Forsyth Herald - June 15, 2023

County officials OK supplementary funds for Denmark Library

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Following more than five years of planning, Forsyth County commissioners have approved new construction funding for Denmark Library, the second branch serving residents in the southwestern portion of the county.

At its June 6 work session, the County Commission unanimously approved an additional $280,000 to go toward the costs for construction. The library will be the county’s fifth branch and will be located on Fowler Road between Poole and Fowler Hill roads.

Earlier this year, library staff projected the total cost of the facility at $15.9 million, all but about $5 million for construction. Just under $15 million of the total bill is being funded through state grants, county impact fees, SPLOST VIII revenue and general fund accounts.

Library staff had requested $1 million to cover the remaining construction costs at an April work session, but commissioners were reluctant to grant the sum amid other increased expenses for capital projects and postponed the item.

At the June 6 work session, County Chief Financial Officer Marcus Turk said the new request replaces the previous one and will allow the

See COUNTY, Page 13

Forsyth County Elections Board sets dates, times for polling sites

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — With feedback from more than 600 residents, Forsyth County elections officials voted June 6 to add an extra hour on weekdays for advance voting at five polling sites.

Elections staff had originally recommended polling to conclude most

days at 5 p.m., but Elections Board member Joel Natt suggested amending the window to 6 p.m. to allow citizens more time to leave work to vote.

The County Board of Voter Registrations and Elections approved the times for advance voting for the May 21, 2024, general primary election at its office, the Cumming Recreation and Parks Department, Hampton Park Library, the Midway Park Community

Building and the Sharon Springs Park Community Building.

Each of the five locations will be open on weekdays from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends May 6-11 and May 13-17, with no advance voting on May 12. Voting at the Registrations and Elections Office will also take place April 29-May 5 and at

See VOTING, Page 12

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Members of the Forsyth County Board of Voter Registrations and Elections discuss advance voting dates, times and locations for the 2024 election cycle at a meeting June 6. The board agreed to add an additional hour to weekday times for advance voting.

POLICE BLOTTER

Cumming man assaulted in roundabout robbery

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A Cumming man reported he was assaulted and robbed of his cellphone May 29 while driving through a roundabout at Hopewell and Hubbard Town roads.

The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. when an SUV suddenly stopped in front of him, a man got out, approached his car, then opened his door and began yelling. The man told deputies he did not know the suspect, but he appeared intoxicated or mistook him for someone else.

hotel because they were being evicted, the report states. He said he had appealed the eviction to allow his family more time to remove their belongings, which is when the alleged burglaries occurred.

The case is still ongoing.

Deputies charge driver with drug possession

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested a Sugar Hill man May 29 after reportedly finding methamphetamine inside a “Stoner Patch Dummies” candy wrapper during a traffic stop.

Deputies reported stopping a vehicle on Ga. 400 that was reported to have no valid insurance.

man May 30 for allegedly destroying furniture and decorations in his home during a domestic incident.

A woman told deputies May 28 her husband Bailey Mitchell, 61, had gotten angry with her and broke furniture, cooking pots and vases in their house. Deputies reported observing the broken vase and pots, as well as a lamp that had been knocked over, a shattered glass bedside table and a broken iPhone that belonged to the wife.

Deputies also reported locating a large gun safe, a lever action rifle and large amounts of ammunition on the safe.

Mitchell was charged with felony criminal damage to property in the second degree.

Pregnant library worker assaulted in Alpharetta

For information about

in the Forsyth 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.

The suspect then allegedly hit the man’s cheek with the back of his hand, grabbed his iPhone from his lap and fled the scene toward Jot Em Down Road. The victim then drove to his brother’s house to contact the Sheriff’s Office, the report states.

Roughly an hour later, deputies reported finding the victim’s phone at Hopewell Road and Serenity Park Drive. The device was missing its case and was broken.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Couple reports burglary for second time in week

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — For the second time in as many weeks, a Forsyth County couple reported their home on Hightower Circle had been burglarized.

The latest incident occurred May 30, when the husband returned to the residence and noticed the front and side doors were open, and two toolboxes, each valued a $100, were missing. A wash basin, valued at $150, was damaged.

The husband said he and his family had been staying in an extended stay

When the driver, Brian Smith, 41, provided his driver’s license, deputies reported noticing a small, colorful baggie, which Smith said were Sour Patch Kids that he had given his son earlier.

Deputies said Smith attempted to conceal the baggie, but he eventually handed it over. The label read “Stoner Patch Dummies” and the words “sour,” “sweet” and “stoned.” Deputies reported the label also read 500 mg and contained cannabis in the ingredients.

Upon closer inspection deputies reported observing a white, crystalline substance inside the packaging that tested positive for methamphetamine. The report states deputies also found a plastic tube Smith admitted to using to snort the drug.

Smith was charged with felony possession of methamphetamine and misdemeanor possession of drug-related objects and failure to maintain insurance.

He is being held at the Forsyth County Jail with bond set at $12,270.

Man charged with felony for allegedly trashing home

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested a Cumming

ALPHARETTA, Ga. —Alpharetta police have arrested a 29-year-old Duluth man who allegedly attacked two Alpharetta library employees, including a pregnant woman, during a recent children’s event.

Officers responded to the Alpharetta Library, 10 Park Plaza in Alpharetta, at about 4 p.m. June 1, after receiving 911 calls reporting that two people were injured and a suspect had been apprehended by witnesses.

Police were told the two victims were working outside the library at a children’s event when a man became violent after library employees moved his large “hiking type” backpack out of the way of the library’s front doors.

Both victims were struck in the face and head, and one of the victims, a pregnant female was pushed back against the library’s outside wall.

Incident reports said an officer was nearby during the incident and was able to take the alleged attacker into custody.

Police later learned the suspect had previously been criminally trespassed from other areas of the city. He was charged with battery on a pregnant female and battery, then transported to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

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.

Forsyth County agencies participate in emergency preparedness review

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County departments and officials participated in a training session May 31 to review safety guidelines for residents in the event of emergencies.

The County Sheriff’s Office, E-911 Center and Engineering, Fire and Public Facilities departments attended the session hosted by the Emergency Management Agency at its Operations Center.

The agency provides residents guidelines on supply kits, inclement weather, public health, disasters and safety emergencies. Director Tom Cisco said the department cooperates with other county offices and community partners to manage safety and responses.

“Making sure that you and your family are prepared for any emergency event is just as important as the planning efforts that occur internally here,” Cisco said. “Hopefully the events we prepare for never occur in our community, but if they do, we are continuously preparing to best respond.”

Partner agencies Sawnee EMC, Northside Hospital, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Georgia Power also attended the session. County residents can find more information on emergency readiness at forsythco.com/Departments-Offices/ Emergency-Management-Agency/ Preparation.

— Shelby Israel

Forsyth County Family YMCA plans Juneteenth celebration

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Family YMCA is hosting a block party featuring food trucks, games and a guest speaker to commemorate Juneteenth at 6050 Y Street from 5-8 p.m. June 19.

The free outdoor event will include

music, vendors, a children’s area and free parking. University of North Georgia associate professor and anthropological researcher Lauren Johnson will speak about the history of Juneteenth.

— Shelby Israel

*The Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 5.00% APY is available for 17-month Certificates of Deposit (CDs) and 4.00% APY is available for 7-month CDs. APY is accurate as of 6/5/2023. This is a limited-time offer which may be discontinued at any time. APY applies to initial term only. CD automatically renews for another 17 month or 7 month term at rates in effect at that time. Interest compounded daily. The 7-month CD with No Penalty Feature allows a no-penalty withdrawal prior to the initial maturity. Penalty for early withdrawal for all subsequent maturities. The 17-month CD has a penalty for early withdrawal after opening. Fees could reduce earnings. Other rates and terms are available. See bank for details. Rates not available for collateralized deposits. All accounts subject to approval.

**To obtain the promotional annual percentage yield (APY) listed, consumer customers must be qualified for relationship program benefits through Synovus Plus, Synovus Inspire or Synovus Private Wealth.

$10,000 in new funds not currently on deposit with Synovus required.

2 No-Penalty Feature only. $10,000 in new or existing Synovus funds required.

FORSYTH COUNTY/PROVIDED

Forsyth County emergency agencies and officials review safety guidelines at a training session at the County Emergency Operations Center May 31.

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Police Department has arrested a juvenile suspect in a shooting at the North Point Mall Carnival that left two women injured June 7.

The City Public Safety Department said the suspect turned himself in to police June 9. He is facing charges of seconddegree cruelty to children, possession of a firearm during commission of a felony, two counts of reckless conduct, possession of a firearm by a person under the age of 18 and tampering with evidence.

The suspect’s identity is being withheld

due to his age.

Officials said they think the shooting was an accident, and the suspect has known relationships with the two young adult victims.

Detectives were unable to locate the suspect at the scene but found a handgun while canvassing the area. The female victims were transported to an area hospital.

Youth surrenders to authorities in North Point carnival shooting Support

Public Safety officials consider the incident to be isolated, and there is no threat to Alpharetta residents and visitors.

— Shelby Israel

5 Haiphong locale

6 Aquatic plant

7 ___ Cayes, Haiti

8 Sir Walter, for one

9 Fishing

See solution Page 23

Head & heart guide director at Autrey Mill wildlife clinic

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Jess Legato used to perform medical treatment for injured wildlife at the front desk of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve’s Visitor Center.

But with a new wildlife rehabilitation clinic onsite, there’s ample space to care for and temporarily house about 20 animals.

“I’ve been trying to build it and get this thing going for two years,” said Legato, Autrey Mill’s education program manager and clinic director.

Legato is a spunky, tenacious 26-year-old with dyed hair and a The Cure T-shirt, and she has a lot of know-how. There’s a high population of wildlife in the Piedmont region of Georgia, she said, because of its environmental diversity.

“The thing about Johns Creek being fairly new — there’s a lot of development. There’s a lot of habitat fragmentation,” Legato said. “You get a lot of wildlife in yards … a lot of wildlife all over, and people don’t know what to do.”

In early Autrey Mill times, Legato said the clinic space — attached to an old barn — was a classroom, but eventually became a place for storage.

“We have a lot of animals that are all rinky-dink, and need a lot of help and health stuff. They need their own safe space,” Legato said. “So, I started fighting to take this over as a safe space for them.”

To quote a poem

The clinic, the first of its kind in Johns Creek, received a baby opossum on its opening day in late May. The animal’s successful release, on May 23, was posted on the bulletin board outside the clinic doors.

Legato has also taken in two cottontails, which are usually less successful cases, and two fawns. For people who have a wild animal in need of services, they can call or email Legato. She will either coach them through the process of gathering them for transport, or she can make the trip on-site.

“Our end-all, be-all goal is we want them back in the wild,” she said. “We do not want them to stay in captivity.”

There’s a separate outdoor fence area for prerelease, where animals can re-learn natural skills of foraging or hunting. One of the fawns had been transferred that morning, after staff bottle-fed it and helped it learn to walk.

“It did the whole Bambi thing,” Legato said, laughing.

Only one animal was left in the clinic, an ambassador duck prone to respiratory infection. The clinic serves Autrey Mill’s ambassadors, too, which are permanent fixtures used to educate the public. There’s more than 30, including goats, rabbits, chickens and various reptiles.

Legato said there was some hesitancy, or pushback, on clinic plans because a lot of people don’t understand why a wildlife rehab matters. She often refers them to a poem, “Birdfoot’s Grampa” by Joseph Bruchac, laminated and posted on the clinic door.

“Just because it’s one life, doesn’t mean it deserves to suffer,” Legato said. “If you can make a difference, do it.”

Team effort

Originally from Florida, Legato started volunteering at exotic rescues at a young age, working with animals like giant pythons and crocodiles. She wanted to go to college for zoology. But when Legato’s mom passed away when she was 18, she began living with an aunt who didn’t see it as a successful career field.

“I was like, ‘Alright, how am I going to work around this to do what I want to do?’” Legato said.

She decided to get her bachelor’s in science education at Georgia State University, pouring over expensive zoology books to teach herself. Legato eventually went on to earn an international certification in wildlife rehabilitation, which hangs above the clinic door next to her clinic licensure.

She’s now on her way to earning her master’s degree in wildlife biology.

A veterinarian sponsor is on call for more complicated situations, or if euthanasia is needed. But Legato also sees tremendous help from a handful of interns, typically a senior in high school or in college, who work within a tiered system.

In addition to all the intensive paperwork that comes along with opening a wildlife clinic at a nonprofit, Legato had been training her interns the past two years in wildlife rehabilitation.

To familiarize interns with animal anatomy, some training involved work with cadavers, like squirrels and mice. The most experienced can administer medications, do intramuscular or subcutaneous injections and assess in a physical examination.

“They’re literally like my kids,” Legato said. “They’re like, ‘You’re my dad.’”

Jess Legato, education program manager at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, stands by an ambassador duck in the new wildlife rehabilitation clinic. Opened in late May, the clinic can house up to 20 animals.

JESS LEGATO/PROVIDED Jess Legato, education program manager and clinic director at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, nurses a baby fawn.

Woman falls to her death walking unauthorized trail

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is pushing for greater trail safety after a Sandy Springs woman fell 20 feet to her death April 18 walking an unauthorized trail at Vickery Creek.

Patricia Swartz, 46, was walking with her two dogs when she went down a popular “social trail” along Vickery Creek, then fell and hit her head.

The unauthorized path is not one of the marked trails at Vickery Creek, and it has many narrow ledges, according to officials at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

“The topography is so steep you’re essentially walking along a cliff,” said Beth Wheeler, chief of Planning, Resources and Education.

The Roswell Fire Department responded to the emergency call, but the incident falls under national park jurisdiction. Now, Wheeler said the team is working on how to prevent more accidents on the so-called “social trails.”

Park rangers have already set up signs around the trail entrance to stop people from walking the path and have

added some small debris to make the unauthorized trail less visible. Visitors kept using the path.

Now, a volunteer team has blocked off the area with large debris and trail brush to completely “close the trail visually.” Park staff have also added signs saying the trail is “closed for resource management,” which Wheeler hopes visitors will be more likely to heed.

“When you walk into the woods and see a trail, it’s hard to convince people it’s not a trail,” Wheeler said.

The problem reaches beyond the narrow terrain at Vickery Creek, though.

“We struggle with this issue throughout the units of the park, because folks are used to walking where they usually walk,” Wheeler said.

The 48-mile stretch of river sees about 3.5 million visitors a year, according to Wheeler, making the area a popular trail destination. The heavy foot traffic on the trails pushes visitors to create their own paths—which are not planned or safe.

“I do think maybe there’s a misunderstanding about the dangers of it,” Wheeler said.

The National Park Service said that over time, the trails can end up looking like official trails, but the unofficial paths can have negative impacts on the area’s flora and fauna. They can also lead to “confusing locations” where people get lost and exposed to unknown hazards and dangerous conditions.

Wheeler said the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area team just completed its Comprehensive Trails Management Plan, which will help with sustainability and management across trail planning for the next 20 years. It will also add 32 miles of trail, creating a 99-mile trail system. The National Park Service announced the final approval of the plan in January.

“We’re putting a lot of effort into this trail management,” Wheeler said. “We have a real strategy to close those trails, but also to make the trails more enjoyable.”

After the accident, Wheeler said the recreation area’s safety team visited the Vickery Creek location with Roswell’s fire and police staff to make initial safety recommendations.

“They walked with some of the rangers to identify some of the more

hazard-prone areas and discuss with the rangers to figure out how to mitigate some issues,” Roswell Fire Department Public Information Officer Chad Miller said.

Miller said the city’s public safety teams have a “pretty unique” relationship with the National Park Service. Emergency calls from the area’s national parks are dispatched through the Roswell communications center.

“Not only do we have communications together, but we also work well together,” Miller said.

That relationship allowed for the team to visit the Vickery Creek location after the incident to provide input to park rangers. Together, the group decided on increased debris to block the unauthorized trail path.

The trail review also helped firefighters get familiarized with the trails, which can help response times in emergency situations.

Miller said the fire department’s push is largely the same as the National Park Service, encouraging residents and visitors to stay on the trails for safety reasons, wearing life jackets when necessary and keeping the environment intact.

Farm offers mindfulness with mix of animals, yoga

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — It’s hard to do yoga’s Downward Facing Dog with a goat on your back or rise into Mountain Pose with a sloth hanging on your shoulders and a pig snuffling at your ankles.

But for people at Love GOGA in Milton, mixing cute, friendly farm animals with yoga is a recipe for increased mindfulness, health and self-care.

Launched in 2017 by Milton resident Cathi Huff, Love GOGA has grown into a successful yoga and wellness business, with thousands of raving fans who sell out nearly every event the business holds each month.

Huff said everything started for Love GOGA when her kids left for college and she wanted to do something using her background in holistic health and her lifelong dream of owning a farm, where she could learn to ride horses.

So, Huff and her family bought a farm and started their animal family with a retired racehorse named Bronx, who once raced under the name “Atlantis Dream” and inspired their name for the property — the Atlantis Dream Farm. Since then, goats, dogs, cats, llamas, pigs and a herd of other animals have joined them there.

“We bought the property seven years ago, and Bronx moved to the backyard, then he started getting

buddies,” Huff said.

From the very beginning, Love GOGA’s farm animal yoga classes and events blew up thanks to the internet and TV, leading to over 3,000 hits a week on their website and more than 125 people a week visiting the farm to do yoga.

Marketing Manager Danielle Bartling said Huff’s vision came to life in an organic, effortless way because people really seem to understand what she wanted to share.

“She just combined her love for animals and holistic wellness and mindfulness … it was just like alchemy, no one had really done it that way before,” Bartling said.

But Huff said the company’s true mission of wellness and health didn’t come into focus until therapists and private schools started calling, wanting to hire them for private events.

“We realized that it was more than just goat yoga,” she said. “The third year is really when it became crystal clear to me that this was my purpose.”

Bartling said the sessions’ uniqueness draws people in, even people who practice yoga on a daily basis.

“We take people out of their routine; you’re not going to do farm animal yoga every single day, but you come out to Halcyon on a Saturday, you’re surrounded by animals …

See YOGA, Page 9

PHOTOS BY LOVE GOGA/PROVIDED

Milton resident Cathi Huff founded Love GOGA farm animal yoga at her farm in 2017 after her kids went off to college. Since then, the company has grown into a wildly popular health and wellness business, with fans throughout North Georgia.

During Love GOGA farm animal yoga events, participants will be surrounded by fluffy, friendly animals who love to be held, photographed and petted. Goats, chickens, cows and llamas are all regulars at their events.

“The animals help ground you to the moment … you’re really just there with them.”

DANIELLE BARTLING, Marketing manager, Love

GOGA

Yoga:

Continued from Page 8

they’re silly, they’re so cute,” Bartling said. “The animals help ground you to the moment … you’re really just there with them.”

And, ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, people seem to need grounding more than ever, she said.

“People are starving for personal attention and self-care and compassion for themselves,” he said. “The goal for us is to get it to as many people as possible because it’s helped us so much.”

Today Huff and her staff have expanded their lineup to include a partnership with North Georgia Wildlife Park in Cleveland, Ga., and Halcyon in Forsyth County. Those events, GOGA in the Wild and Halcyon Farm Animal Yoga, are almost always fully booked.

These are bolstered by special programs, like an event they recently had with the City of Milton that featured a sloth, capybara and fennec fox.

To learn more about Love GOGA events and Mindful Seeds, the business’s “happiness project” that will begin teaching mindfulness at the farm in July, visit lovegoga.com/

City of Johns Creek to mark Juneteenth with special events

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — To celebrate Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of the country’s enslaved African Americans, Johns Creek is hosting a special event at Newtown Park June 17.

The celebration will run from 3-9 p.m. at the Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater. Performances include anthems, a gospel choir, storytelling, violin, a student step routine, rap and poem performance, spoken word and jazz.

There will be a fish fry, barbecue and Italian ice, as well as vendors selling crafts and other products. The Johns Creek Arts Center will be on-site with crafts for kids and face painting. The event is set to have a Book Fair as well, filled with local African American authors.

The mayor is set to welcome visitors at 3:20 p.m.

“I am grateful to the team of resident volunteers that have collaborated with the city staff to plan this event,” Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry said. “I am looking forward to celebrating the freedom, unity and peace that this important event in American history symbolizes.”

More than 30 volunteers, with varying experiences and backgrounds, have spent the last few months on the event’s planning committee. Brian Weaver, committee member and former Johns Creek councilman, shared his excitement for the event.

“It’s part of our heritage,” Weaver said. “It shows the history of the Black American culture, where it all started.”

Friends of Bulloch Hall hosts annual fundraiser

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Organizers

at the June 10 Magnolia Ball, hosted at Dunwoody Country Club said the 38th annual fundraiser brought in about $85,000 to help preserve and restore Roswell’s Bulloch Hall.

The event, hosted by nonprofit the Friends of Bulloch Hall, raises funds every year to pay off projects at Bulloch Hall, a historic home built in 1839 that is on the Nation-

al Register of Historic places. This year, the organization targeted funds for plumbing, furniture, floor repairs and general cleaning.

Friends of Bulloch also honored master carpenter Geoff Lambousis, who spent 30 years reconstructing Bulloch Hall and its pavilion, terrace, gazebo and pergola.

At the black-tie ball, attendees raised money by buying tickets and participating in a silent and live auction. Bids ranged from $50 to $3,000 on items from jewelry to inclusive vacations.

Hounds for Habitat schedules fundraiser for June 17

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Sponsored by Women Build of the North Central Georgia chapter of Habitat for Humanity, Hounds for Habitat is a fundraiser to help construct homes for worthy families.

The event will be held at Newtown

Park on June 17 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and is open to the public. Those who register will receive a T-shirt and gifts along with the ability to enter their dog in one of three contests. Categories include: best dressed; funniest; and look-alike.

There will be music, refreshments for sale, a silent auction, giveaways, a bake sale and participation by local businesses. There will also be a Johns Creek K9 Police demonstration. Organizers say visitors should bring cash to make transactions simple.

For questions, call Carey Sperry at 470-494-3970 or email support@ cleaninvogue.com.

Habitat for Humanity is grateful to receive support from the Johns Creek Police Department and the Johns Creek Veterans Association.

PHOTOS BY DELANEY TARR/APPEN MEDIA

ALIVE IN ROSWELL

What: Alive in Roswell is a free familyfriendly monthly festival held every third Thursday evening from April through October, featuring music, food trucks, hundreds of interactive vendors. It also sees participation from the many surrounding boutiques, small businesses and restaurants. Free regular trolley service connects the free parking at Roswell City Hall and Woodstock Park to the event. Dogs are allowed at Alive in Roswell, but please bring them on a leash and clean up any deposits from your baby. Animals are not allowed on the free trolley.

When: Thursday, June 15, 5-9 p.m.

Where: Canton Street & Roswell

Antique and Interiors lot, Roswell

More info: aliveinroswell.com

SUNDOWN SOCIAL

What: Happening on select Thursdays, Sundown Social is a relaxed neighborhood gathering with live music and signature cocktails. This event will feature Bitsyland, a band that features a variety of string instruments. There will also be food trucks.

When: Thursday, June 15, 5:30 p.m.

Where: City Green, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

OPOSSUM BREAKFAST

What: Rise and shine with Chattahoochee Nature Center and one of its most popular resident animals. Enjoy a light breakfast alongside an opossum, and chat with wildlife staff about how they care for these unique animals. Admission to CNC is included, so be sure to stick around and enjoy the nature center grounds afterwards.

When: Friday, June 16, 8 a.m.-9a.m.

Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Rd, Roswell

Cost: $20 for general public, $10 for CNC members

More info: chattnaturecenter.org

CITY GREEN LIVE: ANDERSON EAST

What: Anderson East is a Nashvillebased singer-songwriter whose

TRAILS & ALES - BIKE RIDE

What: The adventure will begin at Preston Ridge Community Center for social activities and educational bike instructions on safety. Grab your bike and enjoy the 20-mile trail as a group experience or on your own. End your bike ride at Jekyll Brewery off Marconi and stay after for a post-trail social.

When: Saturday, June 17, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Where: Preston Ridge Community Center, 3655 Preston Ridge Road, Alpharetta

More info: alpharetta.ga.us

vintage voice is also decidedly fresh. East’s influences meld seamlessly: R&B grooves, gospelblues and blasting brass. Known for his magnetic live shows, East has performed sold-out shows worldwide. The opening band is Slow Parade.

When: Friday, June 16, 7:30 p.m.

Where: City Green, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

Cost: Lawn seating is free; reserved tables are $60-90

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

MILTON FARMERS MARKET

What: Every Saturday morning until Oct. 28, more than 30 vendors set up shop around Milton City Hall with fresh produce, fresh meat, sweets, coffee and tea, flowers, soaps, jewelry and more.

When: Saturday, June 17, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Where: Milton City Hall plaza, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton More info: facebook.com/ miltongafarmersmarket

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT!

It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.

TRAILS & ALES - BIKE RIDE

What: The adventure will begin at Preston Ridge Community Center for social activities and educational bike instructions on safety. Grab your bike and enjoy the 20-mile trail as a group experience or on your own. End your bike ride at Jekyll Brewery off Marconi and stay after for a post-trail social.

When: Saturday, June 17, 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m.

Where: Preston Ridge Community Center, 3655 Preston Ridge Road, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

What: This event is a celebration of the day that slavery truly came to end within the U.S., and the City of Johns Creek wants to join with the community to celebrate this great achievement. There will be music, food trucks and family fun.

When: Saturday, June 17, 3-9 p.m.

Where: Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek

More info: johnscreekga.gov

follow these easy

ACT1 THEATER PRESENTS ‘BIG FISH’

What: Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, the Broadway musical “Big Fish” tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest and then some. Edward’s incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him — most of all, his devoted wife Sandra. But their son Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to find the truth behind his father’s epic tales.

When: Up to June 18, times vary

Where: Act1 Theater, 180 Academy Street, Alpharetta

More info: act1theater.org

MEAD TASTING

What: A new event at Dunwoody Nature Center, this mead taste experience will include trying three different types of mead from Georgia’s first meadery, Monks Meadery. One drink ticket will also be included in the cost of entry. The mead tasting is for adults 21 and over. Anyone under the age of 21 is free.

When: Friday, June 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Dunwoody Nature Center, 5343 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody

Cost: $25 for members, $40 for nonmembers

More info: dunwoodynature.org

BLOOM YOUR SELF: INTUITIVE PAINTING WORKSHOP

What: Join award-winning European artist Diana Toma in exploring the art of intuitive painting. This workshop is about letting go of inhibitions and plunging into your own inner creative volcano while collaborating with other artists. All levels are welcome. Paint supplies are included in the $20 materials fee payable to the instructor at the workshop. Just bring two acrylic brushes and a canvas 36 inches x 48 inches or larger.

When: Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Where: Spruill Center for the Arts, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody Cost: $155

More info: spruillarts.org

Voting:

Continued from Page 1

the Cumming Recreation and Parks Department April 29-May 4.

The hours also apply to next year’s presidential preference election March 12 and the general election Nov. 5, as well as any potential primary and general election runoffs with locations and dates subject to change.

Early voting for the presidential preference race will take place Feb. 19-25 at the Elections Office and Feb. 26-March 2 and March 4-8 at Hampton Park Library, Sharon Springs Park, Midway Park and the Elections Office.

Advance voting for the 2024 general election will run Oct. 14-26 and Oct. 28-Nov. 1 at all five locations, with the exception of Oct. 20 voting to be at the Elections Office only.

Forsyth County’s 177,988 registered voters will elect three county commissioners, three School Board members and a sheriff among other local officials on the ballot in 2024.

Prior to the June 6 meeting, county elections staff had launched an online survey from May 10-June 1 to allow residents to comment on the dates, times and locations.

Many respondents were pleased with the work of poll workers and elections staff but requested more time for advance voting, citing convenience and time constraints.

Speaking at the meeting, resident Becky Woomer said her niece, a University of Georgia student, had to miss classes to vote, and accessibility and consistency are critical.

“I just think that in cultivating faith and trust in voting in our county, we need maximum weekend voting [if] possible, and we need polling place hours to extend after peo -

ple’s workday,” Woomer said. “We need young voters to think, ‘Okay, I can vote. It's easy to vote. Voting is the right thing to do,’ not, ‘This is tricky. It won't fit in my schedule. It's not

something that I can consistently be a part of.’”

Some respondents, however, called for fewer early voting hours.

Resident James Heminger, a former

poll worker, said many voters are not aware of elections until they see signage, and a prolonged advance voting period can lead to procrastination among voters.

ILLUSTRATION BY: DIONNA WILLIAMS/APPEN MEDIA

Advance voting for the 2024 general primary election will take place from 8

weekdays and 8

weekends at five polling places across Forsyth County.

One shot at eating from the public trough

A few years ago, in a momentary lapse of any semblance of good sense, I entered a political fray and ran for a seat on the local school board. I tossed my Stetson into the ring. It got stomped and tattered.

I finished a distant third in a three-horse race. I lost to a woman who was a seventime incumbent and a gentleman who I swear, really liked the points I made during a recorded debate. I know this because every time the moderator asked this fellow a question, his response was, I swear: “I agree with what Mike just said.”

The winner lapped both of us, getting nearly 2,300 votes. I got 511 and Mr. Agreeable got around 900.

How do I remember that vote tally? It’s a legitimate question due to that meager vote total being permanently etched into my brain.

Continued from Page 1

library system to sign the contract for the facility using contingency funds the county had reserved during the 2023 fiscal year.

In other matters at the meeting, commissioners approved a number of community improvements, including a $2.2 million grant to renovate Bennett Park with a $10.2 million match.

The park, the county’s first to open in 1978, was earmarked for septic and access improvements by the Parks and Recreation Department in 2021, and commissioners approved a revised master plan for restroom areas, new ballfields, pavilions, a trail system and a community building that year.

Commissioners also voted to approve an additional $75,000 for the second phase of the Big Creek Greenway project. The funding will repair boards between the Fowler Park and Union Hill trailheads that have begun curling in the deck due to overflow from the river.

The Board of Commissioners also authorized the County Sheriff’s Office to apply for a $15,000 state Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Violence Reduction Microgrant aimed at reducing gun and gang violence.

According to 2021 FBI statistics, Sheriff’s Office deputies reported 126 incidents of violent crime in the county, a less than 1 percent increase from 2020.

Friends had a great time calling me “Senator” or “Your Honor.” The worst insult came when these so-called friends took to calling me “Mr. 511.” As you can tell, I didn’t have friends who were very politically savvy. I made a point of calling them out on the incorrect moniker they had hung on me.

“You should actually be calling me Mr. 510,” I chastised them. “We need to keep this accurate. The correct number was 510 since I voted for myself.”

More guffaws as I hung up my political aspirations forever, comfortable with my brief foray into politics.

I learned that it’s tough to beat an incumbent. Why? Because they know how to win an election. When the moderator told the candidates we could ask questions of one another, I almost had to get a new shirt. I was salivating buckets.

I asked the wily, elderly candidate how she was going to be as effective in her seventh stint as she was earlier in her tenure as a public servant? An innocent inquiry, one that might give me a chance.

And just that quickly, I had no chance.

With tears in her eyes, about all I remember her saying was: “I promised myself I wouldn’t cry…” Then she cried while explaining all she had done and was going to do, even though she had been a bit distracted with life events that got in the way.

I sat there with her supporters, my supporters, the janitor wanting to go home, family friends and everyone else shooting eye-lasers at me.

I was the beast who made this sweet elderly lady cry buckets. Forget about winning the election. At that moment it would have been a victory to get to my car without being lynched.

The whole experience was a bucket list item that would be forever put away. I remember waking up the day after the election feeling quite good.

“Holy schnikies! You mean there were actually 510 politically astute Forsyth County residents who pulled a lever for a guy who ran on a platform of getting

school started after Labor Day instead of early August.

For the life of me, I don’t understand how anyone would want to get elected then stay there for what seems like forever.

Can you imagine Junior asking Dad: “Nathan’s daddy is a policeman, Katie’s mom is a nurse. What do you do for a living?”

If Dad answers he’s a politician, look out. Let him explain what he actually does. I can help out.

If he’s an incumbent his answer should be: “I take other people’s money and make it disappear.”

Junior would have a lightbulb go off. “So you’re a magician?”

If Dad was honest, he’d answer: “No son. I win elections.”

Mike Tasos has lived in Forsyth County for more than 30 years. He’s an American by birth and considers himself a Southerner by the grace of God. He can be reached at miketasos55@gmail.com.

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners approves construction funding for Denmark Library at a work session June 6. Once built, the library will serve as the Forsyth County Public Library’s second location in Commission District 3.

The FBI notes crimes reported through the National Incident-Based Reporting System are not necessarily reflective of all crimes that occur, and the data adopts a hierarchy rule that requires only the most serious offense in a case be counted.

The FBI defines the seriousness of a violent crime in descending order from homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assault.

The County Commission will formalize the funding approved at an upcoming meeting.

Commissioners also recognized the County Finance Department for receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. County Manager David McKee said 2023 marks the 21st year the department was awarded.

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

MIKE TASOS

Columnist

Hembree Farm is a historic work in progress

Old homes, really old homes like nearly 190 years old, hold a special attraction for a modest group of homeowners. For them an old, possibly dilapidated house restored and reborn through hard work backed up with research, provides unique joys. A home that is historic because of its era and architecture puts such people in contact with the ages and can offer a unique lifestyle.

Such is the situation of Jared and Brandy Kirschner, owners of the historic Hembree Farm in Roswell. In the early 1830s, Amariah Hembree (1781-1855) purchased 640 acres formerly occupied by Cherokee Indians. He and his son Elihu Minton Hembree (1812-1873) and his carpenter brother, James Hembree Jr. (17901867), built the house somewhere between 1833 and 1835. It was continuously occupied by eight generations of Hembrees. The land was subdivided over time until 2007 when the final acre and the farmhouse and associated out buildings were donated by Hembree family heir Carmen Ford to the Roswell Historical Society, which made the property available for sale through a partnership with the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation. A rehabilitation agreement and a conservation easement keep the Georgia Trust involved with the property in perpetuity.

The Kirschners are not strangers to home improvement, having renovated several homes previously. In addition, Brandy is an independent TV producer who identifies and qualifies historic homes throughout the country for TV shows such as HGTV’s “Home Town Takeover” and “We Bought a Dump,” and Magnolia Network’s “In With the Old.” However, this is their first historic home restoration and preservation. They purchased the property in 2022. Their goal is to bring back as much of the original state of the home as they can. The rebirth of a historic home presents many unique challenges not associated with modern construction. “Everything is crooked at the beginning.” says Jared.

The Kirschners do much of the hard work themselves on weekends and after work with the active involvement of Brandy’s mother Yvonne Howell, who has loved history since she was a child. Yvonne is a docent at the recently opened Roswell Historical Society’s History Museum. When I visited the property recently, Yvonne was busy scraping layers of paint off an old door.

A project of this magnitude requires a team of dedicated and knowledgeable people to assure compliance with cur -

rent building codes while being true to the home’s historic roots. The City of Roswell, The Roswell Historical Society and The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation have provided major support says Jared, senior vice president at Engine Shop, an experiential marketing firm. Landmark Preservation LLC of Savannah has provided consulting services at this early stage but can also help with preservation carpentry, window repair and other precise needs. Professional contractors are involved when necessary.

Ben Sutton, Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation Director of Preservation, says “We are thrilled with the care and effort that the Kirschners are putting into the property to preserve it for future generations.” Sutton refers to the house as a “vernacular home,” built without the benefit of an architect, an approach common in Georgia’s early rural history. He notes that there were six bidders for the property.

See MEYERS, Page 15

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROSWELL HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Hembree Farm in Roswell is approximately 190 years old and is one of the oldest homes in North Georgia. It is undergoing a major restoration by new owners Brandy and Jared Kirschner. Here is the farmhouse before restoration began and before the house was moved 500 feet to make room for some new homes.

BOB MEYERS Columnist

Members of the Hembree family are shown in front of the farmhouse. In the early 1830s, the family settled on 640 acres on land previously owned by the Cherokee.

Meyers:

Continued from Page 14

Judy Meer, president of the Roswell Historical Society, believes that the current arrangement is the “perfect ending to preserving the farm. It turned out just the way it should have,” she says.

A great deal is known about the modifications to the original house thanks to a study by preservation consultant Laura Drummond commissioned by the Roswell Historical Society in 2009. The house has been added to by successive Hembree family occupants from its original configuration “as an approximately 32’ 4” long by 16 1/2’ wide hall-parlor farmhouse with two rooms and a 10’ deep front porch.” Its current dimensions are 41’ long by 48’ 5” wide with five rooms. In November 2007, the house was moved 500 feet from its location on Hembree Road to its current site to make room for construction of several new homes. The brick chimneys were removed for the move, and they will be replaced using salvaged original bricks.

As part of the rehabilitation, the Kirschners will install new plumbing, a kitchen and a modern bathroom. They will also leave exposed a unique feature of the house, one of two adjustable metal braces found in the attic that make it possible to make adjustments to the structure if necessary. They have already removed several layers of gypsum and other wall coverings to expose the original tongue and groove wood walls.

Of historical note is that The Lebanon Baptist Church in Roswell was organized on the farm. Amariah Hembree, his family, and 13 other Christians met in the Hembree home on July 16, 1836, and organized the church. It was the first church in the area to welcome Black members. Another historical note, Elihu Hembree’s grave is located on the property. According to Find a Grave 20 Hembree family members are buried in the Lebanon Church cemetery.

The property includes a separate outdoor open hearth kitchen and two corn cribs. The three structures will require considerable restoration which will be done once the house is finished. Yvonne Howell has given historical cooking demonstrations at the Tullie Smith House at the Atlanta History Center and looks forward to using the outdoor kitchen to stimulate interest in history, especially among young people.

Those interested in monitoring the restoration process can follow along on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ woah_livin_on_a_prairie/.

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.

PHOTO BY JASON GETZ

Jared and Brandy Kirschner, new owners of the Hembree Farm in Roswell are committed to the restoration and preservation of this local historic treasure. They plan to involve the community in activities of the property as part of their commitment to the area.

Hembree Farm is undergoing extensive restoration by Brandy and Jared Kirschner who purchased the house in 2022. They plan to preserve the historic elements of the property as much as possible. Brandy’s mother, Yvonne Howell, a docent at the new Roswell History Museum in the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, will occupy the house. Also shown is the adjacent open hearth kitchen. Once restored, Howell will use the kitchen to host demonstrations and classes in historic cooking. Howell has given similar demonstrations at the Tullie Smith House at the Atlanta History Center.

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

An oddity of the property is a single grave which is the final resting place of Elihu Hembree, son of the property’s original settler, Amariah Hembree. Elihu helped build the farmhouse. He died in 1873.

Understanding the ground beneath your feet

The uppermost crust of the earth is one of the principal supporters of life on our planet. Soil provides a medium for plant life, water filtration, organic waste recycling, and has its own ecosystem. Its components are organic matter (5 percent), air (20-30 percent), water (20-30 percent) and minerals (45 percent). Mineral particles bigger than 2 mm are not considered soil. The texture of soil varies, depending on the proportions of clay, silt and sand. Topography and climate also influence soil structure.

Clay holds the most water of all soil types due to its large pore spaces. A view of highly magnified clay particles shows immense surface area and looks like pages in a book. Sand and silt aren’t as absorbent and are larger in size. Silt is finely grained, weathered rock — mostly quartz – that is between the size of clay and sand. Sand is coarser than silt and is mostly composed of silica (silicon dioxide). Other minerals will contribute to different colors of sand, depending on geography and geology. Sand particles are large, so it drains more quickly than silt or clay. The proportions of clay, silt and sand affect the water-holding capacity of a soil. Loam is described as soil that is mostly composed of sand, with silt and clay in descending proportions. Loam retains nutrients and water yet allows excess water to drain away.

Soil is made up of both abiotic (non-living) and biotic (living) components. The abiotic components are minerals, water, air, and pH. The biotic components include viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, earthworms, and plant material. Plant roots bind soil particles and affect porosity and oxygen content. Dead or decaying roots create channels for water and can provide a source of nutrients from their decomposition. Root exudates and soil microorganisms interact to recycle nutrients and suppress diseases.

Here in northern Georgia, most of the soil has a lot of clay. The reddish color is due the presence of iron oxide, and the soil tends to be acidic and low in calcium. Our clay soil tends to clump and become compacted. It is, however, a great medium for nutrients and water retention. It is best not to work with it when it is saturated with water, or it will become clumpy. If it is “naked” and not covered, it can lead to water run-off problems and bake in the sun. Mulch covers help prevent this from occurring. Planting red clover or winter rye will increase organic matter and allow for air spaces in the clay soil. Do not add sand to clay soil — there is sand in it already, and this will harden it even more.

Several products can be used to improve your soil. Working organic matter into a clay soil is the best way

to improve its texture, nutrient levels, and microbiome. Compost can also be purchased at gardening centers or made at home using kitchen and garden scraps. Peat moss has become depleted, and it no longer recommended. Vermiculite is a mica-like material used as an amendment to help water and nutrient retention. It is sterile, has a neutral pH and doesn’t deteriorate for a very long time. It can lighten heavy soils and help keep grass seeds from drying out. Perlite is a natural volcanic glass that expands when heated, and has

This week’s guest Master Gardener “Garden Buzz” columnist is Linda McGinn. Linda has lived in Johns Creek, Georgia since 1990. She is an artist and recently graduated from GSU with a degree in science and art. Prior to that, she had a 40-year career as a registered nurse. She and her husband

Learn more

many uses in filtration, insulation, ceramics, and other industries.

As air is a vital component of soil, aeration may be needed to improve the exchange of oxygen and cardon dioxide in the root zone. Poor aeration slows down the rate of decay and contributes to the pollutant methane gas. Watery bogs that are not aerated (such as some peat bogs) can prevent decomposition. Ancient bodies from the Bronze Age have been discovered in peat bogs in northern Europe, a testament to the lack of aeration and presence of organic components. Aeration for lawns is best done in the growing season, so that roots can regrow in the new spaces. It is not necessary to aerate every year.

The recommended treatment for all soil first begins with a soil test. Your test results, which may suggest adjusting the pH, fertilizing, and other actions, will be emailed to you once the test is completed. These actions will help provide optimal soil conditions for happy and healthy plants. Native plants are a big contributor to healthy soil ecosystems, and future articles in “Garden Buzz” will discuss native plants in detail.

As President Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “The nation that destroys its soil destroys itself.” We are stewards of the land, and it begins in our own backyard.

Happy Gardening!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net.

are continually upgrading their garden and loving the opportunities to improve it each year. Linda also teaches “Art and Gardening” at the Johns Creek Arts Center. She has been gardening for 30+ years and recently became certified as a Master Gardener in 2021.

• Soil Texture in Georgia Soil - https://ugaurbanag.com/soil-texture/

• Soil Testing in Georgia - http://aesl.ces.uga.edu/soiltest123/Georgia.htm

• Soil Preparation and Planting Procedures for Ornamental Plants in the Landscapehttps://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B932&title=soil-preparation-and-plantingprocedures-for-ornamental-plants-in-the-landscape

• What is Garden Soil - https://www.smallspacegardeningbasics.com/what-is-garden-soil/

LINDA MCGINN

Guest Columnist

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Soil Texture Triangle

Best Date Night Hotspot

Best Day Spa / Massage

Best Farmers Market

Best Golf Course

Best Group/Corporate Activity

Best Gym / Fitness Facility

Best Music Lessons

Best Performing Arts / Theatre

Best Place for Kids to Have Fun

Best Sports Program

Best Summer Camp

Best Wedding Venue

RETAIL:

Best Antiques Store

Best Apparel Boutique (LOCAL)

Best Art Gallery / Retailer

Best Beverage / Wine Store (LOCAL)

Best Boutique Shop (LOCAL)

Best Bridal Shop

Best CBD Retailer

Best Consignment Store

Best Florist

Best Furniture / Home Décor

Best Jeweler

Best Pharmacy (LOCAL)

The family behind Eureka Laboratory

In the early 20th century, one of the businesses in downtown Dunwoody was Eureka Laboratory. It was along Nandina Lane, then known as Spruill Street, and next door to Dunwoody Methodist Church.

When a new Methodist church was constructed in 1970, a small tin salve box was discovered in the ground. The box read “Eureka Ointment, Eureka Laboratory, Dunwoody Georgia. Price 25 cents. Recommended for chapped hands, face and lips, chafes, burns, catarrh etc.” (The Story of Dunwoody 1821-2001, by Elizabeth L. Davis, Ethel W. Spruill)

Lawrence Albert Ball, born 1885, and his sister Clara Elizabeth Ball, born 1890, started the business. They were children of Reuben Greenleaf Ball and Martha Salina Brightwell Ball. Martha Salina Brightwell was part of a neighboring family that moved to Dunwoody.

The Ball family already had a long history in Sandy Springs and Dunwoody. Albert and Clara’s grandparents were Peter and Margaret Ball, who came to Georgia from South Carolina. Peter Ball owned a mill along a creek today known as Ball Mill Creek, located along Ball Mill Road.

Peter and Margaret Ball had four sons and five daughters. Reuben Greenleaf Ball was one of those children.

Albert Ball received his training at the Atlanta College of Pharmacy (established 1891) and became a registered pharmacist. Then he began developing

his formulas for healing salves and lotions.

Clara Ball was known as an accomplished student and cook. She often prepared food for families facing illness or difficult times. She made face powders, perfumes and cosmetics to sell at Eureka Laboratory.

In addition to working as a pharmacist, Albert Ball was an early mail carrier for Dunwoody, traveling the long route by horse-drawn buggy. The route went from Dunwoody to the area along Roswell Road just south of the river, over to Morgan Falls and back to Dunwoody along Mount Vernon Road.

In 1918, Albert Ball was called to duty for World War I. His registration card is signed by another familiar Dunwoody name: Mr. Tilly. There are no records to indicate he was called to report for military duty.

1920 census records show Albert Ball lived in the same house with his mother Martha and his sister and business partner Clara. Reuben Ball died two years earlier. The space for occupation shows Albert is a student at a medical college.

When the census for 1950 was taken, Albert was 65 and Clara was 59. Albert’s occupation recorded on the document is working around the house and garden. In other words, he retired by 1950. Clara and Albert Ball are both buried in the Peter Ball family cemetery in Sandy Springs.

Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Sandy Springs. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist

“THE STORY OF DUNWOODY” BY ELIZABETH L. DAVIS AND ETHEL W. SPRUILL A Eureka Laboratory tin was discovered by workers digging on the site of the 1970 Dunwoody United Methodist Church.

Here are a couple of mysteries that should keep you guessing

There are so many authors whose new books I eagerly anticipate, it’s often difficult for me to squeeze in someone new. Returning to a tried-and-true favorite ensures an enjoyable read. Taking a chance on someone new can result in a book I set aside and don’t finish. Color me picky.

as I read, I kept thinking I’d figured out what she had done. There are hints, but her transgression is left to your imagination for most of the book. You will think you know what it was. As Lee Child says, it is “sensationally good psychological suspense … exactly what a great thriller should be.” I predict you’ll be as bamboozled as I was.

KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist

Because I don’t review books that disappoint me, you never hear about them in my columns. My default position on reviews is that there’s someone out there who will like a book whether I do or not. A good example is “Gone Girl.” I thought all of the characters in that one were unlikable, but the book was a smash hit.

In the case of author Renee Knight’s book “Disclaimer,” I’m glad I branched out. Once again, I have no clue where I read about the book, but the write-up must have intrigued me because I added it to my library hold list.

“Disclaimer” by Renee Knight

The blurb on the inside flap would horrify anyone: “What if you realized the terrifying book you were reading was all about you?” Imagine settling in to read a book you find on your nightstand. It sounds familiar and suddenly you see it isn’t fiction. It’s a horrible chapter in your life, a chapter you thought was known only to you.

The story paints a distasteful picture of Catherine, the main character, and

“The Paris Apartment” by Lucy

Foley

Both this book and Foley’s “The Guest Book” are editors’ picks on Amazon, and now I’ve read them both. They’re equally disturbing, and both kept me guessing.

A twenty-something girl from England shows up at her older brother’s apartment in Paris only to discover he’s missing. She texted with him, and he told her how to get there from the train and that he’d be waiting for her. The mysterious neighbors in the building are less than forthcoming, even the one who purports to be a friend of her brother’s from their university days in England.

As the blurb says, “Everyone’s a neighbor. Everyone’s a suspect. And everyone knows something they’re not telling.” Once again, I never saw the twist coming.

If you enjoy “keep you guessing until the very end” mysteries, then these two books are for you.

Note: Are you in a book club? Would you like to have a local author speak to your group? Contact me to arrange a date! inkpenn119@gmail.com

Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her

cozy mysteries locally at The Enchanted Forest in Dunwoody and Bookmiser in East Cobb or on Amazon. Contact her at

inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.

classifieds@appenmedia.com

ALHARETTA-ROSWELL HERALD | FORSYTH HERALD | JOHNS CREEK HERALD MILTON HERALD | DUNWOODY CRIER | SANDY SPRINGS CRIER

Part-time

Human Resources Manager

Handles all employee-related processes and procedures. This role will be responsible for Recruitment and Onboarding, Job Design, Employee Relations, Performance Management, Training and Development, Employment Compliance, Total Rewards and Talent Management. This position reports to the Director of Finance and Administration and will interact with the entire management team by providing guidance on all Human Resources related topics at NFCC. Bachelor’s degree in human resources or related field and 3-5 years of Human Resources experience, preferably in multiple HR disciplines required. Please visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/ to see the full job description. To apply, submit a resume to sholiday@nfcchelp.org and to mburton@nfcchelp.org.

Agilysys NV, LLC seeks a Senior Software Engineer in Alpharetta, GA.

Assist in creating the implementation plans from early selling stages, lead project scope refinements, and maintain key documentation. Telecommuting permitted within MSA. Apply https://www.jobpostingtoday.com/ Ref #68953.

IT Professionals (Johns Creek, GA)

Software Engineers, Software Developers, Application Developers, Business Systems Analysts, IT Project Managers. Multiple Positions. May also require travel to various unanticipated client sites nationally. Mail resume to Datum Software Inc. Attn: HRGC, 12000 Findley Road Suite 350 Johns Creek, GA 30097.

Director of Childrens Ministry

Seeking Director of Children’s Ministry for Alpharetta Presbyterian Church. Part-time position with benefits. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Also have classroom or work experience in education and/or children’s ministry. Work with children’s ministry leaders to provide meaningful and engaging Sunday School and additional programs for children. Collaborate with committee, recommend curriculum to Session for approval and provide the curriculum for children’s Sunday School classes and Vacation Bible School.

Recruit, train and supervise all Children’s Ministry teachers and volunteers (this includes providing “child safety training” and assuring compliance with that policy).

• A person of mature Christian faith who will work collegially with others in support of the overall mission of the church.

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE

Appen Newspapers is looking for one or two folks to help deliver our newspapers. Work is part time and flexible. Routes can be done at night or during the day - on your schedule - within our deadlines. Comfortably earn $550 or more a month on your own schedule.

This is a great way to get out as well as contribute to helping your local newspaper! Perfect for retired person who wants to stay active or a parent with school-aged kids - deliver during school hours. Also good way to earn supplemental income at night. We have had many retired couples deliver our papers and almost all have managed a route well and enjoyed the time and the work.

Requirements include reliable vehicle, clean driving record, availability, reliability, and honesty. Prior delivery experience is good, but not required. It helps if you live relatively close as papers are picked up to be bagged and delivered from our office in Alpharetta. Delivery areas can be Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek, South Forsyth, Dunwoody, or Sandy Springs typically - depending on open routes.

Please contact our Office Manager Heidi to set up an appointment to come in and fill in paper work or start the process via Email!

Community Events Manager

The Community Events Manager is responsible for all aspects of NFCC’s community events, from inception through execution, including helping secure sponsorships. Events may include annual golf tournament, annual fundraising gala, community engagement events, donor recognition events, and other community events. Position requires a highly organized, creative, and motivated person to lead event planning, sponsorship, and community engagement. Bachelor’s Degree preferred with 2-3 years special events and fundraising experience. To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/workat-nfcc/  To apply, send a resume to Sandy Holiday, sholiday@nfcchelp.org.

Donor Operations Associate

The Donor Operations Associate greets and removes donations from vehicles and sorts merchandise in a designated area.  They are responsible for keeping the merchandise secure, all areas free of debris and the donor door area neat and clean.  This position is the face of NFCC so they are expected to provide excellent customer service and treat each donor with a professional and friendly demeanor.  High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Ability to perform low to moderate facility maintenance tasks.  To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/work-atnfcc/  To apply, please complete an application for employment and email to Marten Jallad,  mjallad@nfcchelp.org.

• A person of outstanding character and strong relational skills who is approachable, compassionate, energetic, honest, dependable, creative, joyful, fun, motivated and humble.

• A dynamic and grace-filled leader who is a role model for children and their families.

• Someone who is committed to setting an inspiring example, serving others, making disciples, and equipping the saints for ministry.

Qualified candidates please send resumes to alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.

HANDY HELPER NEEDED 20-30 hours/week. Call Stan 678-357-5371

Estate Sale

PEACHTREE CORNERS

Moving overseas. Brookwood; 6225 Brookwood Road 30092. Friday-Sunday, 6/166/18, 9AM-4PM. Bring cash, & help for moving large items. Everything goes!

Call 770-442-3278 and ask for Heidi or Email Heidi@AppenMedia.com

Volunteer Services

Volunteers Needed!

Looking for a fun, impactful volunteer opportunity?

One Good Deed Friendly Visitor Program of JF&CS matches older adults with volunteers for friendship and fun! Help a senior in your community. Learn more at //jfcsatl.org/ogd or call 770.677.9489.

Bargains –Antiques

ANTIQUE DESK Circa 1810-1820 Rhode Island/New Hampshire; mahogany, remodeled; great condition. $5500. 770-881-6442.

Concrete/ Asphalt Retaining Walls

Brick or Wood

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

678-898-7237

Home Improvement

DECKS BUILT & REPAIRED-PAINT

Decks repaired/built. Labor payment upon completion. 30-plus years experience. John Ingram/678-906-7100. Act now before prices increase next year! Heritage Home Maintenance HOMEREPAIRGA@GMAIL.COM, (HERITAGECONSTRUCTIONGA.COM)

Gutters

AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS

Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aaronsgutters.com. Senior citizen discount! 678-508-2432

Landscaping Full Service LANDSCAPING Company

Retaining walls (brick or wood), grading, sod, tree services, hauling, topsoil & more.

Ralph Rucker

678-898-7237

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-855-948-6176

24 hour emergency service. Licensed, insured. Workers Comp, insurance claims. 25+ years experience. Family business. Free estimates. We Love Challenges!

Yellow Ribbon Tree Experts 770-512-8733 • www.yellowribbontree.com

Haulers Bush

Grading, Hauling, Etc.

Many local referencesCall Ralph Rucker 678-898-7237

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protec-tion. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase.

10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo!

Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

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

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

DISH TV $64.99 For 190

Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24.

1-866-479-1516

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Fi-nancing available.

1-855-417-1306

Switch & save up to $250/yr on talk, text & data. No contract or hidden fees. Unlimited talk & text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage.

100% U.S. based service. Call

1-855-903-3048

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!

1-888-489-3936

Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet. Android tablet free w/one-time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call Maxsip Telecom! 1-833-758-3892

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief to find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: 1-877-592-3616

Call

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation

ExpertsOver $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

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on vet bills? Physicians Mutual In-surance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-844-774-0206 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/ads

Diagnosed with lung cancer? You may qualify for a substantial cash award - even with smoking history. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-877-648-2503

1-855-417-1306

With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445