THE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY
THE CREEK THEJOHNSCREEKMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026
A NEW SCHOOL YEAR BEST AFTER 3PM Top Spots for Tutoring, Test Prep, Music, Clubs and Sports in Johns Creek
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CONTENTS 7
Editor's Note
8
Calendar of Events
16
A New School Year: Johns Creek Schools and District-Wide Education Trends
20 Best After 3 p.m.: Top Spots for Tutoring, Music, and Sports 24 Classroom Lesson to Community Impact: Ivy Kids of Johns Creek Students Donate to Helping Mamas 25 Building a Community Space Where Independent Learners Don't Have to Go it Alone 26 Finding Community Between the Pages 28 Beyond the Accolade: Culture, Leadership and Shared Values Make Johns Creek America's Safest City 30 JCSO's 20th Anniversary Season: "BECOMING" 32 After 35 Years in Real Estate, Native Atlantan Still Believes Relationships are Her Best Investment 34 The Art Center Gala: Celebrating 30 Years 34 Atlanta's JapanFest Returns for a Weekend of Culture and Entertainment
About the Cover Young students checking out the classroom aquarium at Ivy Kids of Johns Creek. Photo by George Hunter
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
ISSUE FOUR | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026
THE EDITORIAL & CREATIVE TEAM Rico Figliolini
Shawne Taylor
Publisher
Managing Editor
CONTRIBUTORS Arlinda Smith Broady Senior Writer
George Hunter Photographer
Kristen Corley
Wendy Edwards
Writer
Harry Pinkney Graphic Designer
Writer
Tracey Rice Photographer
Aaliyah Man
Social Media Manager
ADVERTISING Julie Davis
Account Executive
Mighty Rockets LLC is the publisher of Southwest Gwinnett, Peachtree Corners and THE CREEK Magazines and producer of a family of podcasts. P. O. Box 923207 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310
The editors welcome story suggestions, submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@thejohnscreekmagazine.com.
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THE CREEK magazine is published six times a year by Mighty Rockets LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editors or THE CREEK magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or does not fit in our guidelines. Copyright ©2026 Mighty Rockets LLC with all rights reserved.
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EDITOR’S NOTE When we ask people what they love best about Johns Creek, the schools here tend to make almost everyone’s list. That’s why we were excited to put together our first-ever “education issue” for the magazine. We wanted to take a closer look at what makes Johns Creek schools so successful — and so beloved. What we found is that, like with many things, it comes down to community, choice and a shared vision of what success looks like. In this issue, you’ll read about education trends in Fulton County and how that connects to Johns Creek schools. You’ll also find a handy directory of places that keep the learning going after 3 p.m. through arts, music, STEM, physical activity and more. Furthering the focus, a story about Ivy Kids of Johns Creek’s generous donation of diapers to a local nonprofit shows how education can connect classroom lessons with community involvement even with the youngest learners. And a deeper look at why Johns Creek is ranked the Safest City in the U.S. also reveals that good schools are key to stronger communities. Other features include a look at the new Homeschool Haven Collective, the resurgence of book clubs and independent bookstores (something local book lovers are excited to talk about), The Art Center’s big 30th Birthday Gala, a preview of Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra’s new season and a profile of local real estate agents, the Frye Team. Of course, we’ve also put together an events calendar, chock-full of happenings around town in August and September we think you won’t want to miss. As summer prepares to give way to fall we’re looking forward not just to cooler temperatures but also to the start of a happy and successful new school year for all of our Johns Creek readers and families. All the best! Shawne Taylor Managing Editor
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
First Up Events, concerts and theatre ONGOING
Outdoor Fitness Classes Various days/times Newtown Park and Cauley Creek Park johnscreekga.gov/recreation-parks Admission: free The City of Johns Creek offers free outdoor fitness classes, led by certified instructors at Newtown and Cauley Creek parks. Open to all fitness levels, ages 16+. Classes include yoga, Zumba, Fitness 108 and Walk with a Doc. Days, times and other details available online.
Art Classes at The Art Center Various days/times The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448
Peer-led, outdoor workout group that meets weekly (rain or shine) for fitness, fellowship and faith with the mission of invigorating male community leadership.
Chair Yoga
Magic: The Gathering The Hobbit Pre-Release
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
7 p.m.-9 p.m.
Admission: free
Johns Creek Taproom 11455 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek sixbridgesbrewing.com; 470-545-4199
This weekly adult yoga class is a gentle way to stretch. Open to all skill levels. Registration is not required.
Admission: free
August 6
• Trivia Night on Tuesdays
Seated Floral Arranging Class
• 6B Dart League on Wednesdays
1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.
• Music Bingo with Natalie (every other Thursday)
Blossom & Vine 5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206
AUGUST August 2026–May 2027
JCC New Season
The Art Center offers a variety of monthly classes for kids and adults. Courses are taught by experienced artists and include ceramics, drawing, jewelry-making, painting, performing arts and more. Adaptive classes for participants with special needs are also offered. Check the website for the current class schedule.
Multiple times
August 13 and September 10
August 7 & 8
10:15 a.m.-11 a.m.
Six Bridges Brewing Weekly Events
Admission: $150–$400
Peachtree Corners Photography Club Group Meet Up
August 5, 12, 19 & 26
The Johns Creek Chorale Johns Creek United Methodist Church 11180 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek johnscreekchorale.com The Johns Creek Chorale’s new season starts August 1 and will run through May of next year. Six chorale concerts will be presented. Season pass tickets will go on sale August 1. Concert details, including dates and times, will be shared on the website in coming months.
5 p.m.-7 p.m. The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448 Admission: free
Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners pcphotoclub.org
Summer Serendipity Annual Art Competition
These weekly Thursday evening gatherings provide free open-studio time for painters, illustrators and craftspeople of all kinds. Bring your current work in progress and your own supplies and enjoy a calm, coworking environment as you create. Open to the public.
F3 Men’s Workouts Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 5:30 a.m.-6:15 a.m. Newtown Park 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek f3alpha.com/johns-creek
The Art Center’s largest annual exhibition returns! This open-call, juried exhibit features regional artists showcasing their best works in hopes of earning the $1500 first prize. The call for art runs through June 19. Visitors can view the exhibit during regular gallery hours starting July 27. An awards presentation and reception will be held August 29.
August 7
Summer Concert – Guardians of the Jukebox and Flannel Nation 7 p.m. (gates open at 6 p.m.) Newtown Park Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov/recreation-parks
Admission: free
Dates to Remember
Admission: free
AUGUST 7 Purple Heart Day 19 National Aviation Day 26 Women’s Equality Day 27 Raksha Bandhan
11 12 13 14 15
SEPTEMBER 4 Janmashtami 7 Labor Day
21 22 27
The Johns Creek Summer Concert Series showcases different bands each month. For August, enjoy the rockin’ sounds of the 80s with headliners Guardians of the Jukebox. 90s rock tribute band Flannel Nation will open the show. Concerts are rain or shine and free to attend. Food trucks will be on-site. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.
Patriot Day (Anniversary of 9/11) Rosh Hashana National Grandparents Day Ganesh Chaturthi First day of National Hispanic Heritage Month Yom Kippur September Equinox Gold Star Mother’s Day
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August 10, 17, 24 & 31 6:30 p.m.-7:45 p.m.
Creator Circle
Admission: free
Celebrate the launch of the new “The Hobbit” set from Magic: The Gathering with game play, prizes and community. The event’s entry fee is the cost of the kit. Participants can open a pre-release pack, build a 40-card deck and enjoy gaming in a casual environment. Open to beginners and experienced players.
From the comfort of your seat at an adjustable-height table, you will create a beautiful arrangement with seasonal blooms, guided by expert instructors. Perfect for all skill levels and wheelchair accessible. Materials plus complimentary finger foods, wine, infused water and tea are included. Space is limited. Reserve your spot online.
Through August 29
Photographers of all skill levels from across metro Atlanta are welcome to attend these monthly Thursday night meetups; come early at 6:15 p.m. for social time.
Cost: $44.52
Public Speaking for Teens
6:45-8:30 p.m.
Admission: free
Level Up Games Johns Creek 9945 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek levelupgamesatl.com; 678-587-5554
Tickets: $55
August 6, 13, 20 & 27
The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448
Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday 1 p.m.
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free Learn public speaking, communication skills and leadership skills at these weekly Gavel Club workshops. For ages 10–17. Registration is not required. August 10, 17, 24 & 31
Energy Yoga 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Ocee Branch Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-6840 Admission: free Join instructor Pat Gagne for a yoga class that includes breathwork and stretching. Adults only. Limited to the first 25 participants. Register online to attend. August 11
One Book, One Read: The Last One at the Wedding 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Ocee Branch Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-6840 Admission: free Come out to discuss the 2026 One Book, One Read selection, “The Last One at the Wedding,” a thriller from author Jason Rekulak. Register online to attend. August 12, 19 & 26
Family Storytime 10:15 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Ocee Branch Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-6840 Admission: free
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
Join the library for fun stories, songs and fingerplays. Open to ages 0–5 with a parent or caregiver. Register online to attend.
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
Blossom & Vine 5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206
August 12
Admission: free
Tickets: $85
Come out to discuss the 2026 One Book, One Read selection, “The Last One at the Wedding,” a thriller from author Jason Rekulak. Register online to attend.
Kick off your weekend with a floral arranging class led by a floral expert. Perfect for all skill levels. Materials plus complimentary finger foods, wine, infused water and tea are included. Space is limited. Reserve your spot online.
LEGO Club 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free This monthly club is recommended for kids ages 6–12 who want to meet up, imagine, build and play with LEGO. Some creations may be displayed at the library. Registration is not required. August 12
Tropical Floral Arranging Class 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Blossom & Vine 5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206 Tickets: $95 This special floral arranging class focuses on tropical flowers. Use your creativity and guidance from an expert instructor to create a stunning arrangement to take home. Materials plus complimentary finger foods, wine, infused water and tea are included. Space is limited. Reserve your spot online. August 15
Household Hazardous Waste Day
August 18
Adult & Teen Hand Crafting
2 p.m.-4 p.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free Would you like to learn about voice acting? Ages 18+ can register for this one-day program offered by the Alliance Theatre. Space is limited. Register online to participate. August 17
One Book, One Read: The Last One at the Wedding 5 p.m.-6 p.m.
Admission: free
Women’s Wholesome Wellness
Come out for an evening of light refreshments, a DJ, glow sticks and fun at this adaptive recreation event. Parents are encouraged to drop off young adults age 15 and older to enjoy the dance.
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
August 22
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
International and Cultural Festival
August 19
August 31
Mostly Fiction Book Club 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free This book club for adults meets the last Monday of each month. New members are always welcome. Registration is not required. The August book club selection is “I See You’ve Called in Dead” by John Kenney.
SEPTEMBER September 1 & 15
Adult & Teen Hand Crafting 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free
Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners community.peachtreecornersga.gov
Do you enjoy knitting, crocheting or other hand crafts? Teens and adults are invited to bring their own projects to work on in this twice-monthly, handcrafting group meetup. Instruction is not provided during the program.
Admission: free
September 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
Produced in partnership between the City of Peachtree Corners and the WOW Afro Foundation, this summer event will transform the Town Green and surrounding areas into a global village filled with color, music and flavor. During the day-long, family-friendly festival, guests will experience live performances, taste foods from around the world and explore artisan booths and interactive exhibits.
Chair Yoga
Take a break and stop by NESO for a special outdoor library recess featuring sidewalk chalk, bubbles and more. Registration is not required.
August 26
September 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
Mobile Career Bus
Family Storytime
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
10:15 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
August 20
Junk Journaling
Ocee Branch Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-6840
Ocee Branch Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-6840
4 p.m.-5:45 p.m.
Admission: free
Admission: free
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
Looking for a new job, career change or help building your skills? The monthly Mobile Career Bus program is a free service from WorkSource Fulton, providing one-on-one assistance with job searching, resume writing, interview prep and more.
Join the library for fun stories, songs and fingerplays. Open to ages 0–5 with a parent or caregiver. Register online to attend.
August 26
4 p.m.-5 p.m.
STEM & Nature Club
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
7 p.m.-10 p.m.
Admission: free Learn more about Lifestyle Medicine and how it can be applied to your life at these monthly workshops with Life Coach Sona Tank. The six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine will be discussed in detail. Open to adults. Registration is not required.
Library Recess
Alliance Theatre: Voice Acting
Newtown Park Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov; 678-512-3200
Do you enjoy knitting, crocheting or other hand crafts? Teens and adults are invited to bring their own projects to work on in this handcrafting group meetup. Instruction is not provided during the program.
Johns Creek City Hall 11360 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov; 470-990-9906
August 15
7 p.m.-9 p.m.
Admission: free
August 19
This free event hosted by the City of Johns Creek and Keep North Fulton Beautiful is open to residents of Johns Creek only. No businesses or contractors. View the list of accepted items and register online.
Adaptive Recreation Dance Night
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Admission: free
August 21
6 p.m.-7 p.m.
Kids ages 6–12 are invited to take part in STEM and nature-based activities as part of this monthly programming. Participation is first-come, first-served as supplies last. Children must be supervised. Registration is not required.
4 p.m.-5 p.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free
Admission: free Bring a blank journal and allow yourself to get creative in this monthly workshop for adults. Materials and markers will be provided to use to embellish and decorate your journal. Space is limited. Register online to hold your spot.
4 p.m.-5 p.m.
Floral Arranging Class
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Admission: free
August 20 & 27
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10:15 a.m.-11 a.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free This weekly adult yoga class is a gentle way to stretch. Open to all skill levels. Registration is not required.
September 9
LEGO Club
Admission: free This monthly club is recommended for kids ages 6–12 who want to meet up, imagine, build and play with LEGO.
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Annual
S Y A D G I B O TW 7 2 & 6 2 r e b m Septe
Saturday, Sept. 26
Sunday, Sept. 27
9:00 am–7:00 pm – Booths 10:00 am – Parade 11:30 am – Opening Ceremony 12:30 pm-6:00pm – Entertainment
8:00 am – Donut Dash 5K 9:00 am–5:00 pm – Booths 10:00 am – Worship on the Green 12:00 pm-5:00pm – Entertainment
FR EE S h u t t l e S e r v i c e AT THESE LOCATIONS: • Peachtree Ridge High School on Old Peachtree Rd NW • Duluth Middle School on Pleasant Hill Road • Chattahoochee Elementary on Albion Farm Road
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Saturday, September 12
DULUTH FESTIVAL CENTER 6:30 pm - The Smithereens 8:300 pm - Grand Funk Railroad
DuluthFallFestival.org
DULUTH TOWN GREEN, 3151 MAIN STREET, DOWNTOWN DULUTH
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
Built for memories, made for community.
Some creations may be displayed at the library. Registration is not required.
1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross eventbrite.com/o/greater-atlanta-christian-school-6783130853
September 10
Admission: free and open to the public
Homeschool Adventures: Intro to Ecology
Join Sissy Goff and David Thomas as they share practical encouragement and insights from their new book, Capable. Together, they’ll explore how to help children build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, persevere through challenges, and grow into capable, emotionally healthy young people. Reserve your seat online.
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek autreymill.org/home-school-adventures; 678-366-3511 Cost: $50; $45 for family-level members
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Learn the foundations of how living things connect in Autrey Mill’s forest ecosystem. These weekly homeschool classes for kids ages 5–14 provide educational opportunities through games, crafts and exploration. Reservations are required.
Summer Concert – Nashville Nation and Everyday Dogs
September 10, 16 & 22
Admission: free
Floral Arranging Class
The Johns Creek Summer Concert Series showcases different bands each month. For September, enjoy two high-energy performances as modern-country cover band Nashville Nation and the alt-rock, Athen’s-based band Everyday Dogs take to the stage. Concerts are rain or shine and free to attend. Food trucks will be on-site. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.
6 p.m.-8 p.m. Blossom & Vine 5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206 Tickets: $85 Kick off your weekend with a floral arranging class led by a floral expert. Perfect for all skill levels. Materials plus complimentary finger foods, wine, infused water and tea are included. Space is limited. Reserve your spot online. September 11–October 17
4385 Johns Creek Parkway Suite 250 Suwanee, GA 30024
Committed to personalized care, conveniently located close to home. Our dedicated family medicine practice is your one-stop for everything from routine check-ups to ongoing wellness. To schedule an appointment, scan QR code or visit us online at familymedicinejc.com or call us at 770-476-6130.
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7 p.m. (gates open at 6 p.m.) The Boardwalk at Town Center 11362 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov
September 14, 21 & 28
Public Speaking for Teens 6:30 p.m.-7:45 p.m.
Beyond Borders II: Global Voices
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
On view during normal gallery hours
Admission: free
The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448
Learn public speaking, communication skills and leadership skills at these weekly Gavel Club workshops. For ages 10–17. Registration is not required.
Admission: free Juried exhibition that seeks to explore the complexity, nuance and lived experience of cultures around the world through deeply personal and authentic artistic perspectives. September 11
Patriot Day
September 14, 21 & 28
Energy Yoga 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Ocee Branch Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-6840 Admission: free
8:30 a.m. Newtown Park Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov; 678-512-3200
Join instructor Pat Gagne for a yoga class that includes breathwork and stretching. Adults only. Limited to the first 25 participants. Register online to attend.
Admission: free
September 16
This event honors the services and sacrifices of first responders and military personnel and includes a moment of silence and ringing of a memorial bell in honor of the fallen.
Women’s Wholesome Wellness
September 11 COMPREHENSIVE CARE
September 12
Sissy Goff & David Thomas: Capable 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Greater Atlanta Christian School
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10 a.m.-12 p.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free Learn more about Lifestyle Medicine and how it can be applied to your life at these monthly workshops with Life Coach Sona Tank. The six pillars of
Photos by Rico Figliolini
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Lifestyle Medicine will be discussed in detail. Open to adults. Registration is not required.
center’s community arts programs. Cocktail attire requested.
September 17
Pup-a-Palooza
Homeschool Adventures: Streams (Macro & Micro Worlds) 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek autreymill.org/home-school-adventures; 678-366-3511 Cost: $50; $45 for family-level members Learn the foundations of how living things connect in Autrey Mill’s forest ecosystem. These weekly homeschool classes for kids ages 5–14 provide educational opportunities through games, crafts and exploration. Reservations are required. September 17
Junk Journaling 4 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300 Admission: free Bring a blank journal and allow yourself to get creative in this monthly workshop for adults. Materials and markers will be provided to use to embellish and decorate your journal. Space is limited. Register online to hold your spot. September 18
The Art Center’s 30th Birthday Gala 6 p.m.-9 p.m. St Ives Country Club 1 St Ives Country Club Dr., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448 Tickets: $150–$325; tables for 10 available for $1,200–$1,500 Celebrate 30 years of art, education and community at this birthday gala. Enjoy food and drink, live music and more while raising money for the
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
September 19
Admission: free
Newtown Park Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov; 678-512-3200
Kids ages 6–12 are invited to take part in STEM and nature-based activities as part of this monthly programming. Participation is first-come, first-served as supplies last. Children must be supervised. Registration is not required.
Admission: free
September 24
Bring your dogs and family to the park for the city’s “Pup-a-Palooza” event. There will be pet-related vendors, a DJ playing fun music, a Best Dressed Dog contest, treats and more.
Johns Creek Financial Wellness Summit
12 p.m.-3 p.m.
8 a.m.-12 p.m.
September 22–25
Global Art Week Workshops
The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448 Admission: check website for details In conjunction with the Beyond Borders II exhibition, Art Center instructors will offer a variety of three-hour workshops focusing on global arts and crafts traditions. Check the website for more information.
The Boardwalk at Town Center 11362 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov; 678-512-3200 Admission: free
Ocee Branch Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-6840 Admission: free Looking for a new job, career change or help building your skills? The monthly Mobile Career Bus program is a free service from WorkSource Fulton, providing one-on-one assistance with job searching, resume writing, interview prep and more. September 23
STEM & Nature Club
Admission: free This book club for adults meets the last Monday of each month. New members are always welcome. Registration is not required. The September book club selection is “The King’s Messenger” by Susanna Kenney.
COMING UP The Soundtrack of Us
1 p.m.-4 p.m.
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300
October 3
Arts on The Boardwalk
Mobile Career Bus
5 p.m.-6 p.m.
Admission: free
September 26
September 23
Mostly Fiction Book Club
Johns Creek Baptists Church 6910 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Alpharetta This half day summit will provide practical financial guidance for business owners and future retirees. Attendees will hear from the Federal Reserve, financial planning experts, the FBI and cybersecurity experts on the economy, retirement strategies and protecting themselves from fraud.
10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 2 p.m.-5 p.m.; 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
September 28
This inaugural, family-friendly city arts festival will feature artisans and vendors, hands-on activities, dance, live music and theatrical performances, a juried exhibit, high school artists and more. Organized by the City of Johns Creek in partnership with Arts On the Creek, guests will also enjoy food and treats from local food trucks (Tacos & Tequilas, Fair on Wheels and King of Pops are three that have already been announced) and other experiences at this outdoor, afternoon event.
Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra Newtown Park 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek johnscreeksymphony.org; 678-748-5802 Admission: free Bring a chair, gather your friends and family and enjoy an evening of great music in Newtown Park. This show, part of JCSO’s Outdoor Pops Series, will feature favorite songs and beloved classics spanning decades of popular music. October 10
World Music Ensemble 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Johns Creek United Methodist Church 11180 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek artsonthecreek.org Admission: free Presented by the nonprofit organization, Arts On The Creek, in partnership with Fulton County Arts & Culture, this inaugural, purely instrumental, day-long concert will showcase and celebrate music made from traditional, indigenous folk instruments from the local community and around the world.
4 p.m.-5 p.m.
Countdown to Medley: Events Planned for the October Grand Opening As the October opening of Medley draws closer, the company behind the impressive 43-acre mixed-use development is sharing a few teasers for the planned celebrations that will mark the occasion.
Toro Development Company (TDC) has announced three days of events and Medley experiences designed to celebrate the opening, draw people in and bring the community together.
Medley Unveiled On October 28 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Medley will host an exclusive, ticketed event giving the community a first look “through culinary experiences, live entertainment and an early-access tour.” Proceeds from the event will benefit the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra.
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting The next day, October 29, brings all of the months of planning, developing and building to fruition. Starting at 10 a.m., the big Grand Opening celebration will include a ceremonial ribbon cutting, activities on the Plaza and special surprises throughout the day.
Party on the Plaza The fun will continue on October 30 as Johns Creek’s newest “third place” becomes party central with a family-friendly, Friday night Halloween cel-
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ebration on the Plaza. The community is invited to come out for an evening of “live music, festive fun and interactive activations” from 6 to 10 p.m.
More details to come More details about Medley’s opening experiences and other updates will be shared as they become available. For now, save the dates and plan to be there — and part of the fun — when this much-anticipated community hub makes its October debut. ## Medley at Johns Creek 11650 Johns Creek Pkwy., Johns Creek medleyjohnscreek.com
Business Organizations and Events Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce
Coming in October:
August 5
2026 State of the Chamber
Johns Creek Chamber Casino Night 6:30 p.m.-11 p.m.
September 10
Quarterly Lunch & Learn: Cyber Security & AI Safety 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m.
Mingle with over 200 business leaders and guests and enjoy a year-in-review of the city, as well as the annual business awards ceremony. The event takes place at YiFan Restaurant & Event Center on Medlock Bridge Pkwy. $65 for members; $85 non-members. Register online.
johnscreekga.gov/events/quarterly-lunch-learn-q4-cyber-security-ai-safety
Business After Hours 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
This Q4 Lunch & Learn event for Cybersecurity Awareness Month will feature guest speaker Jonathan O’Connor. September 11, 18 & 25
Grow Business Accelerator 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m.
Chamber 101
This 10-module, Friday-morning “sprint” series is designed to help business owners learn about AI, finance, HR, legal, marketing, sales and more. The weekly classes will run September 11 to November 13. Participants can sign up for the entire series or for individual classes.
5 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
September 17
This BAH meet up will take place at Homeschool Haven Collective on Abbott’s Bridge Road. Sign up online if you plan to attend. August 11
Learn more about the Johns Creek Chamber and the benefits of membership at this informational event. August 20
Business After Hours 5 p.m.-7 p.m. This BAH meet up will take place at YiFan Restaurant & Event Center on Medlock Bridge Pkwy. Sign up online if you plan to attend. August 27
September 2, 9, 23 & 30
YiFan Restaurant & Event Center
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
August 6
Featured speaker, Lena B. Taylor, will present "The Art of Starting: Harnessing Your Experience, Tools and Courage to Begin." Additional speakers will be announced soon. $75 for members; $95 for non-members. Registration is open now.
October 16
11695 Johns Creek Pkwy., Johns Creek johnscreekchamber.com; 770-495-0545 Join the Johns Creek Chamber for Wednesday Weekly Networking meetups in June and July. Meet other professionals, exchange information, network and form new business relationships at these weekly business-casual events. 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Advance registration is required. Cost is $5 for members; $10 for guests with pre-registration.
12150 Morris Rd., Alpharetta
Business After Hours 5 p.m.-7 p.m. The location of this week’s BAH meet up is TBD. Check the Johns Creek Chamber website for updated information. September 24
Women’s Networking Meeting 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
One of the chamber’s signature events, casino night brings the business community together for an evening of gaming, connection, food and celebration. This year’s theme is “High Stakes for High Hopes.” Tickets are on sale now, with early bird rates through September 16. $95 for members; $145 for non-members.
Greater North Fulton Chamber August 5, 12, 19 & 26
ProAlliance Networking Meeting 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m. Build relationships, support professional development and develop leads at one of the largest networking groups in North Fulton. This is an opportunity to network with other members and guests, share ideas and grow you’re business. Registration is required. August 6
12 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Join Sarah Tourville, CEO and founder of Media Frenzy Global for a discussion of AI and building your brand by clarifying your message and strengthening your company’s visibility. $25 for members; $40 for non-members.
September 3
Sign up and come out for a night of bingo to raise money for Johns Creek Chamber programs. Networking, prizes, food and drinks will be part of the fun. Seating is limited. Sign up online to attend. $30-$40 for members; $40$50 non-members.
Whether you are a new member, a longtime member with new staff or a business who’s considering membership, you’re invited to attend this event to learn how to get the most value from your membership investment. Sign up online to attend.
Business After Hours 5 p.m.-7 p.m. This BAH meet up will take place at Toastique Johns Creek on Old Alabama Rd. Sign up online if you plan to attend.
September 18
BOLD Mornings 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Taco’s & Tequilas 1025 Alpharetta St., Roswell
Coming in October: October 1
North Fulton Talent & Workforce Summit 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Phase Event Center 12150 Morris Rd., Alpharetta
Membership Max 10 a.m.-11 a.m.
August 18
Spend the day out of the office and on the golf course at this signature GNFCC event. A practice range, breakfast, networking, a day of golf and an after party are part of the fun. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are available now.
Start your morning with networking and community at this signature mixer series for women in business. $15 for members; $30 for non-members. Sign up online to attend.
Small Business Success Series: Your Brand in the AI Era
September 25 6 p.m.-10 p.m.
September 15
The Manor Golf & Country Club 15952 Manor Club Dr., Milton
Business leaders and professionals are invited to meet at NuVitale on Johns Creek Pkwy. for a morning of discussion and networking.
Bingo Night Fundraiser
Build relationships, support professional development and develop leads at one of the largest networking groups in North Fulton. This is an opportunity to network with other members and guests, share ideas and grow you’re business. Registration is required.
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
10000 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta gnfcc.com; 770-993-8806
August 12 & September 9
9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
7:30 a.m.-9 a.m.
GNFCC Golf Classic
Business leaders and professionals are invited to meet at Noosh on Douglas Rd. for a morning of discussion and networking.
Women’s Networking Meeting
ProAlliance Networking Meeting
Make plans to attend this in-person event to connect with employers, educators and workforce leaders exploring talent strategies and accelerating hiring and career development in the community. $10 for members; $15 for non-members; Free for students/educators with a valid school or educational organization email address. More information is available online. ##
BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Phase Event Center
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
A New School Year: Johns Creek Schools and District-Wide Education Trends As Fulton County's enrollment shifts, Johns Creek campuses lean into partnerships, pathways and a growing menu of options for families By Arlinda Smith Broady
We have so many kids that graduate ... with a year's worth of college credit, so they can go off to college and they're paying 25% less than they otherwise would have been.
J
ohns Creek has always worn its schools like a badge of honor. Ask longtime residents why they moved here, and "the schools" usually lands in the first sentence. Ask school officials why the schools are so good, and they'll point right back at the community.
It's a bit of a chicken-and-egg arrangement, and as Fulton County Schools gears up for the 2026-27 school year, that relationship is being tested — and reinforced — in some interesting new ways. The district is bracing for roughly 85,000 students this fall, a number that's been sliding for years from a peak of about 96,000 back in 2019. Brian Noyes, Fulton's chief communications officer, said the dip mirrors what's happening nationally: People are marrying later and having fewer kids, and kindergarten classes are shrinking as a result. "What's not subjective is [that] the number of stu-
— Brian Downey Northview High School Experience Photo courtesy of Fulton County Schools
dents enrolling into kindergarten is smaller," Noyes said. But Johns Creek, along with a handful of other pockets in the county, is bucking that trend. New housing stock and a reputation for strong schools keep pulling families in even as the district-wide numbers fall. "We do have pockets in Fulton County that are really growing because we have housing that's becoming available, and they're very popular — and we like to believe it's because we have great schools in those areas that people want to go be part of," Noyes said.
A new front door for out-of-district families To help offset that enrollment decline, Fulton County Schools has rolled out an initiative called Find Your Future at Fulton, which opens select schools to students who don't live in the district — for a price. Families outside of Fulton County can enroll their children for roughly $11,000 a year, an amount Noyes said is meant to cover what the district loses in local
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tax revenue when a student isn't a Fulton resident. "When you look at the price of private schools in the area, the roughly $11,000 that we're going to charge for a full year — that's the offset from what we're going to get from the state," Noyes explained. Johns Creek’s Northview High School made the initial list of four participating campuses, alongside Fulton Academy of Virtual Excellence (FAVE), North Springs High School and Global Impact Academy. Choosing Northview was intentional, Noyes said, since it sits close to the Gwinnett and Forsyth county lines. "We wanted to see what the market would look like if we had a school with the reputation of a Northview — one of our best-performing schools academically — next door to Gwinnett County," he said.
COSA: an old tool gets new attention In-county families don't have to look outside the district to find options, either. Fulton's longstanding transfer process, known as COSA (Change of School Assignment), lets any Fulton resident apply to attend a different school within the system, space permit-
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
ting. Brian Downey, the zone superintendent who oversees Johns Creek-area schools, said the policy itself isn't new, but the district has simplified and better publicized it in recent years. "It has been in our board policy for a long period of time," Downey said. "What's new is that we've updated the policy ... so it now kind of all fits under this one umbrella." Noyes added that a state law change a few years back expanded COSA well beyond its original purpose. "The policy was around magnet schools," he said. "As the state law changed ... it expanded, so you could change for any reason." Parents can apply annually during a window that opens in December and closes in January, with decisions announced in mid- to late January and transfers taking effect the following school year. Once approved, students don't have to reapply each year, though they're responsible for their own transportation and must meet attendance, academic and behavioral standards to stay enrolled. Downey said the shift within the Johns Creek footprint tends to be modest — about 25 students transferring into a given high school in a typical year — largely because families still have to handle the daily commute themselves.
Real-world learning at Northview Perhaps no program illustrates the district's shift toward hands-on, career-connected learning better than Northview's 3DE partnership, an outgrowth of Junior Achievement that functions like a school within a school. Students opt in during ninth grade and stay through graduation, tackling real business problems posed by corporate partners — Home Depot, Delta Airlines, Jackson Healthcare and others — using a case-study model more common in graduate business programs. "A business partner will come in and present a problem of practice," Downey said. "The students are challenged to, over a lot of learning, come up with a solution and then present that solution to the company." By senior year, students intern directly with those partner companies. Downey said the benefits of collaboration go both ways — some student solutions have actually influenced how partner businesses operate. "We've had students present solutions, and they go,
3DE students at Northview HIgh School. Courtesy of Fulton County Schools
'Oh wow, let us take note and let's expand on that,'" he said. "It's mutually beneficial." The academic results back up the model. Northview's overall graduation rate typically runs around 97 or 98%, Downey said, while students who complete the 3DE track graduate at 100%. He noted the difference is modest at a school that already performs at a high level, but end-of-course test scores, attendance and standardized test scores all tick upward among 3DE participants.
Dual enrollment and a widening menu of pathways Beyond 3DE, Downey said the district has leaned hard into dual enrollment partnerships with area colleges, allowing Johns Creek-area students to graduate with a year or more of college credit already banked. "We have so many kids that graduate ... with a year's worth of college credit, so they can go off to college and they're paying 25% less than they otherwise would have been," Downey said. That expansion reflects a broader cultural shift in what families expect from a diploma, both men said. Downey, who graduated high school in 1990 with access to only one or two Advanced Placement courses, said the contrast with today is stark.
"Access to those courses has increased across all of our high schools," he said. "It doesn't matter if you're a student at Northview [or] a student at Tri-Cities — you have access to college-level courses or dual enrollment or AP or CTAE." Downey said the goal isn't to push every student toward a four-year degree or toward entrepreneurship for its own sake, but to help each one find a pathway that fits. "If we can connect a kid to their pathway that excites them, that interests them, they in turn are going to invest in their own learning," he said. "We want as many doors open as possible, so the kid can make the choice of which door to walk through."
The numbers behind the pride The results have shown up in the data. Fulton County posted a district-wide graduation rate of 91.9% last year, a fifth consecutive record and the highest mark in the system's history, up 6.4 percentage points from a pandemic-era low of 85.5%. Johns Creek High School posted a composite ACT score of 25.6, while Northview reached 26.9 — both well above the state average of 21.4 and the national average of 19.4. On the SAT, Northview students averaged 1254, among the strongest showings districtwide. Fulton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney has framed the gains as proof that expanding access doesn't have to come at the expense of rigor.
Looking ahead As the new school year opens, families across Johns Creek will navigate a familiar back-to-school checklist — bus routes, meal prices, device protection plans and updated emergency contacts in the Infinite Campus portal — alongside a fast-growing list of choices about where and how their children learn. Whether that means opting into a neighborhood elementary school, applying through COSA for a program at another campus or diving into a partnership-driven track like 3DE, the throughline for Fulton officials is the same. "It's really about creating those options and access to those things for these kids," Downey said, "so that they can find their path, they can find that passion." ## Students in the 3DE program at Northview High School. Photo courtesy of Fulton County Schools
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Arlinda Smith Broady covers education and community news. ##
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
Best After 3 p.m.: Top Spots for Tutoring, Test Prep, Music, Clubs and Sports in Johns Creek provides organized games and activities, STEM and creative arts enrichment and time to play or get started on homework on weekday afternoons during the school year.
Tutoring and Test Prep Huntington Learning Center 10305 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-722-5111; huntingtonhelps. com/locations/johns-creek-ga Offers in-person and online tutoring for PreK–12, help for students with ADHD and PSAT, SAT, ACT and high school entrance exam test prep. Flexible scheduling is available, built around after-school and sports commitments. Mathnasium 9945 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-273-9697; mathnasium.com/ math-centers/johnscreek Specially trained tutors provide test prep, homework help and personalized math programs for students in PreK–12. Online group tutoring is also available. Kumon
W
ith the lazy days of summer break behind us, it’s time to turn our thoughts to school schedules, extracurriculars and after-school clubs and programs. In Johns Creek and surrounding communities — Suwanee, Alpharetta, Duluth — there is no lack of options for families looking for academic help, recreational sports, creative arts and more. But with so many opportunities to choose from, knowing where to start your search can be overwhelming. From tutoring and test prep, STEM, arts and music and dance to martial arts, gymnastics and community sports, we think the following directory could be a good place to start.
10995 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-280-4500; kumon.com/johnscreek-state-bridge
School of Rock in Johns Creek (Facebook)
With multiple locations in Johns Creek and surrounding communities, Kumon works with families to help their children build strong math, reading and critical thinking skills. Programs are available for students in PreK–12.
After-School Care Ivy Kids of Johns Creek 9970 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-746-8980; ivykids.com/johnscreek-ga/ivy-kids-of-johns-creek
C2 Education Johns Creek 3630 Peachtree Pkwy., Suwanee 770-495-7756; c2educate.com/locations/johns-creek-suwanee-ga
Early learning center offering full-day childcare, as well as an after-school program for ages 5–12. After-school care features homework help, a nutritious snack, activities and fun. Pick up from local elementary schools may be provided (check with Ivy Kids for details). Kiddie Academy Johns Creek 10100 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 470-326-0115; kiddieacademy.com/ academies/johns-creek The Creative Explorers after-school program at Kiddie Academy
Provides individualized tutoring, test prep and college counseling services, including personalized SAT and ACT prep. Experienced tutors can help students with everything from grammar and reading comprehension to calculus and chemistry. Certified counselors can assist teens with college applications and admissions.
STEM: Coding and Robotics theCoderSchool Johns Creek
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5025 Jones Bridge Rd., Alpharetta 770-919-5894; thecoderschool.com/ locations/johnscreek Nation-wide system with multiple locations offering coding lessons through camps and a robust afterschool program. Kids learn problem solving and technology fundamentals through custom projects built to suit each student, an individualized curriculum and a 2:1 teacher to student ratio. CodeMode Johns Creek 12015 Cameron Dr., Johns Creek 678-995-5537; codemode.us This education center offers online coding courses with live instruction in small, focused groups. They also offer AP courses designed to fit around your teen’s high school schedule, hands-on, practice-based learning and a mentorship program. iCode Jones Bridge 11875 Jones Bridge Rd., Alpharetta 229-304-2885; icodeschool.com/ alpharetta-ga STEM-focused education center offering after-school robotics and coding classes and camps. The classroom environment features the latest tech and hardware, including gaming computers, 3D printers, robotics and drones. Instruction time is balanced with hands-on activities to reinforce each new concept. Chesstronics Johns Creek 10450 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-274-4545; chesstronics.com/johnscreekga Local academy offering chess instruction and a monthly scholastic chess tournament, as well as a robotics program using VEX GO and VEX IQ platforms and coding programs for multiple age groups.
Art & Music The Art Center Johns Creek 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-623-8448; itstheartcenter.org Longstanding community art center offering regular classes
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
and workshops for kids, teens and adults, along with a popular afterschool program and school break camps. Youth programs are available for students in grades K–12. Hawaii Fluid Art Johns Creek 9775 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 470-531-0106; hawaiifluidarts.com Local art center with an Art Explorers after-school program designed for kids ages 4+. In a structured environment, children will explore various art techniques, develop creative skills and build confidence through artistic expression. Weekly classes with 8-week and 16-week session options. Kidcreate Studio Johns Creek 3000 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek 678-620-3917; kidcreate.com/locations/johns-creek Hands-on, screen-free art studio with weekly after-school art classes and workshops taught by working artists. Kids progress through three levels, exploring acrylics, clay, pastels, mixed media and more. School of Rock Johns Creek 10900 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-580-1882; schoolofrock.com/locations/johnscreek Performance-based, after-school music education program combining one-on-one instruction with group rehearsals. The regular sessions provide young musicians to play together in a rock band and perform on stage in front of audiences. Musik21 Music Conservatory 10700 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 404-245-6133; musik21.com Local music school offering piano, violin, viola, cello, guitar, voice, music theory and composition lessons for all ages. Instruction is tailored to each child. Students have gone on to perform at Woodruff Arts Center, Carnegie Hall and in international music programs. W.E. Music Academy 11035 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 470-529-3096; wemusicacademy. com Johns Creek music academy offering after-school group instruction and private lessons from worldclass performers and music educators. Students can sign up for piano, woodwinds, strings, guitar, drums and voice lessons. Instrument rentals are also available. The Music Studio Atlanta (Johns Creek/Alpharetta) 10945 State Bridge Rd., Alpharetta 678-483-7878; themusicstudioatlan-
ta.com/alpharetta-music-lessons Family-run music school with multiple locations in metro Atlanta, including one serving Johns Creek and Alpharetta. They offer classes for voice and a variety of instruments for kids, teens and adults, with opportunities for students to participate in recitals and open-mic nights.
Dance
The Little Gym Johns Creek 11585 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 404-458-1059; thelittlegym.com/ georgia-alpharetta-johns-creek Gymnastics center offering programs for multiple ages and skill levels, from baby and toddler classes to after-school classes for ages 3-12. The older kids classes are divided by skill rather than age and introduce specific techniques for strength, balance and agility.
K Dance Studio 5725 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-686-8733; kdancestudio.com Local studio providing beginner, intermediate and advanced dance classes for ages 3–18. Families can sign up for one class per week or multiple classes. After-school and weekend sessions in K-pop and hip hop dance are available.
Life Time Johns Creek Swimming 11555 Johns Creek Pkwy., Johns Creek 770-495-7800; lifetime.life/locations/ga/johns-creek.html
T1 Dance Studio 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 404-531-7607; t1dance.com Dance school offering expert instruction in K-pop, hip hop, contemporary and break-dancing for kids, pre-teens and teens. After-school and weekend classes are available, schedules are flexible and students have the option of auditioning for recitals and competitions. Royal Dance Academy
Luxury health club offering private swim lessons, clinics and group instruction. The youth swim program is ongoing and open to swimmers at all levels, led by certified swim instructors. Life Time also has a year-round competitive swim team with professional coaching and technique instruction for all ages and abilities. Swim Atlanta Johns Creek
5725 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 239-371-5511; ballroomroyaldanceacademy.com This dance studio in Johns Creek offers private ballroom dance lessons and kids classes for ages 4–11 on weekday afternoons and evenings. Perimeter Ballet 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-405-2337; perimeterballet.com Located at Perimeter Church, this Christian-based ballet school offers weekly after-school classes with experienced instructors for ages 3–18.
Gymnastics, Swimming and Table Tennis Gymnastics World of Georgia 7230 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Suwanee 678-967-0799; gymworldofga.com Program with multiple locations offering after-school gymnastics instruction for grades PreK–12. Options include preK gymnastics classes, school-aged girls gymnastics, boys gymnastics and advanced gymnastics (invitation only) with experienced instructors.
4050 Johns Creek Pkwy., Suwanee 770-622-1735; swimatlanta.com/johnscreek Popular swim program with locations throughout metro Atlanta. The club offers after-school private, semi-private and small-group swim lessons, as well as a competitive, championship swim team. Atlanta International Table Tennis Academy 7230 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Suwanee 678-469-0650; yangtabletennis. com This professional-level table tennis training facility offers after-school and weekend programs for recreational players and those who want to compete in tournaments. Personalized instruction from expert coaches, private lessons and group classes are available.
Martial Arts Premier Martial Arts Johns Creek 11585 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-288-9392; premiermartialarts. com/georgia-johns-creek
Tumbles Johns Creek 3005 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek 678-691-4072; johnscreek.tumbles.net Fun, non-competitive program
featuring hands-on, personalized gym classes for children up to 10 years old, using milestone-based activities to support physical and emotional growth. They also offer experiential STEAM classes and school-break camps.
After-school karate classes and school-break camps are available for ages 5 and up. Certified instructors use a child-focused curriculum to teach skills and techniques, as well as discipline, confidence and leadership skills.
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Dojo American Karate Center – Abbott’s Bridge 5075 Abbott’s Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-417-7780; abbottsbridgedojo. com The Abbott’s Bridge dojo offers a full After School Karate (ASK) program for kids that runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The dojo provides school pickup for their enrolled students from Abbotts Hill Elementary and Findley Oaks Elementary. Parents may also drop their kids off for ASK. Sibling discounts are available. Francis Fong Martial Arts Academy 11035 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-623-4997; francisfongacademy.com Open since 1976, this martial arts academy provides expert instruction in multiple martial arts systems, including jiu jitsu, Wing Chun kung fu, Jeet Kune Do and boxing. After-school and weekend classes are available for kids ages 7–12.
Youth Athletics Johns Creek Sports – Youth Cricket and Youth Soccer Cauley Creek and Shakerag Parks johnscreeksports.com This self-supported, non-profit athletic organization serves students in the City of Johns Creek and North Fulton County. They offer cricket and soccer programs for boys and girls, meeting weekly for practice and competing in matches on the weekends. Newtown Athletics – Baseball, Soccer and Flag Football Newtown Park, Johns Creek newtownrec.com Local non-profit athletic organization offering Johns Creek students an opportunity to sign up for baseball, soccer or flag football team play. Most youth teams have one weekday, after-school practice and one weekend game per week during the school year. Ocee Park Rec League Baseball Ocee Park, Johns Creek oceepark.com/home Baseball program open to Johns Creek students ages 4.5–16. Team play with practices and games include T-ball through 15–16U options. Assessments for Rec League are held in August and are required for all players except T-ball. ##
Laughter, insight, and encouragement for anyone raising or caring for school-aged children.
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Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
dON’T COmE CAuSE KId SdON’T COmE BeBeCAuSE CABe uSE KIKIdS AnUAl dS N’iO T NCOM RuCT mE INsTdO ANINsTRuCTiON WiWiTH THWiT ANHANIN sTRuCTiON MAMAnUAl nUAl
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
Classroom Lesson to Community Impact: Ivy Kids of Johns Creek Students Donate 13,000 Diapers to Helping Mamas At Ivy Kids of Johns Creek, giving back is not just something students hear about. It is something they get to experience. This spring, students, families and staff at the early learning center came together to collect and donate approximately 13,000 diapers to local nonprofit Helping Mamas, Georgia’s largest baby supply bank serving families across the state. The donation was delivered during a student field trip to Helping Mamas, giving young children the opportunity to see firsthand how small acts of kindness can create a meaningful impact for families in need.
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The diaper drive was part of Ivy Kids’ larger World Changers® Character Development Program, which teaches children values such as empathy, kindness, leadership and social responsibility alongside academic growth. Ivy Kids of Johns Creek led all participating Ivy Kids centers this year with the highest individual center donation total. “For us, this was never just about collecting diapers,” said Karim Badani, owner of Ivy Kids of Johns Creek. “It was about teaching our students that they are never too young to make a difference. When children learn empathy, service, and generosity early, those values stay with them. This is exactly the kind of real-world learning we want our students to experience.”
Providing essential help at the right time The donation came at an important time for Helping Mamas, which has been working to meet increased demand for diapers and essential baby supplies. WSB-TV Channel 2 reported that Helping Mamas had recently distributed more than 230,000 diapers in April alone, while also facing increased need from families across the metro Atlanta area. The Ivy Kids of Johns Creek donation was also featured by FOX 5 Atlanta, which highlighted the students’ visit
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Courtesy of Ivy Kids of Johns Creek
to Helping Mamas and the importance of encouraging children to give back at a young age. Yahoo News also shared coverage of the diaper bank shortage and Ivy Kids’ contribution.
Whole-child development and lifelong lessons At Ivy Kids of Johns Creek, the diaper drive reflects a larger mission: developing the whole child. Along with its early childhood curriculum, the school emphasizes character, emotional development, leadership and community involvement. “Children are capable of understanding more than we sometimes give them credit for,” Badani said. “When we explain that some families may not have the basic supplies they need, and then give our students a way to help, they rise to the occasion. That is what makes this so special.”
More about Ivy Kids of Johns Creek Ivy Kids of Johns Creek is located at 9970 Medlock Bridge Road and serves families with infant, toddler, preschool, Pre-K, after-school and camp programs. The school is locally owned and operated by Karim Badani and Shraddha Naik and is part of the Ivy Kids Early Learning Center family, known for combining academic excellence, innovation, safety, nutrition and character development in a nurturing early learning environment. For more information about Ivy Kids of Johns Creek, visit ivykidsjohnscreek.com or call 770-746-8980. ##
Building a Community Space Where Independent Learners Don't Have to Go it Alone By Arlinda Smith Broady On a quiet stretch near the Fulton-Gwinnett County line, a new kind of learning space is taking shape — one without a single desk lined up in a row. Homeschool Haven Collective, which opened its doors for a soft launch in April, is preparing to welcome its first full cohort of families for the 2026-2027 school year. The organization isn't a school, a co-op or a franchise. It's something North Fulton homeschooling families say has long been missing: a dedicated, drop-in space where kids who learn at home
program, they placed well ahead of grade level. That pushed Romain to keep going. "I really needed to steward that," she said. "I understood how Georgia does it with ages, and I just wanted to make sure they had the full potential." Her family tried a hybrid school and a private Christian school along the way — Romain even taught at the latter — but homeschooling remained the constant. Somewhere along the way, a familiar problem kept surfacing among her circle of homeschooling friends: There just weren't enough quality places nearby for their kids to
Photo courtesy of Homeschool Haven Collective
can also learn alongside each other. "We're not doing any direct instruction," said Dr. Rugayya Romain, founder of Homeschool Haven Collective. "Families still own their homeschooling. We provide community, enrichment and support."
get enrichment and social time without driving all over metro Atlanta. "We were driving so far, or we were going to five different places for five different things," Romain said. "It just kept coming up, even amongst all of our friends."
A teacher, then a homeschool mom
Filling a gap in North Fulton
Romain has spent more than 20 years as an educator. She's also homeschooled her own two children, now 15 and 17, for most of their academic lives — a fact she describes with a laugh as job security turned personal calling.
Georgia's homeschooling population has grown steadily since the state legalized the practice in 1984. Nearly 90,000 of Georgia's 1.7 million K-12 students were being homeschooled during the 2024-25 school year, according to the Johns Hopkins Homeschool Hub, making Georgia one of the top homeschooling states in the country. ##
"I'm an educator by trade, and then I've homeschooled my children for 14-plus years, like since they were babies," Romain said. She started homeschooling when her daughter was almost 3 and her son was 11 months old, after taking a break from full-time teaching. Both of her children turned out to be early readers, and once they were tested into an online homeschool charter
Back by popular demand! Sissy Goff & David Thomas from Raising Boys and Girls Friday, September 11 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Free to the public with registration
Featuring insights from their new book, CAPABLE, featured on the Today Show
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Scan the QR code for the full feature article online.
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
Finding Community Between the Pages By Wendy Edwards
T
he wafting blend of benzaldehyde, ethyl hexanol and the faint hint of dust evokes nostalgia for many. For a true bookworm, the familiar scent of thousands of pages as one enters a bookstore or library is an irresistible invitation, promising the next literary adventure. Books offer more than an escape, they also open a window into another world. While reading has long been a solitary pursuit, a growing desire to discuss, dissect and discover new meaning in stories has fueled a resurgence in book clubs. Technology has made finding fellow readers easier than ever, and independent bookstores and libraries are seeing renewed interest as readers gather around every genre imaginable. It’s proof that while technology may bring people together, meaningful conversation is what keeps them coming back.
Technology brings readers together Social media, reading-specific apps and communication platforms have become the gold standard for avid readers seeking instant community.
Johns Creek Book Club with guest Callie Murray. Photo by Sarah Rust
“Bookstagram” and Facebook are used by millions to suggest, discuss and critique books of every genre.
31% in 2025, continuing the steady growth seen since the pandemic. This has given book clubs ample spaces and opportunities to meet in person.
When Lauren Higdon joined the Romance Book Club at Johns Creek Books, she was excited to discover she had an entire community with whom to discuss the books she loved.
Kim McNamara, owner of Read It Again Bookstore on Peachtree Parkway, sees this increase and believes it has benefited the community. It has also prompted her to expand the store's offerings.
“Once I'm done with a book, I tend to go on social media to search for the title and see what other people are saying,” she said. “I read ’Fourth Wing’ right after it came out on a friend's recommendation, and I fell into the #Romantasy Bookstagram algorithm hard. My feed went to nonstop fantasy romance reels almost overnight, so I ended up reading a lot of similar books based on what kept coming up repeatedly.”
“The increase in bookstores has in turn increased the amount of book clubs and events that people are able to attend locally,” McNamara explained. “We have worked to create a third space for our customers where they can come to socialize and form community connections through events and other offerings.”
Fable and Goodreads offer community and discussion through their popular apps. Likewise, platforms such as Discord and Reddit foster live discussions centered on individual books, giving users a taste of what they crave without the face-to-face connection.
Independent bookstores are community driven According to the American Booksellers Association, independent bookstore launches increased by
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“When we expanded in 2019, we added comfy chairs and an open space at the back of the store where people can sit and read. We also have a desk with a typewriter where kids can interact with one for the first time,” she added. These nooks and crannies, strategically placed throughout bookstores, foster community and encourage people to connect. Katie Bossie, owner of Hollow Oak, a bookstore, shop and community gathering space opening at Medley this fall, said, “Indie bookstores have always
and find common ground is a basic human need that technology alone can't fill. Loneliness has become an epidemic in the age of technology, where it is easier to open an app than drive to a bookstore. Yet, many readers are discovering the benefits of the social connections book clubs provide, which can also help combat stress, anxiety and depression. Al Urrutia, a dedicated Johns Creek Books book club patron, currently runs two book clubs and participates in four others. He said he cherishes the intimacy of his groups and has formed lasting bonds with many of the members he meets with. “My 36th birthday was the first birthday that I celebrated with friends as an adult. That wouldn’t have happened without the book clubs. Additionally, within the past week, I’ve seen one of my regulars become a grandma for the first time, which made my heart grow three sizes that day,” Urrutia shared. Sofia Perez has enjoyed being a member of three book clubs for more than a year and a half and often feels the hardest part of reading alone is not having someone to talk to about the books afterward.
Johns Creek Silent Book Club at Ding Tea. Photo by Lauren Higdon
been the beating hearts of the communities they serve and a space for human connection; I think folks are just needing that now more than ever.” “I saw a quote recently that said, ‘We used to go to the internet to escape reality. Now we go to reality to escape the internet,’” she continued. “We are craving ways to connect and be together that are real. Bookstores create space for that.”
Johns Creek Books and the local library Johns Creek Books has been a fixture in the community for nearly eight years, and owner Erin Elwood is proud of the book club offerings at her shop and the life enrichment they bring to the community. With 12 book clubs ranging from fantasy to non-fiction to page-to-screen selections, there's a community waiting for every kind of reader. “I have seen people meet each other and become great friends. They are meeting in book clubs, exchanging numbers and having dinner together,” Elwood said. “They are also finding that they have other hobbies and interests outside of reading, such as going to events like the Renaissance Festival and Dragon Con together.”
“Sunday night book release watch parties can also be a great book club activity,” she added. “The Romance Book Club will celebrate Sarah J. Maas’ new book, “A Court of Thorns and Roses 6” (ACOTAR 6) that will be released in October, and members are encouraged to come dressed up to celebrate the release at midnight.” Libraries have been in operation almost as long as our country has existed, and they have always been places to gather. Yet, the community's growing demand for book clubs has not gone unnoticed by Ellen Baxter, senior librarian and assistant branch manager at the Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library. Baxter hosts an Adult Fiction Book Club at the library, and they have seen an increase in attendance and membership. “We did do a virtual/Zoom meeting during the pandemic, but we all prefer to meet in person. I think the group provides a little bit of community and belonging for those who come,” she said.
Beyond the pages of a book Even though technology might bring people together in an instant, the desire to hold a book in hand, gather, discuss, look into someone's eyes, share emotions
“Book clubs give you the opportunity for a genuine back and forth conversation,” she said. “I also can't emphasize enough how good it has been for my mental health to attend book clubs. For me, book clubs have been a form of behavioral activation, getting me socializing and doing something I love and find rewarding.”
Literary communities and human connection As book clubs continue their resurgence, readers are discovering that the real story often begins after the final page is turned. These literary communities offer the authentic human connection that people have been craving. Through conversation, shared experiences and genuine human connection, readers are reminded that while books have always had the power to transport us, they also have the remarkable ability to bring us together. As Bossie put it, "Books are literally magic. They are a tactile, inexpensive, accessible means to profound transformation and enjoyment. There is nothing better. It doesn't surprise me at all that folks are so eager to celebrate that together in a big way!" ##
Book clubs for August and September hosted at Johns Creek Book Store 6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy., Johns Creek johnscreekbooks.com; 770-696-9999
▪ Books to Screen Book Club – August 4; 7 p.m. The book this month is “Persepolis” by Marjane Satrapi. ▪ “The Future is Female” Sci-Fi Book Club – August 5 and September 2; 7 p.m. August’s book is “Pluralities” by Avi Silver. The book for September is “Synners” by Pat Cadigan.
Daniela Caro of Gold N' Bean Coffee at Read it Again Books
▪ Tina’s August Book Club – August 11 and August 25; 1 p.m. The selected book for August 11 is “Yesteryear” by Caro Claire Burke. The August 25 book is
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“Kin” by Tayari Jones.
Jimenez. September’s book is “Blood Over Bright Haven” by M.L. Wang.
▪ Romance Book Club – August 11 and September 15 at 7 p.m. August’s book selection is “the Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood. The book for September is “How to Fake a Southern Gentleman” by Mayra Cuevas and Marie Marquardt.
▪ Horror Book Club – August 26 and September 30; 7 p.m. The book for August is “Lute” by Jennifer Thorne. September’s book is “The Dangers of Smoking in Bed” by Mariana Enriquez.
▪ AP English for Adults – August 18; 7 p.m. “East of Eden” by John Steinbeck is the book choice for August.
▪ Tina’s September Book Club – September 22; 1 p.m. The book for September is “The Calamity Club” by Kathryn Stockett.
▪ Fellowship of Fantasy – August 19 and September 23; 7 p.m. The book for August is “The Spear Cuts Through Water” by Simon
Additional book clubs may be added to the calendar for August and September. Check the store’s website for more information.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
Beyond the Accolade: Culture, Leadership and Shared Values Make Johns Creek America's Safest City By Arlinda Smith Broady
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Courtesy of Student Leadership NORTH
hen U.S. News & World Report named Johns Creek the Safest Place to Live in the U.S. for 2026–2027, it made headlines. But ask the people who actually live and work here, and they will tell you the real story isn't about rankings at all. It’s about culture.
"We don't focus on that," said Police Chief Mark Mitchell, speaking candidly about the national recognition. "We just focus on knowing that if we claim it, and it goes up, we're going to have to claim [that too]." What Chief Mitchell and other community leaders emphasize instead is a five-tier approach that has quietly transformed Johns Creek into a place where safety feels less like a statistic and more like a shared responsibility.
The foundation: people and partnership With a median household income of $167,051 and a median home value of $588,835, according to U.S. News & World Report data, Johns Creek attracts families seeking both prosperity and peace of mind. The city's 78,408 residents enjoy a 2.86% unemployment rate and an average commute time of about 28 minutes. But numbers alone don’t explain the community's success.
Police Chief Mark Mitchell
firefighters; a supportive community that sees law enforcement as partners, not adversaries; supportive city management; and strong leadership from the mayor and council. To that, he adds a fifth: robust partnerships with local, state and federal agencies. "We can't police this city without the partnerships and relationships we've built," Mitchell explained. "It's a five-tier approach, and we don't take it for granted. We realize it could go up at any moment."
Chief Mitchell credits four foundational elements for his department's effectiveness: top-tier officers and
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Courtesy of City of Johns Creek
Culture as currency Elizabeth Warren, one of the city's first employees in 2007, frames the safety question differently. She moved to Johns Creek for the schools — a draw that remains the primary reason families relocate here. But she has witnessed something else emerge over the years: a cultural shift that prioritizes connection over enforcement. "Everyone in the city — the residents, law enforcement, city management, nonprofits, churches — was
pulling together toward similar goals," Warren said. "That has definitely made a difference." This wasn't accidental. Chief Mitchell and his team have intentionally built what they call "actionable values" into the department's DNA. The police department's mission statement is simple: "Our community. Our commitment. Making a difference." But the values that drive daily work are more nuanced. They include service above self, building trusting relationships, humility, effective communication, continuous growth, accountability and respect and care for others. "We all count ourselves as leaders in the department," Mitchell said. "You don't have to have rank here to be a leader. All of us are community-oriented police officers."
The “us-versus–them” problem Across the nation, residents often raise the perception that law enforcement has shifted from "serve and protect" to something more adversarial. Chief Mitchell said he doesn’t dismiss the concern. Instead, he frames the solution as balance. "It's a two-way street. It's a partnership. It's working together," he said. "Built through communication, built through transparency and sometimes built through uncomfortable conversations." The department's approach to this is strategic: officers engage with the community not just during emergencies, but at concerts, community events and leadership programs. They ask residents how they can help, what problems need solving and how they can build trust. "The more we engage with our citizens and protect our citizens, they're going to see that our officers are not robots," Mitchell explained. "They're going to see that our officers are human, just like they are, and that we're approachable."
department offers mentorship programs, leadership training, wellness initiatives and holistic health support addressing mental, physical and spiritual well-being. "If you add value to your employees, they're more likely to stay with you than leave," Mitchell said. "We focus a lot on retention. Sometimes in law enforcement, we get lost in the recruitment piece and don't focus enough on retention." He emphasized that leadership at every level — from administrative assistants to patrol officers — matters. "Everybody has their own special niche in this organization that really makes this engine go," he said. "If we didn't have them, it wouldn't be as good as it is today."
Youth factor Irene Sanders, executive director of Student Leadership NORTH (formerly Student Leadership Johns Creek), sees the safety picture from a different vantage point. Her program, now in its 15th year, engages nearly 250 high school students annually through a rigorous two-year curriculum that includes ride-alongs with police, tours of fire stations and behind-the scenes looks at city government. Irene Sanders
"We moved to Johns Creek because of the schools," Sanders said. "Public safety was a byproduct, and people wanted this to be a really amazing community." But the program does more than showcase city services. It builds relationships between young people and the officials who serve them. Police officers teach students what to do if pulled over. Fire chiefs demonstrate equipment. City staff explains how traffic lights work. "[The students] feel like they can speak to people who aren't necessarily their peers," Sanders explained. "They feel empowered by being able to reach out and say, 'I don't really like this about Johns Creek,' and know that leaders will listen." Alumni of the program — many now attending schools like Harvard, Stanford and West Point — return to mentor current students, creating a virtuous cycle of civic engagement.
Infrastructure and growth While Johns Creek celebrates its safety ranking, community leaders acknowledge ongoing challenges. The city's rapid growth has put a strain on infrastructure. Roads have required significant investment since incorporation in 2007. Sidewalk improvements continue cyclically.
Building a winning team With 88 sworn officers and 109 total employees, the Johns Creek Police Department is lean but effective. Right now, the department has only three openings — an impressive feat in an era when law enforcement agencies nationwide struggle with recruitment and retention. Chief Mitchell attributes this success to intentional focus on employee wellness and development. The
But the lack of commercial development — which comprises only about 20% of tax revenue compared to 80% residential in the city — has shaped the community's character. There is no interstate running through Johns Creek. No major commercial corridor. No sprawling entertainment district. "People move here because they don't want a big development," noted Warren who serves on the board of directors for Student Leadership NORTH. "They want a quieter, more residential community."
It's a two-way street. It's a partnership. It's working together. Built through communication, built through transparency and sometimes built through uncomfortable conversations. — Police Chief Mark Mitchell
The Johns Creek Historical Society currently operates from a resident's living room. A historic cemetery with 177 graves of formerly enslaved people awaited maintenance funding. A 100-year-old tree in a shopping center was recently removed to make room for commercial development. "We actually have some history here," Sanders said. "We're not just a cut-through city."
The work continues As Johns Creek basks in its national recognition, Chief Mitchell and other leaders remain focused on the daily work of maintaining what they have built. The message is consistent: don't become complacent. Don't take safety for granted. Don't stop improving. "We're a work in progress, striving to get better every day in every aspect of what we do," Mitchell said. Mayor John Bradberry echoed this sentiment in a statement about the U.S. News ranking: "The Council and I remain committed to enhancing quality of life and ensuring Johns Creek remains a safe, welcoming place for residents, businesses and families." What makes Johns Creek America's safest city isn't a single policy or program. It is the alignment of excellent schools, intentional leadership, community engagement, employee investment and a shared cultural commitment to serving one another. In other words, it is everything working together — all the time, with no shortcuts and no guarantees. That’s the real story behind the accolade. ##
Scan the QR code for the U.S. News ranking site.
Sanders added a note of concern about preservation. “I would like to see more emphasis on our history,” she said.
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
JCSO’s 20th Anniversary Season: “BECOMING” The symphony’s milestone season will explore community, innovation and the future of orchestral music in north metro Atlanta
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he Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra (JCSO) recently shared details about its upcoming 20th anniversary season. Titled “BECOMING,” the yearlong celebration will honor the orchestra’s legacy while advancing an ambitious vision for its future. Founded in 2006 by Wayne Baughman, JCSO has grown into one of north metro Atlanta’s leading cultural institutions, serving audiences through professional performance, education and community partnerships. According to a statement from the JCSO, Season 20 arrives at a pivotal moment in the organization’s history, honoring two decades of growth while looking ahead under Music Director Hen-
Photos courtesy of JCSO
ry Cheng and Executive Director Philip Kim. “BECOMING is about more than a season of concerts,” said Cheng. “It reflects our belief that orchestras must continue to evolve alongside the communities they serve.”
Exploring community connection through music JCSO’s BECOMING, reflects a central question: what can a 21st-century orchestra become, and how can it best serve its community? The season will explore this through a strong foundation of masterworks, alongside innovative programming, new commissions, interdisciplinary collaboration, educational initiatives and expanded geographic reach across north metro Atlanta. The season opens on October 3 with Outdoor Pops: Soundtrack of Us, a free outdoor concert at
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Newtown Park in Johns Creek. Designed as a community-wide celebration, the program will feature iconic popular music and beloved favorites in an accessible setting for audiences of all ages. Bringing families, neighbors, and generations together, the concert will celebrate the shared soundtrack of a community and mark the beginning of the 20th anniversary season. On October 9, JCSO will present Tchaikovsky + Stravinsky at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center’s Byers Theatre, marking an expansion of the orchestra’s regional presence. Featuring acclaimed violinist Simon Zhu (winner of the 57th International Violin Competition “Premio Paganini”) and the Michael O’Neal Singers, the program will celebrate 20 years of exceptional orchestral artistry through timeless masterpieces, world-class guest artists and
inspiring new discoveries. The evening will include Christopher Tin’s “Sogno di Volare,” “Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto” and Stravinsky’s “Firebird Suite,” creating a powerful artistic centerpiece for the season. On November 14, the innovative Soundcraft Symphonic Experience will advance JCSO’s Music and Technology initiative. Centered on Terry Riley’s “In C,” this project explores where music, creativity and technology come together. Through interactive workshops led in partnership with digital creator JazziiRed, students will help build responsive musical environments within Minecraft, culminating in a live performance experience where technology, imagination and orchestral music intersect in real time.
communities together during the holiday season. Blending beloved seasonal favorites with fresh musical perspectives, the program “invites audiences to gather, celebrate and create memories that last long after the music ends.” The season concludes on April 10, 2027, with Beethoven’s Fifth & Mahlon Berv World Premiere, presented as part of JCSO’s Music as Healing initiative.
Continuing the season
This spring program pairs Beethoven’s iconic Fifth Symphony with a new work by Young Composer-in-Residence Mahlon Berv, created in collaboration with Full Radius Dance. Together, music and movement explore themes of accessibility, embodiment and human experience, creating a powerful and thought-provoking conclusion to the anniversary season.
The season continues on December 5, with Holiday Pops: From Our Family to Yours at Innovation Academy in Alpharetta. Featuring the Christmas Voices of Johns Creek and new arrangements by Composer-in-Residence Michael Duff, the concert will celebrate the sounds, memories and traditions that bring
“Season 20 reflects our commitment to pushing artistic and institutional boundaries,” said Executive Director Philip Kim. “We are building an orchestra that is not only excellent on stage, but continually evolving in how it serves, connects and expands what orchestral music can be in our community.”
Education and community engagement While performances form the public face of the season, BECOMING also reflects JCSO’s broader, ongoing commitment to education and community engagement.
Additional community programs and collaborations further extend access to live orchestral music beyond the concert hall. Over the past twenty years, Johns Creek has grown into one of the most dynamic and diverse communities in the Southeast. BECOMING reflects that evolution, bringing together worldclass artistry, education, innovation and community connection. As the orchestra enters its third decade, this season stands as both a celebration and a commitment: honoring the people who built the organization while reaffirming its continued evolution as a cultural institution for generations to come.
More about the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra Now in its 20th season, the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra provides world-class musical enrichment through concerts, educational programming and special events. Founded by Music Director Emeritus J. Wayne Baughman, and under the new direction of Music Director Henry Cheng, the orchestra is composed of professional musicians from across
metro Atlanta and remains deeply rooted in serving the cultural life of the Johns Creek community. ##
For more information about Season 20: BECOMING, scan the QR code or visit johnscreeksymphony.org.
The orchestra continues to serve thousands of students annually through its Meet the Orchestra program, school partnerships, artist residencies and innovative initiatives throughout Fulton County and north metro Atlanta.
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
After 35 Years in Real Estate, Native Atlantan Still Believes Relationships Are Her Best Investment By Arlinda Smith Broady
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ong before buyers scrolled through online listings or sellers obsessed over Zestimate values, Teri Frye was building a real estate career the old-fashioned way — earning trust one family at a time.
A native Atlantan who grew up in what was then the rural Dunwoody area, Frye has spent the past 35 years helping clients navigate one of life's biggest decisions. Along the way, she's weathered booms and busts, watched neighborhoods transform and embraced technology that has forever changed the business. Through it all, one thing has remained constant. "It's about serving people," Frye said. "Financial success is truly a byproduct of serving others." That philosophy has shaped not only her business but also the team she's built around it.
Built to last In an industry where agents often come and go, longevity is one of Frye's greatest accomplishments. She and her husband, Pete, who will celebrate their 41st wedding anniversary in December, have been business partners for nearly three decades. Their son, Max, joined the family business five years ago after growing up watching his parents juggle clients, contracts and family life. Their daughter, Kristen, has built a career as a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). Today, Frye's greatest title may be grandmother. Their granddaughter, who turns two this fall, has brought a new kind of joy. "There's nothing better than being a grandparent," Frye said with a smile. "It's hard to explain until you experience it." The same loyalty that defines her family extends to her business. One teammate has worked alongside Frye for nearly 30 years. Another has been with her for almost two decades. Those relationships weren't created through recruitment strategies or corporate growth plans. "They were organic," Frye said.
From l to r, Anna Armstrong, Max Frye, Teri Frye and Pete Frye and Kim Scruggs. Photo by Kendall Lauren Media
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She recalls when longtime team member Kim Scruggs unexpectedly learned she was expecting twins after already having two young children. "She said, 'I have my license. I need to get out of the house. I'll work nights and weekends,'" Frye recalled. "I said, 'Great. I could use another hand.'" Nearly three decades later, they're still working together.
"We've kind of grown up together in the business," Frye said.
More than a team Listening to Frye describe her colleagues, it's hard to tell where the workplace ends and family begins. There are no rigid job descriptions or layers of management. Everyone answers phones, solves problems, pitches in and supports one another. "We all roll up our sleeves," she said. "Everybody does what needs to be done." That mindset doesn't stop with their own clients. When another Realtor recently needed someone to handle a walkthrough because of a family emergency, Frye immediately volunteered members of her team. The other agent offered to pay them, but Frye wouldn't hear of it. "We're team-focused," she said. "It's not about me. It's about helping." That servant's heart has become one of the defining characteristics of her business.
The work no one sees
This home is located in Country Club of the South Photo by Mary Powell Photography
Buying or selling a home can look deceptively simple from the outside. Clients see showings, contracts and closing day celebrations. They rarely see the negotiations, phone calls, research and problem-solving happening behind the scenes. "Our goal is for our clients not to know all the challenges we're working through," Frye said. "We want the process to be seamless."
helping people."
A heart for the community That commitment to helping extends beyond real estate. Over the years, Frye has supported numerous charitable organizations, including food banks, Ronald McDonald House, Drake House and HomeAid Atlanta, the charitable foundation of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association that focuses on helping individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
After three decades in real estate, she believes one of the biggest misconceptions is that all agents provide the same level of expertise. “Consumers think it's a level playing field,” she said. “It's not.” Rather than criticizing less-experienced agents, Frye prefers to explain what experience brings. Her team constantly studies neighborhood trends, tracks inventory, follows pricing patterns and analyzes market data by community and price range. The habit grew out of lessons learned during the housing crash of 2008.
Her compassion also often takes a quieter form. She keeps gallon-sized bags in her vehicle stocked with bottled water, juice boxes, crackers, fruit cups and other essentials to hand out to people experiencing homelessness. "My heart is with people in need," she said. She also worries about children who struggle with food insecurity and hopes to find more ways to support school lunch programs so no child goes hungry because of an unpaid balance. "I think there are a lot of people hurting right now," Frye said. "If we can help, we should."
"We got caught with our pants down," Frye said candidly. "We learned that if you're watching the numbers, you can see trends developing." Today, she reviews market statistics weekly, looking for patterns that help clients make informed decisions. "You don't have a crystal ball," she said. "But you do develop instincts from being in the market every day." Technology is a tool, not an expert Frye appreciates the convenience technology has brought to the industry. Buyers can preview homes online before scheduling a showing. Sellers have more access than ever to neighborhood information and market activity. But she also believes easy access to information has created a false sense of expertise. "Technology is wonderful," she said. "But it can make people think they know everything." She often meets homeowners who are convinced their property is worth more because of an online estimate or because they remember what homes sold for during the frenzy of 2021 and early 2022. Instead of dismissing them, she asks questions. "Tell me how you arrived at that number." The conversation usually opens the door to discussing market conditions, comparable sales and the difference between online estimates and current market value. "It's not about telling someone they're wrong," Frye said. "It's understanding how they got there." She believes education — not pressure — is what ultimately helps clients make confident decisions.
Pete and Teri Frye. Photo courtesy of Teri Frye
Doing what's right Ask Frye what has sustained her business for 35 years, and she doesn't mention awards or sales numbers. She talks about relationships. "Our business is probably 99% referral-based," she said. "You don't get that unless you do the right thing." Sometimes doing the right thing means putting someone else's interests ahead of your own. She remembers helping a family relocating to metro Atlanta who insisted on buying in a neighborhood she didn't believe would be the right fit. Before they closed, Frye made them a promise. "If you're not happy, call me." Nine months later, they did. She honored her commitment, helped them sell the home at minimal cost and found a community that better suited their family's lifestyle. In other situations, her team has paid for staging, packing assistance or home preparation for older homeowners and families facing financial hardship. "We do whatever we need to do," she said. "It's about
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A reputation earned over time Markets will continue to change. Interest rates will rise and fall. Technology will evolve. Buyers and sellers will always face uncertainty. Frye has learned that while real estate constantly changes, people don't. They still want someone they can trust. Someone who listens before giving advice. Someone who will tell them what they need to hear instead of what they want to hear. After 35 years, that's the reputation Frye hopes she's earned — not simply for helping clients buy and sell homes, but for walking beside them through life's transitions with honesty, compassion and unwavering commitment. ##
To learn more about the Frye Team, scan the QR code.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
The Art Center Gala: Celebrating 30 Years On September 18, The Art Center in Johns Creek, a legacy non-profit partner of Fulton County Arts and Culture, will host a 30th Birthday Celebration Gala at St Ives Country Club, marking 30 years of bringing quality arts programming to the North Fulton community.
Timeless Japan: Atlanta’s JapanFest Returns for A Weekend of Culture and Entertainment By Shawne Taylor
The Gala will be a joyful gathering honoring The Art Center’s decades of impact in the community and will feature a silent auction that includes original pieces created by some of its talented teaching artists, as well as a live auction hosted by the energetic “Rocktioneer,” Seth Weiner. Guests will also enjoy a meal of heavy hors d’oeuvres while mingling, listening to live music and playing party games.
Fun with a purpose Proceeds from the 30th Birthday Celebration Gala benefit The Art Center’s community programming initiatives, which include free and reduced-cost arts programs for underserved and atrisk communities. The Art Center partners with local Title I schools and non-profit organizations like The Drake House to bring much needed arts education to young children who would otherwise lack access to opportunities to develop their creative skills. These programs give at-risk youth a healthy outlet to explore feelings and express their unique voices in a supportive environment while also supporting the careers of working artists and educators in our community. The generosity and support of the Johns Creek community make it possible for The Art Center to continue the expansion of its outreach programs and its on-site education opportunities.
Gala details Date: Time: Location:
Dress Code:
Friday September 18 6 p.m.-9 p.m. St Ives Country Club, 1 St Ives Country Club Dr., Johns Creek, 30097 Cocktail attire
For tickets and sponsorship information, visit theartcenter30th.virtualgala.events or itstheartcenter.org.
Matsuriza Taiko. Photo courtesy of JapanFest.
S
Photo courtesy of JapanFest.
eptember in metro Atlanta is typically filled with community festivals and fall fairs as neighbors gather to celebrate the start of cooler weather, community and shared interests. One festival, in particular, stands out, continuing to grow in size and popularity more than 20 years after its founding.
JapanFest Atlanta, a production of the educational nonprofit, JapanFest Inc. and supported by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, the Japan-American Society of Georgia and the Consulate-General of Japan is a two-day, family-friendly, cultural event designed to promote friendship and exchange between the Japanese and American communities in the Southeast. One of the largest Japanese festivals in the country, it features two full days of performances, interactive experiences, delicious food and a bustling Japanese marketplace. Thousands attend each year, with all age groups represented. Young kids, teens, adults, families, cosplayers, gamers, anime
fans and anyone who wants to enjoy an immersive dive into Japanese culture will find something to celebrate at the annual event. This year’s JapanFest — with the theme “Timeless Japan” — takes place September 19–20 at the Gas South Convention Center in Duluth and will showcase Japanese products, entertainment, culture and cuisine through returning vendors and performers as well as a few new offerings.
“Timeless Japan” 2026 highlights and headliners Broadway performer and Rakugo master storyteller, hailed as the “King of Kimono Comedy,” Katsura Sunshine makes another appearance at the festival this year, sharing humor and captivating renditions of classic Japanese tales. There will also be performances by the Matsuriza Taiko Japanese Drum Troupe and Samurai Sword Soul, as well as sumo, karate, kendo and kyudo martial arts demonstrations. Blending traditional taiko rhythms with dynamic choreography and a powerful stage presence, the world-renowned Matsuriza Taiko drummers
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Katsura Sunshine's RAKUGO at New World Stages in NYC. Photo credit: Richard Termine 2022.
— a festival favorite — will once again fill the room with heart-pounding percussion and energy. Samurai Sword Soul, a theatrical martial arts group founded by Yoshi Amao (of the FX series Shōgun), also returns with dramatic swordplay and interactive demonstrations that put you right in the action. Other 2026 performers scheduled to appear include Junko Fujiyama, Akua Shin, Sleep & Loop, Haruka Nakashima and Video Game Alliance.
Photo credit: Boon Vong (b
Special guest performers, Waves of Harmony (a traditional shamisen group) and HARIBOW (an award-winning, Japan-based Double Dutch performance team), will also take to the stage to round out the weekend’s live entertainment.
The exhibits fill a spacious hall at the convention center and are a draw to kids as well as adults.
Product showcase: Japan meets Georgia
While the performances and exhibits alone are worth the trip, JapanFest Atlanta gives attendees the opportunity to do more than just watch — it encourages participation.
The festival’s product showcase is another highlight, featuring booths and interactive exhibits from JapanFest sponsors and Japanese companies. Guests can explore the latest in technology, automobiles, tractors, electronics, video games and more. Several of the over 500 Japanese-affiliated companies based in Georgia also take part in the festival, displaying and demonstrating their products in the Japanese Businesses in Georgia (JBiG) exhibition.
b-vong.com)
Hands-on experiences: workshops, games, crafts and shopping
Throughout the weekend, guests can explore traditional arts and cultural practices, including calligraphy, a food-replica craft, a tatami mat craft, ikebana flower arranging and even kimono try-ons. Ginza Street, a festival area evoking the feel of a traditional Japanese summer festival, features authentic games, gifts and shopping, along with mizuame (candied fruit) and other snacks. Learn your fortune with an omikuji. Often seen at Japanese shrines and temples, the omikuji is a slip of paper that reveals your fortune and offers advice. If your fortune is not so good, you can tie it to the omikuji tree, leaving your bad luck there rather than having it follow you home. At the festival’s Children’s Area,
kids of all ages can make their own Japanese crafts and toys, play games to win prizes and even take part in carrying a traditional Japanese portable shrine in the o-mikoshi parade. Finally, with over 140 vendor booths offering an array of Japanese goods, including kimonos, Japanese tea, dolls, hand-made crafts, anime and manga goods and more, you can easily spend a whole afternoon browsing and shopping. Japanese video game experiences and cosplayers add to the weekend’s fun.
A welcoming and accessible experience JapanFest Atlanta organizers say they are committed to making the festival accessible and welcoming to everyone. For the past several years, they have provided American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation for the Sunday Rakugo performance. And they donate admission tickets to low-income individuals and veterans to help make the festival more accessible to our community. This year, they are also partnering with the Gwinnett Special Needs School to further expand their accessibility efforts.
A fun treat for 2026 will be the viral sushi push pops from Alpharetta’s SushiYOKO Tomato 2. Adults will also be able to enjoy a selection of Japanese beers and sake in a relaxed, open-air setting or while taking in live performances.
Event details JapanFest 2026 takes place September 19 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and September 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Gas South Convention Center on Sugarloaf Parkway. Parking: $5 (online in advance); $10 day-of. Credit or debit card only. Advanced tickets: $20.78 per day; $38.24 for a two-day pass (purchased online) including the facility fee Children 6 and under: FREE Group tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations looking to support the festival and gain a larger presence in the Japanese-American community. Guests and workshop offerings are subject to change. Full event schedules, performer updates and ticket info can be found at japanfest.org. Scan the QR code to learn more. ##
“Together, we will create a dedicated sensory room where guests can take a break from the sights and sounds of the festival,” said Kazuko Lillie, manager of JapanFest. “Teachers from the school will generously volunteer their time to help support visitors using the space.” JapanFest will also donate more than 100 admission tickets to the special needs school.
New this year Also new this year, JapanFest is introducing the mARbie app, available at the venue during the event. Created by MarbleXR Inc., a Japan-based XR company specializing in augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) experiences, the app will allow attendees to “explore locations, experience AR content, take photos with digital characters and objects and create memorable interactive experiences.” Scan the QR code for the app.
Street food, treats and sake
Photos this page credit: Boon Vong (b-vong.com)
ery palate.
Of course, one of the biggest and best parts of JapanFest is the food. Last year, the Japanese Food Court & Beer Garden expanded to include more options, and this year’s festival builds on that. From steaming bowls of ramen and savory yakisoba to sushi rolls, mochi and kakigōri (shaved ice), there will be something to please ev-
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JapanFest rules & bag policy To create a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, JapanFest is continuing a new bag policy that was implemented in 2025. Approved bags include •
clear vinyl, plastic or PVC bags (12” x 6” x 12” or smaller)
•
diaper bags (if accompanied by a child)
•
small clutch bags
•
drawstring bags (12” x 12” or smaller)
•
Medically necessary items of any sizes
Suitcases, non-clear backpacks and other large bags are not allowed. Random checks may be performed by security. Rules for cosplay, attire and weapons are also in place. Check the website for the full list.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 | thejohnscreekmagazine.com
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THE ART CENTER’S 30TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION GALA FFFFFF SSSSSSSSS 1888 | 6:00-9:00 AA SS. IIII CCCCCCC CCCC
The Art Center is celebrating its 30th year in the community, and you’re invited! Join us for our Birthday Celebration Gala and enjoy a memorable night of heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music, party games, and incredible auction pieces.
Reserve your tickets at theartcenter30th.virtualgala.events
ART CLASSES FOR ALL AGES!
Make new freinds and learn new skills in a welcoming and supportive environment. Classes include drawing, painting, ceramics, theatre arts, jewelry, silk painting, and more!
6290 Abboos Bridge Road Bldg 700 Johns Creek, GA 30097
itstheartcenter.org
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