Johns Creek clears path for new Fire Station 63
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry and public safety officials led a groundbreaking ceremony for the rebuild of Fire Station 63, the city’s oldest fire station.
The new 14,675-square-foot facility, to house the Police Substation, will be located at 9880 Brumbelow Road. The 2.11-acre site is a halfmile from the existing Station 63 on Old Alabama Road.
The replacement will include a 13,891-square foot station house and a 766-square-foot stor -
age facility as well as two double-depth bays for trucks, spacious work areas, a kitchen and dining room, day room facilities, bunk rooms and an apparatus bay.
Built in 1983, Station 63 is the oldest fire station serving Johns Creek and surrounding neighborhoods. It was inherited by the city when it took over fire services in 2007.
Completion for the rebuild is slated for summer 2026.
— Amber Perry
Art Center recognized with Governor’s Award
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Art Center was one of 10 members of the arts community in the state honored with the Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities.
The award recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly contributed to Georgia’s civic and cultural vitality through excellence and service to the arts and humanities.
On Dec. 5, Gov. Brian Kemp and first lady Marty Kemp announced the awards, presented in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities. The program is in its 13th year.
Amid a competitive nomination process, the community’s collective effort placed The Art Center on the list.
"We are deeply humbled and honored to receive the Governor's Award for the Arts and Humanities,” The Art Center Executive Director Stephanie Donaldson said. “This recognition is not only a celebration of our 28-year journey but a testament to the power of creativity, culture, and human expression.”
Donaldson said the award shows the importance of supporting and amplifying the voices of artists who contribute to the “rich fabric of our society.”
“We express our sincere appreciation to the Georgia Council for the Arts as their support has enhanced our ability to serve our growing community,” she said. “Thank you to all of those who have inspired us along the way and continue to nurture our creative spirit.”
— Amber Perry
From left, The Art Center Executive Director Stephanie Donaldson and Curator/Program Director Althea Foster stand at the entrance to the facility on Abbotts Bridge Road. The Art Center was honored with the Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities this year.
AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK/PROVIDED
Johns Creek Recreation and Parks Director Erica Madsen, Police Chief Mark Mitchell, City Councilwoman Stacy Skinner, Mayor John Bradberry and Fire Chief Chris Coons break ground on the new site for Fire Station 63 at 9880 Brumbelow Road on Dec. 17.
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POLICE BLOTTER
Police cite Norcross man for fleeing at traffic stop
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police arrested a 23-year-old Norcross man Dec. 15 who had fled from police during a traffic stop in October.
Police said they had pulled the suspect over at around 3 a.m. after noticing his headlights weren’t on and asked the suspect for his driver’s license. But, the suspect said he left it at home and provided police with a name and date of birth, according to the incident report.
Police said they smelled marijuana from the vehicle and asked the suspect to step out, but the suspect repeatedly refused. As police called for an additional unit and began to open the door, the suspect sped off, the report says.
Police were able to identify the suspect and obtained warrants for fleeing or attempting to elude police officers, giving false information to police and operating without headlights required by law.
On Dec. 15, police were dispatched to the Gwinnett County Jail to transport the suspect to the North Fulton County Jail.
— Amber Perry
Man arrested for damage to vehicles, businesses
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police arrested a 43-year-old Johns Creek man Dec. 9 after multiple people reported that he had thrown rocks at businesses and vehicles in a shopping center on Douglas Road.
An employee at one business told police the suspect also harassed her, according to the incident report.
Police located the suspect, who was running through a nearby intersection.
The incident report lists thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to vehicles and commercial property.
Police charged the suspect with four counts of criminal damage to property in the second degree as well as two counts of criminal trespass and damage to property, then transported him to the Fulton County Jail.
— Amber Perry
Johns Creek woman arrested for shoplifting
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police arrested a 45-year-old Johns Creek woman Dec. 15 after repeatedly shoplifting from Target on State Bridge Road.
Police were dispatched to the store Dec. 8, where a loss prevention employee provided a file containing seven document incidents of suspect shoplifting. The theft occurred from August to December, resulting in a total loss amounting to hundreds of dollars.
Police obtained seven warrants for theft by shoplifting and days later, arrested the suspect after officers located her in a Kroger parking lot on Holcomb Bridge Road.
Police transported the suspect to the North Fulton County Jail.
— Amber Perry
Manager faces charges of theft from business
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police investigated a report of a theft by an employee at a Canton Street restaurant Dec. 6.
Officers were dispatched to the restaurant where a woman told them a manager had stolen about $1,460 in November and December, according to an Alpharetta police report.
The woman said the manager had been fired that morning. She said the 28-year-old Roswell man had written a statement saying he had stolen the money.
The man allegedly told officers he had been borrowing the restaurant’s deposits since March after falling behind on rent. Until November, he had paid back the deposits before the restaurant noticed they were missing, he said.
The manager was unable to repay the money in November, he said.
Police obtained a warrant for the man, charging him with misdemeanor theft by taking, less than $1,500.
Jon Wilcox
Roswell man reports being held at knifepoint
ROSWELL, Ga. — Police are investigating an armed robbery after a 35-year-old Roswell man reported being held at knifepoint while waiting at the entrance to Roswell Creek Lane Dec. 9.
Officers said they were dispatched to the apartment complex around 8 a.m. in reference to a suspicious person call. After arriving, officers said a male wrapped in a blanket approached them.
Using translation services, officers said the man told them he had been robbed a knife point the prior evening.
The victim said he was waiting for his friends to get off work at Warsaw Road and Roswell Creek Lane around 12:30 a.m. when an unidentified suspect approached him and put a knife to his stomach area.
The victim said the suspect stole all his belongings, including his clothes, shoes, cellphone and cash, totaling around $900.
Officers said they transported the victim to headquarters for an interview before picking up clothes from his apartment and taking him back home.
The report indicates the investigation remains active.
Hayden Sumlin
Gladiators pull ahead of Hornets for region win
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga — Johns Creek boys basketball team improved to 7-4 on the season after a win over Roswell (now 4-6) Dec. 13 at Roswell High School. The Gladiators won every stat except blocks, and the Hornets were not able to improve their shooting percentages enough to overcome an at one point 13-point lead. The final score was 70-58.
The Hornets started in a hole of 0-13 in the first quarter but then proceeded to go on a 7-2 run, improving the score to 7-15 by the beginning of the second. The next quarter saw the Hornets outscoring the Gladiators by six points, whittling Johns Creek’s lead down to two points.
Roswell senior guard Ryan Koch headlined the Hornets’ scoring effort with 22 points, nine rebounds, four assists, three steals and a block.
The Gladiators settled back into their lead in the second half, outscoring the Hornets by seven points in the third quarter. Two steals and a block by Johns Creek helped to quiet the Hornets offensively in that time, and an eight point third-quarter scoring surge by junior Ben Uhde propelled the Gladiators’ motor.
Johns Creek junior Tatum Holmes went off for a game-high 25 points, eight rebounds and three steals. A three-level scorer, Holmes had three 3-pointers, several midrange makes and an alley-oop from junior guard Christian Cooper.
Cooper notched 18 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals. Junior Anthony Poller was another member of the supporting cast with 10 points, four rebounds, three assists and the Gladiators’ only block of the game.
Johns Creek head coach Tanner Burnett discussed what went well for the Gladiators against Roswell.
“I think [the match] went how we wanted it to, we executed our game plan,” he said. “We were able to get out and run a little bit and that allowed us to see a few more go in the basket. Anytime you can go on the road and get a win in the region that’s always a good thing.”
Holmes agreed.
“Running out in transition made our win today,” he said. “Playing hard on defense, talking on defense were huge for us today.
PHOTOS BY: ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA
Johns Creek junior guard Christian Cooper hits a step-back to create his shot at Roswell High School Dec. 13.
Johns Creek junior guard Isaiah Johnson (right) picks up Roswell senior Ryan Koch on defense at Roswell High School Dec. 13.
Alpha Loop showcases brand new trail section
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Community members celebrated the Alpha Loop’s newest section Dec. 13 and 14 at the inaugural Lights on the Loop event.
At least 400 people attended the free event, enjoying hot chocolate, donuts, a festive atmosphere and each other’s company. Hosted by the Alpha Loop Foundation and Awesome Alpharetta, the event took place on the trail’s recently completed 1-mile section between Old Milton Parkway and Northwinds Summit.
The section was the perfect setting for the event with its tunnel and 12-foot-wide bridge, said Karen Richard, foundation board member, Alpharetta resident and former City Council member.
“It was tremendous,” Richard said. Lights on the Loop attracted a wide variety of visitors, including families, residents from Alpharetta and nearby cities, seniors on bicycles and high school students wearing Christmas-themed pajamas.
The foundation’s mission is to provide education about the trail and advance its progress, hosting 26 public outreach events in the past 16 months.
During Lights on the Loop, the foundation again offered information about how far the path has come and where it’s going.
“The line for the hot chocolate was about as long as the line for people wanting to talk about the map,” Richard said.
The Alpha Loop’s miles of pathways will connect four major activity centers — Avalon, Alpharetta City Center, Northwinds Office Park and the North Point Economic District.
It will offer unique opportunities for visitors to exercise, socialize, enjoy nature and travel, said Janet Rodgers, president and CEO of
Awesome Alpharetta.
“This makes it easy for people to get exercise and enjoy the beautiful setting of the wooded areas and the office spaces and homes along the walk,” Rodgers said. “It is a well maintained and beautiful path to ride bikes, run, walk and just stroll with family and friends.”
Currently, four connecting sections are being designed to improve connectivity with existing parts. The foundation also is seeking to enhance sections with public art installations and wayfinding signage.
One critical section, a pathway that will connect the Big Creek Greenway with the trail’s downtown sections, has received grant funding for its design, Richard said.
Richard said she looks forward to the Alpha Loop’s progress in 2025 and beyond. She and her 2-year-old yellow Labrador Gus get out onto the
path about five times a week.
The walks are a great opportunity to meet neighbors while enjoying the outdoors, she said. On their strolls, Richard enjoys the people watching, and Gus loves dog watching.
“People on the Alpha Loop, they always look you in the eye,” she said. “And they always smile.”
KAREN RICHARD/PROVIDED
From left, Alpha Loop Foundation board members Karen Richard, John Goss, Rony Ghelerter, Alex Sutton, Andy Christiansen and Matt Parker stand in front of the newly completed tunnel on the trail during Lights on the Loop.
Roswell girls win close game against Johns Creek
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga — The Roswell girls basketball team improved to 3-1 in region (4-5 on the season) after a second half comeback against Johns Creek (now 2-8) Dec. 13. The final score was 42-38.
Roswell head coach DJ Moore reflected on the Hornets’ season and the flow of the game against the Gladiators.
“We played a tough schedule at the beginning of the season, but it helped us grow and now we’re sitting 3-1 in region,” he said. “Tonight we gave them a lot of confidence early on and got in a dogfight, but I love how resilient our girls are. They found a way to make a difference at halftime and I was really proud of how hard they worked.”
The first quarter was an even matchup, the score tied at 11 points going into the second period. The Gladiators’ only players to make a field goal in the game, senior Savannah Jenkins and junior Grace Landeck, got to work quickly, putting up 11 and 23 points in the game, respectively. Landeck went three-for-four from deep and six-for-six from the free-throw line. Jenkins had a well-rounded game with nine rebounds, one assist and two steals.
Gladiators forward Emily Jackson also sunk four free throws, and key defensive plays by freshman Meredith Evans and senior Samy Chandler helped the Gladiators stay in the game.
Landeck, who was named player of the game by MaxPreps, hit back-toback 3-pointers in the second quarter, prompting a defensive adjustment from the Hornets that forced Landeck to go cold until the fourth quarter. Johns Creek ended the first half up five points on the Hornets.
Roswell senior guard Eve Buckley went eight-for-ten from the free-throw
Roswell senior guard Eve Buckley takes a free
free-throw line against Johns Creek.
line, with eight second-half points that boosted the Hornets to an 11-5 run in the third quarter and maintained their lead into the fourth. Buckley tallied 14 total points, five rebounds, three assists and five steals in the win.
Roswell junior Alex Gonda came up with two big steals in the fourth quarter, crediting her team’s defense allowing her to be in the right place.
Gonda notched 12 points, five rebounds, two assists and two blocks against Johns Creek.
“I’m glad we found our grit to get after it but definitely wasn’t our best game,” she said. “We had a great
Roswell junior Alex Gonda (left) is locked in defending Johns Creek junior forward Paige Camiolo at Roswell High School Dec. 13. The Hornets’ defense clamped down in the fourth quarter, allowing Roswell to secure the win, 42-38.
PHOTODS BY: ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA
throw at Roswell High School Dec. 13. Buckley went eight-for-ten from the
Suit against Martin’s Landing directors alleges misconduct in $1.1 million vote
By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — The owner of the Lake House at Martin’s Landing is suing more than a dozen homeowners association board directors over how they allegedly conducted a vote on a $1.1 million special assessment.
The assessment, for renovations to the 50-year-old neighborhood pool, will charge nearly $600 to each of the community’s some 1,900 homeowners, according to documents provided to Appen Media.
Critics of the proposed project say it poses an environmental issue, as the pool lies just a few feet away from the Chattahoochee River. They also urge the importance of staying privy to association dealings within your neighborhood.
The Nov. 1 filing to the Fulton County Superior Court alleges board directors, as well as the property manager, “aimed to mislead and to ensure their favored outcome on what was supposed to be a community association vote by members.”
The firm 29th Street Capital filed the suit “on behalf of” Martin’s Landing Foundation, Inc., the managing nonprofit of the neighborhood.
The suit alleges the group distributed a notice of the special assessment that “misrepresented” the terms in the association’s documents. It also says they abolished members’ proxy voting, failed to establish a quorum and “unlawfully” handed uncast member votes to board representatives.
The board did not respond to requests for comment from Appen Media. Their position here comes from documents provided to the newspaper by residents.
Scott Crawford, who attended the October meeting where the special assessment had been passed, said the defendants were attempting to combine two different types of voting, and one type, member voting, requires proxies.
“We told them many times that what they were doing was against the bylaws,” Crawford said.
The bylaws, reviewed by Appen Media , outline voting types, however it’s unclear whether a combination is acceptable.
Measuring the vote
The notice, which had been sent out to homeowners in August, explained the vote was by representative s, rather than individual homeowners, and that proxy voting would not be permitted.
It also said homeowners could attend the in-person meeting to cast ballots as a “courtesy.”
Martin’s Landing is an mix of hous-
ing, featuring single-family detached homes, townhomes and apartments. It has a dozen sub-associations, and each is allotted two representatives.
According to the Notice of Approved Assessment, the board said the 2/3 quorum was established with more than 1,400 votes in favor of the project and 455 votes against it.
The issue at hand, for the plaintiffs, is whether those votes are valid.
Of the some 1,400 in favor of the special assessment, more than 1,100 were cast by representatives.
If voting directly by member, the association bylaws say that proposed action requires the approval of 2/3 of all members in good standing, and that day, 435 homeowners voted directly.
“It was kind of like a political move,” Crawford said. “‘We're voting to approve this special assessment. We're going to give you a member vote just to say we've got your input, but it really doesn't matter because we're voting by representatives to pass this anyway.”
Technically, the board could have moved forward without any vote at all, considering the $1.1 million special assessment is less than the combined total of fees due each year.
But, Crawford said that would have been “political suicide.”
“They could have passed this special assessment by themselves in the boardroom, and we would have just had to lump it,” he said. “But, the fact that they did give us a vote, well, that means you got to follow the rules of a vote, right?”
Environmental impact
While litigation is pending, the board intends to move forward with the repair and collect the fees as planned, according to an email signed by the board.
“There is no current court order in place prohibiting the Association from collecting the special assessment,” the board writes. “You will be happy to know that many Owners have already paid the assessment in full, and others are paying in accordance with the approved payment schedule or an acceptable payment plan.”
The board said Martin’s Landing Foundation is under contract to perform the “necessary” repairs as soon as possible and is “working closely” with the City of Roswell on the permitting process.
The city had previously denied the plans, and as of press time, has not responded to an Appen Media request for a status update.
In an email forwarded to Appen Media, city staff said a land disturbance permit would be required before a
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JANUARY
City Calendar & Events! 2025
January 1
New Year’s Day
City offices closed
January 7
Planning Commission Meeting
City Hall - 7 p.m.
January 9
Arts, Cultural, & Entertainment Committee
City Hall - 6:30 p.m.
Public Participation Meeting
City Hall - 7 p.m.
January 13
City Council Work Session
City Hall - 5 p.m.
January 13
City Council Meeting
City Hall - 7 p.m.
January 15
Recreation and Parks Advisory Meeting
City Hall - 6 p.m.
January 20
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
City offices closed
January 23
Public Information Open House
Medlock Bridge Rd. at McGinnis Ferry Rd.
Intersection Improvement Project
City Hall - 6 p.m.
January 24-26
City Council Retreat Huntsville, AL
February 1
Lunar New Year
Heisman Field (Across from the Atlanta Athletic Club) Noon to 4 p.m.
What I’m thankful for this Christmas
I write a very long Christmas letter every yearlike typically 3,000 words or so. Like for the past 45 yearsish. Mainly for family friends who at one point were interested in how Appens and Appen kids were doing. - But now most of those family friends - mostly my parent’s friend’shave died so my list is down by half - at least.
Earlier this month I decided not to write one this year - maybe not again. So, maybe this end-of-year column can replace my Christmas letter - but 500 words instead of 3,000.
Lots of words about being thankful - grateful.
I am thankful for friends in their late 80’s - now sola - who are busy redoing their kitchen or signing up for physical therapy because she wants to improve her core. I am thankful both still play a mean game of Rummikub and get angry when they lose. I like their grit; they set good examples for all.
I think I will be thankful for those teachers at Alpharetta Elementary who were there when my now adult kids - Hans, Amelia, and Carl went there - and are now volunteering or substituting back at Alpharetta Elementary after all those years …. So now my grandchildren Phoebe, Leo, and Annie Moon get to know them toosomething about continuity and people who simply care. Thank you and, while AE is on my mind, I miss Principal Jackie Littlefield, still. Why do the good die so young?
I think I want to say thank you for
anyone and everyone who brings light to other people’s lives - in any way. And an extra big hug to folks who have grace - like, any kind of grace. I am a huge fan of grace. I don’t have a bucket list but if I did, one of the top ones on the list would be to find more grace. 2024, hummm. It is a good year for re-programming your brain to find positive thoughts about somethinglike this year - that surely had a deficit of healthy positive activity / events - like working crossword puzzles or Wordle in order to improve your mind / memory. Finding positive stuff about 2024 - quite the brain tease / exercise. Come on Ray, you can do it. Grandchildren - young ones at least - can make any year a good year; they made mine. Most children live in a state of grace - and spread it just by their presence alone. Same deal with petsespecially our dogs.
Taylor Swift - sure, I’ll find grace in Taylor. Not exactly sure why but I think it’s there.
Roger and Rafael - sure, both of them as well. Grace, class, integritylight in the darkness. Bravo for them.
All those neighbors and emergency folks who acted when the chips were down for all those who were in harm’s way from this year’s weather disasters. Hard to not see the grace in their actions - and in their hearts.
The light is there if one is able to tune out the distractions - the noisethe selfishness - the fear.
Family, friends, community. Family, friends, community. Maybe 2024 has taught us where to look - where to live more. Maybe a “bad” year has a silver lining, and we just need to focus and breath, and believe in each other more.
Maybe that’s it. I think I’ll go with that thought. How about you?
Another stress test in the waiting room
PAT FOX Managing Editor pat@appenmedia.com
Early this year, I recounted an experience with my cardiologist in which I was made to wait nearly an hour beyond my appointment time to see the doctor.
It was a 25-mile drive, and I’d arrived 10 minutes early to unravel any snags in paperwork which had already been completed and verified online.
My frustration made the visit almost worthless. There is no medical device that adjusts to accurately record my vitals after I’ve endured a long wait. With limited time on earth, must we spend it reading Field and Stream on office furniture?
Airlines are required by law to report delays, and they are rated each year on their performance. Doctors are not.
There is no authoritative database anywhere that tracks a doctor’s
adherence to seeing patients on time. Healthcare surveys suggest some practices double-book appointments or slice visit times so thin that any in-depth consultation creates a glacial turnover rate in waiting rooms.
And it extends beyond that.
A 2022 study by Merritt Hawkins, a division of staffing firm AMN Healthcare, showed that simply scheduling an appointment with a doctor averages 26 days – up 8 percent from its last survey in 2017. The survey covered 15 major U.S. cities and included physicians in family medicine, dermatology, obstetrics/ gynecology, orthopedic surgery and cardiology.
A more recent study by the Consumer Choice Center reported the average wait for a GP appointment in the United States in 2023 was around 21 days. That’s 2 to 10 times longer than in many European countries.
So, I took my cardiologist’s advice from last year and booked a morning appointment for this year. It didn’t work – 40 minutes in the waiting
room, then, after a tech took my weight, blood pressure and heart rate, another 15 minutes of isolation in the examination room.
At that point, I walked out, went to the checkout and asked to see a different doctor. The receptionist was happy to comply, except I’d have to wait till January for an appointment.
A nurse standing nearby caught my attention. I turned to her and expressed my frustration, drawing on every ounce of civility left in my body.
And, immediately, we connected. It was not love. It was empathy. It was shared frustration. It was…OK, love – “filling the heart so full of radiance that it overflows upon the outward world.”
“For heaven’s sake,” I said, “if I have to spend all this time sitting around, the least you can do is give me an EKG while I’m waiting.”
“Come with me,” she said.
And so, I got an EKG. I never knew a patient could order an EKG. Who knew?
When the doctor finally entered,
he apologized profusely for my wait, looked at the EKG and declared my heart as strong as an ox. He then checked all the major veins and arteries for any blockages. He went over my medications and wrote an order for a heart CT scan.
He really is a nice guy, this cardiologist, and I always regret my impatience.
“Sorry for my attitude, but my wife has a doctor’s appointment in a couple of hours, and I didn’t want to be late for that,” I said. “I don’t want to lose you,”
“I promise you, I get here at 7 every morning,” he said. “And, it just gets away from you.”
This is a conundrum. Doctors are not lazy. They’re just stretched thin. My GP says he stays up until midnight most days filling out paperwork.
The Association of American Medical Colleges predicts the United States could face a shortage of up to 139,000 physicians by 2033. About half of those will be for primary care.
Stay healthy, my friends.
RAY APPEN
Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com
Wednesday
9:30 – 11:00AM
11695 Johns Creek Pkwy 1st Floor Meeting Area
Come prepared with business cards and your 45-second pitch about your business! From these meetings, you will form relationships, create business opportunities, and share information with Johns Creek Business professionals.
11695 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
A part of our mission is to help businesses in Johns Creek connect, grow, and thrive. One of the ways we fulfill this mission is by helping business professionals grow their networks. All are welcome to the following networking opportunities for little to no cost, so please join us! The schedule is subject to change so to stay up to date with all the information visit the Calendar on our website or give us a call.
Men’s
Happy Hour Networking
4th Thursday of the month. Check calendar on website for all details.
This event allows male professionals in the Johns Creek area to expand their referral network. So come on join your fellow gentlemen friends – and make new ones- at this monthly event! Chamber membership is not required and there is no admission for this event, just pay your own tab.
Women’s Networking Connection
4th Thursday of the month. Check calendar on website for all details.
Our Women’s Networking Connection is a great platform for women in business to come together to build strong connections with other businesswomen. Whether you own, run, or have a women targeted business you’ll enjoy great networking, great referrals, and great conversations!
CHICKS IN CHARGE
Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist
Insist on the
BEST
Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.
He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.
Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 22 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.
Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.
Great news in Pediatric Melanoma
Isn’t it wonderful to hear that you are making a difference? Well, you are! All that hard work that you put in with children or grandchildren getting them to protect themselves from the Sun and wear sunscreen is making a difference!
A recent study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) of more than 76,000 pediatric melanomas confirmed a decline in melanoma incidence over the last ten years in children ages five and older. That decrease in melanoma is likely due to the measures you and your family members have taken during those years and during the prior ten to fifteen years when you worked so hard to protect them from the Sun. And it is hard work. I have personally braved and endured myself. We all know what it’s like: The child in question seems to morph into a wet fish wriggling out of your grasp. Your slippery sunscreen hands don’t make it any easier! The rascal gets free, and you chase him or her down. Your drink gets knocked over. Sand gets on chairs, in bags and in other places you don’t want sand to get. It’s a task somewhere between roping a calf and getting a cat to take a bath. Grueling, grasping, groaning, finally it’s complete! The child may go and play. And in an hour and a half, you get to repeat the process all over again!
We know sun safety isn’t easy. What dermatologists ask of parents and grandparents is not a simple task. Is it really all worth it?
Yes! The results are in, and they are inspiring. This very encouraging study in the JAAD strongly suggests that all our hard work is paying off.
For children ages 10-14, there was a greater than 30% drop in melanoma between 2002 and 2020.
For children ages 5-9, there was a greater than 60% drop in melanoma between 2014 and 2020.
Interestingly, a small increase in pediatric melanoma cases for children ages four and younger supports that what we are doing is making a difference. Older children who develop melanoma are much
more likely to have developed skin cancer from sunburns and sun exposure. Babies and children under 4 years old who develop melanoma are NOT likely to have developed melanoma from sun exposure. (But they still need to be protected from the Sun). Instead, genetics, a chance unlucky mutation or non-sun related environmental factors are more likely to be responsible for melanoma in the extremely young. They simply haven’t had much time to be damaged by the Sun. The fact that melanoma in those ages four and under slightly increased but melanoma in those five and older dramatically decreased makes the claim even more credible that our efforts at sun protection are working. Good news in pediatric melanoma is likely great news for these individuals’ entire lives. Our bodies have proteins called “mismatch repair enzymes” whose job it is to fix DNA that has been damaged by ultraviolet rays from the Sun. Unfortunately, these enzymes don’t do a perfect job, and many mutations in our DNA are with us for life. Our entire lives, these mutations increase the chance that we develop skin cancer. Dermatologists have tools including prescription creams and in office treatments that kill pre-cancers and reduce one’s sun damage, but some of the Sun damage from childhood and adulthood is always with us. The fact that pediatric melanoma has plummeted in the last ten years gives us great hope that these same individuals will develop far fewer cancers as adults as well.
When you protect your loved one as a child, you are likely helping protect him or her for life.
The next time you wonder, “is it worth it?...Should I really use that sunscreen, that UPF 50 sun shirt or take on the herculean task of wrangling a kiddo channeling his or her inner feral cat?,” the answer is YES. You are making a difference. And we only see these wonderful results at the population level in a published study because of many, many daily actions at the individual level – through the genuine care and love of many, many parents and grandparents who love their family and showed it through their actions. Keep up the great work!
Dr. Brent Taylor
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C
Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta
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My favorite reads of 2024
Once again, I’m emulating Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and a host of others by providing a list of my favorite books of the year. And once again, these are the favorite books I “read,” not necessarily those published in 2024. They’re in no particular order except for the three at the top of the list. They are very different books, but all stayed with me for days after I finished them.
“The Comfort of Ghosts” by Jacqueline
Winspear
This is the eighteenth and final book in the Maisie Dobbs series. Winspear says she always knew the series would end with World War II, and she has done a masterful job of capturing what the two world wars did to England and her beloved characters. She brings alive not only the physical devastation, but also the loss of two generations of young men and the lasting emotional trauma it leaves on those who survived. In this final book, she brings us a more vulnerable Maisie, one who is still helping and protecting others, but who is also reflecting on her life. It may well be the best in the series, but I do recommend you start with the very first one, “Maisie Dobbs.”
“The Seven Year Slip” by Ashley Poston
This book was not only named a New York Public Library Best Book of 2023, but also a most anticipated book by “Entertainment Weekly,” “Harper’s Bazaar,” and “Real Simple” magazines.
Could it possibly be that good? Trust me. It is.
It’s a story of grief, of love, of loss, and friendship. Clementine is dealing with the death of her beloved aunt, the charming adventurer who took her on trips to faraway lands and enriched her life in so many ways.
It’s also a romance with a bit of fantasy thrown in. It’s whimsical yet serious and portrays Clementine’s grief in a way that makes you feel it.
“The Bright Sword” by Lev Grossman
I am a huge King Arthur fan and when I saw a review of this book, I had to get it. Warning: This is not your typical King Arthur story. It is set wholly in Arthur’s time but has a modern tone. If profanity bothers you, you’ll want to avoid this book. If the conflict between the pagan world and Christianity will upset you, this is not the book for you. Those fairies don’t mince their words.
This description from a Forbes review captures what you’ll encounter in this tale featuring lesser knights of the Round Table. It “… broaches issues that are decidedly more contemporary: abandonment and abuse, sexual and gender identity, even immigration, all in ways that feel natural and organic rather than preachy or pedantic.” And the humor in it is also delightful.
“Locked in Pursuit” by Ashley Weaver
Set in England during World War II, this mystery has a strong female protagonist. Ellie is a safecracker, roped into working for Major Ramsey to thwart the Nazis at every turn. Of course, both she and the major are good looking and single, but their backgrounds couldn’t be more different. He’s a nobleman. She’s carrying on the family tradition of thievery.
In this fourth installment, they discover an odd rash of burglaries in London, and soon figure out that the crimes have their origin in Lisbon. Spies are in search of something more important than jewels.
If the description appeals to you, I suggest you start with the first in the Electra McDonnell series, “A Peculiar Combination.”
“The Busy Body” by Kemper Donovan
What fun! Two smart women on the trail of a killer. One a ghostwriter who pens memoirs and autobiographies for celebrities and politicians, the other a losing candidate in a recent presidential election. One who is accustomed to being front and center, the other a woman who makes a living being invisible.
You’re bound to note the similarities to Hilary Clinton in former Senator Dorothy Gibson, who has sequestered herself in her Maine home to lick her wounds. The major difference? As far as we know, Hilary Clinton never solved a murder mystery.
“Everyone on This Train is a Suspect” by Benjamin Stevenson I don’t know how I missed this author’s first book with Ernest Cunningham as the main character, but I did. Both are written in first person and the main character, Ernest or Ern or Ernie, is a writer.
He is living the murder mystery. The Ghan, a train through the Australian desert, is hosting the Australian Mystery Writers’ Society, and Ern is invited as a guest speaker. After all, he wrote the wildly popular “Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone.” (Yes, this is really a published book.)
Naturally, a murder on a train smacks of Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the
Orient Express,” and for my money, it’s every bit as complex and twisty as that Golden Age mystery. The difference is that it’s also quite funny. I finally recently got around to reading Stevenson’s first book—“Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone”— and it too is highly entertaining.
There you have it, five books I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend. Did I read many, many more in 2024? Of course. I average two-three books a week. Did I occasionally start a book I couldn’t finish? Yes. That seems to happen more frequently these days. In the words of Frank Zappa, “So many books, so little time.”
Happy reading!
Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her Dickens & Christie cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook. com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.
KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist
Lawsuit:
Continued from Page 6
building permit could be issued, as well as a variance due to its proximity to the river and the need for undisturbed stream buffers.
Crawford, and another Martin’s Landing resident Michael Litten, former Roswell mayoral candidate known for suing former Mayor Jere Wood over term limits, met with Appen Media on site at the pool.
A corner of the deck appears like it’s sinking, and there’s a crack.
But, Crawford said the board intends to move beyond the problem area and dig up half the pool, with engineering plans that consider installing foundation piers and steel reinforcement.
Contractors have told the board that large-scale soil remediation or stabiliza-
tion would not be required due to the “apparent minimal distress,” according to documents.
Crawford and Litten say there’s a viable alternative solution, like polymer foam.
Litten compared the choice to open heart surgery versus a less expensive, noninvasive procedure that would require just a few days of recovery.
“We believed … that this alternative was worthy of at least exploring because of the cost, because of our passion for our drinking water, the environment down there,” he said.
As of press time, the defendants have not responded to requests for comment.
Jack Tabor, vice president of asset management at 29th Street Capital, the petitioner, told Appen Media the company remains committed to supporting its fellow homeowners in Martin’s Landing Foundation and to “ensuring that every one of the
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
PUBLIC ART APPLICATION PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2025 AT 7:00 P.M.
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11360 LAKEFIELD DRIVE, JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097
The following Public Art Application is scheduled for Public Hearing as stated above:
PROPOSED LOCATION: Newtown Park
ADDRESS: 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek, GA 30022
APPLICANT: Johns Creek Beautification, Inc.
ARTIST: Jim Collins
ARTWORK: “JC Paws”
Please contact the City Clerk’s office at 678-512-3212 should you have any questions.
Allison Tarpley, City Clerk
homeowner Members in MLF have a voice — and a vote — as established for them by law under Georgia’s statutes, the MLF Declaration, and the MLF Bylaws.”
The court hearing has been scheduled for Jan. 6.
Getting involved
The issue at stake moves beyond the special assessment.
“The main thing that we're trying to reestablish here in Martin’s Landing is that board members have taken advantage of the homeowners’ apathy,” Crawford said.
He said that apathy has led to other forms of misconduct, such as improperly announcing annual meetings and voting for subdivision representatives.
“They don't have proper votes for them,” Crawford said. “So when they end up going to the board, they're not valid. They haven't been chosen by their community. Basically, it's like an inside click.”
Crawford said “bullies” run the show. He and Litten have described various
forms of what they allege is retaliation as well as censorship.
Michael Crew , an HOA expert unrelated to the case who oversees more than 240 associations with his firm Homeowner Management Services, said it’s important to get involved. In his 30-year tenure, Crew has seen his fair share of litigation against HOA boards.
“For almost everybody, their house is the most important asset they'll ever purchase … and the way your neighborhood is run can have a tremendous, tremendous impact,” Crew said.
He cited one incident where a board couldn’t pass a special assessment for repairs to a condominium because there wasn’t a quorum. More than 100 people lost their lives as a result.
Plus, Crew said curb appeal affects home values.
“It's also important that homeowners pay attention because they might have knowledge or experience which could help their community out,” he said.
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK
Medlock Bridge Road at McGinnis Ferry Road Intersection Improvement Project
Public Information Open House
January 23, 2025 6:00 PM
The community is invited to provide input on the Medlock Bridge Road (SR 141) at McGinnis Ferry Road intersection improvement project at a Public Information Open House on Thursday, January 23 at 6:00 PM at City of Johns Creek, 11360 Lakefield Drive Johns Creek, GA 30097.
City staff will discuss recommendations for improvements to address traffic operations, pedestrian accommodations, and safety needs along Medlock Bridge Road at McGinnis Ferry Road intersection. Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the project. For those not able to attend in-person or online, meeting materials and an online comment form will be available on the city website.
Allison Tarpley, City Clerk
The following Land Use Petition and Sign Ordinance Amendment are scheduled for public hearings at:
JOHNS CREEK CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 11360 LAKEFIELD DRIVE, JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2025, AT 7:00 P.M.
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2025, AT 7:00 P.M.
LAND USE PETITION: RZ-24-0009 and VC-24-0006
PETITIONER: Ishir Vasavada
LOCATION: 9110 Brumbelow Road
CURRENT ZONING: AG-1 (Agricultural District)
PROPOSED ZONING: R-4A (Single-Family Dwelling District)
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Two-lot single-family detached residential subdivision at a density of 2.16 units per acre with a concurrent variance to eliminate the 10% common open space requirement.
CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2025, AT 7:00 P.M.
A-24-004 – Sign Ordinance Amendment
A proposal to amend the City of Johns Creek Sign Ordinance (Appendix A. Article XXXIII) to comprehensively modify, add and revise the ordinance and establish new signage regulations for the Town Center.
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Nexwave Talent Management Solutions LLC, an Alpharetta, GA-based IT Services, Manage Services and Resource Management Firm has multiple openings for JOB ID 11478: Software Developer. Education and Experience requirements along with remuneration as provided on the website. Travel/relocation may be required. Details at https://nexwaveinc.com. Send resume to: Info@nexwaveinc.com, including the JOB ID. Equal Opportunity Employer.
Sawnee EMC is seeking an Electrical Distribution System Engineer. Requires a bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, civil engineering or similar engineering discipline. Preferred experience in design, modeling and maintenance of distribution power systems. Must have strong computer, mathematical and communication skills.
Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, December 27, 2024. Apply online: www. sawnee.coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.
Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer of Females, Minorities, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.
Diamond Glass Co of Alpharetta is seeking an Admin Assistant. Must have the ability to multitask, excellent written/verbal communication skills, as well computer skills. Knowledge of QuickBooks a plus. Send resumes to nikki@diamondglasscompany.com
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Client Services Specialist – Pantry
Bilingual Food Pantry Supervisor
The Client Services Specialist (Part-time) serves as the first point of contact at NFCC, welcoming clients and managing the intake process. This role connects clients with NFCC’s programs and services while maintaining accurate records through data entry and application updates. The Specialist also keeps clients informed about program enhancements and available services.
The Food Pantry Supervisor supports all aspects of the Food Pantry including inventory control, receiving products, client orders, supervising and managing volunteers, entering data and creating reports and supporting client intake. The Supervisor is the primary backup support to the Food Pantry Manager.
The Supervisor must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Good interpersonal communications skills are required and MS Office (Excel) experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends, lift up to 42lbs, use a pallet jack, push and pull items, and be on your feet for several hours.
The Specialist must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Microsoft office skills are required and Salesforce experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TIP YOUR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY PERSON
Your local community newspaper lands in your driveway every week—rain or shine—bringing you the stories, events, and updates that matter most. But did you know that the person delivering it is often a dedicated individual who goes the extra mile (literally) to ensure you stay connected?
Why Tip?
• Show Appreciation: Your delivery person is out there early in the morning or late at night, navigating all kinds of weather, so you can enjoy the news with your morning coffee.
• Support Local Efforts: While the paper might be free, the effort behind it isn’t. Tipping helps reward those who keep this vital community service running smoothly.
• Brighten Their Day: A small tip can make a big difference in someone’s day, showing gratitude for their hard work and dedication.
If you enjoy receiving your free community newspaper, consider giving a small token of appreciation to the person who brings it to your driveway. A little kindness can go a long way!
Thank you for supporting your local delivery heroes!
How to give your delivery person a tip:
Give via the online portal at appenmedia.com/deliverytip or scan this QR Code
If you prefer, you can also mail a check made out to Appen Media Group and mail it to Newspaper Delivery Tip C/O Appen Media Group, 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009
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. 1 2