Israeli clown spreading goodwill

Courtesy Hatcher Hurd / Appen Newspapers

November 19, 2009

JOHNS CREEK – Itzik Ozery is known all over his native country of Israel as "Itzik the Clown."

But it's for a good reason: He is the Captain Kangaroo of Israel, hosting a daily radio program for children and appearing on Israeli television's youth channel. He also writes an advice column for children, answering the questions they send in.

Ozery has come to Atlanta under the sponsorship of the Israeli Consulate on a special mission to bring smiles and perhaps laughter to children in local hospitals. For 18 years, he has been a certified medical clown at The Schneider Children's Medical Center, the largest children's hospital in the Middle East.

At the hospital, the doctors recognize the therapeutic value of Ozery's rapport with severely ill or injured children so much he is considered part the staff. He helps children get through difficult procedures, then helps with the rehabilitation.

"For instance, Itzik uses balloons in his act a great deal. So he can get a child to blow up a balloon as part of respiratory exercises in the child's physical therapy. He can calm a child who is going through a difficult procedure," said Israeli Deputy Consul General Sharon Kabalo.

Dr. Enrique Freud, director of Schneider's Surgery Department, said Ozery's work is invaluable.

"Itzik succeeds in getting things from the children that no doctor or nurse can do," he said.

According to Freud, humor and laughter are positive influences on the recovery process of the child, helping encourage patient and his family.

"The level of anxiety and tension in the child and his family are diminished when Itzik comes into the room. Children hospitalized for prolonged periods just wait for the day that Itzik the Clown will arrive," Freud said.

Itzik the Clown is always "on alert" every day of the year. In the event of terrorist attacks or other critical contingencies, the department's head nurse has standing instructions to call him in and cheer up the children.

In Atlanta, however, he has not been so readily accepted into children's wards because of the fear of spreading H1N1 and a general lack of understanding about what Itzik the Clown does.

Meanwhile, Ozery asked if it could be arranged for him to entertain older adults. And so it came to pass that he was invited to The Cohen Home, a Jewish-oriented assisted living residence in Johns Creek.

Using magic, jokes and an endless supply of balloons, Ozery performed for about a dozen residents. While Itzik the Clown's English is not quite perfect, the language of his comedy is.

"In Israel, I volunteer two days a week at Children's Medical Center. One day I work in cancer ward, the other day I go to surgical ward," he said. "Sometimes I get call in middle of the night to come to hospital. It makes me good feeling when I can make children smile."

His next stop is Houston, Texas, as he visits America.

Connie Dodge, an activity director at The Cohen Home, said she was pleased to have Ozery entertain the residents.

"We were delighted when we got the call from the consulate asking us if he could make a stop at our facility. They just adored him. He knows how to make a connection with people, and he just makes them laugh," Dodge said. "And we all need that."

Have breakfast with Santa Dec. 12 at Newtown

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

November 18, 2009 Johns Creek — Join the City of Johns Creek Recreation and Parks Division for "Breakfast with Santa" Dec. 12 at the Newtown Park Community Clubhouse.Enjoy music, gingerbread cookie decorating, holiday crafts, and have the opportunity to write a letter and hand-deliver it to Santa. Parents have an opportunity take photos of their children with Santa.There are two seatings available: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. and 10 to 11 a.m. Space is limited to 20 children per seating and available only to Johns Creek residents. All children must be pre-registered and accompanied by an adult (limit of two adults per family). Registration deadline is Dec. 7. Cost is $15 per child. The Newtown Clubhouse is located at 3115 Old Alabama Road. For more information, call 678-512-3200 or visit www.johnscreekga.gov.

Barnwell Elementary donates coats, mittens to NFCC

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

2009-11-18 Students at Barnwell Elementary in Johns Creek held a Warm Coat Drive in October, collecting more than 250 coats, 150 pairs of shoes, and boxes of mittens and hats in just a two-day period. The coats were donated to North Fulton Community Charities and distributed during their Warm Coat Give Away on Oct 25. Wearable shoes were also donated to NFCC, while the worn-out athletic shoes will be recycled by Nike to become track, court and playground surfaces. Pictured: Third grade students in Heather Perlmutter’s class donated the most items during the Warm Coat Drive last month at Barnwell Elementary in Johns Creek. The items were donated to North Fulton Community Charities.The Coat Drive is the first of three Caring and Sharing events held at Barnwell each year. The students will hold a Canned Food Drive in November and a select special holiday gifts for needy children from Giving Tree in December.

Johns Creek Beautification raises more than $6,000

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

November 18, 2009

Johns Creek Beautification raised more than $6,000 at the Johns Creek Mayor's Ball Oct. 24. The Johns Creek Foundation recognized Johns Creek Beautification for second consecutive year as its designated recipient of proceeds from the silent auction at the ball.

Proceeds from the event will enable Johns Creek Beautification to provide matching funds of $5,000 to the city of Johns Creek as part of a continuation of the Medlock Bridge Median Beautification Project.

Future plans focus on landscaping installations at 10 areas in the city, including Abbotts Bridge/Jones Bridge roads intersection, Old Alabama/Buice roads intersection and initial plans for State Bridge Road corridor.

For more information, visit www.johnscreekbeautification.org.

Por Fin opens in Johns Creek

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

November 16, 2009 JOHNS CREEK – One of Georgia's newest cities has one of the state's newest restaurants, the upscale Por Fin. Restaurant operators say it offers affordable, "Creative Coastal Mexican" cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Por Fin, meaning 'finally' or 'at last', will offer fresh, high-quality Mexican and coastal ingredients — both traditional and newly inspired flavors — served in a creative, healthier manner. With entrees ranging from $6 to $18, Por Fin's menu will offer signature items such as marjoram and tomato braised short ribs, Yucatan-style fresh fish crusted with chili adobo, wrapped in corn husk, grilled on an open flame, and marinated brick-weighted chicken with coriander jus, as well as traditional fare such as burritos, tacos and enchiladas.

Por Fin, located at 2100 Ray Moss Connector (at the Jones and State Bridge Intersection), opened on Nov. 6. No reservations are necessary.

Por Fin, Creative Coastal Mexican, is opened Tuesday through Sunday starting at 5 p.m. Owners Nancy Pingitore, a first-time restaurant owner and veteran Business executive, Jon Agri, a 30-year restaurant owner and mentor, are partners in the restuarant. Visit www.destinationporfin.com.

Suspect trashed victim with trash in Johns Creek

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

November 16, 2009

An Ogeechee Drive resident told Johns Creek police someone broke into his house Nov. 3 and spread trash in his house while stealing his computers and a gun.

The man said he'd returned from eating lunch when he noticed the trash dumped in the dining room and a smashed back window. He immediately called police.Among the items stolen were a .40 caliber handgun and two laptop computers.

The suspect apparently missed the other gun and $700 in cash, which were also in the same area as the .40 caliber pistol.

Northview holds International Night

Courtesy Jason Wright; Appen Newspapers

November 13, 2009 Johns Creek — Northview High School showed off the talents of its diverse student population Nov. 12 with its yearly and ever-popular International Night.

This year's event, dubbed "Starry night," featured food from around the world and a stage show packed with music, dancing and entertainments from the USA, India, Liberia, China, Iran, Spain, Venezuela, Africa and Korea. International Night is presented by the school's Kaleidoscope club, which promotes unity through student diversity.

Johns Creek selects Firefighter of the Quarter

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

November 11, 2009 Johns Creek — John Walton has been named Johns Creek "Firefighter of the Quarter" for the second quarter of 2009.

"John Walton is an outstanding firefighter. I've known him for many years and his attitude, work ethic and dedication to his job are exemplary and commendable. He represents the best of what a firefighter needs to be and he consistently gives his all, smiling all the way," said Fire Chief Joseph Daniels.

A native of Red Oak, Walton joined the Johns Creek Fire Department in its October 2008 launch, after serving 28 years with Fulton County Fire including several years based in North Fulton.

He followed in the footsteps of his father, who was a firefighter for 19 years with Fulton County while Walton was growing up.

"I wanted to be a firefighter since I was around 7 years old and I saw how much my father helped people. I like helping people and being a firefighter gives me many opportunities to do so," said Walton on receiving his award. "I come to work and do my job. If I can help someone, I'm happy."

Walton is an apparatus operator, driving an 80,000-pound, 100-foot ladder truck based at Station 63.

Johns Creek says ‘no’ to Newtown carwash

By Rachel Kellogg; Neighbor Newspapers

Residents of Johns Creek will not see a new car wash in the Haynes Market shopping center because it would not meet the standards of the city’s comprehensive plan.

The property’s owner, Daniel Grass operated a package store on the corner of Old Alabama Road and Haynes Bridge Road for 16 years, but the store has since gone out of business.

Grass requested to have the zoning of the property changed to open a carwash, but his application was denied by council in an unanimous vote.

Planning and Zoning Administrator Justin Kirouac recommended denying the application because the development would be “out of character with the surrounding area.”

Several residents, including members of the Johns Creek Community Association, came to Monday’s meeting to speak in opposition of the application.

Residents expressed concern that a carwash would take away from the pedestrian feel of the Newtown area and would create additional traffic.

Call brought a signed petition from other business owners in the shopping center asking the council to deny the rezoning request.

For a carwash to be built on the property, it would need to be rezoned from C-1 status to C-2, meaning, in the future, businesses like pawn shops, repair garages and check cashing companies could be established.

A spokesman for Grass said the carwash would not hinder pedestrian walkways and connectivity, and he pointed out the BP fuel station and carwash adjacent to the property and the Kroger fuel center in the shopping center.

Grass also promised to only operate 12 hours a day and plant trees and additional landscaping around the area.

But council was not convinced that the development was a good fit for Newtown.

“I’ve got a comprehensive plan that wasn’t thrown together,” said Councilwoman Karen Richardson. “It doesn’t allow for a change to C-2, and I’m uncomfortable making that change.”

Councilman Randall Johnson said he had not met any members of the community who supported the development.

Dr. Lee Chiropractic Grand Opening In Johns Creek.

Double Click To Widen Screen.

By Tim Enloe;
Accessjohnscreek.com
11/7/09

It was a beautiful sunny Saturday as Johns Creek welcomed it's newest business, Dr. Lee Chiropractic, to the city.

Mayor Mike Bodker and various chamber of commerce members were all smiles as they cut the ceremonial ribbon with Dr. Lee and his staff.

The grand opening event kicked off at noon with food, a raffle, balloons, and even a latin band in attendance to help put a kick in your step!

It was a proud day for Dr. Lee, "I am very excited to serve this community," he shared, "We are...a chiropractic clinic and we are going to be a multicultural clinic. This place can be where you can heal yourself but at the same time we can learn from each other."

Located at 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek, Dr. Lee Chiropractic is open Monday / Wednesday / Friday from 9:30am to 6:30 pm, Tuesday & Thursday from 12:30pm to 5pm and every first and third Satuday from 12pm to 2pm. They can be reached at 770-559-4236 or on the web at http://www.drleechiro.com/.

Man drives through stone wall, crashes car into Johns Creek house

By Kristi E. Swartz
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Police have identified a man who led them on a 10-minute chase through Gwinnett and Fulton counties before crashing through a stone wall and into a Johns Creek house early Friday morning

No one was hurt, but police had to taser the man to take him into custody, a Johns Creek police spokeswoman said.

Juan Soto, 22, of Snellville, was arrested after police chased the Ford F-150 truck he was driving from Duluth to Johns Creek.

According to a Duluth police report, an officer saw the white truck parked in front of the Moe's Southwest Grill in the Peachtree Hill Shopping Center around 2:50 a.m. The truck's driver's side door was open, and police saw a man walking around the building.

The man then got in the truck and began driving on Pleasant Hill Road, police said.
Police they began chasing the man on Pleasant Hill Road, driving at 85 miles an hour. As the truck was nearing State Bridge Road, it swerved to get around another vehicle, jumped the median and then swerved again, police said.

At that point, a Duluth Police officer stopped following the truck, but a Johns Creek police officer had begun chasing the vehicle instead.

The truck's lights were off, a Johns Creek police spokeswoman said.

The man turned south on Jones Bridge Road and traveled about a mile before he lost control of his vehicle and ran into a stone wall that fronted a house in the Jones Bridge Landing subdivision, police said.

The truck he was driving was registered to another man, police said.

A Johns Creek police spokeswoman said the man was charged with criminal damage to property, reckless driving, DUI, driving without a license and fleeing and attempting to elude police, which is a felony. He was taken to the Fulton County Jail.

Johns Creek Police tap 'Officers of the Quarter'

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

JOHNS CREEK – The Johns Creek Police Department has chosen two officers from its Uniform Patrol Unit as the latest recipients of its "Officer of the Quarter" award.

Officer Lincoln Brown received the honor for the first quarter of 2009, while Officer Mike Yager's award represented outstanding work during the second quarter of 2009.

"Both of these men are experienced in community policing and have served our residents and businesses with exceptional professionalism during these periods. They continue to represent our department in the most positive manner. I am very proud of them," said Police Chief Ed Densmore.

Brown, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., began in law enforcement as an officer with the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) Police Department, working in Manhattan's Grand Central and Penn stations. A graduate of New York University, Brown became a senior police officer with DeKalb County Police in 2006 and joined Johns Creek Police in April 2008 as a member of its Inaugural Squad.

"I love being a police officer in Johns Creek. It is a very pleasant experience to serve people who appreciate a police presence and to work with officers and commanders who support you," said Brown.

Originally from Otego, N.Y., Yager earned a teaching degree from Oneonta State University before entering law enforcement. He began as a deputy with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office in 1998, and then moved to Holly Springs, where he was promoted to sergeant/Uniform Patrol commander. He joined the JCPD with the Inaugural Squad in April 2008.

"I do my job to the best of my ability. It's a great honor to be recognized and I appreciate it, but my job is to protect and serve. I'll just keep doing that the best I can every day," said Yager.

Joint 911 service coming to North Fulton cities

By APRIL HUNT
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Emergency response is about to go local in Sandy Springs and Johns Creek.
The cities are building a joint $3.5 million 911 center that will come online Sept. 1.

“The expectation in these two communities is extraordinarily high, and we will deliver on them,” said Noah Reiter, the assistant city manager in Sandy Springs who oversaw the project. “We expect crews dispatched within 60 seconds of a call, arriving in minutes.”

That hadn’t been happening for years when the north Fulton County cities began talking about starting their own 911 network about two years ago.

Residents in both communities complained of delays in getting emergency services to a scene and of delays in getting dispatchers to the phone.

Lack of training for dispatchers and problems with retention came to light after a tragedy a year ago. Darlene Dukes, 39, called an ambulance from her Johns Creek home, but the dispatcher sent the crew to an address in Atlanta 28 miles away. Dukes later died.

“The level of service we’re getting was just not acceptable, and that was before the Dukes incident,” Johns Creek City Manager John Kachmar said. “We wanted to do better.”

The new 911 center will help dispatchers map the best routes, calculate response times and track emergency crews. Just as important, there will be 54 full-time dispatchers. By comparison, Fulton’s 911 call center authorizes 109 but typically has about 75 to 80 people on staff, according to a 2008 report.

City officials pushed back plans to launch the new call center on Aug. 1 to give the new hires more training, including police ride-alongs to acquaint them with the layout of the cities.
In keeping with policies to outsource services, the cities have a joint contract with iXP Corp. to set up and run the 911 network. Sandy Springs paid $2.5 million for the work, with Johns Creek paying $1 million, based on population.

The iXP contract contains penalties for bad service, such as speed in answering calls and getting crews to accident scenes.

“We all have a vested interest in ensuring success,” Reiter said.

Arts Center faces financial crisis

by Hatcher Hurd / Appen Newspapers

July 08, 2009 Despite statewide recognition for its adult programs, after-school enrichment classes and summer arts camps, the Johns Creek Arts Center (JCAC) — a wholly nonprofit organization — is facing its greatest financial crisis ever and may close its doors.

It has served a population of more than 100,000 residents in North Fulton, South Forsyth and Gwinnett counties for 11 years, while constantly expanding its facilities and scope of service.

During that time it has made do with surprisingly little corporate or public support other than the fees for its programs. But in today's climate of economic belt-tightening, it has experienced shortfalls in the spring and summer enrollments as families cut back on expenses. JCAC officials say they must raise $75,000 in 60 days or shut down by the end of the year.

JCAC Executive Director Gail Hisle said the financial crisis has been heightened by a more than 50 percent reduction in grant money since 2005 from the Fulton County Arts Council, which in turn has faced reduced funding from the county.

"That is the only source of government assistance we receive. Now with families cutting back, we are making an appeal to corporate or public assistance or we won't survive the recession," Hisle said.

A letter urging support of the JCAC has gone out with the signatures of state Rep. and House Speaker Pro Tem Mark Burkhalter, Fulton County Commissioner Lynne Riley and Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker.

Meanwhile the JCAC has done all it can to cut back on expenses without reducing its commitment to artistic excellence. The JCAC Board of Directors is working to provide long-term stability, but in the meantime it is calling on the community to help "provide a financial bridge to the future."

The crisis became apparent when spring and summer enrollments dropped off. These are the JCAC's biggest sources of revenue and pay the bills for its leaner months in the fall and winter, Hisle said.

"We are very seasonable. The summer camps are our main revenue driver. But we were hit with a double whammy when both spring and summer enrollments were off by a third," she said.

Another problem has been a lack of community awareness. The center relies mostly on schools and libraries to get its schedules out to the public.

"Many people still don't even know we're here," said Board President Linda Mauldin. "We have always relied heavily on our programming for revenues – more so than most similar arts centers – but we have hit a wall here.If we go away, that will leave only the Roswell Arts Center to provide programs north of the Chattahoochee."

The JCAC not only provides an important addition to the community's quality of life through its programs, it also provides many "extras," such as providing a source for Scouting merit badges, programs for assisted living residents and other "special projects."

"We had a request from a parent to paint a mural in their basement, which we were able to do," Hisle said. "They had an invalid child and they wanted to make it attractive for other children to come to their house to play since their child could not go to theirs."

The JCAC has been able to trim its budget from $500,000 annually to $400,000, but there are many fixed costs, including mortgage, insurance and utilities, that can't be cut, Hisle said.Materials for classes are costly as well. Still, the JCAC is finding more ways to design programs to fit the needs of residents.Drop-In Painting is one of those. This is a short, four-week art class designed mostly for retirees who travel a lot. The shorter class, about half as long as usual, lets retirees come when they can – all their materials are kept on site for their convenience – and is easier to schedule.Classes for all ages include painting, jewelry making, photography, storytelling, ceramics and pottery-making, theater, home-schooling, guitar for adults and teens, mosaics and stained glass work.

"We believe we are an important part of the area's economic vitality as well. Many businesses consider the quality of life for their employees when they make a big decision to locate," said Mauldin. "That is a point we plan to make when we call on corporate sponsors."

To date, the JCAC only receives about 3 percent of its revenue from corporations, despite many large companies, including those on the Fortune 500 list, being nearby. "We have relied a great deal on our own reserves in the past, but now we have to ask the business community and residents for help," Mauldin said.Meanwhile the center has been nominated for Nickelodeon's award for the "Parents' Picks" for art centers in the Atlanta area and leads all other nominees in balloting."It would be a shame if the last thing we do is win that award and then close down," Hisle said.

Johns Creek Police debut new bikes

by Jennifer Chapman / Appen Newspapers

July 09, 2009

Johns Creek - Johns Creek Police officers are now pedaling through the streets of neighborhoods, parks and shopping centers.Two JCPD officers, M.D. Meberg and J.T. Ware, are patrolling Johns Creek on two new TREK bicycles.

"The bikes make us more approachable," said Meberg. "People don't always say hi when you're in a patrol car."

The bicycles allow easier access to situations and to areas that patrol cars can't always get to, such as trails, yards and alleys."It's very effective when we're pursuing a suspect on foot, for example," Densmore notes. "It's also less obtrusive than a patrol car, so in certain situations, a bicycle officer can provide a necessary low-key response."

The two TREK bikes - which cost $1,100 each - are decorated with police emblems and have a bag attached that holds ticket books, First Aid kits, tools, towels and bike chains.The new bicycle patrol is part of the PACT (Police and Community Together) program and officers will participate in neighborhood meetings, city events and bike safety rodeos.

Notice - City of Johns Creek

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING:TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2009 AT 7:00

P.M.CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING:MONDAY, AUGUST 24, 2009 AT 7:00 P.M.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK COUNCIL CHAMBER
12000 FINDLEY ROAD, SUITE 300
JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097

The following Land Use Petition/Special Use Permit proposals located within the City of Johns Creek are scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above.

LAND USE PETITION: RZ-09-008
PETITIONER: Ms. Jan Tung
LOCATION: 11300 Block of Jones Bridge Road4800 Block of Bridge Place Way
CURRENT ZONING: AG – 1 (Agricultural District)
PROPOSED ZONING: O – I (Office and Institutional District)
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Daycare facility
CONCURRENT VARIANCES: VC-09-008-1
PETITIONER: Ms. Jan Tung
LOCATION: 11300 Block of Jones Bridge Road4800 Block of Bridge Place Way
CURRENT ZONING: AG – 1 (Agricultural District)
REQUEST: To allow for encroachment of driveway into the 25 ft side zoning buffer and 10 ft improvement setback.
CONCURRENT VARIANCES: VC-09-008-2
PETITIONER: Ms. Jan Tung
LOCATION: 11300 Block of Jones Bridge Road4800 Block of Bridge Place Way
CURRENT ZONING: AG – 1 (Agricultural District)REQUEST: To allow parking encroachment in the front yard setback

A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE CITY OF JOHNS CREEK ZONING ORDINANCE IS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING AS STATED ABOVE. A COPY OF THE PROPOSED CHANGES IS LOCATED WITHIN THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT FOR PUBLIC VIEWING. Zoning Text Amendment A-09-005 – Amendment to the City of Johns Creek Zoning Ordinance to amend Article XVIII – Off Street Parking and Loading to revise parking standards.

Burkhalter Presented Historic Framed Picture

ATLANTA - Speaker Pro Tem Mark Burkhalter (R-Johns Creek) was presenteda framed copy of the old Milton County Courthouse from Mr. WilliamBates, Representative Jan Jones (R- Milton) and the AlpharettaHistorical Society at the first meeting of the Milton County LegislatorsAdvisory Committee on June 11, 2009 at Johns Creek city hall.The frame was crafted by Mr. Bates out of original wood from thedemolished Milton County Courthouse. The courthouse was built in 1895and located on South Main Street in Alpharetta. Alpharetta City Hall isnow located on the same site of the Milton County courthouse which wasdemolished in 1955.

Off-duty APD cop wounds man in Johns Creek

By CHRISTIAN BOONE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wednesday, July 01, 2009

An unidentified man was seriously wounded early Wednesday evening in a Johns Creek subdivision after a shootout involving an off-duty Atlanta Police Department officer and two local officers.

The Atlanta cop heard gunfire outside his home on Abbotts Station Drive a little before 7 p.m., said Johns Creek Police Department Chief Ed Densmore. Identifying himself, the APD officer ordered the man, said to be in his 50s, to drop his weapon. The man refused, gunshots were exchanged and the armed man was plunked in the leg, Densmore said.

As he was confronting the man, the APD officer alerted 911. Johns Creek officers arrived in a “dynamic situation,” Densmore said. More bullets were exchanged, and the suspect was shot again and transported to Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

Enjoy challenge’

Cloy, 59, goes back to basics, will build a program from scratch at Johns Creek.

By Michael Carvell
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Mike Cloy apparently has found his niche in high school football.

If there’s a new school opening in north Fulton County, then there’s a good chance that Cloy is helping to establish the sports programs.

Cloy, 59, is the athletics director and football coach at Johns Creek, which will open its doors in August. Cloy also was a key figure in building programs as athletics director and football coach at Centennial in 1997 and as athletics director and assistant football coach at Alpharetta in 2002.
“The opportunity continues to present itself, and I enjoy the challenge,” said Cloy, who also was coach at North Springs. His career record is 107-88-1.

“I guess I’m at an age and stage in life where I realize I’m not going to be a 250- or 300-game winner when I retire. I’m at the point in my career where I want to do what I can to help develop young people and be a positive influence.”

Johns Creek, which consists mainly of students who attended Chattahoochee and Northview high schools, is a member of Region 5-AAA and will play varsity in every sport except football.
“We’re a young football program because not many upperclassmen decided to transfer,” said junior Austin Biggs, a defensive end and tight end who transferred from Chattahoochee. “We’ve got a long ways to go, but it is neat being part of something new.”

Here are Cloy’s tips on building a program from scratch:

Hire the right people. Cloy said he interviewed about 50 people for 24 coaching positions. “It’s fun to be able to hire good people who know the sport, are able to teach the sport and, most importantly, care for the welfare of the kids. You want people to develop an overall athletic program rather than their own team.”

Dividing the ownership. Cloy and school officials involved parents, students and teachers from both Northview and Chattahoochee in picking the school nickname (Gladiators); stadium name (The Coliseum); and colors (gold and crimson). He also created co-presidents of booster clubs to have equal representation from Northview and Chattahoochee.

Ease into football. Cloy learned his lessons from the rough starts for football at Centennial and Alpharetta and is going with a junior-varsity schedule in Johns Creek’s debut. “When you have a program primarily made up of younger kids, it’s just very, very tough to throw them into varsity that first year. We thought we’d try to have some success at lower levels and go from there.”

Saia Amends Credit Agreements

JOHNS CREEK, Ga., June 29, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saia, Inc. (Nasdaq:SAIA), a leading multi-regional less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier (the "Company"), reported that it has amended its revolving credit and Senior Note facilities.

The amendment to the Company's revolving credit facility includes the following: * Provides relief of its leverage ratios and fixed charge coverage
covenants through December 31, 2010

* Increases LIBOR spreads and letter of credit fees on outstanding
obligations by approximately 200 basis points, depending on the
applicable leverage ratio
* Provides for a pledge of certain real estate, rolling stock and
other personal property to secure the facility
* Confirms its $160 million commitment, subject to a borrowing base,
and its January 2013 maturity.

In conjunction with the amendment to the revolving credit facility, the Company also amended its Senior Notes by modifying the financial covenants to match the relief provided in the revolving credit facility. Interest rates on the Senior Notes remain unchanged but are now subject to an increase if the noteholders are required by insurance regulations to increase reserves on the notes. The noteholders also share equally in the collateral provided under the revolving credit facility. The maturity of the notes remains unchanged.

"We are operating in an extremely difficult economic environment with weak tonnage demand and highly competitive pricing. We believe the amendments will add financial flexibility for Saia to prudently manage through this freight recession and take full advantage of the market when it recovers," said James A. Darby, vice president - finance and chief financial officer. "Saia appreciates the cooperation of our lending group and we thank them for their ongoing support."

Total debt was $116.3 million at March 31, 2009 with no borrowings under the revolving credit agreement and an aggregate $116.3 million outstanding on the term notes. The Company had $53.7 million in letters of credit outstanding. Net the Company's $12 million cash balance at quarter-end, net debt to total capital was 37.0 percent. This compares to total debt of $185.3 million at March 31, 2008.

The Company paid an aggregate of $1.4 million, or 50 basis points, in fees to the lenders and noteholders in connection with the amendments and incurred other customary expenses in the transaction.

The descriptions of the amendments to the revolving credit facility and term note facility are summaries only and are qualified by reference to the full text of the agreements, copies of which will be filed in an 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Saia, Inc. (Nasdaq:SAIA) is a less-than-truckload provider of regional, interregional and guaranteed services covering 34 states. With headquarters in Georgia and a network of 148 terminals, Saia employs 7,400 people. For more information, visit the Investor Relations section at www.saia.com.

The Securities and Exchange Commission encourages companies to disclose forward-looking information so that investors can better understand the future prospects of a company and make informed investment decisions. This news release contains these types of statements, which are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "intend," "may," "plan," "predict," "believe," "should" and similar words or expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.
All forward-looking statements reflect the present expectation of future events of our management and are subject to a number of important factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in any forward-looking statements. These factors and risks include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions including downturns in the business cycle; the creditworthiness of our customers and their ability to pay for services; competitive initiatives and pricing pressures, including in connection with fuel surcharge; the Company's need for capital and uncertainty of the current credit markets; the possibility of defaults under the Company's debt agreements (including violation of financial covenants); integration risks; indemnification obligations associated with the 2006 sale of Jevic Transportation, Inc.; the effect of ongoing litigation including class action lawsuits; cost and availability of qualified drivers, fuel, purchased transportation, property, revenue equipment and other operating assets; governmental regulations, including but not limited to Hours of Service, engine emissions, compliance with legislation requiring companies to evaluate their internal control over financial reporting, changes in interpretation of accounting principles and Homeland Security; dependence on key employees; inclement weather; labor relations; effectiveness of company-specific performance improvement initiatives; terrorism risks; self-insurance claims, equity-based compensation and other expense volatility; and other financial, operational and legal risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company's SEC filings.

JCPD plans sobriety checkpoints for Fourth of July

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

June 29, 2009 Johns Creek –

This Fourth of July, Johns Creek Police will set up sobriety check points and use new breath-alcohol testing equipment to enforce Georgia's DUI laws during Operation Zero Tolerance, a state-wide crackdown on drunk driving.The check points will be at undisclosed, random locations and in effect before, during and after the holiday to discourage people from drinking and driving during one of the state's most heavily traveled periods. JCPD officers will use a new portable intoxilyzer trailer and non-invasive Intoxilyzer 5000 machine to test the breath alcohol level of drivers in the field, allowing more efficient sobriety road checks. "The trailer will allow us to run the checks longer and more often and put more impaired drivers in jail," said Sgt. Ronnie Young, head of the JCPD Traffic Unit. "We simply want to reduce the number of alcohol-related incidents and make our roads safer."

One out of five traffic accidents in Georgia are alcohol-related and nearly half of the traffic accidents during the Fourth of July holiday travel period (June 19-July 5) involve at least one drunk driver, according to the Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety. Georgia follows an "Over the Limit, Under Arrest" DUI arrest policy, which means that drivers with blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of .08 or above will be arrested and taken to jail. No warning tickets. No exceptions. Persons under the age of 21 operating a motor vehicle with a .02 percent blood-alcohol level or above are subject to DUI penalties.

Open Johns Creek Dermatology & Family Medicine

Dr. Shereen Timani




Courtesy Appen Newspapers

June 23, 2009 JOHNS CREEK – Dr. Zack Charkawi and Dr. Shereen Timani have joined the Emory Johns Creek Hospital medical staff.

The couple moved to Alpharetta from Ohio to open Johns Creek Dermatology and Family Medicine. Dr. Charkawi is a board certified Family Medicine physician, and has special interests in geriatrics, diabetes management and Adult Attention Deficit Disorder. Dr. Timani is board certified in dermatology and dermatopathology.

"Drs. Charkawi and Timani are welcome additions to the staff at Emory Johns Creek," said Alan Wang, MD, chief medical officer at the hospital. "Patients in the community now have access to specialized diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions."

Dr. Charkawi was awarded the American Diabetes Association "Who's Who Award" for his work in diabetes treatment, education and therapeutics. "I enjoy the challenge of treating the patients in all stages of their lives, which is the hallmark of family medicine," said Dr. Charkawi. "I see patients of all ages, and diagnose and treat a comprehensive scope of conditions, from high cholesterol, diabetes, nutrition – anything you would see your primary physician about."

As assistant clinical professor of Family Medicine at Louisville University in Kentucky, Dr. Charkawi was responsible for training third and fourth year medical students, lecture series and clinical oversight of the University's Healthpoint Family Care and Oakley Urgent Care.

Dr. Timani specializes in medical dermatology, performing biopsies and surgeries for pediatric and adult patients. Her training and board certification in dermatopathology enables her to provide very quick turnaround times on biopsies. Her extensive background and training in medical and surgical dermatology and dermatopathology means that she is able to diagnose and treat a broad range of skin disorders.

The Johns Creek Dermatology and Family Medicine office is across the street from the hospital in the new Johns Creek Medical Pavilion. For information, visit www.johnscreekfamilypractice.comEmory Johns Creek Hospital services include emergency care, all digital imaging including a 64 slice CT, MRI, The Birth Place with Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 24-hour anesthesiologists, intensive care, advanced cardiac care, cardiac cath lab, vascular medicine and surgery, rehabilitation services and women's services.

Johns Creek police bust party; cite 36 teens for drinking

By MARCUS K. GARNER
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Johns Creek police broke up a Memorial Day “lock-in” graduation party, citing 36 teens for under-aged drinking.

Police also charged the owner of Anatolia, a restaurant, and arrested her son, and three adult security guards for serving alcohol to minors and obstructing police early Monday morning, authorities said.

Owner Rabia Gungoren and her employees said the staff didn’t serve alcohol to teens at the Sunday-night-to-Monday morning party. Gungoren said police are targeting her young clientele.
“This is discrimination against teenagers,” Gungoren said Wednesday night by phone.

According to a police report, an officer arrived at the 10970 States Bridge Road around 2:30 a.m., and noticed several cars parked in the back, but none parked up front.
One teen fled as the officer approached, but was caught and said “he had been held against his will,” police said.

Police ordered everyone inside to exit the building, after seeing people hiding in the kitchen and restaurant through the windows.

But 30 minutes passed before the front door opened, police said. Inside, officers found people hiding in air ducts in the building rafters, in refrigerators, and under tables, and saw wine bottles, beer cans, cases and a keg still cold to the touch, police said.

Police said a breath analysis was used to determine those under 21 had been drinking alcohol, and each was cited and returned to their parents.

Anatolia employee Carrie McDonaugh, who also was cited for under-aged drinking, contradicted police reports.“Before I got the citation, I asked the officer, ‘could you please Breathalyzer me,’” McDonaugh, 20, said Wednesday night. “But he refused.“Pretty much no one was Breathalyzed except for the people over 21 who they let drive home.”“We didn’t want him to drive home drunk,” she said.

Gungoren’s son Mehmet Gungoren was working that night and was charged with serving alcohol to minors. Three security guards — Michael Shane Bickes, Vincent Darren James and Patrick Wilson Bull — were arrested and charged with disorderly conduct. All four were taken to the Doraville jail, where they were released on bond, authorities said.

Another teen was arrested for having less than an ounce of marijuana, police said.

Gungoren’s restaurant was cited last September for serving alcohol to minors, a mistake she admits to. “I’m very careful about what I’m doing here,” she said. “My son told me he never gave anybody alcohol.”

Quick Notice

May 26-29: Johns Creek Baptist Church will host a basketball camp for players in grades 1 through 6. For more information, call 678-474-4442 or visit www.jcbc.org.

New Milton County Legislative Advisory Committee

Many thanks to J.D. Easley / House Communications Specialist GA General Assembly for providing this information.

ATLANTA - Representatives Mark Burkhalter (R- Johns Creek) and Jan Jones(R-Milton) announced today an initial Milton County Legislative Advisory Committee. The Committee will assist and advise Representatives Burkhalter and Jones as they proceed forward with historic legislationto allow the re-creation of Milton County.

Rep. Burkhalter first introduced legislation to facilitate Milton County's re-creation over 15 years ago. This January Rep. Jones authored House Resolution 21 to allow the re-creation ofpreviously-merged counties. Rep. Burkhalter and other north Fulton representatives co-sponsored the resolution.

Two counties remain that were merged in the 1930s, Milton County in north Fulton and Campbell County in south Fulton. North Fulton legislators will push to bring HR 21 to the House floor for a vote in the 2010 Georgia General Assembly session."The Milton County Legislative Advisory Committee will evaluate,collaborate with and make recommendations to the north Fultondelegation," said Rep. Jones. "I look forward to working with theCommittee to addressing issues identified in the recently-released study performed by the University of Georgia and Georgia State University onthe re-creation of Milton County."

The primary areas to be evaluated by the Committee relate to separating the counties' functions, establishing a new school system and addressing judicial services and tax concerns. The Committee will serve through March 2010.

The Committee will consult and engage north Fulton citizens with expertise in specific areas being evaluated. It will also serve as a conduit for information and input with other north Fulton elected officials, including school board members, judges, mayors and city council members.

The Committee will be composed of: Tom Campbell, Fulton County Superior Court Judge; former State Representative Randall Johnson, Johns Creek City Council Member Jim Paine, Alpharetta City Council Member, Mayor Pro TemRusty Paul, Sandy Springs City Council Member, Mayor Pro Tem; former State Senator Robert Proctor, Tax Attorney, north Fulton resident Katie Reeves, Fulton County School Board Member Lynne Riley, Fulton County CommissionerAshley Widener, Fulton County School Board Member Ex Officio Mark Burkhalter, State Representative, Speaker Pro TemEx Officio Jan Jones, State Representative, House Majority Whip.

Autrey Mill Preserve: A golden treasure hanging by a thread

by Hatcher Hurd / Appen Newspapers

May 14, 2009 I wonder how many people in Johns Creek are aware of the 46-acre Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Historical Center off Old Alabama Road – and how many of them care about the feud that has erupted between its board members and the Johns Creek City Council.

Autrey Mill has been a non-profit nature preserve since 1987, with nature trails along a small creek that runs through the property. Over the years it has become a refuge for historic buildings facing the bulldozer in Newtown, Warsaw and Ocee. It was always a sparsely settled area so there just aren't many buildings of note to begin with.Fulton County had a hand in keeping the place going. Any land Autrey Mill acquired was given to the county under a conservation easement.What started out as strictly a nature preserve quickly became a safe harbor for historic buildings that otherwise would have been torn down. The Heritage Center aspect has a small town with a church, farmhouse and other buildings in which the volunteers have created a 19th century village.

Historic homes restored and maintained such as the Summerour House are treasures of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Historic Center. (click for larger version)

All seemed well until the city acquired title and responsibility for Autrey Mill Preserve. Now what once seemed to be an amicable arrangement for everybody has devolved into a tangled mess that only the lawyers seem able to unravel.

Why did it come to this? Talk to the city's folks, and they say all they want is reasonable control over a facility in which they have tremendous liability exposure. The Autrey Mill Board of Directors has said it will sail on with the new lease it signed with Fulton County the day after the residents of Johns Creek voted to become a city.

Since then, neither the City Council nor the Autrey Mill Board has been able to get what it wants out of the relationship. The Autrey Mill Board has complained since the city took over, it has not been granted the ability to lease out buildings for weddings and other events because the city won't allow alcohol.

The use of Autrey Mill as an event space is one of the few ways it has of raising revenue. This is one reason the board thinks the City Council wants to "take over" the property.

Not so says the city, but then why does it say no to the weddings and other events if not to bring pressure on the Autrey Mill Board. It needs to raise money just as any non-profit organization, and events bring people to the park as well as revenue.The issue of liability is easy to overcome, other cities do it with ease. So why is the city waving the "Liability" flag when a standard catering agreement will cover everybody's tail? It makes the board suspicious.

It would do the city little good to oust the board. Who would take on the operation of Autrey Mill? The city would incur a $300,000 annual liability without volunteers to run the facility. The land easements ensure the property could not be turned into, say, ball fields.What is needed is some give and take here, fellas. What we have is a new city with some ideas about how the park should be run and some career volunteers who have created and operated Autrey Mill since its inception.

Everybody sounds suspicious of one another, everybody has their back up. And now it has all landed in court.

Well, perhaps for once, the lawyers can settle things. They know each other and seem confident of settling things amicably. Maybe it will work.

But the city should take a lesson from Fulton County and the city of Roswell. They are masters of using volunteers to manage property and save their respective governments millions in operating costs. That is where the devil is, not in acquiring property but in the maintenance and operation of it. In this case, it is the programming of the park that would be onerous to the city.

Roswell has three gems of historic homes. It provides the maintenance, but Bulloch Hall and the Archibald Smith Plantation are manned by volunteer docents and directors paid by their respective boards.Fulton operated Autrey Mill, Cochran Mill in South Fulton and Big Trees in Sandy Springs with volunteer boards that worked well.

Johns Creek should take care not to "win" in court but lose when all of the volunteers walk out.Likewise, the volunteers need to work with the city. It is the city's land, and despite all that you have done in the past, you have to earn the right to stay every day. We need you there, doing what you do. So everybody take a deep breath and let the two lawyers settle this.Autrey Mill is a special place run by special people. Let's keep it that way.

Cheeseburger Bobby's To Open in Johns Creek.

By Joe Guy Collier
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Local burger chain to open new locations

Cheeseburger Bobby’s, a Kennesaw-based burger chain, has opened an outlet in Canton and signed agreements for restaurants in Johns Creek and Acworth.

The Canton outlet, opened by new franchisee owners Bob and Carol Burton, marks the fourth Cheeseburger Bobby’s location in metro Atlanta.

The chain also has signed a two-store development agreement with brothers Rob and Eric Heidt, who plan to open a store in Johns Creek this summer and an Acworth location by next summer.

Johns Creek is State's Wealthiest City

By RALPH ELLIS
The Atlanta Journal-Constituion
Tuesday, May 05, 2009

It’s not even 3 years old, but Johns Creek has been ranked the wealthiest city in Georgia and the 95th wealthiest city in the nation.

Using census data, the company Bizjournals compared income level, home size and value, number of cars owned, education and other factors to rank Georgia cities.

Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker said he was proud but not surprised by the ranking for the bedroom community of about 70,000 people. “It’s a nice acknowledgement of the great things we’ve got going in Johns Creek,” he said Monday.

The median household income in Johns Creek is $108,416 and the average home price is $335,900. Bizjournals said almost 40 percent of the homes have nine or more rooms and
5 percent of the city’s households have four or more cars.

Arlington, Va., was ranked the wealthiest city in the nation and Brownsville, Texas, the poorest.

Johns Creek's 5k Run Will "Go Green - Be Green"

Appen Newspapers

February 16, 2009 JOHNS CREEK - In keeping with the "green" spirit of St. Patrick's Day, the city of Johns Creek's first "Go Green-Be Green" 5k Fun/Run will be held Saturday, March 14 at 8 a.m.The race through Technology Park/Johns Creek – an award-winning, master-planned business park with lots of green space, hills and tranquil settings – kicks off with registration at 6:45 a.m. at Lifetime Fitness, 1480 Lakefield Drive in Johns Creek.

Presented by the Johns Creek Recreation & Parks Department, "Go Green-Be Green," features organic refreshments and environmentally conscious benefits for race participants, including organic cotton T-shirts and canvas race bags.

"Our Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee wanted a fun, community event that would create a fuller awareness of what a healthy environment looks like," said Recreation and Parks Manager Kirk Franz. "For example, we won't be using plastic water bottles. We'll have biodegradable cups and water coolers. We'll also have "Green Facts" along the route, sort of like digi-notes on environmental education."

Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female and to all first place age group finishers in increments of 10 years.Entry fee is $20 (until March 7); $25 after March 7 and on the day of the race.All proceeds benefit Johns Creek Beautification, a non-profit organization dedicated to the beautification of public spaces in Johns Creek.Visit www.rungeorgia.com or active.com for registration and information. Online registration is encouraged, to avoid unnecessary printing.

Johns Creek Council Gets Feedback On Signs

publication date: Jan 31, 2009

author/source: Tim Altork / STAFF / Beacon Media

By Tim Altork / STAFF Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker definitely got his wish. Two weeks after stopping just short of begging Johns Creek residents to voice their opinion on the council’s deliberation of the city’s sign ordinance, the council’s chamber was bustling with a near capacity crowd of interested observers. Fourteen people – mainly business owners in the community – filled the public comments portion of the meeting voicing their opinions on the proposed sign ordinance that was made public last week.“This is the first time that we’ve used the entire 30 minutes,” Bodker said, commending the turnout.

Council meetings have a total of 30 minutes allotted to public comment each week.The comments were civil, yet pointed. Business owners railed against the limitations in the proposed ordinance, saying that their businesses would suffer if they were unable to use signs to corral potential drive-by customers.

Marion Davidson, who is opening a business in the Johns Creek Walk development, said that she put up two of the two-foot by two-foot roadside signs permitted by the current ordinance.“They’re just not big enough,” she said. “I’m looking for them. I know where I put them, and I still struggled to see them because they just aren’t visible from the road.”

Geoff Berlin, who owns Abbott’s Bar and Grill on Medlock Bridge Road and is the president of the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce, said that getting the sign ordinance correct was “critical” to businesses in the community. He said that signs must be permitted to be large enough to capture the attention of drivers who are increasingly distracted by things like cell phone conversations while they are in the car.“Diversions are so numerous that present signage is of diminishing value,” Berlin said.

The council also heard from the non-profit sector. Gene Ray, an administrator for Johns Creek United Methodist Church, implored the council to create verbage in the ordinance to allow for exemptions from fees for the use of banners beyond the number allowed by the ordinance. Ray said the church could use upwards of 50 banners throughout the year to promote their various ministry efforts, such as vacation Bible school. The current ordinance allows for three banners per calendar year.Johns Creek citizen Susan Miller addressed the aesthetic challenges that an overuse of signs presents.“I believe if you own a business you don’t win with signs, you win with good service,” she said.

The council was hoping to put the new ordinance to a vote at Monday’s meeting, but the large turnout forced them to table the item one more time in order to consider the new input. A vote on the ordinance is expected at the February 9 council meeting.

Muslims Welcomed

The council unanimously approved the construction of a Jamatkhana, a place of worship for the Ismaili sect of the Islam faith, in Technology Park. Since a final construction plan was not presented to the council, the approval was made on the condition that the city’s community development department will have a final pass at the building’s design before a final approval is made.In their presentation the Ismaili representatives showed pictures of other Jamatkhanas around the country to give council members an idea of what the one in Johns Creek would look like. Each facility is unique, however, in accordance with the faith’s guidelines. Some have a distinct middle-eastern look while others are more contemporary.

“I know it’s going to look nice,” said council member Randall Johnson, after seeing the presented images, “I’m just hesitant to move forward without seeing the final draft.”
“I want some reassurances of what it will look like,” Johnson added.

There are an estimated 600 Ismailis in the North Fulton area who currently have to drive to one of the four other Jamatkhanas in the metro Atlanta area in order to practice their faith. The sect has worship services seven days a week, but the primary service is on Friday evening.“I was initially hesitant about putting it in Tech. Park, but the designated times of primary traffic make it appealing,” said council member Ivan Figueroa. “I’m in support of it.”

Any Road Will Get You There - Unless You're Stuck In Traffic

publication date: Jan 31, 2009

author/source: Liz Flowers / Beacon Media

By Liz Flowers / SPECIAL

If you’ve been thinking about adding to your I-Tunes music collection or expanding your books on tape library because of the increased amount of time spent on your daily commute, 2009 might be the perfect time. It’s not clear whether state leaders will be able to get their arms around the gigantic state budget shortfall, but it is clear that local governments are feeling the pinch and are becoming creative in solving transportation and infrastructure project delays.State lawmakers continued discussions this week about how to close the $2.6 billion state budget gap, which includes a $190 million hole in the Georgia’s Department of Transportation (GDOT).Georgia’s DOT local projects are already backed up 10 years, which comes as no surprise to anyone within commuting distance of North Fulton.City leaders have begun to shift transportation gears, as they prepare for another year of a weakened economy, decreased revenues, and a continental divide in how to fix the problem. “There is not a single transportation project in the City of Alpharetta, which includes state or federal dollars, that is not impacted directly by the shortfall at the state/federal levels,” said Alpharetta city councilman John Monson. “If the funding is available in the GDOT accounts, they are still holding them up in order to see how much of the trillion dollar federal O'bailout funds Georgia will receive,” Monson said.He said he completely understood the need to delay funding of any new local projects or projects that have not completed the milestone of right-of-way funding (the purchase of land associated with the project). However, Monson said to hold up projects promised in prior years' budgets, with those funds already in encumbered accounts, represents broken commitments to Georgia's taxpayers.Alpharetta is moving ahead with some projects. On its own dime they are working on the Mayfield-Canton Road intersection improvement ($1.8 million); Upper Hembree at Maxwell ($601,000), an Adaptive Traffic Control System ($810,000), the northern end of Big Creek Greenway ($2 million from hotel tax funds), and another $1 million in sidewalks. But other projects may have to wait.Roswell’s Director of Transportation, Steve Acenbrak was preparing to make a presentation to council members, and his passion for infrastructure improvements was untainted by the economy. He said his department would concentrate on taking care of what they already have, but Roswell’s GDOT experience isn’t much different from Alpharetta’s.Acenbrak said the city is finally underway with the Grimes Bridge project, which GDOT has had on their “to do” list since 1997. He said another 10-year-old project at Holcomb Bridge was still bogged down over matters related to excessive grading.Julie Breckbill, communications director for Roswell, said revenues are down, but she said the city is prepared for years like 2009.Mayor Jere Wood has promised not to lay-off or furlough any city workers, nor delay maintenance on infrastructure projects.Breckbill said Roswell has $31 million in its reserve fund; only $15 million in reserves is required under law. She said Roswell typically uses the reserves to fund one-time capital improvement projects.“Foreclosures are up, but not as severe as in some places,” said Breckbill. “Property values have remained stable. We are very lucky.”The newer North Fulton cities of Johns Creek and Milton may face tougher transportation decisions due to smaller commercial tax bases, limited cash reserves, self- imposed millage rate caps and an inability to bond (borrow) against future tax payments.In his State of the City address given this week, Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker essentially asked community leaders to help push forward bond efforts, saying city leaders know what the problems are, but might not have the money to fix them. He said it would cost $15 million during coming years just to stay even with current conditions. The Johns Creek annual budget can’t handle the transportation fixes necessary or wanted by the citizens.Leaning heavily on a survey the city commissioned in late 2008, Bodker said that one-third of the 300 respondents said traffic was their No. 1 concern – slightly more than half of those respondents cited traffic and congestion as a primary concern for the city.Managing Public ExpectationsGetting “below the road,” makes good sense in lean times, says Josh Rowan, an engineer with the national firm PBS&J. The company has worked on two of Roswell’s downtown beautification projects.Part of traffic and transportation improvement, says Rowan, is managing consumer expectation. He said that when many of us visualize a traffic fix, we think of what the world might be like driving at 95 MPH at 1 a.m. with four other cars on the road. Not going to happen he said.“Sewers and water are things you can control locally,” Rowan said. “Manage what you can and don’t resurface just to resurface. There are plenty of secondary issues you can work on before you build a six-lane road.”Rowan said without repairing what lies beneath, three days later a pothole fix can be peeling and that’s taxpayer money wasted. He said adding to capacity might not be feasible in this economy, but if you can afford it there is a whole construction community starving right now.“There’s not a lot of political glory in maintenance,” Rowan said.But maintenance is necessary and Acenbrak concurs. “Roswell is a bedroom community that is two-thirds residential. We don’t plan to spend a lot of time and effort and money to go 95 through our town. We want to make a safe system and look for ways to improve connectivity,” he said.The Road Less TraveledTwo distinctly different transportation/infrastructure fixes that could pump much-needed cash into cities have emerged at the state level. One plan allows for regional transportation coalitions and taxing. The other option would allow the state to tax an additional one cent for transportation and provide those funds to local governments. One of those measures is backed by the State Senate, the other by the State House leadership with Gov. Sonny Perdue as the wildcard.The trio has a track record of infighting.Convoluting the debate is a power struggle over who gets to control MARTA (Metropolitan Rapid Transit Authority), GRTA (Georgia Regional Transportation Authority), and how much money Georgia will receive from any federal programs as they become available.Perdue is reported to be developing a measure to realign Georgia’s transportation departments.Georgia Democrats have a dog in the fight, too. After all, they are ones with the Obama connection.“While it will take several significant steps to solve our transportation problem, the voter-approved local option sales tax concept has been successful in the past to provide meaningful funding to local regions and communities,” said Jaillene Hunter, communications director for Lt. Gov Casey Cagle.The Senate’s regional tax plan is expected to come up for debate early in the coming week.

Duluth's Brightstar Provides Home Care

by Tana Suggs / Appen Newspapers
January 30, 2009 03:10 PM

Most people prefer the comfort of their own home, and BrightStar Healthcare provides a variety of home care services so a person can remain in that comfort for as long as possible.Scott and Suzanne Morrison opened the Duluth office in September to serve people in Duluth, Norcross, Johns Creek, and Forsyth County."It is a wonderful service to the community and it allows people to age in place rather than having to go into a facility," said Scott Morrison.

BrightStar Healthcare provides services ranging from companion care to highly skilled nursing care."If you just need someone to take you to the doctor, we can do that," Morrison said. "If you are in a hospice situation and you want to finish out your time at home, we have the skilled nursing that can handle just about every medical situation you can imagine."

An initial assessment is made by a registered nurse and a plan of care is developed to match the needs of the client with the skill-set of the caregiver.Scott Morrison is also a certified senior advisor, which is a national certification that allows him to advise clients on senior-related issues and other health care matters and refer clients to experts and other industry professionals when necessary."This has been the most rewarding piece," he said. "Conventionally, when people need my services it's revolving around a crisis, and they haven't thought ahead to prepare for that."

Robin Cook turned to BrightStar Healthcare in October when her sister Simone Quash, who at 48 has a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, and moved from Virginia to live with Cook and her husband, Julian, in Duluth.Cook said she was overwhelmed by the new responsibilities of caring for her sister."Scott Morrison took me by the hand and he gave me information step by step on what I needed to do," she said. "It really made the process less stressful. He went beyond the call of duty."

Because of the level of service BrightStar provides, Cook said she is able to go into her office a couple of days a week."It gives me a peace of mind to know that she's getting care while I'm gone," said Cook. "We're really particular about Simone, and we want her to have the best care we can give her."

For more information about BrightStar Healthcare and the services they provide, visit the company Web Site at www.brightstarhealthcare.com.

Bodker:Support Johns Creek Businesses

by Jennifer Chapman / Appen Newspapers

January 29, 2009 It seems the economy is on everyone's minds these days and Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker is thinking about it too.

Bodker told members of the Johns Creek North Fulton Rotary Club that while many businesses in the city have failed, residents and other business owners can do their part to maintain an economically viable city."The single thing we can do in 2009 is choose to use Johns Creek," said Bodker.He brought forth the "Choose to Use Johns Creek" initiative during last year's State of the City address, asking residents and businesses to use the city's name when referring to where they reside or own a business in an effort to publicize the city.

Now, in light of the economic climate, he's asking residents to make a conscious choice when setting out to shop, dine or run errands around the city.Bodker said if Johns Creek businesses are thriving, more companies will want to make their home in the city.As for the city of Johns Creek's finances, Bodker said they've been able to maintain a balanced budget."As of this moment, I'm not worried," he said. "We're able to control our costs ... and we're working through it."

He added that applications for business licenses and permits are down about 50 percent.Regionally speaking, Bodker said he's hopeful that the bill introduced to the General Assembly to re-create Milton County will pass in the legislature."Starting up a county is going to be more difficult than starting a city," said Bodker.

He added that the re-creation of Milton County will help school systems and local government as well as improve services to residents.Bodker also mentioned that he would like to receive more feedback from local residents and business owners about city issues."I believe it's my responsibility to try to get people involved," he said.

Room To Party

YOUNG DECORATORS TAKE FURNITURE AND FABRIC TO MAKE A DOLL-SIZED ROOM WITH A VIEW

By Michelle E. Shaw
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Monday, January 26, 2009

Trying to entertain pre-teen girls with cardboard and fabric may sound tricky, but Mary Sittler makes it look easy.

The former stay-at-home mom took an idea that kept her intrigued as a child and created My Room Rocks, an interactive party store in Johns Creek, where creativity rules.

“I remember creating rooms for my dolls with my best friend and then I watched my girls do it and I knew there were other girls who would love it too,” she said. “So I decided to make a business out of it.”

The business started, unofficially, in her Alpharetta basement years ago with her three daughters, now 9, 11 and 13. There was a room dedicated to dolls and decor, where Sittler let her girls’ imaginations run wild.

“I found myself going out looking for different things they could use to decorate their spaces,” Sittler said. “And at one point I thought, ‘I think I can make this a business’.”

At My Room Rocks, the party starts with each child getting an empty 10x10x16 cardboard box —- or empty room —- and a checklist of things they can use to decorate the space. Once armed with a tote bag and the list, the young designers are let loose in the design area to find the furniture and fabrics of their desires. Sittler, with her ever-cheery smile, plays the role of a design consultant, if any of the novice decorators have questions. Once all of the pieces have been gathered, the kids head to the work table to begin putting their rooms together.
“When we walked in here for the first time, we had a fit,” said Lisa Bastian, who was looking for a place to have her daughter Sarah’s ninth birthday party. “Then she showed us what she had to offer and we knew it would be perfect.”

The concept is similar to services offered by chains such as American Girl and Build-A-Bear: the event takes place at the store and guests get to leave with a craft made at the party or a keepsake.

Sittler thought the room-design feature would put a fresh twist on the idea. “It’s something the kids can take home and continue to play with and rearrange,” she said.

A party for eight costs $240 and includes the boxes, 4 pieces of hand-painted wooden miniature furniture, window treatments, bedding, and room accessories. Other add-ons, such as miniature pets and additional furniture, can be purchased. And it’s not only the kids that get in on the fun.

Jason and Tara Abney attended the Bastian party with their two kids, Devin and Ally. The room creations were more of a family affair than something for the kids to do, Tara Abney said.
“I really had a good time,” she said. “I mean, how often does an adult say that at a kid’s party?”

PARTY PLACE
My Room Rocks, 10995 State Bridge Road, is currently open 7 days a week, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit myroomrocks.com or call 678-566-3200.

Johns Creek Council Weighs Sign Changes

By Doug Nurse, Kent A. Miles, Nancy Badertscher, April Hunt, Ty Tagami
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Monday, January 26, 2009

JOHNS CREEK

Council weighs sign changes

> What: The Johns Creek City Council will weigh changes to the city’s sign ordinance, which many businesses have decried as onerous. Council members say they are trying to strike a balance between allowing businesses to have signs that are visible enough to be effective, and protecting the landscape from clutter and ugliness. At the last public hearing, no one spoke so the city decided to have another hearing.

> When and where: Today at 7 p.m. at Johns Creek City Hall, 12000 Findley Road
> What it means to you: Council members say they are trying to strike a balance between allowing businesses to have signs that are visible enough to be effective but protect the landscape from clutter and ugliness.

Masked Men Tie-Up Father, Son During Home Invasion Robbery

Courtesy Wsbtv

Monday, January 26, 2009 – updated: 9:40 am EST January 26, 2009

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. -- Gunmen tied up two north Fulton men during a home invasion robbery early Monday morning.

Wearing ski masks and gloves the robbers entered the home at 9795 Buice Road about 1 a.m.
"The residents advised us they had been tied up and robbed by an unkown number of suspects who came in and demanded money," said Lt. Chris Byers of the Johns Creek police department.
Police are trying to determine how the robbers got past a fence with a security gate that surrounds the house.

The robbers tied up a man and his adult son.
The thieves took an unknown amount of cash from the home and then fled on foot.
The victims were not harmed.

Johns Creek Gov't Meetings For This Week

January 26, 5 p.m. - Work Session

1. Memorandum of Agreement with Atlanta Regional Commission regarding the North Fulton Transportation Plan.
2. Contract Agreement with Wolverton & Associates for Intersection Improvements at Jones Bridge Road and Buice Road, Waters Road, Mortons Road.
3. Update on the Fulton County Arts Council 2010 Municipality Grant.
4. Legislative Update.
5. Election Qualification and Call for Elections.
6. Review and Discussion of Sign Ordinance.Council meeting – January 26, 7p.m.
1. Monthly Update on Strategic Action Plan.2. Public hearing and Consideration of Ordinance to the Zoning Text Amendment to Amend Article 33 of the Zoning Ordinance (Sign Ordinance).
3. Public hearing and second read of Ordinance to Amend the Zoning Map for Zoning Case RZ-09-001-Abbotts Bridge Center, LLC – 6200 Block of Abbotts Bridge Road & Old Bell Road – AG-1 to C-1 Conditional – allow retail/office development.VC-09-001-1 - Reduce Landscape Strip adjacent to Old Bell Road from 25’ to 20’ 12000 Findley Road, suite 300.
4. Public hearing and second read of Ordinance to Amend the Zoning Map for Zoning Case RZ-09-002 - Ismaili Jamatkhana - Lakefield MK, LLC – 11300 Block of Lakefield Drive – M-1A Conditional to M-1A Conditional – Change in conditions to allow for a Community Center, Office, and place of Worship.
5. Second read of Ordinance to Create an E-911 Fund and to Amend and Adopt the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget for the E-911 Fund of the City of Johns Creek, Georgia Appropriating the Expenditures, Adopting the Revised Anticipated Revenues for the E-911 Fund.
6. First read of an Ordinance to Amend the Terms of the Planning Commission for the City of Johns Creek.
7. Consider Approval of Resolution Calling for General Elections to be held November 3rd 2009.

Johns Creek State of The City Scheduled For Jan 28

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

January 22, 2009 JOHNS CREEK - Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker will deliver his second State of the City address at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28 at the Atlanta Athletic Club. The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and the AAC are hosting the event. The cost for the luncheon is $20. Visit www.gnfcc.com to register.Bodker will also be giving the State of the City address to other community groups in the next few weeks. The city will record the event and post it along with the text and presentation on the city's Web site, www.johnscreekga.gov.

Photographer To Discuss Book On Georgia's Environment

By DOUG NURSE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wednesday, January 21, 2009

On Saturday, people will be able to travel to the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center in Johns Creek and see tidal pools, bogs, and caves.

Of course, those sights aren’t native to the 46-acre park off Old Alabama Road. They, and dozens of other images, are in photographs on display as part of an environmental education program called Still Small Voices.

Photographer Marc Del Santro will be talking about a new book he illustrated, called With Still Small Voices They Speak: A Journey into the Heart of Georgia’s Last Wild Places. The book was written by Anne Foskey.

Still Small Voices has been integrated into educational outreach programs of public and private agencies, such as the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, The Nature Conservancy, and The Atlanta Botanical Garden and Earth Share of Georgia.

For more information, visit stillsmallvoices.com or visit autreymill.org. Admission to the event is free.

Johns Creek's Autrey Mill Celebrates Culture

by Jennifer Chapman / Appen Newspapers

January 21, 2009 JOHNS CREEK - Walking into Autrey Mill Middle School Jan. 15, students, parents and staff were able to take a short trip to countries like Greece, Poland, China and Jamaica. The school's annual Multicultural Night celebrated cultures from around the world by sampling delicacies from dozens of countries and watching students perform native dances and songs.After the always-popular food tastings, students, parents and staff filed into the cafeteria where the performances started with an African Welcome Dance, followed by a birthday tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr.Multicultural Night provided a chance for students to perform countries' national anthems, traditional dances and songs.

Emory Johns Creek Breaks Admissions Record For Year

Courtesy Appen Newspapers

January 20, 2009 JOHNS CREEK - Emory Johns Creek Hospital posted record admissions in December of 2008, breaking every record for inpatient admissions, inpatient surgeries, emergency admissions and outpatient surgeries since it opened in February 2007. "Traditionally, December is a strong month as people schedule surgeries to meet their deductible and healthcare savings accounts deadlines," said Christine Williams, controller of the hospital. "But our performance in December of 2008 was even stronger than we projected early on in the month."

Last year was a year of records for the hospital, as it continued to expand its medical staff and scope of services. The hospital opened with a comprehensive range of services, from emergency to surgery and neonatal intensive care. In 2008, Emory Johns Creek opened its Center for Sleep Medicine and Cardiac Cath Lab. Services expanded to include Heart Calcium Scoring, Vascular Medicine and Advanced Interventional Diagnostics.

"We have a unique phenomenon in our Emergency Department," said John Quinlivan, CEO of the hospital. "The number of patient visits we have has remained somewhat steady, but the level of acuity, or degree of injury or illness is relatively high when compared to other Emergency Departments in the area or even across the country."

Emory Johns Creek Hospital launched several initiatives in 2008 to improve its quality of care, including nursing, core measures, satisfaction and glucometrics. The hospital was recognized by national and state organizations for its quality measures. Among awards in 2008, was the Georgia Hospital Association's Patient Safety Award for their infection control initiatives.

Growth for Emory Johns Creek Hospital is bound to continue as the population continues to do the same."We will continue to expand our services to respond to the needs of our growing community," said Quinlivan.In response to the community's need, EJCH has recently filed its plans to open a Cancer Center on its campus.

The recent opening of the Cardiac Cath Lab completes the diagnostic capabilities offered by the Heart & Vascular Institute of Emory Johns Creek Hospital."In 2008, we saw a growth rate of fifty-eight percent over 2007 in Admissions, Surgeries, Emergency Visits, Outpatient Visits and Baby Deliveries. We are excited at what the future holds for us," said Williams.For more information, please visit emoryjohnscreek.com

Johns Creek Library Celebrates 10th Anniversary This Weekend

by Jennifer Chapman / Appen Newspapers

January 16, 2009JOHNS CREEK - Northeast Spruill Oaks Library is celebrating its 10th anniversary this weekend. The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System's third busiest library has several events planned to celebrate.

Saturday, Jan. 17
11 a.m. - "Mystery of Twins" with authors and identical twins Carolyn Cohen and Marilyn Segal.
11 a.m. to noon - Children's Craft: Personalized Placemats. Ages 3 and older.
12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. - Spinning wheel and weaving demonstration by El Bradley.
2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Free blood pressure checks by Little Clinic of Publix.
2 p.m. to 3 p.m. – "Ignorance is No Defense: A Teenager's Guide to Georgia Law."
3 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Children's craft and story "Rainbow Fish." Ages 3 and older.
Sunday, Jan. 18
2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Author Kathy Hogan Trocheck/Mary Kay Andrews. Book sale. Cake, punch and snacks will be served.For more information call 770-360-8820. Northeast Spruill Oaks Library is located at 9560 Spruill Road, Johns Creek.

Johns Creek Wants To Hear From Residents, Businesses

by Jennifer Chapman / Appen Newspapers

January 14, 2009JOHNS CREEK - Mayor Mike Bodker wants to hear from you. He told City Council members at their Dec. 12 meeting that he would like to hear Johns Creek residents' and business owners' opinions about the proposed changes to the city's sign ordinance. "I'm disappointed that we've seen no public comment about something that's important to the businesses in the city," said Bodker.

City Council agreed to table the discussion of amending an article of the zoning ordinance that includes the city's sign ordinance and decided to schedule another public hearing at its Jan. 26 meeting.Council members discussed segments of the proposed changes to the sign ordinance including changeable copy signs, banners and wayfinding signs, among others.Bodker said he hopes to get the word out in the community about the importance of the sign ordinance and anticipates more residents and business owners to voice their opinions. No one in the audience spoke during the public comment portion of the City Council meeting Jan. 12.

One area of the proposed sign ordinance includes changing banner restrictions specifically for graduation season. Dozens of Johns Creek neighborhoods post graduation banners listing the names of that year's graduates who live in a particular subdivision.The proposed change would allow one banner per lot during the months of May and June without having to pay $25 for a banner permit.A public hearing on the sign ordinance will be held at 7 p.m. Jan. 26 at City Hall, 12000 Findley Road.