Johns Creek Herald - July 13, 2023

Young professionals queried for opinions on pending projects within Johns Creek

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Young professionals of Johns Creek were invited to participate in an opportunity to learn about and provide input on new developments in the city at the NEXT Gen Forum July 10.

Held from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, Johns Creek college students and young professionals could provide their input on the future growth and development of the city and learn about the latest projects, including:

• Medley Johns Creek — a 43acre, mixed-use development to include retail, restaurants and entertainment concepts, residential units and office space

• Boston Scientific — a leading manufacturer of medical devices

• Cauley Creek Park — the city’s largest park at 203 acres, which includes a 5K rubberized trail, more than 10 lighted sports sites, two synthetic and two turf lighted athletic fields as well as a pedestrian bridge and river overlooks

• Creekside Park — 20-plus acres of parkland anchored by the pond behind Johns Creek City Hall, which will have a constructed wetland, amphitheater, terraced seating, a small playground and a 15-footwide trail leading up to East Johns Crossing

Groups call for community action to help preserve historic water oak

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Johns Creek Historical Society is mounting a campaign to save a 69-foot water oak that stands in the way of a planned Shake Shack near the Publix on State Bridge Road.

The tree, with a spread of 100 feet and a trunk 48 inches in diameter, has withstood the test of time dating back more than a century, but it now

faces the axe as part of the proposed building project.

“In a city with very little remaining that physically ties to its history, the tree is a treasure,” writes Joan Compton, president of the Johns Creek Historical Society.

Compton created a document detailing the water oak, aka the Publix tree. In it, she advocates the denial of site plans for a 3,500-squarefoot Shake Shack, which call for its removal. The project would subdivide a

.72-acre out-parcel from an 8.65-acre property, which Compton says means there are other options.

The Publix tree is one of 17 heritage trees Compton has listed in an Excel spreadsheet, a project started during the COVID-19 pandemic. She said the oldest tree in Johns Creek, near the Regal Cinema, dates to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Each tree tells the history of See TREE, Page 7

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Former bank clerk suspected of theft

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The branch manager of American Commerce Bank on Medlock Bridge Road reported June 27 that a former employee’s register was short $7,200.

When the manager questioned the employee about the missing money, the teller said a customer came into the bank with a payroll check for around $700 in April but accidentally gave the customer more than $7,000. The teller was terminated.

The manager informed police of other mishaps with the employee. A different customer came to the bank and cashed a check for $1,100 in May, she said, but the teller never obtained the customer’s driver’s license to confirm the customer’s identity. Later, the manager discovered someone had fraudulently cashed the check, and the bank had to refund the account holder.

The manager could not provide an address for the employee, but believes he lives in Buckhead.

According to another bank employee, the bank has a team of attorneys drawing up a payment plan for the suspect to return the missing funds.

Peachtree City police link man to home burglary

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek man reported to police June 29 that his home on Wyngate Trail was burglarized while he was away in South Korea with his family.

The victim was notified by an officer with Peachtree City police, who said he found two jewelry appraisal forms in the burglary suspect’s vehicle with the victim’s

name on them. Police learned the suspect had a history of burglary and active warrants.

When the victim checked his home, he noticed two watches and two appraisal forms for a diamond and diamond ring missing. One watch was valued at between $1,000 to $2,000 and the other, at around $300.

The man’s wife also found a $10,000 pearl jewelry set missing as well as a $250 watch and $6,000 diamond earrings.

Outdoor cameras recorded the suspect leaving the front porch of the home June 17, the day the owners left of their trip. Police found no neighborhood cameras, and the scene was turned over to detectives.

Footage shows suspect burglarizing business

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police were dispatched to J’s Asian Cafe on Jones Bridge Road in reference to an alarm July 2.

When police arrived, they noticed a window on the side of the business had been shattered, and, inside, they found cash registers open and empty.

Police reviewed video footage showing a suspect entering the business and retrieving cash from the registers. The manager of the store said the business usually keeps $200 of cash in the registers.

The manager and his wife believed the suspect was at the business the previous day and sat outside for a few minutes, also captured on video.

The scene was turned over to detectives.

Roswell man cited for alleged battery

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police arrested a Roswell man June 14 on false imprisonment charges after he allegedly battered his ex-girlfriend.

Officers reported responding to a residence on Ivywood Lane around 6 p.m. The Alpharetta Fire Department requested police at the apartment because of

screaming coming from inside, the report states.

Officers reported observing a woman lying in bed and knocking on a window. When she sat up, her face was “fully covered in blood,” and she appeared to be unable to move or speak with police, the report states.

Christopher Reaves, 21, was seen leaving the bed to answer the door when officers knocked, the report states.

Officers reported the woman was visibly distraught and crying, and she said, “Don’t let him hurt me.” She told officers Reaves was the reason she was bleeding.

During an alleged altercation, Reaves said the woman had her hands together, and when he tried to grab them, she “threw them against her nose,” the report states.

Officers reported the woman said she had arrived at the apartment around 5:20 p.m. to collect her belongings because she and Reaves had broken up two weeks earlier. When she asked where her belongings were, Reaves allegedly struck her nose multiple times with a closed fist.

Reaves denied the allegations of striking the woman.

He was charged with felony false imprisonment and misdemeanor battery.

Valdosta man arrested for running across Ga. 400

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta police arrested a Valdosta man June 24 who had allegedly run across Ga. 400 in the middle of the night.

Officers who were conducting speed enforcement on northbound Ga. 400 around 3:30 a.m. reported observing a man jump over the median and run across the four lanes of traffic to reach the shoulder.

The suspect told officers he was walking home and had not committed a crime, the report states. The man reportedly began speaking aggressively during the conversation, and he initially refused to identify himself.

He was charged with misdemeanor willful obstruction of law enforcement officers and pedestrian in roadway.

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.

Finally, and with fanfare, Roswell reopens Oxbo Road intersection

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — More than a decade after it was conceived and millions of dollars over its budget, Roswell reopened the newly realigned Oxbo Road intersection June 30.

The Oxbo Road and Oxbo Drive realignment project to adjust a staggered intersection was conceived in 2009, aimed at solving a host of safety and mobility issues in the area, but the plan was shelved in 2014 without a funding source.

The project was revived in 2016 after voters passed the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, allowing the realignment to move forward with a $9 million price tag and a July 2021 completion date.

The cost kept climbing across the next seven years as the project faced delays. The realigned road, with reduced speed limits, narrow lanes, delineator islands and various street features ultimately cost $18.5 million— more than double the original estimate.

A 2021 city-funded investigation into the project showed the delays and additional costs were the result of 15 years of mismanagement by Roswell city staff, largely centered on acquiring the land and right-of-way necessary for the project.

The city eventually moved to take ownership of one of the land parcels needed for the realignment, using eminent domain to acquire thousands of square feet of property in October 2022.

Six months ahead of the December 2023 completion estimate, city officials and staff gathered at a ceremony to officially reopen the road to traffic.

Roswell City Councilwoman Lee Hills, who serves as liaison to the Transportation Department, said the

project was “baptism by fire” for many councilmembers elected in the past 18 months. The newer officials spent hours in closed meetings, working on the “long dance,” revisiting rumors and addressing details of the project.

“It was a huge commitment,” Hills said.

City Councilman Mike Palermo, the transportation liaison in 2022, said in the second half of 2021 “literally nothing was happening” with the project.

“Nothing was being worked on, it was just sitting here with zero progress,” Palermo said.

That changed in 2022, he said, when the new mayor and council decided to get things back on track. That meant some “tough conversations” about how far it was from completion, Palermo said.

“The mayor and council came together with staff, all moving full speed ahead, and to see that finally we’re opening it faster than

Movies at the Park to host ‘DC League of Super-Pets’

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — As part of its summer Movies at the Park series at Newtown Park, the City of Johns Creek will feature “DC League of Super-Pets” July 14.

The showings are free and include pre-show entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. Activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, games, give-aways and music. Food will be provided by Fair on Wheels and Kona

Ice food trucks that night.

Families are encouraged to bring blankets and relax as they watch movies, which begin after sunset. No alcohol or pets are allowed.

The next installment, for teens and adults, has been scheduled for Aug. 11 and will feature “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off." Kona Ice will return in addition to food from Burger 21.

we expected to when we originally got back on track, I’m just so appreciative,” Palermo said.

Roswell Transportation Director Jeffrey Littlefield joined the city in 2022 when construction was well underway. He took over the project from interim Transportation Director Dan Skalsky, who worked extensively

on the project.

Littlefield said the safety aspect of the road realignment was the most important thing for the project.

“From 2010 to 2019, there was an average of 26 crashes a year at that intersection,” Littlefield said. “So, we hope this is a big safety improvement.”

He also pointed toward landscaping improvements, with new trees and greenery alongside updated, sidewalks, crosswalks, curbs and gutters and wheelchair ramps.

Councilwoman Hills said the reopening is exciting, but “the foot is not off the accelerator.” Instead, she’s shifting attention to other construction projects, like Grimes Bridge Road, which will see more straight traffic now that Oxbo Road has reopened.

Mostly, Hills encouraged residents to come out and see the result of the long-awaited project.

“There are people that are still salty, and I get that,” Hills said. “But we want to encourage people to come and see what we’ve done, see how their tax dollars have been spent.”

The councilwoman hopes to host an official “welcome back to Oxbo” event sometime this summer, although exact plans and dates are undetermined.

DELANEY TARR/APPEN MEDIA

Roswell city officials and staff cut the ribbon June 30 officially reopening Oxbo Road to traffic. The ceremony took place more than a decade after the plan was conceived.

High levels of E. Coli in Chattahoochee River linked to water treatment plant

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Fulton County officials have confirmed that a major sewage spill which caused more than 15 miles of the Chattahoochee River to be closed ahead of the July 4th holiday, originated at the Big Creek Water Reclamation Facility in Roswell.

Officials said July 3 that E. Coli bacteria levels, over 300 times greater than safe recreation levels, were detected in the river last week thanks to a monitoring program by the National Parks Service and the nonprofit Chattahoochee Riverkeeper

After the high bacteria levels were confirmed, the spill was tracked to Fulton County’s Big Creek Water Reclamation Facility which sits on the banks of the Chattahoochee River in Roswell and treats wastewater for North Fulton communities.

Fulton County officials have found no physical leak in their system at the facility but say the sewage spill was caused by an issue in the biological processes used to treat wastewater.

Other representatives with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources said that some of the 12 sand filters at the Big Creek facility, responsible for filtering nutrients and fine particles from water have failed, causing other impurities to possibly enter the river.

“Fulton County has reported this issue to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division,” Jessica A. Corbitt-Dominguez, director of Fulton County’s Department of External Affairs said. “We support the decision of the National Park Service to extend the partial closure of the Chattahoochee River until this matter is resolved. We also express our appreciation to the Chattahoochee River Keeper for their work in monitoring water quality and raising

this issue.”

After the spill was discovered, officials initially closed the river from the Chattahoochee Nature Center to Johnson Ferry and Whitewater Creek. But the closure was later expanded to include all river sections downstream from the nature center.

With the July 4th holiday and scorching temperatures, river officials said the river closure could not have come at a worse time.

“Just the weather alone it’s a hot holiday weekend in Atlanta,” said Beth Wheeler, chief of planning resources and education at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. “It’s natural that folks want to get out, cool off and shoot the hooch. So, yeah, it’s terrible timing.”

No matter how hot it gets, or inviting the Hooch might look, Wheeler said people need to heed the closures and find somewhere else to cool off, because E. Coli bacteria can be

dangerous in the quantities detected.

E. Coli infections can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and occasionally, fever. Officials said that in severe cases, infections can also lead to serious health complications, especially in vulnerable populations like children, the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems.

People shouldn’t even let their dogs swim in affected areas of the river until the closure is lifted, Wheeler said.

“We’ve been saying human health, but I realize so many folks recreate with their dogs,” she said.” But again, safety is the most important priority.”

Fulton County officials are working to rebalance the levels of “good and bad” bacteria, while adding additional UV treatment processes to the facility.

“We are currently diverting approximately 5 million gallons of wastewater to Cobb County’s Sutton Water Reclamation Plant.

We are grateful for their support,” Corbitt-Dominguez said. “Testing is continuing, and very preliminary results show that the process is beginning to work. We will continue to carefully monitor and test throughout the plant.”

Additionally, river stakeholders are working with the Army Corps of Engineers to release additional water from local dams, to dissipate the E. Coli-tainted water and wash it downstream.

Wheeler said one bright side of this situation is the Chattahoochee River will bounce back with basically no

PHOTOS BY ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

With almost no traffic thanks to E. Coli-related closures of large portions of the Chattahoochee River, ducks and geese have free reign at a riverside park dock on the border of Roswell and Sandy Springs July 5.

Fulton County officials said that a major sewage spill that closed more than 15 miles of the Chattahoochee River has been linked to the Big Creek Water Reclamation Facility off Marietta Highway in Roswell. The spill was detected June 29.

Milton to seek election help from volunteer committees

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Milton’s upcoming local election has garnered attention from other jurisdictions, not just in other areas of north Metro Atlanta. Calls have been coming from out of state.

“We’re famous!” Milton City Clerk Tammy Lowit exclaimed.

Lowit said she’s heard from Idaho. She’s received comments out of awe, folks realizing the potential of self-run local elections.

Steve Krokoff, Milton city manager and elections superintendent, said he’s received calls from Kentucky, but they focused on Milton’s decision to hand-count paper ballots, wondering how the city will do it.

“We’re only counting 5,000-plus ballots,” Krokoff said. “So, you know, it’s not rocket science.”

To prepare for its November municipal election, Milton will soon form volunteer committees to address key tasks.

Until late May, only three city staff members — Krokoff, Lowit and Deputy City Manager Stacey Inglis — had their hands on Milton’s first self-run local election, where the three City Council Post 2 seats will be on the ballot.

The small, but mighty, team has dedicated roughly 30 percent of their time on the clock to elections, pulling together standard operating procedures, all the while sifting through state code with regular help from the city’s attorney.

Recently, the city’s legal team confirmed Milton would not need a “voter review panel” to determine the intent of questionable ballot markings. The poll managers and assistant poll managers would make the determination.

There have also been runs to the store for election equipment, supplies piled in city offices. The team has recently received more items from Fulton County, like poll pads — the “only real technology” the city will be using in its election, and privacy screens.

“We actually have most things we need to run the election at this point…” Krokoff said. “We’re at least ahead of schedule there.”

There’s quite a lot to do to gear up for a municipal election. Some boxes have been checked, but the list of tasks goes on with internal and external deadlines to meet.

With a sigh of relief, the team added a fourth member May 31.

Vernetta Nuriddin, former vice

Milton bars right turns on red at Bethany Bend and Ga. 9

MILTON, Ga. — Milton commenced a trial of a new approach to improve one of its busiest and most dangerous intersections, Bethany Bend at Ga. 9.

Crash data over the past several years indicates a disproportionately high number of motor vehicle accidents at the intersection. While some of the incidents involve rear-end collisions, many others include vehicles struck while turning.

To reduce the number of collisions, Milton has installed signage banning right turns on red lights at the intersection. The change went into effect July 10.

The Milton Public Works Department will gather and analyze data to track accidents and traffic back-ups. After school resumes in August, the team will reevaluate and determine whether the trial should end or be continued.

The initiative is the latest by Milton to do what it can to ensure the safety of its roadways. Some of the efforts have and will be informed by the Local Road Safety Plan, which passed last August after extensive citizen engagement.

Milton is also working to improve three intersections along Cox Road and has just begun the process of updating its Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

chair of the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections, was hired as Milton’s elections consultant. Lately, she has been reviewing ballot mock-ups, ensuring they abide by state statutes.

While the Secretary of State’s Office builds ballots for cities using ballot marking devices, Inglis said Milton’s hand-counted ballots will likely be created by Tattnall Printing. The company creates ballots for agencies around the state, she said.

Soon, the city’s election team will work through a pool of poll worker applications. Inglis said there were close to 140 applications following the close of the deadline to apply. Hires are expected to be announced midJuly.

On June 29, city staff hosted an information session on Milton’s local elections with experienced poll managers and assistant poll managers. There were close to 20 in attendance.

At the session, city staff explained reasons behind pulling away from Fulton County, notably the price hike for county-conducted elections, as well as the Milton Election Feasibility Committee’s study. They also talked about the importance of running a

mock election, which was received well, and introduced the idea of volunteer committees.

“People were very anxious to help,” Krokoff said.

The city’s election team has drafted standard operating procedures as it related to background law, but Krokoff said the committees will “put leaves on the tree.”

“I need the people that have been there to be able to get it down to that actual practitioner activity level,” he said.

Nuriddin will manage some five committees, Krokoff said. Each will be responsible for one key task, like tabulation, polling site set-up and poll worker training. Poll managers and assistant poll managers are expected to identify committee members.

“We’re going to lean on them to help us select the larger group,” Krokoff said.

The next information session is scheduled for July 13.

“I think the uniqueness for us, potentially, is that this was, I think, somewhat grassroots,” Krokoff said. “We do have a cadre, a significant cadre, of people that have a lot of experience. So, it’s truly going to be a team effort.”

Northern District announces June Eagle Scouts

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (Cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton) is proud to announce its newest Eagle Scouts, who completed their Eagle Board of Review on June 22, 2023, at Johns Creek Presbyterian Church.

From left:

Saketh Podduturi, of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and construction of the end section for the boardwalk system on the wildflower trail at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.

Parker McKinney, of Troop 10, sponsored by St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, whose project was the design and construction of a GAGA ball pit for the Congregation Dor Tamid Synagogue.

Samuel Heaven, of Troop 1818, North Metro office of the Marcus Jewish Community Center, whose project was

Continued from Page 4

long-term effects once problems at the Big Creek facility are corrected.

“It’s not uncommon to have a sewage spill, it probably happens far more likely than we want to or realize, but we have not dealt with a spill of this magnitude,” she said. “The Chattahoochee goes through the city of Atlanta and continues on, so this is I think, just a natural part of that ecosystem. In terms of long-term impacts, it will restore itself to right again.”

Chattahoochee Riverkeeper and other local groups will continue to test and monitor the river for water quality daily, and the decision on how river sections are reopened will be made based on that data.

the design and construction of three raised garden beds, that are wheelchair accessible, for the day camps located at the Marcus Jewish Community Center.

Corbin Shirmeyer, of Troop 226, sponsored by Bridge to Grace Church, whose project was the design and construction of a large outdoor platform for children to play on, an outdoor bench and the repairing of the flashing on a shed that holds children’s toys at St. Brigid Catholic Church Day School.

Alexander Hall, of Troop 226, sponsored by Bridge to Grace Church, whose project was the renovation of an outdoor space at Northview Church by designing and constructing two benches and two planter boxes and decorating with large stones.

Memphis Mize, of Troop 51, sponsored by American Legion Post 201, whose project was the design and construction of five raised garden boxes for the outdoor community garden at Faith Presbyterian Church.

Information and updates on the closure will be made through the websites of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, https://www.nps.gov/chat, and Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, https:// chattahoochee.org/.

Ebenezer Cemetery caretaker tends ‘patchwork quilt’ of graves

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — In her tenure as caretaker, Shirley Lowe has transformed Ebenezer Cemetery from disrepair into beautified sacred ground, bursting with flowers, and she can tell you the story of just about everyone buried there.

“I think God has blessed this cemetery,” Lowe said. “I mean, it’s sacred ground. It just happened bit by bit.” She often says the cemetery on Arnold Mill Road is a “patchwork quilt,” pieced together over the years.

Lowe had been studying her own family tree for a few decades but added a second tree on her ancestry. com account for Ebenezer Cemetery out of total fascination. She’s been involved in its restoration since 2018, the same year Ebenezer Methodist took ownership.

Of those buried, she said many were pillars in the community. Some names are familiar, like Lackey and Cox, attached to nearby roads. Others had been left behind, at least until Lowe used census data, obituaries and interactions with family members, whether visiting or through the internet, to uncover their life stories.

The grandson of Amy Martin Brewer, the second oldest marked grave, informed Lowe of his family’s legend — that Brewer had died of accidental poisoning. The cemetery’s oldest grave belongs to M.G. Elkins, a 14-year-old who died a year before the cemetery was deeded in 1853.

Some stories are scandalous. Grave conditions tell the tale of favorite second spouses, forgotten firsts. One grave belongs to a 3-yearold Jessie Nix, who died from an accidental shooting in the early

Tree:

Continued from Page 1

different parts of the city, she said. Macedonia Cemetery, where locally enslaved people and their descendants are buried, sits just up the road from the Publix tree. The land was once part of the Cherokee plantation.

“Over its long lifetime, the tree would have seen the horse-drawn traffic of traders, travelers, and local farmers on their way to and from the Warsaw and Medlock ferries …” Compton writes.

The tree “evaded the axe and plow,” she writes, and for decades it grew, despite rapid development.

“Saved once as a heritage tree when

1900s. According to Nix’s obituary, his uncle came back from hunting one day and dropped his loaded, doublebarrel shotgun.

“I particularly have a soft spot for children, babies, people who are buried in the cemetery that don’t have anybody else, don’t have any other family near them,” Lowe said.

She’s also big on honoring veterans and has placed American flags near their graves. There are 57 of them.

the Publix shopping center was built, it’s in jeopardy again.”

Shake Shack plans, approved by city staff, were expected to go before the Johns Creek Planning Commission July 10. A final vote of approval is scheduled for a later City Council meeting.

According to the city staff report, the zoning applicant initially considered incorporating the tree, but the existing topography presented a challenge. The tree sits on a 5,400-square-foot raised bed, 4 to 5 feet taller than the surrounding parking lot. Traffic flow was listed as another issue.

To abide by the city’s Tree Preservation Administrative Guidelines, staff placed conditions on the application. For specimen trees — defined by their high value in type, size or age — their removal must be

Making do

Lowe sees help from a lawn crew occasionally. But she digs through dirt, and records, mostly on her own.

Sitting on a stone bench in the shade, Lowe explained the scribbling in her yellow, spiral notebook — name, dates, “Find A Grave” numbers. She has three others like it.

“This is what I do at night,” Lowe said. “Other people sit and watch TV … My husband says, ‘You just use the

replaced with a greater density in vegetation.

The applicant must also plant a 12inch caliper hardwood by the proposed restaurant’s patio. Community Development Director Ben Song said the developer’s Land Disturbance Permit would include more detail to ensure the replacement tree’s survival.

While not a requirement, Song said the applicant was also asked to seek an independent arborist to evaluate the tree. The arborist’s report was expected to be filed July 7.

Before the application was accepted, Song asked if the tree could be transplanted, but for a tree that size, the risk could be too great. Lynn Pennington, president of Johns Creek Beautification, assumes the Publix tree would not survive a transplant.

TV for background noise.’”

She also carried a manila folder of laminated pictures, showing the before-and-after.

Graves were covered with lichen, time without TLC. But with D/2, a biological solution, Lowe and other volunteers have scrubbed them clean. Sunken graves are now leveled out. Broken stone walls around some of

“Based on the root structure, the size of that tree – where could it go? Where could you transport it?” Pennington asked. “It’s wider than a double-lane highway.”

Compton sent her document to Johns Creek officials and others in the area, including Johns Creek Beautification, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the city’s natural beauty.

“Most everything, when it comes to development, is taken down,” Pennington said.

She envisioned an alternative, one that has people gathering for picnics under the tree. Pennington hopes the Publix tree could motivate various groups to inventory all the city’s heritage trees and provide signage.

“Everybody respects trees and loves trees,” she said.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Shirley Lowe, Ebenezer Cemetery caretaker, explains her process for mapping the genealogy of the graves.

See CEMETERY, Page 10

ERIKA RAQUEL, Marketing coordinator, Battle and Brew

Battle and Brew creates geek and gamer haven

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The team behind Battle and Brew has spent the past 15 years creating a hub for all things game and geek culture in Sandy Springs, where people can find community and comfort through pop-culture offerings.

Battle and Brew was the first video game restaurant, bar and venue in the United States according to the establishment’s general manager Ryan Blake. The concept came out of the “natural evolution” of gaming and its popularity.

Blake pointed to the popularity of arcades in the past, usually located in shopping malls. People could go to play casually for hours. Some restaurants may have also featured an arcade game in their dining room, but Blake said the Battle and Brew team wanted to modernize the oldfashioned approach.

“As times evolved, gaming systems became more elaborate,” Blake said. “If you want to keep their interest you have to keep up with the times.”

Thus, Battle and Brew opened with a pay-as-you-play hourly game model. The restaurant and bar features various console games, including Xbox, Nintendo and PlayStation models. It also offers desktop computer games, set up next to each other for potential multi-player gaming.

Customers can pay an hourly fee as an individual or group for unlimited play at any of the desktop setups or communal couches. They can also opt for board

See BREW, Page 9

DELANEY TARR/APPEN MEDIA

Battle and Brew, a video game restaurant and bar, is a hub for all things game and geek culture in Sandy Springs. The food and drinks menus are jam-packed with pop culture references.

Brew:

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games and tabletop games, like Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons and Dragons.

The restaurant has had to keep up with an ever-expanding catalog of video games, particularly as gaming continues to grow mainstream popularity. A 2022 report by the Entertainment Software Association found about two-thirds of Americans, more than 215 million people, play games regularly.

But Battle and Brew wants to cater to all types of people and subcultures. Blake said many customers who come in don’t even play games, rather, they participate in events and partake in the food and drinks.

The menu is jam-packed with pop culture references, which the manager said comes with not being a “corporate” establishment. Battle and Brew’s chefs, bar managers and bartenders all get to concoct their own seasonal offerings.

The cocktails vary from drinks like the Princess Peach, a reference to the Super Mario franchise, to Eda the Owl Lady, named after a character in Disney’s animated show the “Owl House.”

Together, the food, drinks and ambiance combine a host of different subcultures — which Blake said is “not defined by one thing.”

To play into different interests the

business hosts various events, like trivia, cosplay nights and miniature figurine painting sessions. Blake is particularly proud of the trivia nights, which switch up themes every week.

“We’ve always believed this is the hardest trivia in Atlanta,” Blake said.

The events are a hit with customers. On an average night, they have about 30 teams attend the competition. For more popular themes like Disney trivia, up to 75 teams turn out.

“The entire restaurant was in full Disney cosplay,” Blake said.

The night turned into a full-throated Disney sing-along party for the 200 people in attendance.

“It’s the fact that they’re comfortable here,” Blake said. “It’s an environment where they come in and express themselves without judgement, without any kind of strange looks.”

The manager said people come to Battle and Brew for the food and drinks, but even more so for the comfort and community bonds. Many customers will arrive on a typical night dressed up in cat ears or full costume. Some employees do

the same.

Blake admits for people less keyed into geek culture, the first trip to Battle and Brew can be a surprise.

“For people who have never been here before, they go ‘What did I just walk into?’” Blake said.

Without fail, after a beer and some time, the manager said many people get back into playing a game and “going back to their childhood.”

The restaurant and bar has many regular adult customers, but it’s also family friendly. Battle and Brew is open to all ages before 11 p.m., although children under 16 must have an adult companion. Marketing coordinator Erika Raquel said the establishment aims to welcome everyone from every background.

“We’re all about inclusivity,” Raquel said.

Blake sees Battle and Brew as a haven for geeks and gamers, and he hopes people can form bonds from “sharing the same passion.” As video games and tabletop games like Dungeons and Dragons gain attention in mainstream media, he hopes those bonds will increase.

“It’s always been cool, but people also just now realize ‘Hey, I’m not the only one,’” Blake said.

With strong community bonds at the Sandy Springs location, Battle and Brew plans to expand to The Battery Atlanta shopping mall by October, with a few more hopeful locations down the line.

Tucker

DELANEY TARR/APPEN MEDIA

Battle and Brew, a video game restaurant and bar, is a hub for all things game and geek culture in Sandy Springs. Customers can pay for hourly play at any of the various video game consoles and computers.

Construction group names Newsome as new president

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The construction trade organization Associated General Contractors of Georgia named Forsyth County resident Brian Newsome as its 20232024 president June 26.

Newsome currently serves as CEO of Albion General Contractors, a management, design and general contracting firm based in Sandy Springs that serves higher education, health care, religious, commercial and city industries.

He and his wife Kim purchased the business in 2003. They live in Forsyth County with their four children.

“I’m honored to represent my industry peers with my service leading the [Associated General Contractors] Georgia board during the next year,” Newsome said.

Newsome also serves on the Georgia State Finance and Investment Commission Advisory Board, the Associated General Contractors of Georgia Board of Directors and the Kennesaw State University Advisory Board.

— Shelby Israel

Continued from Page 7

the plots have been repaired. There weren’t as many colors in those photos, like visitors can see today. Before 2018, there were only orange day lilies and yuccas on-site as well as an apple tree planted by the previous owner, Mr. Ralph Dangar. Families like to hang windchimes on it, often making music in the wind.

When Lowe became involved, she had been a Master Gardener for a decade. With a heavy dose of ingenuity, Lowe has made do with donations, propagations from her home garden and even rescues, like daffodils, from the Holcomb house site behind Ebenezer Methodist. Very few dollars have been spent from the church’s cemetery funds for plantings.

“I’m a frugal person,” Lowe said. She provided an alphabetical list of all the cemetery’s flowers, dozens organized by the months they bloom. From June to September, there’s bee balm, boltonia, cardinal flower, 10 more varieties.

Walking through the cemetery, Lowe stopped by a bushel and remarked on the way the plants have grown.

“I just pop them in there,” Lowe

said. “I do not do anything above and beyond, and then they grow unbelievably. It’s either the excellent fertilizer or the blessed ground.”

‘Divine providence’

In hindsight, Lowe said her involvement with the cemetery has been “divine providence.”

A Cherokee County resident since

1983, she had driven by the cemetery countless times. But one February day in 2018, following snowstorms, the dead trees and debris were glaring, and she saw a sign requesting volunteers.

She visited Ebenezer Methodist that Easter to ask about the cemetery. It was her first time there, and she fell in love with the bygone

atmosphere. But she didn’t join until after it was announced the church would be taking ownership of the cemetery, chills running up her spine. Uncertainty and a Baptist upbringing had held her back from becoming a member. Lowe dove headfirst, though, and began attending meetings to help with genealogy.

She closely shadowed the group who performed ground penetrating radar in 2019, writing down commentary. The project helped produce the cemetery map, posted at the Boy Scout-built kiosk. There’s also a thick binder detailing names and locations.

Of the cemetery’s 600-plus graves, 95 were unmarked or marked with a rock. They now have metal, numbered pins. Lowe had also gone back around and identified whether they were adults or children. Through research, she has identified 20 of the graves.

On the First Sunday of Advent, Lowe was asked to light the Candle of Hope and pondered the hopelessness of a 6-foot deep, red clay hole dug for a burial and her faith in a heaven.

“For someone who has no belief in an afterlife, that’s it,” Lowe said.

She doesn’t know why God put her in the position she’s in, as the caretaker, the genealogist, the seller of plots.

“But I thank God he is using me for this work.”

ASSOCIATED GENERAL CONTRACTORS OF GEORGIA/PROVIDED

The Associated General Contractors of Georgia welcomes Forsyth County resident Brian Newsome, left, as its 2023-2024 president. Newsome also serves as CEO of Albion General Contractors, based in Sandy Springs.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Shirley Lowe, Ebenezer Cemetery caretaker, stands next to the cemetery map. She has been involved since 2018, the year Ebenezer Methodist Church took ownership.

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Lessons/Studio

Healthy transitions: First steps

Brought

to you by –

Michelle Wilson, Wilson Legal, PC

Looking ahead: the four to "fore" in life's fairways

health to preserve your overall wellness!

“Fore” is defined as a warning cry in golf to alert others about the flight of the ball. While this term is commonly used in the sport, its essence can be applied to various aspects of our lives. Looking ahead is vital in mental health, physical health, interpersonal effectiveness, and intrapersonal connection.

• Mental health: Psychological and social well-being. It’s essential to recognize warning signs, such as feeling sad, withdrawal from activities or socializing, trouble sleeping, or difficulty coping with stress - the “fore” reminding us to take action and seek support.

• Physical health: Being sound in body, mind, and spirit. Engaging in regular self-care and exercise can maintain our physical wellbeing. Heed the “fore” in physical

• Interpersonal effectiveness: How we relate to others. To hit a metaphorical “hole in one,” focus on active listening, clear communication, and empathetic understanding.

• Intrapersonal connection: How we connect with ourselves. Is your inner dialogue positive and understanding, or is a “fore” warranted if you tend to speak to yourself negatively? Take steps to shift your inner dialogue and increase self-love.

Just as in golf, the “fore” serves as a crucial warning in life. By being attentive and proactive in these vital areas, we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience. Let us look ahead and prioritize our well-being, both on and off the golf course of life. To learn more about our services, visit summitcounseling.org!

This month I talked to a client, (we’ll call her Alice) whose husband, (we’ll call him Mike), has a form of dementia. Hank needs more of his wife’s help every day. She does his medicines for him, tells him where to go in the car, and stops him from showering a second time before bed because he forgot that he already showered. She’s afraid to leave her husband for a 2-week vacation because his son and daughterin-law only help begrudgingly. She feels indispensable and she hasn’t seen her family in 2 years. In situations like this, it’s important to understand how much care is needed and to take care of yourself before exhausting yourself caring for another.

After a recent surgery, Alice was dependent on friends to bring her meals, wash her hair and change her bandages.

I asked her to track the time she spends caregiving for Hank. When someone has dementia, transition can be really hard. If you hire a caregiver early, then you have time to interview and find someone you and your spouse really like. If you wait until you have an emergency, you’re looking for anyone who’s available and that person is then suddenly in your space. I showed her the care.com website and gave her a care log page to use to track her caregiving time. Relieved, Alice committed to tracking her caregiving time and looking at the website.

Eldercare attorneys help families to transition with dignity. If you know of someone who is having trouble letting go of how life used to work for them, send them to Wilson Legal for help with their new beginning.

Brought to you by - Lanota Fludd, Staff Therapist at Summit Counseling Center

PEXELS

WILSON

Can you really have straight teeth without braces? The short answer to this question is,Yes! We all remember when straighter teeth meant braces. You could have straight teeth. You just had to have metal bands, brackets, and wires on your teeth for 18-24 months. We all loved the results; we just didn’t like the process we had to go through.

Technology has come a long way over the last few years. The Atlanta Center for Dental Health offers Invisalign to all their patients. Invisalign is a revolutionary new way to straighten your teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. It uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made for your teeth and gradually move them into a straighter, better position, and better bite to improve your appearance, comfort with chewing, the longevity of the teeth, and overall health.

Unlike metal braces, Invisalign is almost invisible, so you don’t have to worry about your smile being

altered by metal brackets and wires. Invisalign aligners are a comfortable way to move the teeth and improve your appearance, bite, and health. Additionally, Invisalign is much more comfortable to wear than metal braces and can be removed when eating and brushing your teeth.

Having straight teeth is more than just a cosmetic consideration, it’s also important for your oral health. When your teeth are misaligned, it can cause overcrowding, which can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Invisalign can help correct your bite and alignment issues, reducing your risk for these oral health problems.

Invisalign can also help improve your appearance. Straighter teeth can make you look and feel more attractive. When teeth are straight and properly aligned, it can make your smile look brighter and healthier. It can also help with speech and chewing problems that can be caused by crooked teeth. Invisalign is more convenient than traditional braces. You don’t have to worry about frequent trips to the dentist for adjustments, and you don’t have to

worry about food getting stuck in your braces.

Invisalign is typically much faster than traditional braces, so you can enjoy your new, straighter smile in a matter of months instead of years. Overall, Invisalign is an excellent way to straighten your teeth and improve your oral health. It’s comfortable, convenient, and nearly invisible, so you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile without the discomfort and hassle of traditional braces. If you’re considering straightening your teeth,

Invisalign is worth considering. Nearly everyone is a candidate for Invisalign. You are invited to call or stop by for more information or a complimentary consultation and smile outcome simulation.

Dr. Bradley Hepler, Dr. Jeffrey Priluck and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health are dedicated to your health and longevity. We provide all the modern advances that contemporary aesthetic dentistry offers. You will realize immediate results with non-invasive and often inexpensive procedures to enhance your smile. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile restoring options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-992-2236. Dr. Bradley Hepler and Dr. Jeffrey Priluck have spent many hours dedicated to perfecting and updating the latest and best techniques in dentistry. It is with this breadth of knowledge that they provide each patient with the perfect solution to their situation, their life, and their goals. It is our pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.

PROVIDED

Flying free of skin cancer – Part 2

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

In last month’s article about aviation and skin cancer, we looked at FAA regulations relating to pilots, melanomas, and the importance of early detection. This month, we’ll look at the question of whether flying in general causes skin cancer. Are you assuming much risk of cancer by flying at 35,000 feet? What if you’re a frequent flier?

We know that pilots develop skin cancer at a higher rate than the general population. A large Nordic study of male pilots found that they developed 130% more melanomas than expected, 110% more squamous cell skin cancers than expected and 150% more basal cell skin cancers than expected. The risk of skin cancer increased with the time since first employment, the number of flight hours, and the estimated radiation dose from being at altitude.

What is not known is whether radiation received during flight is to blame for these skin cancers. Correlation does not always mean causation, and just because pilots had higher rates of skin cancer doesn’t mean that cosmic radiation solely is to blame. The “flight environment” includes a combination of exposures including ultraviolet light, decreased oxygen levels, ozone, disinfectants and other hazards and stressors that are uniquely combined in aviation. These confounding variables make confident blame of any one hazard difficult to prove. Still, cosmic radiation is known to cause DNA damage and is worth examining, especially given how much flying is being done by flight crew and passengers alike.

Both the atmosphere and earth’s magnetic fields provide protection against cosmic radiation. Radiation levels approximately double for every 4500 feet of increased elevation due to thinner atmosphere. Due to magnetic fields shielding less at earth’s magnetic poles, radiation levels are approximately double at the poles compared with the equator. The most radiation occurs during a flight at high altitude over one of the earth’s poles. In the European Union, airlines attempt to keep radiation levels below 6mSv per year. How much is a mSv?

We all receive about 1 mSv just from living at sea level in a year. We average an additional 1 to 2mSv from other sources such as flying, medical and dental x-rays, etc.

The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommends no more than 20mSv per year for people working in occupations

such as nuclear power or radiology that involve radiation exposure. How did they come up with 20mSv?

A generally accepted figure is that every 1000mSv of excess radiation increases one’s risk of dying from cancer by 5%. The ICRP assumed that 5% excess risk of dying from cancer is a reasonable cutoff and that few people will spend more than 50 years in any given career. 1000mSv divided by 50 years is 20mSv per year.

A pilot flying at 35,000 feet for 1000 hours each year can expect between 3 and 5mSv of excess cosmic radiation per year. This means that a pilot who works 40 years can expect 120 to 200mSv of excess radiation on average which means that a pilot’s chance of dying from cancer might be increased by about 0.6% to 1% on average. Of course, the chance of developing cancer but not dying from it is higher.

Is this risk acceptable?

My assumption is that everyone in the United States drives, and we are all willing (reluctantly) to assume the risk of death that comes from driving. Driving risk is a useful benchmark when contemplating other types of risk. Let’s assume you wouldn’t want to raise your risk of dying from cancer any more than your current risk of an automobile death, which is a lifetime risk of 1% in the United States. Well, about 200mSv of radiation exposure is expected to result in that increase. Assuming 0.004mSv per hour of commercial air travel, you would have to fly 50,000 hours in your lifetime to increase your risk of cancer death from high altitude radiation enough to equal your risk of dying in an automobile accident. Almost no pilot will reach that number, and certainly few if any passengers approach that number.

A more significant risk is probably unnecessary medical radiation. See https://www.health.harvard.edu/ cancer/radiation-risk-from-medicalimaging for a complete breakdown of radiation from common medical tests. Food for thought is that each CT scan of the chest averages 7mSv. A whole-body CT scan averages 20mSV or more, and a PET/CT scan averages about 25mSv. If a patient needs the scan, then the patient needs the scan. But unnecessary scans involving radiation are to be avoided. 25mSv is more than the annual radiation limit of 20mSv recommended by the ICRP, and someone receiving a PET-CT scan receives that radiation all in a single day.

When compared with the risks of driving a car or the risk of radiation from medical imaging, the risks of cosmic radiation while flying appear acceptable. Sit back and enjoy your flight.

OralID: Revolutionizing Early Oral Cancer Detection

Brought to you by - Roswell Dental Care, Dr. Destinee Hood

As oral healthcare professionals, one of our primary objectives is to provide our patients with the highest level of care possible. To achieve this, we are constantly keeping up with the latest advancements in technology and treatment options. In recent years, a groundbreaking tool known as OralID has emerged, redefining how we detect and diagnose oral cancer. In this article, we will explore the significance of OralID and its role in the early detection of potentially life-threatening oral diseases.

Why Early Detection Matters: Oral cancer affects millions of people worldwide, and unfortunately, the survival rates for late-stage diagnosis are disheartening. However, research has shown that early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery. To combat this issue, the dental community has been actively seeking innovative solutions, and OralID has paved the way for a brighter future in oral cancer detection. What is OralID? OralID is a state-of-the-art oral screening device that utilizes fluorescence technology to identify abnormal cells in the mouth. It involves the use of a handheld device that emits a harmless blue light into the oral cavity. The healthy tissues absorb the light while abnormal tissues or potential lesions appear dark. This quick and painless procedure allows us, as dentists, to detect lesions that may be otherwise undetectable by the naked eye.

The

Benefits of OralID:

1. Non-invasive: Unlike traditional screening methods, such as biopsies, OralID is a non-invasive technique that does not require taking any tissue samples. This means minimal discomfort for patients during the screening process.

2. Early detection: By using OralID, we can identify potential abnormalities at their earliest stages, providing patients with a higher chance of successful treatment and positive outcomes. Early intervention can save lives.

3. Time-efficient: OralID allows us to perform screenings quickly and efficiently during routine dental check-ups. This means there’s now a higher likelihood of detecting issues in their earliest stages without requiring additional appointments or invasive

procedures.

4. Peace of mind: Regular oral cancer screenings using OralID can provide patients with peace of mind, knowing that their oral health is being thoroughly monitored. Early detection allows for timely intervention, reducing anxiety and potential complications down the road.

How to Prepare for an OralID Screening:

Preparing for an OralID screening is simple and straightforward. You should avoid consuming any foods or drinks that may stain your teeth, such as coffee or colored beverages, as these can affect the clarity of the screening results. Additionally, it is essential for patients to maintain good oral hygiene practices by brushing their teeth thoroughly before the appointment.

As your dental healthcare providers, Drs. Hood and Remaley remain committed to staying at the forefront of oral health advancements, and OralID is yet another remarkable tool we are proud to utilize. By utilizing this cutting-edge technology, we can save lives, ensure successful treatment outcomes, and ultimately promote a healthier and happier community. For enhanced comfort during treatment, we offer conscious sedation including FREE nitrous oxide for anxious patients. You can rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding on many levels. Remember, prevention and early detection are key. Call to schedule your regular dental check-up today and experience the confidence that comes with being proactive about your oral health. Please call us at 770998-6736 for more information.

(Photos here – cutline) Photo of what is seen under white light and blue light filter.

Start the school year healthy with proper sleep and nutrition

Brought to you by

- Dr. Brandi Lewis, pediatrician at Wellstar Health System

Going back to school can be stressful for both parents and children, but it doesn’t have to be. Optimizing your child’s sleep and nutrition are two things that can help ensure a successful school year.

Setting a sleep routine

If you ask any child what the best things about summer are, they will say being able to stay up late and sleep in. During the summer, this isn’t a problem. However, continuing this routine into the school year can have detrimental effects. Inadequate sleep has been shown to negatively affect development, academics and memory. Here are some things you

can do to help your child get enough sleep:

• Practice good sleep hygiene by setting up a consistent evening and bedtime routine for your child.

• Ensure your child gets regular exercise, which has been shown to improve the quality of sleep.

• Try to establish a consistent bedtime and wake time.

• Adjust your child’s routine if it doesn’t allow them to get enough hours of sleep. The following are the recommended hours of sleep according to age:

• Preschool: 10 to 13 hours (including naps)

• School Age (six to 12 years): Nine to 12 hours

• Teens: Eight to 10 hours

• If possible, avoid screen time one to two hours before bedtime.

• If your child has problems falling asleep, staying asleep or snoring, seek advice from your pediatrician.

Importance of a healthy diet

As children go back to school, parents start to focus on academic achievement. Nutrition is important not only for overall health, but also for academic success. Healthy diets have been shown to have positive effects on memory, focus and academic accomplishment. Conversely, diets that are high in saturated fats, processed foods and junk foods have been associated with lower scores on standardized tests. Ensuring your child eats a wide variety of foods is the best way to safeguard proper nutrition and help them perform their best in school.

Here are some examples:

• Foods that are high in omega3s have been shown to have positive effects on memory, learning and brain development. Fatty fish such as salmon, flax seeds and chia seeds are a few examples of foods that are high in omega-3s.

• Diets that are rich in

antioxidants not only support good immune health, but also support a healthy brain. Encourage your child to eat a diverse diet with a variety of vegetables and fruits to increase antioxidant intake. Examples of foods high in antioxidants are berries, red grapes, tomatoes and spinach.

• Having iron deficiency early in life can impact mental processing, memory and learning. If you suspect that your child may be low in iron or has been anemic in the past, you should discuss it with your pediatrician.

Adequate sleep and a healthy diet are essential for a thriving school year. To learn more about how sleep and nutrition can benefit your child, talk to your pediatrician.

Schedule a visit with Dr. Brandi Lewis at Wellstar Avalon Health Park by calling (470) 267-0380. Learn more at wellstar.org/schoolkidcare.

LEWIS

Forsyth County School Board adopts budget, sets tax rate

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Board of Education adopted a $645 million budget and set its property tax rate for the 2023-24 fiscal year June 29.

The school system approved a tax rate of 16.718 mills, down a full mill from its original proposal. One mill represents $1 in taxes for each $1,000 of a property’s taxable value.

Most of the school millage rate, 15.3 mills, is reserved for maintenance and operational costs. The remaining 1.418 mills goes to debt service.

The School Board initially proposed a 17.718-mill rate in May, but it was lowered following numerous requests for relief from taxpayers.

Schools Chief Financial Officer

Larry Hammel said the 2024 millage rate will save county residents over $62 million in taxes.

As of June 20, Forsyth County

government officials are proposing a tax rate of 7.896 mills. Combined, property owners face a total of 24.614 mills from local government.

Additionally, homeowners will receive a state tax relief grant credit of $18,000 off the 2023 assessed value of their property for the maintenance and operations portion of the rates.

The School Board also approved a floating homestead exemption in February that caps annual property value increases at 5 percent.

The Board of Education adopted a $645,344,053 operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Some $470 million of the total, roughly 73 percent, is dedicated to instructional costs.

Hammel said over half of the budget's 10 percent increase from 2023 comes from state-mandated health care costs and pay raises for teachers.

Public hearings on the proposed mill levy and budget were held May 31 and June 15, with two additional called hearings for the tax rate held June 22.

FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS/PROVIDED

A chart illustrates Forsyth County Schools’ approved 2024 expenses. Some $470 million of the total, roughly 73 percent, is dedicated to instructional costs.

MOVIES AT THE PARK: “DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-PETS”

What: As part of Movies at the Park, a free summer outdoor series of familyfriendly movies, “DC League of SuperPets” will be shown. Pre-show activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting, children’s activities, giveaways and music.

When: Friday, July 14, 7 p.m.

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

More info: johnscreekga.gov

PHISH SUMMER TOUR 2023

What: Phish is an American rock band formed in Burlington, Vermont, in 1983. The band is known for musical improvisation, extended jams, blending of genres and a dedicated fan base.

When: Friday, July 14-16, 7:30

Where: Ameris Bank Amphitheater, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta

Cost: Tickets from $165.75

More info: livenation.com

DAVID

KOZ & FRIENDS

SUMMER HORNS 2023

What: Chart-topping saxophonist Dave Koz and friends Candy Dulfer and Eric Darius will headline a summer show, featuring songs from each artist’s catalog, plus material from two previous Koz “Summer Horns” albums. Both albums debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard

Current Contemporary Jazz Albums charts. Koz has racked up an array of honors and achievements, including multiple Grammy nominations, No. 1 albums on Billboard’s Jazz charts, world tours, performances for U.S. presidents and more.

When: Friday, July 14, 8 p.m.

Where: Byer Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

Cost: Tickets from $80.25 More info: sandyspringsga.gov

DUNWOODY FARMERS MARKET

What: Open every Saturday until Oct. 28, the market will feature honey, jams, frozen treats and desserts. Enjoy kids’ activities, wellness seminars, composting and gardening tips, all while having access to fresh seasonal produce.

When: Saturday, July 15, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

TOTALLY ENCHANTING EXOTIC ANIMALS

What: Educator Tamara Austin will take visitors on an interactive animal adventure to learn about modern day dinosaurs, marsupials, arthropods and reptiles from around the world.

When: Wednesday, July 19, 2-3 p.m.

Where: Dunwoody Library, 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody More info: dekalblibrary.org

Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody

More info: dhafarmersmarket.com

HISTORY SEEK SATURDAYS: GOLD PANNING AND GEORGIA’S GOLD RUSH

What: Explore the 1828 gold rush, find out what brought settlers to North Georgia, and learn how to pan for gold. This drop-in activity for kids, ages 7 to 12, will be at the Old Machine Shop directly next to the covered bridge at Old Mill Park. Wear comfortable clothes. Participants might get a little wet while learning how to pan for gold.

When: Saturday, July 15, 10 a.m.12p.m.

Where: Old Mill Park, 95 Mill Street, Roswell

More info: roswell365.com

INTERACTIVE MOVIE ON THE GREEN: ‘ELF’

What: Join this event for an interactive “Elf” movie experience. Interactive kits will be provided. Bring a chair and snacks.

When: Saturday, July 15, 7-9 p.m.

Where: The Green at Crabapple

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT!

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

Market, 12650 Crabapple Road, Milton More info: crabapplemarketga.com

CONCERT BY THE SPRINGS: CHUCK MARTIN AND THE LINEUP

What: Chuck Martin and The Lineup is a high-energy country and rock band that plays all the hits from the ’90s to today.

When: Sunday, July 16, 7 p.m.

Where: Heritage Amphitheater, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs Cost: Tickets from $135 More info: sandyspringsga.gov

TOTALLY ENCHANTING E XOTIC ANIMALS

What: Educator Tamara Austin will take visitors on an interactive animal adventure to learn about modern day dinosaurs, marsupials, arthropods and reptiles from around the world.

When: Wednesday, July 19, 2-3 p.m.

Where: Dunwoody Library, 5339

Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody More info: dekalblibrary.org

ALIVE IN ROSWELL

What: Alive in Roswell is a free family-friendly monthly festival held every third Thursday evening

follow these easy

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

When: Thursday, July 20, 5-9 p.m.

Where: Canton Street & Roswell Antique and Interiors lot, Roswell More info: aliveinroswell.com

ROTARY CLUB OF ALPHARETTA CONCERT SERIES: DOCK ROCK BAND

What: Dock Rock Band will take listeners on a musical journey through the iconic hits of the ’70s and ’80s. Kurt Thomas, bringing his unique style to the stage, is set to open.

When: Friday, July 21, 7-11 p.m.

Where: Town Green, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, More info: facebook.com/ RotaryClubAlpharetta

Here’s why roundabouts work

We need more roundabouts in our lives today – both paved and nonpaved. I love the paved roundabouts because they are so simple, elegant and intuitive. They just work. Today, when it feels like almost everything about our lives feels so busy, so messy, and so at best semi-functional, roundabouts remind me that not everything is broken.

Roundabouts are so successful and make so much sense, one must wonder why they haven’t yet been banned, politicized or bureaucratized – or have they and I just haven’t noticed?

I could literally pull up my lounge chair and plop it down along side of a busy roundabout and watch for hours and never get bored. In fact, I think I may have to add that to my bucket list. And yes, I realize that doesn’t sound like much of a stretch-goal.

Roundabouts remind me of Steve Jobs.

Apple, now one of the most valuable companies on the planet, built its empire on one singular core business model – simplicity, just like what makes roundabouts work so well. Apple didn’t necessarily “invent” as much as they adapted existing technology and then make it simpler, easier to use.

The portable digital music player market is a great example of the value of simplicity. Apple didn’t invent the MP3 file format that was used for most music players. Everyone, including Sony, had access to the technology. Yet by 2006, Apple’s IPod owned the MP3 player market with a 76 percent share. The next closest was ScanDisk which had a 7.6 percent share. Over the years Apple sold over 450 million iPods. Apple’s iPods didn’t necessarily have a better sound or better technology. They weren’t cheaper than the competition – in fact they charged a premium. They were just simpler, more user-friendly than the others, just like roundabouts are compared

to four-way stop intersections. So, while “simplicity” is one of the reasons that roundabouts work so well, it is not the only reason. Lots of things are simple but not necessarily “successful.”

Another part of that magic sauce that is roundabouts has something to do with how “order” is established and maintained.

“Order” on roundabouts is created by not having rules. Everything basically is first come, first served. Roundabouts are democratic and respect-driven.

Southwest Airlines is another good example of the roundabout concept. People voluntarily line up in proper sequence then everyone boards and – first come, first served – has their choice of any open seat. We like choice and we don’t like rules. Simple, orderly, respectdriven with as few rules as possible. Southwest, like Apple, dumbed down an existing process and made it simpler, freer, faster, more userfriendly.

So why else are roundabouts so much better, so much faster, so more efficient than stop-sign

intersections? Circles.

There is something magical about circles that is hardwired into us that makes us comfortable. Most of us love roundabouts and hate four way stops. Artificial parameters are not our default; circles and selfdirected “order” is.

Lots of symbols are circles. The yin and yang is a circle that first comes to my mind. I googled “circle allegory” and found the following as the second result: “A symbol of revolution. The circle will represent being inclusive, whole and united. It symbolizes focus and cycles. The circle nurtures and begins things and is perfect. It can represent the womb. Besides, it symbolized being complete.”

True that.

Somewhere in all the noise today, in all the chaos, in all the stress and disenfranchisement, there is a circle – a cycle – that can start to bring us home again, to a better place. We just must see it, slow down, reconnect to the stuff that is real and works like roundabouts work – and stop building four-way stops, fences and walls.

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus

PRESERVING THE PAST

Milton historic home incorporates Shaker designs

It is rare that a house that is only 20 years old could be deemed historic, but a stunning home built in Milton by someone with an understanding and commitment to historic Shaker design principles, resulted in a unique residence that reveals authentic Shaker craftsmanship and beauty. Interestingly, as Shaker design and secular colonial design were evolving together over time, the home includes some features of each.

The Shakers were a communal religious sect founded in England in 1747. The group reached its peak of about 4,000-6,000 members in the United States in the mid 1800s, particularly in New England, New York, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky where they established 19 communes. Their population dwindled over time due in large part to their belief in celibacy. Maintaining their numbers depended on recruitment and adoption, which failed to stem the decline. By 1900 there were fewer than 1,000 Shakers, and today there are only a handful.

Georgia was the scene of their last effort to spread their ideas beyond the Northeast.

The organization’s full name is the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing.

The Shakers were an offshoot of the Quaker movement founded in England in the mid-1600s. The Quakers believed that individuals could know Christ directly without a church, Bible or priest. They were sensitive to injustice to anyone because they believed that God exists in all people. This conviction was the basis for their pacifism.

The Quaker name was derived from their worship practice involving violent trembling and shaking. They modified the practices in the 1740s; however, a group of English members maintained the original worship style and became known as the “Shaking Quakers” or “Shakers.” In 1774 the first small group of Shakers came to the United States and settled in western New York State.

Shakers believed in four basic tenets: communal living based on equality of sex and race, celibacy, regular public confession of sins, and separation from the outside world. They believed their labor and craftsmanship should strive for perfection to honor God. They sought perfection in all they did and became known for their

commitment to making the highest quality furniture, coveted throughout the world. They invented some basic household items such as clothespins, the flat-bottomed broom, the circular saw, wrinkle resistant fabric and an improved plow among other firsts. Music and dance were important in their worship. Aaron Copeland used the Shaker song “Simple Gifts” as the theme for his ballet “Appalachian Spring.”

Their Millennial Laws first published in 1821 provided rules to live by in all aspects of everyday life including architectural and furniture design which prohibited “beadings, mouldings and cornices which are merely for

fancy.” In spite of the mandate for unadorned simplicity, the Shakers produced beautiful and functional furniture.

Georgia Shakers

In 1898 a group of Ohio Shakers purchased land in Brunswick in Glynn County and in addition, according to the Atlanta Constitution August 6, 1898, acquired the entire community of White Oak in Camden County including the hotel, all the store buildings, residences, a big artesian well and every piece of real estate owned by the inhabitants of White Oak.

“They are preparing to bring wealth and prosperity to this portion of the

wiregrass country,” said the newspaper. They bought 68,000 acres in total in a nine-month period. Newspapers sang their praises.

In their March 1, 1900 edition, The Atlanta Constitution said “The Shakers are planting fruit trees and grapes and in Glynn are developing enormous acreages of rice fields long ago abandoned.”

The Savannah Morning News December 31, 1900 said, “They are making garden spots in Camden and Glynn” and predicted that they would “shortly move their headquarters to Georgia.”

Although they succeeded in farming, the Shakers could not attract converts, and in short announcements in December 1901 the Atlanta Constitution and Savannah Morning News reported that the Georgia Shakers had returned to Ohio, leaving their lands, buildings and possessions behind to be dealt with by their local agent.

The Home in Milton

When Gary Jacobs built his 11,000-square-foot home in Milton in 2001 he indulged his love of Shaker architecture. He believes “objects well made by expert hands that people actually use can have a special beauty.”

Gary researched a comprehensive library on Shaker design before applying their features to his home. He sought leading craftsmen who could make accurate Shaker reproductions with the quality of the originals.

The home features Shaker deep set tall and wide windows with wide moldings. The Shaker practice of window placement to maximize light rather than for symmetry was part of the design. Doors were framed using wide molding terminating in Shaker plinth blocks.

Shaker 12-inch x 1-inch baseboards were installed throughout. Shaker door handles, locks, hinges on heart pine doors were handmade by a North Carolina blacksmith. Ohio and North Carolina craftsmen made precise Shaker reproduction furniture.

The foyer stairwell and landing are precisely scaled and reproduced with custom turned newels and posts. Heart pine flooring is used for two floors.

This home is a rare and beautiful tribute to the clean lines and basic forms that set the Shaker style apart and made it an important part of American history.

The home is currently on the market. For information contact Lara Dolan at lara@ansleyre.com or 404 514-6533 or https://www.14805ebluff.com/

BOB MEYERS

Columnist

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

The dining room in Gary Jacobs home in Milton reflects the influence of Shaker design. Long windows almost to the floor, Shaker table, chairs, blanket chest and sparsely decorated walls.

NEW YORK STATE MUSEUM

Twelve Shaker family members are shown in front of the Shaker Meeting House in Albany, New York, Circa 1860.

A summer of bombs and bucket lists

I imagine these are tough times for an owner of a fireworks stand. They’re probably as lonely as a vegetarian at a KFC.

if there was a full-scale military battle right outside the door.

haven’t had a chance to complete all my bucket list items.”

You have forced me to take action and compress all those groovy things I want to accomplish before summer is over.

MIKE TASOS

The “Big Bang” of summer has come and gone. But I don’t feel sorry for anyone associated with legally blowing things up. From the sounds of all the booming salvos, legal fireworks ruled the holiday period that seemingly stretched from Saturday to Tuesday the 4th.

Rebel yells ruled the night, coupled with the smell of gunpowder. Not everybody was thrilled. Millie, who visits regularly when her owner Davis Smith is here playing poker or building our nifty new deck, beelined down the hill that separates our houses.

She showed up at the door, not in search of ham and cheese treats from Vicki. Instead, Millie was looking for a bed to crawl under and take refuge from all the explosions. Millie was terrified. Ditto for me and when she hit our deck it was as frightening as

Our beloved retriever Chester was as cool as the other side of the bed when he romped at our hacienda except when the bombs burst in the air. Then he was a veritable basket case. I sure miss being called upon to comfort him.

Neighbors Jeremy and Molly Poisson gave the City of Cumming a run for its money when they entertained the neighborhood with a first-class extravaganza that, I swear, rivaled any professional display I’ve ever seen. Jeremy had a crew of buddies working unceasingly for what was an hour-long fest of a cornucopia of fireworks.

Somewhere, the Poisson’s were responsible for increasing the profitability of an overseas fireworks enterprise.

I find it ridiculously repulsive (maybe that’s a little strong) but aren’t we overdoing it a bit by sending kids back to school in the first week of August? The kids will be settling into their desks on August 3, nary a leaf to be raked or a football game in sight.

Message to those folks running the schools: “It’s summer. It’s hot. And I

Oh yeah, I don’t go to school. So what do I care? Here’s what I’ll cross off my summer fun tally.

I already saw the new Indiana Jones movie, and that was a disappointment, but it looks like “Oppenheimer,” will be worth foregoing a tank of gas to pay for tickets. It looks outstanding, as does the new “Mission Impossible,” especially since Greg showed me a video of Tom Cruise defying gravity and sanity by doing a stunt on a motorcycle. Count me in.

There are a few more Braves games left, and I’ve decided not to renew that partial season ticket package. The Braves are outstanding and have a fantastic facility in Truist Park. It’s just that I enjoy the games in front of the 85-inch Sony and don’t have to put up with nimrods incessantly talking about real estate deals and other drivel. Besides, StubHub and SeatGeek always have tickets when I want to go.

I got to see “Wicked” at the Fox with oldest son Chris. He’s angling to overtake the Atlanta Broadway Series tickets and I think that’s a pretty good idea.

Daniel Silva, James Lee Burke and Brad Thor have books due to hit my Kindle during July. I’ll be doing my reading and will have simpatico with the poor tikes driving their teachers bonkers before Labor Day.

Finally, there’s a mid-July

“Guy’s Trip” to Ironhorse Motorcycle Resort somewhere up yonder in the mountains. Can’t remember my last trip of this ilk, and I can’t wait.

As I roll up the miles on my Trike, I have deepened my appreciation for the magnificence that peeks out at me around every corner.

Who knows, perhaps there just might be tales for a column?

I’ll leave a “Gone Riding” message on my computer. But I promise I’ll write.

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.

Two books that highlight strong women

I gravitate toward books about strong women. Who am I kidding? I rarely pick up a novel about a woman who can’t take care of herself.

Sure, my favorite female characters suffer setbacks and endure trials and tribulations. For me, their appeal lies in how they handle what life throws at them.

“Lessons in Chemistry”

by Bonnie Garmus

This book is everything you could want in a novel — fast paced, witty, touching in spots, and laugh aloud funny in others. Its portrayal of how women were seen in the 1950s and 1960s is more than believable, while other elements are intentionally fantastical. A character who makes coffee with a Bunsen burner and refers to salt as sodium chloride isn’t something you encounter every day.

Bonnie Garmus is a debut author

who has combined all these elements to come up with a book that entices you to finish it in one sitting. Elizabeth Zott, the main character, is a brilliant scientist in a research facility in the early ’60s. As far as her male colleagues know, she is fit only for making coffee, maybe typing research notes and running errands, but not much more. She is, after all, a woman. Why would anyone think she had a brain?

Elizabeth, in fact, has a brain that far surpasses those of her co-workers. Seeing her run circles around them, get knocked down, and get back up time after time is one of the most satisfying elements of the book. What she endures from them in misogynistic insults will make your blood boil. When she falls in love with an equally brilliant scientist who appreciates her for her brain and is equally smitten, you’ll cheer.

I predict that this book is one people will talk about for years to come. And, in case you’re wondering, I didn’t read it in one sitting, but I stayed up way too late for too many nights to finish it.

“The White Lady”

by Jacqueline Winspear

Another tour de force by this author. As a long-time fan of her Maisie Dobbs series, I knew this standalone would be a winner, and it did not disappoint. It’s main character, Elinor, was a preteen in Belgium during WWI and is living in post-World War II Britain when the story opens in 1947. The tale moves between the two World Wars and details Elinor’s role in both.

She seeks a quiet life in rural England, or so she tells herself. When she intervenes to protect the child of a neighboring farmworker, the reader wonders. Is she truly prepared to leave behind her life as a trained killer? Can she escape her past and put her demons to rest?

What follows is a story that shifts between introspection and action as Elinor follows her instincts. A bonus for me was learning about La Dame Blanche, an underground network in German-occupied Belgium. According to Wikipedia, “The network was known for its high proportion of female members; women may have made up as

much as 30 percent of its total personnel.”

Much as I did when I read the Maisie Dobbs series that spans preWorld War I through World War II in Britain, I learned a great deal about wartime life in Belgium. If you’re a history buff, this book will fit the bill as not only engaging but also informative.

Now, I’m off to cleanse my palate with a bit of lighter reading. You know what I mean, don’t you? Mysteries with witty dialogue and a bit of humor, despite the murders that are central to the plots.

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

Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries locally at The Enchanted Forest in Dunwoody and Bookmiser in East Cobb or on Amazon. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.

Columnist

KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist

Master Gardeners beautify Summerour House garden

Georgia Master Gardener Extension volunteers work throughout the state on many diverse demonstration gardens, in addition to providing educational information on good gardening practices through our speakers bureau, online classes, and Ask A Master Gardener booths at Farmers’ Markets. One such demonstration garden is located at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, off Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek. Autrey Mill sits on 46 acres of ravine forest and has over 3 miles of walking trails that meander past a creek, rocky shoals and wildflowers, and provides a chance to view native Georgia plants and animal life. The park features a visitor center with live animal exhibits, a heritage village with historic buildings, wildlife and animal displays, nature and heritage play areas, a farm museum, picnic pavilions and restrooms. There is also a beautiful butterfly garden filled with flowers, walking paths, a little pond and gnome homes! Recently a new wildlife rehabilitation clinic has been added to aid injured and displaced wildlife, administered by Jess Legato, licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

Originally inhabited by the Creek, and then the Cherokee Indians, the land was given to Georgia residents in the 1832 land lottery. Autrey Mill sits on several of the “gold lots,” and on the property are the remains of an old gold mine. However, not much gold was ever found, and the land was more profitable for farming cotton, corn and wheat. Several families have owned the property, and it passed to the Autrey family in 1877, who owned it until 1907. The Summerour family owned the land where the Heritage Village is today. The village consists of the Summerour farmhouse, a tenant farmer’s house, the Green General Store and the old Warsaw Church. All of these buildings were moved to the property

for preservation. The village and the collections of artifacts help showcase the life of rural farmers from the mid1800s to the mid-1900s.

In 1988, community activists saved the property from development. The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve Association is now a nonprofit overseen by the City of Johns Creek. The Autrey family did operate a mill on the property in the late 19th century. It was located on property west of the center along Sal’s Creek. It was five stories high and built for grinding wheat flour. Only a little of the foundation remains beside the creek, but there is a photograph which documents its existence.

The Master Gardeners maintain the garden in front of the Summerour House, an 1860s farmhouse which was moved to the property to preserve it from encroaching development. Some plants selected for the garden would be appropriate for that time period, but there is always the desire for a colorful display to delight garden visitors and keep the house inviting for all the activities held there, so attention is paid to both aspects of garden design. Old garden standbys coming into bloom now include bee balm, spiderwort, clematis, Stokes aster, salvia, lamb’s ear, roses and Crinum lilies. Featured for color you will find begonias, geraniums, daisies, balloon flower, and coleus. In addition to the fenced garden in front, the side, or Bride’s Garden, has recently been expanded and is still undergoing renovation. The Master Gardeners who work at the Summerour Garden meet at least twice a month to do the necessary weeding, watering, fertilizing and “deer discouraging.”

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 Roswell resident Dianne Short. Dianne has been a Master Gardener for 20 years, taking her initial training in Virginia. In 2013, she moved to Roswell to be near grandchildren and affiliated with the North Fulton Master Gardeners. Dianne is a retired school social work specialist. Her interests are organic gardening; native plants; and attracting birds, bees, and butterflies to her garden.

For more info

Autrey Mill is open to the public at no charge, but memberships are available for special programming. There are summer camps and home school curriculum available. The visitor’s center has a learning lab for preschoolers. Rentals are provided for weddings, receptions, celebrations, etc. And children love to come and see the chickens, ducks, rabbits and goats. There are many volunteer opportunities available for both youth and adults. You can find out more about Autrey Mill at https://autreymill.org/.

DIANNE SHORT

Guest Columnist

DIANNE SHORT/PROVIDED Summerour House garden at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve.

Michael R. Blissard, Age 63 of Johns Creek, GA passed away on June 28, 2023. Born in New Rochelle, New York on March 5th, 1960. Michael was raised in Mahopac, New York until 1979, when he joined the US Air Force to serve his country for 16 years.

Michael has made his residence in Johns

Creek since 1994. Michael was an avid animal lover and sports fan. Michael volunteered at multiple animal donation events for 25 years. His memory will be cherished by his friends, his brother Richard, sister-in law Julie, and their family of cats..

Since 1990 we have believed local news should be free to read and accessible by all. If you agree, consider making a pledge today.

See solution Page 31

Human Resources Manager

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

Senior Technical Product Owner - John Bean Technologies Corporation (Alpharetta, GA): Part of team respnsbl for dsgn, develpmnt, & implmntn of digtl machn monitr & srvce pltfrm. Req: Bach (or frgn equvt) in Electrcl Engr or rltd fld & 5 yrs exp in each of: deply full-stck SW technqs & procss to faclte develpmnt of usr stries; work w/ MS Azure, Visio, Agile & Scrum; gathr techncl reqrmnts for usr stries relt to OT featrs; & provd guidnc to automte & scale of onbrd of new machns. Remte work allwd up to 40% of time. Able & will to travl domstc & int’l up to 25%. Apply at: https://careers.jbtc.com, Req ID: 11091

Is Your Company Hiring?

Submit your opening at appenmedia.com/hire

Workforce Development Coordinator is responsible for developing programs and services for NFCC clients and students seeking employment, post-secondary education, or other career options. The workforce development coordinator collaborates with local employers to help match job seekers to open positions. They work directly with clients on the job application, resumes, and interview preparations and provide tips for successfully securing and improving employment to foster financial stability.  Bachelor’s degree in a human services, human resources, or other related field required and 2 years of professional experience in human services, human resources or career counseling preferred.

To view the entire listing visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/. To apply, please submit resume to Carol Swan at cswan@nfcchelp.org.

Infor (US), LLC has an opening for a Senior Software Engineer in Alpharetta, GA. Develop and test code for a low code framework application; serve as primary engineer for support of the developers within the development environment. 100% Telecommuting. How to apply: How to apply: E-mail resume, referencing IN1002, including job history, to careers@infor.com. EOE.

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.

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Software Application Engineer in Alpharetta, GA (Ref. #6990477). Develops audio machine learning technologies for conference room products; Audio machine learning workflows: 1) Model Training and 2) Model Deployment. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary: $136,136.13/year to $166,136.13/year. Mail resume to HP Inc., c/o Yesenia Tejada, 3390 E Harmony Road, Fort Collins, CO 80528. Resume must include Ref. #, full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce LLC in Roswell, GA is seek’g a Solutions Architect to lead a team that supprts apps dvlpmnt & deplymnt of tech solt’ns. No trvl; no telecomm. Send resumes to: careers@mccalla.com

Part-time

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.

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE

Appen Newspapers is looking for one or two folks to help deliver our newspapers. Work is part time and flexible. Routes can be done at night or during the day - on your schedule - within our deadlines. Comfortably earn $550 or more a month on your own schedule. This is a great way to get out as well as contribute to helping your local newspaper! Perfect for retired person who wants to stay active or a parent with school-aged kids - deliver during school hours. Also good way to earn supplemental income at night. We have had many retired couples deliver our papers and almost all have managed a route well and enjoyed the time and the work.

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

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

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

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Landscaping

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