Alpharetta-Roswell Herald — April 30, 2020

A note to our readers A p r i l 3 0 , 2 0 2 0 | 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 8 , N o . 1 8

JEFF BURCH/CENTENNIAL/SPECIAL

Shining for the seniors

School officials turned the lights on at Centennial High School’s stadium, The Fortress, on April 20 in the 20th hour of the day to honor the class of 2020. Several other area schools are turning the lights on at their stadiums to celebrate the seniors who had their final year of high school, and final spring sports seasons, cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic. Read more, Page 15

WWELCOME TO ADDINGTON PLACE Rest assured, we’re here to help.

Our first priority is your health and wellbeing.

Call 678-723-3689 or visit AddingtonPlaceAlpharetta.com

Appen Media Group and the Herald newspapers are committed to providing our readers with the latest information to keep them safe and aware during the coronavirus pandemic.

Our staff is working overtime to provide the latest updates from state and local governments who make decisions that impact our lives. We are also tracking the impact of the crisis on our schools, our businesses and our quality of life.

While the information in this publication is timely when printed, the pandemic is evolving rapidly. For the most up to date information, visit our special COVID-19 online section at northfulton.com/special/ coronavirus which is being updated daily.

With a focus on your neighborhood like no other news service, we strive to deliver the most relevant information to our readers.

NEWS

2 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

Roswell campaign brings community together 770-442-3278 | NorthFulton.com 319 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 PUBLISHER EMERITUS: Ray Appen PUBLISHER: Hans Appen MANAGING EDITOR: Patrick Fox EDITORIAL QUESTIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell Herald: Alpharetta: ext. 118, Roswell ext. 122 Dunwoody Crier: ext. 143 Forsyth Herald: ext. 118 Johns Creek Herald: ext. 123 Milton Herald: ext. 139 Northside Woman: ext. 128 Calendar: ext. 122 TO SUBMIT EDITORIAL: News/Press Releases: NorthFulton.com/Sponsored Calendar/Events: NorthFulton.com/Calendar ADVERTISING QUESTIONS: General Advertising: ext. 100 advertising@appenmediagroup.com Classified Advertising: ext. 119 classifieds@appenmediagroup.com Circulation/Subscriptions/Delivery: ext. 100 circulation@appenmediagroup.com OUR PUBLICATIONS: Alpharetta-Roswell Herald: 28,000 circulation Johns Creek Herald: 20,000 circulation Dunwoody Crier: 18,000 circulation Forsyth Herald: 17,000 circulation Milton Herald: 10,000 circulation Answer Book: 40,000 circulation Northside Woman: 18,000 circulation

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By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@appenmediagroup.com ROSWELL, Ga. — Amid the uncertainty wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, one Roswell family has stepped up to strengthen community ties.

The effort has culminated in the “We Are Roswell” campaign, designed by resident Nicole Howell and her family. She is creating and disseminating yard signs reading, “Together We Are Roswell” in a show of solidarity and support during the trying times.

“I had the idea several weeks ago [in late March] with the coronavirus and shelter-in-place order,” Howell said. “Roswell is such a great town, and I figured that people would love to do something at their homes to show that they love the town and that they’re supporting each other… It’s a fun way for people to help when they’re not so sure what to do.”

Howell sells each sign for $24, with all proceeds going to local charities to support neighbors affected by the crisis.

Currently, Howell has been donating funds to a local school meal program started by Wild Slice Pizzeria owner Mike

Thomas and his wife Cristy, a special needs kindergarten teacher at Esther Jackson Elementary School.

The funds go to local restaurants, which in turn create and distribute meals to students in need. Several area restaurants are participating, including Gracious Plenty Bakery & Breakfast, PURE Taqueria, From the Earth Brewing Company, Big Oak Tavern and American Pasta Factory.

“The program supports more than one aspect of the community,” Howell said. “It’s such a great thing to do, because it supports local restaurants, but then it also helps hungry kids that are right here going to our schools in Roswell.”

Thomas has been working with Howell to spread the funds to different restaurants each week. So far, Howell

said she has donated more than $5,000 from about 450 yard signs, with new orders coming in every day.

This is Howell’s first foray into a community campaign and fundraiser. She said the idea was born out of watching residents band together during times of tragedy and hardship.

“I was thinking about the way a lot of times Roswell will decorate their mailboxes during difficult times,” Howell said. “I thought maybe we could try something similar to that. That’s when I decided a sign with an uplifting slogan would be something people would want to put in their yards.”

All-in-all, Howell said, the campaign has been a win-win for everyone, including participants, restaurants and students.

“It gives you a sense of pride in your community,” Howell said. “We’re not in this alone. We’re all in this together.

We’re all trying to do our part to help our community and stay positive and do good for others, because this is a really difficult time.”

For more information and to request a yard sign, visit weareroswellga.com.

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NEWS

NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 3

Alpharetta may pull funding for current roads, parks projects Savings would roll over to fund 2021 necessities

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Anticipated shortfalls in funding next year’s budget has prompted Alpharetta city officials to consider sidetracking a host of major projects already funded for this year.

At its regularly scheduled meeting April 21, the City Council asked its staff to draw up a list of current projects that could be halted in their tracks in order to preserve close to $5 million for urgent needs next year.

Like most local governments, Alpharetta operates on two dominant budgets, a general fund budget that pays for day-to-day operations, and a capital budget that funds major, one-time projects, like road work, new buildings, equipment and land purchases.

With funding sources, like sales taxes, taking a hit from the coronavirus pandemic, city officials say they are worried whether they will have enough money to pay for necessary recurring capital expenditures next year.

Alpharetta Finance Director Tom Harris said he and the mayor should have a draft for the 2021 general fund budget within the next week. The 2020 general fund budget was set at $75 million, and it is not expected to grow a great deal in the coming year.

Funding the capital budget may be trickier, especially recurring capital expenses, like scheduled vehicle replacements and street resurfacing, Harris said.

Normally, the recurring capital budget is $10 million a year. The city gets about half that from revenues it expects to bring in from the year’s current tax and fees collections. The other half comes from what is left over from the prior year’s budget — a surplus that is rolled over to help pay for recurring capital expenses.

This year, Harris said, he doesn’t expect a $5 million surplus left over in the 2020 budget. He said the end total will probably be nearer $3 million.

Right now, Alpharetta has more than $11 million in unspent money that was committed for capital projects this year.

But, not all that money is available.

Much of it is required to either complete projects already well underway or is helping pay for items on a strict main-

I think we should take a very conservative approach. I think we’re going to need it as far as looking at our budget for next year.”

KAREN RICHARD Alpharetta Councilwoman

tenance schedule, like replacing worn vehicles.

Overall, Harris said, there is about $4.3 million in unspent money that could be reallocated to projects in 2021.

“I think that if you don’t feel you need to do it really right now, you would unwind it — no one’s going to completely forget about it…but unwind what you can and let it be available for unallocated [funding] as we work to fund the

recurring and anything else you feel is important,” Harris said.

Mayor Jim Gilvin said the exercise in parsing current projects gives Alpharetta a leg up on addressing the economic fallout from shrinking tax revenues it expects due to the pandemic.

Council members said they were amenable to scrapping as much as possible to help pay for necessities in the coming year. Road resurfacing, they said, is one expense the city cannot afford to scrimp on because scheduled annual maintenance is crucial in keeping the city’s street quality at a high level.

A preliminary polling of the City Council identified projects that were added mid-year, like new or upgraded restrooms at several parks. That line item alone totals around $1 million. Another $1 million in savings is being considered that was to fund a roundabout at Hopewell Road and Vaughan Drive.

Councilwoman Karen Richard recommended holding off on most if not all the items approved as part of the mid-year budget adjustment.

“I think we should take a very conservative approach,” she said. “I think we’re going to need it as far as looking at our budget for next year.”

4 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

Area leaders react to governor’s order to reopen businesses Officials mixed on plans to reopen some businesses

The economic damage of COVID-19 to our city has been devastating to local businesses and many may never recover.”

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com NORTH METRO ATLANTA, Ga. — City and county leaders are keeping a close eye on local fallout from Gov. Brian Kemp’s decision last week allowing certain businesses to reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kemp announced last week he is granting permission for gyms, hair and nail salons, bowling alleys and tattoo parlors to reopen under special guidelines that follow safety protocols against spread of the virus. The governor was also expected to extend the order to restaurants and other entertainment venues this week.

President Trump has criticized the governor’s action, calling it too much too soon.

At least one local official agrees.

“I think this is too early,” Roswell Mayor Lori Henry said.

She conceded that economic issues are pressing, but they don’t outweigh her duty to preserve the health and safety of her residents.

Along those lines, Henry announced formation of a Business Recovery Task Force last week whose sole purpose is to map out a strategy among all industries for recovery. The task force will include some 20 local business owners and city economic specialists.

“Now more than ever, our relationship with Roswell’s business community is important,” Henry said. “It is crucial that we all work together to come up with thoughtful and measured ways to recover and get Roswell’s business community on its feet again.”

Alpharetta feels impact One city certain to feel some effect from the governor’s action is Alpharetta, where local businesses account for almost two-thirds of property tax revenues. The city has close to 30 hotels and scores of restaurants and shops that felt the full brunt of the statewide shutdown order issued in early April.

Mayor Jim Gilvin said the governor’s initiatives reflect what he’s been hearing from the business community, and he is generally in support of the plan.

“Business owners realize that no matter what the governor does or says, their livelihood depends on people actually feeling safe again,” he said.

Every government leader has had to make tough choices relating to local safety, he said, but the governor has to

JIM GILVIN Alpharetta mayor

HERALD FILE PHOTO

Gov. Brian Kemp announced last week he is granting permission for gyms, hair and nail salons, bowling alleys and tattoo parlors to reopen under special guidelines that follow safety protocols against spread of the virus. The governor was also expected to extend the order to restaurants and other entertainment venues this week. weigh the interests of large metropolitan areas like Atlanta with those of rural areas of the state.

“So far, Georgia has been successful in avoiding the disastrous projections that were given back in the beginning of this just a few weeks ago,” Gilvin said.

“So, I still give Governor Kemp the benefit of the doubt, especially since I realize that no matter what he does, this crisis won’t be over any time soon.”

Gilvin said Alpharetta residents and businesses have been exemplary in practicing safety protocols, and he sees no reason that won’t continue.

At the same time, the shutdown has been devastating for local business, he said.

“Alpharetta’s daytime population used to be nearly twice the size of our nighttime resident population, and nearly all of those 60,000 are no longer here on most weekdays,” he said. “The economic damage of COVID-19 to our city has been devastating to local businesses and many may never recover.”

Johns Creek mayor expects ‘new normal’ Johns Creek has been trying to grow its business tax base since it incorporated as a city more than 10 years ago.

The shutdown all but cleared some of its shopping centers around Medlock Bridge and State Bridge roads.

Mayor Mike Bodker was reluctant to pass judgment on the governor’s decision.

“I have a general rule that says that I’m not going to Monday-morning quarterback another elected official, especially one with the significant responsibilities that Governor Kemp has,” he said. “I don’t have all the information he has.”

Bodker said Johns Creek has been blessed that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases is relatively low, not only in his city but throughout North Fulton County.

He said he’s confident businesses will take appropriate precautions regardless of what the state says. People and businesses have become inheritantly trained to exercise proper health protocols, he said.

Over the past couple of weeks, the Johns Creek mayor said he’s heard from both sides of the shutdown order.

“I’ve gotten emails that say don’t allow the state to open. I’ve gotten emails that have said we’ve got to open up,” he said. “At some point, we all have to get to a new normal, because normal’s not there any more. Whether it happens now or a month from now or six months from now, it still requires that we be cautious and safe.”

Other areas evaluating fallout In Forsyth County and cities like

Dunwoody, officials are in the early stages of weighing the impact of the shutdown on their budgeting process.

Forsyth County Manager Eric Johnson told county commissioners that talks are already underway to prepare a set of conditions by which the county can begin the process of opening some of its campgrounds.

“We’re going to start to engage directors in how we can safely start to expand access to county services,” Johnson said. “In some cases, we’ve gotten good at having some people work from home… Program by program, we’ll start looking at where we have the opportunity to safely re-engage the public, but we realize we have to have a game plan for the long haul.”

County Commissioner Molly Cooper said she hopes to see greater guidance from the governor regarding the reopening of restaurant dining rooms. The initial announcement, she said, was lacking in details.

Forsyth County Attorney Ken Jarrard said the county’s own shelter-in-place order expires May 18, and public hearings are scheduled a few days later. He said commissioners need to consider safeguards to hold the hearings, whether in the commission chambers or with access online.

Commissioners were scheduled to meet this week to discuss how they plan to expand the public’s access to services in the coming weeks.

The City of Dunwoody is also scheduled to discuss the governor’s plan this week. Right now, the City Council is evaluating plans on how much impact the shutdown has had on revenues.

One area most affected is revenue from the city’s hotel/motel tax. City officials say they anticipate drastic shortfalls in what had been budgeted. The general estimate being presented is that the city will collect $200,000 from the tax, about a quarter of what was originally expected.

NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 5

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SCHOOLS

6 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

School Board members contribute to relieve fallout from coronavirus

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com NORTH FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Fears of COVID are keeping school buildings shuttered, but members of the Fulton County School Board have found ways to support their schools and the community during the crisis. While they continue working to keep the school district moving forward, North Fulton representatives are also volunteering to deliver meals, fundraising to support front line responders and making medical supplies.

Katie Reeves (District 2-Alpharetta/Milton) is putting her sewing skills to use, making “hospital approved” face masks to keep community members safe from infection. She has given the masks to immune-compromised friends and family, as well as health care workers for their own use or for their patients.

Several of her masks have been sent to former students in Fulton County who are involved in the response to COVID. Katha Stuart (District 1 - Roswell/ Milton) spends her time helping out at the schools in her district, including food distribution at areas schools, and working with community groups to deliver meals to families living in extended stay motels. Stuart also worked with the principals at several elementary schools to donate their schools’ supply of hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to WellStar North Fulton Hospital. Stuart said the group also donated items to the Roswell Police Department.

Julia Bernath (District 7 - Roswell/ Sandy Springs) is participating in “online” volunteer opportunities, keeping the lines of communication open to assists parents and community members, checking on family and friends, and supporting the many Facebook and GoFundMe efforts that her community has initiated to help medical staff and other vital workers.

Linda McCain (District 5- Johns Creek) said she is making sure meal distribution efforts include members of her community in need, especially in families where parents are essential workers. She noted Johns Creek Books and Gifts is partnering with Blessings in a Backpack/Family Fund to provide a local drop off point for donations — both monetary and food staples. McCain encourages anyone interested in helping to contact northfultoncares@gmail.com to be added to their list. The organization is also working with area schools to ensure families in need can receive a weekly lunch for the kids and extra groceries for the family.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Fulton School Board member Katie Reeves has produced a number of handmade face masks for distribution to frontline workers and other residents in the community.

Fulton School Board member Katha Stuart, right, and Stefi Slewitzke, assistant principal at Birmingham Falls Elementary School, assist in a meal distribution at Mimosa Elementary.

Fulton School Board Member Linda McCain is helping ensure families in her community have food and other supplies.

NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 7

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8 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

COMMUNITY

A fond farewell to a childhood friend Almost 20 years ago I was a student at Alpharetta Elementary. I remember waiting to be dropped off in the carpool line — early morning, still dark, sitting in our 1989 CARL APPEN Volvo 240 DL hatchContributor back. I faintly recall carl@appenmediagroup.com teachers or principals outside the double doors of the east wing, opening car doors and welcoming students. I was only an Alpharetta Eagle for one or two years under the famed Jackie Littlefield. I don’t remember much of her; just a very distinct warmth and a head of short frizzy hair. From time to time she pulled me out of class for “reading club,” though I don’t remember other kids with me in the principal’s office.

I recall my five teachers — Ms. Gray, Ms. House, Ms. McCarthy, Mr. Powanda (Sarah’s dad) and Mrs. Benton. I remember how each one treated me. On the first day of fourth grade Mr. Powanda taught us how to turn a five-sentence paragraph into a five-paragraph essay.

Ms. McCarthy’s class had Flat Stanley. I remember book sales and chess club in the library.

Parents could come to school for lunch. The lopsided cafeteria had a stage at one end and a courtyard that I’m not sure was ever unlocked. Ms. Vicki gave us all cinnamon rolls and once scolded me for buying lunch with silver dollars.

“Are you sure you’re supposed to be spending these?”

I remember a few different things from Alpharetta Elementary but no memory is stronger than sitting in that Volvo listening to John Prine. It was the same CD or cassette every morning. “Illegal Smile” would be the first track to play. My dad always skipped “Sam Stone,” though I never put much thought into it. I knew (and still know) every word to “Grandpa Was a Carpenter.” “The Great Compromise” was (and still is) my favorite story. “Dear Abby” would follow and I’d laugh from start to finish. Now I imagine what it would be like to sit in an Italian café, reading the only English newspaper they had, as Mr. Prine described. To “find an old friend in there” among the pages.

It’s hard to explain why John Prine and his music left such a rich impres-

sion. I was 7 or 8 years old, singing along as Johnny was duped over a bucket of popcorn. The only thing I knew about Singer sewing machines was that Grandma traded her milking cow for one. I’m still unsure about the implication of being an Eisenhower voter. I’ll never fully understand why “Sam’s welcome home didn’t last too long.” The stories and the music remain with me despite a total lack of contextualization. I’d like to think John Prine doesn’t mind. In fact, I like to imagine he’d be glad to hear it. It’s hard to cast a wide net without knowing what you’re doing.

I know I’m not alone. In his own reflection on Prine’s passing, author Gabe Meline recalls asking Kris Kristofferson what he thought “The Late John Garfield Blues” was about. The singer launched into a story about listening to the track on repeat with Rita Coolidge. Then Kristofferson added, “As to what it’s about? God, I don’t know. But I love the song.”

I lost a friend last week. One that I’ve known since I was 7 or 8, and whose stories I remember almost more than my own.

Goodbye Mr. Prine, my old friend among the pages.

Post office confirms workers test positive for coronavirus ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The U.S. Postal Service confirmed Friday that two employees at the Alpharetta Post Office have tested positive for the coronavirus.

A spokesman confirmed that one of the employees works inside the building on Bluegrass Parkway. The location of the second employee was not disclosed. Alpharetta has three USPS offices. The others are on Old Milton Parkway and on Webb Bridge Road.

In a statement issued following inquiries to its Atlanta office, the Postal Service said it believes the risk is low for employees who work at the Alpharetta Post Office, but it will keep employees apprised as new information and guidance becomes available.

“The safety and well-being of our employees is our highest priority,” the statement read. “To ensure the health of our employees, we are continuing to follow recommended guidance and strategies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

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NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 9

It will truly take all of us — business, government, non-profit and resident — working together to get through this.

KALI BOATRIGHT, President & CEO, Greater North Fulton Chamber 10 | April 30, 2020

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Chambering in a COVID World requires commitment

REESE VANDERBILT ARCHITECTS

The AC Alpharetta Hotel by Marriott at Northwinds Summit will feature 140 rooms within the 24-acre development at Ga. 400 and Haynes Bridge Road.

Alpharetta standards board approves Marriott site plans ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Design Review Board held its first virtual meeting April 24, approving site plans for a 140-room Marriott hotel as part of the Northwinds Summit development.

Construction of the Northwinds mixed-use site began in late 2018 at the corner of Ga. 400 and Haynes Bridge Road. Its 24-acre campus features 1.2 million square feet of office, 30,000 square feet of retail, 140 multifamily units and for-sale residential along the Alpha Loop.

The new building will raise the number of hotels the city offers to just under 30. Overall, Alpharetta hotels account for more than 3,500 rooms, making it one of North Fulton’s leaders in the hospitality industry.

Earlier this year, InterContinental

Hotels Group opened its first EVEN Hotel in Georgia, with 132 rooms, directly across from Avalon.

Also at the April 24 meeting, the Design Review Board approved site plans for a Dunkin Donuts on North Main Street. The restaurant received approval from the City Council last October for conditional use of the property to operate a restaurant with drive-thru window within the Stonewood Village shopping center, at 670 North Main Street at the northwest corner of North Main Street and Cogburn Road.

Alpharetta Community Development Director Kathi Cook said other items requiring a public hearing before the Design Review Board have been moved to the end of May. — Patrick Fox

The Greater North Fulton Chamber remains open for business and is taking a lead role in supporting businesses across the region.

We have compiled numerous resources for the entire business community – both Chamber members AND non-Chamber members. We are still signing certificates of origin for exports and have moved weekly leads generation virtual so that business pipelines are full when we find our path forward.

Our goal is to identify important information to assist all of you and to keep the North Fulton economy moving.

Chambers of Commerce are the great conveners in a time when we cannot convene. The Greater North Fulton Chamber brings together private and public to build not just great business but also great communities. As a regional chamber, that goal also means celebrating and respecting the unique differences in each of our six cities – Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell and Sandy Springs.

Ironically, COVID-19 has only emphasized the importance of our regional role as convener and of our skills as collaborators. It will truly take all of us — business, government, non-profit and resident — working together to get through this. We see this already as states and cities band together to share resources and as large business competitors set aside profit and work together for the common good.

Over the last month, the Greater North Fulton Chamber has created a onestop Business Resource site that provides important information and access to not just our paying Chamber members, but to ALL businesses in North Fulton. We have supported our local hospitals and charities by sharing their needs, so our businesses and residents can help our heroes. We have called our members daily in an attempt to assess true needs, and we have connected those who have solutions with those who most require them.

We have pivoted from events that fund our organization and have created free webinars to educate all North Fulton businesses not just on new loans, grants and labor information, but also training for leadership in times of change so that when we determine the path forward, we will be better than ever. We have continued to help our members generate leads virtually so they have a full pipeline when

the time comes to do business once again.

We have learned that networking can be done over technology and that we as humans need to come together to connect, especially in times of stress and anxiety.

Although we closed our physical office weeks ago, we reminded ourselves that the Chamber is not a building but a team, and the Chamber has continued to operate virtually, even meeting our members remotely to stamp Certificates of Origin so exports and business can continue.

We know that many in our communities have lost jobs, particularly those in the restaurant, retail, travel and entertainment industries. So, we have expanded our NorthFultonJobs.com site to link new job opportunities all across Metro Atlanta with those who need to feed their families.

We continue working as the Voice of Business to increase federal funding for PPP and EIDL whose funding is already at risk of running out. Even when our own Chamber as a 501(c)6 is not included in those relief efforts, we believe it is the right thing to do for our region.

While mitigating tremendous change, we are also working on the path forward.

The World Trade Organization expects world trade to fall between 13-32 percent in 2020 due to COVID. We believe that as a demonstrated convener and collaborator, the Greater North Fulton Chamber will be a catalytic leader in this region’s economic recovery and have formed a Recovery Task Force to that end. We don’t know what the “new normal” will look like, but we do expect that it will happen in a deliberate, pre-determined, roll-out, and we want each of our communities to have a voice in how that happens.

We are proud of our region and our businesses. We believe in our great communities and their leaders. We will continue to work hard, and we will succeed together.

Kali Boatright, President & CEO Greater North Fulton Chamber

WWW.GNFCC.COM • Responsible Re-Entry Resources • Business Resources • Local Government Updates • Business Supporting Business • Webinar Resources • NorthFultonJobs.com for posting job openings and the latest on who is hiring

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NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 11

COMMUNITY

12 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

Your stories: How COVID-19 is impacting the community

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH METRO ATLANTA — All are dealing with some impacts to their lives as a result of COVID-19, but some are having to fight the virus itself.

When Alex Diener, 62, woke up March 12, he said he “felt miserable,” and a day of rest had not improved his situation. On March 13, Diener and his wife went to their room to watch TV. Diener said he fell off the bed and could not get up.

He was taken by ambulance to WellStar North Fulton and admitted at 4:30 a.m. before hospital staff ran a series of tests on the new patient.

Diener was tested for COVID-19 that Saturday, March 14, and the result was positive. However, that result did not come We want to know through until nine days how the coronavirus later. pandemic is impactIn the meantime, Dieing your daily life, ner’s temperature fluctuand we will continue ated from a minor fever to to publish reader over 104-degrees. During submissions. If you his hospital stay, medical would like to contribstaff had to cover him with ute, email Joe Parker ice packs several times at joe@appen to get his temperature to mediagroup.com. drop. Diener said sleep was elusive with his vitals checked every 90 minutes, and his food intake mostly consisted of juices, bananas and Ensure.

With his COVID-19 test returning positive, he was moved to the ICU on March 23. During the process, he was asked if he had a “do not resuscitate” order.

“I said yes not understanding the severity of the situation,” Diener said. “I was so close to being put on an intubator, but thankfully I wasn’t.”

During his time in the ICU, Diener’s fever finally started to drop, and he was eventually moved out of the ICU. His fever remained “normal” for the next four days while he worked on physical therapy.

Diener was discharged March 27 but remained on oxygen for another four days.

He is still in isolation at his Roswell home, and getting some outside time on his back patio when the weather is nice.

After his harrowing experience with the virus, he is grateful.

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“I am one of the lucky ones,” Diener said.

Praise for medical staff, like those who attended to Diener, has been especially elevated during the pandemic. Carol Blumenaus found a unique way to honor medical personnel and other essential workers through strokes of her paintbrush.

At the entrance to the Orchards of Windward neighborhood in Milton sits a sign Blumenaus painted honoring frontline workers. The sign reads, “Thank you for all you do!” and is adorned with characters depicting medical staff, first responders, the U.S. Postal Service, UPS and FedEx employees, sanitation workers and landscapers.

Elizabeth Lutterman, Blumenaus’ neighbor, said the sign is a “tribute to all these wonderful people who continue to work and service our community.”

Blumenaus and others have used skills to benefit the community, but others are finding ways to do it with a little ingenuity.

Braxton Chadwick, a senior at King’s Ridge Chris-

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Chadwick has started the Bloom to a Room program which donated flowers to residents at senior care facilities who are confined to their rooms due to COVID-19.

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OPINION

14 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

Observations from a homebound dinosaur My windows are live streaming an April that comes along once a decade in Georgia.

It’s a spring of prolonged sunshine, blue skies, cool temperatures. The green leaves — nature’s PAT FOX latest wardrobe Managing Editor — quiver on bark pat@appenmediagroup.com clotheslines.

The view is stunning, even more so after a cold, wet winter.

After more than a month of trepidation, this is the week we in the Peach State are supposed to unshackle ourselves from home and get on with business.

I just heard from a neighbor down the street that her father died last week from the COVID-19 virus.

“He went into the hospital alone,” she wrote. “He suffered alone. He died alone.”

So, there you go. Reality in three sentences.

Even during the height of the coronavirus threat — assuming the height has

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I’m no epidemiologist, but facts are facts.

Scientifically, there remains no reason to be so cavalier. passed — I marveled at those who never took it seriously. Certainly, by phone, I’ve interviewed scores of people who exercise proper caution and still find ways to help the afflicted or those who are under threat.

But even with my limited access to the outside, work trucks with crowded cabins rumble by, neighbors drop off kids for a day of play with other kids, and young 20-somethings gather for a Friday evening of drinks by the grill.

I’m no epidemiologist, but facts are facts. Scientifically, there remains no reason to be so cavalier.

Never mind the immediate health risks. If you think you are bulletproof because you are young or because you don’t believe the virus is contagious, you’re probably mistaken. But that’s OK. It is your life.

But it’s not OK really, because it’s my life. It’s my wife’s life, my friends’ lives.

If one has a family to support in a profession that does not allow working from home, I sympathize. I even support your efforts to slip through the social roadblocks, go out and earn a paycheck.

It’s the other stuff, the meet-ups, the devil-may care attitude.

There was a time, I think, when people exercised what I always thought of as a civic conscience. They paid their taxes, cut their grass, slowed down in school zones — simple things really — not because it was the law, but because it respected society and earned them a dose of self-respect in the bargain.

It wasn’t anything as lofty as patriotism or an admonition to love one’s neighbor. It was something less and something more, something that seems to have gone the way of the dinosaur.

Such is my observation from home, a random thought clouding an otherwise sunny day.

It’s just one of those stray doubts suggesting we may have become so horribly fractured, nothing can bind us for the common good.

It is hard, I know, to unite in a world of social distancing. Maybe impossible.

If so, this is less a sermon, more a requiem.

SPORTS

High school stadiums light up to honor seniors

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH METRO ATLANTA — In midMarch, senior athletes laced up their cleats, put on their uniforms and competed in their final high school competition. Though, they did know it at the time.

The suspension and ultimate cancellation of the spring season brought an unexpected and unfortunate end to the high school careers of all senior student-athletes. Local schools have taken to social media and used other means to celebrate their seniors, and many are now turning on the lights at their stadiums to celebrate the class of 2020.

Schools, including Roswell, Centennial, Johns Creek, Northview and others are turning on the stadium lights at certain times to honor the seniors who had their final season cut short. Some school are turning on the lights at 8:20 p.m. each day for 20 minutes, while others lit up their stadiums for 20 minutes on April 20 in the 20th hour of the day.

Logan Faust, head girls lacrosse coach at Johns Creek, said the school has been looking into honoring its seniors any way it can, and lighting up the stadium is just one way to do it. Faust said some schools in neighboring counties had started the trend, and Johns Creek followed suit.

“We have been throwing out so many ideas on how to honor them,” Faust said. “How can we show them that we are still thinking of you, still love you, and show that you are in our hearts and in our minds?”

Of the 26 players on the Gladiators’ lacrosse roster, 12 were seniors who played their final high school game March 6 with a 14-10, region win over Centennial. Four players — MJ Tredway,

Avery McIlwaine, Sandy Salit and Lexi Dawson — will play collegiately next year.

“I hate it for this group,” Faust said.

“Last year they made it far into the state tournament, and I felt like this group was gaining momentum. They were the reigning region champs, and I think they could have done that again, and I saw us going even farther in the playoffs.”

Though the cancellation of the season was devastating news, Faust’s message to her seniors was still optimistic.

“I did not want it to be a message of sadness,” she said. “I told them to take it as another chapter in their books, use it as a method of growing. This was a short chapter, but it’s time to close it and start writing the next.”

Centennial High School also turned the lights on at its stadium to celebrate seniors but took a different approach.

The school illuminated The Fortress for the 20th hour of April 20.

Athletic director Jeff Burch said the celebration turned into a bit of an event.

He said many seniors gathered at the Kohl’s parking lot directly across from the stadium when the light switch was flipped.

“All the kids were spread out and officers checked to make sure, and they were doing great,” Burch said. “Everyone was on top of their cars, yelling to each other from a distance. It was nice to be able to give them at least some face time together. It’s so cool to know the simple act of turning the lights on got them together.”

It can also serve as a positive memory for the seniors amid an otherwise melancholy time.

“It was cool to see [the stadium lighting] was meaningful,” Burch said.

“We want to give them some meaningful experience to take the place of what they have missed out on.”

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COMMUNITY

16 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

Restaurant Bingo promotes those businesses struggling through coronavirus pandemic

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta businessman has launched a unique contest to promote local restaurants in the hopes of generating more customers during the coronavirus threat.

Jason Binder said he developed the idea to reward those who patronize local restaurants by giving them something fun to do and earn prizes at the same time. The concept behind Binder’s “Restaurant Bingo” is to create a slate of restaurants on a card, fit them into 25 squares, then let customers mark the cards every time they order a meal or buy a gift card from one of the listed establishments. There is one space open for “your choice” which can include any local restaurant.

“What happened was, most people are in their houses, and it’s been a few weeks now, and we’ve gone through our recipes and our normal list of restaurants,” Binder said. “So, we made a list at home, and thought it would be fun to make a bingo game.”

The idea took off further during a Rotary meeting where he shared the idea.

Binder calls his organization North Fulton Serves, named after his podcast that features stories of people who contribute to the community.

The group has gathered sponsors to buy gift cards to award as prizes for those who fill in five squares on the cards. The five do not have to be in any particular arrangement like in regular bingo.

Right now, North Fulton Serves has two cards, one highlighting downtown

Binder said he developed the idea to reward those who patronize local restaurants by giving them something fun to do and earn prizes at the same time.

Alpharetta restaurants. The other features eating establishments elsewhere in the city.

Binder said he reached out to restaurants and businesses in Crabapple and in Roswell to spread the idea.

“I do want to branch it out so that it’s not just Alpharetta restaurants,” he said.

The restaurant sector has suffered its share of hardship since city and state emergency orders closed indoor dining as a guard against spread of the deadly coronavirus. Some have managed to limp through with curbside or home delivery, but staffs have been reduced to reflect the dwindling demand.

“I know the restaurants are going to open back up, but still, it’s not going to be business as usual for quite some time,” Binder said. “I think this is a fun way to rally community support.”

Binder said the venture could not have come off without the support of Jill Bernard of Southern Porch Homes, Steve Beecham of Hometown Mortgage and Appen Media Group.

Anyone with questions or who wants to add restaurant suggestions or contribute to the cause, can find more information at info@northfultonserves.com.

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Estate planning crucial during times of crisis

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH METRO ATLANTA — With an ongoing pandemic, now is the time for estate planning and granting financial or medical power of attorney. That’s the word from Joe Anne Swain from Roswell-based Swain Law Firm.

“You see the numbers of people in the hospital, and there is no telling how many have no legal documents, like trusts or medical power of attorney,” Swain said. “Everybody needs to plan.

We will hope for the best, but you need to have a plan in place if you need someone to step in for you.”

Wills and trusts can also prevent exacerbating an already difficult situation.

“We see a lot of families fighting when someone (someone who has died) has no trust, and in many cases, no will,” Swain said. “It’s important to have that legal work in order…so that you your family knows what your interests were.”

Those needing to sign wills, trusts or other documents needing to be notarized can now do so online. Under an executive order by Gov. Brian Kemp, Georgians can legally sign such documents that require notarization through “real-time audiovideo communication,” including the use of teleconferencing system Zoom.

For the past few weeks, virtual signings have been the default setting at Swain Law Firm.

“It’s a very simple process,” Swain said. “We watch them sign the documents on screen, and we notarize them when they arrive.”

Most forms are dropped off, but Swain said the office can also arrange for a pick-up for those who need it, such as someone in a senior care facility.

Swain said having a healthcare power of attorney is always important, but especially amid a worldwide health crisis. The legal document permits

someone to make medical decisions on a person’s behalf if they are unable to do so themselves. Most grant this ability to their spouse, but Swain said a secondary power of attorney should also be finalized. She used the example of a couple being involved in a crash and both being incapacitated.

Swain said wills are okay to have if a person has no other legal estate planning documents, but a trust is preferable.

“A will has to be probated, all assets must go through probate court and creditors are allowed to assess any assets,” Swain said.

The probate court process typically takes 3 to 6 months, but it can go up to a year, Swain said.

“During that time, all the assets are frozen while bills need to be paid,” she said. “But if you have a trust, there is no probate court, it could be settled the next week.”

Holdings are also kept private with a trust, whereas Swain said “your life becomes an open book” through the probate court process.

There are two types of trusts — revocable and irrevocable. A revocable trust can be changed five times per year.

Terms may not be changed with an irrevocable trust and a trustee is designated to make decisions on behalf of the trust holder.

Swain said irrevocable trusts are a good tool when someone has parents or a loved one with dementia.

Those who do have a will or trust should also consider updating them if needed. Swain suggests doing so at least every five years. Wills can be changed “all the time,” she said.

Georgians can legally sign documents virtually until May 13 when the executive order expires. Swain said there is a push to follow in the footsteps of other states to make virtual signings legal at Solution all times.

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COMMUNITY

NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 17

Sign of the times: Local company launches protective product lines

By DENISE RAY denise@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Quick thinking by one local manufacturer of sign and environmental graphics has resulted in an entirely new product line.

Option Signs, a design and fabrication facility specializing in architectural signage, and its sister company, Oakhurst Signs, is now creating medical and workforce personal protective equipment, or PPE. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, Option Signs used its manufacturing expertise to create two new lines of business, said Tucker Twitmyer, Oakhurst general manager.

In February, Option Signs and Oakhurst merged, becoming part of a closely affiliated collection of businesses focused on American-made signs, graphics and non-structural construction solutions for residential, commercial, industrial and retail buildings, Twitmyer said.

“Option Signs is run by its founding team, some of the best in the United States at reliable, on-time, on-budget delivery of all manner of signs,” Twitmyer said.

When the pandemic hit, the two companies responded with a double whammy.

“Oakhurst Signs created a marketing campaign and had an e-commerce store up and running within a week to help essential businesses stay open,” Patti Huxford, senior vice president of sales and design for Option Signs said.

One item especially produced for the pandemic is the company’s intubation box which protects healthcare workers who administer respirator tubes to patients.

“We took an open-source design and modified the box to serve its purpose and to protect intubation professionals better,” Twitmyer said.

Twitmyer said the device helps

locations and already purchased for various primary locations in the Northeast and Georgia,” Huxford said.

The Forsyth County company now offers “distance dots” and construction signs which provide safety features for businesses and consumers including handwashing, social distancing measurement and other precautionary measures.

The two companies have been collaborating since their union, but the urgency of safety precautions hastened the bond.

“We’ve been collaborating on some other projects since February of this year, but the COVID-19 efforts created a great opportunity to come together as one organization behind a common goal

of helping others get through together,” Huxford said.

There will be more collaborations as virus-related issues continue.

“Innovation is phenomenal. Other ideas are being prototyped to accommodate changes in healthcare,” Twitmyer said. “Everyone is working on safer interaction for employees and customers. The core challenge is how to change face-toface interaction to a remote interaction to reassure, inform and give direction.”

Option Signs has completed projects which include the HALCYON lights and murals at the mixed-use development, signage all over the Emory campus and the Gainesville campus of Lanier Technical College, among numerous others throughout the Southeast.

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Oakhurst Signs and Option Signs of Forsyth County are creating medical and workforce personal protective equipment for healthcare facilities and businesses throughout the country. reduce exposure to high viral concentration during intubation. The boxes are currently in three medical systems in Georgia in addition to 15 other states.

Workforce protection in other fields includes sneeze guards which work in a variety of industries.

Option Signs offers three different varieties — permanent, tabletop and temporary, light weight versions. Post offices and election polling places use mid-range versions.

Twitmyer said that when used in elections, the sneeze guard will protect the poll worker and voters, and they also allow space for iPads.

Sneeze guards are more widespread, Huxford said.

“Our guards are being used in about 15 states now in convenience stores/ gas stations, package stores, U.S Postal

Demolition of Exterior Accessory Buildings – Former Milton Country Club ITB NUMBER 20-CD05 Sealed Bids Due Date: REVISED DUE DATE May 14, 2020 2:00PM Local Time Electronic submission via: www.cityofmiltonga.us To be publicly announced at approximately 2:15 at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004(*). The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

The City of Milton is requesting bids from interested parties for a public private partnership. The request for sealed bids for the Demolition of Exterior Accessory Buildings – Former Milton Country Club will be posted on the following websites the week of April 16, 2020. http://www.cityofmiltonga.us or http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp (*) Bid opening/announcement to be publicly made via virtual meeting as outlined in bid document.

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COMMUNITY

18 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

Student encourages others to become creative

By DENISE RAY denise@appenmediagroup.com FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A local student has championed the cause of student creativity while schools have resorted to online learning the remainder of the 2020 school year.

Shreya Kharidhi believes that “everything is art and everyone can art,” so she’s working to provide students with opportunities to be creative while at home. “[Art] is a great way to express emotions and connect with others,” the South Forsyth Middle School 7th grader said. “People who have trouble communicating verbally can always use art to share their thoughts. People who struggle with anxiety can release their

emotions through art.”

Kharidhi and her family were at Whitlow Elementary School recently distributing art supplies to more than 100 families who came for the school meal program.

“There are a lot of kids who can only create artwork at school because they don’t have the supplies at home,” she said. “These kids come from families that can’t afford basic art supplies, like markers and crayons. That is why my family and I decided to distribute art supplies.”

The art packages included a notebook, markers, pencils, crayons, glue sticks and hand sanitizer and were sorted by grade level.

The distribution was a success. The kids were happy to receive the supplies

In Memoriam

Kathleen Spruill Miers

Kathleen Spruill Miers, age 91, passed away on Palm Sunday, April 5, 2020 at her home in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Kathleen was born on June 14, 1928, in a farmhouse in Dunwoody, Georgia.

She was the daughter of Euil S. Spruill and Georgia Womack Spruill. Kathleen grew up in a Dunwoody which is unrecognizable today – gravel roads, farmland, a two-room schoolhouse, and a small country church. As most young people of the time, Kathleen learned the value of faith and family, the importance of hard work and doing one’s best. Those lessons served her well throughout her long life.

Kathleen graduated from Chamblee High School in 1946. She met and married the love of her life, Lewis J. Miers, Jr. in 1951. They were married for over 59 years.

Again, family was Kathleen’s priority as she took care of those who needed her while she managed to balance the demands of an active, young family and work at Citizens and Southern National Bank in Sandy Springs.

Kathleen and Lewis were also very active members of Dunwoody United Methodist Church serving as Sunday School teachers, MYF counselors, and founding members of the Fellowship Sunday School Class. Because of their devotion and contributions to mission

work, Kathleen and Lewis were named Mission Persons of the Year in 1996.

Kathleen was on the church finance committee for many years and a charter member of the Spiritual Growth Circle.

Even though Kathleen and Lewis moved to Alpharetta in 1982, they remained loyal supporters of the activities of DUMC and its mission.

Kathleen is preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Miers, Jr., and her brother, Weyman Spruill.

She is survived by her daughter; Molly Miers Patrick (Kevin), son; Roger Miers (Lanie), grandchildren; Erin Patrick Kirkland (Travis), Brady Patrick, Kaylan Miers Fila (Casey), Keri Miers Brunner (Shawn), Meg Miers Seiferheld (Rolf ), Torrie Miers, and great-grandchildren; Walker, Molly, and Emily Kirkland, Liam Fila, Emma and Olivia Brunner, Hailey and Jax Seiferheld, and brothers-in-law; Gene Golden and George Smith. Polly Spruill is among the many surviving nieces and nephews.

A small graveside service was held on April 11, 2020. While the COVID-19 directives have restricted a gathering of a celebration of life, the family has been blessed by the outpouring of support and comfort. Should one wish to memorialize Mrs. Miers’ life, please donate to Community Assistance Center (www. ourcac.org) or a charity of your choice.

SPECIAL

Shreya Kharidhi, 13, is helped by her sister, Shivani, 9, left and father Sandeep, as she passes out art supplies to families in line for the Forsyth County lunch program. Shreya hopes to collect enough art materials for another distribution at Sawnee Elementary School. and left excited to go home and create their own masterpieces, Kharidhi said.

“Art has surrounded me my entire life and it has been helping me express myself for so long. I want others to have the same opportunity,” the 13-year old said.

Kharidhi said she wants to keep giving art supplies to more students so she has created Art For Every1, a YouTube video explaining her mission and providing details for donations. Her plan is to distribute supplies at Sawnee Elementary once she has enough.

“When the kids are creating artwork, I hope they are able to feel free and show their inner creativity. I want them to release whatever is inside and forget, for a little bit, everything around them,” she said.

Mindful that the coronavirus is contagious, Kharidhi and her family take

precautions with donations and distributions.

“We are doing our best to keep everything safe and clean,” she said.

“All supplies delivered to our house are moved into the garage and we don’t touch them for a couple days, to make sure any possible traces of the virus are eliminated. While handling the supplies, we are constantly washing our hands.”

When they distribute the supplies, the family wears face masks and gloves and avoids touching their faces. They practice social distancing at all times, Kharidhi said.

She also started “Art for Autism,” an art-based fundraiser to benefit The Autism Community in Action.

“I am excited to be doing something for our community during this difficult time,” Kharidhi said.

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NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 19

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SCHOOLS

20 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

Area theatre groups receive Shuler Awards nominations

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com NORTH METRO ATLANTA — Several local high school theatre groups have been nominated for Shuler Awards which honor the best musical productions and performances in the state through the academic year. The troupes at Chattahoochee, Denmark, Milton and Johns Creek high

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schools have been nominated for awards in various categories, while the companies of Cambridge and West Forsyth earned honorable mention accolades.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the awards will have a different look this year. The ArtsBridge Foundation, which coordinates the Shuler Awards, will hold an online presentation to announce the winners of each category. The organization said the presentation will be held in early May. Denmark’s production of “Bonnie and Clyde” is nominated for eight awards, including Best Overall Production and Best Ensemble. The Shuler Awards nominations are the first for the young school.

Kirk Grizzle has been nominated for Best Director and Best Musical Direction. He is also up for Best Technical Execution along with Megan Erasmus.

The production also garnered Best Leading Actor and Actress nominations.

Kathryn Smith is up for Best Leading Actress for her portrayal of Bonnie Parker, and Charlie Webb is nominated for Best Leading Actor as Clyde Barrow.

Sadie Pijanowski has been nominated for Scenic Design.

“Bonnie and Clyde” also received several honorable mentions. Aria Evans and Kathryn Smith were recognized for choreography, and Morgan Potts received a honorable mention for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Blanch Barrow.

Kirk Grizzle, Lekhya Adari and Logan Shapiro received Best Sound honorable mention.

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While Denmark looks to earn its first honors, perennial award-winning group Milton Theatre could add up to five Shuler Awards to its long list of accolades for its production of “Chicago.”

“Chicago” is nominated for Best Overall Production. Milton has won the award two of the last three years.

Sarah Charles Lewis is up for Best Leading Actress for her portrayal of Velma Kelly, Simeon Jones is nominated for Best Lighting Design, and Kate Hartigan will look to earn the award for Best Costumes.

Liz Wilder and Maddie Painter are nominated for Best Sound.

Milton also received honorable mentions in Music Direction (Nathan Schreer), Best Supporting Actress (Addison Bendall as Roxie Hart) and Best Ensemble.

Chattahoochee High School is up for three Shuler Awards for its production of “Cabaret.”

Jan Jensen is nominated for Best Direction, Jennie Fabianski is up for Best Music Direction, and the performance also earned a Best Orchestra nomination.

Sarah Grapner earned honorable mention for Best Supporting Actress as Fraulein Maria Schneider.

Johns Creek’s production of “Big Fish” earned two nominations. Adam Britt, Calvin Beanblossom and Jonathan Strickland are nominated for Best Sound, and Samantha Lane is up for Best Featured Performer.

Allison Polaski earned an honorable mention for Best Choreography.

Matthew Van Dyke received an honorable mention of Best Orchestra for Cambridge’s production of “Pippin.” West Forsyth’s Aidan Phillips and Ava Phillips earned an honorable mention for Best Sound for “Into the Woods.”

DEATH NOTICES Susan Baldwin, 70, of Cumming, passed away April 19, 2020.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory.

Richard Brown, 80, of Cumming, passed away on April 16, 2020.

Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory.

Higinia Ceron, 71, of Alpharetta, passed away April 19, 2020. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Chester Gorman, 81, of Cumming, passed away April 20, 2020. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Crematory.

Eddie Hardy, 69, of Cumming, passed away on April 17, 2020. Arrangements

by Ingram Funeral Home & Eva Hegedus, 88, of Roswell, passed away on April 19, 2020. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Robin Palmer, 59, of Cumming, passed away April 21, 2020. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

Erma Wright, 89, of Alpharetta, passed away on April 15, 2020. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Jerry Ray, 82, of Roswell, passed away on April 18, 2020.

Crematory.

Virginia Roper, 82, of Cumming, passed away on April 18, 2020. Arrangements

by Ingram Funeral Home & David Souza, 62, of Alpharetta, passed away on April 16, 2020. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Crematory.

Geraldine Yarbrough, 71, of Cumming, passed away on April 16, 2020. Arrangements

by Ingram Funeral Home &

NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 21

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22 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

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COMMUNITY

Alpharetta Rotary makes plans for ‘donation derby’ fundraiser

By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta Rotary will hold a unique fundraiser May 2 to benefit local nonprofits and organizations impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The group will hold a “donation derby” fundraiser over Zoom and Facebook Live that had already raised $55,000 more than eight days before the event.

Twenty Rotary members will “jockey” 20 horses from a past Churchill Downs race, with each gate representing an organization to benefit from the event. The jockeys have been raising funds for the group they represent, and the top three finishing horses will receive an added donation from Alpharetta Rotary.

The event will be held May 2 with a cocktail hour at 5 p.m. before the race at 6 p.m. It will be streamed live on Alpharetta Rotary’s Facebook page and through a Zoom teleconference. Rotary members are being mailed a mint julip cup for the celebration.

Some of the groups benefitting are North Fulton Community Charities, Meals by Grace, YMCA, Stand Up for Kids and BrewAble. The fundraising goal is $75,000.

Rotary member Mary Ulich said the creative fundraiser came together as an impromptu plan and members quickly ran with it.

Originally, Rotary was set to celebrate one of their members, Kirk Driskell, being named District Governor, the first such appointment for an Alpharetta member. But celebration plans were cancelled due to COVID-19.

Rotary was also searching for ways to benefit the community during the crisis, and new ways to have fun.

“The donation derby fills those three goals,” Ulich said. “It will raise money for different causes, recognize and honor Kirk and give the community something fun to rally around.”

Ulich said each organization was randomly assigned a lane, and the past race was chosen from a hat. She assures the race is a thriller.

“It’s the most exciting two minutes in sports, so we did pick from 5 that were exciting,” she said, laughing. “We didn’t want to have one where one horse runs away with it.”

Alpharetta Rotary will award an additional $1,000 to the winning “horse,” with $500 for second and $300 for third.

Donations have been pouring in well ahead of derby day. On April 23, the event had already raised $55,000 of its $75,000 goal. Three groups — Senior

Services North Fulton, North Fulton Community Charities and Meals by Grace — had already surpassed $11,000 in donations.

Rotary is funding the costs associated with the event, so 100 percent of donations will go to the local organizations.

Those wanting to join in on the action can watch the Facebook Live stream at facebook.com/AlpharettaRotaryClub/. Donations are being taken through the donation derby’s website, bit.ly/2VRLYUa.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA PUBLIC NOTICE PH-20-AB-05 PLACE City Hall Two Park Plaza Council Chambers May 14, 2020 3:00 P.M. PURPOSE Restaurant Consumption on Premises Liquor, Beer, Wine & Sunday Sales APPLICANT Movie Grill Concepts XXIII, LLC d/b/a Studio Movie Grill 7730 North Point Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30022 Owner Movie Grill Concepts XXIII, LLC Registered Agent Michael Sard

Police arrest 2 suspects in collection box theft ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are asking the public to monitor their checking accounts and billing statements after they arrested two men breaking into a freestanding mail collection box in the Brannon Square parking lot on Alpharetta Highway April 6.

Ibrahima Biteye, 21, of Lithonia and Marc Sean Salif Sidikou, also 21, of Maryland, are charged with theft by taking and obstruction after detectives caught them in the process of raiding the box. Sidikou also faces charges of fleeing or attempting to elude officers.

Police spokesman Lt. Noah Caplan said detectives recovered a large quantity of stolen mail, and police fear there may be more unknowing victims.

NorthFulton.com | April 30, 2020 | 23

“We ask that anyone who dropped off checks or other forms of payment in this mailbox anytime this year check with the payee and financial institution to ensure proper payment was made, and to ensure no unfamiliar checking account transactions were recorded,” Caplan said.

Detectives have identified many victims whose payments were never made, or whose check amounts were altered and cashed, Caplan said.

He asks residents to spread the word among friends and family members who often pay their bills using the mailbox, but who may not monitor social media.

Anyone who has seen similar criminal activity should call the nonemergency phone number to file a police report: 770-640-4160.

— Patrick Fox

24 | April 30, 2020 | NorthFulton.com

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