should also include a 4 percent cost of living allowance (COLA) for the 5,200 lowest paid employees that will cost $8.8 million and a 2 percent raise for all employees.

seniors going into the 2016 season, but the goal remains the same as always for Georgia’s most dominant girls’ team and that is a state title. Godby still has faith in his team although he admits the team will have its hands full. “It will be tough losing nine starters and the Walton team we played in the championship brings back almost everyone,” he said. “I feel pretty good about who we have coming back, though.”

Hub: Continued from Page 14 the man. Krokoff failed to help him because it was too difficult to find the right help. “The easiest way [to deal with an offender] is to arrest them,” he said. “We need to find an easy way to direct offenders to services.” Brommet said The Hub aims to be that easy way. The Hub is currently fundraising and hopes to open to the public in September. For more information on The Hub Family Resource Center, visit them online at thehubfrc.org.

b. V15-023, 13432 Hipworth Road, Omar Gaye Request(s): • To allow a pool and pool deck to encroach into the 75 foot impervious setback (Section 20-426, ii) c. V15-024, 15380 Little Stone Way, Ivlian and Roxandra Cioanta Request(s): • To allow an existing house to encroach in to the side yard setback (Section 64-416,c1)

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Flu: Continued from Page 1 infection rate. It can be easily spread simply by dogs being in contact with an infected dog – this can include public spaces such as dog parks or kennels. Symptoms can include a runny nose, potentially low grade fever, lack of appetite, lethargy and coughing. “It’s very similar to human flu,” Segarra said. The CDC reports dogs can die from the virus, although that number is small. These dogs die from catching pneumonia. Given how easily the virus can spread and the potential for death, the veterinary community is being careful. “We are being very cautious, trying to prevent anything from spreading,” Segarra said. Precautions Segarra said include disinfecting rooms and keeping dogs separate from each other. “Right now people are aware,” she said. “If they board their pets, or go to the dog park or the groomers, where dogs play and share germs, they will be much easier to get the virus.” Some dog kennels have already halted boarding as a precaution to stop the spread of the flu, and others have

miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | June 24, 2015 | 29

Arnold:

If they board their pets, or go to the dog park or the groomers, where dogs play and share germs, they will be much easier to get the virus.”

Continued from Page 4 from the meeting. “This was a very big issue for our city because it is actually saying the direction for an entire corridor of the area,” said Mayor Pro Tem Karen Thurman. “This is something that ought to be decided on by seven members of the council rather than just the four of us that are here today.”

DR. BEATRIZ M. SEGARRA, The Village Animal Hospital stopped group play times, keeping the dogs separated. “It’s good to be as cautious as you can be,” she said. Treatment includes plenty of fluids and support, including antibiotics, while the virus runs its course. There is a vaccine, Segarra said. However this vaccine works on a previous strain of the virus and it is unknown how effective it will be on the current strain. “All veterinarians are vaccinating with that vaccine but we don’t know if there is cross protection,” she said. “But some protection is better than none.” For basic information on the Canine Influenza, the CDC has a fact sheet at http:// www.cdc.gov/flu/canineflu. If you suspect your dog has the flu, call your veterinarian.

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