Johns Creek Herald - March 26, 2026

Area players entering 2026 March

Disabled adults find kinship at Champions Place campus

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — For Alison Schwab, living at Champions Place in Roswell alongside 13 other physically disabled young adults is the college experience she never had.

“This has been adulthood with training wheels, and it’s been really nice to have this safety net and knowing that all of these people have my back,” Schwab said.

Schwab has grown up alongside

most of the residents since she was 11 and started playing wheelchair sports with them through the Titan Program, another arm of the Champions Community Foundation.

The Champions Community Foundation was founded in 2009 by Rick Thompson to fight the isolation and depression that young adults with conditions, such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, can face after aging out of high school.

Two of Thompson’s three kids were born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy – his daughter passed away

when she was 3. Matthew, his second son, was once expected not to live past 10, but is now in his 30s.

When Matthew was nearing the end of high school, Thompson found his life’s calling starting the Titan Program which has grown to offer wheelchair sports and social events to more than 130 individuals. That turned into a dream of offering people in this community a safe and accessible independent living environment.

See CHAMPIONS, Page 20

Developer plans hockey-centered North Point Mall

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A North Point Mall redevelopment plan calls for a 20,000seat hockey arena, a performing arts center, hotels, and a variety of mixeduse amenities in an area city officials have long described as underutilized.

Submitted by Jamestown, the developer responsible for Ponce City Market, the plan redefines the aging mall as an expansive sports district that could be anchored by a new National Hockey League franchise. Jamestown entered into a partnership with the mall property owner, New York Life, in February.

The project is competing with a similar plan in Forsyth County to attract a national hockey team to a $2 billion mixed-use arena development, known as The Gathering at South Forsyth, off Ron-

CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED

A redevelopment plan reinvisions North Point Mall as a bustling sports-entertainment district anchored by a hockey arena.

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Police uncover elder abuse at unlicensed care home

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — After investigating a missing persons case, the Roswell Police Department arrested the operator of an unlicensed care home on Worthington Hills Drive on four charges related to elder exploitation.

Police served a search warrant March 11 and arrested 58-year-old Deborah Callaway. Ten elders were transferred from the facility.

Police said the adults shared bedrooms that were once living rooms, dining rooms and other nonbedroom areas. A backyard shed had been converted into a makeshift bedroom.

“Beyond the living conditions,

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.

Woman has license seized in possible identity mix-up

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 33-year-old Alpharetta woman reported her driver’s license had been wrongfully seized because of an error stemming from an alleged identity theft.

Alpharetta police said the woman called police to report the incident Feb. 20. The woman said a police officer seized her driver’s license Feb. 19, saying records showed it had been canceled.

The woman then visited the Department of Motor Vehicles, where she was told her driver’s license was canceled because a person with the same name and birthdate obtained a license in Florida.

evidence also revealed that Callaway was exploiting the resident’s financial resources for her own personal gain,” the department said in a statement.

Public Information Officer Tim Lupo said the fraud could likely be tens of thousands of dollars, but it will take time to determine the full financial loss.

An investigation into Callaway started in January after an elderly man was reported missing from the home on Worthington Hills Drive. The man was located at an Atlanta shelter, and the search led investigators to learn that Callaway was operating the property as a senior care facility without required state licensing.

The woman told officers her credit had been locked since November because of fraud.

— Jon Wilcox

Duluth woman arrested for aggressive driving

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 22-year-old Duluth woman was arrested on an aggressive driving charge after an alleged road rage incident on Ga. 120 Feb. 17.

Alpharetta police said a 42-yearold driver called 911 about 11:40 a.m., saying another driver who was tailgating followed her into the parking lot of a Park Woods Circle daycare.

The 42-year-old woman said a car began following her after rear ending her vehicle on Ga. 120 near Kimball Bridge Road, police said.

After following her to the daycare, the Duluth woman exited her vehicle and began banging on the other woman’s car window, police said.

Officers arrested the Duluth

“What began as a routine missing person call evolved into a major protective operation, fundamentally improving the lives of ten vulnerable adults because our officers refused to ignore the red flags they saw on scene,” Police Chief James Conroy said. “This case is a powerful reminder that public safety is a team effort.”

Callaway faces seven charges total related to elder exploitation, financial theft and forgery.

Anyone with additional information should contact RPD at 770-640-4100. Members of the public can provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.StopCrimeATL.org.

woman and took her to the Alpharetta Detention Center.

— Jon Wilcox

Deputies charge driver with cocaine possession

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 26-yearold Alpharetta woman was arrested on a charge of possession of cocaine Feb. 28.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies stopped a vehicle on Bethany Bend at McGinnis Ferry Road after it failed to stop at a red light.

Deputies reported smelling alcohol coming from the vehicle while speaking with the female driver. The woman was determined to be less than safe to drive and arrested on a charge of driving while intoxicated. During a search, a baggie of white powder was found. A 25-year-old Roswell woman, who also was in the vehicle, told deputies the substance was cocaine.

— Jon Wilcox

Mall:

ald Reagan Boulevard and Union Hill Road near Ga. 400.

For years, city officials have expressed a desire to revitalize the North Point Mall area. Opened in 1993, the mall was once a premier shopping destination in Atlanta but has struggled to attract visitors.

Since 2019, the taxable real estate value of nine mall parcels has fallen by about 47 percent.

The new plan for the mall would transform the property, bringing major entertainment, shopping, residential and office assets. It would leverage access to nearby Ga. 400 and connectivity to the Alpha Loop.

In addition to the hockey arena, amenities include a 2,000-seat community hockey rink, a 500-seat movie theater, 45,000-square-foot hotel conference center, 400-room full-service hotel, 300-room hybrid hotel, a 150-room hotel, 750,000 square feet of office, 1,385 for-rent homes, several parking decks and 22 acres of public parks, plazas and multi-use trails.

vision for the area, unlocking its full potential.

“The design-driven approach to North Point Mixed Use District reflects Alpharetta’s high standards, curates a dynamic and balanced mix of uses, and preserves the North Point area as a regional destination for future generations,” Jamestown's application said.

The proposal comes months after the approval of a tax allocation district for the area, which could drive redevelopment. The Alpharetta City Council approved the district in November.

With participation by Fulton County and Fulton County Schools, the tax allocation district could generate more than $950 million over 30 years, according to current estimates. Without their participation, the city’s contribution would amount to about $153 million.

In its application, Jamestown said the plan represents a unique

“North Point Mixed Use District is a year-round destination offering a robust lifestyle every day and a game-day experience with uses to create a place that is consistently active and economically resilient,” Jamestown's application said. “It aligns with Alpharetta’s vision of creating the highest quality environment, fostering a strong sense of community, and attracting topechelon companies.” Continued from Page 1

Georgia Supreme Court sends Milton right-of-way suit back to appeals

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — After review, the Georgia Supreme Court clarified standards of municipal liability in case of the City of Milton v. Chang and sent it back to a lower court for reconsideration.

The opinion, handed down March 12, limits a city’s responsibility to provide safe travel to roadways intended for ordinary use, and does not extend to areas outside of lanes of travel that may fall within the right of way.

Now, the case is back before the Court of Appeals to be considered with the guidance provided by the state’s high court.

“While the ruling is still under review with legal counsel, the city’s initial impression is that it is highly favorable to Milton’s residents and taxpayers,” the City of Milton said.

In 2023, a Fulton County State Court jury found the City of Milton liable for the wrongful death of 21-year-old Josh Chang and ordered the city to pay more than $32 million in damages. Chang died in a single-car accident in 2016 after his car struck a concrete planter on the shoulder of Batesville Road in Milton.

The city appealed, but in 2024, the Georgia Court of Appeals upheld the decision and ordered Milton to pay postjudgment interest that accrues at roughly $10,000 a day.

Last year, the state Supreme Court agreed to review the decision, and more than 60 cities across Georgia responded by signing onto a friend of the court brief supporting Milton in the lawsuit.

If upheld, the decision would have expanded municipal liability to include any object in the right of way, the cities say.

Staff will continue consulting with city attorneys to determine next steps.

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HORNETS 11, LONGHORNS 10

Roswell boys lacrosse team defeats top-ranked Lambert

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell boys lacrosse staved off Lambert 11-10 in the Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility lacrosse tournament at Fellowship Christian School March 14.

Both teams came into the game undefeated. Lambert was previously ranked No. 1 in the state with Roswell at No. 2. New rankings are now in order.

Roswell has now bested Lambert in three of their last four matchups, only losing last year 7-4 at the same tournament.

Roswell took an initial 2-0 lead on a penalty man-up opportunity and never relinquished.

Lambert went on a few several-goal runs to tighten the game and raise the level of competition, but after the score was tied at 3-3 early in the second quarter, the Hornets never allowed the Longhorns to knot the game again.

Roswell head coach Bryan Wallace said the staff knew getting to eight or ten goals first would secure the game for the Hornets. It also helped to cause five turnovers compared to Lambert’s one.

“Tonight, the story was defense for us,” he said. “We shared the responsibilities, but they say defense wins championships, that was true tonight.”

Goalie Will Culves earned the Well Made Warrior of the Game with 15 saves and three ground balls. He said vibes on the sideline after the game were “absolutely electric.”

Culves said repetition and communication made the difference for the Hornets defense when facing up against a familiar squad like Lambert – players on both teams have played with and against each other for many years.

“You try to not think about it any different than any other game,” he said. “You buy into what you’ve been doing, and you trust your coaches and teammates and the hard work you put in, and you’ll perform.”

Two Jacksonville commits got the engines running for the Hornets offensively.

Junior Blake O’Neal put up a hat trick, four ground balls and one caused turnover after committing to the Fins this fall.

WMSPORTOGRAPHY/PROVIDED

Roswell junior Blake O’Neal, center, lines up with the starters prior to matching up against No. 1 Lambert at Fellowship Christian School March 14. O’Neal posted a hat trick, four ground balls and one caused turnover in the Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility lacrosse tournament.

Senior attackman Kaden Parla won Georgia Lacrosse Insider’s standout player of the game with four goals and one assist on six shots – five on goal.

He said dodging and creating space contributed to his success and his team’s ball movement was the best he’d seen yet this season.

Parla also touched on the familiarity of Lambert, not only playing against them in school ball the last four years, but in club lacrosse as well for Thunder.

Guarding Parla was Lambert senior and Georgetown commit Drew Pascarella, who plays for rival 3D Georgia. The teams certainly have an understanding of each other.

Lambert junior Trey Cooper led the Longhorns with four goals and senior Ryan Morrissey poured in two. Hayden Chae, T.J. Losurdo, Jake

Johnson and Brayden Tompkins each contributed one.

Lambert head coach John Spaide said the team knew what they were getting facing up against this year’s Roswell team after the Hornets won their third straight championship and lost only three seniors.

“We just knew it was going to be one of the best [games], an instant classic,” he said. “I’m proud of the guys that fought hard, so on to next week and look forward to what happens with Marist.”

The Longhorns did cut the deficit again in the final minute of the game, putting themselves in position to potentially win with 16 seconds remaining.

However, Roswell’s Jack Dowdy secured the faceoff and thus the win for the Hornets.

Area players headed to March Madness

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

NORTH METRO ATLANTA — Atlanta has a reputation for being one of the best cities for basketball in the country. It shows when you look at the hometowns of all players competing in March Madness.

No. 1 seed Duke University is the betting favorite to win a title and has one Chattahoochee alum on the roster – graduate student Cameron Sheffield. Betmakers have placed the Blue Devils odds of winning a championship at +300.

Sheffield is from Alpharetta and played for Rice University for three years after winning a 6A state championship at Chattahoochee in 2020. The forward has been in Durham for the last two seasons.

Rival UNC, a six seed, also has an Atlanta-area player. Holy Innocents alum Caleb Wilson is expected to be drafted in the first round this year. The Tar Heels need to pull off several upsets to meet Duke in the Final Four. It would be the first time the rivals met in the tournament since 2022 when UNC soured the ending of Coach K’s career.

One Milton graduate who had his jersey retired this year will be making his first tournament appearance as a senior. Ohio State guard and program leading scorer for the Eagles and Buckeyes Bruce Thornton won a 7A title in 2021.

Vanderbilt has two area players on this year’s roster that went all the way to the SEC tournament championship. Guard Chandler Bing is a freshman and alum of Pace Academy. Bing’s “fun fact” for his bio on Vanderbilt’s website is that he has never seen the series Friends.

Senior Devin McGlockton scored his 1,000th career point for Vanderbilt in December 2025. He attended South Forsyth High – left as the all-time leader in points and rebounds – before playing two years at Boston College prior to transferring to Vanderbilt. He averaged 18 points a game his junior and senior years at South and also played tight end for the War Eagles.

His sister Hannah is the varsity volleyball coach at Denmark High School and is an alum of Georgia Southern. Their uncle Chester McGlockton played 12 seasons in the NFL with the Raiders, Chiefs, Broncos and Jets.

The other SEC team with a player with ties to this area is Tennessee with forward Cade Phillips. Phillips grew

up in Alabama, but nearly transferred to Wheeler High during school. From seventh to twelfth grade, he competed with a club basketball program in this area called The Skill Factory.

The Skill Factory’s 2023 team boasted nine players who went on to get Division I scholarships – including Naismith National Player of the Year Isaiah Collier and SEC football players LT Overton and Bryce Thornton, Bruce’s younger brother.

Texas Tech sophomore guard Christian Anderson Jr. is from Atlanta and attended Lovett before transferring to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. Anderson’s father Christian Sr. was a professional basketball player in Germany.

Anderson has competed internationally with team Germany since 2022. He has taken home several honors this season including Player of the Week and was recently named a third-team AP All-American.

Clemson freshman Zac Foster also had an offer from another ACC school, Virginia Tech, during his senior year at Woodward Academy. The 20242025 War Eagles made it to the state championship, falling to region rival Tri-Cities.

Furman freshman Owen Ritger grew up in Atlanta and attended Marist School. He was ranked by Prep Hoops and Sandy’s Spiel as the No. 4 Power Forward in Georgia for his class.

North Dakota State freshman Riley Saunders is from Sandy Springs and went to Landmark Christian Academy. The guard averaged 15 points a game in his senior year.

Lehigh freshman Caleb Thomas hails from Atlanta and attended Pebblebrook High School before transferring to Combine Academy in North Carolina. He maintained a 4.0 GPA in high school.

On the women’s side, many outlets have been reflecting on the last four years since the firestorm on social media calling out the NCAA for the vastly different experiences of competing in each gender’s tournament. Women were only allowed to use “March Madness” branding starting in 2023.

No. 1 seed South Carolina boasts two alumni of Westlake High School in Atlanta, seniors Raven Johnson and Ta’Niya Latson. The pair spent three years together before Latson finished her high school career at Miami Heritage HS, where she won Gatorade Player of the Year in Florida.

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Mother-daughter children’s book honors pet’s legacy

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — Dexter the miniature dachshund was a sassy and stubborn dog, according to his family.

He didn’t listen, chewed the squeakers out of his toys and didn’t like to share, but his story is one of resilience.

“Dexter the Dachshund” wasn’t the children’s book that Milton resident Jennifer Welshons planned to write first, but she was inspired by her 11-pound dog’s spirit after having back surgery and losing an eye nearly 10 years later. She and her daughter, Shelby, wrote a draft in one day after bringing Dexter home from his second surgery.

“Here’s this tiny little creature teaching me resilience,” Jennifer said. “…Everything pivoted and we cranked out [this story] in a day.”

“Dexter the Dachshund” was a passion project for the co-authors that combined Jennifer’s dream to publish a children’s book with Shelby’s passion for animals.

Dexter was adopted in 2011 when Shelby was 10. The book shares a colorful version of his life, walking readers through each of Dexter’s interactions with a kind-looking vet, Dr. Rosie.

Shelby said she put herself in readers’ shoes to illustrate experiences she would have found interesting as a kid.

“I integrated this cute little dog, and they’re going to the vet and … experiencing the excitement of interacting with the veterinarian and understanding how they can help their pet,” Shelby said.

Shelby graduated from Cambridge High School’s Agriscience and Veterinary Education program in 2019 and worked at

the Animal Wellness Clinic in Milton – the same vet that gave Dexter care toward the end of his life.

Shelby found that her passion for helping people and love of animals merged beautifully in veterinary medicine, and she’ll be attending the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in the fall.

“I think that being able to help people bridge the gap between them and their pet is like a really unique opportunity you get through veterinary medicine, so that’s what really drives me,” Shelby said.

Learning the book business was fascinating but challenging, Jennifer said. It took over a year for “Dexter the Dachshund” to be printed in 2025. The family was waiting to receive final copies of the book when Dexter died in September.

“It’s been a really cool passion project to see come to life and serendipitous as well in that we already had his legacy,” Jennifer said.

It was difficult to focus on finalizing and promoting the book, but Shelby learned that loving Dexter had taken a new form, and you can still grieve while celebrating something.

“Dexter was still very much still teaching me … that the show goes on,” Shelby said.

The character of Dexter was introduced to the public at a January launch party. Jennifer said the joy in the room and being surrounded by love enabled her to start talking about Dexter’s death.

“When I watch children smile when they read or hear his story, I know we’ve put something good out into the world,” Jennifer said. “And that our belief there is power in the connection between people and a resilient, little dachshund is valid.”

“Dexter the Dachshund” was published by Atlanta-based Ripples Media and can be purchased at dexterthedachshundbook. com, on Amazon or at independent local bookstores.

Roswell talks drone pilot program, infrastructure contracts

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Millions in tax dollars are on the table as Roswell officials prepare to award contracts for annual roadwork.

At its March 10 meeting, the Roswell Committees of Council reviewed nine bids ranging from $5.2 million to $7.1 million submitted to repave some 14 miles of city roads. Council members will consider the offers for award at a future City Council meeting.

Director of Transportation Andy Phlegar said staff intend to keep the current budget for road maintenance of $5.9 million and will shrink the scope of work if necessary.

City Administrator Randy Knighton emphasized that the city will choose the lowest, most qualified responsible bidder.

“We want to make sure that the vendor who is chosen has the capability and the capacity to complete this project, commensurate with the quality the residents of Roswell expect,” Knighton said.

The 2026 citywide road resurfacing contract was approved by the City Council in December 2025 and went out to bid in February. The list includes 46 roads and repaving work at East Roswell Park, Roswell Area Park and the Crabapple Center.

A majority of funding comes from Roswell’s capital projects fund and $1.6 million from the Parks and Recreation Department budget. Roswell was also awarded $1.1 million for the project from the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant.

Knighton said staff are working quickly to get the contract approved because Canton Street is scheduled for repaving between April and May.

Once signed, the contractor has

30 days to begin construction and then 120 days to complete work on all roads. Repaving will align with the school schedule, and no repaving work will be done to parks over summer break.

In other matters at the March 10 meeting the City Council voted to advance an amendment to the existing Green Street parking deck construction contract to include the Green Street mobility project.

The project began with converting Green Street to one-way southbound in January. Following phases include adding an 8- to 10-foot multi-use trail along Green Street spanning from Ga. 9 to Cherry Way and converting Plum Tree Street to a pedestrian-only path.

Deputy Director of Transportation Greg Nicolas said they will present the verified amount at a future City Council meeting.

Roswell has $4.8 million in funding available for the budget amendment in capital funds, the 2026 budget and a 2025 assistance fund awarded from GDOT.

City officials also agreed to advance a contract with Kimley Horn consulting firm to complete concept design of the Big Creek Trail from Holcomb Bridge Road to Liberty Square Park.

Councilwoman Sarah Beeson recused herself from the vote due to a conflict of interest.

The approximately 2-mile trail has $3 million in available funding, including a $2 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration matched by project partner True North 400 Community Improvement District.

However, Nicolas thinks most of the available funding will be used during the design phase. He said they will be seeking funding through Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax or federal dollars for construction.

Part of the design concept will be

finalizing costs, Nicolas said. Right now, staff have no estimate for project cost.

Quick response drones

Police Chief James Conroy asked the council to consider entering a free, year-long pilot program with BRINC and Motorola Solutions to provide the Roswell Police Department with first responder drones.

The department would spend six months developing deployment protocols before going live. Conroy said fire and emergency medical situations would be top priorities for drone use, along with certain active crimes.

If the program continues, annual costs are estimated at $250,000.

“One of the things that we want to determine with this one-year trial is, does it work for Roswell,” Conroy said. “…Is it going to be that helpful to where it’s worth the investment in the program?”

Police departments in Brookhaven and Sandy Springs are already using drones.

Conroy said the Sandy Springs Police Department entered a similar drone program within the past month, and that Brookhaven Police is seen as a leader in its deployment.

Roswell’s Police Department currently has drones, but Conroy said they are mainly used to search for missing persons, subjects on the run from police and to map the scene of vehicle accidents.

First-responder drones can be automatically dispatched and provide video imagery of an incident so emergency departments can tailor their response.

When council members raised

concern about drones being used for patrol, Conroy emphasized that the technology is not a patrolling mechanism and will only be deployed on certain incidents. Drones have a maximum battery life of 45-minutes and would return to their designated station when responders arrive on scene.

A presentation providing more information on the pilot program will be given during the March 23 City Council meeting.

Other meeting matters

The Community Development Department received approval to begin drafting amendments to the Unified Development Code that would: prohibit vehicles and trailers parked in front yards or on landscaped areas; expand the definition of “inoperable vehicles” to include those missing tags or plates; ban large items from city dumpsters; clarify real estate signage rules for multi-unit properties; and define LED and neon signage as prohibited on businesses.

A separate code change under consideration would allow noncommercial horse stables on RS-18 properties larger than 15 acres, which would affect five properties across three owners.

The City Council is in the process of allowing the mayor or city administrator to sign agreements between Roswell and Fulton County to coordinate utility work without council approval.

Fulton County often identifies water facilities that need adjusted, relocated or upgraded while

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Bulloch Hall Quilt Guild stitches history together

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — At the center of the Bulloch Hall Quilt Guild’s 40th anniversary Great American Cover-Up Quilt Show is a community united over their love for the art of quilting.

The exhibit on display in Bulloch Hall until Sunday, March 22, features more than 100 quilts, most created by local quiltmakers and the 35 members of the Bulloch Hall Quilt Guild.

The guild was founded with 10 members in 1985. Now, it meets for monthly workshops where members learn different techniques, participate in projects and mingle with others.

Many submissions are a result of the guild’s themed workshops, like flags, wonky stars or 60s-themed quilts. Some pieces were a group effort, combining guild members’ blocks into one quilt.

with the American Quilt Study Group as part of a national traveling exhibit.

The guild partnered with the Friends of Bulloch Hall and the City of Roswell to present the show in a unique venue.

“It’s not like your standard quilt show,” member Debra Scarimbolo said.

Scarimbolo has been a member of the guild for around 13 years and has been quilting for more than 50.

“It’s a close-knit community,” Scarimbolo said. “We support one another outside of the guild, but the thing that brought us together is the quilts.”

As she grew up making her own clothes, Scarimbolo discovered a love for fabrics that led her to major in home economics and, eventually, make quilts for her children and grandchildren.

*Decaturish Ink currently publishes on the 2nd & 4th Thursdays of every month. All other publications publish every Thursday.

This year’s show features a special exhibit: “Quilts: Presidential and Patriotic” that includes 45 quilts portraying American presidents with fabrics and patterns specific to their term.

The quilts were created by affiliates

“The biggest thrill of my life is when my daughter sends [quilts] … home to my house to be washed, because I know she’s using them,” she said.

Scarimbolo is a co-chair of this year’s quilt show, along with Barbara DeBolt, and spent the last six months decorating the home of Martha Bulloch, mother of President Theodore Roosevelt, with curated quilts.

Just opened?

11 | Johns Creek Herald | March 26, 2026

North Fulton Community Charities names Amy Gates Stroud president

ROSWELL, Ga. — North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) appointed Amy Gates Stroud, Ph.D. as its next president, bringing her nearly three decades of leadership experience to the nonprofit.

Gates will lead NFCC’s strategic direction, operational management and community engagement efforts as the organization continues its mission of helping individuals and families overcome hardship and achieve financial stability.

NFCC has served the North Fulton community for more than 40 years and is recognized as a trusted resource for families in need through programs that include food assistance, financial aid, clothing support, workforce development and other essential services.

Gates currently serves as associate vice president for strategic partnerships and development with an Atlanta nonprofit supporting high school education, where she is part of the national leadership team supporting the

organization’s expansion and operational strategy. Gates served as the inaugural executive director of the Roswell Arts Fund when it was founded in 2014.

“Dr. Gates stood out throughout this search process for her depth of nonprofit leadership experience, strategic mindset and clear passion for community service,” said Matt Powell, chair of the NFCC Board of Directors. “The board is confident that Amy will help guide North Fulton Community Charities into its next chapter while continuing to strengthen the programs and partnerships that make NFCC such an important community resource.”

As president, Gates will serve as NFCC’s chief executive officer, providing strategic leadership across the organization’s programs, operations, fundraising and community partnerships while working closely with the Board of Directors to guide the organization’s long-term strategy and growth.

Gates holds a Ph.D. in public policy and administration with a focus in

nonprofit management and leadership along with advanced leadership credentials and graduate degrees in education and speech-language pathology. Her career has been defined by a commitment to mission-driven organizations, cross-sector partnerships and innovative program development that creates measurable community impact.

She is actively engaged in civic and nonprofit leadership in the region, including board service with several community organizations in Roswell and Metro Atlanta. Gates will begin her role as president of North Fulton Community Charities on April 13.

“North Fulton Community Charities plays a vital role in helping families navigate difficult circumstances and move toward stability and opportunity,” said Gates. “I look forward to building on NFCC’s strong foundation and advancing its mission to support individuals and families across our community.”

— Hannah Yahne

I have visited several Chambers and have found my home at the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce. The group is committed, involved, and I have made many good friends.

-Stacy Fotos, The Happy Dog Hotel

Students, Alpharetta naturalists plant trees for posterity

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Five young trees planted at Innovation Academy represent a future investment in more ways than one, said the chairman of Alpharetta’s Natural Resources Commission.

With the help of a handful of students, the commission got their hands dirty with the school’s students and a city arborist March 11. The trees, two elms, two oaks and a magnolia, will make Alpharetta a greener place while giving the city’s next generation an important lesson, Chairman Mike Buchanan said.

“It gives them skin in the game,” Buchanan said. “We could have hired somebody to dig the holes, but they helped dig the holes, so they can learn.”

The commission used its budget for the $700 purchase of the trees in advance of Arbor Day, which will be marked April 24.

Buchanan said he hopes the trees will enhance residents’ lives and make up for the loss of some trees removed to facilitate development.

“The studies that are done about this show that nature improves people’s mindset,” he said. “It improves their health, it improves their creativity.”

The trees may be young now, but he thinks as they grow, they will continue to reward the students who planted them.

“I was like, ‘When y’all come back in 10, 15, 20 years, there’s going to be trees out here that you helped plant, yeah, that walk by,” he said. “For kids to understand that they’re leaving a legacy is good.”

A return to oral medications?

Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology

From spray sunscreens to creams, ointments, lotions, and foams, dermatologists love the fact that we can often recommend products and treatments that don’t require systemic exposure. When a patient must take a pill or receive an injection, the entire body is exposed, which increases the risk of side effects compared with most topical treatments.

Sometimes, however, a pill is exactly the breakthrough treatment we’ve been waiting for. Many people are unaware of the creative and innovative oral treatments now available to treat skin conditions.

What follows is a brief overview of some of dermatology’s oral medication trends and highlights. Some of these medicines are “off-label” or are supplements. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of any of these options with a dermatologist before starting treatment.

We start off with “melasma,” a condition in which an individual’s face develops stubborn dark patches. Traditional topical medications like hydroquinone and azelaic acid are often only partially effective. Increasingly, dermatologists are turning to oral tranexamic acid as an option that can be used alongside or instead of topical medications. Tranexamic acid is a medication originally used to decrease bleeding but was later discovered to also reduce pigmentation in the skin. Because of its anti-bleeding properties, it cannot be taken by patients prone to blood clots or those with an increased risk of clotting. For many people suffering from melasma, however, tranexamic acid can be a game changer.

For those experiencing hair loss, topical minoxidil (Rogaine®) can be frustrating to use. Once- or twice-daily application of a foam or liquid on the scalp can leave hair greasy and create styling challenges. Oral minoxidil is increasingly used as an alternative and is often very effective. In addition, Nutrafol® supplements are commonly used as an adjunct, particularly for patients seeking a more holistic or natural approach to hair loss treatment.

Oral therapies are also gaining attention for preventing skin cancer and reducing sun damage. A form of vitamin B3 called nicotinamide has been shown to reduce rates of certain skin cancers in many patients. Another supplement, polypodium leucotomos (PLE), is an

extract from a tropical fern that reduces sunburns and may help decrease skin cancer development. Its protective effect is modest—likely comparable to an SPF 4 sunscreen for a few hours after ingestion. Therefore, polypodium is intriguing as an addition to traditional sun protection such as sunscreen and protective clothing. Because polypodium acts as an antioxidant and mild sunscreen, it may also help patients with sun-sensitivity disorders as well as those with melasma and other disorders of pigmentation.

The list of oral medications continues to grow. For patients with chronic hives (urticaria) the new pill remibrutinib inhibits an enzyme called Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, which plays an important role in the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. Meanwhile, for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and alopecia areata, oral medications that inhibit enzymes known as Janus kinases (so-called “JAK inhibitors”) have proven extremely effective.

Although it is not a new medication, isotretinoin—better known as Accutane®—deserves mention in any discussion of state-of-the-art dermatologic treatments. Isotretinoin has been used for decades to treat severe acne, but concerns about potential links to suicidality and other possible side effects have caused some patients and physicians to hesitate before considering it. In 2023, however, a publication that combined the data of twenty-four prior studies for a grand total of 1,625,891 isotretinoin patients found no increased risk of psychiatric disorders. In fact, the study showed that people who had taken isotretinoin were less likely than the general population to attempt suicide two to four years after treatment. Other concerns such as the importance of not becoming pregnant while taking isotretinoin must be discussed before taking this medication. Still, isotretinoin remains an outstanding and often lifechanging option for people suffering from acne. For isotretinoin, the pill may not be new, but we continue to receive new and repetitively reassuring safety data. If you or a loved one is dealing with a dermatologic condition—or simply wants to explore treatments to look and feel your best—consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent Taylor and Kathryn Filipek, PA-C, are honored to care for patients and families throughout our community.

Insist on the

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.

The history of Easter egg hunts in Georgia and elsewhere

I can’t think of anyone I know who has not been exposed to the ancient tradition of easter egg hunting.

Egg hunts began in earnest in the 16th and 17th centuries among Christians. Martin Luther, the key figure of the Protestant Reformation, is often said to have organized egg hunts for his congregations where men hid eggs for women and children to find. Early Christians used eggs to symbolize the tomb of Christ. The hard shell symbolized the sealed tomb; when cracked open the shell represented the resurrection.

While most Easter traditions are of Christian origin, the long-eared rabbit known as the Easter Bunny who delivers eggs to children on Easter is not mentioned in the Bible. According to History.com, it is not known how the Easter Bunny became an important Easter symbol, although it is known that rabbits are prolific procreators and are an ancient symbol of fertility and new life.

One account traces the Easter Bunny to German and Dutch immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania in the 1700s and brought with them the tale of the Oschter Haws, a hare that laid eggs in the grass. Children made decorated nests in the grass in hopes that the hare would lay colored eggs there. Over time the tradition became very popular. Gradually, treats and candies were added.

Originally, Easter eggs were dyed red to represent the blood of Christ on the cross. Colors were gradually added by early Christian missionaries with each color representing a different aspect of the Easter story. So, when children today crack open a plastic egg to reveal a candy treat, they are participating in an ancient tradition.

Another tradition is the White House Easter Egg Roll. Each year thousands of children take part via an online lottery. 30,000 eggs will be used for the egg roll and egg hunt. Each child will receive a souvenir wooden egg with a White House logo. The first White House Easter Egg Roll was held in 1878. President Rutherford B. Hayes welcomed children to the South Lawn who had been denied access to the U.S. Capitol grounds.

In Georgia some of the early recorded easter egg hunts were at the Smith Plantation in Roswell. Lizzie Smith (1831-1915) organized easter egg hunts for local children in the early 1900s. The annual event was open to the public. Children went home with a collection of candy-filled treats and a photo with the Easter Bunny.

Newspapers began writing about egg hunts in the late 1800s. The Atlanta Constitution and newspapers in Savannah, Augusta and other cities wrote about Easter celebrations in private gardens. Clothing stores advertised children’s, women’s and men’s clothing for Easter special events such as parades. Eggs were typically hard boiled and colored with vegetable dyes which were extensively advertised in newspapers. The Atlanta Constitution described many small, private events hosted by families or Sunday school teachers. Some early examples from the Atlanta Constitution:

April 2, 1885 “The members of the Park Street Methodist Church, of West End, have arranged for

a pleasant entertainment Saturday afternoon next. At that time there will be an Easter egg hunt in the grounds of the church in which there will be many participants…Admission to the ground will be ten cents, the proceeds to go towards buying a carpet for the new church.”

April 2, 1893 “A delightful Easter egg hunt will be given for the benefit of the children of St. Luke’s Sunday school tomorrow afternoon. It will occur at the residence of Mrs. Mackey, next to the Ballard house on Peachtree street…the occasion promised to be one of unusual merriment.”

April 6, 1890 “The grove at the corner of Georgia avenue and Pryor street, presented a lively picture yesterday afternoon. About two hundred children were enjoying an Easter egg hunt…The children enjoyed the fun of hunting the hidden nests of gaily colored eggs to the utmost, and when the frolic ended each carried away from one to a half dozen as trophies of the day.”

Many events will take place in North Fulton and surrounding area to celebrate Easter 2026. Be sure to check your local information sources if you want to take part.

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

Finding seasonal scents in the garden

We often think the enjoyment of our garden is a sensory experience for our eyes. The colors, shapes and textures of the flowers and leaves, as well as the additional visual interest of pollinators and birds, are how we envision gardens. But there is a sensory experience that we might not think about, although sometimes it attracts our attention when we least expect it. That is scent. We are fortunate here in the Atlanta area that our climate allows us to incorporate plants with scents during every season to complement the visual experience. Here are a few options, season by season, to incorporate into your garden and how to layer them into the landscape.

Winter

• Daphne (Daphne odora) is a real treat to the senses. It flowers in January and February when the weather is dreary and cold and we gardeners are dreaming about spring. It has very fragrant, white to pink flower clusters. Daphne is an evergreen woody shrub that grows slowly in an area that is part sun, part shade.

• Paperbush (Edgeworthia chrysantha) is botanically related to Daphne. While it is deciduous, it is also is a winter bloomer with very fragrant flowers. Before the leaves fall off in the fall, the buds form and look like a white ball. From January to February the flowers begin to open and are a tight cluster of white tubular flowers with yellow centers.

Spring

As the garden awakens from winter, spring is one of the most aromatic seasons and offers numerous options for the garden.

• Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is an intensely fragrant, evergreen vine with white flowers, opening in late spring. It is excellent on trellises, arbors, or fences. Jasmine prefers four hours of morning sun.

• Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis) is a fragrant spring flowering bulb that is planted in the fall. It grows to a height of less than 12”, and the densely clustered flowers come in white, pink and purple. Perfect to plant along a sidewalk.

• Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus) is a deciduous ornamental shrub with fragrant, dark red flowers that blooms in April and May and prefers full sun. It is deer resistant

• There are several native deciduous azaleas that are found in our area of Georgia. Piedmont Azalea (Rhododendron canescens) features white to pink flowers and a musky-sweet, honeysuckle fragrance. Alabama Azalea (Rhododendron alabamense) has white blooms with a yellow blotch and a lemony-spice fragrance. Florida Flame Azalea (Rhododendron austrinum) sports fragrant yellow to orange flowers. Typically, these plants prefer a woodland environment.

Summer

We spend more time outside in the warmest season, so the scents in the garden can make our senses come alive.

• Roses (Rosa species) are very much a part of the summer landscape, and many varieties have a beautiful scent. Hybrid tea roses are often fragrant. Other fragrant roses that do well in Georgia include ‘Belinda’s Dream’, ‘Teasing Georgia’ and ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ to name a few.

• Lavender (Lavandula species) can be grown in Georgia even though their preference is for heat and low humidity. Some newer varieties (‘Phenomenal’ and ‘Sensational’) can withstand our humidity. Lavender wants full sun and well-draining soil.

Fall

• Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora) is a vigorous vine with masses of small, white fragrant flowers in the fall. Perfect on a trellis, arbor or fence.

• Abelia (Abelia x grandiflora) From late summer into fall this plant produces fragrant white/pink tinged bellshaped blooms. This semi-evergreen shrub grows 3 to 6 ft tall and wide.

Tea Olive (Osmanthus fragrans) blooms several times during the year, when you least expect it. The insignificant white cluster flowers of this plant are very aromatic. The shrub itself is very useful in the landscape as a hedge or backdrop with its dark green leathery evergreen leaves.

Happy Gardening!

• Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) comes in many sizes, everything from low growing varieties, perfect for the front of a border or along a sidewalk or pathway, to varieties that are taller and can be used as a backdrop or foundation planting. All are evergreen and have white flowers that come in a variety of shapes with a recognizable aroma.

• Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus) This plant was named because it was believed that it decreases libido. It is a deciduous, aromatic shrub in the mint family. In the summer it produces showy, blue lavender flower spikes that attract butterflies and pollinators. It is grown either as a small tree or large shrub.

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/.

Save the date for NFMG’s 2026 signature events: Garden Faire on April 11th. Learn more at nfmg.net.

About the author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Joan Fiore, a Master Gardener since 2020 and Johns Creek resident. She is a lifelong gardener and studied horticulture at NC State University. Her favorite plants are perennials, as well as plants that surprise us with a scent that enhances our experience in the garden.

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 4, 6 and 4 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!

FAMOUS FAUNA

1. Indian bread. Nick & Nora’s pup. South American river.

2. Collie of TV & Movies. Lockup. Limerick language.

3. Social insect. Native American lodge. One of the Simpsons.

4. Disney dog. Large African antelope. Massage target.

5. Kick out. “Born Free” lioness. Like a gymnast.

6. Ploy. Bridge option. Lone Ranger’s mount.

7. Tied up. Bedrock pet. Biting

1 Indian bread. Nick & Nora’s pup. S. A. river

2. Collie of TV & Movies. Lock-up. Limerick language

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. Social insect. Indian lodge. One of the Simpsons

4. Disney dog. Large African antelope. Massage target.

5. Kick out. “Born Free” lioness. Like a gymnast.

6. Ploy. Bridge option. Lone Ranger’s mount.

7. Tied up. Bedrock pet. Biting.

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

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.

Continued from Page 1

Champions: AAPPEN PRESSCLU

The importance of this is amplified during March, National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. In 2024, nearly 500,000 Georgians ages 15 and older were living with a disability that impacts their independent living abilities, according to the Center for Research on Disability. Nationally, that number raises to 16.2 million individuals with independent living disabilities.

Thompson said people have come from across the country to see what Champions Place offers and walked away crying once they see that independence is possible for their loved one.

The Champions Place Foundation has a partnership with Georgia Tech and Google through which they’ve donated assistive technology that helps residents control their fans, televisions, lights and make hands-free calls. Thompson recognized that the ability to live independently is something they had to share with others who aren’t living at Champions Place. So, they launched Champions Place @ Home and have equipped 54 homes with physically challenged young adults with the same technology.

“For the first time, the parents in this community are going places and seeing things because they can,” Thompson said. “Because of the infrastructure and support, they’re not

This story is brought to you by members of the Appen Press Club

worried about it.”

Since opening in 2020, Champions Place offers a social hub to those involved in the Champions Community Foundation. Volunteers host monthly events, such as trivia and movie nights, and they throw holiday parties and fundraisers on-site.

For those unable to make in-person events, the nonprofit created Champions Community Connect, an online option for people to participate in Bible studies and bingo nights. They offer an “Around the World” series that teaches about different cultures by “traveling” to various countries – next month is the Galapagos Islands.

“So, if you are a physically challenging adult and you’re in the Metro Atlanta area, you instantly have a community where you can … just be together,” Thompson said.

The building contains four residential “quads,” each with four bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchenette, laundry machines and television. Common spaces are spread throughout the house, such as fire pits, dining area, family room and kitchen.

Volunteers host events in the family room, like group workouts or kara-

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oke, or invite residents out to play adaptive golf and other sports.

“We’ve changed their lives and their parents’ lives,” Thompson said. “And there’s over 500 volunteers a year that have changed perceptions and all that, but it doesn’t stop there.”

Most of the residents at Champions Place are employed, mainly at retail or customer service jobs. Thomspon said the residents have learned that they can have purpose through jobs, through volunteering and community.

“It’s words like self-reliance, selfesteem and purpose,” Thompson said. “They are fiercely independent – they almost brag about it.”

The independent living community has plans to expand resident capacity by 40 percent by late 2027. Plans for a new two-story building will offer four more resident rooms and two in-house staff apartments. Thompson plans to have two occupational therapy students from Georgia State on call overnight in exchange for apartment housing at Champions Place.

With this addition, Thomspon said they’re going to welcome six new families.

The Champions Place Foundation is fundraising $4 million to construct the new living space, and Thompson said they’re at about 75 percent of that goal in nine months.

“Sometimes I think we’re in the hope business,” Thompson said. “We give people hope. They’re in despair and we give them hope.”

It’s all laughter and chit chat when residents gather in the family room. They joke with one another and greet volunteers as they come and go from the building. Despite residents’ ages spanning from 26 to 42, they’ve bonded through their shared experiences.

“I’m not related to them by blood, obviously,” resident Josh Cusick said, “but I do think of them as my chosen family.”

Johanna Holm, age 87, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 10, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Rose Martin, age 83, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 13, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Candace Robertson, age 75, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 9, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Gregory Saari, age 72, of Roswell, GA passed away on March 12, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Jacqueline Stiffler, age 65, of Roswell, GA passed away on March 13, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Mary Wogsland, age 99, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 14, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Drone:

Continued from Page 9

implementing transportation projects. The work comes at no cost to the city because Fulton County reimburses Roswell after completion.

Before the meeting ended, council members discussed potential changes to the Roswell’s open records request process.

City Administrator Knighton outlined two potential changes: whether someone can submit an open records request anonymously and if Roswell will allow a portal of open records for any member of the public to view.

In 2023, the City Council passed a resolution requiring public records applicants to provide verifiable names and addresses with their requests. Those wishing to remain anonymous currently must go to City Hall to view requested records in person.

Councilwoman Beeson said she sees the 2023 resolution as a flagrant violation of First Amendment rights.

“It is on us as the government to be able to provide public information to the public regardless of who they are,” Beeson said.

One concern cited with allowing anonymous requests centers around ensuring payment is collected, which is required after requests are fulfilled. Per state laws, prepayment can only be required for requests totaling more than $500.

“I don’t have a problem with anonymous,” Councilwoman Christine Hall said. “I just want to make sure that we’re compensated for the work that we do.”

Councilman Allen Sells raised the concern of bots requesting the information instead of humans and minimizing that potential.

“This is getting easier, cheaper and faster,” Sells said. “I hear you on anonymity, but we do need to know that it is a DNA, real person.”

Council members were not opposed to allowing requested public records to be displayed on a public portal. But they want to ensure there were limits on what records could be uploaded, like police personnel records or real estate information.

Meanwhile, City Administrator Knighton and the legal team will craft a resolution surrounding public records to be presented later.

Players:

Continued from Page 7

While in Atlanta, Latson trained under Bernard Pitts, who worked with several other players mentioned later in this article. Latson was ranked the top shooting guard in the class of 2022.

Latson transferred to South Carolina this year after three honorable mentions to the All-American list at Florida State. She is already signed to the new three-on-three league in Miami called Unrivaled, founded by UConn alumni Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart.

Johnson drew attention after being waived off defensively by Caitlin Clark in the 2023 Final Four. She fired back the next season with a defensive intensity that couldn’t be ignored.

As a senior in high school, Johnson was the first ever woman to play in the men’s McDonald’s All-American game after winning Atlanta Tipoff Club and the AJC’s Player of the Year award two straight years. Westlake won four state championships while she was there. She posted a 116:35 assist-to-turnover ratio her senior year according to the AJC.

Johnson was the No. 2 recruit in the class of 2022 and the top point guard. She won a silver medal with Team USA in the 2023 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup.

The University of Southern California has had a down year with their star guard Juju Watkins out with an ACL injury. Last season, they had a No. 1 seed going into the tournament before Watkins injured her knee in the second round. This year, they have a nine seed.

The Trojans have one area player on their roster, senior Kara Dunn. Dunn played basketball and volleyball for

Mount Paran Christian and grew up in Dallas, Georgia.

She transferred to USC this season after three years at Georgia Tech, where she made the All-ACC first team last year. Dunn is averaging 15.3 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists a game this season.

Her mother Stephanie played for UGA, and Kara grew up with her father as her basketball coach. She won two Region Player of the Year awards and was Atlanta Tipoff Club Metro, Sandy’s Spiel and Georgia Athletic Coaches Association’s Player of the Year in 2022. She was the No. 2 recruit in Georgia her senior year.

Louisiana State University is looking for their second title in four years, earning a two seed for this year’s bracket. Star guard Flau’Jae Johnson – the No. 1 recruit in Georgia in 2022 – attended Sprayberry High School after growing up in Savannah. The Tigers are eager to get a second championship for Flau’Jae’s final year with the team.

Flau’Jae was also trained by Bernard Pitts. She is projected to be drafted in the first round in this year’s WNBA draft alongside Latson and Raven Johnson. She is averaging 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.7 assists a game this season and is shooting a career-best 40.2% from deep.

Syracuse freshman Justus Fitzgerald graduated from Norcross High School, transferring there after two years at Roswell High. Her brother Michael Fitzgerald III was an all-state wide receiver for the Hornets and spent time at UMass, Central Missouri University and the University of Wyoming.

Ole Miss sophomore Tianna Thompson is from Atlanta and went to

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2026, AT 7:00 P.M.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026, AT 7:00 P.M.

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

The following Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments are scheduled for public hearings:

A-26-002 – Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment

A proposal to amend the City of Johns Creek Zoning Ordinance, Section 4.12Home Occupation to prohibit uses incompatible with residential properties.

A-26-003 – Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment

A proposal to amend the City of Johns Creek Zoning Ordinance, Article IIIDefinitions and Article IX - Community Business District to establish definition for “Secondhand Dealership in Precious Metals and Gems” and to permit such use within the C-2 (Community Business) zoning district.

the Galloway School where she was the first girls basketball 2,000 point scorer in program history. She transferred to Ole Miss this year from Georgia Tech, where she shot 41.7% from beyond the arc.

Her father Rich was a three-time AllAmerican at Georgia Tech and made the Olympic trials for long jump and triple jump, earning him a spot in the GT Hall of Fame. Tianna was a two-sport athlete in high school, competing in the long jump.

Two St. Francis graduates are competing in March Madness. Several of their former teammates are on Division I teams at St. Mary’s and Georgia Tech but unfortunately are missing the tournament.

Clemson senior Mia Moore is from Alpharetta and recorded St. Francis’s first ever quadruple-double with 15 points, 11 assists, 10 steals and 10 rebounds. She also holds the school record for steals with 500.

She started her college career at Mississippi State for two years and then moved on to UAB. There, she recorded 13 double-doubles and scored 20 or more points in 26 games.

She averaged the fifth-most rebounds in the conference, earning her an offer from Clemson where she is in her second year with the program. Last season, she led the Tigers in 3-point shooting with a 41.6% clip.

Southern University junior Anaja Hall from Alpharetta and was a twosport athlete at St. Francis in volleyball. She spent one year at Alabama State before transferring to Southern.

At Alabama State, she was ninth in the conference averaging nearly 2 blocks per game. She averaged 2.5 a game as a senior in high school.

Princeton junior Olivia Hutcherson is from Johns Creek and went to Holy Innocents. She was a multi-sport athlete earning varsity letters all four years of high school in basketball and soccer and is a College Board AP Scholar.

Hutcherson is averaging 11 points and 5.7 rebounds per game and has brought home Player of the Week honors for her conference.

Her younger brother Devin just reopened his recruitment after previously committing to Belmont University. Their father played basketball for Samford and the University of Alabama.

Oklahoma State graduate student Wilnie Joseph is from Atlanta, attending both Roswell and Johns Creek High Schools before graduating from Whiteland High in Indiana.

Joseph played for Labette Community College for two years, then the University of Louisiana for one year, and transferred to OSU this year from McNeese.

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Ent. Lvl to Sen. Lvl (Mltpl pos’s) of Sftwr Dvlprs, Sftwr Engnrs, Data Anlysts & Scrum Masters are needed for our Suwanee, GA office. Must be willing to trvl to set up sys to var. clients at unanticipated locations across the nation. Pls send resume, Cvr Ltr., & Sal. Req. to Byteware Inc at 1325 Satellite Blvd., Suite 1405, Suwanee, GA 30024.

Scientist-Virtual R&D – positions offered by Kimberly-Clark USA, LLC (Roswell, GA). Assess biz probs & dvlp a tech approach to us’g model’g & simul to address the issue that considers time constraints, resource limitations & any oper’l issues. Position reports to Roswell, GA office. Telecommuting permitted in accordance with company policy, but must live within commuting distance of stated office. Please apply online at: www.careersatkc. com. Salary Range: $102,347 – $128,300 USD per year. At Kimberly-Clark, pay is just one aspect of our total rewards package, which also includes a variety of benefits and opportunities to achieve, thrive and grow. Along with base pay, this position offers eligibility for a target bonus and a comprehensive benefits suite, including our 401(k) and Profit Sharing plan. The anticipated base pay range for this role is provided above for a fully qualified hire. Actual pay will depend on several factors, such as location, role, skills, performance, and experience. Please note that the stated pay range applies to US locations only.

SCM Group North America, Inc.--Project Manager - Engineering (Duluth, GA): Manage engineering projects from post-sales phase through installation and commissioning for the SCM North American market. Project Management: Lead engineering projects from post-sales through installation. Manage schedules, resources, and risks to ensure cost-effective project delivery. Role requires up to 40% domestic travel and 10% international travel. Mail resume to: SCM Group North America, Inc. Attn: Amanda McKisson 2475 Satellite Boulevard, Duluth, GA 30096. Reference job #AC404031

Industrial Production Manager (Duluth, GA) at Moveret Inc. BA in industrial engg or rltd field & 60 mo exp in industrial production mgmt-rltd field. Oversee overall mgmt of mfg projects; Coord & direct activities in workforce dvlpmt & training; Decide how to best use mfg plant’s engineers & eqpmt; Ensure that production stays efficient; Hire, train, & evaluate engineers; Lead staff in improving production & qlty control. Benefits incl medical, dental, vision, PTO. Salary: $156,936. Email res to hr.contact@moveret.com

Production Manager (Suwanee, GA) F/T. Plan & coord the work activities & resources necessary for mfg products in accordance w/ cost, qlty and quantity specis. Manage, coord, administer & oversee day-to-day production & plant activities for 40+ person production facility of vertical manufactured custom flexographic & gravure printing sleeves, lamination, & coating rollers. $156,936.00/yr. Master’s deg in Engg Mgmt, Production Planning, Mechanical Engg or rltd engg deg. Must be fluent in Italian lang (read/ write/speak). Approx 30% of travel to client sites w/in the U.S. reqd, as well as to Italy to meet w/ the overseas mgmt. Email resume to: Rossini North America, LLC, Attn: Sherry Rhodes, HR Generalist at: s.rhodes@rossini-na.com

Principal Software Architect – positions offered by IsoMetrix USA, Inc. (Alpharetta, GA). Collaborate w/ stakeholders & subject matter experts on Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) as well as Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) to determine business goals & market placement. Please submit resume to recruitment-usa@ isometrix.com. Reference Job ID: 10284188.

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