Real Estate Report Sponsored section ►►PAGE 19
Planning commission denies conservation law Heads next to council ►►PAGE 4
Bell Park build progresses Nears September completion ►►PAGE 13
Homestretch’s BBQ, music Non-profit holds Chukkar fundraiser PAGE 12
July 1, 2015 | miltonherald.com | 75,000 circulation Revue & News, Johns Creek Herald, Milton Herald & Forsyth Herald combined | 50¢ | Volume 10, No. 26
Milton enacts sign moratorium
REMEMBER AND RIDE ON »
Cycling community airs worries
MILTON, Ga. — The city of Milton adopted a moratorium on sign permit applications at a special called meeting June 24. The moratorium holds applications for permits and bars signs that do not require a permit for 30 days, except for temporary standard information signs. The moratorium was enacted in response to the June 18 Reed v. Town of Gilbert Supreme Court ruling, which restricts government sign regulations. The city has to examine its sign ordinance to make sure it complies with the ruling, said City Attorney Ken Jarrard. “There is language in sign codes that attempt to restrict the message to at least some sort of objective. Perhaps Mil-
A bicycle memorial stands where Jason Young was killed in Milton. A driver hit him April 29 while he biked on a local road. Local cyclists are concerned about their own safety on roads.
Awareness key to safety of drivers, cyclists By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON, Ga. – When 42-year-old Jason Young got on his bicycle April 29 in Milton, he never could have known he would not return home. He was hit and killed by a driver head-on and a fellow rider was injured in the crash. The driver was charged with vehicular homicide. The bicycling community takes such news seriously. Since May, several cyclists have been killed on Georgia roads. Jason Young’s case is unique in that motorists are rarely charged in bike-related accidents, say advocates.
If you want to get away with murder, kill a cyclist.” MICHAEL HOROWITZ Alpha Bikes
“If you want to get away with murder, kill a cyclist,” said Michael Horowitz, of Alpha Bikes. “Few drivers are ever charged in a bike crime. What are the consequences of killing or maiming us?” As cycling becomes an ever-popular hobby and sport, more cyclists take to the roads, mingling with motor vehicles and sharing roadways. Still, the danger is always there. For
See CYCLING, Page 3
There is language in sign codes that attempt to restrict the message to at least some sort of objective. Perhaps Milton has that as well.” KEN JARRARD City Attorney ton has that as well,” Jarrard said. “So what is considered to be the most appropriate response to that? Place a moratorium on your code. Go back and look at it, see if it needs to be modified.” Signs that are permitted can be up to four square feet. —Shannon Weaver
New fireworks law goes in effect July 1 Local fire departments urge safety BY JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com FULTON COUNTY, Ga. -- Georgians will no longer have to drive across state lines to buy and bring back fireworks, even
if it was illegal. Georgia House Bill 110 allows the sale and use of fireworks in the state, and it went into effect July 1. This has local officials on guard not just for the July 4 holiday but for the foreseeable future.
See FIREWORKS, Page 24
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2 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com
Alpharetta man convicted of defrauding NASA
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Business scammed government out of $800,000
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important goals.” The Small Business Innovation Research Program sets aside funds to support small companies that conduct innovative research. From June 2008 to June 2014, Near submitted numerous fraudulent grant and contract proposals to federal agencies seeking funds for scientific research. Near submitted all of the proposals through his company, Genziko. All of the proposals falsely stated that Genziko had multiple employees. The proposals also listed the credentials of an apparently impressive management team with many years of experience in the relevant scientific and engineering specialties, without the knowledge or consent of several of those individuals. Some of the proposals also contained fraudulent budgets and salaries for fake employees. Near pocketed the
DUIS & DRUGS
DRUG arrests
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 ►► Michele DeKalb Schaeffer, 53,
of Duluth was arrested June 9 on Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek for DUI and following to close.
Deerfield Parkway in Milton for possession of marijuana, speeding and headlights requirement. ►► Shepherd Joseph Wilson, 25, of Stone Mountain was arrested June 6 on Mansell Road in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana and possession of drug related items. ►► Yolanda Guan Jeter-King, 42, of McDonough was arrested June 1 on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta for possession of marijuana.
►► Daniel Gavrielov, 23, of Creek
Way, Roswell, was arrested May 25 on Holcomb Bridge Road for possession of marijuana. ►► Timothy Levelle Williams, 36, of Woodstock was arrested May 28 on Old Dogwood Road in Roswell for possession of marijuana and improper lane change. ►► Kenneth Howard Schatten, 58, of Atlanta was arrested June 8 on
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ATLANTA – Craig D. Near and Genziko, Inc., of Alpharetta, Georgia, were convicted by a federal jury Friday, June 19, on seven counts of wire fraud and two counts of filing false claims against the United States. The charges came from a procurement fraud scheme targeting the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). “For years this defendant supported himself and his family in a suburban lifestyle, with practically his only earnings being the fruits of his scheme defrauding the government,” said Acting U.S. Attorney John Horn. “The Small Business Innovation Research Program, which Near defrauded, supports technological innovation by investing federal research funds in critical priorities. Near’s scheme diverted funds that should have been used for these
salaries for these “phantom employees” and also collected inflated overhead and general and administrative costs from the government based on their fictitious wages. Near and Genziko, Inc. concealed the fact that they were making profits ranging from 79 to 197 percent on the three proposals that were actually granted by the government. These profits were far in excess of the 7 percent maximum that was allowed for these contracts by the NSF and NASA. In sum, Near and Genziko, Inc., received almost $800,000 in funds on the three granted proposals. Rather than using the money for the scientific research for which it was intended, Near spent it almost entirely on personal expenses such as mortgage payments, private school tuition for his children, vacations, shopping and large money wires to family and friends overseas. Near will be sentenced in September. —Jonathan Copsey
C
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.
Angry girlfriend uses machete on car
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JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – A Starfire Lane resident was arrested June 5 after allegedly writing on her boyfriend’s car and then attacking both him and it with a machete. According to police, they were called
out for a domestic dispute. The suspect said she was angry with her boyfriend and took a pen and began writing on his car about his alleged infidelity. When the boyfriend tried to stop her, she stabbed him with the pen. She then allegedly retrieved a machete and took it to the car, causing extensive damage. She was arrested for aggravated assault and criminal damage to property.
June 15 and allegedly admitted to stealing as much as $23,000 in merchandise. Workers at the Best Buy in North Point Mall told police they saw the young man, who lives in Roswell, steal a Samsung Galaxy S6 phone, valued at $814 put it in his car. When employees confronted the man, he allegedly admitted to stealing items, including other phones and tablet computers for months. In total, he may have taken as much as $23,000 worth of merchandise.
Employee accused in $23K merchandise theft ALPHARETTA, Ga. – A store employee allegedly was caught stealing goods
See BLOTTER, Page 4
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Milton Herald | July 1, 2015 | 3 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Cycling: Continued from Page 1 cyclists, it’s not a question of if they will be hit in traffic, but when. To deal with these issues, local bike advocacy groups held a forum June 25 at Roswell City Hall to air grief and come up with solutions. The event was sponsored by several cycling advocacy groups in the north metro area, including Georgia Bikes, Bike Roswell and Bike Alpharetta. “This gives people an opportunity to talk and be listened to,” said Tom Erdmanczyk, president of Bike Roswell, about the forum. “There is some frustration. There was an obvious need for a forum because people feel this is important.” Roswell is the first city in the state to be designated a Bike Friendly community for its efforts in making cycling safer for residents. Mayor Jere Wood is himself an avid cyclist. “I can remember when Roswell was a safe place to ride a bike,” said Wood. “The best present I ever had was a bicycle. It gave me freedom. I’ve biked ever since.” While Roswell makes a point of including bike lanes in new roadways, not every
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A lot of drivers don’t know about the three-foot law. We need to raise awareness.” WAYNE UTZ Bike Alpharetta
community is as accepting of cyclists. Because of this, state law has the “Three-foot rule.” This law dictates drivers must give a minimum distance of three feet to a cyclist when they pass. This is to create a safe area between the cyclist and a vehicle. State law also classifies bicycles as vehicles, which must be used on a road, if possible. They are not allowed on sidewalks. “A lot of drivers don’t know about the three-foot law,” said Wayne Utz, of Bike Alpharetta. “We need to raise awareness.” Awareness is key, said many of those who spoke. This includes awareness from the cycling community as well as from motorists. The law also dictates that cyclists must follow traffic rules, such as stopping at stop signs and lights, as well as riding only two abreast when in groups. The consequences of ignorant drivers, as well as cyclists, can be deadly.
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Several speakers told of their loved ones – brothers and husbands – who have died while cycling. “Buzzing” is a term the cycling community uses to describe a motorist who gets too close to a rider, often intentionally. Nearly everyone in the room described being “buzzed” at least once. Some described
extensive surgeries and rehabilitation after their brush with death. One woman, “Val,” said she was struck while waiting on her motorcycle at a red light. She said she nearly lost her life and had “rods and screws” put in her. “To be standing here is amazing,” she said. She said the other driver was turning left and did not see Val or her bike. To hit a stationary vehicle implies the driver crossed into the wrong lane. That same driver later pleaded “not guilty” to traffic violations. David Matthews, founder of bikefriendlyatl.com, said he makes “ghost bikes” in honor
of those killed while cycling. These bikes are white and placed as markers where the cyclist died. “It’s all tragic,” he said. “Our roads need to get safer. I’ve built five ghost bikes since the first of May. Every time I put one out, another person has died.” He said that when he was hit by a vehicle, the other driver was never charged with anything. “They were on the wrong side of the road,” he said. “If I am hit by a car, they automatically broke the three foot rule. “It’s never an accident. That implies both parties did something. Not paying attention is not an accident,” he said.
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NEWS
4 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com
Planning commission turns down CSO draft Conservation subdivision ordinance rejected By SHANNON WEAVER shannon@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — The planning commission unanimously voted against recommending the conservation subdivision ordinance draft that was presented at their June 24 meeting. After a series of public meetings held between the city, consultant, residents and developers, consultant Dan Broussard presented an ordinance draft that would make conservation subdivisions the
preferred model on AG-1 land. Conventional subdivisions would require a use permit. Conservation subdivisions allow for flexibility in the building code in order to set aside more open land for green space. The ordinance draft for such a plan would require at least 60 percent of the proposed subdivision land to be set aside for green space. While many residents were not opposed to the idea of conservation subdivisions, public comments were overwhelmingly against the draft. Some argued for more specific requirements for the conventional subdivision use permit.
“There need to be criteria for the council to use in determining whether they’re going to grant the application for the use permit,” said Kathleen Johnson. “Otherwise I’m afraid there’s going to be a flood of special use permits for the conventional subdivisions.” One major concern was whether the city would be in the business of maintaining septic systems. Systems on lots under an acre have to be permitted by the state’s Environmental Protection Division. The EPD requires an owner to have a trustee in case the owner cannot continue maintenance, and this trustee is preferred to be a local munici-
pality. The ordinance says the city may be that trustee. “There’s been no confirmation as to who would bear the financial responsibility for failing community septic systems,” said Julie Zahner Bailey. “There are risks with these systems. They do fail. Ultimately, the City of Milton would have to bear those risks, including the Milton taxpayers. That’s simply unacceptable.” Buffer requirements were another issue, as well as what constitutes “green space.” The draft will next come before city council July 6. A final vote will be on July 20. Check back for updates at www.northfulton.com.
Alpharetta Library closes for move New location opens July 30 ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The Alpharetta Library, at its 238 Canton Street location, closed to the public as of Friday, June 26. The new Alpharetta Library will open on Thursday, July 30 at 11 a.m. with a grand opening celebration that the public is invited to attend. During the closure, library service is available at the following nearby locations: Roswell Branch: 115 Norcross Street, Roswell 30075 Ocee Branch: 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 30005 The new 25,000-squarefoot Alpharetta Library will be located in the new Alpharetta City Center at 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta 30009. This new two-story facility will have a large auditorium on the ground floor with state-of-the-art presentation equipment, expanded and
separate children’s and teen spaces and break-out study rooms. There will be new technology that allows patrons to video conference or hook up their laptops/iPads for interactive collaborative work. Green building design and sustainability are priorities for all Phase I library projects, and the Library System expects to achieve LEED Silver on each project. Each library will reflect the culture and interests of its community. In November 2008, Fulton County voters overwhelmingly passed the library bond referendum. The plan will greatly enhance all of the county’s libraries, and Phase I includes eight new branch libraries, Alpharetta, East Roswell, Metropolitan, Milton, Northwest Atlanta, Palmetto, Southeast Atlanta and Wolf Creek. For information, visit the library website www.afpls.org or call 404-730-1977. —Jonathan Copsey
GARAGE SALES See more garage sales in the classifieds • Page 24
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Blotter: Continued from Page 2
Family dispute leads to pawning items MILTON, Ga. – A family dispute ended with police involvement and charges of theft and fraud. The victim contacted police to say he had an argument with his son in March. The son left the home. The victim then noticed his Samsung tablet was missing. He found a pawn shop claim ticket belonging to an Alpharetta shop in his car for a tablet recently pawned. When the victim called the pawn shop, he wastold the victim’s son pawned the item. There were also several charges on the victim’s credit card the victim suspects were
made by his son.
Man accused of passing fake check ALPHARETTA, Ga. – An Atlanta man faces forgery charges after allegedly trying to cash a fake check June 11. The suspect, Larry Baker, 63, of Atlanta, allegedly entered the Suntrust Bank on North Point Parkway and tried to cash a check for $2,749. Bank employees claimed it was a fake check and called police. When police questioned Baker, he told them he had met two people downtown at Five Points and was told he could keep a portion of the check if he cashed it for them. They drove him to Alpharetta and dropped him off at the bank. The check was bogus and Baker was charged with forgery.
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NEWS
6 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com
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Roundabout coming to Birmingham, Hopewell roads Will reduce congestion, accidents By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
Construction at the intersection of Birmingham and Hopewell roads will create a roundabout.
MILTON, Ga. – The city is building a new roundabout at the intersection of Birmingham and Hopewell roads. Construction is anticipated to last a year. The intersection was identified as needing improvements due to heavy traffic. There was
previously only a stop sign on Birmingham Road, which dead-ends at Hopewell. Turning traffic could back up during rush hour in the morning and afternoon. According to traffic numbers from Pond and Co., the traffic consultants, during the day, nearly 600 vehicles turn from Hopewell onto Birmingham Road. Nearly 1,000 trips
are made through the intersection along Birmingham Road and more than 500 trips are made turning onto Hopewell Road. According to the traffic study, doing nothing was simply out of the question. The level of service would continue to deteriorate as new residents continue to come into Milton and surrounding areas. Pond and Co. suggested
See ROUNDABOUT, Page 24
Milton hosts Arnold Mill Form-Based Code meetings City seeks public input MILTON, Ga. - The City of Milton Community Development Department will hold meetings Tuesday, July 7, and Tuesday, July 21, at 6 p.m. to update and include the community in the Arnold Mill Road FormBased Code development.
These public input sessions will be held at the Alpharetta Courthouse in Crabapple. At these meetings, Caleb Racicot of TSW Planning will lead discussion and public input on the current formbased code draft for the heavily traveled road. All information taken from these meetings will be used to further shape the development code for the
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corridor reflecting community desires. “We want to gather community input on the draft Arnold Mill Road Form-Based Code,” said Michele McIntosh-Ross, principal planner for the City of Milton. “We absolutely want to hear from everyone interested in reviewing the proposed changes to their community.” Form-based code (FBC) is a zoning overlay that regulates development in a way that demands a consistent architecture style and character for the community. Instead of determining use, FBC concentrates on the physical form and style of a community and organizes land uses in a master concept of transect zones. These design regulations describe the building types, how the buildings orient to the streets and other public spaces, the street cross sections with landscaping and the size of blocks. Milton currently has two areas of the city with established FBC: the Crabapple and
the Deerfield/Ga. 9 areas. To view a working draft of the Arnold Mill Form Based
Code visit www.cityofmiltonga. us. —Jonathan Copsey
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OPINION
LETTER TO THE EDITOR »
Milton residents: loud and clear about land conservation In recent months, Preserve Rural Milton (PRM) asked Milton residents to participate in a survey allowing them to share their opinion on the importance of land conservation. To date, 501 people have participated in this online survey which was posted on PRM’s website, Facebook and emailed to followers. Approximately four percent of Milton households responded. The survey program only allowed only one response per computer, thus eliminating the possibility of stacking the results. The survey revealed that: Over half (51 percent) chose to move to Milton first and foremost because of the rural and scenic beauty of the City. Schools were the second highest ranked reason people relocated to Milton (37 percent). In addition, 85 percent of survey respondents said it is extremely important to them to preserve the rural character and the greenspace (open fields, farms, woodlands) of Milton. Unquestionably, those responding (93 percent) are aware that communities with unique identities are generally considered much more
CINDY EADE Preserve Rural Milton
desirable places to live, have a better quality of life rating and have higher and more sustainable property values than communities without unique identities. On the question “are you concerned that the rapid development going on in Milton will change the rural character of the city?” almost 90 percent (89.78 percent) are concerned and 78.96 percent are extremely concerned. Education is one of the key initiatives of PRM so it was gratifying to see the engagement of the community regarding conservation awareness: 77 percent of the respondents indicated they were either very aware or somewhat aware of what the City of Milton is doing to preserve the rural character of the city. However, 55.6 percent
believe that the city is not doing nearly enough to preserve greenspace and protect the rural character of the city. Regarding the city’s conservation involvement, 385 of the 501 respondents believe the City of Milton should be involved in preserving land either through conservation easements or actual purchase of property for greenspace. Of these, 78 percent think the city should allocate monies from the city budget to create a fund to be used for purchasing property for use as passive parks or for natural and rural open space to help maintain Milton’s rural character. Eighty-three percent stated they would be in favor of the city issuing a bond to be used only for the purchase of greenspace properties and conservation easements. In addition, putting their money where their mouths are, 73.75 percent would be willing to pay more on an annual basis to the city to fund land and conservation easements to preserve the rural character of Milton. For more information and survey results, please visit www.preserveruralmilton.org or on Facebook.
When are you right now? Have you ever been in the middle of a conversation with someone you like or care about, and realize that you’ve been “listening,” but you’ve barely heard a single thing they said? Your intention is to spend quality time and bond with that person. Yet you find yourself thinking about what you have to make for dinner tonight, that crappy meal you had last night, your stressful day at work or that book you’ve been reading? We’ve seen this in others as well. Eyes glaze over or dart away momentarily, revealing that in their mind you/they are somewhere or “some-when” else. As a society I would venture to say that we spend most of our time in the past or the future. We are scolding ourselves for saying the wrong thing, rehashing this situation or that, and many times we end up adding negative energy to our present moment over something we no longer have control over. On the flip side, we also spend much of our time planning where we have to be next, who will be there,
CIARA M. RUBIN Guest Columnist ciaramrubin11@ gmail.com
what we have to do to when we get there, how we want to present ourselves and what we want the outcome to look like. When these expectations are not met (Goals are positive and valuable, expectations are destructive), again we are adding negative energy to something we could not control, and now we are reliving the disappointment. This is exhausting, and when I notice myself falling into the trap (daily) it breaks my heart a little bit. In truth, the only place we can be is in the present. Think about that for a moment. The past has already occurred, and the future has yet to pass. The present is the place where everything happens; the present is where your life lives. This will go on whether you pay attention to it or not,
so don’t miss it. I implore you to try something. Start small, and for a mere 60 seconds try to train your mind to focus on nothing but what is going on in the present moment. Wherever you are, breathe deeply and notice the sights, sounds and smells around you, both the obvious and the subtle. If your mind starts to wander, forgive yourself and gently bring your awareness back to the present. How do you feel? Perhaps bored, admittedly this is a possibility the first few times you try the exercise if you’re used to a “go go go” lifestyle. I promise if you stick with it you will begin to see something profound. The people and animals in your life will notice that you seem to be much more invested in them, and will feel more fulfilled by their relationship with you. You will notice that you feel peaceful and ready to handle situations that arise out of your control, and you will find that you have less expectations of what will be. Now is all we have. Don’t let your present moments pass you by.
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Supreme Court has busy week with flags, gays, Obamacare What a time to be a policy wonk! The past week has been a busy one for followers of SCOTUS – that is insider lingo for the Supreme Court of the United States. Over the course of a few days, these nine justices have handed down several decisions with wide-ranging consequences. For a governmental body that rarely draws attention in its rulings, to have three blockbusters in two weeks is astounding. First there was a decision on whether Texas should allow the Confederate battle flag on government-issued license plates. The court ruled 5-4 that the state does not have to allow objectionable icons on state-issued plates. This ruling came right on the heels of the newly ignited debate over the use of the Confederate flag on state property (especially South Carolina). “Just as Texas cannot force a private citizen to convey on his or her license plate a message with which he or she does not agree, so the Sons of Confederate Veterans cannot force Texas to convey on its license plate a message with which the state does not agree,” said Justice Stephen Breyer in the majority opinion. Second was the latest challenge to the Affordable Care Act (otherwise known as “Obamacare”). In a 6-3 decision, the justices decided that the intent of the law was clear – stabilize markets and provide affordable healthcare. A precise wording of imprecise language shouldn’t change that, is the gist of their ruling. The case King v. Burwell challenged the federal government’s right to offer subsidies to healthcare enrollees in states who chose not to set up their own insurance exchanges. The law is quiet about the feds stepping in for recalcitrant states – unfortunately, those states make up 34 of the 50 in the Union. Hardly a minority. Justice Antonin Scalia called the result “absurd,” in his dissent, suggesting the ACA now be called “SCOTUScare.” “Under all the usual rules of interpretation, in short, the government should lose this case,’ Scalia wrote. “But normal rules of interpretation seem always to yield to the overriding principle of the present court: The Affordable Care Act must be saved.”
JONATHAN COPSEY
Revue & News Editor jonathan@appenmedia group.com
For a governmental body that rarely draws attention in its rulings, to have three blockbusters in two weeks is astounding.
It’s probably fair to say the challenges to the ACA are far from over. If Republicans keep Congress and win the presidency in next year’s elections, it’s almost a sure bet the law will be challenged again or changed. The very next day, the long-simmering debate over same-sex marriage is settled. In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court decided marriage is marriage regardless of what mix of genders participate. It is now the law of the land that same-sex marriage is legal. “No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family,” wrote Justice Anthony Kennedy in the majority opinion. “In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were.” In Georgia, voters approved a ban on same-sex marriage in 2004. This decision is now overturned with this Supreme Court ruling just as they are in all states with gay marriage bans. Twenty-four states had already allowed gay marriage. In his dissenting opinion, Chief Justice John Roberts decried the outcome: “If you are among the many Americans — of whatever sexual orientation — who favor expanding samesex marriage, by all means celebrate today’s decision … Celebrate the opportunity for a new expression of commitment to a partner … But do not celebrate the Constitution. It had nothing to do with it.”
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Manually curbing texting and driving If there is one admission that I have never heard from a mature adult it is, “I’m a bad driver.” However, if you have driven on any street in the state of Georgia for upwards of three minutes, you know that there are plenty of people lying by omission. And now that everyone has a cell phone, some treat roads as places to text where you occasionally, about every three minutes or so, have to look up and wipe bits of pedestrian off your windshield. My commute time to the Appen office is about five minutes. My commute to my other job is about 20 minutes. Basically, for living in the metro Atlanta area, my commute is nothing. However, it is plenty enough time for me to worry for my life on multiple occasions every day that I venture out of my house. This is due to the fact I am sharing the roads with people who are far more interested in sending an incomprehensible text along the lines of “BRB 4 lyke weasel lederhosen” than realizing that they are, in fact, driving into oncoming traffic. Texting while driving is
JOE PARKER
Appen Intern news@appenmedia group.com
dangerous, it is stupid and it needs to be stopped. So, what do we do? Well, we have already made it illegal to text and drive, but if you travel down Ga. 400 you will see that the shoulder seems to not be meant for moving off the road, but rather a convenient place to swerve into while you send a text. No, changes to the law will not curb texting while driving. But I know of something that will. My car has a manual transmission, a.k.a. a stick shift. If you want to stop people from texting while driving (and I certainly do), eliminate the automatic transmission. If you think texting while driving is difficult, try doing it driving a manual along Ga.
See TEXTING, Page 10
miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | July 1, 2015 | 9
Rockets red scare The Fourth of July is my favorite holiday. Mainly because I love that this one day a year brings the entire country together, no matter our differences. It is one day we are able to stop fighting and all agree on one thing — we love America. I also love fireworks, a must for July Fourth. Growing up, I always made sure we had a good spot at whatever fireworks show we went to see. When driving home after, my family and I would watch the various shows going on around us. I was always, and still am, fascinated and highly entertained by fireworks. This year’s holiday will bring a new level to the fireworks game. Georgians are now legally able to buy and shoot fireworks. Previously, it was against Georgia law to purchase or set off fireworks, except for small items such as sparklers or snaps. This could go very wrong, very quickly. Instead of going over state lines and buying fireworks to bring back for their personal backyard displays, Georgians will now be able to buy as many fireworks as they can afford, with a few exceptions (can’t shoot indoors, must be at least 18-years-old,etc.). But these limitations will
KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Herald Reporter kathleen@appen mediagroup.com
not deter consumers from potentially misusing the fireworks and accidently hurting others. The new law allows consumers to legally purchase, set off and potentially do major damage with explosives. I’m all for a great fireworks display in the hands of trained professionals, but I think putting fireworks in the hands of untrained and ill-informed customers has the potential to cause many issues. The Forsyth County Fire Department cites statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission saying 62 percent of all fireworksrelated injuries were burns, 36 percent injuries to hands and fingers and 31 percent caused by sparklers. I’ve heard of many fireworks horror stories including little kids amputating their fingers or hands because they got hold of fireworks. I also know someone personally who lost his vision in one eye after
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someone set off a bottle rocket incorrectly and it flew straight at his face. Another issue many may not think of is the fact local communities, like Forsyth and North Fulton, can’t handle an influx of calls to the fire department or police because they’ve hurt themselves or others while playing with fireworks. Fireworks are fun, beautiful and exciting, but handlers need to realize how much explosive power they have in their hands. Go out and buy fireworks if you desire, at the least it’ll boost our economy. But please, be sure to use them responsibly. Alcohol and explosives don’t go together. Children should never handle fireworks or explosives. Or, as they say in “A Christmas Story” (granted, they’re talking about a BB gun, but you get the picture), “you’ll shoot your eye out!”
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10 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com
Alpharetta to begin timed parking Downtown lots, on-street parking get limits By JONATHAN COPSEY jonathan@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Residents have until the end of the July 4 weekend in which to enjoy unlimited parking in downtown Alpharetta before the city imposes a 2-hour time limit on many spaces. Beginning July 6, the 2-hour limits will begin on on-street parking and the lot behind Ga. 9, in effect between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the weekdays. The city has discussed enacting these limits for months now. The discussion began after business owner complaints of employee vehicles parking in prime spots all day, spots that could otherwise be used by paying customers. “In looking at the parking
situation in our downtown core, we quickly discovered that the majority of the best parking spaces are being taken up by employees of the businesses,” said Samir Abdullahi, the city’s economic development manager. “By 9:30 on an average weekday morning, before most of our downtown merchants open their doors to the public, an average of 94 percent of these spaces are occupied, and the vehicles remain in those spaces for the majority of the day. The most convenient parking is not available for customers, and that is causing some to not visit downtown Alpharetta.” The city’s recently adopted downtown master plan, which also recommended that a parking time management program be started, noted that each well-managed on-street parking space in downtown Alpharetta would translate into more than $100,000 in annual sales for downtown businesses.
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Many of the parking spots in downtown Alpharetta will be made timed parking – with a 2-hour maximum. These spots are shown in red on the map. In blue are lots where parking is free, such as the city hall parking deck. According to city officials, the goal is to encourage employees of downtown businesses to park in outlying parking lots or the 450-space parking deck that is adjacent to City Hall. Doing so will make avail-
able to customers 120 prime spaces that are immediately adjacent to businesses. It will be up to police to enforce the new rules. Two officers are expected to patrol the downtown to keep parking in check. Warnings will be issued
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to violators of the 2-hour rule. Once three warnings are given, tickets will be issued. Department of Public Safety Director Gary George said the intent was not to ticket or punish those offenders, but to make them aware of the policy.
Texting: Continued from Page 9 9 while hitting every red light. Try and text in that situation and your cell phone will end up flying out of your hand and ending up in that space between your center console and seat, also known as French-fry and loose change purgatory. Well, I would like to think that eliminating the automatic transmission would solve the problem of texting and driving, but truthfully, people would still find a way to do so and mailboxes everywhere will tremble in terror of being mowed down. And if you happen to be one of those people that thinks texting and driving is no big deal, I leave you with this I once did the responsible thing and used a designated driver to take me home after drinking my weight in beer at a wedding. I, the heavily intoxicated, had to jerk the wheel to the left as my DD, while texting, was driving straight into a ditch. According to her, she “isn’t a bad driver.”
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miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | July 1, 2015 | 11
CITY OF MILTON NOTICE The City of Milton does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held at City Hall Council Chambers, 13000 Deerfield Pkwy, Suite 107E, Milton, Georgia on August 3, 2015 at 6:00 PM and pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A § 48-5-32 does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year’s tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years. CURRENT 2015 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY Incorporated City of Milton Real & Personal Motor Vehicles
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2,053,385,022
1,976,153,262
2,002,141,290
1,991,826,430
2,156,608,276
2,332,989,792
101,093,870
104,790,450
116,670,630
125,271,430
110,057,590
80,438,520
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
6,584
6,584
0
0
0
0
2,154,485,476
2,080,950,296
2,118,811,920
2,117,097,860
2,266,665,866
2,413,428,312
158,169,430
163,889,783
161,283,460
162,615,270
154,175,700
174,457,350
1,996,316,046
1,917,060,513
1,957,528,460
1,954,482,590
2,112,490,166
2,238,970,962
4.731
4.731
4.731
4.731
4.731
4.731
0
0
0
0
0
0
4.731
4.731
4.731
4.731
4.731
4.731
Net Taxes Levied
9,444,571
9,069,613
9,261,067
9,246,657
9,994,191
10,592,572
Net Taxes $ Increase
(508,802)
(374,958)
191,454
(14,410)
747,534
598,381
-5.1%
-4.0%
2.1%
-0.2%
8.1%
6.5%
Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Digest Less M & O Exemptions Net M & O Digest Gross M & O Millage Rate Less Millage Rate Rollbacks Net M & O Millage Rate
Net Taxes % Increase
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COMMUNITY
12 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald
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HomeStretch concert, BBQ hits the spot Banks & Shane highlights fundraiser at Chukkar Farm
By HATCHER HURD hatcher@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. – HomeStretch, a North Fulton nonprofit, had a rollicking good time June 14 at Chukkar Farm event facility with help from the incomparable Atlanta singing duo of Banks and Shane. HomeStretch is the North Fulton nonprofit agency that provides temporary shelter to homeless families and in a bootstrap program provides them the breathing space and the counseling to get back on track. Clients are often those people who have had several bad things happen at once. It could be a combination of a layoff or loss of a job, serious injury or illness or a lack of budgeting skills. Whatever the causes, HomeStretch provides the tools to return to sustainable permanent housing, said HomeStretch Executive Director Rose Burton. “The HomeStretch mission is to ensure that homeless parents and their children have a safe place to live and the sup-
HATCHER HURD/STAFF
Sarah Boyd tells her HomeStretch story as a client who along with her husband were able to get their family back into a stable environment.
port they need to achieve housing, employment and financial and family stability,” Burton said. Each year HomeStretch is able to help around 30 families back to permanent housing and self-reliance with help of
HomeStretch Executive Director Rose Burton introduces Banks Burgess, left, and Paul Shane, the Atlanta-based band that has been rocking the local music scene for the last 30 years. They appeared gratis to support HomeStretch. HomeStretch counseling, programs aimed at self-sufficiency and volunteer mentors who help them achieve success. To bring that message home, Sarah Boyd, a former HomeStretch client, told what the program was able to do for her family. “We had fallen onto hard times and had to move into an extended-stay hotel in Suwanee,” Boyd said. “My hus-
band and I were both working, but we couldn’t get ahead. We got into the program and it showed us how to be more disciplined and we got out of debt.” They worked hard and the second chance really paid off when, two years later, they qualified for a Habitat for Humanity home. Now their twin daughters have graduated from high school and are about to
enter college. “And I will be going back to school too, to follow them,” Boyd said. That is the power of HomeStretch, said Burton. Golfers can still contribute by signing up for the 14th annual HomeStretch Golf Tournament Monday, Aug. 14 at the Manor Golf and Country Club in Milton. For information go to homestretch.golfreg.com.
Your Smile Is Our Canvas Youto help are celebrate invitedourto join North Fulton Smiles for an art show 1 year anniversary in Crabapple
featuring our patients who are artists and pieces from Muse & Co. Fine Art. If you are an art enthusiast or looking for a new dentist, come join us! Where: 12315 Crabapple Rd. Suite 121, Alpharetta, Ga, 30004 When: July 16, 2015 from 5-8 P.M. Light hors d’oeurves and refreshments will be served. We will be featuring our own patient’s artwork as well as pieces from Muse & CO. Fine Art.
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COMMUNITY
Milton Herald | July 1, 2015 | 13 Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
Bell Memorial Park on schedule Set to open in September MILTON, Ga. — Bell Memorial Park is progressing, with its two new multipurpose fields recently completed. The park is scheduled to reopen in the beginning of September, said Parks and Recreation Director Jim Cregge. Rain held the project a month behind schedule earlier this year, but it has progressed more quickly in the recent
drier weather. In addition to the multipurpose fields, the nearly 30-acre park will have four diamond fields as well as a concession stand when it is finished. “Right after July 4 folks will start seeing the grass for infields and outfields for baseball fields coming,” Cregge said. “A lot of the visible stuff is going to start popping up.” To see video updates on the park’s progress, visit www. cityofmilton.org. —Shannon Weaver
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Two multipurpose fields will be used for football, soccer and lacrosse at Bell Memorial Park.
CITY OF MILTON NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
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The City of Milton has tentatively adopted a millage rate which will require an increase in property taxes by 5.48 percent. All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at the City of Milton Council Chambers, 13000 Deerfield Pkwy, Milton, Georgia, 30004, on the following dates and times: July 6, 2015 at 6:00 PM July 20, 2015 at 6:00 PM August 3, 2015 at 6:00 PM This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 4.731 mills, an increase of 0.246 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 4.485 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $375,000 is approximately $36.90 and the proposed tax increase for non-homestead property with a fair market value of $400,000 is approximately $39.36. CITY OF MILTON NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE EXPLANATION Your total property tax rate, or millage rate, will remain the same as the previous eight years at 4.731. The City is estimating a slight increase in property values that may result in additional property tax revenue. Actual changes in property values will not be available until the City receives the official property digest from the Fulton County Tax Commissioner.
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14 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com
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Colletta: Indigo Road’s newest venture in Avalon Follows streak of successful restaurants in South Carolina By JOE PARKER news@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Open since February in Avalon, Colletta combines all regional Italian cuisines, adding modern flavors to rustic dishes with a focus on in-house made fresh pasta. Colletta is the sister restaurant to Indigo Road Hospitality Group’s Indaco, both of which fall under the command of Executive Chef Michael Perez. Colletta will be Indigo Road Hospitality Group’s second Atlanta restaurant, the first being Oak Steakhouse. Indigo Road is based in Charleston, South Carolina. Colletta’s General Manager Kevin Krapp said that Indigo Road chose Avalon for its newest location because of Avalon developer Mark Toro’s “commitment to hospitality and service.” “Toro really made us want to come and join him [in Avalon],” Krapp said. “Perhaps it wasn’t the best idea to open a restaurant in the wintertime with zero advertising,” he said. “We had to get back to some grassroots marketing and start taking lunch to people every day.” Since then, Colletta teamed up with marketing firm The Reynolds Group Inc., and Krapp said the response has been fantastic. “[Business] has been going
great for us, and it’s getting better every month,” said Krapp. Some of that success, Krapp said, can be attributed to Indigo Road’s emphasis on being chef-driven and providing top-notch hospitality. Colletta’s chef-driven attitude is apparent on the menu, featuring classic Italian fare such as fried calamari and four-cheese ravioli but, as Krapp said, Perez has put his personal twists on the classics as well as modern Italian fare. “Some people come in here looking for veal scallopini or lasagna and that is not what we’re about,” Krapp said. “[Chef Perez] said if I’m going to put calamari on the menu, it’s going to be the best calamari they’ve had.” Krapp called Perez vital to the success of Colletta. “He’s the reason why we are out here,” he said. “He’s the only one who adds or deletes things off the menu. I’ve worked in Atlanta for a long time and a lot of restaurants are corporate and are driven on the ownership, whereas [Indigo Road] has chef-driven restaurants.” For Indigo Road, success has become the norm for their group of restaurants. Oak Steakhouse in Charleston was named one of the best steakhouses in the United States in 2013 by Travel + Leisure, and Esquire named O-Ku one of the best new restaurants in the
PHOTOS COURTESY COLLETTARESTAURANT.COM
United States in 2010. Indigo Road is optimistic that their two Avalon endeavors, Colletta
and Oak Steakhouse, will continue their string of success. Indigo Road plans to add
another restaurant to their Atlanta lineup in Midtown Atlanta.
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Milton Herald | July 1, 2015 | 15
Taking a risk-based approach Trends differ for multiDo you evaluate and measure the associated risks you and your small business are taking? Are you putting plans together to mitigate any potential risks associated with your strategies, new products and services, or other initiatives you are implementing? Taking a risk-based approach will help ensure that you get the best outcome and minimize surprises that could derail your plans. Risk management is a key component in the corporate world but often overlooked with small businesses. Chief Risk officers in the corporate world are tasked with the responsibility of developing plans to identify, manage and mitigate all potential risks to their enterprise. In small businesses, this is yet another “hat” that a small business owner has to wear. You should start by identifying all the potential risks you have and the likelihood
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of them happening. Prioritizing each risk will allow you to focus more time and energy on ones that could cause the most harm. Assigning resources in your business to monitor each risk, and “raise a red flag” when they are about to occur, will help your reaction time in responding to risks. Developing a specific mitigation plan is also critical. Being prepared for when a specific risk happens, including the specific steps your business will take to mitigate the damage, will help you save time, energy and money. Taking a risk-based approach in running your small business will not only help you
Being prepared for when a specific risk happens, including the specific steps your business will take to mitigate the damage, will help you save time, energy and money. be more successful, it will also minimize getting blindsided when something does happen. And it will!
NewBusinessSpotlights
Business: Virtual Properties Realty Owners: Steve Wagner and Karen Burks Opened: January, 2015 What: Virtual Properties Realty, an awardwinning firm, and recently voted one of the top companies for three years in a row by the Atlanta Journal Constitution, makes its agents and clients No. 1 in the business. The company
strives to do what is right and whatever level of success that we achieve, at the end of the day, it will be our honesty and integrity that matters most. We owe our clients no less. Address: 11340 Lake Field Drive, Suite 100, Johns Creek Phone: 770-495-5050 x76 Web: www.virtualpropertiesrealty.net
family, office markets Editor’s note: This is part of a series of excerpts from Frank Norton Jr.’s “Norton Native Intelligence Report for 2015.” Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are mindful of our current conundrum. A lack of available new multifamily product places upward pressure on rents, which in turn affects the costs of subsidized housing. With more than five times as many tenant vouchers compared to project-based Section 8 units under contract – both totaling more than 300,000 units nationwide according to HUD.gov – most projects are receiving some level of governmentbacked rental payment. The multi-family market activity has slowed in the larger institutional sector due to compressing cap rates, as well as new construction and rehabilitation in most markets. However, smaller assets under 50 units are now recovering and provide the small investor a value-added opportunity. At the same time, a recessional mindset is squeezing the office market. The National Registry’s local office leasing market that came out of the recession is vastly different than the existing market prior to 2008. Corporate tenants have redefined their use of space. According to CoreNet Global Research, the average square foot per person dropped from 225 square feet to 176 square feet between 2010 and 2012. They further believe it will contract again to 100 square feet by 2017. The office market has been essentially flat on real rent growth in most domestic markets. The office investment class stands alone as the primary asset class with sufficient scale for major oneoff investments. Let us take one other observation from our interviewees that points to a trend that is bound to set off controversy. In a word, the drive toward space compression in office use is about at its end, and in the coming years the quality of the office environment will be used as
FRANK NORTON JR. CEO and Chairman The Norton Agency
... The average square foot per person dropped from 225 square feet to 176 square feet between 2010 and 2012. They further believe it will contract again to 100 square feet by 2017. a marketing tool to recruit talent. The millennial generation will not put up with the space cram-down much longer, especially as it gains seniority in the workforce. “We space” is going to have to accommodate “me space.” Greater flexibility – and variety – in office space design will be superseding cost cutting as a prime imperative. “The collaborative aspect of open space is overdone,” one interviewee noted. “I don’t think people need to talk to their coworkers all day long.” As an investment, office transaction volume was up 35 percent in the nation’s downturns and 25 percent in suburban markets in 2014 compared to the same year to date figures for 2013, according to Real Capital Analytics. That investment interest is projected for 2015 as well.
BusinessBriefs
16 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald
Mr. Swiss reopens in Cumming
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By HILLARY HUNNINGS news@appenmediagroup.com PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN STURGEON/STAFF
CUMMING, Ga. – Breakfast bistro Mr. Swiss held its grand opening June 16, two years after a fire damaged its original location on Jan. 22, 2013. “Local fire department officials determined that it was an electrical fire that broke out during the early morning when an employee was beginning the preparations for the day,” said company representative Amy Crusselle.
Mr. Swiss closed its original location (left) in 2013 after a fire. It reopened in a new location (right) earlier this year in Central Plaza. Mr. Swiss now stands in a new location at 230 Elm Street in the Central Plaza shopping center, suite 800. Despite the move, its history stands still. “Charles and Lunell Robbs bought it in 1971,” said Crusselle. “We paid homage to that fact by encas-
ing a 1971 dollar coin into our front counter.” The restaurant is considered a staple among many locals. “Mr. Swiss is back baby! What a true Forsyth County icon! So glad they’ve got a new home,” said Facebook user Mark Fouts via the Mr. Swiss Facebook page.
The page has a strong following. Several posts charting renovation to reopening received about 80 likes each. A photo posted of the Mr. Swiss sign on April 23 garnered 404 likes and 303 shares. Currently the restaurant has a limited menu and is without a phone number.
According to the Mr. Swiss Facebook page they are working to reacquire their original phone number and will post it as soon as possible. “We have been truly blessed by the community’s response to Mr. Swiss reopening. Our grand opening was a record day for biscuits,” Crusselle said.
BusinessBriefs TECH:
Sanuwave receives hydraulic fracturing patent ALPHARETTA, Ga. —Sanuwave Health announced the receipt of U.S. Pat. No. 9,057,232 from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office entitled, “Apparatuses and Methods for Generating Shock Waves for Use in the Energy Industry” that has a patent life to April 2033. The patent includes twenty claims relating to the use of shock waves, generated with laser systems, for hydraulic fracturing of rock formations, which can be employed in both secondary and tertiary oil recovery. “This new patent continues to extend the reach of our technology beyond regenerative medicine and fits with our long term strategy to maximize the value of our shock wave technology in non-medical fields,” said Kevin Richardson, chairman of the board of directors of Sanuwave. “Our new system can potentially replace the high pressure water fracking technology which could result in significant cost reductions and water usage decrease that can have major environmental impact.” For more information, visit www.sanuwave.com.
FINANCE:
SouthCrest Bank plans Forsyth County branch CUMMING, Ga. — SouthCrest Bank is expanding its operations in Cumming by opening a new branch/ business center in late July. A grand opening and ribbon cutting is planned for Aug. 5 at the branch, which is at 3275 Market Place Blvd., Suite 100 in Cumming. “This new Cumming business center represents the first of many we plan to open in metro areas,” said Kenneth H. Maloy, SouthCrest president and CEO. “It demonstrates our continuing commitment to provide quality service and build strong, collaborative relationships with local business customers.” SouthCrest Bank has had an office in the Cumming area for the past two years, but this move will exhibit a substantial increase in office size, employees and services offered. The new Cumming business center will specialize in retail and commercial banking services, mortgage banking and small business loan processing.
Bridge2 Solutions secures $5 million venture loan ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Bridge2 Solutions has secured a $5 million venture loan from Horizon Technology Finance. The company plans to use the proceeds for general working capital purposes. Founded in 2006, Bridge2 Solutions provides marketing and fulfillment solutions for companies’ loyalty rewards programs. Company President and CEO Craig McLaughlin said Horizon’s venture loan provides the company with meaningful liquidity that enhances its financial position and future growth prospects. “As Bridge2 Solutions continues to attract new clients and integrate its unique platform across a wide-range of businesses, we appreciate Horizon’s confidence in the long-term outlook of our company,” he said.
PEOPLE:
Keller Williams agent selected for Leadership Forsyth FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. —Christy Scally, Kelly Williams realtor and Alpharetta native, has been selected to participate in the Leadership Forsyth Class of 2016. The purpose of this program is to provide a master’s level leadership training and inspire a network of emerging leaders through an educational experience that increases particiSCALLY pants’ knowledge and involvement with community leaders, volunteers and business community. After the yearlong program, participants end with a culminating service project for the residents of Forsyth County. For more information on Leadership Forsyth visit www.leadershipforsyth.org.
Cynthia Frisina named executive director of BlazeSports America ALPHARETTA, Ga. — BlazeSports America welcomes Cynthia Frisina as executive director. Frisina comes to BlazeSports America with more than 25 years as an award-winning marketing professional.
As executive director, she will be responsible for the strategic direction, growth and overall operations of BlazeSports America as well as coordinating US and international activities through the 2016 Paralympics Games in Brazil and beyond. Frisina is the founder of nonprofit foundation “Reaching for the FRISINA Stars. A Foundation of Hope for Children with Cerebral Palsy.” She has co-authored numerous articles, publications and curriculum content, and has presented courses, conferences and workshops for clinicians and families impacted by physical disabilities.
Keller Williams adds new agent ATLANTA - Kathy Schmidt has joined Keller Williams Community Partners in Cumming. Schmidt comes to the firm after serving as executive assistant to Atlanta FalSCHMIDT cons’ owner and chairman, Arthur Blank. She also served as Falcons Game Day Coordinator. Founded in 1983, Keller Williams Realty is the world’s largest real estate franchise by agent count, with approximately 700 offices and more than 110,000 associates in more than a dozen countries around the world. Schmidt can be reached at 678-527-6074 or at KathySchmidt@kw.com.
HEALTH:
MedAssets names Twomey to board of directors ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Kevin M. Twomey has joined MedAssets’ Board of Directors, and will also serve as an independent member of the compensation committee as well as the governance and nominating committee. From 1999 to 2006, Twomey was president of the St. Joe Company. He served as vice chairman and chief financial officer of H.F. Ahmanson & Company and its principal subsidiary, Home Savings of America, from1993 to 1998.
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JULY FOURTH EVENTS
CALENDAR
Milton Herald | July 1, 2015 | 17
FAIRGROUND FOURTH FESTIVITIES
What: Come see a dance contest, food, vendors and children’s activities When: July 3 from 6 - 11 p.m. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. Where: Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road. Cost: There will be free admission and parking. Web: www.cummingfair.net
STEAM ENGINE PARADE
What: See the ThomasMashburn Memorial Parade, a Cumming July Fourth tradition. When: July 4 from 10 a.m. 12 p.m. Where: Cumming City Square, 100 W Court House Square Cost: Free Web: www.cummingfair.net
CRABAPPLE PARADE
What: Decorate your tricycles, bicycles, strollers, wagons, wheelchairs, pets and yourself at Crabapple Community Association’s annual Fourth of July Parade. To participate in the parade register online. When: July 4 at 10 a.m.
Where: The parade starts at Alpharetta Government Center parking lot and will conclude at Broadwell Pavilion in Milton. Cost: Free Web: www.crabapple communityassociation.org
JULY FOURTH FIREWORKS AT WILLS PARK
What: Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, music and food in Wills Park. When: July 4 from 6 - 10 p.m. Food vendors will be located throughout the park until 9 p.m. Where: Wills Park, 408 Wills Lane in Alpharetta. Cost: The celebration is free, with fees for inflatables and other children’s activities. Web: www. awesomealpharetta.com
BBQ AND BLUEGRASS
What: Barrington Hall revives an old patriotic tradition at this inaugural event. Music entertainment provided by Smokerise Bluegrass Band. When: July 4 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Where: 535 Barrington Drive in Roswell Cost: Free admission with barbeque, beverages and desserts available for purchase from the Mill Kitchen Bar and Grill. Web: www.roswellgov.com
WE THE RUNNERS
What: A half marathon, 10K and 5K races along Big Creek Greenway and the Sparkler Trot, a half mile for children ages 10 and under. Benefits the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Foundation. When: July 4 at 7:30 a.m.
Rain or shine. Where: Fowler Park, 4110 Carolene Way in Cumming. Cost: $40 to $65. Web: www.rungeorgia.com
FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA What: The city of Roswell and Roswell Rotary host a community celebration of Independence Day. Enjoy giant inflatables, carnival games, food trucks and more. Live music from the Last Call Band and Banks and Shane. When: July 4 at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks begin at dark. Where: Sweet Apple Elementary School, 12025 Etris Road in Roswell. Cost: Free. Web: www.roswellrotary.club
BBQ AND TURTLE RACE
What: Head to the Foster House for their 11th annual
BBQ and Turtle Race. When: Barbeque will be sold from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Turtle Race starts at 1 p.m. Where: The Foster House, 305 West Main Street in Cumming. Cost: No fee to enter the race. Web: www.foster-house.com
GIBBS GARDENS
What: Enjoy music at Gibbs Gardens. When: July 4 the Gardens will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. From 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. flutists, harpists and violinists will play. From 6 - 9 p.m. Bill Pound returns to play both rock-n-roll and soft country. Where: 1987 Gibbs Drive, Ball Ground, Georgia 30107 Cost: See website or call 770893-1881 for ticket cost. Wine, beer and food will be available for purchase. Web: www.gibbsgardens.com
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EDITOR’S PICKS
Submit event |online johnscreekherald.com 18 | Julyyour 1, 2015 MiltonatHerald
CALENDAR
Johns Creek | September 25, 2015 | 1 Submit your Herald event online at miltonherald.com
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OUTDOOR SUMMER MOVIE FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
Walk through the Art District in Historic Roswell, touring eight downtown galleries, Downtown Roswell, 1065 Canton Street. Friday, July 3, all day. Visit roswellartdistrict. com for more info.
PUNCHLINE COMEDY AT AVALON
A stand-up comedy routine performed by Dan Menghini at Palmer Plaza, 2200 Avalon Boulevard in Alpharetta. Monday, July 6, 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free.
MUSIC:
JESSE TERRY AND BETH WOOD
What: Jesse Terry and Beth Wood perform at Chukkar Farms as part of the Home by Dark concert series. Where: Chukkar Farms, 1140 Liberty Grove Road in Alpharetta When: Friday, July 3 at 8 p.m. Cost: General admission $19.07 Web: www.homebydark.com
Northside Hospital Healthcare System will show Disney’s Maleficent at The Chill Hill in Vickery Village, 58060 South Vickery Street in Cumming. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray. July 1, around 8:30. Free. Visit www.cumminglocal.com for more info.
be available. When: July 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Avalon Plaza at 2200 Avalon Boulevard in Alpharetta. Web: http://www. experienceavalon.com
WIMBLETON VIEWING PARTY
What: Avalon is hosting a Wimbledon tennis tournament viewing party. The Avalon Plaza will have a Prince Sport Court complete with racquets and balls. Complimentary strawberries and cream will
What: Meet painters, sketchers and pastelists while they create scenes en plein air (in the fresh air.) Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road in Roswell When: Tuesday, July 7 at 10
Calendar Editor calendar@appenmediagroup.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.
Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street When: Friday, July 3 Hours: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: $5 Web: www.roswellgov.com
RIVER WHYLESS
What: Riverside Sounds Concert Series continues with River Whyless from Asheville, N.C. Where: Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road in Roswell When: Saturday July 11 Hours: 7 p.m. 9 p.m. Cost: Free
DIRTY SPOKES SAWNEE MTN What: 4 mile trail run at the Sawnee Mountain Nature Preserve. Where: Sawnee Mountain Preserve, 4075 Spot Road in Cumming When: Saturday, July 18 Cost: $30 through July 5 Web: dirtyspokes.com
ANNIE GET YOUR GUN
ARTISTS IN THE WILD
SHANNON WEAVER
When: July 11 at 6 p.m. Where: Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek Web: johnscreekga.gov
What: Food trucks, music and children’s activities return to Old Roswell Street. Six to eight food trucks will be there. When: July 2 at 5 p.m. Where: Old Roswell Street in Alpharetta Web: http://www.alpharetta. ga.us
What: Atlanta jazz artist Gwen Hughes will perform at the Velvet Note. When: Friday, July 3 Hours: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Where: The Velvet Note at 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta. Cost: Admission $22 Web: www.thevelvetnote.com
EVENTS:
Community Fun Day inviting people to try out circus apparatuses, primarily Aerial Silks at Akrosphere, 5910 Gateway Drive in Alpharetta. Sunday, July 5, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Visit www.akrosphere. com for more info.
a.m. Cost: $10 or free to CNC members Web: www.chattnaturecenter. org
FOOD TRUCK ALLEY
GWEN HUGHES
AKROSPHERE FUN DAY
What: This musical is a fictionalized version of the life of Annie Oakley (1860– 1926), a sharpshooter who starred in Buffalo Bill's Wild West, and her romance with sharpshooter Frank Butler. When: Thursday, July 9 at 8 p.m. Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St in Cumming Cost: Call 770-781-9178 for tickets Web: playhousecumming.com
PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR
What: Movies at Newtown Park continues with ‘Penguins of Madagascar.’
THEATRE:
PRINCESS AND THE PEA, Y’ALL
What: This play adds a little southern charm to a classic fairy tale. That Puppet Guy, Lee Bryan returns for a hilarious and fun story.
ANIMALIA
What: Animalia explores the world of animals through movement, music and visually stunning puppetry. When: July 6 through July 11. Various show times. Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street in Roswell Cost: $5 dollars for an individual ticket or $30 dollars for the summer pass (seven shows) Web: www.roswellgov.com
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North Atlanta’s
Sponsored Section • Milton Herald | July 1, 2015
News and advertising for new homes, realtors, developers, commercial properties and more.
Crye-Leike Celebrates Opening of Ninth Office in Georgia Johns Creek, GA. – It’s been ten years since Harold Crye, CEO of Crye-Leike Real Estate, expanded the company’s footprint into the Atlanta metro area. Today, the third largest privately owned real estate company in the nation opens its ninth office in Georgia at 9945 Jones Bridge Road located in Johns Creek. Crye-Leike is pleased to welcome Tammie Carter as the new Managing Broker. The office has the capacity currently for approximately 50 agents with room to grow as needed. Its agents will serve buyers and sellers in Atlanta and the surrounding North Fulton, Gwinnett, Forsyth, Dawson, Hall and Cherokee counties. “The Atlanta real estate market is strong and greatly improving like many of the markets Crye-Leike serves,” said Cofounder and CEO Harold Crye. “We see a lot of
potential for the local market like Johns Creek and are very happy to be expanding in and around the Atlanta area.” Crye-Leike’s Johns Creek office is currently open for business and ready to assist clients with all of their real estate buying and selling needs. The office is also in the process of recruiting and interviewing agents to grow its team. It will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony this summer. Crye-Leike Real Estate Services had a great year in 2014 achieving $5.3 billion in sales volume. Over a nine-state region, 3000 highly skilled CryeLeike agents sold over 30,000 properties. Crye-Leike’s sales outperformed the national average in the real estate market. Crye-Leike Atlanta has sales offices in Alpharetta/Roswell, Cartersville, Cumming, McDonough Norcross, Smyrna/ Vinings, and Woodstock in ad-
The hardest workers at your place may not be human. They may be termites—but you can get rid of them before they work their way in too far.
Protect Your Business From Termite Problems (NAPSI)—While termites cause more than $5 billion in damage a year, knowing a few facts can help your company and property best those pests. First, you need to know what kind of termites you have. Main Types • Subterranean termites are the most common. They nest in the soil below the structure and travel upward to feed on
and damage your building, inventory and equipment. They can be eradicated with bait or liquid treatment. • Drywood termites can survive without contact with the soil and infest virtually any part of a building and its contents. They’re best eradicated with fumigation treatment. Signs of Infestation
See TERMITE, Page 22
dition to a Residential Property Management, Commercial and Relocation division. Crye-Leike is a full service company offering a wide variety of financial services such as home mortgages, insurance, and title insur-
ance. Crye-Leike made several advances in technology support including new personalized mobile apps for agents. The company also upgraded its appointment center system to be more intuitive for home owners and agents. In 2014,
Crye-Leike’s Appointment Center scheduled 183,000 showings. Crye-Leike’s website, www.crye-leike.com, received an award from Leading Real Estate Companies in the world for its innovation with property listings.
20 July 1, 2015
Sponsored Section • REAL ESTATE REPORT
miltonherald.com | Milton Herald
Finding the home of your dreams may be easier—even in a seller’s market—with help from Realtors.
Saving Money In A Seller’s Market: Three Tips (NAPSI)—If you’re planning—or even just dreaming—of buying your first home, a few tips and trends may prove intriguing. According to the National Association of Realtors, home prices are up and accelerating because there are more buyers than homes for sale. Here are three tips for first-time
buyers looking to purchase in this seller’s market: Know your budget and stay within it: Before you start shopping, find out what you can afford with a preapproval from a lender so you know how much money you can borrow. When deter-
See SAVINGS, Page 22
ryland.com
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Visit ryland.com for more information.
In the Atlanta division, on accepted purchase agreements on homes that are signed between January 1, 2015 and January 31, 2015 are eligible to receive $15,000 in Flex Cash; can be used towards MyStyle® Design Center Options and/or closing costs when using RMC Mortgage® and/or lot premiums, finished basement, etc. Incentive offer does not apply to contracts written prior to January 1, 2015. The following communities are excluded from the $15,000 incentive, Bethany Crossing, Bridleton, ManorView and Marketplace Commons. Individual promotions may vary by community. Certain included features may not be available on all plans. Value of package, and products, may vary by community and plan. Homes already under contract prior to this offer are not eligible. Plus for New to-be built homes, buyer eligible to receive up to $5,000 toward closing costs. Individual incentives may vary by community. Closing cost assistance available from Ryland Homes to those financing through RMC Mortgage® Corporation and closing with a closing attorney selected by Ryland. Amount of closing cost assistance may vary by product and community, and is subject to applicable contribution limitations. For all financing promotions, see a RMC Mortgage® Corporation Loan Officer for details. RMC Mortgage® Corporation is located at 1000 Mansell Exchange West, Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30022 and is a Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee, license number 24225 and NMLS number 203897. Buyers also eligible to receive Waived 1% Origination Fee through RMC Mortgage®; average value of $4,000 which is based on a $400,000 loan amount. The waived origination fee through RMC Mortgage® Corporation is subject to cancellation or change without notice. Buyers must make a loan application by January 31, 2014 with RMC Mortgage® Corporation (NMLS# 203897) a Georgia Residential Mortgage Lender Licensee #24225. *Buyers must also close with RMC Mortgage® Corporation. Please contact your RMC Mortgage® Corporation Representative for exact quotes. Prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Ryland reserves the right to modify or cancel these offers at any time. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Offer may not be combined with any other promotion or incentives. Information shown believed to be accurate but not warranted. See a Sales Counselor for details on available promotions, restrictions and offer limitations. © 2015 The Ryland Group, Inc.
Milton Herald | miltonherald.com
REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section
July 1, 2015 21
The Milton Real Estate Specialist
COMING SOON Morning Mountain Way $525,000
ACTIVE Kentworth Circle $439,000
ACTIVE Majestic Cove $685,000
ACTIVE Chipping Wood Court $650,000
SOLD Manor Bridge Drive $1,490,000
SOLD Tolhouse Court $985,000
SOLD East Bluff $865,000
SOLD Drummond Pond $1,200,000
SOLD Creek Club Drive $535,000 $
SOLD Heron Run $650,000
Atlanta Magazine
SOLD Autumn Close $589,000
SOLD Alpha Woods Drive $599,000
Over 200 Milton Homes Sold. No one knows Milton better!
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22 July 1, 2015
Sponsored Section • REAL ESTATE REPORT
miltonherald.com | Milton Herald
Why to Sell With a REALTOR® By BILL RAWLINGS Vice President/Managing Broker, North Atlanta/Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty There are many reasons why homeowners attempt to sell their home on their own. Some sellers are tempted to try a ‘For Sale by Owner’ (FSBO) transaction because their local community is in the midst of a seller’s market and they think they can sell easily without help. Others try it because they want to maximize their profits and think they do not need a real estate professional to sell their home. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, less than 10 percent of FSBOs actually sell. Choosing to sell with a professional rather than on your own makes sense for a variety of reasons: It is fairly common that FSBOs price their home too high, which can significantly hinder the chances the home sells. Studies show that homes priced right when they are first listed sell more quickly and for a higher price than those that linger on the market. A REALTOR® has access to market data about recent sales and other homes on the market that can be used to price your home appropriately. A REALTOR® can show your home when you are not available, can respond to inquiries from potential buyers and offer valuable feedback – all things that save you time. A REALTOR® can screen visitors to your home, which provides a measure of safety that FSBO sellers do not have. In addition, by checking to see if the buyers are legitimate and can afford to purchase your home, a REALTOR® can
Savings: Continued from Page 20 mining your budget, consider the other costs of home ownership, including taxes, insurance and utilities. When listings are scarce, home prices tend to rise as bidding wars drive them higher. Don’t get caught up competing against other buyers and counteroffering above what you can comfortably afford. Winning a bidding war could feel like losing if you end up spending above your means. Stay patient and walk away if the price surpasses
Termite: Continued from Page 19 Next, you need to know how to tell when you’re under attack. Look for mud tubes about the width of a drinking straw. That’s how most of the termites get to their food. Others use the tubes to travel, so they can swarm from the nest, shed their wings near windows, doors, vents and lighting fixtures and then find a place to start their own colony. You’re Not Out Of The Woods With Steel It’s also important to remember that even if your
help you avoid wasting time showing your home to unrealistic buyers. REALTORS® have the tools to provide exposure that FSBOs do not. REALTORS® have professional marketing expertise, contacts with other REALTORS® who work with RAWLINGS buyers and the support of a brokerage that can market your home more widely than you can as an individual. Real estate contracts are loaded with lots of clauses, timelines and also many common contract contingencies, such as mortgages and inspections. A REALTOR® can help you negotiate a contract that not only brings in an appropriate price for your home, but also negotiate specific parts of the contract, if needed. Before you decide to sell your own home, remember the chance you will be successful is less than 10 percent. Not only could you end up selling your home for less money, you could leave yourself open to potential legal problems. The majority of homeowners prefer to work with a professional rather than risk an unsatisfactory selling experience. Article adapted from USRealty.com.
your budget. Identify needs versus wants: No home is perfect and many people have to compromise on features when buying an existing home. At the same time, you don’t want to end up settling for a house you don’t love. Separate and maintain your focus on what you really want in a home against what you can live with (or without). A home in a certain school district or close to your job most likely falls into the former while a kitchen with a fancy backsplash is something you can add at a later date. Work with a Realtor who knows the area: When housing supply is tight, an attractively
priced home will likely draw multiple offers. Find a Realtor with experience serving clients in your desired area. He or she can provide invaluable market information, including how fast homes are selling and for what price. A Realtor can also help you with a negotiation strategy to make your offer stand out. To find one, go to www.realtor. com/realestateagents and enter the zip code of the area where you want to buy. Buying a home is arguably the most important financial decision you’ll make in your life. Working with a Realtor and following this advice can give you the advantage you need.
structure is made of masonry or steel, it’s still susceptible to termite infestation and swarming. That’s because they’ll eat carpet backing, furniture, office files—virtually anything made of cellulose, explains Doug Webb, manager, technical and termite services, Terminix Commercial. A Solution Fortunately, you can get comprehensive termite protection that’s fast, discreet and effective. Terminix Commercial has proven treatment strategies to rid your property of termites and protect it from future infestations. There’s even a guarantee, so you can not only be termite-free, but
worry-free, too. The company’s professional entomologists and technicians know how to protect against more than termites. Specialized services can deal with just about anything from black widow spiders to bedbugs to yellow jackets, hornets, bees, ants, mosquitoes and more. They also remove rats, squirrels and other foul pests that can cause damage to your building and your reputation. Learn More For further information on how to stop termites from eating away at your bottom line, call (855) 466-2578 or go to www.terminix.com/commercial.
Recycled paper | Submit your news & photos to news@appenmediagroup.com
miltonherald.com | Milton Herald | July 1, 2015 | 23
ryland.com
GRAND OPENING! Homes From $ the 600’s
ManorView Purchase a New Home and Receive:
Community Features: • Gated Community Located in Prestigious City of Milton
25,000 Flex Cash $
• Offering New Home Designs and 71 Minimum 1-Acre Basement Homesites • Select Homesites Border The Manor Golf Course and the ManorView Lake • 3-Car Side Entry Garages or 2-Car Side Entry Garages with Additional 3rd Garage Per Plan • The Manor Golf and Country Club Close By • 2.5 Miles to Atlanta Hwy. (Hwy. 9), 6.5 Miles to GA 400 and Convenient to Shopping, Fine Dining and Entertainment • Easy Access to Fowler Park, Big Creek Greenway and Birmingham Park • Community is Bordered By the City of Alpharetta to the South, Forsyth County to the East and Cherokee County to the North and West
– PLUS –
6,500 Toward Closing Costs!
$
– PLUS – Limited Time Only:
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For more information, please call Frank Allen at 770-663-0027 or visit ryland.com. In the Atlanta division, ManorView community only, homebuyers for to-be built homes on accepted purchase agreements signed between June 1, 2015 and June 30, 2015 are eligible to receive $25,000 in Flex Cash; can be used towards MyStyle® Design Center Options and/or closing costs when using RMC Mortgage® and/or lot premiums. Buyer also eligible to receive $6,500 in Closing Costs. Closing cost assistance available from Ryland Homes to those financing through RMC Mortgage® Corporation and closing with a closing attorney selected by Ryland. Amount of closing cost assistance may vary by product and community, and is subject to applicable contribution limitations. For all financing promotions, see a RMC Mortgage® Corporation Loan Officer for details. RMC Mortgage® Corporation is located at 1000 Mansell Exchange West, Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30022 and is a Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee, license number 24225 and NMLS number 203897. Buyers also eligible to receive Waived 1% Origination Fee through RMC Mortgage®; average value of $4,000 which is based on a $400,000 loan amount. The waived origination fee through RMC Mortgage® Corporation is subject to cancellation or change without notice. Buyers must make a loan application by June 30, 2015 with RMC Mortgage® Corporation (NMLS# 203897) a Georgia Residential Mortgage Lender Licensee #24225. *Buyers must also close with RMC Mortgage® Corporation. Please contact your RMC Mortgage® Corporation Representative for exact quotes. Prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. ManorView promotion may not be combined with any other promotion or incentives. Information shown believed to be accurate but not warranted. See a Sales Counselor for details on available promotions, restrictions and offer limitations. © 2015 The Ryland Group, Inc. RA1788
24 | July 1, 2015 | Milton Herald | miltonherald.com
Fireworks:
DEATH NOTICES Rose Conti, of Roswell, passed away June 12, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
John D. Litras, 57, of Cumming, passed away June 18, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Byron Moore, of Alpharetta, passed away June 21, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Dorothy Cooksey passed away June 23, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors. Carl Ralston Morgan, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away June 23, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Kimberly Alpharetta, 17, 2015. Northside Directors.
Cristofanelli, of passed away June Arrangements by Chapel Funeral
Randall Stewart Filby, passed away June 16, 2015. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home. Jack Ford, of Cumming, passed away June 20, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Patricia Ellen Huggins, of Cumming, passed away June 21, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Jacqueline Jakobsen, of Roswell, passed away June 23, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Craig Johnson, of Roswell, passed away June 22, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
James Lackey, of Roswell, passed away June 15, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
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Janie Bell Nichols, 77, of Cumming, passed away June 19, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. John Nordstrom, of Milton, passed away June 24, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Clyde Price, of Alpharetta, passed away June 18, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Daniel Riggs, of Milton, passed away June 17, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Ernest Dale Scheffey, 75, of Cumming, passed away June 23, 2015. Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home. Nelda Spruill, of Roswell, passed away June 21, 2015. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors.
Continued from Page 1 The bill revised several parts of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, updating it to reflect the new law. Among the changes included not allowing fireworks usage indoors or within 100 yards of a nuclear power facility. It also limited the hours of use to 10 a.m. to midnight throughout the year, except on Jan. 1, July 3 and 4 and Dec. 31, where the hours are extended to 2 a.m. Buyers, users and sellers also have to be at least 18-years-old. The new law also explicitly prohibits local governments from circumventing the use of fireworks. For instance, noise ordinances cannot be used to restrict proper usage, even at 10 p.m. This has local public safety departments on edge. “The difficult part it there is nothing we can do other than respond to calls as they come,” said Milton Fire Chief Robert
Roundabout: Continued from Page 6 either improving the intersection with a traffic light or a roundabout. A roundabout will require
Safety tips for handling fireworks: • • • • • • • • •
Never allow young children to handle fireworks Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from onlookers, houses and combustible materials Light only one device at a time; maintain a safe distance after lighting Never try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks Don’t try to combine or alter fireworks Wear eye protection Always keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire Keep your pets indoors In the event of an emergency call 911
Edgar. “We believe there will be complaints of people shooting off fireworks in certain areas of the city and from a fire perspective, my major concern is people will be able to buy fireworks that will explode and cause injuries.” Paul Piccirilli, with the Roswell Fire Department said it was a new law and governments are figuring out how to enforce or control fireworks.
Regardless of that, he said the public safety crews will still be alert and ready to help those injured or to put out fires. “We won’t be doing anything different than what we have done before,” he said. “We hope people will be smart enough to use the fireworks as they are intended and in a safe manner.” *Kathleen Sturgeon contributed to this article
more right-of-way than a signalized intersection, having greater impact on the adjacent land. Additionally, a roundabout will require all traffic passing through the intersection, regardless of the approach, to slow or stop to
safely navigate the intersection. While a traffic light would also work, it would require ongoing maintenance, more than a roundabout. Milton Public Works Director Carter Lucas said the improvements were needed and that a roundabout is the better solution than a signal. “They are safer,” he said. “They reduce the frequency and severity of crashes. They promote a continuous flow of traffic that reduces delays and idling traffic which reduces vehicle emissions and fuel consumption. In some cases they are less expensive although we have found the initial construction cost is comparable but long term maintenance costs are less for the roundabout.” Construction is anticipated to last 12 months. The cost for the project is about $1 million.
CITY OF MILTON PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the City of Milton Public Building and Facilities Authority will hold a Special Called Meeting on July 6, 2015 beginning at 5:45 pm in the Executive Conference Room at City of Milton City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, 107F, Executive Conference Room, Milton, Georgia 30004. This Public Notice is in accordance with O.C.G.A. §50-14-1. This the 22nd day of June, 2015. _________________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING POSSIBLE EXTENSION TO EXISTING 90-DAY MORATORIUM BARRING ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS FOR LAND DISTURBANCE PERMITS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT ON PROPERTY IN THE R-1, R-2, T-2 AND AG-1 ZONING DISTRICTS 83, of Doris Watkins, Cumming, passed away June 16, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home. Harry Ford Williams, 80, of Cumming, passed away June 21, 2015. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home.
The Milton City Council will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, July 6, 2015, at 6:00 p.m. at Milton City Hall in the City Council Chambers located at 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Milton, Georgia 30004, Suite 107E regarding a possible 90 day extension until October 10, 2015 of the moratorium that was approved by the Council on April 13, 2015. The moratorium bars acceptance of applications for Land Disturbance Permits for residential development on property in the R-1, R-2, T-2 and AG-1 Zoning Districts. All citizens are invited to attend. Milton City Council
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Front row: Yasha Pomozov , Hayden Devore and Holden Tracy. Middle row: Mitch Stone, Zach Hugues, Andrew Swauger, Erik Holmen, Kalada Nwuke and Jeremy Paredes. Back row: Coach David Eristavi, Sanket Gavankar, Phillip Arshun, Justin Oh, Santiago Garcia, Zach Sullivan, Kamal Korrapati and Shreyas Kumar.
AYBA team wins Central Park All Star Showdown ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The Alpharetta Youth Baseball Association 9U Eagles won the Central Park All Star Showdown in Cumming on June 13, going undefeated in the tournament. The Eagles are, front row, from left: Grant Zimmerman, Carter Few, Wesley Warren, Andy Davis and Jace Weir; Middle row are
Trey Becton, Nate Middlebrooks, Connor Corkill, Jake Birnbaum, Brady Corkill, Ty Holmes and Michael McCavitt; Back row are Coaches Chris Few, Derrick Warren, Pat Corkill and head coach Steve Davis. —Jim Lichtenwalter
Alpharetta Ambush wins Academy Cup ALPHARETTA, Ga. – The Alpharetta Ambush U-12 boys soccer team won the Academy Cup in Austell, Georgia, beating some of the best teams in the state. The Ambush boys did not concede a goal during the tournament. —Jim Lichtenwalter
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