Owen McDonald stands next to his younger brother Cooper McDonald at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials June 15. Both were participants in the trials.
HALEY MCDONALD/ PROVIDED
Milton brothers swim to Olympic time trials
By HANNAH FRAZER hannah@appenmedia.com
NORTH METRO ATLANTA — Owen
McDonald and his younger brother Cooper fulfilled their aspirations of qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in swimming.
It’s not everyday that sibling rivalry occurs at the most elite level of athletic competition, but for the McDonald brothers, it was pure excitement to be living their dream together rather than competing against each other during the trials in Indianapolis.
“It was like a big dream come true,” Cooper said. “I am doing this with my brother, and there is no one else I would rather do it with.”
The Rivers Academy graduates,
from Milton, got their start at Dynamo Swim Club in Alpharetta. The company, with two more locations in Chamblee and Oakhurst, is home to many competitive swimmers.
Dynamo was also the starting ground for fellow Rivers Academy graduate Brooks Curry, whose team earned gold in the 2020 Summer Olympics in the 4-by-200-meter relay. Curry, from Dunwoody, is set to compete again this year in the same style.
Owen, 20, qualified in the trials for the 200-meter freestyle, 100-meter freestyle, 200-meter backstroke, and 200-meter Individual Medley.
See BROTHERS, Page 6
New Georgia law that makes swatting calls a felony takes effect
By KATE VERITY Georgia Recorder
ATLANTA — Georgia Senate Bill 421, one of many pieces of legislation that went into effect July 1, aims to increase punishment for those behind so-called
swatting calls in order to deter future harrowing law enforcement false alarms in Georgia.
With new potential to face steeper consequences, Georgia lawmakers intend to counter the increased number of swatting calls seen in recent years.
Swatting is the colloquial name for when a person calls 911 or emergency services and invokes a response from law enforcement – often a SWAT team – by intentionally reporting a fake emergency. High profile people are frequently the target of these incidents.
Georgia’s Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has beentargeted numerous times at her Rome home throughout her political career.
State Sen. Clint Dixon, a Gwinnett
See SWATTING, Page 7
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Walmart employee charged for theft
MILTON, Ga. — Police charged a 35-year-old Milton man June 25 for allegedly stealing items over the course of nearly two months while working the overnight shift at Walmart on Windward Parkway.
A Walmart loss prevention officer told that on more than 50 occasions, the suspect altered the price tag, skipped scanned or did not pay for multiple items, totaling an undisclosed value.
The suspect purchased other items or intentionally scanned the wrong barcode along with the stolen items, according to the incident report.
Police were able to positively identify the suspect by reviewing employee records and surveillance footage, according to the report.
Police charged the suspect with theft by taking.
Man pays $1,700 to online scammer
MILTON, Ga. — A Milton man reported to police June 18 that someone claiming to help him with his PayPal account scammed him out of $1,700.
The man told police he received an email showing that he had a $260 charge on his PayPal account, which he could not recall setting up. He said he called a number provided on the email, getting in touch with the suspect who advised that he install software on his computer, which gave the suspect access, according to the
incident report.
The suspect began depositing “fictional” money into the man’s PayPal account and advised the man to spend the money on gift cards at different businesses, the report says. The suspect then instructed the man to send the gift card codes to him once they were purchased, the report says.
The man bought $1,700 worth of gift cards and realized he got scammed after checking his account, which showed that $1,700 was missing, the report says.
He told police the suspect advised that he needed to buy one more gift card to get all his money back, at which point the man filed a fraud report with his bank.
When police attempted to trace the suspect’s phone number, nothing was found.
Police charge Marietta man for harassing ex-girlfriend
MILTON, Ga. — Police charged a 23-year-old Marietta man after he allegedly tried to break into his exgirlfriend’s Milton home June 22 at around 1:30 a.m.
The victim showed police surveillance video of the suspect trying to open a window to the attached garage of the house, according to the incident report. At the end of the video, the victim’s dad could be heard telling the suspect to go home, the report says.
Since their breakup four weeks ago, the victim said the suspect repeatedly attempted contact, sending her messages of him making “choking noises,” driving under the influence and referencing suicide, according to the incident report.
The victim told police she saw the suspect follow her around Forsyth County the day before and believed that he had slashed the tires of a vehicle belonging to the friend she was with at the time.
The victim provided police with
screenshots of messages from the suspect saying that he passed by her home, accurately detailing the number of police cars he saw that morning, according to the incident report.
Police charged the suspect with harassing communications.
Woman cited for battery in road rage altercation
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police arrested a 28-year-old Alpharetta woman after she allegedly followed a Roswell woman home and punched her in the face.
Officers said they spoke with the victim, suspect and witnesses at a residence on Canyon Point Circle.
The witnesses, two nearby residents, said they saw both women struggling on the ground.
One witness said she did not see who instigated the fight but called police.
Another witness said she saw the suspect pull down the victim and get on top of her.
Police spoke to both women involved in the incident separately.
The 20-year-old Roswell woman said the suspect followed her home, jumped out of her car and beat her up.
The officer said he confirmed the victim threw a coffee cup at the suspect once at her residence.
The suspect said she followed the victim after she threw something at her vehicle during a road rage incident on Holcomb Bridge Road.
The officer said he confirmed the fight began when the Alpharetta woman struck the victim with her fist. She was arrested for battery and transported to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.
The victim’s injuries include a forehead contusion and cuts to her ears, neck and knees. An officer said he left the victim with paramedics.
THE PICTURE FRAMER
Newsroom answers community questions
By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com
Community engagement is an essential part of Appen Media’s newsroom strategy.
That’s why reporters for the Herald and Crier newspapers seek out all sorts of reader questions. Sometimes those inquiries don’t lead to standalone stories because of time restraints or, more simply, the answers can be short.
Here are a few questions Appen has received and the answers your reporter has dug up.
What role does the Dunwoody city arborist and city managerial offices have in Dunwoody’s tree loss? Who authorizes and pays to remove limbs near power lines?
City Arborist Amy Bledsoe assesses and reviews all tree removals and new plantings on city property, according to an article in the April-June 2024 issue of the citypublished Dunwoody Digest.
Bledsoe also answers questions from homeowners and developers, and works with the Public Works and Parks departments to care for the health and
maintenance of trees within the city’s parks and public rights-of-way.
The city’s “No Net Loss” tree policy also stipulates a unit-for-unit match for replacing trees that are removed for construction projects throughout city streets, parks, and rights-of-way, the article says.
For specimen-sized trees, the replacement value is one-and-a-half times the unit value of the tree being removed. The article says care is taken to select new canopy trees that are native to Georgia, provide food and/or shelter for wildlife, and help lower the heat index by providing an adequate amount of shade.
Tree removal
Some trees have been removed for projects currently under construction. Some will come down in the future for other projects.
For the Dunwoody High School Path Phase II project, Dunwoody Communications Director Jennifer Boettcher said one crape myrtle and five small-caliper hardwoods were removed.
Boettcher told Appen Media that since there is limited room in the public right of way to replant there, the city plans to work
Have a question? Send it to newsroom@appenmedia.com or go to appenmedia.com/ask.
with Dunwoody High School to replace in kind on school property to be done in the planting season, which is late October to early March.
The Tilly Mill/Mount Vernon Intersection Improvement project, currently in the acquisition phase, may also require tree removal.
Boettcher said the quantities and sizes of all trees greater than 6-inch caliper will be documented once the contract is awarded and the right-of-way and construction clearing limits are staked. She said this will likely take place in the fall.
Boettcher said the city’s project documents include a landscape plan with a variety of replacement trees to be planted once construction is completed.
If you see limb removal along major corridors near the power lines, Boettcher said that is likely being done by a contractor, hired by a utility company.
Considering the Roswell Recycling Center is exclusive to Roswell residents,
where are Alpharetta residents supposed to recycle? I used to always be able to drop off recyclables there.
Outside of the city’s waste and curbside recycling program, which services singlefamily homes and townhomes, Alpharetta’s waste and subside recycling program services single-family homes and townhomes. Through that process residents can recycle cardboard, clean cans and food boxes, as well as mixed paper like mail and newspaper. This program does not accept glass and a few other recyclable products.
Alpharetta residents can recycle glass at the city’s Public Works Department drop-off site, located at 1790 Hembree Road. The facility is open 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
Residents can take other recyclables to Keep North Fulton Beautiful in Sandy Springs on Morgan Falls Road.
Communications Director James Drinkard previously told Appen Media the city has explored formalizing a partnership with the City of Roswell so Alpharetta residents could use the Roswell Recycling
See QUESTIONS, Page 6
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Northern Ridge lists April Eagle Scouts
The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton) is proud to announce its newest Eagle Scouts, who completed their Eagle Board of Review April 25, 2024, at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.
Top row-Left to right
Ethan Logan Bradley, of Troop 27, sponsored by the Johns Creek Christian Church, whose project was the design and construction of five rest areas along 5K rubberized trail at Cauley Creek Park. Ethan cleared and area and constructed five benches with back and arm rests for these stations.
Jack Russell Frank III, of Troop 1459, sponsored by St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, whose project was the removal and construction of a new bridge and a boardwalk leading to the new bridge for the trail system located at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church.
Gavin Grubbs, of Troop 143, sponsored by Greenleaf Capital Partners, whose project was the design and construction of a bridge over a creek for Perimeter Church’s Sojourn Adventures.
Logan James Rush, of Troop 69, sponsored by Alpharetta First United Methodist Church, whose project was
the design and construction of 25 mirrors with frames and stands for the Cambridge High School Color Guard. He also reconstructed the color guard’s cart.
Bottom row Left to right
Rohit Dandavate, of Troop 2143, sponsored by American Legion Post 251, whose project was the design and construction of four benches for the North American Shirdi Sai Temple of Atlanta.
Shana Suhanthan, of Troop 2000G, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church, whose project was the design and construction of a vertical storage unit and two regular shelving units for the Fine Arts Department at Alpharetta High School.
Evan Sambunaris, of Troop 1459, sponsored by St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, whose project was design and construction of a new bridge on the trail system at North Park.
Hammad Junaid Mohammed, Troop 12, sponsored by Muslim American Society Youth Center, whose project was the design and construction of four picnic tables for the Hamzah Islamic Center. Hammad also painted two other sets of picnic tables already at the center.
Northern Ridge lists May Eagle Scouts
The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (Cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton) is proud to announce its newest Eagle Scouts, who completed their Eagle Board of Review May 23, 2024, at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.
From left:
Arian Taraporewalla, of Troop 3000, sponsored by Birmingham United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of four wooden benches and the refurbishment of existing benches located at Cogburn Woods Elementary School nature trail. Arian also measured the trail at the school and placed motivational mile markers on the path.
Danielle Gaines, of Troop 432, sponsored by Roswell United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of a “calming space” for Manning Oaks Elementary School by removing two old benches and designing and construction two new benches and a little library. She also held a book drive and collected more than 1,000 books which she donated
to the school.
Marianno Emanuel Smith, of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church whose project was the renovation and landscaping at the front entrance of Johns Creek Presbyterian Church. The new Eagle Scout cleared the site, planting new shrubs, restoring the front sign, outlining the front entrance with brigs and then mulching.
Jackson Charles Manes, of Troop 69, sponsored by Alpharetta First United Methodist Church, whose project was the design and construction of two little libraries and a bench for the Tuxford Subdivision Community Park.
Michael Nathan Boster, of Troop 7153, sponsored by St. Brigid Catholic Church, whose project was the design and construction of three wooden benches for Mary Our Queen Catholic Church.
Joseph Edward Volpe, of Troop 7153, sponsored by St. Brigid Catholic Church, whose project was the design and construction of an elevated Opossum Run, at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center.
Brothers:
Continued from Page 1
Owen won his 200-meter freestyle preliminary heat but did not qualify to advance to the semi-finals which consist of the top 16.
Owen came close to making the Olympic team in the 200-meter individual medley. He advanced to the semi-finals, where he placed in the top eight, securing a spot in the final for a chance to make the Olympic team.
But, Owen finished fifth overall, just three spots shy of making the team.
Two years ago, he made “Athlete of the Week,” presented by Montlick Injury Attorney. On WSB-TV, Owen described the difficulty of achieving his Olympic dream.
“There’s always someone a step in front of you, and every time I overcome someone, there is someone else,” Owen said. “My mentality is if I keep improving … I will eventually be at the top.”
Owen will be transferring to Indiana University for the upcoming school year. During his sophomore year at Arizona State University, he was the team’s third-highest point scorer.
His 17-year-old brother Cooper will also be attending Indiana University
MCDONALD/PROVIDED Brothers Cooper and Owen McDonald attend the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in 2016, not knowing they would qualify a decade later.
as a freshman. Cooper qualified in the 200-meter freestyle and the 400-meter freestyle.
The McDonald brothers faced each other in the 200-meter freestyle, embracing different mindsets when taking the block June 15 at the trials.
Cooper’s was pressure-free. Before diving into the water, he said he paused to absorb the atmosphere.
“I gave a smile,” Cooper said. “I am so grateful that I am here.”
His older brother Owen said he adopted a goal-oriented approach and maintained tunnel vision as he took to the diving block. The last seconds before he hit the pool consisted of selftalk, he said.
“I have done the training to do this,” Owen told himself.
Questions:
Continued from Page 4
Center but that the effort has proven unsuccessful on multiple occasions due to cost.
Does the new Webb Bridge Dog Park separate big and little dogs?
Yes.
I haven’t gotten a newspaper in the past several weeks. Will it return?
Yes! If you have not received a paper, send an email to the circulation desk at circulation@appenmedia.com with your name and address. Our delivery folks try their best, but with 105,000 copies going out each week it’s a tough task. Let us know if you are having delivery issues and we will take care of it.
HALEY
Newsroom staff to make last stop in open forum series at Pontoon
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Staff reporters with Appen Media Group are closing out its “Listening Tour” at Pontoon Brewing Company in Sandy Springs July 18.
Since January, the tour’s open
Republican, who sponsored SB 421, has also experienced firsthand how intrusive swatting is and how quickly it can go wrong.
Dixon was one of numerous Georgia lawmakers whose homes were targets of swatting over the December 2023 holidays, with several calls taking place on or around Christmas Day. Marks included Marietta Republican Kay Kirkpatrick, Stone Mountain Democrat Kim Jackson, Roswell Republican John Albers and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones.
The legislation intended to deter swatting calls sailed through the General Assembly with bipartisan support this year, passing 48-0 in the Senate and 162-2 in the House. According to Dixon, the toughest deterrent in the new law is the increased penalty for a first offender. Prior to July 1, the penalty for a first offense swatting call on a dwelling is a misdemeanor.
“If it is to a residence or a government building or a court, it becomes a felony first offense, punishable with prison up to five years,” Dixon said. “Then the second
forums have provided visitors the chance to offer suggestions and feedback on coverage. The newsroom has made rounds in Dunwoody, Roswell, Johns Creek, Forsyth County, Milton and Alpharetta, gaining valuable
and third offense, those penalties of course are felonies, but then it increases the time in prison and the fine to help deter; hopefully, to keep these swatting instances from happening.”
Perpetrators of swatting typically call emergency services to falsely report a serious incident, such as a domestic dispute turned violent or a bomb threat. The caller gives police the address of their target as the scene of a crisis, attempting to weaponize law enforcement into showing up at the victim’s door with guns drawn.
According to Peter Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, swatting is more than false bomb threats or homicides. It can also include falsely calling emergency services for situations like suicide prevention or requesting an ambulance – in essence anything that requires first responders to waste time and resources as the result of an intentional effort to mislead.
Dixon recommends that for anyone placed in a swatting situation, the safest way to react is to obey law enforcement completely.
Open up the door and make yourself visible right away, and invite them inside, and just listen to whatever they tell you to do,” Dixon said. “It can be a
insight from residents on how to strengthen reporting.
Beginning at 4 p.m. at Pontoon, staff will be on-hand for around an hour or so for one-on-one conversations and a Q&A session. This is your chance to get
very dangerous situation because they’re on high alert as well, not knowing what they’re walking into.”
Both law enforcement and residents are at risk in a situation like this.
“If done right, the homeowner should be understandably startled by the aggressive entrance or by the announcements made outside and the presence of officers surrounding their home either way, but then immediately followed with a sense of security and teamwork, if everything is done correctly, so that they would be able to see the police were only doing what they were supposed to do, which was to try and protect the public,” said Chuck McPhilamy, public information officer at the Marietta Police Department.
The new law also includes a restitution clause. Prior to July 1, the court had the option to require a perpetrator to pay for any damages or harm that resulted from the swatting
to know staff, sound off tips or highlight topics that deserve more coverage.
An RSVP is not required but appreciated for this free event. Visit appenmedia.com/join to let us know you are coming.
attempt. Now with SB 421, paying the cost of damage done will be a legal requirement.
With technology ever evolving, would-be swatters are finding it easier to commit these crimes. As a prosecutor, Skandalakis has seen technology make it more difficult to discern the source of a swatting call.
“You can have spoof phone numbers; you can do it through the internet,” Skandalakis said. “There’s so many different ways to do it, and sometimes it’s difficult to trace simply because you might be swatted from a different country. So it’s become more prevalent and more difficult at times to actually find out exactly where the call came from.”
This story comes to Appen Media through a reporting partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom that covers statewide issues.
We look for three things. Are they local, is it a small business like us, and sometimes, do they have a cause?”
BRUNO CONSTANZO, co-founder, Roswell General
Roswell General thrives with community-focused feel
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — People head to Canton Street to shop or socialize because of people and businesses like Bruno and Julie Constanzo and their shop, Roswell General.
Their store is on Woodstock Road, a block from the northern half of the historic district in downtown Roswell.
The atmospheres on Canton Street and at Roswell General are similar. Many of the old homes lining the street are newly renovated and sport local entrepreneurs inside.
Amid miles of shopping malls and office parks in North Fulton County, Canton Street and the surrounding Roswell Historic District offer something unique and familiar — a community.
There’s a reason that thousands of Metro Atlantans flood the district for Alive in Roswell, the monthly street festival every third Thursday from April to October.
Bruno Constanzo said Tim Stevens and his team at From the Earth Brewing off Holcomb Bridge Road set up a bar for the June 20 event.
“It’s more of a chill atmosphere,” Bruno Constanzo said. “It’s not like down on south end of Canton Street where it’s packed.”
For those looking to avoid the sardine can of humans around Heart of Roswell Park during Alive in Roswell, 53 Woodstock Road is the place to be.
While the local brewery served drinks, Roswell native Wade Hudson jammed out on his guitar and the Constanzos fired up their grill for patrons.
The feel is a neighborhood block party, and the Constanzos work to bring that
spirit inside their store.
“We try to bring as many local things in as we can,” Julie Constanzo said. “Especially rubs and spices, people come in all time and if there good, we’ll try to keep them in.”
For the Constanzos, being local means supporting local.
“We look for three things,” Bruno Constanzo said. “Are they local, is it a small business like us, and sometimes, do they have a cause?”
He pointed to Augusta-based Recteq grills as an example of a product of higher quality and customer service than popular nation-wide brands.
The Constanzos secured anchor vendors like Yeti and Big Green Egg to allow them to focus on other local merchandise.
It’s not the case for every product or brand in the store, but the Roswell couple tries support companies like veteranowned, Louisiana-based General’s Hot
Running a shop
When customers walk in the front door, they’re treated to a sensory overload for anyone devoted to the outdoors.
One shelf contains just about every color of Yeti cups imaginable, with variations of hues, tints and tones for customers to peruse.
See GENERAL, Page 9
Sauce whenever they can.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Julie and Bruno Constanzo, owners of Roswell General at 35 Woodstock Road, stand behind the front counter at the shop, made of wood from a fallen tree at Barrington Hall.
Owners Bruno and Julie Constanzo turned the porch and front yard of the building into a community gathering place.
General:
Continued from Page 8
On the other side of the shop, a wall full of grill tools and cookware from Georgia-based Big Green Egg also catches the eye. Items range from green egg-style salt and pepper shakers and bamboo skewers to the ever-popular Big Green Egg Acacia Wood Shelves.
If you’re a North Fulton County resident and looking for a gifts next year, Roswell General makes it easy.
And don’t forget, there is a sizable selection of merchandise geared more toward those who don’t grill, camp or hang out in nature, male or female.
Roswell General sports a wide selection, from things like a local inventor’s Ultimate Cocktail Smoking Kit to scented candles crafted by nearby artisans.
The variety helps avoid household conflict, which may emerge if a spouse returns home with a bag of grilling equipment and nothing for their partner.
Opening during pandemic
Bruno Constanzo came up with a plan for a throwback to countryside general stores, and the purchase of the property went through in January 2020.
When Appen Media first reported on Roswell General in October 2020, the store had been open for just a few months. Luckily for the owners, the pandemic gave them the time away from their day jobs to complete renovations and repairs, required after the pandemic sent their contractors home.
Bruno Constanzo, former home builder, said it helped that his former clients didn’t want them in their homes because he had the time to focus on the shop.
Today, the Constanzo family runs the store. Bruno says he spends 95 percent of his time at Roswell General or thinking about it.
“In 2020, we were waiting six to 10 weeks for [Big Green] eggs,” Constanzo said. “It has greatly improved with most of
the vendors, but we still have some issues every now and then.”
He said Big Green Egg products now arrive within days, and other household names like Yeti are down to about a week for deliveries.
“I don’t want to say supply chain issues are perfect,” Constanzo said. “But they’re about 90 percent there.”
Julie Constanzo said their former business partners, Ken and Robin Moncrief, decided they wanted to spend more time with their families after retirement.
It’s easy to understand wanting to get out of the retail business and enjoy family time in fall 2021.
Four years after opening its doors, Roswell General is exactly what its owners said it would be, a place for the community to socialize and interact with something they could buy online.
It’s the kind of accountability that keeps customers coming in.
Upcoming community programs
For motorists and pedestrians on Woodstock Road, the Roswell General logo jumps out.
Whether you’re looking at the building, the street front greenspace or Bruno Constanzo’s gold cart out front, it’s hard to miss.
The shop will be even more recognizable during its July classes with local restaurant partners, Roswell Baking Company and Keenan’s Pit Bar-B-Que.
Roswell Baking Company’s next class at the shop is July 14 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Roswell General invites students to bring their own drinks and enjoy a grilling masterclass.
The second is an adult-only class July 19 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. centered around three Italian pizza staples.
Keenan’s Pit Bar-B-Que’s All Things Chicken class from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 10 wraps up the scheduled community events.
Individual tickets cost between $50-75. For more information, visit www. roswellgeneral.com/.
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Roswell General is a block from Canton Street at 35 Woodstock Road.
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R BOZOF, M.D. S NANDI, M.D.
“How do you know how deep to go?”
One of the most common questions that patients ask before Mohs surgery is how the surgeon knows the depth to cut. Mohs surgery is a method for curing skin cancer that involves removing tissue in layers. But how does the Mohs surgeon know how much to remove each time? The answer to that question has layers of its own. Mohs surgery is performed on many different locations on the body, so the answer to how deep to cut varies by location. If a cancer is the size of a plum and on someone’s back, then the Mohs surgeon’s first stage will be cut as a relatively thick layer. In contrast, if the skin cancer is on the edge of someone’s eyelid, then the Mohs surgeon will cut a very thin layer of tissue – often only a millimeter thick on each side of the tumor – in order to preserve as much healthy eyelid as possible.
The details on the biopsy report influence the depth of cancer resection. Some basal cell carcinomas are characterized as “superficial type.” These cancers usually grow on the surface like moss on a tree, and deep cutting is often unnecessary. For other tumors, the pathologist may say the “deep margin” is involved. This means that the cancer went to the bottom of the biopsy. The Mohs surgeon cuts deeper on the first layer to ensure a level below the biopsy’s depth. Sometimes, the surgeon can even feel the likely thickness of a cancer
with (glove-covered) bare hands. Some tumors feel like a thick disk that is growing wide, not deep. Others feel like icebergs with abundant tumor lurking below.
One of the most important factors affecting second and subsequent layers is the amount of cancer seen under the microscope. If a tiny spot of cancer is left, then only a small amount of additional tissue removal may be necessary. In other cases, strands of cancer are diffusely visible under the microscope, and the surgeon knows that a substantial next cut is necessary to make progress.
Sometimes, when patients ask me how I know how deep to cut, I think that what they are asking is not what was discussed above but rather how I know how deep not to cut. How does the doctor know where the critical nerves or arteries are? The answer to that question is all the years of training focused on anatomy and experience gained during residency, fellowship and in practice. Mohs surgeons are expected to learn what layers of tissue are present in different locations and where the “danger zones” of critical nerves or blood vessels are. When a Mohs surgeon anticipates that an important structure is at risk, the Mohs surgeon will generally discuss this with the patient in advance of cutting and give the patient the opportunity to weigh the risks and benefits of proceeding.
We hope that this article was helpful and interesting. But a word of caution: please remember that this discussion of Mohs surgery is not exhaustive. Do not try this at home!
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 18 years experience as a Dermatology PA. We are excited to welcome her, as she brings with her experience in general dermatology 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.
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C
Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta
PEXELS
Wave goodbye to mood swings and fatigue
Women’s hormone replacement therapy services available at OlympusMD Wellness
Brought to you by – OlympusMD Wellness
As if navigating the ups and downs of life wasn’t challenging enough, hormonal imbalances can wreak havoc on your well-being and quality of life. From hot flashes and night sweats to mood swings and fatigue, hormonal shifts can leave you feeling out of control and overwhelmed.
At OlympusMD Wellness, we understand the impact that hormonal imbalances can have on women’s health and well-being. Our comprehensive women’s health services include Estrogen Replacement Therapy, Testosterone Replacement Therapy and Pellet Therapy, and are designed to empower women to take control of their health, restore hormonal balance, and thrive through every stage of life.
We believe each woman’s hormonal needs are unique, and our team of experienced healthcare professionals is dedicated to creating tailored treatment plans that address specific symptoms, goals, and preferences, allowing women to
take control of their health journey.
Our services can aid in weight loss, menopause symptom relief, improved sleep quality, enhanced emotional well-being, increased bone strength and muscle mass, enhanced cognitive function, and more.
Through compassionate care, guidance, and continued support, our team ensures your treatment plan is monitored and adjusted as needed to optimize your results and overall wellness.
Hormone replacement therapy can
not only address immediate symptoms but also offers long-term benefits for bone health, heart health, cognitive function, and overall wellness. Our goal is to help women proactively manage their health and reduce the risk of age-related conditions.
Are you ready to tackle hormonal imbalances and improve your quality of life?
At OlympusMD Wellness, we take a holistic approach to wellness and we believe our personalized treatment plans can have a positive impact on your health journey. We also understand hormone replacement therapy can be extremely beneficial, but it may not right for everyone. Before seeking treatment of any kind, it’s important to speak with your primary care physician about your symptoms. Then, visit olympusmdwellness.com to schedule a free consultation at Hydralive Therapy. Hormone replacement therapy could be your path to better aging, renewed energy and improved mental well-being.
PROVIDED
Straight teeth without braces?
– Dr. Bradley Hepler, Atlanta Center for Dental Health
Can you really have straight teeth without braces? The short answer to this question is Yes! We all remember when straighter teeth meant braces. You could have straight teeth. You just had to have metal bands, brackets, and wires on your teeth for 18-24 months. We all loved the results; we just didn’t like the process we had to go through.
Technology has come a long way over the last few years. The Atlanta Center for Dental Health offers Invisalign to all their patients. Invisalign is a revolutionary new way to straighten your teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. It uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made for your teeth and gradually move them into a straighter, better position, and better bite to improve your appearance, comfort with chewing, the longevity of the teeth, and overall health.
Unlike metal braces, Invisalign is almost invisible, so you don’t have to worry about your smile being altered by metal brackets and wires. Invisalign aligners are a comfortable way to move the teeth and improve your appearance, bite, and health. Additionally, Invisalign is much more
comfortable to wear than metal braces and can be removed when eating and brushing your teeth.
Having straight teeth is more than just a cosmetic consideration, it’s also important for your oral health. When your teeth are misaligned, it can cause overcrowding, which can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Invisalign can help correct your bite and alignment issues, reducing your risk for these oral health problems.
Invisalign can also help improve your appearance. Straighter teeth can make you look and feel more attractive. When
teeth are straight and properly aligned, it can make your smile look brighter and healthier. It can also help with speech and chewing problems that can be caused by crooked teeth. Invisalign is more convenient than traditional braces. You don’t have to worry about frequent trips to the dentist for adjustments, and you don’t have to worry about food getting stuck in your braces. Invisalign is typically much faster than traditional braces, so you can enjoy your new, straighter smile in a matter of months instead of years. Overall, Invisalign is an excellent way to straighten your teeth and improve your oral health. It’s comfortable,
convenient, and nearly invisible, so you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile without the discomfort and hassle of traditional braces. If you’re considering straightening your teeth, Invisalign is worth considering. Nearly everyone is a candidate for Invisalign. You are invited to call or stop by for more information or a complimentary consultation and smile outcome simulation.
Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health are dedicated to your health and longevity. We provide all the modern advances that contemporary aesthetic dentistry offers. You will realize immediate results with noninvasive and often inexpensive procedures to enhance your smile. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile restoring options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-992-2236. Dr. Bradley Hepler has spent many hours dedicated to perfecting and updating the latest and best techniques in dentistry. It is with this breadth of knowledge that he provides each patient with the perfect solution for their situation, their life, and their goals. It is our pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.
Brought
PEXELS
People, pints, and parks
Volunteering at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Brought to you by - Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy
At Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC), we celebrate the power of community and the hard work and passion of our park's volunteers. Thanks to these dedicated individuals, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) thrives, preserving our city's greenspace. Whether you're skilled in identifying native plants or just really good at wielding a trash picker, there's a volunteer role with your name on it! Volunteering at CRNRA is not just about preserving nature, but it’s also about building connections and fostering a community that cares deeply for our environment. From trail maintenance and river cleanups to educational programs and special events, our volunteer teams do it all with smiles on their faces and mud on their boots. Who needs a gym membership when you can hike, lift fallen branches, and dodge the occasional squirrel in support of your local national park? Speaking of having good times while doing good
deeds, mark your calendars for Pints for the Park on July 22nd! Held at Gate City Brewing Company in Roswell from 6:00 - 9:00 PM, join us for an evening of connection, community, and fantastic brews. For every drink purchased, $1 will be donated to the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC). This is a wonderful opportunity to relax, enjoy a good time with friends, and contribute to a worthy cause. We hope to see you there! Want to learn more about Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy and all we do to support our park? Visit chattahoocheeparks.org. See you in the park!
Sober curious summer
you
– Jennifer
Licensed Professional Counselor at Summit Counseling Center
Summer is officially upon us. The temperature is rising, kids are out of school, and we are spending more time outdoors. Whether it’s poolside snacks, barbeques, or picnics, people love any excuse to get together with friends for food and fun. Often at these events there is an expectation to indulge in the alcoholic beverages being offered. However, more and more people are choosing to live a sober lifestyle. In 2018 the term “Sober Curious” gained popularity after the publishing of the book Sober Curious written by Ruby Warrington. This movement aims to challenge social norms around alcohol and encourage mindful consumption. For those in recovery from an Alcohol Use Disorder or being sober-curious and taking a step back from alcohol,
these fun get togethers can be hard to navigate. Here are some practical tips to have a sober summer.
1. Bring your own preferred beverage and keep it in your hands
2. Try a mocktail
3. Bring a friend for support who is also not drinking alcohol
4. Plan to leave the event before heavy alcohol consumption begins
5. Plan your own event that does not include alcohol
No one has to miss out on fun summer activities because alcohol will be involved. There are many reasons why someone chooses not to drink alcohol. We can respect someone’s decision not to drink alcohol by accepting their decline of an alcoholic beverage and offering an alternative. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your decision.
TOM WILSON
Brought to
by
Acker, M.A.,
OralID: Revolutionizing Early Oral Cancer Detection
Brought to you by -
Roswell Dental Care, Dr. Destinee Hood
As oral healthcare professionals, one of our primary objectives is to provide our patients with the highest level of care possible. To achieve this, we are constantly keeping up with the latest advancements in technology and treatment options. In recent years, a groundbreaking tool known as OralID has emerged, redefining how we detect and diagnose oral cancer. In this article, we will explore the significance of OralID and its role in the early detection of potentially life-threatening oral diseases.
Why Early Detection Matters: Oral cancer affects millions of people worldwide, and unfortunately, the survival rates for late-stage diagnosis are disheartening. However, research has shown that early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery. To combat this issue, the dental community has been actively seeking innovative solutions, and OralID has paved the way for a brighter future in oral cancer detection. What is OralID? OralID is a state-of-the-art oral screening device that utilizes fluorescence technology to identify abnormal cells in the mouth. It involves the use of a handheld device that emits a harmless blue light into the oral cavity. The healthy tissues absorb the light while abnormal tissues or potential lesions appear dark. This quick and painless procedure allows us, as dentists, to detect lesions that may be otherwise undetectable by the naked eye.
The Benefits of OralID:
1. Non-invasive: Unlike traditional screening methods, such as biopsies, OralID is a non-invasive technique that does not require taking any tissue samples. This means minimal discomfort for patients during the screening process.
2. Early detection: By using OralID, we can identify potential abnormalities at their earliest stages, providing patients with a higher chance of successful treatment and positive outcomes. Early intervention can save lives.
3. Time-efficient: OralID allows us to perform screenings quickly and efficiently during routine dental check-ups. This means there’s now a higher likelihood of detecting
issues in their earliest stages without requiring additional appointments or invasive procedures.
4. Peace of mind: Regular oral cancer screenings using OralID can provide patients with peace of mind, knowing that their oral health is being thoroughly monitored. Early detection allows for timely intervention, reducing anxiety and potential complications down the road.
How to Prepare for an OralID Screening: Preparing for an OralID screening is simple and straightforward. You should avoid consuming any foods or drinks that may stain your teeth, such as coffee or colored beverages, as these can affect the clarity of the screening results. Additionally, it is essential for patients to maintain good oral hygiene practices by brushing their teeth thoroughly before the appointment.
As your dental healthcare providers, Drs. Hood and Remaley remain committed to staying at the forefront of oral health advancements, and OralID is yet another remarkable tool we are proud to utilize. By utilizing this cutting-edge technology, we can save lives, ensure successful treatment outcomes, and ultimately promote a healthier and happier community. For enhanced comfort during treatment, we offer conscious sedation including FREE nitrous oxide for anxious patients. You can rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding on many levels. Remember, prevention and early detection are key. Call to schedule your regular dental check-up today and experience the confidence that comes with being proactive about your oral health. Please call us at 770-998-6736 for more information.
•
• Crowns and Bridges in a few days
• Porcelain Veneers
• Tooth Colored Composite Fillings
• Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity
• Oral Cancer Screenings on all patients
• Teeth Cleanings, Digital X-Rays and Comprehensive Oral Exams on all new patients
• Cosmetic Smile Makeovers and Full Mouth Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation)
• Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments
• Snore Guards and Sleep Apnea Analysis
• Digital X-Rays (90% less radiation) and Intra-Oral Photos
• Digitally Scanned Dental ImpressionsNo more gooey impressions!
• Electronic Records
• Accept and File all Major Insurances
• Implants
• Root Canals
• Extractions
Relaxing Atmosphere Our services include:
• Facial Aesthetic Enhancements
BOTOX and Dermal Fillers
Dr. David Remaley
Dr. Destinee Hood
Photo of what is seen under white light and blue light filter.
Back to school care
Checking in on your child’s health
Brought to you by - Dr. Brandi Lewis, pediatrician at Wellstar
As you prepare for the new school year, give your child a positive start by completing your own homework assignment—checking in on their health. Before heading back to the classroom, prioritize your child’s physical and emotional well-being with a visit to your family’s Wellstar pediatrician. Our compassionate pediatricians share your goal of
keeping children healthy as they grow.
“I believe in treating the whole child. What I mean by that is, of course, their physical health is very important, but I also feel that their emotional health is very important,” said Wellstar Pediatrician Dr. Brandi Lewis. “My goal is for all my patients to be resilient, happy and healthy. My role is to work with families to accomplish that goal.”
Preventative check-ups and screenings help children stay ahead of health issues, and our pediatricians will ensure your child is up to date on their vaccines and discuss which immunizations are needed to prevent
disease. Your family’s pediatrician can also help you navigate health requirements at your child’s school. Heading back to school healthy Teach your child healthy habits so they can feel their best throughout the school year.
• Practice good hygiene. Show children how to wash their hands properly and remind them to do it frequently. Do not send your children to school if they are sick.
• Get moving. Children should have about 30 to 60 minutes of moderate activity every day. Staying active can be a fun family activity— ride bikes around the block, play tag in the yard or go for a walk in the park.
• Eat healthy . Teach children about good nutrition by encouraging them to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and limiting sugary drinks.
• Get plenty of sleep. Children aged 3 to 5 should get about 10 to 13 hours of sleep a day. Children 6 to 12 years old should get nine to 12 hours, and teenagers need about 8 to 10 hours.
While the end of summer is often a busy time, planning now will help ensure the whole family has a healthy, successful year.
Find a Wellstar pediatrician near you at wellstar.org/kidcare.
LEWIS
An ongoing healthcare partner means more support at every age.
At Wellstar, you’ll find lifelong primary care partners committed to every aspect of your well-being, at every stage of life.
Your primary care provider knows your complete health history—with ready access to our integrated system of specialists, imaging facilities, labs and hospitals. We’ll help you get the best treatment, right when you need it. From preventative care and screenings to acute and chronic illness management, the expert providers at Wellstar personalize your wellness plan to your unique needs, putting you at the center of your own care. wellstar.org/primarycare
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Leveling the playing field for registered investment advisers
The first and most important principle supporting Georgia’s economic engine is access to free markets for goods and services with minimal restraint from the government — a fundamental policy shared among many of my colleagues and me under the Gold Dome. Free markets drive innovation, keep costs low, or even reduce costs, create wealth and support consumer choice. With the solid conservative majority leading the state’s policymaking, it’s no surprise Georgia has been ranked as the “Number One State to do Business” for over 10 years now.
With that said, when the opportunity came to remove unnecessary costs and burdens on small businesses, I jumped at the opportunity.
As the lead sponsor on a bill, HB 461, I enjoyed the chance to work with local business leaders to reduce regulatory and tax burdens on small businesses. The aim of this bill is straightforward: to protect small business owners from the burden of excessively high regulatory fees imposed by local governments. Under this legislation, local governments will only be allowed to charge fees that directly cover the cost of issuing permits, without adding extra charges to fund
their operational expenses. Passage of the bill meant saving small businesses and, ultimately, their consumers untold amounts of money.
I have spent my legislative career focusing on several areas, but it’s always been underpinned by fighting for the quality of life for every Georgian. This includes helping them plan for retirement. So, one of the many industries supported in HB 461 was investment adviser firms, which, with this bill, will be treated the same as other state-licensed businesses and be exempt from paying an occupational tax.
As my friend Tony Palazzo, president of Berkeley Capital, said “There are hundreds of registered investment advisers across north Atlanta that will greatly benefit from this tax reduction, help this critical industry grow, and build on Georgia’s status as the best state to do business in.”
Tony Palazzo was instrumental in helping to get this legislation passed, and I thank him for his efforts.
With Mr. Palazzo’s help, investment adviser firms will find Georgia a more appealing place to establish their businesses, helping our Georgians plan for their retirement while continuing to create jobs and grow our local tax bases. This is a prime example of when business and government work together, Georgians win!
Brad Thomas represents District 21 in the Georgia House of Representatives.
AMERICAN LEGION POST 201 EVENTS
Saturday, July 27 – Laughter at the Legion Comedians Joseph Anthony & Jeff Norris General Admission Tickets $45 per person Show Starts 8 p.m. Doors Open 6 p.m. Ticket Includes Italian Diner prior to Show Purchase Tickets at www.legion201.org/events
Saturday, Aug. 3 – Old Soldiers Day Honoring All Women Who Served Post Open to General Public All Day Ceremony: 10 a.m. on Post Grounds Guest Speaker: Martina Schmidt, USAF-Ret. Chairwoman,
BRAD THOMAS GA State Representative
OPINION
When telephone service arrived in North Fulton
BOB MEYERS Columnist
In 1876 Alexander Graham Bell patented his first telephone device. A year later, he founded the Bell Telephone Company. Bell eventually held more than 18 patents. Both his mother and wife were deaf, which helps explain his interest in sound technology.
Bell created the first telephone line in Atlanta in 1877. It was one of several point-to-point private lines that Bell and his associates were setting up around the United States. The Atlanta line connected the Western and Atlantic Freight Depot with Durand’s Restaurant in the Union train station.
The phones were called box phones and consisted of a wooden box with a hole in one end. The caller yelled into the hole, and the person at the other end with a similar box yelled back to respond. Because there was no bell or buzzer, the person at the other end had to be near a box to hear the call.
Atlanta’s first telephone exchange for multiple telephone users was opened in 1879 as the Atlanta Telephonic Exchange. It occupied one room on the top floor of the Kimball House Hotel at Wall and Pryor streets. Exchanges were usually built on the top floors of buildings so wires could be strung out to telephone poles.
The new communications industry grew rapidly, and Bell bought out many of his competitors. Following a series of mergers, the American Telephone and Telegraph Co was created in 1880. Because Bell controlled the intellectual property and patents behind the telephone, the new company controlled the growing industry. It maintained control until 1984 when the Justice Department forced the break-up of AT&T.
Growth in smaller communities came more slowly. Alpharetta’s first telephone was installed in 1925, connecting the Alpharetta Free Press to three Roswell locations, the Roswell Railroad depot, Laurel Woolen Mills company and Seaborn Crowley’s store. Mr. Crowley was also president of Laurel Mills.
Alpharetta’s first telephone exchange was in the home of Etta Nesbit on Old Canton Street where the Hamilton Hotel is today. Another early adopter was Patsy Dinsmore, wife of a cotton farmer on Redd Road in today’s Milton. Exchanges consisted of a switchboard either manned by multiple operators or by an individual such as Patsy Dinsmore. In rural areas the Universal Switchboard was often used in the first half of the 19th century.
Alpharetta Mayor E. Toy Lively is shown making the first call through the new dial phone at his grocery store at the corner of South Main Street and Milton Avenue in January 1941. Southern telephone companies undertook an intense program of dial and rural line construction. Alpharetta was one of the first exchanges to switch to a dial system.
The system consisted of a panel, or switchboard, with rows of quarter inch jacks, each of which was the termination of a subscriber’s telephone line. When a caller on an exchange lifted a receiver and turned a crank, a buzzer would sound on the switchboard. Patsy or an operator would plug a cord into a caller’s jack and say “number please.“ Then she would plug another cord into the called party’s jack. Prior to World War ll, party lines were the rule in the South with up to eight subscribers on a line. After a few minutes of conversation, it was common for another subscriber to ask a caller to yield the line. There was no privacy.
Telephone service came to Roswell in 1901 when Southern Bell Telephone Company opened an exchange in a wooden building across from Roswell Square, a facility it shared with the Roswell Post Office. All phone numbers were single digit. Sometime between 1910 and 1920 the telephone exchange moved to the Perry Building on Main Street to accommodate more equipment.
In 1941, Southern Bell opened an automated call center in a 120-square-foot brick building off Main Street in Alpharetta. It was one of the first exchanges to provide dial service. All calls to and from Alpharetta were routed through the center. The telephone company magazine Southern Telephone News had a photo of Mayor E.T. Lively making the first call with his new dial phone at his grocery store. The center
closed in 1948 when a larger center was required. When it closed, local men played board games in the building, and it became known as the domino house.
Several businesses have occupied the tiny historic building over the years after the phone company left, including Clayton Camera store owned by Clark Savage for about 10 years, and for the past 15 years RYR Properties owned by Robin Rosenberg. A portion of the adjacent building is rented from Robin and operated by the District Hair Salon which also uses the domino building for certain services. Another portion of the adjacent building was occupied at one time by the Post Office and is available for rent today. Robin says
“I love being part of Alpharetta’s amazing history.”
I want to give special recognition to the volunteer Archival Team at the Alpharetta and Old Milton County Historical Society. They work diligently to preserve the history of our area and they deserve a lot of credit. They are Marie Andersson, archival chair on the Board of Directors, Kimberly Woods, archival administrator, Pat Miller, society board president, Janice Cronan, Kim Roddy, Laura Best, Sheila Pennebaker, Nancy Boldin, Ed Malowney, Connie Mashburn, Kathy Beck and Maggie Curl, intern. And a tip of the hat to Elaine DeNiro, archivist for the City of Roswell/ Roswell Historical Society. All these dedicated people help make my fun job even more fun.
BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA
In 1941, Southern Bell opened an automated call center in a 120-square-foot brick building off Main Street in Alpharetta. The center closed in 1948 when a larger center was required. After it closed local men played board games in the building, and it became known as the domino house. It is still being used today by a beauty salon for some of its services.
ALPHARETTA AND OLD MILTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
This is a cover shot of Southern Telephone News, an employee magazine for the southern group of Bell Telephone Companies. This edition of March 1941 featured the adoption of dial phone service by small Georgia telephone exchanges.
Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.
SOUTHERN TELEPHONE NEWS
OPINION
Recalling when Union troops arrived in Roswell, July 1864
Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman ordered the 2nd U.S. Cavalry Division, led by General Kenner Garrard, to Roswell on July 4, 1864. Sherman’s instructions included, “Arrest every citizen in the country whom you find likely to prove a spy and keep moving so that your force cannot be computed.” (Charged With Treason, by Michael Hitt and “Military Entrenchments of North Fulton County, Georgia,” a map by Michael Hitt and Chuck Brown)
On July 5, Garrard’s division moved from Smyrna north toward Marietta, turning east toward Roswell by way of the road which is today Ga. 120. That same day, the Confederate Battalion left Roswell, crossing the covered bridge at the Chattahoochee River. Cap. James King had given instructions to the superintendent of the woolen mill, “to run the machinery until driven out by the soldiers.”
After crossing the bridge, Capt. King ordered it burned. Garrard’s advance guard, the 7th Pennsylvania Cavalry rode along the River Road (today’s Azalea Road) and came upon the burning bridge. They were too late to save the structure, but they found the Ivy Woolen Mill. There were two cotton mills and one woolen mill in Roswell. Mill operators claimed to be subjects of Britain and France.
Prior to the arrival of Union soldiers in Roswell, Theophile Roche, a weaver from Paris, had an idea to fly the flag of France at the Ivy Woolen Mill. This effort to trick the Union Army into believing the mills had foreign owners did not work. Woven into the cloth were the letters CSA.
ROSWELL: A PICTORIAL HISTORY/PROVIDED This Georgia Historic Marker commemorates General Garrard’s move into Roswell and the burning of the mills. According to the Georgia Historic Marker website, the marker is damaged or missing at present.
Garrard ordered the mills destroyed and wrote to Sherman to inform him of his actions.
Sherman wrote back, approving his actions and gave further instructions.
“To make the matter complete you will arrest the owners and employees and send them, under guard, charged with treason to Marietta… let them take along their children and clothing, providing they have the means of hauling,” he wrote. “I repeat my orders that you arrest all people, male and female, connected with those factories, no matter what the clamor, and let them foot it, under guard, to Marietta, whence I will send them by cars to the North.”
Following orders, Garrard gathered the mill workers, mostly women and children, and had them sent to Marietta by wagon. In Marietta, they stayed temporarily at the abandoned Georgia Military Institute. From there, they were given rations and sent in railroad boxcars through Tennessee to Kentucky. Some of the women and
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children stayed in Louisville while others continued into Ohio. (New Georgia Encyclopedia, “Deportation of Roswell women”)
There are different stories about the fate of the mill workers. Some eventually found jobs in mills in the North, and a few made their way back to Georgia.
Colonel Miller of the Union army went to the Chattahoochee River Shallow Ford on July 8 to examine where his troops would be crossing. This part of the river was located near where the park and playground are today on Azalea Drive. The Shallow Ford was used by the Cherokee Nation as part of the Hightower Trail.
On the south bank of the Chattahoochee, the 53rd Alabama Cavalry stood guard. The Confederates had recently built rifle pits at the site.
Around 3 a.m. July 9, 1864, the first and third brigades of the Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry were awakened and instructed to travel on foot down to the banks of the Chattahoochee River. They would be wading across the river.
The next Past Tense will share the history of the Union forces crossing the Chattahoochee River and their march through Dunwoody.
Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email
Invitation to Bid
Valerie
Gate Installation - Public Safety Employee Parking Area
ITB NUMBER 24-PD03
Bid Due Date:
July 29, 2024, by 2:00PM Local Time
Electronic submission via: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bidsrfps
Bid submissions will be publicly announced via a virtual bid opening at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder whose bid meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the invitation for bids.
The City of Milton is requesting bids from qualified parties to provide construction services for the installation of a gate for the employee parking lot of the Public Safety Complex located at 13690 Highway 9 N, Milton, Georgia 30004. All qualified bids will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin. The plans and specifications can be found in the solicitation of bids posted on the websites below. A bid bond of 5% is required when submitting bid response.
The request for electronic bids for ITB 24-PD03, Gate Installation - Public Safety Employee Parking Area will be posted on the following websites the week of June 27, 2024: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist
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SERVICE DIRECTORY
Full-time
Apptad Inc. in Alpharetta, GA is seek’g Sr. Project Manager(s) to plan, initiate, & manage IT projs. No trvl. WFH benefits offered. Job duties are proj-based @ unanticipated sites w/in U.S. Relo may be req’d @ proj. end. Email resumes to immigration.usa@apptadinc.com.
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Senior Automation Test Engineer (Alpharetta, GA): Coords w/ tech & biz resources to identify & resolve cmplx issues or sys defects discovered during the tstng & dsgn contingency plans as needed. Identifies & recommends dsgn processes aimed at increased efficiency, perfrmnc & reliability (automation, load & perfrmnc). Demonstrates a strg working knowl of automated tstng tools used to create test dsgns & execute test plans. Maintains & administers procdrs, methodology and/or app standards to incl payment card ind & security rltd compliance according to how they are applied in tstng activities. Resumes to: Total System Services LLC, Brian Simons, Assoc Director, HR Risk & Compliance, One TSYS Way, Columbus GA 31901. #DS536161
Landis + Gyr Technology, Inc.
Senior Product Manager
Alpharetta GA
Responsibilities: Manage life cycle of company’s assigned products including complex engineering tools & energy management networks for electrical, water, & gas utility industry. Lead product lifecycle activities, including gathering customer engineering requirements, authoring Product Requirement Documents (PRDs), prioritizing sustainment activities, & managing Investment Plan (IPL) & New Product Introduction (NPI) processes for assigned products.
Salary range: $135,000 – $146,260/year
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Comp Sci, EE or related field & 2 years in job offered or 2 years product management/utility energy management systems. Experience must include 1 year working in utility domain with each of following: IT architectures; Internet of Things (IoT) concepts; existing & emerging networking technologies; Oracle or SQL Server databases; & wireless technologies. Experience may be gained concurrently. Send resume & cover letter to: Landis+Gyr c/o Lisa Hudson, Talent Acquisition, 30000 Mill Creek Ave, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022 or via email to: lisa.hudson@landisgyr.com
Sawnee EMC is seeking a Cyber Security and Compliance Specialist to monitor and ensure security and integrity of the network(s), computers systems, install/maintain security software, and establish baseline configurations. Requires: Bachelor’s degree Cyber Security, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Information Systems. Must have a minimum of three (3) years of overall security experience and three (3) years of direct experience in technical information security. Proficiency in Next-Gen firewalls, SIEM, vulnerability management, web, and email security, WAF, NAC, EDR/XDR, IPS/IDS, DLP, MFA, SSO, SAML, OAuth, FIDO, security frameworks, NIST, CIS, PCI, DNS, DHCP, VPN, TCP/IP, Ethernet, ITSM systems, Active Directory, Azure AD (Entra ID), Group Policy, PowerShell, SQL, KQL.
Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, July 12, 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 and disabled veterans to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.
Deadline to place a classified ad is Thursdays by 4pm
Software Engineer Consultant (Alpharetta, GA): Demonstrates subject matter expertise (SME) to dvlp cmplx code using both front and/or back-end prgmng langs within mltpl pltfrms as needed in collaboration w/ biz & tech teams for internal & external client s/w solutions. Dsgns, creates, delivers, & advises others on cmplx prgm specs for code dvlpmt & spprt on mltpl projects/issues w/ a wide understanding of the application/database to better align interactions & techs. Resumes to: Total System Services LLC, Brian Simons, Associate Director, HR Risk and Compliance, One TSYS Way, Columbus GA 31901. #EC468736
North Fulton Community Charities, a non-profit in Roswell, Georgia, is seeking a Part Time Donor Operations Associate I.
This entry level hourly position is available now, averages 28 hours per week, and requires the ability to lift up to 75 pounds and work outside during the day.
NFCC have been serving individuals and families in the North Fulton area for 40+ years. Our Mission “To Ease Hardship and Foster Financial Stability in our Community”. We provide opportunities for the whole community to thrive. NFCC is committed to provide professional development and pathways for advancement to all members of the NFCC team.
To view the complete job descriptions, please visit our website at https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/ If you wish to apply, please send your resume to mjallad@nfcchelp.org .
EEO Statement: NFCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. NFCC does not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disabilities, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis protected by the law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
City of Milton Notice of Public Hearing Board of Zoning Appeals
Date & Time August 20, 2024 6:00 P.M.
Location: City of Milton 2006 Heritage Walk Council Chambers Milton, Georgia 30004-6119 678-242-2500
Consideration of Primary Variance:
V24-14, 12500 Waters Edge Drive
Applicant: Rafael Oliveira
Request:
• Variance to Sec.3.1.7.B.2 - Unified Development Code. To reduce the 20foot secondary rural viewshed setback to 9.1 feet along the west property line (Hopewell Road) for an existing pool house accessory structure.
V24-15, 14880 Freemanville Road (Parcel 22 425005980084) and 14880 Freemanville Road (Parcel 22 441005990353)
Applicant: Lindsay Ewing
Request(s):
• Part 1 - Variance to Sec. 3.1.4, Accessory Structure Setbacks - Unified Development Code. To allow an existing run in shed accessory structure along the south property line of 14880 Freemanville Road Parcel 22 441005990353 to remain in front of a proposed single-family home.
• Part 2 - Variance to Sec. 3.1.4, Accessory Structure Setbacks - Unified Development Code. To allow an existing shed accessory structure along the east property line of 14880 Freemanville Road Parcel 22 425005980084 to remain in front of a proposed single-family home.
• Part 3 - Variance to Sec. 3.1.4, Accessory Structure Setbacks - Unified Development Code. To allow an existing one-story frame accessory structure along the east property line of 14880 Freemanville Road Parcel 22 425005980084 to remain in front of the proposed single-family home.
• Part 4 - Variance to Sec. 8.8.13.2.e - Unified Development Code. To allow a proposed guesthouse on 14880 Freemanville Road Parcel 22 425005980084 to be located in a side yard.
• Part 5 - Variance to Sec.8.8.19.b.i - Unified Development Code. To allow a proposed swimming pool on 14880 Freemanville Road Parcel 22 425005980084 to be located in a front yard.
