Brian Vanderhoff's North Fulton Real Estate Blog: September 2008

Georgia residents who make their houses environmentally friendly with solar panels and recycled building materials can now get homeowners insurance specially designed for "green" homes.

State insurance commissioner John Oxendine announced Tuesday that his office has approved the first-ever green homeowners insurance policies in Georgia. The program -- through the California-based Fireman's Fund Insurance Co. -- guarantees that a damaged or destroyed home will be rebuilt with green methods and materials.

Georgia joins 26 other states where green insurance is available. Fireman's officials say about two dozen Georgia homeowners have signed on so far.

Labels: Georgia, green homes, Green insurance, insurance, solar panels

Early voting continues at a strong pace in Forsyth County, where the goal is to have 25,000 people cast ballots before Election Day.

The turnout on Monday of 305 voters was the highest since the process began just over a week ago.

“People have been able to get in and vote without a long line,” said Gary Smith, the county’s chief voter registrar. “This is definitely the time to get it done.”

Currently, voting is only being held at the county administration building from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

On Oct. 27, four additional satellite locations will open with expanded hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Smith said.

The county has about 97,400 voters, and election officials are expecting 90 percent of them to cast ballots in the Nov. 4 general elections.

Labels: early voting, election day, Forsyth County, Georgia

Even as the economy trembles and the city struggles, the Milton High School Athletic Association is soaring.

The Eagles booster club raised a whopping $166,000 in its annual Red and Silver Ball at the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta.

About $93,000 came from the auction of about 500 donated items, including a weeklong trip to Italy. Some of the money will be used to hire a trainer. According to the athletic association Web site, the trainer currently provides services in exchange for advertising. She typically treats 30 to 40 student-athletes a day and often travels with the team.

Tina D’Aversa, city councilwoman and mom of a sophomore at Milton High School, said there were six rooms at the Marriott of donated items, such as signed memorabilia.

“Parents are stepping up and making donations,” she said. “I think people are willing to donate because they feel like they have some control over the money. They want their kids to have the best opportunity.

Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood said the community is fairly affluent and they love their Eagles.

“There’s a lot of passion for their schools, their kids and their sports teams,” he said.

The Eagles are 3-1 in District 6-AAAAA, and 4-1 overall.

Labels: atlanta marriott alpharetta, milton high boosters, Milton High School, red and silver ball

Those people stocking up early for their Halloween treat baskets should be careful and check their candy again.

Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin is alerting consumers to the recall of White Rabbit Candy that may be contaminated with melamine.

The product, manufactured by QFCO, Inc., Burlingame, Calif., was distributed to Georgia, California, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Texas, and Washington through wholesale distributors to retail stores.

White Rabbit Creamy Candy is sold in 8 or 16 oz packages. All other flavors of White Rabbit Candy, including assorted (chocolate, coconut, and coffee), Red Bean, Coffee, Corn, Lychee, Mango and Strawberry are sold in 7 oz. packages. All packaging has a white rabbit logo on the front with the words "White Rabbit."

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product was contaminated with melamine.

"Sanitarians will be checking all retail and wholesale food establishments for any of the recalled products," said Commissioner Irvin.

Consumers who have purchased White Rabbit Candy are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or discard it.

Consumers with questions may contact the company at (650) 697-6633.

Labels: Georgia, melamine, Recall, white rabbit candy, white rabbit creamy candy

31th Annual ~ Indian Summer Festival
Suches, Georgia ~ The Valley Above the Clouds
Annual festival October 4 & 5, 2008

On the grounds of Woody Gap School ~ Georgia's Smallest Public School
GA Hwy. 60, between Dahlonega and Blue Ridge

Activities and family entertainment Saturday & Sunday 9 to 5
Good Things to Eat
Featuring pork BBQ plates and sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs and all the fixins'!
Many vendor snacks such as funnel cakes, boiled peanuts, cotton candy, fried apple pies, homemade preserves
Tons of Great Vendor Booths
Pottery, Quilts, Home made Goodies, Leather Crafts, Needlework, Folk Art
Jewelry, Furniture, Photographs, Stained Glass, Whirligigs, More

www.suches.com/festival

Labels: blue ridge, dahlonega, Georgia, indian summer festival, suches

One of the Southeast region’s most visited Fall eventis the Prater’s Mill Country Fair. A family-friendly jaunt through history, the festival is centered around the old water-powered, still-operating gristmill which was established in 1855 to grind wheat into flour and corn into meal.

The Fair has grown into a celebration of music, Southern food, history exhibits and handmade crafts and original art created by over 185 talented artists and artisans. Live demonstrations include blacksmithing, quilting, woodcarving, rug hooking and hand tufting, the precursor to the famous tufted carpet industry of Dalton, Ga.

Additionally, educational exhibits of interest include a living Civil War encampment, antique engines in operation, and handcrafted beadspreads on display.

Fair hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5, children 12 and under enter free. There is no charge for parking. Visitors are urged to dress casually and wear comfortable shoes.

Prater’s Mill is located on Georgia Hwy. 2, 10 miles northeast of Dalton and about 30 miles south of Chattanooga, Tenn. Interstate travelers should take I-75 to the Tunnel Hill-Varnell Exit No. 341; drive north 4.5 miles to the intersection with Georgia Hwy. 2 at Varnell; turn right and continue 2.6 miles to the Mill, a total distance of 7 miles from I-75.

www.prattersmill.org

Labels: dalton, Georgia, gwinnett county fair, pratters mill

October 4 & 5, 2008

During the first full weekend in October, Jasper, Georgia and the entire Marble Valley of Pickens County host the annual Georgia Marble Festival. Thousands of people throughout the U.S. come to experience the rich heritage of the area and learn about the marble industry. There are many activities going on during this two day celebration including a road race, parade, motorcycle ride & expo, fine arts exhibit, arts & crafts booths, food, entertainment, children's area, business expo and marble industry tours. Shuttles are provided throughout Jasper to move festival goers from parking lots to event sites.

Labels: Georgia, Georgia Marbel Festival, jasper, marble valley, pickens county

It's not too late to have pets included in the calendar. Submit a completed entry form, a phone number and entry fee. Entry fee includes a free copy of the calendar. All proceeds from the sale of calendars go towards Atlanta Humane Society animal welfare programs. Ongoing. $35. Atlanta Humane Society, 981 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta (Midtown), 404-875-5331, www.atlantahumane.org.

Labels: all pets allowed calendar, atlanta humane society

Citywide photo-fest with more than 150 exhibitions, lectures and events. See website for alternate locations. Through Oct. 17. 404-634-8664, www.acpinfo.org. Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia Midtown, TULA Art Center, 75 Bennett St., Atlanta (Buckhead/Brookhaven), 404-367-4542, www.mocaga.org.

Labels: atlanta celebrates photography, museum of contemporary art of georgia midtown, tula art center

Come see the official 2008 Beijing Olympic Games Torch on display.
Free with museum admission.
Atlanta History Center
130 W. Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta (Buckhead/Brookhaven), GA
404-814-4000
www.atlantahistorycenter.org

Labels: Atlanta, atlanta history center, official torch, olympic torch

The City of Milton will transition its Emergency 911 and Public Safety Dispatching from the Fulton County Emergency Dispatch Center and Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) to the City of Alpharetta Emergency Dispatch Center and PSAP on October 1, 2008. All wired phones or "land lines" will be changed through a programming process. Citizens that have these phones will not need to take any action.

It is important to note that citizens who have VOIP (voice over internet protocol) service may need to take action. It is the responsibility of those users to notify their service provider and tell them of the change.The information for the Alpharetta Public Safety E911 Dispatch Center and PSAP is as follows:

City of Alpharetta Dispatch Center
2565 Old Milton Parkway
Alpharetta, Georgia 30004
678.297.6300

Milton's Public Safety Department has been working to transition its dispatch center since its inception in May 2007. Thank you for your attention to this very important issue. Any questions, please contact the Milton Public Safety Department at 678.242.2570.

Labels: 911, changes, city of milton, fulton county dispatch center, public safety answering point, voip

Big SEC Game of the Week.

#3 Georgia vs. #8 Alabama in Athens. Game time is 7:45 pm ESPN, temperature 61 degrees, Georgia in black. Alabama will try to shut down the Georgia run. Georgia is two dimensional on offense which will keep the defense guessing. We believe it will be a low scoring game with defenses dominating. We like Georgia's confidence in their passing game and give it to the Dawgs 17-14.

Tennessee vs #15 Auburn in Alabama. Game time is 3:30 pm on CBS. Tennessee got smoked last week by Florida. Auburn got beat in a cat fight at home. The Vols confidence has to be down with the Head Coach Fulmer being criticized in the media. We like Auburn who we believe will not lose two SEC games in a row this early in the season. Auburn 24 Tennessee 10.

Ole Miss vs #4 Florida in the Swamp. Florida put a whooping on the Vols last week. This week with the #1 spot up for grabs, you can count on the Gators running up the score on the Rebels. Ole Miss has too many kinks to work out to handle such a talented Florida team. Florida 45 Ole Miss 10.

Miss State vs #5 LSU in Baton Rouge. LSU managed to find a way to score on a very talented Auburn team on the road. Miss State has not found an offense that can score any points. There will be blood in the water for the Tigers and they will not hold back from running up the score. LSU 42 Miss State 3.


Jay Holgate is a sports analyst for SEC Sports Report. He can be emailed at editor@secsportsreport.com

Labels: Alabama, auburn, dawgs, Florida, Georgia, ole miss, SEC, Sports report, Tennessee River

Thursday, October 2, 2008
5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Woodstock City Park

Please join the Woodstock Police Department as we celebrate our community and our joint fight against crime with a DJ, free food, dunk tank and moonwalk! Special thanks to our sponsors Woodstock First Baptist and Target.

For more information call 770 592-6030.

Labels: city of woodstock, Police Department, woodstock city park

We are working with more First Time Home Buyers than ever before! Call us - we can help!!! As a potential first time home buyer, you may feel a little overwhelmed with the entire process of buying your first home. Our goal is to empower you with the information and resources necessary to give you the confidence and financial help needed to make the dream of buying your first home become a reality. The more you know about the home buying process, the more likely you will be able to purchase the home of your dreams.

If you do not yet own a house of your own and are currently renting, here are 6 very, very compelling reasons why you should buy your first home.

1. Enjoyment. The primary reason you should purchase a home is for the enjoyment it will bring you and your family. You should buy a home that you will love living in! Undoubtedly, the first house you buy will not be the home you live in the rest of your life. As you mature your income will likely improve and your housing needs and desires will expand. You will likely sell your first home and trade up to a larger, nicer one. However, your primary focus when choosing your first home is to buy a house that will bring you enjoyment each and every day that you live there. If you do that, the improvements in your quality of life will be literally priceless.

2. It is an investment. My parents bought their first home in 1965 for $12,000. It was a modest home, just under 1,000 square feet, in a relatively nice neighborhood of similar homes on the outskirts of town. Today, that same home would sell for $175,000. Granted, much of that increase in value is due to inflation, but with government spending and deficits at record levels, inflation will continue and likely accelerate in coming years. By buying a home now, you will own an asset that will go up in value as inflation causes the general price level of everything to rise.

3. Tax Savings. The tax savings from mortgage interest can be huge. If you are currently paying $1,000 per month to rent your apartment, that same amount applied to a mortgage loan payment would result in a nearly $12,000 tax deduction (in the first few years of a conventional mortgage, nearly all of the payment goes towards interest, and very, very little goes toward paying off the loan. The interest is tax deductible). If you are in the 28% tax bracket, this one deduction would be an annual savings of over $3,300 on your income taxes.

4. Financial Benefits. Whatever you are currently paying for rent, it is money that is simply spent, never to return to you again. Contrast that to buying a home using a mortgage loan; instead of spending money on monthly rent, you are paying off a loan used to purchase the property. With each monthly payment, the loan balance goes down, and the equity in your property goes up. The monthly payment goes toward buying an asset that will go up in value. Besides the shelter that is provided, you get to keep an appreciating asset.

5. Privacy. As a renter, you are not entitled to the same level of privacy that a home owner is entitled to. It is common for landlords to retain the right to inspect the interior of their property upon giving the tenant proper notice 24 hours prior to the inspection. When you own your home, nobody is entitled to enter without your permission. It is your personal space on the planet that you have final say over. Your home is your private sanctuary for you and your family.

6. Freedom. Do you want to build a tree house in the backyard for your children? Would you like a volleyball net to use for weekend games with friends? Want to have a large 4th of July celebration for 100 of your closest friends? Being a homeowner provides the freedom to do these things and virtually anything else that is legal to do. You do not have a landlord telling you what you cannot do. The freedom is priceless.

Labels: Alpharetta, Canton, Cumming, First Time Home Buyers, Georgia, Johns Creek, milton, reasons to buy a home, Roswell, sandy springs, suwanee, Woodstock

Location
Roswell Town Square
616 Atlanta St.
Roswell GA 30075

Paranormal investigators lead a one-mile walking tour in and around Roswell's square and the historic mill area. Lasts about two hours. Reservations required, with payment in cash at the start of the tour. Tours leave from the bandstand across from the Roswell Visitors Center. Some tours allow well-behaved, leashed pets.

Info: 770-649-9922
Cost: $15; $10 ages 12 and younger. Fees may be higher for special events

Schedule
Most Friday and Saturday nights, starting about 30 minutes before dusk; check the Web site for exact days and times. Tours can be canceled at the last minute, so please check on day of tour.

Labels: Georgia, Roswell, roswell ghost tour, roswell town square

Schedule
7 a.m. registration; 8 a.m. 5K; 10 a.m. fun run and trot tot Oct. 4

Location
Stonemill Church
855 Northbrook Parkway
Suwanee GA 30024

Includes the Classic Stonemill 5K and has expanded to include a one-mile fun run/walk for adults and children and a tot trot for ages 2-5. Community fair includes entertainment, inflatables and other children's activities. Food available for purchase. Benefits the Autism Society and Spectrum Autism Support Group.

Info: 770-476-1400
Cost: $25; $20 advance; $10 children in the tot trot and one-mile fun run

Labels: Georgia, stonemill church, stonemill race for autism, stonemille 5K, suwanne

Kinsey Family Farm
7170 Jot-em Down Road
Gainesville GA 30506
Info: 770-887-6028

The farm is open to the public every day during October to come and enjoy the fall weather. You can come relax outside in the fresh air, take a scenic hayride around the farm, and then fire off a few rounds from our apple cannon! In the barn you will likely find all of the seasonal crops you are looking for including thousands of pumpkins of all sizes, shapes, and colors. The farm hosts pumpkins ranging in size from the one pound "Jack-Be-Little" to the one hundred pound "Prize Winner" and everything in between.

In addition to your typical orange pumpkins they also provide red, white, and green (although some declare these to be more of a "brushed nickel") pumpkins. You will also find gourds, corn stalks, indian corn, straw bales, seasonal flowers and much more!!!

Labels: gainesville, Georgia, kinsey family farm, pumpkin patch

Schedule
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Oct. 1-31.

Tanglewood Farm
171 Tanglewood Drive
Canton GA 30115

Participants can pick a pumpkin from the patch, venture through the not-so-scary haunted barn, take pony and hayrides and see, pet and feed more than 100 miniature farm animals.

Info: 770-667-6464
Cost: $9; $5 hayride

Labels: Canton, Georgia, octoberfest, pumpkin patch, tanglewood farm

3rd Annual Pumpkin Patch
Every Saturday in October 1pm-6pm
Friday afternoon / evening Oct. 17th and 24th 4pm - 9pm

Holy Cow Family Farmyard
1140 Liberty Grove Road
Alpharetta GA 30004

$8 per person includes hayride, entrance to petting farm and mini-pumpkin. Other activities include horse rides, concessions and bon fires on the Friday eveninng dates.

Labels: Alpharetta, holy cow farm, liberty grove road, pumpkin patch

Schedule
Sat, 10/4 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sun, 10/5 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Wills Park Equestrian Center
11915 Wills Road
Alpharetta GA 30009

Features pumpkins of all sizes, Indian corn, gourds, corn stalks, and painted Halloween yard signs. Children's activities include: Wayne's Train, creepy candy store, giant slide, a bake sale, carnival games, and face painting. Benefits Canine Assistants.

Labels: Alpharetta, pumpkin patch and bake sale, wills park equestrian center

5 p.m.-midnight Oct. 4

Location
Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta
5750 Windward Parkway
Alpharetta GA 30005

Info: 770-205-0113
Cost: $100

This fancy affair benefits the no-kill shelter run by the Humane Society of Forsyth County. Includes a gourmet dinner, dancing, live music and silent auction.

Labels: Alpharetta, atlanta marriott alpharetta, bark and boogie ball, humane society of forsyth county, windward parkway

The City of Roswell’s Transportation Department (RDOT) will present proposed improvements for Hardscrabble Road at King Road at a public open house on October 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Roswell High School Media Center, 11595 King Road. RDOT staff will be available to answer any questions and explain the impacts on the area.

Hardscrabble Road at the intersections of King Road has significant traffic flows in almost every approach/direction during rush hour periods. This meeting will provide options based on feedback provided by citizens and previous public meetings.

For more information call 770.594.6420 or visit our web site at www.roswellgov.com.

Labels: City of Roswell, hardscrabble road improvements, public meeting, Transportation Department

The Old Roswell Road/Westside Parkway Bridge over Foe Killer Creek is tentatively scheduled to close to all traffic on October 22. The bridge is expected to be closed for approximately 12 months while replacement of the narrow bridge takes place.

During construction, traffic will be detoured to Mansell Road, Northpoint Parkway, Encore Parkway, Westside Parkway and Hembree Road.

In addition to replacing the bridge, the construction includes the extension of Westside Parkway from Mansell Road to Sanctuary Parkway, the alignment of Old Roswell Road and Rockmill Road, and safety improvements to the Old Roswell Road and Mansell Road intersection.

The estimated cost of the project is $23 million. The majority of the funding is provided by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and the Federal Highway Authority. The City of Roswell has contributed $600,000 toward the design of the project and the City of Alpharetta has contributed $600,000 toward right-of-way acquisition. The North Fulton Community Improvement District (CID) has contributed $1.2 million toward both the design and right-of-way acquisition. GDOT will oversee the construction of the project.

To view the detour map, visit www.roswellgov.com.

Labels: foe killer creek, old roswell road, Road Closure, westside parkway

Free of Charge
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Roswell’s Historic Town Square
Intersection of Highway 9 and Highway 120
Some activities held in the Roswell Visitors Center
617 Atlanta Street
Roswell, GA 30075

Presented by:
Roswell Visitors Bureau
Roswell Recreation & Parks Dept.
North Fulton Regional Hospital
Roswell Beauty Council
Salon Arcaro
Soda Salon
Voila, A Salon
Bank of North Georgia
Redken

10:00am-4:00pm

· HEALTH SCREENINGS - provided by North Fulton Regional Hospital

· Bone Density

· Glucose

· Total Cholesterol

· Blood Pressure

· Nutrition and other health information

Along with the screenings, North Fulton Regional Hospital will also provide the opportunity to “Talk to a Physician”

11:00am-5:00pm

Ø MAKE UP & HAIR CARE TIPS - provided by Salon Arcaro, Soda Salon, and Voila, A Salon and Redken

Ø Fitness programs and demonstrations

Ø Accessories and Items of interest to women of all ages

Ø Fashion Show

Ø Ballroom Dancing Exhibition

Ø Georgia Child Identification Program (GACHIP) provided free by Roswell Masons

Ø Yaarib Shriners Clowns

Ø Music and Entertainment throughout the day

Ø Information that’s helpful to The Roswell Woman and her family

This year, along with Health and Beauty tips, there will be entertainment for the children and the opportunity to record the Child Identification Information that is necessary and helpful when there is an Amber Alert need.

GACHIP provides a valuable tool to parents or guardians. Full color digital photos, complete set of digital fingerprints, information including distinguishing features such as hair and eye color, scars, birthmarks, etc. This information can be circulated by the police in the case of abduction and can be used in the Amber Alert Program. All of the identifying information is given to the child’s family. The GACHIP program retains only the permission slip that must be signed prior to participation. All other data is erased after the document is prepared. Privacy is the number one criteria. www.gachip.org

Entertainment:

Ø Fashion Show

Ø Ballroom Dancing demonstration

Ø Performance by Tolbert-Yilmaz School of Dance

Ø Karate demonstration by DoJo Karate

Ø Performance by Roswell City Dance

Contact for the Public to utilize: For additional information call 770-640-3253 or www.visitroswellga.com

Labels: City of Roswell, expo, roswell woman

Take the hayride out to the Pumpkin Patch -- A great picture-taking opportunity for the parents! Pick out your pumpkins and take the hayride back to get some apple cider, a homemade fried pie and some boiled peanuts and popcorn. The kids will enjoy the playground and baby farm animals.

Open: Weekends: October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 10:00am til 7:00pm

Weekdays: October 20-30 3:30pm till 7pm

Weekdays: October 1-30 9:30AM-3:30PM

770-926-0561 or www.berrypatchfarms.net

Labels: berry patch farms, georgia. woodstock, pumpkin season

The North Fulton Jaycees, a non profit young person's leadership development organization, announced the opening of House on Horror Hill will start on Thursday night October 2.

House on Horror Hill begins its 26th year operating the longest running show in the state. "Once again we're ready for spook season, says Wendell Whitfield, Chairman of House on Horror Hill and adds, "It is back and scarier than ever."

House on Horror Hill will operate every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the month of October, as well as Saturday, November 1st. The House will open at dark. Tickets are $10 per person.

According to Kenny Buckles, President of the North Fulton Jaycees, profits from House on Horror Hill will be used to support future projects that will better our community. Among the many projects are the "Thanksgiving Assistance" that is a matching funds program with a local Alpharetta Wal-Mart, the "Christmas Assistance Program for Children" through area public schools, the "Noah's Ark Easter Program for Children" and the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

After moving three years ago from its location in what is today John's Creek, to its new home in Alpharetta, the Jaycees House on Horror Hill continues to provide a scare attraction at a price that doesn't hurt your wallet. House on Horror Hill is run by a group of area volunteers of all ages.

According to Whitfield, House on Horror Hill, is a place where kids can have fun in a controlled environment. "I have watched several kids grow up at House On Horror Hill. It is a way for us to make an impact on the younger generation by giving them somewhere to go instead of getting in trouble on the streets," said Whitfield.

House on Horror Hill is always looking for volunteers. If interested, need directions, or need more information about the scare, please visit www.houseonhorrorhill.com

Labels: 150th anniversary of alpharetta, Georgia, haunted house, house on Horror hill, north fulton jaycees

Scottsdale Farms Garden Center
15639 Birmingham Highway
Alpharetta GA 30004

Schedule
Sat, 9/27 9:00 am - 12 Noon

Local produce, arts and crafts, baked goods, jewelry and herbal lotions and soaps. Sponsored by the Milton Garden Club.

Labels: 150th anniversary of alpharetta, city of milton, farmers market, scottsdale farm

Sat, 9/27 10:30 am - 7:00 pm

Stone Mountain Park
U.S. 78 East
Stone Mountain GA 30087

More than 300 teams competing for "Best Of," "People's Choice" and "Showmanship" awards in competition categories such as chili, Brunswick stew and cornbread. More than $10,000 in prize money is awarded. Guests can sample the food and participate in contests. Benefits Camp Twin Lakes.

Labels: chili cook off, Georgia Stone Mountain Park

Duluth Town Green
3142 Hill St.
Duluth GA 30096

Schedule
Festival 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; concerts begin at 8 p.m. Sept. 27. 8 a.m. road race; festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 28.
Festival 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; concerts begin at 8 p.m. Sept. 27. 8 a.m. road race; festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 28.

Parade, 5K Road Race, live music, food, arts and crafts and Sunday morning worship service. Shuttle service provided.

Labels: duluth fall festival, duluth town green, georiga

Schedule
Thu, 9/25 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Fri, 9/26 6:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Sat, 9/27 1:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Sun, 9/28 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Mon, 9/29 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm thru Sun 11/2

The grand pavilion is the center for German music, dancing and entertainment as well as plenty of food and beer.

What to expect: It's peak season at this faux Alpine village approximately 1 1/2 hours north of Atlanta. The hub of activity is the grand pavilion where you'll find plenty of German music, fancy footwork and lederhosen, not to mention a variety of German beer, brats and more.

Info: 706-878-1619

Labels: Georgia, helen, oktoberfest

Central City Park
1400 Willie Smoky Glover Boulevard
Macon GA 31201

Schedule
Gates open: noon-11 p.m. Sept. 23-26 (midway opens at 3 p.m.); 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sept. 27; 2-8 p.m. Sept. 28

Held in Macon since 1851, the Georgia State Fair offers amusements and entertainment from midway rides to agricultural displays. Also, a "Battle of the Bands" and "Macon a Star" competitions, Miss Georgia State Fair pageant and a world record kazoo attempt on Sept. 25th.

Labels: central city park, Georgia, macon, north georgia state fair

Jim R. Miller Park
2245 Callaway Road
Marietta GA 30008

Schedule
Mon, 9/22 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Tue, 9/23 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Wed, 9/24 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Thu, 9/25 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Fri, 9/26 4:00 pm - 12 Midnight
Sat, 9/27 10:00 am - 12 Midnight
Sun, 9/28 12:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Includes midway rides, live music, beauty pageants, petting zoo, craft and gardening exhibits, high dive shows, Keith King Bike & Stunt Show, National Diving Dog Tour, Kachunga & The Alligator Show and more. Oodles of carnival rides, food, beauty pageants, a flower show and more. Check out live alligator handlers, high divers, dogs diving into swimming pools, BMX stunts and racing pigs. Concerts, free with admission, include The Oakridge Boys (Sept. 19), Confederate Railroad (Sept. 20), Kellie Pickler (Sept. 24), Lonestar (Sept. 25), Mark Schultz (Sept. 26), Lady Antebellum and Josh Gracin (Sept. 27).

Labels: Georgia, jim r. miller park, marietta, north georgia state fair

Ninth-graders at three North Fulton high schools can remain at their current schools next year rather than be redistricted if they have their own transportation to and from school, the school board decided Thursday.

A new high school opening in the Johns Creek area in August will draw students from the current Chattahoochee, Northview and Alpharetta high school districts. In the past, only rising juniors and seniors could choose to stay at their current school when a new school opened.

District 2 school board member Katie Reeves, who represents the high schools affected, suggested the idea. “For some students, the transition from middle to high school can be overwhelming,” Reeves said. “The thought of yet another transition so soon causes concern for some parents.”

In the future, the board may revisit its policy when new high schools open.

Parents who oppose the plan have said it will make traffic worse in the area and divide close-knit neighborhoods.

The new high school is expected to have an enrollment of 1,797.

Labels: 9th graders, change schools, Johns Creek, north fulton high school

More than 1,000 walkers are expected to participate in the Georgia Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) 4th annual Walk to Cure Diabetes on Sunday, Oct. 5 at Forsyth County Central Park. Registration begins at 2:30 p.m., followed by the walk at 3:30 p.m.

The Georgia Chapter hopes to raise more than $250,000 for research to find a cure for diabetes and its complications.

At the Cumming Walk, there will be music, food, bounce houses and clowns. On-site registration begins at 2:30pm. The entire walk will be approximately 3 miles long, starting at Central Park.

"It's great to be partnering with JDRF and working together on such an important goal – curing a disease that kills one American every three minutes. The recent statistics are staggering and reveal that health care expenditures surrounding diabetes cost our nation more than $132 billion," says Natalie Bailey. These are the reasons we are committed to raising money for the cutting-edge research that JDRF funds. By working together, we can make a difference."

In addition to wide-spread corporate support, entire families from kids to grandparents take part in the fundraising efforts of the Walk to Cure Diabetes – many affected, but even those who are not among the 14 million Americans with a personal connection to type-1 diabetes.

JDRF Walks are held in more than 200 cities worldwide. Nearly 500,000 people nationally walked last year and raised $94 million to cure diabetes.

Labels: diabetes walk, forsyth county central park, jdrf, october 5, walk to cure diabetes

Vote was 4-3 in highly controversial decision; some fear sewer system will end pastoral flavor of area

A bitterly divided Milton City Council on Monday finally put to rest an issue that has bedeviled the community since its inception — a sewer policy.

The council voted 4-3 to adopt a map and agreement with Fulton County defining where county sewer could go. In many communities, extending sewer is a routine activity. In Milton, it’s been grounds for political combat, leading to the defeat of two incumbents last November, and contributing to the resignation of the city manager after only five months on the job.

Milton residents treasure their tree-lined lanes, pastoral vistas and other rural characteristics, and they fear development, especially dense development, will ruin that. Many believe that sewer is an engine for density, and they favor limiting sewer as a way to control growth.

But others argue that density can be controlled through zoning, that sewer in some areas is reasonable, and the city needs the tax revenue from commercial projects.

After three hours of sometimes testy debate, Council member Karen Thurman moved to approve the map and agreement, hammered out by the city attorney and staff. Councilman Bill Lusk seconded. They were joined by Mayor Joe Lockwood and Councilman Burt Hewitt. Opposing the motion were Council members Julie Zahner Bailey, Tina D’Aversa and Alan Tart.

“It’s a landmark,” Lusk said. “We can remove this political football that’s been use and abused and maintain the character of the area that everyone wants, and get on the more important things of running this city. Now we can enforce sewer service and move on.”

The minority vigorously objected to voting Monday night, arguing they hadn’t seen the map until Friday, the agreement until Sunday, and the public hadn’t seen them at all. They lobbied for a work session next week so the details of the map and agreement could be fully vetted.

But Lockwood countered that after months of discussion it was time to make a decision.

The council’s decision establishes borders for sewer to go along Ga. 9 and in some spots in the Crabapple area.

The two sides could not agree on what defined “sewer extension,” the equivalent in Milton political parlance to a curse word. For the minority, sewer extension was defined as providing sewer to any new parcels. For the majority, extension was defined as running it beyond the defined service area.

City Council chambers initially was packed with about 100 people, including some from neighboring jurisdictions who came to watch the climatic showdown. About 20 residents and business owners spoke at the meeting. Although in the past, most speakers have been anti-sewer, on Monday those addressing the council were more evenly divided.

D’Aversa said after the meeting that by approving sewer extension, the City Council had established a dangerous precedent that could haunt the city later.

Zahner Bailey said that some on the council forgot earlier promises to voters.

“You just witnessed four people who claimed to not to support sewer extension vote to extend sewer,” she said. “Sewer equals density.”

Labels: city council approves, city of milton, milton, sewer extension

Saturday October 4th 10am - 2pm

Alpharetta Farmer's Market on Old Roswell St. (City parking behind Smoke Jacks)

FREE: Hayrides, Face Painting, Children's Fall Crafts and Storytelling'

Folk Music HIGH COTTON, Strolling Live Scarecrow, Fall Festival Foods, Seasonal Produce.

12pm - Scarecrow Awards - Best Personality, Most Creative, Best Contructed, Sch"cool"est.

For more information please go to: www.alpharetta.ga.us or call (678) 297-6000 x1008

Labels: Alpharetta, alpharetta farmers market, old roswell street, scarecrow harvest

Schedule
Sat, 9/27 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sun, 9/28 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location
Boling Park
1162 Marietta Highway
Canton GA 30114

More than 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, entertainers, children's activities and food.

Labels: boiling park, Canton, Georgia, riverfest

September 20th at Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell
Bring a picnic along with your lawn charis and blankets, enjoy great music, play on the playground and then settle in for movie fun. Concessions will also be available for purchase. Movies begin at dark.
For information call (770) 594 - 6406

Labels: alvin and the chipmunks, movies, Riverside Park, Roswell

Harrys Farmers Market in Roswell, September 20, 10am to 4pm
They will have vendors, demos and sale items. There will even be face painting for the kids from 11am to 2pm. Enjoy recipes, cooking demonstrations, and more.

Labels: City of Roswell, equinox Party, Harrys farmers market, september 20

This weekend - Sept. 20 - 21 10am to 6pm
This annual event features continuous performing arts as well as art work and crafts for sale. There will be a continuous shuttle running from City Hall to Town Square on both days. Free to the public.
Roswell Town Square (770) 641-3705

Labels: 42nd annual roswell arts festival, roswell town square, september 20 and 21

On Sept. 20, the Chattahoochee River along Roswell's Azalea Park will be flowing with activity as more than 400 rowers from the metro area join together to raise money for breast cancer research.

Crew members from numerous clubs - including Saint Andrew Rowing Club for youth in North Fulton - as well as collegiate rowers, will row 12 hours in hopes of surpassing last year's $30,000 raised for Row for the Cure, an event that benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Rowers will be gathering pledges over the next month. Anyone wanting to observe this Olympic sport, seldom seen in Atlanta, is welcome to attend and highly encouraged to support the fundraising effort; the teams will collect donations on-site.

In addition, Sky Wash Detail is offering a free exterior car wash to anyone making a $5 donation at the business for Row for the Cure through Sept. 30. The car wash is at 11865 Alpharetta Hwy, Roswell.

Please contact Suzanne McBride at 770-380-4822 or suzannejmcbride@gmail.com.

Labels: azalea park, Roswell, Row of cure

Milton High School is the only high school in Georgia to receive the prestigious No Child Left Behind – Blue Ribbon Schools distinction for 2008, the U.S. Department of Education announced Sept. 9.


Previously called the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, the program was reorganized by the U.S. Department of Education to recognize public and private K-12 schools that are academically superior in their states coupled with significant gains in student achievement.


Schools must demonstrate dramatic improvement in a school environment with significant populations of students from disadvantaged backgrounds or score in the top 10 percent on state assessments. Milton is recognized for its high achievement on assessments.


Principal Ron Tesch credits Milton’s quality of teachers and the school’s culture for academic excellence as keys to its success. “To steal from the real estate motto, ‘location, location, location’ – at Milton, it’s ‘academics, academics, academics,’ Tesch says. “We have such wonderful teachers – truly, the finest in the nation – who really look for ways to unlock students’ potential. They do whatever it takes to help students succeed.”


Tesch also acknowledges the community’s support of the school. “The Milton community really values education, high standards and rigor. When we announced the award, everyone was jubilant. You could feel the pride throughout the school. Our teachers and students know the significance of this kind of award and what it means. Parents are stopping me in the hall to say how proud they are and what it means to the community.”


Tesch and assistant principal Cliff Jones will attend a special awards ceremony Oct. 20-21 in Washington, D.C. to accept the award.

Labels: fulton schools, milton, Milton High School, National Blue Ribbon

The fourth annual Pumpkin Patch, planned at Wills Park in Alpharetta, will help Canine Assistants, a non-profit organization that raises and trains service dogs for children and adults with special needs.

The Pumpkin Patch – Oct. 4-5 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – will feature pumpkins of all sizes for sale along with Indian corn, gourds, corn stalks, and painted Halloween yard signs.

In addition, several children's activities will be available including: Wayne's Train which will take riders on a fun-filled ride around the park, inflatable slides, bake sale, children's face painting, carnival games and a creepy candy stand.

The Pumpkin Patch will also highlight several Canine Assistants dogs-in-training dressed for Halloween. In addition, there will be service dog demonstrations throughout each day so the community can learn more about the 90-plus commands the service dogs are trained to perform.

Canine Assistants, an Alpharetta organization founded in 1991, has graduated more than 700 service dogs from the program and has placed them free of charge with physically disabled individuals. It takes over $16,000 to raise and train each dog, accomplished through corporate sponsorships and private donations.

The Pumpkin Patch will be held at Wills Park Equestrian Center located on Wills Road.

Labels: Alpharetta, canine assistants, pumpkin patch, Wills Park

Cars, food, arts and crafts and fun for kids will fill the parking lots at North Point Center East, between North Point Mall and Encore Parkway, Saturday, Sept. 20, in the seventh annual Alpharetta Rotary Fun Fest.

The Rotary club, a group of business professionals who are dedicated to the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self," use the money raised through the Fun Fest to fund a variety of service projects to make the community, both locally and worldwide, a better place to live. The Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau is helping to present the Fun Fest.

Car buffs can explore automobiles of every model and make on display at Saturday's car show.

The Kid's Fun Zone will include a petting zoo, pony rides, train rides, giant slides, rock climbing wall and plenty of activities for the youngsters, including karate exhibitions.

Music and shows featuring live entertainment will be presented throughout the day.

For those hungry families, dozens of restaurants – including The Counter, Atlantic Seafood Company, Original Pancake House, Shane's Rib Shack, Sogno Gelato, and more – will offer a variety of food options in the Cuisine Scene.
Other features include a Business Boulevard that resembles a one-day outdoor shopping mall and an arts and crafts area.

Visit www.alpharettafunfest.com for additional information, or www.AwesomeAlpharetta.com for more information about lodgings and restaurants in the city.

Labels: alpharetta fun fest, Alpharetta Rotary club, encore parkway, fun fest, North Point Mall

Back in the days when you could count the cars coming through this historic community, a festival was begun by Mrs. Statham and Mr. and Mrs. Reeves that has since become the Crossroads at Crabapple Antiques and Art Festival.

They owned antique shops and before long other antique shops appeared. With the festival, these pioneers put Crabapple on the map as one of the best places in the country to come for American Country Antiques.

No more a sleepy community, Crabapple still retains its historic feel, housing antique, art and gift shops in its 19th century homes, buildings and former cotton gin. New retail buildings under a strict design guideline add the needed amenities for a sustainable, walkable community where everyone feels at home.

The spirit of the festival encompasses Crabapple's relaxed atmosphere with roaming musicians, antiques from 50 dealers, artwork and crafts from 50 juried artists.

Come and enjoy strolling under 200 year old oaks, down a closed street, and through the hay field for food, fun and great buys.

Parking and admission is free for this one day only festival Oct. 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are also children's activities at nearby Goddard School from 2 to 4 p.m.
For more information, visit www.cityofmiltonga.us or call 770-448-3860.

Labels: antiques, city of milton, Crabapple, crabapple antique and arts festival, october 4

Depending on who you believe, the Fulton County School System moved its plans for a high school off Freemanville Road after community complaints from deep-pocketed neighbors, or because a preferred parcel - unavailable two years ago - suddenly became available.

Regardless of the version, the school system formally purchased a 64-acre parcel of land at southeast corner of Bethany Bend and Cogburn Road late last week, where it will build the new high school.

The 117-acre parcel it also owns on Freemanville Road, previously planned for the high school, will now house only a future middle school, with any unneeded acreage eventually sold off once final site plans are developed. The high school is scheduled to open in August 2012, followed by the middle school opening in August 2013.

The new high school site at Cogburn/Bethany sits directly across from Kings Ridge Christian School, and not far from St. Francis High School. Hopewell Middle School and Cogburn Elementary School are about a half-mile south of the the intersection at Cogburn and Windward Parkway.

The Bethany/Cogburn parcel was purchased from developer David Chatham for just under $20 million, according to sources, and is already in the early stages of development with considerable clearing and turn lanes already in place. Chatham had planned to develop the parcel for residential properties, but apparently had a change of heart likely due to the slump in the housing market.

Alpharetta School Board member Katie Reeves said the Chatham property was a top consideration when the board searched for property a few years back, but was not pursued for a number of reasons.
"When we purchased the property on Freemanville, the site at Bethany and Cogburn was considered," maintains Reeves. "At that point, given the economy of the moment, we did not have a willing seller. With the property being actively developed [at that time], it was thought not to be in the best interest of the system or its taxpayers to pursue that route."

That route would probably have included condemnation proceedings and other legal action to wrest away the property, whereas the Freemanville site had a willing seller.

Reeves said circumstances developed in the past six months to change the situation. The Freemanville parcel was purchased with the intent of placing a high school and middle school on the site, similar to the set-up for Milton High and Northwestern Middle. But after viewing site plans developed by the architect, it became apparent topography concerns limited usable land.

"In order to build our prototype middle school, we would have had to build a three-story high school, which was just unacceptable," said Reeves.

At about the same time, the Chatham property became available, providing the perfect solution. In addition, the budget for Fiscal Year 2009 included funding for land, allowing the board to buy the site without dipping into reserves. Reeves said it was a win-win for everyone – the community and the school system.

"The Bethany/Cogburn site allows for access from two different streets – a huge plus for a high school campus. It is also in close proximity to a major highway and central to our target search area.

"The fact that it is one of few sewered sites large enough to accommodate a high school campus is a plus as well," said Reeves.

It's proximity to Ga. 9 and Ga. 400, as well as its sewer access, all made it prime property for the school system.

Labels: bethany road, city of milton, cogburn road, Freemanville Road, New High School

Birmingham United Methodist Church
15770 Birmingham Highway
Alpharetta GA 30004

Schedule
Sat, 9/13 12 Noon - 7:00 pm

A fall festival held to celebrate Milton's birthday. Tethered hot-air balloon rides, a mechanical bull, equestrian shows, pony and carriage rides, inflatables, carnival games and prizes, caricature artist, face painting, food and more.

Labels: birmingham united methodist church, city of milton, Milton Roundup

Food, drink and live entertainment under a big, white tent as artisans — including painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal crafters and glass blowers — offer their works for purchase outside.
Piedmont Park
400 Park Drive
Atlanta GA 30309
Info: 770-941-9660
Cost: $20; $15 advance

Labels: Atlanta, atlanta arts festival, piedmont park, preview party

Commuter shuttle service could be in North Fulton County’s future.

The North Fulton Community Improvement District has issued a request for proposals seeking companies that could conduct commuter shuttle a feasibility study.

The proposal should include recommendations for both a circulator system not only within the North Fulton area but in and out of the area.

The design team or firm that is awarded the job will have to work closely with several local and state entities, including the Georgia Department of Transportation, GRTA, MARTA.

The project will be funded by the Community Improvement District and proposals are due by Sept. 22 at 4 p.m.

Labels: commuter shuttle, marta, north fulton community improvement district, north fulton county

It's that time of year again, check out these cool corn mazes:

Uncle Shuck's Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch
4525 Ga. 53 E.
Dawsonville GA 30534
Campaign-themed maze: one half G.O.P. elephant, one half Democratic donkey. Also, hayrides, bonfires and a smaller soybean maze for kids.
Info: 1-888-674-8257
Cost: Maze: $9; ages 3 and younger free. Hayride/bonfire $5. Combination $12.

Buck's Corn Maze
1923 New Hope Road
Dawsonville GA 30534
Nine-acre design in shape of a bear. Also, hayrides.
Info: 706-344-8834
Cost: Maze: $8; $7 ages 12 and younger; 4 and younger free. Hayride $5. Both $10.

Cagle's Dairy
362 Stringer Road
Canton GA 30115
A labyrinth carved from a cornfield. Also, hayrides, bonfire and farm tours.
Info: 770-345-5591
Cost: $10 maze; $7 hayride; $15 both

Labels: bucks corn maze, cagles dairy, corn field maze, uncles shucks corn maze

What: The Woodstock City Council is expected to approve the property tax rate that, unless changed, will go from 5.88 mills to 6.53 mills for an 11.1 percent increase.

• When and where: Meeting starts at 7 p.m. Monday at Woodstock City Hall, 103 Arnold Mill Road.

• What it means to you: Some citizens have suggested that the city try harder to cut spending before raising property taxes. But Henry Bucci, the city’s financial officer, isn’t expecting that. “In my opinion, no material cuts can be made without making significant cuts in personnel,” he said Friday.

Labels: Georgia, property tax increase, Woodstock, woodstock city council

Newtown Park hosts fun-filled Fall Family Festival September 13

Celebrate the changing seasons and enjoy a fun-filled day at the City of Johns Creek Fall Family Festival at Newtown Park Saturday, September 13 from 10 am to 3 pm.

Enjoy music, food, arts and crafts, carnival games, moonwalk, giant slide and an obstacle course; it's a day of fun for the whole family.

Held in conjunction with the Newtown Park Athletic Association and coinciding with the Association's fall team photo day, the festival is expected to draw more than 2,000 players, parents and siblings throughout the day. It is a perfect venue for local businesses and organizations that want to gain exposure with hundreds of families living within a few miles.

To participate, contact Sunnie Roth at Sunnie.Roth@JohnsCreekGA.gov or 678-512-3256. You can also download an application. Vendors are asked to make a $100 booth donation or in-kind gift to support Newtown Park and Athletic Association activities. The vendor application deadline has been extended to September 8.

Newtown Park is located at 3150 Old Alabama Road.

Labels: city of johns creek, fall family festival, Georgia, newtown park, september 13 and 14

This Saturday & Sunday September 13-14
10:30am - 6:00pm
Independence High School
86 School Drive, Alpharetta (the old Milton High School)

Step back in time and experience a real country fair!
Non-stop musical entertainment (Bluegrass, Southern Rock, Gospel, Blues, Classic Country) free kids games and activities, woodworking and classic car competitions, quilt show, tradtional country fair contests (pickle eating, watermelon seed spitting, and horseshoes)

Historical Demonstrations include: Blacksmithing, basket weaving, butter churning, leathersmithing, candle and soap making, spinning, panning for gold and gems, get up close to an old moonshine still, learn about cotton calisthenics, fashion and etiquette demonstrations from the mid 1800's.

For more information you can go to: www.old miltoncountryfair.com
(770) 783-2314

Labels: Alpharetta, independence high school, old milton country fair, september 13 and 14

Stone Mountain Park
Dates: September 4-7, 2008
Location: Special Events Meadow
Thursday & Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday, 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Sunday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

FREE WITH PARK ENTRY! Voted the Nation's #1 Arts & Crafts Show FIVE YEARS IN A ROW by Sunshine Artist Magazine, a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event and winner of multiple awards by the Georgia Festival and Events Association.

More than 500 artists and crafters from 38 States and two countries display their works for your appreciation and purchase. Daily live entertainment, Children's Corner activities, clogging and crafter demonstrations throughout the event as well as fabulous festival foods.

Vehicle entry to Stone Mountain Park is $10.00 (cash only) for a one-day permit during the festival or $35.00 for an annual parking pass. No coolers or pets can be brought inside the festival.

Labels: arts and crafts, Georgia Stone Mountain Park, yellow daisy festival