Milton Herald - March 2, 2023

Family feel and vibe

Milton officials make plan for new greenspace

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Since Milton voters approved the $25 million Greenspace Bond in 2016, the city has purchased more than 400 acres in conservation land across six properties and is now developing a plan to strategize the space.

The bonds are intended for passive use to provide recreational trails, protect natural areas and wildlife habitat, preserve agricultural land, protect the water quality of rivers and streams, and provide parks and park improvements.

Emily Groth, Milton environmental program manager, presented the blueprint at the Feb. 22 Milton City Council meeting with some key elements, such as future improvements, appropriate use and special considerations, environmental protection measures and property prioritization and plan implementation.

The open properties include land off Freemanville and Birmingham roads, Lackey Road and the Milton City Park and Preserve, currently in Phase I of the Former Milton Country Club Master Plan. The properties off Hamby Road and Webb Road as well as Cooper Sandy off Providence and

See ACREAGE, Page 4 Page

Tres Lunas owner Debbie Rouillier, daughter Joye Rouillier, granddaughter Aniyah, daughter Alyssa Rouillier, daughter Allie Ihara and Allie’s husband Chef Jake Ihara manage the restaurant, an infused tequila bar off Crabapple Road. Read story, Page 8.

TRES LUNAS/PROVIDED

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Phony Amazon representative takes woman for Target gift card

MILTON, Ga. — A woman, victim of a phone scam, said she attempted to set up her Alexa Bluetooth speaker with a new device Feb. 9 and entered a support chat with Amazon to fix the technical issue.

While messaging the customer service representative, the woman received a phone call from an individual who said he was an Amazon customer service representative.

According to the Feb. 13 Milton Police report, the man said he would be able to help with the technical issue and provided the woman with an identification number. The man said the woman’s IP address was open to the public, causing issues with her Alexa.

The man led the woman through steps of “fixing” the issues by having her download two applications and said she would need to verify her identity in order for the programs to work.

The woman attempted to verify her ID with the applications, the police report said, but it did not work.

The woman said the man became frustrated and advised her to go to Target to get either a Sephora or Target gift card in order to resolve the issue.

The next day, the woman went to Target on Ga. 9 and purchased a $300 gift card and texted a picture of the gift card as well as receipt to the man. He began to ask the woman to get more money to which the woman began to believe she had been scammed.

The woman blocked the man’s phone number and another number, who she presumed to be the man. She also canceled her credit cards, opened new bank accounts and is in the

process of changing her usernames and passwords for the accounts, the police

report said.

Reports of catalytic converter theft percolate through Milton

MILTON, Ga. — Milton residents from two different police reports informed Milton Police Feb. 19 that catalytic converters were stolen from their vehicles.

In the first report, a woman said she moved a vehicle previously owned by her deceased father to her residence on Edinburgh Court about three weeks ago.

She said she drives the car, a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, every three days to keep it in good working order, and last drove the vehicle Feb. 17.

The homeowner’s association president saw the exhaust touching the ground Feb. 19 and notified the woman of it, who then called police.

Police observed the catalytic converter missing, and the woman estimated the theft to be $1,000.

In a second police report, a man on Whitshire Way said he last drove his 2009 Kia Spectra Feb. 18 and when he drove the vehicle again the next day, he noticed a loud noise.

The man said he had his friend look at the car who discovered the catalytic converter was stolen. Police observed the catalytic converter missing, and the man estimated the theft to be $1,000.00.

Plane tickets for trip to Peru end with woman scammed

MILTON, Ga. — A woman approached Milton Police Feb. 20 and said she was scammed out of money online.

The woman said she was attempting to purchase a plane ticket from Spirit Airlines for her mother. She said the plane tickets she was attempting to purchase were for a flight from Atlanta to Fort Lauderdale then to Peru.

She contacted two number listed under “Spirt Airlines” on Google to purchase the tickets, the police report

said. The woman said she spoke to a man who instructed her to download an app called “Quicksupport App” and give him the ID number it generated for her.

The woman said she then noticed two different transactions in her Cash App account that she did not authorize. One was for $1,260, and one was for $560, both made to another man.

The woman said the Cash App account is linked to her bank account, and the money had already been removed. Police advised the woman to contact her bank as well as the three major credit bureaus and inform them of the incident.

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

in business, BEING FOUND FIRST  is what makes you a winner!

School program pairs students in workshop

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Juniors at Valor Christian Academy who have interest in a career in the medical field, developed and led learning stations for first grade students Feb. 14.

The learning stations featured handson activities focused on the ears and eyes.

The workshop was organized through Valor Christian Academy’s Diploma of Distinction program, which provides high school students an opportunity to receive credit for further study, research and experience in their area of interest. The school creates a space in students’ schedules for internships.

Because of the program, Head of School Jennifer Gastley said one student will be a licensed pilot by the time he graduates.

Gastley said Valor Christian Academy is one of the least expensive private schools in the area. Parents pay $10,500 for a fulltime, 12th grade student at Valor Christian Academy. Meanwhile, Mount Pisgah Christian in Johns Creek asks for $25,095 annually for upper school students.

Opened in 2020, Valor Christian Academy on Kimball Bridge Road combines a hybrid school named Legacy Community Academy and a traditional school named Bridgeway Christian Academy.

Acreage:

Continued from Page 1

Bethany roads are closed.

With the environment in mind, the project plan consists of four stakeholder groups, Groth said: city committees, property neighbors, the general public and the City Council.

Since the bond passed, the Milton Greenspace Advisory Committee has presided over the project, directing city staff on land purchases. Other committees involved in the process will be the Trails Advisory Committee, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and the Planning Commission.

Groth laid out a timeline for “The Greenprint,” the proposed name for the greenspace plan, beginning with specific stakeholder engagement to take place from January to April. The city would then engage the general public from April to May. Draft recommendations would be made in June and July, with adoption from August to September.

Placemaking, Ga. 9 focus

In other action Wednesday, Aaron Arnett with Arnett Muldrow & Associates described a placemaking project for the city, guided by the 2040

“What we realized is that students learn differently, and not everybody needs to be sitting in a building five days a week learning,” Gastley said.

Students are given many options. They can be hybrid, receiving education at home and at school. They can go the traditional route, attending five days a week. High school students use Friday as an independent learning day, Gastley said, which helps them prepare for the college experience.

Parents can also do home school and pay Valor Christian Academy for a curriculum

and standardized testing.

In the fall, the school is launching a fully virtual school program, but has one student piloting the program now.

More plans are in the works. Next year, Valor Christian Academy is rolling out a tiered special education support program. Special education is hard to come by in private schools, Gastley said, because there’s often not a mandate for private schools that they have to meet student needs.

“[Valor Christian Academy] is kind of like a one-stop shop for all modes of instruction,” Gastley said.

Comprehensive Plan. The company provides community branding, marketing specialists and graphic designers.

“We want to make sure that we establish a unified market position and message that resonates with the businesses that we’re trying to recruit here into the community,” Arnett said.

The overall objective of the project, he said, is to create a toolbox for the city to communicate Milton’s assets and purpose.

Arnett mentioned the city’s eight character districts but said the project

will drill down into three: Crabapple, Birmingham Crossroads as well as Ga. 9 and the Deerfield area.

The first level of the project is community engagement, Arnett said, and will include stakeholder interviews, roundtable focus groups and open public meetings.

Milton City Councilman Rick Mohrig voiced his excitement about the project, especially as it relates to Ga. 9.

“How do we actually step up that whole area?” Mohrig asked. “Because it’s got a lot of potential … That’s really the entrance into the city.”

VALOR CHRISTIAN ACADEMY/PROVIDED Valor Christian Academy junior Cam Jenkins leads a workshop Feb. 14 with first graders, who are studying the ears and eyes.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Milton Environmental Program Manager Emily Groth presents a plan to strategize the 400-plus acres purchased with the $25 million greenspace bond, passed in 2016. The city has spent $20 million of those dollars to purchase six properties. As of now, three of the properties are open or partially open for use.

Community turns out for local news event

STAFF REPORT

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Around 50 people attended a “Meet the Press” event hosted by Appen Media at July Moon Bakery Feb. 22. Residents, communication professionals and newsmakers gathered to hear from Appen staff for their first public event of 2023.

Publisher Hans Appen spoke about the Appen Press Club, a membership group that supports the production of local news in Metro Atlanta.

Director of Content & Development

Carl Appen introduced Staff Reporters Alex Popp, Delaney Tarr, Shelby Israel and Amber Perry, as well as Designers Dionna Williams and Jacob Tomberlin.

Reporters walked the audience through stories they’re working on and explained how the newsroom goes about selecting assignments.

At the end of the hour-long event, producers opened the floor for questions from attendees.

The newsroom’s next event is scheduled for late March. Details and registration will be available at appenmedia.com/events.

PHOTOS BY HANS APPEN/APPEN MEDIA

Around 50 attendees gather Feb. 22 to hear from the Appen Media newsroom at a ‘Meet the Press’ event downtown Alpharetta.

Georgia students campaign for education funding equity

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — Francesca Ruhe and Mason Goodwin are ready to seize the power of young people, and they want to use it to bring equity to public school funding.

The two are registered lobbyists for their statewide organization, Georgia Youth Justice Coalition.

The organization has members from ages 14-22 focused on education justice in communities across Georgia. The nonprofit has grassroots and legislative divisions, all led by students and young people.

On Feb. 16, Ruhe and Goodwin sat outside the Georgia Capitol for a quick break from one of their legislative initiatives. The pair are part of a lobby day, put on in partnership with organizations including the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Deep Institute in Savannah.

Goodwin said the groups created a coalition called Fund Georgia’s Future, focused on “fair and full funding” for schools across the state.

The organizers are grateful for the help from their well-known partner organizations, but their focus is on what young people can bring to legislator’s offices.

“Legislators don’t expect some very highly motivated … young people who are demanding change,” Ruhe said. “We just kind of seize that power.”

At 18 years old, Francesca Ruhe lobbies in between classes at Georgia State University. For the Feb. 16 lobby day, she wore business attire — except for the bright yellow Converses, covered in pictures of Woodstock from the Peanuts cartoons.

Mason Goodwin, 20, is a student at Georgia State University.

They make up a fraction of Georgia Youth Justice Coalition, which has a “student base of hundreds” according to Ruhe. At the lobby day, their nonprofit brought about 25 students to the Capitol.

“There’s an infinite number of us, and we all have the same gripes with the public education system,” Ruhe said.

At the lobby day, the coalition of students and adults focused on an “opportunity weight,” which would add funding to schools that serve students in poverty.

“It could help make up the difference (in funding) between the richer schools in the North Metro Atlanta area and the South Metro area,” Ruhe said.

The opportunity weight is part of Georgia House Bill 3, called the “Support for

Students Living in Poverty Act” introduced in January.

Georgia is one of only six states with a school funding formula that does not provide additional funds to schools with lowincome students. The state does provide equalization grants through the “Quality Basic Education Act,” which was passed in 1985. The grants focus on filling funding gaps for poor and rural areas.

Goodwin and Ruhe said their experiences in Georgia schools are fundamental to their legislative work, especially when it comes to education funding.

Ruhe said she saw educational disparity for the first time in middle school. In sixth grade she joined an organization called Page Turners, aimed at bringing

books to underserved schools across Metro Atlanta.

As a volunteer, Ruhe traveled around Atlanta and interviewed authors in front of groups of kids.

“It was incredible, the disparities,” Ruhe said. “In my own personal upbringing, which I consider to be pretty privileged I had all the resources I needed to be a fluent reader.”

At an early age, Ruhe saw the impacts of economic disparity.

Mason Goodwin had a different experience growing up but a similar takeaway. He was one of the “lower income, single-parent households kids” in Atlanta public schools.

Goodwin started in the general classes, where he was the only White student. In his junior year, Goodwin got pushed into honors classes. The classrooms were full of other White students.

“You start asking the kids and they’re like ‘Yeah, I’m getting tutors for my AP classes,’” Goodwin said. “You realize they have the resources to actually push through school.”

Goodwin said that “waking moment” pushed him into activism.

Ruhe and Goodwin said the Georgia Youth Justice coalition has been involved in major efforts, from on-the-ground work to stop book bans in Forsyth County to conversations about the school to prison pipeline in Gwinnett County.

“The beauty of the coalition is that we’re made up of students, and students always have a million different issues to contend with,” Ruhe said.

Even if the students don’t win every fight, the young organizers are optimistic.

“Just being here is a huge win,” Ruhe said.

Milton to host final Mayfield workshop March 2

MILTON, Ga. — Milton residents have one more opportunity to provide comments to the development process of the District at Mayfield, an historic area in Crabapple. The last public workshop is scheduled for Thursday, March 2 from 4-6 p.m.

The District at Mayfield encompasses 22 parcels across nearly 18 acres and includes properties off Broadwell Road, Charlotte Drive, Mayfield Road and Mid Broadwell Road.

The objective of the public workshops, three in total, is to help develop a concept plan specific to the District at Mayfield. Elements of the plan would fall under Crabapple form-based code, with more strict development regulation to conform with the area’s unique character.

The Milton Design Review Board,

a six-member committee tasked with reviewing and approving development design, is leading the project.

The Milton Historical Society has also been involved with the process, educating residents about the area and urging them to participate in plan discussions. The group hosted an event Feb. 21, where Archivist Kathy Beck presented the history of the District at Mayfield.

Amendments to the city code could impact guidelines related to the exteriors of new buildings as well as outside modifications to existing ones with the proposed District at Mayfield.

To stall development and allow time to explore creating a concept plan, a moratorium is in place until June 20.

— Amber Perry

GEORGIA YOUTH JUSTICE COALITION/PROVIDED

A group of about 25 students from across Georgia participated in a “lobby day” with Georgia Youth Justice Coalition on Feb. 16. The organizers and lobbyists focused on the creation of an “opportunity weight” to help low-income students in Georgia schools.

Milton Historical Society Archivist Kathy Beck presents history of the proposed District at Mayfield Feb. 21 at The RoofTop in Crabapple Market. Milton will hold its last public workshop on the area March 2, with an objective to develop a special concept plan that will be integrated in Crabapple form-based code.

8 | Milton Herald | March 2, 2023

Tres Lunas infuses flavor and experience

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — A salient bond among women translates into the everyday operations at Tres Lunas, an infused tequila bar off Crabapple Road.

Many businesses tout a family atmosphere. But at Tres Lunas, the culture is in the hands of owner Debbie Rouillier’s daughters, Alyssa Rouillier, Joye Rouillier and Allie Ihara who authentically create a welcoming, familiar space to those walking in the door. They’re always on-site, steering the ship and ensuring that returning patrons are greeted by name.

Their familial relationships inspired the business name, which translates to three moons and represents the sisters. By the bar and below a Tres Lunas sign, a dark purple clock hangs, and on its face is a silhouette of three women jumping together under a glowing moon.

Allie’s husband, Jake Ihara, is the executive chef at Tres Lunas. A 2003 graduate of California Culinary Academy, Jake takes influence from his home state of California when concocting dishes that consist of a Mexican flavor palate and his Japanese background.

The restaurant boasts a collision of flavor and experience, referring to Jake’s unique plates using locally sourced and fresh ingredients, and the customer service offered at Tres Lunas.

“You get the best of both worlds here,” said Alyssa, second-incommand to Jake in the kitchen. “The experience is something you can’t really find anywhere else.”

Restaurant veterans

Before opening, Debbie, Alyssa and Joye sat at a high-top table describing the business, sometimes finishing each other’s sentences. When talking finances, Debbie said acquiring the business was a blessing. Joye, who

manages the front of house, stepped in and said the cost of business is priceless.

“This is the price — the love, the passion, family, unity, collaborations, coming together as one,” Joye said.

The restaurant is modern and

spacious with tall ceilings. Acrylic pourings cover the walls. A replica of a Volkswagen bus greets visitors entering the patio within eyesight of the bar, an area lined with large

See INFUSION, Page 9

We’re a vibey restaurant. A place where you can go and be yourself.

ALYSSA ROUILLIER, Tres Lunas

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Below a Tres Lunas sign, a dark purple clock hangs, and on its face is a silhouette of three women jumping together under a glowing moon. Tres Lunas translates to three moons and represents the three daughters of owner Debbie Rouillier who help run the restaurant.

Infusion:

Continued from Page 8

windows and white lights, emitting a beach feel.

“We’re a vibey restaurant,” Alyssa said. “A place where you can go and be yourself.”

The restaurant business was instilled into the sisters at a young age. Their father, who died in 2016, was a chef. Tres Lunas was established in his honor.

Joye had been working in the same building for more than 10 years. While the family took over the business in November 2021, the building has been home to other restaurants. Most recently, the building housed a Mexican restaurant.

Over time, the Tres Lunas menu has transitioned from traditional Mexican to an infused style — honed during the weekend with Chef’s specials.

A new menu is set to be released in April, Alyssa said, the one-year anniversary of the restaurant’s official name change. Tres Lunas also has a brunch selection, offering churro French toast and chilaquiles with vegan and vegetarian options.

In addition to infused food, Allie works behind the bar creating

specialized margaritas, incorporating fresh fruits.

Alyssa’s 14-year-old daughter, Aniyah, also works at Tres Lunas as a hostess, the “little sidekick” to Joye.

She also watches over kids in the restaurant’s play area, whose parents are back at the table. By the entrance, there’s a room that holds a large Connect 4 set and other toys.

“There’s not one person that doesn’t fit the piece to our puzzle,” Joye said, praising the staff. “They all come in on time. They show up with the love and passion that we have.”

Tucker

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

A replica of a Volkswagen bus greets visitors entering the patio within eyesight of Tres Lunas’ bar, an area lined with large windows and white lights.

Summer Camps

PROVIDED

Camp Juliette Low: fun, friendship, fresh air!

A sleepaway camp for girls ages 8-17, Camp Juliette Low (CJL) offers one-week, two-week, and mini-session options throughout the summer. Founded by Juliette Gordon Low in 1922, the camp has a rich history and a dedicated camper, staff and alumna network.

CJL is focused on teaching campers independence, how to work with others, and a love for the outdoors. Traditional camp activities, including everything from campfires, singing and hikes to canoeing, crafts and rock climbing, fill each camper’s schedule. At night, campers get to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the northwest Georgia mountains from the safety of their platform tents.

First-time homebuyers: consider the long game

Brought to you

byTracey Craft, Realtor, The Craft Dolan Team at Ansley Real Estate | Christie’s International

All of my buyers right now are under 30. Every single one of them. And I love it!

First-time homebuyers are taking advantage of interest rates in the 6%’s, a healthier housing inventory than we’ve seen in years, and low downpayment options offered by lenders.

February kicked off with interest rates in the mid 5%’s, spurring buyer activity. At the end of last week, lenders were reporting 6.2% - 6.8% and talking about the upcoming swing back up to the 7%’s, indicating now is the time to lock in.

Lenders are offering a variety of

programs to keep the home-buying ball rolling. Especially attractive are 3% downpayment options on conventional loans for first-time buyers, and discounts that can lower interest rates by as much as 0.5% when a buyer’s annual income is under the median Atlanta income of $95,000.

And if that 3% downpayment is still a challenge, consider sources such as a family gift. There are guidelines, but simply put those that share a familial relationship can gift funds to a buyer towards a downpayment.

“The downpayment often feels like a barrier to first-time buyers, but there are programs to help promote ownership,” observes Isaac Berry, Southeast Mortgage. “I encourage first-time buyers to play a long game and not be overly concerned with near-term market gyrations, given that over time renting is essentially a contract to make a house payment forever, whereas buying secures

the price of your home forever and allows you to lock in guaranteed payments that create an equity position and ultimately grow personal wealth.”

I could not have said it better. And there is likely not a lender or a Realtor that would disagree.

“For most, a home is your largest nest-egg,” says Geoff Smith, Assurance Mortgage. “Making a mortgage payment each month is like putting money into a savings account. You’re building equity in an asset that will be realized when you sell it later in life, or which you can borrow against in an emergency.”

Steve Beecham, HomeTown Mortgage uses one of my favorite sayings: ‘date the rate, marry the house.’

“Rates may be climbing now, but we expect them to lower next year, so marry the house when you find one you like. We can refinance later,” he says.

Ty Keller at Cross Country Mortgage puts it this way: “Although we’ve seen

an interest rate increase, we’re still at historical lows, while rent increases have been rampant. Talk to a lender about first-time buyer programs and crunch the numbers. You will likely pay less per month to own then to rent.”

Another one of my favorite sayings: ‘if you’re paying rent, you’re paying someone else’s mortgage.’ It’s true! Call me to discuss how you can stop paying someone else’s mortgage and start paying yourself by acquiring an equity position in a home of your dreams. Play the long game.

The Craft Dolan Team is hosting a panel for First Time Home Buyers on May 4th, 5:30 - 7 pm, at their Ansley office, 31 Church St, Alpharetta. Email your RSVP to tracey@ansleyre.com. The event is free, but please register for a food and beverage headcount. Learn more at: https://www. ansleyre.com/site/the-craft-dolan-team/ pages/6283/tastings-teachings

7 Timeless kitchen trends that will never look outdated

Brought to you by – Remodeling Expo Center

Between expensive appliances, custom cabinets, and costly countertops, we spend a lot of money on our kitchens. In fact, according to John Hogan, Owner of Remodeling Expo Center in Roswell GA, the median spend on a kitchen remodel was $32,000. To make sure that all of this money isn’t creating a kitchen we’ll want to update again in five years, the trick is to incorporate timeless design elements that won’t soon go out of style. By choosing kitchen features that can stand the test of time, you’ll save yourself money (and the work of remodeling) down the line.

So what are the kitchen trends that won’t make you cringe a few years from now? Skip the trendy color of the year, and follow these timeless kitchen ideas that have been loved for decades.

Neutral Paint Colors

The classic white kitchen is sometimes critiqued for being a little boring—but there’s one solid reason to opt for this color in the kitchen: It will never go out of style. According to Remodeling Expo Center, a whopping 43 percent of renovating homeowners opted for white cabinets. Not sure which shade of white to go for? Don’t worry, soft grey’s are also just as popular and combining the two work well also.

Shaker-Style Cabinets

Known for their simple design and recessed-panel doors, Shaker cabinets have been in-style for more than 100 years. Shaker cabinets are popular in farmhouse kitchens, transitional kitchens and are the perfect element to update an otherwise traditional house.

Drawer and Cabinet Organizers

I’m calling it: Organization will never go out of style. And while features like built-in baking sheet dividers and pull-out cabinet drawers haven’t been around for that long, when hidden behind unfussy, timeless

cabinet fronts, these functional features will never be outdated.

Built in Appliances

Nothing finishes off the look of a kitchen like the smooth finished look of a built-in appliance. Especially the refrigerator and the microwave. And conversely, nothing looks more outdated than a refrigerator or microwave sticking out or on the countertop. A thoughtful kitchen design should include clever and seamless appliance installation.

Natural Materials

Adding in natural materials like wood and stone will ground the space and keep it classic. If you want a timeless look, resist the urge to create an ultra-modern kitchen full of shiny stainless steel and engineered materials. Resist the feeling that “natural” equals “old”

White Marble “Look” or Butcher Block

Countertops

The white marble look will always be an elegant choice for kitchen countertops, but if the maintenance and potential for staining has you worrying about its longevity, consider using quartz. For a more classic look consider butcher block. The go-to choice for farmhouse kitchens, butcher block will wear beautifully over the years and you can prepare food directly on it.

Subway Tile

Subway tile is not only versatile enough to work with many different decor styles, but you probably won’t get sick of it in five years (after all, the look’s been around for over 100 years). While it may be tempting to go with a trendy backsplash, like metallic tiles, sea glass, or bright geometric tiles, opt for something a little simpler if you want a backsplash with staying power.

To learn more, contact The Remodeling Expo Center at 404 910-3969 or stop in at 48 King Street, Roswell, GA 30075. www. RemodelingExpo.com

Spring housing market is early!

Brought to you by – Wesley Hansard, Harry Norman Realty

Has the Spring Market already arrived? We are seeing mortgage applications rise at the start of 2023

and more listings hitting the market. New construction homes are on the rise, which all indicates that the Spring Market has come early! We are still in a low inventory situation, which experts believe will still be the case for the

entire year. If you are looking to sell your home, now is the perfect time to list it! I work with great lenders that offer competitive interest rates and a Rate Buy Down program to help with the high interest rates. As the saying

goes, “Marry the home and date the rate”, Buyers can always refinance after the rates come down. I would be happy to talk to you about Buying or Selling a home, and let you know the best avenue to take.

Location, location, location

Brought

to you by

Allison Kloster, Associate Broker, Home Real Estate

As everyone knows and we have all heard many times, there are three words in buying real estate. These are location, location, and location. Buyers often assume that means where the house is physically located in the city. While that is certainly true and important in the thinking process of where one should buy, there is so much more to those three words.

I typically tell my clients that we start with where in Atlanta they want to live, then where in that specific community they are hoping to land and then lastly, how the home sits on the lot. Is it sitting below street level, on a steep driveway, or backing to power lines? Those all present their own set of challenges down the road, so we want to ensure that you are aware of them before you purchase the home. There is even more to consider with the word location though.

As a buyer, you should consider where you spend your free time, where you exercise, where you like to shop, where you go to relax, where you worship, where you take your pets and where your friends and family live. We also want you to think about traffic patterns to those places and the times of day that you may be trying to get to where you need to go. Convenience and ease are two large, yet sometimes forgotten, contributing factors to put into the equation of narrowing down your targeted area.

The more you can talk with us, your Realtors, the more we can help you ascertain some of these very important lifestyle location decisions. If you want to go the mountains every weekend, or go to the lake on your down time, then tell us so we can find a great location that will serve your family well for during the week obligations but allow you a quick getaway to your favorite escapes on the weekends. We also suggest visiting the community multiple times in different ways before committing to that city or town. Instead of going to dinner at your favorite haunt, go to the community you are considering moving to and enjoy something hyper local. Try to dine at

local small business and get to know the people that frequent it. They will tell you more about an area and share the micro details that only they know so well. If dinner isn’t a possibility, go have coffee at a local coffee shop or breakfast at the local pancake shop and ask the servers what they can tell you about the area. While you are waiting for your table, ask another patron for their take on the area as well. You will be pleasantly surprised at how much information you can gather this way. You can also go to the grocery stores and other shopping destinations and make sure the area offerings are to your liking.

Location is the key word in real estate. There is so much to it. Enjoy the journey and take the time to really investigate different locations. You will feel more confident in your final decision on where to purchase.

Investing in your home is one of the hardest and most important decisions you will make for your family. You don’t have to do it alone! Call or email Allison at 404-784-5287 or email allison@homegeorgia.com and get a response within 24 hours.

KLOSTER

Nothing Compares.

Scan to view this month’s collection of featured properties exclusively represented by our firm.

How to restore your lawn after winter

Brought to you by – Bill Rawlings and Sherri Conrad, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Winter months can be rough on a lawn. Lower temperatures combined with frost, snow and long periods of time lying dormant beneath dead leaves, branches and other yard waste result in hard, packed soil, dehydrated blades and damaged roots. Road salts and chemical deicers destroy plant life and make it difficult for a lawn to recover, even into the spring and summer months.

The good news is that most grass is fairly resilient, and a little nurturing goes a long way! Here are a few ways to get your lawn back to a healthy, appealing bloom:

1. Mitigate snow mold. Characterized by unsightly white, grey or pink patches left behind as snow melts, snow mold is caused by a fungus that spreads once temperatures get to between 32º and 45ºF. The best way to prevent it is to encourage proper drainage and gently rake the grass to loosen and dry overly damp areas.

2. Rake excess thatch.

“Thatch” refers to roots, leaves and plant material along the soil surface that develops when debris is produced faster than it breaks down. Water gets trapped in this layer of organic matter, making your lawn more susceptible to shallow root systems, fungi and pests. Raking excessive thatch encourages grass roots to grow deeper and prevents undue moisture.

3. Aerate the soil.

Another way to encourage proper drainage and absorption of nutrients is to break up compacted soil with aeration boots or a manual appliance.

4. Lower the lawn mower blades. Using a lower blade setting on the first mow of the season can help to remove dead grass and stimulate new growth.

5. Fertilize appropriately.

Avoid fertilizing while the grass is dormant—from about six weeks before the first expected snowfall in autumn until it begins to perk up and actively grow in the spring—because this won’t do much besides encourage snow mold and waste money. Use an organic fertilizer, granular if you’re not in a hurry or water-soluble for a lawn that you want to grow quickly.

Giving your lawn a bit of encouragement as the weather warms and spring approaches will pay off in beautiful green groundcover during the summer. If you need assistance staging your home or have any other real estate needs, please contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 770.442.7300. We would be happy to assist you!

Compiled and edited by Angela Valente, Marketing Copywriter/Copyeditor

What is the Power of Attorney?

Brought to

by - Geerdes & Associates

One of the most important legal documents in an estate plan is the Power of Attorneybut it’s also the legal documents most widely used to abuse the elderly. So, what is the Power of Attorney? A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants someone the ability to make decisions on another person’s behalf, and it is an ability that only becomes active if the person granting the power, also known as the Grantor, is declared legally incompetent.

A General Power of Attorney does not give legal authority to someone else if you are incompetent. You have to have the right Power of Attorney to help you if you are incompetent.

There are different types of Power of Attorney. A Financial Power of Attorney allows a person, usually called the Agent, to make financial decisions for the Grantor. Depending on how the document is drafted, the Agent can do anything from filing taxes for the Grantor to selling his or her property. A Medical Power of Attorney, on the other hand, would allow the Agent to make medical decisions for the Grantor - so that means life support decisions, emergency procedures, and so forth. Someone with a Medical Power of Attorney

may also be called a Health Care Agent.

What is the danger in giving someone a Power of Attorney? Some legal documents these days are offered by online services who generate a generic document to sign for a small fee - without telling you what powers you are granting your Agent. If you trust your Agent, then that’s fine. But abuse of power often occurs when one signs away his or her rights to use and protect one’s assets to a predatory Agent. This predator can be a lawyer, a friend, and sometimes even one’s own family. Thus, when making an estate plan, it’s important to sit down with an attorney who has your best interests in mind, and do your proper research so you know exactly what powers your Agent needs - and what powers they shouldn’t have and to ensure you and your assets are always protected.

Finally, many people try to avoid probate - the costly and lengthy process in which a deceased person’s assets are distributed by the court - by granting their heirs a Power of Attorney. However, what they don’t realize is that the Power of Attorney terminates once the Grantor passes away. The best way to avoid probate is by creating a trust, since not even a will can prevent your assets from having to go through probate. It’s always best to speak with an attorney who specializes in estate planning before making any final decisions, and it’s doubly important that you fully understand what you’re signing, so you don’t signaway your legacy, your rights, or lose your assets.

GEERDES

Why now is a good time to buy a new home

Brought to you by – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New

Homes Division

Metro Atlanta, like other major cities across the southeast saw unprecedented real estate growth over the past couple of years and while home prices have leveled off, mortgage rates have increased, leaving some buyers reluctant to move forward with a home purchase. So, what does this mean for someone who is considering a new home?

Lori Lane, President of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division gives some insight.

“My team and I work with some of the most respected builders all across the Atlanta Metro area,” said Lori Lane, “I am often asked if it is still a good time to buy a new home or should I wait? My question is what are you waiting for?”

First, it’s important to understand what is happening in today’s housing market. The inventory level of homes in Atlanta is still at a record low with

a deficit of 63,000 homes according to MarketNsights, John Hunt, and total inventory is now at the lowest level in seven months. A main reason the predicted collapse in home prices did not materialize. This is reinforced by Lawrence Yun, chief economist, and senior VP of research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) who said, “even with a projected reduction in home sales this year, prices are expected to remain stable in the vast majority of markets due to extremely limited supply. Mortgage rates have trended down, and the new normal is 5.5% - 6.5%. So…for someone waiting for a 3% or 4% mortgage rate, it’s not going to happen.”

So, what does this mean for someone contemplating buying a new home? Today’s buyers need to realize that prices are not going to drastically drop. If you are sitting on the sidelines anticipating lower prices you may end up disappointed. In fact, home prices will continue to increase over time. According to NAR, historically, real estate has had a long-term, stable growth in value

with median single-family existinghome sale prices increasing on average 5.2 percent each year since 1972.

The next question is usually about waiting for interest rates to change. Atlanta continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in the country, According to economists at NAR, the metro Atlanta area is the best possible place to buy a house in 2023 based on a variety of factors. Buyers will continue to relocate here and when rates drop, more buyers will jump back into the market. With so little inventory that could put us back to multiple offer scenarios which will drive home prices up. Instead of being outbid for the home you want, go get the home you want now and refinance later when rates decrease.

I, of course, recommend new construction for several reasons. Many home builders are currently offering incentives including interest rate buy downs, 30-year fixed interest rates as low as 4.99%, which can reduce your monthly house payment by hundreds if not thousands of

dollars. In addition, some will pay towards closing costs, so you need less cash up front. Some builders offer move-in appliance packages as an incentive to help reduce the cost of big purchases. New construction gives you updated features, brand new appliances, a new roof, a builder’s warranty along with vendor warranties. A new home is often more energy efficient bringing costs down even more. So before more people jump back into the market and you have even fewer homes to choose from, remember Builders have some inventory out there and homesites you can build your dream home on. To sum it all up, the best deal you are going to get on your new home may be right now.

For information on Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division, our awardwinning builder clients and new home communities, or to contact one of our on-site sale specialists, visit BHHSgaNewHomes.com. Equal Housing Opportunity.

March springs forth with literary events featuring bestselling authors, new releases

By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia. com

When it comes to nearby book events this month, March will be in like a lion and out like a lion, too.

Kicking off a packed calendar, the Dahlonega Literary Festival returns March 4 after a twoyear pause. As it has since 2003, the festival will once again have readers and writers rushing to the historic gold-mining

Literary Events Around North Atlanta

Saturday, March 4: Dahlonega Literary Festival. Numerous authors from the Appen reading area will participate in the return of the Dahlonega Literary Festival, headlined by Pulitzer Prize-winning Rick Bragg. Free offerings will feature sessions led by North Fulton and Forsyth authors, including Colette Bennett, “Enter the Meta;” Michael Buchanan, “The Fat Boy Chronicles;” Soniah Kamal, “Unmarriageable;” Chris Negron, “The Last Super Chef;” John Pruitt, “Tell It True;” Rona Simmons, “A Gathering of Men;” Jan Slimming, “Codebreaker Girls;” and William Walsh, “Fly Fishing in Times Square.” 9 a.m.-6 p.m. See link for pricing of two ticketed events. Dahlonega Baptist Church, 234 Hawkins Street, Dahlonega, with book sales provided by Bookmiser. literaryfestival.org

Tuesday, March 7: Bonnie Garmus. Roswell Reads will host two virtual book discussions of Garmus’s New York Times bestselling debut novel, “Lessons in Chemistry.” Online. 2 p.m. or 7 p.m. Free. Register by emailing name, city and preferred time to RoswellReadsBookDiscussions@gmail.com. Roswell Reads book discussions are moderated by volunteers (without authors) and all selections are available at Bookmiser. 770-509-5611. RoswellReads.com

Thursday, March 9: John Pruitt. Friends of Sandy Springs Library, in partnership with Bookmiser, will host Pruitt, a former Atlanta television anchor and reporter. For a halfcentury, Pruitt covered the civil rights movement, Georgia politics and major news figures, experiences that inspired his novel, “Tell It True.” 1 p.m. Talk, signing. Free. Sandy Springs Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway NE, Atlanta. 404-612-7000. bookmiser.net/book-events.html

Thursday, March 16: Zoe Fishman. The North Atlanta Author Series will celebrate Fishman, 2020 Georgia Author of the Year, with morning tea alongside her new work, “The Fun Widow’s Book Tour.” She will be in conversation with Emily Carpenter, critically acclaimed author of “Reviving the Hawthorne Sisters.” 11 a.m. Free. Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton. 404-613-4402. bookmiser.net/book-events.html

Thursday, March 16, Kimberly Brock. The award-winning writer will discuss her recent novel, “The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare.” Brock’s fictional tale was inspired by the true saga of the lost Roanoke Colony. 5 p.m. Discussion, signing. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com

town for the prospect of seeing true literary gems.

Aiming to please in 2023, the showcase event that has previously featured such renowned authors as Diana Gabaldon and Rebecca Wells will present Rick Bragg, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling writer, as this year’s keynote speaker. A full day of free workshops and panels is also planned, led by a host of authors from North Fulton and Forsyth counties.

Weeks of additional book activities will follow locally, culminating in Roswell as USA Today bestselling author Colleen Oakley launches her new book March 28 with mimosas and mingling.

Details about these events, as well as others, are below.

Saturday, March 18: Jan Slimming. Slimming, author of three World War II titles including “Codebreaker Girls,” will sign books at the Winston Churchill Society of Georgia. 11:30 a.m. Free. The Lost Corner Preserve, 7300 Brandon Mill Road, Sandy Springs. 770-730-5600. perfectbookclub.com/jans-blog

Tuesday, March 21: Lynn Cullen. A Novel Idea hosts the bestselling author of historical fiction as she discusses her new release, “The Woman With The Cure.” Cullen’s book is based on the true story of Dr. Dorothy Horstmann, whose groundbreaking research helped make the polio vaccine possible. 6 p.m. Conversation, signing. Free. Alpharetta Branch Library, 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta. 770-509-5611.

Thursday, March 23: Jeffrey Armbruster. Armbruster will sign his book, “Some Practical Lessons in Leadership.” 5 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com

Saturday, March 25: Katie Asher. After decades spent dealing with trauma, loss, abuse and her son’s severe autism, Asher detailed her experiences in “The Book of Heaven: A Story of Hope for the Outcasts, the Broken, and Those Who Lost Faith.” 2 p.m. Talk, signing. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore. com

Saturday, March 25: Marilyn Baron. An award-winning author of 29 works in a variety of genres, Baron will launch her latest cozy mystery, “The Case of the Forgotten Fragonard” with plenty of epicurean delights. 5 p.m. Discussion, signing. Free. Bookmiser, 3822 Roswell Road, Roswell. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/bookevents.html

Tuesday, March 28: Colleen Oakley. A USA Today bestselling author of five novels, Oakley will mix, mingle and toast the launch of her new book, “The Mostly True Story of Tanner & Louise” with mimosas. Oakley’s titles have been translated into over 21 languages and optioned for film. 1 p.m. Conversation, signing. Free. Bookmiser, 3822 Roswell Road, Roswell. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/book-events.html

To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.

BRAGG OAKLEY

Visitors bureau executive receives lifetime award

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Janet Rodgers was awarded the Tom Kilgore Lifetime Achievement Award Feb. 14 at the Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus’ state tourism conference.

Rodgers has held her role in the bureau for over 20 years, where she has promoted shopping, dining, entertainment and live music in the city.

“Her dedication to the industry, her community and her staff is unparalleled,” said Dotty Etris, former executive director of the Roswell Convention and Visitors Bureau. “She is known for building strong partnerships, cooperative marketing efforts and skillfully executes a variety of programs that bring greater attention to the Alpharetta community, the state of

Georgia and the region.”

Before her position at the bureau, Rodgers served as the special events director for the City of Alpharetta. In this

role, Rodgers created and produced events such as Taste of Alpharetta.

Rodgers also was the vice president of marketing and sales at the Dekalb

Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as director of marketing and sales at several resort and corporate hotels.

Rodgers will be recognized for her economic impact in the city and for her receipt of the award at the March 6 City Council meeting.

Executive Director of the Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus Jay Markwalter recognized Rodgers’ role in leading tourism in the city, the state and along the Ga. 400 corridor.

“Working in the tourism and hospitality industry is without question, one of the biggest joys of my life,” Rodgers said. “I will forever be an advocate for this industry, and I am so appreciative to be recognized with the Tom Kilgore Lifetime Achievement Award.”

Alpharetta boutique hotel hires sales, marketing head

ALPHARETTA, Ga. —

Georgia’s first boutique hotel, the Hamilton Curio Collection by Hilton in Alpharetta hired Saleh Akley as the new sales and marketing director.

Akley will oversee all sales and marketing initiatives for the hotel and its on-site restaurant, Carrie’s Conservatory. Akley has over 20 years

of experience in hospitality.

Previously, Akley was a sales director with Aimbridge Hospitality, where he oversaw revenue at two Hyatt Place hotels in the Metro Atlanta area. He helped open the Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Alpharetta in 2018 and worked as sales director until 2021.

Originally from Dubai, Akley moved to East Cobb when he was 8 years old. He started working in hospitality sales in 2013.

Atlanta Tex-Mex favorite Superica opens Dunwoody location

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Superica, the acclaimed Tex-Mex eatery, has opened its fifth Metro Atlanta location with a brand new 6,000-squarefoot restaurant at the Ashford Lane development in Dunwoody.

Located at 1220 Ashford Crossing, Superica will offer the Dunwoody community a menu packed with modern twists on Mexican classics by four-time James Beard nominated chef and restaurateur Ford Fry.

“Each dish is an homage to the Tex-Mex cuisine Ford grew up eating and cooking in Houston,” Ashford Lane officials said. “With carefully selected spices and high-quality ingredients, each dish is bursting with juicy and

tender flavors. Fan favorites include street-style tacos, fajitas al carbon, and the traditional taco dinner, which includes three tacos, refried frijoles and Mexican rice.”

The restaurant will offer a weekend brunch service and a “well-rounded” beverage program featuring Superica’s famous house-made margaritas crafted from locally sourced spirits and agaves.

“We like to build restaurants around what the community might need or want and what really speaks to each neighborhood, so Dunwoody, we hear you…no more lengthy drives to your nearest Superica,” Fry said. “We’re bringing the cold margs and Tex-Mex staples I grew up on to you.”

For more information on Superica visit superica.com.

AKLEY

HONORING, RECLAIMING HISTORY

Macedonia descendents remember, look ahead

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Plastic flowers now adorn the graves at Macedonia Cemetery, a historical Black burial site off Medlock Bridge Road. Relatives of enslaved people buried on the grounds gathered there Feb. 18 to learn about its extensive history from members of the Johns Creek Historical Society.

Of those venerating the dead, one was as young as 4 to 5 years old, whose family member guided her hand to drive a bundle of flowers into the dirt as they knelt.

Sabrina Aquell, who organized the gathering, had been going to Macedonia Cemetery for years.

Aquell said the site holds around 80 percent of her family members, including her grandfather Sam Jones.

Because of the sadness that overcame Aquell whenever she would visit Macedonia, seeing the graves and their condition, she didn’t go often.

But lately, Aquell said visiting the cemetery has rejuvenated her spirit and decided to invite more than 40 of her family members to the cemetery to share the newfound feeling. Aquell hoped to re-introduce to her family the importance of getting involved with Macedonia Cemetery project efforts.

Ownership

Aquell met with Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry a few weeks ago.

“I said, ‘How can you own us in life and [in death] too? How could you do that?” Aquell said. “I think this cemetery should be left for our family, for our children, for us to decide what we want to put up here.”

Aquell referenced the Georgia Cemetery Law that would have required the city to prepare a plan by a genealogist for identifying and notifying the descendants of those buried or believed to be buried at Macedonia before developing the property.

Aquell said she saw “They Were Here,” the grant-funded project consisting of four documentaries produced by local high school students about Macedonia Cemetery.

“Yes, we’ve been here,” Aquell said. “We’ve been waiting.”

The first formal presentation of plans to descendants was a Jan. 9 meeting at City Hall where Johns Creek City Manager Ed Densmore heard grievances from Kirk Canaday, a member of the Johns Creek Historical Society who oversees the project. Aquell attended the meeting as well as Madyun Shahid, a descendant of April

Waters. Shahid, who lives in Virginia, had also previously visited Macedonia Cemetery with his family.

The Johns Creek City Council approved the measure to acquire the historic property in November 2020 and officially acquired the land September 2021.

While the city had been in contact with Shahid prior to the change in ownership, Shahid said he had only been engaged in casual conversations, rather than conversations about intent.

However, Bradberry said City Attorney Ron Bennett informed the city it had done everything necessary to move forward with acquisition and improvements.

The city only owns the land, Bradberry said, but not the graves themselves — echoing the Georgia Cemetery Law that declares “human remains and burial objects are not property to be owned by the person or entity” as they are “part of the finite, irreplaceable and nonrenewable cultural heritage of the people of Georgia.”

A history lesson

On the chilly afternoon, Aquell’s family sat in rows, holding laminated images of the cemetery and attentively listened to Aquell as she stated her reasons for inviting them there.

She opened with her philosophy on God, the soul, the purpose of life and the way everyone should treat one another.

“It’s the soul that counts,” she said.

Carla Carter walked over to Aquell carrying a binder of records that held the lineage of Sam Jones, Aquell’s grandfather who is buried at the cemetery. Through stories passed down to her, Aquell said she has a strong connection to Jones.

Carter joined the Johns Creek Historical Society a year ago after reading about Macedonia Cemetery, realizing that the cemetery had been in poor condition, overrun with weeds.

“[The graves] deserve to be recognized and taken care of,” Carter said.

Joan Compton, president of the Johns Creek Historical Society, stepped in to describe the history of the Cherokee Nation, which once lived in the same area and owned the plantation where many were enslaved — including April Waters.

“Part of researching the people that are buried here is how did they do? How did they live when they got

See HISTORY, Page 31

PHOTOS BY AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Johns Creek Historical Society members Carla Carter and Joan Compton explain historical cemetery documents to a descendant Feb. 18.

Nicole Washington, founder of Impact Johns Creek, speaks to Sabrina Aquell’s family at Macedonia Cemetery Feb. 18.

Sabrina Aquell, a descendant, speaks in front of family at Macedonia Cemetery Feb. 18. Aquell organized the gathering, asking her family members to get involved with the cemetery project.

Forsyth County appoints panel to spur growth in film industry

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Discover FoCo Film Initiative announced it has established its first official Film Commission.

The nine-member commission, Film Forsyth, was announced Jan. 13 and will assist with sourcing for leads and location scouting for projects in the county’s film industry.

History:

Continued from Page 30

a chance? Did they ever learn to read and write? Did they ever accumulate any wealth? Did they ever buy land?” Compton said. “April’s one that did not, unfortunately.”

‘We is here’

Macedonia Cemetery had been the “one calling card” for the Black residents of Johns Creek, said Nicole Washington, founder of Impact Johns Creek. The organization, founded in 2020, is intended to bring together and engage Black residents.

“There are Black people in Johns Creek,” Washington said. “But we’re not organized, we’re not structured, we’re not together, we’re not a unified front.”

Washington said she didn’t want the event to be the first and last time Aquell’s family was present. Things

have just begun to change, she said, with people like Canaday and Devon Dabney, who was filming the event for an upcoming documentary about Macedonia.

Dabney said the student-produced documentaries about Macedonia Cemetery had been criticized as “sanitized,” and so, her documentary seeks to paint a fuller portrayal.

Dabney, a member of Impact Johns Creek, is also the co-chair of the Johns Creek Arts, Culture and Entertainment Committee. The committee recently recommended the city host a Juneteenth celebration and have the federal holiday added to the city calendar.

With a raised voice, Washington asked, “Johns Creek will know who we are, and by ‘we,’ who are we talking about?”

“Us,” the crowd responded.

“Because we is here and we ain’t going nowhere,” Washington said. “Can I get an ‘Amen’?”

The crowd responded, “Amen.”

“Our communities in Forsyth have many different unique characteristics, natural settings and a blend of big city and rural community making it an ideal location for productions of all sizes,” County Commission Chairman Alfred John said. “We welcome the TV and film industry to our community and recognize the impact productions have on our local businesses.”

Film Forsyth is composed of county Director of Building and Economic Development Vivian Vakili; makeup artist Melanie Steele; EWISE Marketing and Communications President Joanne Sanders; and Tim Hopkins of Keller Williams Realty.

“It is an honor to be chosen to serve on this commission,” Vakili said. “The film, TV and video production industries have made an incredible impact on Georgia’s local economies over the past decade, and I am excited to see even more impact here in Forsyth County in the years to come.”

Others on the commission are the Georgia Film Academy’s High School Summer Camp Director Jason Hanline; Forsyth County Schools Chief Communications Officer Jennifer Caracciolo; Bottoms Tree

County.

Bottoms said it is an honor to serve on the commission, and he hopes Film Forsyth can grow potential film opportunities in the county. His farm was the filming site of an OshKosh B’gosh and a tractor commercial, as well as photoshoots for several businesses.

Discover FoCo Director of Tourism Joni Buford said the county has hosted confidential series from Disney+, Marvel and Netflix; commercials from OshKosh B’gosh, Georgia Lottery and Popeyes; the CBS and Paramount+ series “True Lies”; and 20th Television and ABC’s “Will Trent.”

In 2022, Forsyth County hosted nine productions, and it received over 28 leads.

Buford said there are as yet no quantified estimates on the economic impact the film initiative had in 2022.

“Most of these projects utilize privately owned residences, spaces and businesses, directly pouring into our community via its residents,” Buford said. “This is why often times people don’t even realize filmings are going on. They’re often tucked away and in-and-out pretty quickly.”

Some leads and projects are confidential, Buford said, but they range from small indie and student films to large production studios.

Film Forsyth has 12 location listings, including Lake Lanier, local businesses, the Cumming Fairgrounds and the Forsyth County Jail.

Farm owner Nathan Bottoms; and Jimmy and Martha McConnell, copresidents of the Historical Society of Cumming/Forsyth

ILLUSTRATION BY JACOB TOMBERLIN/APPEN MEDIA

PHOTOS BY AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Attendees gather at Macedonia Cemetary Feb. 18 to hear about the burial site’s history and decorate the area with flowers.

PRESERVING THE PAST

WW II hero celebrates 100 years, Part 2

In a prior column we met Jack Buckner, a local young man who joined the Army Air Corps soon after the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941. On February 3, 2023, he celebrated his 100th birthday and received a special Proclamation from the City of Milton. His story continues.

BOB MEYERS

After undergoing rigorous training on the B-17 heavy bomber, Jack was sent to North Africa where he and his crew of ten eventually flew 50 missions against German installations thus hastening the defeat of Rommel’s desert army.

We now continue Jack’s story.

In the early days of the war, the German Luftwaffe’s Messerschmitt 109 was arguably the best fighter plane in the world. It was faster, better armed and could dive faster than the British Spitfires and American P-38s and P40s which U.S. bombers counted on for protection.

Bomber crews never knew in advance whether they would have fighter support on missions nor whether the Messerschmitts would suddenly appear and attack the bombers. The B-17 had many advantages, among which was its ability to withstand shrapnel and bullet hits. They were also heavily armed with 13 Browning M-2 50-caliber machine guns, probably the best machine gun ever made. The Warrior was hit numerous times, but always returned home. The crew consisted of pilot, copilot, navigator, bombardier, engineer, radio operator, ball turret operator, two waist gunners and tail gunner. The entire crew, with one exception, survived the war. The exception was a crew member who was killed while flying on a mission in another plane.

To defend themselves from the German fighters, B-17s flew in various formations. The planes were close together, but not so close that they might collide. This gave the skilled German pilots the ability to fly right into the formations. “Sometimes,” says Jack, “we could see their faces.” Jack was usually the lead bombardier which means he sat in the glass enclosed nose cone of the first bomber in a formation and was thus the most exposed to oncoming enemy fighters. A formation might have as many as 36 bombers.

Here are two entries from Jack’s

dairy.

“April 17, 1943 --’Flack Alley’ We really blew up Palermo today but BOY what flack. The sky was black with it. We were hit four times which made seventeen holes. A few fighters but nothing to worry about. We didn’t lose any planes.

“May 14, 1943—A long day today. Civitavecchia, Italy – 50 miles north of Rome. The harbor was sure full of ships. We got 12 large ones, an ammo plant and a fuel dump. No one hurt.” Note: Today Civitavecchia is a cruise ship port.

While desert summers were hot, winters were very cold where the crew was based in Algeria. Crew members often had sore throats and the flu. As spring arrived malaria, dysentery and other diseases were a problem. Jack says that dysentery kept more crews on the ground than all other causes.

In August 1943 the crew moved to Oudna Airfield, about 9 miles south of Tunis, Tunisia. It was used in 1943 as a B-17 bomber base. The abandoned airfield is covered today with agricultural crops.

Jack continued his missions over

Italy until he completed his 50th mission on October 1, 1943. On one occasion Jack flew seven missions in six days which was exhausting. He recalls one mission when he looked out the window and saw about 75 German fighters. He knew it was going to be a rough day. On another mission, Jack was leaning over the bomb sight when a small piece of flack (shrapnel from an anti-aircraft burst) came in one side of the plane and exited out the other side, exactly where his head was before bending over to look into the bombsight. He knew the Lord was with him that day.

Jack was awarded the Air Medal ten times with the Oak Leaf Cluster. The Air Medal is awarded for “meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.”

Jack arrived home on Christmas Day 1943. There to greet him were his parents and Florence Cashner the woman he would marry. The couple went to Midland Texas where Jack checked in as an instructor. He married Florence while there. They went to Roswell, New Mexico where B-17 pilots were trained on bombing runs, then

on to Victorville, California until the war was over. Jack mustered out of the service in November 1945 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Back in civilian life Jack used the GI Bill to attend GA Tech, then worked as a sales engineer for 24 years with Armco Drainage and Metal Products, a wholly owned subsidiary of Armco Steel Corporation. At age 50 he started his own construction company Abuck Inc. Today Abuck Building Systems is owned by son Terry with its main office in Alpharetta. Jack and Florence have raised three children, Terry, Jimmy and Paula and have 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

To celebrate Jack’s 100th birthday, his family and neighbors threw a surprise party on February 3. The Mayor of Milton, Peyton Jamison and his wife Megan attended, and his honor read an official proclamation from the city marking Jack’s 100th birthday.

Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net.

Columnist

PHOTOS BY LARA WALTON/PROVIDED

Milton Mayor Peyton Jamison presents an official Proclamation from the city recognizing February 3 as Jack Buckner Day in Milton in recognition of his 100th birthday. Left to right, Mayor Jamison, his wife Megan Jamison and Jack Buckner.

Florence and Jack Buckner celebrate Jack’s 100th birthday at a surprise party at their home on February 3, 2023.

Top 2 things that drive me crazy

manufacturer.” But of course, when my flashlight dies, I can never find the warranty or the receipt. So that doesn’t help.

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

#1. Flashlights.

Seriously? Yep, flashlights. Yep, I always have a flashlight when I need one, but of course it never works. Either the batteries have died, or the bulb has gone bad – that bulb for which one can never find replacements – or the “bulb” that is now a LED thing that who knows if those are ever replaceable. While I am at it, what the heck does “LED” stand for? Have no idea. Oh, almost forgot to include the contact mechanism – the thing that completes the current and makes a light appear. It’s the thing that without fail, when the batteries are good and the bulb or the LED thing are good, that never works.

I started buying warranties for the flashlights that I buy – extended warranties. Sort of my way of saying/dong “I’ll show you flashlight

I have tried buying those flashlights that you charge with a USB cord. I have tried those that use rechargeable batteries – you know those batteries that do not recharge because the charger stops working. I have bought those onerous flashlights that law enforcement uses. I have tried those that you leave plugged into outlets that cease working after the 5th time you use it. I have bought expensive flashlights, cheap ones, disposable ones and none last longer than the third or fourth use.

Now, I keep candles and a Bic lighter handy. Why is it that they can make lighters that always work but can ‘t make a flashlight that always works? Why do wax candles always work? Can’t someone find a way to screw those up too? My iPhone flashlight has never failed me. It always works. Hello. Maybe Apple should make flashlights. It could be their huge new product – a Apple flashlight with a touch screen on/off that works – and keeps working. I know Steve would approve and that flashlight would be a huge win.

#2. Motion activated solar-powered

security lights run a close second after flashlights.

Another light issue, no? What is up with me and light?

Ok, so, you would think that these would not be like flashlights. I mean, almost no moving parts. Unlimited charging. Almost never in use. So, these should always work, right? Wrong. I am batting 1000 on purchasing these things and them lasting more than 30 days-ish. I have purchased them for my office, for our house, for our warehouse, for our beach place and 100% of the time they stop working in a month or two, if not sooner.

Most of these security lights have rechargeable batteries that the solar panel charges. And that seems like the dog that won’t hunt. I think that most rechargeable batteries can only be recharged so many times and then they too stop working / recharging. Maybe I need to add “rechargeable batteries” to my list.

As with the flashlights I started buying the extended warranties for my solar-powered lights and the result has been identical. Maybe I use the warranty once after the light stops working and then the next time, I can’t find the warranty or don’t have the energy to go deal with the big box store

that questions – always questions – my wanting to use the warranty – to the point that I dread even going there.

I know Elon at least at one time was working on roofing material that doubled as solar panels. Maybe he needs to get into the solar-powered motion sensor security light business. No one else seems to be able to get it right although there is one use of these solar chargers that I have found works each and every time. And that would be? Using it as a trickle charger to my car battery at the beach. Since I have started leaving a solar panel hooked up to my car battery, I have not had a single dead battery. Go figure.

So, we have been brewing coffee with coffee makers in the kitchen for generations. And they, generally, worked well and lasted. Then along comes a better mousetrap called a Keurig coffee maker that becomes a runaway sensation – much like those vacuum robots – the Roomba.

We can send someone to the moon. We can make domestic airplanes that safely fly for 50 years easy. We can install new hearts into people. So why hasn’t someone – anyone – made a flashlight that works longer than a month or two? I don’t get it.

Bueller, Bueller, anyone, Bueller?

The origins of Dunwoody’s Williamsburg style

Soon after the incorporation of the Dunwoody Homeowner’s Association in 1970, land along Chamblee Dunwoody Road just north of Mount Vernon Road was developed into a shopping center called Dunwoody Village. The DHA was against the development at first, but liked the plan that developers Lowell Wammock and Larry Morris came up with, a Williamsburg design.

Wammock and Morris also developed The Shops of Dunwoody, Merchants Walk in Marietta, Horseshoe Bend and Dunwoody Club Forest subdivisions. One of the features originally included in The Shops of Dunwoody was a large gazebo. The gazebo was the central location for a 1984 summer concert

series in the shopping center’s parking lot. Two early tenants were Ernie’s California Grill and Kaplan’s, “The fantastic kid’s department store.”

On the edge of the parking lot for Dunwoody Village was Beef n Burgundy restaurant, where First Watch, Marlowe’s Tavern, and Karen Cannon Realtors are today. I first learned that the building is a replica of Raleigh’s Tavern in colonial Williamsburg, Virginia from David Andersen and the Dunwoody Area Restaurant Reviews Facebook page. Anderson sometimes shares posts about past restaurants.

Suzanne Huff and David Long, lifelong residents of Dunwoody, recall Beef N Burgundy and the two restaurants that followed, Chuck’s Steak House, and American Roadhouse. Huff remembers Beef n Burgundy as the place to go before Homecoming at Dunwoody High School and a place where several

I think that the older I get the less patience I have with people or stuff that are, well, snarky. That is, stuff that drives me crazy –stuff that should be different and could be different but isn’t.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF

GOOGLE STREET VIEW/PROVIDED

The building now home to First Watch, Marlowe’s Tavern, and Karen Cannon Realtors was originally built as a replica of the Raleigh Tavern in Williamsburg, VA. See STYLE, Page 34

An early spring walk in the woods

I like to rise early in the beginning of March, when you can feel in your bones (especially my old bones) that spring is just around the corner.

The early morning sky is pink and blue, and the temperature is in the 50s. This is my favorite time of year, the new beginning. Winter is past and everything is fresh again.

And this is the time to begin my search of the spring ephemeral wildflowers. Spring ephemerals are plants that emerge early in spring before the trees put out their leaves and block the sunlight, live for a few short weeks, then die back to the ground to do it all over again the next year.

Usually, the first of these is the Trout Lily, Erythronium americanum, so named because its spotted leaves are reminiscent of a spotted trout. It adapts to variable changes in temperature by closing its flowers’ beautiful, yellow petals at night, thus protecting its ability to produce seeds.

Bloodroot, Sanguinari candensis, is another early emerger. The white flower sometimes appears before the leaves. If you break the stem of the Bloodroot, the inside is red. When I was young, this was growing in the woods of the property we were living on in Sandy Springs and is the plant that sparked my interest in wildflowers.

A very delicate looking flower, the Rue Anemone, Thalictrum thalictroides, is another early one. Its flowers range from white to pale pink, dancing in the slightest breeze.

When I lived in Atlanta, the Sweet Betsy Trillium, Trillium cuneatum, was the first harbinger of Spring in my garden.

These are just a few of the early wildflowers. If you are interested in learning more about a variety of spring wildflowers, when to observe their peak blooming times, their growth requirements, and places we can visit locally to experience the beauty and enjoyment of wildflowers, please join Carole MacMullan and me for a virtual

Style:

Continued from Page 33

students worked.

American Roadhouse opened a second location in Dunwoody in 1993 after seven years of a successful location in Virginia Highlands. Owners Martin Maslia and Edward Udoff used local class photos from years past, 1950s memorabilia and local historic

talk on wildflowers on Sunday, March 5 at 2:00 pm EST. To assure your place in this first class in the Spring 2023 Gardening Lecture Series presented by the North Fulton Master Gardeners, “A Walk in the Woods with Spring Wildflowers - Observing the Beauty of Nature,” please register at https://bit.ly/Spring2023NFMG-GardeningLectureSeries. The class will also be available for later viewing on the NFMG YouTube channel at https://www.youtube. com/northfultonmastergardeners.

photographs provided by Lynne Byrd to decorate their restaurant. Next, the building was home to Calico Corners fabric store.

When Crest Realty came to Dunwoody, the company wanted homeowners to be happy with their new building at 1555 Mount Vernon Road, according to Sally Gurley, a vice president with the company. A three-story building was constructed, similar to a home on the James River in Williamsburg. This building is

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net.

now the offices of Prieto, Marigliano, Holbert, Prieto Attorneys at Law.

Dunwoody’s Pizza Hut in Dunwoody Hall Shopping Center was built with a black roof, rather than the standard red to have more of a Williamsburg look. It also had a brick exterior with shutters. Inside it looked like any other Pizza Hut. Novo Cucina with its sunroom and French doors doesn’t give any hint of the building’s former life. Before Novo Cucina, this space was home to High Cotton and

About the Author

This week’s guest Master Gardener “Garden Buzz” columnist is Judy Peacock. Judy grew up in Norcross when it was still a small, rural town and spent many days playing in the fields and woods. Her mother was a wonderful gardener and could grow almost anything from a cutting. She taught Judy to identify trees and plants. As a child Judy would gather flowers and create small arrangements of violets and daffodils. Judy attended UGA and majored in Art Education. She loved Botany classes and spent a lot of time in the Founders Garden and the university greenhouses. After graduation, she rented a cottage in Sandy Springs in the middle of 40 acres, exploring the creek and woods, identifying wildflowers and started her first herb garden. Later, Judy bought a house and again grew herbs and began taking care of the plants that were part of the old garden on the property. She began to make flower arrangements for friends’ weddings and work events. After working full time for 28 years, Judy retired and become a Master Gardener and now shares her love of plants and the natural world through her volunteer work with the North Fulton Master Gardeners.

For more information

Check out the following University of Georgia Extension publications:

•Wildflowers Bulletin 987-3

•Establishing a Wildflower Meadow

Peter’s Restaurants.

In December of 2018, the Dunwoody City Council voted to make changes to the Dunwoody Village overlay and allow for variation from the Williamsburg style.

Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media. She lives in Sandy Springs. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.

Happy Gardening!

JUDY PEACOCK

Guest Columnist

Rue Anemone Bloodroot

Trillium

Trout Lily

The Daytona 500: My one race every year

Try as I might, NASCAR and I are as compatible as the Kardashians and a convent. Watching brightly painted automobiles try to cut each other off for the prize of making it home safely is really no big deal. It’s a lot like being on Georgia 400 any time of day. Except the tailgating at the Daytona 500 recently placed a solid inch or two between cars. Not sure how the drivers don’t melt from that type of sanctioned road rage. I get all nutty when someone rides my bumper from a distance of 10 feet or so.

The Great American Race is a spectacle that must be experienced. A bucket list item. At least that’s what oldest son Chris imparted as he made his way home. No thanks, son. If I want to sit next to certified crazies, I’ll go see WrestleMania. Or maybe watch “The View.” I told him I’ll go when the drivers learn how to turn right.

NASCAR fans are passionate about favorite drivers. I can remember two burly (well, okay, beer-gutted) fans taking the “them’s fighting words” to extreme levels and squaring off in public… at church. If you liked the late Dale Earnhardt, there was no way to like Jeff Gordon.

Christopher and friend Katie

Eubanks, both South Forsyth High and UGA alums, were right in the midst of the quarter-million that braved the sun and six hours of baking in the North Florida sun. Katie works at Disney World and has apparently turned into a junkie. I guess she craves seeing me write about her escapades with someone named Tasos. Why else would she text: “Write about us going to Daytona, just like you did for The Beach Boys concert.” That girl tickles me. At 26, she has a mind like a steel trap. They’ve been friends forever, and I’ll bet they’ll last a long time.

This is a tough time for a sports fan like me. I’m not into the NBA, and since I don’t play anymore, watching golf on TV lacks any punch unless we’re talking about that little event coming up in Augusta. There’s something breathtaking about the Masters. Always the toughest ticket to get of any sporting event, it was always easy to get a practice round ticket from a patron leaving after the morning practice rounds. Now that youngest son Greg is big into golf, I’d like to make the early tournament trip, park near the side gate, and buy a badge. At least I think you can still do things that way. There’s a strong likelihood scalpers have gotten wise to this and will pay big money for a badge. We’ll see.

Baseball season looms, and for the first time in more than 50 years, there won’t be someone named Caray associated with the Atlanta Braves. Chip

Caray is now in St. Louis broadcasting the Cardinals’ game. The new man in the TV booth is Brandon Gaudin. Not much is known about him other than he is a longtime Braves fan. Talk about having a chance to land a dream job.

Mike Tasos has lived in Forsyth County for more than 30 years. He’s an American by birth and considers himself a Southerner by the grace of God. He can be reached at miketasos55@gmail. com.

MIKE TASOS

Columnist

CHRIS TASOS/SPECIAL

South Forsyth and UGA grads Katie Eubanks and Chris Tasos get together with 250,000 NASCAR fans.

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NFCC is looking for a full-time executive assistant to support the Executive Director and leadership team.  This person will play a vital role in help keep the NFCC leadership team organized and productive and will interact with the board of directors and other important stakeholder groups. Sensitivity, discretion and attention to detail are a must. Candidate must have a two-year degree, bachelor’s degree preferred and should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience. For a complete job description visit https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/

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Now Hiring: Office Coordinator

Local commercial real estate company is hiring an Office Coordinator. The role includes coordinating administrative tasks between our property management, leasing and accounting departments. The position requires exceptional communication and organizational skills, knowledge of MS Office, a strong work ethic, internal drive, and a positive attitude. This is an office only (not remote work) position. Please contact us Employment@mpshoppingcenters.com for more information.

Workforce Development Coordinator

Develop programs and services for clients and students who are seeking employment, post-secondary education, or other career options. The coordinator collaborates with employers in the community who are hiring. The role also includes working one-on-one on job applications, resumes, interview preparations and offers tips for successfully securing and improving employment. Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or related field required.

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Accounting Specialist

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Supportive Service Coordinator:

The Supportive Service Coordinator (“SSC”) will be responsible for managing the social/supportive services for a portfolio of properties, under the supervision of the Company Asset Manager. This position will serve as a liaison between the Asset Manager and the property management company. This individual will primarily be responsible for managing compliance and reporting for supportive services and, secondarily, procuring grant funding to supplement the property service budget, and identifying local service providers to augment property offerings.

Full time hours. Requires a Bachelor’s degree in social work or education and a minimum of 5 years’ experience.

For a full job description and to submit a resume, please reach out to: Samit Patel, spatel@rhgroup.org Resource Housing Group, Inc.

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY TO THE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Sawnee EMC is seeking an Executive Secretary to the Chief Operating Officer to perform confidential secretarial and administrative duties for the Chief Operating Officer (COO), other Executive staff and aids board members, consumers, employees, and the public. Coordinates activities between various departments, coordinates collection and preparation of operating and budget reports, prepares and files corporate legal documents. Arranges complex and detailed travel plans, itineraries, expense reports and the ability to function well in a fast-paced environment.

Requires a bachelor’s degree in Business or related field of study and a minimum of four (4) years executive administration or related experience, advanced proficiency in Windows, Microsoft Office, advanced working knowledge of creating and updating spreadsheets, formulas, charts, pivot tables, databases and developing presentations. Advanced skills for organizing and maintaining records and workflow.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, March 10, 2023. Apply online: www.sawnee.com/careers.

If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.

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GENERAL CLERK 1L (Building and Grounds/Custodial/ Maintenance)

Sawnee EMC is seeking a General Clerk 1L (Building and Grounds/Custodial/ Maintenance) (part-time position) to perform facility maintenance and grounds keeping duties. Requires some heavy lifting, high school diploma or equivalency and a valid GA driver’s license. Related experience with outdoor maintenance equipment and a valid CDL are preferred. Hours: Availability for alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, March 10, 2023. Apply online: www.sawnee.com/careers.

If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

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