Brian Vanderhoff's North Fulton Real Estate Blog

Large, mixed-use development faces limits Story by NorthFulton.com The Vicker's Village proposed mixed-use development at the corner of Canton Street and Woodstock Street in Roswell was approved June 23 with restrictions. The Vicker's Village proposed mixed-use development at the corner of Canton Street and Woodstock Street in Roswell was approved June 23 with restrictions. Posted Wednesday, June 24, 2015 2:47 pm COMMENT Jonathan Copsey ROSWELL Ga. – A proposed mixed-use development in the heart of Roswell’s Canton Street was approved June 23 by the City Council, albeit with restrictions. The Vicker's Village development is proposed to sit at the corner of Canton Street and Woodstock Street, on the northern edge of the walkable area of Roswell’s heart. A mixed-use development, Vicker's was proposed to have 80 apartments and feature a mix of retail and restaurants on the ground floor. The retail, commercial and office space would be about 16,000 square feet in size. The development also features a large public plaza at the corner of the streets, making for a gathering place. The developer, King Lowry Ventures, asked the city for variances to allow a fourth story as well as allowing residential multi-family housing. A buffer variance was also requested. “The development of Canton Street has caused a significant impact on property values,” said Don Rolader, attorney for the applicant. “[The existing property] is ugly and an eyesore. There are abandoned stores and houses.” Indeed, the development would replace the Vicker's Automotive store as well as several old and sometimes derelict homes beside it. Despite this, nearby residents organized against the development, seeing it as too large for the corner and too intense for Canton Street. The height of four stories was one issue, as was the sheer size of the development. While it was stepped back from Canton Street, to appear smaller, in the rear the building had no design. This made it look very large, said residents. This concerned members of council. “There's nothing wrong with change, but we have to be careful about what we put in there,” said Councilmember Kent Igleheart. “This is just so much.” His fellow councilmember Rich Dippolito agreed. “We are taking six parcels and consolidating them as one building,” said Dippolito. “If this were on Alpharetta Highway (Ga. 9), we would be loving this thing.” Councilmember Becky Wynn suggested approving the development and its multi-family aspect, but denying the extra story as well as the buffer variance. There will be a minimum size to the homes built. “To put multi-family uses in here is important for the vitality of the area,” said Councilmember Nancy Diamond. “Given what this corner represents in this corridor, it needs to be something special. We need to get this right.” The project was approved 3-2, with Dippolito and Igleheart opposed. RN 06-25-15

Labels: Roswell, Roswell Canton Street, roswell ga, roswell georgia, Vickers's Village

Northfulton.com


by Candy Waylockwrite the author

Education
State denies FSA charter
2014-Sep-10
Redistricting for area schools to begin in October
2014-Sep-03
Common Core divides school superintendent candidates
2014-Sep-03
Area superintendent for Northwest Learning Center to depart for Virginia school system
2014-Sep-01
Common Core divides school superintendent candidates
2014-Aug-26
More...
September 09, 2014
NORTH FULTON, Ga. – Parents would be wise to stay aware of school attendance zone changes in the coming months.

The redistricting process for all schools throughout North Fulton will begin in October, with the goal to have the changes approved by February and in place next school year, according to officials with the Fulton County School System (FCSS).

"The scope of the North Fulton redistricting will include all schools and all levels," said Yngrid Huff, chief planner for the FCSS. "Capacity is being added at the elementary and middle school levels, which requires a holistic look at all attendance boundaries."

A new elementary school off Highway 9 in Roswell is set to open in August 2015, along with additions at three North Fulton middle schools – Hopewell, Autrey Mill and Taylor Road. A planned addition at Crabapple Middle was shelved until after 2018 while planners consider a complete rebuild of the school.

This increased classroom space provides an opportunity for the FCSS to adjust attendance lines based on enrollment, as well as remedy some of the quirky feeder patters from elementary to middle to high school.

The last North Fulton rezoning was in 2011 with the opening of Cambridge High School. Huff said it is time to revisit the lines to ensure capacity is balanced across the region.

"We've had some changes since the last redistricting, so we want to make sure everything is aligned," said Huff. "When you look at the entire region, you are able to jiggle all the puzzle pieces at once, and you can better align [the zones]."

Huff said the process will also focus on cleaning up feeder patterns, primarily from middle to high school. While it is impossible to have a 100 percent middle school feed into a high school because of space issues, planners will work on reducing small groups of kids who veer off from their classmates to a new school.

"The feeder pattern needs to be considered," said Fulton Board member Linda McCain, who represents Johns Creek. "In my area, it's the middle to high school feed my community is most concerned about. The kids are on feeder teams and other clubs, and it gets [complicated]."

Board member Katie Reeves of Alpharetta concurred with the need to clean up feeder lines. She pointed out there is not a new high school planned in North Fulton in the near future so this redistricting provides the opportunity to "tweak" the feeder patterns.

Although feeder patterns are considered a "secondary criteria" for modifications, there was consensus on the board to weigh it more heavily in some instances.

The redistricting process will start in October through a series of community meetings. Feedback and information will be gathered from the community and used to develop maps based on criteria approved by the Fulton County Board of Education.

"The first meeting serves as a means to gather specific feedback, which will then allow staff to generate alternative maps for the second and third meetings," explained Huff. "No assumptions should be made on who or what communities will be involved. All residents are invited and encouraged to attend."

She noted the meetings will be held in the October through December time frame, with recommendations presented to the board in January for approval in February. Changes will go into effect for the 2015-2016 school year.

All meetings will be held at Alpharetta High School, although dates and times have not been finalized.

Labels: Alpharetta, cambridge, Crabapple, northwestern, Roswell, School Redistricting

July 4 at Sweet Apple ES

by Jade Rodgerswrite the author

Roswell_Fireworks_2w
The annual Roswell July 4 fireworks display will be held this year at Sweet Apple Elementary School instead of Roswell High School. City of Roswell. (click for larger version)
June 17, 2014
ROSWELL, Ga. – This year marks the 15th annual Fireworks Extravaganza held in Roswell. For many years, citizens from Roswell and beyond have gathered at Roswell High School to celebrate Independence Day in style. This year, however, calls for a change in venue.

Roswell High School will undergo renovation this summer. As a result, the July 4 Fireworks Extravaganza will take place at Sweet Apple Elementary School.

This relocation requires a good deal of preparation. More than 30,000 people attended last year's celebration, and the Roswell Recreation and Parks Department must find a way to accommodate them with this new location. The Recreation and Parks Department is in the process of notifying businesses and residents near Sweet Apple about the upcoming fireworks celebration.

The city is not planning to have any entertainment prior to the fireworks display, but is discussing the possibility of having food trucks at the event.

"Sweet Apple is a great location and we are really looking forward to seeing everyone come out for the fireworks this year," said Morgan Rodgers, assistant director of the Roswell Recreation and Parks Department.

The fireworks will begin around 9:30 p.m., or when darkness falls. All questions concerning the event can be addressed at 770-641-3705. Sweet Apple Elementary School is located at 12025 Etris Road, Roswell.

www.northfulton.com

RN 06-19-14

Labels: move, Roswell, Roswell fireworks

Ace Hardware is scheduled to open a Crabapple location in mid-March at 12350 Arnold Mill Road in Alpharetta next to Crabapple Tavern.

Ace Hardware Crabapple will span 8,000 square feet and stock over 12,000 products in categories such as paint, lawn and garden.

Labels: Ace Hardware, Alpharetta, Crabapple, milton, Roswell

Published January 28, 2014 FoxNews.com


ATLANTA – Residents across the Deep South are stocking up on fuel and groceries as a rare winter storm is moving into the region, threatening to bring snow, ice and subzero temperatures to places more accustomed to air conditioners and sunscreen than parkas and shovels.

Even with the exact timing and severity of the blast of freezing precipitation uncertain, officials from parts of Texas to southeastern Virginia warned motorists to stay off the roads and remain inside.

Popular warm-weather tourist destinations including Charleston, S.C.; Savannah, Ga.; Pensacola, Fla.; Virginia Beach; and New Orleans were expecting ice and snow over the next two days-- rare occurrences in places that seldom even see prolonged sub-freezing temperatures.

In the Hampton Roads area of Virginia -- which forecasters said could see a foot of snow -- store shelves started emptying of staples such as bread by Monday night. Schools and businesses planned to close early, with the storm expected to further clog an already-busy afternoon commute.

In Alabama, snow began falling before dawn in the extreme northwest portion of the state. Forecasters are predicting up to three inches of snow in the central and southern areas of the state, according to MyFoxAtlanta.com.

In coastal Charleston, it was a balmy 62 degrees Monday. But the approaching weather led the College of Charleston to cancel classes Tuesday as a "precautionary measure." There was a forecast of rain, and sleet in the late afternoon, with the first snow expected Wednesday morning.

Much of Georgia was placed under a winter storm warning for Tuesday and Wednesday, including the cities of Atlanta and Macon. While some areas could see as much as 3 inches of snow the bigger concern with plummeting temperatures was ice.

"The snowfall amounts are going to matter very little in this situation because of the ice potential," said Jason Deese, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, Ga. "Some parts of the state may end up seeing the greatest impact just because they get more ice than snow."

Delta Air Lines officials say more than 1,800 flights have been canceled ahead of a winter storm expected to pelt areas of the Southeast with sleet and snow. Delta spokeswoman Betsy Talton says 1,850 flights have been canceled system-wide Tuesday beginning at 11 a.m. Of that number, Talton says 840 flights from Atlanta have been affected.

The airline is offering travelers the opportunity to make one-time changes to their tickets without a fee if they're traveling through Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, the Carolinas and Texas. Delta officials expected service to be affected between Jan. 28 and 29, and replacement tickets must be reissued by Feb. 1.

Forecasters were predicting snow and ice from Texas to Virginia by mid-week as precipitation moving in from the south met with cold air already chilling the region. Meanwhile, in the Midwest, plummeting temperatures and increasing winds took root for another day even as the storm moved south. Several states in the central U.S. saw schools and other facilities close for a second consecutive day as dangerous wind chills were predicted. In Minnesota, forecasters said wind chills could reach 35 to 50 degrees below zero.

In the Carolinas, many school districts were running on half-day schedules Tuesday so students could head home before the worst of the storm system hit. In North Carolina's Outer Banks, barrier islands that are popular with tourists during the warm seasons, residents were bracing for as much as 8 inches of snow.

Several inches also were expected in South Carolina, where the state department of transportation planned to send crews out Tuesday to treat roads with sand and brine to ease any troubles caused by ice.

Elsewhere, some schools and government offices already closed in Mississippi ahead of the rare snow event.

"This is a very dangerous situation because snow and ice are very rare for extreme southern Mississippi," Robert Latham, executive director of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, said in a news release. "We need everyone to have an emergency plan together for this."

In Louisiana, state Public Service Commission Chairman Eric Skrmetta told residents to be prepared by stocking up with food, fueling cars and making sure to have cash on hand, calling the icy forecast for the next couple of days "decidedly grim." State police said freezing rain was falling in the central part of the state early Tuesday, but most highways remained open. The heaviest snowfall was likely to be 1 to 3 inches just north of the Baton Rouge metro area

Donna Vidrine, a cashier at Simcoe Food World in Lafayette, said her store was already busy Monday.

"They're buying things like canned goods -- nonperishable items -- and bottles of water and diapers for their baby," she said.

Labels: Alpharetta, Cumming, Georgia, milton, Roswell, Snow, Winter Storm

If you have out-of-town company and you're taking them out to dinner, where is the one place you would take them? If you said Canton Street in Roswell, you would have plenty of company.

It is a street that has found charm and appeal that makes it a place where people want to be. The restaurants, pubs, art galleries and shops that make up a quarter-mile of the Historic District seem to have hit on just the right recipe for trendiness.

As far as Mayor Jere Wood is concerned, Canton Street is better than the Chamber of Commerce.

"It is the city's best selling point, no question," he said. "It is the best generator of businesses. It's where things are happening. We hope to expand that model in the Groveway District to the Square and Highway 9."

The city recently cut the ribbon for the new streetscape on Ga. 9 (Atlanta Street), and at the ceremony the city Transportation Director Steve Acenbrak boasted since the project began four years ago, 10 new businesses had located in empty storefronts along the road.

But Canton Street boasts nine new business openings since February. Realtors monitor the properties on Canton because when they become available, they go quickly. Property values have proven to be well nigh recession-proof.

Of course, Canton Street is really more than one street. It is a warren of side streets such as Goulding Place, Plum Street and Cherry Way that provide more retail and residential space in the area.

Michael Curling's company New Kent Capital is among the most active investors in Canton Street owning several properties. Renovating the old properties is no small expense, but the rewards have made the efforts worthwhile.

A big part of Canton Street's success has been its pedestrian atmosphere. People don't mind parking and then walking up and down the street, Curling said.

"It definitely contributes to the charm of Canton and the people who live in the district add to the mix. They are fiercely loyal to the shops on Canton," he said.

Curling's Roswell High School friend Ryan Pernice realized a dream when he came back home to open his own restaurant on Canton called Table and Main.

"If you wanted Park Avenue in Roswell, Canton Street is it," Pernice said. "This is an amazing vibrant community. You see it happening on the street and it is a really cool feeling. There is a cafeteria effect of people walking up and down choosing this shop or that.

"And every new business brings more capital and development. And that raises the lowest common denominator [on Canton.]"

His popular restaurant is only 10 months old, but Pernice says Table and Main already fits right in with the regulars.

"It's like we've been here forever," Pernice said.

Among the newest businesses on Canton Street the attraction ranged from "love at first sight," to biding one's time.

For Cheryl Taylor and Laurie Clarke it was a bit of both. They opened Taylor Clarke Bridals, in one of the classic addresses on the north end at 1175 Canton Street, in what is called The Perry House, built in the 1880s.

But they had been working on Canton Street for 15 years.

"The real estate lady took me all over Atlanta, but when we crossed the Chattahoochee and came up Canton, that was it," Taylor said. "We waited a long time for the right place to open our own shop."

Clarke is equally charmed by their building, but also by the closeness of the business community on Canton.

"Everyone refers their customers to other shops on Canton. There is real sense of community here," Clarke said.

Jenna Cao couldn't resist the charm of Canton either. She has the successful Chateau de Nails in Crabapple, but she kept an eye out for a spot on Canton to open Chateau de Nails II.

"I always knew if I opened a second business it would be here," Cao said. "It's pretty popping around here. And when this building [at 1159 Canton] became available – I just went, 'oooh.' I feel like the area chose me too."

Oli + ve is a unique new shop on Canton specializing in selling olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Started by Suzanne Davidson and Deborah Hardee, it is a curious business. But one that seems to have plenty of satisfied customers who leave carrying sacks of virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

They also have pasta, rubs, spices and herbs. But it is the 10- to 18-year-old balsamic vinegar poured over ice cream that piques customers' taste buds.

Davidson said it was the foot traffic along Canton that appealed to them.

"Day in and day out, people are passing by. It almost has a European feel. People just enjoy being outdoors and going shop to shop," Davidson said.

Like fine wines, aged balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil are best sampled. And to do that, the palate must be educated. Thus, a dozen or more varieties of olive oil are offered for the tasting.

"We want to educate people to what is on the label versus what is in the bottle," Davidson said. "We love to see people's reaction after trying it for the first time. They keep coming back."

At Little Alley Steak, people know what they are getting. Hicham Ashari and his partner Fikret Kovac just opened their third eatery on Canton Street. Little Alley Steak is a white tablecloth, upscale restaurant on Canton that follows his gastro-pub Salt Factory (formerly Red Salt) and Inc. Table Food, a Mexican pub.

"I've been in this business 16 years," Ashari said. "To me, this street is the heart and history of Roswell and old Atlanta."

With its galleries, antique stores and other shops, he says it is an ideal place to dine and shop – or shop and dine.

"This street has an originality you can't find just anywhere. Why a steak house? It was a concept that was needed. Canton needs a good steak place that is not corporate-owned, "he said.

Already it has been voted among the top four steak places in Atlanta along with McKendrick's, Bones and Hal's.

The mayor said Canton Street is the best thing going for Roswell right now, culturally and business-wise.

"The biggest problem we have on Canton Street is there is not enough parking. And that's a good problem to have, because it means a lot of people want to go there," Wood said.

"Simply put, Canton Street is the economic engine of Roswell," he said.

Labels: canton street, downtown roswell, Roswell, Salt

Looking for a new home in Roswell? The exclusive community of Pine Grove Estates is located just minutes from historic downtown Roswell. This means enjoying all of the trendy shops and restaurants that the city has to offer. Plus, Stonecrest Homes has just reduced prices on these beautiful homes. There are three move-in ready homes, so visit today and imagine the possibilities!

The Belmont is priced at $449, 900 and is a must see. This five bedroom, four bath home features a great open design that will fit your family’s needs. The home boasts a large kitchen that opens to the family room, living room and formal dining room. The first floor guest room has easy access to a full bath. Upstairs features an oversized laundry room with built-in linen closet. The beautiful master suite even includes a sitting room. With a full basement, this home has ample amounts of storage.

Priced at $474,900, the Churchill also has five bedrooms, four baths and a full basement. This popular two-story home has an open floor plan that includes sought after additional spaces such as a keeping room and first floor guest bedroom and bath. The home’s gourmet kitchen is any chef’s dream with a storage-sized pantry, huge island and an open design. Upstairs boasts large secondary bedrooms and a great master suite with sitting room and incredible closet.

The Saratoga is another available home and is priced at $489,900. It features five bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths and a full basement. This elegant master on the main home boasts a large family room with a bowed window wall and a coffered ceiling that is open to the kitchen. The master suite includes a sitting room and his and hers closets. Upstairs, the home features a large media room. No detail has been overlooked in this amazing home.

Residents residing in Pine Grove Estates attend Roswell North Elementary School, Crabapple Middle School and Roswell High School.

Visit these homes today before they are gone! To schedule a tour, call 770-331-1206.

Labels: Foreclosures, Roswell, roswell ga, roswell georgia

End your search for the perfect Atlanta real estate! Stonecrest Homes has opened two new communities, Cochran Farms and Pine Grove Estates, in the highly touted Roswell High School district with homes available for move-in just in time for the beginning of the school year.

Cochran Farms is a private enclave of just 14 homes located behind Roswell High School and priced in the low $400,000s.

Pine Grove Estates, a community of eight homes, is within a mile of Roswell’s historic square with prices starting in the high $400,000s.

“These two new home communities offer families the opportunity to move into a fabulous home in an area with award-winning schools. Cochran Farms is on a quiet, private street but is close to main thoroughfares and students can walk to Roswell High School. Pine Grove Estates is in one of the most popular areas of Roswell, just a short distance from shopping, dining and other activities in Roswell’s historic downtown area,” said Joe Gary, sales agent with About Sales, Inc.

Both communities offer elegant two-story traditional homes designed for today’s families. The homes have five or six bedrooms and four to four-and-a-half baths, three-car garages and are on 1/3 to ½-acre lots. The homes are three sides brick, stone or shale and have upscale features such as coffered ceilings, 42-inch cultured stone fireplaces, elegant trim details, luxury master suites and gourmet kitchens with walk-in pantries and islands.

Homes ready for move-in at both communities include the Belmont Plan, a five-bedroom, four-bath home with an open floor plan, two-story foyer with an arched opening leading to a study, two-story family room open to the kitchen and breakfast area, formal dining room and large master suite. The Belmont on a slab with nine-foot ceilings on the main level is priced at $420,000 at Cochran Farms. The same plan on a full basement is priced at $503,900 at Pine Grove Estates and includes numerous upgrades including 10-foot ceilings on the main level and 9-foot ceilings on the upper floor, upgraded appliances and a mahogany stained front door.

The Churchill plan, available in both communities, features a chef’s kitchen with a huge walk-in pantry, a two-story family room, a formal dining room, a study, a large master suite with his-and-her walk-in closets and a three-car garage with an extended bay. The home is available at Cochran Farms for $435,900 and is on a slab with nine-foot ceilings on the main floor. At Pine Grove Estates, the home has a full basement and upgrades that include a mahogany stained front door, upgraded appliances, 10-foot ceilings on the main floor and nine-foot ceilings on the upper floor and is priced at $518,900.

The Saratoga plan is the grandest of all. The master suite is on the main level with a huge walk-in closet with his and hers sections. The secondary bedrooms are enormous with large closets. The butler’s pantry is just off the banquet sized dining room. There is a mud room as you enter from the 3 car garage. The Saratoga is available in Pine Grove with 10” ceilings on the main level and 9’ ceilings on the upper level. The plan boasts aver 4,100 square feet and has a full basement to add to its magnificence. The home will be completed in August at an incredible $534,900.

Labels: Cochran Farms, Pine Grove Estates, Roswell, roswell high school, StoneCrest

July 06, 2011
FULTON COUNTY - The Fulton County Office of Housing and Community Development will host an information workshop on How to Prevent Foreclosure, Wednesday, July 13, from 10 until 11 a.m.

The session will be held at the Roswell Neighborhood Senior Center at 150 Warsaw Road in Roswell.

Residents who may be having trouble paying their mortgages or could face potential foreclosure in the future because of job loss, illness, a reduction in working hours or other issues that impact their incomes are encouraged to attend.

A Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certified Housing Counselor will facilitate the session.

Information will be provided to inform homeowners of strategies available to help them to maintain ownership of their residences. Information from the HUD website will be distributed as well as a listing of local housing counselors that are available to help homeowners to provide the information required to obtain a loan modification or other assistance from their banks.

The Office of Housing and Community Development is a division of the Department of Housing and Human Services.

For information or assistance with special accommodations to attend the workshop, residents may contact Audra Pender at 404-612-3024.

Labels: Alpharetta, Forclosures, Foreclosed, foreclosed homes, foreclosed homes for sale, foreclosed land, foreclosed properties, foreclosure, Foreclosures, foreclosures for sale, milton, prevent foreclosure, Roswell

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Brian and Jennifer Vanderhoff
North Fulton County REALTORS
Vanderhoff Real Estate
(770) 888-9269
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Labels: Alpharetta, foreclosed homes, Foreclosures, milton, Roswell

As the mayoral race continues to heat up in Roswell, a pending lawsuit against the City of Roswell and others may add a crucial twist to the mix of already contentious issues...

As the mayoral race continues to heat up in Roswell, a pending lawsuit against the City of Roswell and others may add a crucial twist to the mix of already contentious issues. It stems from a house fire that occurred last year. The home was razed to mere ashes in a “keystone cops” ordeal where hydrants didn’t work, hoses didn’t pump and fire trucks crashed into each other at the scene.


WHO’S ON FIRST?


Questions linger. Was the dry hydrant actually tested? Has the City properly inspected and maintained water supply lines that feed hydrants within the City? Does the City have proper insurance to cover liability for failing to maintain these basic public services?


These are the many questions that Robert and Lori Cloaninger will be contemplating this election especially after they watched in horror as their home burned to the ground in February of 2008 even though a fire hydrant was directly located in their front yard. Why? The hydrant and water mains below did not produce water.


Despite efforts to resolve the matter, the City has taken no apparent steps to assist the Cloaningers or to facilitate their now transient life style through temporary housing. Why? “Sovereign Immunity.” The City has taken the position that they are immune from responsibility based on a recent Court of Appeals decision of April 6, 2009. The Court held that a municipality is absolutely protected from liability under the doctrine of sovereign immunity, for any actions or omissions of firefighters during an emergency or for the inoperability of hydrants during a fire, as a matter of “public policy.” As a result, all legal theories of any kind brought by an injured party are barred in this context.


COURTS ABSOLVE CITIES


Such a broad interpretation has not stopped the Cloaningers from bringing suit. Their lawsuit, filed by attorney Kurt R. Hilbert, Esq., seeks to challenge the Court of Appeals ruling and distinguish its applicability. The lawsuit asserts that if this principle is applied in all cases, it “provides no process for obtaining just compensation and provides no remedy to Plaintiffs.” In essence, the lawsuit argues that the Court of Appeals decision allows a municipality to create and enforce a “policy and custom of conscious indifference to a known risk of harm to all inhabitants of the City of Roswell” without any checks and balances or remedy. The lawsuit argues that citizens, who contractually pay for such public utility services and for the comfort of knowing that the services are being performed and that insurance exists to cover defects in their utility products, should have a remedy. The lawsuit further seeks to have the City of Roswell’s policy and custom scrutinized under federal law – as this issue is one that affects all inhabitants of cities like Roswell.


THE HEART OF THE MATTER


At the heart of the issue, and which may surface as an election topic, is whether the City can or should escape responsibility for its alleged failure to inspect and maintain water utility products within the City, and whether the City has or should have proper insurance coverage for injured citizens in such events. “What happens if a life was lost?” Hilbert asks. “The Court of Appeal’s decision says the City has no responsibility. This cannot be a correct statement of the law nor public policy in this State and should scare every resident in this state. Simply put, how do you know that water is in your hydrant and that you are safe?”


Such public policy and insurance issues may make their way on the agenda for the next debate.

Labels: City of Roswell, Mayor, Roswell, Roswell City Council

Rivermont Covenants that were drafted in 1973 with a twenty year expiration. No legal or binding contract existed after this. They could not be renewed. 100%=ALL! property owners had to agree to the new covenants that were put up in 1996, and very few people agreed to it. After the covenants expired you must personally contract with Rivermont to be a member. I did not, and no-one else that I know did, and I have lived here for 20+ years. But Rivermont kept on as if it was o.k. and kept collecting dues and fining people.

Ed P. has the facts and the lawyers are involved to end this abusive organization. Now that we have Johns Creek, with very strict zoning, maintenance, and building codes, RCA is obsolete. And I don't want to pay

Labels: Covenants, expired, HOA, Rivermont, Roswell

The Riverside Farmers Market is open for the summer on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon at Riverside Park. The market will be open every Saturday through September 5, excluding June 13 and July 4, and will concentrate on fresh, locally grown produce.

Items include a variety of fresh produce, jams and jellies, farm fresh eggs, shade-grown organic coffee, breads and tarts, local honey, specialty spice rubs, organic herbal soaps, gourmet doggie biscuits and an array of other natural and locally crafted products.

Vendors must grow their own produce and it should be grown within 100 miles of the market. Prospective vendors can get more information by contacting Louise Estabrook at 404.613.7670.

With support from the City of Roswell, the market will fill a demand that has existed in the community for many years. Other metro communities have established markets which have proven to be highly popular.

Restrooms and free parking is available. Riverside Park is located at 575 Riverside Road in Roswell.

Labels: Georgia, Riverside Farmers Market, Roswell

Health officials have confirmed two cases of H1N1 (Swine Flu) in Fulton County. One case involves a 6-year-old girl from Roswell. The child attends kindergarten at Amana Academy, a Fulton County Public Charter School. The child was not hospitalized. The second case involves a 54-year-old male from Roswell with a travel history that includes Mexico. He was not hospitalized. Both cases are mild and unrelated to one another and both individuals have already recovered.

“We want to assure the public that we are well prepared and the public’s health is well protected,” said Fulton County Manager Zachary Williams. “The Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness has been diligent in their education efforts in the community and has been working closely with the state and the CDC throughout this matter.”

Currently, Fulton County Health Department officials are confirming there are no more probable cases of H1N1 in Fulton County at this time. Additionally, the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness is continuously in communication with the Georgia Division of Public Health and the Centers For Disease Control (CDC) to identify any new cases, and advise healthcare providers and the public regarding potential cases in Fulton County.

Fulton County health officials are recommending that residents take the following proactive measures to protect themselves and their families from H1N1:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Discard the tissue after you use it.
If you do not have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your elbow and not your hand. This can help prevent germs from spreading.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

For more information, please call the Fulton County H1N1 Hotline at 404-730-6522 or 404-730-1211 or 404-730-1279.

Labels: Alpharetta, Fulton County, Roswell, swine flu

One of the last big, corner lots on Ga. 92 will go forward with development after the Roswell City Council approved a plan that places just 20 percent of the land on impervious surfaces.

The 20.5-acre tract on the northeast corner of Ga. 92 and Hardscrabble Road faced some opposition due to the 30 townhomes approved on 6.8 acres on the north side of the project. Coro Development LLC argued successfully that in the changing real estate market, single-family homes — especially upscale homes in the $1 million range — can no longer sell next to retail and office development.

Other townhouse properties nearby had higher home density per acre than Coro asked. The townhouses will sell at a price point somewhere in the high $400,000s to low $500,000s.

The project had gone through several evolutions and several owners. A private lake on the property caused some development problems — as did a creek — and rendered half the property unusable. On the northwest corner is a Target shopping center that generates a lot of traffic.

The plan calls for 43,000 square feet of office and retail along Ga. 92. Turning up Hardscrabble, an 80,000-square-foot assisted living community with 100 units is planned, followed by the townhouses.

Those townhouses were the main sticking point. The rezoning to allow the 30 townhouses had a recommendation for denial by staff, and the Planning Commission also recommended denying them as first presented for 48 units.

Michael Gould, representing the Brookfield West Civic Affairs Committee, spoke for the residents who did not want townhouses.

"The plan looks good on paper, but the residents of Brookfield West believe the best way to preserve the neighborhood look of Hardscrabble is keep single-family homes on the street," Gould said.

Mayor Jere Wood and Councilman Kent Igleheart agreed. They both supported denial of the townhouses.

"The Parkway Village zoning overlay was created with 175 feet of buffer between the commercial development and the residential behind it. That has worked well for the last 14 or 15 years. I don't see any reason to change it. I think it's a big mistake," Wood said.

But the council evidently thought the plusses outweighed the minuses in the case of this difficult piece of property. It is a high-end development with a company, Coro, that is well-thought of in the development community.

And as one observer put it, "They aren't likely to see a better plan at such a density."

Coro will have to provide a 360-foot median on Hardscrabble to deter left-turns into and out of the Target. However, Coro will receive a tax credit for three-fourths of the cost of building it, the need for the median was deemed a "system improvement."

System improvements are either made by the city or borne by all of the developers in the area affected. Project improvements such as turn lanes and traffic signals are usually paid by the developer.

In other business, the City Council allowed the deferral of a 140-foot cell tower application at 10930 Crabapple Road. The City deferred the application a second time to June 8. The mayor said the deferral was to allow the applicant more time to find another location.

Labels: development, Hardscrabble Road, Hwy 92, Roswell, townhomes

Our mothers have done so much for us, and there’s no way we can repay them with just one day a year. We can give it our best shot, though, and this Sunday is the day. If you plan to take mom to a Mother’s Day brunch, check out the Best of the Big A’s list of favorite mom-friendly brunch spots chosen by readers and our staff.If you’re looking for other ways to entertain mom, try these events.

Shirley Caesar, Kirk Franklin and James Fortune. Some of gospel music’s most formidable talents join forces for a Mother’s Day weekend celebration. 8 p.m. May 8. $43.50-$48.50. Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, 395 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-523-6275, www.atlantaciviccenter.com.

Komen Atlanta Race for the Cure 2009. Includes a 5K run/walk and one-mile walk, breast cancer survivor recognition ceremony and an expo of race sponsors. Benefits the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliates. 6:45 a.m. registration; 7:45 a.m. one-mile family walk; 8:30 5K; 9:15 a.m. survivor ceremony. May 9. $35; $30-25 advance. Additional fund-raising encouraged through Web site. Atlantic Station, 171 17th St. N.W., Atlanta. 404-459-8700, www.komenatlanta.org.

25th Annual Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour. Twelve gardens are featured on the tour. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 9-10. $30; $20 advance. Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-876-5859, www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

Build a Birdhouse With Mom. 10 a.m. May 9. $5 per house. Scottsdale Farms Garden Center, 15639 Birmingham Highway, Alpharetta. 770-777-5875, www.scottsdalefarms.com.

Colors Festival of Arts. This annual festival — now in its 19th year — takes place every Mother’s Day weekend and includes original crafts, performing arts, children’s activities and festival foods. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. May 9-10. Free. Historic Roswell, Canton Street at Norcross Street. 770-640-3253, www.cvb.roswell.ga.us.

Mother’s Day Crafts. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. May 9. $8; reservations required. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Alpharetta. 770-360-8844, www.autreymill.org.

20th Annual Indian Festival and Pow Wow. Celebration of mothers and Mother Nature includes American Indian dance competition, warriors on horseback, buffalo show, primitive skills demonstrations, living tipi village, reptile show and arts and crafts vendors. Native cuisine includes gator tail, buffalo, Indian fry bread and pima wraps. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. May 9; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. May 10. $9; $5 children; ages 5 and younger free. Boling Park, 1162 Marietta Highway, Canton. 770-720-7674, www.rthunder.com.

“Simon Kidgits Super Duper Mini Chefs.” Hands-on activities include food-related arts and crafts projects, prize giveaways and a local food drive. 2-4 p.m. May 9. $5. Gwinnett Place Mall, 2100 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth. 770-476-5160, www.simon.com/mall/default.aspx?ID=205.

Homemade Spa Gifts for Mother’s Day. Easy to make gifts to pamper mom include bath fizzies, herbal bath teas, and salt scrub - made with natural ingredients such as oatmeal, herbs, salt, and pure essential oils. 3-5 p.m. May 9. $20. Oakhurst Community Garden Project, 435 Oakview Road, Decatur. 678-642-4977, www.oakhurstgarden.org.

Mother’s Day High Tea. Also, free admission to Bulloch Hall, Barrington Hall and Smith Plantation Home. 4 p.m. May 9. $35. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731, www.bullochhall.org.

“Mozart for Motorheads” Vintage Car Show 2009. Certainly one of the more unusual ways to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend, this event combines a Mother’s Day arts and crafts fest with classic cars and music from the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra. Picnics and blankets encouraged. 4-8:30 p.m. May 9. Free. Stone Mountain Village, Main Street, Stone Mountain. 770-498-7334, www.stonemountainvillage.com.

Mother’s Day “Walk to Empower.” A 5K walk around the golf course. Meet at Blue lot (corner of Powers Ferry Road and Stella). Benefits Breast Cancer Network of Strength. 6:30 a.m. registration; 8 a.m. walk. May 10. Participants are encouraged to fund-raise through the website (minimum $100 for T-shirt) . Chastain Park, 135 West Wieuca Road N.W., Atlanta. 1-877-963-7223, https://walk.networkofstrength.org.

Mother’s Day High Tea. Teas and delectables. Reservations required. 11 a.m., 1, 3 p.m. May 10. $50; includes garden admission. Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-876-5859, 404-370-0856, www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

Historic Home Tours. Bulloch Hall, Barrington Hall and Smith Plantation Home offer free tours for Mother’s Day. 1-3 p.m. May 10. Free. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731, www.bullochhall.org.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: How the Gimquat Found Her Song. A Mother’s Day special in which an imaginary creature explores musical history from Gregorian chants to jazz. Platypus Theatre joins conductor Jere Flint and the orchestra for this family concert. 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. May 10. $15-$20. Atlanta Symphony Hall, 1280 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta. 404-733-5000, www.atlantasymphony.org.

Mother’s Day Gospel Concert. With Swanee Quintet, Lil Dave and the Soulful Knights. 5 p.m. May 10. $15; $12 advance. College Park City Auditorium, 3631 Main St., College Park. 404-669-3773, www.collegeparkga.com.

Bobby Womack, Charlie Wilson and Joe. Three R&B greats come together to serenade Atlanta’s moms. Womack is a legend of soul who was just inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Wilson is the former lead singer of the Gap Band, now a solo artist. Columbus-born Joe is an R&B balladeer of more recent vintage who is probably best known for his No. 1 duet with Mariah Carey, “Thank God I Found You.” 8 p.m. May 10. $66-$76. Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, 395 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-523-6275, www.atlantaciviccenter.com.

Labels: Alpharetta, Atlanta, Cumming, Events, Georgia, mothers day, Roswell, Woodstock

A new driver education course is being offered this summer in Roswell, allowing teenagers in North Fulton to take driver’s education in conjunction with the city’s Recreation department. The SafeTeen Georgia driver education program is being taught at Hembree Park in June. It is a new addition to the city’s summer program.

Parents and teenagers can sign up for the course online at www.SafeAmerica.org. Scholarships are available, provided by American Family Insurance through the Safe America Foundation. Verizon Wireless and Security Bank of North Fulton are major sponsors of the program in Roswell.

This first-ever program was created by five members of the 2009 class of Leadership North Fulton. “Many of today’s adult drivers learned through a driver education program offered when they were a teenager. Our hope is to provide that same opportunity for today’s teenagers in North Fulton, through a community-based program that promotes safety and instills effective driving habits,” said Lenny Forti, principal of Sweet Apple Elementary School in Roswell and a member of Leadership North Fulton.

The SafeTeen Georgia driver education program is one of six community-service projects being conducted by Leadership North Fulton in 2009. Jennifer Hall, Tina Sanderson, Greg Heenan, Patrick Hill and Lenny Forti are all part of the Leadership North Fulton team that is creating the Driver Education program in Roswell. Since last fall, the team has been coordinating with the Safe America Foundation.

“The Leadership North Fulton Class of 2009 should be applauded for their outstanding efforts in bringing the SafeTeen Georgia driver education program to the City of Roswell, making driver education available to all Roswell residents,” said Safe America Foundation President and CEO Len Pagano. The SafeTeen Georgia training program was created by Safe America Foundation in response to Joshua’s Law, which now requires 16 year olds to complete a formal driver education course prior to obtaining a license. The course uses first-responders as driving instructors. Safe America Foundation is a non-profit foundation formed in 1994 and is dedicated to saving teen lives through driver education and training.

“The City of Roswell is proud to host the first SafeTeen Georgia driving course for North Fulton,” said Mayor Jere Wood. “It's vitally important that teenagers learn the rules of the road. They'll listen to Roswell's Police and Firemen, who can speak from personal experience about the importance of safe driving.”

Classes Held at Hembree Park

Classes will be taught in early June at the Hembree Park Recreation Center. The class is licensed by the State of Georgia Department of Driver Services and will be taught by area firefighters and other emergency first-responders. Each student will attend 30 hours of classroom training, which includes the state-required Alcohol and Drug Awareness training. Students also will complete at least six hours of private, individual behind-the-wheel training with a licensed driver training instructor.

Teens must be 15 years of age by the date of the first class and have a learner’s permit before they can take the behind-the-wheel training. The behind-the-wheel training is performed in individually scheduled two-hour increments which must occur within the six months following the classroom training.

Graduates of the program are eligible for a 10 percent reduction in insurance premiums to drivers under 25 years of age, if otherwise qualified; and parents are eligible for a $150 Georgia income tax credit.

Parents and students wanting more information or to register for the driver education class can call the Safe America Foundation at (770) 973-7233, or go online at www.safeamerica.org.

Labels: hembree park, leadership of north fulton, Roswell, safeteen georgia driving course

The economy is tanking, grocery bills are climbing and food safety scares are on the rise. For the 43 million Americans planning a vegetable garden this spring, growing your own is a matter of dollars and sense.

Food gardening will jump 19 percent this year over last year, according to a new survey by the National Gardening Association (NGA). Homeowners with shrinking household budgets are looking for help in their own backyards. Can planting a veggie patch really save you money? Government agencies and gardening organizations say yes.

Every $100 spent on vegetable gardening yields $1,000 to $1,700 worth of produce, the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates. That’s a serious hedge against skyrocketing food prices, expected to jump another 5 percent this year.

You’ll get a half-pound of edibles from every square foot of ground devoted to backyard crops, NGA experts say. Even a modest garden (15-by-15-feet) can produce more than 100 pounds of garden-fresh tomatoes, salad greens, vegetables and herbs. Better flavor and bragging rights come with the harvest.

Planting a vegetable plot and keeping it productive isn’t that hard if you start small, keep the basics in mind and plant reliable varieties. Take it step-by-step:

Lead with Location – A sunny, well-drained spot close to a water spigot is ideal. Leafy greens tolerate some shade, but other crops want eight hours of sun daily.

Suitable soil – Adding organic material is the key to an easy-care garden. It loosens stiff soil, helps retain moisture and nourishes important soil organisms. Good “ingredients” include manure, humus and chopped-up leaves. Spread a 4-inch layer of amendments on your plot and till into the top 9 to 12 inches.

Fertilize Faithfully– All edible plants remove some nutrients from the soil, and can quickly exhaust the soil without the help of a fertilizer. Always follow the rates given on the label when deciding how much to use.

Water wisely – One inch of water weekly is adequate for most vegetables. Soaker hoses or drip systems deliver water efficiently and keep foliage dry, fending off leaf diseases.

Patrol for pests – Monitor insect damage but try to keep your crops pesticide-free. Let natural predators fight your battles, hand-pick pests or dislodge them with a jet of water. If you must spray, do it late in the day when beneficial insects are less active.

Pick the right plants – Flower gardeners gravitate to the newest, showiest varieties, but smart food gardeners appreciate the tried-and-true. Bonnie Plants, available coast to coast, are time-tested varieties selected to suit regional conditions. For best results you’ll need to choose veggie and herb varieties suitable to your geographical location. Because Bonnie’s varieties are distributed regionally, you will automatically have suitable varieties available to you at retail in your area.

Look for Bonnie Plants in eco-friendly biodegradable pots that not only save tons of plastic pots from ending up in landfills, they also reduce transplant shock. Just tear off the bottom, set the pot in the ground and water.

If you’re ready to try your hand at creating your own backyard grocery garden, here are 10 easy crops to plant:

Basil – Perfect with tomatoes. Choose sweet basil or the compact ”Spicy Globe.”

Beans -- Bush beans like “Bush Blue Lake’”are easier to pick, but tall “pole” beans have higher yields.

Bell peppers -- Harvest green or red, when vitamin levels are higher. Try “Bonnie Bell” or the new, hot bell pepper “Mexibell.”

Chard – This leafy green tolerates cool temperatures well. Varieties like “Bright Lights” have brilliantly colored stems.

Cucumber -- Plant after the weather warms. Choose the mild Japanese cucumber or the old favorite “Burpless Bush Hybrid.”

Eggplant -- A much-loved favorite, eggplant thrives in hot weather. Try “Black Beauty” or the white-skinned “Cloud Nine.”

Lettuce -- Go for easy “leaf” lettuces like “Buttercrunch” “Red Sails,” or Romaine .

Parsley – Pick curly types or flat Italian parsley. This herb is rich in vitamins and a breath-sweetener, too.

Summer squash – Squash are very productive plants and easy to grow. Try zucchini “Black Beauty” or yellow crook-necked squash.

Tomatoes – These crimson favorites are the most popular backyard vegetable. Choose disease-resistant “Better Boy,” “Bonnie Original” or the extra-easy cherry tomato “Sweet 100.”

For gardening tips and more herb and vegetable varieties, visit www.bonnieplants.com.

Labels: Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell, vegetable garden, Woodstock

Rates on 30-year mortgages plunged this week to the lowest level since January, and are poised to fall further after the Federal Reserve launched a new effort to prop up the flailing housing market.

Mortgage finance giant Freddie Mac said Thursday that average rates on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages dropped to 4.98 percent this week.

That was down from 5.03 percent last week. It was the lowest since the week of Jan. 15, when it was at 4.96 percent.

The rate quotes included in Freddie Mac's survey were taken before the Fed said Wednesday it will pump $1.2 trillion into the economy in an effort to lower rates on mortgages and other and loosen credit. That is expected to drive mortgage rates down further.

Labels: 30 year mortgages, Alpharetta, falling, Fulton County, Georgia, Mortgage Rates, Roswell

Facts about St. Patrick's Day Holiday

St. Patrick’s Day is observed on March 17 because that is the feast day of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is believed that he died on March 17 in the year 461 AD. It is also a worldwide celebration of Irish culture and history. St. Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland, and a provincial holiday in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

In Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day, people traditionally wear a small bunch of shamrocks on their jackets or caps. Children wear orange, white and green badges, and women and girls wear green ribbons in their hair.

Many cities have a St. Patrick’s Day parade. Dublin, the capital of Ireland, has a huge St. Patrick’s Day festival from March 15-19, that features a parade, family carnivals, treasure hunt, dance, theatre and more. In North American, parades are often held on the Sunday before March 17. Some paint the yellow street lines green for the day! In Chicago, the Chicago River is dyed green with a special dye that only lasts a few hours. There has been a St. Patrick’s Day parade in Boston, Massachusetts since 1737. Montreal is home to Canada’s longest running St. Patrick’s Day parade, which began in 1824.

Facts about Saint Patrick

St. Patrick was born in 385 AD somewhere along the west coast of Britain, possibly in the Welsh town of Banwen. At age 16, he was captured and sold into slavery to a sheep farmer. He escaped when he was 22 and spent the next 12 years in a monastery. In his 30s he returned to Ireland as a Christian missionary. He died at Saul in 461 AD and is buried at Downpatrick.

Facts about the Irish

34 million Americans have Irish ancestry, according to the 2003 US Census. That’s almost nine times the population of Ireland, which has 4.1 million people.

Some American towns have “Irish” names. You could visit: Mount Gay-Shamrock, West Virginia; Shamrock Lakes, Indiana; Shamrock, Oklahoma; Shamrock, Texas; Dublin, California and Dublin, Ohio.

The harp is the symbol of Ireland. The color green is also commonly associated with Ireland, also known as “the Emerald Isle.”

The Irish flag is green, white and orange. The green symbolizes the people of the south, and orange, the people of the north. White represents the peace that brings them together as a nation.

The name “lephrechaun” has several origins. It could be from the Irish Gaelic word “leipreachan,” which means “a kind of aqueous sprite.” Or, it could be from “leath bhrogan,” which means “shoemaker.”

Facts about Clovers

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the highest number of leaves found on a clover is 14!

One estimate suggests that there are about 10 000 regular three-leaf clovers for every lucky four-leaf clover.

Legend says that each leaf of the clover means something: the first is for hope, the second for faith, the third for love and the fourth for luck.

Labels: Alpharetta, Cumming, Fulton County, fun facts, Georgia, Roswell, st patricks day