Johns Creek Herald - February 12, 2026

Boys, girls teams split ‘Battle of Johns Creek’

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

GIRLS BASKETBALL: COUGARS 48, GLADIATORS 46 BOYS BASKETBALL: GLADIATORS 86, COUGARS 26

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Chattahoochee High hosted Johns Creek for a basketball double-header Feb. 6 where the girls protected the home court, but the boys fell to the Gladiators.

The girls game featured a close back-and-forth matchup where the lead never exceeded six points. The Cougars came out on top 48-46 after several ties and lead changes.

Chattahoochee girls got out to an initial lead in the first quarter, but Johns Creek felt the pressure to earn their second region win and fought their way back.

The schools are just two miles apart and rivalry motivations run strong. After the score was tied for the third time, Chattahoochee powered ahead and didn’t relinquish the lead again.

Senior Grace Harris got Chattahoochee’s offense moving in the first half with 10 points, eight of them in the second quarter.

See HOOPS, Page 22

The Johns Creek Gladiators get fired up on the bench in the third quarter of their blowout 86-26 win over Chattahoochee. The starters were pulled for part of the second quarter as well, as the score at halftime was 52-15.

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Former Heards Ferry student detained in playground attack

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — A former student at Heards Ferry Elementary School in Sandy Springs attacked students and a staff member on the playground Wednesday, Feb. 4 around 10 a.m., a spokesperson with Fulton County Schools confirmed.

The middle school-aged boy gained access to the playground without their parent and assaulted several fourthgrade students and a staff member with a stick, authorities said. Students were medically evaluated, and there were no

major injuries reported.

A spokesperson with the school district said the boy was apprehended quickly and detained until his parents arrived. An investigation is underway, and it is not known if charges will be filed.

"We can confirm that a middleschool-aged former Heards Ferry Elementary School student entered the school campus playground and assaulted several students and a staff member," the district said in a statement. "The child was apprehended quickly by Fulton County Schools police, and was detained as the parent was brought in.

Students sustained minor injuries and were medically evaluated. A full investigation is in progress. We do not have any information yet about possible charges."

In a letter to parents, Principal Karen Cooke said the older child assaulted several students from a fourth grade class on the playground. She said school police responded immediately.

“We are reviewing the situation thoroughly and will continue working closely with district safety personnel to ensure all safety protocols are reinforced, Cooke wrote.

This story will be updated if more information is received.

Fulton County files court motion to retrieve 2020 ballots

By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — Fulton County has filed a motion in federal court seeking the return of all documents from the 2020 election that the Federal Bureau of Investigation took while serving a search warrant on Jan. 28. The motion also seeks to unseal the search warrant.

The parties to the motion include Fulton County Commission Chair Robb Pitts and the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections, according to an announcement from the county.

The FBI executed a search warrant at 5600 Campbellton Fairburn Road in Union City on Wednesday, Jan. 28.

A court order signed by Magistrate Judge Catherine M. Salinas authorized agents to seize all physical ballots from the 2020 election in Fulton County, all ballot images and Fulton County’s 2020 voter rolls, the Georgia Recorder reported.

Pitts previously said the county was getting ready to turn over those records as part of an ongoing lawsuit.

The United States Justice Department’s civil rights division sued Fulton County Court Clerk Che Alexander in December 2025.

The lawsuit claims that Attorney General Pam Bondi sent a letter to the Fulton County Elections Board in October 2025 demanding records responsive to a State Election Board resolution. A subpoena

requested “all used and void ballots, stubs of all ballots, signature envelopes and corresponding envelope digital files from the 2020 general election in Fulton County.”

A hearing was scheduled for Feb. 9 regarding the transfer of the 2020 election documents to the state.

During a press conference on Feb. 4, Pitts said he thinks the confiscation of the county’s ballots is about more than the 2020 election and is tied to sowing distrust in the 2026 and 2028 elections.

“When Tulsi Gabbard showed up, that was a signal to me that this is bigger than just the confiscation of our records,” Pitts said.

According to The Guardian, Gabbard, who is the Director of National Intelligence,

is also reviewing the 2020 election, with Trump’s approval, and working independently of the Justice Department investigation. She did join the FBI raid at the Fulton elections facility on Jan. 28.

Pitts is concerned about the midterm elections this year, as Georgia’s senators are up for reelection.

“It’s going to be important, and anything that can be done to influence that, I think, is going to be done,” Pitts said. “I think this is probably the first step in whatever they’re going to do in order to depress voter participation, voter registration, making whatever changes they think are necessary to help their case in 2026, but

See COUNTY, Page 21

Johns Creek tourism director to focus on wellness, culture

By AMRITHA ALLADI JOSEPH newsroom@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Johns Creek’s new tourism director is hoping to position the city as a wellness mecca and travel destination in the Southeast.

Johns Creek Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Kristin Edwards says she plans to elevate the city’s regional profile as a premier tourism destination in the region. Edwards, who took the post on Jan. 26, brings more than a decade of experience in event planning, community engagement and destination marketing across the Atlanta region. She is the first full-time employee for the agency, which typically employs parttime workers or contractors. The Convention and Visitors Bureau is a nonprofit serving as the official marketing arm for the city. Its mission is to serve as an economic catalyst by promoting the city as a destination for business and leisure travel.

Prior to her appointment, Edwards worked for the Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Film, Entertain-

ment, and Nightlife, where she managed programs supporting nightlife businesses and collaborated on large-scale events. However, once Edwards started planning for her family with fiancé Henry, she decided to move back outside the perimeter, particularly because of the healthcare available in places like Emory Johns Creek Hospital, where Edwards chose to deliver her son, Atlas.

Edwards says she views Johns Creek as a destination that appeals to travelers seeking physical, cultural and mental wellbeing.

“While someone is in surgery, their loved one can go and take a walk on one of our trails,” she said. “Or while they're recovering, they can come to some of our parks and hang out. We have tons of golf courses.”

Johns Creek’s multicultural mix and diverse food scene is another draw for visitors. With more than 200 restaurants representing a variety of cuisines, Johns Creek’s multicultural fare has become a tourism asset, and Edwards wants to spotlight it further through social media campaigns.

“We need to have more accurate description of all the restaurants that are out here and what their menus are,” Edwards said. She hopes to work with a content creator to help showcase restaurant specialties and options to host small events at the establishments.

Looking ahead, Edwards is especially focused on leveraging the FIFA World Cup events hosted in Georgia later this year to draw people outside of the city center.

“One thing that people don't realize is people aren't coming just for a game and leaving,” she said. “They're going to be here for weeks at a time, so I would love to promote for them to stay here, get out of the chaos of the city, then go to your game.”

She is also keen to champion the arts. The city boasts free exhibitions and classes, as well as the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra. However, it lacks a large performing arts venue. A recent referendum failed to fund a performing arts center.

“I would love to create an arts incentive to keep those events here and help drive that economic impact to Johns Creek,” she said.

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Newly appointed Johns Creek Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Kristin Edwards says she hopes to promote the city as a health hub throughout the Southeast while also spotlighting the city’s diverse food scene and rich performing arts.

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Volunteer efforts alone cannot carry homeless

By AMRITHA ALLADI JOSEPH newsroom@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. – Before Allison Vrolijk found him sleeping in the Walmart parking lot on Mansell Road, Spencer Jones was planning to brave the weekend’s wintry weather camped in his 2007 Lexus ES 350.

Jones, who moved to Atlanta from New York in 2018, has been through a number of service jobs and temporary housing situations, including the Economy Hotel in Roswell, which closed its doors last May. Since Jan. 6, Jones has lived in his car.

“I didn’t come out here to be homeless, though. I came out here to advance, and I know that this is just a moment,” he said.

Jones was among the 30 unsheltered individuals a network of volunteers found warm shelter for during the recent winter cold snap.

More than two dozen North Fulton volunteers, partnering with Roswell and Alpharetta public safety officers, conducted wellness checks and outreach, provided transportation, food and donations to get unhoused people into safe, warm hotel rooms over the weekend. The cost of the rooms was primarily paid for by local church organizations.

While volunteers were able to successfully identify and shelter the homeless – proving the need for an emergency solution – Fulton County Continuum of Care Board Chair Maggie Goldman said a volunteer-led initiative is not a long-term option.

“It’s not sustainable to ask volunteers to run this entire program again for another cold spell,” she said, pointing to the logistical complexity faced by volunteer Kathleen Cherry. Cherry fielded a makeshift “hotline” connecting unhoused people to transportation and hotels. She said her phone rang continuously on Saturday night, and she answered calls until 2 a.m.

The Fulton County CoC represents a

network of service providers and government agencies committed to ending homelessness across the county, excluding Atlanta, which has its own CoC.

In the days leading up the wintry weekend, Goldman and Kelvin Thompson, the newest appointee to the Fulton CoC board, urged North Fulton city leaders and Fulton County commissioners to help set up a temporary warming center in a region that lacked an emergency overnight solution.

In an email to Goldman, Fulton County Chief Operating Officer Pamela Roshell responded that there is no legal requirement under Georgia law that mandates Fulton County activate or operate warming centers due to inclement weather.

“Any county involvement is a policy and operational choice,” Roshell wrote.

To Goldman, the absence of a state mandate doesn’t preclude the county from stepping in, particularly along city borders where handoffs and care coverage become confusing.

“Both the cities and the county are pointing fingers at each other saying it’s the other’s job. Both cannot be true. It seems what really should happen is a collaboration of resources to put something together,” Goldman wrote to the county manager.

Like Goldman, CoC Board Secretary Sheila Louder said elected officials should be more involved. At the CoC board’s Jan. 15 meeting, Louder said she hoped the board’s five-year strategic plan will include initiatives to promote greater engagement with elected officials. The strategic plan currently includes measures to improve communication and information sharing, build advocacy and leadership, strengthen housing access, and improve long-term support for increasing the housing stock, according to Fulton County Director of External Affairs Jessica Corbitt.

The plan will be presented to the CoC Board for adoption at its March 19 meeting.

County Continuum of Care Board Chair Maggie Goldman, left, and the board’s newest member, Kelvin Thompson, work on a case during the weekend operations of the temporary shelter solution for unhoused individuals.

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Just opened?

Pizzeria wins praise from ‘One Bite’ review

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. —Pizza by Yandys in Sandy Springs received recognition from Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy in one of his recent “One Bite” pizza reviews.

Everybody knows the rules: Portnoy takes one bite (often two) before rating the pizza on a scale from 1-10. He’s ranked hundreds of pizza restaurants since launching the series over a decade ago.

Portnoy ranked a slice of cheese pizza from Pizza by Yandys at a 7.7, higher than the other two pizza locations he tried while in Atlanta.

“What a little hidden gem,” Portnoy said in a video posted on his social media accounts. “This is, for Atlanta, very good pizza.”

Pizza by Yandy’s opened in December 2024 inside Carniceria Los Pinos, a Mexican grocery store at 6342 Roswell Road N.E.

A true family-run business, Yenara works the cash register as her husband, Diego, slides pizzas into the oven. His specialties include a buffalo chicken pizza, and one of their most popular pies, the hot honey char pepperoni pizza topped with swirls of ricotta cheese. The pizza alla vodka offers a different take on the classic margherita and they have a Hawaiian pizza topped with pineapple and ham.

Pizza by Yandy’s offers takeout and there’s seating inside the grocery store for visitors to enjoy their fresh pizza pies.

See PIZZA, Page 9

Pizza:

Continued from Page 8

Their son works on the weekends, and Yenara described the owner of the grocery store they occupy as a brother.

Before moving to Atlanta in 2020,

Diego had dreamed of opening a pizza restaurant where they lived in New York City. Now, his dream is a reality that has gained the attention of multiple influencers in the past year helping grow the community that Pizza by Yandy’s serves.

“I’m very happy and I’m glad that my husband got his dream,” Yenara said.

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Arts Center features Black History Month exhibit

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Black History Month art exhibit in Johns Creek challenges visitors to ask themselves big questions.

Althea Foster, curator and program director for The Arts Center at Johns Creek, said the almost 40 works from esteemed museums are not only beautiful, but they are imbued with meaning.

“It is also about communicating truth,” Foster said. “Maybe it will change the way you feel about things, and maybe it won't, but it's a very human experience that we can all share.”

Now through March 7, The Arts Center, 6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, will host “Black Joy as Power and Resistance: African American Printmakers.” It features prints from a variety of techniques, many by contemporary artists.

The works are on loan from Atlanta’s High Museum of Art, New York’s The Museum of Modern Art and Whitney Museum of American Art , among others. The display marks the 12th annual Black History Month exhibit by The Arts Center at Johns Creek.

“This exhibition is particularly special because we have been able to

“That’s So

February.

a

borrow works from museums that are considered the deans of African American art,” Foster said.

Whether visitors are artistically uninitiated or well-studied, Foster said she

thinks the works will spark feeling and thought.

For example, a series of prints titled “Flowers of Trees 1, 2, 3 and 4” by Savannah artist Laurie Darby holds a hidden meaning.

“You look at them and you say, ‘Oh, these are very lovely,’” Foster said. Then when you read the artist statement, you find out that she remembers her grandfather's stories of people being lynched from magnolia trees.”

Many of the works are more hopeful. Jerushia Graham’s “Architect of Futures Yet Unseen,” one of Foster’s favorites, shows an innocent child and evokes “a universal sense of humanity that surpasses race,” Foster said.

“You look at this child, and you imagine what they might achieve,” she said.

“Cornbread and Buttermilk” by Curlee Raven Holton tells the life experiences of an elderly man in America. Layered with text, it recounts the experiences of a Black man in America.

“You're getting a lot of different perspectives,” Foster said.

The messages within the works at The Arts Center are more important than ever, the museum curator said. As some work to discredit the importance of marginalized groups in the country, works found in the exhibit demonstrate the power and beauty of experiences of all people.

“We can look at these as specifically African American, but they're American works,” Foster said. “These people have made their place in American art, and their works deserve to be shown.”

Sam Gilliam’s “Wind,” a mixed media on loan from the Experimental Print Institute,” is on display at The Arts Center at Johns Creek in February.

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!

WHAT THEY ARE KNOWN FOR

1. Wander. Hooded snake. Clint Eastwood, e.g.

2. Aldous Huxley, e.g. Tie. Hurry.

3. Dress. Coffee order. Alfred the Great, e.g.

4. Family girl. City on the Ruhr.

John Paul II, e.g.

5. Small change. Rodney Dangerfield, e.g. Ape.

6. Rob Bean, e.g. Hayseed. Catch sight of.

7. Geronimo, e.g. Bunsen burner. Grotto. 2/12/26 Sudoku PuzzleJunction.com

1 Wander. Hooded snake. Clint Eastwood, e.g.

2. Aldous Huxley, e.g. Tie. Hurry

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!

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

3. Dress. Coffee order. Alfred the Great, e.g.

4. Family girl. City on the Ruhr. John Paul II, e.g

5. Small change. Rodney Dangerfield, e.g. Ap

6. Rob Bean, e.g. Hayseed. Catch sight of

How to Solve: To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

How to Solve: Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a challenging number puzzle, solved in a crossword style grid. The rules are easy: A number above the diagonal line in a black square is the sum of the white squares to the right of it. A number below the diagonal line is the sum of the white squares in the sequence below it. You may only use the digits 1 to 9, and a digit can only be used once in any sequence.

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8 heart health facts moms-to-be should know

Brought to you by – Wellstar

Pregnancy is a time of excitement and change, but it also puts added strain on the heart. Here’s what every expectant mom should know about heart health during pregnancy.

1. High blood pressure can be silent— and dangerous.

Some women develop high blood pressure during pregnancy. High blood pressure can lead to preeclampsia, a condition that can cause organ damage and, in severe cases, seizures.

If you have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or a family history of cardiovascular conditions, tell your care team. Your physician may recommend that you monitor your blood pressure at home.

2. Heart failure can happen—even in healthy moms.

A rare but serious condition called peripartum cardiomyopathy weakens the heart, usually in the last month of pregnancy or the months following delivery.

Talk to your clinician immediately if everyday activities leave you exhausted or struggling to breathe. Other concerning symptoms include persistent coughing, swelling in your legs or feet and dizziness.

3. Pre-existing heart conditions and hypertensive disorders require extra care.

If you’ve ever had heart disease, a heart defect or high blood pressure—including hypertension or hypertensive disorders—pregnancy can increase your risks. Even women without symptoms before pregnancy may need extra monitoring.

Talk with your clinician early about a care plan. High-risk pregnancies may require specialist support, like a maternalfetal medicine physician or cardiologist.

4. Blood clots are more common during pregnancy.

Pregnancy increases the risk of thromboembolism, a serious condition where blood clots can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. The risk is even higher for women with a history of clotting disorders, obesity or limited mobility.

To reduce your risk of blood clots, stay active, stay hydrated and watch for warning signs like leg swelling, redness or pain. If you notice these, call your care team right away.

5. A racing heartbeat may be abnormal.

You can expect some changes in heart rhythm during pregnancy, but arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) can be a sign of something more serious. Hormone changes, increased blood volume and underlying conditions like thyroid disorders can all contribute to an irregular heartbeat.

If your heart races often, feels like it’s skipping beats or you feel dizzy or faint, let your clinician know immediately. Keep track of when these symptoms happen.

6. Postpartum recovery still puts stress on the heart.

Keep all postpartum checkups, even if you feel fine. Watch for new symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath or extreme fatigue. If you had high blood pressure during pregnancy, continue monitoring it after delivery.

7. Your hospital choice matters

For women at high risk, delivering in a hospital with access to specialized prenatal tests, genetic testing like amniocentesis, fetal evaluations and emergency cardiac care can make all the difference.

Wellstar provides specialized care for mothers and babies in our community, including:

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8. Mental health and stress impact heart health . Anxiety and stress can affect your heart. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone. Your mental health is as important as your physical health. If you are pregnant and have questions about your heart health, talk to your obstetrician about a referral to our cardio obstetrics team. Wellstar provides specialized cardio obstetrics care in Alpharetta and Roswell. Find an obstetrician at wellstar.org/ womenshealth.

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Navigating anxiety for the best dentist experience

Many people get nervous going to the dentist. So many people have had bad experiences in the past or just don’t like it. Fear of the dentist is common and affects people of all ages. Whether it’s the sound of the drill or fear of potential pain, dental anxiety can prevent people from seeking the oral care that they need. Sedation Dentistry allows patients to relax while undergoing dental procedures.

There is an alternative. You can have comfortable, anxiety-free visits to the dentist with Sedation Dentistry. Dental offices like the Atlanta Center for Dental Health offer comfort amenities including bottled water, snacks, courtesy Wi-Fi, a warm inviting environment, relaxing music, noise-cancelling headphones, Netflix movies, lavender eye pillows and warm neck pillows, cozy blankets, and warm face towels to make your visit as comfortable as possible. In addition to all those amazing benefits, you can also choose from a range of sedation options.

Sedation Dentistry uses medications to help patients relax during their dental procedures. The goal is to create a calm, anxiety-free environment, making it easier for individuals to receive necessary dental care. This benefits not only anxious patients, but also patients with extensive needs that may require a longer visit, patients with a low pain threshold, or time efficiency allowing more to be done in a single visit.

Sedation Dentistry focuses on keeping the patient comfortable and relaxed while receiving much needed dental care. Some patients choose to have their mouth numb so they don’t feel anything and then just relax with their eyes closed while listening to music.

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, inhalation sedation is a popular option that relaxes you while your procedures are completed. At the end of your visit, you simply breathe pure oxygen and then can drive yourself home.

Many people choose Oral Sedation that allows you to sleep through the dental visit, have all your work completed in one visit, be easily awakened, and not remember the experience of your visit. With Oral Sedation, you simply swallow some pills prescribed for you, lay back and fall asleep, and wake up at the end with your procedures complete and your new smile. All dental procedures can be completed with Sedation Dentistry from routine preventive care to a complete Smile Makeover.

“Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life." - Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic

A healthy mouth is part of a healthy body. Our wish for you is that you look and feel your best! Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide the most modern advances in complete dentistry. Experience immediate results with procedures to greatly enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complimentary consultation to discover which of these options is best for you, please call us at 770-992-2236. Dr. Hepler is highly trained to provide you with the latest and best techniques to allow you to achieve your cosmetic and restorative goals.

Is Lidocaine a secret weapon against cancer?

We always worry about the negative side-effects that a medicine might have. At the end of a pharmaceutical company’s commercials, an auctioneer very quickly states the twenty terrible things that might happen if you take the advertised medicine. Side effects range from your ear falling off when you sneeze to the belief that you are Elvis. Side-effects make almost any medicine sound scary. But occasionally, a positive side effect emerges. Sometimes, we discover something wonderful about a medicine that is wholly unexpected.

Examples of positive side-effects are not hard to find. The medicine finasteride was first being used to help decrease the size of the prostate in men who were having difficulty urinating. An unexpected positive side-effect was discovered when it was noticed that many of the men were re-growing their scalp hair. With finasteride, male pattern baldness was often partially reversed or stopped in its tracks.

One of the most recent medications discovered to have a possible positive side effect is lidocaine, which has been around since 1943. Lidocaine is an injectable anesthetic. We use lidocaine for skin biopsies, excisions, Mohs surgeries and countless other procedures every day in the dermatology office. Amazingly, lidocaine may be more than an anesthetic. It may also have anti-cancer effects.

A team of surgeons in India operating on breast cancer divided patients into two groups. One group had standard breast cancer surgery. The other group received a lidocaine injection around the tumor 7-10 minutes prior to surgery. During the 5 years after surgery, the group that received the lidocaine injection had an 8.5% rate of the cancer recurring (popping up again) at a distant site versus an 11.6% rate of distant recurrence in the surgery-only (no lidocaine) group. The study has some limitations including not being a double-blind trial and being a single-center study, but it is intriguing enough to warrant further investigation. The authors reported that injecting lidocaine around breast cancer before removing it increased survival in their study.

What made the surgeons perform this study in the first place? Why lidocaine? Over the last few years, researchers have discovered that

electrical gradients maintained across the membranes of cancer cells are important to their ability to metastasize or spread. Our cells have pumps in them called “ion channels.” They allow certain ions to pass across the cell membrane. The resulting ion concentration gradient creates an electrical charge across a cell. This gradient affects the way other proteins in the cell function. Importantly, some of the proteins affected by the charge across a cell membrane are important for healthy cells’ growth and development as well as for cancers’ ability to grow and spread.

Lidocaine works by blocking sodium channels in cell membranes. Disrupting the electric charge across a cancer cell membrane was suspected to have the potential to weaken the cancer itself. Pre-clinical studies supported this hypothesis, and the breast cancer surgeons took the next step of performing a trial with breast cancer patients and peritumoral lidocaine injections.

I don’t know if breast cancer surgeons in the United States consider these results valid, are awaiting confirmatory studies or are already injecting lidocaine. However, in dermatology, these results are exciting because, for now, we do not need to change anything that we are already doing. Every day that I perform Mohs surgery, we inject the area around a tumor with lidocaine prior to surgically removing the cancer. If lidocaine is more than an anesthetic, then our patients are likely already benefiting from any anti-cancer properties that lidocaine has.

Mohs surgery is the gold standard for treating most skin cancers and has a cure rate that is usually at or above 99%. Perhaps lidocaine is one of the secrets to this success.

Insist on the BEST

Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.

He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.

Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 23 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.

Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.

Why did my dentist refer me?

• Spa-Like Relaxing Atmosphere

• Free Nitrous Oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation

• Cone Beam 3D Radiography Digital Scanner – No More Gooey Impressions

• Botox and Dermal Filler Master Injector

• Platinum Invisalign Provider

If you’ve ever been told, “I’m going to refer you to a specialist,” it’s normal to feel curious or even a little concerned. A dental referral doesn’t mean something is wrong with your care. It simply means your general dentist wants you to get the best possible treatment from a professional who focuses on a specific area of dentistry.

Here’s a quick, clear look at the most common dental specialties and what they do.

General Dentistry

Your general dentist is your primary dental care provider. They handle routine exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, preventive care, and basic restorative treatments. When a procedure requires advanced training, specialized equipment, or complex planning, that’s when a referral comes in.

Endodontics (Root Canal Specialists)

Endodontists specialize in treating the inside of the tooth, specifically the pulp and root canals. If you need a root canal, have severe tooth pain, or an infection deep in the tooth, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist. They have advanced tools and training to manage complex or painful cases comfortably.

Periodontics (Gum Specialists)

Periodontists focus on the health of the gums and supporting bone. Referrals are common for advanced gum disease (periodontitis), gum recession, bone loss, or dental implant placement. They also perform procedures like deep cleanings, gum grafts, and bone regeneration.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral surgeons handle surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. This includes wisdom tooth removal, tooth extractions, dental implants, jaw surgery, and treatment of facial injuries or pathology. If a procedure requires surgery or IV sedation, an oral surgeon is often the right choice.

Orthodontics (Braces and Aligners)

Orthodontists specialize in correcting bite issues and aligning teeth. Referrals typically involve braces, clear aligners, crowding, spacing, or jaw alignment problems. Orthodontic treatment improves both function and appearance over time.

Prosthodontics (Tooth Replacement and Complex Restorations)

Prosthodontists focus on restoring and replacing missing or damaged teeth.

This includes dentures, bridges, crowns, veneers, and full-mouth rehabilitation. They are often involved in complex cases where aesthetics, bite, and long-term function are critical.

Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentists specialize in caring for children’s teeth, from infancy through adolescence. They are trained to manage child-specific dental needs, behavior guidance, and growth-related issues in a kid-friendly environment.

Why Referrals Are a Good Thing

A referral means your dentist is prioritizing precision, safety, and long-term success. Specialists work closely with general dentists to ensure your treatment is coordinated and tailored to your needs. Dr. Hood has advanced training in residency to handle most dental procedures in-office, and she has built a tremendous team of skilled specialist colleagues for more complex cases. As your general dentist, Dr. Hood and team give your comfort and trust top priority. We assure you feel confident in any dental solution before beginning treatment. For enhanced comfort, we offer FREE conscious sedation, including nitrous oxide. Rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding. Take the first step in feeling great about your smile. Schedule your comprehensive dental exam by calling 770-9986736 or scanning the QR code below.

Supporting senior heart health with in-home care

to You

February is American Heart Month, a time to take stock of your heart health and understand risks of heart disease and how to manage related heart conditions. This is especially important as we age. The CDC says most adults over 60 live with at least one factor for heart disease, and it remains the leading cause of death for seniors. For older adults, heart health takes a daily commitment that goes beyond an occasional visit to the doctor’s office.

There are four areas that make a major difference and are critical to improving your heart health: monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol, regular exercise, following a heart-friendly diet and consistently taking prescribed medications.

It’s important to know your numbers. High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease, and while almost half of all US adults have high blood pressure, only 1 in 4 have it under control. Scheduling regular screenings for blood pressure and cholesterol is a key first step. Use February as a time for lifestyle review, whether it’s adjusting home routines to establish a consistent sleep schedule or following recommended changes like the Mediterranean Diet to replace recipes heavy in salt.

In-Home care plays a critical role supporting the heart health of your older loved one and identifying concerns early. Subtle changes like fatigue, shortness of breath, decreasing social interactions,

less interest in eating, weight loss or swelling, unsteady gait, forgotten medications or appointments can all signal the need to examine new symptoms.

A skilled and well-matched caregiver provides daily support for heart healthy routines to prevent or manage chronic conditions like congestive heart failure or hypertension. This includes maintaining physician approved physical exercise to improve circulation and reduce fall risks. Your caregiver can provide reliable reminders to take medications and monitor vital signs like blood pressure. Support for nutritional needs include heart-healthy food preparation, watching sodium levels and encouraging hydration. Following a consistent sleep schedule and addressing social isolation, which can contribute to loneliness and chronic stress, are important measures for well-being. Your caregiver can also help with visits to the doctor and coordinating communication with family members.

At Home Helpers we know that aging in the warmth and comfort of home is the preference of most seniors. Our team has the depth and skill to assist with all personal care, help around the house, provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, and help with recuperative care after surgery or a changing health condition. We’re here to help, from four hours a day, several days a week to 24/7 care. For a free consultation, please call Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs at (770) 681-0323.

Exploring ways to help your marriage

to you by – Jason Howard, MA, LPC

If your marriage feels like it’s slipping or slipping away, your instinct might be to try harder —buy flowers, do more around the house, say “yes” to everything she asks. But the hard truth? Overcompensating with niceness can actually push her further away.

It’s not that kindness is bad—it’s that acting “nice” out of fear, guilt, or anxiety isn’t attractive.

Think about hiring for an important role at work.

The first candidate agrees with everything you say, even when they’re wrong. Eager to please, but for some reason you don’t fully trust them.

The second candidate listens well and stands firm in their values. They’re steady, confident, empathetic, and bring clarity in tough situations. Who would you hire?

Your wife wants candidate #2 — a man who’s self-assured, present, and strong. She doesn’t want someone who either bends to keep the peace or reacts with anger and frustration; she wants someone she can count on.

How do you start showing up that way?

The Gottman Method, a world-renowned, research-backed approach to relationships, offers three key strategies to help.

1. Self-Soothing: Stay Calm Under Pressure

One of the biggest mistakes men make in struggling marriages is reacting to their wife’s moods versus responding . If she’s distant, guys panic. If she’s frustrated, we either get defensive or overcompensate with niceness.

Instead, practice Gottman technique to stay calm and present.

Action Steps:

• The next time you feel anxious or frustrated, take a deep breath, lean back, and count backwards from five to one before responding.

• As your heart rate slows down, remind yourself that her emotions aren’t a reflection of your worth.

• Then, instead of reacting out of fear, focus on providing clarity from your perspective or seeking clarity from her perspective.

A man who can handle conflict without losing control is far more at tractive than one who scrambles to “fix” things or blows up in frustration.

2. Create Small, Meaningful Bids for Connection

Many men try to fix their marriage with big gestures matters are small, consistent mo ments of connection

Dr. John Gottman calls these “bids for connection”—the little ways we reach out for attention and intimacy. The problem? In struggling marriages, these moments seem to disappear.

Action Steps:

• Instead of asking, “How was your day?” ask, “What were some favorite parts of your day?”

• Make a habit of putting down the phone and turning towards her when she speaks, showing you’re fully pres ent.

• Offer a light touch on the shoul der, a smile and summarize what

you’re hearing. These micro-moments rebuild trust and intimacy in ways grand gestures cannot.

3. Stand Firm in Your Values (Without Being Defensive)

OPINION

The DAR in Georgia and the Revolutionary War

BOB MEYERS

This year marks the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. States, cities and patriotic groups will celebrate and honor the event in many ways. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will play an important role. This column will focus on the war, the history of DAR and one local DAR chapter.

The Revolutionary War was a conflict between the 13 American colonies and Great Britain. It began as a demand for reform in the early 1770s and ended in the complete separation of the colonies from Great Britain. George Washington was commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. In 1776 the Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. In 1781, colonial forces won the decisive battle of Yorktown and forced King George III to acknowledge American independence which was formalized by the Treaty of Paris in 1783.

Many Georgians in the early 1770s were reluctant to oppose the British because the colony had prospered under its rule. Those who remained loyal to the king were called Tories or Loyalists. Anti-British Georgians were called Whigs or Patriots.

Significant White settlement did not begin until the passage of the Indian Removal Act in 1830 and the subsequent Trail of

County:

Continued from Page 3

more importantly in 2028,” Pitts said.

President Donald Trump lost the 2020 election after serving his first term in office. He lost the national vote by about 7 million votes to Joe Biden and lost Georgia by 11,779 votes. Trump has maintained that he won the 2020 election.

The results have been reviewed, audited, and hand-counted, and the results remain the same.

“Last week, I committed to the voters of Fulton County, and the world for that matter, that we will use every resource at our disposal to fight for their vote, and that we will fight using all resources against those who seek to take over our elections,” Pitts said.

Pitts said Fulton County wants to retrieve the ballots because it is unaware of what is happening with them. The county would like to inventory the documents. He added that the officials were not given notice of the raid or copies of what was taken.

Tears. However, many of the pioneer families who later settled in North Fulton were descended from Revolutionary War patriots from the Carolinas. While North Fulton did not experience serious battles, significant battles took place in other parts of Georgia.

The DAR, founded in 1890, has some 190,000 members in about 3,000 chapters throughout the U.S. While it is a huge organization, it is also highly local. There are almost 8,000 members in Georgia in 111 chapters.

DAR chapters in this area have been very active because of the many Patriot ancestors that settled here attracted by Georgia’s post-war land policies.

One of the most active Georgia DAR chapters is the Patriots of Liberty Chapter in Alpharetta. Their 100 members exemplify the mission of the DAR: historic preservation, education and patriotism through civic involvement. They, like other chapters, support veterans and active-duty military, promote education through scholarships and relations with schools, help preserve local historic sites and participate in patriotic and local community events. A requirement for DAR membership is demonstrable direct descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution, either a soldier who fought in the war or someone who actively supported the war effort.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting with four members of the Alpharetta chapter, each of whom has adopted a Revolutionary War patriot. Each member at the meeting described her documented patriot:

Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said, during an interview with WSB, that he doesn’t understand why federal officials are reliving the 2020 election. He is not aware of what the FBI is looking for or why.

“We probably know as much as you do because the search warrant that was issued is sealed, so no details were provided to us or to the press or to Fulton County,” Raffensperger said.

Democratic lawmakers held a press conference on Feb. 4 and condemned the FBI raid.

“This is a blatant attempt by our federal government not to just interfere with Georgia’s elections but to take them over,” Rep. Saira Draper (D - Atlanta) said. “When President Trump is talking about nationalizing elections, he is talking about Georgia.”

She added that it is not normal for the federal government to get involved in state elections.

“The worst thing that we can do as a society, as a state, and as leaders under this Gold Dome is to underestimate the threat,” Draper said.

Georgia Senate Republicans have intro-

Alicia King, Chapter Regent. Her direct line Patriot is Preston Goforth, Jr (17391780), one of four brothers all killed at the Battle of Kings Mountain in South Carolina. Preston’s three brothers fought on the Loyalist side. The battle was described as the “war’s largest all-American fight.” It is thought possible that Preston and his brother John simultaneously shot and killed each other. Most of those killed in the battle were not properly buried. Preston’s wife Nancy went to the battlefield, found his body and brought it home to be buried in the family cemetery.

Jennifer Boren Honorary Regent. Her direct descendant William Noel Battles (1757-1840) was a private who crossed the Delaware River with Gen. George Washington on Christmas 1776 and took part in the surprise attack at Trenton the next day. He fought in several other battles including Brandywine, among the largest battles of the war which led to the British capture of Philadelphia, and the Battle of Monmouth, another protracted battle. According to his pension application he was often barefoot, poorly clothed and hungry in freezing cold. He had been promised 200 acres after his service and had to turn in his discharge papers to apply. His application was in headquarters that burned down, and he never received his land.

Debra Kielly, Honorary Regent. Debra’s direct descendant is Abraham Guseman (1753-1821), who at the age of 17 immigrated from Germany to America. He worked at the Colonial Armory in Harpers

duced a resolution calling for Raffensperger to turn over the voter registration list to the Justice Department. Raffensperger’s Office previously provided a redacted version of the voter list that excluded sensitive information. The Justice Department is now suing Raffensperger for failing to provide an unredacted list, according to WSB Radio.

Rep. Eric Gisler (D - Watkinsville) said the secretary of state is required

Ferry until 1776 when the war began. He enlisted in the Patriot militia and fought in several battles. Wounded three times by bullet and saber, he had to leave the military. He returned to Harpers Ferry and continued to serve by repairing flintlock weapons. After the war, he began a silversmithing and clockmaking business. He married three times and was killed when a wooden beam in a mill he built fell on him.

Bonnie Steadman, Chair of the Project Patriot Committee working with Blue Star Military Support Group which sends care packages to an active-duty U.S. Army unit in Kuwait. Her patriot is Andrew Meloan (1754-1834) from France (he changed his name in America to Andrew Malone). He fought in the battles of Long Island, Staten Island, Brandywine, White Plains, Princeton, Stoney Point and the key Battle of Monmouth. After the Battle of Germantown in 1777-1778, Meloan’s regiment spent the winter in Valley Forge where about 2,000 soldiers died during the six-month encampment, mostly from dysentery, typhus, typhoid, pneumonia and malnutrition from lack of food.

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

to safeguard personal information, like birth dates, Social Security numbers, and driver’s license numbers, and is prohibited from releasing that information under state law. He introduced a resolution reaffirming the existing law.

“This resolution should not be partisan,” he said. “It should not even be necessary. It is a statement of what the law already requires.”

Hoops:

Continued from Page 1

Shooting guard Brooke Dorr led the Cougars with 21 points and provided a boost of three 3-pointers in the third quarter to put Chattahoochee back in the lead. A deep “heat check”’ shot cashed out of halftime attested to Dorr’s shooting abilities.

Dorr said these teams always step it up when facing each other, and the stakes will be greater when they meet again Feb. 13 in the region tournament.

“Just as a team, being able to trust each other,” she said. “Being able to handle that pressure, because I know we’re gonna meet them again next Friday. So we just gotta be sharp, focused and come ready to play.”

Chattahoochee girls head coach Lorenzo Withrite said he was grateful for the student attendance to give his team an added push after a tough loss to Lanier Feb. 6.

Withrite said the pre-game energy and preparation were exactly where they needed to be.

“As a coach, that’s what you want to see,” he said. “It came down in the end to execution, being patient and not rushing. During the course of the year, we’ve been in some close ones that we lost, so it’s good for them to build on that experience.”

Chattahoochee improves their record to 7-17 overall and 3-9 in region.

Johns Creek newcomer, junior Florida Johnson, led the Gladiators with 21 points. Johnson moved to Georgia from

Oklahoma before this school year.

Forward Emily Jackson also put up double figures scoring with 10 points.

Foul trouble kept Johnson out of the game in the final frame and interrupted Johns Creek’s attempts to take back the lead.

Head coach Regina Tate-Leslie said she was pleased with her team’s execution, although they hoped to make a statement with a win over the Cougars.

“I liked our energy, I liked the fact that we didn’t give up, and I know that they wanted it,” she said. “In the game of basketball, not every shot falls. We had good shots, we had good opportunities, so we can feel good about that.”

The boys game was a starkly different story with Johns Creek dominating all 32 minutes, culminating in an 86-26 stomping.

Johns Creek boys basketball was boosted to No. 11 in the state in MaxPreps’ most recent rankings. It was a lobsided affair with no Chattahoochee player reaching double figures in scoring.

Wing Tatum Holmes led the Gladiators with 20 points in limited minutes before the starters were pulled. Holmes is making a convincing campaign for Region Player of the Year in his senior season.

Johns Creek head coach Tanner Burnett said they’re not focused on rankings, but the group of seniors have made impacts on and off the court to boost the team.

Burnett said the bench players’ confidence has increased along with defensive execution from going up against

City of Johns Creek Board of Zoning Appeals, Public Hearing: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 7:00 P.M.

City of Johns Creek Council Chambers 11360 Lakefield Drive Johns Creek, Georgia 30097

The following variance applications are scheduled for Public Hearing as stated above:

Case Number: V-26-0001

Property Address: 7895 McGinnis Ferry Road, Johns Creek, GA 30024

Current Zoning: MIX (Mixed Use District) Conditional

Petitioner: Thomas & Hutton

Variance Request: Reduction of the required 40-foot landscape strip along McGinnis ferry Road to 20 feet

Case Number: V-26-0002

Property Address: 6903 Downs Avenue, Johns Creek, GA 30097

Current Zoning: CUP (Community Unit Plan District) Conditional

Petitioner: Merck & Associates

Variance Request: Encroachment into the 75-foot stream buffer to construct a deck

Case Number: V-26-0003

Property Address: 8855 N Mount Drive, Johns Creek, GA 30022

Current Zoning: CUP (Community Unit Plan District) Conditional

Petitioner: Sohail Merchant & Farah Dharamshi

Variance Request: Encroachment into the 35-foot rear yard setback to construct a sunroom

the class of 2026 in practice.

The top three seeds in Region 7-6A have been a close race all season.

Gainesville is undefeated and nationally ranked but has had two close 2-point wins against Johns Creek and Milton.

Johns Creek and Milton split their series, so the potential for a matchup at the region tournament is looming.

The Gladiators have four losses this year, with just two out of region, to private schools Westminster and Walker early in the season.

“Hopefully, we can take everything we’ve learned from this season,” Burnett said. “Playing all the tough teams that we’ve played, and put that into play when it really matters because that’s going to determine where we fall going to state or not.”

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PUBLIC NOTICE PURPOSE

An Alcoholic Beverage License Application was submitted to the City January 29, 2026 for Consumption on Premises of Malt Beverage & Wine

BUSINESS NAME

FS Johns Creek LLC

Dba

Fat Shack

11105 State Bridge Rd Ste 360 Johns Creek, GA 30022

OWNER/OFFICERS

FS Johns Creek LLC

Dba

Fat Shack

11105 State Bridge Rd Ste 360 Johns Creek, GA 30022

Owner Videsh Kumar

From left, Chattahoochee’s Brooke Dorr and Johns Creek’s Grace Landeck look for a call after the ball went out of bounds at Chattahoochee High School Feb. 6. Dorr and the Cougars came out on top of a close game, 48-46.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK

PUBLIC NOTICE

PURPOSE

An Alcoholic Beverage License Application was submitted to the City on January 29, 2026 for Consumption on Premises of Malt Beverage, Wine and Distilled Spirits

BUSINESS NAME

Crispy Connections JC, LLC

Dba

Three Dollar Cafe

11585 Jones Bridge Rd Ste 100 Johns Creek, GA 30022

OWNER/OFFICERS

Crispy Connections JC, LLC

Dba

Three Dollar Cafe 11585 Jones Bridge Rd Ste 100 Johns Creek, GA 30022

Owners

Jeffrey Jang and David Jang

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2026, AT 7:00 P.M.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2026, AT 7 :00 P.M.

CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 11360 LAKEFIELD DRIVE, JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA 30097

The following Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment is scheduled for public hearings:

A-26-001 – Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment

A proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow for replacement of existing fences adjacent to the right-of-way when such fences are impacted by a City or State road project, and to modify the permit requirement for new and replacement fences.

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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.

Senior Systems Administration needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA to be responsible for 24x7 operations, administration and maintenance of server infrastructure in AT&T’s NC (Network Cloud) Linux based environment. Apply at http:// att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-86715.

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