Johns Creek Herald - January 22, 2026

Judge allows shopping center tree removal

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A mature water oak tree will be allowed to be removed from a Johns Creek shopping center despite efforts by the city to protect it. An order handed down by Superior Court Judge Paige Reese Nov. 14 finds the City of Johns Creek lacks the au-

thority to prohibit the tree’s removal.

The 50-inch-diameter tree is located on a landscaping island in the parking lot at Medlock Corners, 5805 State Bridge Road. The shopping center is home to a Publix, Hobby Lobby, Dollar Tree and numerous other stores.

United Corners, the shopping center’s owner, which owns several other properties in Alabama, Florida and

Georgia, sought permission to remove the tree.

The city had denied a tree removal permit, contending the aged tree was a protected specimen tree. A hardwood specimen tree is defined as one in “fair or better condition” with a diameter at breast height larger than 27 inches.

See TREE, Page 20

Process begins for pre-K lottery in Fulton County

NORTH FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — The lottery to secure a seat in one of Fulton County Schools’ 94 pre-K classrooms for the 2026-27 school year is open now through March 3.

The school district’s pre-K program is available to children who are 4 years old by Sept. 1 and reside within the district attendance zone. New hires of Fulton Schools and returning employees for the 2026-27 school year are considered in school zone for all Fulton County schools.

The lottery application process is the only way to get a spot in Fulton County Schools (FCS) pre-K classrooms before May 1. Families that enter will be placed in individual school lotteries, which will be held March 23-25, and be notified by the end of day on March 27.

Classroom seats are not secured until a child is selected through the lottery and the required documents are verified and registered with FCS.

The lottery funded pre-K classrooms are in 50 elementary schools across the school district. Classes are pending until state funding is awarded through the state’s Bright from the Start program.

General education pre-K classes will include 20 students. Inclusion pre-K classes will have 12 general education students and six students with individualized education programs.

To join the pre-K lottery and learn more information, visit the Fulton County Schools website.

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Sandy Springs officer helped girlfriend allegedly cheat Alpharetta police exam

By CARL APPEN carl@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — A Sandy Springs police officer found himself in hot water after allegedly helping his girlfriend cheat on an Alpharetta Police Department exam in August, according to records obtained by Appen Media.

The Sandy Springs officer was a sergeant at the time but has been demoted after an internal investigation concluded he violated the department’s rules of conduct. Police officials also required him to write a letter to the statewide law enforcement accreditation agency recommending his girlfriend have her certification revoked.

Appen Media and its Sandy Springs Crier newspaper obtained copies of that investigation, the board letter and other public documents that describe the allegations.

According to those materials, the woman was a Sandy Springs police officer for eight months before the department released her during field training in December 2024. She then applied to join the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety.

Alpharetta leadership said they would not normally have hired her, according to public documents. However, according to the Sandy Springs investigation, the sergeant called an Alpharetta detective to vouch for her. He also allegedly told Alpharetta she did not have a good match with her Sandy Springs Field Training Officer (FTO) and that the FTO had since been removed from several department assignments.

During the internal affairs probe, the sergeant told Sandy Springs

officials the two were not in a relationship at that time of the phone call but became involved later.

The Alpharetta recruiter said he would not have moved the candidate forward without that recommendation.

He added that he learned the two were in a relationship when the sergeant pinned on her badge during the Alpharetta swearing-in ceremony, according to the Sandy Springs report.

After the ceremony, the woman was taking an exam in order to use the lesslethal weapon Taser 7. While taking the test in a room with two other Alpharetta police officers, she called the Sandy Springs sergeant and read him questions, according to the investigative report. The sergeant, who had been a Taser 7 instructor at Sandy Springs, allegedly gave her the answers.

One of the woman’s peers reported the incident to their supervisors, Alpharetta department officials told Appen Media. After investigating the situation, they terminated the woman’s employment and notified the Sandy Springs Police Department.

“We take violations of integrity seriously and act decisively when our standards are not met,” Alpharetta officials said.

Upon receiving notice of the incident, Sandy Springs opened an internal investigation.

During that process, the sergeant admitted to helping the woman with answers but said he didn’t know she was taking a test until after the fact, according to the report. If he had known, he told investigators, he would not have answered her questions.

Following the investigation, Sandy Springs officials handed down a determination that the sergeant’s actions constituted a violation of the depart -

ment’s code of conduct.

Officials took particular issue with the sergeant’s involvement in the woman’s hiring at Alpharetta and his alleged comments about the Sandy Springs field training program.

The sergeant, who has been with the department since 2017, was at one point a Field Training Officer himself.

Sandy Springs officials said the woman’s performance there was lacking and noted, “at the time of her release from the SSPD Field Training program, most of the FTOs documenting her poor performance were assigned to [the sergeant’s] shift. His recommendation to Alpharetta PD was inaccurate, misleading, and damaging to the reputation of the Sandy Springs Police Department.”

As part of the prescribed disciplinary actions, the sergeant had to give an in-person apology to the Sandy Springs FTO corps and the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety.

He also faced a demotion, four-day suspension, loss of take-home car for 30 days and mandatory training.

Perhaps one of the more heartwrenching punishments was the letter he had to write to the state law enforcement standards board recommending they revoke the woman’s certification.

A week after the investigation concluded, he sent the note.

“It is our duty to remove those that are unfit to remain in this profession,” it included.

As of Jan.14, the woman is still eligible for duty, but the accreditation agency has a flag on her file for review.

While the man lost his rank of sergeant, Sandy Springs said he will be eligible to test for promotion in September.

Appen Media launches website focused on state politics

By HANS APPEN hans@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — Appen Media, publisher of Decaturish and the Georgia-based Herald, Crier and Ink newspapers, today announced the launch of GeorgiaPress.com, dedicated to in-depth political coverage and essential reporting on the issues shaping Georgia.

GeorgiaPress.com will focus primarily on Georgia politics—state government, elections, policy and power—while also covering other important and timely current events affecting communities across the state. The site is designed to fill critical news gaps, connect local and statewide issues, and deliver clear, independent journalism to readers across Georgia.

Publisher Hans Appen and Deputy Editor Zoe

Seiler will lead GeorgiaPress.com, with the full backing and support of the entire Appen Media newsroom. Seiler continues her news coverage in DeKalb County for Decaturish.com and Decaturish Ink newspaper, as well.

“Georgia needs strong, consistent political coverage that goes beyond headlines and explains how decisions made under the Gold Dome affect people statewide,” Appen said. “GeorgiaPress.com reflects our mission to lead Georgia’s political coverage while filling gaps left by shrinking newsrooms.”

Seiler said the new platform will emphasize accountability, context and reach.

“Too many important stories, especially in underserved areas, don’t get the attention they deserve,” she said. “Our goal is to provide fair, thorough reporting that helps Georgians understand what’s happening, why it matters and how it will

impact them. We want to connect readers to the Gold Dome.”

In addition to daily digital reporting, readers can subscribe to a weekly Georgia Press newsletter featuring a curated selection of political coverage and statewide news. GeorgiaPress.com will also serve as the home of The Georgia Politics Podcast, the state’s leading political commentary podcast, featuring in-depth conversations, analysis and roundtable discussions on Georgia’s political landscape.

Audiences can find additional photos, commentary and extended coverage through Georgia Press’ social media pages on Facebook and X, further expanding engagement and access to statewide reporting.

Appen Media aims for GeorgiaPress.com to become a go-to source for political news, insight and analysis grounded in real-world community impact.

GeorgiaPress.com is now live.

Johns Creek considers e-bike regulation

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — As e-bikes gain in popularity, Johns Creek is considering where the two-wheelers belong.

The City Council is considering whether some electric bicycles should be banned from pathways and sidewalks as the two-wheelers gain popularity.

Council members discussed the matter at a Jan. 12 work session, but no vote was taken.

City staff are proposing two options.

One recommendation would allow most e-bikes on city sidewalks and trails, except for those in parks. Electric bikes that can travel faster than 28 mph would be allowed on roads only.

The Johns Creek Police Department favors this tack.

The second recommendation proposes allowing all ebikes to operate on all sidewalks and trails.

This option would provide residents more freedom, but it would give police fewer options to regulate the bikes.

Many nearby cities prohibit e-bikes from sidewalks but allow them in bike lanes and on pathways 10-feet and wider, city staff said. Some cities are considering revisions to their e-bike ordinances.

City Councilwoman Stacy Skinner, who raised the issue at the meeting, questioned whether any electric bikes should be allowed on sidewalks, asking staff to solicit community feedback.

State law defines electric bikes as bicycles that are equipped with an electric motor with a maximum output of 750 watts or about 1 horsepower and incapable of exceeding 20 mph solely under the motor’s power.

JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Gloria Broadus, Johns Creek resident and e-bike rider, asks council members to consider less restrictive law changes during a Jan. 12 meeting. Broadus said she routinely rides her e-bike as a way of enjoying the outdoors.

Some classes of e-bikes require pedaling to engage motor assistance. Others supply assistance on demand. The fastest e-bikes can reach about 28 mph with human and motor power.

Councilman Larry DiBiase said he thinks the city should concentrate less on the class of e-bike and more on the speed they are traveling. He also raised concerns with over-regulating e-bikes as their popularity is increasing rapidly.

He and Councilman Chris Coughlin wondered whether a speed limit might better serve enforcement.

Public Works Director Brian O'Connor said staff consider e-bikes that top out at about 20 mph comparable to traditional bicycles.

“They are similar to the bicycles we already currently allow on our city sidewalks,” he said.

Enforcement could rely on plaques required on the bikes since 2020 that state their classification and capability.

O'Connor said local police have heard concerns from some residents about near collisions.

Over the past year, electric bikes have become increasingly common in Johns Creek and Georgia, city staff said.

The changes proposed to council members follow ordinance revisions approved in June 2024 that allowed skateboards and bicycles on city sidewalks and paths. The 2024 changes did not address e-bikes.

Johns Creek resident Gloria Broadus spoke to council members in support of allowing electric bikes in the city. She said riding her electric bike is an essential part of her routine, offering her an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.

“I have reached the age of 74 where my legs just don’t have the strength to pedal any distance with inclines,” she said.

Access to sidewalks is essential, she said, because she fears of riding near vehicle traffic.

“I am not going to risk my life riding in a lane that has no barriers while people are driving distracted, checking their emails or watching TV shows,” she said.

Nevertheless, she said she appreciates the reason for concerns and regulation.

“I would hope the city could come up with something that would address these (riders) that are carelessly causing distress to drivers and people out and enjoying themselves taking a walk but also not infringe upon people who are responsible,” she said.

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Affordability, literacy are priorities for General Assembly

By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — Literacy and affordability are among the top priorities for lawmakers in the Georgia General Assembly going into the 2026 legislative session.

This year will see lawmakers appealing to their bases, Republican and Democrat, as many run for a statewide office. In November, voters will choose a new governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and attorney general, among other elected offices.

Rep. Scott Hilton (R - Peachtree Corners) noted there will be some politicking. Sen. Kim Jackson (D - Senate District 41) said there will be more speeches from the Senate floor. State Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver (D-Decatur) said the discussion will be driven by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ desire to run for governor.

“I think about one-third of the Senate is running for another office,” Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver (D - Decatur) said during a DeKalb Democrats webinar on Jan. 6. “That’s not unusual. That’s a pattern, and it’s more a pattern of the Senate than the House.”

Education

During a press conference on Jan. 7, House Speaker Jon Burns (R - Newington) said literacy is his No. 1 priority. In 2025, literacy efforts included increasing access to dyslexia screening, expanding training resources and providing literacy coaches. The House will continue to build on those initiatives, Burns said.

“We’re going to put forward an initiative to put literacy coaches in every elementary school in Georgia,” Burns said. “We believe that will be a difference maker, that will give our students further hands-on support as it comes to their challenges in literacy.”

Both chambers are anticipated to take up cell phone bans in schools. Burns said the House will look at banning the devices in high schools.

“I believe that’ll be something we will certainly have a lively discussion about, and certainly want to respect parents and their freedom of security for their students,” Burns said.

Hilton agreed and has done some work on classroom technology and on ensuring schools are cell phone-free. He is the secretary of the House education committee.

He will be working to allow redshirting across school districts. This is the practice of holding a child back and delaying their start in kindergarten or first grade. Hilton said that is a topic that has come up in his district, which

represents Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek and Peachtree Corners.

Gwinnett County Public Schools began standardizing its enrollment practices in 2025, requiring 5-year-olds to start in kindergarten and 6-year-olds in first grade, 11 Alive reported. But under that policy, a 5-year-old currently in preschool might have to start first grade, instead of kindergarten, at 6.

“That’s a pretty significant jump,” Hilton said on the Georgia Politics podcast.

He will introduce legislation that gives parents that choice back.

“What it involves is those who are entering kindergarten or first grade at a younger age, parents find holding that child back for an additional year to be incredibly successful,” Hilton said.

While Burns said literacy is his top priority, affordability has become the theme of the upcoming session.

“You’re going to hear affordability coming out of GOP mouths and Democrats’ mouths,” Jackson said on the Jan. 8 episode of the Decaturish Download podcast.

Housing affordability

Legislation in the House will include property tax reform, as assessments have drastically increased across the state. The House will focus on eliminating property taxes on primary residences.

“For the vast majority of Georgians,

our homes are our single largest investments in our lives,” Burns said. “For that investment of a lifetime, I don’t think any of us in Georgia should ever face the possibility of losing our home because we can’t afford to pay rent to the government.”

Oliver noted, during the webinar, that Democrats have ideas to address housing affordability as well.

“The inability of people to buy houses, to stay in houses, to be a tenant whose property is maintained according to the law, all of that is really bad right now,” she said. “This year, I think housing is going to take a more front row position.”

Hilton is passionate about housing, especially for first-time homebuyers. He plans to look at how the buying process can be made easier and how the housing supply can be increased.

“We’re not building [starter homes] these days and it’s because there’s so much red tape and regulation that developers have to put up with,” Hilton said on the Georgia Politics podcast. “There are ways the state government can help reform that permitting process so that you see a larger supply of homes, which will drive down the cost.”

Senate Democrats will have legislation on corporate housing to at least examine who owns housing in Georgia.

“It’s one thing if you’re a Georgia citizen who’s like a mom and pop and you own two houses that you rent out to

people,” Jackson told Georgia Press. “It’s another thing when you own hundreds of houses in an entire neighborhood; perhaps you should not be paying the same kind of property taxes that the rest of us are because you’re running a major corporation.”

Data centers and other topics

The Legislature will take up the issue of data centers, though lawmakers aren’t sure what that will look like yet.

“That’ll be interesting to see how that plays itself out. Consumers are telling us that ‘I don’t want my rates to go up to subsidize data centers,’” Rep. Scott Hilton (R - Peachtree Corners) said. “I’m supportive of that, to make sure that the consumers know that they’re not footing the bill for data centers.”

Lawmakers tried to repeal data center tax credits in 2024, and Hilton added that it may come up again.

“Based on Georgia’s cheap power and available land, I don’t see a reason right now why we would need one. The governor said we needed some predictability in keeping that in place,” Hilton said.

During the Jan. 6 webinar, Rep. Oliver said there is legislation in the House and the resource management committee has been evaluating the issue.

“It’s something that I’m watching with interest because I think bipartisan elected people are feeling the heat on the interest of data centers because of the way it impacts our water,” Oliver said.

On the Decaturish Download, Jackson said a bill calling for a one-year moratorium of data centers will be introduced to gain a better understanding of the impact the facilities have on municipalities and resources.

Republican Senate leaders are going to look at eliminating the personal state income tax by 2032. The proposal would waive income taxes up to $50,000 a year for individuals and $100,000 for married couples starting in 2027, the Georgia Recorder reported.

“I’m sure that will take a sizable amount of debate in the Legislature this coming year,” Jackson said.

Jackson anticipates seeing legislation regarding elections.

“I suspect there will remain attempts to shut down Sunday voting, to make early voting optional for municipalities and jurisdictions,” Jackson said. “I don’t think it will be included in the omnibus, but there will certainly be a movement towards paper ballots once again.”

The General Assembly passes the state budget each year, which is the only piece of legislation they are required to approve. Oliver said it is the most important bill lawmakers take up.

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My purpose is to help people get from where they are to where they want to go.

8 | Johns Creek Herald | January 22, 2026

Mortgage broker finds new life helping people realize dreams

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — After the Great Recession, Steve Beecham found himself at a crossroads.

For the Alpharetta mortgage broker, the global market decline of 2007-2009 meant a dramatic dip in business, losing his office near Haynes Bridge Road and moving into his parents’ home.

“I went from living in a milliondollar house to living in my mama's basement,” Beecham said. “I lost everything.”

The professional crisis was so severe that he found himself asking what he was doing with his life.

“I'm sitting here doing no business, got no money coming in, and so I started thinking, ‘Do I really want to be in this business?’” Beecham said.

Standing in the wreckage of a firm he had built over years, Beecham began to think about what mattered the most to him. The answer he found had little to do with mortgages and everything to do with people.

“My purpose is to help people get from where they are to where they want to go,” he said.

More than 15 years later, that perspective has served the longtime Alpharetta resident well. His business Home Town Mortgage is back on its feet, and Beecham has found new purpose in serving his community.

Behind his home at 199 Academy St., Beecham’s office bears little resemblance to the garage he renovated and repurposed. The room, which he affectionately calls a “man cave,” is where he gets much of his work done.

Framed awards and profile articles line the walls amid trophy mounts of snow geese, an impala, warthog, stags and other game he hunted himself. On a coffee table lay the four books he has authored. Along the top of another

wall stretches his name spelled out in green letters, the sign from his first business, a men’s clothing store.

On his desk, where he often resides with feet propped up, sits a multi-screen computer with whatever catches his interest – newsletters on writing and networking or financial data. Behind him along the rear wall, are two barrels of custom bourbon

The handsomely decorated office is well suited for meeting clients, but Beecham says most prefer to consult over the phone. Customers have changed with the times, and first-time home buyers now make up a significant portion of his business.

Beecham said it’s important to

meet those younger families on their own terms, many of whom grew up in the digital age and prefer doing their own research. Instead of simply explaining principles like property taxes and homeowners insurance, he sometimes tactfully guides the conversation to ensure they are abreast of the topics.

BUSINESSPOSTS

Beecham:

Continued from Page 8

“They don't want to ask, so what you do is say, ‘Hey, do you know anything about property tax? You're gonna have to get homeowners insurance,’” he said. “Do you know what that covers and how that works?”

Beecham said he prefers to treat business as a relationship, inviting clients to call or text him at any hour with questions. Recently, he received a text about 10 p.m. from a woman asking about a wire transfer. Beecham, who was relaxing at home watching TV, happily obliged.

“I say that I'm open 24/7 like Waffle House,” he said.

Building trust is a new priority for Beecham, who said he focuses now on relationships rather than deals. The financial assistance he provides is less about commissions and more about the satisfaction from seeing clients succeed.

“Relationships are what drives everything, and they're based on trust,” he said. “The whole thing rotates around helping other people.”

He also has applied that philosophy to his place within the Alpharetta community.

Beecham decided he wanted to share his love for music by creating concerts for community members. He helped start the concert series On The Green and Under

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the Stars as a way to give artists a platform and provide residents an after-hours escape.

Seeing his neighbors dance and gather at the downtown events has been a real joy, giving a level of satisfaction that surprised him.

Beecham said he has thought about retirement, but he’s realized two things. He loves his work, and he has a lot more to do.

Looking forward, he said he has a plan to create a new business that can simultaneously fill a financial hole in the city while helping residents and businesses actualize their dreams.

He has rented an Alpharetta building that he hopes to soon transform into a community bank.

Unlike a regional and national bank, a community bank is better positioned to make modest loans to small businesses and individuals, he said. Larger banks are often less incentivized to make those loans, but for small businesses they can be transformative.

“Say you've got a business, and you're a landscaper and you need another truck or a bulldozer, or you're a restaurant, and you want to remodel,” he said. “These people are frustrated.”

As Beecham continues building his mortgage business and raising capital for his bank, he said he remains focused on his guiding principles.

“The essence of the purpose is, ‘How can I help my fellow man?’” he said. “I'm looking for ways to give.”

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Fulton Continuum of Care votes to advance housing projects

By AMRITHA ALLADI JOSEPH newsroom@appenmedia.com

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Amid a climate of federal cutbacks in social spending, the Fulton County Continuum of Care Board of Directors voted Jan. 15 to continue its push for grant funding to help in its fight against homelessness.

Right now, the organization is operating with a loose consortium of agencies and civic groups to address the needs of the homeless. It is seeking federal money to help solidify its efforts into a coordinated countywide action plan.

The Fulton County Continuum of Care (CoC) Board voted on Thursday to move forward with its previously approved housing project applications for Fiscal Year 2025, opting for continuity amid major federal policy shifts.

Fulton County Continuum of Care Board

Vice Chairperson Tanya Morris suggests keeping intact all 24 existing housing project renewal applications during a board meeting held virtually on Jan. 15.

At its most recent meeting held virtually, the board approved continuing all projects originally planned for the 2024–2025 funding cycle under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Fiscal Year 2025 Continuum of Care Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). The decision allows Fulton County to submit all 24 existing renewal applications without changes, reallocations or funding reductions.

“What the Continuum of Care was

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originally allocated for 2024 and 2025, we’re just going to keep going with that,” said board Vice Chairperson Tanya Morris, noting that anticipated changes in fiscal year 2025 make this a year to avoid restructuring programs.

HUD released the fiscal 2025 notice on November 13, 2025, which included significant changes to prior years’ COC program rules, including the elimination of standalone transitional housing and street outreach programs, as well as proposed caps reducing permanent housing funding to 30 percent of a COC’s allocation, according to the National Association of Counties. Those changes prompted a lawsuit by national homelessness advocacy organizations, causing HUD to temporarily pause on the 2025 proposed changes and restore the prior year grant rules. A revised NOFO has been released for public review but remains inactive due to ongoing litigation.

Looking ahead, the Fulton board anticipates that the 2026 notice, which is expected as early as spring, will largely mirror the 2025 framework, including permanent housing caps. As a result, members cautioned against making major changes now only to face stricter requirements next year.

Beyond funding decisions, the board discussed broader homelessness challenges across Fulton County. Secretary Sheila Louder said she is wary that major

World Cup games that Atlanta will host later this year, tend to draw temporary support for removing homeless individuals from the streets “for show.” She recalled that after the Summer Olympics hosted in Atlanta in 1996, homeless individuals were “left hanging dry” once the event ended. In response, Fulton County Community Development Director Stanley Wilson said that if such events create opportunities to address homelessness, “you take what you can get.”

The board also agreed to solicit feedback from the full CoC membership on its draft strategic plan. Louder emphasized that any strategy should include stronger engagement with elected officials and expanded access in South Fulton. Louder questioned whether the South Fulton Homeless Assessment Center is adequately meeting local needs, citing limited hours.

“The times I’ve been there no one has been there,” Louder said, adding that she has observed police officers paying out of pocket for hotel rooms to accommodate homeless individuals encountered after hours. A facility open from 9 a.m. to 9 a.m. would better address locals’ needs, she said.

Board Chairperson Maggie Goldman said the strategic plan addresses high-level priorities, but specific implementation of the plan, such as the actions outlined by Louder, would need to be addressed by the

GIRLS: TITANS 55, BEARS 53 – OT; BOYS: BEARS 65, TITANS 55

Cambridge teams split with Blessed Trinity

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Cambridge High School hosted Blessed Trinity boys and girls for a region basketball matchup Jan. 9 and came away with mixed results.

The Titan girls won in a 55-53 overtime thriller, while the boys were dominated by the Bears 65-55.

In the first matchup, the Cambridge girls got out to an early 18-8 lead in the first quarter. They were able to sink tough shots while BT struggled to get their offense moving.

The Titans found their rhythm in the second quarter, taking their first lead with a 3-pointer by forward Chelsea Lewis off an assist by point guard Addie Spak.

The pair was named to the allregion first-team in basketball last season as well as in both softball and flag football – winning a state title at the Benz – this year.

Both are committed to play Division I softball. Spak will play for Washington University of St. Louis next year and Lewis, a junior, will suit up for Florida Atlantic.

Lewis had eight points in the win and shared some background on growing up competing alongside Spak.

“We have awesome chemistry that allows us to play really well together in all of our sports,” she said. “We’ve played together since fourth or fifth grade.”

Lewis and senior Stephanie Schott formed a tough post defense that repeatedly stifled Bears drives in the second and third quarters.

Schott led the Titans with 23 points, a penetrating force in the paint and just as effective from outside of the arc with three 3-pointers. Schott is committed to play basketball for Bethel University.

Titans head coach Tim Rountree said his team has made improvements this season to pull off their first region win.

“I’m super proud of the girls, proud of the way we fought in the second quarter,” he said. “When we gained our composure, realized and get into our sets and be a little more deliberate about what we wanted to achieve and do on offense, that was big for us.”

Tough defense from both teams kept the game close in the last three quarters with the lead not reaching more than four points at any time.

Cambridge has several multisport athletes of their own, with three lacrosse players in the starting lineup.

Senior Gabi Johnson, who is committed to Florida for lacrosse, forced the overtime period with a running lay-up in the final seconds to tie the score at 48 points apiece.

She pushed through for another last-second lay-up in traffic at the end of the overtime period, but it cut the Bears’ deficit from 4 points to 2.

In the boys game, Cambridge dominated all 32 minutes, but the lead slipped slightly in the second half.

Forward Carter Higdon had a near triple-double with 20 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists to lead the Bears.

The lead grew to more than 30 and remained above 20 down the stretch until the Titans caught fire, going on a 19-7 run in the third quarter and a 15-0 to close out the game. It wasn’t enough, as Cambridge senior Christian Fraiser helped maintain the Bears’ lead with clutch shots to quell the momentum shift.

“There’s a lot to learn, there’s a lot to grow, but we’re in a good spot,” he said. “Moving forward, having

that in the back of my mind, staying disciplined over the course of four quarters.”

Cambridge boys head coach David Akin said he was pleased with Fraiser’s shot selection, but the team needs to maintain focus even when the lead stretches.

“Adversity is either going to pull you apart or pull you together, and I’m afraid tonight it pulled us apart,” he said. “We’ll be back this week to practice. We’ll be ready for Westminster, I can assure you that.”

Blessed Trinity had a largely successful night outside the arc, hitting 10 3-pointers while shooting 41.7 percent. But, the team struggled at the free-throw line and inside the arc against the Cambridge defense.

BT’s bench provided much of the spark in the fourth quarter and cut the lead from 31 earlier down to 10.

Titans head coach Mark Moses said gaining momentum again after a team flu bug has been a challenge.

“We’ve got to develop that toughness and that blue-collar mentality,” he said. “We’re just chipping away at it every day, grinding it out. We’re gonna see if we can put it all together before early February.”

Milton High Hall of Fame inducts 8 new members

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Milton High School inducted eight people to its Hall of Fame Jan. 10, honoring the athletic, academic and military achievements of the former students and faculty.

Retired Milton faculty and 2022 Hall of Fame member Jackie Angel has been involved with organizing the Hall of Fame ceremonies since they began in 2016.

Principal Brian Jones praised Angel, saying that when he first took the job at Milton, he had planned to replace all department heads. However, after speaking with Angel, he said that he felt it would be “career suicide” to do so because of what she contributes to the community.

He said Angel is the reason that the Hall of Fame tradition has been so successful.

Angel told Appen Media she is always happy to celebrate Milton graduates alongside the eight other members of the committee.

“It’s so much fun, because we get to bring alumni and faculty back that it’s like a reunion of sorts,” she said. “We would love to see more community members come. What’s really special is our history includes over 100 years, through all the buildings we’ve occupied it’s always been Milton High School.”

Athletic Director Kory Keys described Angel as the “driver of all of this,” even though “she doesn’t like taking credit.”

The “Red Jacket” ceremony, in which new Hall of Fame inductees are honored with a sport coat, was held in between the girls and boys basketball games Jan. 9.

On Jan. 10, there was a celebratory dinner before the formal ceremony with keynote speaker Mayor Peyton Jamison.

Jamison, a graduate of Roswell High, didn’t shy away from turning the 70year rivalry into a punchline. Only one class of 2025 inductee took (insincere) offense.

Jamison shared his pride in the graduates achieving incredible feats in many different realms.

“Leadership is rarely loud in the beginning,” he said. “More often it shows up as preparation, as accountability, as choosing to do the work even when no one is watching. Milton High School understands that.”

Tim Cagle, class of 1976, was the first alum inducted into the class of 2025. Tim’s cousin Ben Cagle introduced him and shared an overview of a lifetime of achievements – and heartaches.

Tim still holds the baseball program’s record for most home runs and was responsible for a legendary play nicknamed “The Throw” against North

Springs in the 1976 season.

Recruited out of high school and again while playing at Piedmont College, Tim chose to pursue a career in accounting. Ben credited Tim’s financial advice with playing a major role in the development of North Fulton.

Tim and his wife Janie founded the CLAY (Christ-Like Among You) Foundation in memory of their oldest son Clay, who died unexpectedly at age 11 from a heart condition. The foundation has supported Milton High students and other youths with funding for sports equipment and camps, counseling to those who have experienced trauma or abuse, funeral support and other assistance.

Dylan Cease signed a 7-year, $210 million contract to pitch for the Toronto Blue Jays last month and found time in his busy schedule to stop by his alma mater for the Hall of Fame ceremony.

The 2014 Milton graduate is a twotime Cy Young finalist and most recently played for the San Diego Padres before signing with Toronto.

Cease told Appen Media that his favorite memories from Milton baseball were a series against Parkview and winning the state championship over longtime rival Roswell in 2013. Two of the three games against the Hornets were decided by one run, and Cease said that memory is “hard to top.”

Footage of the 2013 title is available on YouTube. Cease said he was having a good experience being at home and taking part in the ceremony.

“I was really impressed by the other inductees,” he said. “There’s a lot of talented people here, and it’s fun to be a part of it. I still feel like I’m too young

training athletes for 10 years and started the Stud Muffin Protein Packed Muffins company to provide healthy snack options.

Col. Jack Peevy, class of 1960, passed away in 2014 but was honored in the Hall of Fame with a speech by Jackie Angel.

After graduating from Milton, Peevy earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from North Georgia College (now the University of North Georgia) and was commissioned as a U.S. Army Infantry Officer to serve in Vietnam.

Peevy returned to service after spending over two years in the military hospital recovering from extensive injuries. After 30 years of military service, he became a real estate entrepreneur in North Fulton County. He died in 2014.

Daniel Pope, a 1993 graduate, played linebacker for the Eagles but displays a unique story of perseverance.

He was a walk-on for the Alabama Crimson Tide as a punter in 1994. He said the first time he punted a football in a game was in front of nearly 100,000 fans.

to be in the Hall of Fame, I still have a lot of things left to do, but it’s definitely really cool.”

Ian Dickinson, who was introduced by his father Eric, is a member of the class of 2000 and said in his speech that “this is for my kids.”

While at Milton, Dickinson set a record at the time for the state cross country course, winning the state meet twice in his sophomore and junior years. He went on to compete for UNC-Charlotte for a year, where he qualified for a Team USA dual meet against Great Britain, racing against Olympic champion Mo Farah in the 3K.

He later transferred to UGA and earned first team All-South region in 2003. Dickinson placed sixth overall in the SEC cross country championships and was a 2004 team captain.

Kyle Farnsworth was a three-sport letterman at Milton whose career included more than a decade in Major League Baseball, including two stints with the Braves. He later played semipro football.

Introduced by his mom Karen Farnsworth, she said she does not remember baby Kyle ever crawling; he went straight to running.

Kyle was a standout defensive/tight end, but it was baseball that came calling at graduation when he was drafted to the Cubs in the 47th round of the 1994 draft.

After pitching 16 seasons and recording over 900 strikeouts, he wasn’t ready to retire from sports and pursued his love for football at the semi-pro level for five seasons.

Now, Kyle has been coaching and

The idea came from Jack Harbaugh at Western Kentucky, where Pope intended to walk on but did not end up suiting up. After taking a semester off to work, he enrolled at Alabama and was asked to walk on with no scholarship.

Pope bet on himself, and it took him all the way to the NFL. He signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent out of college and later played for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Ronald Tesch, principal of Milton High from 1998-2010, was also honored posthumously. He was instrumental in the plans for the current building, and his handprints are felt all over the school.

Tesch’s daughter-in-law Jennifer received the award in his place.

Shaun Verma, founder of MDJunior and iksa.ai, is a member of Milton’s class of 2013 and was introduced by former city manager, and 2024 Hall of Fame inductee, Chris Lagerbloom.

Passionate about improving healthcare access for underserved communities, Verma started MDJunior, a studentrun nonprofit, at the age of 14 for a high school project. The initiative has grown to more than 50 chapters in eight countries, impacting more than 10,000 patients through medical missions, public health outreach and youth leadership programs.

After graduating from Johns Hopkins, Verma continued working in the healthcare sector in New York before switching gears and doing some bootson-the-ground work in India. What he learned in that time informs his current venture providing post-prescription care with iksa.ai, a clinical healthcare service system.

Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist

Insist on the

BEST

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

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

Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 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.

Can shingles shots lower the risk of Alzheimer’s?

As researchers continue to search for the cause of Alzheimer’s disease, herpes viruses remain prime suspects. The herpes family of viruses includes herpes simplex 1 (HSV - the cause of cold sores) and varicella zoster virus (VZV – the cause of both chicken pox and shingles). Both HSV and VZV cause inflammation and, in some cases, cell death. They both have been known to cause brain infections (encephalitis) and thus it stands to reason that these viruses might increase one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Moreover, herpes viruses are with us for life. A lifelong infection that can cause inflammation in the brain… seems like an excellent candidate for causing at least some cases of dementia. Researchers speculated that herpes viruses might be a cause of the famous “amyloid” protein found to build up in Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, proving that these viruses cause dementia has been challenging. Every few years, conflicting studies come out that strengthen then weaken the evidence of an association between HSV, VZV and dementia. Most studies have been retrospective cohort studies meaning the study looks back at a group of patients and sees whether the group that developed dementia was also more likely to have been diagnosed with herpes or shingles. Cohort studies are not as effective at proving associations as randomized controlled trials, but large controlled trials are expensive and challenging to perform. No definitive randomized trial to answer the question has been carried out.

However, the next best thing to a randomized controlled trial happened in Wales, where results of a vaccination policy provided surprising insights. On September 1st, 2013, the country of Wales began a vaccination program that made people aged 79 years old eligible to receive the shingles vaccine. Those already 80 years old were ineligible. Every year, those who turned 79 became eligible as well. Researchers assumed that there should be very little difference between those who were barely still 79 and received the vaccine and those who were 80 and barely missed the cut-off. What they found was that those who received the shingles vaccine were about 20% less likely to develop

dementia than were the unvaccinated. Just as exciting, those who were already diagnosed with mild dementia or “mild cognitive impairment” were less likely to suffer disease progression and die from dementia (as recorded on death certificates) than were the unvaccinated.

Interestingly, even some past studies that seemed to not find a link between herpes viruses and dementia identified subgroups that suggest an association. For example, one study found that a diagnosis of shingles itself wasn’t a risk factor for dementia, but a diagnosis of shingles involving the eye or the tissue around the eye (herpes ophthalmicus) was associated with an approximately 6 fold increase in dementia incidence. This makes sense because many times the shingles virus reemerges in a nerve that goes to the arm, the leg, the chest, the belly or the back. Presumably, in these cases, the virus is primarily living in nerves near the spine and not in the brain. In contrast, shingles in and around the eye indicates infection of a cranial nerve – a nerve with a direct link to the brain. The shingles virus is the only human virus conclusively known to replicate in cerebral arteries and to be able to cause diseases of blood vessels that supply the brain. Researchers speculated that herpes virus in a cranial nerve might cause diseased blood vessels leading to dementia.

Whether herpes viruses infect brain cells and contribute to Alheimer’s disease protein “amyloid” or whether the viruses indirectly cause dementia by damaging blood vessels, the takeaway seems to be that herpes viruses do play a role in at least some cases of dementia given that vaccination is sometimes preventative. If you are interested in lowering your risk of shingles, your internist or family physician is the most likely doctor to offer a shingles vaccine. Your dermatologist will often assist with managing “cold sores” (herpes simplex), shingles outbreaks and some of their complications, while an emergency visit to the ER or an ophthalmologist is needed if you suspect you have shingles in or around the eye. Even those who have received a vaccine can sometimes suffer an attack of shingles, and early treatment with oral antiviral pills can greatly improve one’s chances of a good outcome.

A Walk for Peace brings new mindfulness

When 19 Buddhist monks departed from the Huong Dao Buddhist Temple in Fort Worth, Texas, on Oct. 26, 2025 on a historic Walk for Peace across 10 states to Washington DC, they knew there would be some unique challenges. They also believed deeply that the walk would inspire many people to have greater awareness of “peace, loving kindness and compassion.” Both results came to pass as thousands of people in Georgia and other states have reached out to the monks on their 120-day, 2,300-mile journey.

Buddhist monks have a long global history of walking for peace, but the 2025-2026 walk from Texas to Washington D.C. is the first large scale U.S. peace walk.

The monks have been hiking at a quick pace through towns and on rural highways, stopping only for meals and overnight hospitality. They mingled with hundreds and sometimes thousands of local residents and people who traveled long distances to meet them and to listen to short evening lectures. Being in the presence of the monks has been for virtually everyone a deeply meaningful, sometimes lifechanging experience.

Accompanying the monks is their faithful dog Aloka the Peace Dog. Aloka, who has a natural heart shaped mark on his forehead, was once a stray who followed a group of monks for 100 days on a peace walk across India that included the current March for Peace leader Venerable Bhikkhu Paññakara. Aloka is about 4 years old and has his own Facebook page, “Aloka the Peace Dog,” with about 560,000 followers. The monks often stop briefly to allow children to pet the always calm Aloka.

But the walk has not been without problems.

One monk, Bhante Dam Phommasan was seriously injured by a car near Houston on Nov. 19. He underwent surgery to amputate a leg on Dec. 3. When he was able, he flew to Atlanta and continued his recovery at the Wat Buddha Khanti Lao Buddhist temple in Snellville, his home temple. He reunited with the traveling group when they arrived at the temple after passing through

STEVE COLQUITT/PROVIDED

Bhikkhu Paññakara leads the group of monks on their Walk for Peace on Jan. 4 in Oglethorpe County. Note that Bhikkhu Paññakara is wearing only socks. The monk behind him is walking barefoot with tape and bandages on his feet. Some monks wear sandals or sneakers. Foot and calf problems are common on the walk. The monks are presently scheduled to arrive at the U.S. Capitol in Washington in mid-February.

Atlanta in late December. His return was symbolic and described as emotional and a symbol of resilience and acceptance. He has not returned to walking.

Some of the monks have suffered serious foot problems. After two months of continuous walking on roads, some hot, wet, irregular and rough, a number of the monks had serious foot problems. During their stop in Morrow, just south of Atlanta, Grady Health staff treated the monks’ sores, calluses, blisters and aching leg muscles. Many monks walk without shoes. Their training probably reduced the severity of injuries. They were used to daily walking meditation, minimal footwear and mental discipline that helped control pain and discomfort. Medical services from other counties also provide assistance.

The monks create a major impact wherever they go. They spent the night of Jan. 3 at the Oak Ridge Lodge, a popular event facility in Arnoldsville,

a rural Georgia town of some 500 inhabitants near Athens. It was the monks 70th day on the road. Wingate Downs, owner of the lodge, says more than 500 people came to hear the Venerable Bhikkhu Paññakara speak that night.

“I was struck by how quiet and respectful the public was. I loved seeing how reverent they were with their hands on their hearts or in prayer positions,” says Wingate.

The monks wanted to sleep on the floor wrapped in the blankets they carried with them.

Alpharetta residents Mike Buchanan and his girlfriend Deborah Eves waited on the side of a rural road for the Walk for Peace to pass by. Gradually, a large crowd gathered, eager to see and be inspired by the monks.

“Strangers became friends as we all waited,” says Mike.

Mike reported that the experience made people feel part of something

PROVIDED

Alpharetta residents Deborah Eves and Mike Buchanan found out how to locate the Walk for Peace via live updates of its location online. It was a very emotional experience that neither will forget.

bigger than ourselves.

He said, “People realized that if these guys can do what they are doing, it should be easy for us to be a little bit better -- to heal ourselves while helping others.”

Deborah commented, “This event was different from anything I have ever experienced. A common purpose and outlook was shared among strangers. A monk handed me a flower as they quickly walked by.”

The walkers spent the night at a farm. In his speech that evening the Venerable Bhikkhu Paññakara spoke about mindfulness and how people should treat each other. Mike summed up the experience by saying “none of us were the same people that night that we were in the morning.”

To track the Walk for Peace or for instructions on how to experience their journey in person go to Facebook Walk for Peace.

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

Having fun exploring the story behind flower names

In the spring and summer, we are especially busy in our gardens, loving the beauty and fragrance of many familiar flowers while the bees and butterflies fly about as we work. Winter is a time of anticipated relaxation for gardeners, usually spent planning next year’s garden, often with the help of gardening books. One I recently discovered discusses the common names we use for plants, rather than their often complex and hard to remember Latin names. How did some of those names come to be used? For fun, here are a few:

Dogwood (Cornus) – This is a familiar tree whose flowering beauty is striking every spring. But, what does it have to do with dogs? Most likely this naming has to do with the hardness of the wood. There is an old English word, “dagwood.” Slender stems of the tree’s hardwood were used for “dags” (daggers, skewers and arrows). Sometime in the early 1600s, dagwood was changed to dogwood as language developed.

Bee balm (Monarda) – Sounds like a balm for the bees themselves, but if you notice, this plant does not attract bees. Hummingbirds, yes. There is a resin derived from the plant which can be used for soothing bee stings. Therefore, the balm is really for you!

Foxglove (Digitalis) – Foxglove’s spire of blooms is tall and pointed, very finger-like, thus the proper name of Digitalis. The common name of foxglove comes from this delightful story: a fox was having a hard time sneaking into the henhouse to grab a quick meal. A hint from the naughty fairies was to slip his paws into the glove-like blooms of the plant so he could silently sneak up on the chickens. If you look into the flowers, you will see the fox’s paw prints.

Forget-me-not (Myosotis) – There are many stories about how this little blue flower got its name. In every story, a lover trying to cross a river to reach his sweetheart gets swept away by the current but manages to grasp some flowers on the bank to throw to her as he calls out, “Forget me not!”

Naked ladies (Lycoris) – This lily-like flower grows from a bulb, but by the time the stalk and flower appear, the leaves at the base have disappeared and seem a bit “undressed.” I have also heard them

Pictured are forget-me-nots at the top, foxglove on the bottom left, St. John’s wort on the middle right, and Impatiens on the lower right.

called surprise lilies, as no leaves were there to announce their arrival.

Obedient plant (Physostegia) –This is a beautiful native plant, but obedient it is not. I planted it only once. After it spread aggressively, I ended up having to remove it, as it threatened to take over the flower bed. But on the spike of the plentiful and lovely blooms, if you push a single flower to the side, it will stay there. Therefore, it is obedient—a little bit!

Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) – This common native plant does have a striking look with red stems and purple berries that birds love to eat but then leave

for their color and abundant flowers. If you look closely for the seed pods, gently hold one between your fingers and give a small squeeze. The seeds will explode outward, as if impatient to get out and spread, which they do generously. They come back every year in my garden. In the United Kingdom they are known as Busy Lizzies as they are always about the business of spreading.

St John’s wort (Hypericum) –“Wort” is an archaic word meaning plant or herb. This herb has a calming influence when ingested and was often carried by missionaries due to great regard for St. John the Baptist. It also comes into flower around June 23, which is St. John’s Day, which may also account for its common name.

Learning about these common names gave me a new perspective on some old plants. Keep in mind the reason they have botanical (Greek or Latin) names is because the same plant can be called different things in different parts of the world, emphasizing the global nature of horticulture and our shared common interests across the globe.

Happy Gardening!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at: https://appenmedia.com/opinion/ columists/garden buzz/.

Mark your calendar for next year’s Garden Faire: April 11, 2026.

purple “deposits” on your car or elsewhere. The berries are poisonous to mammals, and pokeweed can cause severe dermatitis. Surprisingly, the boiled young leaves are supposedly quite tasty and were often eaten in the rural South and known as poke salet. In the 1960,s there was a popular ballad called “Poke Salad Annie” about a poor rural southern girl who gathered the leaves for salad. Maybe it’s pokeweed because it aggressively pokes its nose up through the soil everywhere!

Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana) – These beautiful, shadeloving plants are popular in gardens

About the author

This week’s guest “Garden Buzz” columnist is Roswell resident, Dianne Short. Dianne has been a Master Gardener for 22 years, taking her initial training in Virginia. In 2013, she moved to Roswell to be near grandchildren and affiliated with the North Fulton Master Gardeners. Dianne is a retired school social work specialist. Her interests are organic gardening; native plants; and attracting birds, bees, and butterflies to her garden.

MOVIES

1. Female relation. ‘75 Richard Dreyfuss horror flick. Nap.

2. Climbing vine. Hitchcock title. Can’t stand.

3. Monthly expense. Highchair part. 2009 Sam Worthington fantasy.

4. Chess piece. Demi Moore fantasy. No-no.

5. William H. Macy comedy. Mouth piece. It might be wild.

6. Bad to the bone. Closet type. ‘66 Michael Caine comedy.

7. Vociferate. Stalone boxing flick. Also-ran.

1 Female relation. ‘75 Richard Dreyfuss horror flick. Nap.

2. Climbing vine. Hitchcock title. Can’t stand.

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

3. Monthly expense. Highchair part. 2009 Sam Worthington fantasy.

4. Chess piece. Demi Moore fantasy. No 5. William H. Macy comedy. Mouth piece. It might be wild. 6. Bad to the bone. Closet type. ‘66 Michael Caine comedy 7. Vociferate Stalone boxing flick. Also-ran.

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.

Now may be the start of new normal in labor

RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

Anyone interested in a crystal ball into the future may have just found it. One of the few talking heads that I follow is a guy named Peter Zeihan. Peter is a demographer, an author, and a geopolitical analyst. Every weekday he sends out an email that links to his (typically) 5-minute YouTube commentary on current events ranging from financial, to geopolitical, to social and political subjects.

He is not an advocate for the left or the right. In fact, he has a very low opinion of Obama’s presidency as well as Trump’s. He also says that the numbers for electric vehicles simply do not make sense – that they contribute more to the environmental degradation than the alternatives –and that the U.S. cannot afford not to continue burning fossil fuels to meet our immediate and mid-term energy needs – as dark and forbidding as that sounds. He simply takes a hard and educated look at the numbers, especially population trends and history – which often provides critical context. Then, he gives you his opinion of what those numbers suggest and why you should care.

Population trends are one of his principal markers for what the future looks like – big picture. The larger the workforce, the more goods and services are produced and consumed. More people getting a paycheck means more people spending money. The more money that is being spent, the more credit is available in the system, and vice versa.

People in the workforce – generally those ages 18-65 – drive consumption. They are getting married, making babies, buying houses and cars and more. That is, they are making money and spending it. Then they retire and their consumption falls off the cliff. They save. They become more frugal. They consume much less. Instead of paying into the Social Security system including Medicare and Medicaid, they begin withdrawing from it, leaving those still working to support it.

The problem, as Peter says, is those 65 and over – as a percent of the population – is rapidly increasing in most countries, while the percent under the age of 65 – those paying

into Social Security – is shrinking.

Here is a comparison of the number of retired people per 100 working-age adults in 2000 and 2050 across seven major countries

Data provided by ChatGPT.

Japan is forecast to experience massive stress on its economic system by 2050. A retiree is projected to be supported by only 1.3 workers, and the country is expected to experience a projected net loss of 25 million workers (compared to the workforce in 2000). Tremendous stress occurs on pensions, health care and the labor pool. Germany and China are close behind with 2 workers per 1 retiree by 2050. Germany, China and Russia all face critical declines in both share and absolute working-age population through 2050.

The U.S. and Canada numbers look better. The U.S. is expected to realize a net increase of 50 million workingage individuals by 2050 from the year 2000 labor pool of 188 million. Mexico’s net working-age numbers are projected to add approximately 40 million – a huge percentage gain from the year 2000 base of 63 million and will be in the best shape of all with 1 retiree per 3-4 workers in 2050. This could have a huge economic upside if jobs and productivity grow. Of note, Mexico is the only western country projected to realize a net percentage increase in the workforce relative to total population by 2050.

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Projected total population change from the year 2000 to projected 2050 for select countries is as follows: U.S.: +35%; Mexico: +50%; Canada: + 29%; China: 0%; Germany -13%; Japan: - 17%.

Note, when there is no absolute growth in total population – or a loss – and that is combined with an increasing aging population, economic viability and GDP growth is increasingly less viable. Fertility rates,

Tree:

Continued from Page 1

In her order, Reese said the tree failed to meet the definition because it likely will die within 10 years.

“As this tree is already in a state of decline and will likely start shedding large limbs over the course of the next several years, it will not remain in its current fair condition, but is likely to degrade to poor condition over the next 10 years,” the judge said. “This mature water oak tree is nearing the end of its life in a typical urban environment.”

Bob Mullen, city communications director, said an arborist was hired to assess the water oak, finding it was nearing the end of its life.

Reese also found the city lacked the authority to prevent the tree’s removal because the city’s tree ordinance applies to tree removal related to activities that require the issuance of a land disturbance permit. Those activities include land development, construction and timber harvest.

Reese found there was no land disturbance permit submitted with the request to remove the water oak.

Cynthia Bratton, age 78, of Roswell, GA passed away on January 10, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Ann Gephart, age 89, of Johns Creek, GA passed away on January 8, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

ruled

Michael Kincaid, age 75, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on January 6, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

William Mack, age 93, of Roswell, GA passed away on January 10, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Charles MacWilliams, Jr., age 95, of Roswell, GA passed away on January 5, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Karen Miller, age 79, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on January 6, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Morris Moore, age 83, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on January 8, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Marilyn Roe, age 74, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on January 6, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Good intentions, no follow-through brew mix of economic uncertainty

The financial markets are not panicking. They’re not collapsing. They’re not even screaming. They’re sighing. Loudly. Investors aren’t suddenly confused by math. They’re confused by the whiplash. One day it’s tariffs on, next day tariffs off. Government jobs are bloated, then they’re strategic. Spending is reckless, then it’s necessary. Economic priorities shift depending on which microphone happens to be nearby. Markets can price risk all day long. What they cannot price is “we’ll see how we feel after lunch.”

And when the policy environment feels more like improv than strategy, capital does what capital always does: it sits on its hands.

You can see this hesitation everywhere. Stocks have quietly drifted off recent highs. Bonds haven’t rallied. And when the president floated the idea that the U.S. Treasury might buy more than $200 billion in agency

mortgage-backed securities, the bond market’s reaction was… a polite nod. No celebration. No rally. No meaningful drop in yields. Just a collective “That’s interesting. Call us when it’s real.”

If investors believed that policy was imminent, executable and legally feasible, the 10-year Treasury would already be moving lower. Instead, it’s parked around 4.15 percent, which is the market’s way of saying, “We hear you. We just don’t believe you yet.”

Then we get to the renewed call to lower credit card interest rates to around 10 percent. On the surface, this sounds wonderful. Who doesn’t want cheaper debt? But once you move past the applause line, the economics get complicated quickly. Rate caps distort risk pricing. Distorted risk pricing reduces access to credit. And reduced access to credit usually hurts the very consumers the policy claims to protect.

What makes this moment especially fascinating is that this idea isn’t new. A bipartisan bill proposing something nearly identical — introduced last year by Reps. Anna Paulina Luna and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — failed

Notice of Public Internet Auction

Johns Creek Police Department

rather spectacularly. Same idea. Same economics. Different political timing. Now it’s back, freshly repackaged. To markets, this isn’t innovation. It’s noise.

And markets hate noise.

They don’t reward intentions. They reward execution. They don’t trade on aspiration. They trade on credibility. Clarity matters. Consistency matters. Follow-through matters. Without those, investors don’t flee — but they don’t commit either.

So for now, money is parked. Conviction is scarce. The market is neither bullish nor bearish—it’s tired. And until policy signals become clearer and more durable than the latest headline, this sideways grind is likely exactly where we stay.

DC Aiken is Senior Vice President of Lending for CrossCountry Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.

The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC or its affiliates.

Continued from Page 19

morbidity rates and immigration are core drivers of population growth in general.

All this matters because GDP growth falls when the labor pool shrinks – in relative and absolute terms; the tax base narrows with increasing retired cohort; and pension and healthcare costs grow faster than the revenue to support it.

Overview: North America is comparatively the strongest demographic position going forward worldwide. Mexico and Canada add significantly to this favorable position. We should consider this as we make policy decisions in the future.

East Asia and Europe face significant structural headwinds, and China is in the worst shape of all.

The future looks bright for us through mid-century and probably past. This should be the “Northern Hemisphere century” – if the present administration doesn’t blow it.

Find out more about the future! Peter Zeihan’s “The End of the World is just the Beginning” offers a fascinating overview of what may be in store for us. If he is only right even half of the time, what a century we have in front of us!

The following is a list of property located at the Johns Creek Police Dept. If you believe that you are the owner of this property, please call (678) 474-1600 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM. Proof of ownership and a valid ID will be required to claim any property. A public internet auction of the following items will begin the week of 2/09/2025. The auction’s website is www.propertyroom.com .

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PUBLIC NOTICE PURPOSE

Items:

Computer Bag, Duffel Bag / Phone case, DHL ID, Sutton Bank Card / Mexican Passport / Ring / Gray Backpack with items / US Currency, Wallet / Georgia United Debit Card / Ps4, Ps4 Controllers, Xbox One S, Xbox Controllers, Samsung TV / Chase Debit Card / Debit Card / Black Backpack / Samsung Cell Phone / Wallet with misc. cards / Apple Phone & Case / Global Entry Card / Fitbit / Apple Phone / Basic Life Support card / Capital One Credit Card, Discover Credit Card / Backpack with contents / Firearms Case / Pants, White Underwear, White Hat, Airpods, Cigars, Lighter, Black Shoes, Condoms, Chapstick / Cell Phone / Cell Phone, US Currency, Pink Bookbag / Vaschy Backpack / Coast Soap Box, Face Mask, Hand Sanitizer, Vegtrug, Keyboard, Mouse, Surge Protector, Black Bag / Wallet with Picture, Play money, US Currency / GPS / Visa Debit Cards / Lawn Statue / Hiker Bag w/ Water bottles / Bag with Pet Supplies

An Alcoholic Beverage License Application was submitted to the city on 1/9/2026, for Consumption on Premises of Wine and Malt Beverage

BUSINESS NAME

JJ’s Sushi Mania LLC

DBA

JJ Sushi Mania

3719 Old Alabama Rd Suite 300H

Johns Creek, GA 30022

OWNER/OFFICERS

JJ’s Sushi Mania LLC

DBA

JJ Sushi Mania

3719 Old Alabama Rd Suite 300H

Johns Creek, GA 30022

Owners, Haesun Yoon

Donor Operations Supervisor

The Donor Operations Supervisor (Full-time) The Donor Operations Supervisor manages the donation door process and delegates tasks to staff, volunteers, and community service workers. As the face of NFCC, they provide excellent customer service while greeting donors and ensuring donations are properly removed from vehicles and sorted in designated areas. They are responsible for maintaining the security of merchandise and keeping all areas clean and organized.

The Supervisor must be able to lift up to 75lb frequently and be on their feet most of their shift. They must enjoy staying busy, training and influencing other to work as a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Must have the ability to work Tuesday through Saturday 9am – 5pm. An extraordinary Total Rewards Package is included with this opportunity!

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

Sr. ERP Manager sought by an IT service & solutions co. located in Duluth, GA. Reqs min. Bach’s deg in Electronics Engg, Comp Engg, IT, or a rltd field AND 5 yrs of progressive, post-baccalaureate exp in ERP system mgmt. Send resume to: SK AX USA Inc., (formerly SK C&C USA Inc.) @ 2055 Sugarloaf Circle, Ste 500, Duluth, GA 30097. (Work site: 1110 Sanctuary Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30009).

Public Relations Specialist (Alpharetta, GA) Dvlp & implmnt strat PR campaigns to enhance brand awareness & reputation. Reqs Bachelor’s deg or foreign equiv in Public Relations, Comm, or a closely rltd field; 2 yrs exp in job, as Front Desk Agent, or rltd occupation; 2 yrs concurrent exp in customer comm, customer svc, mngng prod features, svcs, & special promos. Send resume to Caitlin O’Neal Heisey, Gibson Landscape Services, LLC, 11395 Old Roswell Road, Alpharetta, GA 30009

Lead System Engineering needed by AT&T Services, Inc., in Alpharetta, GA to design scalable, highperformance, and reliable system architectures and platforms with complex interdependencies. 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-92542.

Sawnee EMC is seeking a Coordinator, General Accounting to oversee and supervise the Bookkeeping and General Accounting staff. This position will verify, allocate, and post details of business transactions, authorize, and execute cash/wire transfers for payments; assist in creating reports, analyzing ledger accounts, and maintaining subsidiary records. Requires: a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field, and a minimum of seven (7) years related experience and/or training in an accounting/ bookkeeping to include a minimum of two (2) years’ experience as a supervisor or manager in a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, January 30, 2026. 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 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.

AUTOMATION DEVELOPERS:

Cumming, GA & various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S.: Invlv in STLC. Autmt & optmz test cases for Mobile Apps, ensrng rbst functnlty for both iOS & Android pltfrms. Create & mntn rusbl test autmtn frmwrks. Dsgn cmprhnsv Autmtn Test Plans & Strtgs algnd w/Prjct Rqmts. Cndct Sys, Intgrtn, Cross-Brwsr Testing & UAT. Test code in AWS CI/CD Pplns & mntr prfrmnc. Autmt end-to-end web App Test scnros u/Rest Assured & Selenium frmwrks. Mnge test scripts & RTM for cmprhnsv bug trckng & rprtng. Create burndown charts & prvd daily progress rpts. Skills Req’d: AWS, Json, Soap, Rest API, Oracle, SQL, Selenium, TestRail, Postman, HP ALM & Jira. Bachelor’s in Sci, Tech, or Engg (any) w/5 yrs exp in job off,d or rltd occup is req’d. Mail CV: HR., Mission IT Consulting, LLC., contact@missionitc.com.

IT Professionals: Ent. Lvl to Sr Lvl. SaFe Product Mngrs. are needed for our Alpharetta, GA office. Pls send resume, Cvr Ltr., & Sal. Req. to Soft Snippets Inc. at 1051 Cambridge Sq., Ste. C, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

Process Engineer (Syensqo Specialty Polymers USA, LLC / Alpharetta, GA) – Develop & improve manufacturing processes for the company’s portfolio of specialty polymer products; optimize process designs & industrial roadmap, reshoot process problems, & implement safe, cost-effective process improvement. Reqs Master’s in Chemical Engrng, Manufacturing Engrng, or clsly relatd field & 1 year exp in job offrd or as Research Assistant, Process Engrng Intern, or in simlr positn(s) in academic research or the chemical manufacturing industry. Bkgrd in educ, trainng, or exp must incld a strong technicl bkgrd in chemical engrng; knwledge w/ stats & relatd computer softwre; knowledge of mass & energy balances; exp in flow sheet preparatn & design/specificatn of chemical process equipmnt; knwledge of Matlab/Scilab; exp w/ Microsoft apps. Resp to sian.weekley@syensqo.com; ref job title #0638 in subjct line.

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