Johns Creek Herald - May 25, 2023

Mount Pisgah cuts ribbon on new preschool

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Mount Pisgah Christian School’s new preschool facility, the Stuart and Eulene Murray Academy, will open its doors this fall.

Located on the Lower School campus of MPCS, the 24,000 square foot preschool has 10 new classrooms, a chapel and theatre space, innovation center, and an outdoor playscape.

The Murray Academy program serves the school’s three and four-yearold full day preschool students. An open house on June 1 for interested families will include a tour of the new facility.

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.

Located in Johns Creek, Mount Pisgah Christian School serves more than 1,000 students from infants through 12th grade.

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

June

motorcycle

rally to benefit veterans, service organizations

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Johns Creek Veterans Association will host Ride for Vets June 3, a motorcycle rally to benefit veterans with PTSD.

The police-escorted motorcycle ride will depart from Newtown Park at 8 a.m. and end at the Ga. 400 terminus in Dahlonega.

The registration fee is $50 per motorcycle, which includes a free T-shirt. Mike Mizell, president of the Johns Creek Veterans Association, said there are an expected 75 riders.

Two hours later, at 10 a.m., the event at Newtown Park will open to the public. There will be food, a static military vehicle display and a gun raffle. Representatives from both Veterans Affairs and from the Georgia Department of Veterans Services will have service officers who can assist veterans with benefits on-site. Services include mental health, legal advice, initiating VA claims, veteran housing and information on service animals.

“It’s amazing to me how many veterans come out of service … They don’t tell you this. There’s people out there that can help you,” Mizell said.

The event will also have around a dozen organizations, which support veterans, for visitors looking for volunteer opportunities. Their tents will be set up on the green space between the Park Place senior center and the Veterans Memorial Walk.

MOUNT PISGAH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL/PROVIDED

Mount Pisgah Christian Schools new preschool facility will open for the first time this fall. It is named in honor of a $1 million grant from the Stuart and Eulene Murray Foundation.

NEWS TIPS

POLICE BLOTTER

All

770-442-3278

AppenMedia.com

319 N. Main Street

Alpharetta, GA 30009

HANS APPEN

Publisher RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus

CONTACT

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

LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

ADVERTISING

For information about advertising in the Johns Creek 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

Fake Amazon employee accesses woman’s credit

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek woman reported to police May 8 that someone claiming to be an Amazon representative informed her that someone had made a fraudulent charge on her account.

The caller convinced the victim to download an app on both her phone and laptop called “Any Desk.” After she installed the app, the caller gained access to her devices.

By the time she realized it was a scam, three fraudulent charges had been made on her Bank of America credit card, totaling $250. The victim also said two more charges were made on her Target credit card, totaling $600. A third charge, for nearly $500, had not been successful.

Police advised the victim to freeze all accounts and call all financial institutions involved.

Two teens admit to vandalizing vehicle

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek teen reported to police May 13 that an unidentified person or group placed Jolly Ranchers all over her vehicle, and she suspected it to be former friends.

Her car was untouched at 9 p.m. the day before, and when she returned to her car, she noticed a melted red Jolly Rancher stuck to the left rear bumper area, located another behind the handle of her driver’s side passenger door and more on the roof.

The victim suspected that two of

her former friends were the offenders. She had blocked them two months ago on social media and by phone. Despite blocking them, the victim said they have continued to harass her.

She told police she did not want to prosecute but wanted to document the incident in case the harassment continues.

Police later contacted the suspects, who admitted they placed the candy on the victim’s car as “payback.”

Woman pestered at work after squabble at Halycon

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — An Alpharetta woman reported to Johns Creek Police May 10 that she received threats, following a physical altercation with an identified man at Halycon in Forsyth County.

After the incident, which she reported to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department, the victim said she warned people on Facebook about the man. After making the post, the victim said a friend of the man, who was identified, began harassing her. He eventually called her business, which is in Johns Creek, inquiring about her location.

When an employee at the business told the caller the victim wasn’t at the location, the caller said he couldn’t wait for the victim “to go to jail” and that she got involved with the “wrong people.”

No direct threat was made toward the victim, the police report said, but due to the previous incident, the victim wanted the most recent incident documented.

Man’s television stolen from leasing office room

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek man reported to police May 12 that two unidentified suspects broke

into the package delivery unit at his apartment complex, Arium, and stole his $325 TV.

The victim said when he went to retrieve his Samsung TV at around 12:30 p.m. May 10, he noticed that the room’s security door had been forced open, and his TV was missing.

The property manager provided security footage that showed two people forcing open the door into the package room before stealing multiple items including the victim’s TV.

Suspect descriptions were redacted in the police report.

Because the manager said the mailroom had remained available to tenants since the incident, police did not search for any fingerprints or other items of evidentiary value.

Police advised the manager to have any additional victims contact them.

Woman’s identity used to purchase Range Rover

ROSWELL, Ga. — An 82-year-old Roswell woman told police she was the victim of financial identity fraud on May 15 after receiving letters for weeks with charges for a Range Rover she never bought.

When officers arrived, the woman’s daughter explained the situation. The elderly woman had been receiving mail for weeks about a Range Rover purchased in her name, but the woman had never bought the vehicle.

Then she received a ticket because the car had been caught speeding in a school zone. She also received a license plate for the Range Rover, a letter stating she has a $2,900 line of credit and a letter stating she has a $54,972 charge for the vehicle.

The woman told police she had not made any of the purchases but is worried somebody opened accounts in her name and is damaging her credit. She gave police the license plate and said she wishes to press charges.

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.

Appen Media files suit in Sandy Springs open records case

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Appen Media Group has filed a lawsuit against the City of Sandy Springs over access to information from police reports.

In an official complaint filed in the Superior Court of Fulton County May 12, Appen Media Group, which publishes the Sandy Springs Crier, Alpharetta-Roswell Herald and four other weekly newspapers in north Metro Atlanta, alleged that it has repeatedly been denied access to initial police officer narratives that are routinely filed during investigations.

Excerpts from police reports included in the complaint involve cases of aggravated assault, street racing and reckless driving, indecent exposure and weapons law violations. But in each case, the investigative report narrative contained one sentence with limited details about what allegedly occurred during the incident.

The newsgroup alleges that despite guidance from the Georgia Attorney General’s Office, the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and multiple other state agencies that initial narrative

information must be released under Georgia law, Sandy Springs has denied records requests under the pretense that releasing narrative information would hinder police investigations.

“In requesting the incident reports from Sandy Springs, The Newspaper has asked for arrest reports, including any supplemental reports or narratives from the reporting officer,” Brooks K. Hudson, an attorney representing Appen Media, wrote in the complaint. “Sandy Springs will then provide the Newspaper with an incident report that either has no narrative, or a one-line narrative that gives little to no detail about the incident.”

Without narrative information about what occurred during initial police investigations, Appen Media executives said that neither they nor members of the public will have an accurate understanding of crimes that occur in the community.

While not referenced in the lawsuit, reports filed alongside the complaint also redact the names of officers, without any justification for why the redactions would be permitted under Georgia law.

“The law requires that all initial

reports are subject to open records laws, regardless of whether they are called ‘initial incident reports’, ‘supplemental reports’, ‘narrative reports’, or something else,” Appen Media Publisher Hans Appen said. “Cities cannot avoid disclosure requirements by simply calling files something other than what they are.”

In an email from February, Sandy Springs City Attorney Dan Lee claims that Appen Media’s reading of the law is mistaken, and the city is only required to provide “public supplements” to initial police incident reports, but not other types of supplemental reports.

Lee said that when cases are closed, and there is no threat that an investigation will be compromised, the city is willing to release more documents.

“It is apparent Appen believes that more information is required in the initial incident report, but Georgia Law does not support that requirement,” Lee said. “The City prides itself on transparency and has not encountered this complaint from any other outlet.”

Appen argues they believe that Sandy Springs is violating both the intentions and spirit of Georgia’s Open Records Law by upholding a policy that provides citizens with virtually no details about what crimes are occurring in their community.

“Our ability to obtain complete reports is one of the best tools we have for giving the public an account of how their tax dollars are being spent, how police resources are being prioritized, and how safe their families are in their homes, schools and driving down the street,” Appen said. “We do this accountability journalism and file these open records requests so that the public doesn’t have to. We do need the city to their part though in supplying us the information to relay.”

Beyond that violation, Appen said that Sandy Springs is the only municipality in north Metro Atlanta that provides limited or no narrative as part

of incident reports released through open records requests.

“We do not have this issue with our public safety coverage for Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Milton, Forsyth County, or Dunwoody,” Appen said. “They generally do a good job of giving us initial incident reports, which provide the public with a baseline of the who, what, when and where a crime has occurred.”

In 2018 Appen Media Group sued the City of Roswell over similar alleged violations of the Georgia Open Records Act.

As part of the lawsuit, Appen Media alleged the Roswell Police Department had consistently withheld vital information about criminal incidents from public records. The lawsuit also alleged that the Roswell Police Department had failed to meet time requirements for supplying the reports after requests were made.

After a year of legal maneuvering on both sides of the suit, members of the Roswell City Council voted to settle the lawsuit in 2019, agreeing to pay the media company $10,500 in attorney’s fees and provide them a year’s worth of free open records requests.

“Filing suit was always our last and least desirable option,” Appen said. “We spent months and months going back and forth with the city [of Sandy Springs] giving them every opportunity to comply with the law and fill our records requests. They refused, so here we are.”

In an email, Sandy Springs Communications Director Andrew Allison said the city stands by its interpretation of the Georgia Open Records Law and they are ready to meet the complaint in a court of law.

“Sandy Springs will continue to release all appropriate information required under the Open Records Act and, if the lawsuit proceeds, the city will seek to recover costs, damages and attorneys’ fees to respond to these allegations which question the city’s integrity," Allison stated.

City of Roswell, shop owners to form separate task forces on Canton Street closure plan

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell City Council and Canton Street business owners plan to create two separate task forces to study a proposal that would close Canton Street to vehicle traffic during summer weekends.

Three public meetings on the plan have left community members divided on the best way to move forward.

The task forces were proposed at a May 19 City Council workshop at East Roswell Park’s recreation center where the mayor, council and city officials discussed the proposal for the third time.

At the workshop Roswell City Council members shared their thoughts on the proposal to turn the popular street into a pedestrian “promenade” for weekends over the summer, closing it to vehicles from Ga. 9 to East Alley. Some members of the City Council, such as Sarah Beeson and Peter Vanstrom, said they want the city to proceed slowly so that it can be “done right.”

Councilwoman Lee Hills said she wants work on the plan now, because she is “ready to commit.”

With a divided council and ongoing resistance from residents and business owners, Mayor Kurt Wilson proposed

a task force to address issues with the closure plan, including traffic, parking, accessibility and business revenue. The council was scheduled to vote to officially form the task force at a May 23 Community Development and Transportation Committee meeting.

Wilson said the task force is not saying “hey, it’s going to be done by May 27, 2024 or July 19, 2023,” and the goal is to get different perspectives. The mayor did not set a timeline for the task force to come up with a plan.

Resident Susan Tyser said the creation of the task force is “very important,” so long as it includes residents a mile or two out from Canton Street in every direction because of traffic and safety concerns. The city did not say how it will constitute the task force.

After the council decided to create a task force, two Canton Street business owners came forward with an additional proposal: a task force by the businesses on Canton Street to come up with a plan.

John Michael Brunetti, owner of Rock ‘N’ Taco on Canton Street and Jenna Aronowitz, owner of 1920 Tavern have been vocal about their split feelings regarding the closure. Each has been an informal spokesperson for other Canton Street shops and restau-

rants on either side of the debate.

Aronowitz has been an opponent of the plan, urging the city to halt any “promenade” concepts until the city builds a parking deck in the area. She said when Canton Street closes for Alive in Roswell, a festival held the third Thursday of each month from April to October with food, drinks and music, the area turns into a “drunk fest.”

Speaking on behalf of several Canton Street businesses, Aronowitz has said the road closure will lead to revenue loss for shops and restaurants that depend on car traffic to stay open.

Brunetti has a different perspective. He has issues with the closure plan as proposed, but he said he does not want to “close the conversation to close Canton Street.”

The eight days a year when Alive in Roswell shuts down the road are his “busiest days,” and he said other businesses only lose revenue because they close their doors to an influx of customers. He admitted some customers do get rowdy at the festival, but closing Canton Street over the summer would be a different situation.

“We’re just trying to create a green space,” Brunetti said.

Ideally, Brunetti said the city would take the summer to work on details and

have the plan wrapped up by September.

Both Brunetti and Aronowitz advocated for a pause on the Canton Street closure plan, although the two differ on the details. At the May 19 workshop, the pair decided the public debate had gotten out of control.

“We are dividing our community and that’s the worst thing we could possibly do,” Brunetti said.

Afraid to “burn the relationship,” the pair told the mayor and council they want to be their own task force. They said each side of the issue has valid points, so they want to come up with a plan using input from residents and deliver it to the city.

They said it should take them about three weeks to create a plan from scratch. Aronowitz said the plan may not end up being a full road closure.

“Nothing is set in stone except for activating Roswell,” Aronowitz said.

Mayor Wilson was in full support of the proposed task force, which he said will be a forum for residents to discuss the proposal.

“The City of Roswell government will be at your disposal,” Wilson said.

Aronowitz and Brunetti said they don’t plan on returning to the city until they “talk to everyone.”

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.

‘THAT’S A CLOSED DOOR’

Transgender medical care law leaves Roswell family frustrated

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Jordan-Grimes household in Roswell greets people with a wall of energy.

JD and Ellie Jordan share five kids, 3 dogs, two cats and a rabbit. They’re a typical “blended” family, with kids excited to show off old family photos and the “fat dog.”

But a recently passed piece of legislation looms over the family, a Georgia law that limits medical care for transgender minors. Two of the five kids are transgender — Lily Grimes Jordan, 17, is a trans woman, and Onyx Grimes, 16, is a trans man. The legislation, which bans medical procedures for transgender minors, including genital reassignment surgeries and hormone replacement therapies, was cosponsored by Republican State Sen. John Albers who lives just down the street.

The law bans medical procedures for transgender minors, including genital reassignment surgeries and hormone replacement therapies. Transgender youth will still have access to puberty blockers prior to turning 18.

State Sen. Brandon Beach (R-Alpharetta), another co-sponsor of the legislation, spoke frankly about the reasoning behind his decision. He said young people who make “dramatic changes” at a young age

may end up regretting them.

The Jordan-Grimes family is frustrated with the new law. JD says he’s angry to see it happening with the help of Albers, a Roswell legislator.

“How was this legislation informed by his constituents?” JD said.

JD and Ellie say they worry that the law will harm transgender youth.

“You have just publicly told your children you are never allowed to be this or to broach this with you,” Ellie said. “Because you co-sponsored this law.”

As parents to two transgender children, Ellie and JD are familiar with the reasoning behind the legislation. Lawmakers stated concern with children making permanent medical decisions before they turn 18.

Requests for Sen. Albers to comment on the topic went unanswered.

Ellie said those ideas are based on “assumptions” that parents are ready to let their children have surgery the moment a kid comes out. It’s not like that, she said, the process is long, complex and involves many medical steps.

Lily’s transition started not with a coming out, but with a depression diagnosis. In the summer of 2020 JD and Ellie noticed Lily showed signs of depression and took her to one-onone therapy sessions. She eventually

See IMPACT, Page 15

JD JORDAN/PROVIDED

The Jordan-Grimes household consists of five children, from left; Sean Grimes, 14; Lily Grimes Jordan, 17; Jack Jordan, 15; Onyx Grimes, 16 and Malcolm Jordan, 12.

Taqueria Los Hermanos draws from family history

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Taqueria Los Hermanos was born from the vision of three brothers two decades ago, but its history dates back to a rich family tradition in the cuisine of southern Mexico.

Located in The Shops of Dunwoody on Chamblee Dunwoody Road, co-owner Miguel Romero said the restaurant offers a unique take on the typical Mexican fare, with a menu rich in seafood that is beloved by the community.

Romero’s personal favorite on the menu are Mama’s tamales, a spicy red chicken and a spicy green pork tamale served on a bed of warm Mexican rice with a side of black charro bean soup and handmade sauces. He said the recipe dates to his great-grandmother, who passed it down through the generations.

“That’s something, I think, that a lot of other restaurants are lacking,” Romero said. “There’s not really a true family recipe. It’s more of just kind of same old, same old, just different kinds of varieties or whatever. But for us, everything is homemade. All of our sauces are homemade. All the marinades are family recipes.”

The fan-favorite Romero said a fan-favorite at Taqueria Los Hermanos are the tlayudas, a Mexican-style pizza that originates from the state of Oaxaca. The dish consists of refried black beans, shredded cabbage, avocado, tomato, red onions,

radishes, roasted poblano peppers, queso fresco and shredded Oaxaca cheese on a crunchy corn tortilla, topped with grilled chicken, pastor or asada steak.

Guests are also treated to an expansive list of strong margaritas, homemade-style desserts and dishes ranging from taquitos, tacos, burritos and enchiladas.

But Taqueria Los Hermanos’ standout offering is its service and dedication to quality.

“Our goal is to be number one in every aspect – in food, service, drinks, everything,” Romero said.

Much like its menu, Taqueria Los Hermanos is the product of family tradition carried down through the generations. Romero’s father and uncles opened the restaurant when Romero was 7 years old in 2001, and Romero’s first job was working as a busser.

“As I got older, I became a server and then assistant manager, general manager and then owner,” Romero said. “Obviously, Los Hermanos is very successful, so I wanted to be a part of it alongside with my brother and my cousin.”

Together, the three opened the restaurant’s Dunwoody location at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020.

Business weathered pandemic

“It was interesting,” Romero said. “We were busy, I mean, slammed for the first week, and then it just stopped because of the pandemic.”

See TAQUERIA, Page 9

Our goal is to be number one in every aspect – in food, service, drinks, everything.

MIGUEL ROMERO, co-owner, Taqueria Los Hermanos

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Miguel Romero is the co-owner of Dunwoody’s Taqueria Los Hermanos, a familyoperated restaurant founded by his father and uncles in 2001. The restaurant’s menu is rich in seafood, embodying the family’s native southern Mexico.

Taqueria:

Continued from Page 8

Despite initial challenges and working odd hours, the restaurant persisted, and Dunwoody’s love for Taqueria Los Hermanos never waned.

A year later, the eatery was named one of the best Mexican restaurants in Gwinnett Magazine’s Best of Gwinnett awards, and Taqueria Los Hermanos won the same category in Appen Media’s Best of Perimeter awards in 2022 and 2023.

Romero said he studied at the University of Georgia, and there, peers from Dunwoody had told him the area needed a good Mexican restaurant. With its proximity to major state highways, Atlanta and North Fulton County cities, he said Dunwoody was the ideal spot for Taqueria Los Hermanos’ fifth location.

“I would like to thank Dunwoody in general,” Romero said. “It’s an amazing community, and it’s awesome because not only are they great customers, but they also help us out a lot with sending their kids to work with us … Overall, we’ve had a lot of help from the community, so we’d like to say thank you for that.”

Taqueria Los Hermanos is in suite 3 at 5500 Chamblee Dunwoody Road. Menus, hours and more information can be found at taquerialoshermanos.com.

Tucker

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Guests are greeted by a colorful mural along the entryway of Taqueria Los Hermanos in Dunwoody May 8. The restaurant offers a variety of Mexican dishes, ranging from tacos, enchiladas, tlayudas and tamales made from a family recipe.

Misconceptions about active Adult 55+ living

to you by - Outlook Gwinnett

Assumption: Active Adult and Independent Living are the same thing

Reality: FALSE! Active adult communities serve as choice-based option for individuals 55 and better who may not be ready for the needsbased services and amenities of a traditional senior living community.

Assumption: Active Adult site staff are medically certified

Reality: FALSE! Our staff does not provide any medical care or interventions. This allows our residents to maintain their long-time health care providers and medical independence.

Assumption: I have to be retired in order to move into an Active Adult community

Reality: FALSE! Just like living in a multi-family community, we encourage our residents to continue to engage in their career and social interests as they did prior to moving in!

The Active Adult environment caters to older adults who typically have lower health needs and prefer an active,

community-based lifestyle where they can engage with their neighbors of similar age. This may allow for a stronger sense of community and an easier adjustment to apartment living. Here at Outlook Gwinnett, we seek to provide luxurious, worry-free living long before you are ready to relinquish your independence. Look forward to spending hot summer days lounging by our meticulously cared for outdoor pool! Or connect with your neighbors and plan your evening get-togethers around our stocked wine nook and sports lounge. Add in our community calendar, packed with a never-ending variety of SUN program activities, the possibilities are limitless here at Outlook Gwinnett!

Stop by our leasing office today to find out how to reserve a spot in this unique community today.

1500 Laurel Crossing Parkway Buford, GA 30519

(678) 890-5371

outlookgwinnett.com

Brought

“Be Patriotic. Vape.”

Yes, you read that correctly. Those were the only words written in what must have been size 20 million font on a billboard near Greenville, South Carolina. A beautiful United States flag was proudly portrayed on the billboard behind those words. And, oddly, no company name, logo or other identifying information was present to connect this billboard to a specific business or corporation. From what I could see as I drove by, nothing was on the billboard except an American flag and the words “Be Patriotic. Vape.”

This billboard had me puzzled. Was it a joke? Was it actually trying to convince people that vaping is an act of patriotism? Does it assume that the general population and particularly our young people are so impressionable as to believe this billboard and start vaping because they love our country?

I laughed as I drove by, but the billboard did have me worried. The US military included cigarettes in soldiers’ rations from World War II through 1975, and as a result, nicotine addiction and tobacco use has long been a plight of our veterans. Many adult smokers have attempted to use e-cigarettes and vaping as a way of avoiding regular cigarettes. But the fastest growth of vaping has been among young people. Approximately 20% of those aged 18 to 29 report vaping – the highest for any age group.

Since young people seem to be most strongly prone to vaping, it’s important to spread the word on the negative health effects of vaping to our youth. As a dermatologist, I can attest to negative skin effects of vaping, some of which should grab one’s attention:

1. Black, hairy tongue. Multiple oral problems can occur from vaping. The most newsworthy from a teen’s perspective is probably black hairy tongue. The exact

reason vaping can cause this condition is not known, but it’s well-established that some individuals will develop a black, hairy-appearing tongue when they vape. Skin cells on the tongue build up, and certain types of bacteria can overgrow. Go to Google Image and type in “black hairy tongue” to scare any teens you know out of vaping.

2. Genital burns. Many e-cigarettes use lithium batteries that were manufactured poorly and are prone to exploding. Between 2015 and 2017, more than 2000 people went to the emergency room for burn injuries from e-cigarettes. Explosions were often spontaneous while the device was simply in the person’s pocket. Pockets are close to one’s private parts, and genitals were commonly burned. Scare your teen with this one!

3. Acne and aging skin. Nothing seems to motivate a social-media era individual like aesthetics. Cigarettes are known to cause acne, premature aging of skin, enlarged pores and oil glands. Nicotine causes many of these changes, and nicotine is present whether one is using traditional cigarettes or e-cigarettes.

Finally, the question of patriotism. In case you were worried that you need to starting vaping to prove that you are a patriot, the answer is that you do not. Patriotism and vaping have NOT been linked. An article in the journal Tobacco Use Insights entitled “The Vaping Teenager” found that teens who identify themselves as “patriotic” are actually less likely to vape than those with other peer crowd identifications. Teens who selfidentified as patriotic were more likely to report valuing hard work and enjoying the outdoors. The billboard would have been more accurate had it said “Want to risk burnt genitals, hairy tongue, acne, cardiovascular side effects and a lighter wallet? – Vape.” I guess they ran out of room?

Brought to You by - Brent Taylor, MD, Premiere Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta

PEXELS

Pain Relieving Laser Therapy

Brought to you by - Johns Creek Physical Therapy

Having treated hundreds of patients over the past 6 years with Pain Relieving Laser Therapy, it’s not hard for me to appreciate how well it works. But if you’ve never tried it, trust me when I tell you…. you’re missing out!

Several years ago, John Deere ran a promotion on their zero turn lawn mowers. They used a fun tag line, “It’s not how fast you mow, it’s how well you mow FAST!” I wish I could come up with a similar tag line for Pain Relieving Laser Therapy because it can deliver pain relief in just a few minutes. It’s not uncommon for patients to have their pain be reduced by 50% on the first treatment.

How does it work? Pain Relieving Laser Therapy uses light energy to promote healing and reduce pain. Laser Therapy is FDA cleared to treat pain, inflammation, arthritis, and muscle spasms and is a great alternative to medications and injections.

The most common thing we hear after someone tries it for the first

time is “WOW!” I’m sure if you are just reading this article, you are probably thinking, “yeah, RIGHT??!! Nothing works that fast!” But don’t

take my word for it, call our office today and schedule your FREE TRIAL. The only thing you have to lose is your pain!

Johns Creek Physical Therapy 4060 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite H Suwanee, GA 30024 770-622-5344

Honoring our Veterans in death: Burial in a National Cemetery

Brought to You by - Katherine M. Wheat, Associate, Wilson Legal, PC

“Looking across this field, we see the scale of heroism and sacrifice. All who are buried here understood their duty. All stood

to protect America. And all carried with them memories of a family that they hoped to keep safe by their sacrifice.” - George W. Bush, Arlington National Cemetery, Memorial Day 2005 While most Americans are

familiar with Arlington National Cemetery, the Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Cemetery Administration maintains 155 national cemeteries in 42 states and Puerto Rico. Most Veterans qualify for burial benefits, which include a gravesite in any VA national cemetery with available space, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a government headstone, marker, or medallion, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate. Cremated remains are inurned in national cemeteries in the same manner and with the same honors as casketed remains.

If you or your loved one would like to be buried in a national cemetery, there are a few steps you can go ahead and take to prepare. Actual burial arrangements will be made after death, and the VA does not reserve grave space; however, upon request, the VA will go ahead and make eligibility determinations for burial in advance of need. This is called a pre-need determination of eligibility and obtaining it early may make a time of grief a little easier for you or your surviving family members.

Information about eligibility may be found at www.va.gov/ burials-memorials/eligibility/. To apply you will need your Social Security number; date and place of birth, military status, and service history (ex. service dates, discharge character, rank); discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents). If you do not have your discharge

papers, you may request them by submitting a military records request. Information about this process may be found at www. va.gov/records/get-militaryservice-records/.

The above application process applies to all national cemeteries except Arlington National Cemetery and the United States Soldiers and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery. For burial in either of these Department of the Army cemeteries, you will need to call (877) 907-8585.

Even if you are not interested in burial at a national cemetery or state veteran cemetery, you may still want to honor your Veteran by obtaining a headstone, marker, or medallion, a burial flag, and/or a Presidential Memorial Certificate. Additionally, you can request an honor guard detail for the burial of an eligible Veteran. Your funeral director should be able to assist you in obtaining or incorporating these honors into the Veteran’s funeral and burial. Another helpful resource is Military One Source, which is an official U.S. Department of Defense website available at www. militaryonesource.mil.

The death of a loved one can be such a stressful time and planning ahead to request burial benefits and honors for a Veteran may help to avoid some of that stress. It also provides the Veteran with an opportunity to voice his or her wishes for a funeral, burial, or cremation. To all of those who served – Thank you!

PEXELS

Impact:

Continued from Page 6

moved on to an outpatient group therapy, where many of her fellow patients were also LGBTQ+. Lily didn’t come out as a transgender woman to her parents until September 2020, although the teen remembers the story differently from her parents.

“I was accidentally outed, but it didn’t end poorly,” Lily said.

She said her former significant other had outed her by accident, referring to her as “Lily” in front of her parents before the teen had shared her gender identity and chosen name. The parents don’t remember the conversation, but they recall when she came out as a transgender woman at a family dinner.

“We didn’t know what we were doing,” JD said.

The parents said it was a major adjustment at first.

“There’s so much worry and thought and research and therapy sessions poured into receiving the news and processing it,” Ellie said. “Is this a symptom of the depression or is the depression a symptom of being trans?”

Ellie said the first step was figuring out the best course to take

for Lily. The family began by using Lily’s chosen name, rather than her birth name, and began using she/her pronouns for the teen.

By December 2020 Lily met with her first doctor for a consultation. In October of 2021, she started taking Spironolactone, a hormone blocker that targets testosterone. It is also used to treat excessive hair growth in women, acne and high blood pressure.

The hormone blockers did not work well for Lily, though, and after numerous consultations and doctors’ appointments, the family decided to start the teen girl on hormone replacement therapy. Lily began taking estrogen on Nov. 1, 2022.

Ellie told Lily about the estrogen with a handwritten note and a box of the medication. She said both of them had tears in their eyes.

“The experience of telling her was very affirming,” Ellie said.

Under the newly passed Georgia law Lily’s healthcare will be grandfathered in and she will continue receiving hormone replacement therapies while still under the age of 18.

Lily’s transition journey was a learning curve for the parents, but across numerous appointments, consultations and therapy sessions they had some major takeaways. One

consultant told the family to watch out for three things in transgender and questioning youth: persistence, insistence and consistency.

“As soon as she said that, it was like this lightbulb went off,” Ellie said.

Ellie kept the three words in mind when Onyx said he wanted to be a boy and get gender-affirming care.

“My mom had said ‘Alright, so I want you to keep a calendar for how many days you felt like you want to do this,’” Onyx said.

Onyx kept the calendar for almost two years. Because of the new law, he won’t be able to get gender affirming care.

“That’s a closed door until he’s 18,” Ellie said.

Onyx will have to wait two years before he can receive the healthcare he wants. Ellie said the people opposed to transgender healthcare need to talk to people that are affected by these laws, like Onyx.

“You can’t say authentically ‘I’m opposed to this’ if you don’t even understand and you haven’t made an effort,” Ellie said.

JD said he was frustrated to see the law pass in Georgia especially with a connection to Roswell via Sen. Albers.

“I don’t associate our community with being that kind of hateful,” JD

said.

He said Roswell is “resistant to change” but people in the area have been largely accepting of Lily and Onyx. Lily, a student at Roswell High School, said her experience has been a mixed bag.

Teachers use her chosen name and pronouns, and many students are allies, but Lily has also faced hatred and slurs from others.

Younger brothers Sean and Malcolm Jordan are both accepting of their transgender siblings. They are religious but said their beliefs “don’t have to collide” with transgender people.

“It’s your belief, if they don’t believe the same thing, why do you have to tell them?” 12-year-old Malcolm asked.

JD said he knows there are dozens of transgender teens at Roswell High School alone, with even more across Georgia. He said Albers and his cosponsors did not talk to them, the people the law would affect most.

Lily said she is ready and waiting for the public to approach her. When asked how she feels about being a spokesperson for transgender youth, she said her voice is a “more accurate representation” of what being trans is like.

“It’s a bit better being approached and being talked to,” Lily said.

Fair Fight Action accuses Milton of suppressing minority voters

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Earlier this month, Fair Fight Action published a coalition letter about voter access in Milton, and the city’s residents had something to say about it.

Fair Fight Action is a national voting rights organization rooted in Georgia and founded by former Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams. It is backed by nonprofits, like the New Georgia Project, which works to register, civically engage and empower “New Georgia’s” majority Black, brown and young voters, and by Common Cause Georgia, an advocacy organization that promotes public participation in government to ensure that public officials and institutions are accountable and responsive to citizens.

The letter holds the view that the Milton City Council has directly limited voting access for Black and brown voters, with its May 1 resolution. The measure established two polling places on Election Day: Milton City Hall and the Milton City Park and Preserve.

The decision primarily affects precincts ML05, ML06A and ML06B in the city’s southeast corner, an area that Appen Media found to have most of the city’s Democratic voters.

The three precincts also have the highest number of Black and brown

voters, according to the letter, published more than a week after Appen Media’s findings. It says that 30 to 50 percent of this area’s voters are people of color.

A member of Fair Fight’s data team said he used voter files for registered voters in each precinct, which includes demographic information. In the three precincts combined, 38.4 percent of voters are people of color.

Not everyone is on board with Fair Fight’s conclusion, though.

“Unfortunately, Mayor Jamison’s prepared statement and amended proposal has provided Appen Media with their talking points for the unfair article in last week’s Milton Herald,” Milton resident Nia Cortsen said during public comment at the May 15 Milton City Council meeting. “Their article was the impetus behind the Twitter post from the Stacey Abrams very partisan Fair Fight Action group and four other divisive political organizations.”

Mayor Jamison read a prepared statement at the May 1 council meeting, advocating for a third polling location at the Public Safety Complex in District 3. But his motion failed to garner a majority.

“I am confident that any reasonable individual would agree that equal opportunity and equal access to all citizens is being provided,” Cortsen said.

See VOTERS, Page 19

SCREENSHOT

Milton resident Kevin Shigley advocates for a third polling location on Election Day at the City Council meeting May 15. Shigley’s position was a singular one in the 10 public comments made at the meeting, which came in the wake of a coalition letter published by Stacey Abrams’ Fair Fight Action group. The letter cited disenfranchisement of Black and brown voters in Milton’s District 3, who were said to comprise 30 to 50 percent of the area’s voters.

Citizen advisers resign en masse from their posts on Roswell panel

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Following a May 15 public information meeting on the Grimes Bridge Road corridor improvement project, members of the Roswell Transportation Advisory Commission resigned en masse.

Members cited frustration with the city’s ongoing transportation projects, and elected officials turning a deaf ear to recommendations.

Members Richard Arena, George Vail, Jason Hudson and Marisa Pereira resigned from the commission. Member Perry Dragon’s term ended in May.

The sole remaining member is Jason Yowell, who said he’s staying on to “run his mouth.”

In a letter to the City Council on May 11, Commissioner Pereira wrote that in more than a year on the panel, member recommendations and motions have never been acknowledged.

Pereira, who lives on Grimes Bridge Road, said she was told she could not speak about the improvement project because of a “conflict of interest.” She brought that frustration to the May 15 public information meeting where the Roswell Transportation Department presented project plans for Grimes Bridge Road.

The public information meeting focused on three proposals to mitigate traffic on the Grimes Bridge Road and

Voters:

Continued from Page 18

Limited voter access

The coalition letter says the lack of a polling location in District 3 exacerbates the disproportionate wait times that Black and brown voters already face.

According to 2020 analysis, copublished by ProPublica and Georgia Public Broadcasting, Georgia’s voter rolls have grown by nearly 2 million people, yet polling locations have been cut statewide by nearly 10 percent. The growth in registered voters has largely been fueled by younger, non-White citizens, the study says.

In the nine core Metro Atlanta counties, the analysis says four out of five new voters are people of color. It also says the same area holds nearly half of the state’s active voters but only 38 percent of the polling places.

“The growth in registered voters has outstripped the number of available polling places in both predominantly White and Black neighborhoods,” the report says. “But the lines to vote have

Dogwood Road corridor. The project would be funded by the transportation special purpose local option sales tax. At the meeting, residents were shown renderings of three proposed construction projects and spoke with city staff. Then, they were given opportunity to fill out a survey choosing one of the three proposals.

The first rendering maintains the signal at Vickery Lane and adds a miniature roundabout at Grimes Bridge Road and Grimes Bridge Landing, a right turn lane at the Cottage School entrance and pedestrian crossing with flashing lights across from the Cottage School.

The second proposal also keeps the Vickery Lane signal, adds a miniature roundabout at the Grimes Bridge Road and Grimes Bridge Landing intersection and adds a miniature roundabout at the Cottage School entrance.

The third proposal includes three miniature roundabouts: one at s Grimes Bridge Landing, another at the Cottage School Entrance Drive and one at Vickery Lane.

At the meeting, Pereira gathered residents and encouraged them to not choose any of the survey options. Instead, she said they should all deliver a coordinated response in the online survey’s comment box.

Yowell, the sole remaining Transportation Advisory Commission

been longer in Black areas, because Black voters are more likely than Whites to cast their ballots in person on Election Day and are more reluctant to vote by mail, according to U.S. census data and recent studies.”

Organizations within the coalition were contacted by concerned citizens in the city, said NGP Policy Director Stephanie Ali, but had been monitoring the idea of self-run local elections that had spread through North Fulton municipalities earlier this year.

“People who have everything else going on in their life — kids and work and any other distraction going on — may not have the capacity to go a little bit further across town to access one of these two polling places,” Ali said.

In an interview, a Fair Fight representative said the group will continue to educate Milton citizens about what’s going on and directly advocate on their behalf to the mayor and City Council regarding discriminatory impact.

Residents petition the city

Other speakers criticized the partisan turn of Milton’s municipal

member, called the whole plan “garbage.” The commission had previously recommended to the Transportation Department to avoid roundabouts — not include three on one road.

“This is rubbish, it’s not what we proposed,” Pereira said.

Some residents liked the proposed developments. Scott Long, a frequent cyclist and scooter user, said the inclusion of a trail that reaches the river will make his commute easier.

“This means I can ride my bike downtown,” Long said.

Other residents were frustrated with the proposals. One woman asked why the public information meeting wasn’t a Q&A with city officials. Yowell said the city was only hosting the meeting to “check a box.”

Pereira said members would “speak and speak and try to work with people” but nothing would change. Now, she’s looking to voice her concerns through other means, like possible protests or demonstrations before the Transportation Department makes any decisions.

“Typically, they say this is already done, that ship has sailed,” Pereira said. “We’re not waiting for ‘that ship has already sailed.’”

Roswell City Councilwoman Lee Hills, who attended the meeting, along with Councilwoman Sarah Beeson, said the plan is far from a “done deal.”

election process May 15, with a keen eye on Jamison’s outlook.

Milton resident Brett Chromi said he didn’t “escape” from California to Georgia to “get woke policies dictated to [the City Council] from a Marxist organization like Fair Fight.”

“There’s no support for a woke mayor or a woke council in Milton,” Chromi said. “Get your act together, Peyton, and start being a leader instead of enabling Milton to plunge into a ruined leftist future.”

Several others, some from neighboring jurisdictions, also voiced support for the Milton Municipal Election Feasibility Committee’s recommendation for two polling locations.

But there was one Milton resident, Kevin Shigley, who said it would be “great” to offer as many polling locations as possible.

“Making it easy to vote is something that we should do,” Shigley said. “I would ask you to reconsider and perhaps put together one more location for our fine people of Milton.”

Shigley said he may be among the minority. However, his wife Debra

“There’s time to make adjustments and for us to go back to the drawing board and figure out some options,” Hills said.

She said one of the “resounding” pieces of feedback she has received was opposition to roundabouts. While Hills said no plan will appease everyone, she “feels good” that residents were able to talk to city officials directly.

“We want it to be great for residents, but at the same time, not a great pick for the commuters, which is a tall order,” Hills said. “So, knowing what the challenges are from our residents is a big deal.”

Roswell Transportation Department Director Jeffrey Littlefield spent the meeting gathering comments and feedback from residents, and he will “see how they can be incorporated or see what makes sense.”

Littlefield pointed to roundabouts as a major resident issue. He said residents prefer stop signs.

“We need to see what effect that would have on traffic and safety, as stop signs tend to have more accidents than roundabouts,” Littlefield said.

Transportation officials will sift through the online and in-person survey results to see if there is any consensus on project details. Officials predict the corridor improvements will reach the mayor and City Council for an official vote sometime in July.

started a petition asking that Milton put a halt to running its own election with an alternative option to add a third polling location. As of May 17, the petition carried more than 55 signatures. In an interview, she said plans to continue raising awareness, specifically in District 3, then regroup about next steps.

“Things are pretty far down the road, and I’m not sure what makes sense, right? Because we want to continue making our voices heard,” Debra Shigley said.

In addition to voter access, she voiced doubts about the election budget that’s been presented to the council. It now sits at around $83,000.

Debra Shigley said she isn’t sure if she’s an “activist,” but she knows she’s a “concerned mom,” who has done some research.

“When you do peel back the curtain a little bit, you see, ‘Well, that doesn’t sound right. That doesn’t look right. What’s going on here?’” she said. “That’s sort of what’s activated me because I just think if nothing else, we can help shine a light on things …”

CADILLAC JACK MY SECOND ACT

Graduating seniors of the National Charity League Milton Chapter stand with their mothers.

National Charity League Milton recognizes 2023 graduating seniors

MILTON, Ga. — The National Charity League Milton Chapter has recognized its 21-member graduating class of 2023.

The NCL Milton Chapter is a group of more than 250 mothers and daughters in Milton and surrounding areas, united in a commitment to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences while fostering their mother-daughter relationships.

The 2023 senior class graduates with a combined 3,862 hours of philanthropic service hours supporting 20 philanthropies in the North Fulton area in addition to several national philanthropic initiatives.

Additionally, they have contributed 2,407 service hours supporting the NCL Milton Chapter in various leadership roles. This brings their combined league and philanthropic service hours to 6,270 since they first joined NCL in spring 2016.

Each year the NCL Milton Chapter welcomes rising seventh graders into the chapter, and they begin a journey

of philanthropic service and leadership development that continues through their graduation year. Throughout this experience, these young women work diligently to support the NCL mission to connect hearts, hands and minds so that every community thrives.

This year, the 2023 Senior Class stems from several high schools including Cambridge High School, Johns Creek High School, Milton High School and Veritas Classical School. There, they have achieved academic honors, participated in varsity and club sports, and other extracurricular activities.

The 2023 Class members are: Kendall Baines, Emma Bennett, Grace Bledsoe, Ella Butler; Scarlett Czarnecki, Elise DuFour, Alle Eisenhardt, Mae Elliot, Lindsay Feinstein, Caitlin Hester, Gracyn Kim, Jorja MacKenzie, Eliza Maples, Mallory Maples, Meghan Reid, Caroline Seidman, Gabrielle Stanley, Marisa Telipsky, Katelyn Thai, Vibha Venkataraman and Shelby Watson.

Roswell announces inaugural public art festival

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell Arts Fund is partnering with the City of Roswell to host ArtAround: Pathways, an outdoor public and performing arts display along the trail at Don White Park from midJune to the end of September.

The festival features temporary installations, performances and workshops including music, theatre, dance and aerials that Roswell Arts Fund said reflect the interplay of art and nature. Throughout the festival more than 30 works from local and regional artists will be shown.

Atlanta-based public art nonprofit Dashboard will serve as the project’s

production team.

“This project offers a rare opportunity for the community to experience the creative responses of artists to our natural surroundings,” Roswell Arts Fund Program Director Elan Buchen said. “We believe that this celebration of public art will inspire and delight all those who attend, and we can’t wait to share this incredibly experience with the community.”

The Roswell Arts Fund said artist announcements and the performance schedule for ArtAround: Pathways will be released soon.

NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE MILTON/PROVIDED

JUNE BOOK EVENTS

Author William Kent Krueger to headline Roswell Reads

Twenty-six bones, 33 oints, and thousands of steps a day.

Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia looks forward to helping you get back on your feet!

Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery

Foot and Ankle Fractures and Trauma

Pediatric Foot and Ankle Treatments

Sports Medicine and Tendon Injuries

Bunion and Hammertoe Correction

Laser Treatment Ingrown Toenail Correction

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Podiatric Dermatology

Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

JOHNS CREEK

4385 Johns Creek Pkwy., Suite 200

Suwanee, GA 30024

Phone: 770-418-0456

By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com

As something of an early Father’s Day gift for all Atlanta-area fans of fiction, Roswell Reads has announced its 2023 featured writer. William Kent Krueger, New York Times bestselling author of “This Tender Land,” “Ordinary Grace” and 19 acclaimed books in the Cork O’Connor mystery series, is this year’s selection.

AnkleAndFootCenters.com

Krueger will discuss his latest novel, “The River We Remember,” at two fall events presented by Roswell Reads, an organization of Friends of the Roswell Library, in partnership with Roswell Cultural Arts and Bookmiser. On Sept. 29, he will speak at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center at 7 p.m. And, on Sept. 30, Krueger will lead a 10 a.m. writing workshop at the Roswell Adult Recreation Center. Tickets for both events are available online at roswellcac. com, by calling 770-594-6232, or at the RCAC. Copies of “The River We Remember” can be preordered at eventbrite.com/e/632982135607.

Saturday, June 3, George Weinstein and Kim Conrey. Married authors Conrey and Weinstein will sign their latest novels, “Stealing Ares” and “Return to Hardscrabble Road.” 10:30 a.m. Free. Posman Books, 4105 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta, 470-509-5727. posmanbooks.com

Saturday, June 3, Tracy Solheim. Solheim will sign “It Had to Be You.” Noon. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway No. 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com

Thursday, June 8, Colleen Oakley. Oakley returns to spotlight “The Mostly True Story of Tanner & Louise.” 7 p.m. An Oakley book purchase is required. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway No. 314, Suwanee. 770-2329331. read-it-again.com

Saturday, June 10, multiple writers. Meet and greet featuring six Red Clover authors. 1 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566.

Poeandcompanybookstore.com

Thursday, June 15, Karen White. White, the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 34 titles, will chat about “The House on Prytania.” 5 p.m. Signing. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566.

Poeandcompanybookstore.com

Saturday, June 17, Juneteenth Celebration. The city of Johns Creek’s first Juneteenth Celebration will include a book fair showcasing local African American authors. 3 p.m. Free. Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. 678 5123200. JohnsCreekGA.gov

Saturday, June 17, MJ Pankey. Pankey will talk about “Epic of Helinthia.” 3 p.m. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway No. 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com

Saturday, June 17, Melanie Sue Bowles, Robert Gwaltney. The double signing event will feature Bowles’ “Liberty Biscuit” and Gwaltney’s debut novel “The Cicada Tree.” 1 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage

Meanwhile, there will be much ado about books happening locally this month. In addition to the list below, the first Juneteenth celebration planned by the city of Johns Creek is slated for June 17 and activities will include a book fair highlighting local African American authors.

“This is a great opportunity to introduce these successful writers to our community,” said Cynthia D. Jones, Juneteenth book fair coordinator. In addition to Jones, other book fair authors will include Eddie L. Johnson, Dottie Chapman Reed, Renee Bradford, Sharon-Horton Pellom, Leslie Renee Briscoe-Andrews and Celeste Johnson. Details about Juneteenth and other June events are below.

Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com

Tuesday, June 20, Mike Nemeth, Cherie Claire, Fatima Henson. A Novel Idea presents the trio of authors in conversation, with books available to purchase through Bookmiser. 7 p.m. Free. Vintage Pizzeria, 5510 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody. 770-509-5611. anovelidea.us

Saturday, June 24, Mickey Dubrow. Dubrow will sign copies of “Always Agnes.” Noon. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway No. 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com

Saturday, June 24, Bonnie G. Busbin. Busbin will sign her children’s book, “Do You See Me in the Sea?” 1 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com

Saturday, June 24, Terri Parlato. Atlanta Authors is hosting the debut author regarding her thriller, “All the Dark Places.” 2 p.m. Signing. Free. The B Side on the second floor of the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-5095611. bookmiser.net/book-events.html

Monday, June 26, Lewis Clayton Bryant. Bryant will discuss his nonfiction work, “The Cold Case Murder of Fred Wilkerson: Untangling the Black Widow's Web in West Georgia.” 7 p.m. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway No. 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com

Tuesday, June 27, Lynn Cullen. The bestselling author of historical fiction will detail “The Woman With The Cure,” based on the true story of Dr. Dorothy Horstmann, whose groundbreaking research helped make the polio vaccine possible. 1 p.m. Signing. Free. Johns Creek Books and Gifts, 6000 Medlock Bridge Parkway, Suite B500, Johns Creek, 770-696-9999. johnscreekbooks.com

To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.

Dr. Rupal Gupta Dr. Mike Thaker Dr. Jill Stepnicka

KRUEGER

JONES

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

Lessons/Studio

PRESERVING THE PAST

Medlock family is six generations strong

When one approaches the Chattahoochee River going south on Medlock Bridge Road in Johns Creek, the last house on the right is the home of Mildred (nearly everyone calls her Millie) Moore. The house sits on the banks of the river, next to a beautiful historic red barn and close to a once-white rectangular building with its own history. I have known Millie since I wrote the book “Barns of Old Milton County” 12 years ago. Her red barn slice of history is the first picture in the book. It is a pleasure for me to revisit the property and to write about Millie and her fascinating family.

The first Medlock in North Fulton County was Isham Medlock (17771852), who came to this area in 1818 from South Carolina. Millie’s grandfather William Oliver Medlock (1866-1934) was a descendant who built the original house, barn and various long-gone outbuildings and the rectangular building that remains on Millie’s property. He and his wife Louella-Hamilton Medlock (1867-1938) raised eight children on their 9- acre cotton and wheat farm. William Oliver’s father Robert Medlock Sr. (1832-1919) was born in Gwinnett County, and his wife Selma McDonald Medlock (18961974) was from Jefferson. All the generations had multiple children, so the Medlock’s have deep roots in this area.

Unfortunately, the original house on Millie’s property burned to the ground in 1913. The Atlanta Constitution reported that the fire started in the stove flue, and that only a piano and a few minor items were saved. Mr. Medlock was out on the farm at the time of the fire.

In 1886, William Oliver established a ferry service to carry farmers and their wagons across the Chattahoochee. His customers took produce and livestock from their farms in north Georgia to Atlanta to sell in exchange for “store-bought” clothing, kitchen utensils, tools and other household items. Travelers often spent the night near the barn in the rectangular building which served as a general store and bunkhouse.

In 1891 William Oliver upgraded his ferry service by building the first steel bridge across the Chattahoochee on his property. He charged 25 cents for

a wagon, five cents per person and a penny a head for livestock. Five years later he sold the bridge to Milton and Gwinnett counties. The steel bridge was replaced by a concrete span in 1958 when Medlock Bridge Road was realigned and paved. The road was widened to four lanes in 1993.

Milly’s parents were William Oliver’s son Robert David Medlock (18881948) and his wife Selma McDonald Medlock (1896-1974). Robert served as a wagoner in the 118 Field Artillery in World War 1. He was a postman for many years and was beloved by the people he served. When people did not have money for a stamp, Robert provided one and when they could not get to town, he delivered their groceries. When Robert died the officiating minister of the Warsaw Church said he had never seen so many people attend a funeral.

Miss Maude Brown lived with her mother in the store for many years. Miss Maude ran the store when Millie was a young girl. Millie remembers that Miss Maude sold candy and vegetables

to local residents and overnight travelers. She paid rent to Millie’s father and moved away several years after his death.

Millie had an identical twin sister, Selma Cheeley, and two older sisters, Sara and Annette, all deceased. The four girls were raised on the farm. They attended Warsaw School, one of five schools built in North Fulton in the 1920s and 1930s. Situated near the intersection of State Bridge and Medlock Bridge roads, the brick building currently is used as an office building

Selma, like Millie, was active in the community. She served on the local school board and was twice president of the Buford Women’s Club and was president of the local garden club.

Millie attended Georgia State College majoring in business. She was employed by Gulf Oil Corporation in Atlanta. In 1959, Millie married Davis Moore of Decatur (1927-1992). They raised two daughters Tricia Crawford and Marian Osborne, both of whom live close by. Davis was one of the top

salesmen for Johnson & Johnson Co. for 20 years covering 10 states.

Millie says growing up on the farm was a wonderful life. She remembers riding horses and ponies to Duluth and Norcross where they knew “most everyone.” The family entertained a lot of visitors and hosted McDonald family reunions attended by more than 100 people.

“Everyone brought home cooked dishes, so there was no store-bought food served at the reunions,” says Millie. An old basketball hoop saw a lot of use and still adorns the barn.

The Medlock’s were true pioneers. Roads, schools, neighborhoods, businesses and parks carry the Medlock name, keeping it alive and current.

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.

BOB MEYERS Columnist

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

This iconic red barn was built in 1883 by William Oliver Medlock. He was an early pioneer in the area and built the first steel bridge across the Chattahoochee River. The barn is on Millie Medlock Moore’s property on Medlock Bridge Road.

What are keystone native plants, and why do they matter?

One of the many interesting things about ecosystems is that there are usually keystone species that serve as the backbone. The well-being or even survival of others within this interconnected environment has always depended upon the keystone species. It could be a wolf, a beaver, a gopher tortoise or a keystone native plant such as butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa).

Over hundreds, maybe thousands of years, a natural environment learns to depend on certain plants that have evolved alongside the local wildlife. These plants have proven to be steadfast sources of food and shelter for the indigenous birds, butterflies, bees and other pollinators and wildlife. Today we know them as “keystone native plants.”

Without these keystone native plants, our pollinators and wildlife struggle. (Or worst case, everything collapses like a long-ago Roman arch that lacks the central stone that locked everything together.) For example, there is concern that the eastern monarch butterfly population is declining due to several factors, including the loss of native milkweed. According to the U.S. Forest Service, though they feed on the nectar of many flowers, a monarch butterfly will only lay its eggs on a milkweed plant.

Some keystone plants

The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) website has a Native Plant Finder that lists keystone native plants ranked by the number of butterfly and moth species that use them as host plants. To find a specific area, search nwf.org/ nativeplantfinder/plants and specify your location by entering your ZIP code.

Some suggestions include native oaks, cherries, eastern redbud, hawthorn, highbush blueberry, butterfly milkweed, black-eyed Susan, goldenrod, asters and Joe Pye weed.

Pollinator plants of 2023

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia at the University of Georgia encourages planting high-impact plants that support pollinators. The Georgia Pollinator Plant of the Year

program, a collaboration of the State Botanical Garden, UGA Extension and green industry partners, nominates four top-performing landscape plants that support pollinators each year.

The 2023 Pollinator Plants of the Year are: Spring bloomer: blue wild indigo (Baptisia australis); Summer bloomer: wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa); Fall bloomer: aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium); Georgia native: coastal plain Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium dubium).

When it comes to residential landscaping, there are a wide range of needs and goals. Some of us want greenspace with the lowest maintenance possible. Others may aspire to a picturesque landscape worthy of Monet’s Garden at Giverny.

Keep in mind that keystone and native plants do much more than turn a yard into a lovely scene that elicits “oohs” and “aahs” from those passing by. They’re the workhorse plants that support our food web and healthy wildlife communities.

Remember what Bill Nye the Science Guy said: “What happens to other species also happens to us.”

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.

About the Author

This week’s guest Master Gardener “Garden Buzz” columnist is Pam Rentz. Pam, a Roswell resident, has been a North Fulton Master Gardener since 2010. Along with a background in marketing communications for tech companies, she has a longtime passion for plants and our planet.

The 2023 Pollinator Plants of the Year: Spring bloomer: blue wild indigo (Baptisia australis); Summer bloomer: wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa); Fall bloomer: aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium); Georgia native: coastal plain Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium dubium).

More information

Native Georgia plants tend to perform better in our climate and require less maintenance. To learn more about native plants, check out some of my favorite UGA Cooperative Extension Bulletins:

•Native Plants for Georgia Part I: Trees, Shrubs and Woody Vines - https://extension. uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B987&title=Native%20Plants%20for%20 Georgia%20Part%20I:%20Trees,%20Shrubs%20and%20Woody%20Vines

•Native Plants for Georgia Part II: Ferns -https://extension.uga.edu/publications/ detail.html?number=B987-2

•Native Plants for Georgia Part III: Wildflowers -https://extension.uga.edu/ publications/detail.html?number=B987-3&title=native-plants-for-georgia-part-iiiwildflowers

•Native Plants for Georgia Part IV: Grasses and Sedges -https://secure.caes.uga.edu/ extension/publications/files/html/B987-4/B987-4-highres.pdf

PAM RENTZ Guest Columnist

PAM RENTZ/SPECIAL TO APPEN MEDIA

Give thanks on Monday and plan for summer

Whether you’re a high-school senior or a senior fretting about healthcare costs, the end of May is simply a little touch of magic and perhaps tragic for so many.

“Taps” for another year. There will be graduation ceremonies at high schools where tears and vows of never losing touch with classmates will be null and void when life dictates it’s time to move on.

The second habit, “Begin with The End in Mind,” has always been a call to rally around what I want to do (strategy) and how I’m going to get there (tactics/ actions).

I’m looking forward to a bang-up of a summer. Books, bands, baseball and bliss are on the menu.

MIKE TASOS

Columnist

Monday is Memorial Day, a presummer opportunity to bow our heads and thank all those who paid the ultimate price, giving their lives to help preserve our way of life. You can bet there will be a megaton of military movies on television all weekend, so take your pick and get into the spirit.

I have found it is a perfect excuse to thank any member of the military who might cross my path. Even though they haven’t given their life, it’s absolutely awe-inspiring that by wearing the uniform, they’re willing to make such an unselfish sacrifice for all of us.

I’ve always found it comforting to bow my head and offer a prayer of thanks.

The weekend is a signal to let the summer commence. The schools play

Not trying to be rude to you justifiably proud parents. You’re that much closer to progressing your teenagers into bona fide adulthood, but don’t we make high school much more important than it really is?

As someone with a 50-year reunion a mere tick away, I have surmised those four years, despite what students are told, are not the most important times of your life. At the reunion, as a 68-year-old fighting daily not to be crochety, those high school years were a mere 5.8 percent of my life.

That’s called “perspective,” which I never learned while slogging through North High in Bakersfield.

Something I have learned is to plan and have a vision about where I want to go and how I’m going to get there. I absolutely love to revisit the late Dr. Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” It’s one of the best books ever, especially applicable to business or personal life.

As for reading, there will be nothing too heavy. Currently, I’m giggling my way through Dave Barry’s “Swamp Story.” There’s something relaxing and satisfying about a good South Florida novel, bringing back memories of those cigars I quit enjoying some five years ago. No Fuente Anejos means I feel better, and Barry’s tale is silly enough to make me enjoy it like long ashes on a heater.

Harlan Coben’s new one “I Will Find You,” a tale of kidnapping, treachery and a wrongful conviction will have you guessing as to how this one concludes. It’s well worth the time. Vince Flynn, Nelson DeMille, John Sandford and the latest Spenser tale are all due soon. I’ll continue to load up the Kindle.

Oldest son Chris has agreed to accompany me to see John Fogerty at Chastain in July. He’s as reliable as humidity in the summer and will see

acts with his dad. It’ll be an added plus after I cashed in a massive gift card and scored us VIP seats. He claims to like the music. I make sure to keep his interest by buying plenty of refreshments and putting a dent in the “swag” table merchandise.

Greg and I will be seeing a massive number of Braves games. The baseball is wonderful, but I have found the smells and sounds of the ballpark bring back sweet lifetime memories. I always avoid ballpark food though, not relishing tasting a hot dog for a week after the game.

Wait, I mentioned “bliss” a few paragraphs ago. That’s what’ll surround me when I ride my new Harley Road Glide 3, but that’s a story for next week. Buying a Trike might confirm your thoughts that your columnist has lost it. Then again, it will definitely prove to be entertaining and bring you back here.

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.

Exploring the source of road names along Winters Chapel Road

The story of Jeremiah Winter, who came to the area in the late 1860s and saw the need for a church has been shared in this column before.

Winters Chapel Methodist Church began in a grove, and then Winter decided they could cut logs from the property, “have them sawed and hull us up a church.” The church and road are named for him. (winterschapel.org)

Next door to the church is Jones Mill Road. The road stops and picks up again until it comes to a dead end into Jones Mill Court. Jones Mill continues on the other side of Highway 141 where Peachtree Corners Circle becomes Jones Mill Road.

Ralph Glaze shared his memories of the beginnings of Lockridge Forest subdivision in a 2017 video recording with Dunwoody Preservation Trust. Lockridge Forest is the neighborhood where he lives, but he grew up in the area long before subdivisions

were built. Part of the neighborhood is in DeKalb County and part is in Gwinnett County.

Glaze recalls that a man named Lockridge bought the land to develop from brothers Pink Womack and W. Y. (Young) Womack. Some of the street names came to be directly attributed to the Womack family. There is a Womack Road and Womack Court.

There is also a Womack Drive off Winter’s Chapel Road, further toward where Winter’s Chapel Road meets Highway 141.

One of Pink Womack’s children was Geraldine, and Geraldine Court is named for her. She married Buck Kinnard, and Kinnard Drive was named for him.

Glaze recalls two sawmills along Winters Chapel Road, one just south of the entrance to Winters Chapel United Methodist Church and cemetery and the other farther north, at the entrance of Lockridge Forest today. The sawmills were still there in the 1940s and 1950s.

One sawmill was owned by Mr. Tanner from Stone Mountain, who leased the land from Pink Womack.

Perhaps one of the mills was owned by someone named Jones at some point, leading to the name Jones Mill Road.

Glaze’s father Herman Glaze had a store at the corner of Peeler Road and Winters Chapel Road. Herman Glaze bought land from W.Y. Womack, Pink Womack, and Ida Morgan, accumulating about 100 acres at one point. The land purchased from Ida

Morgan was where the store was built and is today the location of Auto Zone. Glaze Road is located off Peeler Road. Glaze believes the Womacks along Winters Chapel Road were third or fourth cousins to the Womacks who owned land at Tilly Mill Road and Womack Road, where Georgia State University Dunwoody campus to today.

As to the other names in Lockridge Forest, such as Arrie Way, Abby Court, Tilton Lane, and Sumac Court, I do not know how they fit into the picture yet. Perhaps they are family names, but a search on ancestry. com did not provide evidence. The first thing that comes to mind when I see the word sumac is the plant, but if I discover an individual named Sumac in the families of these former landowners, I’ll let you know.

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.

GLAZE FAMILY PHOTO/PROVIDED The Glaze Store, pictured around 1940, was at the intersection of Peeler Road and Winters Chapel Road.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF

Columnist

Alpharetta is weighing a dangerous idea

Alpharetta is considering placing what amounts to a three-month gag order on ethics complaints lodged against those up for re-election this year.

It’s a bad idea.

before the state Ethics Commission.

The mayor also was targeted with a campaign-related state ethics complaint.

And it didn’t stop there. One member of the Milton ethics board filed an ethics complaint against another member of the ethics board.

an ethics complaint from a resident before the ethics board even had a set of bylaws on how to operate.

That sparked another series of ethics complaints.

provides government counsel throughout north Metro Atlanta.

Ken Jarrard is Forsyth County Attorney and Milton City Attorney. Angela Davis is Cherokee County Attorney.

PAT FOX Managing Editor

The City Council heard a report May 15 from City Attorney Molly Esswein that proposes amending the ethics ordinance to prohibit acceptance of ethics complaints against incumbents during the three months preceding a municipal election. This includes a primary or the general election.

Politics can be a nasty business, even at the local level. Look back at the 2021 Alpharetta City Council elections. There were a lot of sleazy allegations thrown around, none substantiated, so none worth printing then or now.

An ethics complaint, legitimate or not, can bludgeon a campaign. It can also tarnish the reputation of a decent public servant.

There is no shortage of examples, but let’s consider Milton.

Before the ink had dried on its new city charter in 2006, two council members faced ethics charges, which were dismissed by the city ethics board. The charges were then refiled

Council meetings devolved into accusations pitting one, two or three councilmembers hurling charges against the others.

Even after hiring an organizational psychologist and holding two teambuilding sessions, the Milton City Council was still a mess, and there was no end in sight.

After five ethics complaints in its first three years, Mayor Joe Lockwood pronounced it madness, saying each case was politically motivated.

Finally, Milton City Attorney Ken Jarrard – donning his red bow tie for maximum effect – suggested the city ditch its resident-based ethics board and name three out-of-town attorneys to preside over ethics cases.

While the measure didn’t bury many hatchets in the city’s verdant pastures, governing in Milton gained traction and began operating.

Around the same time Milton was finally getting its sea legs, the young city of Dunwoody struggled with ethics warfare of its own.

Five years after it incorporated in 2007, the entire City Council faced

The city attorney was forced out for allegedly leaking closed-meeting information. He took a lie detector test to disprove the charge, but it didn’t matter. A councilwoman spent more than a year defending herself from the same charge. She countered with an ethics complaint against a member of the ethics board and the attorney for the city. And for good measure, she filed ethics complaints against the mayor, City Council and the city manager.

The complaints were withdrawn after the city rang up more than $100,000 in legal fees.

Chuck it up to growing pains, I guess, but local government can be a squalid arena.

Even with this sordid history, though, it makes little sense to do what Alpharetta is considering. As proposed, the measure would provide a three-month blanket immunity to an incumbent seeking re-election.

Most striking of all is that it would deprive the electorate knowledge of possible malfeasance in a candidate they may support. It’s striking because Alpharetta City Attorney Molly Esswein is an associate at Jarrard & Davis law firm, which

Both speak throughout the state at law conferences on the Georgia Open Meetings Act and the Open Records Act.

I’ve had my tussles with Ken Jarrard over government disclosure of information. He’s a tough hombre. But one thing I am certain of is that he or his firm would never introduce a policy to shield government officials from legitimate criticism unless they were directed to do so by their client.

That narrows things down.

This fall, Alpharetta has a mayor and three seats on the City Council up for election.

My sense is that one or more of these incumbents fear a smear is near.

This could all be avoided if Alpharetta adopted the same tack as Milton took 10 years ago. Get outside lawyers to evaluate ethics complaints and be rid of this silliness. That provision is also part of the revised ordinance Alpharetta is considering, and it should be enough.

Elected officials should be accountable through their entire terms. They deserve not one second of immunity from facing ethics charges.

Two Canadian authors whose books are worth the wait

I didn’t plan it this way, but the last two books I read were by Canadian authors. One a new novelist, the other an old hand. My reading selection is governed by the availability of books at the library. I don’t visit there and peruse the shelves. Instead, I log on to the website and search for the books on my never-ending TBR list. That list is populated with books that sound interesting based on reviews I’ve seen in the paper or online. If the library has it, I put it on hold.

Sometimes, they’re bestsellers and I wind up as number 85 or something higher on the waitlist, meaning it could be months before I get the wonderful email that says, “Come get your book.” Other times, it seems I’m the only one looking

for a particular book, and it comes available almost immediately.

Though “The Maid” and “A World of Curiosities” are both bestsellers, they came in pretty quickly and in the same week, and I devoured them both.

“The Maid” by Nita Prose

The protagonist, Molly Gray, is a 25-year-old who struggles with social skills. Through the years, her grandmother has been her guide in understanding and reading the intentions of others. Molly doesn’t always know when she’s being made fun of or misled, and when her grandmother dies, life becomes more difficult for her.

A maid at a prestigious hotel, she is good at her job and appreciated by her manager, but not necessarily by her co-workers. She finds herself in a pickle when a guest dies in one of her rooms. The red herrings and clues abound in this puzzler. Who is out to get Molly? Who is on her side?

Will her social missteps do her in?

This mystery is well-plotted and the main character is endearing, all the things I love in a good book.

“A World of Curiosities” by Louise Penny

As is always the case with a Louise Penny mystery, I couldn’t put this one down. Inspector Gamache is back in the village of Three Pines surrounded by family and friends and soon, of course, a crime, or perhaps several.

I found this installment in the long-running series to be much darker than the previous ones, though none of them are by any means light. Perhaps this one is more disturbing because it reveals more about Armand Gamache, his early life and early cases, and the toll that those cases have taken on him. The mystery moves between the case that brought Gamache and his son-in-law Jean-Guy together and their current life as co-workers and

family. Though that case is in the past, it inserts itself into the present day.

This is a book about evil. Can someone be born evil? If so, can they ever change? What is a psychopath? What toll does evil take on the men and women who must deal with it as they seek to solve cases and put killers behind bars?

Once again, Louise Penny does a masterful job of portraying the evil in our world and the impact it has. After this one, though, I may need a palate cleanser, something a bit more light-hearted. Please drop me a line if you have a recommendation.

Author Kathy Manos Penn is a nominee for the 2023 Georgia Author of the Year Award. 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/.

KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist

Retirement goal setting: Why not now?

Ask

Mitch Anthony is the author of the highly acclaimed book, “The New Retirementality: Planning Your Life and Living Your Dreams...at Any Age You Want,” now in a fifth edition. In a recent phone call with financial planners, Anthony, quick to perceive nascent trends, said, “It’s time to ban the word ‘retirement’ from the retirement conversation.” There was a time when life was considered in three basic stages: from birth to age 18 or early 20s, growing up and education and training; working years from early adulthood to retirement at age 62 to 65; then, cease working and enjoy life while you can until “old age” slows you down, as an individual or as a couple. Death is a reality at any time along life’s path and pre-planning is important.

Call the new scenario the “Modern

Work Path.” Some young singles and married couples are focusing on enjoying life early in the game with a “why wait?” attitude. They may put off saving for a house or having children in favor of adventures and traveling now, for example. They’re living in the “experience economy.” They have intentions and objectives they want to effect near term. They don’t want to wait until some arbitrary retirement date. Obviously, a person needs to work and generate sufficient funds to live and reserves to cover emergencies.

Today’s younger generations assume that they will work for multiple employers over the course of their work life, with fun, travel, sabbaticals, volunteer work overseas or domestically, or other pursuits, mixed in. More people assume that they will work remotely at various times or even start their own business. Recently, this writer met a young woman traveling in Patagonia in southern Chile and Argentina. Her job allowed her to work remotely, and with her laptop and modern global communications, she can work from almost anywhere in the world. So, she was exploring South America for a few months while working.

We are not talking about a cavalier attitude, about assuming that mom and dad will pick up the tab if the worst happens. For, even if you’re embracing the experience economy, you still need a solid plan. You should have enough reserve funds so

that if there should be a setback you can continue to be self-sufficient. You need financial reserves that allow you pay for experiences responsibly without running up debt. You must be able to confidently handle emergencies and setbacks, all the while working toward long-range goals.

Mitch Anthony opines that retirement is an “artificial finish line, an unnatural event.” “At 65, we’re supposed to take an exit ramp.” As Anthony asks, “Exit to what?” Not all ages are equal. You know people who are 80 who act like they’re 50, and people, sadly, who at age 65 or even younger have significant health problems or caregiving challenges and are forced to retire. If you love what you do, and have the flexibility to keep doing it, why retire? Forget retirement. Call it “refirement.” Get fired up and continue to do what wakes you up with purpose as long as you like and are physically and mentally able to do it well! “Re-tired” could infer that you’re “tired over and over,” and that’s not a prescription for a happy life. Many preretirees are not worried about running out of money. They’re concerned about being bored!

If travel is your passion, get out there. Don’t wait for some hazy someday to pursue your dreams. If need be, fly coach, or what many airlines now call “main cabin,” (most likely because some marketing guru saw that as a less pain-suggesting choice of words). Book early, and if you are traveling with your significant other opt for aisle seats across from each other. You both will have direct aisle access. Better to travel now and enjoy life than to wait too long and miss out if health or other challenges emerge later in life. Flying first or business class can come later with significant financial success when all of your bases are covered and you’re financially

secure.

On international and domestic longhaul routes, Delta, as well as other leading carriers, offers “Comfort Plus” featuring more legroom and dedicated overhead luggage space. The new Delta Premium Select cabin on some international flights offers a greater range of seat decline that allows you to stretch out with a reclining feature and a footrest, plus a wider seat and premium amenities. Check SeatGuru. com for cabin configurations for your chosen carrier and flight. This can aid in seat selection and avoid those that are less desirable for whatever reason.

“Living life now” does not mean ignoring common sense planning so that you end up broke or underfunded when it comes to ultimate financial independence. The Modern Work Path is a personal plan crafted between you and your advisor. It recognizes flexibility based on your preferences and priorities, not an artificial “nose-to-the-grindstone work until you drop” and then retire construct. Why not work until you want to do something else, with financial independence as your timeline goal, not retirement per se? Warren Buffet is 92. He may never retire. He’s financially independent and he’s doing what lights his fire.

What fires you up? That flaming scenario should be the foundation of your financial plan!

Lewis Walker, CFP®, is a life centered financial planning strategist with Capital Insight Group (CIG); 770-441-3553; lewis@ capitalinsightgrp.com. Securities & advisory services offered through The Strategic Financial Alliance, Inc. (SFA), which is otherwise unaffiliated with CIG. Lewis a Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA).

people about retirement goals and you get a wish list − travel, play more golf, spend more time with family and friends, etc. Retirement is seen as a time to do more of the things you enjoy doing. But in some advisory circles an interesting question is emerging. Why wait?

LEWIS J. WALKER, CFP

Columnist

The Investment Coach

H R NG ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Join Appen Media Group, the largest local print and online publisher covering Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Forsyth County.

The position can be a fit for an experienced Ad Account Executive, or other B to B sales experience.

Full benefits, base salary and an aggressive uncapped commission package and fun team environment!

Qualified candidates send resume to: mike@appenmedia.com

Facilities/Property Manager for church in Alpharetta area.

Bene ts.

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.

Quali ed candidates please send resume to Alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.

GENERAL CLERK III - CUSTOMER SERVICE

Sawnee EMC is seeking a General Clerk III – Customer Service to assist in a high-volume call center. Requires high school diploma or equivalency, computer, communication and general o ce skills. Two years of related experience preferred. Position is full-time; must be exible to work irregular hours, to include evenings, weekends and holidays.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, June 2, 2023. Apply online: www.sawnee.com/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

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

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.

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

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

COMPLETE

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM ENGINEER

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.

HIRING ACCOUNTANTS!

Entry level to Senior level. Direct Hire and temp to hire.

Resume to lauren@discoversta ng.com or call or text 678-393-9313 for more details.

HIRING EXPERIENCED TREE CLIMBERS

GROUNDSMEN

RYAN’S GRAPPLE OPERATORS

CDL DRIVERS

770-292-1998

SUSIE@TREECAREOPS.COM

Sawnee EMC is seeking an Electrical Distribution System Engineer. Requires a bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, civil engineering or similar engineering discipline. Preferred experience in design, modeling and maintenance of distribution power systems. Must have strong computer, mathematical and communication skills.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, June 2, 2023. Apply online: www.sawnee.com/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and A rmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable quali ed individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

A degree from an accredited college or university is preferred. Computer competence within O ce 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.

Appen-Rated

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.

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

Health & Fitness

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

Landscaping

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

Deadline to place a classified ad is Thursdays by 4 pm

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)

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 protection. 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

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! Financing available. 1-855417-1306

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/onetime $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 Insurance 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 Call

1-855-417-1306