Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - February 27, 2025

Congressman faces grilling from Roswell constituents

By AMRITHA JOSEPH newsroom@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — An overflow of Roswell residents stretched down the steps of City Hall Feb. 20, eager to address U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick, R-Ga., about the Trump administration’s policies. They came armed with queries on foreign policy, federal employee cuts and how presidential powers will be restrained.

veteran and physician, shared where his views veered from that of the commander-in-chief and other Republicans.

However, he was also met at times during the 90-minute session with booing and cries of “Shame!” from residents who felt he was deflecting questions.

Cumming resident Claudia Gamlien-Castro asked McCormick his stance on President Trump’s most recent declaration that

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Citing concerns over increased traffic, the Alpharetta City Council deferred a decision Feb. 24 to allow a proposed expansion of Fulton Science Academy.

Council members unanimously approved a decision to reconsider the issue March 24.

Academy representatives asked the council for a master plan amendment to use an office building on Westside Parkway for a pre-K and elementary school with an enrollment of 600 students.

McCormick, a decorated United States Marine Corps

A Roswell resident asks U.S. Representative Rich McCormick how he plans to check the power of Donald Trump, after the president recently declared himself “king” in a social media post. The congressman hosted a town hall at Roswell City Hall Feb. 20 to answer constituents’ questions. See MCCORMICK, Page 17

U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick, R-Ga. fields constituents’ questions during a gathering at Roswell City Hall Feb. 20. McCormick was asked about his stance on foreign policy, healthcare and recent workforce cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency.

Mayor Jim Gilvin told school representatives the council needed more information about how the redevelopment of the two-story

PHOTOS BY: AMRITHA JOSEPH/APPEN MEDIA

NEWS TIPS

770-442-3278

AppenMedia.com

319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

HANS APPEN Publisher RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus CONTACT

Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com. See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance.

ADVERTISING

For information about advertising in the AlpharettaRoswell Herald or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278

CIRCULATION

To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

POLICE BLOTTER

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

Shop finds its own

items up for sale on Instagram

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police investigated a reported theft of sports trading cards valued at more than $1,000 on Feb. 14.

Officers were dispatched to a Windward Parkway store on the report of the theft, according to an Alpharetta Police report.

The shop’s owner told police an employee had noticed several of their trading cards had been posted on a competitor’s Instagram account. Staff identified the cards by familiarity, serial numbers and unique identifiers.

The cards were missing from a display wall at the store.

The owner reviewed security camera footage and noticed a man shoplifting several cards from the display. The suspect was wearing a blue long-sleeve Nike shirt, white basketball shorts and sneakers.

The suspect allegedly stole about 1520 cards, placing them in a white box he had brought with him.

The cards were valued at a total of $1,660.

The incident was classified as a felony theft by shoplifting over $500.

— Jon Wilcox

Narcotics unit tracks man picking up drug shipment

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police arrested a 46-year-old man Feb. 7 for trafficking illegal drugs after catching him receiving a 20-pound shipment of marijuana from Josephine County, Oregon.

A Roswell Police narcotics detective said a sergeant with the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office contacted him Jan. 31 about a large shipment of marijuana headed to an address in Roswell.

The detective said he contacted a local United States Postal Service security team, which held the package at its Old Ellis Road facility when it arrived Feb. 7.

The narcotics unit reported the box had been damaged, and marijuana was visible. The contents were later confirmed by a Sandy Springs K9 unit.

After securing a search warrant, officers documented the contents and repackaged them to be delivered to the intended address for an undercover operation.

A detective, dressed up as a USPS delivery driver, placed the box on the front porch of a vacant residence along Park Avenue while plain clothes officers conducted surveillance.

Eventually, a man driving white Jeep drove past the residence slowly after circling the area for some time. The detective said the driver parked in a garage one street over and approached the home.

After the man grabbed the box, authorities detained him as he was approaching his vehicle.

The detective said the man was identified with his Delaware driver’s license.

During a search of the man’s Roswell residence, officers said they found eight pistols and one rifle, which were “clean” and properly stored.

In the man’s Jeep, the detective said they found a Glock pistol and two THC vape pens.

Police transported the man to the North Fulton County Jail on an arrest warrant for drug trafficking.

Jail records show the man was released Feb. 9 on a $4,000 surety bond.

— Hayden Sumlin

Woman notes card charges following visit from friend

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 24-year-old Alpharetta woman reported nearly a thousand dollars in fraudulent debit card charges Feb. 17.

The woman told police she noticed numerous suspicious transactions from her bank account, according to an Alpharetta Police report. The transactions included an $850 transfer to a Gofundme fundraiser,

several charges totaling $62 to a Smyrna gas station and one for $22 to McDonald’s.

The woman said she noticed the transactions a few days after a friend visited her home. During the visit, the woman noticed her debit card on her dresser had been flipped to reveal its account number, expiration date and security code.

The woman said she phoned her friend, who denied taking the card information.

The woman said she wished to pursue criminal charges.

The incident was classified as a felony identity theft by fraud with possession of identifying information.

— Jon Wilcox

Vehicle flees from police onto Ga. 400, reports say

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A vehicle fled from a traffic stop Feb. 10 on Mansell Road, according to Alpharetta police.

An officer activated their emergency lights and attempted to stop a black GMC Terrain about 2 a.m. near Davis Drive, according to an Alpharetta police report. The vehicle’s registration was canceled.

The vehicle signaled its intention to pull over and changed lanes but did not brake.

At the northbound Ga. 400 off ramp, the GMC ran through a red light and onto Ga. 400.

The officer notified dispatch that the vehicle had fled the stop but did not pursue it and instead continued north to see whether it had exited the highway.

A police sergeant said he witnessed the GMC passing the Ga. 120 overpass at speeds faster than 100 mph.

The vehicle was last seen in the area of Old Alabama Road and Roxburgh Drive in Roswell.

Roswell police attempted to find the GMC but were unsuccessful in locating it.

Several crimes were allegedly committed by the driver, including fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer for a felony offense, driving with suspended tag and pedestrian obedience to traffic control device, according to the report.

— Jon Wilcox

THE PICTURE FRAMER

City advances work plan for local development agency

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — After entering an agreement with its Downtown Development Authority, the City of Roswell advanced a Scopes of Work project list at it’s Feb. 24 meeting.

The agreement, approved Jan. 13, will allow for the Downtown Development Authority to complete specific scopes of work for various projects brought forward by the city. It is not binding until a specific set of parameters on projects is set. Upon approval, the city will give the agency a budgeted amount for each specific work project.

Scopes of Work No. 1 will involve the Hill Street mixed-use project. The development includes about 80,000 square feet of commercial space, up to 143 multi-family apartments, up to 16 townhomes and a 300-space parking deck.

Councilman Allen Sells said that the project is “purely an economic endeavor for the city.”

As part of the project, Roswell is swapping 1.3 acres the city owns for an equal-size tract the developer owns at Ga. 9 and Hill Street.

“At a previous meeting, someone said that this project was driven by making

sure that the right people lived here, and that the wrong people didn’t, and I want to be clear that no one lives on the property,” Sells said.

Roswell Economic Development Director Darryl Connelly presented the details for the approval to the council.

Prerequisites for the Scope of Work agreement with the Development Authority requires the city to: conduct due diligence on the project and the developer; negotiate and draft documents on behalf of the DDA; create a business model, lease agreement and design

and construction agreement; prepare a revenue bond offering and documents on behalf of the DDA:; and complete a transportation study.

In return, the DDA will: secure reimbursement from the developer for the traffic study; engage legal counsel and bond servicing firm First Tryon for the project; review all documents with city, legal counsel and First Tryon; authorize its officers to complete transaction and manage the project; develop a project budget and submit for city review and consent; set up bank accounts and keep

records to accommodate the flow of funds; and provide the city with financial information to prepare budgets and other reports.

“After the land swap, we would be putting together a ground lease and development agreement for the project, as well as issuing bonds,” Connelly said.

A financial impact has not been finalized, but the city plans to pay costs for its staff and work performed by its consulting firm, legal counsel and First Tryon. The city also plans to reimburse or fund actual costs incurred by the DDA, pursuant to an agreement upon budget.

The Downtown Development Authorly agreement runs five years, renewing for another one-year term, unless either party gives notice of intent not to renew within 90 days before the end of the calendar year.

In other matters at the meeting, Chris Finke was sworn in as a member of the Roswell Development Authority.

Joel Vazquez was recognized as the “Esteemed Veteran of Roswell,” after his service in the United States Armed Forces and his work as Digital Media manager for the city.

“I really appreciate this opportunity. It's been nothing but a pleasure to work for the City of Roswell,” Vazquez said.

Roswell to pursue federal grant to sustain, enhance fire service

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell Recreation and Parks Department will apply for the Georgia Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program to help complete redesign of Don White Memorial Park.

The city estimates $8 million will be needed to finish the design, which is currently at 60 percent completion. Staff will request $4 million through the grant which requires a commitment and match from the city.

Upon acceptance, which should be determined by September, the department would have three years to complete the project.

“That would mean a kickoff, potentially, of the project within that year time frame,” Steven Malone, director of Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs said.

The City Council unanimously agreed to the grant match, which will be funded through the city’s 2022 bond. Around 60 percent of the $179.6 million bond is committed to recreation, parks, bicycle and pedestrian paths and sidewalks.

“The price of everything has gone up since the bonds were passed, and anytime we can scratch together a couple more million dollars, I’m all for it,” City Council woman Lee Hills said.

The Parks Department is also seeking funding to repair several storage structures damaged by

Roswell City Council members meet for a Special Committees of Council session Feb. 19. Among the agenda items was approval for the Fire Department to apply for a federal grant that would help pay for maintaining and enhancing training for frontline firefighters.

Hurricane Helene in September.

A budget amendment of $193,000 was unanimously approved to fix damages at Leita Thompson Memorial Park. The city was given the insurance payment on Jan. 23 from the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency and Gallagher Bassett.

In other matters at the meeting, the council voted

to allow the Fire Department to adjust membership in the North Fulton Emergency Medical Response Oversight Committee. The City of Sandy Springs joined the cooperative last year, along with its 2008 charter member cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Milton. The oversight committee, whose members are appointed by each city, works to enhance efficiency in emergency medical response.

The committee will begin reviewing medical response metrics, financial accountability and facilitate operational support for emergency medical services across the region.

In a related matter, after denial last year, the Fire Department will reapply for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“We don’t know what the status of grants are going to be at the federal level, but we anticipate the grant application period opening within the next 30 days,” Fire Chief Joe Pennino said.

The grant would supplement up to $4.25 million worth of salaries and benefits for up to 30 full-time staff for three years. Upon acceptance, a budget amendment for year one will establish funding up to $2.3 million. An estimated $1.65 million, would be needed from the general fund as part of the FY 2029 budget to retain the personnel hired through the grant after it expires.

The City Council unanimously passed the approval for application and acceptance.

SCREENSHOT

SARAH COYNE/ APPEN MEDIA

Roswell Economic Development Director Darryl Connelly presents details Feb. 24 outlining specific duties for work to be performed by the Downtown Development Authority in conjunction with the city.

New law forces Fulton County to take a guess at 2025 tax rate

By SARAH DONEHOO newsroom@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — Nearly five months before they will have accurate numbers to support it, Fulton County commissioners approved an estimated rollback tax rate for property.

Speaking to commissioners Feb. 19, Chief Financial Officer Sharon Whitmore said new legislation this year requires local governments to certify an estimate reflecting a property tax levy that will bring in the same revenue as last year. The Fulton County Tax Commissioner’s Office has set March 1 as the deadline for the estimate.

Generally, the rollback rate is published near summer, when governments have a better idea of current property values.

“We have no information with which to make a calculation,” Whitmore said.

In most years, cities and counties record increases in property values, so maintaining the same tax rate as the prior year brings in more revenue. By law, governments must calculate and publish a rollback tax rate – expressed as a mill levy – that would bring in the same amount of revenue as the prior year, factoring in the increase in property values.

Fulton County currently has a levy of 8.87 mills on the assessed value of property. One mill brings in $1 in taxes for every $1,000 of a property’s assessed value. So, a home assessed at $300,000 would bring in $300 for each mill levied against it.

While commissioners were flummoxed by the purpose of the new requirement, they voted 5-1 to set the rollback rate at the current real rate of 8.83 mills. An updated rollback rate

Quality of the aging jails remains a concern for the Board of Commissioners and the public.

DREAM Director Joseph Davis said that since a budget of $3.2 million was approved for critical jail repairs and upgrades, seven of 11 housing units are completed and flooding has decreased, reducing the number of unavailable beds from 744 to 540.

Davis added that the backlog of work orders had generally decreased over a three-month period, using 1,794 in January to 1,661 in February as an example.

Ambulance access

will be published later this year when the Assessor’s Office assembles and releases actual property value figures.

County Tax Commissioner Arthur Ferdinand said the new law will require his office to entirely change the structure of the tax bills for property owners.

The new bills may have to include significant wording to explain how the rollback rate is determined.

“It has to be totally redesigned,” he said, adding that it will require more work for his department to reformat the bills.

“So, we have to gut everything that we have and start anew,” Ferdinand said. “All the paper we have in stock will have to be trashed, and that’s a cost.”

County Manager Dick Anderson said he anticipates county staff will be flooded with calls from confused residents after tax bills go out late this summer.

He called the March rollback tax estimate a “shot in the dark,” because

it will be based on information yet to materialize.

Jail blitz progress

Also at the Feb. 19 meeting, the Fulton County Operational Report contained an update on the progress of gathering statistical information of its justice system.

Strategy and Performance Director Stephen Nawrocki said that complete and accurate information will take several months.

”I can say that we are moving as quickly as possible to conduct the assessment, prepare that report, analyze the findings and come up with (improvement) recommendations,” Nawrocki said.

The jail assessments are part of a continuing program from the Department of Real Estate and Asset Management (DREAM) and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office to provide data for the capital improvement of its facilities.

The board discussed ambulance services in South Fulton to clarify their existing rules and regulations and identify options for people to best access their service.

Director of Strategy and Performance Management Mike Rowicki presented options including construction of a new emergency department in South Fulton, allowing cities to use fire department vehicles to speed up response times, and recommending that the Region 3 Council have yearly reviews of the service levels of providers.

Region 3 of Georgia consists of Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Dekalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties.

“ One thing we want to be clear is that Fulton County does not have any direct contracts with ambulance service providers,” Rowicki said.

The city government is not responsible for the transportation of people in need of medical services. However, it is responsible for providing fast and efficient access to its services.

SCREENSHOT

Strategy and Performance Director Steve Nawrocki updates information about the state of Fulton County’s justice system during a Feb. 19 meeting of the Fulton County Commission held at the Fulton County Government Center.

Art guilds provide therapeutic landscape at hospital

By SARAH COYNE Sarah@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Art Center Guild and Alpha Arts Guild, are helping provide a visual escape for patients and staff at Emory Johns Creek Hospital.

Artists collaborated with the guilds and hospital to display their artworks.

The gallery hopes to provide a therapeutic escape to staff, patients and families in the hospital. Lindsey Acciarito, Community Relations and Engagement Director for Emory Johns Creek Hospital, said the hospital chooses the art for the building “very intentionally.”

“I think it’s nice to bring art to where the people are,” Acciarito said.

The hospital aims to be a “good neighbor” to the community by collaborating with organizations such as The Art Center Guild and Alpha Arts Guild.

In lieu of the grand opening of the gallery, the guilds and hospital hosted a “Freedom of Expression” art market and artist walk Feb. 18.

Monika Mittal, President of The Arts Center Guild, said she hopes the event is also therapeutic for the artists.

“This is my way of uplifting, giving them a place to talk,” Mittal said. Mittal, also an artist, said she

“loves to promote” and give back to the artist community.

Artists were able to sell and present their art to those in

attendance. The event let the public get inside a creative mind and hear about the process from the artists, many of whom rediscovered their passion later in life.

Alfred Schwartz never imagined that he would paint chairs instead of people. His artwork, which represent children as chairs flowing down the Chattahoochee River, is just one of the many artworks on display.

“The only thing you can look at is that joy of play,” Schwartz said.

Schwartz’s art leaves behind “certain decisions” made based on bias while drawing faces or events and only focuses on the meaning of the painting.

Schwartz is one of the many artists features along the walk, which includes members of the community and students.

Stephanie Donaldson, Johns Creek Arts Center Board executive director, said she has a “big passion” for the center and the events it puts together.

“We’re not separate,” Donaldson said. “We’re here to be supportive of each other and spread the word and the passion for the arts.”

Members of the community can visit the gallery until late May.

SARAH COYNE/ APPEN MEDIA

Monika Mittal, President of The Arts Center Guild, sells her art to the public at the “Freedom of Expression” art market and artist walk on Feb. 18. Mittal displays her art on scarves for people to wear.

Fulton Science Academy High School win first place

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Fulton Science Academy won first place at the Future City Competition Finals in Washington, D.C., which took place from Feb. 15 to 19.

The Future City Competition promotes and improves students’ math, engineering and science skills.

The high school team competed against 67,000 students from 1,800 schools. The middle school team secured third place among 46 teams.

“Our students have demonstrated not only technical expertise but also resilience, teamwork, and a forward-thinking approach to global challenges,” said David Aiden, Head of School at FSA.

High school students, Alexandra K., Akshay M., Vivien N. and Imaan A., and middle school students Arvin R., Omav M., Shloka N., Ayaan S. and Zen N. were challenged with the theme “Above the Current.” Students were tasked with creating innovative solutions for the rising sea levels and climate change.

Beginning in September, the teams began using their creativity, engineering expertise and teamwork to create their projects. The team went on to defend their ideas among a panel of judges, including deans and professors from top engineering schools and executives from the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers and a Deepwater Project Manager from Shell.

team will be given a $10,000 scholarship, and the team will collectively earn $20,000. The middle school will be given $2,000 for Fulton Science Academy’s Future City Program.

Future City Competition and securing a record-breaking middle school finish is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and passion for engineering,” Aiden said.

Each member of the high school

March 5th

6:30am – 7:30am: Drive-Thru Ashes 5:30pm: Free Pancake Dinner

7:00pm: Ash Wednesday Worship Service

“Winning the first-ever high school

— Sarah Coyne

FULTON SCIENCE ACADEMY/ PROVIDED

The Fulton Science Academy High School won first place, alongside the third-place victory for the middle school, at the Future City Competition Finals in Washington, D.C. which took place from Feb. 15 to 19. The middle school won third place.

Northern Ridge announces December Eagle Scouts

NORTH METRO ATLANTA, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton) announced its newest Eagle Scouts, who completed their Eagle Board of Review at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.

Eagle Scouts announced Dec. 30, pictured, from top left, are: Ian Hirsch , of Troop 69, sponsored by Alpharetta Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of an outdoor classroom for Temple Kehillat Chaim, consisting of creating a level bed with pebbles and then placing AstroTurf on top, constructing benches and building a picket fence around the area.

Miller Payne , of Troop 3000, sponsored by Birmingham United Methodist Church, whose project was the renovation of the campfire area by building six benches and a podium, painting the bell, gluing the fireplace back together and cleaning the fireplace area in the backwoods for Birmingham United Methodist Church.

Collin Scheffel , of Troop 3000, sponsored by Birmingham United Methodist Church, whose project was to create a picnic area at Providence Park by clearing out an area, removing two old picnic tables and planters, and designing and constructing three picnic tables, and then mulching the area.

Davis Cantrell , of Troop 629, sponsored by Mount Pisgah Church, whose project was the design and construction of five large outdoor racks to hold the harness for the climbing tower and zipline located at Perimeter Church.

Carter Murphy , of Troop 69,

sponsored by Alpharetta Methodist Church, whose project was disassembling an outdoor classroom and creating a full size 8’ by 8’ outdoor chess game along with containers to hold the pieces for New Prospect Elementary School.

Ahmad Tauha , of Troop 12, sponsored by the Muslim American Society Youth Center, whose project was the design and construction of three wooden recycling stations for the Roswell Community Masjid.

Kaylee Henry , of Troop 100, sponsored by Alpharetta Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and construction of a wooden poster showing the fish in the pond, creating a fishing pole stringing station, constructing a fishing pole rack, and constructing two tackle boxes to increase fishing awareness and activity at Mayfield Park pond.

Madison Burch , of Troop 432, sponsored by Roswell United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of five benches for the outdoor stage at Roswell North Elementary School and painting an existing wall in the playground, mulching the area and adding soil to the garden beds by the porch of the school.

David Delk, of Troop 3143, sponsored by The American Legion Post 25, whose project was the design, construction and delivery of a large outdoor wooden cabinet to hold dog food for Out Of The Way Community Corp. in Lakehills, Texas. This charity provides pet food for the homeless who have pets. David also collected pet food, pet bowls and blankets to stock the cabinet.

PROVIDED

JEANIE PIPITONE, owner, Red Seal Craft Studio

8 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | February 27, 2025

Red Seal Craft Studio focuses on people behind the art

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Red Seal Craft Studio in Roswell offers an escape for those eager to explore their inner creativity.

Crafters can enjoy do-it-yourself projects, like charm necklaces, bracelets, candles, charcuterie boards, custom hats and glass and shell art. Private workshops are also available for businesses, clubs and parties.

Owner Jeanie Pipitone says her personal favorite is the hand-woven chunky blanket workshop.

“They're so soft and cuddly, and anybody can do it,” Pipitone said.

Pipitone left her corporate career behind to take over the craft studio. Although she had never been to the studio, she decided to go out on a whim and become the new owner on Jan. 2.

“I admired it from afar,” Pipitone said.

Previous owner, Christy Jones, sent out an email to her subscribers asking if anyone would like to take over the gig, Pipitone took the chance,

You can now find Pipitone, along with her staff, greeting and helping visitors channel their inner crafter. A common theme among the staff is the love for people.

Employee Becky Williams said her favorite part of the job is learning about the people she meets.

“You always know how small this world is,” she said. “You really realize it when you interact with people, and you find out your interconnections.”

The craft studio allows for friends and families to gather and connect in a creative outlet.

“People come here, and they have fun, they feel good,” Pipitone said.

Katherine and Vivi Stoll visit the studio frequently to have their “mother-daughter dates.”

“Our favorite part is spending time together,” Katherine said.

Employees help facilitate the process from start to end, so that no matter the guest’s experience level, they can create something.

See STUDIO, Page 9

SARAH COYNE/ APPEN MEDIA

Jeanie Pipitone began her journey as owner of the Red Seal Craft Studio on Jan. 2. Since then, she has learned that the people are her favorite part about the job.

NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Crafters gather to create art on a busy Saturday at the Red Seal Craft Studio in Roswell. Guests can choose from projects like charm necklaces, bracelets, candles, charcuterie boards, custom hats and glass and shell art. PROVIDED

Studio:

Continued from Page 8

“You don't need any experience, anybody can do it,” Pipitone said. “We provide all the materials, we provide all the instruction, so everybody can come, have fun and leave with something beautiful.”

As new owner, Pipitone’s visions for the craft studio incorporates ways to encourage friends and family to spend time together. She said almost no one comes in alone.

To help facilitate Pipitone’s visions, the craft studio will begin to bring in outside artists and specialty workshops. She wants her guests to have access to “workshops that people might not have a

More information

The Red Seals Craft Studio’s hours vary each week, to book a session visit: redsealcraftstudio.com/ craftingsessions.

chance to do otherwise.”

First up is a four-week Mahjong workshop to be held every Wednesday beginning March 5 from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants will learn how to play and the skills behind the game.

She also plans to “build retail,” by selling premade art.

“It brings people together to have fun, so if the people want it, I'll give it,” Pipitone said.

Name: American Pride Bank Key Team Members: Erik Bykat, chief lending officer; Doug Fountain, commercial relationship manager; Richie Perez, business development officer; and Jennifer Overton, customer service manager.

Description: American Pride Bank is a community bank that specializes in high-touch, friendly, and flexible banking and lending for small business

owners and individuals. We partner with people and places to build wealth, grow wealth and ensure customers can pass it on for future generations.

Month Opened: October 2024Ribbon cutting March 27, 2025”

Address: 6503 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta, Ga

Phone: 678-233-2700

Web Address: https://www. americanpride.bank

Visitors Katherine Stoll helps her daughter, Vivi, pick out a hat to customize at the Red Seal Craft Studio in Roswell.

PHOTOS BY: SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist

Insist on the

BEST

Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.

He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.

Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 22 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.

Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.

As seen on TV –What is GentleCure™

In the last few months, I have received a lot of questions about GentleCure™ — a skin cancer radiation treatment that has been heavily advertised on television. In the past, most discussions about radiation treatments for skin cancer were initiated by me, the physician. GentleCure™’s marketing campaign has been so effective that even patients who do not have skin cancer are asking me about the treatment that they have seen on TV.

This superficial radiation therapy (SRT) treatment likely takes the technology a step farther than previous types of SRT by adding ultrasound imaging to help define the size and depth of the cancer and adjust treatment energies and settings. Technologically, GentleCure™ is likely a step forward compared with some prior radiation treatment devices. However, the way that the company has chosen to represent their technology is mercenary and misleading.

Accepting new patients.

I wanted to like GentleCure™. I enjoy the part of my job that is presenting different treatment options for my patients. When radiation is preferable over surgery, I get excited to bring it up. Some skin cancers such as superficial basal cell carcinoma are better treated with Mohs surgery in some instances, radiation therapy in others, cautery and scraping treatments at times and even creams such as Aldara™ or other treatments depending on numerous factors. The exact location, local anatomy, immune system status, details on the pathology report, and individual patient goals all factor into recommendations about what treatments to consider. Multiple excellent treatments are available, and one of the joys of my job is assisting patients in selecting the treatments that are right for them. As a Mohs surgeon, I take pride in discussing alternatives to Mohs surgery. I recognize the potential for conflicts of interest, and I cherish the times when patients and I have decided together on a non-surgical treatment. The motto of my Mohs surgery fellowship was, “Put the patient first” and doing so is what makes me feel whole.

Unfortunately, I find myself very disappointed in GentleCure™.

The name GentleCure™ introduces bias and attempts to sway patients towards this treatment in a way that the names “Mohs micrographic surgery,” “excision,” Aldara™ cream, Levulan® Keratick® and other treatments do not.

GentleCure™ has engaged in direct to consumer (DTC) marketing. The United States is one of the only countries in the world to allow DTC marketing of pharmaceuticals, and many physicians and I believe this is a mistake, often to the detriment of society and the patient. DTC is ethically questionable, foremost because of the potential to misrepresent a product and create a false first impression.

In my professional opinion, the GentleCure™ website misrepresents their technology, misleadingly contrasts it with Mohs surgery, and inadequately compares GentleCure™ with other alternative treatments. A few examples:

1. The website gentlecure.com states that “low amounts of x-ray energy” are used, but a typical dose is 50 gray. In contrast, a typical chest x-ray delivers less than a thousandth (<1/1000) of a gray of radiation. Fifty (50) gray is no small amount. It typically permanently kills adnexal structures (hair

Dr. Brent Taylor

Kathryn Filipek, PA-C

Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta

Gentlecure:

Continued from Page 10

follicles and sweat glands), permanently changes the area’s ability to heal and carries the risk of actually causing cancer.

2. The website further states that surgery leaves wounds that result in “not doing normal activities” whereas with radiation “you do not need to skip normal daily activities.” However, GentleCure™ treatments are, according to their own website, delivered in separate sessions of typically 18 to 25 visits on 18 to 25 different days. Twenty separate doctor’s appointments for the treatment of a single cancer has the potential to interfere with normal daily activities, I would think.

3. I believe that most people’s primary interest in radiation is the potential to avoid a surgical scar. Again, the website is misleading. Instead of a statement in line with my clinical experience that the scarring after Mohs surgery is typically minimal and inconspicuous, the website focuses on the outliers stating, “scarring may need to be fixed with reconstructive surgery.” And for GentleCure™, the website states “There is no scarring.” This is not completely true. Yes, by definition, there is no surgical scar, but radiated skin is never the same. Post-radiation changes can include permanently lightening the treated area, causing noticeable redness or dilated blood vessels to develop, causing an abnormal texture as all hair follicles and sweat glands are eliminated, and sometimes leading to chronically irritated areas and even sometimes post-radiation ulcers that never heal. The website contrasts the unusual case of Mohs surgery with the best case scenario after radiation.

I could go on, as I disagree with much of how this company has decided to represent its product. I love doing research myself, and it saddens me when I learn that the patient trying his or her best to do their own research online is set up to fail by misleading websites and faulty information.

What is the verdict, and what is one to do?

Most patients prefer Mohs surgery over radiation treatments for most skin cancers because of the confidence of clear surgical

margins, the avoidance of numerous appointments for radiation, and the generally excellent cosmetic results achievable with Mohs surgery. However, individual factors such as cancer subtype, body location, tumor size, and personal goals may tip the scales toward one treatment or another. Moreover, Mohs surgery and radiation are just two of multiple options to be considered on a case by case basis. And, yes, despite my disagreement with how the technology is being marketed, I will absolutely continue to recommend it when it is the optimal treatment for my patients.

The key to making the

best decision is to receive recommendations from a doctor who you trust, and to seek second opinions when needed. You should sense that your doctor is faithfully helping you navigate your current skin cancer, is happy to discuss alternatives and is also proactively discussing preventative options to decrease the incidence of future cancers. At Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, I pride myself on providing patients with alternative treatment options even if provided by different physicians or specialties and will always answer a patient’s questions with honesty and integrity.

Comprehensive Internal Medicine

Serving as the Medical Home for Roswell, Alpharetta, Milton, & Johns Creek, for over 20 years

Brought to you by – Comprehensive Internal Medicine

What is a medical home?

A medical home is an approach to providing comprehensive and high-quality primary care, in a coordinated fashion with specialists and consultants.

A medical home is patientcentered with many aspects that contribute to improved healthcare outcomes

• Accessibility: Care is easy for the patient to obtain, including geographic access and insurance accommodation.

• Family-centered: The patient and family are recognized and acknowledged, ensuring that all medical decisions are made in true partnership.

• Continuous: The same primary care clinician cares for patient, aiding and support through young adulthood through elder years.

• Comprehensive: Preventive, primary and specialty care are provided.

• Coordinated: A care plan is created in partnership with the patient and communicated with all health care clinicians.

• Compassionate: Genuine concern for the well-being of the patient is emphasized and addressed.

At Comprehensive Internal Medicine, we involve many team members at various levels to coordinate and provide patient care. Our doctors lead all clinical decision-making in a team approach,

collaborating with the patient to tailor care in an individualized manner.

Understanding the intricacies of our patient’s care brings a deeper knowledge of the long-term care plan. Our team of administrative professionals strives to answer each call quickly, avoiding voice mail or a phone tree.

Our scheduling department quickly accommodates each patient’s scheduling needs.

We save appointment times for same-day appointments and are

Providing

always welcoming new patients.

Whereas it may be convenient to see Urgent Care, we believe seeing your regular doctor brings your healthcare to a higher level, being seen quickly when needs arise prevents worsening medical symptoms.

Call today to establish with one of our many doctors. We have physicians who focus on young adult care, and others who have special training in the care of geriatric patients.

Medical Care Including the Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Diseases

Jacqueline T. Pearson, M.D., M.S. Arezou Fatemi, M.D.

Ryan Bozof, M.D.

Laurae Carpenetti, M.D.

Carol Hector, M.D. Sumera Pervaiz, M.D. Sudeshna Nandi, M.D.

ISTOCK

PROVIDED

I’m turning 65. What do I do now?

Jay Looft Owner/Agent

Your Local Broker

There can be a little anxiety around the choices you have when turning 65. Friends and family will give you their advice on what they know (or think they know) about the “best choice”, but your situation can be different from theirs. All these different opinions can make it hard to find clarity. I can’t provide a full training session on Medicare insurance in this short newspaper article, but here are a few MUST-DO steps to take when approaching the traditional Medicare age of 65-years old- or young:).

Important Step #1: To add or not to add Part B: If you are on group health insurance through the company you are working for and you plan on working past age 65, then you should consider delaying your Part B enrollment. When working for a larger employer (20 or more employees), the group health insurance is the primary payor and there are very few reasons to add Part B. In most of these cases, delay enrolling into Part B!

Important Step #2: Understand your Medicare insurance monthly cost: For most beneficiaries, Medicare Part A is premium-free by virtue of paying into the tax system during your time

of working. The standard premium for Medicare Part B in 2025 is $185 per month, but may be more based on your recent income. Use your search engine to look up Medicare IRMAA, which stands for Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. This is the increased amount the government charges beneficiaries who make beyond the standard thresholds. It can greatly impact your monthly budget and is something to pay attention to when entering into Medicare.

Important Step #3: Work with a Medicare Insurance Broker: It’s hard to know all the ins and outs on your own. A trusted licensed insurance broker, like SeniorSource Medicare Solutions, will educate you on how Parts A, B, C, and D work together and can help you know what to expect from the insurance option you choose. Also, brokers don’t work for just one company, but many. We are able to look at all the options available for your solution.

If you have questions about these important steps or would like to request our assistance, please contact us at (770) 913-6464 or reach out on our contact web page at www. SeniorSourceMedicare.com/contactseniorsource.

Brought to you by - SeniorSource Medicare Solutions

ATTENTION LEADERS

Delivers to 28,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30005, 30009, 30022, 30075, 30076. Alpharetta & Roswell’s primary news source. Alpharetta and Roswell’s paper of record. Est. 1983

Delivers to 20,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30022, 30097. Johns Creek’s primary news source. Est. 1997. Johns Creek’s paper of record.

Delivers to 17,000 households every Thursday. Zip Codes: 30040, 30041. Forsyth County’s largest circulation newspaper. Est. 1998

Delivers to 10,000 households every Thursday Zip Code: 30004. Community news for and about the City of Milton. Est. 2006. Milton’s paper of record.

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

Delivers to 12,000 households every Thursday Zip Codes: 30327, 30328, 30342, 30350

Rotary Club of Alpharetta schedules gala saluting seniors

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Rotary Club will hold its first Golden Gala for older adults April 11.

The Rotary Club bills the party as a special celebration for the golden community members, or those older than 55.

The gala is scheduled for 3-6 p.m. at American Legion Post 201, 201 Wills Road in Alpharetta.

Those who attend are invited to dress in party attire for an afternoon of fun and community.

Music, dancing, food, beverages, raffles, prizes, line dancing, swag bags and valet parking will be provided. A gala king and queen also will be recognized.

Attendance is free, but donations will be accepted.

— Jon Wilcox

DC Aiken

Big Sky Franchise Team

David & Michelle Bertany

Amour & Duane Carthy

Adam Corder

Barbara Anderson

Kerry Arias

Scott Baynton

Joseph Bell

James Bennett

Join today

Support Local News Join Appen Press Club

CHARTER MEMBER

Patrick Cressaty

Robert Flint

Robin Fricton

Zachary Hahn

Allison January

Rita Brown

Mark Casas

David Conti

Theodore Davis III

Maureen Drumm

Carl Abernathy

Bruce Ackley

Salpi Adrouny

Alpharetta Lions Club

Omar Altalib

Dave Altman

Ron Altman

Joel Alvis

American Legion Post 201

Alice & Dr. Richard Appen

Gaye Armstrong

Mary Asbury

Bangkok Boxing LLC

Shannon Banna

Beth Barnes

Janet Bass

Caitlin Bates

Jannet Bauer

Barbara Bauschka

Miriam Beattie

Kathy Beck

Laura Bentley

William Bentley

Leslie Berry

Tom Billings

Tochie Blan

Ron Boddicker

Jodi Bogen

Sherri Bolles-Rogers

Helen Borland

Debra Bowen

Joe Bowen

Ryan Brainard

Mark Brandus

Mel Brannen

Carol Bright

Linda Brill

Dorothy Brouhard

Erendira Brumley

Bernhard Burgener

Alvin Burrell

Mike & Theresa Buscher

Mary Busman

Clea Calloway

Kirk Canaday

James Carr

Bridgette Carter

William Cartwright

Frank Catroppa

Pat Check

Virginia Christman

Christopher Cleary

Ann Coaloa

Kim Coggins

Evelyn Collazo

Michael Mackenzie

Communications

Joan Compton

Carol Cookerly

Terri Coons

Rhonda Cude

Connie Cunningham

Christopher Cupit

David Davis

Duane DeBruler

Marilyn DeCusati

Rebecca Donlan

Tom Driscoll

Michael Dudgeon

Jeanette Dummer

DutchCrafters Amish Furniture

Thomas Edmonds

Mim Eisenberg

Danny Elkins

Su Ellis

Martha Fasse

Nell & Doug Fernandez

Daniel Fleck

Lee Fleck

Laura Floyd

Cathy Flynn

Paul Folger

Adrienne Fontaine

Mary Ford

Nanci Foster

Amy Frederick

Kelly Frommer

Carol Fry

Tracey Ganesh

Daniel Gay

John Gibbs

John Gilberto

Leslie Gilliam

Bailey & Ryan Gladysz

Michael Kenig

Roderick Liptrot

Bob Meyers

Claude Nardy

Cliff Oxford Ross & Lori Ramsey

Sarah Reiter

Mark Rundle

Lynn Thomas

Truett

MEMBER+

Charlcie Forehand

Aileen Horton

Deborah Jackson

Ali Mahbod

Richard Matherly

MEMBER

Michelle Glotzbach

Harvey Goldberg

Christopher Goodrich

Phyllis Goodrich

Ralph Griffin

Marilee Hamilton

Susan Hanna

Marion Hannah

Roxanne Hazen

Joe Hirsch

Penn Hodge

Dianne & Steffan Holmquist

Joan Hostetter

Austin Hughes

Jacqueline Hursh

Lynn Johnson

Tyler Jones

Arthur Kebanli

Laura Keck

Mark Kelly

Nancy Kennell

Randall Kent

Carol Kerr

Allison Kloster

Dyna Kohler

Larry Krueger

Jess & Chris Kysar

Malinda Lackey

Brandon Leach

Dennis Lee

Ken Leffingwell

Carol Lehan

Bonnie Lind

Francia Lindon

Harlan Little

Ross Long

Kyser Lough

Rita Loventhal

Brenda Lundy

Rita Loventhal

Karen Magill

Kyile Marshall

Julie Martin

Carla Masecar

Valerie Matthews

William Maxwell

Rachel McCord

North

Evan McElroy

Vickie McElroy

Patricia Miller

Anne Peer

Popp

Wise Jr.

Whittall

Savin

Scherrer

Seng Kimberly Verska

Williams

Austin McCully

Diane McDonald

Karen McEnerny

Lynn McIntyre

Mike McLoughlin

Jennifer Mendoza

Al Merrill

Chris Miller

Christine Miller

Joe Modica

Fred Moeller

Sarah Moen

Catherine Moore

Carol Morgan

Kathy Morgan

Stu Moring

Leslie Mullis

Donna Murphy

Jack Murphy

Cindy Nolan

Fulton Master Gardners, Inc.

Tricia Novarro

Bob O’Brien

Anne Pappas

Lynn Pennington

Jonathan Peters

Kurt & Leslie Phillips

Mary & Jan Phillips

Debra Powell

Joyce Provissiero

Chuck Pugh

Robert Radloff

Raj Rajagopalan

Ashwin Ramaswami

Cheryl Rand

Jean Rearick

Joseph Reed

Righteous PR

Angie Rigney

Neil Robertson

Kimberly Robinson

Matt Rohs

Kelly Sarmiento

Stephanie Schniederjan

The Schoenblum Family

Robert Scholz

Stephanie Schuette

To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Susan Searles

Tina Shelton

Lisa Shippel

Joanne Simmons

Tom Simon

Cindy Simpson

Robert Singleton

Faye Sklar

Judith Slaughter

Andy Smith

Marcia Smith

Gena Spears

Donald Spencer

Gloria Stathos

Robert Stevens

Wesley Stewart

Cathryn Stovall

Celeste Strohl

Diana Sullivan

Andy Sumlin

Mike Tasos

Candice Teichert

The Small Business Advisor

William Tietjen

Lisa Tilt

Michael Townes

Trunnion LLC

Matthew Tyser

Ollie Wagner

Lewis Walker

Jonathan Washburn

Michael Watson

Michael Weiss

Herbert Wells

Sally White

Thom White

Umpika White

Christine Williams

Jamie Wimberly

Jonathan Winkie

Nancy & Dave Wistrand

Carla York

Jonathan Young

Roswell girls lose in first round of state tournament

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga — Lassiter High School ended the Roswell girls season Feb. 18 with a 60-56 result.

Roswell had the higher seed and home court advantage for the firstround basketball matchup of the 5A state tournament.

The two teams had played twice this season, with Roswell falling by doubledigits both times.

However, the Hornets rose to the occasion, feeling the postseason pressure. They competed for 32 minutes, pulling out stops on defense and combining with strong ball movement, allowing them to cut the lead down and tie the game multiple times.

The first and second quarters both ended with Lassiter up by 6 points. Roswell closed the gap to 5 points at the end of the third period ended, leading to a back-and-forth final quarter that saw Roswell take back the lead at points.

Senior Eve Buckley again was faced

with Lassiter’s toughest defender in junior Sophie Hortman who held her to just 8 points.

Though she struggled shooting, Buckley was able to find more ways to contribute.

She had a block and two steals in the first quarter, most of it in the first minute of the game when the Hornets got out to a 6-0 lead.

Buckley said she felt the weight of the last game of her 15-year basketball career.

“We had a chance to win,” she said. “I don’t want to blame anything else, but it stings. I’m extremely proud of everybody and how we exceeded everybody’s expectations times 10.”

Head coach DJ Moore praised the team for battling against a tough opponent in Lassiter.

“Our seniors played their hearts out and set a new precedent,” he said. “It’s been a pleasure to coach [them], just to watch these ladies grow and develop as players, individuals and human beings. It’s hard to watch the loss, but we exceeded our expectations for this season.”

Roswell’s bond program funds third athletic field

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — A third multi-sport turf field is now open for Roswell community members following a ribbon cutting ceremony Feb. 18 at Roswell Area Park.

Roswell Mayor Kurt Willson joined other city officials for the opening of Multi-Sport Field No. 1, which is one of the three upgraded turf fields.

“The new field will provide the best combination of durability and safety over the next decade,” Wilson said.

Renovations to the field come nearly a year after updates for Multi-Sport Fields No. 2 and No. 3, with the latest field costing $718,318.

The $2.1 million project funded through the city’s 2022 bond referendum, allowed for updates on three artificial turf fields. The turf fields, originally grass until 2013, were ready for a replacement after more than 12 years of use.

The field is one of several projects funded from Roswell’s 2022 bond initiative approved by voters. The $179.6 million generated from the bonds will help fund park improvements, a public parking deck and public safety projects. Around $107.6 million helps fund recreation, parks, bicycle and pedestrian paths and sidewalks.

“Thank you guys for entrusting us to use your money to reinvest in your parks,” Wilson said.

Multi-Sport Field No. 1 was given the same treatment as No. 2 and No. 3, featuring new Classic HD turf from FieldTurf. The Recreation and Parks

Department can now expand its capacity for games and practices at the park with the addition of a new lines package, new fencing and netting with bigger poles and stronger mesh, including new goals posts.

“It’s going to last a lot longer,” said Taylor Smith, deputy director of Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs.

The field project is one of the many improvements Roswell has made in its recreation menu including use of the old Crabapple Middle School for summer camps.

“The city staff, the city elected leadership, have done a great job of being stewards of that money by reinvesting in the things that matter to the residents in the city,” Wilson said.

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

Roswell junior Alex Gonda looks for a lane through the defense of Lassiter’s Malia Loadwick at Roswell High School Feb. 18.

SARAH COYNE/ APPEN MEDIA

Members of the Roswell City Council and Parks and Recreation Department cut the ribbon for the Multi-Sport Turf Field No. 1 on Feb. 18 at Roswell Area Park.

Expansion:

Continued from Page 1

office building on 4.48 acres at 8995 Westside Parkway would impact nearby roadways, like Hembree Road.

Council members asked the school to work with city staff on their traffic plan before the matter is considered again next month.

“You understand why we are being so thorough in understanding the traffic problems,” Gilvin said. “We sitting on this dais have one chance to get this right or wrong.”

The Fulton Science Academy’s main campus is a pre-K through 12thgrade private school at 3035 Fanfare Way, about a third of a mile away from the Westside Parkway building. The school currently enrolls about 930 students.

Site plans call for a pick-up and drop-off canopy and space for almost 60 vehicles to stack near the entrance. An additional 17 vehicles would be able to stack along the driveway and a nearby intersection. An additional 197 parking spaces would serve the school and loan firm Milend, which plans to occupy the second floor until 2028.

A traffic plan submitted by the school estimates as many as 620

McCormick:

Continued from Page 1

Ukraine is responsible for the war that has ravaged its people. McCormick said the Trump administration wants to investigate how Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has used the $175 billion in aid that the U.S. has provided Ukraine. About 67 percent of the congressionally approved funds were for defense-related priorities and 33 percent for nondefense priorities, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

The congressman said the war could have ended sooner if the European Union and U.S. had been more forceful. Given the cumulative European-U.S. GDP of roughly $47 trillion versus Russia’s GDP of $2 trillion, he said a Russian defeat could be realized rapidly through sanctions, undermining Russia’s energy production, and by overwhelming weapon systems.

“I want Ukraine to win, and President Trump says he wants Ukraine to win… and by the way, this splits the Republican party down the middle,” McCormick said. “I voted for Ukraine support every single time.”

Given his ties to healthcare, the congressman fielded several questions

OPINIONS

Roswell Mayor Wilson: thank you for support

Letter: Alpharettans should support nature

► PAGE 19

“Many, many cars have carpooling. Multiple families have more than one child coming,” Amer said. “You’re talking about a fewer number of cars at any given minute.”

City Council members said they needed to review the details of the academy’s traffic study.

They questioned Amer about how he had determined the time consumed by drop-offs and pickups.

study to determine potential impact.

“Here’s the challenge, I haven’t seen the traffic study … I need to see this model,” Wills said.

Councilman Douglas DeRito said the questions about traffic impact were especially important because of development nearby on Hembry and Morris roads and Westside Parkway.

The Gathering, Empire Firefly and housing projects are within walking distance and could compound the issue, DeRito said.

“The reason I bring that up is that is going to obviously impact the thoroughfares outside the school property,” DeRito said. He said families taking children to and from the school would likely drive because of substantial traffic in the area.

Amer said he had estimated future traffic counts by assessing potential growth in the area.

people visiting the school during peak hours in the morning and 361 at dismissal.

The academy’s traffic engineer, Abdul Amer, president of A&R Engineering, said that figure might not necessarily translate to 600 vehicles visiting the school.

Councilman Brian Wills questioned the academy’s traffic calculations and wondered how long it might take for students to be picked up and dropped off.

“Based on what you’ve said so far, I just don’t see how this works,” Wills said.

Other council members agreed, saying they want to review the traffic

about recent cuts executed by the Department of Government Efficiency, which has eliminated thousands of federal employee jobs since Trump’s inauguration. Specifically, the Associated Press reported the jobs of more than 5,000 probationary employees will be nixed at the Department of Health and Human Services, which includes the Centers for Disease Control and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. HHS has not released a final number.

“Why is a supposedly conservative party taking such a radical and extremist and sloppy approach to this?” one Canton resident asked.

McCormick said 10 percent of the CDC’s employees are probationary, and recent developments in AI will handle healthcare administrative tasks more efficiently at several health departments.

“The fact of the matter is there’s going to be a downsizing of government,” he said.

“We look historically at how traffic patterns have been growing in the area, and we assume that the same growth will continue, and then we add that,” Amer said.

Jim Hiner, an architect working with the academy, said school representatives plan to address the questions and return to the council with detailed information.

“Those are issues the school took very seriously,” he said.

Just as the Biden administration made dramatic cuts to other aspects of federal spending, so too, the Trump administration is slicing through the budget, McCormick said.

No question garnered more audience applause than one posed by a Roswell resident, who said she was shocked when President Trump declared himself “king” in a recent social media post.

“Tyranny is rising in the White House, and a man has declared himself our king. So, I would like to know, rather, the people would like to know what you, congressman, and your fellow congressmen are going to do to rein in the megalomaniac in the White House?”

The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act would check presidential power by mandating Congressional approval of any new rule that impacts the economy by at least $100 million. However, it has yet to be passed, even by the previous Biden administration, McCormick said.

McCormick said he doesn’t think executive privilege should be as strong as it is, and he serves as the district’s direct representation in Congress.

“I don’t want to see the president make all the decisions I don’t. I don’t want to see any president be too powerful,” he said.

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

From left, Jim Hiner, an architect working with Fulton Science Academy, and traffic engineer Abdul Amer address the Alpharetta City Council Feb. 24 about traffic impacts of a school expansion.

AMRITHA JOSEPH/APPEN MEDIA

Congressional District 7 constituents applaud an attendee during a town hall hosted by U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick, R-Ga., at Roswell City Hall Feb. 20. The resident had asked whether McCormick had a strategy to check Trump’s power after the president recently declared himself “king” in a social media post.

Playing blind man’s bluff with no bumper guards

RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

I used to play a game when I was growing up – most of us did – blind man’s bluff. We played it among friends, sometimes at sleepovers. The game is sometimes called blind man’s buff, but either title is pretty much the same.

One person put on a blindfold so he or she couldn’t see, and then walked around the room and tried to find the other people. Putting on that blindfold was an act of faith and trust –trust that no one would take advantage of you and faith that you could “see” with your hands, waving them in front of you like Robot in “Lost in Space,” back and forth “looking” for walls, doors, furniture and other obstacles in your path.

I’ll never forget how abusive Mr. Smith was to poor Robot; I always wished that Robot would turn around and cold-cock him.

Anyway, sometimes you navigated fine. Sometimes you bumped your head on a door frame. Occasionally you tripped and fell, but since you were being careful and moving slowly, rarely did you hurt yourself. I remember that there was always a lot of giggling and whispers. Since you could not use your eyes, you could only use your sense of hearing and, once you found someone, your sense of touch to divine who it was. As I said it was a fun game – at least for a while – and it had no consequences; there were no winners, no losers. No one got hurt. The blindfold came off after the game was over. No big deal. No so, today.

This morning, I got up, practiced my piano, then sat on the couch with my laptop open and waited – waited for some idea – something to write about , something to poke me in the ribs or jump up and say “hi.” It didn’t take long –about 15 seconds – a bit faster than usual. It plopped down

on my lap and said “write me.”

“Blind man’s bluff” is the who/what that came and visited from those very old files buried deep in memory.

Today, it feels like we are in a giant game of blind man’s bluff, only this time, instead of just a game among a few friends, it is a game among countries.

Some of the players are friends. Some are not. Instead of a small, connected circle of players in a living room, this game is played across oceans, in the air, underground and in the clouds – and, of course, in the cloud. Instead of individuals, this bluff is played among armies and navies, led by generals and admirals, presidents and premiers, dictators and tyrants. There are no parents around. There are no adults in the room, no supervision. The floor is not carpeted.

Instead of walking around waving our hands in front of us to protect us – like Robot – we instead use sonar, radar, iron shields, air defense systems, B52s, MAD systems, listening systems, monitoring systems, cyber systems, early warning systems and more – all waving around in front of us, over our heads, behind us, under us, through us, just like Robot waving his robot hands in front of him shouting “Danger Will Robinson! Danger Will Robinson!” Indeed.

I remember when I was a kid, we also played another game called “I dare you.” It was usually not one of the parents’ favorites because it frequently did not end well. One day, I remember we were playing with our friends who lived way up the River Road in north Cocoa. It was dusk, and we had been playing army in the orange groves most of the day, then by the river. We were tired and hungry, and it was dusk when my friend Carl Jeter said let’s play I dare you – which we did.

We did a few dares; I think there were five of us when Carl’s older brother Mark did a dare: “I dare you to run across the road in front of a car and see how close you can come to it.” Mind you, the River Road had no streetlights,

was curvy because it followed the contours of the Indian River, and was lined with palms, palmettos, oak trees and sawgrass. That is, it was really easy to hide beside the road, never be seen and wait for a car to approach and then dash out in front of it and across the road.

Mark went first, but he wasn’t very close to the passing car. Then it was my turn. It didn’t matter what game I was playing back then, I wanted to win. It was dark. I heard the car approach. Then I saw the headlights. I waited. And I waited and I waited.

I heard the horn and the brakes. But I won. I won, but only by the grace of that fraction of a second, there would have been no winners and only losers that night on the River Road.

That angel who has protected me all these years, saved me oh so many times, I just now realize may have first landed on my shoulder that night by the river.

The blind man’s bluff I see being played out today – in our world, yours and mine and our children’s – is a hybrid of I dare you and blind man’s bluff. Everything is a dare; everything is a gambit; everything is a deal, and everything involves running out in front of cars to see how close you can come to being hit. And it’s truly being played with a blindfold on, because the blindfold is the fact that only one person is making up the dares, and it doesn’t matter to him if someone gets hit or is hurt or fails. He just wants to win the game. That’s all he cares about – to win – and yes, in this hybrid game, everyone probably loses.

Several lines from near the end of the movie “Apocalypse Now” come to mind:

Colonel Kurtz: “Are my methods unsound?”

Captain Willard: I don’t see any method at all, sir.”

Colonel Kurtz: “I expected someone like you. What did you expect? Are you an assassin?”

Captain Willard: “I’m a soldier.”

Colonel Kurtz: “You’re neither. You’re an errand boy, sent by grocery clerks, to collect a bill.”

Encountering ‘lagniappe’ on a lonely Ireland trail

We writer types live in a world made of words. Some are strong and utilitarian. Others are prosaic.

And then there are those precious few which are simultaneously lyrical, musical, and even romantic in their promise and potential.

One of those is “lagniappe,” a word with ties to Cajun French culture in (among other places) the Louisiana Gulf Coast region. I like the word a lot.

Mark Twain talks about the word “lagniappe” in “Life on the Mississippi¬¬,” where he calls it “a word worth travelling to New Orleans to get; a nice limber, expressive, handy word…”

But what does it mean?

Some say it refers to what happens when you buy a dozen donuts but end up¬ with 13 – in other words, it’s the unexpected surprise that just comes to you out of the blue.

“TRUCKS” I say again. “TWO of them! Big! BIG!!!” …and trucks approach from where they shouldn’t, and your heart stops (or you just know it will), and you grip the wheel so hard you’re sure you’ll crush it to smithereens. I don’t know the Irish word for “smithereens,” but I’ll bet it’s a good one. GET OUTSIDE GEORGIA

That’s pretty good. But let me take it a little further. It’s stumbling across something unexpected but wonderful…maybe that one certain backroad which fate just meant for you to take, no matter what you (or your

GPS) think you should do instead.

There’s a lot of lagniappe hereabouts, especially if you like to hike. I think of things like the floodplaincarpeting expanse of ferns that suddenly appears partway along the trail from Buford Dam to the Buford Fish Hatchery…or perhaps the bamboo forest that surprises you near the end of that trail in the

Whitewater Creek area of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The fact is that lagniappe is all over the place. You’ve just got to be open to the possibilities.

For instance:

We are about five days into Ireland, and on this day the plan is to drive along the coast to the town of Allihies. I’ve told you about the driving-in-Ireland thing, and since I’m here telling you even more, then you know that I did manage to survive.

Anyway, on this day, Allihies is the plan. There are old copper mines in Allihies, and I do love old mines. GPS says it’s an easy trip. It tells us to turn left and then right and then…

“TRUCKS!” I say. She’s driving and I’m shot-gunning, which means I’m the traffic lookout while she tries to avoid heart attacks and cars and…

See LAGNIAPPE, Page 23

STEVE HUDSON Columnist

STEVE HUDSON/APPEN MEDIA Road sign along the way to Allihies.

OPINION

GUEST COLUMN

Community rises in respect to grieve fallen police officer

KURT WILSON Mayor

In the wake of the heartbreaking loss of Officer Jeremy Labonte, Roswell has experienced profound grief. But in this time of sorrow, we have also witnessed something truly remarkable — the strength, compassion and unity of our community. The outpouring of support from every corner of the city and beyond has been overwhelming, and we want to express our deepest gratitude.

To the residents of Roswell and our surrounding communities, your love

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

and respect for Officer Labonte and his sacrifice have been felt deeply. From the hundreds who visited the memorial police vehicle at headquarters, leaving heartfelt notes and prayers, to those who lined the streets in the pouring rain to honor him during his procession — your presence and kindness have lifted us up. Seeing so many gather for his public visitation and funeral services was a powerful reminder of the strength of our community. Your support has brought comfort in the midst of great pain.

To the businesses of Roswell, you stepped forward in countless ways to stand beside us. The generosity of our local restaurants, who ensured that our Police Department had meals to sustain them through their grief,

speaks volumes about the heart of our business community. Your support has meant more than words can express.

To the emergency responders with AMR and the incredible team at Wellstar North Fulton Hospital, thank you for doing everything possible to save Officer Labonte. And when that was no longer possible, you provided the highest degree of compassion and professionalism, ensuring that his family and the Roswell Police Department were surrounded with care and support.

To our surrounding public safety agencies — including the Fulton County Police Department, the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety, Sandy Springs Police, the Milton Police Department and the

Johns Creek Police Department — we are profoundly grateful. You stepped in without hesitation, supplementing staffing to keep Roswell safe, allowing our officers the time to grieve and honor their fallen brother. And to the countless state and national agencies who joined the breathtaking procession of more than 450 public safety vehicles to the funeral, your solidarity reminds us that we are never alone.

In the most difficult times, tragedy has a way of bringing people together and revealing the very best in us. That has never been more evident than in these past days. Roswell, you have shown that we are not just a city — we are a family. And together, we will continue to honor the legacy of Officer Jeremy Labonte.

Alpharettans must work to save natural habitats

In the mid-1800s, a small settlement known as Farmhouse was located near the intersection of Ga. 400 and Old Milton Parkway. Farmhouse later moved up the hill to present day Alpharetta. For both communities, land, trees, flowers, water and wild animals were vital to survival in those days, with farming the main source of income. Those aspects of nature are no less important today. While science reveals to us the beneficial connections between ourselves and nature, it only confirms what our heart says about clean skies and waterways, pollinator insects, native plants and giant oaks.

The Alpharetta citizens on your

local Natural Resources Commission share this vision. We have been appointed by the City Council to provide opportunities for Alpharettans to engage in local environmental and conservation issues. Rivers Alive cleanups, Arbor Day events, Earth Day celebrations and community workshops on topics ranging from rain barrels to bat houses are available. The recycling of holiday trees, hazardous paints and personal documents occurs annually.

While NRC members, City Arborist David Shostak and Alpharetta Environmental Coordinator Terry Porter meet in City Hall once a month (third Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., open to the

public), they would rather be outside working in a garden, hiking on the Alpha Loop or watching bees flit about from flower to flower. In our meetings, we discuss ongoing projects, like Keep Alpharetta Beautiful, along with our commitment to the National Wildlife Federation and Tree City USA. We talk about tree ordinances, our parks, the importance of recycling and how to add more pollinator-friendly environments. Beyond that, we always look for new initiatives that enhance the vital natural parts of Alpharetta. The commission, however, is only a handful of concerned citizens. We cannot do this alone. To gain the most

benefit from nature, you need to be involved as well. Join us at the river clean up, help us promote and plant native species, use natural solutions to mosquitoes, be part of our Arbor Day celebration, attend a workshop or assist at our Farmer’s Market booth on Earth Day. We are actively creating a list of volunteers who are just as interested in natural Alpharetta as your commission members. Help us while making a difference in your family’s lives and the lives of people you will never meet.

Michael Buchanan Chairman, Alpharetta Natural Resources Commission

You’d better think about what you’re doing

This week’s music inspiration comes from the Aretha Franklin’s 1968 hit, “Think.”

What I am referring to is that many “mortgage shoppers” do not really think about what they are doing when they are shopping for a mortgage. Let’s face it, buying a house and getting a mortgage is probably the

largest purchase that they have made in their life. But when they “shop” for a lender, they are not asking the right questions or doing a deeper dive into who they are going to place their mortgage request with.

The mortgage industry, like any other industry, is filled with some very good loan officers and companies, and then again…some that are more “salesmen” than “educators.” Part of this difference is due to the inexperience of some loan officers. The web can get you pretty much anything you ever wanted to know about the potential loan officer that you

may place your loan request with.

For instance, how long have they been in the business, what do their “google” reviews look like, what is their educational background, and many other things you may find out about them. Unfortunately, the “bar” to enter this industry is not exactly set very high. So, doing a little research about the person who you are entrusting with arguably the largest purchase/investment in your life is probably worth it.

Asking the right questions and knowing what is negotiable and what it not are both very important. There is no

magic “pot of gold” out there. Monies for mortgages, for the most part, all come from the same place, so there should not be vast difference in rate quotes. Rates are determined by what FNMA/ FHLMC as well as FHA/VA rates are being offered for on the open market and then what each company wants to make on a loan…also known as their ”margin.” Margins differ from company to company and from bank to bank but are not grossly different. So, when you see that the national average for 30-year

of Roswell

D.C. AIKEN Guest Columnist dcaiken.com

PRESERVING

Bridging all of Milton’s babbling brooks

BOB MEYERS Columnist

The City of Milton may have fewer streams and creeks than some other communities in North Fulton, but more roads cross streams and creeks in Milton than in most other jurisdictions.

The City of Milton and the Milton Historical Society have been working for several months to increase public awareness of creeks and their importance to the well-being of the community by placing signage on stream overpasses. Thus far, four signs have been installed on two overpasses.

According to Milton Public Works Director Sara Leaders, signs will be placed on 10 stream crossings over the next few months, with additional signs later in the year.

“We want travelers to be aware of the waterways as a step toward appreciation of their importance,” Leaders says.

The 68 miles of streams, creeks and rivers in Milton are important for several reasons according to Milton Historical Society Board Member Jim Farris, who has been spearheading the Society’s participation in the signage project.

First, they can help define land lots and boundaries. They provide wildlife with food and water. They help irrigation and aid in the protection against floods. Through recreational fishing they can be a source of food.

Streams carry nutrients and other materials into rivers and lakes. They eventually feed into to the ocean.

Rivers and streams were the highways in the early days of our country. They provided fresh water for drinking, farming, livestock and transportation for people and goods because there were no decent roads. Settlements often were established adjacent to or near flowing water.

Creeks and streams are essentially the same thing, but creeks are generally smaller than streams.

The three principal streams locally are the Cooper Sandy Creek (sometimes erroneously called Copper Sandy Creek), Chicken Creek and Little River.

Cooper Sandy Creek flows from near Cambridge High School, through Lake Providence in Providence Park and feeds into Little River near Arnold Mill Road, for approximately 1.7 miles. It is entirely within Milton’s city limits.

Chicken Creek, named after a Cherokee Indian family named Chicken

The City of Milton will place 20 road signs on road crossings above 10 streams and creeks over the next few months. The reflecting signs will be 40 inches by 18 inches. Shown holding a smaller early version of the signs at City Hall are, from left, Milton Historical Society Board member Jim Farris and Milton Public Works Director Sara Leaders.

The 1.7-mile-long Cooper Sandy Creek is entirely within the city limits of Milton. Early pioneers often built homes and communities near creeks to take advantage of the benefits provided by the clean flowing water.

who lived near the creek in the 1830s, starts just outside Milton in Forsyth County. It runs through King Lake and along the Milton City Park and Preserve (formerly Milton Country Club) to join Little River near Atlanta National and Capital City golf courses, a distance of 2.5 miles. It is nearly entirely within the city limits and is the longest creek in

Allatoona on the Etowah River, which flows into the Coosa River and then into the Alabama River and the Mobile River into Mobile Bay which terminates in the Gulf.

Streams have state and city buffer zones. Buffers are natural areas adjacent to streams where development and construction are not allowed. Vegetation in the buffers stabilizes streams, provides land and aquatic habitat and reduces runoff. The state buffer starts at the water’s edge and extends 25 feet on land. The city undisturbed buffer begins on land where the state buffer ends and extends for another 25 feet. The city and state cooperate to protect our valuable waterways.

the city.

Both creeks flow into Little River which is a tributary of the Etowah River. Little River begins its 29-milelong journey at Freehome Road in Cherokee County, forms part of the Milton/Cherokee County line and runs roughly parallel to Birmingham Highway. It eventually flows into Lake

“Creeks were vitally important to the area’s early pioneers,” says Milton Historical Society President Jeff Dufresne. “The signage program is a very affordable public service and awareness project where the City of Milton and the Historical Society are outstanding working partners.”

Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

PHOTOS BY: BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

Chicken Creek was named after a Cherokee Indian family named Chicken who lived near the creek in the 1830s. The 2.5-mile-long waterway is the longest creek in Milton.

Think:

Continued from Page 19

fixed rate mortgages is 7.03 percent, and someone is offering 6.50 percent, this is where a “red flag” should come up. Why would someone be at 6.50 percent when the national average is near 7 percent? In most cases, the difference is in the cost to you in the form of points. More points equal lower rates. Higher overall cost also could give you a lower rate but at a cost. In many cases, a full discount point may get you .375 percent or more lower overall rate. But it might take you 18-24 months to break even on that cost, and if you refinance inside that time frame, you might have been better off with the higher rate except from a cash flow perspective.

The other thing to compare are the 800 sections of a cost estimate. These are the only fees that the lender can actually control. Beware of lower fees, when comparing lenders, in any other area of the cost estimate, as these fees are determined by the attorneys, title companies, the State of Georgia, the county you are buying in, taxes and insurance escrows and any HOA fees.

Notice is hereby given that C. Braiun LLC, located in Alpharetta, GA is conducting business under the assumed name Room 808. The business address is 8960 Niblick Drive Alpharetta, GA 30022. The purpose of this notice is to comply with the applicable laws regarding the use of an assumed business name. This DBA registration was filed with the Clerk of the Superior & Magistrate Courts on 1/23/2025.

Dated: 2/14/2025

Chasity Fenderson

Owner, CEO

The bottom line is the lender you choose has no control over those fees, and they will be exactly the same regardless of the lender you choose when you close. But, I will promise you that you will see different “estimates” with varying cost in these fees not included in the 800 section from one lender to another, which makes the process even more confusing. It could be compared to a game of “Liars Poker.”

This is where doing your research on who your loan officer is can be very important. Your experienced loan officers will look up the actual property taxes on a resale and have a very good idea what the homeowner’s insurance might look like. These numbers are important not only to your cash to close but what your “real” payment will be. Some loan officers will give low estimates on these to make their payment look better than it really is. Again, the lender does not determine these things, they are what they are, as verified by the closing attorney.

What I have shown you is that the only thing to really shop when looking for a mortgage is the reputation of the actual loan officer, the reputation of their company, their rate, and their section 800 cost on the Loan Estimate. I am not saying that the lowest

combination of these things should win. However, I am saying that the bigger picture of reputation and these costs are what you should focus on. Remember, don’t be sold, be educated by your lender.

THINK!

D.C. Aiken is vice president, producing production manager for BankSouth Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.

The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of BankSouth Mortgage or its affiliates.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 6:30 p.m., the Alpharetta City Council shall conduct a Public Hearing in order to consider an appeal of the Finance Director’s written decision of Applied Research Associates, Inc.’s Protest of Award under RFP 25-103. The Public Hearing will be held in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers located at 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009. All Alpharetta residents and any other affected and/or interested persons are invited and encouraged to attend.

Chris Lagerbloom, City Administrator

DEATH NOTICES

Wallace Berry, age 90, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on February 11, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel

Robert Kelly, age 80, of Roswell, GA passed away on February 8, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Gregory Lefler, age 73, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on February 15, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Rigg, age 100, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on February 15, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Georgia

Communications and Marketing Manager

NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Communications and Marketing Manager position. The Communications and Marketing Manager is responsible for helping raise awareness of North Fulton Community Charities and its programs and services. One of the primary responsibilities of this role is to create internal and external communications and marketing materials to promote NFCC’s overall mission.

The Manager will manage and update multiple channels including social media, email, websites, newsletters, presentations, and video. Proficiency in WordPress, Microsoft Office, and Canva are required and experience with Salesforce or other CRM and Pardot/Account Engagement a plus.

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

Sawnee EMC is seeking a Warehouse Clerk - Trainee to restock, organize, and distribute materials. Responsible for unloading and verifying incoming shipments, maintaining accurate inventory records, operating a forklift and other heavy equipment, and proficient in Microsoft Office. Requires heavy lifting, high school diploma or equivalency and a valid GA driver’s license. Hours: Availability for alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, February 28, 2025. Apply online: www. sawnee.coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

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

CEO (position in Cumming, GA 30041): Direct the distribution and technical support of HVAC units for commercial use, including controlling and budgeting, technical human resources and training, logistics / customs clearance and reporting.

Must have a Bachelor’s degree or its foreign degree equivalent in law, business administration or a related field and 18 months of experience as a corporate executive responsible for the distribution and technical support of HVAC units for commercial use. Domestic travel required 25% of working time.

Please submit in duplicate your resume and cover letter referencing position #1022 to: Klimor USA Inc., Attn. Carlos Jorge, Regional Sales Manager, 410 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 4245, Cumming, GA 30041; or cjorge@klimor.com. Klimor USA Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Principal Architect, UKG, Inc., Alpharetta, Georgia (Hybrid) Rspnsbl for dvlpng stndrd practcs & rules to trnsfrm & maintn busins data into trustd singl versn of accurate data to facilitate best dcsions end users can make for future of their busins. Will work in prtnrshp w/ busins & cstmrs to ensr qualty, consistncy, & accessblty of all busins data. Req: either (i) BS degree (or equiv foreign degree) in Analytics, Computer Science or closely relatd field & 7 yrs exp as Data Engineer or (ii) MS degree (or equiv foreign degree) in Analytics, Computer Science or closely relatd field & 5 years of pre- or post-MS degree exp as Data Engineer. Hybrid position workng 3 days/week at co’s office in Alpharetta, Georgia, 2 days/week workng from home office. Review full job descr. & reqs. & apply at https://www.ukg.com/about-us/careers under “Principal Architect,” [REF: PRINC011777].

Ryder System, Inc. seeks a Data Analyst II in Alpharetta, GA to work on cutting edge data technology as a key user on Ryder’s Azure Data Lake driving the analytics initiatives. 10% Domestic travel required. Telecommuting permitted. Apply @ https://www.jobpostingtoday.com/ Ref #50478.

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code!

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189

Become a published author. We want to read your book!

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-489-3936

STRUGGLING TO HEAR?

Audien Hearing delivers crystal-clear sound with affordable, invisible hearing aids. Starting at $189! Call Now: 888-760-1015

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

Wesley Financial Group, LLC

Timeshare Cancellation Experts

Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 3/30/25.) Call 1-844-501-3208

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/ day! 1-844-591-7951

We buy houses for cash as is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833

Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No longterm contract, no

Full-time

Bold Realty Services, LLC. Business Development Specialist (Alpharetta, GA) Identify potential clients & business opportunities through mkt research & n/working. Dvlp & implmt strategic sales plans. Collaborate w/ the mktg team to dvlp promotional activities & materials. Bach’s deg in Business Administration, Mktg, or Mgmt, M-F, 40 hrs./wk; Send Resume to Adam Bagci, Owner, Bold Realty Services, LLC, 4605 Davis Farms Dr, Cumming, GA, 30040.

Infor (US), LLC has an opening for a Senior Software Engineer in Alpharetta, GA. Position will develop backend software in IT technology company; Reproduce found issues and resolve them accordingly, and build quality by adding unit test where needed; Develop the feature or delegate the development work to fellow engineers. Telecommuting permitted up to 40%. How to apply: E-mail resume, referencing IN1044, including job history, to careers@infor.com. EOE.

Part-time

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

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, March 7, 2025. Apply online: www.sawnee. coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

SERVICE

DIRECTORY

Tree Services

TREE REMOVAL & BRUSH CLEARING SERVICES

Fully licensed and insured. Call today for a FREE estimate 678-997-3312

OPINION

Lagniappe:

Continued from Page 18

The thing about this, though, is that amidst the excitement of dodging trucks on a road barely wide enough for one car, we manage to miss a turn.

That gets the GPS all excited. It starts to reroute us…

“Go one-tenth of a mile,” the evercheerful voice says, “and turn right.”

Who are we to argue with technology? We don’t know where we’re going anyway, so we turn as directed. But…

“This is not a road,” she says. “This is a sheep trail. Through a field.”

True enough. And it’s getting smaller…and smaller…

“Should we turn around?” she asks.

“Not at all!” I say. “Let’s keep going for a little while!” You see, the secret that you don’t know about me is that I love this kind of thing…exploring unknown roads just to see where they go. But she is less wild about that approach.

“Are you sure?” she says.

“Of course!” I reply helpfully, encouragingly.

And then we come to a gate.

“That,” she observes, bringing the car to a slow stop, “is a gate. It’s blocking our way.” And then, again, “Perhaps we should turn around?”

“Never!” I proclaim. “I shall simply open it!”

“Can we do that?” she asks.

We consult Google, Knower of All Things. Google says that it’s okay to open gates on roads if you close ’em back after you pass.

That’s good enough for me. I open the

car door and hop out and make my way to the gate.

On this side of the gate is us. On the other side of the gate there are sheep. One of them (possibly the Head Sheep) is looking at me.

“Hi, Sheep!” I say, greeting the creature by name. “Sheep” is the universal name of all sheep, at least in my experience, and this one bleats a cheery response which means, in Sheep, “Well, hello to you too!”

I open the gate, and she drives through, and I close the gate behind the car and climb back in. There is still nowhere to turn around. We are, it would appear, committed.

According to the map, we are on a two-track road (“A sheep trail,” she says by way of clarification) that goes upup-up and over the mountain and then down through the copper mines and on to the town of Allihies.

“Are you sure about this?” she asks.

“Of course! See? The map shows it!” I point to a faint line printed on the map, a line much fainter than all the other lines which indicate barely-wide-enough roads. “We are about…here!” I point with my finger, indicating a spot on the page. “See? We’re near the spot where the mapmaker has drawn in sea monsters and penciled in the words ‘ABANDON ALL HOPE, YE WHO ENTER HERE.’ ”

Actually, I made up that last part, but you get the idea.

“We’re just fine!” I add helpfully. “Right, Sheep?”

“Baa-a-a-a-a!”

We inch along. There is mountain on one side and not much of anything on the other. The path, by this point, is barely wide enough for the car, and every

sheep we pass turns its head to watch. They seem to be talking softly among themselves with sidelong glances in our direction.

“I’m really not sure about this,” she says.

“Baa-a-a-a-a!” says another sheep. And the road starts to get steeper. As in much steeper. It’s climbing toward the pass, toward the top of the high ridge. She keeps the car moving…up and up and upward still. For an instant the tires spin on gravel, then grab hold again… still up, steeper, hemmed in between rock and wide-open air…

“Don’t you think we should turn around? Don’t you think we need to find a place to –”

Suddenly, just like that, we are at the top.

And there it is.

The world is instantly silent. She slowly brings the car to a stop, right there in the middle of the road, for there is nowhere else to stop and nowhere else to go. We climb out of the car and just stand there, side by side, dumbstruck by the scene that unrolls itself before us. I follow her gaze. Her eyes are locked on the distance, and beyond that on the water, and beyond even that on adventures and futures and lifetimes yet unknown.

That’s lagniappe. It can hit hard.

She turns and looks at me.

“I think,” she says, “that this may turn out to be my favorite part of this trip.”

We stand there a while longer, just soaking it all in. We don’t need to say a word.

Lagniappe, Ireland style, can be a pretty good thing. Don’t you think?