Johns Creek Herald - May 18, 2023

Johns Creek Parks Manager Robby Newton, right, receives

Council meeting May 9. Newton retires this month after 13 years with the city.

Johns Creek targets Taylor Road congestion

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Drivers along Taylor Road, stuck in the whirlwind of school drop-off and pickup at Chattahoochee High School and Taylor Road Middle School, may see less congestion by the end of summer.

The Johns Creek City Council approved $385,379 in construction contracts and contingencies at its May 9 meeting for a new left-turn lane between Mortons Crossing and

Starfire Lane. The project is intended to alleviate congestion along Taylor Road, which connects both schools and several subdivisions to Jones Bridge Road.

Construction is expected to begin at the end of the school year with completion in August.

The city is funding the project with some of its Local Maintenance Improvement Grant, a Georgia Department of Transportation program that distributes a portion of collected gas taxes to local

governments for transportation improvements.

The item was approved the same night as it was discussed at the council work session, an unusual occurrence. Mayor Johns Bradberry noted that items from the work session usually are not brought up for a vote on the same night. Generally, they are added to the next scheduled regular meeting’s agenda.

“The thought was that those

See PROPOSALS, Page 4

Equestrian Center draws thousands for rodeo contest

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Running for more than 20 years, the Celebrate Freedom Rodeo welcomed some 22,000 visitors over three days to witness cowboys and cowgirls compete in a slew of competitions.

The traditional Southern rodeo was held at the Wills Park Equestrian Center from May 4 to May 6.

The event featured saddle and bareback bronc riding, with a bucking horse as men fought to stay on using one hand. It also had

See RODEO, Page 6

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AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

a service plaque from Mayor John Bradberry at the City

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

A child rides the mechanical bull outside of the covered arena before showtime May 4.

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POLICE BLOTTER

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Man loses $52,000 through forged check

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek man reported May 5 that an equipment company had cashed a fraudulent check, depleting his bank account of $52,000. The victim said when the company, which filed incorporation papers in New York five months ago, called him, he decided to make a purchase and provided his bank account information. Shortly after agreeing to the transaction, the victim learned the company created a forged check that his bank processed.

The victim received a message from a named individual with Homeland Security Investigations in Buffalo, New York, asking the victim to email any documents he had relating to the company.

Police advised the victim’s lawyer, who was on scene, to contact the Department of Homeland Security’s Atlanta office to determine if the individual was a legitimate agent with DHS, and to determine if the agency has an open investigation into the company.

Home burglary suspects evade police pursuit

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police were dispatched to an in-progress burglary on Bedford Garden Drive May 7 at 12:30 a.m., but the suspects got away. Before calling 911, the homeowner’s son and his girlfriend said they were heading to sleep around midnight when the girlfriend heard dogs barking and people whispering. They then heard commotion outside of the room and ran to lock the bedroom door. They

soon heard someone on the other side attempting to use the door handle.

Upon arrival, police heard people running through the woods, stepping on leaves and twigs toward the left rear of the residence. When police approached the area, they heard multiple yelling voices, several car doors slamming, and saw taillights through the trees. Police also heard a vehicle flee at a high rate of speed and held position as they waited for backup units.

A video was captured from a rear security camera that showed suspects fleeing the residence with what appeared to be several gallon trash bags of items. Police attempted to locate the trail of the suspects, and the Investigations unit took control of the scene.

The homeowner said she would provide police a detailed list of items stolen as soon as she returned from being out of town but believed it to be multiple articles of high-end designer clothes and bags.

Apartment shed raided of HVAC materials

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — An employee of Reserve at Johns Creek Apartments reported stolen items missing from the apartment’s maintenance shed May 5.

The man said that sometime between 4 p.m. on May 4 and 3 p.m. on May

5, an individual or group entered the shed without permission and took four containers of Freon and one digital gauge.

The only security cameras in the area cover the dumpsters, the police report said. Police observed small marks on the upper lock to the door, with the lock and frame still intact. The man said the door might have been left unlocked.

Police saw two containers of the refrigerant on the shelves by the door and two on the floor. Police also saw the gauge on the wall behind the desk. No other items appeared to have been moved or touched, the police report said.

Man’s AirPods go missing after round on golf course

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Florida man reported stolen AirPods to police May 6, which he had tracked to an address in Lawrenceville.

The man said he was playing golf May 3, using his AirPods, and could not find them where he last placed them in the golf cart. After several days, the man did a GPS location service on the AirPods, and they showed a location on Colony Bend Drive in Lawrenceville.

When reporting the theft to Lawrenceville Police, he was advised to report the theft where the AirPods were last seen.

Proposals:

Continued from Page 1

two weeks would be critical to save construction time during school starting,” Bradberry said. “So, I appreciate that we were flexible and, I think, exercising common sense, which is important in government, right?”

Also at its May 9 meeting, the City Council approved a $387,000 engineering contract for a trail and bike lane along the southbound side of Barnwell Road, funded through Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or TSPLOST, II. Stretching 1.5 miles between Niblick Drive and North Peak Drive, the project will provide a 4-foot-wide bike lane, a curb and gutter, and an 8-footwide trail along the west side of the road. Construction for the project will be performed in phases.

Parks manager to retire

The council also recognized Robby Newton, Johns Creek park manager, for nearly 13 years of service to the city. Newton was set to retire three days later.

As a video played, showing highlights of Newton’s work, Johns Creek Assistant City Manager Kimberly Greer read a lengthy proclamation

detailing his accomplishments over the years.

In his first five years, Greer said Newton managed more than 36 major capital parks projects. Since then, Greer said he managed “even more” in addition to the $40 million of park improvements through the 2016 parks bond.

In the last year and a half, Greer said he had overseen construction for Cauley Creek Park — “the largest-ever project in the history of Johns Creek.” The 203-acre park, to open in July, will double the city’s park land.

“Although his footfalls may not be heard as often in our parks, and his physical fingerprints will fade, the city will be forever grateful for his contributions to build the parks system we have today,” Greer said.

Sports at Cauley Creek Park

In other action May 9, councilmembers opted during their work session to seek proposals for field space at Cauley Creek Park, rather than rent the fields long term. There will be four multi-purpose fields at the park.

The city has historically partnered with organizations to manage its parks space and will begin requesting proposals at the end of July.

Johns Creek currently has two athletic associations, Ocee Park Athletic Association and Newtown Recreation, which have facility usage agreements with the city. A third would be added for Cauley Creek Park six months after it opens.

The city will rent the fields until a partner is secured. Johns Creek Recreation Manager Kirk Franz, who is set to leave the city alongside Newton, confirmed that lacrosse and soccer goals and football goal posts have been ordered. Striping for the fields is expected to be discussed at the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee meeting May 17.

Sports programs across the city are vying for field space at Cauley Creek. Councilman Larry DiBiase asked Franz about the process for determining who would have the domain.

Franz said Johns Creek residents would have dibs and that the organization would most likely be one that offers either football, lacrosse or soccer — the three “main” sports played in the city.

“It could be a little tricky, and someone’s going to ask for field space and not get probably what they want,” Franz said.

WHAT IS THE LOCAL MAINTENANCE IMPROVEMENT GRANT?

The Local Maintenance Improvement Grant (LMIG) is a Georgia Department of Transportation initiative that distributes a portion of gas tax revenue to local governments for transportation improvements. Some cities, like Milton, Alpharetta and Dunwoody, use the grant for repaving or resurfacing. However, eligible projects vary. Johns Creek used LMIG to construct a right-turn lane into Autrey Mill Middle School on Old Alabama Road and recently approved a contract for a new left-turn lane into Chattahoochee High School on Taylor Road with its $700,000 budget in fiscal year 2023. Each city sees different grant amounts, determined by centerline mileage — the total length of a given road from its starting point to its end. The program also requires that Fulton County cities match 30 percent. While most local transportation projects are funded by the

Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or TSPLOST, city public works departments receive gas tax dollars through LMIGs awarded in the summer. Those dollars stopped flowing into state coffers last year when Gov. Brian Kemp suspended the state fuel tax from March 2022 to January.

Local media reported that Kemp’s suspension of the gas tax eliminated an additional 29 cents per gallon on unleaded gas purchases.

The suspension saved drivers $1 billion, according to the Georgia Department of Revenue. But a representative with GDOT said suspending the tax has had no impact on transportation projects to date. Public works directors across north Metro Atlanta cities also said they do not expect to see a difference in LMIG funding as the state is expected to replenish lost collections with surplus funds.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Faisal Chaudry, Johns Creek transportation engineer, presents a construction contract for work along Taylor Road at the City Council work session May 9. The project, that adds a left-turn lane into Chattahoochee High School, is expected to be completed in August.

They have defended our liberty and have helped to keep us free. Remember the hundreds of service men and women that served in past wars this Memorial Day.

Rodeo:

Continued from Page 1

break-away roping, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling and cowgirls barrel racing. The finale of every night was bull riding, notably the biggest thrill.

“As they say, it’s the most exciting eight seconds in sports,” said Morgan Rodgers, Alpharetta Recreation and Parks director.

Throughout the event, which led with a salute to the country, there were

pauses for banter from a rodeo clown. Kids also stepped forward to compete in a dancing competition for a chance to win money.

Before the competitions geared up, some visitors were slung off a mechanical bull and rode ponies. Outside of typical concessions, there were vendors selling barbecue, boiled peanuts and funnel cake. There were also cowboy hats and other rodeo gear like oversized, ornate belt buckles for sale. But many already showed up dressed to impress.

“[The rodeo] is a staple, is what it is,” Rodgers said.

PHOTOS BY AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

A cowgirl holding an American flag circles the Wills Park Equestrian Center arena at Celebrate Freedom Rodeo’s opening night May 4.

A man competes in saddle bronc riding May 4 at the Celebrate Freedom Rodeo at Wills Park Equestrian Center.

Children peek through the gate during Celebrate Freedom Rodeo May 4. A family shops for cowboy gear May 4.

TAMARA FULLER, owner, The Velvet Note

The Velvet Note: Live jazz with the comforts of home

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — In every great jazz show, there is a beautiful moment when the notes begin to fade and seem to hang in the air, halfway between the instruments and your ear, resonant at first, then insubstantial, like a wisp of smoke.

That moment in jazz music is what businesswoman Tamara Fuller calls the “velvet note” — a concept that inspired her to choose the name for

her jazz club off Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta.

For the past 11 years, The Velvet Note - Acoustic Living Room has provided suburban residents in the “North Pole” of Atlanta with a cozy, intimate space to see renowned jazz musicians play live

“The Velvet Note gives you a chance to hear a world-class musician in a setting that feels like your living room. Which is the ultimate luxury,” Fuller said. “Just imagine the people you would love to see, but if they came to

your house. That’s what it feels like here.”

Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and most Sundays, The Velvet Note produces two shows a night for 40 guests, with dinner, drinks and an unparalleled live jazz experience uncommon in such a suburban setting.

“We’re not open unless we’re performing live music with real musicians playing real instruments,” she said.

Fuller, a longtime lover of jazz,

pianist and entrepreneur, was inspired to start The Velvet Note after reading about how cultural centers like symphony orchestras, ballets, and jazz clubs were all located in city centers, while the people who frequented them lived primarily in the suburbs.

That disconnect was causing city establishments to “die on the vine” without regular, consistent patronage, she said.

“So, I chose to take this powder

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Tamara Fuller, owner of The Velvet Note jazz club, stands in front of her establishment off Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta shortly before opening for a set of shows May 4. See JAZZ, Page 9

We’re not open unless we’re performing live music with real musicians playing real instruments

Jazz:

Continued from Page 8

blue frozen yogurt shop, which is what it was … and convert it to a jazz club in the suburbs. That was considered to be wack crazy,” she said. “Now, I look like Nostradamus because people have discovered the suburbs are a pretty great place to bring culture.”

More than a decade later and The Velvet Note is still going strong, offering multiple shows each week from incredible artists.

“We have a combination of performers who are residents of this area, meaning that they’re from Atlanta or the region, to performers who come from overseas or who are national performers,” she said. “We really enjoy giving them a place, it’s a lot smaller than they’re accustomed. But here they have a chance to really feel what their audiences are feeling.”

But unlike most venues or clubs, The Velvet Note is what Fuller calls a “listening room,” which means after doors open, dinner and drinks are served, and the performer is introduced by Fuller at 7:30 p.m., all talking is taboo and the music is all that matters. Then they do it all over again at their late show.

“If you’re a performer, it means

that it doesn’t have that den of bar talk,” she said. “It’s truly people listening.”

Fuller said she’s seen countless amazing and inspiring musicians come through her doors to perform, but two, in particular, are the inspiration that kept The Velvet Note going strong.

The first, Atlanta jazz singer Freddy Cole, the brother of legendary musician Nat King Cole, was a dear

friend of Fuller’s before his death in 2020. Cole’s life and work, often overshadowed by the work of his ultrafamous brother, taught her how to be true to her authentic self, she said.

“He taught me that I will never be as good at being something else as I will at being myself,” she said. “We have 40 seats here. We’re not trying to be 60 seats; we’re not trying to be 100 seats … We’re just doing the best

we can be as us and we’re good with that.”

Her second-most important inspiration was the jazz singer Carmen Lundy, who played at The Velvet Note in 2015.

Fuller said after soundcheck on the day of Lundy’s performance, the jazz singer came up to her and scolded her for not having the venue’s antique piano perfectly tuned.

“She comes over to me and says, ‘If you plan to be what you say you want to be. You’re gonna have to keep your piano in tune,’” she said. “I’ll never forget she said, ‘Good enough, isn’t good enough.’”

From that moment forward, Fuller and her staff have striven to be as excellent as their patrons and performers expect and deserve them to be.

“We sell Chesapeake Bay jumbo lump crab, we sell beef that has no antibiotics and that’s grass-fed and comes from small production farms,” she said. “We do not allow musicians to use recording tracks. They’re making real music with real instruments, and we do those things because good enough, Isn’t.”

The Velvet Note is at 4075 Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta. For more information about their performers and get tickets to a show, visit thevelvetnote.com.

Tucker

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Tamara Fuller, owner of The Velvet Note jazz club, opens a show at the club on Old Milton Parkway in Alpharetta. Fuller kicks off each performance Thursday through Sunday each week.

Magical thinking

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– Michelle Wilson, Wilson Legal, PC

A dear client came into the office to review the status of their trust – we’ll call them Hank (Husband) and Wanda (Wife). We found that their trust had not been named as a beneficiary for several of their financial accounts. That meant that the funds would not go into their trust when the second one passed away. Hank raised an eyebrow. Wanda looked a bit shocked. “But I thought when I signed the trust that it would just work”, she said with a frustrated sigh. “No, the trust only receives money from a bank or investment account IF

you include the trust as a beneficiary.”, I explained. “Wow, then I sure am glad that we came in to see you!”

Creating the trust is like creating a picnic basket. The creation of the basket does not guarantee that lunch will be included when you open the lid and peak in. We have to move assets like real estate into the trust or add the trust as a beneficiary so that the asset like financial accounts will be added after we die. There’s no such thing as “magic” when it comes to planning. If you have not added the assets to your trust basket or made your trust beneficiary of your accounts, please set up a strategy session with us so that we can help you make sure that your trust will actually work when you’re gone. Put in the effort to set it up right or hire us to help and then worry less because you know – I mean KNOW – that your trust was set up correctly. We’re happy to schedule call us at (770) 2057861.

Know the rules

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A trust is an individual’s very own rulebook that determines how their assets will be distributed after their death. You know this already, but do you know there are different types of trust? That’s right, depending on your purpose of creating a trust - whether that’s to avoid probate, qualify for Medicaid, or protect your assets for your children - there are different types of trust you can make. Let’s go through a few of the many types of revocable trusts. An A-B or Marital Deduction trust allows you to enjoy the benefits of marital deduction and also protect your assets for your spouse if you pass away first. With a marital deduction trust, couples can reap the benefits of estate tax exemption and also reduces the federal taxes for

bigger estates.

If you have children with unique needs, a beneficiary’s or separate share trust is a type of trust managed by an independent trustee for the wellbeing of the beneficiary. The Trustee has full control over how the funds can be used for the benefit of the beneficiary, which ensures that the assets remain in the trust and protected for your children’s creditors, lawsuits, and divorces. The trust assets can even be protected for your children in the event that your spouse remarries.

Finally, there’s the blind trust, a special type of trust often created for politicians. A blind trust is useful when it’s better for the beneficiary to be unaware of what’s in the trust, to prevent conflicts of interest. For blind trusts, a Trustee will manage the assets inside a trust while keeping it secret from the beneficiaries until the right time.

There are many more different types of trust, and it’s highly recommended to begin your estate planning sooner rather than later. Speak to an estate planning attorney to see what trust is best for you.

GEERDES

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Stand-Alone Gloss

High Meadows School – Inspiring future global citizens and innovative leaders

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High Meadows lower years classrooms offer low student-teacher ratios in which instruction emphasizes academic excellence, love of learning, critical thinking, and environmental and social responsibility. As a nationally recognized

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Great minds think differently

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“If a student can’t learn the way we teach… we should teach the way a student can learn.”

A letter to students

1. You are awesome. Be confident in who you are. I promise you’ll meet people who are smarter than you, and that’s OK. You don’t have to be the smartest person—oddly enough, sometimes being the smartest person is difficult. I also promise that you will be smarter than most. Enjoy that; while being smart isn’t everything, it is definitely something. Be confident in your intelligence, but not arrogant. I’ve found that, most of the time, being arrogant backfires on you. That leads into point two…

2. Sometimes it takes more courage and intelligence to be silent than to speak. It took me a long time to understand and respect silence. I’m still learning that it’s a mark of maturity and, most of the time, intelligence. Also, respect everyone’s differences and challenge yourself to learn about them.

3. Never stop learning. I don’t mean that in a teacher way, I mean it in a learning life sort of way. You are constantly growing, maturing, and developing, so enjoy it. Life is a condition to which no one is immune. We learn something every day. Our taste in music, food, TV, and the people we surround ourselves with evolves. It’s natural for these preferences to change. I wasted a lot of time trying to be someone I wasn’t because I thought I was supposed to be someone else. To complete number three, you need to invest in number four…

4. Spend time with yourself. Since you’ve been in my class, I’ve learned how amazing you are each in your own way. If you sit and spend time with you, I think you’ll feel the same way. I’m such a people person, but sometimes the best thing is time alone with great music, a book, TV, or whatever. As cheesy as this sounds, be your own best friend. The sooner you learn that all of your faults and idiosyncrasies are what make you awesome, the sooner you will be a better person and enjoy life so much more. That leads to number five…

5. Everyone has faults. With the advent of social media, I sometimes find myself comparing my faults with everyone else’s highlights. Scrolling through your Twitter feed (or Snapchat or TikTok), you see people

lauding their accomplishments, great times, and great friends. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this, as long as you understand that what you see on social media is an incomplete picture. If you compare all of your faults to those highlights, you may feel a bit inadequate. Everyone has faults, so embrace yours. Grow from them and know that they add to what makes you, you. And remember, you’re awesome.

6. Surround yourself with people who love you and think you’re great (but also who know and accept your faults). You need this. If someone won’t accept you for who you are, ask yourself if you really need that relationship (be it friends or more).

7. Smile. Every day. I’m not getting into the psychology of it all, but it could possibly make you happier and healthier. It works. Trust me.

8. Don’t trust people just because they say, “trust me.” Still...

9. Trust people. It’s endearing. I know this is very contradictory, but it’s true. Even though “trust me” should raise flags, trusting people means you are human and we all need people we can trust.

10. I’ve saved one of the most important tips for last: Be happy. Genuinely happy.

Choose a profession that pays the bills and makes you want to go to work most days. You won’t be happy every day. You will have bad days, weeks and maybe even months, but you’ll be generally happy. Money will not, in the end, make you happy.

One of the greatest pieces of advice my dad ever gave me was to make great memories. Good and bad, and all kinds in between, they are all part of our life.

So, make them good ones and remember that you are part of other’s memories so make sure they are positive, too.

I have to end this the way my mother ended most of our conversations when I was in high school and college. Make good choices. (I repeat this often to my own kids.)

Lori Fenzl, Upper School social studies teacher

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The power of psychological testing

The Summit provides comprehensive psycho-educational evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults who have suspected learning differences, attention problems, and cognitive and emotional issues. Overall, psychological testing can be a valuable tool for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals in supporting a child academically, emotionally, and socially!

Some specific benefits of psychological testing include:

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Identifying Emotional or Behavioral Issues. Testing can help to identify emotional or behavioral issues that may be affecting the child’s social or academic

functioning. Once identified, appropriate interventions can be put in place and coping skills can be taught to help them manage their feelings in a healthy way.

Providing Insights into Cognitive Abilities. Psychological testing allows for insight into a child’s cognitive abilities, such as memory, reasoning, and problemsolving skills. This information can help teachers and parents to understand the child’s strengths and weaknesses. Details about the child’s cognitive profile allows educators to tailor teaching and learning strategies to the child’s individual needs.

Offering Guidance for Educational Placement. Psychological testing can help determine the most appropriate educational placement for a child, such as a mainstream classroom, a special education program, or a gifted program.

Learn more about our services and schedule a psychological assessment at summitcounseling.org!

Brought to you by - Summit Counseling Center

Brought to you by – Wesleyan School

Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child. Our leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work, and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan prepares students for each stage of life and provides them the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Wesleyan’s school motto is JOY-Jesus, Others, Yourself, and every aspect of school life is oriented to reinforce this philosophy of putting Jesus first and others ahead of ourselves.

A college preparatory environment, students have access to a wide range of academic opportunities along with athletics, arts, service and other extracurricular activities. Wesleyan’s 85-acre campus provides state-ofthe-art academic facilities along

with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts.

Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan enrolled 1,207 students in grades K-12 for the 2022-2023 school year. Wesleyan

The

School 5405 Spalding Drive,

Sowing the seeds of organic learning

Brought to you by – Johns Creek

Montessori School of Georgia

Maria Montessori, Italy’s first woman doctor, invented a system of early childhood education based on her scientific observations of how the child constructs himself through interaction with his environment.

Her emphasis on the importance of the “prepared” environment created by the teacher offers the child the freedom to choose his work. This freedom - which is given when the child demonstrates the responsibility to use it wisely - allows him to remain with an activity until its purpose is accomplished. Working without artificial timelines allows him to engage in the spontaneous repetition of a skill so that it is refined; this freedom also creates in him the ability to concentrate for long periods of time and to feel the satisfaction of mastery.

In a Montessori environment, the teacher serves as a guide rather than as a traditional instructor. She continually observes the child, using these observations to give the next lesson so that he steadily progresses.

The multi-aged classroom gives every child regular opportunities to be the learner as well as the leader in the security of a home-like environment which is cared

for by everyone in it, teacher and student alike. The Montessori classroom is ordered and beautiful, filled with materials that are aesthetically pleasing, materials which capture the imagination and assist in physical, academic and social development.

Montessori develops children who are responsible, creative, innovative, respectful and kind. Montessori children are truly the citizens of the future, equipped to face challenges with confidence and competence.

Located near the intersection of 141 and McGinnis Ferry Road in Johns Creek, Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia provides excellence in Montessori education for infants, toddlers and children to six years old. JCMSOG provides an authentic Montessori environment, where each individual’s needs are respected, and everyone works together for the good of the community. The focus is always on helping the children to develop themselves in a caring, peaceful environment. By helping children to develop independence, we assist them in their physical and emotional development. As their sense of security in their ability to care for themselves and their environment grows, their brains have more energy or “bandwidth” for increased academic learning. Additionally, this focus

on development of muscular control is a first step in developing self-discipline. The JCMSOG Difference is best experienced in

PROVIDED

person. Please schedule a visit with your child to observe our “Montessori Magic”www.JCMSOG.org 770-814-8001.

Sowing the Seeds of Organic Learning

Limited Openings Available – The JCMSOG difference is best experienced in person, schedule a tour or visit with your child and observe our “Montessori Magic.”

PROVIDED

Mount Pisgah Christian School’s new preschool facility opens this fall 2023

Mount Pisgah Christian School’s new preschool facility, the Stuart and Eulene Murray Academy, will open its doors for the first time this fall.

Located on the Lower School campus of MPCS, the 24,000 square foot, $3 million preschool is a state-of-the-art facility with 10 new classrooms, a chapel and theatre space, innovation center, indoor interactive play space, and a natureinspired outdoor playscape.

The Murray Academy program serves the school’s three and four-year-old full day preschool students. An open house on June 1

for interested families will include a tour of the new facility. Located in Johns Creek, Georgia, Mount Pisgah Christian School serves more than 1,000 students from infants through 12th grade.

These early years of learning are essential as children learn about the love of Christ and set a foundation to become lifelong learners.

First made possible by Mount Pisgah Church’s generous gift to the school of the South Campus property itself, the Murray Academy is named in recognition of a $1 million grant from the Stuart and Eulene Murray Foundation. The Murray Foundation has a strong history of serving Christian education.

The new playground playscape is a one-of-a-kind outdoor play environment, featuring natural and hand-carved materials. Treeinspired and sensory stations such as the Eagle’s Nest, Creation Corner and the Hatchling Dig engage students in both learning and play.

In their classrooms, children open a new world of discovery through technology and multisensory experiments. Students participate in Chapel, Atelier, music, P.E. and STEAM classes each week. They grow in faith through chapel programs featuring singing and dancing and Bible curriculum.

In the Atelier space, an Atelierista, or art specialist, provides a variety of creative

experiences through music, clay, light and shadow, loose parts, paint, nature, movement and sound.

With small classroom sizes, teachers prepare Preschool 3s and 4s students for the next stage of learning. Elements of formal instruction and curriculum are introduced strategically to prepare children for school.

Children will have opportunities to focus on gross and fine motor skills and social and emotional development. Concepts in language arts, math, and science will be introduced in engaging activities and through the arts and experiments.

To learn more and schedule a tour, visit www.mountpisgahschool. org

Brought to you by - Mount Pisgah Christian School

Georgia tax collections fall sharply in April

By DAVE WILLIAMS Capitol Beat

ATLANTA — A downturn in state tax collections predicted several months ago is starting to show up.

The Georgia Department of Revenue brought in $4.19 billion in tax revenues last month, down 16.5 percent compared to April of last year, the agency reported Tuesday.

The declining revenues were found primarily in individual income taxes, which fell 32.4 percent from April 2022.

The sharp year-over-year drop in individual income tax collections is due in large part to the first-year implementation of legislation the General Assembly passed last year that permits certain pass-through entities such as S-corporations and partnerships to make entity-level tax elections on behalf of their individual partners. The bill took effect in tax year 2022 for returns filed this year.

Individual income tax payments declined by 49.4 percent last month compared to April 2022. Tax refunds also were down, but the 37.9 percent drop in that category was more than offset by the falloff in payments, resulting in the net decrease.

Net sales taxes actually rose by 2.4 percent, with consumer spending still strong due to a still robust state economy. Corporate income tax receipts in April increased by 4.7 percent over April 2022.

With gasoline prices up significantly over past year, state motor fuel tax collections shot up by 83.5 percent.

The state’s chief economist, Jeffery Dorfman, told lawmakers in January that state tax revenues were likely to drop sharply this year because last year’s huge increase in capital gains tax payments was unlikely to be repeated.

This story is available through a news partnership with Capitol Beat News Service, a project of the Georgia Press Educational Foundation.

Governor vetoes legislation to broaden no-bid contracts

By JOHN RUCH SaportaReport

ATLANTA – Gov. Brian Kemp has vetoed legislation that would have expanded no-bid contracts for local public works and MARTA projects, saying there was “no reason” for it.

House Bill 193 passed the Georgia General Assembly near the end of its session in March. The bill began as a proposal to raise the dollar amount for local governments’ public works contracts that could be exempted from competitive bidding requirements – from $100,000 to $250,000.

In the Senate, it was adopted with an amendment allowing a similar, but much broader exemption for any “rapid transit authority.” The amendment would have allowed nobid purchases of “any goods, supplies, equipment, other property or services” from a vendor who already has a similar contract with the state or federal governments or any county or municipal government within the transit service area. The annual total of such purchasing or contracting

could be up to $250,000.

The amendment was introduced by state Sen. Brandon Beach (R-Alpharetta), who did not respond to comment requests at the time. MARTA spokesperson Stephany Fisher at the time said only that the legislation would help with unspecified “potential safety and security initiatives.”

Sen. Josh McLaurin (D-Sandy Springs), who was among the “no” votes, previously said he opposed it as making contracting “less accountable to taxpayers.”

Kemp announced the veto on similar grounds.

“As a general matter, the state must competitively bid any construction or public works contracts more than $100,000.00,” he wrote in a veto signing statement. “There is no reason competitive bidding requirements for local governments should be more lenient than those for state-issued contracts.”

Fisher, the MARTA spokesperson, declined to comment on the veto.

This story originally appeared on SaportaReport.com.

See solution Page 31

What does Alpharetta stand for?

I recently attended a fund-raiser for Family Promise, a faith-based nonprofit that provides shelter and more for local homeless moms and their children.

Alpharetta Mayor Jimmy Gilvin was the main speaker. We spoke for about 10 minutes during the meet and greet about the city in general. I took the opportunity to suggest to him that with all the amazing things that the city offers, that perhaps the city might consider working on what, in my opinion, may be the last significant missing piece of the city profile/ brand – what Alpharetta stands for.

What does Alpharetta in fact, stand for?

Until now, what Alpharetta has stood for is what most successful growing communities “stand for” –affluence, comfort, convenience, style, second homes and Range Rovers – that “successful” lifestyle.

Alpharetta has been blessed with amazing relatively controlled/strategic

growth for the past 20+ years that is probably unduplicated in the Southeast if not the entire United States. We have a massive commercial tax base, primarily from all the office space. That office space has been home to a large percentage of high-tech, including especially fin-tech – Fortune 200 companies which have brought thousands of high-paying, white-collar jobs which, in turn, has driven one of the more robust housing markets in the country. The affluence has supported even more growth in the form of developments like Avalon, continuous development of new massive live-workplay communities like the two currently going up off Haynes Bridge Road just west of Ga. 400, plus over 25 hotels, restaurants and golf courses, and more. No city will ever catch up with Alpharetta – or will they?

Our schools are the envy of almost all other Georgia school systems – or are they?

Forsyth County now has even better schools than we have in North Fulton. Forsyth County schools didn’t used to be so high-performing though, but maybe that is the point that should begin to wake us up. Forsyth schools caught up

and passed North Fulton schools, just as many other cities – think regional cities such as Peachtree Corners, Sandy Springs, Canton, Suwanee, Buford, and many more that are rapidly closing the gap with Alpharetta in so many ways – especially in infrastructure and development.

Plus, “remote work” has broken or will break almost every business and social model that exists, including here in Alpharetta. Long-term viability of all these office buildings – and our fabulous tax base – cannot be assumed. No aspect of our current success will not be impacted. Anyone who doesn’t see that needs to look again – real hard.

So, we’ve got it all, and we are in the front of the pack – until we’re not.

Over time, most people, cities and trends usually regress to the mean. That is, they get back to “normal.” It happens in sports; it happens with countries, companies, restaurants, writers, musicians and artists – and yes, with cities.

So how does Alpharetta avoid “regressing back to the mean” and remain “the place where everyone wants to be?” We need to stand for something – something new, something relevant for the future.

I think that answer depends on the city leadership having vision—new, longterm, strategic vision. At present, I don’t think I see it. Right now, what I see is business as normal – status quo – the mindset and actions that brought us to the current desirable table. But that “way,” I’m afraid, won’t cut it into the future. And, I am not saying that they have done or are doing a bad job; I am just saying that it is time to strategically shift gears and go way outside the envelope to find the new path – one that will work for 5,10, 50 years from now.

The future belongs to younger generations, and the status quo that so attracted most of us to Alpharetta doesn’t work for them as much. They want more. They want different. They want things that were not on our radar, and they will move to and live in cities

that have what they want and leave cities that don’t.

What they want is the $64 million question. Some answers are easy –affordable housing, jobs, remote work, modality and entertainment – stuff that we are already working on, just like every other growing city with any sense. So, if most cities are already working on those things, what can set Alpharetta apart?

I think what can set Alpharetta apart is purpose – a “why” for the city.

I will offer an extreme example of what happens when the “why” is missing.

The war in Ukraine should have been over in just a month or two, but it now is into the second year. The main reason is that one side has a “why” and the other side doesn’t. It is all the difference. If Alpharetta wants to “stay ahead” and keep winning in the growth and development/quality of life “war” – which will mean continuing to be able to attract a strong young work force – it is going to have to have a “why.”

How Alpharetta creates a successful and long-lasting “why” might be the biggest challenge the city has ever had. It will take way outside-the-box thinking, and I suggest that the effort can only be successful if the city goes “all in.” It is not something that can be half-hearted or piecemeal or any iteration of the status quo.

The “why” must be crystal clear. It must become the city’s public and reputational “brand.”

If one looks around, deeply, and sets aside the status quo thinking – opinions, beliefs, and biases – and acknowledges that eventually all institutions fail if they don’t change, then our “why” must become institution-lead sustainability. If climate, carbon footprint and priorities become our brand, Alpharetta wins. We all win. It’s no longer tree-hugger stuff. It’s not left or right stuff. It’s no longer optional thinking stuff. It is exactly where we are today, and it will determine exactly where we are able to go tomorrow.

We must have this “why.”

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus

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Master Gardeners to bring Celebration Garden Tour to Sandy Springs

MICHAEL SNOW Guest Columnist

The Celebration Garden Tour provides access to five glorious Southern gardens in the Chastain Park area. On June 3, five home gardens of Master Gardeners will be on display for ticket holders. The tour runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. These are truly fabulous gardens, which will be complemented by musicians and plein air artists.

Tickets may be purchased for $22 for adults, including taxes and credit card/Eventbrite fees. Children under 18 are free. Purchase tickets at https://bit.ly/GardenTour2023. Information about garden locations and tour information will be sent to all ticket holders. If still available, tickets may be purchased on-site for $25.

Master Gardener Extension volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and highlight areas of interest in each garden. The gardens can be viewed in any order. Please note that the gardens are not wheelchair accessible or suitable for strollers. Sturdy shoes are suggested. Photography is acceptable for personal use and enjoyment.

Garden #1 - Neo-classical Southern

Leading to this home’s stately entrance are deodar cedars, rhododendron, viburnum and camellias nestled beneath the magnolias. The collection of whimsical birdhouses among the trees are just some of the garden’s delights.

Some of the charm includes bird of paradise, confederate jasmine and beautiful camellias as well as a weeping katsura with climbing hydrangea petiolaris draping over the door to the house. Another favorite feature is the collection of small stone houses.

A view of the rear of the house features crape myrtles and Coral Bark Japanese maples along the end of the brick wall covered in creeping fig and accented with containers of rosemary balancing the whole arrangement. Two Japanese maples flank the pool spa, while palms, agave, ajuga, and a Harry Lauder’s walking stick plant occupy containers.

Garden #2 - Sculptures in the gardens of a midcentury modern

This Master Gardener’s house and multiple garden areas are designed to showcase art. Near the entrance are a silver sculpture, a fig tree, a Richard Jakobus family memorial bench, and a blue wave sculpture. Further on are a David Borgerding bronze sculpture, Peace Rising, and a sculpture by Kevin and Jennifer Box from the “Origami in the Garden” exhibit at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

The flora includes redbud trees, Carolina jessamine, deodar cedar and sweet bay magnolia, to name a few. Also, 70-year-old ginkgo and ficus trees grace the grounds.

A koi pond containing Fat Albert, a koi inherited with the house over 26 years ago, and a Zen Garden with climbing hydrangea covering the wall complement the garden.

The birdhouse village and raised bed vegetable garden are just a few of the garden delights.

About the Author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Michael Snow, a Master Gardener since 2021 and a Milton resident. Michael has always been active in “yard work” and growing plants and shrubs. Upon retiring from a career in real estate property finance, he sought to benefit from an organized source of garden information and became a Master Gardener. He cochairs the Celebration Garden Tour along with Kelly Mogelgaard, a Master Gardener since 2016 and avid Sandy Springs gardener.

Garden #3 - Charming Container Garden

This garden emphasizes containers to maximize the variety available every season. This Master Gardener has grown many of the plants in the garden from seed or seedling, and he will be available during the tour to discuss his propagation methods.

Hollies, crape myrtles, camellias, and gold mound spirea are featured as well as containers of double white gardenias with a tremendous river birch. The gardens contain a prized crown of thorns and a yellow angel trumpet from Oakland

Cemetery.

Across from the terrace is a sculpture flanked by rhododendrons. A prized Southeastern Flower Show camellia and Carolina jessamine reside near the pool.

Garden #4 - Secluded Oasis

This all-inclusive garden contains many delights. Fatsia, japonica camellias, boxwoods and matching Japanese maples invite you into the garden. The pool area is accented with containers planted for color as two crape myrtles flank the entry to an adjacent lawn. The arbor at the rear of the house supports a ‘New Dawn’ rose.

This Master Gardener enjoys the produce from the raised vegetable beds and the perennial garden. The stunning stone-rimmed vegetable beds are fabulous. The perennial garden features peonies of every variety and color — some new and some old — as well as roses, hydrangeas, and gooseneck loosestrife, which pops up regularly. Beyond the hedge is a large lawn specially planned for their daughters’ soccer and softball.

Garden #5 - Generational homage

This garden was inspired by the Master Gardener’s parents who worked the land and gardened

See SNOW, Page 28

H R NG ADVERTISING ACCOUNT

PRESERVING THE PAST

The fascinating history of honey and honey bees

Honey bees are essential to our health and wellbeing. Many plants that provide us with food would not reproduce without the assistance of bees, and honey bees are the only insect that produces food for humans. Today we will explore the history of beekeeping with some observations about the practice in this area.

Georgia ranks ninth among states in the production of honey with 3.3 million pounds annually. One of the best-known Georgia bee producers was J.J. Wilder (1872-1950) of Waycross, called the “Georgia Bee King,” whose 300 apiaries (place where beehives are kept) and 14,000 colonies extended 200 miles and housed a billion bees in the early 1930s, making it one of the world’s largest.

Bee cultivation history dates back to prehistoric times. Cave paintings in Spain have portrayed humans foraging honey from wild hives 8,000 to 10,000 years ago. Honey played a vital role in ancient Egypt where it was used for food, cosmetics, medications and more. Even after organized beekeeping using woven straw hives or baked clay tubes or domes was developed around 2500 B.C., destruction of the hives during honey collection continued until the 1850s. That’s when Lorenzo Langstroth of Philadelphia invented the wooden Langstroth hive with removable frames to hold honeycombs. His box revolutionized beekeeping and continues to be the most popular design today. If kept under proper conditions, natural honey can last forever, which explains why honey found in dry Egyptian tombs is still edible.

Bee colonies are wondrous creations. Each contains between 60,000 and 100,000 bees consisting of three types: workers, drones and the queen. The bees work together to assure the health of the hive, each type with its defined role. The vast majority of bees in a colony are

Snow:

Continued from Page 26

at Sawnee Farms in Cumming. Many of the plants, shrubs and trees were transplanted from the family farm. The gardens showcase Southern legacy plants and flowers, such as large azaleas, kousa dogwood, a Bloodgood Japanese maple, box -

female worker bees who build the wax comb that holds eggs, feed the brood of new bees, take care of the queen, forage for pollen, nectar and water among other responsibilities. Worker bees live for only a few weeks.

Every colony has only one queen bee whose main job is to lay eggs, up to a million over her lifetime of two to four years. Drones are males whose only responsibility is to mate with the queen who may mate with up to 17 drones over a one- to two-day period. The beekeeper must understand the lifecycles of the bees and provide a healthy environment for them, a management task that requires detailed knowledge of many factors.

Here are a few facts about bees from the monthly American Bee Journal to help with your next trivia game: The publication first appeared in January 1861 and is still relied upon by beekeepers.

• The average honeybee will make only one-twelfth of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime.

• Honeybees fly up to 15 miles per hour with wings that stroke 11,400 times per minute, creating their distinctive buzz.

• Bees maintain a temperature of 92-93 degrees in their central brood regardless of the outside temperature.

• Fermented honey, known as mead, is the most ancient fermented beverage.

There are several local bee clubs in Georgia and many small beekeepers in North Fulton County.

Ed Parsons and Stan Key are two of the best known.

Ed and Carter Parsons operate the Milton Honey Farm. Ed handles the bees, and Carter is responsible for the business aspects and makes a line of honey soap. Ed is busy with his honeybee business, and his IT company and a wood company that services furniture makers. He has some 40 or 50 hives in two locations in Milton and maintains two self-serve stands. Ed explains that

woods, large camellias, and peonies. Plants that dominate in each garden area include abelia, strawberry begonia, epimedium, and pittosporum. This well-articulated setting includes both a cutting garden and a formal garden showcasing more ligustrum and oak leaf hydrangeas set before a collection of camellias. A goldfish pond centers the formal garden. Also attracting attention is a Harry Lauder’s walking stick tree.

honey purchased in stores is typically blended honeys from several states, which accounts for its uniform taste and color. Like most beekeepers in the area, Ed produces Wildflower Honey which can vary from light to dark depending on the flowers visited by the bees. Spring honey is lighter in color than fall honey, which is tulip poplar flower-based. Every June to mid-August, Ed takes his bees to North Georgia so they can enjoy sourwood tree flowers. Sourwood is most abundant in the southern Appalachian Mountains and produces a uniquely flavored light to medium amber honey depending on the amount of sun and rain a tree receives.

Stan Key is president of Stan’s Bee Loved Honey Company in Alpharetta which makes wildflower honey, sells bees, and relocates beehives. He is a frequent speaker about bees and beekeeping at schools and community groups, consults and mentors individuals who are new to

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. More details about the

the bee business. He is past president of the Fort Worth, Texas Metro Bee Association. Earlier, he was director of American schools in Brazil, Bolivia, Spain and Nicaragua. Stan says, “A third of every bite of food we eat has been touched by bees.”

Both Stan and Ed are active members of the Milton Bee Club which supports local hobby apiarists and works to build the next generation of Milton beekeepers. For information contact Stan at Milton Bee Club Home or email him at stankey. texas@gmail.com or phone 817 8880470.

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.

tour are at https://www.nfmg.net/ garden-tour.html.

Proceeds from Garden Tour support gardening education for young children; scholarships for horticulture students; community gardening education classes (https://www.nfmg. net/communityclasses.htm) in North Fulton and beyond; and local demonstration gardens (https://www.nfmg. net/projectgardens.htm) maintained by the North Fulton Master Gardeners.

KEY FAMILY/PROVIDED

Stan Key and his 12 year old granddaughter Estelle inspect their beehives. Estelle has been working with bees for three years and now has her own hive to care for.

DEATH NOTICES

Beverly Boardman, 81, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 9, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Kenneth Christian, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 5, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Alexander “Alex” Finnell, 23, of Milton, passed away on May 5, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Sarah Pippin, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 6, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Susanne Sonke, 80, of Roswell, passed away on May 8, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Nellie Taylor, 91, of Milton, passed away on April 28, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

John Vlahiotis, 70, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 6, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Facilities/Property Manager for church in Alpharetta area.

Benefits.

Needs basic competency of the practices, methods, and equipment utilized in facility maintenance, construction, and repair activities; including skills and abilities related to plumbing, janitorial, electrical systems, painting, carpentry, construction, and heating and air conditioning systems. Basic understanding of IT and AV technology would be helpful. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to manage contractors/volunteers. Requires successful completion of a criminal record and child abuse background check, a valid driver’s license and the ability to perform physical tasks.

Qualified candidates please send resume to Alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.

SysPro IT Solutions, Inc. (Duluth, GA 30097) seeks multiple Software Developers to analyze user requirements, design, develop, test and deploy various client-servers, web-based software applications. Requirements: MS or Foreign equivalent in Comp. Sci./ IT, Engg. / Math / Science / MBA with Computer Science as major or minor/or related + 1 year of relevant IT experience using Java, Microsoft SQL Server, .Net, Salesforce (or BS or foreign equivalent in Comp. Sci / IT / Engg. / Math / Science / BBA with Computer Science as major or minor or related plus 5 yrs. of relevant IT experience using same IT skills listed above). Positions involve travel to client locations all over the USA. Send resume to HR Manager – SysPro IT Solutions Inc. 3057 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite 200, Duluth, GA 30097 or hr@sysproinc.com.

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE

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.

CARPENTERS

Experienced. Prevailing wage. Must speak English. Open immediately. 352-449-5697

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!

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

Administrative Assistant for Youth and Children

Protestant church in downtown Alpharetta seeks a parttime (15-18 hours per week) Administrative Assistant for Youth & Children’s Ministries. In addition to normal administrative duties the candidate will assist with scheduling, social media, securing supplies, maintaining attendance records, planning events and mission trips.

Qualified candidates are a person of outstanding character who is friendly, organized, able to prioritize, exhibits an understanding of the importance of confidentiality, and is willing and able to work in an environment that is welcoming and inclusive of all people.

A degree from an accredited college or university is preferred. Computer competence within Office 365, editing, and writing skills are required. Experience with REALM is a plus.

Successful completion of a criminal records and child abuse background check is required. Send resumes to alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.

Dawson’s Pediatrics Peach Kids Triathlon presented by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta will take place on May 21st, Sunday from 7:30AM to 10:30AM at Wills Park in Alpharetta. You should expect some delays in travel during these hours

Tree Services

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.

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

COMPLETE TREE SERVICES

Appen-Rated 98

Text or Call us for a FREE quote appointment.

Tree removal, Pruning, Stump grinding, Free mulch. Fully insured.

Emergency 24/7 770-450-8188

Haulers

Bush Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling, Etc.

Many local referencesCall Ralph Rucker 678-898-7237

Bargains – Miscellaneous

ELECTRIC PRESSURE WASHER, A.R. Blue Clean plus surface washer $115. ABOVE GROUND POOL PUMP and motor, new ETJ $200. 770-640-6250

Landscaping

Full Service LANDSCAPING Company

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

Ralph Rucker

678-898-7237

Deadline to place a classified ad is Thursdays by 4 pm

Concrete/ Asphalt Retaining Walls

Brick or Wood

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

678-898-7237

Pinestraw PINESTRAW, MULCH

Delivery/installation available. Firewood available. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Pinestraw and Mulch.

770-831-3612

Gutters

AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aaronsgutters.com. Senior citizen discount! 678-508-2432

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)

Health & Fitness

888-445-5928 Hablamos

Español

Dental insurance - Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real in-surance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-855-526-1060 www. dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

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

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

The Generac PWRcell solar plus battery storage system. Save money, reduce reliance on grid, prepare for outages & power your home. Full installation services. $0 down financing option. Request free no obligation quote.

1-877-539-0299

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

Caring for an aging loved one?

Wondering about options like senior-living communities and inhome care? Caring.com’s Family Advisors help take the guesswork out of senior care for your family.

Free, no-obligation consult:

1-855-759-1407

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

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

!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277

Call today

SHOWER PACKAGE PLUS $1600 OFF

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