Milton Herald — February 4, 2021

Fe b r u a r y 4 , 2 0 2 1 | 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 1 6 , N o . 5

Court sides with city in rezoning litigation

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Fulton Schools funding goes under microscope Gov. Brian Kemp has proposed restoring 60 percent of school funding cuts for the current year, a move that could provide a boost to Fulton County’s more than 100 schools, like Northwestern Middle School in Milton. The district estimates it could receive $23 million in restored funding. Local school officials say closures have not cut the district’s overall costs. Read more, Pages 2 & 8

Economist predicts major boom for 2022

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Local podcast features political cartoonist

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Eagles’ Overton earns national accolade

JOE PARKER/HERALD

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2 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

POLICE BLOTTER 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 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

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

Homeowner reports person raiding residential mailbox MILTON, Ga. — Police responded to a Cogburn Road residence Jan. 22 for a report of mail theft. The homeowner told officers he moved into the house two weeks ago and the residence had been vacant for the past two years. The homeowner said that when he saw a man opening his mailbox, he chased him away and then called 911. The homeowner described the suspect as a young male in his 20s or 30s. He said when he called out to the suspect, the man ran down the road to to a Mercedes Benz and drove away. He took a photo of the vehicle, which had a Florida license plate. The man said someone had been stealing his mail since he moved in and told police he’d been receiving mail from Florida that wasn’t for him. He was not certain whether people had been using his mailbox during the period the house sat empty, the police report stated.

Police track alleged vandal who was booted from bar MILTON, Ga. — Officers were dispatched to Mazzy’s Sports Tavern on Ga. 9 early the morning of Jan. 24 where a vehicle was reportedly vandalized. The victim, according to police, came out of the bar and found several scratches on the driver’s side windows of his Mazda 3. The general manager of Mazzy’s told officers an unruly patron had been kicked out earlier in the evening and became belligerent. The manager said the

NEWS man drove around the parking lot in an SUV, then got out and began punching the windows of two parked vehicles. The suspect was wearing a ring that likely scratched the windows, the police report stated. Bar managers provided police with the suspect’s identity and showed officers surveillance video of the incident. The victim told officers his insurance company would likely cover costs to repair to his windows free of charge. Police held charges against the suspect, a 40-year-old Milton man, until receiving a cost estimate for the damages, the report stated.

Guest clashes with hotel over bill, missing luggage ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police responded to the Courtyard Marriott Hotel on Deerfield Parkway Jan. 21 following a dispute about a customer’s tab. A night clerk told officers the guest was kicked out of his room Jan. 20 due to an unpaid balance. The guest, a 35-year-old Dacula man, claimed he had money to pay the bill, but the hotel wouldn’t take cash due to COVID-19 restrictions. He said he left his luggage in the lobby while he went to a nearby bank to deposit the cash so he could pay the balance with his debit card. When the man returned, his belongings were gone, according to the incident report. The guest told police that a hotel employee told him the general manager, Matt James, instructed her to confiscate his property and keep it until he paid his tab. Police explained to James that confiscating the luggage was illegal and he could face theft charges. James refused to relinquish the man’s bags for nearly an hour. The guest told officers a Louis Vuitton bag containing jewelry was missing when his bags were returned, the report stated. He asked to press charges for the missing items. Meanwhile, hotel staff trespassed him from the property.

Kemp’s mid-year budget adjustment restores austerity cuts Fulton Schools expect additional $23 million By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Georgia lawmakers are moving quickly to finalize the amended Fiscal Year 2021 budget which restores millions of dollars in state funding to school districts. Last week Gov. Brian Kemp submitted to the Legislature his mid-year FY21 budget recommendations. The state budget was approved in July but comes back after six months for adjustments. Kemp’s amended budget for education includes restoring $586 million, or 60 percent, of the $950 million cut in state funding through “austerity reductions” this fiscal year. Austerity reductions have been used by the state for nearly two decades to balance the budget for public school funding. It considers what the state funding level should be for the district, but what the state can afford to provide. The gap is the austerity reduction. Officials with the Fulton County School System are cautiously optimistic the amended state budget could add $23 million to the district’s coffers. This would help close the gap between what the district was entitled to receive and what it actually received. “The 60 percent austerity reduction restored in Gov. Kemp’s amended FY21 budget would bring back $23 million of the almost $40 million earned, but which was not allocated as determined by the [state funding] formula,” said Marvin Dereef, chief financial officer for Fulton Schools. School districts receive state funding

See BUDGET, Page 8

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 3

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4 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

NEWS

Milton prevails in legal battle over rezoning request Georgia Supreme Court denies developer’s appeal By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — Milton has claimed victory in a legal fight with a developer who sought to rezone a 47 acres along Hopewell Road to build a residential neighborhood with higher density than is currently allowed. The applicant for the rezoning, Kai Chaing Su Dynasty, had requested to rezone the property, located between the Vickery Crest and Brookshade subdivisions, to develop 73 homes, about 50 percent more than what is currently permitted. The applicant first presented the proposal in 2018 and met immediate pushback from the city and nearby residents. According to a statement from the city, the Fulton County Superior Court dismissed most of the Kai Chiang Su Dynasty Trust’s claims in a November 2019 ruling. The Trust appealed the decision, and the Georgia Supreme Court denied the appeal on two occasions — in 2019 and late last year. In the city’s statement, Milton City

Attorney Ken Jarrard said the owners of the property had failed to assert valid claims against the city. “Although the [state Supreme] Court never examined the merits of the case, we are confident that the City’s clear plans for the future development of the property, as reflected in its Comprehensive Plan, would have provided immensely valuable support for the City’s decision to deny the rezoning request,” Jarrard said in the statement. “Challenges to decisions made in compliance with an existing, approved Comprehensive Plan are rarely successful.” Jarrard told the Herald the matter is “final” because the state’s Supreme Court declined to hear the appeal of the Fulton Superior Court’s dismissal of the bulk of the claims made. The Supreme Court did not explain its decision, he added. “The lawsuit is over,” Jarrard said. “The property owner will, of course, continue to have the right to use their property, and, subject to certain time constraints, the right to approach the City again. However, the litigation brought by the property owner is resolved.” The rezoning application faced an uphill battle from the outset, and representatives of the owners stayed true

to their threat early in the process they would seek litigation if it was denied. When the proposal was first made public, about 80 nearby residents, mostly from the Vickery Creek and Brookshade subdivisions, packed City Hall during a Community Zoning Information Meeting to speak out against the plan. They listed a myriad of complaints, including increased traffic, a drop in their home values, the density of the proposed development and mismatched lot sizes between the neighboring subdivisions. Other issues lodged included most of the homes would only be accessible through existing neighborhoods, and the site plan lacked adequate buffers. The city was also in opposition. Staff recommended denial, citing the property is designated for 1-acre minimum lots under its current zoning and in the city’s future land use map. The plan also called for sewer service. A representative from the owners argued that the zoning requirement of 1-acre lot minimums made the site a “doughnut hole” among surrounding developments which had higher densities and were connected to sewer service. In its initial suit, the owner said denying the connection to Fulton County

sewer was discriminatory given the surrounding properties are serviced by the system. It also alleged the rezoning was necessary because the petitioners “cannot economically or feasibly develop or sell the property with the existing zoning and sewer restrictions in place.” After the rezoning was first presented to residents, the applicants requested to defer its presentation to the Planning Commission, but the board had seen enough and voted 5-2 to deny the deferral and move forward with its recommendation to deny the project. During that meeting, an attorney representing the applicant warned litigation would follow a denial by the Milton City Council. That scenario played out in November 2018 after the council voted unanimously to deny the rezoning. In a statement on Milton’s court win, Mayor Joe Lockwood touted the city’s comprehensive plan and other land-use policies. “Our citizens spoke during the comprehensive planning process, and again when this rezoning application was presented,” Lockwood said. “We’re glad that our combined efforts, coupled with exceptional legal representation, led to the desired outcome.”

School superintendents tapped to help draft vaccination plan By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com ATLANTA — State leaders in education and public health have convened a working group of school superintendents to help develop plans for the distribution of COVID-19 vaccinations to teachers and school staff across all 180 systems. State School Superintendent Richard Woods and Georgia Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Kathleen Toomey and their staffs will meet with the superintendents to gather information to be used as statewide models. Georgia Department of Education

spokeswoman Meghan Frick said the 13 superintendents on the working group represent various regions of the state and have been proactive in developing local distribution plans for vaccinations. “We worked to select districts that have already developed strong plans for faculty and staff vaccinations and [represent] small, midsize and large districts in urban, suburban and rural Georgia,” Frick said. Absent were any superintendents from the state’s four largest school districts — Gwinnett, Cobb, Dekalb and Fulton — which account for nearly 30 percent of the state’s public school enrollment.

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Frick noted superintendents from Atlanta and Marietta city school districts are part of the 13-member committee, along with school leaders from Cherokee, Douglas and Henry counties. “There are five metro districts included, but it was important to include districts from other parts of the state as well,” Frick said. Other counties represented on the working group include Appling, Baldwin, Bibb, Calhoun, Chattahoochee, Dougherty, Early and Lumpkin. She noted the goal of the advisory group is not to create required procedures, but to provide “best practices” that can be used by other districts. Georgia is currently in Phase 1A+ of the statewide vaccination plan, which prioritizes vaccinations for healthcare workers, staff and residents of long-term care facilities, adults aged 65 or older and their caregivers, and first responders. The state’s teachers and school staff are prioritized in Phase 1B, along with other non-healthcare essential workers. No time frame has been released as to when Phase 1B will open. Jumping the line has consequences. Last week a medical facility in Elbert County in northwest Georgia was sus-

pended from additional vaccine supplies for six months after it allowed teachers and school staff to receive vaccinations. Frick said the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine is the key to the full reopening of schools around the state. “While the majority of districts are already offering five days a week of in-person instruction, staff vaccinations should provide for widespread and consistent re-openings statewide,” Frick said.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 5

OVER $200M IN CAREER SALES sold

14770 Glencreek Way* • Milton $2,400,000 sold

105 Old Barn Court • Milton $1,150,000 sold

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14925 E. Bluff Road • Milton $1,695,000

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13432 Hipworth Road** • Milton $1,500,000 sold

15911 Manor Club Drive* • Milton $1,695,000 sold

515 Blue Heron Way* • Milton $1,400,000 sold

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120 Manor Lake Court • Milton $1,350,000 sold

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118 Hipworth Way • Milton $1,200,000

775 Foxhollow Run • Milton $1,679,000

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955 Foxhollow Run • Milton $1,595,000

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209 N Esplanade* • Alpharetta $1,995,000

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510 Blue Heron Way** • Milton $1,425,000

785 Foxhollow Run • Milton $1,403,500

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517 Cogdell Trail • Milton $1,185,000

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13483 Hipworth Road • Milton $1,225,000

810 Foxhollow Run • Milton $1,795,000

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My 2022 is the most optimistic forecast compared to any forecast. RAJEEV DHAWAN, director of Economic Forecasting Center, Georgia State University 6 | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021

Economist says North Atlanta poised for business recovery By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — North Metro Atlanta may be one of the best sites in the region for business recovery as the world unshackles itself from the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s the view of Rajeev Dhawan, director of the Economic Forecasting Center at Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business. Speaking at the Jan. 26 online Wellstar Chamber Luncheon SeDHAWAN ries, Dhawan predicted economic recovery will be gradual, but there are certain characteristics of the north metro area that give it a leg up on rebuilding commerce. “You are in the driver’s seat now,” Dhawan said. “You are away from the core high-rise buildings. You‘re socially

distanced, houses spread out. In the old days, the problem used to be we don’t have the nice restaurants or the artwork or this thing – that’s immaterial now.” Rebuilding from COVID, he said, businesses will pursue safety and convenience. “What matters now – what workers are saying – [is] ‘I don’t want to go into a 36-story office building and take the elevators with 5,000 people,’” Dhawan said. “Whereas, you have those lowslung office buildings where a company can come and say ‘Give me all the five front floors… and I can control who goes in and out.’” That trend is supported in the flurry of business announcements, he said. Certainly, there is still talk of building high rises in Midtown Atlanta, but the main push now is for smaller, more strategic sites offering workforce safety. “You happened to be in the right place when this biological even happened, and I think that you are going to benefit,” Dhawan said.

None of this is going to happen overnight, he said, but as the vaccination process proceeds across the country, people will slowly begin to start spending again, probably sometime in the fall and through early 2022. “My 2022 is the most optimistic forecast compared to any forecast,” Dhawan said. Right now, no one is making longterm plans to major purchases and travel, he said, and hospitality is a major part of most metro areas, so relief won’t come immediately. “I don’t see people coming out and hugging their neighbor by March or April,” he said. “That’s what other forecasters have. The stimulus comes in, the money goes out, and people spend the money.” He pointed to an item in the GDP account called Spending on Watches and Jewelry. Spending in that category dropped by 50 percent when the pandemic hit in March and April, he said. But today, spending in that sector has

recovered and is currently running 20 percent higher. This kind of spending, Dhawan said, does not signal a full-scale recovery. For one thing, the number of mortgages in forbearance remains high, he said. When more people begin paying their mortgages on time will signal a return to a healthy economy, Dhawan said. Among his many achievements in economics, Dhawan has received the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago award for forecasting excellence for the best forecast in five different categories over the past five years. He is a five-time winner of the Pulsenomics Crystal Ball Award for accurate and outstanding performance for U.S. Home Price prediction from Zillow. His remarks Jan. 25 were part of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Wellstar Chamber Luncheon Series and provided a preview of the GSU Economic Forecasting Center’s next national and regional forecast conference to be held Feb. 25.

Second Draw loans continue popularity among businesses By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmediagroup.com METRO ATLANTA, Ga. — The Small Business Administration reported last week that Georgia lenders have made more than 7,000 loans valued at nearly $530 million through the most recent round of federal Economic Aid Act. The Paycheck Protection Program is designed to help small businesses keep paying workers as they navigate the pandemic economy. This latest round of loans is open to all small businesses, including

those who received PPP loans in 2020. Nationally, more than 400,000 loans valued at more than $35 billion have been approved this round. Overall, the average loan size is $87,000. Accumulatively, all PPP loans approved in 2020 combined with this round total more than 5.5 million PPP loans totaling $557.8 billion. “This current round of PPP was designed to ensure increased access to funds for minority, underserved, veteran, and women-owned small businesses,” said Terri Denison, SBA Georgia District Director. “To address potential access to

capital barriers, PPP access was initially granted exclusively to community financial institutions that typically serve these concerns.” Loyal Trust Bank in Johns Creek reported that after less than two weeks of the PPP Second Draw program, has in process 67 percent of the total dollars it did in earlier rounds. The program ends on March 31, 2021 or when the SBA runs out of allocated funds as it did in round one. Loyal Trust Bank is a local community bank that processed and closed 10 times as many PPP loans as many banks

10 times its size and 10 times its age in previous PPP lending, according to CEO Charlie Brown. This time to make it much easier on applicants, and to encourage more new customers, the bank has deployed a Fin-Tech solution to help its customers with the forgiveness process. As a result, application data is flowing in fast. “We want to help as many businesses as we can, and while we hope you will bank with us in other ways, we are not requiring it to handle your application,” Brown said.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 7

SCHOOLS

8 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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Fulton Schools says shutdowns have not reduced overall costs By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmediagroup.com FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — The infusion of $93.5 million in federal stimulus funds to the Fulton County School System has filled many of the needs created under the COVID-19 pandemic. But significant issues remain and will continue for some time, district officials say. “[Stimulus funds] assisted with balancing our budget and allowed us to provide the resources that support our health and safety measures during this pandemic,” said Fulton Schools Chief Financial Officer Marvin Dereef. Fulton Schools is among the state’s top 10 recipients of CARES Act funding, which is based on the Title 1 formula tied to household income and poverty levels. Since March, the Georgia Department of Education has allocated over $2.1 billion in federal funds to the state’s 180 school districts through two rounds of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Fulton Schools’ fiscal year 2021 budget of just over $1 billion was balanced with the help of a $29 million draw down of the system’s reserve funds. The federal CARES Act funds allowed the district to cover ongoing pandemic-related costs without another hit to reserves. Dereef acknowledged some question why the district is spending so much when more than half the students have opted not to return to classrooms. One social media post drew significant attention asking if taxpayers should receive a “rebate” for costs saved on maintaining buildings that were

Budget: Continued from Page 2 through the Quality Based Education formula developed in 1985. The formula is intended to provide the basic level of state funding to districts based on enrollment and other factors. Since 1985, the state has rarely fully funded QBE because of budget shortfalls. In 2003 the “austerity reduction” was imposed to further reduce a school district’s share of state funding during economic downturns. At first temporary, these cuts were made permanent in 2010 and implemented every year except in 2019 and 2020. Since 2003, Fulton Schools has absorbed nearly $400 million in austerity cuts, relying heavily on local tax dollars to fund the majority of school operations.

shut down for months, along with idled school buses and other factors. Dereef said expenses remained, although the categories may have changed. “We continue to provide resources and support for face-to-face and remote learning students,” Dereef said. “The type of resources may be different, but the cost still exists. We also have the cost associated with added health and safety measures.” Acquiring personal protective equipment for staff, keeping schools safe and clean, providing additional administrative costs and psychological counseling services have run up significant additional costs, Dereef said. Meghan Frick, spokeswoman for the Georgia Department of Education, said federal stimulus funds are flexible and can be used by school districts for any activity already approved for government funding. “[It covers almost all] activities in response to COVID-19, including school meals, remote learning, facilities and equipment, mental and physical health, professional development and continuity of staff and services,” Frick said. There is no requirement that district’s receive permission on how to spend the funds, however districts must submit a budget. “[School districts] have to budget the funds, and we approve the budget before they can [access funds],” Frick said. “We will monitor the use of funds as we do with all funding to districts.” A third round of CARES Act funding of $113 billion for public schools is currently under consideration in Congress.

Looking ahead to FY2022, Dereef said declining enrollments in Fulton County and across the state because of the pandemic will bring further challenges. Student enrollment is down 2 percent statewide, resulting in a projected $166 million reduction in the QBE funding. “For Fulton Schools that is a $20.1 million reduction in our QBE funds,” Dereef said. This year, Fulton’s enrollment came in nearly 3,000 students below projections, primarily among kindergarten students. The concern, according to district officials, is many of those “missing” will return to classrooms next year after the pandemic subsides, but schools will not be compensated with appropriate funding until the following fiscal year. The FY2022 budget for Fulton Schools is scheduled to be approved in early June and goes into effect July 1.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 9

10 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

OPINION

GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA

Remember: you ford creeks at your own risk. However… If you come in from 19/129, it’s easier. You’ll soon come to a small parking area (which can be packed on weekends) where the trail begins. As waterfall trails go, this one is not bad. However, it is rough and/or muddy in spots. From the parking area, the trail descends toward the creek and soon swings left to cross a tiny wood footbridge over an equally tiny tributary. Not far beyond that, a short spur trail and a set of wood steps curves down to the base of the lower falls. It’s a great place for making a photo, but watch your footing at the bottom of the steps. After checking out the view there, return to the main trail and continue toward the upper falls. This portion of the trail can be a little more of a challenge. You’ll note that it’s possible to swing left off the trail toward the top of the lower falls. But resist the temptation to do so. Good advice: stay away from the top of any waterfall. The rocks can be wet and unexpectedly slick, and it’s too easy to slip and fall. Take this seriously. Stay on the main trail! Continuing on, you’ll soon come to the upper falls observation platform. From the safety of the platform, you’ll have a grand view of the upper falls. It’s another great spot for a photo. I think you’ll like Helton Creek Falls!

Helton Creek Falls – at last! After all these years of wandering around in the north Georgia mountains, I sometimes start to think I’ve seen it all. But I’m wrong. Just last week, while tracking down an altogether differSTEVE HUDSON ent sort of place that Get Outside Georgia, I’ll tell you about in a aa4bw@comcast.net future column, I happened to come across a spot I’ve never visited before. That spot is Helton Creek Falls, a beautiful (and delightfully accessible) set of two spectacular waterfalls not far from Blairsville. How had I managed to miss Helton Creek Falls? I’d certainly heard about it. I’d even read about it. But I’d never visited it – and since I still had several hours of daylight, I decided it was high time to do so. Helton Creek Falls, here I come! The easiest way to get there is take US 19/129 south from Blairsville, looking for Helton Creek Road. Coming from the north that way, the turn-off will be on your left (it’s just past the entrance to Vogel State Park). Make the turn, and then continue about 2.3 miles to a small pullout parking area on the right side of the road. The trailhead is right next to the parking area and is identified by a small sign. That’s the easy way in. There’s another way, however. You know how they say that getting there

is half the fun? Well, if you approach Helton Creek Falls via Georgia 348 (that is, from the other end of Helton Creek Road), things go from ordinary to adventure – and the reason is two (count ‘em, two) creek fords. Yes, the kind of crossing that you do without benefit of bridge. “You mean, as in drive through the water?” said Wife of Mine when I told her about it later. “Yep,” I said. “That’s what I did. Twice!” “Well,” she said after a moment, “I’m glad you didn’t take the van.” Truth be told, the van might have had trouble with the crossings, especially the second one. But the old gray truck took ‘em both in stride. What’s it like to drive through a creek? That depends on the condition of the road (which can change after high water), on the height of the creek, and also on the height of your vehicle. If it’s rained recently and the creek is up at all, forget the creek ford route and go in the other way. I mean that. It doesn’t take much water to make a car lose its footing, and then you’ve got a real mess on your hands. The same thing applies if your car is low to the ground. My trusty truck has plenty of clearance, but your Maserati probably does not. And believe it: There’s nothing to take the fun out of a day in the woods like suddenly seeing an inch of water sloshing around the floorboard of your car. These creek fords are further com-

STEVE HUDSON/HERALD

plicated by challenging approaches and exits. The second ford (closest to the falls) can be particularly challenging. So…if you have any doubt at all, then don’t take the route with the fords. Go in the other way, off 19/129, instead.

Steve Hudson is the author of several books on hiking and the outdoors, including HIKING THE HOOCH, a comprehensive guide to the hiking trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Learn more about his books at www. ChattahoocheeMedia.com

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FORMER MILTON COUNTRY CLUB STORMWATER MANAGEMENT RFP NUMBER 21-PW05 Sealed Proposals Due Date: FEBRUARY 23, 2021 2:00PM LOCAL TIME Electronic submission via: www.cityofmiltonga.us To be publicly announced at approximately 2:30 PM 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 proposals for the Former Milton Country Club Stormwater Management will be posted on the following websites the week of January 28, 2021. http://www.cityofmiltonga.us or http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp

Good news, good people Occasionally, I allow the world to break through my shield and get to me. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen, particularly lately with all the chaos and anger around. However, RAY APPEN when things seem the Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmediagroup.com worst, almost inevitably “life” tosses me a lifeline, and I am able to move through the clutter and noise and get back to a safe place — a better state of mind. When I did my Appalachian Trail hike, the same thing happened, almost on a routine basis. “The Trail provides” was the one takeaway that almost all hikers discover. It happened so consistently and so poignantly, that one quickly not only became aware of it, but also came to believe it to be some sort of law of nature. I know I did — no fear, no fear at all of anything out there. The Trail will provide. My “lifelines” back here in civilization (Alpharetta) usually take on very simple forms — good people doing good things — sometimes involving me and sometimes acts that I only hear about. And the “reminders” usually are not grandiose acts, but small mundane things that can easily be missed or not appreciated. So here are people who do good and are good that have been my reminder — my lifeline at one time or another. These may not seem like big deals, but to me they were and still are, big deals. Saving my MacBook was the goal. After taking my MacBook into an authorized Apple service place because the trac-pad had ceased working and being told that it might be dead and that they didn’t deal with trac-pads anyway, I was desperate. I have had my MacBook for almost eight years, and it has countless important files stored on the hard drive. Yes, I have it backed up, but I am never 100 percent that the backup was successful, or that the data is retrievable. When I walked into the small nondescript shop in Cumming called Experimax, I am sure my panic was obvious. “Yes, we work on Macs. Yes, we can replace trac-pads. Yes, replacing the trac-pad, depending on the age of your laptop might cost maybe $200-ish.” Several days later, they called me and said it was ready to pick up. “How much do I owe you,” I asked as he handed me my laptop. “Oh, don’t worry about it. There is no charge. We were able to adjust

OPINION your trac-pad and you don’t need a new one, courtesy of our lead tech, Timmy.” He smiled. I must have looked shocked, because I was. He knew how important that laptop was to me, and he also knew that I was 100 percent prepared to pay whatever he charged for a new trackpad or whatever else it might take to repair my beloved laptop. Instead, “No charge.” I always like to save money, but that wasn’t it. I had had a bad week. A lot of things had not gone well. I was miserable. Then, “the trail provides” provided — so grateful. His name is Paco Rodriguez. His store, Experimax, is in Cumming just off Ga. 400 at 1586 Market Place Blvd. His cell is 770-923RODRIGUEZ 5741 and the shop phone is 678-845-6977. Thank you Paco. Thank you for your honor and your integrity. We can’t get enough of that. Three more good guys. This is the same story as Paco, but instead of computer repairs, it is car repair. It is a short story. The first place I want to mention repairs really anything you bring in — all makes and models. The second place primarily specializes on German cars but will also work on other brands. The first place is part of a chain of repair shops, and my friend there is Rashed Wesa, the service manager. He sets the tone and the WESA attitude for everyone else who works there. And because of who he is and how he is, all the staff as far as I can see are all the same — humble, polite, professional, honorable and honest. The second repair shop is a simple garage in Roswell off Oak Street, owned by the former head mechanic of a large dealership that sells only German cars. Maybe four or five folks work there. The atmosphere is comfortable. It’s like walking into the living room of a good friend or a bar “where everyone knows your name.” You walk in and one of them stops what they are doing and talks to you. Often, when I have been there, the car goes up on the lift right then and there and you get a quick probable diagnosis. I no longer ask either place “how much,” because I don’t need to. I know they will do the work and do it well but only do the work absolutely necessary to fix the problem. If I have heard it once I have heard it repeatedly at both places: “We could do this and fix that, but you know, if we did this other thing it would do the same job and it will cost a lot less.” Something along those lines, every time.

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 11

Here is an example that involves Sammy, the owner of the second place: “Yes Ray, I can fix this damage to your 1987 Mike Osborne (left) and Mercedes Turbo-Diesel. Sammy Duckett, owner If you use insurance though, they’ll probably total the car. I can replace the door and that front quarter panel with used ones, and I think I can even find them in the same black as your car — it was a very common color for this type of car — which means you wouldn’t have to have it painted. The painting gets expensive fast.” Both are simply good, honorable, professionals who know what they are doing — in their profession, as well in their lives. They treat their customers the way they would want to be treated. Money -— especially money gained dishonestly — is not part of their character. These guys are, to me, why I can smile when it’s raining outside. Rashed is at Express Oil Change on Haynes Bridge, right next to where Alpha Soda used to be. His number is 770-752-7522 (cell) or 770-752-0932. The address is 11720 Haynes Bridge

Road in Alpharetta. Sammy owns Lauck Motors, 89 Oak Street in Roswell. The main number is 770-992-1313 and his cell is 678231-2463. Allen or Mike is who you will usually end up speaking with. Mike and Sammy, between them, are probably as knowledgeable as anyone out there in fixing German cars. If you want to help me reward these businesses for simply being good humans and for being honorable examples for us all, please find my column online on NorthFulton.com under “Opinion” in the main tool bar and repost it or tweet it or otherwise share it! They deserve it. Do you want to share? I am sure that you too have your own stories, your own good people, who have pulled you up or restored your faith either in yourself or in humanity. If you want to, drop me a brief email about them and what they do or did so I can share with our readers! My email is AppenIdeas@gmail.com. Contrary to recent trends, words do matter. Character and integrity still matter. Telling the truth still matters. I would suggest that almost nothing else counts if you don’t start with character, integrity and the truth. That makes all the difference. And, it is how we start to mend our broken world. Thank you Paco, Rashed, Sammy, and Mike for the example you provide, for what you do, for who you are.

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By JEFFREY ALBERTSON newsroom@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Mike Luckovich joined a special episode of the Georgia Politics Podcast on Jan. 22 to discuss his methodology and career as an editorial cartoonist. Since 1989, Luckovich has worked for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and earned Pulitzer Prizes in 1995 and 2006. At age 13, Luckovich drew his first politiLUCKOVICH cal cartoon. Since high school, his ambition has been to be a cartoonist. Studying political science in college directed that path to an editorial route. Earlier in the day of the podcast, Atlanta Braves legend Hank Aaron passed away at age 86. Hammerin’ Hank played 23 seasons in the major leagues and came to national fame after surpassing Babe Ruth’s 714 home run record. Aaron hit his 755th home run in 1976, a record that stood until Barry Bonds broke it in 2007. In honor of Aaron’s legacy on and off the field, Luckovich shared a cartoon he drew of Hank touching home plate in front of heaven’s gates. The interview with Luckovich runs about 30 minutes. Thank you for listening and don’t forget to rate or leave a comment on your preferred listening app. Excepts from the Luckovich Interview: Q: What was the first political cartoon that you drew, that you remember? A: I drew it for my grandma. It was when (President) Nixon was really in trouble. It was a really stupid cartoon, but it was Richard Nixon and he’s got these big

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rubber boots on. It’s flooding at the front gate of his house and something about Watergate. Q: Since you were 13, how has your methodology changed? A: Thanks to the pandemic, I’ve moved out of my office at the AJC and into my basement storage area, but I like being home. Also, what’s changed (is that) I used to pencil stuff in when I would draw. Now when I come up with an idea it’s just a very rough sketch and then when I go to finish it, I just draw and I don’t pencil anything in. As I’m drawing, I will white out and then rub it with my finger to smooth it. I spend less time than I used to doing a drawing. Q: Is there a drawing or cartoon that you’ve created that stands out to you more than any other? A: Normally when I’m doing a cartoon, I’m just so focused on it, and it becomes my favorite cartoon until the next day. I did a cartoon during the Iraq War, and I think we were approaching 2,000 casualties in Iraq, but we weren’t there yet. What I did over a weekend is I wrote WH-Y with a question mark. I wrote it big, then I filled in the letters and question mark with the (names of) soldiers that had been killed.

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Managing your house and property five ways NAPSI —The next time you look around your home, or that of your aging relatives, you may be astonished how much “stuff” accumulates over the years. Are there things — and the stories they tell — you want to save to pass down to the next generation? Is your will or estate plan on hold because you don’t know where to start? What if you had a natural disaster or break-in — are your items properly protected by insurance? You can make this year the one in which you get your estate in order with these five easy steps: 1. Get started. The best way to get something done is to start. Decide if it makes sense to tackle items by room or by category and get started. This is not something that has to be done in one day, in fact, it might take several days or longer to get organized. Don’t be discouraged. Once it’s done, it will only need periodic updating.

2. Take photos. Use a photo-based mobile app, such as Manage My Things, to accurately and efficiently track items. You can upload one item at a time or batches of items such as fine china. “If you’ve ever had to empty a parent’s home, decide which of your heirs gets your things when you die or have confidence you’ll be made whole if a disaster strikes, then you know all the decisions you make are emotional,” said Rick McKenna, CEO of Manage My Things. “This app takes you through much of the complex decision-making, so your time is better spent with loved ones. All you need to know is how to take photos and answer a few questions. The app does the rest.” 3. Donate or discard. There are many services and organizations that can help you remove items from your home, either for donation or to discard. Some examples

include Habitat for Humanity and Goodwill for donations. Some donations may even be tax deductible. To dispose of stuff, you can contact 1-800-GOT-JUNK? to schedule a pick-up. 4. Share with your agents. Fires, hurricanes and floods can often expose the two-thirds of all homeowners who are

under-insured. It’s important to inventory items in a home and share the report with insurance agents for review to accurately modify home protection policies and ensure you’re properly covered. Additionally, 50% to 60% of U.S. adults don’t have a will, leaving their loved ones the difficulty of getting affairs in order. By sharing your estate plan, you’re helping ensure peace of mind for yourself and the ones you care about. 5. Set and (mostly) forget. Set a reminder to revisit your estate plan at least once a year or when there are major life changes such as a move or significant purchase. Following these five steps can mean you’ll find yourself in better financial and mental space next year and for many years to come.

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more importantly, homeowners have the time to focus. Everyone is working from home and kids are virtually learning, which both directly translate into homeowner’s need to modify their homes. John Hogan, owner of Remodeling Expo Center comments “We have never seen anything like it and due to our large size, we can handle the influx of projects. We have increased the size of our design and installation teams, but we are all working 6 days a week. The primary focus seems to be home offices, kitchens, bathrooms, removing partition walls, and finishing basements.” “We’re managing onsite installation safety extremely well” says Peter Schnieper, Remodeling Expo’s installation VP. “The prevention of Covid transmission is quite similar to asbestos and mold spores, so our safety procedures required only minor modification. We also encourage homeowners to temporarily move out or take vacations while the work is performed. Remodeling Expo Center expanded showroom hours in March and is likely to expand then again due to the increased demand. Although the Covid infection rate is surging there doesn’t seem to be any end to the surge to the home improvement industry. To learn more, contact The Remodeling Expo Center at 404 910-3969 or stop by the Design Center at 48 King Street, Roswell, GA 30075. www.RemodelingExpo.com.

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NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 17

Market finishes 2020 in record-setting territory Brought to you by — Laura Dolan Ansley Craft Dolan Team Stating the obvious, 2020 was an interesting year to say the least. Real estate in many ways, stood apart from the craziness, bouncing DOLAN back from a slow start last spring to finish the year in recordsetting territory thanks in large part to historically low interest rates, decreased emphasis on commuting to an office, as well as people just being home more and wanting a change. So, where does that leave the market as we enter a new year? Inventory remains at records lows: through 2020 there were 7,700 homes for sale in Milton, Alpharetta and Roswell. That is 29% FEWER homes for sale than the same period a year earlier. The good news for sellers is that home prices in the same area increased an average of 5% during 2020, with projections for 2021 showing an increase around 7.1%. Driving this increase is simple supply vs. demand. The Atlanta Regional Commission projects the 21-county metroAtlanta region to swell by more than a

half million people in the next 4 years, driving the population from just over 6 million to nearly 9 million by 2050. The metro area’s strong job market, access to higher education, the airport (we WILL get back to regular air travel again), technology and other industries, combined with the weather and overall quality of life, draws people here. Relocating clients share with us often that when they search “best places to live in the United States,” cities such as Milton and Alpharetta frequently appear. What does this mean for homeowners? Anticipate being able to generate a good price for your home but be mindful - a strong seller’s market does not mean every home sells quickly for an incredible price. Homes still need to be priced correctly, well maintained, reasonably updated, clean, and professionally marketed by a Realtor®. Once you have sold your home, now what? We hear often that clients are afraid to put their home on the market because they “have nowhere to go.” Have no fear, there are actually many options. Consider a second or third ring city such as Cumming, Gainesville or Canton. As these suburbs grow, the schools are garnering higher rankings, shopping and dining options are increasing, homes are

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often less expensive and taxes are often lower. Perhaps a second home at the beach or in the mountains in addition to a smaller townhome or condominium in vibrant downtown Decatur, Inman Park or the Old Fourth Ward is an option. One or both could even be income

generating to vacationers while you are not there. Most importantly, get referrals and call a great Realtor®. We have the resources, knowledge and connections to help find the answers that are right for you.

18 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

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REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

The top 5 real estate trends impacting 2021 By MONICA BLANCO Ansley Real Estate

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M I LTO N 14720 Taylor Road Offered for $600,000 Cynthia Chandlee 770.826.8276

If you’re having a strong start to 2021, you’re not alone! Our local real estate market is off and running, and we are already seeing five trends emerge. Trends BLANCO are good to know, but what do you do with them? See my realtor tips to help you take advantage at every turn. Trend #1: A Strong Seller’s Market. Sellers, it’s your time to shine. In this market with historically low inventory, buyers are willing to pay top dollar for well-appointed homes. Expect less competition and multiple offers – a great position to be in. Realtor Tip: Choose an experienced agent who can price your home right: fair enough to get offers, but competitive enough to get strong ones. And, if you’re going to turn around and buy a home, keep reading. Trend #2: Inventory is Low, Low, Low. Not a lot of homes for sale means buyers must be flexible. How? First, take a hard look at your ‘new home wish list’ — where can you budge? Also, consider

broadening your search to include nearby neighborhoods and cities that may have more homes for sale. Realtor Tip: Go to your agent with location criteria (ZIP codes, school zones, neighborhoods, etc.), and consider providing ‘good,’ ‘better,’ and ‘best’ tiers. This way, your agent can share more options, discuss tradeoffs, and offer advice. Trend #3: Home Prices are Still Rising. Before beginning your home search, determine what you can comfortably afford. You can start online with a simple mortgage calculator to figure out the best monthly payment for your budget. Or, you can contact a local lender to help ensure accuracy and objectivity. Realtor Tip: Most agents will have sources and contacts to share to help you establish your budget. Trend #4: Preparation is Key, Now More Than Ever. Buyers, go ahead and get pre-approved for your loan. When you find your dream home, you’ll have a strong competitive advantage versus other buyers and will be less likely to miss out in a multiple bid situation. Realtor Tip: Before you get to the fun part (seeing houses, of course!), ask your agent for advice on

the most efficient way to get pre- approved. It may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Trend #5: Low Interest rates will help facilitate sales. Most economists believe rates will stay around 3% in 2021. If you’re thinking of buying, now is the time to take advantage of the extra buying power these low rates offer. Realtor Tip: While low interest rates might make out-of-reach homes more affordable, an experienced agent who has your best interests in mind, should encourage you to stick to your budget no matter what rate you qualify for. There you have it. Whether selling or buying, it’s important that you partner with a trusted agent. You deserve a partner who knows the market, tells it to you straight, keeps you in budget, and has the expertise to share all available options and resources. If you would like to review scenarios on how to accomplish your real estate goals for 2021, I would love to be your real estate advocate! Contact me with any questions about our current market. Monica Blanco | Realtor® cell: 404.409.9388 office: 770.284.9900 monicablanco@ansleyatlanta.com

2021 Home design trends to watch M I LTO N 3005 Evelyn Lane Offered for $915,000 Jenny Doyle 404.840.7354

SU WA N E E 4504 Whitestone Way Offered for $3,150,000 Kathy Rice 678.697.4984 Anne Stone 404.307.6416

770.442.7300 AtlantaFineHomes.com Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

Brought to you by – BILL RAWLINGS Senior Vice President & Managing Broker, North Atlanta Office Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty As we progress into a new year, many RAWLINGS homeowners are looking to update their living spaces. According to articles by Vogue.com and Realtor.com, the dominating theme people currently desire is comfort! Read on to discover what the top interior design and industry experts predict for home design trends in 2021. Color Cool grays, beiges and blues will make way for warmer, cozier tones. Rather than stark minimalism, expect to see homes adorned with brighter colors that evoke a boho-chic and even retro vibe! Color palettes will bring a wave of 80s and 90s nostalgia with mauve, forest green, burnt orange, cinnamon and marigold hues. Textures With people generally spending more

time at home, there will be a renewed emphasis on the quality and sustainability of materials. A rise in stronger outdoor fabrics used indoors will allow easy clean-up and durability. Also, earthy, layered textures in design elements will complement warmer color tones, and wallpaper patterns will dominate over monochromatic schemes. Living Spaces Working from home has become a reality for many individuals; therefore, renovating spare rooms, closets and spaces into cozy home offices has become essential. Additionally, there has been an increased inclination for beautiful multi-season outdoor living spaces with fireplaces, patios, screened porches and even outdoor kitchens. Décor 2021 décor will reflect comfort, quality and what brings you joy. People are trading in mass-produced pieces for refinished family heirlooms or vintage items. There will also be more emphasis on every detail, including the fluffiness of your towels and blankets, luxury candles and plants to bring life into your home, objets d’art

from local artisans and modern touchless technology in your kitchen and bathrooms. Style As the focus on livability becomes paramount, many interior design experts are predicting both the mid-century modern and minimalism styles to decline in favor of large, soft seating, bold and decorated spaces and a mixture of old and new. Another trend that will decrease in popularity is open floor plans. Many households want to prioritize space and privacy, so new buyers are searching for homes with clearly separated rooms. By updating your home with these fabulous 2021 home design trends, you will create a living space that brings you contentment and comfort. If you have questions about how to implement these trends 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 Holly Haynes, Marketing Coordinator

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GERMAN CANON/SPECIAL

The Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra has found ways to rehearse in person while implementing COVID-19 safety measures. They video recorded four pieces since they cannot perform in front of an audience.

Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra forges new path to audience By ZOE SEILER newsroom@appenmediagroup.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — While the coronavirus pandemic has forced people to adapt their regular routines, the Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra has found ways to move forward.

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“Welcoming everyone to proclaim and live the joy of the Gospel” Due to the pandemic and to avoid contact, ashes will be sprinkled on the crown of the head rather than applied to the forehead as in previous years. All liturgies take place inside the church and seating will be on a first come, first serve basis.

6:30 am – Mass in English with the distribution of ashes 9:00 am – Mass in English with the distribution of ashes 12noon – Mass in English with the distribution of ashes (livestreamed on our Facebook page @stacatholicchurch) 5:00 pm – Liturgy of the Word prayer service in English with the distribution of ashes 6:00 pm-8:00 pm – Distribution of ashes only. Distribution stations will be set up in the chapel, the parish hall, and outdoors in the social circle. 8:00 pm – Mass in Spanish with the distribution of ashes (livestreamed on our Facebook page @stacatholicchurch)

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The group of volunteer musicians gathered for rehearsals in larger event spaces where they could social distance to work on four pieces to record. Each year, the symphony performs four in-person concerts, but health concerns related to COVID forced the group to provide virtual performances in 2020. The group of volunteer musicians gathered for rehearsals in larger event spaces where they could social distance to work on four pieces to record. There were no expectations for the videos, but conductor Grant Gilman said that they wanted to have something to work toward. “Because people wanted to be able to play, we wanted to be able to still move forward and also do it safely,” he said. The symphony rehearses in the sanctuary at Crabapple First Baptist Church and in the orchestra room at First Presbyterian Church of Woodstock each week. Gilman said the musicians are not required to participate if they don’t feel safe. Wind and brass instrument players can’t wear a mask while practicing. Otherwise, the musicians wear a mask, social distance and use hand sanitizer during the in-person rehearsals. Gilman said that video recordings and virtual rehearsals, which the youth

See SYMPHONY, Page 32

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 23

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MILTON, Ga. — The Milton Mayor’s Run and Jog for a Cause 5K will not take place this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The annual 5K, a partnership between the city and North Point Pediatrics, was scheduled to take place in the Deerfield Parkway area of Milton Feb. 27. The city said prioritizing safety and statewide limitations on “gathering” sizes prompted the cancellation. The February 27 edition would have been the 11th annual Milton Mayor’s Run and 17th annual Jog for a Cause, which raises money to support childhood cancer research and assist families dealing with diagnosis and treatment. The two races joined forces years ago in a partnership between the City of Milton and North Point Pediatrics. The city said it hopes to bring the event back in 2022.

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Let Us Connect You Alpharetta-Roswell Herald Delivers to 28,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30005, 30009, 30022, 30075, 30076. Alpharetta & Roswell’s primary news source. Est. 1983. Alpharetta’s paper of record. Forsyth Herald Delivers to 17,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30040, 30041. Forsyth County’s largest circulation newspaper. Est. 1998

Johns Creek Herald Delivers to 20,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30022, 30097. Johns Creek’s primary news source. Est. 1997. Johns Creek’s paper of record. Milton Herald Delivers to 10,000 households every Thursday Zip Code: 30004. Community news for and about the City of Milton. Est. 2006. Milton’s paper of record.

Dunwoody Crier Delivers to 18,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30338, 30350, 30360, 30346, 30319. Community news for and about the City of Dunwoody and surrounding areas of Sandy Springs and Brookhaven. City of Dunwoody paper of record. Est. 1976.

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26 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

CITY OF MILTON MARCH 2021 TAX SALE STACEY INGLIS ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER CITY OF MILTON STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF FULTON Under and by virtue of certain tax Fi.Fa.'s issued by the City of Milton, Fulton County Georgia. In favor of the City of Milton and, against the following named persons and the property as described immediately below their respective name(s). There will be sold for cash or certified funds at public outcry, before the Steps of City Hall in Milton, Fulton County Georgia, between the legal hours of sale, on the first Tuesday in March 2021 the same being March 2, 2021. T he following property will be sold between the legal hours of sale, 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. T he properties listed below and described, or as much thereof as will satisfy the City tax execution on the respective individual, will be sold. T he properties hereinafter described have been levied on as the property of the persons whose names immediately precede the property description. Each of the respective parcels of property are located in the City of Milton, Fulton County, State of Georgia. T he years for which said Fi.Fa.'s are issued and levied are stated below the name of the owner in each case. This is a buyer beware sale and all property will be sold as is. The City makes no warranty, neither expressed nor implied, as to title. Properties are sold under the power of a tax sale deed with specific rights of redemption. Each defendant and tenant in possession, if applicable, has been notified of levy time and place of sale. Purchaser shall pay for title, all transfer cost, all taxes, advertising cost and recording fees. Pursuant to Georgia Law, payment will be required within one (1) hour of the completion of the tax sale. In the event a bid is not properly paid, the property shall be re-offered at 2:00 PM on the day of the sale, or the following day that being March 3, 2021. File#: 1 Map/Parcel Number: 22 -4932-0893-014-0 Defendant(s) in Fifa: Pope Tommy Jason & Pope Gena Current Property Owner: 2335 Old North Park, LLC Reference Deed: 59760/261 Property Description: All and only that parcel of land designated as Tax Parcel 22 -4932-0893-014-0, lying and being in Land Lots 893 & 908 of the 2nd Land District, 2nd Section, City of Milton, Fulton County Georgia, being Lot 14, Block A, Northpark Subdivision aka Hopewell Plantation II, shown in Plat Book 162, Page 89, described in Deed Book 59760, Page 261, the description contained therein being incorporated herein by this reference, known as 2335 Old Northpark Lane. Years Due: 2019 File#: 11 Map/Parcel Number: 22 -4461-0986-033-7 Defendant(s) in Fifa: Bethany Road Partners, Inc Current Property Owner: ECLC, Inc Reference Deed: 12237/338 Property Description: All and only that parcel of land designated as Tax Parcel 22 -4461-0986-033-7, lying and being in Land Lots 958, 959, 986 & 987, 2nd Land District, City of Milton, Fulton County, Georgia, designated as Common Area, shown in Plat Book 148, Page 55, being a portion of the property described in Deed Book 12237, Page 338, the description contained therein being incorporated herein by this reference, located on Bay Colt Road. Years Due: 2017-2019 File#: 13 Map/Parcel Number: 22 -5180-0398-049-2 Defendant(s) in Fifa: Brooks Land, Inc. Current Property Owner: Same as Defendant(s) in FiFa Reference Deed: 35749/210 Property Description: All and only that parcel of land designated as Tax Parcel 22 -5180-0398-049-2, lying and being in Land Lots 399 & 398, 2nd Land District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia, containing 6.47 acres, more or less, being a portion of the property described in Deed Book 35749, Page 210, the description contained therein being incorporated herein by this reference, located off Watson Bend. Years Due: 2013-2019 File#: 14 Map/Parcel Number: 22 -5320-0254-024-9 Defendant(s) in Fifa: Brooks Land, INC Current Property Owner: Same as Defendant(s) in FiFa Reference Deed: 30073/642

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facebook.com/MiltonHerald INVITATION TO BID ASPHALT RESURFACING PROJECT ITB NUMBER 21-PW06 Sealed Bids Due Date: FEBRUARY 25, 2021 BY 2:00PM LOCAL TIME Electronic submission via: www.cityofmiltonga.us To be publicly announced at approximately 2:30 PM 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 Asphalt Resurfacing Project will be posted on the following websites the week of February 4, 2021.

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Grant Gilman, conductor of the Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra, has worked with musicians and the symphony’s board to find new ways to rehearse and perform in a safe environment to share music with others.

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orchestra is doing, aren’t ideal, but it still allows the symphony to play music and allows for new opportunities. The Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra was able to record a piece with Takosha Swan, a singer and board member of the Georgia Department of Veterans Services. She composed the song “The Veteran’s Anthem,” and the symphony was the first to record it with her. “If we hadn’t at least tried to do something, we wouldn’t have been able to take advantage of that possibility,” Gilman said. “We were already moving, and we already had time for the recording and everything.” GIlman said the orchestra is planning two performances in the coming months. The first will likely be another video and the second may be an outdoor concert. He also looks forward to live performances making a comeback, saying it’s heartbreaking to not hear a clap or whoop after a performance. “Even if we know that people are watching … it’s still not the same. In the moment we are moved, so therefore we want to know that somebody else was moved at the same time,” Gilman said. “I think people will want that, so we will Solution find a way to make it happen again.”

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Milton’s Overton named National Sophomore of the Year By JOE PARKER joe@appenmediagroup.com MILTON, Ga. — Milton defensive lineman Lebbeus (L.T.) Overton has racked up another individual award for his standout 2020 season, earning the designation of MaxPreps’ National Sophomore of the Year. Overton reportedly led all players in the state in sacks (21.5). Over half of the sophomore’s 70 total tackles on the season were solo (41) and for a loss (38). He was a constant presence in the backfield with 26 quarterback hurries and six caused fumbles. The MaxPreps’ award for the 6-foot5, 255-lb. defensive end bookmarks the start of the 2020 season in which he was

named the top overall prospect in the nation for the Class of 2023. Overton was named the Region 5-7A Player of the Year and earned spots on the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Class 7A All-State team and on Score Atlanta’s All-Classification team. Milton compiled an 11-1 record in 2020 with Overton and won the program’s third consecutive region championship. The sophomore has not been resting on his laurels in the off-season, though. He’s an integral part of Milton’s basketball squad. The Eagles (16-2) are the top-ranked team on the hardwoods in Class 7A and ranked No. 2 overall in all classifications by MaxPreps. Recently, Overton scored 14 points

with 17 rebounds in Milton’s 66-63 overtime win over Cherokee in a battle for the top spot in the Region 5-7A standings. The Eagles are primed for a fourth region title in five years and to make

another deep playoff run. With Overton’s contributions as a freshman last season, the Eagles went 26-5 and earned a spot in the Class 7A semifinals.

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Anne Dallas, 77, of Roswell, passed away January 20, 2021. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Director & Crematory.

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Marie Day, 78, of Roswell, passed away January 22, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

Phillip Andrew DeLong, 50, passed away January 21, 2021. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory. Robert Foley, 94, of Alpharetta, passed away January 25, 2021. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Director & Crematory.

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Parker Glasgow, 91, of Alpharetta, passed away January 26, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green Walter Guyote, 95, of Roswell, passed away January 22, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green

James Austin Key, 81, of Cumming, passed away January 20, 2021. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory.

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Renae Magerfleisch, 13, of Cumming, passed away January 20, 2021. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral HomeHome & Crematory. Roswell Funeral Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

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William Dempsey Morrow Jr., 85, of Cumming, passed away January 20, 2021. Arrangements by McDonald & Son Funeral Home. Faithfully Serving Roswell Since 1839

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Marian Haight, 80, of Alpharetta, passed away January 25, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green

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Roswell Funeral Home Terry Hanson Haynes, of Cumming, passed Green Lawn Cemetary away January 21, 2021. Arrangements by McDonald & Son Funeral Home. Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Flora Hopkins, 81, of Milton, away January 25, 2021. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Director & Crematory.

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Roswell Funeral Home Green Lawn Cemetary Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Lawn Cemetery.

Makkieh Nazershahi, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away January 21, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green

Roswell Funeral Home Shelvia Green Lawn Cemetary

Jean Oliver, 81, of Cumming, passed away January 25, 2021. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory. Roswell Funeral Home Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Green Lawn Cemetary

Faithfully Serving Roswell Since 1839

Roswell Funeral Home Green Lawn Cemetary Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Lawn Cemetery. Roswell Funeral Home Green Lawn Cemetary Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Roswell Funeral Home Green Lawn Cemetary

Jerome Lampe, 70, of Roswell, passed away January 20, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green

John Phillips, 93, of Roswell, passed away January 24, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green

Steven Rogers, 66, of Roswell, passed away January 23, 2021. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Director & Crematory.

Roswell Funeral Home Green Lawn Cemetary Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Lawn Cemetery.

Kimberly Romano, 50, of Roswell, passed away January 23, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green

Roswell Funeral Home Dan Green Lawn Cemetary

Scott, 100, of Alpharetta, passed away January 24, 2021. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Director & Roswell Funeral HomeCrematory.

Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Green Lawn Cemetary

Faithfully Serving Roswell Since 1839

Roswell Funeral Home Green Lawn Cemetary Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Lawn Cemetery.

David Sonenberg, 75, of Roswell, passed away January 24, 2021. Arrangements by Roswell Funeral Home and Green

Roswell Funeral Home

Thomas Stotts, 65, of Cumming, passed Green LawnElden Cemetary away January 18, 2021. Arrangements by McDonald & Son Funeral Home. Faithfully Serving Families Since 1839

Roswell Funeral HomeRandy Joe Woodall, Green Lawn Cemetary62, of Cumming, passed

away January 21, 2021. Arrangements by Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory. Faithfully Serving Roswell Since 1839

34 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com

ONLINE INCLUDED C a l l t o d a y t o p l a c e y o u r a d 4 7 0 . 2 2 2 . 8 4 6 9 o r e m a i l c l a s s i f i e d s @ a p p e n m e d i a g r o u p . c o m • FA X : 7 7 0 - 4 7 5 - 1 2 1 6

Help Wanted Full-time General Clerk III Sawnee EMC is seeking a General Clerk III Customer Service to assist in a high-volume call center. Requires high school diploma or equivalency, computer, communication and general office skills. Two years of related experience preferred. Position is full-time; must be flexible to work irregular hours, to include evenings, weekends and holidays. Applicants must complete an application form prior to 5 PM February 5, 2021. Apply online: www.sawnee.com/My Cooperative/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 to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace. SEEKING WORKERS for our cleanroom manufacturing facility. Duties include operating equipment and various manufacturing tasks. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Visit aesclean.com/ production-jobs to apply

Yard Sale

Sales Estate Sale ALPHARETTA Windward, Bay Pointe 1090 Bay Pointe Crossing 30005. Friday 2/5-Sunday 2/7, 10AM-3PM. Furniture, home decor’, books, kids’/teens’ stuff, sporting equipment, electronics, lamps, art, holiday/ party items, contents of HUGE home!

Wanted to Buy GOT COINS? Father and son looking to buy. Matt 404-723-3737

Transportation Vans DODGE HANDICAP CARAVAN2008: Braun enter-van conversion. $9950. 47,330 miles. 312718-3359

Business Services Refinance North Atlanta’s Smartest Online Refi Analysis Tool Grab your mortgage statement and complete the easy questions at www. RefiBenefitQuiz.com to see – clearly and with details – if it’s wise for you to refi given the historically low rates in the market. * No SSN * No Phone Number * No Credit Check BankSouth Mortgage Company LLC NMLS 690971 Subject to credit and collateral approval.

Instruction Bargains Musical Instruments PIANO COLLECTOR Several beautiful Baby Grands & uprights. Quality pianos at sacrifice prices. 770633-4151

Classes MATHEMATICS: Many students advanced to Ivy league/20 years advanced experience, especially SAT. KAIST Mathematics B.S. Purdue Mathematics M.S. Your home-$35/ hour. 404-933-7094/ pauljkim1@yahoo.com

BOLD TYPE WILL MAKE YOUR AD STAND OUT. CALL 770-442-3278 TO PLACE AN AD

NATIONAL CLASSIFIEDS Autos Wanted

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! 2002 and Newer! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-416-2330.

HughesNet Satellite Internet – Finally, no hard data limits! Call Today for speeds up to 25mbps as low as $59.99/mo! $75 gift card, terms apply. 1-844-8634478

Get cash for your used or junk car today. We buy all cars, trucks, and SUVs. Free pick up. Call. 1-888-985-1806

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, most advanced debris-blocking protection. Schedule free estimate. 15% off Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-995-2490

GENERAC Standby Generators. The weather is increasingly unpredictable. Be prepared for power outages. FREE 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!) Schedule FREE in-home assessment. 1-844334-8353 special financing if qualified.

Education & Training Train online to do medical billing! Become a Medical Office Professional at CTI! Get trained & certified to work in months! 888-572-6790. (M-F 8-6 ET)

Health & Fitness GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-8895515 Dental insurance - Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-888-623-3036 www. dental50plus.com/58 #6258

Medical Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

Miscellaneous Thinking about installing a new shower? American Standard makes it easy. Free design consult.1-888-674-3005 today to see how to save $1,000 on installation or visit www. newshowerdeal.com/display The Generac PWRcell solar plus battery storage system. Save money, reduce reliance on grid, prepare for outages & power your home. Full installation services. $0 down financing option. Request free no obligation quote. 1-855-2703785 DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 7/21/21.1-833-8722545

Hearing aids! Bogo free! Highquality rechargeable Nano hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Nearly invisible! 45-day money back guarantee! 833-669-5806 Protect your home w/home security monitored by ADT. Starting at $27.99/mo. Get free equipment bundle including keypad, motion sensor, wireless door & windows sensors. 833719-1073 AT&T Internet. Starting at $40/ month w/12-mo agmt. 1 TB of data/mo. Ask how to bundle & SAVE! Geo & svc restrictions apply. 1-888-796-8850 Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-534-6198 or visit www. walkintubquote.com/news

Miscellaneous

CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer. Nationwide Free Pick Up! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960. New authors wanted! Page Publishing will help selfpublish your book. Free author submission kit! Limited offer! 866-951-7214 Directv Now. No Satellite. $40/ mo 65 Channels. Stream news, live events, sports & on demand titles. No contract/commitment. 1-866-825-6523 ASIAN WOMEN! Penpals, friendship! Free brochure. Send S.A.S.E.: Box 4601NN, Thousand Oaks CA 91362. 805-492-8040 www.pacisl.com Since 1991.

Miscellaneous

Prepare for unexpected power outages with a Generac home standby generator

®

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE!

844-334-8353

Extended Warranty* A $695 Value! FREE 7-Year

Offer valid December 15, 2020 – March 1, 2021

Wanted to Buy

Special Financing Available

Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201

Subject to Credit Approval.

*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions.

CALL 470- 222-8469 TO LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY

Buy it, Sell it, find it! In the Herald classIfIeds

Help Wanted Autos

Furniture

Homes

Services

Bargins

Household Haulers Gutters

coverIng nortH atlanta – In prInt and onlIne!

Alpharetta-Roswell Herald • Milton Herald • Johns Creek Herald • Forsyth Herald • NorthFulton.com

contact us at 770-442-3278

SERVICE DIRECTORY Art/Wallpaper

Flooring

Home Improvement

Picture Hanging: Reasonable pricing. Satisfied customers. Call or text Troy Smith 404-990-7506

PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen back-splashes. Re-grouting is also available. Call 678-8871868 for free estimate.

Phillips Home

Concrete/Asphalt

We fix ugly

DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS $150 OFF

Any job over $1500. Driveways Patios Sidewalks Walls & Steps Slabs NEW or REPAIR Residential Or Commercial FREE ESTIMATES

Call 678-648-2010 Many local references. Competitive rates. McKemey Concrete

Retaining Walls Brick or Wood

Contact Ralph Rucker. Many local references. Honest, punctual, professional and reasonable prices!

painting,

drywall, carpentry,

plumbing and electrical. Basements

finished,

kitchen and bath rehabs. All types flooring. Also total home rehab for

AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aarons-gutters. com. Senior citizen discount! 770-934-2766

house or one to sell.

Handyman Wood Rot Repair, Deck Repair and Staining. Roof Leaks, Carpentry, Painting, Siding and Soffits. Flooring, Tile, Electrical and Plumbing. 770-262-6272.

Haulers

those who have a rental

Many local references-

Call Ralph Rucker

Driveway

Home Improvement Finegan Home Improvements LLC: License #RBQA004932. Remodeling, handyman. 34 years experience. Basements finished, decks, screen porches, doors, drywall, painting, flooring, custom kitchens, bathrooms. All insurance. Paul Finegan 404-353-5611

Residential & Commercial. Best service and most reasonable prices since 1999. Appen-Rated 99. Home: Driveways, Fences, Decks, Home exteriors, more. Commercial: Offices, Restaurants, Tennis Courts, Pools, Apt. Complexes, more. All Pro Pressurewash call 770-766-5566 for Mark. Roofing

free estimate

Landscaping

Full Service LANDSCAPING Company Capable of doing your job – grading, hauling and tree service.

Ralph Rucker

678-898-7237

PINESTRAW, mulch

Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling, Etc.

PRESSURE WASHING

Call 678-887-1868 for a

Pinestraw

678-898-7237

Mention this ad. Concrete driveway specialists. Driveways, Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs. A+ BBB rating. FREE ESTIMATE. Call Rachael at 678-250-4546 to schedule a FREE Estimate. 30 years of experience. ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC. Please note we do have a minimum charge on accepted jobs of $4,500.

offer

Gutters

678-898-7237

$250 OFF NEW DRIVEWAY!

Improvement We

Pressure Wash

delivery/installation available. Firewood available. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612

NorthFulton.com | Milton Herald | February 4, 2021 | 35

BUY IT, SELL IT, FIND IT!

In the HERALD CLASSIFIEDS

ROOF LEAKING? Call us for roof repair or roof replacement. FREE quotes. $200 Leak Repairs or 10% off New Roof. Affordable, quality roofing. Based in Roswell. Serving North Atlanta since 1983. Call to schedule FREE Quote: 770-284-3123. Christian Brothers Roofing

Help Wanted Services

Part-Time Full-Time

Gutters Plumbers

Autos Tree Services COMPLETE TREE SERVICES Appen-Rated 98 Text or Call us for a FREE quote appointment. Tree removal, Pruning, Stump grinding, Free mulch, Fully insured, Emergency 24/7 770-450-8188

and More!

CPA

Services Handyman Roofs

Bargins

Homes Collectibles Furniture

Tree Services

24 hour emergency service. Licensed, insured. Workers Comp, insurance claims. 25+ years experience. Family business. Free estimates. We Love Challenges! Yellow Ribbon Tree Experts 770-512-8733 • www.yellowribbontree.com

COVERING NORTH ATLANTA... IN PRINT AND ONLINE! Alpharetta-Roswell Herald • Milton Herald • Johns Creek Herald Forsyth Herald • NorthFulton.com

CONTACT US AT 770-442-3278

36 | February 4, 2021 | Milton Herald | NorthFulton.com