Northview senior expands passion-based learning for kids ► PAGE 3
J u l y 2 , 2 0 2 6 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 3 0 , N o . 2 7
Water wisdom
North Atlanta mermaids make a splash By JON WILCOX | jon@appenmedia.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — At age 50, Amy Becham heard the water calling. Not much of a swimmer, Becham felt a yearning that had been with her since she was a little girl. While scrolling Facebook in 2018, the creative services manager for an international paper products manufacturer, saw a post advertising a mermaid swim camp at Weeki Wachee Springs in Florida. “I don't know,” said Becham, who grew up enamored by the Hans Christian Andersen tale “The Little Mermaid.” “It must have been fate or destiny, or whatever you want to call it.” For two days, she donned a monofin mermaid tail, forging a deeper connection with the water and her inner child.
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
A group of North Atlanta mermaids swim together at Diventures’ pool June 27.
See MERMAID, Page 18
Fulton Schools adopts budget with $57 million deficit By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — The Fulton County Board of Education formalized adoption of a $2.3 billion budget for 2026-27 after receiving an updated financial report at its June 11 work session.
The district still faces a $56.9 million deficit when balancing revenues against expenditures and expects to use around 20 percent of this year’s remaining fund balance to cover the gap. Despite tapping into the fund balance, Chief Financial Officer Marvin Dereef estimates reserves will rest at more than $233 million by the end of Fiscal Year 2027.
When Fulton Schools began budget preparations, staff initially projected a much bigger deficit. “Despite significant financial pressures, including inflationary impacts, rising employment benefit costs and enrollment declines … the district successfully reduced an initial projected budget gap of approximately $95 million down
to $57 million while maintaining core services,” Dereef said. Fulton County Schools used its G.L.I.D.E. initiative, which started last year, to find cost-saving opportunities and revenue-generating strategies without disrupting student services.
See BUDGET, Page 19
2 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
POLICE BLOTTER All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
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Roswell police find drugs during surveillance work
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ROSWELL, Ga. — Police found bags containing multiple grams of methamphetamine, marijuana and cocaine June 16 after a Roswell detective learned of an Atlanta suspect’s location. The detective was tipped off to a Black BMW that had frequented an area on Old Dogwood Road and was possible being driven by a suspected criminal. The driver of the BMW had an active warrant for his arrest after failing to appear in Fulton County Court on a violation of the Georgia Controlled Substance Act While surveilling the driver in a parking lot, the detective saw him enter a building for almost 30 minutes before leaving. Upon attempting to exit, officers blocked the vehicle and commanded the driver to step out of the car. During a search of the driver, police found $531 in bills of various denominations that were consistent with street level drug sales. A K-9 unit arrived and detected drugs in the vehicle after performing an open-air sniff test. As a result, officers searched the vehicle and found various drugs in separate bags. Within a bag, officers found 38 grams of methamphetamine, 33 grams of marijuana, a THC vape pen, digital scale and empty bags. In the center console, there were 21 bags of suspected cocaine totaling 22 grams. The driver was charged with trafficking methamphetamine and two counts of possession with intent to distribute for the cocaine and marijuana. — Hannah Yahne
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PUBLIC SAFETY Sandy Springs driver answers call for speeding ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 22-year-old Sandy Springs man was charged with reckless driving after he was allegedly clocked at 108 mph on Ga. 400. Alpharetta police were conducting speed enforcement on northbound Ga. 400 near Mansell Road about 6:30 p.m. June 6, when they saw a black Chevrolet Camaro speeding and weaving between traffic. The roadway has a speed limit of 65 mph. Officers were unable to catch up to the car because of road conditions. Officers called a phone number registered with the vehicle and reached the driver. He allegedly admitted to speeding, saying he was going home for a family emergency, police said. The man was cited for reckless driving, speeding and improper changing of lanes. — Jon Wilcox
was robbed June 14 at pool house on Westfall Parkway. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said the man reported he was robbed after picking up a woman for a date. The man said the woman accused him of stealing money from her shortly after they left the pool house, and he decided to return her there and started searching his vehicle for her missing money. While searching, a man approached them and demanded the 19-year -old give him all of his belongings, authorities said. The teenager allegedly said the man was reaching toward his waistband as if he had a weapon. The man allegedly threatened to shoot the teen. The teen gave over his wallet, police said. The incident was described as a felony robbery case. — Jon Wilcox
Hotel patron reports theft of $2,700 electric bicycle
Hospital patient charged with possession of fentanyl
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An electric bicycle was reported stolen from an Old Milton Parkway hotel June 6. Alpharetta police said officers were dispatched to the hotel about 12:15 p.m. A 43-year-old Alpharetta man said his electric bicycle was missing after he had parked it outside June 5. The bicycle was valued at a total of $2,700. The man said he suspected the occupants of an adjacent room but had no evidence they committed the crime. The incident was classified as a felony theft by taking greater than $1,500. — Jon Wilcox
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Hospital staff allegedly seized a 36-year -old Cumming patient’s fentanyl during his hospital stay June 13. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said Northside Hospital Forsyth staff told deputies they had found a powdered substance wrapped in tissue paper. The tissue paper was allegedly hidden under the man’s body. Staff said they began monitoring the man’s behavior after noticing he was acting suspiciously. The man appeared to be trying to hide something, they said. A preliminary test found the substance was fentanyl, the Sheriff’s Office said. The case was forwarded to sheriff’s investigators. The incident was classified as a felony possession of a Schedule III substance. — Jon Wilcox
Man reports robbery while at pool house FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 19-ear old Bethlehem, Ga., man reported he
NEWS
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | July 2, 2026 | 3
Northview senior expands passion-based learning for kids By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — For Northview High School senior Aanya Shah, volunteering for Discovery Circle since 2020 isn’t about her sister founding the organization – it’s about believing in the impact of accessibility. “So many students might do drives and things, and those are phenomenal,” Shah said, “but I think when you really get to see the impact that you make it’s a lot more inspiring.” Discovery Circle, a student-driven organization working toward nonprofit status, has brought free, online access to extracurricular activities to more than 500 students across the United States, Canada, India and Europe. It also provides a community of 75 high school students coaching participants in their passion. As one of the founding team members when she was in sixth grade, Shah helped develop the website while participating in some of the classes offered at Discovery Circle. After taking over the program from her sister, Aesha, Shah has expanded its offerings to 20-30 courses over seven weeks each summer, all inspired by
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the coaches themselves. “I think it's really important for the high school students to showcase their passion and their true interest to the younger students, so they feel motivated to find that for themselves,” Shah said. “I think, like, asking them what they want to teach makes it more engaging and more exciting for them to do.”
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or organizations nearby or different school clubs that are also focused on volunteering,” Shah said. As a coach herself, Shah said she’s experienced a lot of personal growth and gathered new skills working with fellow coaches, students and their parents. Even with a five-person team, Shah said the demands can get overwhelming. “But over time … I've really been able to kind of guide our newer members of our management team on how to approach those kinds of situations,” Shah said. “And I think it's a great skill for all of us to … learn how to balance all of those things.” As current students grow, Shah hopes to see more of them get involved in the program and eventually take the lead. She wants to see even more creativity in the classes offered as new coaches bring different passions. “Especially with everything being digital and so much social media, it’s important to make sure that we’re fostering real passion in the next generation,” Shah said. For those interested in learning more about Discovery Circle, visit discoverycircle20.wixsite.com/ freeonlinelessons. ATTENTION - Double check ad for ALL content. Phone, web, address, coupons, etc. Assume nothing Reply back that ad is approved once ALL ITEMS HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY.
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In recent summers, Discovery Circle has expanded from offering debate, chess and public speaking classes to jewelry making, creative writing, financial literacy and 3D computer-aided design courses for aspiring architects and engineers. While coaches do offer free language courses and traditional academic topics, Shah said those are already accessible to most families. Discovery Circle has been working to bridge the gap between online, free extracurricular activities. There were academic resources students could access online, Shah said, but often, students want to pursue their passions instead of academics. That’s when Discovery Circle’s main mission formed: to provide free, online lessons for elementary and middle school students. The organization is one of several community service activities Shah has participated in through middle and high school. She’s brought it to other local service organizations, like her high school’s Beta Club, as a way for members to earn community service hours. “We work to make sure our hours are certified with different nonprofits
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4 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
Area communities plan events to commemorate Fourth holiday NORTH METRO ATLANTA — The United States marks its 250th birthday this year, and many North Metro Atlanta communities are helping it celebrate. This July 4 is the nation’s semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Although Independence Day is on a Saturday, some celebrations will take place on other days. Here is a list of events celebrating the holiday across DeKalb, Fulton, and Forsyth counties. Forsyth County The Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, hosts a fun-filled evening from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. July 4, with a firework show at 9:30 p.m. The celebration includes live music, alcohol, food, kids zone, vendors and more. In Cumming, the annual ThomasMashburn Steam Engine Parade travels south on Tribble Gap Road, starting at Forsyth Central High School and ending at the Cumming Fairgrounds. The parade starts at 10 a.m. July 4.
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Fulton County Alpharetta is hosting a July 3 concert and drone show 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Town Green at Alpharetta City Center, 2 Park Plaza, with the drone show beginning at 9:30 p.m. On July 4, the city holds a fireworks show with the fireworks commencing at 9:15 p.m. with the latest start of the show at 10:40 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring a blanket, picnic and games for a memorable evening together. In Johns Creek, a fireworks display will be held at The Boardwalk at Town Center,
11362 Lakefield Drive from 6 to 9 p.m. July 3 Fireworks will be displayed after 9 p.m. The free event also features music, activities and food. Milton’s Red, White, and YOU! will be held at Broadway Pavilion, 12615 Broadwell Road, 9 a.m. to noon July 3. A parade begins at 9:45 a.m. with a foam party to start at 10:15 a.m. Roswell’s July 4 celebration is from 7 to 11 p.m. at 10495 Woodstock Road. Enjoy live music, entertainment and food trucks. Bring chairs and blankets to spread out at one of several fireworks viewing areas throughout the park. Fireworks will start at sunset. Sandy Springs’ Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration is July 4 at City Springs District, 1 Galambos Way. The event opens at 4 p.m. with food trucks opening at 6 p.m., a concert by Don McLean from 8 to 9:30 p.m. and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. DeKalb County Avondale Estates holds its fireworks display from 7 to 10 p.m. July 4. The show can be viewed at Napoleon B. Cobb Stadium, 1192 Clarendon Ave. The event kicks off with the Fourth of July Parade. Parking will be limited. Please consider walking, biking and alternate modes of transportation. The Clarkston July 4 parade begins sharply at 10 a.m. from the Renaissance High School parking lot, with a left turn on to Church Street, then right turn on to Main Street, heading north, then a left turn on Miller Road, finally ending at Calvary
See EVENTS, Page 18
Enjoy Family This Independence Day!
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AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | July 2, 2026 | 5
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6 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
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From left, cancer survivor Elizabeth Peters, Wellstar hematologist and oncologist Dr. Nagender Mankan, and Peters’ daughter Kayla Jaconette recognize National Cancer Survivors Day at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center in Roswell.
Wellstar hosts gathering to honor cancer survivors ROSWELL, Ga. — Cancer survivors, families and care teams gathered June 6 to celebrate life beyond diagnosis and the power of community at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center. The gathering was to mark National Cancer Survivors Day held the first Sunday in June to shine a light on survivorship and the importance of continued care, early detection and hope. The outing, part of Wellstar’s systemwide “Saddle Up for Survivorship” theme, honored the resilience of survivors while offering encouragement to those still in treatment. Guests gathered for a Wild West– themed celebration featuring music, themed crafts and activities, food and giveaways, creating a space where attendees shared milestones and felt support at every turn. Survivors and their loved ones connected with others who understand the journey, celebrating progress and exchanging shared experiences along the way. “At Wellstar, we are committed to supporting patients and their
families through every stage of the cancer journey — from screening and diagnosis to treatment, survivorship and beyond,” said Shannon Ross, director of oncology services at Wellstar North Fulton Cancer Center. “Families can face cancer with confidence knowing they have access to a multidisciplinary care team, expert physicians and advanced treatment options close to home.” For many attendees, the event offered celebration and encouragement. “The upbeat atmosphere allowed patients to celebrate their wins and connect with other survivors to share experiences,” oncology nurse navigator Sarah Bentley said. In addition to the Roswell celebration, Wellstar hosted Cancer Survivors Day events across its network, including in Cartersville, Austell, Douglasville, Marietta, Hiram, Griffin and LaGrange. Each gathering reflected the same mission: to recognize survivors' strength and stand beside those still fighting. — Hannah Yahne
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AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | July 2, 2026 | 7
Milton High’s Jake James wins national acting award MILTON, Ga. — Jake James, a participant in the Milton Theatre Company at Milton High School, received the Best Performance by an Actor Award at the 17th annual National High School Musical Theatre Awards. The competition, commonly known as the Jimmy Awards, was hosted June 22 in the Minskoff Theatre on Broadway in New York City. James advanced to the national stage after winning the Shuler Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor for his performance in the high school edition of “Water for Elephants” presented at Milton High School. Alongside 115 competitors, James spent 10 days in an intensive program led by musical theater professionals before being selected as the national win-
ner for Best Performance by an Actor. “The community that I have at home in City Springs Conservatory and Milton Theatre, my high school theatre company, is beyond enormous,” James said in an interview with Playbill. “I have so many people that believe in me, and I believe in so many people there – they're gonna do great things too.” For the Milton Theatre Company, the award marks a historic achievement. “Jake’s success demonstrates what is possible when young artists are given exceptional opportunities, rigorous training, and a community that believes in them,” Vice President of Marketing with the Milton Theatre Company Danielle Addair said. “We could not be more proud.” — Hannah Yahne
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Local youth helps in coin toss for Atlanta World Cup match NORTH FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Nicholas Nackley was at the center of the field June 18 as a coin toss assistant for the Czechia and South African men’s soccer match at Atlanta Stadium (Merecedes-Benz Stadium). Nackley was selected to participate in the pre-match tradition after being nominated by his adaptive physical education teacher at Riverwood High
School, Jason Russo. Russo serves as a coach with Special Olympics Georgia. Nackley is a frequent participant of Milton’s Camp Joyful Soles, a summer camp for individuals 13-22 with special needs. The camp is held in partnership with Alpharetta’s Camp Happy Hearts which serves children ages 6-12. — Hannah Yahne
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10 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section
The probate time bomb hidden in your house and your LLCs Brought to you by – Estate Law Center USA Most surviving spouses never realize they may only own 50% of their home. In Georgia, there is no automatic right of survivorship between spouses HOLLY GEERDES Estate Law Center USA unless the deed Top 5% Super Lawyer in Georgia specifically says so. Being married does not mean your spouse automatically inherits your share of the house when you die. In fact, many surviving spouses find out they only own 50% of the property when they attempt to sell the property after the first spouse dies. What usually happens? One spouse dies. The surviving spouse keeps living in the home, paying the taxes, maintaining the property, and assuming everything is fine. They never try to sell it, so they never discover there is a problem. Probate is never opened. Years later, the surviving spouse dies too. That is when the children come to our office.
We pull the deed and discover there was no survivorship language. No trust. No estate plan. Legally, half of the house belonged to the first spouse's estate the entire time. That interest never automatically transferred. Now the family has a mess on their hands. Before they can sell, refinance, or properly transfer the property, we often have to open probate for the first spouse who died—sometimes 10, 15, or even 20 years ago. After that probate is completed, we then have to open probate for the second spouse. Two separate probate cases. Two sets of court filings. Two rounds of attorney fees. Two rounds of delays. But here is what many people do not realize: Even if your deed DOES contain right of survivorship language, probate has only been delayed—not eliminated. When the first spouse dies, the property may pass automatically to the surviving spouse. But when the surviving spouse dies, the house is now owned entirely by that spouse. Unless there is a trust or other planning
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The bathroom, a place we take for granted, transforms into one of the most hazardous areas in the home for aging seniors. With slippery surfaces, high tub walls, and the need for frequent maneuvering, the risk of falls—the leading cause of injury among older adults—spikes dramatically. John Hogan, President of Bath and Kitchen Galleria and Aging in Place Expert says, “Proactive bathroom modifications are not merely an upgrade; they are an essential investment in the long-term safety, independence, and dignity of our seniors.” To mitigate the dangers, several specific aspects of the bathroom should be modified to create a supportive and accessible environment: Shower and Bathtub: The single greatest fall risk is often stepping over a high tub wall. The ideal solution is a curbless or low-threshold walk-in shower to eliminate this barrier entirely. For added security, install a permanent shower seat or bench and a handheld showerhead to allow for comfortable, seated bathing. Shower floor should have non-slip tile surfaces. Grab Bars: Strategically placed sturdy, professional-grade grab bars are critical. They must be securely anchored into wall studs, not just
the drywall. Placement is key: near the toilet to assist with sitting and standing, and both inside and just outside the shower/tub for secure entry and exit. Modern grab bars come in a variety of stylish finishes to seamlessly blend with your décor. Toilet Area: A standard toilet can be difficult to use for those with limited mobility. Installing a comfort-height or raised toilet seat reduces the strain on joints and makes the transition from sitting to standing much easier. Pairing this with well-placed grab bars provides a significant boost in stability. Flooring and Lighting: Replace slippery tile or remove loose bathmats and throw rugs, which are tripping hazards. Install slip-resistant flooring throughout the bathroom. Finally, good lighting is paramount. Bright, even lighting—including motion-sensor nightlights—helps seniors navigate safely, especially during middle-of-thenight trips. By implementing these thoughtful changes, the bathroom can evolve from a high-risk area into a secure, comfortable, and accessible space that supports an aging senior’s desire to age in place safely at home. For more information visit Bath and Kitchen Galleria’s showroom at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector in Alpharetta (no appointment needed) or call them at 678-459-2292.
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14 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section
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Summer is heating up at Soleil Belmont Park in Canton Brought to you by – LLANE & Co. There’s a reason more active adults are talking about life at Patrick Malloy Communities’ Soleil Belmont Park this summer — the resort lifestyle is officially in full swing. Located between downtown Canton and Milton, Soleil Belmont Park is redefining what 55+ living can look like with a vibrant social atmosphere, luxury resort amenities and an active calendar filled with events designed to bring neighbors together. Now that the community’s highly anticipated resort amenities are open, residents are diving headfirst into summer fun. The newly opened luxury pool and pool bar have quickly become
the centerpiece of activity, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a private resort getaway than a traditional neighborhood. From morning yoga classes and gardening clubs to poolside gatherings, glow-in-the-dark pickleball and evening social events, there is always something happening inside the gates of Soleil Belmont Park. “The energy at Soleil Belmont Park this summer has been incredible,” said Lori Lane, founder and CEO of LLANE & Co. “Residents are truly embracing the active lifestyle here. Whether it’s relaxing by the pool, meeting friends at the clubhouse bar or joining in one of the many social events, the community has come alive in such a special way.” Designed for today’s active adult
buyer, the community offers an impressive collection of amenities including pickleball courts, tennis, bocce ball, a coffee bistro, clubhouse bar, fire pit gathering areas, event lawn and community gardens. Lifestyle programming continues to expand as more homeowners move into the community and take advantage of the resort-inspired experience. Beyond the amenities, residents are also drawn to Soleil Belmont Park’s convenient Canton location. The community offers easy access to shopping, dining, healthcare, golf and outdoor recreation while still providing the peaceful setting and mountain views that make North Georgia living so desirable.
Luxury ranch-style homes with designer finishes and open floorplans are currently available, including move-in ready opportunities for buyers looking to enjoy the lifestyle immediately. As metro Atlanta continues to see growing demand for upscale active adult communities, Soleil Belmont Park is standing out for its unique blend of hospitality-inspired amenities, luxury homes and strong sense of connection among neighbors. For many residents, summer at Soleil Belmont Park feels less like staying home — and more like living at a private resort every day. For more information, visit SoleilBelmontPark.com or call 770-6354080.
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | July 2, 2026 | 15 REAL ESTATE REPORT • Sponsored Section
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CITY OF JOHNS CREEK NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX HEARINGS (MILLAGE RATE)
Continued from Page 10
The City of Johns Creek is currently in the process of adopting the 2026 Millage Rate. The City has published the Five-Year History of the Tax Digest and Levy as required by O.C.G.A. § 48-5-32.
in place, the property will still have to go through probate at the second death before it can be transferred to the next generation. The same problem applies to family businesses and LLCs. Many business owners assume that because their spouse is involved in the business or because they are married, ownership will automatically transfer without court involvement. In Georgia, that assumption can create serious problems. If LLC interests are not properly addressed through a trust, those ownership interests can become trapped in an estate and require probate before the next generation can take control. We regularly see families dealing with probate issues involving homes, rental properties, LLCs, and family businesses years after a loved one passed away. And if heirs have died, moved away, become estranged, or cannot be located, the situation becomes even more expensive and time-consuming. Families are often shocked to learn that a problem created decades earlier is now preventing them from selling property, transferring a business, refinancing assets, or settling an estate. The frustrating part? Most of this could have been avoided with proper estate planning. Your closing attorney's job is to get the real estate transaction closed. They are not responsible for advising you what happens to your home, your LLC, or your business when you die. That is the job of an expert estate planning attorney and not a general practioner. A survivorship deed may avoid probate at the first death. It does not avoid probate forever. Without a trust, your family could be inheriting far more than your assets—they could be inheriting years of court proceedings, legal fees, delays, and headaches.
The other City of Johns Creek advertisement in this printed edition regarding property taxes is required by Georgia law. The advertised millage rate of 3.492 is the current millage rate, and it may or may not be the final rate adopted by Council. The rate advertised (of 3.492) is the maximum rate that the City Council can adopt without readvertising. Public Hearings are scheduled for July 13 and July 27. The public is encouraged to participate in the public hearings or submit comments via email to public.comment@johnscreekga.gov.
Before the City of Johns Creek adopts the 2026 Millage Rate, Georgia law requires Public Hearings to be held to allow the public an opportunity to be heard. The City has scheduled three Public Hearings. All members of the public are invited to attend and participate in the hearings. The first Public Hearing will be held on July 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., and a second Public Hearing will be held on that same day, July 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. The third Public Hearing will be held during the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on July 27, 2026. All public hearings are held in the Council Chambers in City Hall located at 11360 Lakefield Drive in Johns Creek, GA 30097. City Clerk Allison Tarpley
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE The City of Johns Creek has tentatively adopted a millage rate, which will require an increase in property taxes by 5.91 percent. All concerned citizens are invited to the Public Hearing on this tax increase to be held at the Johns Creek City Hall, Council Chambers located at 11360 Lakefield Drive, Johns Creek, Georgia on July 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. An additional Public Hearing on this proposed tax increase will be held at the Johns Creek City Hall, Council Chambers on July 27, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 3.492 mills, an increase of 0.195 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate would be no more than 3.297 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $625,000 is approximately $47.58 and the proposed tax increase for a non-homestead property with a fair market value of $625,000 is approximately $48.75. Pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. § 48-5-32, the City of Johns Creek does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year’s tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.
Residents are invited to e-mail comments to public.comment@johnscreekga.gov.
16 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
OPINION
The dental visit that saved me an $80 ticket School zone cameras leave little to smile about. On one hand, they affirm that some motorists drive too fast where children congregate – more than 10 mph over the school zone PAT FOX speed limit. That’s Managing Editor pat@appenmedia.com bad. On the other hand, they are a form of profit-based law enforcement. That’s bad, too. Fortune magazine reports that since Georgia made the cameras legal in 2018, local governments have raked in at least $112 million in fines. Sandy Springs just extended its contract with RedSpeed, one of the nation’s leading operators of school zone camera systems. Police Maj. Michael Lindstrom told the City Council June 16 that the devices work. Since the camera program launched in 2021, he reported, RedSpeed has logged a 94 percent decline in the number of daily speed violators in Sandy Springs school zones. Records also show that 90 percent of those cited are not residents. Still, RedSpeed reports there remain instances of motorists driving from 60-62 mph through active school speed zones. Most striking is that only 1.6 percent of drivers contest the citations.
Sounds good: safer schools, more money, and almost no one disputes their guilt.
of revenue…disguised in school safety language.” State Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell), a champion for law enforcement, has supported legislation to prohibit camera companies from receiving a share of the fines, and instead receive a flat fee for the service. He has also suggested that all devices be uniform throughout the state, with flashing lights and signs clearly warning drivers when speed enforcement cameras are operating. State Rep. Dale Washburn (R-Macon) sponsored legislation last year to eliminate the cameras altogether. He provided a stack of emails from angry Georgians ticketed who reported lights were not flashing, they didn’t even know they were in a school zone or the cameras were otherwise unfair. I received notice in March that my car was snapped driving 42 mph in a 25 mph school zone on North Point Parkway Jan. 27. The time stamp said 3:58 p.m., well within the frame of enforcement. Yes, I was on North Point Parkway Jan. 27 around that time. Why argue? There was the picture. Guilty. Then, I changed my mind. It was impossible for me to have been speeding through that school zone, and I could prove it.
Pushback from legislators Yet, growing numbers of Georgians are fighting use of these devices as they currently operate. State Rep. Clay Pirkle, (R-Ashburn) has called the cameras a “gravy train
Disputing the charge I appeared in Alpharetta Municipal Court in April and pleaded not guilty. I told the judge that I was a reporter and had covered Alpharetta’s adoption of the school zone camera program. With
APPEN MEDIA FILE PHOTO
School zone speed enforcement cameras are attracting more statewide opposition.
extensive knowledge of the program, I knew it would be suicide to speed through any Alpharetta school zone when lights were flashing, akin to stomping the accelerator when you see a cop on the side of the road with a radar gun aimed at your grill, I told the judge. The lights could not have been flashing. The picture did not include an image of the yellow light apparatus – just my car and the time stamp. I brought copies of the articles I’d written as evidence. I also brought evidence that on Jan. 27, I was returning home from a 3 p.m. dental appointment at the Swan Building on Old Milton Parkway, one of the busiest arteries in the city. The appointment included a cleaning, then an examination from the periodontist. I had my dental appointment card and receipt for the services rendered. Finally, I told the judge that to trust the traffic camera, he’d have to believe that in 58 minutes I had: • Undergone a dental cleaning. • Waited for the periodontist to check my gums. • Walked down a flight of stairs, out to my car and exited the lot. • Driven 2.5 miles at rush hour through six traffic signals on a street that carries some 50,000 vehicles a day. Indeed, the judge couldn’t believe it, so he dismissed the case. Here’s the worst part. There was no person – no accuser – I could confront in court. There was only a photograph with a time stamp. I’m with Sen. Albers on this one.
Several factors will govern whether mortgage rates fall Last week offered the markets their first real glimpse of the "new Federal Reserve" under Chairman Kevin Warsh. Investors, economists, and political observers were watching closely for signs that the Fed D.C. AIKEN might align itself with Guest Columnist President Trump's redcaiken.com peated calls for lower interest rates. Instead, the Federal Open Market Committee chose to leave rates unchanged. While the decision was widely expected, what surprised many was the Fed's willingness to keep the possibility of a rate increase on the table later this year. That stance highlights the difficult position policymakers currently face. The White House is advocating for lower rates
at a time when inflation has climbed to 4.2 percent, its highest level in three years. Yet reducing rates while inflation remains elevated is akin to trying to extinguish a fire with gasoline. It may feel proactive, but the outcome is rarely what anyone hopes for. From a monetary policy perspective, the Fed's caution is understandable. Inflation remains well above its long-run target, while unemployment has remained relatively stable. Under these conditions, the central bank has little incentive to begin easing policy prematurely. In fact, if labor market conditions strengthen further while inflation persists at current levels, the argument for additional tightening becomes considerably stronger. This creates an unusual economic paradox. Normally, stronger employment is celebrated as an unequivocal positive. Today, however, every surprisingly strong jobs report may increase the probability
of higher interest rates. It's one of the few situations in economics where good news can immediately become bad news — and then somehow be spun as good news again on financial television. So where does this leave mortgage rates? The outlook is cautiously optimistic. I expect inflationary pressures to moderate over the next six months, aided in part by declining energy prices as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to ease. If inflation trends lower, mortgage rates should gradually follow. Earlier this year, mortgage rates briefly dipped below 6 percent, helping stimulate purchase activity during the first quarter. A return to rates beginning with a "5" later this year could once again unlock pent-up housing demand and improve affordability for many buyers. That said, expectations should remain grounded. While rates below 6 percent appear achievable, forecasts calling for
sustained mortgage rates in the mid-5 percent range remain optimistic. Economic forecasting is difficult enough without pretending the crystal ball actually works. For now, the most likely scenario is one of gradual improvement rather than dramatic relief. Inflation appears poised to cool, mortgage rates may drift lower, and housing activity could strengthen modestly. But barring a significant economic slowdown, borrowers hoping for the ultra-low rates of years past may need to keep hoping a little longer. 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.
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | July 2, 2026 | 17
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18 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
Mermaid: Continued from Page 1 Eight years later, Becham is a Scuba Schools International certified mermaid, hosting classes, attending community events as her magical marine persona, Mermaid Amy. In her free time, she relaxes by swimming with the tail in pools at gyms, her subdivision and aquatic centers, often drawing curious onlookers. “You should never lose your motivation to play,” Becham said. “It's a very physical escape. You're getting away from everything … It's everything the real world is not.” On a Saturday in late June, Becham and a half dozen other women met up at an indoor pool at a strip mall in Johns Creek. For more than an hour, they practiced monofin swimming techniques, their colorful tails gracefully propelling them through the water. In between handstands, tail flips and other advanced techniques, the group also found time to laugh and play. After the swim, Meredith “Mermaid Meredith” Simpkins said moving with the tail is harder than it looks. Simpkins and Becham serve as certified mermaid instructors for Diveventures, a North Atlanta swim and SCUBA instruction center. Made of synthetic materials, the fluke-like monofin attaches at the feet and joins the legs with fabric. Swimming relies on an undulating dolphin kick that requires coordination along the entire body and serves as a surprisingly hard workout. “We joke with our students, it's all in the hips, so just channel Shakira,” Simpkins said. “You want to really start with your head and shoulders and start a wave movement, and it continues down. A lot of your power comes from your hips and your upper legs.” Like Becham, Simpkins said she felt an inexplicable draw to becoming a mermaid. After becoming SCUBA certified at age 14, she grew increasingly interested in everything aquatic, eventually beginning study to become a marine biologist. In between her studies and a job at Starbucks, Simpkins also leads mermaid classes. Simpkins said there are scientific reasons behind the many benefits that come with swimming. Whether with two legs or one fin, being in the water can reduce stress and promote physical fitness. Swimming also is an essential skill that can open doors for children later in life and ensure their safety should they fall into water. “There is definitely something physiological and psychological about being in water,” she said. “We came from the water, we are meant to be in the water.” Apart from the general benefits of swimming, mermaiding also offers something more intangible. It stimulates the imagination, Simpkins and Becham said.
Events: Continued from Page 4 Lutheran Church parking lot. The First Announcer's Stage will be on Main Street in front of The Fed Restaurant near Rudy's Prime Steakhouse. For more information, visit clarkstonparade.org. The Chamblee Rocks Summer Concert features Robin Thicke at 6:30 p.m. in Downtown Chamblee. Fireworks will begin about 9 p.m. Parking will be lim-
Mermaids practice swim techniques at Diventures’ indoor pool June 27. Both women routinely share their mermaid personas with Johns Creek and other North Atlanta residents. They host classes teaching swimmers how to use the fins and sometimes attend events. At Autrey Mill Nature Preserve’s Earth Day celebration, Mermaid Amy met with children who eagerly formed a line to meet her. Enamored by her tail and persona, the wide-eyed kids asked questions about the water. Becham recalled one mermaid class she offered for a girl’s birthday party. The girl was awestruck by the experience, she said, smiling at the memory. “She probably has no idea what my name is, but she remembers having that first tail swimming with another mermaid,” Becham said. More pragmatically, the magic of mermaids has enticed numerous young people to learn how to swim, Becham and Simpkins said. “It is a life-saving skill,” Simpkins said. “No matter where you live or what kind of lifestyle you have, it is very, very likely that you will be around water at some point in your life.”
ited and available at Winter Construction, 5616 Peachtree Road, or Chamblee Middle School, 3601 Sexton Woods Drive. Decatur’s Pied Piper Parade is at 6 p.m. July 4 in the downtown with a concert at 7 p.m. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. or at dark. Parade line-up begins at 5:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Decatur, 308 Clairemont Ave. Pedestrians should gather on the lawn, and vehicles will line up in the parking lot. In Dunwoody, a July 4 parade begins at 9 a.m. at Dunwoody Village Shop-
PHOTOS BY: JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
A group of mermaids perform handstands at Diventures’ pool June 27.
ping Center, 5555 Chamblee Dunwoody Road. The 2.7-mile route travels west on Mt. Vernon Road and along Dunwoody Village Parkway. Spectators are encouraged to bring chairs, picnics and flags. After the parade, a festival at the shopping center features performances by the Dunwoody High School Band and Dunwoody Idol winner Lauren Schroder along with the presentation of parade awards. Stone Mountain Park holds its July 4 fireworks display 9:30 p.m. July 1 to 6. Visitors are advised to enter the park
before 5 p.m. The park will close gates to traffic once parking capacity is reached, regardless of pre-purchased tickets. Attractions are all day from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, visit stonemountainpark.com. Tucker’s July 3 Celebration of Independence and Fireworks Spectacular kicks off at 6 p.m. and continues until the barricades come down at 11 p.m. Enjoy live music, DJ Fernando, a kids zone and carnival games. Food trucks open at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m.
AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | July 2, 2026 | 19
Budget: Continued from Page 1 Changes for the 2026-27 school year include ensuring high school students remain enrolled full-time to gain an additional $1.2 million in funding. There will also be a districtwide furlough day, which will shorten next year’s instructional calendar by one day and save the county around $4.5 million. Superintendent Mike Looney praised the budget saying that, while it is conservative, it will allow the district to continue meeting the needs of students.
digest, board members will begin to discuss the millage rate on property and host public hearings. Fulton County Schools has held a millage rate of 17.08 for the past two years which is the lowest by more than 1 mill compared to surrounding school districts. A school millage rate is a property tax that collects $1 for every $1,000 of assessed property values and specifically allocated toward funding school districts’ operations, salaries and facility maintenance. Since last year, Fulton County voters approved two homestead exemptions for senior residents that were projected to decrease Fulton Schools local revenues by approximately $50 million. Two public hearings on the millage rate will be scheduled after the digest is issued in the coming weeks. The Board of Education must approve its millage rate by Sept. 1.
Out-of-district students can make applications to four county schools FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Eligible out-of-district students can apply to attend select Fulton County Schools for the upcoming year through a tuition-based enrollment initiative to expand access to specialized academic pathways and advanced coursework. Participating schools are the Fulton Academy of Virtual Excellence, Global Impact Academy, North Springs High School and Northview High School. To be eligible, students must be Georgia residents between ninth and 12th grade and complete an application to the school of their choice through Infinite Campus. Acceptance to a school does not
guarantee participation in a specific program at the school. Students determined to have missed 10 percent or more of enrolled school days for any reason will not be considered. Any student subject to serious disciplinary action in the past, such as long-term suspension, assignment or referral to an alternative school, will not be accepted. The tuition rate for the 2026-27 school year is $11,000 per student each year or $5,500 per semester. To apply, go to fultonschools.org/ students-families/enrollment/ online-registration. — Hannah Yahne
Changes since tentative approval Fulton County Schools has received additional revenue sources that required altering the budget that was tentatively approved in May. Built for memories, The district’s general fund budget projected revenues remain hovering made for community. Built for memories, above $1.4 billion – a decrease of made for community. around 1.7 percent from the current • Pre-planning • Grief Support Built for memories, year. The general fund covers day-to• Funeral Services • Veteran Services Built for memories, day operating expenses, like salaries, for made forcommunity. community. made • Cremation Services student services and transportation. This year, nearly 80 percent is allocated directly to schools. One bit of good news is that info@northsidechapel.com revenues increased after Fulton www.northsidechapel.com County Schools was awarded a $4.4 During these turbulent times, we would like to highlight the continued courage million Schools Safety and Security We’re proud to introduce our Grant from the state. However, that and commitment of everyone who works in the health care, law enforcement, bonus will be partially offset by the new celebration of life center, childcare, food service and utility sectors. We are extremely grateful. decrease in local fair share taxes unlike anything else in that the district will receive from the the Atlanta area. 12050 Crabapple Road • Roswell, GA 30075 Georgia Department of Education. We’re proud to celebration introduce our new celebration of life center, We’re proud to introduce our new of life center, anything else in the Atlanta area. else in the Atlanta area. >unlike Cremations > Funerals Because of the grant funding and unlike anything > new Cremations > Funerals of >> Life Celebrations proud to introduce>our celebration life center, additional hirings relatedWe’re to career, Life Celebrations Grief Support CITY OF JOHNS CREEK > Cremations > Funerals > Life Celebrations > Griefin support > Catered area. events > Veteran services unlike anything else the Atlanta technical and agricultural education, > Catered Events PUBLIC NOTICE > Grief support > Catered events > Veteran services the district’s general fund expendi> Cremations > Funerals > Life Celebrations Presentation of Fiscal Year 2027 Budget > Veteran Services South Forsyth Memorial Chapel tures increased by $4.6 million. > Grief support > Catered events > Veteran services PUBLIC HEARING Expenses are still projected to Peachtree Pkwy | Suwanee, GA 30024 to3545 introduce our new celebration of life center, exceed general fund revenues by We’re proud For information on preplanning, call 470-375-1192 or visit SouthForsythChapel.com. unlike anything else in the Atlanta area. roughly $55 million which Dereef proposed FY2027 Budget will be presented to the Council during their 3545 Peachtree Pkwy | Suwanee,The GA 30024 said will be covered using the dis> Cremations > Peachtree Funerals > Life Celebrations 3545 Pkwy. July 13th, 2026 5:00pm Work Session. PUBLIC HEARINGS regarding trict’s remaining fund balance. For information on preplanning, call 470-375-1192 or visitMonday, SouthForsythChapel.com. 3545 Peachtree | Suwanee, GA GA 30024 > Grief Pkwy support > Catered events > Veteran servicesthe proposed FY2027 Budget will be held on Monday, July 27th, 2026 at 7:00 “These changes do not represent Suwanee, 30024 For information on preplanning, call 470-375-1192 or visit SouthForsythChapel.com. staffing reductions or significant p.m. and Monday, September 14, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in conjunction with the For information on preplanning, program changes,” Dereef said. “They regular Council Meetings. Both the Work Session and Public Hearings will be call 470-375-1192 or visit are refinements intended to ensure held at 11360 Lakefield Drive, Johns Creek, GA 30097. The proposed budget will SouthForsythChapel.com. resources are aligned with district be available on the City website, and a copy will be placed at City Hall for review. priorities and available funding 3545 Peachtree Pkwy | Suwanee, GA 30024 sources.”
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Whole life insurance and annuities underwritten by Forethought Life Insurance Company, Indianapolis, IN.
South Forsyth Memorial Chapel Whole life insurance and annuities underwritten by Forethought Life Insurance Company, Indianapolis, IN.
Allison Tarpley City Clerk
For information on preplanning, call 470-375-1192 or visit SouthForsythChapel.com.
Awaiting the tax digest As the Board of Education awaits the final tax digest from Fulton County, local revenue projections stand at $891 million. Dereef anticipates receiving the county’s tax digest in the coming days. The digest represents all taxable property within the county and is updated each year. Once Fulton Schools gets the tax
Whole life insurance and annuities underwritten by Forethought Life Insurance Company, Indianapolis, IN.
DEATH NOTICES David Graham Gilmore, age 69, of Sandy Springs, GA passed away on June 16, 2026.
Rose Mazur, age 89, of Milton, GA passed away on June 20, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Antoine Rhodes, age 85, of Milton, GA passed away on June 20, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Puzzles
ier 7/2/26 Connect-It
PuzzleJunction.com
Connect-It
Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com
Each line in the puzzle below 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 5, 4 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with 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!
Johns Creek Herald ................................. July 2, 2026 | 20
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Dunwoody Crier 7/2/26 Crossword
MISSING PARTS 1. War and __. Metal fastener. Slow-moving arboreal mammal. 2. Bricklayer. Porgy and ___. Involuntary twitch. 3. Disney elephant. Cowboy’s rope. ___and Out. 4. William and ___ (College). Unfeeling. Chaos. 5. Front and ___. Big cat. Fishing rod attachment. 6. Sea birds. Traffic sign. Right and ___. 7. Like a bucket devoid of stuff. Chip and ___. Doctrine. PuzzleJunction.com
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1 Goat hair garments 5 Foolhardy 3 9 Cot 12 Corker 13 Cowboy 4 exhibition 14 Bundle 15 Jack of Rio Lobo 5 16 Healing plants 17 Pac 10 team 18 Weather 6 consideration for travel 20 Put away for a /25/26 Sudoku7 rainy day Dunwoody Crier 7/2/26 Kakuro PuzzleJunction.com Missing Parts 22 Golfer Ernie 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 1. first War and Metal fastener. Slow-moving the letter of ___. the second answer, and so on. The connectingarboreal letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each 23 Shade tree mammal answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are Sums, numbered 1 through number 7, which eachsolved number 3 clues Kakuro, also known as Cross is a challenging puzzle, in acontaining crossword style grid. The rules are easy: A 24number Poet Teasdale above the diagonal line are in a not blackinsquare thethe sumfirst of the white squares to the it. A actually number below the diagonal line26 is the sum for 3 answers on thepuzzle, line. Buteach here’srow, the catch! Theand clues order is - so clue in Line 1 may (orright mayofnot) To the solve the Sudoku column Something to 2. Bricklayer. Porgy and ___. Involuntary twitch. 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. be the second or the thirdnumbers answer in1that line. Got it? Good luck! boxformust contain to 9. avoid while on the road 3. Disney elephant. Cowboy’s rope. ___ and out. 32 1004, Roman 4. William and ___ (College). Unfeeling. Chaos. 33 Mitch Miller’s instrument 5. Front and ___. Big cat. Fishing rod attachment. 34 Wine valley 6. Sea birds. Traffic sign. Right and ___. 35 Tableland 36 Beef on the hoof 7. Like a bucket devoid of stuff. Chip and ___. Doctrine. 37 Garbage barge 38 Toiletry item 39 Minus 40 Secreted 41 Phone destinations 43 Pigeon’s home 44 Wrecker’s job 45 Sidekick 46 Relaxes on a trip 50 Travel accomplishment 54 Poi source Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com How to Solve: Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a 55 Chicago airport
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Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com
How to Solve: To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
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.
ASK APPEN Solution
Solution 9 4 5 1 2 8 6 3 7
8 2 1 6 3 7 9 5 4
7 3 6 5 9 4 2 1 8
4 5 9 8 6 1 7 2 3
6 1 3 7 4 2 5 8 9
2 8 7 3 5 9 1 4 6
5 7 4 2 8 6 3 9 1
1 9 2 4 7 3 8 6 5
3 6 8 9 1 5 4 7 2
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PuzzleJunction.com
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Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com
57 Plunge 58 Prayer’s end 59 Toils 60 Soon, to a bard 61 Biddy 62 Brings home 63 Longings Down 1 A Baldwin 2 Cattle member 3 Jai ___ 4 Good time for a long trip 5 Film part 6 Brouhaha 7 Gets the picture
8 Hotel manager 9 Ger. composer 10 Model Macpherson 11 At peace 13 Vermin 14 Working while off work 19 ___ mode 21 HS math class (Abbr.) 24 Blot 25 Grocery section 26 Carried 27 Weighty 28 Fertile soil 29 Implied 30 Lyric poem
31 Adage 35 Subway inits. 36 Travel cautiously by auto 42 Hoodwink 43 Elevator part 45 Lincoln or Ford, e.g. (Abbr.) 46 Bryce Canyon locale 47 Appellation 48 Small songbird 49 Loafer, e.g. 50 Clumsy boats 51 Kudzu, for one 52 Bard’s river 53 Camera part 56 Paintings
See puzzle solutions on Page 23
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AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | July 2, 2026 | 21
Full-time Risk Developer (Alpharetta, GA) Collecting, processing, & analyzing underlying portfolio data & enhancing Analytics/Risk rprting by automating manual processes & improving the accuracy of analyses. Reqs: Master’s deg in Quantitative Finance, Fin Engg, Mathematics, or closely rltd field. Graduate lvl crswk req in: OPT Mdels & Methods For FE; FE Continuous Time Mdels; & Machine Learning FE & OPR. Mail resume:Tracy Ryan, Balbec Capital, LP,10000 Avalon Blvd., Ste. 550, Alpharetta, GA 30009 Caremark LLC, a CVS Health company, is hiring for the following roles in Alpharetta, GA: Staff Data Engineer (R0942281) to Develop, build, and manage large-scale data structures, pipelines, and efficient Extract/Load/Transform (ETL) workflows to address complex problems and support business applications. Telecommuting available. Pay Range: $126443.00/yr to $236900.00/yr. Multiple Positions. Related degree &/or experience &/or skills &/or license required for all positions. The Company offers a full range of benefits. For more detailed information on available benefits, please visit https://jobs.cvshealth.com/us/en/benefits. Apply online at http://jobs.cvshealth.com/. Or send resume to istappintake@cvshealth.com. Must reference job title, location, and Req ID.
CVS Pharmacy Inc., a CVS Health company, is hiring for the following roles in Alpharetta, GA: Digital Sr. Development Engineer (R0942372) to Design and develop enterprise software applications and platforms to support digital strategies and solutions. Telecommuting available. Pay Range: $109283.00/yr to $185400.00/yr.
Midway Preschool is looking for an experienced Young 5’s/Prek teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Contact Beth at beth@midwayumc.org.
Multiple Positions. Related degree &/or experience &/or skills &/or license required for all positions. The Company offers a full range of benefits. For more detailed information on available benefits, please visit https://jobs.cvshealth.com/us/en/benefits. Apply online at http://jobs.cvshealth.com/. Or send resume to istappintake@cvshealth.com. Must reference job title, location, and Req ID.
YOUTH DIRECTOR (Part-Time) Alpharetta Presbyterian Church — Alpharetta, GA
Assistant Project Manager. Assist commercial construction project management team with preconstruction, estimating, contract administration, subcontractor management, client communication, and scheduling. Employer: Eclipse Brand Builders, LLC. Location: Alpharetta, GA. Incidental monthly travel to construction sites in the Southeastern U.S. (no more than 5% of employee time). To apply, mail resume to T. Nuhfer, 3655 Brookside Parkway, Suite 450, Alpharetta, GA 30022.
To place a classified ad, email classifieds@appenmedia.com. Deadline is Thursdays by 3pm
Part-time
APC seeks a vibrant, relational leader to serve as Youth Director for middle and high school students. 20–25 hrs/week | Up to $25/hr. Ideal candidates have a passion for youth mentorship and a background in education, coaching, or youth leadership. Retired teachers and ministryminded professionals encouraged to apply. Strong volunteer team and pastoral support in place.
SERVICE DIRECTORY Electricians
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Check out our new website:
770-455-4556 BelcoInc.com
and follow us on:
To apply: Submit a brief introduction and resume to jobs@alpharettapres.com.
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SOLUTIONS Support Local News 2 3 4 Join Appen Press Club 1 6 8 Freda Manning-Rumph Kyile Marshall Julie Martin Linda & Todd Martinez Carla Masecar Valerie Matthews Theresea Mattioli William Maxwell Nicole Mayer Rachel McCord Austin McCully Diane McDonald Evan McElroy Karen McEnerny Jack McGinnis Lynn McIntyre Mike McLoughlin Margaret McManus Jennifer Mendoza Al Merrill Chris Miller Christine Miller Patricia Miller Milton Animal Hospital George Mobley Joe Modica Fred Moeller Sarah Moen Catherine Moore Ralph Moore Carol Morgan Kathy Morgan Stu Moring Leslie Mullis Donna Murphy Jack Murphy Aileen Nakamura George Nathan
THE FUTURE OF LOCAL NEWS
Caroline Naughton Richard Nichols Cindy Nolan North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. Tricia Novarro Bob O’Brien Diana O’Sullivan Anne Pappas Lynn Pennington Jonathan Peters Kurt & Leslie Phillips Mary & Jan Phillips James Potts Debra Powell Seth Price Joyce Provissiero Chuck Pugh Robert Radloff Raj Rajagopalan Pankaj Rajankar Ashwin Ramaswami Cheryl Rand Manu Rao James Rasmussen Paula Rattray Lori Rausch Jean Rearick Joseph Reed Scarlett Reynolds Righteous PR Angie Rigney Sean Riley Neil Robertson Kimberly Robinson Matt Rohs Kim Romaner Courtney Rozear
Continued innovation in digital media has changed the ways in which people buy, sell and interact with products and services. It has caused businesses to reassess the ways in which it communicates with potential customers and advertises its products. It has been well documented that these changes have had a destructive impact on local newspapers, which continues to be a primary source for local news, but is no longer a primary source for local advertising dollars – historically the lifeblood for reporters and their coverage. At Appen Media Group we want to address this conflict head on, and build new and innovative approaches to monetizing local news and creating a sustainable future for local journalism in metro Atlanta.
B E D R A S H A B A S B A L E R O D E O L U L U U C L A A L O E S E L A M S T A S H E D C L I M A T E E L M E L S T O L L G A T E S S A R A P Dunwoody Crier 7/2/26 Kakuro N A P A O B O E M I V S C O W S T E E R M E S A Candice Teichert H I D L E S S T A L C The Small Business Advisor O T E style grid. The rules a S D E solved C Opuzzle, A R E Anumber inCa crossword known as Cross Sums, is a challenging also Thomas Kakuro, Suzanne & Bob L of it. A number below the dia W squares toPtheAright O white diagonal line in a black square is the sum Tof the above theTietjen William 1 toR9, and the digits onlyDuse may You it. below A Lcan only be used onc sequence I Va digit the in R A squares white S of the N I W N U Lisa Tilt Crier 7/2/26 Connect-It Puz Dunwoody D I V E O H A R E T A R O Michael Townes A N O N W O R K S A M E N Trunnion LLC Y E N S N E T S H E N Matthew Tyser
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MEMBER (CONT.) Zach Jones Patricia Kachur Amy Kanderis Arthur Kebanli Laura Keck Mark Kelly Nancy Kennell Randall Kent Carol Kerr Sally Klaskala Allison Kloster Dyna Kohler Brett Koutnik Larry Krueger Jess & Chris Kysar Malinda Lackey Sarah Lamm Daniel Lashinsky Richard Lapin Christine Law Brandon Leach Dennis Lee Ken Leffingwell Carol Lehan Melissa Libby Bonnie Lind Francia Lindon Karen Lippert Harlan Little Jarrett Long Ross Long Kyser Lough Rita Loventhal Jerry Lucas Brenda Lundy Harry Lutz Rita Loventhal Karen Magill
Solution
Fran Russell Janet Sandberg Kelly Sarmiento Derek Scheidt Stephanie Schniederjan The Schoenblum Family Robert Scholz Robert Schreiner Stephanie Schuette Susan Searles Frances Segars Tracy Shealy Tina Shelton Lisa Shippel Steve Short Tom Simon Cindy Simpson Robert Singleton Faye Sklar Mitchel Skyer Judith Slaughter Andy Smith Lee Smith Tia Solh Morris Soriano Heidi Sowder Gena Spears Donald Spencer Melissa Spencer Jan Stephens Wesley Stewart Cathryn Stovall Celeste Strohl Diana Sullivan Andy Sumlin Kathy Swahn Carol Tall Mike Tasos
3 1 7 6 3 5 1 2 8Connect-It Solution1 5
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Edward Votta Linda Wabler Ollie Wagner Lewis Walker Elizabeth Waller Valerie Walters-Gold Ann Marie Warning Terry Warnke Jonathan Washburn Michael Watson Deborah Weiss Michael Weiss Herbert Wells Benjamin Wemberly Beverly Whisenant Sally White Thom White Umpika White Mae Whiteside Ashley Whitt Jennifer Wieland Christine Williams Jamie Wimberly Jonathan Winkie Nancy & Dave Wistrand Kalle Wood Theresa Woolridge Laura Wysong Jonathan Young
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One solution is the creation of a membership driven organization called the Appen Press Club that is dedicated to recruiting people and companies to join as members. Members pay recurring monthly or annual dues that are 100% dedicated to sustainable journalism. By providing predictable revenue, Appen Press Club members and partners help fund the salaries and expenses of local reporters who will no longer be subject to the whims of marketing budgets and an ever changing advertising world. In turn, those reporters will provide the readers they serve with highly researched and qualified journalism focused on subjects that directly affect their quality of life.
To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.
6
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A S P E A C E 1 S L O T H PuzzleJunction.com Copyright ©2026
2 B E S S P A S M A S O N 3 D U M B O V E R I A T A 4 N U M B E D L A M A R Y
5 C E N T E R E E L I O N
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Solution
7 C R E E D A L E M P T Y
9 4 5 1 2 8 6 3 7
8 7 4 6 2 5 1 1 8 7 9 5 PuzzleJunction.com 3 ©2026 2Copyright 1 6 9 3 7 4 2 6 5 8 7 3 2 4 3 9 6 4 5 8 7 7 4 1 2 9 6 3 9 2 7 5 1 3 8 5 1 2 8 4 9 6 4 8 3 9 6 1 5 Solution
3 6 8 9 1 5 4 7 2
24 | July 2, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek
Coming Soon!
Voting for Best of North Atlanta (Voting Period: July 15 – August 15)
FOOD & BEVERAGE: Best All Around Restaurant Best Asian Food Best Bakery Best BBQ Best Beer (LOCAL) Best Breakfast/Brunch Best Brewery/Brewpub Best Burger Best Cajun/Creole Food Best Coffee Shop (LOCAL) Best Dessert Best Family Dining Best Fine Dining Best German Food Best Happy Hour Best Indian Food Best Italian Food Best Local Flair Restaurant Best Lunch Spot Best Mexican Food Best Patio Dining Best Pizza Best Salad Best Smoothie/Juicery Best Takeout Food MEDICAL: Best ABA Therapist Best Adult Day Care Best Audiologist Best Chiropractor Best Cosmetic Surgery Best Counseling Services Best Dentist Best Dermatologist Best ENT
Best Family Practice Best Gastroenterologist Best Hair Restoration Best Holistic/Alternative Medicine Best Home Care for Seniors Best Hospice & Palliative Care Best Internal Medicine Best Med Spa Best Medical Weight Loss Best Memory Care Best Mobility Store/Services Best Music Therapy Best Nutritionist Best OBGYN Best Occupational Therapist Best Oncology Best Ophthalmology Best Optometry Best Oral Surgery Best Orthodontist Best Pediatric Dentist Best Pediatrician Best Physical Therapy Best Podiatry Best Senior Activity Center Best Senior Living Community Best Speech Therapy Best Substance Abuse/Addiction Treatment Best Urgent Care Best Urology Best Vein Specialist Best Veterinarian RECREATION: Best Art Lessons/Studio Best Community Event Best Dance Lessons/Studio
2026
Best Of North Atlanta Presented By
Not a complete list. Categories are subject to change.
Best Date Night Hotspot Best Day Spa / Massage Best Farmers Market Best Golf Course Best Group/Corporate Activity Best Gym / Fitness Facility Best Music Lessons Best Performing Arts / Theatre Best Place for Kids to Have Fun Best Sports Program Best Summer Camp Best Wedding Venue RETAIL: Best Antiques Store Best Apparel Boutique (LOCAL) Best Art Gallery / Retailer Best Beverage / Wine Store (LOCAL) Best Boutique Shop (LOCAL) Best Bridal Shop Best CBD Retailer Best Consignment Store Best Florist Best Furniture / Home Décor Best Jeweler Best Pharmacy (LOCAL) Best Shopping/Entertainment Plaza SERVICES: Best Auto Service Repair Best Bank / Credit Union Best Barber Shop Best Car Wash Best Commercial Real Estate Company Best CPA Best Dry Cleaner Best Electrician Best Esthetician
Best Family Law Attorney Best Financial Planner Best Funeral Home Best Graphics & Printing Shop Best Hair Salon / Stylist Best Heating & Air Services Best Home Builder / Developer Best Information Services Best Insurance Agency Best Interior Design Services Best IT/ Business Services Best Landscaping Services Best Law Firm Best Maid Service Best Merchant Services Best Mortgage Lender Best Networking Group Best Painter Best Personal Injury Attorney Best Pet Daycare / Lodger Best Pet Grooming Best Pet Supply / Boutique Best Photographer Best Plumber Best Pool Services Best Pre-School / Day Care Best Private K-12 School Best Promotional Products Best Real Estate Brokerage Firm Best Realtor (Individual) Best Realtor Team Best Renovation/Home Improvement Services Best Senior Information Service Best Shredder Services Best Travel Agency / Service Best Tree Service
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