J u n e 2 3 , 2 0 2 2 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 6 , N o . 2 5
Milton opens talks to study feasibility of running elections By JAKE DRUKMAN jake@appenmedia.com
ISTOCK
Cities plan July 4 celebrations
BY ADAM DARBY adam@appenmedia.com
The Fourth of July holiday is commonly associated with outdoor grilling, festive parades, patriotic music, swimming pools and fireworks displays. With school out for summer, parents can find a variety of holiday events throughout north Metro Atlanta this year. The cities of Alpharetta, Milton,
Alpharetta observes Juneteenth holiday
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Roswell, Johns Creek, Cumming, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs are holding celebratory events for America’s birthday. Here are some major holiday celebrations scheduled throughout the area to mark on your July calendar.
Johns Creek
Johns Creek’s fireworks extravaganza will be on July 3 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Newtown Park. This free event is perfect for guests and families of all
Tax assessments are on the way
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ages. Participants will enjoy live music from The Platinum Band, activities and food trucks. Fireworks begin at sunset. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. Outside alcohol, pets or tents are strictly prohibited. For more information, call the Recreation and Parks Division at 678512-3200.
See CELEBRATIONS, Page 19
Area UMC churches navigate new rulings
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MILTON, Ga. — Seeking greater oversight and cost savings, Milton’s new Municipal Election Feasibility Committee held its inaugural meeting June 15 to study whether the city should run its own municipal elections. The committee will work to determine whether it is practical for the city to operate its own elections for city positions, rather than outsourcing the operations to Fulton County, as it has done in the past. Regardless of the outcome, county, state and federal elections would still be run at the county level. A group of residents petitioned the City Council last summer to oppose the city’s agreement to have Fulton County run its municipal elections. The group cited integrity concerns and costs to taxpayers. Elected officials moved forward with the county contract, but informally agreed later in the year to identify a group to study the issue. On April 18, 2022, the City Council approved the committee’s formation.
See COMMITTEE, Page 21
2 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
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All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
Men steal gift cards from Sam’s Club ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Two unidentified men allegedly used a scam in the Sam’s Club on Davis Drive to make off with $4,000 in activated gift cards June 9. A store manager told police that the men came to a checkout lane to purchase eight $500 gift cards. The cashier scanned the cards, which the manager said activated them, before the suspects presented the cashier with payment. The manager told police that one suspect put the activated cards in his pocket and removed different, unactivated gift cards from another pocket. The cash the men provided was $200
PUBLIC SAFETY short to pay for the cards. When the cashier informed them, the suspects said they changed their minds and no longer wanted the cards. They left the unactivated cards with the cashier and left the store with the activated cards. The manager was able to provide police with the name on the membership of one suspect, but police were unable to confirm his information.
Thief removes purse from woman’s car
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. –– A Covington woman reported her car was damaged June 10 at River Pines Golf on Old Alabama Road. The victim told police she left her vehicle in the parking lot for nearly six hours, and when she returned, the side door handle of her car was damaged. The casing of the keyhole had been removed, and she then noticed her purse had been stolen from the trunk. Police fingerprinted the vehicle and put the information into evidence.
Couple reports check stolen from mailbox JOHNS CREEK, Ga. –– A Johns Creek couple reported an unknown person stole a $95 check out of their mailbox June 8. The victims told police the envelope was a check for an exterminator job, and no one has attempted to cash the check yet.
Thief steals weapon from man’s vehicle JOHNS CREEK, Ga. –– An Atlanta man reported someone stole a pistol from his vehicle June 6 while it was parked on State Bridge Road. The victim told police when he left his car that morning, he left his gun bag in his car and it was zipped. When he returned early afternoon, he discovered his gun bag unzipped with his firearm gone. He said the car was more than likely left unlocked because his key was broken.
Roswell police charge mom for leaving kids in hot car By CHAMIAN CRUZ chamian@appenmedia.com ROSWELL, Ga. — A Cumming woman was arrested June 14 for allegedly leaving her two children unattended inside a hot car. Eneilu Espinoza, 27, was charged with first degree cruelty to children and reckless conduct. Roswell police spokesman Tim Lupo said a witness in the parking lot of the Dollar Tree at 608 Holcomb Bridge Road called 911 to report the incident. When they arrived at the scene, officers found
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a 3-month-old and a 5-year-old child inside the car, which was unlocked and turned off with the windows rolled up, Lupo said. Both children were removed from the car and were allegedly showing early signs of heat-related illness. Lupo said the external temperature at the time was 93 degrees. After making an announcement over the store loudspeaker, Lupo said Espinoza came forward, stating that she had only stopping inside for a few minutes. She was then taken into custody and transported to the Fulton County Jail.
The 3-month-old child was taken to a local hospital for evaluation, and the 5-year-old was transported to the Roswell Police Department, where he was later released to his father. Lupo said the children’s dad was not at the scene at the time of the incident. Police say heat exhaustion and heat stroke can set in very quickly in high temperatures in an outside environment, let alone inside of a sealed car. “If you cannot bring your children inside your destination, leave them at home in the care of a responsible guardian,” police advise.
Armed suspect arrested after standoff with SWAT in Alpharetta ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police arrested an armed Avondale Estates man June 14 who was inside HomeGoods on North Point Parkway after a standoff with SWAT. Lt. Andrew Splawn of the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety said police were dispatched to the store at 10:59 a.m. after the man, identified as Eric Gibson, 33, had brandished a firearm and made threats to an employee. When they arrived on scene, police evacuated the store and neighboring businesses and began searching for the suspect. SWAT personnel and hostage negotiators joined police at the scene, Splawn said. When police located Gibson in a room in the back of the store, nego-
tiators took over to create a dialogue, although Splawn said no hostages were taken during the incident. Splawn said Gibson surrendered peacefully around 1:30 p.m., and no shots were fired during the incident. Police recovered a handgun from the area he had been hiding. After speaking with employees, police determined Gibson was a disgruntled HomeGoods employee, according to a press release. Gibson was charged with reckless conduct and simple assault. Alpharetta police thanked Milton, Roswell and Johns Creek police for their assistance during the incident. — Jake Drukman
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 3
Alpharetta’s Juneteenth gala highlights Black artists By JAKE DRUKMAN jake@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Sunday marked Alpharetta’s first community-wide celebration of Juneteenth, commemorating the full emancipation of Black Americans from slavery on June 19, 1865. The celebration, held in conjunction with St. James United Methodist Church, featured storytelling, song and dance at Brooke Street Park just outside City Hall to honor the history and distinctiveness of Black culture throughout the evening. But just as the seven-hour celebration kicked off Sunday afternoon, a number of Black artists from near and far set up stands at the park to showcase and sell the work that they’ve dedicated themselves to. Rebekah Jackson, a southwest Atlanta artist and owner of jewelry business Vigor & Gems, brought handcrafted jewelry from the business to Brooke Street Park. The jewelry, all crafted by Jackson personally, came in the form of rings, earrings, necklaces and circlets. Many of Jackson’s pieces were made using copper, while others were made of beads. Some of the beads were made of crystal, while others were imported from Africa and used materials such as brass, cow bone, wood and glass. Jackson said the jewelry is designed to harness natural healing properties of the crystals and copper materials. Jackson got started making copper jewelry for personal use due to issues with inflammation and pain. When friends began requesting jewelry for themselves, Jackson began making it on a larger scale. Four years later, Vigor & Gems is a thriving business. On the topic of Juneteenth as a federally recognized holiday, Jackson said its growing presence in the public mind is a step forward for the recognition of the hardships Black Americans have faced, but education on the day’s history is still lacking. “I think it is popularizing something, but still not educating people on the true meaning and history of Juneteenth,” Jackson said. “Now employees are getting a paid day off work, but are you recognizing the meaning behind that day? I think what’s more important is to understand the history of Juneteenth and how we are still reeling from the effects of institutionalized slavery.” Kamon Sherriff, a Stone Mountain painter, illustrator and digital artist originally from California, showcased his artwork that largely blends African American culture with traditional Japanese culture, depicting Black samurai warriors. His booth sold art prints, Tshirts bearing his artwork and even an original coloring book he illustrated and published. Sherriff said he’s always enjoyed drawing but began making art professionally about six years ago. His early art was inspired by Japanese anime, and even his more traditional pieces still incorporate the fantasy elements that come along with it. “[My art is] kind of just representing Black people in different ways that we might not actually see,” Sherriff said. “I think that goes right along with Juneteenth.” Shellton LaBron, a painter from Statesboro, also showcased his paintings at the celebration, mixing surrealism and abstraction to create eye-catching portraits, many of which he works on for days. “[Juneteenth] is another way to exhibit the spirit of America,” LaBron said. “It’s inclusive of all citizens. Freedom and justice for all. So, it’s a great way to recognize people’s heritage.”
Shellton LaBron displays his art at Alpharetta’s Juneteenth celebration June 19.
PHOTOS BY JAKE DRUKMAN/APPEN MEDIA
Rebekah Jackson showcases Vigor & Gems’ handcrafted jewelry at Alpharetta’s inaugural Juneteenth community celebration June 19.
Kamon Sheriff’s artwork blends themes of African American culture and traditional Japanese culture.
4 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
Former solicitor threatens to sue Milton, Alpharetta By CHAMIAN CRUZ chamian@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A former employee of Alpharetta and Milton is threatening legal action after she was passed over to fill the position of solicitor. In a demand-letter sent to the cities’ mayors and staff on May 5, Fran Shoenthal McQueen says that in selecting a “much younger replacement,” the City of Alpharetta violated its own charter. It also claims Alpharetta misclassified McQueen as an independent contractor to avoid paying her fringe benefits such as group health insurance, retirement benefits, sick days and paid holidays during the 20 years she spent working for the city. Appen Media obtained a copy of the 10-page letter by McQueen’s attorney, Debra Schwartz with Shwartz Rollins Employment Law, through an open
records request. In a June 10 email to Appen Media, both cities confirmed they had received the demand-letter but declined to comment. They are expected to provide a response no later than June 17. According to the letter, McQueen began working for Alpharetta in 2002 and for Milton in 2007. While the duties and attributes of the position are nearly identical, McQueen was classified as an independent contractor in Alpharetta and a part-time employee in Milton, representing a combined roughly 105,000 residents in court. Under Alpharetta’s charter, the solicitor is an appointed position that has the same term as the judge of the Alpharetta Municipal Court, subject to good behavior and at the discretion of the mayor and City Council. The solicitor acts as a prosecuting attorney for minor cases such as misdemeanors and traffic violations.
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Having failed to satisfy the requirements of the city charter in hiring the new solicitor, Ms. [Kelsie] Mattox is without proper authority to be prosecuting cases in the Municipal Court of Alpharetta …” FRAN SHOENTHAL MCQUEEN Former solicitor for cities of Alpharetta and Milton The letter states that because Judge Barry Zimmerman began another four-year term on Jan. 1, McQueen is entitled to remain as the city’s solicitor through Dec. 31, 2025. Separately, Zimmerman announced his retirement on June 13 to resolve an investigation against him for possible ethical lapses. According to Alpharetta’s charter, before an individual can be appointed as the solicitor for the city, the candidate must be a lawyer and member in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia, of good moral character as attested to by at least three citizens of the city and supply the judge with at least three statements of their legal
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See SOLICITOR, Page 19
Alpharetta municipal judge steps down amid ethics probe
By JAKE DRUKMAN jake@appenmedia.com
DEADLINE
reputation and proficiency from members of the State Bar of Georgia. The letter alleges neither of the last two requirements were performed in hiring the new solicitor. Additionally, McQueen says she received nothing but praise for her work during her two decades with the cities and was at no time advised that her job was in jeopardy or that her performance was deficient in any way. “Having failed to satisfy the requirements of the city charter in hiring the new solicitor, Ms. [Kelsie] Mattox is without proper authority to be pros-
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta Municipal Court Chief Judge Barry Zimmerman announced his retirement June 9, a move that put an end to an ethics investigation regarding his conduct. The Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission, which investigates and prosecutes allegations of judicial misconduct, was investigating Zimmerman for allegedly violating the state’s code of judicial conduct. A report filed with the Supreme Court of Georgia alleges the commission’s investigative ZIMMERMAN panel found “reasonable cause” to believe Zimmerman had been “improperly involved” in several of his cases within the city court, and that he had worked on cases that he should have recused himself from. The report also alleges the panel found evidence that Zimmerman “improperly represented a party in a person-
al matter” in another jurisdiction, while the unnamed party regularly appeared before him in the Alpharetta Municipal Court. Zimmerman sent a letter to Alpharetta Mayor Jim Gilvin June 9 announcing that he would retire “due to personal reasons,” effective July 1. “For the last 42 years it has been my honor to serve my community as a Municipal Court Judge, the majority of which were served with the City of Alpharetta,” the letter reads. “It has been a great pleasure, and an honor, serving the citizens of Alpharetta.” The Judicial Qualifications Commission filed a consent agreement with the Georgia Supreme Court the next day, in which Zimmerman agreed to retire and refrain from seeking another judicial office in the future. In return, the Judicial Qualifications Commission will not file formal charges against him. Zimmerman has served as chief judge for the Alpharetta Municipal Court since 2014. The City of Alpharetta confirmed that Zimmerman notified them of his intent to resign but declined to comment further on the matter.
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 5
Sacred Harp Singers light up City Hall at annual June Singing BY ADAM DARBY adam@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Sacred Harp Singers held their annual June Singing session on Sunday, June 12 in the rotunda at Alpharetta City Hall, where the group enjoyed the space’s enhanced acoustics. The session, which ran from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., marks 154 years of one of Alpharetta’s oldest traditions. Comprised of around 15 to 20 male and female singers, the vocalists were divided into four-part harmonies singing feature selections from the 1991 Denson Revision Song Book.. Extra song books were on hand to allow guests to participate. “The singers who carry on the tradition love and respect what the singing means to each person individually as well as the tradition itself,” said Faye Holbrook, one of the group’s leaders. “The love of Sacred Harp music is felt, and the singers who participate want it to continue for future generations.” For more than 150 years, the group’s June Singing has gone largely uninterrupted all over the country dating back to the 1800s in Georgia. Due to the pandemic, the event was on a brief hiatus in 2020. Using a simplified conducting technique, singers alternate between each other leading the group in a handful of songs or hymns before handing it off to the next leader. Using music written in shape notes, the system was originally designed for those unfamiliar with reading music. “Participation among the singers
PHOTOS BY ADAM DARBY/APPEN MEDIA
The singing group performs a number of hymns with alternating leaders conducting songs for the four vocal sections. varies with each singing,” Holbrook said. “There are no groups or members, just singers. There is no age limit. Anyone can sing even if they have never sung before.” Despite the session’s cancellation in 2020, the session continued the following year. However, they did not include the usual “dinner on the ground,” a custom where the singers each bring a covered dish to share at their designated lunch break with anyone who joins. This year marked the return of that tradition. Holbrook is excited that the session is back to its full strength and usual schedule. “It’s hard to explain my love for this music,” she said. “I was privileged to be at the June Singing when it was 100 and 150 years old. I am truly thankful that I have been so very blessed.” The singing group does not meet on a regular basis. Interestingly, the vocalists have no president, or treasurer and do not hold rehearsals. Their gatherings and planned singings serve
as a passion project for residents wanting to continue the tradition and enjoy taking part in the historical music. “Sacred Harp is enjoyed by people from all walks of life and from all over the world,” Holbrook said. “When they come together and sang praises unto God, it is truly uplifting and spiritual in
its truest form. For a brief moment in time, it brings the past to the present, uplifts the class, and gives a ray of hope to face what the future may hold.” To learn more about the history of Georgia’s Sacred Harp Singing or to find an upcoming session, visit www. AtlantaSacredHarp.org.
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Faye Holbrook serves as one of the song leaders conducting the Sacred Harp Singers’ annual June Singing in City Hall.
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6 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
GUEST COLUMN
OPINION
Tax assessment season is upon us It’s that time of year again – hot weather and tax assessment notices! Fulton County mailed property tax assessment notices June 17. The notices will be viewable on the Fulton Tax LIZ HAUSMANN Assessors website, Vice Chairman fultonassessor. Fulton County Commission org, the same day the notices are mailed. As our Metro Atlanta Region, and especially Fulton County, has been successful and we continue to grow, we have watched our property values rise at an accelerated rate. We have all watched the bidding wars and high home prices over the last year. While this may be beneficial to home sellers, the higher valuations are most unwelcome from a taxpayer’s viewpoint! What can you expect and what can you do?
There are safeguards in place to protect Fulton County property owners from sharp increases in their tax liability. The most important thing you can do is file a homestead exemption with the county and city on your primary residence to maximize those protections. The annual deadline to file for a homestead exemption is April 1 each year. So how is your tax value calculated? It starts with the fair market value “snapshot” of January 1 each year. Your assessed value (taxable amount) is 40% of the fair market value appraisal, and this is the number that is multiplied by the millage rate to determine your tax bill for each taxing jurisdiction (Fulton County Government, Fulton County Schools, and your city government). Most importantly, your assessment notice is NOT a tax bill! Per Georgia law, the estimated tax displayed on the assessment notice is determined by the previous year’s
millage rates. Each local government sets its millage rate. Fulton County Government will set the 2022 millage rate in August. The taxable amount due will then be calculated based on the current value, new millage rate and any homestead exemptions that apply to each property. The tax bills will be mailed this fall. There are a few things to keep in mind when reading the assessment: Georgia law requires counties to appraise properties annually; and the value of that appraisal must be within 10% of the fair market value of the property. Fair market value is defined as the price at which the property is reasonably expected to sell as of January 1. Appraisers look at a number of factors to determine the fair market value, including the size of the building or home, acreage, age and characteristics, as well as sale prices of comparable properties. They also look at aerial photos and building permit data. It’s understandable to be concerned
that a substantially increased assessment will automatically trigger an outrageously higher tax bill. That is not the case in Fulton County as there has been a 3% or Consumer Price Index cap on county tax increases (whichever is less) since 2005. After the sticker shock of 2017, Fulton County worked with our cities and legislative delegation at the State Capital to further protect our property owners from that scenario. Floating homestead exemptions passed by the General Assembly and approved by voters in 2018 limit the maximum year-to-year property tax bill increase to 3% or CPI (whichever is less) on city and school taxes. In effect, while your new assessed value may be much higher than last year’s, your tax bill – at a maximum – can only be 3% higher than the tax bill you paid last year, providing the county, cities and school districts maintain their same mill levies.
See ASSESSMENT, Page 7
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Assessment: Continued from Page 6 Of course, appraisals are not always correct. If you disagree with your assessment notice you have the right to appeal. Appeals must be filed within 45 days of the post-marked date on your assessment notice. As notices are postmarked June 17th, your deadline to appeal is August 1. You do not need an attorney to file an appeal. You can file your appeal online at fultonassessor.org, or by mail or hand delivery to the Fulton County Tax Assessor’s Office located at 235 Peachtree St. NE, Suite 1200, Atlanta, GA 30303. Appeals may be filed for any of the following: 1. Taxability – the property is exempt from taxation. 2. Uniformity of assessment – the assessed value varies from similar properties 3. Value – the value is miscalculated 4. Denial of homestead exemption – the calculation failed to apply a homestead exemption. Once you file your appeal, the Tax Assessor’s Office will review and may lower the value. While the property is under appeal, you are obligated to pay either 85% of the tax amount due on the bill mailed in the fall, or the previous year’s bill until the matter is settled. If your value is changed pursuant to your appeal, then your property value is frozen for the next three years, and will not change for that time period. If your appeal is not resolved through the Tax Assessor’s Office, then it will be sent to a Board of Equalization for further review, and you will receive written notice of a hearing date to appear before the Board. During your hearing, it is helpful to provide evidence to support your case according to the reasons listed above. Any decision of the Board of Equalization may be appealed to Superior Court - at which point you may wish to consider engaging an attorney. Your property value has most likely increased. Because of legislative action you are protected from sudden sharp increases in property taxes. I hope you find this information helpful as the assessment notices hit your mailbox. We are here to help you understand your options and the process. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my office at liz.hausmann@fultoncountyga. gov or by phone at (404) 612-8213. And as I have done each of the 11 previous years, I will advocate for the revenue-neutral millage rate to prevent your Fulton County taxes from increasing.
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 7
8 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
PRESERVING THE PAST
OPINION
Hard work, character ruled longtime farmer North Fulton, like much of Georgia, was farming country almost from the time the first settlers arrived in the 18th century until the turn of the 20th century, when urbanization and technology ushBOB MEYERS ered in the machine age. Although agriculture is Georgia’s largest industry today, North Fulton has become largely urban. Areas that were once extensive farms have been transformed into thriving communities, business enterprises and retail establishments. It is good to reflect on the people who paved the way for current generations, our farmers of yesteryear. Auton Kirby (1915-2000), wife Ruth Estes Kirby (1919-2016) exemplified the farm families of old. Auton, sometimes misspelled as Anton, was born in Dawson County and attended the Cumming Public School, the first school in Forsyth County to grant high school diplomas. Today it is home to the Cumming Playhouse.
Auton’s father died when Auton was 9 years old, so he had the responsibility of helping raise his two brothers and sister. He learned to be self-sufficient and the importance of a hard day’s work, traits he passed on to his four boys and two girls. His oldest son Sam says, “We all worked on the farm from the time we were little bitty fellows.” The boys worked in the fields, and the girls worked with their mother in the house. As many as three tenant farmers also worked in the fields. Tenant farmers rented a piece of the land, paying Auton with a percentage of their crops. In 1941 Auton borrowed some money and purchased 160 acres of prime farmland in Alpharetta and today’s Milton. His property was bounded roughly by today’s Ga. 400 and Windward Parkway and Union Hill Road. For the first few years he grew cotton, but it was not profitable. It took a farmer a year to get his money out of planting cotton and 60 days for vegetables. He switched to truck farming and chickens. Both were successful ventures. Truck farming is another name for vegetable production. Auton grew a variety
PHOTOS BY FAMILY/PROVIDED
This photo, circa 1958, shows one of 11 chicken houses that supported thousands of chickens where the Cracker Barrel restaurant on Winward Parkway is today. of vegetables including corn, squash and cucumbers. He sold his produce to the warehouse operations of A&P as well as Colonial Stores, a chain of grocery stores common throughout the South until its demise in the 1970s. Sam also remembers taking truckloads of vegetables to the Atlanta Farmers Market. Auton switched to broiler chickens in about 1946. He appeared in a 1953 Atlanta Constitution article in which he described his broiler business and his flock of 14,000 Draper 7-Way-Cross birds. Sometime in the 1960s he switched to laying hens and had, according to Sam, thousands and thousands of hens in 11 chicken houses near to where the Cracker Barrel restaurant is today. “Each of us collected hundreds of eggs every day,” Sam said. Auton sold his farm circa 1985 when taxes became prohibitively high. He bought a 78-acre property on Cogburn Road in today’s cty of Milton and raised Charolais beef cattle before retiring in the early 1990s. In the early days, Auton and his boys plowed their fields by walking behind hand-held plows pulled by horses or mules. The boys preferred to use horses because they were easier to work with, but Auton had two or three of each animal depending which was on the market at the time of need. The boys were very happy when the first tractor was acquired in the late 1940s/early 1950s. Ford tractors were preferred. Over the years, Auton owned a model 8N, a Jubilee and a model 3000 diesel. Auton and Ruth devoted much time and effort to the Union Hill Baptist Church in Alpharetta. Union Hill is a small country church where members help one another. Auton served as a dea-
Auton and Ruth Kirby worked hard all their lives and gave back generously to their neighbors. They were very active in the Union Hill Baptist Church in Alpharetta. con of the church for 52 years, and Ruth had the distinction of being the oldest member of the church when she passed away at age 97. Auton was president of the North Fulton Farm Bureau for 20 years and served on the State Board of Directors of the Farm Bureau for 14 years. He often helped his community by hauling produce grown by neighbors to market in his truck. It is said that had it not been for him, some of his neighbors would have gone hungry. Sam summed up his parents: “Mom and Dad were hard workers. They raised a big family and did a lot for the neighborhood.” Bob is the Milton Historical Society Director Emeritus. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net.
OPINION
THE INVESTMENT COACH
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 9
Leading you where you don’t want to go The Gospel of John recounts the appearance of Jesus before seven disciples in Galilee following His resurrection. He said to Peter, “When you were younger you used LEWIS J. WALKER, CFP to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” (John 21:18) Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. But Jesus also described our life’s journey from birth to death, from the robustness of youth with the excitement of goals fulfilled and milestones achieved, challenges met and difficulties surmounted as we progress through adulthood, and a potential final endgame circumstance. Every caregiver, care giving professional, and the patient cared for knows this journey well. The loss of major bodily functions is not a respecter of age, as young and middle-aged people experience stemming from accidents, battlefield injuries or illness. But somewhere beyond age 60 the potential impairment of mental and physical functions encompassing decision making, mobility and independence increases, along with the likelihood of needing care. Per the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the leading
causes of death among those ages 65 and older are heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lower respiratory diseases, flu and pneumonia, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, kidney diseases and accidents. Death often is preceded by a period of needed care. This is why providing for short-, intermediate-, or long-term disability or care is a financial and estate planning concern for one’s self and family members, and for loved ones who are caring for family members or other cherished persons and those who may be called to do so in the future. A 2020 report from National Alliance f0r Caregiving and American Association of Retired Persons revealed a jump in the number of family caregivers from 43.5 million in 2015 to 53 million in 2020, an increase of 22 percent. Of the one in five Americans who are caregivers, 61 percent are women and 39 percent are men. This is a particular challenge to “sandwich generation women” caught between children needing care and aging parents and grandparents, presenting time and financial squeezes, and often, job and career pressures. Twenty-one percent of caregivers report their own health as only fair to poor. For many of the medical conditions cited as a prelude to death, a point may be reached when a “medical fix” is not feasible. Keeping the patient comfortable becomes the primary concern. There are growing efforts by states and the federal government to facilitate home- and community-based services. When a loved one is hospitalized, the
question is, “After discharge, what’s next?” One option may be “hospice at home.” Does the patient no longer want aggressive treatment or chemo? Does he or she desire not to go back to the hospital? Is the loved one plagued with uncontrolled pain, frequent ER visits and hospitalizations, ongoing urinary tract infections, wounds that won’t heal, confusion and weakness, significant weight loss, frequent falls or risk of falling, sleeping more, decreased food and liquid consumption, increased need for assistance with activities of daily living? Hospice care is 100 percent covered by Medicare and Medicaid, paying for 24/7 on-call nursing services; medications related to the patient’s primary diagnosis; costs of medical equipment such as a bed, wheelchair, walker or oxygen; personal supplies such as diapers, underpads, wipes, shower chair, etc. The caregiver and patient gain a team of doctors, home aides, nurses, chaplains, social workers, grief counselors and volunteers. The team can arrange for respite care for the caregiver and other help if one needs to be away. If the patient’s needs outstrip the capabilities of the family caregiver and the hospice at home team, other alternatives can be presented. Many hospitals have professionals on staff who can advise family members on palliative care and hospice care options. In addition to financial concerns, the health and welfare of caregivers is important in the choice of care for a loved one. Senior citizens
should explore options before a crisis ensues. When a loved one needs to be rushed to the emergency room, often the first phone call is to 911. After the patient is stabilized, who in the family will get the second call? Usually that’s the go-to “alpha child,” the daughter or son who may be called to step in as a caregiver and decision maker at some point. What does he or she know about your wishes and affairs? Your financial adviser can arrange for a meeting to discuss caregiving and end-of-life options and planning, in addition to a family meeting at some point. Key legal documents should be reviewed with an attorney well-versed in living and testamentary estate and trust planning. Religious needs and preferences should be considered. Decision-making at a time of pressure and grief rarely is optimal. Planning for the certainty of death and the uncertainty leading up to death is a gift to loved ones, with a “peace of mind” dividend for you. Lewis Walker, CFP®, is a life centered financial planning strategist with Capital Insight Group; 770-441-3553; lewis@lewwalker.com. Securities & advisory services offered through The Strategic Financial Alliance, Inc. (SFA). Lewis is a registered representative and investment adviser representative of SFA, otherwise unaffiliated with Capital Insight Group. He’s a Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach and Certified Exit Planning Advisor.
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We’ve listened to our guests’ overwhelming desire to add more locations to the metro Atlanta area. STEPHEN OCHS, founder of Fetch Park
10 | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022
Bar, dog park to open in Alpharetta By JAKE DRUKMAN jake@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — If you enjoy dogs and drinks, you’re going to love the new attraction soon to come to Alpharetta. Fetch Park, an “off-leash dog park bar and social hub” concept, is set to open its fourth location at 11440 Maxwell Road, up the street from Ameris Bank Amphitheater on June 24. The space will feature a full-service bar and an “expansive” greenspace for dogs and humans alike. The Alpharetta location will join Fetch Park’s two Atlanta locations and one in Columbus. It will also feature outdoor televisions, cooling stations and shaded seating. It will contain an Airstream equipped with a selection of beer, wine and spirits, as well as a coffee bar. The park is designed to resemble an old-school minor league baseball field, a nod to founder Stephen Ochs’ past in baseball. The park will be decorated with murals and illuminated signage and enclosed with fences. Attendants, called “Woof Wardens,” will be present to ensure the safety of guests and dogs and maintain park grounds. The park will also contain a second, on-leash area with a patio, a shipping container bar with coffee and cocktails, a food truck lane and two beach volleyball courts that will host leagues and tournaments. No dogs will be allowed on the volleyball courts. “We’ve listened to our guests’ overwhelming desire to add more locations to the metro Atlanta area,” Ochs said. “We’re thrilled to work hand in hand with the City of Alpharetta to make Fetch hap-
pen in the best way possible for the many dogs and humans in the neighborhood who love the Fetch Park experience but want it closer to home.” The park will host regularly scheduled events, including a live music series, stand-up comedy shows, trivia and singles’ nights. The park will be free for humans to enter, and a membership program will be available for dogs, ranging from a $10 daily rate to monthly and annual memberships that include access to all Fetch Park locations. Dogs are required to be spayed or neutered and have up-to-date vaccinations. Fetch Park Alpharetta will hold its grand opening at 6 p.m. June 24.
Fetch Park operates two locations in Atlanta, like the one here, and one location in Columbus.
PHOTOS BY FETCH PARK/PROVIDED
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T: 770.495.0545 • F: 770.495.4646 11695 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
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Johns Creek Farmers Market Come out to our last market day on June 29th 4:00PM – 7:00PM
6000 Medlock Bridge Rd. • JohnsCreekChamber.com
July 21st 5:00 – 7:00PM Now Accepting Sponsors
Wellness and Business Expo Every 4th Thursday 9AM - 10:30AM
Check calendar for dates and locations
Friday August 12th
6000 Medlock Bridge Rd. Premiere Johns Creek Event showcasing the local business community.
Now accepting sponsors and vendors.
12 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
Sponsored Section
June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | 12
A father’s impact
Brought to you by - Village Park Senior Living
Parenthood is composed of several challenges, triumphs, and responsibilities. Parents offer support and guidance for their children. From adolescent confidence to their views into adulthood, a child’s overall disposition in life is shaped by their parents. Although the presence of both parents is impactful, fathers specifically have a unique influence on their children. Fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers residing at Village Park Senior Living shared their advice on how future generations can navigate the challenges of fatherhood. 1. “Apply your marriage oath to your position as a father.” -Edward W. The vows you’ve made to your partner may also apply to the way you parent your children. Loving husband, father and grandfather, Edward says, “Take your marriage oath, take the better for worse, everything, and do the same thing as a father.” Throughout his life, Edward has seen the significance of simply talking to children and taking the time to understand what is happening in their lives. This
provides fathers the opportunity to step in and offer impactful advice or guidance. Just like marriage, Edward points out the best thing you can do for your children, saying, “Above everything else, love them.” 2. “Trust your children to do the right thing.” -Delos K. According to retired decorated veteran and devoted great-grandfather, Delos K., the most important skill you can teach your children is decision-making. Although it may be scary to put the responsibility of making the right choice in the hands of a child, it is imperative for children to learn how to make decisions that are in the best interest of themselves and others rather than ones made for instant gratification. Emotional development is one of the many advantages Delos identifies as significant of a father’s presence in a child’s life. “You’ve got to trust your children to be intelligent and do the right thing,” Delos explains.“Then reward them when they do.” 3. “Hang in there.” -Chuck M. Fellow father and grandfather, Chuck M., says his best advice to fathers is to simply “hang in there.” It can be tough being a father. Aside from guiding
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your children, you have to manage your job, your finances, your personal life, and it can take a toll on your health. All of these accumulated tasks are difficult and mistakes will happen. It is okay to ask for help. Although life can be hard, the rewards of being a father are much greater than theobstacles before you. At Village Park Senior Living, we are beyond grateful for our expert fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers. Share your experiences, legacies, and advice with our neighbors here at Village Park. Learn more about our communities and call (470)509-4557. We look forward to meeting you.
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PROVIDED
Can a skin biopsy diagnose neurologic disease? Brought to you by - Brent Taylor, MD Don’t worry. This is not an invitation to invest in Theranos 2.0, and Elizabeth Holmes is not the ghost writer behind this article. Testing for at least one disease by a simple relatively non-invasive method (in this case a skin biopsy) is real. ADASIL stands for “Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy.” In layman’s terms, this name means that CADASIL is a disease of the brain in which bad arteries cause strokes. Autosomal dominant means that you need a single bad copy of a gene to develop disease. CADASIL is the most common known hereditary disease responsible for strokes; and about 4 out of every 100,000 people are thought to be affected. A gene called Notch 3 is mutated in CADASIL. Notch 3 encodes a protein that builds up in smooth muscle cells in diseased individuals. Muscle cells then become enlarged. Arteries contain these muscle cells, so arterial function worsens. Blood flow to parts of the brain diminishes, and individuals suffer strokes. The tragedy of CADASIL is its young age of onset with an average age of 46 and usual range of 30 to 70. Affected individuals often first develop migraines, mood disorders or dementia before developing classic stroke-like symptoms. One feature that makes CADASIL unique is that smooth muscle cells are affected both in the skin and the brain,
so a skin biopsy can be used for diagnosis. A regular skin biopsy with a traditional stain called PAS can sometimes show the build-up of a material within the muscle of blood vessels. And a skin biopsy sent for special testing by electronic microscopy will reliably exhibit a granular material that is proof of the disease. It is important to note that the work-up of neurologic and psychiatric diseases is best performed by a neurologist or a psychiatrist, and, in general, a dermatologist would not perform a skin biopsy for CADASIL testing just because a patient with migraines, mood disorders, strokes or early dementia comes into clinic. In general, a neurologist or psychiatrist would refer a patient in whom CADASIL is suspected to a dermatologist specifically for a skin biopsy as part of the patient’s work-up. And as the cost of genetic testing decreases, direct sequencing of the patient’s Notch 3 gene may come down in cost so much that patients in the future may receive genetic testing instead of skin biopsies to diagnose this condition. After that deep dive into a very science-heavy disease, congratulations are in order! You are now one of the few people who can explain how a skin biopsy can sometimes explain why someone has had a stroke. We hope that you found this article interesting. If you or a loved one has a skin care need, please consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta.
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14 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section
Alpharetta’s best gets even better this summer Brought to you by - Inspired Living at Alpharetta “Being a part of the Alpharetta community for the past five years has been an absolute blessing”, stated Lindsey Hacker, President of Inspired Living. “We have been able to help so many families discover the benefits of senior living and have watched lives changed. We truly have the best jobs supporting seniors and providing a warm environment in which they can thrive.” Inspired Living at Alpharetta has been a staple in the Alpharetta community for past five years providing Assisted Living and Memory Care support services to those families looking for a better way of living in their senior years. The community features studio suites, one- and two-bedroom apartment homes complete with tile floors, rich wood cabinets, granite countertops, kitchenettes, and great storage. Along with spacious apartment homes, the community also offer residents wonderful amenities including formal and casual dining rooms, fitness center, wellness center with avail-
See LIVING, Page 15 PROVIDED
Renting may be better than selling Brought to you by - Michelle Wilson, Wilson Legal, PC I had a client come into the office this week. His parents were 91 and 94 years of age. They were still living independently, mostly. Their kids and one other caregiver came in almost every day to help. We talked about the Medicaid EDWP Program – Elderly & Disabled Waiver Program – which provides caregivers in the home and could supplement the assistance they were receiving privately. We also talked about skilled nursing care since Dad had fallen recently and the children thought it would be only a matter of time until he fell again and wouldn’t be able to live safely in an independent setting. Their son asked if they could simply sell the home. Houses are excluded as a resource when you apply for Medicaid. The problem with houses is that, when you sell a house, you no longer have an excluded asset. You have a big pile of money. That big pile of money is countable. Considering Mom and Dad’s age, we don’t have the option of giving away property to an asset protection trust, for example, because they would likely need help within five years. As an alternative, I suggested renting their home if they moved to assisted living or later
to skilled nursing care. Rental income would provide additional cash to pay for care privately and allow Mom and Dad to qualify with the house still being counted as an excluded asset. I know a few great property managers who can help if kids don’t want to mess with tenants. We can help you create a team of professionals to support you. “What if your income is over the Medicaid limit with the rental income?”, their son asked. You can use a special bank account that allows you to WILSON have more income than Medicaid allows so long as Medicaid is the beneficiary of income remaining at your death. At Wilson Legal, we look at your situation or your parents’ situation – financial, health, family and where they want to live. Sometimes it’s better to rent than to sell. Our Eldercare Roadmap Strategy Session is designed to find the best options for your situation. How will you (or your parents) live your best life? Michelle Wilson, Attorney (770) 205-7861 Wilson-legal.com
EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section
Living: Continued from Page 14 able therapy services, Falcon’s pool hall, game room, card room, movie theater and salon. Every resident that comes to live at Inspired Living at Alpharetta partners with the team to complete a full life assessment in which they discuss everything from care to lifestyle preferences, so together, they can develop a personalized life plan. Each resident has an individual story to tell, and Inspired Living is here to listen and build a life within their community that delivers respect, comfort, care and happiness. Inspired Living has the great honor in caring for Moms and Dads. They feel it is their moral obligation to do everything in their power to remove obstacles and provide thoughtful solutions that have lasting impact in people’s lives. The team has been fully vetted and collectively shares decades of knowledge and experience they bring to all aspects of senior living. Inspired Livings greatest assets are their people. The dedicated sons and daughters, and, mothers and fathers, that have chosen to be a part of this “inspired” journey and give back compassion, comfort, and peace to their residents every day. The community welcomes you to schedule a tour and it would be their pleasure to provide you a complimentary lunch for two with a wine pairing. They also have outstanding summer specials on select apartment homes so if you have been considering a move to senior living, now is the best time to do it. To you schedule your tour and lunch, please call 770.629.8431. For more information on our community, please visit www.inspiredliving.care.
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 15
16 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
Memory Care TOUR & TASTE
Wednesday, June 29 | Noon – 3 p.m. 5050 Kimball Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30005 Have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia? Join us for a quick tour of our caring community. We’d love to show you around and answer any questions you have about Addington Place of Johns Creek or our compassionate memory care program. After your visit, we’ll send you home with a delicious meal created by our very own chef.
RSVP to 770-626-7183 to schedule your personal time. For the safety and well-being of all residents and guests, all recommended safety precautions will be taken. Please call to inquire about our safety measures for this event.
Assisted Living | Memory Care ALC000279 WWW.SENIORLIFESTYLE.COM
EMPTY NEST • Sponsored Section
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United Methodist Churches navigate debate over LGBTQ+ ruling By JAKE DRUKMAN jake@appenmedia.com CUMMING, Ga. — For many in Forsyth County, and in North Metro Atlanta, church is an integral part of life and community. Organized religion offers a space for many to gather with those who share their beliefs and values and foster companionship. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, however, religious congregations can represent a frightening uncertainty. While some churches may be accepting of those with differing sexualities or gender identities, others may see those individuals as an affront, incompatible with their beliefs. The United Methodist Church is a force of Christianity in North Georgia, with dozens of churches in North Metro Atlanta alone, each operated independently but with a shared set of beliefs. That unity was shaken early this month when the United Methodist Church’s North Georgia Conference announced that more than 70 churches in the area would disaffiliate from the greater United Methodist Church. The split represents about 9 percent of the conference’s more than 700 North Georgia churches, though the disaffiliat-
ing congregations were mostly in small rural communities, representing about 3% of the UMC’s North Georgia membership. The disaffiliation, which is set to take effect at the end of the month, came amid debates within the UMC regarding same-sex marriage and the ability of gay people to become clergy members. John Hutchinson, interim director of communications at Cumming First United Methodist Church, said disaffiliation is not a decision churches can make lightly. He said their church buildings and furnishings are owned by the UMC itself, rather than by the individual church. Congregations have to go through several processes and receive approval from their conference to disaffiliate. In addition to being a lengthy process, Hutchinson also said disaffiliation is expensive for the individual churches. Christian Headlines reported June 7 that some of the more conservative UMC congregations are planning to join the Global Methodist Church, a newly launched theologically conservative denomination, while more progressive UMC churches may also disaffiliate in the future to join the Liberation Methodist Connexion, an LGBTQ+ friendly denomination.
Cumming First UMC, which has about 2,500 members, is not disaffiliating from the church. Hutchinson, who also serves as the church’s director of music, worship and arts, said the church is accepting of LGBTQ+ members, though its members have varied opinions on the issue. “We have the full gamut of opinions on this from the very conservative to the very progressive,” Hutchinson said. “We have gay members who are very open about that, and who we welcome in every way, shape and form. We really do strive earnestly to welcome all people, to love all people and value all people regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, physical, mental, emotional ability, any of that. So that’s our church position.” Hutchinson also said Cumming First cannot perform same-sex weddings under the UMC’s codes. The denomination’s policies are codified in what it calls the Book of Discipline, which also prohibits the ordaining of “practicing” homosexuals as clergy. Hutchinson said that Cumming First strives to be inclusive of all people, and that if the greater UMC opts to change its policies on homosexuality, Cumming First will follow its guidance.
We have the full gamut of opinions on this from the very conservative to the very progressive.” JOHN HUTCHINSON Interim Director of Communications at Cumming First United Methodist Church “We are a United Methodist Church, and as such, we follow the Book of Discipline, period,” Hutchinson said. “At the same time, we do everything we possibly can to welcome everyone, love everyone regardless of who they are. We do everything we can to include people up to what the church allows, which quite frankly is just about everything. And if the church changes, then we will be even more inclusive.” In addition to Cumming First, Appen Media reached out to six other UMC congregations in North Metro Atlanta. Some did not respond, and those that did either declined to comment or did not engage on the topic of LGBTQ+ issues.
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Dunwoody Crier 6/23/22 Crossword
JOIN THE TEAM Appen Media Group is looking for a Reporter to cover local news in the north Atlanta area. Appen is investing in its newsroom, expanding when (and where) others are contracting. This position will contribute to that goal by covering city and county governments, as well as collaborating on stories with other members of the team. There will be additional opportunities to cover themes in health, business, sports or the arts. We are looking for a team player who will make a difference in the community and our workplace. A commitment to communication is critical. The ideal candidate would be able to spot unique angles and stories that address broader questions of the community. We are looking for someone with professional reporting experience, though it can be from a collegiate newsroom. If you’re excited by a fast-paced environment and genuinely care about community journalism, we want to hear from you. Applicants should email a resume and selected clips to Director of Content and Development Carl Appen at carl@appenmedia. com. Preliminary questions about the position, environment or hiring process are also welcome. Professional discretion is guaranteed.
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Celebration: Continued from Page 1 Alpharetta
The city is holding its annual fireworks display at Wills Park on the big day. Families are invited to celebrate our nation under the stars. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic meal as they enjoy time together outdoors. Fireworks begin at dusk. Charcoal grills are strictly prohibited, but small propane grills are allowed with a permit granted to the first 50 applicants. All the park’s main parking lots will be open until they reach capacity. For more information or to submit your grill permit for Wills Park, email hlew@alpharetta.ga.us or call 678297-6382.
Milton
Leading up to the holiday, Milton is holding its Independence Day Celebration and Walking Parade in Crabapple on July 2 starting at 10 a.m. The parade is expected to last 20 minutes going through nearby neighborhoods before circling back to the Broadwell Pavilion. Guests, residents, and families of all ages are welcome to decorate their pets, bikes or strollers in red, white and blue. Once arriving at the pavilion, participants can enjoy a bounce house, face painting, balloon animals, arts and crafts, games, a playground, complimentary snacks and beverages, Kona Ice truck, along with an award for best pa-
Solicitor: Continued from Page 4 ecuting cases in the Municipal Court of Alpharetta and it is unclear what impact that might have on the prosecutions, including the overturning of sentences and the city having to reimburse fines paid by its citizens,” it states. Mattox was sworn into office during the April 18 City Council meeting. She serves in the same capacity for the City of Milton following an intergovernmental agreement between both cities. Alpharetta pays 60 percent of Mattox’s salary, while Milton pays 40 percent. The shared court solicitor position is intended to strengthen the bond between the North Fulton County cities which already share court facilities and a municipal clerk. Alpharetta and Milton also share a police training center, which opened in early April. The letter goes on to state that in addition to not meeting the qualifications set forth in the charter, Mattox
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 19
triotic decorations of pets or people. For more information, email Anna Stockstill at anna.stockstill@miltonga.gov.
animal units and local celebrities. All ages are welcome to attend. For more information, call 770-354-7653.
Roswell
Sandy Springs
The City of Roswell is also hosting a fireworks display on July 4 starting at 6 p.m. at Roswell Area Park. All ages are welcome to enjoy live music, entertainment and food trucks. Fireworks are set to begin at sunset and guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets. Parking and attendance are free. For more information, email Andie Gambrel at agambrel@roswellgov.com or call 770594-6443.
Cumming
The Cumming Fairgrounds continues its annual tradition with an all-day celebration on July 4 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The event begins with a steam engine parade and will conclude with a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. Families of all ages are welcome to enjoy food vendors, live music, a designated kids zone, a dance contest and other activities. While parking is free, admission is $5 for adults and free for children ages 12 and under. For more information, call 770-781-3491.
Dunwoody
Enjoy the largest Independence Day parade in the state with Dunwoody’s annual Fourth of July Parade hosted by the Dunwoody Homeowners Association. The free event starts on July 4 at 9 a.m. at Dunwoody Village. The celebration includes marching bands, floats, clowns,
does not meet the minimum qualifications for the solicitor position officially posed by Alpharetta and Milton, which ask for five years as a member of the Georgia Bar Association. Mattox is allegedly in her fourth year. “Thus, the decision to terminate Ms. Shoenthal McQueen’s employment and replace her with a far younger and less experienced African American employee raises issues of both age and race discrimination in violation of the Age Discrimination in Employment ACT (ADEA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII),” it states. McQueen is demanding lost back pay and benefits from the date she was terminated or not hired, reinstatement or front pay, compensatory damages for emotional distress and loss of reputation, punitive damages and/or liquidated damages and costs and attorneys’ fees, which so far total $7,500. Milton approved a joint defense agreement and conflict waiver with Jarrard and Davis on June 6. Ken Jarrard, a founding partner of the law firm, is the City Attorney for Milton, and his firm represents Alpharetta.
The city will hold its annual Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration as they light the sky over City Green on July 4. The lawn opens at 4 p.m. with live music from Electric Avenue beginning at 7:30 p.m. before wrapping up the night
with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Families and guests can bring their own picnic, purchase food from nearby restaurants, or enjoy food trucks starting at 6 p.m. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased at the event. Tents and personal sparklers are not permitted. Admission is free for all ages. For parking updates and more information about the event, visit citysprings.com/events/stars-andstripes.
20 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 21
family owned & operated since 1928
210 Ingram Ave. Cumming, 30040 770.887.2388 ingramfuneralhome.com
JAKE DRUKMAN/APPEN MEDIA
Members of Milton’s Municipal Election Feasibility Committee gather on the second floor of City Hall for their inaugural meeting June 15. From left are: Mark Amick, Tammy Lowit, Stacey Inglis, Lisa Cauley, Rick Mohrig and Paul Moore.
Committee: Continued from Page 1 The six-person panel was intended to represent three stakeholder groups: City Council members, city staff and Milton residents. The committee is made up of City Councilman Rick Mohrig, Councilman Paul Moore, Deputy City Manager Stacey Inglis, City Clerk Tammy Lowit and residents Mark Amick and Lisa Cauley. The committee’s first meeting consisted largely of discussion about how it will operate and identifying its objectives. Members opted not to appoint a formal chair and agreed that at least one member of each of the three stakeholder groups must be present for the committee to make any formal decisions. The committee assigned members to look into the costs associated with
the city running its own elections, from staffing and training to renting voting equipment. Members have also been assigned to contact other Georgia cities that run their own elections, such as Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Loganville and Eatonton, to research associated costs and benefits. The committee already has some general information from the cities, though costs to Milton would still largely depend on how it chose to operate its elections. Georgia law mandates that county, state and federal elections be conducted on electronic voting machines, but municipal elections can be conducted either electronically or on paper ballots. Committee members also discussed its meeting schedule going forward, tentatively deciding to hold a session every three weeks, beginning with Thursday, July 14. The committee has five months — until Oct. 15 — to make
recommendations regarding the feasibility of city-run municipal elections to the City Council. The resolution that created the committee states that it will be automatically terminated come that date.
Now in our 91st year Family owned and operated On site crematory • Serving all faiths Offering: Burials • Cremation • Prearrangements Out-of-state transportation
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info@northsidechapel.com www.northsidechapel.com
North Fulton’s Only On-Site Crematory 12050 Crabapple Road • Roswell, GA 30075
DEATH NOTICES Sylvia Dickinson, 81, of Cumming, passed away May 27, 2022. Arrangements by McDonald & Son Funeral Home & Crematory. Charles Bythewood, 88 of Cumming, passed away June 9, 2022. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Laurie Murphy, 60 of Roswell, passed away June 12, 2022. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Rita Mark, 73, of Alpharetta, passed away June 10, 2022. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Leonard Curtis, 78 of Milton, passed away June 14, 2022. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Wendy Blumeyer, 63 of Milton, passed away June 13, 2022. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
William Whigham, 75 of Roswell, passed away June 12, 2022. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
22 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
ONLINE INCLUDED Call today to place your ad 470.222.8469 or email c l a s s i f i e d s @ a p p e n m e d i a g r o u p . c o m • FA X : 7 7 0 - 4 7 5 - 1 2 1 6
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GENERAL CLERK IL Sawnee EMC is seeking a General Clerk IL (Building and Grounds/Custodial/ Maintenance) (part-time position) to perform facility maintenance and grounds keeping duties. Requires some heavy lifting, high school diploma or equivalency and a valid GA driver’s license. Related experience with outdoor maintenance equipment and a valid CDL are preferred. Hours: Availability for alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours. Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, July 1, 2022. 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 Affirmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.
Qualified candidates please send resume to Alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.
POOL TECHNICIANS WANTED Part-time & Full-time positions available. Pay is $12-$14 per hour. Hours starting at 6:30AM, Monday-Friday. Pick-up truck not required but must have your own reliable transportation. Gas allowance provided. Looking for people who enjoy working outside and are enthusiastic, dependable & punctual. Able to contribute independently or on a crew with consistently friendly attitude. Well-established commercial pool maintenance company providing service in the North Atlanta Metro area.
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North Fulton Community Charities has an immediate opening for a childcare associate to care for children ages 2-11 while their parents take classes. Morning and evening shifts available. Visit //nfcchelp. org/work-at-NFCC for more information on the position and how to apply, or email NFCC Program Manager Wynona Kuehl at wkuehl@nfcchelp.org. HIRING? Call us at 770-4423278 and run your listing in the Herald & Crier newspapers. 93,000 copies delivered around town every week!
Accountant needed for a business located in the Johns Creek area. The position is responsible for accounting, b o o k k e e p i n g , r e c e i v a b l e s / invoicing, payables, monthly financials. The individual must have experience, excellent computer skills, a quick learner and a positive attitude. Qualified candidates can forward their resume to jobjohncreek@ y a h o o . c o m
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KRIEGER CHIROPRACTICE OFFICE closing as of July 1, 2022. All inquiries, call 917-549-5886
Sales Estate Sale MILTON: 673 Dunbrody 30004; Estate sale, Friday-Sunday 6/246/26 10AM-4PM. Moving across country everything must go! Household, holiday decorations, toys (Thomas the Tank, superhero, children books etc) Tons of designer clothes and shoes, mens and Womens. Additional parking Crabapple Market parking garage
Yard Sale MILTON Multi Family. Crabapple Station on Crabapple Road; Close to Crabapple Road and Broadwell in Downtown. FridaySunday 6/24-6/26 10 am-4pm; Additional parking Crabapple Market Garage.
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AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | June 23, 2022 | 23
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PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs. We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen back-splashes. Re-grouting is also available. Call 678-8871868 for free estimate.
and Crier
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Mention this ad. Concrete driveway specialists. Driveways, Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs. A+ BBB rating. FREE ESTIMATE. Call Rachael at 678-250-4546 to schedule a FREE Estimate. 30 years of experience. ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC. Please note we do have a minimum charge on accepted jobs of $4,500.
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24 | June 23, 2022 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
Sell Your Mementos. Keep The Memories. Have a vacation or something else you need extra cash for? Come cash in on your old unwanted mementos. Your unwanted gold, silver, diamonds or coins are like an old piggy bank. Cash them in today while Gold and Silver prices are at near all time highs. There is not a better time than now to sell!
Items We Will Be Buying FINE JEWELRY - Necklaces - Bracelets - Rings - Earrings - Designer Jewelry
SCRAP GOLD & SILVER - Gold class rings - Old or Broken Gold - Scrap gold, silver, platinum - Old Mountings - Dental gold
STERLING SILVER - Sterling silver flatware & serving ware. - Any type and all makers, no need to polish & we can help carry - Sterling silver & Turquoise Jewelry
LUXURY WATCHES & POCKET WATCHES - Wrist watches and Pocket watches - Rolex, Breitling, Patek, Cartier and more
COINS & CURRENCY - Gold and Silver coins - Bullion and Bars - Coin collections
DIAMONDS - Loose Diamonds - Mounted Diamonds - Damaged/ chipped stones
OLD TREASURES BUYING EVENT JUNE 25TH – 30TH | 10AM – 5PM
10475 MEDLOCK BRIDGE ROAD | UNIT 310 | JOHNS CREEK, GA 30097 | 404.405.0217 (We are located in building 300 on the back row in the IVY Falls shopping center)
Call 404.405.0217 to set up an appointment if you would like to avoid waiting time.
S ATURDAY & S ONS