Johns Creek Herald - December 7, 2023

APPE

City tables sleepy plan to energize key intersection Officials take steps to improve process for capital projects

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — When a plan to revitalize the four corners at Medlock Bridge and State Bridge roads came up for Johns Creek City Council approval Nov. 28, the response was less than thrilling.

The city began the project in April, intending to make the area vibrant and pedestrian-friendly. Staff interviewed stakeholders, met with the area’s property owners and held public input meetings to draft a plan that consists of pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, pocket parks and other features like art installations.

Out of the four corners, Regal Medlock Crossing was the sole candidate with enough redevelopment potential to have its own concept plan — the recommendation, out of two plans presented for the area, has a lower density and focuses on owneroccupied housing.

Revitalization?

Royce Reinecke, Johns Creek resident and former City Council candidate, spoke in opposition to the proposed Revitalization Plan during the

NEWS

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK/PROVIDED

As part of the city’s proposed Revitalization Plan, a rendering of the recommended concept for Regal Medlock Crossing shows exclusively owner-occupied housing and a density of 6 units per acre. public hearing. He said he anticipated something along the lines of an “entertainment center,” but that’s not what he saw that night.

“I fail to see in this plan anything that's going to revitalize,” Reinecke said.

“What's going to attract a crowd? That’s the real question.”

Community Development Director Ben Song said creating the document was a balancing act of considering a market analysis calling for higher density and the city’s Comprehensive

Plan.

Agreeing with Reinecke, Councilwoman Erin Elwood characterized the proposal for Regal Medlock Crossing as “insular,” a neighborhood — of stacked flats and residential above retail — for another neighborhood.

“I feel that perhaps there was a little bit too much conservatism with this and cautiousness because we have had

See PLAN, Page 12

Groups campaign to preserve arts funding Page 4

JOSHUA CURRAN, CFP® JOSHUA CURRAN

Senior Vice President, Investments 1100 Abernathy Road, N.E. Building 500, Suite 1850 Atlanta, GA 30328 T 770.673.2190 // jcurran@raymondjames.com

FDIC-Insured Brokered Certificates of Deposit

years – 0.00%* 1(0) year – 5.35%* years––4.88%* 0.00%* 2(0)years years––3.73%* 0.00%* 3(0)years

A

UB CL

D e c e m b e r 7 , 2 0 2 3 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 7 , N o . 4 9

RESS NP

appenmedia.com/join Johns Creek officials pass special amnesty for late fee charges on stormwater bills JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Johns Creek launched a one-time 2023 Stormwater Utility Amnesty Program Nov. 29 to grant relief to residents and businesses from any penalties/late charges and interest imposed on late 2023 payments.

The amnesty categorizes 2023 Stormwater Utility fee payers into three groups: • Residents and businesses who paid from Sept. 1 to Nov. 28 will receive a credit against their 2024 Stormwater Utility fee for all 2023 penalties/late charges between Sept. 1 and Nov. 28.

• Residents and businesses who pay all 2023 Stormwater Utility fees in full between from Nov. 29 to Dec. 31 will have all late fees on their 2023 stormwater bills waived.

• Residents and businesses with any outstanding 2023 Stormwater Utility fee balance or those choosing to pay on Jan. 1 or thereafter will not receive any credit for or waiver of late fees which have been imposed or will be imposed.

The Amnesty Program was established through an amendment to the city’s Stormwater Utility Ordinance which was unanimously approved by the City Council at its Nov. 28 meeting.

The City Council discussed amending the ordinance to allow staff to grant relief from penalties/late charges and interest imposed on late 2023 Stormwater Utility payments, acknowledging residents’ concerns raised about receipt of the initial 2023 bills.

The one-time Amnesty Program ends at midnight Dec. 31.

00/00/00 *Minimum purchase may apply. Subject to availability. Rates expressed as annual percentage yield (APY) as of 00/00/00.

12/4/23 APY may reflect a current market discount. About FDIC insurance: Currently, the FDIC limits the insured amount (including principal and interest) for all deposits held in the same capacity to $250,000 per depositor, per insured depository institution and $250,000 for certain retirement accounts. Therefore, excess holdings may not be insured.

About liquidity: Funds may not be withdrawn until the maturity date or redemption date. However, the brokered CDs are negotiable, which means that, although not obligated to do so, Raymond James and other broker/dealers presently maintain an active secondary market at current interest rates. Market value will fluctuate and, if the CD is cashed out prior to maturity, the proceeds may be more or less than the original purchase price. Holding CDs until term assures the holder of par value redemption. CDs are redeemable at par upon death of beneficial holder. For detailed overview of these and other risks refer to the Certificate of Deposit Disclosure Statement at raymondjames.com/liquid.htm.

Additional information is also available on the SEC Certificates of Deposit: Tips for Investors website at sec.gov/answers/ cds.htm. © 2023 2022 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. 22-BR3KA-0166 TA 11/22

2 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

POLICE BLOTTER 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.

770-442-3278 AppenMedia.com 319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

Couple reports theft from storage unit

HANS APPEN Publisher RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus CONTACT NEWS TIPS Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance.

ADVERTISING For information about advertising in the Johns Creek Herald or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

CIRCULATION To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Judged a newspaper of General Excellence 2023

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek couple reported to police Nov. 25 that someone had broken into their storage unit on Abbotts Bridge Road overnight.

The couple showed police an empty storage container in the unit, where there had been a diamond ring band, a silver necklace and a Rolex watch, and a missing suitcase with Louis Vuitton clothing. The missing items were valued at $50,000, according to the incident report.

The manager of the storage company estimated the total damage to the unit at $1,500.

Another woman, who had been gathering her belongings from a unit while police were investigating said she had seen someone exit the storage unit the day before, close the door without locking it and walk away with a suitcase.

Woman reports threats leveled against daughter JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek woman reported to police Nov. 26 that she had received an anonymous call from someone making disturbing comments about her 11-year -old daughter.

The woman told police the person called her daughter a derogatory name and threatened her. She also said she has had ongoing issues with her daughter being bullied at school and had contacted school staff about the matter.

ASK APPEN

PUBLIC SAFETY The woman told police her daughter was also being bullied by two children in her apartment complex and had talked to their parents about the issue.

The mother said she could not identify the voices over the line, but she suspected who was responsible for the call. The woman told police she would contact the children’s parents.

Police charge teenager for disorderly conduct JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police issued a Roswell teen a citation for disorderly conduct Nov. 26, after they confronted him and others in his car while on patrol behind a business on State Bridge Road.

While on patrol at around 1:40 a.m. that morning, police saw the driver’s vehicle and smelled marijuana. As police approached the car, they noticed six individuals inside. One attempted to cover the odor by spraying a fragrance bottle.

Police reported spotting marijuana residue on the center console and a black bag between the driver’s legs, the incident report said.

The driver admitted having marijuana in his bag, and police conducted a search, finding close to 3 grams and paraphernalia.

Milton women arrested for shoving granddaughter MILTON, Ga. — A Milton woman was arrested Nov. 26 after police viewed footage of her shoving her 17-year old granddaughter.

Police responded to a call from the woman, who said her granddaughter shoved her and had been taking items out of her room.

But, a 13-year -old boy who was in the room provided police with a recording telling a different story.

The boy showed police a

recording of the suspect shoving her granddaughter as they were arguing.

The boy said the shove caused the granddaughter to fall against window blinds, which police heard in the recording, according to the incident report.

The boy told police he got up to prevent any physical altercation from occurring.

Police charged the woman with simple battery and cruelty to children in the third degree because the boy witnessed the act, then transported her to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

Stolen credit cards found in man’s car MILTON, Ga. — Police issued a criminal trespass warning to an Alpharetta man Nov. 21, who was suspected of approaching customers at a Birmingham Highway gas station for a money exchange.

A gas station clerk told police the suspect had been asking customers to pay for their gas with a credit card, so he could get cash back, and the clerk requested that the suspect be criminally trespassed.

When police stopped the suspect near the gas station and explained the reason for the stop, the suspect said he bought gas and visited the liquor store next door, according to the incident report.

Police conducted a search on the suspect’s vehicle, finding credit cards belonging to other individuals, and confirmed that two of the credit cards belonged to a Milton woman who had recently reported a vehicle break-in and a stolen purse.

Police also found 1.5 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, the report said.

The suspect was charged with possession of marijuana less than 1 ounce, two counts of financial credit card theft and possession of drugrelated objects.

What do you want to know about the community?

Submit questions at appenmedia.com/ask or scan QR code.

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 3

This “walking on sunshine” moment made possible by Emory Orthopaedics & Spine Center.

KNEE SURGERY

The difference? We’re among the

highest in patient satisfaction and best outcome rates in the nation, for your surgery. And we use the most advanced research, developed by our top surgeons, to get your surgery done right. The first time.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT JOHNS CREEK. Visit emoryhealthcare.org/johnscreekortho

4 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

NEWS

Groups mount drive to preserve county arts funding

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Fulton County’s proposed 2024 budget is raising alarms to dozens of arts organizations reliant on government aid to fund their programs.

One is the Johns Creek Arts Center, whose Director of Development Amanda Jones is spreading the word via petition about a potential $1.5 million budget cut and its impact on 125 arts organizations in Fulton County.

Published in mid-November, the petition has more than 210 signatures as of Dec. 4.

“Because we’re facing things like potential budget cuts, we’d like to ask the community to step up and help support the arts, just so organizations like ours can continue to exist,” Jones said.

The Arts Center is one of four “legacy” institutions in Fulton County, or those that were county-created to help ensure access to the arts in every corridor. Others are the Chattahoochee Nature Center, the Hammonds House Museum and the National Black Arts Festival.

In a long-term, private-public

partnership, Jones said Fulton County funds essential program operations at the Arts Center each year, ranging from $135,000 to $200,000.

If Fulton County adopts the proposed budget in January, Jones said the Johns Creek Arts Center would lose at least 20 percent in funding that would typically go toward providing classes to youth experiencing homelessness at the Drake House in Roswell, monthly classes to students at Title I schools in the area and an arts program at Newtown Park for senior citizens.

Jones described the gratitude of those who participated in the nonprofit’s programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Arts Center remained open. She said people have told the nonprofit they didn’t know how they would have coped at the time had they not had access to its programs.

“It provides a sense of normalcy, sanctuary and respite,” Jones said. “So many people will share with us that the Johns Creek Arts Center is their happy place … People come here to express themselves, to relax, to grow as individuals, to experience new cultures and techniques.”

The arts are often thrown to the

backburner, especially in Georgia which tied for last in the country with Wisconsin for state arts funding in fiscal year 2023, according to data from the National Assembly of State Art Agencies.

“I think the general public does not understand that when you participate in the arts, you have an opportunity for cultural growth, diversity,” Jones said. “...We just make sure that everybody’s got a voice here.”

According to Fulton County’s proposal, arts and culture would lose a total of around $3.6 million. Fulton County sent $9.6 million to arts and culture in fiscal year 2023 — a $4.2 million increase from the year before.

Fulton County Commissioner Bridget Thorne, who represents Johns Creek and parts of Roswell, Alpharetta and Sandy Springs, said the significant funding increase was the result of last-minute additions in unfunded expenditures, like $1.7 million in Contracts for Services — the source of grant money for nonprofits like the Arts Center, applied for every year.

“We’re trying to reel in all that money that was just kind of thrown into the Arts Department and get back to a normal level,” Thorne said.

As a commissioner, she said there are difficult decisions to make, especially this year after the Board of Commissioners gave the green light to fund the largest capital project in its history — a new $1.7 billion jail. She also said the group needs to address the recent closing of Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center South.

“As commissioners, we’re not required to fund [the] arts,” Thorne said.

“It’s just something that we do, and it is for the benefit of the community, the overall economic development of

the community … So, we do see it as a need, but it’s not something we have to do.”

With degrees in industrial design from Georgia Tech, Thorne said she supports the arts and hopes the level of funding for grants will remain the same. In the Fulton County Department of Arts & Culture, she said the money for grants is there, but the question is whether grants are the priority.

Ahead of the Board of Commissioners meeting Nov. 15, Fulton County Arts Council Vice President Imara Canady sent a letter to various arts groups, including the Johns Creek Arts Center, notifying them of the proposed budget cut and to rally a call to action. The letter was effective — more than 30 speakers showed up for the cause that day.

“This funding has really continued to be the lifeblood for the creative community all across the county,” Canady said.

The 15-member Arts Council advises the Board of Commissioners on arts and culture related policy, and Canady said part of the job is sharing the challenges that arts communities face and their responses, which have been overwhelming recently.

In addition to those that spoke at the podium, Canady said he recently attended an event for the Hammonds House Museum where around 450 individuals signed note cards in support of arts and culture, later delivered to the Board of Commissioners. He also said there’s two to three online petitions, like the one Jones created, floating around.

“We’ve got a great group of commissioners, and there’s some hard, hard decisions to be made,” Canady said.

NEWS

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 5

Regional agency official highlights housing problem

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com DUNWOODY, Ga. — Atlanta Regional Commission COO Michael Alexander calls some of the housing issues facing Metro Atlanta a “gut punch.”

Equipped with loads of data, Alexander explained a number of trends facing Metro Atlanta at an event hosted by the Perimeter and Sandy Springs Perimeter chambers Nov. 30. More than 50 people attended, including Dunwoody Mayor L ynn Deutsch and other elected officials.

Housing affordability was the key issue dominating the conversation that morning. The so-called “gut punch” is that 63 percent of Metro Atlanta residents can’t afford to move to another house or apartment in a neighborhood where they currently live.

They’re stuck, but the racial disparities in accumulating wealth doesn’t help — an alarming figure that caught a few gasps around the room is that Black families have one egg in their baskets for every 10 that White families have.

Racial disparity But, people generally don’t think the conditions are that harsh.

According to Alexander’s data on wealth equity, if a typical White family has “100 units of overall wealth,” Black people believe Black families have 36 units.

And, White people? They believe Black families have nearly double that amount.

“I use this to say we don’t really understand how the system performs,” Alexander said.

Level of wealth is a cumulative impact, he said, and that from cradle to career, White people have the advantage.

He offered a personal anecdote.

Alexander said his grandparents were given land by his greatgrandparents — they got to build a house, never owned a mortgage, and his grandfather cut the wood himself after World War II. “They didn’t make any money, but they didn’t spend any money. They saved enough [so] that in critical moments, they gave me money to help me get through college.”

Alexander said this was a “critical advantage” for him.

“Many people, especially of color, didn’t have my grandfather, and it starts to add up quickly,” Alexander said.

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Michael Alexander, COO of the Atlanta Regional Commission, leads a data-heavy presentation on topics like population growth, racial disparities and the housing market in Metro Atlanta in an event hosted by the Perimeter and Sandy Springs Perimeter chambers at Park Center in Dunwoody Nov. 30.

Following Alexander’s presentation, the audience had some questions but mostly insight.

One Black woman described the effects of gentrification in the City of Atlanta, in part because of when the Olympics came to town and broke up affordable housing. She said Black people have exceedingly limited options to build wealth.

But, a White man was more optimistic, tracking with the data Alexander provided. He said the American Dream isn’t dead, but that it “couldn’t be more alive right now.”

The man commented on how owning a house builds wealth, whether “White or Black.” He said one of his four daughters owns one and that her wealth will grow 40 to 45 times more in a five- to seven-year period than that of another daughter who doesn’t own a house.

The man said the younger generation say they just don’t want the responsibility.

“When we think about homeownership, like what it’s done, how much wealth got generated — some people got left out,” Alexander said in response. “We gotta fix that.”

What to do?

Dunwoody City Councilman Joe Seconder asked for action items on how to solve the problems at-hand.

Alexander said it’s going to take the focus of all levels of government.

“I'm very pro-market, but the markets have not in our history functioned in a way that provided

housing for people that really needed it…” Alexander said.

Earlier, he had emphasized what local governments can and cannot do.

What local governments cannot do is control things like costs for land, material and labor. They also can’t control wages, interest rates and many other variables. But, what they can do is control land use and building permits. They can create local programs to mitigate the problems, provide property tax relief, among other initiatives.

In a problem-solving effort, the Atlanta Regional Commission created a Local Leadership Housing Action Committee, consisting of 13 county commissioners and mayors committed to addressing the worsening state of housing affordability in Metro Atlanta. Mayor Deutsch is a member, along with Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul.

One outcome, Alexander said, was that the City of Decatur adopted a “missing middle” ordinance, addressing the lack of diversity in housing.

“Mike Alexander, Decatur resident with his official hat off, was very supportive of that,” Alexander said.

“And, the clouds didn’t turn dark, the world didn't collapse, and it does give us a lot more flexibility.”

6 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

NEWS

Local bird enthusiast publishes labor of love

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Local author and columnist Bob Meyers wants to put in a good word for birds with his newest coffee table book.

Released this year, Meyers’ “Celebrating Backyard Birds” is a love letter to some 40 species of birds photographed in his backyard in Crabapple over two years.

Although Meyers has always appreciated the beauty of birds, he said his interest was really sparked 10 years ago while visiting Florida to board a cruise ship.

“A lot of the ships would sail out of Cape Canaveral, and there are some birding areas there in that area,” he said.

Meyers said he would spend the day before departing shooting photos of water birds such as roseate spoonbills, which have a large population there.

“I think that birds make people healthier,” he said. “They make people more focused. If you’re interested in birds, you have to really listen. You have to observe where the birds are. In a sense, I think

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Local author and columnist Bob Meyers presents his new coffee table book “Celebrating Backyard Birds” at his home in Crabapple Nov. 30. Meyers shot photos of roughly 40 bird species for the book over two years in his backyard. birds are revealing themselves to us in the way they live. Each species of bird has a different history, and a different way of living.”

Meyers observed books about

birds are typically guidebooks, or they use scientific terms for those who are already familiar with the subject, but he wanted to take a different approach.

To write “Celebrating Backyard Birds,” he took notes from his first two books “Bygone Treasures and Timeless Beauties: Barns of Old Milton County” and “Irish Pubs in America: History, Lore and Recipes.”

“I had two previous books, which had followed a pattern,” Meyers said. “And, I felt comfortable with it.

So, I said, ‘I can do the same thing.

Each one of these birds will have a chapter, and each chapter will be unique.’”

Each chapter opens with a quote, lyric or excerpt, and includes notes about a different bird and its history or behavior. Some focus on the bird’s life cycle, while others focus on its feathers or its nesting habits.

There are also chapters featuring artwork to add historical and cultural context.

In the book’s section on the American goldfinch, Meyers includes Raphael’s “Madonna of the Goldfinch,” a Renaissance painting that depicts a young Jesus petting a goldfinch in the hands of John the Baptist at the feet of Mary.

“The European Goldfinch has a

See MEYERS, Page 7

Meyers: Continued from Page 6 not a black spot, but a red spot,” Meyers said. “And they say that was from when Christ was carrying the cross up the hill, a [goldfinch] landed on him, and a drop of blood fell on the goldfinch. And so, his spot is red, where the American goldfinch, it’s black.”

The chapter on the eastern bluebird includes lyrics from six songs demonstrating love for the thrush throughout the 20th century.

Although Meyers said his favorite bird is any that comes before his camera lens, if he had to pick a favorite species, it would be the bluebird.

“Bluebirds throughout history have been a magical bird in society after society,” he said.

Meyers said photography for “Celebrating Backyard Birds” was more challenging than in his previous two books, but he also said it was more fun.

“But I love the process,” he said.

“And nothing makes me happier than to get a great picture of a bird.”

Meyers took thousands of photos of his backyard birds over the two years he wrote the book. Reflecting

NEWS his commitment to finding the perfect shot, readers can glimpse upon a squirrel having a dispute with a brown-headed cowbird, a “dancing” red-shouldered hawk or a hummingbird’s tongue fully extended.

But, “Celebrating Backyard Birds” was more than a photography passion project. Meyers said he learned throughout the process, and he used software to identify birds he did not know.

Meyers also thanked his wife Linda and his sister Jo for editing the text.

“There’s an old saying that a person who has himself as his lawyer has a fool for a lawyer,” Meyers said.

“And that’s true of writers, too. If you do your own editing, you have a fool for an editor.”

Meyers first shared the book at Scottsdale Farms’ annual Christmas Open House where it saw a very positive reception.

He also held a book signing Dec. 2 at Wild Birds Unlimited. A second signing will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 9 at Poe and Company Bookstore in Suite P-101 at 1890 Heritage Walk in Milton.

“Each variety of birds has its own story to tell,” he said. “So, I’m just fascinated by them. It’s another world, and it’s a beautiful one.”

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 7

BOB MEYERS/PROVIDED

An eastern bluebird cleans its tailfeathers in Bob Meyers’ backyard in Crabapple.

Meyers’ new coffee table book “Celebrating Backyard Birds” shares a history of bluebirds in music.

We want to be a place where the city can gather to just enjoy a good, quality coffee.

JOHN YACOUB, co-owner, Ark Coffeehaus 8 | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023

Pair runs coffee shop from the grounds up Brother, sister brew customer-friendly business

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com DUNWOODY, Ga. — After leaving the corporate world of Los Angeles for Dunwoody nearly two years ago, Ark Coffeehaus co-owner John Yacoub is ready to give residents a taste of the new family-owned operation at 4448 T illy Mill Road.

If you have any trouble finding the coffee shop, look for the pink car across the street at Dunwoody Automotive.

Ark Coffeehaus follows the trend of third-wave coffee, a movement toward higher -quality coffee, relationships with local farms and unique flavors.

The coffee shop rolls out a new menu each month. The Holiday Menu in December features housemade peppermint and gingerbread syrup; a Merry Shrub with cranberry, orange and champagne vinegar; and a dark chocolate and orange mocha.

Prior to his move, Yacoub was a broker and owner of a real estate group in California.

Yacoub co-owns Ark Coffeehaus with his sister, former Dunwoody resident Priscilla Wells, who previously left a corporate finance career in Metro Atlanta.

While Wells has been in Metro Atlanta for most of her professional life, Yacoub said he made the move to find a conducive place to raise

his family.

Yacoub said the motivation to leave corporate culture behind is what spurred the brother -sister duo to open a coffee shop.

“We knew we wanted to operate something hospitality-oriented,” Yacoub said. “Craft coffee had been a hobby of mine for some time, and Priscilla has curated and mixed her own teas for some time.”

The COVID-19 pandemic provided the owners of Ark Coffehaus the opportunity to pursue their passion project, Yacoub said.

Ark Coffeehaus’ principles can be broken down into four concepts: regeneration, localism, hospitality and darn good coffee.

The regenerative and local aspects of their business model involve a partnership with Little Ebenezer Farm in Mansfield, about 50 miles east of Atlanta.

The farm, founded by Priscilla and her husband, Jeremy, in 2021, promotes healthful foods produced through natural techniques.

Little Ebenezer Farm currently produces organic cage-free eggs, honey and dairy.

Jeremy created the artwork at the coffee shop, adding another layer to the family-owned business.

Yacoub said the Wells primarily live in Mansfield, but they always have a place to stay with him in Dunwoody.

As the coffee shop and the farm grow, Ark Coffeehaus will look to

See GROUNDS, Page 9

BEN PETERSON/PROVIDED

Ark Coffeehaus co-owner Priscilla Wells and her husband Jeremy taste some of the unique coffee blends offered at the shop. Jeremy and Priscilla Wells founded Little Ebenezer Farm in Mansfield.

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Ark Coffeehaus co-owner John Yacoub stands outside of his new third-wave coffee shop on Tilly Mill Road Nov. 29. Ark Coffeehaus had its grand opening and ribboncutting ceremony with the City of Dunwoody Nov. 15.

Join us in congratulating Greater North Fulton Chamber’s Board Members for being named GeorgiaTrend’s Most Influential Leaders of 2023.

• Glen Cannon, Gwinnett Technical College • Ann Halon, Perimeter Community Improvement District • Keith Parker, Goodwill

• Tim Perry, North American Properties • Denise Quarles, Siemens • DePriest Waddy, Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

We are also proud to recognize GNFCC President & CEO Kali Boatright as one of GeorgiaTrend’s Most Influential Economic Development leaders.

www.gnfcc.com

BUSINESSPOSTS

Grounds: Continued from Page 8 expand their selection of products from the Mansfield farm, Yacoub said.

All coffee grounds from the coffee shop are used at the farm for composting. What’s more, some of the food scraps from the shop are sent to feed the free-range chickens at Little Ebenezer Farm.

Yacoub said customers can also compost their coffee cups and coffee plugs, which are made from organic materials.

While localism and regeneration are cornerstones of third-wave coffee, hospitality and darn good coffee are not a guarantee at every new coffee shop that pops up in the city.

“I like to say that our business is hospitality, and the medium is darn good coffee,” Yacoub said.

Yacoub said Ark Coffeehaus pays each of its employees a living wage, so customers do not have to tip.

The idea is the coffee shop takes care of its employees, so customers do not have to stretch their pockets.

“The tips are going to people that are usually working hard for them,” Yacoub said. “We would just rather

our people are taken care of, so that dilemma or frustration doesn’t rest on our people.”

To add to the co-owner’s emphasis on hospitality, they will offer three classes at 2 p.m. in December: Intro to Composting Dec. 6, Tea Tasting Dec. 8, and Planning Your Spring Garden Dec. 13.

Yacob said he would like to begin hosting local musicians and hiring outside of the family in January 2024.

“The name ‘Arc’ can mean a place of refuge, it can mean a place of safekeeping or preservation,” Yacoub said. “So, we want to be a place where the city can gather to just enjoy a good, quality coffee.”

Ark Coffeehaus held a soft opening of the family-owned business Oct. 31.

Representatives from Discover Dunwoody and the Perimeter Chamber of Commerce, along with Mayor L ynn Deutsch and other councilmembers, held the grand opening and ribbon-cutting Nov. 15.

Yacoub said support from the community, meeting councilmembers, and word-ofmouth has been essential for him as a new resident and his business.

“I’ve been here once,” Mayor Deutsch said. “I’m sure this will become my new meeting place.”

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 9

BEN PETERSON/PROVIDED

John Yacoub, co-owner of Ark Coffeehaus, stands behind the shop’s high-end espresso coffee machine. La Marzocco, an Italian company founded in 1927, handcrafts their espresso machines for customers to enjoy worldwide.

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO OUR

HOLIDAY

Wednesday, December 13th, at 3:00 pm

Sing along with Keith Adams as he performs all the holiday favorites, and you won’t want to miss a special visit by Santa...have you been naughty or nice?

RSVP to Diane or Jonda at (470) 288-1792.

THE MANSIONS AT ALPHARETTA

3 7 0 0 B R O O K S I D E P A R K W A Y, A L P H A R E T TA , G A 3 0 0 2 2 (470) 288-1792 w w w. M a n s i o n s S e n i o r L i v i n g . c o m

2023

NEWS

10 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

Giving Tuesday provides fuel for nonprofits serving needy

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com METRO ATLANTA, Ga. — For nonprofits around north Metro Atlanta and the globe, the dollars that pour in on Giving Tuesday help fund a significant portion of their services and programs offered the next year.

Giving Tuesday, a worldwide generosity movement, acts to refocus from the shopping deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Rather than spending money on items for yourself, friends and family, Giving Tuesday promotes giving to those you may not know who are in need of help.

For North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC), a Roswell-based nonprofit celebrating its 40th year in service, Giving Tuesday is the biggest fundraising day of the year. On Nov. 28, NFCC raised more than $154,000, and it has more donations rolling in.

“It’s fun coming right after Thanksgiving because everybody’s kind of starting to get into that giving mode,” said Melissa Pinsky, NFCC director of marketing and communications.

With the Giving Tuesday donations, Pinsky said her organization intends to “stabilize” 130 families.

North Fulton Community Charities provides a wide range of services to those in emergency need, living in Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park and Roswell. The nonprofit offers food, clothing and financial assistance, various classes as well as goods from its food pantry and its thrift shop.

In Dunwoody, Spruill Center for the Arts raised $5,250 on Giving Tuesday but anticipates raising around $50,000 in its two-month fundraising campaign, concluding at the end of the year.

With Spruill’s new expansion in mind, CEO Alan Mothner said this year’s campaign is focusing on the future. The $2.7 million project, opening next year, will add seven studio spaces and a community center in the main courtyard, providing more space to programs designed to reach underserved communities.

In 2023, Mothner said Spruill awarded more than $30,000 in scholarships for camps and afterschool programs. He said the center also began a new scholarship program for adults to take classes.

Donations to Spruill will also go toward building out Creative Connections, a free community arts program for those suffering with

cognitive impairment and their caregivers, as well as replenishing supplies in Spruill’s community art closet which launched in November.

In Cumming, The Place at Forsyth raised around $65,000 on Giving Tuesday. Director of Development Robyn Rotunda said donations for that day could go toward any of The Place’s services, whether for the food pantry, the thrift store or for education.

But, Rotunda said financial assistance is one of the biggest needs right now. She said The Place filled more than 25,000 requests last year, though some were duplicate.

“We're basically like the front door to programs in the community for those who don't have and need help,” Rotunda said. “Not everybody’s gonna eventually get on their feet.”

Bills rise for elderly folks and their Social Security income stays the same, she said.

“We're able to provide a lot of the basic needs that people should get as well as provide opportunities for those who want to try to change the trajectory of their life,” Rotunda said.

Down the road at Bald Ridge Lodge, a Cumming-based nonprofit that serves young men in need of stable surroundings, Executive Director Angela Dikes said Giving Tuesday is the “gun at the beginning of a race,” the start of a larger end-of-year fundraising campaign.

“Our fundraising at this time of year really does sustain us for months to come, really for the rest of the fiscal year to meet our budget and for all of our operations,” Dikes said.

For the campaign, Dikes said Bald Ridge will be focused on its independent living program, the nonprofit’s newest offering. The organization’s signature program is its 12-bed group home for young men facing adversity either as the result of abuse, neglect or other forms of trauma.

Dikes said she has heard that this year has been more difficult for donors financially, but emphasized her appreciation for those who continue to give at whatever level they are able to.

“We’re grateful and thankful and appreciative of how people are so generous, in spite of the tough economic times that we’re all facing right now,” she said. “We could not do the work of caring for these young men and helping them become thriving adults, if it weren’t for the people who give on Giving Tuesday and beyond.”

NEWS

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 11

Students push mental health with Mind 5K

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com ROSWELL, Ga. — More than 100 North Fulton students gathered at Riverside Park Nov. 29 to raise mental health awareness with a fun run 5K hosted by the Cambridge High School girls lacrosse program.

The program’s second annual Run for the Mind 5K was hosted in partnership with Morgan’s Message, a national advocacy nonprofit that seeks to end the stigma of mental health in student athletes through support and community.

The group was founded in 2020 by the parents and teammates of Morgan Rodgers, a Duke University lacrosse player who took her own life after a years-long mental health struggle.

To tackle mental health challenges among young people, the Cambridge girls lacrosse program hosted a virtual 5K from Nov. 26 through Dec. 2, with a portion of the proceeds donated to Morgan’s Message.

In 2022, the 5K raised more than $13,000 and drew more than 200 participants to the race. The 2023 fundraiser will continue through the upcoming spring lacrosse season.

The virtual 5K culminated with the 4:30 p.m. fun run at Riverside Park Nov. 29.

Cambridge senior Annie Ritter, a member on the girls varsity lacrosse team for four years, also participated in 2022. She said the team walked the course last year, but this time, participants ran.

“It was just so fun walking last year because we were just walking the whole time, just talking and having fun conversations,” Ritter said. “We would pass by other teams and all wave to each other.

It was just a really, really bonding experience, I think, overall, and I’m glad we’re doing it again this year.”

Cambridge Girls Varsity Lacrosse head coach Pam Masinko welcomed runners from the school’s boys lacrosse; swim and dive; track and field; cross country; and girls basketball teams in the minutes before kickoff.

On Nov. 30, she said students from Roswell High School and players from Power Finesse Lacrosse also participated.

“It doesn’t matter what sport we play — male, female, where we are,” Masinko said. “Mental health impacts us all. And I want to get the message out as best I can, through just saying, ‘It’s okay to not always

PHOTOS BY SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Participants gather for a group photo at a fun run 5K hosted by the Cambridge High School girls lacrosse program at Riverside Park Nov. 29. The race was the culmination of the team’s second annual Run for the Mind 5K fundraiser.

Cambridge High School Girls Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach Pam Masinko welcomes participants to a fun run 5K hosted by the girls lacrosse program at Riverside Park Nov. 29. Masinko addressed how mental health impacts everyone. be okay.’”

A 30-second video will be featured on the new scoreboard at all home Cambridge High School sports games to promote mental health awareness and Morgan’s Message.

Sponsors of the 2023 race included The Summit Counseling Center, JUNA Salon, Jamison Private Wealth Management, Angie Browning Photography, Briggs Vision Group Optique, Bluegrass salon, Southern Zone Lacrosse, Power Finesse Lacrosse and Atlanta Fine Homes.

More information on mental health and suicide prevention resources can be found at morgansmessage. org/resources.

Morgan’s Message ambassadors Kayla Soltys, Katie Vanderlinde, Emma Johnson and Erin Degnan stand ready to distribute bracelets, stickers and flyers at Riverside Park Nov. 29.

Morgan’s Message seeks to end the stigma of mental health in student athletes through support and community.

NEWS

12 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

ENT M E C N U O N N A N A E V A H TO SHARE?

Run it in the newspaper!

WEDDINGS | ENGAGEMENTS ANNIVERSARIES | BIRTHS | DEATHS To submit your announcement visit appenmedia.com/submit

A COMMUNITY OF CARE IN CRABAPPLE MMUNITY CARE CRABAPPLE NORTHSIDE OF HOSPITAL WELCOMES AIN 2ND LOCATION TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

ND HOSPITAL WELCOMES LOCATION YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WE OFFERAA2FULL RANGE OFTO SERVICES INCLUDING:

Health and Wellness Care • Anxiety • Chronic Fatigue • Depression • Diabetes • Gynecology

• Heart Disease • Metabolic Syndrome • High Cholesterol Internal • Osteoporosis/ • Hypertension Weight Gain Medicine Associates of • Insomnia • Crabapple Thyroid Disease • Insulin Resistance A Northside Network Provider 875 Mayfield Road Milton, GA 30004

Dr. Samantha Benson

P: 678-474-9633 Samantha B. Benson, MD Johns Creek: Tues., Thurs.

Milton: Mon., Fri.

Kaavya Chivukula, MD Cheryl A. McGowan, MD Hannah Cummings, FNP-C Johns Creek Only Milton Only Johns Creek: Tues., Thurs.

Dr. Cheryl McGowan Milton: Mon., Fri.

Yianna Manolakis, FNP-C Milton Only

Heather Menees, FNP-C Johns Creek Only

Michelle Hall, DNP, FNP-C Samantha Lewis, FNP-C Johns Creek Only Johns Creek: Tues., Thurs., Fri. Milton: Wed.

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT! Internal Medicine Associates Internal Medicine Associates of Crabapple of Johns Creek 875 Mayfield Road, Building A 3380 Paddocks Parkway Milton, GA 30004 Suwanee, GA 30024 678.474.9633 678.474.9633 Scan to be directed to the website

www.imacrabapple.com

|

www.imajohnscreek.com

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

Johns Creek Community Development Director Ben Song presents a plan to revitalize the four corners at Medlock Bridge and State Bridge roads at the City Council meeting Nov. 28. Councilmembers voted unanimously to defer the item to their Feb. 12 meeting.

Plan: Continued from Page 1 blowback from residents,” Elwood said.

“They are very sensitive to zoning in this area and density in the Medlock character area.”

She also said the city hasn’t presented what it would be willing to do to make the area “truly” public, in terms of density and spending.

While Song said the goal of the document was to consider land use, rather than to exclude other kinds of development, the City Council voted unanimously to defer the item to its Feb. 12 meeting. The Revitalization Plan would later be incorporated in the city’s Comprehensive Plan.

New budgeting process In other matters Nov. 28, Assistant City Manager Ron Bennett presented an initiative to develop a Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan at the City Council’s work session earlier that evening. The idea is the result of concerns raised by councilmembers related to the city’s budgeting process. Historically, the City Council has selected capital projects on an ad-hoc basis.

“How did previous councils manage without this kind of blueprint?”

Councilman Bob Erramilli asked.

Bennett said the document would

exclude expenses like maintenance and personnel related to capital projects. He also said the plan would be dynamic, reviewed every year.

“This is not meant to tie your hands.

It’s meant to inform your hands,” Bennett said.

The City Council is set to review a formal capital improvement plan at the beginning of next year.

Also at the work session, the City Council agreed to approve Newtown Recreational Association as the new youth sports provider for Cauley Creek and Shakerag parks. To activate its athletic fields, Johns Creek has historically partnered with nonprofit youth athletic associations through facility use agreements.

The fields at Cauley Creek Park had sparked debate among various sports teams without a home, who were vying for the space. But, Newtown is set to work with other organizations that provide programming it doesn’t currently offer, like tackle football and cricket.

At the work session, the City Council also agreed to authorize $500,000 in engineering for intersection improvements at Colony Club Drive and Nesbit Ferry Road, to include a roundabout.

The effort at Colony Club Drive is the first of 12 projects for the Nesbit Ferry corridor, led by Johns Creek but with a hand from the City of Roswell.

›

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 13

Calendar

DEC. 7 — DEC. 17

IRVING BERLIN’S ‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’

What: Based on the 1954 film, the musical “White Christmas” features veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis who have a successful song-anddance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander.

When: Dec. 8-24, times vary Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: $42 to $110 More info: cityspringstheatre.com

PANCAKES WITH SANTA

HOLIDAY MARKET

What: Get that perfect present for your special someone, a must-have something for your home, or whatever else will brighten your holiday season at Milton’s Holiday Market.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

What: Every year, Milton firefighters cook and serve breakfast with pancakes and bacon. At this free event, guests can also visit with Santa before he heads back to the North Pole to prepare for his big day. Registration is not required to attend and eat a pancake breakfast, but to visit Santa, please make a reservation for a 15-minute window.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 8-10 a.m.

Where: Fire Station 44, 13690 Ga. 9, Milton More info: miltonga.gov

at Milton’s Holiday Market.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

SNOW DAY MOVIE MATINEE

What: Jolly Old St. Nick is visiting Johns Creek a little early and invites all the good girls and boys to a special breakfast with Santa. The event gives special guests time with the Big Elf himself, lots of delectable goodies, music and holiday crafts. Breakfast includes two seating times, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Registration is required.

When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m. or 10:30 a.m.

Where: Park Place in Newtown Park, 3125 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek Cost: $20 per resident child; $30 per non-resident child More info: johnscreekga.gov

HOLIDAY MARKET

What: Get that perfect present for your special someone, a must-have something for your home, or whatever else will brighten your holiday season

What: Designed as an inclusive event for people with disabilities and their families, this free showing will feature the movie “Frozen,” hot chocolate and a snack bar. You can also meet the characters and take home a goodie bag.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 13, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Sandy Springs, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs More info: sandyspringsga.gov

‘A KIDS’ CHRISTMAS’

What: Join the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra for a sensory-friendly holiday concert where dancing, singalongs, Santa Claus and reindeer magic bring people of all abilities together to celebrate the holiday season.

When: Saturday, Dec. 16, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Johns Creek United Methodist

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.

Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek Cost: $17 to $30 More info: johnscreeksymphony.org

Cost: $28 for adults; $20 for students; $15 for children More info: stagedoortheatrega.org

‘SHE LOVES ME’

What: The first annual Christkindlmarket will be set up for your holiday season on the front lawn of Bulloch Hall with authentic food, crafts, drink and activities.

When: Until Dec. 24, times vary Where: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell More info: roswellchristkindlmarket.com

What: “She Loves Me” is a romanticcomedy musical based on Mike Lazlos’ “Parfuemerie,” a play that has inspired many movie adaptations including “You’ve Got Mail’’ starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks.

When: Until Dec. 17, times vary Where: Act1 Theatre, 180 Academy Street, Alpharetta Cost: $20 to $25 More info: act1theater.org

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’

What: This beloved American holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. When: Until Dec. 17, times vary Where: Stage Door Theatre, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody To promote your event, follow these easy steps:

1.

2.

3.

4.

CHRISTKINDLMARKET ROSWELL

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT BROOK RUN PARK

What: Holiday Lights returns for a fourth year with a self-guided walkable display, ceremonial lighting, free hot cocoa and concessions from Top Job Beverages and DonutNV Atlanta.

When: Until Dec. 31, 4-8 p.m.

Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody More info: dunwoodyga.gov

Visit AppenMedia.com/Calendar Provide the details for your event including title, description, location and date Click the red button that reads “Create event” That’s it! Submissions are free, though there are paid opportunities to promote your event in print and online.

Visit Our Brand New Showroom FREE DESIGN CONSULTATIONS

14 | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023

Sponsored Section

Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Re-imagined

There’s no stopping Bath & Kitchen Galleria Brought to you by – Bath & Kitchen Galleria

Remodeling Design and Installation Services

BathAndKitchenGalleria.com

10591Old OldAlabama AlabamaConnector ConnectorRd. Rd. 10591 Alpharetta,GA GA30022 30022 Alpharetta,

After nearly a decade in Roswell, Bath and Kitchen Galleria has moved to a larger 10,000 SF showroom in Alpharetta. Owners, Bobbie Kohm and John Hogan, have expanded their business by tripling the size of the showroom to keep up with the amazing growth of the company. “North Atlanta has thousands of homes built in the 90’s and 2000’s and homeowners need a way to remodel their homes. They need a company that offers design assistance, has a large showroom, provides installation services, and does it all cost effectively, too”, says co-owner Bobbie Kohm, “…and that’s what we do.”

Bath & Kitchen Galleria, (formerly Remodeling Expo) has grown by more than 400% since 2018 and the company attributes this to one simple best practice, “listening to the customer”.

Customers want cost effectiveness, projects completed on-time, and they demand quality design assistance. “So, we responded with exactly that”, says co-owner John Hogan, “in short, we’ve brought service excellence to an industry that is known for low service standards.

We’ve changed this and now we perform over 300 projects each year.”

Bath & Kitchen Galleria recently moved from Roswell to Alpharetta where they found a huge new showroom to show their amazing versatility: cost effective to fully custom bathrooms and kitchens, from $10,000 to $250,000, styles from farmhouse to traditional to transitional, project scopes from partial room update to fully rebuilt rooms. They have cabinetry, tiles, plumbing fixtures, countertops, shower glass, knobs and pulls, lighted mirrors, accessories and most importantly, remodeling consultants to help you. “We take the anxiety and pressure out of the process and make it fun” says Bobbie, “and that’s how it should be.”

John and Bobbie have built a great business that provides personal attention to every customer; because every home is different, and every homeowner is different. “I wish we could say that we have some secret widget; but our competitive advantage is pure “service excellence”. Bath and Kitchen Galleria (BathAndKitchenGalleria.com) is located at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector in Alpharetta. 770-765- 6000.

Open Weekdays and Saturday.

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 15

Five ways to make a winter lighting statement

PEXELS

Brought to you by – Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Beyond practicality, good lighting Bill Rawlings transforms and Sherri Conrad homes into cozy retreats and outdoor spaces into magical wonderlands. Whether you’re looking to create a festive atmosphere for holiday gatherings or simply want to infuse your curb appeal with a winter glow, here are a few suggestions to help make your lighting choices both functional and stylish during the colder months.

1. Uplighting for architectural emphasis.

Uplighting is lighting directed upward. One of its significant advantages is that it provides a softer illumination, which is easier on the eyes. Add uplighting to your exterior this winter by positioning lights at the base of a building and directing them upward along the façade to create a grazing effect. If your home has columns or pillars, illuminate those vertical elements with uplights placed at the base.

2. Pathway illumination.

Both functional and aesthetic, pathway illumination is a beautiful way to guide visitors to your door. Bollard lights—short, sturdy posts that emit a soft, diffused light—are a popular way to define the edges of a pathway.

They come in various styles and can be solar-powered or wired. Other options include path lights, which often have a decorative top that diffuses light

downward, or recessed/in-ground lights, which provide a more sleek and unobtrusive solution.

3. Focal point lighting for landscaping accents.

When implementing focal point lighting, consider the natural focal points in your landscape or hardscape. For instance, positioning lights at the base of trees is particularly effective for showcasing majestic or unique trees in your landscape. You can also use spotlights to accentuate garden beds, statues and sculptures or water features like fountains, ponds or waterfalls.

4. Moonlighting for ambiance.

The moonlighting effect is meant to be subtle and naturalistic. Install lights high in the branches of trees, attach fixtures to overhead structures like pergolas or arbors, suspend pendant lights from trees for downward illumination or drape string lights across patios or decks.

5. Dynamic lighting control for versatility.

Incorporate versatility into your lighting through smart lighting systems, motion sensors or occupancy sensors, time-of-day programming, color-tunable lighting and integration with home automation systems.

Illuminate the season and embrace a festive spirit through lighting that makes winter nights truly magical. If you need assistance renovating your home or have any other real estate needs, please contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 770.442.7300. We would be happy to assist you!

Compiled and edited by Angela Valente, Marketing Copywriter/ Copyeditor

Nothing compares to what’s next.

Scan to view this month’s collection of featured properties exclusively represented by our firm.

atlantafinehomes.com sothebysrealty.com Atlanta Fine Homes, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. 1125 Sanctuary Parkway, Suite 400, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009. 770.442.7300.

16 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

E N J OY T H E H O L I D AY S I N YO U R N E W H O M E OVER 25 NEW HOMES READY TO CLOSE NOW

Proud to work with some of the most respected builders in Atlanta Lori Lane | President New Homes Division | Senior Vice President of Luxury and Global Contact us at 404.671.4195 | visit BHHSGANewHomes.com | follow Lori@the_lorilane

©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered servic

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 17

CHEROKEE COUNTY

COBB COUNTY

COWETA COUNTY

FORSYTH COUNTY

N. FULTON COUNTY

CANTON

ACWORTH

NEWNAN

CUMMING

M I LT O N

HORIZON AT LAUREL CANYON

THE ARTISAN AT VICTORY

THE GARDENS AT

KELLY MILL RESERVE

THE HOMESTEAD AT MILTON

Patrick Malloy Communities

Southwyck Homes

ARBOR SPRINGS

David Patterson Homes

Vision Development Partners

Homes from the $700’s - $1M+

Active Adult from the $500’s

McKinney Builders

From the $800’s

From $4M - $11M+

FIRESIDE FARMS

THE MANOR GOLF &

David Patterson Homes

COUNTRY CLUB

From the High $600’s

From $2.6M - $10M+

The Cottages from the $400’s

Active Adult from the High $700’s THE HERITAGE AT ACWORTH

RIVER GREEN – LAKESIDE JW Collection

JW Collection From the $500’s

SENOIA GIN PR OPERTY Senoia Enterprises

Active Adult from the $500’s THE RESERVE AT

Single Family Homes

MADDOX PATH

RIVER GREEN – THE RETREAT

GOVERNORS TOWNE CLUB

From the Low $800’s

David Patterson Homes

JW Collection

Patrick Malloy Communities

From the $400’s

From the $600’s

From the $800’s

DEKALB COUNTY TUCKER

SOLEIL AT BELMONT PARK

K E N N E S AW

THE ENCLAVE ON LAVISTA

Patrick Malloy Communities

THE TRADITIONS OF KENNESAW

JW Collection

Active Adult from the $500’s

JW Collection | Coming Soon

From the Mid $800’s

WOODSTOCK

M A R I E T TA

COOKS FARM

MOUNTAIN WALK TOWNHOMES

Southwyck Homes

Cornerstone Associates, Inc.

Active Adult from the High $500’s

From the Mid $600’s

SOUTH ON MAIN

POWDER SPRINGS

JW Collection

KYLE FARM

From the High $600’s - $900’s

Patrick Malloy Communities From the $700’s - $1M+

FAYETTE COUNTY F AY E T T E V I L L E THE CANOE CLUB Reynolds Development Group From the Mid $500’s - $900’s

ROSWELL HILLANDALE Patrick Malloy Communities From $1M+

BROOKS POND David Patterson Homes Coming Soon GAINESVILLE LONG HOLLOW LANDING David Patterson Homes From the $700’s - $1M+ SUWANEE

GWINNETT COUNTY S N E L LV I L L E SOLEIL SUMMIT CHASE Patrick Malloy Communities Active Adult from the $400’s

HALL COUNTY THE LAKE SOCIETY

LAUREL VIEW

Southwyck Homes | Coming Soon

JW Collection | Coming Soon

Active Adult on Lake Lanier

TRILITH Multiple Builders Homes from the $500’s Estate Homes from $4M+

N. FULTON COUNTY

PAULDING COUNTY

M I LT O N

DA L L AS

CROSSROADS AT BIRMINGHAM Southwyck Homes Village homes from the $900’s

RANDOLPH FARMS Vine Creek Residential From the Low $500’s

Estate Homes from $1.5M+

ce marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information presented is deemed reliable, but is not warranted. If your property is currently listed, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit properties that are already represented by another broker.

18 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

PROVIDED

Available home in Long Hollow Landing in Forsyth County

Move-in for the holidays: homes ready for December closings Brought to you by- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia As the holiday season approaches, the gift of a new home is a present that keeps on giving. At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division, our builder clients have over 25 move-in ready new construction homes ready for immediate closing. These homes feature various styles, including single-family residences, active adult communities, and townhomes in desirable locations. There is Long

Hollow Landing in Forsyth, Hillandale in North Fulton, Soleil Belmont Park in Cherokee, Kyle Farm in West Cobb, and award-winning Trilith and The Gardens at Arbor Springs in the Southern Crescent. Each community offers a variety of move-in ready homes as well as presale opportunities.

Imagine the joy of being settled into your dream home just in time for the holidays – a place where memories are created, and traditions are born. With homes ready for immediate closing, you can experience the magic of the season in your new home. Whether

you’re envisioning a cozy fireplace, a spacious kitchen for holiday feasts, or a welcoming neighborhood for carol-singing and festive gatherings, our diverse range of new home communities caters to your unique desires.

To sweeten the deal, some builders are offering special incentives for homes that close by the end of 2023.

It’s the perfect way to kickstart the new year, surrounded by the comfort and luxury of a home that reflects your style and personality. By choosing new construction, you not only secure a

place filled with the latest amenities and modern designs but also benefit from the peace of mind that comes with a comprehensive home warranty.

This December, make the decision to be home for the holidays in a place you can truly call your own. Don’t miss out on the chance to usher in the new year with the keys to your dream home, where a lifetime of memories awaits. To explore our move-in ready homes, go to BHHSGANewhomes.com for more information on these exciting new home communities. Equal Housing Opportunity.

REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 19

Protect Your Assets, Your Home, And Your Family In 3 Steps

Reserve Your Seat For A FREE Estate Planning Workshop

Protect your Assets Brought to you byGeerdes & Associates Your financial assets are a result of the hard work, smart decisions, and investments that you’ve made over the years. That’s why it’s GEERDES imperative that you safeguard your hard-earned assets.

Today, we’ll cover one common threat to your assets and go over some options you have to protect yourself.

One of the biggest threats to your assets are lawsuits. You may be no stranger to legal disputes that affect not just an individual’s business assets, but also his or her personal assets.

Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid being sued in the United States. What’s important is knowing how to minimize or avoid the financial loss that could incur if you get sued.

There are three options you can consider in this case.

Liability insurance is the first option. A good policy can minimize the financial setback of a lawsuit. All insurances must be carefully examined and tailored to your specific situation, so we recommend working with a trusted insurance agent and attorney to ensure there are no loopholes that the insurance company can use to deny coverage, or you failed to obtain sufficient coverage.

The second option is establishing a limited liability entity (LLC) or any other corporate entity. By creating

a separate legal entity to own some of your assets, you divide the risk of losing all your assets in the event of a lawsuit.

Should the entity be sued, only the entity’s assets would be at risk and not your personal assets. However, for the LLC to receive corporate veil protection of assets in the LLC, it requires you to operate the LLC correctly so as not to appear your LLC is being used and operated as your personal asset, which puts all your assets at risk.

Finally, you can put your assets, including your LLC in an asset protection (AP) trust. When you transfer your assets from your personal name into the AP trust, the trust then becomes the legal owner of those assets.

Similar to how an LLC works, a lawsuit filed against you would not compromise the assets in the trust. The AP trust protects all your assets, personal assets, and your LLC. Certain trusts also have the benefit of not dissolving upon your death, so after your death, your beneficiaries’ creditors, lawsuits, and divorces would not be able to claim the assets in your trust and your assets avoid the expensive and long probate court process at your death.

You’ve put in the work, time, and energy to build up your assets, so be proactive and ensure that no one can take your assets away from you and for your beneficiaries after your death.

Not all estate planning attorneys are also experts in Asset Protection. Thus, make sure you’re well-informed when creating a trust and work with an estate planning attorney in your local area who also understands the in-depth laws of asset protection in your state and county.

• Does my Will protect my “stuff”? (It does not.)

• Should I upgrade my Will to a Trust?

• What do I need to know about Revocable Living Trusts?

• How do Irrevocable Trusts work?

December Upcoming Workshops: Thurs., Dec. 7th – 11am Wed., Dec. 13th – 6pm Thurs., Dec. 19th – 4pm

Thurs., Dec. 21st – 11am Wed., Dec. 27th – 6pm

• Medicaid. What’s true and what’s not?

• How do I protect my assets for my family and legacy?

• How do I remain in control?

• How do I avoid losing everything to nursing home costs?

• How can my family avoid probate?

Attend our FREE Educational Workshops.

Reserve your Spot and Get a FREE Consultation for attending the Workshop (a $500 Value) CODE: herald2023

1100 Cambridge Square | Suite B | Alpharetta, GA 30009 | 770.209.2346 | esther@gklawgroup.com

Get More News, Opinion & Events Every Friday Morning with

Herald Headlines.

A NEWSLETTER FROM

Join for free at appenmedia.com/newsletters

20 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

NEWS

ACAP Atlanta schedules free class on caregiving SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Atlanta chapter of the Adult-Children of Aging Parents will offer its free monthly educational program, “Curating Your Life as a Caregiver,” on Dec. 13.

The in-person program meets at 8601 Dunwoody Place, Building 1, Suite 130, in Sandy Springs.

The December program will be presented by Mary Remmes, the chapter coordinator of ACAP Atlanta.

Remmes will discuss the common feelings of guilt and stress familycare partners often experience.

Remmes, who combines her experience in long-term care with life coaching skills, invites residents in Metro Atlanta to learn how you can balance your own life with the growing needs of your aging loved one.

ACAP Atlanta is one chapter of

a nonprofit organization geared toward providing resources and support for adult children as they care for their aging parents and for themselves.

The organization launched in February 2023 with the sole purpose of supporting the one in six Americans who act as caregivers to someone over the age of 50.

The group meets on the second Wednesday of the month at the Town Square Sandy Springs Adult Day and Alzheimer’s Resource Center.

Registration and refreshments are available from 5 p.m. to the start of the program at 5:30 p.m.

For more information, or to register for this and other upcoming free programs, visit www. acapcommunity.org/atlanta, or contact the chapter coordinator, at atlanta@acapcommunity.org

ACAP ATLANTA/PROVIDED

The Adult Children of Aging Parents Atlanta chapter will offer its free monthly educational program Dec. 13, titled “Curating Your Life as a Caregiver.”

North Fulton Community Charities plans toy drive for annual program ROSWELL, Ga. — North Fulton Community Charities will collect toys and gift cards for its annual Toyland Shop, which provides gifts for children in need in the community.

New toys, books, gifts and $25 gift cards can be dropped off Dec. 11 to Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Roswell Presbyterian Church on Mimosa Boulevard. Toy distribution will run from Dec. 14 to Dec. 16.

Last year, Toyland Shop provided more than 500 families with toys and gifts. With increases in demand for its other assistance services, North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) anticipates serving more than 600 families this year.

“For parents who are struggling financially, the holidays can be a dif-

ficult time. Some may have to choose to pay for rent or food rather than toys,” said Sandy Holiday, NFCC executive director. “This program invites parents to shop for free and provide the joy of the holidays for their children. Hundreds of families will shop at Toyland, and it’s wonderful to see the relief and smiles on their faces when they walk in the door and see the holiday marketplace.”

An Amazon wish list is also available to select toy and stocking stuffer donations. NFCC also welcomes financial contributions to the programs.

Lists of needed items, sign-up forms and other information can be found at https://nfcchelp.org/toyland-shop/

NORTH FULTON COMMUNITY CHARITIES/PROVIDED

North Fulton Community Charities’ (NFCC) anticipates serving more than 600 families in its Toyland Shop event this year, which runs from Dec. 11 to Dec. 16 at Roswell Presbyterian Church.

State awards Sheriff’s Office funds for traffic enforcement FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety is awarding the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office $341,518 to combat unsafe driving and encourage traffic safety.

The Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic, or HEAT, grant is dedicated to preventing crashes, injuries and deaths caused by impaired driving and speeding. It also encourages seatbelt use and public education about the dangers

of DUI and the importance of road safety.

HEAT grants fund specialized traffic enforcement units in state jurisdictions with the highest accident rates. The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety awards the funding based on impaired driving and speeding data.

Forsyth County is among the 24 law enforcement agencies to receive the HEAT grant for the 2024 federal fiscal year.

Appen Press Club Support local news that follows the story. Join the Appen Press Club today at appenmedia.com/join.

Sheriff Ron Freeman said traffic concerns are among Forsyth County residents’ most common complaints, and the HEAT grant will aid deputies

in keeping dangerous drivers off county roads.

As a partner agency in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and Click It or Ticket campaigns, the Sheriff’s Office will conduct mobilizations throughout 2024 in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety’s year -long high visibility patrols, multi-jurisdictional road checks and sobriety checkpoints.

— Shelby Israel

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 21

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TIP YOUR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY PERSON This holiday season, consider giving your newspaper delivery person a tip for their weekly delivery of the free community newspaper to your driveway. These folks work hard to make sure you are informed of all the local happenings, rain or shine, week in and week out.

Importantly, at Appen Media, we have always been intentional about our desire to keep delivery of our newspapers free. That said, it would mean the world to us if you would consider tipping your newspaper delivery person so that they will have a little extra money for the holiday season.

If you can help us help these amazing people, we promise to keep delivering high quality news to your driveway, for free, every week. Free home delivery of 105,000 homes is hard work – and we couldn’t do it without our amazing delivery folks.

How you can give your delivery person a tip: 1 We have created an online portal at www.appenmedia.com/deliverytip.

100% of every dollar you contribute will be spread out evenly between the 24 newspaper delivery people that Appen Media employs. Whether you give $5 or $50, they will greatly appreciate it.

2 If you prefer, you can also mail a check made out to “Appen Media Group C/O Newspaper Delivery Tip” to 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

22 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

Local News Is Growing This year, even more than ever before, the news is in crisis.

More than 17,000 news media jobs were cut just by June, at national and local outlets including at some of the biggest names like NPR, The Texas Tribune and Gannett. In fact, newsroom layoffs are up 20% from last year. Some of these outlets laid off more than 10% of their staff in the last few months — even as we head into a critical election year.

These are devastating numbers. But all is not lost.

Many local and independent newsrooms continue to launch across the country. Small newsrooms like ours continue to grow, adding new journalists and expanding reporting and investigations.

How is that possible? It’s all thanks to readers like you. Local news is different from other outlets: we’re strengthened by supporters who believe in the power of journalism that cares about its community.

Today, during our end-of-year campaign, consider supporting us. Our newsroom — and our community — will be stronger because of you.

Join your neighbors in support of local journalism

Join today for $16/month

Scan for more info or to join

Join at AppenMedia.com/join

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 23

A Community of Advocates For Local Journalism Join today for $16/month

In 2022, Appen Media Group created the Appen Press Club, its mission driven news division dedicated to creating a sustainable infrastructure for local journalism in the north metro Atlanta area. Residents of that community, like you, join the Press Club by committing to small monthly or annual dues, 100% of which is dedicated to producing reliable, professional journalism on local issues that affect your lives.

Join your neighbors in support of local journalism CHARTER MEMBER Big Sky Franchise Team David & Michelle Bertany

Amour & Duane Carthy Adam Corder

Robert Flint Robin Fricton

Roderick Liptrot Tom McMurrain

Bob Meyers Ross & Lori Ramsey

Kim Truett Roger Wise Jr.

Marie Gualtiere Vickie McElroy Anne Peer

Robert Popp Mark Rundle Carol Williams

Marilyn Colarossi-Woods

Christine Miller Fred Moeller Carol Morgan Kathy Morgan Stu Moring Jack Murphy Tricia Novarro Bob O’Brien Kurt & Leslie Phillips Joy Pooler Debra Powell Righteous PR Chuck Pugh Ashwin Ramaswami Cheryl Rand Jean Rearick Jan Satterfield Stephanie Schuette Susan Searles Tina Shelton Lisa Shippel Joanne Simmons

Cindy Simpson Faye Sklar Judith Slaughter Andy Smith Wesley Stewart Cathryn Stovall Celeste Strohl Andy Sumlin Mike Tasos Candice Teichert Lisa Tilt Michael Townes Matthew Tyser Ollie Wagner Lewis Walker Jonathan Washburn Sally White Susan Wilson Jamie Wimberly Nancy & Dave Wistrand Carla York

MEMBER+ Kerry Arias Scott Baynton James Bennett

Amy Bergin Rita Brown Mark Casas

David Conti Theodore Davis III Charlcie Forehand

MEMBER Alpharetta Lions Club Omar Altalib Ron Altman American Legion Post 201 Barbara Anderson Mary Asbury Barbara Bauschka Kathy Beck Bill Bentley Leslie Berry Tom Billings Ron Boddicker Jodi Bogen Debra Bowen DutchCrafters Amish Furniture Joe Bowen Ryan Brainard Erendira Brumley Bernhard Burgener Mike & Theresa Buscher Mary Busman Gary Butterfield

Clea Calloway Carla Campbell Kirk Canaday James Carr Bridgette Carter William Cartwright Pat Check Christopher Cleary Ann Coaloa Evelyn Collazo Michael Mackenzie Communications Joan Compton Terri Coons David Davis Rebecca Donlan Tom Driscoll Michael Dudgeon Mim Eisenberg Danny Elkins Martha Fasse Lee Fleck

Cathy Flynn Nanci Foster Amy Frederick Kelly Frommer Carol Fry Tracey Ganesh John Gilberto Leslie Gilliam Michelle Glotzbach Harvey Goldberg Christopher Goodrich Marilee Hamilton Susan Hanna Joe Hirsch Penn Hodge Dianne & Steffan Holmquist Joan Hostetter Lynn Johnson Tyler Jones Arthur Kebanli Mark Kelly Allison Kloster

Dyna Kohler Larry Krueger Jess & Chris Kysar Malinda Lackey Ken Leffingwell Carol Lehan Bonnie Lind Francia Lindon Harlan Little Ross Long Rita Loventhal Momma Nature Madan Karen Magill Kyile Marshall Valerie Matthews Rachel McCord Austin McCully Lynn McIntyre Mike McLoughlin Jennifer Mendoza Al Merrill Chris Miller

To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Scan QR code to join Appen Press Club

24 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

OPINION

It’s a good time to ask yourself: What’s the rush?

I never make new year’s resolutions and this year is going to be no exception. However, I did recently resolve to change something in my life that – in hindsight – I think may be a good decision if I can stick to it.

RAY APPEN A few months ago, Publisher Emeritus I decided that I would never be in a hurry again – as in never ever – for anything or anyone or for myself, unless of course there was some sort of medical emergency or similar.

The stimulus for my decision was simply my having stumbled upon a rhetorical question to myself – “why?” “Why should I ever be in a hurry” was the rhetorical thought that occurred to me. Why? I stopped in my tracks and thought about that for a few moments. I couldn’t come up with a good answer. Exactly what was it that I gained by being in a hurry?

Whatever it was, was it worth it? Then I asked myself: “What does being in a hurry cost me? Ah, the $64,000 question! Any guesses?

How about the absolute most debilitating affliction going on in our modern world – “stress.” Yep, I thought, why would

I want to deliberately increase the amount of stress in my already stressful life? Why would anyone do that? The more I thought about it the more incredulous I became at the folly of allowing myself to be in a hurry.

It has now been several months since I banned “being in a hurry” from my life.

I have to say that it feels good. I do notice it, a subtle change, and I expect that over time I will discover more ways in which my life will be changed and enriched by decreasing stress.

There are many simple, silly examples of not being in a hurry that I have been experiencing. For example, I no longer try to drive through late yellow lights; I just stop and let the light change and then wait for the next green. No big deal. I don’t care about making it through an intersection a few seconds faster anymore. And since I no longer prioritize saving a few seconds at intersections, I have found myself letting more people in – those waiting to pull onto the road. That feels good, and many of those folks seem a bit surprised at someone slowing down to let them in.

I don’t have to worry/stress about speed limits anymore because I don’t speed anymore to save a minute or two for no good reason. That sounds stupid, I know, but every instance of stress reduction adds up; less stress means longer life and better life usually.

I do the same thing at the grocery.

Well, I have always done it, but now I do it even more – letting people in front of me who have fewer items than I do or who look like “they are in a hurry” and could use a few extra minutes gained by someone letting them in front.

And I am so happy that the other day when I almost “blinked” at my Publix and put my empty cart into one of the cartstalls out in the parking lot to save time instead of walking it all the way back into the store. I have never left a cart in a Publix parking lot for a Publix employee to gather. Yep, that feels good and only takes me maybe two minutes.

Since I am no longer in a hurry, I find myself more willing to stop and help someone who looks like they need help for one reason or another. I chat more now – with friends and at times with total strangers because, well because I can, and because I am not worried about “losing time.”

In fact, I posit that I am in fact “gaining time,” gaining quality time instead of losing frivolous time.

The older I get, the more I realize that everything comes full circle. I remember when I hiked the AT that I never took those side trails off the main trail because that would have slowed me down on completing that long hike. I didn’t have time to take those paths less trodden. And what,

just what did I miss because of that? Who did I not meet? What did I not see? What experiences did I deny myself because I was in a hurry to get somewhere when “somewhere” was everywhere around me?

Since I am no longer in a hurry, I think that I value my time even more than before. I am more conscious of myself, my emotions, and what I allow into and out of my life. I have been reading to help me with this. Another buried treasure I think I may have found is how I manage my emotions – anger for example, or other negative emotions. I have read that the typical emotional reaction to a negative stimulus lasts about 90 seconds and then is gone – unless one dwells on it, allows it to continue to be part of one’s “story.”

So now, I am working on that time, those 90 seconds and what I do or not do with the intrusion after that. It is a conscious decision about how I manage myself and managing my time obviously is at the heart of that.

It’s all about time and how we manage it – or if we allow it to manage us.

“It’s (not) time to make a change Just relax, take it easy You’re still young, that’s your fault There’s so much you have to know” -Cat Stevens , “Father and Son”

There’s a Podcast for Everyone!

In his long-awaited return to the airwaves, Caddy partners with his new co-host – and wife! - Donna, to bring his loyal listeners everything they’ve come to expect and love from Cadillac Jack.

Available for free wherever you listen to podcasts.

The Georgia Politics Podcast focuses on all things under the gold dome. Show host Preston Thompson covers the most noteworthy updates to the legislative session of Georgia’s House of Representatives and State Senate.

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 25

PuzzleJunction.com

Dunwoody Crier 12/7/23rossword Across

1

2

3

2nd Place – Signature Page 2nd Place – General Excellence 3rd Place – Page One 3rd Place – Lifestyle Coverage 3rd Place – Feature Writing 3rd Place – Breaking News Writing 3rd Place – Local News Coverage 3rd Place – Serious Column 3rd Place – Humorous Column 2023 Association of Community Publishers 1st Place – Feature Article Layout 1st Place – Self Promotion Classifieds 2nd Place – Educational Column 2nd Place – Entertaining Column 2nd Place – Self Promotion Own Publication

8

9

10

11

12

13

16

1 OK town 5 Mexican coin 19 17 18 9 Tint 21 22 23 20 14 Portend 24 25 26 27 28 15 Grad 16 Box seats 32 33 34 35 29 30 31 17 Dancer 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 19 Adolescent hooter 45 46 43 44 20 Crab cover 50 47 48 49 21 Realized 23 Japanese capital 51 52 53 54 24 Charity 58 59 60 61 55 56 57 27 Rascal 28 Cooking 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 measure (Abbr.)

71 72 73 69 70 29 Heifer 32 Replete 75 76 74 34 Charged particle 78 79 77 36 Domain 38 Extraordinary Copyright ©2023 PuzzleJunction.com 43 Horse controls 9 Plodder 75 Clothed 44 Close 45 Assistance 10 In what way 76 Large (Pref.) inspection 46 Swords 11 Shoelace end 77 Petulant 48 Grotesque 47 Gate 12 Exploits 78 Mexican dish 49 Paycheck 50 Sea eagles 13 Bar, legally 79 Isr. short story (Abbr.)

51 Energy unit 18 Wings writer Oz 53 Hitch 52 Some votes 22 Afr. ruler 55 Separated 54 Singer Bandy 25 Disfigure Down 56 Disturbance 55 Unit of elec.

26 Pilfer 57 Duets current 29 Freshwater fish 59 Parcel of land 1 Wanes 58 Highest (Abbr.)

30 Biscuit 61 Terrestrial 2 Original zoo 60 Elbow bone 31 Low dam keeper lizard 62 Dinner 33 A Bronte 3 Unfounded 64 Cantina pot vegetable 35 Scruff 4 Mason’s Street 66 Component 63 Novice 37 Wager 5 Equality 67 Trademark 65 Spry 39 Farewell 6 Samuel’s 68 Time periods 69 Excuse 40 Snowbank teacher 70 Conjunction 71 Amphibious 7 Doomed (Slang) 41 Late night host 72 Varnish reptile 8 Muscat resident 42 To be (Lat.) 73 Wedding words 74 Old movie

See solution Page 31

AMERICAN LEGION POST 201 EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Po s

Solution on next page

20

t

DANCES & DANCE INSTRUCTION Dances: Friday, Saturday & Sunday Evenings Line Dance Instruction: Monday & Friday Mornings; Wednesday Evening Free Dance Lessons: Thursday Evening (Donations Accepted for Troops & Veterans Services) For Complete Details Visit: www.club201dance.com/calendar

Vets for 76 Y ng

rs ea

SUNDAY, DEC. 31, 7 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE @ POST 201 Enjoy music by the Gold Standard Band and DJ Rich Kopels Tickets: $45 per person. For Details & to Buy Tickets Online Visit www.legion201.org/nye2023.html

GA

2023 Georgia Press Association 1st Place – News Photograph 1st Place – Feature Writing 1st Place – Business Writing 1st Place – Serious Column 1st Place – Food Ad 1st Place – Newspaper Promotion Ad 1st Place – Classifieds Section/page 2nd Place – Page One 2nd Place – Lifestyle Coverage 2nd Place – News Photograph 2nd Place – Local News Coverage 2nd Place – Business Writing 2nd Place – Lifestyle/Feature Column 2nd Place – Food Ad 2nd Place – Newspaper Promotion

7

1 • Alpharett

a,

Delivering Readers Award-Winning Newspapers

6

Ser vi

Serving Metro Atlanta Since 1977 | Hello@AppenMedia.com | 770.442.3278

5 15

14

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

4

201 Wills Road Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-475-9023 www.legion201.org

26 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

OPINION

PRESERVING THE PAST

Bidding a fond farewell to a storied institution The Hunter Christmas Tree Farm on Wood Road in Milton has ceased operations after 33 years serving families from Fulton County, surrounding areas and Atlanta.

Many people BOB MEYERS treasure memories of Columnist annual visits down a gravel road north of Crabapple to the tree farm to cut for themselves the perfect tree or to select one already cut. They entered the 25acre property, drove on a dirt road past a pond of geese and ducks with its sign “Please Feed the Ducks” and up a hill to the parking lot. They came for the trees and to enjoy the special activities. The real Santa always made it a point to be there. Kids enjoyed pony rides, hot chocolate and cookies and making their own tree ornaments from pieces of wood cut from Christmas trees. Hayrides were a treat for the whole family.

In 1968 Gordon Hunter returned to the U.S. from the Vietnam War. He had served three deployments and flew 300 missions as a pilot of a Navy A-4 Skyhawk light bomber. He returned to the U.S. to be a Naval flight instructor at Lemoore Naval Air Station in California. While there, he received a call from Delta Airlines. They needed pilots. Gordon spent the next 30 years flying for Delta.

Brooke Hunter grew up in Southern California. When she was a freshman at UCLA, the university offered the first modern dance degree in the U.S. Brooke majored in dance and was one of the first dancers in the country to receive a formal university degree in dance. Following graduation she taught dance at Fresno State University. When the couple moved to Atlanta she taught dance at Spellman College until retiring to stay at home with her daughters.

In 1983 the couple bought some land in Milton and moved there from Stone Mountain with their four daughters, Janelle, Janine, Brenna and Meghann. Their initial business effort was to raise horses. One day when Gordon was a passenger on a Delta flight, he read an article about raising Christmas trees. “Trees,” he thought “don’t have to be fed every day and don’t have vet bills.” He attended a meeting of the Georgia Christmas Tree Association, then cleared some of his land and planted a few hundred Virginia pine seedlings. He would have to wait four or five years for them to grow, so he planted more trees every

year and added some imported Frazer fir trees. Then he added Leyland cypress trees developed by Clemson University and some Carolina Saphire trees. The business officially opened the day after Thanksgiving in 1990.

The operation started small and gradually grew until in recent years 300 to 500 cars would come to the farm on any Saturday. They sold about 1,500 trees per year during the short season they were open, Monday through Saturday from the day after Thanksgiving to mid-December.

It was a labor-intensive effort.

Every family member had a role, including the daughters and eventually the grandchildren. Grandson, Trevor Tencza, remembers helping customers beginning at age 11.

“They said they wanted to cut their own trees but quickly found that cutting was hard work and turned it over to me.”

Gradually over the past five years daughters, Janelle Tencza, director of preschool gymnastics for Cumming Recreation, and Janine Simpson, owner of Motus Dance Studio in Alpharetta took over the main operation of the business. Brenna Fillerup of Denver and Meghann Gavin, a yoga instructor in Johns Creek, would take part in training teen workers and helping where needed.

Such a large operation requires many hands to make it work. In the early years, the Hunters hired families who needed work. Next, they sponsored the Milton High School soccer team, the rowing team and the rugby club to get workers. As soon as the 15 Hunter grandkids were old enough to work, they became an integral part of the farm. Several of the grandchildren have a dream of restarting the tree farm one day.

It is said that there is a season for everything, and the time came for the Hunter family to say goodbye. The girls are married with responsibilities and their parents are semi-retired.

“It was a very tough decision,” says Gordon. “The farm was a special place and important to so many multigenerations of families.”

When asked if they would do it again, Gordon and Brooke say “absolutely.”

Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION/PROVIDED

Brooke and Gordon Hunter are bailing a treed with plastic netting to make it possible to tie on a car and to make it easier to handle in a house.

LESLIE WATSON/PROVIDED

Parents and children gather in the craft tent for art projects, hot chocolate and cookies.

There was always plenty to do at the Hunter Christmas Tree Farm, all free of charge.

HUNTER FAMILY/PROVIDED

The Hunter daughters took an active part in the operation of the Hunter Christmas Tree Farm, here shown with their parents and Santa himself. From left, are daughters Janelle Tencza, Brenna Fillerup, mom Brooke Hunter, Santa, dad Gordon Hunter, daughters Janine Simpson and Meghann Gavin.

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 27

LOCAL HOME SERVICES GUIDE CONCRETE

CONCRETE

ELECTRICAL

CONCRETE DRIVEWAY SPECIALIST 30 Years Experience

NEW DRIVEWAYS

McKemey concrete

Driveways • Patios • Walls • More Call or Text to

678.648.2010

$150 OFF

Any service over $1500

$250 OFF*

Mention ad for $250 Off. New Driveway. Cannot combine coupons.

Call Us For A FREE Quote

*

Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs

Competitive Pricing Many Local References

BBB A+ Rating

FREE ESTIMATE

TREE SERVICE

Call Us For A FREE Quote

• Highest customer rated

• Lifetime warranty

• Same day service

$30 OFF

Call 678-250-4546 Minimum job is $5,000

678.648.2011

ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC.

TREE SERVICE

ROOF WE

ROOF REPAIR & REPLACE

LEAKS

Call for a FREE Estimate!

770-284-3123

STOP

$200 Leak Repairs or 10% OFF New Roof

$200 leak repair. Up to 8 penetrations. (1-story house, up to 7/12 pitch). Some restrictions apply

99

Any Electrical Work

Serving North Atlanta Since 1983.

Affordable Quality Roofing. Based in Roswell.

Cannot combine with any other coupon.

*Offer expires 10 days after publication

LANDSCAPING

ATTENTION - Double check ad for ALL content. Phone, web, address, coupons, etc. Assume nothing Reply back that ad is approved once ALL ITEMS HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY.

ELECTRICAL

FREE ESTIMATES Call 770-771-5432

Call now for a FREE estimate for any of your lawn/home needs!

Call or Text to

770.450.8188

770.744.2200

Call Us For A FREE Quote

Call Us For A FREE Quote

98

99 • Highest rated by customers • Tree removal and tree trimming

• We save trees too • Certified arborist • Licensed/insured

• Tree Removal • Tree Pruning • Stump Grinding

• Full Insured • Free Mulch • Emergency 24/7

Angie’s List Super Service Award 2011 thru 2017

QUALITY MULCH / COMPOST DELIVERED! Wholesale Price - Order your mulch or compost at wholesale bulk price delivered to your home. Black, Brown, Natural colors. See our website for details.

Save $1 per yard by calling the “special order phone number:” 770-766-5566 for your order!

Thank you for buying local – Bob Delbridge, Owner.

Playground Brown Black Chips Mulch Mulch

Wholesale Wood Products Finestmulch.com

• Landscaping Residential & Commercial • Tree Services • Sprikler Systems • Maintenance & Installation Pine Straw & Mulch

Master Licensed

Residential & Commercial Services

Electrician Call for a FREE Estimate

• Over 25 Years of Experience • Many Local References • Fair Prices for Professional Work • Maintenance & Installation Pine Straw & Mulch • Reliable, Punctual, Honest

$150 OFF jobs $1500 or more

Bobby Albritton

Master Licensed Electrician Bobby Albritton

770-771-5432

Let Us Connect You Alpharetta-Roswell Herald 28,000 households every Thursday Forsyth Herald 17,000 households every Thursday Johns Creek Herald 20,000 households every Thursday Milton Herald 10,000 households every Thursday Dunwoody Crier 18,000 households every Thursday Sandy Springs Crier 12,000 households every Thursday p: 770-442-3278 | f: 770-475-1216 e: advertising@appenmediagroup.com 319 North Main Street | Alpharetta, GA 30009

404-519-8635 Residential & bgalbritton@live.com Commercial Services

10% OFF Any job $500 or more.

678.506.0006

Call for a FREE Estimate!

CLEANING

Leave cleaning, to us... enjoy life’s precious moments!

• Housekeeping • Spring Cleaning •One-time Cleans • Move-in/out Cleaning • After-party Cleaning • Basement Cleaning Reliable & Professional Fully Bonded & Insured Environmentally Friendly Products

678.648.2012

contact@EasyBreezynet.com • EasyBreezyNet.com

28 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

OPINION

GARDEN BUZZ

Plant camellias to create fall and winter color I love the fall season with the changing leaf color and crisp, blue sky, fall days, but I realize many of the beautiful plants that have filled my garden with color soon to fade.

CAROLE MACMULLAN are By early November Guest Columnist and, in some years even in mid or late October, we can expect our first frost. This weather change stops growth, results in the death of the aboveground foliage and signals the perennials to go into their winter sleep and the annuals to end their splash of colorful blooms.

Unfortunately, annuals last one season, die back and never return.

You might ask, what can I add to my late fall and winter garden to replace my summer beauties?

As I look out my bedroom window, I can see hundreds of blossoms on one of my favorite fall blooming plants, a pink, flowering Camellia sasanqua with double blossoms and bright yellow stamen in the center.

There are two species of camellia, C. sasanqua and C. japonica. Camellia sasanqua blossom in late October through November and as soon as the sasanqua stops blooming, you can extend the blooming season by planting a Camellia japonica. What a winning combination in a yard!

Since Camella japonica bloom in December and January and one new cultivar series called ‘April’ into early April when most other plants are not blooming, Camellia japonica are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful additions to any winter garden.

Take a stroll through one of the area nurseries and you will be captivated by the beautiful array of camellias. Among the many varieties recently developed by horticulturists, you can select from white flowers, red flowers, orange flowers, pink flowers, and even find varieties with double blossoms and others with single blossoms. I am happy to report they are deer resistant and immune to most plant diseases. They are also evergreen and their shiny, green leaves add year -round interest and color to your landscape.

Tour your garden and look for a partially sunny location that will be protected from winter winds. In order to flower, camellia like partial sun. Do not expose them to constant, blaring sun. Full sun will cause the leaves to become sunburned! Check the

Camellia sasanqua with flower buds and pink flowers plant tag and make sure you select the appropriate size for your garden space. Most camellias grow 6 to 8 feet tall and wide but some varieties can reach 12 feet tall.

WARNING! Do not prune camellias in the late summer or fall since camellias form flower buds in the late summer. If they are pruned after the flower buds form, the flower buds cannot be replaced and an entire blooming season will be lost!

I went to a local nursery in Milton recently and I could not resist purchasing a Camellia japonica since I was looking for a winter blooming

CAROLE MACMULLAN/PROVIDED

camellia. With so many varieties to select from, the choice was not easy! I finally selected a Camellia japonica ‘Nuccio’s Pearl’. The photo of the flower on the plant tag and the description, “Spectacular, fully double blooms with pure white petals edged with an orchid pink blush” made this plant an irresistible choice. When I returned home, the next step was to provide it with the best possible environment for optimum growth.

Here is my 6-step planting plan for trees or shrubs: 1. Select a Location - take into

Learn more • •

https://www.southernliving.com/garden/camellias https://www.thespruce.com/camellia-flowers-1316021

account the amount of space your tree or shrub needs to occupy now and in the future. Study the plant tag to determine the future size and amount of light needed to maximize growth.

2. Evaluate your soil - In most cases, native Georgia soil needs to be amended with soil conditioner or compost/manure. Remove any large rocks or excessive smaller rocks. Mix the native soil with the compost/ manure to create a finely textured soil mixture to allows the roots to grow and occupy space beyond its root ball. Camellias like slightly acidic, pH 6.5 soil and will benefit from being fertilized with an acidic fertilizer.

Follow instructions on the package.

You can submit a soil sample to your local UGA Extension office to check the current soil pH and nutrients at your planting site.

Caution-avoid fertilizing mature plants after late August since it will stimulate delicate, new growth which is vulnerable to fall and winter frost damage. Use about ½ of the recommended fertilizer when planting in the fall. A root stimulator can also be added to reduce transplant shock.

They contain beneficial soil microbes.

3. Dig a hole - the depth of the root ball and 2x or 3x its circumference.

Add water to the hole and allow it to drain into the subsoil before adding your new tree or shrub.

4. Detangle the Roots - If planting a large tree, remove the burlap and cut away any wire from the root ball.

Gently release the roots, especially roots that are root-bound and roots that are encircling the root ball.

Patience might be required if the roots are firmly contained in the root ball.

Scoring the roots with a sharp knife might be necessary.

5. Add the prepared soil around the tree or shrub, making sure the depth of the hole is correct.

6. Water your new planting and continue to check to see if it needs additional water every day for the first month after planting.

Happy Gardening!

About the author This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Carole MacMullan, a master gardener since 2014 and a Milton resident. She taught biology for 35 years in the Pittsburgh area. In 2012 after moving to Milton, Carole completed the Master Gardener training program and joined the North Fulton Master Gardeners (NFMG) and the Milton Garden Club. Her favorite hobbies are gardening, hiking, biking, and reading. She is a volunteer for Assistance League of Atlanta and is the chair of their Links to Education scholarship program.

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.

THE INK PENN

OPINION

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 29

To me, all books are mysteries at heart I’m a huge fan of mystery novels, and you can always find at least one in the stack of books on my nightstand.

Not all of them, however, are murder mysteries. You’ll find KATHY MANOS PENN the occasional art Columnist heist or crime caper in the mix, and, on occasion, a mystery of an entirely different nature.

“Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett I’ve delayed writing a review of this amazing book because I’ve found it difficult to find words to describe it.

Engrossing, moving, a story I haven’t stopped thinking about since I finished the book a week ago--none of that quite captures how I feel about it.

It’s the tale of a family living on their Michigan cherry farm during the pandemic. The two younger adult daughters have returned to the farm their parents run and are sleeping in their childhood rooms. One is still a college student taking classes long distance. Another is a would-be actor worried her career opportunities may be passing her by. The eldest, who never left, will one day take on the family farm.

Lara, their mother, was once an actor who was renowned for her portrayal of Emily in “Our Town.” She embodied Emily, especially when she played the role at Tom Lake, a regional theater in Michigan.

The daughters turn their confinement together into an opportunity to learn the full story of their mother’s romance with a famous actor. Do we ever think of our parents as having romantic lives? Or do we see them merely as parents? In this book, the girls delve into the romance, perhaps learning more than they bargained for. At the same time, Lara and her husband reflect on their life together.

I’m fond of saying that all books are mysteries at heart. This magical book unveils the mystery behind relationships. As one review says, it “enfolds the nature of storytelling, the evolving dynamics of a family, and the complex interaction between destiny and choice.”

I highly recommend this latest Ann Patchett masterpiece. Don’t just put it on your TBR list. Put it on your “mustread now” list. Can you hear me saying in my command voice, “Get thee to the nearest bookshop and start reading it today?”

Locally Owned and Operated

• Pre-planning • Grief Support • Funeral Services • Veteran Services • Cremation Services

“The Curse of Braeburn Castle: A Scottish Castle Murder Mystery”

by Karen Baugh Menuhin Now, for a murder mystery. This is the third book in Karen Menuhin’s Heathcliff Lennox series, and I found it every bit as entertaining as the first two. Lennox, who detests the first name his mother saddled him with, served as a pilot in WW I. He’s 30ish, good looking and a trifle shy and awkward with the ladies.

As do many amateur sleuths, he stumbles into a murder investigation in Book One and runs afoul of the law.

In this installment, he’s developed an uneasy relationship with the Scotland Yard inspector from the first adventure and been called into help.

Enter a team of archaeologists, a ghost, a castle, and a murder, of course, and you have the perfect ingredients for a murder or two or three. You never know.

His adorable pets — Mr. Fogg the dog and the kitten, Mr. Tubbs — accompany him everywhere and add a delightful dimension to his personality.

Read this cozy mystery for the atmospheric Scottish island setting, the well-plotted mystery and characters you’ll grow to love. I’m adding “Death in Damascus,” Book Four in the series, to my TBR list, and I’m happy to report there are 11 books in the series.

There you have it, two mysteries.

One about the choices we make in life and how they shape us, the other about a dashing WW I veteran on a sleuthing adventure on a remote Scottish island.

Both are entertaining in their own ways.

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

Support Local News appenmedia.com/join

770-645-1414

info@northsidechapel.com www.northsidechapel.com

North Fulton’s Only On-Site Crematory 12050 Crabapple Road • Roswell, GA 30075 CITY OF JOHNS CREEK INVITATION TO BID ITB 24-355 SR 120/ABBOTTS BRIDGE ROAD FROM PARSONS ROAD TO PRIMROSE PARKWAY (GDOT PI #0012788) The City of Johns Creek extends an Invitation to Bid (ITB) to GDOT prequalified construction firms for the above referenced project. The project proposes to add a 16' raised median with 3' inside shoulders, 4' bicycle lanes, and 8 to 10' enhanced sidewalks on both sides of SR 120/Abbotts Bridge Road from Parsons Road to SR 141/Medlock Bridge Road. At the project midpoint, the rock outcroppings will be removed to improve a substandard horizontal curve. This project involves the construction of several walls, longitudinal drainage systems, and the replacement of an existing culvert with a bridge.

Bids will be received electronically via BidNet no later than December 21, 2023 at 2:00PM. Questions are accepted and answered online via BidNet. Deadline for questions is December 14, 2023 at 5:00 PM. A recommended attendance virtual Pre-bid meeting will take place online via Zoom on November 30, 2023 at 10:00 AM ET. Quotes, bids, and RFP’s are electronically managed through the Georgia Purchasing Group by BidNet , our online bidding/vendor registration system. To access the ITB, interested firms/individuals must complete the one-time, no cost registration with BidNet. Firms/individuals registered with BidNet will be able to view and bid on projects posted by the City of Johns Creek.

The City of Johns Creek, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 78 Stat. 252, 42 USC 2000d—42 and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, part 21, Nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such Act, hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, or national origin in consideration for an award .

Additional information related to the submission of bids may be obtained by contacting the Purchasing Division at (678) 512-3233. All Offerors must comply with all general and special requirements of the RFQ information and instructions enclosed herein.

The City of Johns Creek reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive technicalities and informalities, and to make award in the best interest of the City of Johns Creek.

Neil Trust, Purchasing Manager

John Bradberry, Mayor

30 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

ONLINE INCLUDED C a l l t o d a y t o p l a c e y o u r a d 4 7 0 . 2 2 2 . 8 4 6 9 o r e m a i l c l a s s i f i e d s @ a p p e n m e d i a g r o u p . c o m • FA X : 7 7 0 - 4 7 5 - 1 2 1 6

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Full-time

North Fulton Community Charities Mission has been serving individuals and families in the North Fulton area for over 40 years. Our Mission to ease hardship and foster financial stability in our community and our purpose is to provide opportunities for the whole community to thrive. Full Time employees receive benefits on the 1st day following working 30 days.

Benefits include: Medical, dental and vision insurance after 30 days of employment. 403b retirement plan matching offered, Paid Time Off. Short and Long Term insurance and life insurance are provided by employer.

Full Time Donor Operations Lead NFCC is looking for a Donor Operations Lead is a key team member who oversees the donation door process. They may delegate to other staff, volunteers and community service at the Donation Door. This position is the face of NFCC so they are expected provide excellent customer service and treat each donor with a professional and friendly demeanor. The Associate greets and removes donations from vehicles and then sorts the 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 For a complete job description visit https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/ IT Professionals (Johns Creek, GA) Software Engineers, Software Developers, Application Developers, Business Systems Analysts, IT Project Managers. Multiple Positions. Various worksites. May travel to unanticipated client sites nationally. Mail resume to Datum Software Inc. Attn: HRGC, 12000 Findley Road Suite 350 Johns Creek, GA 30097.

OFFICE HELP Crabapple/Crossville. Answering phones, setting appointments for sales crew, scheduling work, applying for permits, phone interfacing with customers; must know DropBox and social media. Accounting & bookkeeping skills a plus. $17-$22/hour based on skills/experience.

Robertbcoombs@gmail.com

Is Your Company Hiring?

Submit your opening at appenmedia.com/hire

North Fulton Community Charities is seeking a Director of Finance and Administration. Full time/Salary.

This person would be responsible for all Finance/ Accounting and Human Resources administration at NFCC. This position reports to the Executive Director of NFCC and works closely with the other Directors to achieve NFCC’s mission. The role requires creating and implementing all policies and procedures related to financial recording and reporting, and creating and maintaining business process documents that support all Finance, Accounting and Human Resources processes. The complete job description is found at: https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/ North Fulton Community Charities Mission has been serving individuals and families in the North Fulton area for 40+ years. Our Mission “To ease hardship and foster financial stability in our community” and our purpose is to provide opportunities for the whole community to thrive. Full Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision) start after 30 days of employment along with a retirement plan / matching offered, Paid Time Off , and employer paid STD and LTD insurance and life insurance.

EEO Statement: NFCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, NFCC does not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disabilities, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis protected by the law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Part-time REAL ESTATE ASSISTING: Healthy, hard-working, very tech-savvy lady, good organizing skills. 1-5 or 6pm. 2-3 days/week. My Johns Creek home. Also willing to help with home organization. Salary approx. $15+/hour based on performance & work accomplished. Have own reliable transportation. 678-524-3881 & send resume: realestatetreasure@msn.com

Deadline to place a classified ad is Thursdays by 4pm

Driveway

Roofing

$250 OFF NEW DRIVEWAY!

ROOF LEAKING?

Mention this ad. Concrete driveway specialists. Driveways, Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs. A+ BBB rating. FREE ESTIMATE. Call Rachael at 678-250-4546 to schedule a FREE Estimate. 30 years of experience. ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC. Please note we do have a minimum charge on accepted jobs of $4,500.

Call us for roof repair or roof replacement. FREE quotes. $200 OFF Leak Repairs or 10% off New Roof. Affordable, quality roofing. Based in Roswell.

Serving North Atlanta since 1983. Call to schedule FREE Quote: 770-284-3123.

Christian Brothers Roofing

Tree Services

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

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

Flooring PHILLIPS FLOORING Hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile installation and repairs.

We do tile floors, showers, tub surrounds and kitchen back-splashes. Re-grouting is also available. Call 678887-1868 for free estimate.

Gutters AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS

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

Pinestraw

COMPLETE TREE SERVICES Appen-Rated 98 Text or Call us for a FREE quote appointment.

Tree removal, Pruning, Stump grinding, Free mulch. Fully insured. Emergency 24/7.

770-450-8188

Cemetery GREENLAWN ROSWELL: 2 plots on picturesque lakeview hillside. Market price, $9000 each. Bargain priced at $5000 each! 770-475-7307

Bargains/Musical

PINESTRAW, MULCH Delivery/installation available.

Firewood DULCIMER: available. Licensed, insured. Angels of Earth Excellent condition! $120. 678-455-7376 Pinestraw and Mulch. 770-831-3612

Home Improvement Heritageconstructionga.com Give the gift of: • New Deck • Wood Repair • Hardwood flooring • Window/Doors 678-906-7100

Consulting Stop giving your $ to your kids/grandkids!

Let us teach your children how to start a small side biz.

Income4u.biz 678-699-8161

Astrology MIRIA SPIRITUAL PSYCHIC READINGS helps in all problems of life. Call for your reading 407-466-2615

Your North Atlanta News and Podcast Source AppenMedia.com

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | December 7, 2023 | 31

Advertise your ITEMS TO SELL in the newspaper and you too can say...

NATIONAL ADVERTISING Health & Fitness VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00.

100% guaranteed.

24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Español Dental Insurance - Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

Covers 350 procedures. Real in-surance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit!

1-855-526-1060 www. dental50plus.com/ads #6258

ail 2.8469 or em om .c Call 470.22ap ia ed nm pe classifieds@

Attention oxygen therapy users!

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

Home Services Aging Roof? New Homeowner?

Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work.

Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091 Water damage cleanup & restoration: A small amount of water can lead to major damage and mold growth in your home.

Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your fami-ly and your home’s value!

Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809

Become a published author.

We want to read your book!

Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920.

Consultation, production, promotion & Prepare for power outages distribution. Call for free author’s today with a Generac Home guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit Standby Generator. Act now dorranceinfo.com/ads to re-ceive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 + $14.95 High Speed Internet. today to schedule a free quote. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR It’s not just a generator. It’s a Included, Free Voice Remote.

Some restrictions apply. Promo power move.

Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-479-1516 Eliminate gutter cleaning forever!

LeafFilter, the most advanced Safe Step. North America’s #1 debris-blocking gutter protec-tion. Walk-in tub.

Comprehensive Schedule free LeafFilter estimate lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line today. 20% off Entire Purchase. installation and service. Now 10% Senior & Military Discounts. featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing Call 1-833-610-1936 available. 1-855-417-1306 BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable MobileHelp, America’s premier prices - No payments for 18 mobile medical alert system. months!

Lifetime warranty & Whether you’re home or away. For professional installs. Senior & safety & peace of mind. No long Military Discounts available. Call: term contracts! Free brochure!

855-761-1725 1-888-489-3936

Miscellaneous

value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809 value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809

Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet. Android tablet free w/oneinternet no matter where you time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Maxsip Telecom! 1-833-758-3892 Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Wesley Financial Group, LLC Installation. Call 866-499-0141 Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971 Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once.

HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.)

No contract or hidden fees!

Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405 Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on vet bills? Physicians Mutual In-surance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-844-774-0206 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/ads Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707 Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available.

Guaranteed to last a lifetime!

Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.)

1-833-370-1234 Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. Limited time, we’re waiving all installation costs! (Additional terms apply.

Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 12/31/23 Call 1-844-501-3208

It’s not just a generator.

It’s a power move.™ Receive a free 7-year warranty with qualifying purchase* – valued at $735.

Call 866-643-0438 to schedule your free quote!

YOUR BATHROOM. YOUR BATHROOM. YOUR WAY. BATHROOM. YOUR WAY. INAS LITTLE AS YOUR WAY. AS IN AS LITTLE IN AS LITTLE AS

ONE DAY

ONE ONE Waiving All DAY Installation Costs DAY SPECIAL OFFER

*Addt’l terms apply. Offer subject CALL NOW to change and vary by dealer.

Ends 12/31/23.

CALL NOW

866.753.9521 CALL NOW 866.753.9521 866.753.9521

EMAIL PROOF TO:

Solution E B B S C A R P A P A R T

N O A H

I D L E

D P E A L E L E R I L L A L M S S A T O W R E A R E A E I N S O R T C U L E R G U L T M P E A T Y R A L I B I C E R U N T E S T Y

S U N K

O S H A D E M L O G E S O W L E T A N E W E D O I M P T S P E I O N M A R K A B L E I D E P E E S E R N S L I S Y E A S M O E U L N A O A G I L E L L I G A T O R L A D M E G A A C O A M O S

WANT MORE? FOLLOW US ON facebook.com/JohnsCreekHerald

CADILLAC JACK MY SECOND ACT New Show, Same Ride.

APPENMEDIA.COM/PODCASTS

®

*Terms and Conditions apply.

SPECI OFFER SPECI OFFER

Wai Wai Inst Inst Cost Cost

*Add’l term to change a *Add’l term Ends 9/30/2 to change a Ends 9/30/2

32 | December 7, 2023 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE NOW THROUGH DECEMBER!

Custom Window Treatments | Custom Bed Coverings | Unique Decorative Accessories Eclectic Home Furniture (Name Brands) | Distinctive Area Rugs

25% OFF

Christmas and Accessories

2015

In-Home Design Services Custom Window Treatments

30%-40% OFF Special Orders

2021

2022

Visit My Website at www.PaulMartinInteriors.com 920 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 100, Cumming, GA 30041 | 678-947-4899

2023