Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - December 28, 2017

D e c e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 1 7 | N o r t h F u l t o n . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 3 5 , N o . 5 2

Tax payments ease budget concerns ►►PAGE 4

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Bob Farley remembered ►►PAGE 15

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South Carolina draws Alpharetta standout

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A look back at 2017

It’s that time of year again. The Herald hits the rewind button and looks back at most talked about and impactful stories of 2017 with our annual “Year in Review.” Read more, Pages 6 – 8.

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1. Karen Handel won the June Mayor Jere Wood to be removed 20 Sixth District congressional as the city’s mayor. Lori Henry runoff, becoming the first Georgia would be elected mayor Dec. 6.

Republican woman elected to 3. On Oct. 14, the historic log cabin, Congress. built by FFA students during the 2. On Aug. 3, a Fulton County Supedepression, was moved from the rior Court judge ordered Roswell old Milton High School campus in

Alpharetta to a new city park just down Milton Avenue.

4. On July 17, Alpharetta approved $602,000 for design work on the Alpha Loop.

Kick off 2018 with clean, sparkling jewelry!

It is always recommended to have your jewelry checked and cleaned at least once per year. Bring your jewelry back to life with a complimentary cleaning and checking and receive a FREE jewelry cleaner through the month of January!

Foundation gives back to local sports ►►PAGE 32

ALPHARETTA • 3960 Old Milton Pkwy #300 (1.5 miles East of 400) 770-751-7222 • www.iroff.com

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2 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

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ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell police responded to a gunshot call Dec. 12, only to find that a man had shot and killed a deer using a bow and arrow. There is a city ordinance against discharging a firearm within city limits.

The man told police that he shot the deer in his backyard with a bow and arrow. The deer then ran through the woods

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Woman loses wallet while shopping JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A woman reported Dec. 12 that her wallet was stolen during a shopping trip and her credit cards used shortly after.

The woman first noticed that her wallet was missing around 5 p.m. when she attempted to pay after shopping at the Kroger on Holcomb Bridge Road.

Once she left the Kroger, the woman checked her credit cards and noticed that someone had attempted to charge $500 on almost all of them. Each credit card company was alerted about the fraud.

After contacting police, she said she was suspicious of an interaction she had with another woman, who had approached her while shopping asking for help to read a food label.

Security footage showed the female suspect, along with a man, following the woman through the store. At one point, when the woman left her cart and purse, the female suspect immediately went through the woman’s purse to take out her wallet and hand it to the man.

After doing so, the suspect began talking to the woman “to prevent suspicion.”

The identity of the suspects is currently unknown.

and died in a neighbor’s yard.

After the deer died, the man dragged it away on a tarp.

One neighbor said that they did not want the man to come back and clean the blood from their yard.

Police issued the man a warning about the city ordinance and safety concerns from neighbors.

Woman thwarts scam seeking bond money JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A woman reported Dec. 13 that someone had impersonated her granddaughter and a New York police officer in a phone call to obtain money.

The woman said she received a call from an unknown number from a man who said he was a police officer in New York. He claimed that the woman’s granddaughter had been arrested for her involvement in a car accident.

An unknown woman then came on the phone, pretending to be the woman’s granddaughter.

The woman told the callers that her granddaughter is under 10 years old.

She said this “confused” the callers, but they insisted that her granddaughter’s attorney would call to arrange bond. No exact dollar amount was requested.

When the woman called her son to check on her granddaughter, he confirmed that the granddaughter was safe at home. The woman did not receive any additional calls.

Home ransacked during gym visit ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A woman reported Dec. 13 that her apartment had been burglarized during her hour-long trip to the gym. The woman had left her apartment on Masters Way around noon, and when she returned, she saw that the back patio door had been forced open.

Close to $7,000 worth of items were missing from the apartment. Some of the missing items included $3,000

worth of assorted jewelry, a laptop, a television, a Nikon DSLR camera and a spare key to the woman’s car.

Employee gives away merchandise for free ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A woman was arrested Dec. 13 for giving away $1,700 worth of store merchandise to a friend while working at the Victoria’s Secret in North Point Mall.

A loss prevention representative contacted police when he became suspicious of the employee. After investigating, he later found video surveillance footage of the employee providing multiple items of clothing to a friend free of charge.

The employee told police that she would ring up discounts for the friend that would make the clothing free. She did so on three separate occasions through November and December.

She was arrested for theft by taking greater than $1,500.

Two cars burglarized at Caney Creek Preserve FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Two cars were burglarized Dec. 10 while parked at Caney Creek Preserve.

One woman said a purse that had been on the front seat of her Mercedes was stolen. She said she went running in the parking lot around 2:15 p.m.

When she returned, her driver side rear window was smashed out. Nothing else appeared stolen.

See BLOTTER, Page 33

The City of Alpharetta Requests Your Attendance at the

LAST PUBLIC WORKSHOP for the

WHEN Wednesday, January 17, 2018, 6:30 PM WHERE Council Chambers, City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta GA 30009 WHY To present draft concepts for input to update and clarify the community’s vision for the North Point Activity Center, identify strategy and policy enhancements to maintain and enhance the district & prioritize public investments particularly related to maintaining mobility and enhancing walkability in the area.

NORTH POINT LIVABLE CENTERS INITIATIVE UPDATE Additional materials can be found at www.alpharetta.ga.us/lci

Kimley-Horn & Associates and City Staff will be in Attendance

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 3

Milan Eye Center Opens Alpharetta Location Milan Eye Center, a premier ophthalmology practice with five locations in the North Atlanta suburbs, will open a new clinic and ambulatory surgery center in Alpharetta on January 8, 2018.

With six ophthalmologists and five optometrists on staff, Milan Eye Center offers a full scope of diagnostic testing and treatment. At their new, state-of-the-art facility, they will offer their full range of surgical services, including cataract surgery, LASIK, lens replacement surgery, corneal transplants, and oculoplastics. They will also provide their full range of comprehensive eye care services, including the management of glaucoma and diabetic eye.

Milan Eye Center 2555 Westside Pkwy.

Suite 300

Milan Eye Center’s Alpharetta Location Opening January 8, 2018 Just Minutes from Avalon

“Our goal in opening this new facility is to better serve our patients,” said Milan Eye Center Operations Manager, Janak Pandya. “By having clinics in a variety of locations, patients can choose to have their appointment in the location that is most convenient for them.”

Milan Eye Center’s other clinics are in Johns Creek, Cumming, Canton, Buford, and Marietta. Additionally, the practice is affiliated with Atlanta’s finest hospitals, including Emory Johns Creek Hospital and Northside Hospital. While the new facility will be similar to the practice’s other locations, the Alpharetta clinic and surgery center will house a few additional state-of-the art features.

“We think patients will be very pleased with the new facility,” said Dr. Milan Patel, the practice’s founder. “It was designed with the patient experience as a top priority.”

In addition to the top-notch facility, Milan Eye Center also prides itself on their new clinic’s prime location, just minutes from Avalon. This location makes it easy for patients to run errands before or after their appointments.

To learn more about Milan Eye Center, you can visit their website, milaneyecenter.com, or find them on Facebook. To schedule an appointment, please call 678-381-2020.

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4 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

Homeowners step up to the plate and pay taxes early Early payments allow Fulton Schools to make December payday

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - It will be a merrier Christmas for employees of the Fulton County School System who will get paid a week ahead of schedule, thanks to early tax payments by Fulton County homeowners.

Although property tax bills for Fulton County are not due until mid-January – three months later than usual – a higher than expected number of tax payments have already flowed in to the Tax Commissioner’s office well before the deadline.

“Tax receipts from the Fulton County Tax Commissioner’s Office... amounted to more than $84 million through December 15, giving the school district enough funds to issue employee paychecks on December 22, a week earlier than previously announced,” said a spokesperson for Fulton Schools.

Payroll for the school system, in-

cluding benefits, is approximately $70 million a month for the district’s 14,000 employees.

Fulton Schools expects the remaining receipts to continue to come in through the January 15 deadline, putting the system in good financial shape for the remaining months of the school year.

The delay in tax bills started with a decision by the Fulton County Commission in June to freeze 2017 home values at the 2016 level in response to homeowner complaints of inflated home values. But the Georgia Department of Revenue rejected the tax digest, citing a number of legal problems, primarily focused on commercial property owners not receiving the same benefit.

It took a court order to allow Fulton County to send out tax bills while the issue is sorted out; leading to the delay in payments.

The early surge in payments was attributed in part to Fulton County officials who embarked on a public service campaign aimed at property owners and mortgage companies to pay the tax bills before the due date. They stressed the early payments would allow governments to continue providing services as normal and pay employees.

We are enormously grateful to our school board for their years of fiscal responsibility, which gave us $295 million in healthy cash reserves that sustained us through the property tax crisis.”

DR. JEFF ROSE Fulton Superintendent

Fulton Schools tied their belts tight in October, halting new hires and most spending and placing a moratorium on out-of-system travel and student field trips. Healthy reserves held by the school system allowed it to avoid furloughing employees – which City of Atlanta Schools faced.

Even with the spending freeze, Fulton School officials were uncertain if the Dec. 22 payday could be met.

But the response to the early payment request, along with the fiscal health of the school system, pulled the system through.

“We are enormously grateful to our

school board for their years of fiscal responsibility, which gave us $295 million in healthy cash reserves that sustained us through the property tax crisis,” said Fulton Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose.

The county may have also benefited from the recently passed tax reform legislation which limits local property tax deductions to $10,000 annually.

For homeowners who wait until after the first of the year, they will likely pay two tax bills in 2018 — both the 2017 and the 2018 bills – potentially pushing them over the threshold of available deductions.

ACT1 Theater signs partnership with City of Alpharetta Volunteer troupe to expand presence with classes, shows

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — ACT1 Theater, an outreach of Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, has signed an agreement with the City of Alpharetta to provide performances and classes through the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

The year-to-year agreement allows the theater troupe access to some of the city’s extra storage space in exchange for its work with the city.

Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard said the partnership is in line with the city’s efforts to tap into the private sector to elevate the arts in the community, much in the same way the city partners with organizations to promote youth sports activities.

ACT1 Theater is an all-volunteer community theater that has operated in the city for more than 20 years.

Its production casts and crews are open to everyone who wants to volunteer.

The company has staged both small and large-scale productions, from plays to musi-

cals, including “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Alpharetta Parks and Recreation Director Morgan Rodgers said the partnership will benefit both sides.

“I sat down with them and said we want to do more activities outside, what do you want to do?” Rodgers said. “They said they need storage facilities.”

The agreement allows the theater company to use space at the Crabapple Government Center on Broadwell Road for storage.

“In exchange for that, they’re going to do some classes for us as well as doing some performances back here (in the green space behind City Hall) during the spring, summer and fall,” Rodgers said. “They get the things they need, and we get something for our citizens.”

The troupe will continue its current operation with the Presbyterian Church but will expand its reach in the city.

Rodgers said future plans may include the city using some of the company’s resources for classes in the black box theater for small-scale performances at the Alpharetta Arts Center which is set to open in the next year on Mayfield Road.

“I think it was a good agreement, and the Recreation Commission thought so, too,” Rodgers said.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ACT1THEATER

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 5

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6 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

YEAR IN REVIEW

Story of the year: Tax revolt throws governments for a loop

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com.

NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Thousands of Fulton County residents turned out for public meetings in May to wage war against revised property assessments that increased home values by as much as 50 percent for a quarter of the homeowners.

In a series of public forums, which included county, city and state leaders, residents complained not only of spikes in their property values but inaccu-

rate descriptions of the homes they owned.

In response to the public outcry, Fulton County Commissioners voted June 21 to rescind the 2017 property tax appraisals established by the Board of Appraisers and place home values back to their 2016 levels.

“Today’s vote was not just a monetary or fiscal matter, it was a moral issue,” Fulton County Commission Chairman John Eaves said. “What we did today was vote to keep seniors from losing their homes; people from having to choose between paying for medicine or tax bills.”

The squabble over assessments delayed the county from establishing a final property digest until late summer. That left cities and the Fulton County School District unable to calculate property taxes on homes until fall. As a result, property tax bills were delayed, leaving some local governments with cash flow problems.

Some cities, like Roswell and Alpharetta that had approved their 2018 budgets before July, had to recalculate their anticipated revenues from property taxes and adjust their spending plans accordingly.

Karen Handel wins historic 6th District race NORTH FULTON, Ga. — On June 20, Republican Karen Handel secured her place as the next U.S. representative of the 6th District after an intense battle with Democrat Jon Ossoff. The race became widely known as the most expensive Congressional campaign in U.S. history.

Ossoff, a 30-year-old Decatur Democrat in his first political race, drew national attention in his bid to turn the 6th District, a perennially Republican district the last 37 years. He received unprecedented funding from the Democratic Congressional Leadership Fund and other sources, amassing a staggering $8.3 million before the runoff.

Over $50 million total was spent between both candidates before the runoff ended.

Handel eked out her win over Ossoff with 135,000 votes, or 51.9 percent of the nearly 260,000 votes cast.

In total, 58 percent of registered voters in the district participated in the election.

Handel said she is proud to be the first Republican woman elected to this seat by Georgians.

Ossoff released a statement on the results saying “for months, this community in Georgia has been a beacon of hope for people across the country.”

He said it’s “extraordinary” what the community achieved, by mounting an “unprecedented grassroots effort powered by more than 12,000 volunteers.”

ALPHARETTA:

Major, mixed-use project approved on South Main After a marathon session attended by close to 100 residents on Jan. 23, the Alpharetta City Council gave approval to a 13-acre mixed-use development on South Main. The project called for retail, office, for-sale residential and some 129 apartments. But, later in the year, at the developers’ request, the site plan was altered and the request

SPECIAL

Jackson Healthcare announced Jan. 27 a 306,000 square foot expansion project of its corporate headquarters on Northwinds Parkway. for apartments was withdrawn. The multi-million-dollar project represents an expansion of the massive redevelopment taking place farther north in downtown Alpharetta. Proponents of the development say it will revitalize an area that has been long ignored.

Jackson Healthcare announces expansion Jackson Healthcare, one of the nation’s largest healthcare staffing firms, announced Jan. 27 a 306,000 square foot expansion project of its corporate headquarters on Northwinds Parkway.

The $100 million project is expected to bring an additional 1,400 jobs to the campus.

The project will include an eightstory, 267,000 square foot office building and a 39,000 square foot amenities building that will house a state-of-theart gym, an indoor pool, and a full-service restaurant for associates. It will have room for future childcare accommodations among other amenities.

Officials pass funding for two parking decks

Alpha Loop design approved for funding

After nearly six months of deliberation and a vocal campaign by residents, the City Council voted Feb. 20 to commit $8 million to construct two parking decks west of Main Street in downtown Alpharetta.

The plan called for a two-level deck on a site between Roswell Street and Old Roswell Street behind Smokejack and a three-level deck on Milton Avenue just east of Rest Haven Cemetery.

All told, the projects would add 355 parking spaces to downtown.

Ultimately, however, the plan was altered in July after city officials learned that costs for both decks would far exceed the initial $8 million estimate.

The City Council then approved $6.9 million to fund construction of a Milton Avenue deck with 263 spaces.

The second deck will be considered later when funding becomes available.

On July 17, the city approved $602,000 for design work on the Alpha Loop, a twin necklace of linear parks surrounding Alpharetta’s Downtown District. The inner path will run from City Center south to Northwinds, then north and east to Avalon. The paths are proposed to link up to the popular Big Creek Greenway running north and south near Ga. 400. Preliminary estimates put the cost of the inner loop at close to $8 million with much of the actual cost coming in the form of private land donations from developments along the route.

Officials focus attention on future parking needs Alpharetta’s future downtown parking needs took center stage Sept.

18 when city leaders began a detailed study of the issue and how to meet an anticipated crunch.

YEAR IN REVIEW

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 7

SPECIAL

The Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historic and Cultural Affairs Department wins the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.

With about a year to go before completion of its massive City Center mixed-use development, the city is weighing recommendations from its consultant, Joel Mann, senior associate at Nelson/Nygaard Consulting.

Through a series of updates that stretched into December, city officials heard a list of options, including paid street parking and time limits. Mann also proposed private businesses explore contractual parking arrangements with nearby churches and large businesses which have lots that are currently underused during business hours.

Of particular concern to some City Council members is the opening of a science and technology school across from the recently approved city parking deck on Milton Avenue. Officials fear students at the school will opt for free parking at the deck rather than pay for parking at the school.

ROSWELL:

Roswell says ‘no’ again to proposed cell tower The Roswell City Council on July 20 once again shot down a controversial cell tower application by T-Mobile that has been dogging the city for seven years.

In 2010, the city denied T-Mobile’s application for building a 108-foot tower in the same spot after public outcry. The company then took the battle to court, arguing the city was in violation of the Telecommunication Act

of 1996. Eventually, the issue made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which remanded the case down to the lower courts.

Roswell and T-Mobile were asked by the courts to determine if there was still a significant gap in coverage that new technology could not bridge and if the proposed cell tower was the least intrusive method of solving that problem.

The council unanimously decided that although the cell tower could improve coverage, there currently wasn’t a significant gap in service.

Court rules for removal of longtime mayor On Aug. 3, a Fulton County Superior Court judge ordered Roswell Mayor Jere Wood to be removed as the city’s mayor, a role he has held since 1997.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Craig L. Schwall found that Wood, who had been serving his fifth term as mayor, was in violation of the City Charter’s term limits and called for his immediate removal. The ruling came down in favor of Roswell resident Michael Litten, the plaintiff, who ran as a candidate for the mayor’s seat in the fall.

Since 2010, the City Charter limits

the office of the mayor to no more than three consecutive terms for a total of 12 years. The new limit was added in a resolution passed during Wood’s fourth term.

Wood testified that the change did not apply retroactively and that he would be able to serve an additional three terms after his fourth ended in 2012.

The judge, however, said that Wood was “ineligible” for his fifth term in 2013 as outlined by the charter. Wood remained the mayor through December while he appealed the decision.

Roswell Parks earn national Gold Award After seven years in the running, Roswell’s Recreation and Parks Department has finally taken home the gold in a national competition, recognizing the city’s park system as one of the top seven in the country. Roswell is the first municipality in Georgia to receive this distinction.

“Winning this award is like our city winning the Super Bowl, World Series or an Oscar,” said Jeff Pruitt, interim director for Roswell Recreation and Parks.

On Sept. 26, Roswell was awarded the National Gold Medal Award for

Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. The honor is distributed yearly by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association.

Roswell’s department currently boasts more than 965 acres of parkland and 22 parks with 31 miles of bike and pedestrian trails.

Elections upturn council, usher in new era, mayor After almost 20 years, Roswell citizens chose a new mayor in the historic Dec. 5 election. Lori Henry defeated opponent Lee Jenkins in the runoffs with 55 percent of the vote. She replaced Jere Wood, who has been Roswell’s mayor since 1998 when he defeated incumbent W. L. “Pug” Mabry, and she will be the city’s first female mayor.

This has been an intense political season for Roswell residents. All but two council seats were up for election this fall, drawing a large slate of almost 20 candidates.

Matt Judy also won the Dec. 5 runoffs for Post 6 on the City Council.

Sean Groer likewise emerged victorious from the Post 3 Special Election, the most contested race this season with six initial candidates.

Early in November, voters decided on two new councilmembers – Marie Willsey for Post 4 and Matthew Tyser for Post 5.

They will join current sitting council members Michael Palermo and Marcelo Zapata.

8 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

YEAR IN REVIEW

Sports story of the year: BT football wins first state championship Blessed Trinity earned its second state championship appearance in three years and downed Marist to capture the 4A state championship Dec. 16.

BT compiled an incredible playoff run, beating four teams ranked in the top-five, including two-time defending state champions Cartersville, 2016 state runner up Thomson, Region 2-AAAA champions Mary Persons and previously undefeated Marist. Those four wins all came with BT on the road. The Titans’ defense allowed just nine-points per game in the playoffs.

The championship game, which was originally scheduled for Dec. 9 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, was postponed due to icy road conditions and played at Marist the following week.

BT’s state championship appearance was the fifth by a team from Roswell in three years (BT in 2015 and 2017, Roswell in 2015 and 2016 and Fellowship Christian in 2016).

Kemper named Roswell head football coach Following two straight state runner-up finishes, John Ford resigned from Roswell to take over as head coach of Buford. Brought in to replace Ford was Matt Kemper who had led Johns Creek for the previous two seasons.

Kemper, who had previously stated his M.O. is taking struggle teams and rebuilding a program, was put in the opposite situation at Roswell. The Hornets had gone 28-2 in 2015-16.

With an almost entirely new coaching staff and just two players with starting experience, the Hornets struggled to a 3-7 regular season record.

The Hornets did secure a playoff berth but were ousted in the first round by Hillgrove.

Alpharetta grad goes pro Alpharetta graduate Joshua Dobbs was selected 135th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2017 draft following a successful collegiate stint with the University of Tennessee.

With Dobbs, Alpharetta went 16-7 in 2012 and 2013 before he committed to Tennessee.

In his 2016 senior season at UT, Dobbs reached fifth alltime at Tennessee for passing yards and passing touchdowns. He is 12th all-time in the SEC for total touchdowns and was the conference’s leading passer in 2016.

With the Steelers, Dobbs made four appearances in the preseason, throwing 38-64

JOE PARKER/HERALD

Blessed Trinity’s incredible playoff run ended December 15 with the Titans’ exciting victory over region foe Marist. The win avenged an earlier loss this season and gave the program its first 4A state championship.

for 406 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions. He has yet to make an appearance in a regular season game.

BT girls lacrosse wins 2nd straight state title Blessed Trinity girls lacrosse won its second straight A-5A state title in May, defeating Kell 11-9. The meeting was the second straight between the two programs for the state title.

BT led the majority of the game and staved off a late Kell comeback to win the title and close out the season with a 19-3 record.

The game was originally scheduled to be played at Lakewood Stadium in Atlanta, but after issues with the nets, field and game balls were discovered, the match was moved to a neutral site, Walton High.

SPECIAL

Chattahoochee captured the Class AAAAAA soccer state championship May 13 with a 2-0 win over Gainesville. running for its fourth straight championship, but the Titans fell to region rivals Marist in three sets. Marist had defeated BT for the area championship earlier in the season.

The Titans went 59-6 overall during their 2017 campaign.

Alpharetta, BT fall short in Raiders, Knights football volleyball championships have memorable seasons Alpharetta and Blessed Trinity continued their streaks of state championship berths, but both fell in their respective state title matches in October.

Alpharetta and Harrison battled for the 6A championship for the second straight year. The Raiders led in all three sets, but Harrison came back in each to sweep the match, 3-0.

Alpharetta compiled a 36-8 overall record in 2017.

Blessed Trinity was in the

The Raiders and Knights each had noteworthy 2017 football campaigns, with Alpharetta earning its deepest run in the playoffs in program history and Centennial winning a playoff game for the first time in 15 years under its firstyear head coach.

The Raiders ran the table in Region 7-AAAAAA, capturing their first region title since 2014 and went 9-1 in the regular season. Alpharetta then did what no other team had done in their 14-year history and reached the state quarterfinals with a 24-21 win over Douglas County in the second round.

The Raiders finished the season with an 11-2 overall record, their winningest in program history.

Under first-year head coach Michael

Perry, the Knights also had a notable year.

After losing their first three games, Centennial won seven straight to finish second in the region behind Alpharetta and earn their second straight playoff berth.

On Nov. 10, the Knights won their first playoff game since 2002 with a 4814 thrashing of Lanier. The Knights fell in the second round to Mays, finishing the season with a 7-4 overall record.

Chattahoochee soccer captures state title Hooch boys soccer earned their second state championship trophy in May, the culmination of a dominant season from the Cougars.

Chattahoochee compiled a 21-2-1 record, went undefeated to capture the Region 7-AAAAAA championship and outscored opponents 24-2 in the playoffs.

The Cougars defeated Gainesville 2-0 in the state title game behind strong offensive pressure and another stout performance from the “brick wall” of Hooch’s defense.

YEAR IN REVIEW

Roswell’s future looks bright Recently, a Roswell High School Senior asked me when Roswell “peaked.” I took his question to be whether Roswell is a better place to live today than in the past.

I quickly assured JERE WOOD him that Roswell’s Roswell mayor best days are yet to come, but his question deserves a more detailed response.

I have lived in Roswell all my life.

I have watched Roswell grow from a small town of 2,500 citizens to a city of 95,000. I have seen farms subdivided into neighborhoods, and dirt roads widened to six-lane highways.

I have watched abandoned fields grow up into pine woods and then cleared for shopping centers. I have hunted quail where there are now subdivisions, and have seen deer in the city where there were none to be found when I was a boy. I have seen apartments built for yuppies become homes for immigrants. I have seen shopping centers developed, grow old and empty, and then redeveloped.

Roswell has lost farms, fields and woods but we have also helped set aside hundreds of acres of land for park land and established stream buffers to preserve our creeks and river.

We have preserved our history by acquiring four of our founder’s houses and the old mill property, by establishing a city archive, and by carefully regulating new development in our historic district.

We have brought arts and cultural programs to a town which offered little outside church and school programs during my childhood.

We lost the Roswell Cotton Mill and its jobs, but we have attracted hundreds of new businesses and thousands of better paying jobs. Today, Roswell’s citizens are wealthier, better educated and more diverse than ever before.

Not everything is better. When I was a boy the only traffic delay was when the Hornets played Alpharetta and the fans left afterwards. Traffic comes with success. With money from the state T-SPLOST tax, Roswell is investing millions in transportation improvements to alleviate our traffic problems.

Measured by growth, finances, infrastructure investments, demographics

I have lived in Roswell all my life.

I have watched Roswell grow from a small town of 2,500 citizens to a city of 95,000. I have seen farms subdivided into neighborhoods, and dirt roads widened to six-lane highways. or awards, Roswell is a huge success.

During my 20 years in office, the city has grown from 55,000 to 95,000 people, we have lowered property tax rates, balanced the budget, maintained a AAA bond rating, built two new fire stations and a new water treatment plant, opened new streets and roundabouts, and purchased over 700 acres of park land having a value of over 100 million dollars.

We have been recognized as being the best city to live, work and play in Georgia and having the best parks department in the nation.

The best measure on whether a city is successful is whether it can attract and retain good citizens.

I was blessed to grow up in a small town, but if Roswell had not grown, I could not have come back from Athens to practice law in my home town. Roswell is continuing to attract entrepreneurs who grew up in Roswell and returned to open businesses and raise families, like the Pernice brothers, (Table & Main and Osteria Matone), Matt Curling (Variant Brewing) and Matt Judy (just elected to the Roswell City Council).

Roswell has the Chattahoochee River, a rich history, a world class parks system, a growing arts community, and diverse and engaged citizens.

As long as we recognize that the world is changing and we adapt to those changes, Roswell will not peak, but will become an even better place to live.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 9

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YEAR IN REVIEW

10 | December 28, 2017 | Forsyth Herald | ForsythHerald.com

NorthFulton.com/BlackBox | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 10

BLACK BOX YEAR IN REVIEW:

Black Box makes mark in probing local issues We launched the investigative journalism arm of our company, Black Box, at the start of this year.

Investigative journalism does not play a traditional role in small comHANS APPEN munity newspaper General Manager hans@appenmediagroup.com newsrooms. This type of work is usually reserved for large daily newspapers and cable broadcasts.

However, many such organizations miss out on a lot of the stories that, while important to a local community, just don’t affect the larger target audience they serve.

Our goal is to fill that void, and dive deeper into the stories we have been telling for decades. We want to uncover the truth and give our readers the story behind the story.

We divide our work into projects because some cannot be told in one article, and many require enormous amounts of research and time to get all the facts needed to paint the whole picture for our readers.

Below is a short summary of some of our 2017 projects.

Journalism Under Attack: Georgia This has been by far our most extensive project with over 20,000 words written over 11 different parts.

Unfortunately, we have seen an onslaught of troubling attacks on the media this year. A component of this project is to remind people why journalism, and the First Amendment, is so critical to our democracy.

In 2017, we told the stories of the Pentagon Papers and Watergate, and how they have changed the news industry forever.

We told the life stories of citizen journalists and the ever-changing way in which people consume the news.

We explained what rights the public has to government information and how to obtain it.

We told the stories of two separate arrests in Georgia and the resulting consequences.

We detailed the ways in which our local governments are and are not transparent to their constituents, and much more.

ment, LexisNexis admitted no liability and denied all claims.

We covered this and continue to monitor all cases of businesses practicing unfair and illegal discrimination among their work forces.

Citizen journalist Nydia Tisdale was featured twice in the Black Box series ‘Journalism Under Attack’. She strives to increase government transparency by attending as many meetings as she can and recording them. This month she was acquitted of a felony obstruction of justice charge.

I want to thank the many journalists who helped with this project, including Jim Zachary, Nydia Tisdale, Vince Johnson, Jessica Szilagyi, Abdulhamit Bilici, Jim Walls, Brian Pritchard, Bill Simon, Georgia Press general counsel David Hudson, and our staff reporters Hatcher Hurd, Pat Fox, Joe Parker, Kathleen Sturgeon and Julia Grochowski Quite simply, without our coverage, some of the below projects would not have been covered – by anyone – which means our readers would still be in the dark.

Invisible in the ‘burbs Kathleen Sturgeon spearheaded this project, and I think it is really important work.

There is a large and unfortunately growing homeless population in our community that largely goes under the radar. Our goal is to tell their stories and give our readers not only a better understanding of why an area as affluent as ours is not immune to homelessness, but give them the tools to do what they can to help.

Organizations like The Drake House and North Fulton Community Charities have been champions of this cause and have also been instrumental in helping us with this project.

Fulton County School District lost out on potential $1.5M tax windfall After a disagreement over taxes owed between the city of Alpharetta and North American Properties, then owners of the mega-development Avalon,

the City of Alpharetta was able to keep an additional $370,000 in tax revenue it would not have received had they chosen not to fight for it.

Our reporting discovered that the Fulton County School System and Fulton County made little to no effort to collect its owed taxes, even after nudges from Alpharetta to join them in the fight. As such, they missed out on about $1.5 million in additional tax dollars.

Surprisingly, despite a dramatic increase in readership, we were underwhelmed with a lack of response from the community to our reporting. In hindsight, I suspect it is in part because, while we stated clearly the facts of the case, we didn’t provide our readers with actionable steps to encourage their elected officials to take action.

I read an interesting piece recently about how journalism can no longer just point out the problem, but are now expected to offer solutions as well.

Fair, reasonable, or otherwise – that is a commitment I plan to make to our readers as we enter 2018.

LexisNexis to pay $1.2M after pay discrimination investigation LexisNexis is large Alpharetta based company with millions of dollars in contracts with government agencies like the Department of Homeland Security, Justice, Transportation and Labor.

It had been accused of systematic pay discrimination against women, which it settled to the tune of $1.2 million distributed among 211 employees.

As part of the conciliation agree-

Group questions motives behind Milton redistricting Some stories are impactful not because of the initial facts, but because of processes or public reaction.

This story centered around Milton Councilwoman Karen Thurman, and an allegation that she had her district redrawn to encompass a piece of property her family had purchased, and did so without properly giving the public notice.

Public reaction to this story was loud and divided among those who felt the act was done intentionally to avoid public discussion, and those who did not.

A key principle of our team’s mission is to bring to light stories that are in the dark, and our team decided it was important to give the public the information and let them decide its relevancy.

After our story broke, Councilwoman Thurman declined to run for re-election at the end of her term.

What’s next for Black Box? We plan to take a big step forward in the quality and frequency of our projects next year. Like many other news organizations that saw readership soar in 2017, our readership both online and in print is up nearly 30 percent.

As such, we will be budgeting for additional resources to meet demand and have applied for various grants available for projects like this across the country. We have also participated in additional training from organizations like the George Press Association and the Georgia First Amendment Foundation.

Starting in 2018 Black Box will be available as a podcast, which will help us tell some of these stories through an even more in depth and personal outlet.

We will also be creating more video content to supplement our articles, and are in discussions to create a documentary on one or more of our projects.

It has been a fantastic first year for Black Box and we are looking forward to year two. Thank you for the support and keep sending us tips!

Happy Holidays from our family to yours NORTH FULTON OFFICE Join our Team for Superior Training, Support & Professionalism For a confidential interview, contact Kathy Vaughn, SVP & Managing Broker, 678-461-8700 7855 North Point Parkway, Ste. 100 • Alpharetta, GA 30022 • 678-461-8700 • HarryNorman.com/northfulton

COMMUNITY

12 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

SPECIAL

Cambridge captured the Fulton County Championship from a field of 12 schools on Dec. 15 at Milton High.

Cambridge wrestling wins Fulton County Championship

MILTON, Ga. — Cambridge prevailed in the Fulton County wrestling championships Dec. 15 at Milton High School from a field of 12 schools. The Bears won the title over Milton by 6.5 points.

Sean Murray Melbourne (120 lbs.), Gavin Kane (160 lbs.) and Nick Meyer (220 lbs.) all captured wins in their weight divisions. Cambridge also received podium finishes from Jett Johnson, Kyle Romano, Bryson Ferguson, Geoffrey Johnston and Julian Petty.

Milton’s second-place finish was led by wins from Ben Williams (126 lbs.) and Khaled Rmeih (132 lbs.).

Rmeih and Cambridge’s Gavin Kane

were named most outstanding wrestlers for the tournament.

Roswell placed third in the tournament just two points behind Milton.

Joe Sci (106 lbs.), Dawson Winters (113 lbs.), Steve Copeland (145 lbs.) and Cole Anderson (182 lbs.) all won their respective weight divisions.

Chattahoochee placed fourth, led by wins from Marcus Stephen (170 lbs.) and Noah Latzch (285 lbs.).

Four fourth-place finishes from Centennial put the Knights in ninth in the competition.

—Joe Parker

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CUMMING, Ga. — The long awaited widening of Ga. 400 southbound opened Dec. 22 just in time for holiday traveling.

The newly widened portion is open between Ga. 141 and McFarland Parkway.

The four miles of widening began in May 2017. Construction will continue widening Ga. 400 from Ga. 369/ Browns Bridge Road to Ga. 141/ Peachtree Parkway, weather permitting that section will open to traffic in late spring 2018.

The widening and reconstruction of Ga. 400 was awarded to C.W. Matthews Contracting Co., Inc. in April 2015. The project completion is scheduled for fall

of 2018 and is currently on schedule.

The project adds an additional lane in each direction on Ga. 400 from McFarland Road to Ga. 369. Bridges over Big Creek and the Sawnee Creek portion of Lake Lanier will be widened.

The project is being made possible through a partnership between Forsyth County and the Georgia Department of Transportation. GDOT has contributed $13 million to this work and is managing the project.

The remainder of the project funding – approximately $34.5 million – comes from the Forsyth County Transportation Bond approved by 63 percent of Forsyth County voters in November 2014.

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 13

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14 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Naomi Ziva, right, and her friend Jennifer dress up to spread holiday cheer and give gifts to cancer patients.

Winship Cancer Institute patient gives gifts, spreads holiday cheer ATLANTA – A patient at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University at Emory Johns Creek Hospital is using her creativity to cheer up other patients and take their minds off chemotherapy.

Naomi Ziva, 44, has stage IV metastatic colorectal cancer. She recently dressed up as the Grinch and her friend, Jennifer, as Cindy Lou-who from Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” They passed out gifts to patients and staff before Ziva’s chemotherapy treatment.

“As bad as many of us feel during chemo sessions, when I dress up in costume, I feel it’s like taking a break from having cancer,” Ziva said. “If I can bring a smile to someone’s face by doing this, it makes all the difference.”

Ziva was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in June 2016. After two chemotherapy infusion treatments, she and her friend decided to dress up as superheroes. Since then, Ziva has shown up for almost every chemotherapy treatment as a different character and passed out flowers. She has dressed up as the lamp shade from “A Christmas Story,” Slash from Guns N’ Roses, a WWE wrestler, Wonder Woman, and Madonna.

“Patients really look forward to seeing Naomi and what she’s going to come up with next,” said Ashley Kennedy, Winship at EJCH nurse manager.

Ziva said she hopes other patients who are fighting similar battles will ask for help if they need it and try to remain positive on their uphill journey.

“There are days when I say, ‘I can’t do this’ but, you must do your best to find your smile,” Ziva said. “There’s a million things about cancer that will push you to be defeated, but it’s up to you to be happy.”

For information about cancer treatment at Winship, call 888-946-7447 or visit winshipcancer.emory.edu.

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 15

Community celebrates life of local theater legend Georgia Ensemble Theatre co-founder Bob Farley passes

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Few people can say that they inspired and touched as many people as Robert “Bob” J. Farley, co-founder of the Georgia Ensemble Theatre. And on Dec. 18, hundreds packed the Roswell Cultural Arts Center to celebrate Farley’s life and to remember just how influential he continues to be.

Farley, 69, unexpectedly passed away Nov. 30, less than a month after he and his wife Anita had accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2017 Suzie Bass Awards.

“We all love you – miss you forever, love you forever,” said Paul Brown, who knew the Farley for over 40 years. “The sadness we feel is overpowered by the gratitude that we all feel for having met this extraordinary man.”

Farley had a lifelong career in a theater, starting with the Pasadena

Playhouse before moving on to the Alliance Theatre and Alaska Repertory Theatre. Once he settled in the Atlanta area, Farley helped co-found the Georgia Ensemble Theatre in 1992 and led it for 25 years.

“Bob was a passionate leader, a committed artist, a person of many talents and interests, and most importantly, a much-beloved husband, father, and grandfather,” the Georgia Ensemble Theatre said in a statement.

“His leadership and influence were truly something special.”

Close friends and family of Farley spoke at the celebration, sharing stories of how they met him and sharing memories of working and living with him. A medley of some of the theater’s greatest hits and some of Farley’s songs were performed live between speakers. The entire celebration of Farley’s life was livestreamed on the Georgia Ensemble Theatre’s Facebook page, facebook. com/GeorgiaEnsembleTheatre/.

“When a bit worked, when we pulled it off, and made a show work, no one was happier for you than Bob,” Maclare “MC” Park said. “And it wasn’t that you made his show work, it was that you improved your skills, that you were

SPECIAL

Robert “Bob” J. Farley, who recently passed away, was widely known in the surrounding Atlanta and theater communities for his passion and influence in the arts.

better.”

For many of the speakers, Farley’s memory was closely tied with the Georgia Ensemble Theatre and introducing

people to the world of theater.

“Bob Farley changed lives,” Bob Hagan said. “Bob Farley made a difference in many people’s lives. Bob Farley not only made a difference in the community here in Roswell, he made a difference in the whole theater community. The Roswell community has been so fortunate to have the influence of Bob Farley in creating such a fabulous venue for the performing arts… Your legacy will continue.”

“For a nonprofit theater to last for as long as it has in this environment, this world, after 25 years, I would say it’s a miracle, but it’s not,” said Rob Cleveland, who did fundraisers and standup for Farley. “It’s because of Bob, and Anita, and the people. The ensemble…Which means all of us.”

In lieu of flowers, the Georgia Ensemble Theatre is asking for donations to the Robert J. Farley Memorial Fund at get.org.

“It’s the end of an era, and I know for a lot of us, it’s the end of a chapter in the book of all our lives,” said James Donadio. “But I can just feel Farley standing next to me, leaning over and whispering in my ear, ‘Jimmy, just turn the page. Let’s see what’s next.’

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16 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Northern Ridge District announces new Eagle Scouts NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District, which includes the cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton, recently announced its newest Eagle Scouts. These Scouts all passed their Board of Review on Oct. 26 at the Alpharetta Presbyterian Church: Omar Kayyali of Troop 431, sponsored by Roswell United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of a 220 foot mulched pathway for students to use for fire drills/escape route at Fulton Science Academy.

Avery Hellen of Troop 841, sponsored by St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, designed and constructed an outdoor learning center, which consisted of 10 benches and a podium for the Archibald Smith Plantation Home.

Praneet Ramakrishnan, of Troop 841, was sponsored

by St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. His project was the design and construction of a performance of six picnic tables and landscaping for the outdoor area located at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.

Andrew Ford of Troop 429, sponsored by Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and construction of a four wooden gabled dog houses for Fair Oaks Mobile Park.

Derek Rehberger of Troop 87, sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and creation of a new Rabbit Hutch for Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Ojas Nadkarni of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and construction of a wooden fence on a trail

EAGLE SCOUTS/SPECIAL

In the top row, from left, stand new Eagle Scouts Omar Kayyali, Avery Hellen, Praneet Ramakrishnan and Andrew Ford. In the bottom row, from left, are Derek Rehberger, Ojas Nadkarni, Nathan Hillman and Michael Schneiderman. at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Nathan Hillman, of Troop 2143, was sponsored by Johns Creek United Methodist Church. His project was the planting of 50 junipers for erosion control and the construction of two benches for Bald Ridge Lodge, an organization that helps boys ages 12-21 with fractured families.

Michael Schneiderman, of Troop 1818, was sponsored by the North Metro office of the Marcus Jewish Community Center. His project was the design and construction a walking path to a seating area for the natural woods located at Newton Park Dog Park. This project included the creation of a seating area complete with three wooden benches.

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 17

Former Norman’s Landing site to become business district

By KATHLEEN STURGEON kathleen@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Since the community-favorite restaurant Norman’s Landing closed its doors in June, speculation has swirled around what will become of the empty log cabin and land.

Now, it seems there may be a plan for the land off Peachtree Parkway. The Forsyth County Commission approved a rezoning Dec. 21 for the 2.2 acres to become a commercial business district.

Preliminary plans include a commercial center with restaurants with drive-thru facilities and retail trade establishments.

Initially, an automobile service center was proposed, but the Planning Commission recommended that it be excluded.

In total, the development will be nearly 11,000 square feet with 82 parking spaces.

Four pedestrian street lights are recommended to be installed adjacent to the property along Ga. 141.

The applicant, Buckhead Crossing, LLC, requested the side yard landscape strip be reduced from 10 feet to 0 feet along the southern boundary.

Planning Department Director Tom Brown said this will be due to the addition of property lines in between the different developments.

In March, Bill Norman said he has “signed papers” for the property and it’s a great deal, but he wouldn’t say to whom, for what and how much. He cited debt and maintenance issues as to why the business closed.

“It would take $400,000 to get this restaurant back in the right direction,” Norman said in March. “I’m talking about new floors and tile. I can’t take another payment book. I owe friends, family, banks and everybody. I have to get them off me so I can sleep at night.”

He hasn’t completely written off the idea of getting back into the food industry and has toyed with opening another restaurant, but he is taking a break first.

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The former site of Norman’s Landing restaurant has sat vacant since June. Future plans call for a shopping center on the site.

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18 | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017

Business story of the year: City Center Phase 2 begins construction ALPHARETTA, Ga. – Work began in late March on the second phase of Alpharetta’s $85 million City Center project, a mixed-use complex that will include close to a dozen new restaurants, between 20-30 boutique shops and close to 200 apartment residences and homes and an office building.

At the March 23 groundbreaking ceremony, Ed Brown, president of DataScan, a technology finance service company, announced his firm will be the sole tenant at the new four-story office building on the property.

The company has 150 local employees and will move its offices from Forsyth County to occupy the new building.

– Patrick Fox

PATRICK FOX/HERALD

The Alpharetta City Center will include close to a dozen restaurants, between 20-30 boutique shops and close to 200 apartment residences and homes and an office building.

Future development plan approved for Crabapple

Fuqua mixed-use project approved by Roswell

Details emerge on makeup of Halcyon development

MILTON, Ga. – In May, Milton approved a guiding document for the future of one of its most valuable assets, the Downtown Crabapple area, with the approval of its Placemaking Plan.

The plan outlines potential uses for residential, mixed-use, commercial and park spaces in the area. It also outlines potential traffic mitigation initiatives, such as a roundabout at Birmingham Highway and Crabapple Road and the Charlotte Drive extension.

Parking issues were also addressed in the blueprint, with planners TSW outlining three possible solutions.

The plan was drawn up to focus on connectivity and walkability, as well as providing greenspace.

Mayor Joe Lockwood said the Placemaking Plan is not a finalized plan for the future of the Downtown Crabapple.

However, it will be used as a guide for future development of the area.

– Joe Parker

ROSWELL, Ga. – The Roswell City Council voted May 8 to allow Fuqua Development conditional use for apartments as part of its plans to redevelop Roswell Exchange Shopping Center.

The proposed mixed-use project will sit on 18 acres at Alpharetta Highway and Sun Valley Drive and will redevelop what Jeff Fuqua calls the “old and stressed” Roswell Exchange Shopping Center, just north of Andretti Indoor Karting & Games. Plans call for a 115,000-square-foot, mixed-use development with new grocery stores, retail and 300 apartments. The area is the “heaviest commercial corridor” in Roswell, according to Bradford Townsend, director of planning and zoning.

The designs shown at the council meeting for the development are still conceptual, and Fuqua said that the recently granted conditional use was a determining factor in the plans.

– Julia Grochowski

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – Forsyth County’s very own mixed-use development, Halcyon, is well on its way to opening in 2018.

At 70 percent leased, the $370 million project off Exit 12 on Ga. 400 has already announced big name businesses set to open shops. They include Cherry Street Brewing which will open a second location.

In May, details emerged about Elan Halcyon, a 300-unit luxury apartment community adjacent to the restaurant village. The development will also include 11,000 square feet of groundfloor retail. Amenities include a stateof-the-art fitness studio, resort-style pool, aqua lounge and internet cafe.

Halcyon Active Adult is a 55+ active adult rental community and will include 160 residences. The community will feature 12,000 square feet of resort-inspired amenities.

In total, Halcyon will include more

than 500,000 square feet of office and retail space, a high-end movie theater, two hotels and 690 residential units.

– Kathleen Sturgeon

Alcon announces plans for $97 million expansion JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Gov. Nathan Deal was on hand to cut the ribbon Nov. 9 for a $97 million expansion of Alcon, Johns Creek’s leading eye care manufacturing company and a division of Novartis.

This is the third phase of a multiyear project to expand Alcon’s production capacity.

This expansion will increase the production capacity for the ultra-thin daily contacts line and is in response to the growing global demand for the lenses.

The company has created 550 jobs in the city since 2013. With the expansion of the facility, Alcon will phase in between 50 and 100 new high-tech manufacturing jobs.

– Patrick Fox

This is your invitation to the biggest celebration of the year!

THE GREATER NORTH FULTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BUSINESSPOSTS

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 19

Year of low inventory housing market It’s hard to believe, but after four years of complaining about the low inventory of houses on the market, I am going to declare this year as the year of low inventory.

It was about GEOFF SMITH three or four years Assurance Financial, gsmith@lendtheway.com ago when I heard Frank Norton, CEO and chairman of the Norton Agency, give a speech titled “What will You Do When Inventory Hits 0?”

The gist of the speech was that inventory of houses was going to keep dropping, not improving. And that if you are in the industry, you’d better prepare for a low-inventory market.

Well, here we are today and inventory levels are still headed toward 0.

Housing inventory is measured by the months it would take for all of the housing currently on the market to get bought up. Economists have declared a healthy number as six months. Any less than that and competition for housing increases which drives up home values too fast. Any more than that and there isn’t enough competition to justify current values, so values start to drop.

Inventory levels for some markets in Atlanta are near two months. That is an all-time low.

The issue right now is that we’ve had more than 90,000 people a year move to Atlanta over the last four years and have averaged around 20,000 new building

permits a year. Homebuilders are having trouble finding land and labor.

Unemployment is low for almost all sectors of the market, especially in the construction industry. That industry lost a lot of labor after the downturn with workers who either moved back to their home countries or changed industries. So builders need more labor to build more houses, but almost everyone that wants to is already working. So they have to depend on workers moving over from other industries to increase their capacity to build more, faster.

It’s also hard for builders to find that large expanse of land where they can build a 500+-home community anywhere close to Atlanta. The land that they are finding is much more expensive than what it was before the downturn. To make a profit, builders are having to build nicer homes or go to the cities and counties and request higher densities. Because of that, many of the newer communities are more expensive with homes starting at $400,000 and going up.

Most of the metro Atlanta area’s houses are priced below $400,000 so you can see why inventory in that market is at historic lows. But if you go over that price-point in most markets, the inventories are actually getting too high. Where buyers are fighting with each other for houses under $400,000 in most markets, they have the pick of the litter in housing priced higher than $500,000 in most markets.

It’s hard to tell what will happen next year. Everyone tries to be optimistic this

time of year. I heard a theory that when salaries increase by 4 percent or more, people start buying houses. And, if that happened in Atlanta, people would start a buying spree because those in under-$400,000 homes would start moving up into $500,000+ homes. I like to think that makes sense. But we’ve been waiting for salaries to jump for a while now.

It’s one of the Federal Reserve’s biggest concerns.

While our economy has been pumping in all sectors, we have not seen a great deal of wage and price growth.

Everyone is guessing as to why, but the most consistent reason I’ve heard is that corporations have to keep prices and wages down to compete with their global competitors. You can’t charge more for your product if Chinese and South Korean companies are charging less. And you can’t pay the workers who build that product more if you can’t charge more for it.

That said, the global economy has been improving at a steady clip. There could be some relief there if foreign companies start improving their wages. Who knows? One thing is for sure: We’ll see.

Have a Happy New Year and let’s have a fantastic 2018!!

Geoff Smith gsmith@lendtheway.com 770-674-1433 Personal: NMLS#104587 Business: NMLS#70876 *The views and opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of Assurance Financial Group

Belso Home Studio opens in downtown Alpharetta ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Belso Home Studio, a new interior design and home furnishings retail boutique in historic downtown Alpharetta, will open its door for business this month.

Belso Home Studio offers furniture and wares for the home.

With an exclusive custom upholstery line out of North Carolina, fabrics from around the world, case goods, win-

dow treatments, as well as full scale design services, owner Kelly Klafter, together with business partner, Julia Garrahan, bring everything for the home under one roof.

“Belso means interiors,” Klafter said. “The inside – and that is exactly what we focus on, anything clients need for the inside of the home. ” To learn about Belso Home Studio, visit belso-home.com.

Get It Framed by the pros at

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Creativity is great, plagiarism is quicker Are you coming to work each day and trying to use your creativity to come up with new ideas to grow your small business? Do you challenge your employees to do DICK JONES the same? Is it Founder & President Jones Simply Sales taking you longer than you thought to develop new strategies or tactics to better run your business? While creativity in small businesses is great, plagiarism may be a quicker option.

Now let me say first and foremost that I am not advocating being unethical or stealing ideas to gain a competitive advantage. What I am saying is that there are plenty of ideas out there that may work well for you, and that learning about them and utilizing them in your small business may be a much faster option.

In small businesses today, speed is of essence in being competitive, opening new markets, attracting more customers, and improving your operations. However, you don’t have to reinvent a wheel that’s already been invented.

If you’re having a problem or encountering a challenge, just Google it. You’ll be surprised that, yes, other small businesses have had this situation. The difference, however, is that someone else has figured out how to address it. Learning from this information can help you more quickly formulate a plan of action.

Some information even provides a step-by-step process.

While there is nothing better than stimulating creativity in your small business, sometimes plagiarism is much, much quicker in getting things done.

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20 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com Herald | NorthFulton.com

CALENDAR

NEW YEAR’S EVE MENTEE BENEFIT GALA

The Mentee Benefit Gala is a fundraiser for 100 Black Men of North Metro Inc., a nonprofit committed to helping youth strive for intellectual excellence, economic responsibility and selfsufficient contributions to society. The benefit will generate revenue for Mentee Scholarships and to support their mentoring and education initiatives. It will be held Sunday, Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m. at Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta, 5750 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta. Individual tickets are $135. For more information and to register, visit northmetro100.org.

By Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman

Jan. 11-28, 2018 This triumphant musical offers a fresh and poignant picture of the woman whose unparalleled talent made her a Hollywood legend. One golden hit after another is woven through Clooney’s compelling life story: “Come on-a My House,” “It’s Only a Paper Moon,” “Count Your Blessings,” “Hey There,” “Mambo Italiano,” and so many more!

Looking to get the word out about your event? Submit it to our online calendar at NorthFulton.com/Calendar.

HOLIDAY EVENTS: What: Visit Santa’s Village and explore eight displays with lights, trains and animated characters. Donations go to Toys for Tots.

When: Through Dec. 31, 6-9 p.m.

Where: 405 Waverly Hall Drive, Roswell More info: northfulton.com

What: Set off the new year with a healthy start. This is a free class for Tai Chi, a gentle exercise originating from ancient Chinese martial art.

When: Thursday, Jan. 4, 10:45-11:45 a.m.

Where: Forsyth County Parks & Rec, 810 Nichols Road, Suwanee More info: www.parks.forsythco.com

AVALON ON ICE

MUSIC, ARTS & THEATER:

SANTA’S VILLAGE IN ROSWELL

What: Ice skate at Avalon on their Rockefeller Center-sized ice skating rink in the plaza.

When: Nov. 19-Jan. 21, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta Cost: General admission starts at $18 More info: experienceavalon.com

SANTA AT AVALON

What: Join jolly Old Saint Nick in his cozy cottage at Avalon and take photos.

When: Nov. 19-Dec. 24, times vary Where: Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta More info: experienceavalon.com

EVENTS: BOCCE

At the Roswell Cultural Arts Center 950 Forrest St. Roswell

FOR TICKETS: 770.641.1260 GET.ORG

TAI CHI CLASS

What: Join to play bocce, played on an outdoor court where players “bowl” balls to get closest to the smaller target ball.

When: Friday, Dec. 29, 8 a.m.

Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov or 678512-3430

PARK PLACE NEW YEAR’S PARTY

What: Everyone is invited to bring an appetizer. There will be games, friendship and watching the ball drop together.

When: Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

Where: Park Place at Newtown School, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov or 678512-3430

SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY ORCHESTRA 2017

What: A modern Big Band instrumental group with hundreds of arrangements in styles including jazz, swing, Broadway and waltzes.

When: Sunday, Dec. 31, 3 and 8 p.m.

Where: The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Cost: Tickets are $25 More info and tickets: playhousecumming.com

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: TAMARA BOGGS What: Tamara Y. Boggs is a freelance visual artist residing in metro Atlanta whose mediums are acrylic and oil paint, graphite and charcoal.

When: Through Feb. 12, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com

JOYS OF THE SEASON

What: Local artists will display their works in seasonal themes. Some art will be on sale.

When: Through Jan. 16, times vary Where: Roswell Arts Center East, 9100 Fouts Road, Roswell More info: northfulton.com

LIBRARY EVENTS: SLOW FLOW AND STRETCH YOGA

What: Offered by Lift Studio, the class is a combination of standing and seated poses. No registration necessary. Bring a yoga mat or towel and comfortable clothes.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 2, 10:30-11:30 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

FAMILY SPANISH STORY TIME

What: Join us for a bilingual story time in English and Spanish.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 2, 4:30-5 p.m.

Where: Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

EVENING ESL CLASS

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: BUTTERPUP & FRIENDS

What: Join for conversational classes.

All levels are welcome.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 2, 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org or 770-640-3075

FINE ART FOR A CAUSE

MILTON LIBRARY BOOK SALE

What: Miles Davis is an artist, illustrator, and creator raised in the United States Air Force.

When: Through Dec. 29, all day Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell More info: roswellgov.com What: Give twice by supporting local artists while donating to relief efforts in Puerto Rico. A portion of each sale will go to United Way. When: Through Dec. 31, times vary Where: Abbotts Bar and Grill, 10900 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek More info: northfulton.com

What: Buy new and used books to help fund programs and support the Milton Library.

When: Wednesday, Jan. 3, 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org or 404-613-4402

CALENDAR

NorthFulton.com NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell | Milton Herald | December 28, 2017 | 21

GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA:

The money factory (got your attention!)

SAHAJA MEDITATION

What: Learn and practice meditation in a supportive group setting. Meditation, or mindfulness, is one of the emerging health trends of the last few years.

When: Thursday, Jan. 4, 6-7 p.m.

Where: Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: afpls.org

NEEDLECRAFTS GROUP

What: Join Roswell’s group of talented needlecraft experts once a week to practice your skills, learn or teach some, or for just come for the community.

When: Thursday, Jan. 4, 1-3 p.m.

Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell More info: afpls.org or 770-640-3075

PET ADOPTIONS:

FORSYTH COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER What: Pet adoptions When: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: The Forsyth County Animal Shelter, 4065 County Way, Forsyth County More info: 678-965-7185

FULTON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES What: Pet adoptions When: Every Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Where: PetSmart, 6370 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta Additional adoptions: Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fulton County Animal Services, 860 Marietta Blvd.

NW, Atlanta More info: 404-613-4958

OF INTEREST ELSEWHERE: OUTDOOR CLUB – DECEMBER HIKES What: The Heritage Sandy Springs Outdoors Club will host weekly hikes through Sandy Springs. This week’s is through Heritage Sandy Springs.

When: Friday, Dec. 29, 8:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Sandy Springs, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs More info: heritagesandysprings.org

STEVE HUDSON Get Outside Georgia, aa4bw@comcast.net

So here we are, and Christmas has come and gone.

The gifts have all been unwrapped, and everyone on your list is now enjoying new toys.

Now come the bills. And yes, they’re coming – and they require payment in good

old U.S. currency.

That brings us, in a roundabout sort of way, to this week’s outdoor adventure: a hike at Sope Creek.

At this point in the season, it’s a pretty safe bet that you need to do some hiking. All those parties…all that food… and the lure of the sofa is strong. But you know you’ll feel better if you can get yourself moving. Besides, a good hike is just the thing to take your mind off (dare I say it again) all those post-gift-giving bills.

Especially if it’s a hike to a money factory.

A money factory? Yep, I thought that might get your attention!

This particular might-be-a-money factory, or what’s left of it, awaits you in the Sope Creek Unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Specifically, I’m thinking about the ruins of Marietta Paper Mills, an extensive paper factory that was alive and well during the second half of the 19th century (that is, the 1800s), churning out, among other things, newsprint for many Georgia newspapers and legend says the paper used to print Confederate currency. So it really might have been a “money factory” after all.

Sure, the money was Confederate, and that won’t help you with your bills today. The old factory is in ruins anyway. But it’s the thought that counts, and the week after Christmas any thought that gets you outside and active again (all that pecan pie…) is indeed a thought worth thinking.

In the interest of full disclosure I must tell you that there’s some debate about whether the paper produced there ever made its way into Confederate cash. But such details are best left to the historians. What you want to do is to get out there and hike the trails and get a sense of those ruins yourself.

There really is a neat sense of timelessness to them. What stories might they tell? You do want to know, don’t you?

So flee the sofa! Get up and go!

The easiest way to reach these ruins is to start at the CRNRA parking area off

STEVE HUDSON/HERALD

Legend says that the paper printed by the Marietta Paper Mills was used for Confederate currency.

Paper Mill Road. From there, you’ll have access to the Sope Creek Unit’s complex network of interconnected trails, among them a mixed-use hike/bike trail that makes for some interesting riding on that new mountain bike you found under your tree. By the way, your mother called and told me to remind you to wear your helmet when you ride.

But you won’t have to worry about that if you’re bound for the ruins. The trails leading to them are designated for foot travel only.

You’ll enter the trail system at the far end of the parking area behind a group of signs. Actually, two trails begin there – a road-like gravel trail that starts behind a gate (the mixed-use trail for hikers and bikers) and also a dirt trail (foot travel only) to the left of the signs. To visit the ruins, follow the dirt trail to the left toward intersection SC3 (these are National Park Service intersection identifiers, and they are very helpful). Then, at SC3, turn left along a gently descending trail toward intersection SC4.

At SC4, go left and follow the trail as it descends more or less parallel to Paper Mill Road. Watch for rough sections as you go. Soon, you’ll reach a trail juncture (SC26) where the trail swings down toward the road and yet another intersection (SC27) – and just beyond that point, there they are: the ruins of the old Marietta Paper Mills (2).

Paper was an important strategic material during the Civil War, possibly because of its use in printing Confederate currency but also because it was essential for printing newspapers (there might be a lesson there for our time too). For that reason, the site was on the radar of Union forces – and on July 5, 1864, they burned it. After the war the mill was rebuilt, only to burn again in 1870. Rebuilt yet again, it operated until 1902. Historic markers near the parking area tell the story in detail.

Finding the trailhead From Interstate 285, take the Riverside Drive exit (exit 24). Go north on Riverside Drive for 2.3 miles to Johnson Ferry Road. Turn left on Johnson Ferry Road, and go 2.7 miles to Paper Mill Road. Turn left onto Paper Mill Road and go 2.2 miles. The entrance to the Sope Creek Unit will be on the left after you cross Sope Creek.

Several trails meander among the ruins, allowing you to explore them thoroughly. There are more ruins on the other side of the Sope Creek, too, and another trail goes down its far side.

But whichever trail you take, remember not to climb on the ruins themselves.

Keep your feet on the ground. Take lots of pictures. Morning and evening are especially good photo times if you can catch the sun just right. But don’t climb on the old stone ruins.

After exploring the ruins, you might want to take time to check out some of the Sope Creek Unit’s other trails too. The loop around Sibley Pond is a favorite of many, and it’s close by too.

So there you have it – a hike at the old money factory, or so I like to tell myself. Anachronistic or not, there’s something oddly soothing about a thought like that at this time of year.

All I need to do, I add in my notes to myself, is to find such a factory where the currency is current, the production line is in full swing, and free samples are to be had for the asking.

I can dream – Learn more about the hiking trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Steve Hudson’s book Hiking the Hooch. It’s available from local outfitters, from the park headquarters at Island Ford, and on Amazon.

Signed copies are available direct from the author at chattahoocheemedia.com.

22 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

22 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017

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NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 23

Dermatology tips and tricks Brought to you by: Dr. Brent Taylor Premier Dermatology and MOHS Surgery of Atlanta Around the holidays, it is nice to have a few strategies for looking and continuing to look your best. Listed below are a few facts that we hope that you will find fun or useful.

1. Green cancels red. Whether you have rosacea, acne or just a complexion that is a bit more ruddy than you would like, it is helpful to know this little beauty secret. Green makeup, concealer or moisturizer is often the best strategy to cover up red blemishes, especially in a pinch. Apply a thin coat to the area that is too red, blend it in with the normal skin at the edges, and you have found the best way to elegantly hide a red mark or complexion. Knowing this tip can allow you to “conceal without caking.” A thin coat of green-tinted concealer often works better than a thick (and too obvious) coat of skin-toned cover-up.

Need something stronger? Consider seeing a board-certified dermatologist to discuss modern anti-redness options like Rhofade, Mirvaso, or Oracea.

2. UPF is the new SPF. Looking for a great gift idea for a family member who spends time outdoors?

Modern beach, athletic, and outdoor wear is increasingly being sold with a “UPF” rating. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor. It works the same way that SPF (sun protection factor) ratings do on sunscreen. A shirt with a UPF rating of 50 lets 1/50 of the sun’s rays through. It used to be that rash guards and protective clothing were not fashionable or aesthetically appealing. Thankfully, our increasingly health-conscious population has spurred the growth of a whole industry catering to those who love the outdoors but who also want to keep their skin healthy. Amazingly, the average thin white cotton t-shirt only has the same protection as a sunscreen with SPF 4!

Just because your loved one is wearing a shirt while outdoors, they will not be truly protected unless they are wearing UPF-rated clothing.

3. Botox and Beyond. Many people are aware of how botox can nearly painlessly fade away wrinkles and improve one’s appearance in areas like the forehead and crow’s feet, but Botox and its cousin neuromodulators Xeomin and Dysport have applications that one might not guess. A skilled botox injector such as a board-certified dermatologist is likely to know a few creative ways to use Botox. Here are two examples: The gummy smile: When we smile, our upper lip lifts over our teeth.

Sometimes, the upper lip lifts more than we would like, showing not only the teeth but a large amount of the gums as well. For many people, an amazing transformation can be achieved by injecting botox at a few strategic DR. TAYLOR points on the upper lip near the nose. This can weaken the muscle that lifts the lip and restore the lip to a lower position when smiling.

The perma-frown: A muscle called the depressor anguli oris pulls the corners of the mouth down. In many people, the muscle is a little too active, and when the person’s face is at rest, the corners are slightly pulled down giving an appearance of dissatisfaction.

A few units of Botox at a strategic point above the jawline can often release this muscle allowing the corners of the mouth to pull back up. Now, people can see one’s true happiness and contentment rather than the façade of a frown that was not felt.

4. Vein care. Winter is one of the best times to think about vein care, partially because most insurance companies require patients to wear compression stockings for 90 days before the company approves medically necessary vein treatments. Winter is the most comfortable time to wear those compression stockings because they will keep you warm in the winter but can really be a pest in July or August.

Vein disease doesn’t simply mean varicose veins. Over a third of patients with vein disease may have no visible varicose veins at all. Some of the less visible veins can have valves that malfunction. This can lead to swelling, itching, leg pain, restless legs, leg pain at night, heaviness after sitting or being on your feet all day and many other complaints that might not seem to obviously arise from malfunctioning veins.

A painless and safe ultrasound study can identify whether your symptoms are due to vein disease, and modern treatments are minimally invasive carry a vastly improved risk / benefit ratio over treatments of old.

At Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, it is our privilege to take care of you this holiday season and our pleasure to help you look and feel your best and healthiest. Whether you have a suspicious mole and want to discuss UPF clothing or whether you have a gummy smile or lower leg complaints that might be venous in origin, we are delighted to serve you. If you have skin health, vein or beauty questions, we hope that you will consider spending a part of your holiday season with us.

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24 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

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“It is an incredible honor to be recognized as the 2017 Best of Senior Home Care in North Atlanta” says Hilary Eldridge. “We are profoundly grateful to our clients, caregivers, supervisory team and referral partners for making this happen. What we love about our business is that we are actually helping people in our community live independently in the comfort and security of their own home. Thank you to all of our partners and families for entrusting us to care for those they care for.”

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caregivers you can see that they bring their hearts to work every day and make a beautiful difference in our clients’ lives. Their positive spirits are a joy to be around and work with, and are at the core of what drives HILARY ELDRIDGE Home Helpers as we honor our vision and commitment to provide the best quality of life for our clients and their loved ones.

As everyday life becomes more challenging, we are there when and where you need us, from a few hours GREG ELDRIDGE several days a week to 24/7 care. We have a wide range of services, from day to day assistance to help with the full range of personal care needs. Recovering from surgery or just getting home from a rehabilitation center can be the perfect time to call Home Helpers, with a scalable level of service that can change as you recuperate. Our free in home consultation can help you discover the services that are right for you.

We service communities north of Atlanta, and would be happy to discuss the personalized plan that remembers your youthful spirit! Contact us by phone at 770-681-0323, by email at Alpharretta@HomeHelpersHomeCare.com or online at: www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta .

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EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 25

Thank you for voting Home Helpers Best Home Care for Seniors!

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Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills. It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.

For a free consultation, please call 770-681-0323

At Home Helpers, our focus every day is matching the right caregiver with each of our clients. This thoughtful selection helps establish a bond between a caregiver and client that bolsters the young at heart spirit waiting to come out in each client.

Each office is independently owned and operated.

26 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

Home for the Holidays

Vickery Rose Retirement Resort

Amy Hentschel Senior Care Advisor

Imagine coming home to a warm, friendly community that’s luxurious, safe and comfortable. Maintenance and light housekeeping are included, and every meal of the day is expertly prepared and pleasing to the palette.

With all the work done, you have more time for family, friends and the important things in life. That can be your life at Vickery Rose Retirement Resort.

Roswell’s laid-back pace and friendly neighborhoods provide the perfect setting to enjoy Vickery Rose’s resort-style amenities. Designed for your comfort, our community will feature studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments with a variety of floor plans and smart details to complement your lifestyle. Each unfurnished apartment features window coverings, a climate-controlled thermostat, carpeting, ceiling fans, and ample closet space. You’ll enjoy the freedom to decorate your new home to your individual taste.

Our kitchens will be fully equipped with a dishwasher, range, microwave, refrigerator with ice maker, and a garbage disposal. Our well-lit bathrooms will include a vanity sink and storage cabinet, and a walk-in shower with handrails, when requested.

Washer/dryer hook-ups will be located in a separate laundry closet within the apartment. We also offer residents the option to use our community laundry room on-site. Our professional staff will provide asneeded maintenance repairs and light housekeeping on a weekly basis.

tor?

Exhibiting forgetfulness, unopened mail, medication not taken, or bills unpaid?

• More quiet than usual, easily overHENTSCHEL whelmed or tired by company?

If you observe any of these changes, let your loved one know that you care about them and ask them how you can help? Many times, our clients are faced with resistance and a desire to avoid these topics. Be patient and start with a small goal and enlist the advice and help from trusted friends and family.

The holidays are a great time to reconnect and enjoy being a family, and in the same spirit don’t forget to check on the seniors around you that may also be in need.

Our advisors are always available to answer questions and guide you to true solutions. Senior Provisions wishes everyone a joyful and blessed holiday season!

More information at www.SeniorProvisions.com •

The changing color on the trees, the crisp air on our cheeks and the gathering together of family are the hallmarks of the season. It is also one of the busiest times for senior care advisors. As we gather together to celebrate and see our family during this time of year, it is an ideal opportunity to take a moment to assess any changes in our loved ones that have gone overlooked. We live very busy lives and it is difficult to pay attention to subtle changes in a senior’s condition day to day or detect growing needs over the phone. I advise families to take a moment around the kitchen table and check in with your parents on any challenges that they may be facing. It is important to be sensitive and show respect, and in a loving manner, express your desire to help with any problems.

Here are some things to look for: • Changes in eating habits or weight loss?

• Neglected personal hygiene, dirty clothes, and unkempt hair?

• Home is not as clean as usual or spoiled food in the refrigera-

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Vickery Rose’s stunning main dining room will be the perfect setting to savor mouthwatering meals prepared fresh daily by the chefs in our state-of-the-art commercial kitchen.

Experience our signature Freedom Dining program, which includes flexible dining hours throughout the day, plus these dining experience options: • Fine dining • Casual buffet • Chef’s Pantry on-the-go snacks • Room service Taking care of your personal business will be both convenient and safe.

Residents will enjoy access to on-site banking, salon, general store, and pharmacy services. Through our 24/7 concierge services, everything you need will be available at the touch of a button. Scheduled transportation on our shuttle will also be available for your convenience.

Relax by the fireplace in our comfortable community lounges, or schedule a night of movies or live entertainment in the 150-seat theatre. At Vickery Rose, there will be no shortage of social activities from which to choose.

Our community Lifestyle Directors consistently schedule unique activities designed to meet the resident’s requests. Ultimately, companionship and interaction with others are powerful tools to enjoy retirement and with so many entertaining options and the caring community staff on hand, Vickery Rose will truly bring residents together.

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EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 27

Vickery Rose Retirement Resort Informational Seminars

Vickery Rose

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

Discover the benefits of our new luxury, resort-style, all-inclusive retirement community.

You are welcome to attend a brief presentation and be our guest for lunch or dinner.

Bistro VG 70 West Crossville Road Roswell, GA 30075 Wednesday, February 7 Lunch & Learn Registration: 11:30 a.m.

Presentation: 11:45 a.m.

Lunch: 12:00 p.m.

Wednesday, February 7 Dine & Discover Registration: 4:30 p.m.

Presentation: 4:45 p.m.

Dinner: 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, February 8 Lunch & Learn Registration: 11:30 a.m.

Presentation: 11:45 a.m.

Lunch: 12:00 p.m.

Space is limited, RSVP to Bang Lake today:

470-242-7827

295 E. Crossville Road  Roswell, GA 30075  VickeryRoseRetirement.com

28 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

Soleil Laurel Canyon Tucked away in the North Georgia foothills of Canton and just a short drive from exciting Atlanta, Soleil Laurel Canyon is more than a beautiful community of maintenance-free, ranchstyle homes and breathtaking views.

It’s the lifestyle you’ve worked your whole life to enjoy.

If you are 55+, we invite you to come experience Soleil’s incomparable array of recreation, culture, and entertainment for yourself. You’ll have no doubt why it was named among the Best 50 Master-Planned Communities in the U.S. by Where to Retire Magazine in 2015.

“Clubhouses, fitness centers, social clubs and education classes mean residents get much more than a house at a planned community,” said Karen Northridge, publisher of “Where to Retire.”

One of the great pleasures of living at Soleil is that a low-maintenance home gives you the free time to take advantage of all that the community offers or take a trip without concern.

The landscaped grounds of Soleil Laurel Canyon are always impeccably maintained, while your HOA dues cover complete lawn maintenance and

an irrigation system, in-home security monitoring and maintenance, and even Comcast cable TV. Soleil Laurel Canyon offers a selection of Cottage, Traditional and Craftsman-style single-family homes from the mid $200,000s to $400,000s for adults 55+.

Residents live independently in homes that range from 1,500 square feet to almost 3,000 square feet. All of Soleil’s new floor plans include elegant details and are designed for aging-in-

place with stepless-entry access and wide doorways. These homes are energy efficient with HERS ratings above standard.

Soleil residents have membership in a 28,000-square-foot clubhouse complete with an arts and crafts room, billiards room, fitness center, gourmet teaching kitchen, indoor heated saline lap pool, and library.

Outside the clubhouse, residents have a heated Lagoon-style pool, a community garden and greenhouse,

a 3.5-acre fishing lake and the tennis facility with a full-time USPTA-certified teaching professional.

The Fairways of Canton golf course is located just outside Soleil’s gate within Laurel Canyon, and offers challenging golf for a reasonable, daily-fee price.

Two Lifestyle Directors maintain a full social calendar of events including wine socials, movie nights, trips to nearby attractions, and Grandkids day.

The place to be right now.

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EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 29

You can get on track for retirement (NAPSI)—There’s good news for anyone worried about saving for retirement—you already have what it takes to be a smart saver!

A recent survey by AARP and the Ad Council revealed that Americans are getting the most out of every dollar in many areas in their lives, with 92 percent using money-saving hacks like comparison shopping, using coupons, and signing up for customer reward programs.

Yet, fewer Americans have applied this savviness to their retirement savings. Two in five households headed by Americans age 55 to 64 have no assets saved for retirement, according to the National Institute on Retirement Security. Furthermore, while many companies will match their employees’ retirement plan contributions up to a certain amount, only three out of 10 Americans are contributing enough to maximize the company match—which means they’re essentially leaving free money on the table.

To address this savings shortfall, AARP and the Ad Council have launched a new campaign to help people save for retirement with a new free interactive online resource, AceYourRetirement.org, to empower people to take control of their financial futures.

“Retirement planning can sometimes leave people anxious, confused or even paralyzed,” said Debra Whitman, executive vice president and chief public policy officer, AARP. “This campaign breaks down retirement savings into easy, actionable steps for all Americans.”

What You’ll Find at AceYourRetirement.org AceYourRetirement.org features a friendly digi-

Americans are resourceful when it comes to getting the most out of every dollar in their day-to-day life.

tal retirement coach named AvoSM, who guides you through a series of questions about your life, savings

goals and retirement plans. In just a few minutes, Avo provides a personalized action plan that highlights your top three action items—the simple, practical things you can do right now to save for retirement.

The tips cover a wide range of topics, including how to turn a hobby into a source of income during retirement and how to have a conversation with family members about getting on the same page financially.

Tips To Help You Get On Track With Your Retirement Savings: • Try to increase your contributions to your retirement savings plan every year, even if by only 1 percent.

• If your employer offers matching funds for your retirement savings plan, contribute at least enough to get the full employer match. Don’t turn down free money!

• Brainstorm ideas for earning money in retirement, such as turning a hobby into a source of income, or taking on seasonal part-time work.

• Wait as long as you can—up to age 70 if possible—to begin collecting Social Security. This increases your annual benefit.

• Evaluate your budget to see if you can reduce some of your expenses. This can help you put away more money now, and also have a lower cost of living in retirement.

Get Your Plan Though saving for retirement can be intimidating, it’s never too late to get on track for a more financially secure future. For your personalized retirement savings action plan, visit www.AceYourRetirement.org.

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30 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section

How we can help end loneliness among older adults

1580 Warsaw Road | Roswell, GA 30076

Loneliness affects people of all ages, but it disproportionately affects older people. In America, 18 percent of seniors live alone, while 43 percent report feeling lonely on a regular basis. This suggests that even when they don’t live alone, older people often feel empty and may not have adequate or engaging communication with family members.

Loneliness has been linked to a number of serious health concerns and even early death. As the population of older people surges, loneliness and social isolation are only becoming more and more prevalent.

We understand the epidemic of loneliness first-hand, as an established homecare agency.

Each day, we help older people across Georgia live more independently in their own homes. But we offer more than just homecare, which includes things like personal care, cleaning, and housekeeping. We go beyond this and offer true companionship and the individual attention that older people so often lack.

Our approach starts with the administrative team, who will go to great lengths to understand your individual situation. We have a personal approach, and we deeply connect with our clients. They know they can reach us any time and tell us about their day.

Once we tailor a program of care that is right for each individual client, we connect them with a professional

and compassionate caregiver. This is truly where the magic happens.

It’s all about the match! Your caregiver will be the person you see most often, and we want it to be a positive visit each time. That’s why we recruit only the top caregivers with a proven record of compassionate care.

We pay great attention and detail when matching you with a caregiver.

We want you to feel like they are part of the family. They do not just assist with your needs, they become important people you can rely on for support, who also share your interests. We also make every effort to retain the same caregiver for you, so that you can rely on them being there, as a friend would.

In 2018, we are celebrating 10 years of outstanding service in Georgia.

We are on a mission to end suffering and help enrich the lives of older people. To us, every visit counts. Loneliness is a global epidemic, and we must all come together to make sure that older people do not suffer in silence.

If you or your loved one requires additional support to live at home, we would be happy to hear from you. We work with you to create a program of care specifically for you, and you can be sure that we will be with you every step of the way.

We are always open to hearing your suggestions about how we can offer better social support to older people in their community.

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If you are looking for an alternative to resident care or extra support for those everyday tasks that are becoming difficult for you or a loved one – then we’re here to help in Roswell & surrounding area from 1 hr. per week to full time care.

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COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 31

SPECIAL

Alpharetta standout cornerback Jaycee Horn committed to the University of South Carolina on Dec. 20. Horn, an Under Armour All-American, is ranked 18th in the nation at cornerback in the Class of 2018 by ESPN.

Alpharetta All-American commits to South Carolina ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta standout cornerback Jaycee Horn announced last week he will continue his collegiate career at the University of South Carolina after de-committing from Tennessee.

“I feel most comfortable at this university and I feel like this is the best place for me,” Horn said on Twitter.

Ranked 142nd nationally in ESPN’s top-300 for the class of 2018, Horn was named an Under Armour All-American in September.

During his 2017 senior campaign, Horn compiled 44 total tackles (38 solo, 6 assists) with five interceptions and 12 passes defended, splitting his playing time between corner and safety. He also added 147 all-purpose yards and a touchdown reception. The Raiders reached the quarterfinals of the state playoffs for the first time in program history this year, compiling an 11-2 overall record.

Horn committed to Tennessee in August, but de-committed in November.

He thanked then Volunteers’ head coach Butch Jones, the UT coaching staff and fans, in a statement on Twitter.

“This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve made, but ultimately I have to make the best decision for me,” the statement said.

Horn chose Tennessee over the Gamecocks and Alabama in August, but made an official visit to South Carolina earlier this month.

18.

He announced his commitment Dec.

“I want to start by thanking my family, coaches, close friend and everyone who supported me in this decision,” he said on Twitter. “I want to thank my family for believing me when no one else believed. I want to thank my coaches for taking me into Alpharetta and developing me. I want to thank my teammates for helping me get better every day and molding me into the player I am today.”

“This has been a long process and I gained great relationships with a lot of coaches. With that said, on Dec. 20 I will be signing with the University of South Carolina,” the statement said.

Horn will compete at the Under Armour All-America game Jan. 4 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

SPECIAL

From left, Travis Carithers, Pat Thomas and American Commerce Bank branch manager Veronica Petriati present a check to Scott Doll, executive director of the Isakson Family YMCA.

2018 Y IT MATTERS campaign kicks off JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — American Commerce Bank’s Johns Creek staff are promoting the 2018 Y IT MATTERS campaign with a $3,000 contribution to promote the success of this annual effort. The effort is to ensure that no one is turned away from the Y due to inability to pay.

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32 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

Foundation honors memory of Centennial lacrosse player Live for Jamie donates lacrosse practice wall

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Founded after the tragic death of a Haynes Bridge Middle School student and lacrosse player Jamie McHenry, a local organization is giving back to the sports community.

Earlier this month, the Live for Jamie foundation donated a lacrosse “bounceback” wall for the school’s lacrosse programs in its continued efforts to honor the sports-crazed athlete.

“We though what better way to honor him than to give back to the local sports community that he loved so much,” Jim McHenry, Jamie’s father said. “It meant a great deal to him.”

McHenry called his son “a dad’s dream.”

“He was well liked, fun loving and always had a twinkle in his eye like he was up to something. A lot of times he was,” he said. “And he loved sports, everything about them. He couldn’t stay up to watch a lot of the late games like Monday Night Football, so he would record them and watch them the next day before school.”

He wanted to go the University of

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-17-AB-32 PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers December 28, 2017 3:00 P.M. PURPOSE Consumption on Premises Beer & Wine, Liquor– Sunday Sales APPLICANT Outback Steakhouse of Florida d/b/a Outback Steakhouse 6400 North Point Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30022 Owner Outback Steakhouse of Florida, LLC Registered Agent Michael Sard

Florida and major in sports management.”

Before he had the chance, Jamie’s life was cut short while on vacation with a friend’s family in 2013. He was struck by a car while crossing the street.

McHenry and his wife, Christine, said following Jamie’s passing they looked for a way to make sense of the situation.

“We aimed to somehow try and turn a horrible tragedy into something good,” McHenry said.

The foundation was created the fall following Jamie’s death, and a year later the RocketShot 5K was created to raise funds. The run takes its name from Jamie’s lacrosse moniker — rocket shot — for his quick and powerful lacrosse shooting ability.

The event drew over 500 runners the first year and has funded the organization’s efforts the past four years.

Those endeavors include multiple improvement projects to local lacrosse facilities, the creation of a team in Jamie’s honor and scholarships for student-athletes. At the end of each school year, students at Hillside Elementary and Haynes Bridge Middle are

LIVEFORJAMIE.COM

The Live for Jamie foundation honors the life of Jamie McHenry with projects benefitting the local sports community. awarded scholarship by the foundation.

The recipients are chosen by their peers and teachers based on the student’s character.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS CITY OF ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA FOR CONCEALABLE BODY ARMOR FOR PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT RFP 18-105 The City of Alpharetta is requesting proposal responses from Offerors to provide concealable body armor for our Public Safety Department. The proposed body armor must provide Level IIA and Level IIIA threat protection.

The Request for Proposal document will be available online Thursday, December 14, 2017, at our bid posting website, https://www.ebidexchange.com/alpharetta. Interested parties are required to log in to review the RFP documents and submit any specific bid related questions.

Proposals will be due on Thursday, January 11, 2018, at 10:00 AM at Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009.

For information, please contact Debora Westbrook with the City of Alpharetta Procurement Team at purchasing@alpharetta.ga.us or 678-297-6052.

Live for Jamie also backed the new $20,000 entrance gate at Centennial’s stadium which was dedicated on Jamie’s birthday in 2016.

On Dec. 7, the organization held a dedication for a lacrosse practice wall at Centennial. The brick structure replaces the wooden wall that was in disrepair. A mural will soon be painted on the wall that includes the new Centennial lacrosse logo and goals.

The foundation’s Team 8, also recently won the Reindeer Games lacrosse tournament, beating out Lassiter, the 2016 state champions, for the tournament title.

Team 8, named after Jamie’s lacrosse number, is led by Jamie’s former coach, Frank Cecere. The team was formed with the motto, “We play for something more,” with players picked

by Cecere for their character in addition to abilities on the field. Every player’s jersey number contains the number eight, with Jamie’s on the sideline during each game.

Over four years after his passing, the McHenry family is still dealing with Jamie’s passing, but hopes their foundation will shine a light from his tragic passing.

“Some of it is just a distraction,” McHenry said. “But it makes us feel like we are still taking care of him.”

For more information about Live for Jamie, visit www.liveforjamie.com.

COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 33

Emory among first in Georgia to use new spinal cord stimulator

Hopewell Hawks capture championship

ATLANTA — Emory Healthcare is the first hospital system in North Georgia to offer patients access to a new spinal cord stimulator to help relieve chronic pain. The FDA-approved device, known as the Intellis System, is the world’s smallest implantable spinal cord neurostimulator.

The first Emory device was successfully implanted at Emory Johns Creek Hospital in October and is also currently being used by Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown and Emory Orthopaedics & Spine Center.

“This technology can play a major role in getting patients off opiates and other pain medications which is a big focus in the medical community and in society today,” said Gerald Rodts, MD, chief of the Division of Spine Surgery in the Department of Neurosurgery at Emory School of Medicine.

The tiny, high-tech device is used to alleviate chronic pain of the low back and legs caused by degenerative spine

SPECIAL

The first Emory device was successfully implanted at Emory Johns Creek Hospital in October.

problems, spinal injuries, complications or side-effects of previous spine surgeries, scoliosis and other spine deformities, nerve or spinal cord injuries.

To contact Emory for more information or for an appointment, call 404778-7777 or 800-753-6679 to speak with a HealthConnectionsm registered nurses or representatives. For more information about the device visit, Medtronic, Inc.

MILTON, Ga. — The 13U Hopewell Hawks Red team recently captured the Fall Southern Sports Championship.

The team outscored opponents 30-2 and pitched two no-hitters and a one-hitter in three games.

Blotter: Continued from Page 2 A second car suffered the same fate about the same time. The owner of a Chrysler Town and Country said a purse was stolen from his car as his wife and his mother had left it in the lot. The front passenger side door glass was shattered. Nothing else appeared to be missing. A second purse in the back was untouched.

The two cars were parked near each other. Police could not lift fingerprints from the vehicles.

Christmas decorations stolen from couple’s yard FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A couple encountered a Grinch this holiday season after two of their decorations were stolen from their yard.

The wife said she had two projectors, one that displayed a snow globe onto the house that cost $20 and a second that displayed a reindeer with the message “Merry Christmas” valued at $8, that were stolen. She had seen the decorations that morning but noticed they were missing when her husband went outside to plug them in.

Not Just Funerals, Celebrations of Life.

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34 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

Case Worker: Full Time.

North Fulton Community Charities is seeking candidates for a Case Worker position to provide emergency assistance and prevention services for residents. The successful candidate will have excellent oral/written communication skills and experience working with a low income population.

BA &/or 5 yrs. experience required. Bilingual in Spanish a plus. NFCC requires background check, drug screen and e-Verify. Submit resume with salary requirements or pick up application & job descriptions at NFCC, 11270 Elkins Rd, Roswell 30076 or batherton@ nfcchelp.org

NorthFulton.com | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | December 28, 2017 | 35

MAIN SERVICE DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS continued from page 34

Transportation Cars WE BUY YOUR CAR WE PAY CASH! Any condition.

Call 404-604-7834 for cash offer! www. thecrewautosale.com

Trucks S U N S E E K E R RV/2900, 2008: 34,600 miles. $18,000.

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Real Estate

Cleaning Services

Driveway

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Specialized detailed cleaning, packing boxes with list of items. Debris cleanup, charity donation, interior/exterior window cleaning, pressure washing.

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REPAIR or REPLACEMENT Driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls. $150 off any job over $1500.

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For a FREE estimate call Dave of McKemey Concrete and Hardscapes 678-914-2576.

RAM’S HOME SERVICES Kitchen hardware replaced. Appliances and ceiling fans installed. Sink/toilet/ leak repair. www. ramshs.com for list of services. Experienced.

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THE MAGIC BROOM CLEANING SERVICE EXPERT INSURED CLEANING YOU CAN TRUST! Schedule today! $20 off first service.

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House for Rent

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RETAINING WALLS & CONCRETE WORK We build retaining walls. Local, reliable, honest, experienced.

Call Ralph at 678-898-7237

Instruction Classes ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES . $15$45/class. Windows, Excel, e-bay, photo editing, Microsoft Word, internet, e-mail etc. Roswell Adult Recreation Center 770-641-3950. http:// www.roswellalc.org/ rscalendar.htm

Personal Services Eldercare YOUR HOME: Nights or days. 8-12 hours. $ 1 4 / h o u r. Ve r i f i a b l e references.

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Drywall NEED A BEDROOM OR BASEMENT FINISHED? Drywall services.

Drywall so clean you won’t see lines!

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Flooring I n s t a l l / Repairs: Carpet, Laminate, Tile, Vinyl Wood floors, Backsplashes, and Shower surrounds.

Carpet wrinkles removed! Call today for estimate!

706-429-4453 PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen backsplashes. Re-grouting is also available. Call 678-887-1868 for free estimate.

Gutters AARON’S ALLTYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed.

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770-605-0340

Kitchen & Bath:

Plumbing, Electrical Drywall and Other Repairs and Installations.

Home Maintenance. 20 years experience. Call Mike.

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Excellent References.

404-895-0260

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Call Ralph Rucker at 678-898-7237

Home Improvement PATIOS-DECKS DRIVEWAYS SIDEWALKS & WALLS $150 OFF any job over $1500. Many local references. Call Dave McKemey at 678-648-2010

ADVERTISE HERE! Call 770-442-3278 or email us at classifieds@appenmediagroup.com

Home Improvement

Phillips Home Improvement We offer drywall, painting, carpentry, plumbing and electrical. Basements finished, kitchen and bath rehabs. All types flooring.

Also total home rehab for those who have a rental house or one to sell.

Call 678-887-1868 for a free estimate Finegan Home Improvements LLC: License #RBQA004932.

R e m o d e l i n g , handyman.

31 years experience.

Basements finished, decks, screen porches, doors, drywall, painting, flooring, custom kitchens, bathrooms.

All insurance. Paul Finegan 404-353-5611

Landscaping RAS Landscape Design Installation A full service landscape company capable of doing your job. 25+ years experience.

Ralph 678-898-7237

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Painters

Auto Donations

Miscellaneous

J&J PAINTING OF GEORGIA Trusted-Family Owned.

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A small list of really good tree services.

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Every time you use 770Tree.com to request an estimate, Appen-Rated makes a donation to North Fulton Community Charities or The Drake House.

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36 | December 28, 2017 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | NorthFulton.com

LOCAL HOME SERVICES GUIDE TREE SERVICE

678.506.0006

Call Us For A FREE Quote

99 • Highest rated by • We save trees too customers • Certified arborist • Tree removal and • Licensed/insured tree trimming

CONCRETE

How to identify a sick tree It’s easy to miss when a tree is growing sick. Most tree health problems grow slowly, with little visible difference from one day to the next, until leaves change colors or the canopy begins to thin. The longer it takes to spot problems, the more likely the tree’s illness will become serious enough that it needs to be removed. However, if you can catch the signs early and call for an arborist, it may be possible to

TREE SERVICE

treat the sickness or damage and save the tree. Keep an eye out for these common signs of trouble: • Look for wilting or oddly-colored leaves, either along one or two limbs or all over the tree.

• Check for cracks appearing in primary limbs or even in the trunk of the tree.

• Examine dead branches, which may simply need pruning, but which can also indicate that a tree is in poor health.

• Watch for decaying or hollow spots, especially along the trunk and around the joints of the limbs.

• Look for insect damage, such as chewed leaves, holes made by burrowing bugs, silk webs and nests, and dripping sap or honeydew.

Bob Delbridge, President 404-CUT-TREE and finestmulch.com

LANDSCAPING

ELECTRICAL

678.648.2001

Call Us For A FREE Quote

• Highest customer rated

• Lifetime warranty

• Same day service

$30 OFF

Any Electrical Work Cannot combine with any other coupon.

ROOF

ROOF TROUBLE? • Ceiling Spots • Blistering • Rotting • Buckling Spots Call For A

McKemey concrete

678.648.2012

Driveways • Patios • Walls • More

678.648.2010

Call Us For A FREE Quote

$150 OFF

*

Any service over $1500

Call Us For A FREE Quote

770.744.2200

Call Us For A FREE Quote

Competitive Pricing Many Local References

98 Angie’s List Super Service Award 2011 thru 2017

*Offer expires 10 days after publication

• Landscapes • 25+ years experience • Hardscapes • Many local references • Walls & ponds

FREE Roof Analysis 770.744.5700

Top Rated • Appen Rated • BBB • Angie’s List

$150 OFF* $250 OFF* Any service over $1500

Any service over $3500

*Offer expires 10 days after publication

Roof Repair and Replacement

Let Us Connect You Alpharetta-Roswell Herald Delivers to 28,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30005, 30009, 30022, 30075, 30076. Alpharetta & Roswell’s primary news source. Est. 1983.

Alpharetta’s paper of record.

Johns Creek Herald Delivers to 20,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30022, 30097. Johns Creek’s primary news source. Est. 1997. Johns Creek’s paper of record.

Northside Woman 18,000 copies distributed monthly to subdivisions and business in North Fulton and South Forsyth with home delivery to 40+ of the most exclusive gated and estate communities in North Atlanta.

Forsyth Herald Delivers to 17,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30040, 30041.

Forsyth County’s largest circulation newspaper. Est. 1998

Milton Herald Delivers to 10,000 households every Thursday Zip Code: 30004. Community news for and about the City of Milton. Est. 2006.

Milton’s paper of record.

Answer Books 40,000 copies distributed quarterly to local real estate agents, doctors, chambers of commerce, visitor’s bureaus as well as personal homes. Each quarter has a different focus including education, relocation, medical and seniors

p: 770-442-3278 | f: 770-475-1216 | e: advertising@appenmediagroup.com | 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009