Johns Creek Herald - May 14, 2026

Johns Creek girls lacrosse makes school history

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Six secret gardens revealed

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — With enough dedication, a backyard can become an oasis from the stress of daily life, six John Creek homeowners proved.

Nonprofit Johns Creek Beautification unveiled “secret” gardens during

a May 9 fundraising tour. Sales from the Secret Garden Tour will support a major public sculpture honoring Native American and Indigenous heritage.

The organization works to enhance community well-being and natural beauty through landscaping initiatives and public works of art.

Liliana Brenner, nonprofit president

and chair for the tour, said visitors were astounded by the dedication and gardening prowess on display. Hidden in the backyards of nondescript homes, the gardens provide their owners a natural escape from the suburban world and channel for creativity.

See GARDEN, Page 16

Girl Scouts to unveil new statue honoring military working dogs

By DYANA BAGBY dyana@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — What started as a simple question from girls in a Brownie troop has grown into a major community project in Johns Creek.

Girl Scout Troop 22167, based at State Bridge Crossing Elementary School, will unveil a life-size bronze military working dog monument at the Johns Creek Veterans Memorial Walk at Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road May 23. The ceremony is at 10 a.m. and is open to the public.

The girls were 8 and 9 and working on a community service badge when they visited the Memorial Walk. They were awed by the 250-foot replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and by the monuments honoring all service branches. Several Scouts asked why wasn’t there a tribute to military working dogs?

“The seed was planted,” troop leader Julie Todd said.

For the past year, the girls now 10 and 11, have been holding car washes, selling popcorn and seeking community donations to raise more than $15,000 needed to commission a statue of a military working dog. The sculpture was created by artist Lena Toritch. The dog intentionally has no name, so it represents all military working dogs who have served alongside American troops, Todd said.

See SCOUTS, Page 19

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Johns Creek High alum earns Big South honor

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Johns Creek High School class of 2025 alum Maddie Tredway was named the Big South Conference’s womens lacrosse 2026 Freshman of the Year.

She’s the first player from Gardner-Webb University to win the award. And that’s not her only first this season.

Tredway set a conference record for single-game draw controls with 18 in Gardner-Webb’s March 13 loss to Quinnipiac. Her season total of 111 draw controls is fifth in the country among freshman and third among all players in the Big South.

What Tredway brought to the team didn’t end in the circle. She led the team in goals and overall points, tallying 29 goals and 10 assists this year.

The freshman made an immediate impact. In her second collegiate game, she secured 12 draw controls, which already etched her name in the GardnerWebb history books with the fourth-highest single game record.

Less than a month later, she had recorded games at 14 and 16 — tying the conference record — draw controls and brought home two Freshman of the Week honors from the Big South.

Inching up further in the books wasn’t enough for Tredway. March 13 against Quinnipiac, she broke the league record by collecting 18 draw controls.

She also contributed three goals on five shots in the game.

As for her next goal now that she holds the Big South record, she said her sights are on the NCAA’s all-time high at 25 draw controls.

“If I keep working hard this summer with my trainers, I should be able to hit around maybe 26 or 27 of them, hopefully in a single game next year,” Tredway said.

Tredway garnered over 1,200 draw controls in her high school career at Johns Creek.

She shared a message for girls lacrosse players in Georgia.

“Don’t give up on your dreams, and just keep going after it,” Tredway said. “Even when you hit the hills and valleys, there’s always going to be something better in store.”

Tredway originally committed to Lindenwood University, but after moving in, she decided it was too far from home and found a roster spot with the Bulldogs, where she also found great success this season.

Big South Freshman of the

Maddie Tredway, in white, controls the draw against Quinnipiac at Gardner-Webb University March 13. Tredway set the conference record for single-game draw controls by collecting 18 draws in the game.

Chattahoochee High Beta Club wins national leadership award

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Chattahoochee High School’s Beta Club was one of five senior winners of this year’s John W. Harris Leadership Award for exemplifying Beta’s four pillars: achievement, character, leadership and service. Award-winning clubs can send 10 members to a Regional Leadership Summit where students will further develop their communication, collaboration and leadership skills alongside peers from across the country.

Media and educational tech instructor and club sponsor Lin-Chiou Lee nominated the Beta Club of nearly 300 active members in January. The Alumni Review Committee selected five clubs to recognize in each division based on their demonstrated impact within their schools and communities.

“The John W. Harris Scholarship recognizes the strength of student-led service initiatives within the Chattahoochee High School Beta Club,” Lee said. “These students are all about taking initiative, building partnerships and making their community a better place one service project at a time.”

She said club members identify real community needs. In November, the club hosted a food drive, collecting thousands of non-perishable goods to assemble in care packages for more than 200 Metro Atlanta families for the holidays.

The Chattahoochee High School’s Beta Club was celebrated at a Fulton County School Board meeting in April for its national recognition. — Hannah Yahne

Johns Creek girls lacrosse makes school history

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Johns Creek girls lacrosse stormed ahead to the program’s first Final Four by defeating Pope High School 15-6 at home May 5.

The win earned the Gladiators a trip to Milton High School to face a familiar opponent for a chance to appear in the GHSA Division 2 championship.

Alas, the same team that ended Johns Creek’s season last year and in 2018 defeated the Gladiators once again 16-2 in the Final Four May 8.

The teams met earlier this season Feb. 24 at Milton High School. Johns Creek held the Eagles to what was their fewest goals this season, 14, but struggled on the offensive end and only put up four of their own.

Lax Numbers has Johns Creek ranked No. 4 in Division 2. Even though they had beaten Pope, No. 5, earlier this season, drawing the toughest Elite Eight matchup was a sure way

to make a statement while also making school history.

Thanks to Hayden Huston’s hat-trick-plus-one, the Gladiators now officially have a trio of juniors who have scored more than 50 goals apiece this season. Huston also put up one assist against Pope.

Attacker Sydnee Cane led Johns Creek to their first Final Four appearance with seven goals, one assist and seven draw controls. Fellow attacker Avery Mathewson posted a hat trick and four assists to boost her team.

The trio combined for six assists and scored all but one of the Gladiators’ goals. The missing goal was scored by sophomore Claire Vane, who also contributed one assist and two caused turnovers.

Freshman Leah McFarland took over at the draw for the Gladiators and went 13-for23. Goalie Rachel Streeter had a 67 percent save rate, racking up 12 more to add to her season total.

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Northern Ridge District names April Eagle Scouts

ALPHARETTA, Ga.— The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton) is proud to announce its newest Eagle Scouts, who completed their Eagle Board of Review on April 23, 2026, at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.

Group photo, from left:

Aryan Pillay , of Troop 2000, sponsored by Johns Creek Presbyterian Church. Aryan’s project was the construction of six benches for the waiting and pickup area of Piney Grove Middle School.

Adam Martin , of Troop 7153, sponsored by St. Brigid Catholic Church. Adam’s project was the removal of 335+ lbs. of trash from 6.75 miles of the Chattahoochee River

Michael Pelloni , of Troop 1717, sponsored by Cross of Life Lutheran Church. Michael’s project was the construction of eight new tabletops and 16 stools for the Milton High School Art Department.

Matthew Tetreault , of Troop 2143, sponsored by American Legion Post 251. Matthew’s project was the construction of four benches and a utility storage box for pickleball equipment at River Trail Middle School.

Pictured above

Seowon “Steven” Park , of Troop 3143, sponsored by American Legion Post 251. Steven’s project was the construction of two benches and two indoor soccer goals.

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Casa Nuova block party nets $30,000 for cancer research

By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Since 2000, Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant’s annual block party has served as owner Maria Fondura’s way of thanking the Alpharetta community for more than two decades of support.

More than 600 people attended the restaurant’s May 3 block party. They filled a buffet line that wrapped around the building as they awaited pasta, empanadas, brisket and seafood paella cooked live at the center of it all.

For Fondura, caring about guests and making them feel welcome is central to the restaurant’s identity.

“It’s a marriage, the service and the food,” Fondura said.

Peter DeJesso has been eating at Casa Nuova in Alpharetta for more than 20 years.

“She always comes around and gives people hugs because she’s just that kind of person,” DeJesso said.

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“She likes to make sure everyone’s happy.”

Family friends Henry Santos and his daughter Jennifer Santos Sosa traveled from St. Augustine, Florida, to cook paella at the gathering – a tradition spanning most of their 19-year friendship with the Fonduras.

“You get to see a lot of people, old friends,” Henry said. “Every time we come, they’re all looking for us and expecting us to be here, so that’s a good thing. That makes us feel proud, that we’re doing something great.”

The families met through both their sons’ time at Georgia Tech, and Santos said there was an instant connection.

He spoke about Maria’s husband, Antonio, who died in 2021 after more than 45 years in the restaurant industry.

Antonio founded Alfredos, an Italian restaurant known in Atlanta for highquality, comfort food that closed in 2017. In the 1980s, he pioneered the city’s first open-kitchen concept.

After stepping away from the industry, Antonio wanted to recreate Alfredos closer to the family’s new home in Milton.

Between her intelligence and drive, and Antonio’s perseverance and talent, Santos said they created a legacy.

All that’s asked of guests in exchange for free food is a donation to Fondura’s nonprofit, Purple Pansies. This year, attendees donated more than $30,000 to fund pancreatic cancer research and provide financial sup -

port to patients and their families.

“Every dollar that we raise goes directly to our cause,” Fondura said.

After losing her mother in 2007 to pancreatic cancer within three months of a diagnosis, Fondura began collecting donations at her annual gathering to give to existing charities. What started as a grassroots effort became a nonprofit in 2017 that has raised more than $8 million toward clinical trials, research and emergency grants for families.

“Every time that I have a campaign for pancreas cancer as Purple Pansies, I’m honoring her … she’s still alive,” Fondura said.

She said it’s rewarding to see patients with hope – something that Fondura’s mother didn’t have after her diagnosis.

Each year, Purple Pansies hosts a fundraising gala and invites local survivors to meet those supporting research.

Pancreatic cancer survivor Maryanne Winchester from Roswell was invited to the gala and was pleased to learn about a local organization supporting this cause.

“The thing that hits home for us is because … I know where these funds go,” Winchester said. “The research is amazing because it gives all of us a hope that there’s something else to try when we need it.”

To learn more about the Purple Pansies or donate, visit purplepansies. org.

Ancient India, syphilis, war and cancer – The journey to rebuild a nose

tion and prosthetic solutions.

For as long as humans have had noses, we’ve had reasons to repair them. The nose sits at the center of the face, essential not just for breathing, but for identity. The history of nasal reconstruction is therefore not just a surgical story—it is deeply human, shaped by conflict, disease, and ingenuity.

One of the earliest chapters begins in ancient India, around 600 BCE. In some regions, nasal amputation was used as punishment for theft or adultery. This harsh practice drove innovation. Surgeons developed a method to rebuild the nose using a pedicled facial flap—the “Indian method” of nasal reconstruction. This technique is attributed to Sushruta, often considered one of the fathers of surgery. In these descriptions, a facial flap of tissue is measured, raised while maintaining a living attachment for blood supply, and transferred to reconstruct the nose, with small tubes used to preserve the airway during healing.

Over time, this tradition evolved into what is most closely associated with the modern forehead flap. Today, a segment of forehead skin is elevated on a preserved arterial supply, left attached at its base, and rotated down to reconstruct the nasal tip. In modern Mohs and reconstructive surgery, it remains a cornerstone technique after skin cancer removal and one of the most reliable methods for complex nasal defects.

From ancient India, the narrative jumps forward two millennia. But what about Greece? What about Rome?! Didn’t Rome invent everything?

There is little evidence of formal nasal reconstruction in classical antiquity. Aulus Cornelius Celsus described facial wound care and basic repair but not structured reconstructive nasal surgery. When nasal reconstruction reemerges in Europe centuries later, it is better understood as rediscovery rather than continuous tradition.

So, indeed, we fast forward 2000 years from ancient India.

In the Renaissance and early modern period, nasal deformities became more common due to trauma and disease. Syphilis was especially destructive, eroding nasal structures and leaving profound disfigurement. This increased interest in both reconstruc-

Artificial noses—made from leather, metal, or wax—allowed patients to return to society with some degree of normalcy and laid the groundwork for modern facial prosthetics.

In the 1500s, Gaspare Tagliacozzi developed the “Italian method” of nasal reconstruction, transferring skin from the arm to the nose in a staged fashion. Though innovative, his work was later abandoned for centuries due to technical limitations such as a lack of modern anesthesia and antisepsis and also due to social and religious objections.

The next major leap came from war. World War I produced devastating facial injuries, forcing rapid innovation. Harold Gillies refined skin flaps, introduced staged reconstruction, and emphasized both function and appearance—principles that remain central today. World War II further advanced reconstruction through improved anesthesia, antibiotics, and surgical planning.

In the 20th century, the ancient forehead flap evolved into the modern paramedian forehead flap. A segment of forehead skin is elevated on a preserved arterial supply just lateral to the midline, kept attached at its base, and rotated to reconstruct the nasal tip. In modern Mohs and reconstructive surgery, it remains a foundational technique after skin cancer removal.

In recent decades, nasal repair has entered a more precise era. In dermatologic surgery, particularly Mohs surgery, cancer can be removed with microscopic accuracy while preserving healthy tissue. Reconstruction then restores contour and function using techniques such as the paramedian forehead flap, skin grafts and an assortment of elegant and innovative flaps. However, Mohs surgery often allows for so much tissue preservation that many wounds can close in a much simpler linear fashion further enhancing postoperative results.

From ancient punishment to modern cancer care, nasal reconstruction reflects restoration—of form, function, and confidence. It is also a story of trust. Patients facing facial cancer entrust their health and their identity to their surgeon. Modern techniques now allow us to restore not only structure and function but also the sense of wholeness that comes from having one’s identity preserved.

Insist

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.

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A better way to heal

How robotic surgery is transforming gynecologic care

Brought to you by – Dr. Nathan Mordel, Wellstar robotic gynecologic surgeon

Surgery can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re thinking about recovery. Many people worry about pain after surgery and how long it will take to get back to their normal routine. Fortunately, advances in gynecologic surgery have changed that.

For more than 200 years, gynecologic procedures such as hysterectomies—surgery to remove the uterus—have been performed using large abdominal inci-

sions. These surgeries, called laparotomies, involve cutting through multiple layers of tissue. Recovery can be lengthy and often comes with significant discomfort and a higher risk of long-term complications.

About 40 years ago, a better approach emerged: minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS). Today, hysterectomies can be performed laparoscopically, using small incisions—about a third of an inch—and a camera to guide the surgeon. Compared to open surgery, this method reduces pain, shortens recovery time and lowers the risk of complications.

Technology has taken MIGS even further with robotically assisted techniques. Using a computer-controlled system equipped with a high-powered camera, surgeons guide robotic arms that hold surgical

tools. This provides enhanced dexterity and 3D visualization, helping surgeons perform complex procedures more precisely and efficiently.

Even with these advancements, about half of hysterectomies in the U.S. are still performed using open surgery—but most don’t require it. The majority of major gynecological procedures can be performed with MIGS to treat conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, vaginal prolapse and ovarian tumors.

At Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, about 500 major gynecological surgeries are performed each year—and all use robotically assisted MIGS. Ninety-five percent of patients go home the same day, which means less time in the hospital and a quicker return to daily life.

Robotic techniques also allow surgeons

to treat the most complex cases. Advanced gynecologic conditions such as stage 4 endometriosis may involve nearby organs, including the colon, rectum, bladder and ureters. These cases require the highest level of surgical expertise and coordinated care. At Wellstar North Fulton, robotic gynecologic, colorectal and urologic specialists collaborate to evaluate each patient and perform surgery at the same time. As technology continues to evolve, so does MIGS. Robotically assisted MIGS represents the most advanced form of gynecologic surgery available today—and the benefits for patients are clear. This approach means less pain, smaller incisions and a faster recovery. Most importantly, it helps people get back to their lives sooner.

wellstar.org/womenshealth

When life gets challenging, you need a healthcare partner you can trust. That’s why we’re here. Our world-class women’s health team provides expert, comprehensive care for every aspect of your well-being. From preventative care and puberty to support during pregnancy, menopause and beyond, we’re always by your side. Wellstar’s minimally invasive gynecological surgery specialists deliver advanced care for gynecologic conditions including fibroids, irregular or heavy menstrual periods, pelvic pain, endometriosis and ovarian cysts. wellstar.org/womenshealth

At Home Helpers, our focus every day is matching the right caregiver with each of our clients. We guarantee a good match. Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills. It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.

Older Americans Month

Preserving independence through personalized care

you

Every May we celebrate Older Americans Month, honoring a generation that is bringing about an unprecedented transformation. The population of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to grow from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050 – a 47% increase. By 2035, older adults are projected to outnumber children under 18 for the first time in U.S. history. The number of adults aged 85 is the fastest growing portion of seniors, and has nearly quadrupled in the last 25 years.

As we live longer, it’s important to understand that proactive wellness is an important part of daily life that goes beyond “crisis” care. In-home care is not just for those facing physical challenges. It is a launchpad for a healthier, more active life. Personalized care has emerged as a linchpin that allows your older loved one to remain in the warmth and comfort of home, scaled to what they actually need to help them navigate aging at their own pace.

A well matched, skilled Home Helpers caregiver can help with “lifestyle pillars” that build a strong foundation for your older loved one long before serious health issues develop. Healthy habits like encouraging a consistent sleep schedule to taking vitamins and medications reinforce daily choices that lead to longer term vitality. A caregiver can also notice “small things” and subtle changes before they become problems.

Independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone, it’s about having the support to live in a familiar environment. A heart centered caregiver can encourage movement by building it into daily routines with safe exercise support and functional mobility, like walking or gardening. Nutritional support helps avoid the pitfalls of processed foods. In home care can ensure that eating well remains a priority with food preparation and maintaining a balanced diet that meets specific needs – such as low sodium or heart healthy choices. Regular hydration helps prevent dehydration, a frequent trigger for hospitalizations. Caregivers also help combat a growing epidemic of loneliness, helping your loved one stay involved with family, friends and their community by providing a vital social link.

As health needs expand, your personalized care plan can adapt - from assisting with all personal care needs, helping around the house, providing support to safely speed up recovery from surgery, assist after a return home from a rehabilitation stay or a stroke. We can also provide the specialized care needed for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, Dementia or Parkinson’s. As an added support system for families, we have now added Nursing services.

From four hours a day, several days a week to 24/7 care, we’re here to help. We can also provide live-in care alternatives that may be a more economical choice. For a free consultation please call Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta at (770) 681-0323.

The overlooked link between oral health and longevity

Atlanta Center for Dental Health

When people think about living longer, healthier lives, they often focus on diet, exercise, and regular medical checkups. Yet one critical factor is frequently overlooked: oral health. Mounting evidence suggests that routine preventive dental care plays a meaningful role not only in preserving smiles, but also in extending life expectancy and improving overall health.

The mouth is often described as a window to the body. Oral health conditions, like gum disease, are closely linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even certain cancers. Chronic inflammation in the gums can allow harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation elsewhere in the body. Over time, this can exacerbate existing conditions or increase the risk of developing new chronic conditions.

Preventive dental care is designed to stop problems before they start—or catch them early when they are easier and less costly to treat. Routine dental visits typically include professional cleanings, examinations, and diagnostic imaging. These appointments remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated through brushing and flossing alone. More importantly, they allow dental professionals to identify early signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.

One of the most significant benefits of preventive care is the management of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. In its early stage, gingivitis is reversible with proper care. However, if left untreated,

it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that can lead to tooth loss and has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that individuals with poor oral health are more likely to suffer from heart attacks and strokes, underscoring the importance of maintaining healthy gums.

Preventive dental care supports longevity by enabling better nutrition. Healthy teeth and gums make it

easier to chew a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins that are essential for overall health. In contrast, dental pain or missing teeth can lead individuals to avoid nutritious foods in favor of softer, often less healthy options, potentially contributing to malnutrition and chronic disease.

Beyond the physical benefits, oral health also impacts quality of life. A healthy smile can boost confidence, support social interactions, and contribute to mental well-being—all factors that are increasingly recognized as important components of longevity.

In an era where healthcare costs continue to rise, preventive dental care represents a practical and effective investment in long-term health. Brushing and flossing daily, combined with routine dental checkups, can significantly reduce the risk of serious health complications.

Longevity is not determined by a single factor, but by a combination of habits and choices made over time. Incorporating preventive dental care into that equation is a simple yet powerful step toward a longer, healthier life.

“Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life." -

Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic

Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide the most modern advances in dentistry. Experience immediate results with procedures to greatly enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complimentary consultation to discover the best options for you, please call us at 770-992-2236.

Roswell Dental Care now offers genetic testing

At Roswell Dental Care, we are excited to offer genetic and saliva-based testing as part of our commitment to more personalized, proactive dental care. You may wonder why your dentist wants genetic information. The answer is simple: it helps us better understand your unique risk for cavities, gum disease, inflammation, and long-term oral health concerns.

Dentistry is moving toward a more personalized approach, often called precision medicine. This means looking at a person’s genetics, environment, lifestyle, and health history to better predict disease and select the most effective treatment. With this added layer of information, we can better answer important questions such as: Why is one patient more prone to severe gum disease than another? How likely is a patient to respond well to treatment? And how can we reduce the risk of relapse after therapy?

One of the tools we use is saliva testing through OralDNA® Labs. Saliva is far more than just moisture in the mouth. It is a complex fluid produced by the salivary glands and contains proteins, enzymes, electrolytes, bacteria, and other markers that can reveal valuable information about your health. Because of this, saliva has become an important diagnostic tool in modern healthcare.

Our testing can identify the type and concentration of 11 harmful bacteria associated with periodontal disease. It can also evaluate your interleukin-6 (IL-6) genotype, which plays an important role in the body’s inflammatory response. Together, this information helps us more accurately assess your risk, guide treatment decisions, and create a plan tailored specifically to your needs.

When harmful oral bacteria are present

at high levels, especially in combination with a heightened inflammatory response, they can contribute to bad breath, bleeding gums, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. But the effects do not always stop there. Research continues to show strong connections between oral bacteria and whole-body health.

For example, periodontal bacteria have been linked to cardiovascular disease and may contribute to the progression of stroke and peripheral vascular disease. The plaque in your mouth is the same as the plaque in your heart and brain! Elevated oral bacteria are also associated with metabolic problems, including difficulty controlling blood sugar, which is especially important for patients with diabetes.

Pregnancy is another important time to monitor oral health closely. Changes in the oral microbiome during pregnancy can increase the presence of periodontal pathogens, which may be associated with complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.

There is also growing research exploring links between periodontal disease and cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and brain health. Chronic oral inflammation and harmful bacteria may play a role in disease progression in ways we are still working to fully understand. What we do know is that oral health is deeply connected to overall health, and early detection matters.

Dr. Destinee Hood and the team at Roswell Dental Care are proud to provide this advanced service in a caring, judgment-free environment. Our goal is to educate and empower our patients with knowledge that can lead to healthier smiles and healthier lives. We take the time to listen, understand your concerns, and guide you toward the best care for your individual needs.

Knowledge is power. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 770-9986736 or visit RoswellDentalCare.com

Garden:

Continued from Page 1

“They love gardening. They love their yards,” Brenner said. “They're proud of them. They want to share them, and so we are so very, very thankful that they said yes.”

Knous Garden

When Kirk Knous moved into his home, caring for his yard seemed like an impossible task.

The lot was so steep and shady that grass had trouble growing. Mowing posed another challenge, frustrating Knous and eventually convincing him to get creative.

“It's a corner lot, and it was very steep,” Knous said. “A lot of people thought this lot was unbuildable.”

Now, the backyard is anchored by a long, winding waterfall of flat stones and riparian plants. Bubbling from a source near his deck, it terminates in a wide clear pool that is perfect for meditation and relaxation.

“I've always liked waterfalls,” Knous said. “I don't know why I have the attraction for that.” Flanked by a natural stream, Knous’ yard has fully embraced the aquatic influence. Water sculptures fill the space with a gentle gurgling, and ornate, spinning sprinklers cast droplets through the air while nourishing plants.

Knous and his wife didn’t stop there. Once they decided a lawn wasn’t their only option, they embraced a wilder theme, planting 30 varieties of hydrangea, a thicket of azaleas and all manner of bushes and trees to give the yard a more natural feel.

For Knous, a self-described backyard engineer, the garden has posed a rewarding challenge and escape from the suburban landscape.

“To have this oasis to come to after a hard day at work, it's a huge benefit,” he said. “It's very quiet, secluded.”

Morel Garden

Michele Morel placed nearly every single stone in her garden.

A 27-year-old labor of love, the garden surrounds a central patio paved that meets a mossy waterfall that might be at home in an old-growth forest.

By design, it is a garden that is simultaneously wild and yet impossibly curated. It is home to a staggering number and variety of plants, including 19 varieties of Japanese maple.

Each place, or “room,” in the garden as Morel describes them is meant to have its own unique identity.

Visitors easily lost themselves walking along the stone paths that meander through the steep, shaded landscape. They stooped beneath overhanging branches and paused to remark at creeping vines, mossy rocks, hidden sculptures and other countless tiny details waiting to be discovered.

More said she approached the creation of her garden with seriousness.

“When I bought the property in the middle of the Olympics, August 1996, it was just a hole in the ground,” she said.

Morel took on the project bit by bit, adding plants, reshaping the terrain and laying each stone personally to ensure they were in just the right place.

“I had a vision,” she said.

Spicher Garden

Inspired by a classical landscaper, Sarah Spicher’s garden looks as if it was torn from 1700s England.

“There was a classical landscaper named Capability Brown, and he moved landscaping away from these very symmetrical formal gardens to a more natural look of rolling hills,” Spicher said.

Small but packed with ornate detail, Spicher’s garden embraces a traditional English cottage style. Manicured hedges are accented with purple and pink floxgloves, and a stone “folly” with its Greekinspired white columns stands on a small

ed by rows of flowering hedges and bushes. Roses, azaleas, hydrangeas offer splashes of color along pathways that connect a covered patio to a rear pergola.

“We planted it so it's year-round,” Julie Peterson said. “So instead of having just a block in the winter, it's beautiful all throughout the year.”

Under the shade of a patio, the Petersons often host guests on outdoor seating by a massive stone firepit. The couple more often than not opens the windows to their home, allowing in fresh air and natural light and blurring the line between the interior and exterior spaces.

With their children now grown, the Petersons said the garden is part of their plan of settling into their home permanently.

“We love Johns Creek. It's why we chose to stay,” Julie Peterson said. “I told my husband, I'm not moving.”

Miskell Garden

Jane Miskell’s garden exudes serenity. Old-growth trees tower over shadeloving shrubs and flowers. Sculptures and toys Miskell has found hide among the leaves, and ground cover plants knit together stone and mulch paths. Wild mushrooms and toys she has found while digging serve as eclectic accents.

Although she has come to love it, Miskell’s woodland aesthetic was a solution to a problem, she said. Drainage issues and abundance of shade made growing grass difficult, so she decided to embrace a more unique and natural feel.

After removing an old playground, Miskell started adding flowers, plants and paths. The work has been a welcome escape from the professional world.

Now, she delights in taking “laps” along the paths, looking for ways to improve the space.

“I usually get up in the morning with coffee and just walk,” she said.

hillock, bringing everything into focus.

Spicher said she ordered the ornate ornament, which resembles the ruins of an ancient architecture, from alibaba.com and used a crane to lower it into her backyard.

“It was hand carved in some little village in China and shipped over here in nine crates,” Spicher said. “It sat at the end of my driveway for about six months uncrated because I couldn't figure out how on earth those poor delivery guys would get it in.”

Spicher, a real-estate attorney, said her garden by design has no purpose other than to please her. In her free time, she spends hours pulling weeds and planting.

“That's how I relax. I get down on my hands and knees, and I hyper focus on little nitpicking,” she said. “It's just my creative outlet. It's my therapy.”

Peterson Garden

Flowers abound in Julie and Ron Peterson’s backyard.

An iron gate leads visitors from the driveway into a manicured lawn surround-

Barnhill Garden

Designated as a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat, Nancy and Grady Barnhill’s yard embraces the trees that surround it.

A central swimming pool provides a welcome opportunity for exercise and a focal point for a space that is easy for visitors to forget is in North Atlanta.

Located on several acres, the property is nestled in a healthy margin of undisturbed forest. In the place of traffic, natural birdsong and rustling treetops create a peaceful ambience.

Nancy Barnhill, a former teacher, said she thinks about science when planting. She eschews artificial chemicals and instead opts for organic nutrients like bonemeal to provide her plants their necessary sustenance.

Barnhill, who loves flowers, has planted numerous roses, camellias and irises around the property, providing splashes of color and havens for birds and pollinators.

“Immersing yourself in nature is what makes humans feel connected,” she said.

Puzzles

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, 5 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!

COMBOS

1. One-dish meal. Vega’s constellation. Be naughty (Comb).

2. 1965 Robert Culp TV show. (Comb). Andes beast. Rube.

3. Like some beers (Comb). Fleshy fruit. Ice house.

4. Scotch garb. Plumbing problem. Flying ace (Comb).

5. Lima’s land. Start of day (Comb). Surrender word.

6. Giggle (Comb). Chess piece. Church official.

7. Low water mark. Kind of situation (Comb). Shakespeare’s stream.

1 One-dish meal. Vega’s constellation. Be naughty (Comb)

2. 1965 Robert Culp TV show (Comb). Andes beast. Rube.

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. Like some beers (Comb). Fleshy fruit. Ice house.

4. Scotch garb. Plumbing problem. Flying ace (Comb).

5. Lima’s land. Start of day (Comb). Surrender word.

6. Giggle (Comb). Chess piece. Church official.

7. Low water mark. Kind of situation (Comb). Shakespeare’s stream

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

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.

“Ohs” in Berlin

Why general stores were vital in the early South

BOB MEYERS

In the early days when families settled in the rural South they produced many of the products that they consumed, but they could not produce everything they needed. Long before the advent of cars and mass transit, general stores stocked essentials for local rural families. Early settlers in North Fulton and other areas often created crossroad communities consisting of a church, school, maybe a post office and a general store. In fact, sometimes they built a barn for their animals before they built their house.

General stores were often built in the crossroads of a community. Sometimes they were built on farmers’ land with the farmer running the store for added income. For example, James W. Shirley operated a store on his large farm where the Windward development in Alpharetta is today. General stores were essential particularly where the South’s infrastructure had been decimated by the Civil War.

The stores stocked essentials such as flour, sugar, salt, coffee, cloth and sewing needs, tools, nails, kerosene, patent medicines, ammunition, sometimes gasoline and farm supplies. Since cash was limited, store owners extended credit until harvest season when farmers would settle their accounts. The stores served as social and communication centers where mail was picked up, newspapers were shared and gossip was passed along.

In this column I will highlight a general store at the Birmingham crossroads, which is the intersection of today’s Freemanville Road and Birmingham Road in Milton. It was located on the edge of property owned today by Carol Cookerly and her husband Robert Beal. The store was built around 1935 by William (Will) T. Wright (1888-1952). It was made of wood with a porch with overhang and a gas pump. Will and his wife Nettie J. Wright (1888-1967) operated the store until 1948 when Will asked Charles Worley (19282011) and his wife Mary Alice Wright Worley (1928-2014) to manage it. The Worley’s were a young couple with a baby. Mary was Will Wright’s cousin and Charles was a justice of the peace – the person who held court – at the historic courthouse that still exists on the Cookerly property. Mary was born and raised on Wright’s Mill

DEATH NOTICES

Erzulta Duprat, age 88, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on April 30, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Alfred Kenerleber, age 80, of Roswell, GA passed away on April 30, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Road, near Free Home, still an unincorporated community halfway between Canton and Cumming. Both parents are buried in Greenlawn Cemetery in Roswell. The Worleys managed the store until 1952 when they moved to Hembree Road. Charles went to work for the Atlanta Paper Company, a family-owned business founded in 1868, and later for Mead Corporation which purchased Atlanta Paper Company. Mary went to work for the Roswell Seating Company, a family business founded in 1927 that made office furniture and furniture for auditoriums and churches. It closed circa 2015.

My thanks to Tim Worley, son of Charles and Mary Worley, and one of very few surviving individuals with any knowledge of the store since he and his brothers John and Phil were born either when their parents ran the store or after they moved away.

Tim relays the story told by his mother about Jadar Cagle who lived across Birmingham Road. Every morning, Tim’s parents would hear Jadar’s hen sing the “egg song” as she laid an egg.

“Jadar would run across the street and hand the egg to my parents in exchange for an egg’s- worth of kits candy,” says Tim.

Charles and Mary lived in back of the

Rajdeep Kullar, age 59, of Milton, GA passed away on April 28, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Elaine Tyler, age 89, of Milton, GA passed away on April 28, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

store in a small apartment. Tim tells the story of one night when someone banged repeatedly on the apartment door.

“Daddy told the person three times to identify himself, but he kept banging and pushing on the door,” Tim recalls.

His father was getting ready to shoot through the door when he recognized the voice as a drunk neighbor.

“My father was upset at the close call and got rid of the gun and didn’t use a gun again for many years,” Tim says.

Nina Samples, a resident of Windward, is the great-granddaughter of Will Wright. She remembers while growing up that her mother, Joyce Walker Samples, spoke often about the store. Nina recalls hearing that Charles and Mary were very kind, sweet people and very respected.

“I’m sure the customers loved them. Mary had always had a smile on her face whenever I saw her,” says Nina.

Special thanks to Bill Lusk for introducing me to Tim Worley.

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.

Scouts:

Continued from Page 1

The project is for Johns Creek veterans, city and the entire community, Todd said, and it has been well-received by local officials and residents. The Johns Creek Veterans Association, sponsor of the Memorial Walk, is working with the troop on an unveiling ceremony. Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry invited the troop to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the May 11 City Council meeting.

The project is also bringing national attention to the Girl Scouts. The troop recently met with U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick at his Alpharetta office. The most remarkable chapter of the project is when Todd’s friend, a sketch artist for U.S. Supreme Court

Justice Sonia Sotomayor, invited the troop to Washington, D.C. over spring break to meet and talk to her in her chambers.

“I’m very happy we are making this happen. It’s really important,” said troop member Leia Todd, 11, who has a goldendoodle named Finnigan.

Troop member Madeleine Pittman, 10, has an English Cream Golden Retriever named Stirling. She knows about military working dogs because her mom is an Army veteran who once treated and worked with them.

She put it simply, “I like petting them. They are fun to look at.”

In addition to Todd and Pittman, Troop 22167 members include Lois Young, Caitlyn Donatelli, Kaitlin Ferguson, Hanna Lee, Jane Amstutz, Elizabeth Pasiak, Ezri Robertson, Virginia Sims and Blakely Buffington.

NOTICE OF LOCATION AND DESIGN APPROVAL

P. I. 0020927

FULTON COUNTY

Notice is hereby given in compliance with Georgia Code 22-2-109 and 32-3-5 that the Georgia Department of Transportation has approved the Location and Design of this project.

The date of location and design approval is: ______ May 4, 2026

The proposed project is located along the SR 141/Medlock Bridge Road corridor from the intersection with Bobby Jones Drive to approximately 0.3 miles north of the intersection with CS 119/State Bridge Road in the City limits of Johns Creek. The project includes traffic signal modifications, widening, and restriping for through lane and turn lane additions at the intersection of SR 141/Medlock Bridge Road and State Bridge Road as well as the intersection of SR 141/Medlock Bridge Road and Old Alabama Road. The project also includes the addition of shared-use path along the west side of SR 141 from Bobby Jones Drive to Old Alabama Road, and along the east side of SR 141 from approximately 350 feet south to approximately 650 north of State Bridge Road. The project is located entirely in Fulton County Georgia, GA Land District 1, and Land Lots 290, 296, 289, 297, 288, 298, 299, 330, and 300.

The project will be constructed using on-site traffic shifts. The roadway alignment will be approximately the same. The estimated construction time is 24 months. The City of Johns Creek would be responsible for acquiring property rights for this project.

Drawings or maps or plats of the proposed project, as approved, are on file and are available for public inspection at:

Riki Forney, Project Manager Public Works Department riki.forney@johnscreekga.gov 11360 Lakefield Drive Johns Creek, GA 30097

678-512-3219

Any interested party may obtain a copy of the drawings or maps or plats or portions thereof by paying a nominal fee and requesting in writing to:

Kimberly W. Nesbitt, State Program Delivery Administrator Office of Program Delivery

Attn: Franks Childs fchilds@dot.ga.gov

600 West Peachtree St NW, 25 th Floor Atlanta, GA 30308

478-553-3330

Any written request or communication in reference to this project or notice SHOULD include the Project and P. I. Numbers as noted at the top of this notice.

City of Johns Creek Board of Zoning Appeals, Public Hearing: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 7:00 P.M.

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

The following variance application is scheduled for Public Hearing as stated above:

Case Number: V-26-0007

Property Address: 9625 Rod Road, Johns Creek, GA 30022

Current Zoning: CUP (Community Unit Plan District) Conditional Petitioner: MaryAnn Romero-Rallis Variance Request: Encroachment into the 75-foot stream buffer to construct a deck

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2026, AT 7:00 P.M.

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JULY 13, 2026, AT 7:00 P.M.

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

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

A-26-004 – Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment

A proposal to amend the City of Johns Creek Zoning Ordinance, Article III –Definitions and Article XIX – Administrative Permits and Use Permits, to establish definitions for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) related terminology, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and vertiports, and to allow vertiports as a special use in specified zoning districts.

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THE FUTURE OF LOCAL NEWS

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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.

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THE APPEN PRESS CLUB

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.

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Principal Cybersecurity needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid position] to perform concept development, design, test, implementation planning, and tier four support within the Chief Security Office Managed Security Services. Apply at http://att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-101224

Principal Quality Assurance Engineer needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid Position] to design and implement comprehensive test cases that cover all critical business scenarios, including customer order validation, service activation, suspension, resumption, and termination processes involving Wi-Fi Hub Devices. Apply at http://att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-100265.

Lead System Engineering needed by AT&T Services, Inc.in Alpharetta, GA to translate core business requirements into comprehensive technical solutions, spanning platforms, networks, and software for Oracle Warehouse Management, Oracle Transportation Management, Oracle PDH, JDA Planning, and Oracle Applications R12 Cloud implementations. Apply at http://att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-108360

Midway Preschool is looking for an experienced Young 5’s/Prek teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Contact Beth at beth@midwayumc.org.

Senior Software Developer (Duluth, GA) to dsgn, dvlp, analyze, modify, prgm & support clientserver & web-based multi-tier architecture s/ ware application projects; train & mentor junior s/ware dvlprs. Req: Bachelor’s deg (or foreign equiv.) in Comp Sci, Physics, or a rltd field of study; 5 yrs of progressive job-rltd exp (any title); Exp to incl working w/ ASP.NET MVC, C#.NET, Entity Framework, LINQ, Web API, SQL Server, My SQL, Node JS, WCF, jQuery & JavaScript. Frequent travel/ relocation to various unanticipated locs w/in the U.S. possible. The anticipated frequency of travel is approximately 5% of the time & is intermittent in nature. No permanent relocation is reqd. Resume: HR, INDU, LLC dba intiGrow, 2760 Peachtree Ind. Blvd., Ste D, Duluth, GA 30097. Ref: GAWD26

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

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Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Drug Free Workplace.

Part-Time Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) Thrift Shop Associate

NFCC is looking for a part-time Bi-lingual (Spanish/ English) Thrift Shop Associate to join our team. In this role, you’ll deliver exceptional customer service while handling cash register transactions, managing our client clothing program, and keeping merchandise neat, clean, and organized. Above all, we’re looking for someone with a warm, welcoming presence who treats every shopper with dignity and compassion.

The schedule is Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 9:30am–5:30pm, Tuesdays 4:30pm–8:30pm, and one Saturday 9:30am-5:30pm per month.

If you’re passionate about serving your community and connecting with people in both English and Spanish, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org.

YOUTH DIRECTOR (Part-Time) Alpharetta Presbyterian Church — Alpharetta, GA

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.

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Furniture, collectibles, tools, sporting goods, appliances, clothing, toys and more. Streets marked with signs and homes marked with balloons. Rain or shine.

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