Johns Creek Herald - April 17, 2025 by Appen Media Group

Members of the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections discuss polling locations for the 2025 elections at a regular meeting April 10.

County approves polling site changes

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

FULTON CO. — The Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections met to discuss polling place changes at their monthly board meeting April 10 at the Elections Hub and Operations Center.

Polling place changes will take place at around 68 locations across Fulton County in 11 cities across the county, including Alpharetta, Atlanta, Chattahoochee Hills, College Park, East Point, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Sandy Springs, South Fulton and Union City.

Traditionally, polling places are modified if the site is no longer willing to host election operations, is undergoing renovations, boundary line changes or due to voter complaints about parking or other issues.

“There were several that are undergoing renovations, especially in Fulton County Schools for the summer months they either have a conflict or they have renovations happening,” Director of Registration and Elections Nadine Williams said.

Library in Johns Creek will be an advance voting location for the June 17 Special Primary Public Service Commissioner Special Election.

In addition, the Board approved the minutes from the February 13 regular meeting, during which advance polling locations were approved, some of which also include modifications.

See COUNTY, Page 19

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve plans Earth Day celebration

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve is inviting the community to join in celebration of the planet April 19.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the preserve will mark Earth Day with family activities and education on sustainability and environmental protection.

“It’s a fun, free family event,” said Lizen Hayes, the preserve’s executive director.

Numerous nonprofits and local businesses will host hands-on activities for kids from making pine cone bird feeders to seed bombs. Many of the crafts will be made from recycled items.

Johns Creek will serve as an ideal location for the celebration, Hayes said. The city has Green Community and Tree City USA designations and is home to numerous organizations and residents who care about the planet.

Earth Day celebration

What: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve’s Earth Day celebration

When: 10 a.m.2 p.m. April 19

Where: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road

Information: autreymill.org

Hayes said the celebration is special because there are few other opportunities for communities to rally around the message of sustainability.

“It’s important to bring the community together around something we can all relate to and get behind, which is our planet,” Hayes said.

— Jon Wilcox

The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve invites children and their families to celebrate Earth Day with a host of hands-on activities.

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

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POLICE BLOTTER

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Vehicle reported stolen at apartment complex

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek woman reported her vehicle had been stolen overnight at Windsor Johns Creek Apartments.

The woman told police that the car had been parked at the complex at 6 p.m. April 3. She noticed the car missing as she walked out of her apartment around 8:30 a.m. the following morning.

Police canvassed the area for video surveillance but turned up nothing.

The vehicle’s information was entered into the Georgia Crime Information Center and National Crime Information Center databases.

— Sarah Coyne

Car found damaged in Abbotts Bridge lot

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Johns Creek officers responded to the report of a damaged car in a parking lot adjacent to Kani House restaurant on Abbotts Bridge Road on April 3.

Officers found the vehicle surrounded by broken glass, with three windows and both windshields broken and the driverside rear door scratched and dented. A large rock was found in the rear of the vehicle.

Police contacted the registered owner but found out that he had lent the car to his granddaughter. All attempts to contact her were unsuccessful.

The manager of Kani House confirmed that the granddaughter is an employee at the restaurant but had not showed up to work the past few weeks.

Officers determined that the vehicle was last seen in operation at 10 p.m. on the same day through flock camera alerts.

The registered owner stated he only wanted to retrieve the vehicle.

All photographic evidence of the scene and damage to the vehicle was uploaded to evidence.com.

— Sarah Coyne

Officers investigate violent motor vehicle incident

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police responded to reports of shots fired around Terramont Court around 4:30 p.m. April 2 finding two crashed and abandoned vehicles.

An officer said he immediately spotted a gray Ford F-150 stuck on a tree stump and dark-colored Honda Accord in the side yard of a home across the street.

The damage to the yard is valued at $500.

Officers said a nearby homeowner said he saw the truck crash into his neighbor’s yard. The homeowner said he watched one man shoot at another man who was near the F-150.

Another witness, a 45-year-old Roswell man who is employed by the Atlanta Police Department, said he heard a loud crash, heard men arguing outside and saw a male wearing a red T-shirt and black pants flee the area on foot. It is not clear whether the witness is a sworn officer.

Officers said all witness statements were turned over to a detective with the Criminal Investigations Division.

Despite multiple officers canvassing the area, no suspects were located or identified.

An officer obtained footage of the incident from a nearby residence and turned it over to detectives. They said it shows the Accord deliberately strike an occupant of the F-150 before all subjects flee the area.

Officers said some suspects left on foot and others left via a third vehicle, described as a possible red Hyundai.

According to the report, the Ford F-150 is registered to a 28-year-old

Duluth woman and the Honda Accord belongs to a 58-year-old Decatur woman. Authorities impounded both vehicles.

The investigation is ongoing. — Hayden Sumlin Spruill fundraiser patron cited for being disorderly

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Police arrested a 68-year-old Dunwoody woman March 29 after she allegedly threw a water bottle on the ground and disobeyed officers after the Spruill Center’s Artistic Affair fundraiser.

Officers said they responded a complaint about a drunk person at the arts center off Chamblee Dunwoody Road and found two women sitting on the front steps. Officers said both women were heavily intoxicated and waiting to be picked up from the event.

Officers said one of the women, a 69-year-old from Sandy Springs, gave them her driver’s license when they requested but the Dunwoody woman refused to identify herself.

Eventually, officers said they received permission to search the woman’s purse and identified her via driver’s license.

When the Sandy Springs woman’s husband arrived, officers said the Dunwoody woman could not stand up or walk. After taking a sip from a water bottle, officers said she threw it on the ground and refused to pick it up when asked.

At that moment, officers said they arrested her for disorderly conduct. After arriving at DeKalb County Jail, an officer said she threw herself on the ground and would not get up.

According to jail records, the woman received charges for violating three local ordinances on disorderly conduct, littering and disorderly under the influence.

She was bonded out March 30 the next morning.

ASK APPEN

— Hayden Sumlin

Last-minute bill limiting Open Records Act fails

By JILL NOLAN Georgia Recorder

ATLANTA — A proposed last-minute attempt to limit the public’s access to police reports and communications with state lawmakers was abandoned April 4 as quickly as it emerged.

The proposed changes to the state’s open records law had popped up unexpectedly Wednesday April 2 in the gatekeeping House Rules Committee, bypassing the usual legislative committee process.

Rep. Rob Leverett, an Elberton Republican, said he had seen the proposed changes as just “extensions of existing law and were not really reflecting any new policy.”

But the proposal, Senate Bill 12, was

immediately met with opposition from First Amendment advocates who warned the changes would weaken transparency laws.

Under the proposal, police departments would be able to shield almost all information about officers’ stops, arrests and incident responses. And it would have created broad new exemptions to prevent public disclosure of the General Assembly’s activities, including communication with other parts of state government.

The change narrowing what police records are available for public inspection appeared to be in response to a lawsuit filed by the Appen Media Group against Sandy Springs that accused the city of withholding public police reports. The state Court of Appeals

had recently ruled in Appen’s favor. Gov. Brian Kemp also seemed cool to the proposal Friday.

“I haven’t seen what the Legislature has done other than just reading a blip in the paper about it,” Kemp told reporters. “But we’ll look at the legislation today. We’ll see what ends up passing or not passing. But I think the General Assembly knows that I’m a pretty transparent person, as you can see being out here answering your questions today.”

The House ultimately retreated from the changes Friday and passed a version that was more in line with the original proposal – to the relief of the bill’s sponsor, Danielsville Republican Sen. Frank Ginn.

“You don’t want to get into an argument with people that buy ink by the train car load,” Ginn said, referring to concerns from

newspapers and others.

Ginn said he was trying to pass a “pro-business bill.” His proposal came in response to a Georgia Supreme Court ruling last year that unanimously found that a private contractor working for a public entity is still subject to the law and can be sent requests for public records they may possess.

Senate Bill 12 said that requests for those public records should go through the local governmental agencies that contracted with those third parties. This version is what now sits on the governor’s desk.

This story comes to Appen Media through a reporting partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom that covers statewide issues.

Spring Cleaning? Here’s where to get rid of tricky items

By SARAH DONEHOO newsroom@appenmedia.com

METRO ATLANTA — Decluttering the house is a process that incites enthusiasm for some and dread for others. Getting off-task with cleaning is easy to do, and many possessions ride the line of being necessary or unnecessary depending on the day or how one is feeling.

No matter what, sometimes it’s high time unused furniture, appliances, clothing, books or electronics find their way to a new home or purpose.

Here are some local spots that can manage different kinds of unwanted stuff.

Recycling Services

If you want to recycle plastic waste and it is PET or HDPE, (recycling numbers 1 and 2, respectively) you can drop it off at a regular recycling center.

Forsyth County recycling centers will accept the materials above as well as aluminum, tin, and steel.

The Sandy Springs Recycling Center offers to recycle the common recyclables above, electronics, appliances and household items like books and wood furniture. The Roswell Recycling Center will accept plastic, glass, cardboard and paper recycling.

Note that some centers are open only to residents of the county or city.

The Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) in Atlanta offers options by accepting most items that don’t fit into the typical parameters of cardboard, glass and plastic waste. If you’re getting rid of old or broken appliances, propane tanks, batteries, light bulbs or mattresses, CHaRM will divert them toward recycling and composting. ChaRM will also accept plastics whose recycle

number is 4, 5 or 6, types of plastic that most centers won’t accept, including plastic bags.

Reusable shopping bags have become very popular as an alternative to plastic shopping bags, but at Publix and Kroger there are recycling bins to drop used plastic bags in. Simply ensure that the bags are clean and not torn.

Donation Centers

The Salvation Army and Habitat for

Humanity accept car donations even if the vehicle is not driveable. As long as the car isn’t in a hazardous condition, then it can be picked up free of charge. Goodwill and Salvation Army accept nearly anything when it comes to used home goods.

Both The Salvation Army and Goodwill offer complimentary pick-up services, but only at specific locations. If the items are acceptable, then you can schedule a time to have your donations picked up on their website or over the phone.

Minimizing Clutter

One way to keep clutter at a minimum is that whenever you buy something, choose something else to either donate or sell. When it comes to moving, be it someone moving out, in or to a new home, one reason so many things end up in the trash is because of the time constraint on decision-making and sorting objects. Keeping an eye on clutter over time can help reduce this effect.

Moving things around can be stressful or jarring, but with the right resources it doesn’t have to be unmanageable. Donating or recycling unwanted items may seem like a burden. However, those steps can help others get use out of items in a way that can reduce the community’s consumption overall.

HERALD NOTES

Alpharetta fishing store supports veterans

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta fishing supply business raised thousands of dollars to give veterans a fly fishing trip.

Alpharetta Outfitters, 79 S. Main St., raised $8,000 through a raffle of donated items. The funds allowed 30 Project Healing Waters participants to enjoy a day catching “low-sodium stripers,” according to the business.

ALPHARETTA OUTFITTERS/PROVIDED Alpharetta Outfitters raised $8,000 to provide a day of fishing for veterans through the Project Healing Waters nonprofit.

Nonprofit Project Healing Waters is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and disabled veterans through fly fishing and associated activities, including education and outings.

Additional funds can be donated through Alpharetta Outfitters by calling 678-762-0027 or emailing shop@ alpharettaoutfitters.com.

— Jon Wilcox

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A Cherokee County Recycling Center employee empties a container of glass into a recycling dumpster at the Canton facility April 9.

Candidates qualify for statewide Public Service Commission primary

By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — Several candidates have qualified for the statewide Public Service Commission primary to be held June 17.

Two seats on the Public Service Commission will be on the ballot alongside municipal races this f all. Races are being held for the Districts 2 and 3 seats. Currently, all members of the PSC are Republican.

The candidates must live in their districts, but the elections are statewide, so voters across Georgia can vote in both races. The districts include much of east and southeast Georgia that includes Athens, Augusta and Savannah for District 2; and the Metro Atlanta counties of Fulton, DeKalb and Clayton for District 3, reported Appen Media media partner WABE.

The Public Service Commission is charged with setting “fair and reasonable rates for services under its jurisdiction.” Utilities, like Georgia Power, are typically regulated by the PSC. The commission’s main job is to govern Georgia Power’s rates and plans.

PSC elections were last held in 2020 and have been on hold since 2022 due to a federal lawsuit alleging the election process for commissioners violates the Voting Rights Act, according to WABE.

Commissioner Tim Echols, who represents most of east Georgia, and Commissioner Fitz Johnson, who represents metro Atlanta, are up for reelection.

According to the Georgia Secretary of State website, here are the qualified candidates:

District 2

• Alicia Johnson (D)

• Tim Echols (R, incumbent)

• Lee Muns (R)

The winner of the Republican primary will face Johnson in November.

District 3

• Keisha Waites (D)

• Peter Hubbard (D)

• Robert Jones (D)

• Daniel Blackman (D)

• Terrell Fitz Johnson (R, incumbent)

The winner of the Democratic primary will face Fitz Johnson in November.

Senior care coordinator offers practical advice for hospital discharges

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Discharge planning starts on day one of your loved one’s hospital stay.

That is one resounding takeaway from the April 8 gathering of Adult Children of Aging Parents North Atlanta, a nonprofit offering free in-person programs on the second Tuesday of the month at Dunwoody United Methodist Church.

The support group’s monthly sessions feature a wide variety of experts in the care of older adults, often those whose close relatives fully or partially look after them during the day.

The crowd of around 30 at the April session featured a wide variety of people, some caregivers, a couple industry professionals and others wanting to find out how they can best care for their loved ones.

One woman’s mother is refusing her suggestions that she increase her care level, while another couple is looking to understand the process more after one of their parents’ recent hospital stays.

ACAP North Atlanta, founded in 2023 as a chapter of a North Carolina-based educational organization, invited Northside Hospital Care Coordinator Rhond Perling to share her insider knowledge and expert strategies to help families navigate post-hospital care for their loved ones.

Before Perling educated the room and dived into nuances, the opening panel of ACAP North Atlanta’s leadership team got the conversation started.

Dr. Melissa Black, a geriatrician with her own practice, Empower Family Medicine of Decatur, said her decade with the Emory School of Medicine and in her own practice has taught her a lot about hospitals and medical insurance.

“I have a lot of experience working both in and outside of the hospital,” she said. “What people need to know as caregivers from the hospital’s perspective is that discharge planning starts on day one, and that is a universal saying.”

Black also said that hospitals want patients discharged as soon as possible, usually in less than three days, but it is not all doom and gloom because hospital visits are the most expensive form of care. Besides, people usually want to be home.

Rhonda Perling, the keynote speaker, is intimately familiar with the discharge pro-

Perling describes her role as a social worker assigned to help folks with a smooth discharge and provide patients with their options at the April 8 session of Adult Children of Aging Parents. Perling said discharge planning begins on day one of someone’s hospital visit, and caregivers need to understand options for rehabilitation, palliative care or a return to home.

cess as supervisor of Northside Hospital’s Care Coordination Process.

“First thing I want you to do if anyone you love ends up in the hospital is get ahold of your case manager,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what you call them, discharge planners, care coordinators, case managers, we really don’t care as long as you call us.”

They are often the only healthcare workers “rounding,” or conducting regular visits to patients’ bedsides to assess, communicate and respond to their needs.

Often, doctors and surgeons do not have the full intricate knowledge of healthcare policy nuances necessary to provide patients with a complete picture of their options, including tradeoffs and financial implications.

Perling provided an example of when a physician’s decision on a Friday afternoon ran into a speed bump when she notified him that the insurance office was closed, preventing her from verifying benefits, and her team was unlikely to find the patient a rehabilitation center over the weekend.

Perling said it’s probably not if someone will have to take care of one of their aging loved ones at some point in their life, but when. Luckily, she said there are several ways to make the process smoother.

Hospitals employ care coordinators, including registered nurses and social

Dr. Cheryl McGowan

Samantha B. Benson, MD Johns Creek: Tues., Thurs. Milton: Mon., Fri.

Kaavya Chivukula, MD Johns Creek Only

Roja R. Sanikapally, MD Johns Creek Only: Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri.

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA Northside Hospital Care Coordinator

Rhonda

Fulton County Schools students gather around 11Alive anchor Cheryl Preheim, center, during the 2025 Career, Technology, Agricultural and Engineering (CTAE) Student of the Year Banquet March 27 at the Georgia Aquarium. The top two winners hail from Alpharetta and Cambridge High schools in North Fulton.

Fulton County honors top students at banquet

ATLANTA — Fulton County Schools honored top performers during the 2025 Career, Technology, Agriculture and Engineering Student of the Year Banquet March 27 at the Georgia Aquarium.

The district says the banquet featured students from every high school across the county

Cheryl Preheim, an anchor on 11Alive Morning News, hosted the annual celebration of CTAE students, one of the career clusters or focus areas that Fulton County Schools offers.

Students are given the option to pursue work-based learning as juniors and seniors in high school with options like agriculture, food and natural resources; art, audio-visual technology and communications; and information technology, business and management.

The 2025 Career, Technology, Agriculture and Engineering Student of the Year Banquet recognized three

Candidates:

Continued from Page 5

Early voting will be held May 27June 13, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Saturday voting will be available on May 31 and June 7 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as Sundays on June 1 and June 8 from 12-5 p.m.

top performers. Mridula Bharathi, the valedictorian of Alpharetta High School’s 2025 class, took home first place across all CTAE students within Fulton County Schools. The high school senior runs her own podcast, “The Neurological Disorder,” which debuted in December 2022.

Another North Fulton student, senior Maximillian Draughn from Cambridge High School in Milton, received the runner-up. Draughn is currently an intern with the city of Alpharetta, running a small farm business from Old Rucker Farm.

Other North Fulton honorees include Georgia Hipp from Centennial in Roswell, Anish Kelam from Innovation Academy in Milton, Neel Adlakha from Northview in Johns Creek, Ella Bell from Johns Creek High School and Shakshi Bhimani from Cambridge.

— Hayden Sumlin

Here are some other key dates for the PSC election:

• Voters can begin requesting absentee ballots on March 31.

• May 19 is the deadline to register to vote for the special election.

• June 6 is the deadline to request and absentee ballot.

• Election Day is June 17.

• If there’s a runoff, Election Day will be July 15.

• The primary winners will then be on the ballot on Nov. 4.

FULTON COUNTY SCHOOLS/PROVIDED

Just

Event planner leaves corporate life to pursue her passions

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Space in Time is an event venue, really two of them, smack dab in the center of Sandy Springs off Hilderbrand Drive that’s available to rent for special events.

Ebony Hamlet is the owner of the event venue, located at 290 Hilderbrand Drive just southeast of the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center and Veterans Park.

“I was always the person in my family who was hosting the baby showers and birthday parties … and just family gatherings, I was always the go-to person,” Hamlet said. “My last family reunion that I hosted here in Atlanta, my elders pulled me to the side at brunch and said ‘you should really consider doing this professionally.’”

She said at first it wasn’t clear if she could turn her passion for coordinating and creating seamless events for her loved ones into a career.

In February, Visit Sandy Springs published an article “BlackOwned Business and Restaurants in Sandy Springs,” featuring a snapshot of some of the city’s entrepreneurs. Her advice to others considering a jump to entrepreneurship is to not let that thing go once it’s been found.

Hamlet worked at Priority Technology Holdings for nearly a decade before she was let go in

See PLANNER, Page 9

Ebony Hamlet, president and founder of A Space in Time in Sandy Springs, is loving her life as an entrepreneur after leaving behind corporate America to pursue one of her passions — running her own event venue.

Planner:

Continued from Page 8

summer 2020. Hamlet said a phone call from her sister helped with a shift in her mind set and an eventual pursuit of her dreams.

“I called her, along with some other people, and the first thing they would say is ‘oh my gosh, what are you going to do? …I’m so sorry this happened to you,’” she said. “Well, my sister dropped a gem on me; the first thing she said was ‘congratulations, what are you going to do now?’”

Hamlet said a lot of her life was tied to her job in corporate America, but her sister’s words encouraged her to take the first steps.

She spent most of the second half of 2020 traveling and studying venues across Europe and Brazil, including art galleries, coffee shops and banquet halls.

“I sort of became a student of event spaces and how to open one,” Hamlet said.

“Their restaurants and coffee shops are very quaint, but they make the most out of the space; I always knew I didn’t want a huge space, but I wanted an intimate one for the venue.”

With its location in the heart of Sandy Springs, Hamlet said she thinks the business’s Atlanta address, common throughout the nearly 20-year-old city, helps attract some interested customers looking to celebrate something while staying in the state capital.

Plus, she said there’s ample free parking, which is hard to find in central Atlanta.

“I actually signed my lease in November 2020, but I needed renovations to be done, so the lease wouldn’t start until February,” Hamlet said. “I have heard about the golden years of owning an event space and how lucrative it is was, and I can honestly say I don’t think I’ve experienced that.”

Through the last four years, she said there have been highs and lows. Right now, Hamlet said she has one open weekend open coming up, which is a rarity. May is typically one of the

busiest months for event planners and venues like Hamlet and Space in Time.

“You have a bunch of graduations … weddings, baby showers happening,” she said. “That’s usually a jam-packed month, and I’m not seeing that right now.”

The first space, Suite I, is more than 1,880 square feet and holds up to 125 seated guests for special gatherings like birthday celebrations, retirement parties, holiday mixers, baby showers, graduation parties and bridal showers.

Located in the same plaza with an adjoining courtyard, Suite II is slightly larger at 2,246 square feet and capable of holding up 150 guests.

Hamlet said the larger facility can host things like weddings, book signings, receptions and art shows with the space next door available, which can save the cost of turning over the same room for another event.

While Hamlet said she thinks people may be holding onto their cash now, Space in Time has a lot going for it.

“I think what makes Space in Time unique is I have two venues in one plaza,” she said. “If you’ve ever attended a wedding, a lot of times in those venues they have to flip the room … changing it from the wedding ceremony to the reception …. We eliminate that.”

Hamlet also said she likes the intimacy of both spaces but has created distinct aesthetics for each that “quaint and whimsical.”

Baby showers are the number one event type, followed by weddings.

Clients come from all over, but one of the notable events at Space in Time was when Fulton County District Fani Willis hosted a two-day conference with local law enforcement and prosecutors to lay out a game plan to combat crimes across the region.

While speaking with Appen Media April 10, Hamlet said she had three tours that afternoon. She said they’re most likely looking to grab that open weekend in May.

For more information about Space in Time and its owner Ebony Hamlet, visit spaceintimeatl.com

Business pages

Each week Appen Media asks a staff reporter to profile a business, nonprofit or commerce group they find interesting.

The selection can be from anywhere in the Metro Atlanta area. The decision is up to the reporter and is made entirely independent of the Sales department.

Do you have an idea for a future profile? Send tips and story leads to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

LEADING GENERATION

DR. TIM ELMORE

FOUNDER AND CEO OF GROWING LEADERS

Tuesday, April 29 , 2025 th 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Johns Creek Chamber

SPACE IN TIME/PROVIDED

Balloons, chandeliers and formal place settings stick out in Suite I and II at Space in Time, an event venue and small business run by local entrepreneur Ebony Hamlet. The venues are just 10 feet away from one another off Hilderbrand Drive in Sandy Springs.

Robert E. Krimmel named president, chief executive officer and director

Brought to you by – Touchmark National Bank

ALPHARETTA, Ga.— Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. (OTC Pink: TMAK), the holding company for Touchmark National Bank, today announced that Robert E. (“Bobby”) Krimmel was appointed as its President, CEO and director of Touchmark National Bank. Krimmel most recently served as Chief Administrative Officer of First Farmers and Merchants Bank and Chief Financial Officer of First Farmers and Merchants Corporation. Krimmel succeeds Dr. J.J. Shah, who is retiring from Touchmark National Bank after seven years of service. Dr. Shah will remain on Touchmark’s Boards as Chairman.

During his almost 10-year tenure at First Farmers and Merchants Bank, Krimmel positively impacted financial results by growing net income by 56%, maintaining annual average core earnings per share growth rate of 8%, and reducing operational efficiency by 5%. At First Farmers, Krimmel successfully managed most of the major support functions including accounting, treasury, information technology, project management, internal controls, information security, fraud, risk management, facilities, management reporting systems, corporate communications, and shareholder services. Additionally, Krimmel provided executive leadership to the internal audit and the regulatory compliance functions and was the primary liaison for all regulatory authorities and external auditors.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr. J.J. Shah, Chairman of the Boards of Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. and Touchmark National Bank, said, “After seven years as President and CEO of Touchmark National Bank, I have decided to step down to spend more time with my family and welcome the next generation of leadership to Touchmark National Bank. We are excited to have someone with Bobby’s strategic vision and experience to lead Touchmark National Bank into its next chapter of growth. We think we have the right leader to oversee dynamic change with a focus on deepening our ties to the Alpharetta and other local markets.”

“We are grateful for the leadership and steady hand Dr. Shah provided to Touchmark for the past seven years,” said Byron Richardson, lead director

of Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. “Since joining Touchmark as lead director last year, I believe the future is bright for local banking opportunities and that Bobby is the right fit to lead Touchmark National Bank into the future.”

Commenting on his new role, Krimmel said, “Touchmark National Bank is located in one of the most vibrant parts of the Atlanta MSA with more than 600 technology companies and a growing local economy. I look forward to working with the Touchmark team to enhance the bank and grow its brand in the north Fulton County market with a focus on small business banking.”

Prior to joining First Farmers, Krimmel served as Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer for HeritageBank of the South in Albany, Georgia. While at HeritageBank, he managed the accounting, treasury, tax, accounts payable, loss-share accounting and reconciliation departments. He also directed HeritageBank’s investment portfolio, managed the interest rate risk analysis, and was responsible for Security and Exchange Commission and regulatory reporting. Before joining HeritageBank, Krimmel was Vice President and Controller at Green Bank in Greenville, Tennessee.

Krimmel is a Certified Public Accountant and has completed the Graduate School of Bank Investments and Financial Management and the Financial Managers School. He holds Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Accountancy degrees from East Tennessee State University. He is the past Treasurer of the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee, Vice Chairman of Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury, Treasurer for Cub Scout Pack 369 and youth basketball coach.

About Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. and Touchmark National Bank

Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for Touchmark National Bank, a community bank founded in 2008 and headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, serving north Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb and Dekalb counties. As of December 31, 2024, Touchmark reported total assets of $449 million and total shareholders’ equity of $72 million. For more information about Touchmark, visit us at www.touchmarknb.com under Investor Relations.

Bobby Krimmel

The consequences of not having a Property Estate Planning done by an attorney

Brought to you by - Estates

Take the example of a well-known celebrity, let’s call him “Chris.” Chris was a beloved actor with a career spanning decades. Despite his success and substantial fortune, he never took the time to create a comprehensive estate plan. When Chris unexpectedly passed away, his family was left to navigate the complex and often confusing legal process of distributing his assets.

1. Legal Battles and Family Disputes: Without a clear and comprehensive estate plan, Chris’s family found themselves embroiled in legal battles. Different relatives claimed entitlement to various parts of his estate, leading to prolonged court cases and strained family relationships. A well-drafted estate plan could have provided clear instructions and prevented much of the discord.

2. Financial Burden: Chris’s estate was subject to significant taxes and fees that could have been minimized with proper planning. Estate planning tools such as trusts can help reduce the tax burden and ensure more wealth is passed on to

heirs rather than lost to taxes and legal costs.

3. Delayed Distribution of Assets:

The absence of a comprehensive estate plan meant that the distribution of Chris’s assets was delayed significantly. Probate, the legal process of distributing a deceased person’s estate, can be time-consuming and complicated. An estate plan can streamline this process, ensuring that beneficiaries receive their inheritance more quickly.

4. Business and Real Estate: Without a proper trust, Chris's real estate and business had to be liquidated to pay off the creditors at a substantially reduced price due to the probate process and disputes between the beneficiaries as to keeping or selling the business and real estate.

5. Unfulfilled Wishes: Without a comprehensive estate plan, there’s no guarantee that Chris’s assets were distributed according to his wishes. An estate plan allows individuals to specify exactly how they want their assets allocated, ensuring their intentions and wishes are honored after their death.

•

May 1 - 12pm (lunch and learn) Tues., May 13 - 4pm

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City Springs Theatre Company announces 2025-26 schedule

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Metro Atlanta’s fastest-growing performing arts organization, the City Springs Theatre Company, announced its eighth season of musicals at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center’s Byers Theatre.

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New subscriptions for the 2025-26 season go on sale May 1, offering a diverse lineup of entertainment, including hit musicals from American comedy legends Mel Brooks and Tina Fey, and a stage adaptation of a Hollywood classic.

City Springs Theatre Company’s productions have garnered nationwide attention with acclaimed, locally produced productions of “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Jersey Boys,” “The Music Man” and “A Chorus Line.”

Executive Director Natalie DeLancey and Artistic Director and Tony Awardwinner Shuler Hensley lead the nonprofit community theater, focused on youth training, attracting audiences and highquality productions.

“Our subscribers and patrons have come to expect two things from our com-

pany — to be entertained and to experience production values that rival what they might see on Broadway,”

DeLancey said. “Over the years it has been inspiring to watch as our audiences grow and begin to take a sense of ownership and pride in our company.”

Hensley has directed one production each season since 2022, a tradition he is set to continue when the company presents the newest title in its upcoming season, the hit musical “Come From Away.”

Hensley said he and others continue to be impressed by the city’s talent.

“We have an amazing community of performers, including some Broadway veterans like myself who call Metro Atlanta home,” he said. “From our lead performers to our ensemble dancers, they all have contributed significantly to the success of our company.”

For more information about shows and ticket, visit www.cityspringstheatre.com.

— Hayden Sumlin

City Springs Theatre Company’s 2025-26 Season Lineup

• Sept. 5-21, 2025:

“The Producers: A Mel Brooks Musical”

Still the winningest show in the history of the Tony Awards and arguably the funniest musical ever on Broadway, “The Producers” has delighted audiences worldwide. Based on Mel Brooks’ 1968 film of the same name, the plot is simple: a down-on-his-luck producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the biggest flop in Broadway history, thereby bilking their investors (all of whom are “lonely, little old ladies”) and then running away to Rio. The play skewers Broadway traditions and sets the standard for modern, outrageous, in-your-face humor on Broadway. The production contains adult language and content and is recommended for ages 13 and older.

• Dec. 12-28, 2025:

“The Wizard of Oz”

This December, the yellow brick road leads to the Byers Theatre for an enchanting stage adaptation of the 1939 movie classic “The Wizard of Oz,” directed and choreographed by Broadway legend and Tony Award-recipient Baayork Lee. The timeless tale of teenager Dorothy Gale, who travels from Kansas to the magical Land of Oz retains the timeless songs from the film including “Over the Rainbow,” “If I Only Had a Brain/a Heart/the Nerve,” “We’re Off to See the Wizard” and “The Merry Old Land of Oz.” The play is suitable for all ages and will feature a special 1 p.m. Christmas Eve performance.

• March 13-29, 2026:

“Come From Away”

Based on an incredible, true story of the isolated town of Gander, Newfoundland, as the community came together to welcome 38 planes diverted from their destinations on September 11, 2001. What begins as an average day, turns into an international sleepover, as the people of Gander cheer the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family. Tony Award-winner Shuler Hensley, artistic director of City Springs Theatre Company, is set to direct the production, which is a regional premier. The book, music and lyrics come from Irene Sankoff and David Hein. The play contains some adult language and adult themes and is recommended for ages 10 and older.

• May 1-17, 2026:

“Mean Girls: The Musical”

From the mind of comedy superstar Tina Fey, the multi-Emmy-winning star and writer of TV’s Saturday Night Live and the series 30 Rock. “Mean Girls” is the brutally hilarious hit musical based on her popular 2004 film of the same name. Teenager Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious ways of her strange new home in suburban Illinois. The play took Broadway by storm when it opened in 2018. The production contains adult themes and is recommended for ages 10 and older.

Riverside Sounds announces 25th anniversary concert lineup

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Riverside Sounds, the city’s longest-running free outdoor concert series, is celebrating 25 years of live music with a diverse 2025 lineup.

Held on the fourth Saturday of each month from April through July, the series brings nationally recognized and up-and-coming artists to the stage at Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.

This year’s lineup features genres ranging from alt-country and blues to Latin fusion and soulful Americana.

2025 concert schedule:

April 26 – Town Mountain

Known for their vibrant fusion of bluegrass, honky-tonk and Americana, Town Mountain brings raw, rootsy energy to the stage with influences from Jerry Garcia to Willie Nelson.

May 24 – Bee Taylor

Taylor’s blend of blues, jazz and Americana—along with her commanding presence and soulful lyrics—offers a performance that’s both powerful and personal.

June 28 – ¡Tumbao!

Fresh off an international tour, this nine-member psychedelic Latin fusion ensemble delivers a fresh mix of salsa, funk, cumbia, Latin rock and R&B.

July 26 – Amythyst Kiah

A Grammy-nominated singersongwriter, Kiah merges Americana, blues and alt-rock. Her latest album, Still + Bright, showcases a bold, genreblending sound.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. Beer, wine and sangria will be available for purchase from sponsors Top Job Beverage and Events, FabFoodTrucks.com and Gate City Brewing Co.

Food vendors will include Bento Bus, Tacos & Tequilas, Viva Pita, Smash Hit Burgers, A Little Nauti, Hungry Hippo, The Patty Wagon and Urban Wings.

The 2025 season will be the last held at Riverside Park before it temporarily closes for reconstruction. Beginning in fall 2025, the Bond-funded project is expected to last through spring 2027 and will include updates to enhance park amenities.

For more information or to stream the official 2025 playlist, visit roswellriversidesounds.com.

How to

Participate:

Pre-Registration is REQUIRED. Scan the QR code to register. Registrations will NOT be accepted on site.

registration fee per car.*

condition), metal/aluminum lawn and pool furniture, metal/aluminum office desks and chairs

— Jamie Godin

Have a safe and wonderful Easter from all of us at Roswell Funeral Home and Green Lawn Cemetery.

950 Mansell Road, Roswell, GA 30076 770-993-4811 | www.roswellfuneralhome.com

Vegetable Gardening during the springtime

I find it so rewarding having a fresh vegetable garden at home with a lot of nutritious vegetables and herbs that can be used all spring and summer and even saved to use throughout the winter. Growing my own healthy options is fun and gives me joy to share them with family and friends.

There are a few things to consider when you want to grow a healthy vegetable garden. Today I’d like to answer the top questions I always get asked.

Where should I put my garden? Your garden’s location is very important. It needs to have 6-8 hours of sun daily. It is best near the house and near a source of water.

Why do I need a soil test? The soil needs to be well drained with a good texture so amendments may need to be added if your site is not optimum. You should have a County Extension soil test to measure the pH of the soil and identify what nutrients are needed for healthy vegetables.

Why do I need a plan? Before you try it in your pots or garden, it is important to plan your garden on paper. It is much easier (and cheaper) to adjust a plan on paper than to replant all your vegetables. Plant the crops that you and your family like to eat. If you have limited space, container gardening is a great option. Consider using dwarf varieties that will give you plenty of yield with a few plants. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and okra, along with your favorite herbs like oregano, basil, sage and thyme, will produce plenty to eat and share. Containers look great with a thriller (tall plant), like a dwarf or bush tomato or cherry tomatoes, a filler

(short medium height) like basil, peppers or sage, and a spiller (something hanging down). Herbs like oregano or thyme are great for that.

What should I plant? In your vegetable garden, plant tall-growing plants together on the north or west side of the garden or pot so they will not shade the lowergrowing plants. Plan to use the space continuously by planting the next-inseason crops after the current crops have been harvested. Next to consider are the different varieties of plants as well as when to plant your vegetables.

Why do I need a planting schedule? We live in hardiness zone 8a or 7b for Atlanta and north Georgia, and the last frost day is approximately April 15th. But it could be two weeks earlier or later because that is an average. Be sure to use recommended varieties for your garden and wait until the last frost has passed before planting in the spring. Whether buying seeds or plants, always buy the best quality seeds from a reputable company. When

buying plants, purchase healthy plants without disease or insects present. Planting dates, spacing and depth are in the UGA Extension Vegetable Planting Chart, listed in the references.

How do I prepare my soil for spring planting? Preparing the soil is important for vegetable gardening, whether raised beds or beds in the ground. Have a soil test done at your County Extension office for a small fee and they will send you an analysis and summary of your garden’s lime and fertilizer needs.

How much do I need to fertilize? A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is recommended for most vegetables whether raised beds or inground gardens. Vegetables are classified as light, medium or heavy feeders based on their fertilizer needs. Add fertilizer according to the soil test results. It’s good to start the soil prep early by adding organic matter such as compost, sawdust or chopped leaves if possible. Fertilizer should be mixed with the soil when preparing the soil for planting after the soil tests have told you what to add.

How do I control weeds, insects and disease? It’s also important to control weeds, insects and diseases to prevent serious losses. Preventative measures can also be used for insects and disease or begun as soon as it is noticed. Your county extension office can help you with identification.

Why do I need to mulch? A mulch of pine straw, leaves or compost will retain moisture and control weeds. Usually 2-4” is sufficient.

How much water do I give my plants? It is also important to keep consistent moisture in the garden. Your garden needs will vary with the soil type, stage of growth, amount of rain and temperature. Usually, vegetable gardens

About the authors

This week’s “Garden Buzz” features Sandy Springs resident Robin Pollack, an accomplished artist and Master Gardener. Active in the Atlanta art community since 1970, Robin has taught for over 30 years at Chastain Arts Center and has been a Master Gardener since 2005. As a member of North Fulton Master Gardeners, she has taught vegetable gardening at Farm Chastain and her own garden. Her garden, influenced by her artistic eye, has been featured on tours including Atlanta Botanical Garden and Georgia Perennial Plant Association.

need about 1-1 1/2 inches of water per week. Be sure and water early in the day to allow the leaves to dry off.

How can I best use my food? Finally, enjoy your harvest by picking vegetables as soon as they are ripe to avoid disease and insect problems.

What to do with too much food? Any surplus should be canned, frozen or shared as soon as harvested.

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.

SAVE THE DATE for NFMG’s 2025 signature event: Garden Tour on June 7th. Learn more at www.nfmg.net

PHOTOS BY: ROBIN M. POLLACK/PROVIDED Cherry tomatoes from Robin’s garden.

ROBIN POLLACK Guest Columnist Robin with her tomatoes.

A sense of Déjà vu all over again in Decatur

That is about how I feel today. Like, the cycle has rounded the corner and taken me back to the beginning. Again. Since, 1990, our media company has “birthed” many publications since Christina and I bought the Revue in 1990 – and put many “to bed” in the 34 years since. We started a lot of websites – including one of the Internet’s early coupon sites – CouponsRUs.com – as well as NorthFulton.com (which was the second newspaper site in Georgia). We started a fax-based advertising program using - I believe - Mark Cuban’s software – and we partnered on a site that provided home-cleaning employment and home-cleaning services to the public – an early market iteration concept of Uber or Thumbtack that link providers to buyer/users.

It makes me tired just thinking about it.

We are now supposed to be retired and have passed the baton to our two sons – Hans and Carl – who continue plowing ahead. In the last couple years, they acquired the Dunwoody Crier from Dick Williams and started the Sandy Springs Crier. Last year – about 6 months ago – they bought Decaturish.com and brought it into the Appen Media family. Decaturish.com is one of the strongest local news websites I have ever seen and a huge shout out to its founder Dan Whisenhunt and the Decaturish team who continue to manage, write, promote, and care for it. Then, in the last 8 weeks or so, Hans and the crew launched a new print newspaper –Decaturish Ink.

See APPEN, Page 21

HELP IS HERE

If you live in Georgia, you can still get help with recovery from Helene or Debby through housing assistance, loans, resources and more. Stay in touch and check your application for updates.

Ways FEMA Can Help

Housing: FEMA may call for more information from an unfamiliar number. Be sure to answer, as FEMA may be able to help with immediate housing, additional support and information on housing opportunities.

Home Inspection: Inspectors will make an appointment before they visit and will show your application number and their photo ID.

SBA Centers: FEMA staff is available to assist at Small Business Administration centers in Coffee, Jeff Davis, Lowndes, Richmond, Screven, Telfair and Toombs counties.

Center for Rural Entrepreneurship:

208 E. 1st St., Vidalia, GA 30474

Jeff Davis Rec Dept: 83 Buford Rd., Hazlehurst, GA 31539

McDuffie Woods CC: 3431 Old McDuffie Rd., Augusta, GA 30906

Satilla Library:

200 S. Madison Ave., Douglas, GA 31533

Screven County Library: 106 South Community Dr., Sylvania, GA 30467

Telfair CSC: 91 Telfair Ave., #D, McRae-Helena, GA 31055

VSU Foundation: 901 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA 31601

Keep Your Recovery On Track

Read your FEMA letter carefully. If you’ve applied for FEMA disaster assistance and were not approved, you may need to send additional documentation.

Scan the QR code or go to fema.gov/HelpIsHere and select “check your status” to upload documents, track your application, update contact information, get directions or get help.

fema.gov/HelpIsHere

Stay in Touch

ONLINE: fema.gov/HelpIsHere

DOWNLOAD: The FEMA App CALL: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

FILE PHOTOS

Appen Media launched a new newspaper in MarchDecaturish Ink.

answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

CARTOON CHARACTERS

1. The Gem State. Peter Pan villain. Uniform fabric.

2. One of the 7 Dwarfs. Charity. Wine bottle designation.

3. Charlie Brown loves him. Small whirlpool. Lock name.

4. Brouhaha. Moonfish. One of TV’s Simpsons.

5. Get-up-and-go. Coffee order. Bugs bugs him.

6. Church official. The “Oyl” in Popeye cartoons. Smell really bad.

7. Golf bag gadgets. High-hatter. Dear me, it’s a deer.

Famous Cartoon Characters

1 The Gem State. Peter Pan villain. Uniform fabric

2. One of the 7 Dwarfs. Charity. Wine bottle designation

How to Solve: Each line in the puzzle above has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, which each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

3. Charlie Brown loves him. Small whirlpool. Lock name

4. Brouhaha. Moonfish. One of TV’s Simpsons

5. Get-up-and-go. Coffee order. Bugs bugs him

6. Church offical. The “Oyl” in Popeye cartoons. Smell really, really bad.

7. Golf bag gadgets. High-hatter. Dear me, it’s a deer.

County:

Continued from Page 1

Fulton County will provide the cities with a certain number of advance voting sites for the election. Requests for additional locations will be at the expense of the respective city.

The changes come ahead of the advanced voting for the Nov. 4 Municipal General Election held between Oct.14 to Oct. 31. A municipal general run-off election will be held Dec. 2, if needed. A Special Primary Public Service Commissioner Special Election will also be held June 17, with a run-off on July 15, if needed.

Under the changes, the advance voting location for the June election provided for the City of Milton will take place at Milton Library 855 Mayfield Road Milton, Ga. 30009.

Under the direction of Fulton County, advance voting for the June election will take place at the following locations:

• Johns Creek: Ocee Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road Johns Creek, Ga. 30005

• Alpharetta: Alpharetta Library 10 Park Plaza Alpharetta, GA 30009

• Roswell: Roswell Library 115 Norcross Street Roswell, GA 30075

• Sandy Springs: Sandy Springs Library 395 Mount Vernon Highway Sandy Springs, GA 30328

Absentee ballot drop boxes will be available at the Sandy Springs, Johns Creek and Alpharetta locations.

Advance voting will be held Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. between May 27 and June 13, with the election taking place on June 17.

As of now, the City of Roswell will use Roswell Library as the advanced voting site for the Nov. 4 election, as provided by the county. The city also chose during the March 25 Committees of Council meeting to provide another site at the East Roswell Library for the general election and the Dec. 2 municipal general run-off election, if needed.

“It's not that we as a city or even the county are necessarily eliminating those locations on the municipal side. Instead, it was that these are private locations who decline usage,” Councilwoman Beeson said during the meeting.

The cost of the additional site will be $41,770, with an additional $16,087 if a run-off is needed, from available funding within the General Fund operating budget.

Polling location changes for all other cities for the general election will be provided to residents through the Secretary of State website at www.mvp.sos. ga.gov/s/.

If a polling location changes for a registered voter, they will be notified via precinct card prior to an election.

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Celebrating 25 years of Lemonade Days

The 2025 Lemonade Days Festival marks the silver anniversary of the annual event, a fundraiser of Dunwoody Preservation Trust.

The first official Lemonade Days was held in Dunwoody in 2000, but the roots of Lemonade Days began in 1999.

After a devastating tornado hit Dunwoody on April 9, 1998, the community quickly came together to help those who suffered damage. Dunwoody Preservation Trust put together the Replant the Dunwoody Forest plan to replace some of the 100,000 trees that were lost in the tornado.

In 1999, Brook Run was the site of DeKalb County’s recovery center. A one-year commemorative event was held which included the distribution of 900 trees. Mass was held at All Saints Church and a celebration at Kingswood Methodist Church. Interfaith Action

brought together pastors, priests and rabbis to help support the community following the tornado.

A 5K was held in the Kingsley

neighborhood in 1999, which was still recovering and rebuilding.

The first year of a Dunwoody event called Lemonade Days was 2000, held

at Dunwoody Village. A 5K and Fun Run took place, along with carnival games, barbeque and music turning the commemoration into a celebration. Trees were once again distributed by Replant the Dunwoody Forest and a home tour of rebuilt and remodeled homes was offered.

In 2001, Lemonade Days featured a two-day arts and crafts fair at the Shops of Dunwoody. On Sunday, carnival games, pony rides and a petting zoo made for a joyous day on the lawn of Cheek-Spruill House.

The Lemonade Days festival found its home of Brook Run Park in 2003. Carnival rides became part of the festival in 2007.

Reminisce about past festivals at this year’s Festival Flashback Tent, where photos, memorabilia and t-shirts will be on display in celebration of the Silver Anniversary. A Lemonade Days Legacy Lanyard will be available to children whose parents grew up attending the festival. Stop by the DPT Volunteer check-in booth to pick up yours.

The Lemonade Days lemonade stand will be on location and ready for photo opportunities, along with this year’s Honorary Lemonade Days Queen.

Hope Follmer, Director of Lemonade Days since 2016, is excited about the 25th annual festival. “Thank you to the Dunwoody city staff, police and parks departments, our local business sponsors and the thousands of festival goers who have shown up for two and a half decades to show their support of the DPT mission to preserve the past, celebrate the present and plan for the future of Dunwoody.”

Follmer brought the phenomenal Dunwoody Idol contest to the event in 2016 and Battle of the Bands in 2017.

This year’s Lemonade Days will see the return of the 5K on Saturday, April 26 at 8 a.m.

PROVIDED

Pony rides and a petting zoo on the lawn of the Cheek-Spruill House were part of the 2001 Lemonade Days.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist

Appen:

Continued from Page 17

It launched March 20 and is delivered primarily to driveways in the Decatur area and in newspaper boxes, newspaper racks, and on counter tops at local businesses. When Hans told me about Decaturish Ink, I offered to help him figure out how to get Decaturish Ink distributed – the circulation piece of the puzzle.

So, in addition to building a delivery staff for the new newspaper, I have been commuting daily to Decatur working on nailing down the delivery routes in the neighborhoods – as well as perusing Decatur businesses as distribution locations – just like I did for every other newspaper we started! It’s not a very “sexy” part of the business, but it has to be done. And I don’t mind because I actually enjoy all aspects of the business. Otherwise, I would retire – really retire.

Getting out there meeting people, talking with people, and learning from people is the icing on the cake for me – priceless. My very first stop dropping off a newspaper rack was Atlanta Vintage Books off Clairmont. I had never been there – or really anywhere else in Decatur – before. I ended up spending over an hour there talking with the owner Jan and others in the store. I met another bookstore owner there, and I found a couple First Edition books I want (Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath); I collect first editions. The owner asked me if we were starting another Creative Loafing. It was a question I was

to hear more than a few more times that day. We talked about Creative Loafing for quite a while.

The next stop after the bookstore was Westside Market off North Druid Hills. I was only there for 45 minutes chatting with the manager who, in addition to being more than willing to have a Decaturish Ink newspaper rack in the store, asked me if she could advertise with us.

From there I dropped into Spiller Park Coffee and chatted with the cashier who welcomed one of our newspaper racks and then she gave me a free coffee. We talked about how amazing Decatur is and how fun exploring new restaurants up and down Buford Highway is. We had a great time, and she made me wish I was young again!

That is how my days go down in Decatur – every day. I have learned that Decatur is absolutely amazing – and fun, engaging, friendly, and nurturing. I had not the faintest clue. It has an energy – an attitude – and a curiosity across the board that is so new to me.

Hans got an email this week from someone in Decatur who I guess had just spotted one of our big blue newspaper boxes I am putting out. It made my day and makes me want to get back down to Decatur an hour earlier in the future – just because. The email read just this: “I saw a Decaturish news box in the wild today!!!! Y’all are awesomely feral!!!!”

“Awesomely feral”; I’ll take that, yessir. Any day. Decatur is going to be fun. I can feel the energy and the excitement in my bones.

Déjà vu, all over again.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK

PUBLIC NOTICE

PURPOSE

An Alcoholic Beverage License Application was submitted to the City April 2, 2025, for Consumption on Premises of Malt Beverage, Wine and Distilled Spirits

BUSINESS NAME

Cornejo Restaurants LLC

Dba

Papi’s Cuban Grill

11600 Medlock Bridge Rd Suite180 Johns Creek, GA 30097

OWNER/OFFICERS

Cornejo Restaurants LLC

Dba

Papi’s Cuban Grill

11600 Medlock Bridge Rd Suite180 Johns Creek, GA 30097

Owner, Ney Cornejo

Care:

Continued from Page 6

workers, to manage patients’ healthcare needs, facilitate communication between patients and providers and ensure appropriate care settings and post-hospital needs are met.

“The one thing that we have to do immediately upon meeting you is gain trust,” Perling said, admitting not every industry professional is as dedicated as her team. “You’re scared, you’re in crisis and you don’t know what to do; Our job is to let you know what your options are, what your rights are … Medicare has rights.”

She also said it’s important that people know who has their medical power of attorney, in case they are unable to make healthcare decisions by themselves. Once a crisis has happened and you or your loved one is in the hospital, it’s hard to make rational decisions and meet legal requirements.

Attendees of Adult Children of Aging Parents’s April 8 session at Dunwoody United Methodist Church listen as Northside Hospital Care Coordinator Rhonda Perling, top center, goes through her checklist on a smooth discharge. The nonprofit support group meets at the church the second Tuesday of each month.

“I think it’s really important for every single one of y’all to talk to your next of kin,” Perling said, sharing some horror stories about some of her experiences. “Once you get it done, download it to your phone … do the same thing with your medication list.”

Seconding the Aging Children of Adult Children panel, she said discharge planning really does start on stay one of any hospital visit, regardless of the level of care.

The next support session is titled “Living with Dementia and an Update on Medical Treatments,” set for May 13 in Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s Asbury Room, accessible from the back parking lot.

The speakers are Dr. Melissa Black from Empower Family Medicine and Lynn Ross, a retired social worker who worked with the older adult population in home care and for the Center of Movement Challenges.

For more information, visit www.acapcommunity.org.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING:

TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2025, AT 7:00 P.M.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, MAY 19, 2025, AT 7 :00 P.M.

CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS

11360 LAKEFIELD DRIVE, JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097

The following Land Use Petitions are scheduled for public hearings:

LAND USE PETITION: RZ-24-0010

PETITIONER: Toll Bros. Inc.

LOCATION: 10505, 10555 and 10655 Embry Farm Road

CURRENT ZONING: AG-1 (Agricultural District)

PROPOSED ZONING: CUP (Community Unit Plan District)

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: 200-lot single-family detached residential subdivision at a density of 0.98 units per acre

LAND USE PETITION: RZ-25-0001 and VC-25-0001

PETITIONER: The Providence Group of Georgia, LLC

LOCATION: 11705 Fox Road and 11720 Jones Bridge Road

CURRENT ZONING: AG-1 (Agricultural District) and C-1 (Community Business District)

PROPOSED ZONING: NUP (Neighborhood Unit Plan District)

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: 20-lot single-family detached residential subdivision at a density of 3.29 units per acre with a concurrent variance to reduce the minimum building separation from 14 feet to 10 feet

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

VINCI Energies seeks General Counsel for Alpharetta, GA office. Req JD, Master of Law’s degree or equiv. & 5 yrs wrk exp in offered or similar position for a multinational business. Must be licensed to practice in US. Duties incl negotiating complex corporate agreements & contracts. May telecommute from anywhere in continental USA. Up to 10% domestic & intl trvl req. Email resume w cvr ltr to gaby. beyer@vinci-energies.com, ref job #GC001.

Infor (US), LLC has an opening for a Senior Software Engineer in Alpharetta, GA. Position is responsible for new research on Robotic Process Automation services and features for implementing enhancements, coordinate delivery of the product with the team; and develop Unit Tests for the software components. Telecommuting permitted up to 40%. How to apply: E-mail resume, referencing IN1051, including job history, to careers@infor.com. EOE.

Johnson Controls, Inc. seeks Field Procurement Manager in Roswell, GA. Wrk on a crucial rltnshp b/w field offices & supplier base. REQS: bach degree, or foreign equiv, in Electrical Engrg, Electronic Engrg or rltd field +5 yrs exp as a Prjct Mngr, Prcrmnt Mngr or rltd job in the construction or trades industry. 100% Telecomm Allowed. To apply email resume to Christopher.goron@jci.com Must Ref Field Procurement Manager. Ref Job Code: #FPM-PAT.

Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, LLC seeks Customer Technical Development Engineer – E&I in Alpharetta, GA to provide strong technical expertise and value to our customers by leveraging the entire product portfolio, resources & be responsible for providing technical application development expertise to customers and will interact with the internal organization to develop total customer solutions. 30-40% domestic travel required. Interested applicants should email resumes to sian.weekley@syensqo.com referencing job title. No calls. Principals only. EOE.

SOFTWARE ENGINEERS: Cumming, GA & various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S.: Invlv in all phases of SDLC. Work on functnl prgrmng & OOP, JavaScript dsgn ptrns, mthdlgs & best prctcs. Create Angular cstm drctvs, dcrtrs & svcs to intrfc w/RESTful svcs. Dvlp Java mdls to implmnt buss rules & wrkflws. Dsgn & dvlp rusbl cmpnnts & tmplts u/Angular, React JS, Node JS & TypeScript. Cnfgr mdl bundler tools such as Webpack, Gulp, etc. Write rusbl, mntnbl & extnsbl codes in CSS. U/React JS w/Redux to create a sngl pg web app. Master’s in Sci, Tech, or, Engg (any) is req’d. Mail CV: HR, Jobly Solutions, LLC., 110 Samaritan Dr., Ste 211, Cumming, GA 30040

Sawnee EMC is seeking a Billing Clerk to audit the billing process by ensuring accuracy in accordance with Sawnee EMC rate schedules and fee policies. Requires: high school diploma or equivalency, two-year certificate or degree and a minimum of two years of related accounting experience demonstrating proficiency in mathematics, and general office skills. Position is full-time; must be flexible to work irregular hours, to include evenings and weekends.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, April 25, 2025. Apply online: www.sawnee. coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-8872363 extension 7568.

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

Full-Time Vice President of Community Engagement

NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Vice President of Community Engagement position. The Vice President of Community Engagement (VPCE) is a senior leadership role responsible for developing and implementing strategies to build meaningful relationships with the community, donors, and stakeholders.

The VPCE will lead initiatives to increase awareness, partnerships, and financial support for the organization’s mission. This position oversees community engagement, marketing, public relations, and volunteer programs to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

Part-time

Part-Time Thrift Shop Associate – Bilingual Preferred

NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the part-time Thrift Shop Associate position. One of the primary responsibilities of this role is to provide a high level of customer service in the Thrift Shop. The associate is responsible for all cash register and client clothing program transactions and keeping the merchandise in the store neat, clean, and organized. The role requires a friendly and customer-focused demeanor where all shoppers are treated with dignity and compassion.

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aarons-gutters.com. Senior citizen discount! 678-508-2432

Milton Multi-Neighbor Garage Sale! Stonebrook Farms subdivision off Thompson Road. 9:00 AM April 19th (rain date May 3rd) Amazing neighborhood garage sale! Furniture, clothing, home décor, kitchenware, tools, toys, studio supplies, books, and so much more!

Bargains! Multi-Family in Lexington Woods Neighborhood, Sargent Road, Johns Creek, April 26 from 8 am - 3 pm.

JOHNS CREEK, DoubleGate Subdivision

Community Sale (enter into Twingate Dr. from State Bridge). Saturday 4/26 8am-2pm RAIN OR SHINE. See signs & balloons. Online info: doublegate.net

Gutters

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398 Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 877- 305-1535

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS!

50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $119.00! Shipped discreetly to your home. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 800-709-3080

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: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code!

!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866- 433-8277

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

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Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

SOLUTIONS

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. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 6/30/25.) Call 1-844-501-3208

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/ day! 1-844-591-7951

We buy houses for cash as is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-489-3936

Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No longterm contract, no hidden fees free activation. All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930