THE CREEK - a Johns Creek Magazine - Feb-March 2026

EDUCATION

GAC’s walkable 90-acre campus is located in Norcross, ½ mile off I-85 . Thanks to our robust transportation system, GAC students come from 79 zip codes and 13 counties across Metro Atlanta. Our executive shuttles stop near St. Ives, Sweet Bottom Plantation, Country Club

Stephanie Donaldson, executive director of The Art Center, is one of 11 Faces of Johns Creek featured on our cover.

With more than a decade of leadership in nonprofit arts organizations, she has expanded access to creativity while strengthening community partnerships.

As The Art Center celebrates its 30th anniversary, Donaldson continues to champion inclusive, mission-driven programming that brings people together through the arts.

Rico Figliolini Publisher

Taylor Managing Editor

Arlinda Smith Broady Senior Writer

Kristen Corley Writer Mitali Singh Writer

Harry Pinkney Graphic Designer

Alex Chapman Social Media Manager

Julie Davis Account Executive Rey Corpuz Business Development 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.

Advertising and corporate sponsorship inquiries can be directed to rico@mightyrockets.com

Local Stories. Real Community.

I’m really excited to share something new with you — THE CREEK: A Johns Creek magazine.

For almost seven years now, we’ve been telling the stories of Peachtree Corners, Norcross, Duluth and Berkeley Lake; highlighting the people, businesses and moments that make those communities feel like home. That’s always been the point for us, celebrating what’s local and what matters.

Launching in Johns Creek just makes sense to me. Our approach isn’t changing. We’re not chasing trends or filling pages with generic lifestyle fluff. We care about the local stuff. We care about the small businesses, nonprofits, artists, students, teachers and neighbors who quietly make this community special. Whether it’s a local orchestra putting on world-class performances, The Art Center and their summer camps or a business going the extra mile for a school, those are the stories we love to tell.

We’re also a digital-first media company, which means we meet our community where they already are. You’ll find our stories, written by our dedicated staff and freelancers, on our website, across social media, in our video podcasts and in our newsletters — so you can read, watch and share them in whatever way works best for you.

And while a lot of publications are moving away from print, we’re sticking with it. I still believe there’s something powerful about a high-quality magazine you can hold in your hands — one that features your neighbors, your kids and the places you actually recognize. From what I’ve seen, communities still want that.

With THE CREEK, I invite Johns Creek to be part of the conversation. Share your stories, your ideas and what you care about. Whether you’re a reader, a business owner or just someone who loves this place, we’re here to help keep the community connected.

Welcome to THE CREEK. We’re glad you’re here.

Rico Figliolini, Publisher

Five participants will win $30 gift cards just for sharing their picks for the top three in each category in this reader-driven survey. Scan

Events, concerts and theatre First Up

ONGOING

Art Classes at The Art Center

Various days/times

The Art Center

6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448

Admission: $150–$400

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.

Homeschool Adventures

Thursdays, February–May

10 a.m.-12:30 a.m. (ages 5–9)

10 a.m.-2 p.m. (ages 10–14)

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve

9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek autreymill.org; 678-366-3511

Cost: $35–$50 per session; $30–$45 for members

Offered weekly through May, this dropoff homeschool program provides an exciting learning experience that engages students in topics that combine environmental studies, nature, heritage and general science. Registration is required.

Peachtree Corners

Photography Club Group Meet Up

February 12 and March 12

6:45-8:30 p.m.

Atlanta Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners

pcphotoclub.org

Admission: free

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.

Dates to Remember

FEBRUARY

1 First day of Black History Month

FEBRUARY

February 7–March 7

Black Joy as Power and Resistance: African American Printmakers

The Art Center

6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448

Admission: free

This exhibit showcases a collection of work from African American printmakers in celebration of Black History Month. There will also be a closing reception on March 7 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., free and open to the public.

February 12

Teacher Appreciation Event

5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448

Admission: free

Teachers from Fulton, Forsyth and Gwinnett counties are invited to enjoy an evening of crafts and fun, with hors d’oeuvres from Longhorn Steakhouse. Free to attend, but register with your school email address to hold your spot.

February 12–14

Silverbacks Park Creek Cup

Johns Creek High School & Northview High School

Multiple times

Tickets: $10 tinyurl.com/creekcup

One of the state’s most competitive high school soccer tournaments returns for its second year. With matches hosted at Johns Creek High School and Northview High School, the bracketed event will feature 16 of the top boys and girls teams from across the Southeast in a weekend of competitive play.

February 13

Galentine’s Day

6 p.m.-8 p.m.

The Forum at Peachtree Corners 5155 Peachtree Pkwy. theforumpeachtree.com; 770-375-4272

Admission: free

Grab your bestie and enjoy an ultimate ‘girls’ night out’ at The Forum. Activities include deals and specials from onsite retailers and restaurants, a popup bar with signature cocktails, craft stations, swag items and a rom-com on The Plaza’s LED screen.

February 13

The JCSO Hearts and Harmony Gala

6:30 p.m.

The Atlanta Athletic Club 1930 Bobby Jones Dr., Johns Creek cbo.io/app/public/bidapp/jcso2026

Tickets: $200+

Enjoy an evening filled with live performances by Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra musicians, exceptional food and champagne, dancing and a benefit auction conducted by esteemed auctioneer, Dean Crownover. All proceeds will support the JCSO.

February 16–28

Lunar New Year High School Exhibition

The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448

Admission: free

This special exhibit featuring Lunar New Year themes, symbols, characters and motifs showcases original artwork submitted by high school students in Fulton, Forsyth, DeKalb and Gwinnett counties. A closing reception with awards will be held February 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

February 18

Fellowship of Fantasy Book Club

7 p.m.

February 18–March 15

Atlanta

Multiple days/times ajff.org/2026

Tickets: $72–$180 (ticket packages)

Johns Creek Books

6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy., Johns Creek

johnscreekbooks.com; 770-696-9999

Join fellow book lovers and readers at this monthly book club meetup focused on the fantasy genre. The book for February is “The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms” by N.K. Jemisin.

February 21

Johns Creek Mobility for All 5K

8 a.m.

Cauley Creek Park 7255 Bell Rd., Johns Creek runsignup.com/races

Registration: $35 run/walk; $30 virtual 5K

All ages and abilities are welcome to join in, including teams and those with strollers or leashed dogs. Register to participate or come out to cheer everyone on. Post-run festivities include food, music, vendors and family-friendly activities.

February 21

Lunar New Year Celebration

11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Atlanta Athletic Club fields 1930 Bobby Jones Dr., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov

Admission: free

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at this family-friendly event featuring vendors, food trucks, live performances, activities and more.

18

18 Ramadan starts (tentative date)

The 26th annual film festival showcasing Jewish culture and cinematic storytelling takes place at venues throughout metro Atlanta with screenings, a gala and closing night award show. Streaming of the festival will be available online from March 6–15.

February 21

Bowls! Ceramic Sale & Chili Cook-Off

4 p.m.-7 p.m.

The Art Center

6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448

Admission: free

Open to the public and free to attend, this annual event features hundreds of handmade bowls for sale, live pottery demonstrations, free chili tasting and refreshments and a silent auction.

February 23

Ukulele Story Jam

10:30 a.m.-11 a.m.

Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library

9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300

Admission: free

Join Ms. Joy for a lively story time filled with songs, stories and movement. This interactive program features fun sing-alongs with the ukulele. For ages 5 and under.

February 24

“Literary Award-Winning TBR” Book Club

7 p.m.

Johns Creek Books

6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy., Johns Creek

johnscreekbooks.com; 770-696-9999

This monthly club focuses on award-winning books you keep meaning to read, but “they just sit on your TBR (to-be-read) shelf.” February’s book is “The Vanishing Half” by author Brit Bennett.

February 25

Horror Book Club

7 p.m.

Johns Creek Books

6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy., Johns Creek johnscreekbooks.com; 770-696-9999

Join fellow horror readers at this month’s book club meetup to discuss the novel “Lone Women” by Victor Lavalle (author of “The Changeling”).

been adapted for the stage by the movie’s original screenwriter. Three evening showtimes and a Saturday matinee are scheduled. Reserved seating. Tickets are available now.

February 27

2026 Health & Wellness Expo

11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Johns Creek Baptist Church

11695 Johns Creek Pkwy., Johns Creek

Admission: free

The Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce is hosting this full-day event, connecting the community with trusted health, wellness and lifestyle resources — along with panels, education, a monitoring & screening zone and a healthy happy hour.

February 28

Cyber Security Workshop

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Ocee Library Branch

5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300

Admission: free

This workshop will provide teens and adults with an introduction to cybersecurity, combining practical safety awareness with an overview of career pathways in the field. Sponsored by the Information Security Association, Gwinnett Technical College student chapter. Registration is required and opens February 14.

February 28

Girls Night Out

7 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Johns Creek UMC

11180 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek johnscreekchorale.com/get-tickets

Tickets: $20.50

February 26–28

“Footloose: The Musical”

Thursday–Saturday, 7 p.m. & Saturday, 1 p.m.

Johns Creek High School

5575 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek jchstheatre.com; 470-254-2138

Tickets: $15 + $1.46 fee

Based on the 1984 film, the story has

March 4

Healing Meditation

11:15 a.m.-12 p.m.

Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek fulcolibrary.org; 404-613-7300

Admission: free

Residents are invited to join this new monthly healing meditation program. Each month, there will be a new topic designed to help recalibrate your energy and bring balance to your mind, body and spirit. Ages 18+.

event, featuring an artisan showcase, classes and workshops.

March 13–21

“The Man from Earth” Fridays-Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.

Live Art Theatre

Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church 3700 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth liveartstheatre.org; 678-615-8392

Tickets: $20 adults; $17 students & seniors; $14 LAT members

About the show: After history professor John Oldman suddenly resigns

March 7

Battle of the Bands

7 p.m.

Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater at Newtown Park 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov/battle-of-the-bands

Admission: free

Presented by Tapestry, the women’s ensemble of the Johns Creek Chorale, this evening of music celebrates the power, beauty and diversity of women’s voices. The program weaves together uplifting choral works, rich harmonies and expressive storytelling.

MARCH

March 3

Seated Floral Arranging Class

1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.

Blossom & Vine

5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206

Admission: $50

From the comfort of your seat at an adjustable-height table, you’ll learn to create a beautiful arrangement with seasonal blooms, guided by an expert instructor. Perfect for all skill levels. Wheelchair accessible. Space is limited. Register online in advance.

One of the city’s most rocking fun events returns for a night of music, community and friendly competition. Local musicians — youth and adult — are invited to apply now to have their band take part in this year’s event, hosted by the City of Johns Creek.

March 13

“Current Events” Book Club

12 p.m.

Johns Creek Books

6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy., Johns Creek

johnscreekbooks.com; 770-696-9999

Join the book club for the March meeting to discuss “Trust: America’s Best Chance” by Pete Buttigieg.

March 13–14

Atlanta Miniature Show by Wilson

Friday, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Hilton Atlanta Northeast 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners, atlantaminiatureshowbywilson.com; 678-210-5873

Admission: $12 for one day; $20 for both days

Georgia’s premier dollhouse miniature

from the university, his colleagues press him for an explanation. They’re shocked to learn that he must move on because he’s immortal and can’t stay in one place for more than ten years. Acclaimed sci-fi writer Jerome Bixby conceived of the story in the 1960s, and it would come to be his last great work.

March 13–April 10

Celebration: Thirty Years of Creativity

The Art Center 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org; 770-623-8448

Admission: free

This springtime student and member showcase marks The Art Center’s 30th anniversary. Exploring a theme of “celebration,” each piece will be a visual interpretation of what it means to celebrate. A “birthday” reception with awards presentation will be held March 21 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

March 14

Luck of the The Forum 4 p.m-6 p.m.

The Forum Peachtree Corners 5155 Peachtree Pkwy. theforumpeachtree.com; 770-375-4272

Admission: free

Experience a purely gold St. Patrick’s Day celebration with live music, dancing and Irish flair. Activities include a bounce slide, airbrush tattoos, a pop-up bar, St. Patrick’s Day swag and more.

March 14–15

“Chinatown Memories”

Gas South Theater

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth gassouthdistrict.com; 770-813-7500

Tickets: $23.60+

This production from the Peachtree Corners-based Atlanta Chinese Dance Company transports audiences to Chinatown through dances inspired by hand-pulled noodles, fresh tea leaves, martial arts films and the Lunar New Year.

March 17

St. Patrick’s Day

Floral Arranging Class

6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Blossom & Vine

5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206

Admission: $85

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a festive floral arranging class. Unleash your creativity and design a stunning arrangement with guidance from an expert florist. Materials, finger foods, wine and tea are included. Space is limited. Register online in advance.

March 19

Resurrection Bowl Easter Arranging Class

6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Blossom & Vine

5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek

blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206

Admission: $95

Unleash your inner artist and craft a “resurrection bowl” tabletop treasure that brings the story of Jesus’ resurrection to life. Perfect for beginners and more seasoned creators. Materials, finger foods, wine and tea are included. Space is limited. Register online in advance.

March 20–21

“Alice in Wonderland” & “Paquita” presented by Perimeter Ballet

Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.

Perimeter Church Sanctuary 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek perimeterballet.com; 678-405-2337

Tickets: $20

This pairing of “Alice in Wonderland” with the classical ballet “Paquita” is a family-friendly production presented by Johns Creek’s Perimeter Ballet.

March 26–29

High School Musical on Stage

Thursday–Saturday, 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.

Northview High School 10625 Parsons Rd., Johns Creek northview.fultonschools.org; 470-254-3828

Tickets: $10 adults; $8 students

Northview High School’s thespian troupe will present this classic musical stage show over three nights in March, with an additional Sunday matinee. Tickets are available now.

March 28

Johns Creek Daffodil Days

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Atlanta Athletic Club fields 1930 Bobby Jones Dr., Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov

Admission: free

With carnival games, thrilling youth rides, inflatables, a petting zoo, jugglers, treats and crafts, this annual event is perfect for all ages. Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are available.

March 28

IMAGINE: It’s Magic!

7:30 p.m.

Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra

Mount Pisgah Church

2850 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek johnscreeksymphony.org; 678-748-5802

Tickets: $42+ adults; $32+ seniors; free for students 21 and under Sparks will fly when vocalist Joan Ellison brings the golden age of studio recording back to life with a swinging celebration of the most dazzling singers, songwriters and arrangers of the twentieth century.

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 1

Easter Centerpiece Arranging Class

6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Blossom & Vine

5950 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206

Admission: $90

Celebrate the season with an Easter-themed floral arranging class. Design and craft an Easter centerpiece under the guidance of an expert florist. Materials, finger foods, wine and tea are included. Space is limited. Register online in advance.

April 3

Easter Bunny Hop

4 p.m.-8 p.m.

The Boardwalk at Town Center 11362 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek Johnscreekga.gov

Admission: free

Take a ‘hop’ around the upper pond of the The Boardwalk at Town Center, stopping at vendors along the way. Collect goodies and snap a picture with the Easter Bunny. More details will be announced soon. ##

THE TOTAL PROJECT COMPANY

Business Organizations and Events

Johns

Creek Chamber of Commerce

11695 Johns Creek Pkwy., Johns Creek johnscreekchamber.com; 770-495-0545

Join the Johns Creek Chamber for Wednesday Weekly Networking meetups in February and March. 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.

February 19

Business After Hours

5 p.m.-7 p.m.

This month’s BAH will take place at The Yellow Chili on Jones Bridge Road. Sign up online if you plan to attend.

February 26

Women’s Networking

9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Join other female professionals for morning networking at the Johns Creek Chamber.

March 19

Business After Hours

5 p.m.-7 p.m.

This month’s BAH will take place at Smoothie King on Medlock Bridge Road. Sign up online if you plan to attend.

March 26

Chicks in Charge

9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Taylor Lodge

11045 Parsons Rd., Duluth

This event is the Johns Creek Chamber’s signature women’s leadership

luncheon, bringing together driven, accomplished women for a day of connection, inspiration and real conversation. There will be a guest speaker and time for networking. Open to all women in business. Register online if you plan to attend.

Greater North Fulton Chamber

10000 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta gnfcc.com; 770-993-8806

February 25

Day at the Capitol

8 a.m.-9:30 a.m.

Georgia State Capitol

206 Washington St. SW, Atlanta

This annual advocacy visit to the state capitol provides North Fulton leaders with direct connection to the legislators shaping the state. During the twohour program, members will receive firsthand updates on issues being monitored for North Fulton. Open to investor-level members only. Register in advance to attend.

March 11

Membership Max

10 a.m.-11 a.m.

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.

March 12

Business After Hours

5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

This after-hours business networking event will be held at the Greater North Fulton Chamber offices. Check the website for updated information. ##

THE CREEK

Our April/May issue of THE CREEK magazine is the Best of Johns Creek a reader’s survey. Visit the website for more information.

Our June/July cover celebrates Pets & Their People, spotlighting local residents and their beloved pets, with a giveaway to match.

Our August/ September cover is the School Issue. Best After 3PM enrichment, test prep, music, tutoring and club sports.

For more information about how to reach our audience, email rico@mightyrockets.com or call 678-438-5310

Johns Creek News and City Updates

Source: the City of Johns Creek | Edited by

Here is a quick roundup of city news, project updates and reminders from the City of Johns Creek. If you’d like to receive regular Johns Creek news and updates from The Creek in your inbox, sign up for our twice-monthly newsletter by scanning the QR code.

Mayor and city councilmembers sworn in for new terms

Mayor John Bradberry and Councilmembers Dilip Tunki, Bob Erramilli and Larry DiBiase were sworn into office by Municipal Court Chief Judge Donald Schaefer during the city council meeting on January 12. Tunki serves City Council Post 1, Erramilli serves Post 3 and DeBiase serves Post 5.

During the meeting, Councilmember Erin Elwood was elected by the council to serve as mayor pro tem.

Water fountains at Johns Creek parks

FYI, if you’re heading out to any of the Johns Creek parks, water fountains are turned off for winter to protect against freezing temperatures. They will be reactivated in March. Park restrooms are still open and have running water, but the city advises you to bring your own water bottles with you if you plan to “hit the trails or playgrounds” this season.

Privet clearing at Shakerag Park

City staff and community volunteers recently removed 300 pounds of Chinese Privet from Shakerag Park.

Chinese privet is an invasive plant species in the Southeast and spreads quickly through roots and seeds. Left unchecked, it crowds out native plants and creates a monoculture that limits food and habitat for local wildlife. Reducing the amount of invasive species helps enhance the local ecosystem.

Business tax certificate renewals

A reminder that Johns Creek business owners can now renew their business occupation tax certificates online through the city’s CSS Portal

Shawne Taylor

for the 2026 calendar year. Business tax renewals will no longer be mailed. Renewals are due by March 31.

Senior Homestead Exemptions for 2026

The Fulton County Board of Assessors is currently accepting applications for new senior homestead exemptions for the Fulton County School District, tax year 2026.

Eligible Johns Creek homeowners that are 65 and over may qualify for significant reductions in school property taxes. Seniors must apply for these exemptions by April 1, even if they already have other exemptions. You can apply online or in person. County staff will review your information and apply all exemptions for which you qualify.

Road Projects

The city has multiple road and traffic-improvement projects ongoing. For regular updates, visit the city website or sign up for project progress email alerts.

Buice Road Bridge replacement

Located between Twingate Drive and Farmbrook Lane, the new bridge over Johns Creek is being elevated to reduce flood risk and include pedestrian access. The sidewalk on the bridge will fill the last remaining gap along the road, completing the Old Alabama Road to Jones Bridge Road pedestrian corridor.

Latest update: In January, work was focused primarily on utility coordination and relocations. The gas line installation has been completed from one end of the project to the opposite side.

What’s Upcoming: Georgia Department of Transportation submittals are under review and once approved, the water line can be removed from the bridge. Utility companies are working on the remaining relocations. Completion of utility work will allow bridge construction to advance, with a tentative bridge closure anticipated in the spring, pending utility completion and delivery of bridge beams.

Construction is expected to be completed in fall 2026.

McGinnis Ferry Road project

The City of Johns Creek recently shared an update on the McGinnis Fer-

ry Road project. Done in partnership with Forsyth County and the Georgia Department of Transportation, the project will widen the roadway from two to four lanes between Douglas Road and Hospital Parkway. The bridge over Caney Creek is also scheduled to be replaced with a box culvert.

Sidewalks and trails included with the project will connect residents to the Big Creek Greenway in the future.

The current phase one (eastern portion) of the two-phase project to widen the road from Ronald Reagan Boulevard to Hospital Parkway is expected to take three years.

Latest update: Utilities, retaining walls and stormwater pipes continue to be installed. Clearing along the project route has been completed.

Upcoming: Retaining wall construction and stormwater utility installation will continue throughout the next several weeks.

Construction is expected to be completed in spring 2028.

Johns Creek Parkway project

As of the start of the year, crews have finished 650 linear feet of the 10-foot trail within the median along Johns Creek Parkway. Additional portions of the curb and gutter have also been completed.

Crews will continue to work on the trails and installing curb on gutter on the western, Life Time Fitness side of the roadway. Traffic will remain on the Medley side (eastern side) until all paving and striping work is complete on the western side.

Construction is expected to be completed this spring.

Medlock Bridge Road pedestrian crossing and tunnel

From the latest update, January 15: Crews have completed backfilling around the tunnel, finished grading the walls and poured asphalt on the roadway on the eastern side of the tunnel.

Medlock Bridge Road northbound and southbound lanes are scheduled to shift towards the east side of Medlock Bridge from Johns Creek Parkway to East Johns Crossing beginning the week of January 19 to prepare for work on the western side of the pedestrian crossing and tunnel.

The speed limit is reduced from 45 mph to 35 mph in the area.

Construction is expected to be completed this spring.

Abbotts Bridge Road (from Parsons Road to Medlock Bridge)

As of January 26, crews have installed sidewalk, curb and gutter in sections along Abbotts Bridge Road. They will continue to construct the retaining wall at the curve and will install stacked stone on several other walls throughout the project route.

Construction is expected to be completed in spring 2027. ##

Camp Compass: STEM, Arts & Outdoors

By Shawne Taylor

Though the new year has just begun and we’re facing several more weeks of winter, some families are already turning their thoughts to summer. Or summer camps, to be more precise.

Finding the right camp for your kids can mean the difference between a good summer break and an awesome summer break, so it’s never too early to start planning.

Fortunately, whether your child is interested in the arts, wants to take a deeper dive into coding or robotics or spend their summer practicing and playing their favorite sport, there are camps in and around Johns Creek to match just about any interest. We’ve gathered some of them below to help you get started. Camps can fill up quickly and many open registration in February. So, check the camps online for dates, prices and more information, and sign up soon to hold your child’s place.

Alliance Theatre Drama Camps – Spring Break & Summer (Duluth)

Gas South Theater in Gwinnett 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth alliancetheatre.org/camps

Take center stage at Drama Camp! Kids can spend spring break and summer with the Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre. With a variety of drama camps for rising grades K-8, each culminating in a short performance for friends and family, your young actor will build character, grow confidence and exercise imagination.

The Art Center Summer Art Camps – Spring Break and Summer (Johns Creek)

The Art Center at Johns Creek 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Building 700, Johns Creek itstheartcenter.org/camps

Get creative with art camps at The Art Center! Their award-winning camps cover a wide range of creative media for students in grades K-12 — drawing

and painting, creative writing, ceramics and pottery, performing arts and more. With over 60 camps to choose from, creative campers have plenty of opportunities to explore the arts and make new friends.

BIA Charter School Summer Camp (Norcross)

186 Hunter St., Norcross 770-538-1550 biaschool.org

BIA Charter School, a K-8 public charter school, is offering a full-day summer camp for rising 1st–9th graders from June 1–July 3 at their campus in historic Norcross. As an extension of the school’s mission and vision, the camp sessions provide opportunities for campers to explore a variety of activities, including fine arts (art, dance, music), culinary and STEM (coding, robotics), as well as a splash of academic support in math and reading. Tuition includes onsite chef-prepared breakfast, lunch and snacks, and an after-care option (until 6pm) is also available.

Big Blue Marble Academy Summer Explorers – Passport to Fun (Johns Creek)

3835 Johns Creek Pkwy., Johns Creek 770-343-4331 bbmacademy.com/programs-old/summer-camp

Big Blue Marble Academy’s full-day summer camps offer immersive adventures and global learning with hands-on, multi-sensory experiences, world language learning, arts & crafts, play and more. Each week, kids dive in and explore a new culture with activities that bring the world to life. Open to campers ages 5–12.

Building Character – Summer Acting Camps (Alpharetta & Roswell)

Three locations (North Point Mall, Old Alabama Road and Old Milton Pkwy.) buildingcharacter.org

With half-day and full-day weekly camp sessions for students K–8 in Alpharetta and Roswell, Building Character offers expert instruction in on-camera acting, improv, musical theater, mime, juggling and more. Campers are divided by age group and each week-long camp culminates in a short performance for friends and family.

Camp All-American – Outdoor Adventure & High-Energy Day Camp (Johns Creek)

9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-405-2266

campallamerican.com

Hosted at Perimeter Church, Camp All-American runs week-long, themed day camps for kids and teens ages 5–17, from the last week of May through the end of July. Featuring ropes courses, zip lines, lake and pool time, sports, arts and high-energy worship moments, the program leans heavily on college-aged counselors, mentoring and camp traditions.

Camp Autrey Mill – Nature & Outdoor Camps (Johns Creek)

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek 678-366-3511

autreymill.org/programs/summer-camp

Camp Autrey Mill provides one-of-a-kind experiences focused on nature, science, history and wildlife. They offer themed weeks from May through July for kids ages 5–11, and each session includes arts & crafts, games, outdoor activities and exploration of the 46-acre nature preserve. Early care and after care hours are available for an additional fee.

Challenge Island Summer Camp – STEAM Program (Johns Creek)

Newtown Park Community Clubhouse 3115 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek 678-512-3200

secure.rec1.com/GA/johns-creek-rpd/catalog

Challenge Island® is a science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) summer enrichment program from the City of Johns Creek, offering weeklong camp sessions in June and July for kids ages 5–10. There are different themes each week, but all sessions include hands-on challenges, activities and fun.

Club SciKidz – STEM & Pop-Culture Science Camps

Multiple locations (including Duluth/Johns Creek) 678-294-9504

atlanta.clubscikidz.com

With locations throughout metro Atlanta, Club SciKidz brings hands-on STEM excitement to kids and teens this summer. Their award-winning day camps inspire curiosity through real science, technology, engineering and creativity. Featured camps include VEX Robotics, AI Explorers, 3D Printing with Minecraft and K-Pop Demon Hunters — along with many other favorite STEM adventures. Perfect for curious minds ages 4–15.

CNC Camp Kingfisher – Day Camps & Specialty Camps (Roswell)

Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell 770-992-2055

chattnaturecenter.org/education/camp/summer-camp

The Chattahoochee Nature Center offers a half-day Owlet camp for four-year-olds and full-day programs for kids ages 5–12, with one-week or two-week sessions. Sorted by age, each camp includes activities such as archery, arts & crafts, canoeing and swimming. There are also specialty camps planned for kids interested in science, gardening and developing survival skills. Partial camp scholarships are available based on financial need.

Code Ninjas – Coding Summer Camps (Suwanee/Sugar Hill)

245 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Sugar Hill

770-353-9946

codeninjas.com/ga-suwanee/camps

Campers at Code Ninjas learn to build their own video games instead of just playing them. With weekly camp sessions focused on basic block coding, programming in Minecraft or Roblox or getting handson in robotics, kids and teens, ages 5–14, gain real skills and have fun doing it.

The CoderSchool – Coding & Computer Camps (Johns Creek)

5025 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 770-919-5894

thecoderschool.com/locations/johnscreek

This Silicon Valley-based company (with over 65 locations around the country) offers week-long summer camps in coding, animating, YouTube content creation, drones, 3D printing and more. Camps are designed for kids ages 6–9, with some specifically for ages 8+ and 9–12. Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Discover Science Center –Science/STEM Camps (Roswell)

2500 Old Alabama Rd., Roswell 770-641-9336

discoversciencecenter.com/day-and-summer-camps

Discover Science Center has been introducing kids to science for over a decade with day camps, homeschool classes, workshops and more. Their summer camp programs incorporate hands-on science learning with fun themes and creative projects that make each week different and interesting for kids ages 6–11. Rocks, dinosaurs, 3D printing, space, mad science and tech are just a few of the session options to choose from.

Duluth’s Best Youth Sports –Summer Camp & After School

4390 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth 470-981-2220 duluthsbestsummercamp.com

Duluth’s Best Youth Sports offers full-day, high-energy, multi-sport camp sessions for K–5th graders. Blending indoor and outdoor sports, martial arts, dance, team games, arts and crafts and more, each day is filled with activity and fun. Staff emphasizes confidence, leadership and positive habits, so kids are working on life skills while they play.

Ed Isakson/Alpharetta Family YMCA – Day Camp & Teen Leadership Camp (Alpharetta)

3655 Preston Ridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-664-1220

ymcaatlanta.org/locations/ed-isaksonalpharetta-family-ymca

The Ed Isakson YMCA provides week-long summer camp sessions, designed to encourage kids to connect, engage and be active. Traditional camps, sports camps and specialty camps are available for kids ages 6–12, and a Teen Leadership Camp is available for older kids. Pre- and post-camp care is offered, and programming is built around the Y’s core values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Flour Power Studios – Summer Cooking Camps (Alpharetta)

Flour Power Cooking Studios 131 Main Street, Alpharetta 470-760-6460

flourpowerstudios.com

Designed to provide a fun, educational and handson experience, Flour Power full-day summer camps offer young chefs (ages 5–12) the opportunity to ex-

plore the world of cooking and learn essential culinary skills. Each week has a theme, with different recipes to learn. Campers also explore food stories, play culinary games and craft creative projects in between their kitchen adventures.

Johns Creek Sports – Athletic Summer Camps (Johns Creek)

Cauley Creek Park and Shakerag Park

678-297-2662

johnscreeksports.com

This non-profit athletic organization manages youth sports at Cauley Creek and Shakerag Parks and serves the City of Johns Creek and North Fulton community. They host summer camp programs in youth soccer, youth cricket and youth flag football.

Kidcreate Studio – Spring & Summer Art Camps (Johns Creek)

3000 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek 678-620-3917

kidcreate.com/johns-creek

Kidcreate Studio’s spring and summer camp program offers single-day or week-long sessions for budding artists ages 5–10. With themes such as Paint Like Picasso, Ooey Gooey Clay Play and Puppies & PJs, campers engage with creative projects, build confidence and have fun — all in a safe, age-appropriate environment.

KidStrong Summer Camps (Johns Creek)

11720 Medlock Bridge Rd. 770-975-2369

johnscreek.kidstrong.com

KidStrong’s summer camps provide opportunities for kids ages 4–11 to build confidence and strength, have fun and make new friends. Certified, experienced coaches lead campers in physical activity, movement, games, teamwork and STEAM activities in each session.

The Little Gym – Indoor Active Camps (Johns Creek)

11585 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 404-458-1059

thelittlegym.com/georgia-alpharetta-johns-creek

The Little Gym offers week-long, half-day summer camp sessions for kids ages 3–12. Combining physical activities and games based on weekly themes, campers can choose from gymnastics camp, Super Quest Camp and Grade School Skill Thrill Camp, depending on age and interest.

Perimeter Ballet – Dance Camps & Summer Intensives (Johns Creek)

9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-405-2337 perimeterballet.com

Perimeter Ballet has been offering dance classes, performances and workshops since 1995. Summer opportunities include God’s Little princess/Prince Camps for preK–3rd grade students, as well as intermediate and advanced summer intensives for dancers with previous experience.

School of Rock – Summer Music Camps (Johns Creek)

School of Rock

10900 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 678-580-1882

schoolofrock.com/locations/johnscreek/music-camps

Budding musicians will enjoy rocking out at the summer camp sessions offered at School of Rock. Themes range from 90s rock, songwriting, recording & production and pop legends to a beginner’s “Rock Camp 101” and a fun, “Classic Rock Rewind Camp.” For ages 6–17. Music camps for preschoolers (ages 3–5) and camps for adults (18+) are also available.

T1 Dance Studio Summer Camps (Johns Creek)

10475 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 470-708-4275 t1dance.com/our-programs

This K-pop and hip hop training studio offers kids summer camps, pre-competition summer intensives and artist development boot camps. Each session features fun themes and skill-building from expert instructors.

Tavani Soccer Camp (Johns Creek & Duluth)

Seven Oaks Neighborhood, Johns Creek tavanisoccer.com

For over 20 years, Tavani Soccer has offered weeklong camps that are designed to be both intense and fun for beginners as well as more experienced players. Campers ages 4–15 are assigned to a coach according to skill and level. Camp staff is a mix of top club and high school coaches, along with college players. Skills camp, junior camp and elite camp are three of the options available. Camp sessions are also offered at Bunten Road Park in Duluth.

Tumbles Johns Creek –Summer Gym & STEAM Camps (Johns Creek)

3005 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek 678-691-4072 johnscreek.tumbles.net

Tumbles offers kids gym camps for ages 3–10 and STEAM camps for ages 4–10. Gym camps feature weekly themes such as gymnastics, ninja warrior training, field day, circus, medieval times and more. Tumbles STEAM is designed to engage and challenge campers through science and engineering principles, hands-on activities and full-body experiential learning.

Wesleyan School – Summer Enrichment & Specialty Camps (Peachtree Corners)

5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org/camps-clinics

Wesleyan offers a full range of summer camps for ages 3–14, mixing classic weekly day camps with focused sessions in STEM, robotics, theater, photography, sewing, pickleball, tennis and more. Open to the community, camp sessions take place in June and July of each year. Half-day and full-day options are available.

Whiz Learning Kids – STEM & Game Design Camps (Suwanee)

Multiple locations in Suwanee 678-863-7679 whizlearningkids.com

Whiz Learning Kids offers half-day and full-day, small-group camp sessions for ages 6–13 in June and July. Animation, 2D digital art, 3D design, robotics and video game programming based on STEM curriculum are a few of the choices. Kids might design characters, build simple games, program robots or tackle basic engineering challenges — always with a heavy dose of creativity. Camps typically take place at Peachtree Ridge High School or North Gwinnett High School in Suwanee. ##

Summer Summer

Camp Camp

At Camp Autrey Mill, we believe summer should be magical , memorable, and full of wonder! Our unique camp experience is all about helping kids connect with nature, history, and wildlife in exciting, hands-on ways

Camp Autrey Mill combines crafts, games, nature, history, animals, and activities that help children from ages 5-13 build confidence and friendships.

Faces of Johns Creek 2026

By Shawne Taylor

Johns Creek is home to an amazing community of people — some born and raised in the area, some choosing to make the city their home, some who commute in from nearby neighborhoods to work here, but all of them making Johns Creek a better place.

For our first print issue, we wanted to highlight a few of them and shine a light on their lives, accomplishments and contributions to the city.

From volunteers and artists to entrepreneurs, city officials and everyday people — they help create the fabric of this thriving city. And all of them are examples of the heart and spirit that make the Johns Creek community a uniquely wonderful place to live and work.

Henry Cheng

Music Director/Conductor, Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra

Born in Taiwan and immigrating to the US with his parents as a child, Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra Conductor and Music Director Henry Cheng grew up in Atlanta, but spent much of the last twenty years living and working between Europe and Asia.

He worked professionally in Berlin for a decade, including as the chief conductor of the Klangkraft Orchestra in Duisburg. He has directed performances in Europe, Asia and North America. And he spent three years in South Korea before returning to Georgia.

While music has taken him all over the world — and he’s grateful for that journey — Cheng shared that “in many ways, coming back to this area feels like coming home.”

“I’ve been blown away by how the community has been so incredibly open and warm and willing to welcome in not just me, but my family too,” he said in a recent interview for “The Creek.”

Cheng and his family have been in Johns Creek for

about six months, moving here after he was named JCSO’s new music director following a year-long international search that included a field of 106 applicants.

The position with the orchestra was the major reason he committed to making a home here, explaining that he didn’t see it as just a conducting job, but as an invitation to build something meaningful with a community that cares about excellence, education and culture.

“What I love most about Johns Creek is how intentional it feels. It’s a city that values quality of life — great schools, beautiful parks and a strong sense that families are building something here long-term,” he said.

“As an artist, I’m also inspired by how much potential there is for the arts to grow,” he continued. “Johns Creek has the energy of a place still becoming itself, and that’s exciting to me. It’s a community where you

can imagine bold things and actually make them real.”

In his short time here, Cheng has already had a huge impact, focused on building relationships across the city through the orchestra’s work: with schools, local leaders, community organizations and partners who believe in arts access and education.

He said that one of his favorite things about his role with the JCSO is that the orchestra isn’t only performing concerts — they’re showing up as a civic partner. “Whether that’s supporting young musicians, collaborating with local institutions or creating new ways for families to experience music together, I see community involvement as part of my responsibility.”

For 2026, Cheng has been appointed the principal conductor of the Ozark Music Festival, which takes place June 9–26 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He is also excited to continue the JCSO’s IMAGINE: Your Playlist concert series, with performances in March, April and May. Beyond that, he is looking forward to future seasons of innovative performances and deepening his connection with the local community.

“I’m most proud that we’re building momentum,” he said, “not just artistically, but as a true orchestra that is listening to and serving the community.”

“For me, the goal isn’t simply to present great performances, it’s to build something lasting,” he added, “a cultural home the city can be proud of and a musical experience that people feel connected to personally.”

Lizen Hayes

Executive Director, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve

Lizen Hayes is the executive director of the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center. In her role, she leads a talented and dedicated team and helps teach and shape many of the preserve’s programs, connecting residents of all ages to local histo-

ry, environmental stewardship and the arts.

Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest closely surrounded by her great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, Hayes said that she holds a deeply personal commitment to intergenerational connection and believes that “shared experiences across ages strengthen both families and communities.”

She and her wife Morgan moved to Johns Creek in February 2014. Today, they and their two children are still proud to call Johns Creek home.

“We were looking for a community where we would feel safe and welcomed, with good schools, because we knew we wanted to grow our family here,” she said of their initial move to the city. “Johns Creek quickly became that place for us.”

At the time, Hayes worked in Norcross and then in Alpharetta in the marketing field. It wasn’t until later that she discovered and became involved with the nature preserve.

“I had lived in Johns Creek for about three years before discovering Autrey Mill,” she said. “One of the things I hear most often from first-time visitors is that it’s a ‘hidden gem.’ Many people don’t realize that this cost-free, 46-acre forested preserve — com-

plete with an extensive trail and stream system — is practically in their own backyard.”

“Like so many people in our area, I’m a transplant,” Hayes continued. “Not only was I new to Johns Creek, but so was our newly adopted 11-year-old daughter who we welcomed into our home from the Georgia foster care system. We were looking for meaningful ways to connect as a family and to our new community when I stumbled across an ad for Autrey Mill’s history docent program.”

Hayes attended the informational meeting and learned that Autrey Mill was about to welcome goats to the preserve and needed volunteers to help walk them. She signed the family up to help out once a week. And what began as a simple volunteer opportunity quickly grew into something much more meaningful.

Though Hayes had originally planned to become a marine biologist, she said she enrolled in a wet-site archaeology class during college. That class partnered closely with a tribal community whose ancestral land they were excavating, and she had the privilege of witnessing ceremonies performed by tribal elders and hearing stories about their history and culture.

That experience sparked a deep curiosity and set her on a new path. She graduated in 2008 with a degree in museum studies, and since then, has been drawn to work that connects people to place, history and community. That made her a perfect fit for her role at Autrey Mill.

“What I love most about my work now is creating meaningful experiences that help people feel grounded, curious and connected — both to the past and to one another,” she explained.

“Autrey Mill is not just hiking trails and animals; it is also home to a remarkable collection of historic buildings that were carefully relocated here from across the region, preserving local history in a living, tangible way.”

As both a resident and a cultural leader, Hayes is deeply invested in preserving the natural landscapes and shared stories that define Johns Creek and the surrounding communities.

She said that she deeply appreciates the care and kindness the community has shown her, her family and the preserve. “There is a genuine sense of pride and stewardship here,” she said, “and people truly value the shared resources that make Johns Creek such a special place to live.”

John Bradberry

Mayor of the City of Johns Creek

Recently sworn in for his second term, Mayor John Bradberry is a face that many in the community are familiar with. Though he and his wife, Christy, grew up in Sandy Springs, they settled in the area that would later become Johns Creek after they finished college. They married in 2003 and put down roots (and started a family) in their North Fulton neighborhood where Bradberry went on to serve as president of the homeowners association (HOA).

When Johns Creek was incorporated in 2006, Bradberry, like many others in the community, felt the new city would offer residents the kind of protection and local control (of policies and expenditures) that could benefit everyone directly. But through his role in his neighborhood HOA, he became increasingly aware of the challenges faced by the city and its newly formed government.

Bradberry began attending city council meetings and became involved in the Johns Creek Community Association. As a citizen, he founded Preserve Johns Creek, a group dedicated to protecting the city’s residential character and quality of life.

Before being elected mayor in November 2021, he served four years as a city council member for Post

3. His message then — as now — included three important themes and priorities for Johns Creek: “safety first, building greater community and forward together.”

Outside of his work for the city, Mayor Bradberry, Christy and their daughter Gracie attend Northpoint Community Church and are deeply connected to the community they call home.

Bradberry owns a landscaping design business and has other business interests (mainly in real estate), as well. A graduate of the University of Georgia with a BBA in management information systems, he is a former United States Marine and a member of the Johns Creek Veterans Association. He has also served on the board of One Johns Creek, a coalition dedicated to helping with youth mental health and the prevention of substance abuse.

In a recent message to residents, Mayor Bradberry shared that he’s excited for the year ahead and all of the growth, progress and improvements in the city.

As someone who has lived in Johns Creek since before it was formed, has given time and energy to community projects and now serves as mayor, he’s committed “to continuing to build the best possible community for all our residents and businesses.”

Originally from India, Tunki came to the United States in 1991 to pursue a master’s degree in environmental engineering. He later earned an MBA in finance from Georgia State University and transitioned into business leadership, building a 30+ year career that spans information technology, real estate and entrepreneurship. He is the founder and CFO of Serenity Infotech and has been involved in multiple local business ventures and community partnerships.

Beyond his role on the city council, Tunki has served on numerous advisory boards and civic committees, including the Town Center Advisory Committee, Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee and The Art Center board. He has also been part of the Johns Creek Cricket Association and has dedicated time to mentoring North Fulton small business owners through SCORE, a resource of the Small Business Administration.

All of this reflects his ongoing commitment to community service, resident engagement and collaborative leadership.

He and his wife, Padma, have been married for over 28 years and have called Johns Creek home since 2000. They are proud parents to their daughter, Sindhu, who earned her master’s degree in public

Dilip Tunki

City Councilmember of the City of Johns Creek

Dilip Tunki is not just a proud member of the Johns Creek community, he is also an elected city council member, currently at the start of his second term. Originally elected to the post in 2021, he also served as mayor pro tem (deputy mayor) in his council position from 2024 to 2025.

A strong advocate for community-driven growth, fiscal stewardship and public safety, Councilmember Tunki has played a key role in advancing local initiatives that strengthen Johns Creek’s quality of life — including parks and trail expansions, stormwater and infrastructure improvements and the continued development of the city’s Town Center.

health from Boston University.

An avid outdoor enthusiast, Councilmember Tunki shared that he enjoys hiking and traveling, and said that he “values building connections that bring neighbors, families and local leaders together to shape a vibrant and inclusive future for Johns Creek.”

Shay Foley

President/CEO, Johns Creek Chamber

Shay Foley, president and CEO of the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce, has lived and worked in cities throughout the US, Europe and Asia, but now happily calls Johns Creek home.

He moved to the area from Singapore in 2016 for a position as general manager at Alcon, Atlanta

Manufacturing, a global leader in eye care.

“I had an opportunity to lead a large high tech and highly automated campus in Johns Creek that was developing, manufacturing and distributing medical devices globally, where we were either number one or number two in every world market,” he said. He retired as VP/GM from Alcon Atlanta in 2024, and has been leading the Johns Creek Chamber now for almost two years.

In his life, Foley has earned three master’s degrees: a master’s in mechanical engineering, a master’s in polymer science from University College Dublin and an MBA (Marketing in Asia) from the University of San Francisco — all of which he’s put to good use.

He has also made it a point to be involved in local and state-wide organizations. He’s a former member of the Metro Atlanta Chamber Board of Advisors, a former board chair for the Georgia Bio Council, former board member and finance chair for the Center for Global Health and Innovation and served as a board member for the North Fulton Chamber of Commerce.

These days his focus is on the work he’s doing at the Johns Creek Chamber.

“Johns Creek has been voted the best city to live in North America for the last two years,” said Foley. “It is a diverse, culturally rich and well educated community. The city has a great mayor, a great city council and a great development project called Medley.”

“[It] is a very safe [city] with very little crime,” he continued. “It has great schools, great police, a great fire department, a great hospital and wonderful golf courses. We now have a great chamber to match all of the above and to help local businesses connect, grow and thrive.”

Foley said that the chamber is 100% committed to helping local businesses in every way possible.

“This is a great location to do business in and to launch from and expand rapidly,” he explained. “It’s easy to get good professional and motivated talent [here]. There are great universities in the area, and the elected officials in [Johns Creek] are very supportive of business and the community.”

Apart from work, Foley shared that he enjoys soccer and family. He’s a “proud father of four daughters who like to shop,” he said. So these days, he spends a lot of his spare time “disposing of Amazon Prime boxes.”

Stephanie Donaldson

Executive Director, The Art Center

Stephanie Donaldson, executive director of The Art Center (formerly known as the Johns Creek Arts Center), is a long-time champion of the arts. She has over 13 years of experience in arts leadership, nonprofit management and community engagement — all of which align perfectly with her work at the center.

In her role as executive director, she oversees strategic planning, fundraising, programming and operations, with a focus on expanding access to the arts and strengthening the nonprofit organization’s impact within the community.

Throughout her career, Donaldson has been committed to leading initiatives that support artists, cultivate partnerships and promote inclusive, mission-driven programming. Under her leadership, The Art Center has received the Governor’s Award in Arts and Humanities and recognition and resolutions from the GA State Senate, the GA House of Representatives, Fulton County commissioners and the mayor’s office of Johns Creek.

This year the The Art Center is celebrating its 30-year anniversary. “This milestone is a powerful reminder of the impact creativity has on a community,” Donaldson said. “For three decades The Art Center has been a place where artists are celebrated, and people of all ages are inspired to explore and express their creativity. Through exhibitions, classes, camps and outreach programs, it has enriched the lives and brought people together through the arts.”

Donaldson added that this anniversary “honors not only the past 30 years of dedication and achievement, but also the continued commitment to making art accessible, meaningful and transformative for future generations.”

In addition to the work she does at The Art Center, Donaldson is also involved in the community in a variety of other ways. She serves on the governance council for local elementary schools, is a member of the Rotary Club and the Johns Creek Chamber of

Commerce, serves as chairperson for the Abbotts Commons Business Association and is a graduate of the Leadership Johns Creek program.

She is deeply committed to the belief that “the arts are a vital force for cultural connection, education and social change.”

Donaldson shared that one thing she really likes about Johns Creek is that it offers such a great quality of life. “The community is safe and welcoming, the schools are highly rated and there are plenty of parks to enjoy,” she said. “The diversity of Johns Creek, along with local festivals and cultural activities, makes [the city] feel vibrant and inclusive.”

Kathy Cioffi

Business Owner, Author and Founder of Arts On The Creek

Johns Creek resident Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi is a woman of many talents. She has owned and operated KRC Communications, a full-service publications and graphic design firm since 1996. She worked as a newspaper reporter, humor columnist, editor and writer in Louisiana, Kentucky, California, Pennsylvania and Georgia for two decades — winning nearly 100 national and state journalism awards along the way. And she is the founder of Arts On The Creek and the Johns Creek Literary Fair.

Cioffi and her husband Ron settled down in Johns Creek in 1996, when Ron accepted a position as a senior art director in Bank of America’s then corporate communications department. With twin kindergartners and a one-year-old at the time, Cioffi said that finding top schools was a priority.

“Since all three went on to earn graduate degrees — two from Georgia Tech and one from UGA — we think we made a great choice,” she added.

In 2008, Cioffi founded the Arts On The Creek nonprofit, which hosted Johns Creek’s first-ever arts festival for five successful years, attracting crowds of over 25,000 people. The organization now serves multiple disciplines — from books and writers to arts and music.

In 2022, she founded the Arts On the Creek Book Fest, the city’s first book festival. Now called the Johns Creek Literary Fair, the popular event celebrat-

ed its third year in 2025 with a new indoor location at city hall and the largest turnout yet.

Recalling the initial inspiration for the literary festival, Cioffi said, “As a longtime volunteer with a variety of book-related organizations in the area, I thought it was time Johns Creek had a book festival. So I tested the idea in 2022 with a book fest sponsored by Arts On The Creek at the Johns Creek Arts Festival. It was such a success that I approached the city about supporting the idea in 2023, which they did.”

Prior to last year’s literary fair, the JCLF had been held in the Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater at Newtown Park. “Hurricane Helene [in 2024] motivated us to find an indoor venue,” Cioffi explained. She said they will return to city hall for this year’s event, and plans for that are already underway, with more information to come.

“Planning starts the day after each JCLF and becomes nearly a full-time job leading up to the next one,” she said.

In addition to her work, event organizing and championing local authors, Cioffi also volunteers with several Atlanta-area author groups, including Roswell Reads, Atlanta Authors and the Atlanta Writers Club. She’s even an author herself — her debut novel, “Mama Tried,” was the 2023 Georgia Author of the Year finalist for First Novel.

To Cioffi, the sense of community she’s found in Johns Creek has been life enriching. “While the city

has experienced explosive growth in the past three decades, the melting pot that is Johns Creek still manages to feel like a place peopled by extended family,” she said.

“This was a fabulous place to raise a family and — with the city’s founding in 2006 — get in on the ground floor of helping incorporate the arts into what ‘U.S. News & World Report’ says is the best place to live in the country.”

Skylar Topper

Real Estate Agent

Realtor® Skylar Topper was born and raised in Johns Creek “before it was truly Johns Creek.” Her first home was off Sargent Road, where she lived with her parents as a newborn and young child, though it was considered an Alpharetta address at the time.

“I grew up in the Shakerag neighborhoods, off McGinnis Ferry/Rogers Bridge, graduated from Northview High School and moved back to Johns Creek with my [own] family in early 2024, after our first child was born,” Topper shared. “So, all in, basically 25 years of my life!”

Since then, Topper and her husband have welcomed a second child — a daughter born in December 2025. And she’s continued to make a name for herself in the metro Atlanta real estate community as part of the family-run Team Toth office with Compass.

According to her bio, Topper is an “integral part of Team Toth — a family real estate team that includes her mom Deniece, stepdad James and sister Piper.” Consistently recognized as a top producer by the Atlanta Board of Realtors® and the Wall Street Journal’s prestigious “The Thousand” list, the family continues to add to its long list of awards and achievements.

Upon graduating from the University of Alabama, where she worked in the Alabama football program, Topper went on to various marketing and social media roles, including on ESPN’s social team, before

returning to her roots in metro Atlanta and going into real estate.

Today, she’s a graduate of Leadership Johns Creek, is involved in the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce and is active with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta — a cause she is passionate about. She is also active in her community’s HOA and in various roles at St Ives, as well as in numerous committees and roles within the Atlanta real estate community. Outside of work, Topper said she likes trying new local restaurants with friends and exploring Johns Creek with her husband and children.

“We love everything about the community,” she shared. “Of course, more than anything, it just feels like home to me having grown up here. It has everything we need and more — amazing parks for our kids, schools that we love, … activities that keep us socially engaged and physically active and … plenty of local businesses, restaurants [and] shops that we have loved and supported over the years.”

As a rare Johns Creek native, Topper said that she has seen and experienced the firsthand growth of the community since its incorporation.

“Most of my life and so much of my real estate business is in Johns Creek, and I love seeing the growth and development of the entire city — its various neighborhoods, businesses and more,” she said. “I love that I enjoyed growing up here so much that we moved back to raise our family, as many others are doing.”

She said it’s no surprise to her to see all of the accolades the city has received, and she will continue to champion the community’s growth and development, “especially after all that the community has given me over the years.”

Martin Neuhaus

Principal, Northview High School

Martin Neuhaus has been an educator for an impressive 30+ years — all in Fulton County and in the Johns Creek community, in particular. And he’s been a highly regarded principal (at several local schools) for 24 of those years.

He and his wife have lived in or near Johns Creek for the last three decades, raising their two daughters (successful UGA grads) and being actively involved in the community.

With a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Clemson University, a master’s degree in education from the University of Florida and a leadership degree from Georgia State University, Neuhaus started his career as a teacher in 1995 at Findley Oaks Elementary School the second year it was open.

From there, he transitioned into Fulton County’s Administrative

Intern program, working at various schools throughout the county at the elementary, middle and high school levels.

When he finished the internship, he was hired by Northview’s founding principal, Mr. Zervakos, to serve as an assistant principal at North Springs High School during the summer of 2000 before becoming assistant principal at Shakerag Elementary that fall.

Neuhaus then became principal at Shakerag in the 2002-2003 school year. After serving the Shakerag/ Northview community for 16 years, he moved into the principal position at Barnwell Elementary, then came back in the 2022-23 school year to serve as principal at Northview High School, where he is today.

Currently in his fourth year at Northview, Principal Neuhaus said that while he and his wife live in South Forsyth these days, they are still very much a part of the Johns Creek community — through his work and in his off-time. He doesn’t have a long commute into the city, and they often spend their weekends running errands and enjoying the parks in Johns Creek.

“Besides having amazing schools, I like the diversity of our community and how it is centered around fostering and supporting a strong education for all families,” he shared. “I also enjoy the conveniences that Johns Creek offers, having a variety of food, retail, healthcare and parks.”

Chris Shearer

Principal, Johns Creek High School

Chris Shearer has been part of the Johns Creek community for over 20 years, serving at Taylor Road Middle School, Autrey Mill Middle School and at Johns Creek High School. He’s now in his eighth year as principal at JCHS, and feels as “deeply rooted in the culture and spirit of the Johns Creek community” as ever.

He shared that what he enjoys most about leading at JCHS is the students. “Watching them grow over their four years and celebrating their achievements is the most rewarding part of [my] work,” he said. And he remains dedicated to “fostering an environment where students thrive academically, socially and personally.”

Those who follow Shearer on social media get a clear sense of his personality, as well as his school and community pride, as he posts about JCHS athletics, theatre productions and his Coffee with Chris meetings, alongside positive messages, words of wisdom and school updates.

In his principal’s message on the Johns Creek High School website, he wrote of four principles he follows in his work — valuing transparency and authenticity, communicating clearly and concisely, being present and accessible and asking questions to challenge the status quo. All of which help keep education “fresh, engaging and relevant for our students.”

Outside of school, Shearer said he is “passionate about music of all kinds, enjoys a good cup of coffee, loves spending time at the beach and is an enthusiastic supporter of girls’ lacrosse.”

Andras Tigyi

Veterinarian/Owner, Camden Village Animal Hospital

Dr. Andras Tigyi’s parents immigrated to the United States from Hungary in the mid-1980s, and he was born in Los Angeles, California. His family then moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he grew up and still considers home. He’s been part of the Johns Creek community since May 2014 and bought and took over operations at Camden Village Animal Hospital in 2024, though the clinic itself has been open since 2013.

While Dr. Tigyi loves his hometown — he’s a self-proclaimed Memphis BBQ enthusiast, a Tennessee Vol for life and a loyal fan of the Memphis Grizzlies basketball team — he is also happy to have made a new home in Johns Creek with his wife and two children.

“I enjoy all of the events in our parks and public areas and the progress the community continues to make, like at the Medley,” he said. “I also enjoy all of the variety of food, cuisine and culture that we can find so close to one another in Johns Creek!”

Dr. Tigyi graduated from the University of California, Davis in 2010, earning a Bachelor of Science in animal science with a focus on companion animals. He then went on to receive a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee in 2014.

After graduating from UT, he moved to the area and practiced at a small, private animal clinic for almost nine years, serving families in Roswell, Alpharetta and Johns Creek. He also worked at emergency and urgent care pet clinics throughout metro Atlanta. Since taking over Camden Village Animal Hospital, his goal has become clear: to create a veterinary hospital that is founded on forming relationships with families in order to serve their individual pet care needs. According to their website, the clinic’s medical team “would be rooted in service to the client and patient but also in service to each other within the team.”

“I love getting to know our community’s families and taking care of their pet family year after year,” Dr. Tigyi said. “It’s an incredible honor to be entrusted to be their veterinarian. My own personal views and beliefs about how we can care for our pet family are very much aligned with the majority of our community’s beliefs, which is a wonderful environment to practice veterinary medicine and surgery in.”

The Tigyi family have three pets of their own: a cat named Opal and two dogs, Ernest and Eleanor. In his spare time, Dr. Tigyi enjoys spending quality time with his family (humans and pets), going to sporting events and getting outdoors. He also continues to appreciate the connections he’s formed with his Johns Creek neighbors.

“We have such a beautiful and unique community, and we should be proud of the progress of the last decade in our neighborhoods,” he shared. “Johns Creek continues to be nationally recognized as a great place to raise a family, start a business and live our lives. We’re honored to be part of this amazing community, and I look forward to continuing to serve the community as we grow and expand our services at CVAH.” ##

Getting Out and Giving Back

Ways to Be a Good Neighbor in Johns Creek

By Mitali Singh

Being a good neighbor may have something to do with understanding the history of where you live — both its multicultural present and its roots — and taking care of the natural environment that has always shaped it.

In Johns Creek, parks aren’t just green spaces; they serve as gathering places, playgrounds and venues for cultural events that bring the community together — all while keeping us firmly planted in the outdoors year-round. Our cultural spaces are other touchstones of the com-

munity, connecting us through art, literature and music to make the city a better place to live. Volunteer opportunities abound in Johns Creek, offering everyone a chance to contribute and give back in a way that’s comfortable for them, whether it’s through outdoor projects, ongoing programs or oneday events.

The outdoors

One of the simplest and most meaningful ways to give back and be a good neighbor is by caring for the city’s environment. Local groups are doing just that, blending historical and environmental preservation.

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center

At Autrey Mill, visitors will find a 46-acre preserve with walking trails, a visitor center, a Farm Museum and a Heritage Village showcasing 400 years of local history through historic buildings — including farmhouses, a country store and a local church building.

On a typical weekend, visitors and their dogs walk the trails, preschoolers play with animals and families enjoy time outdoors together.

“Our mission here is to connect residents and neighboring communities to the ecological and cultural history of the area,” Executive Director Lizen Hayes said.

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Autrey Mill welcomes volunteers of all ages — including high school and college students, families and community service participants — to help with animal care, garden work, maintenance, historical cataloging, landscaping and more.

Autrey Mill also offers unpaid internships and mem-

berships through which visitors can receive discounts on events and weekly and monthly programs. Most programs are kept low-cost or free, including visits to the animal exhibits.

“My favorite part is introducing people who have never been around goats or chickens and teaching them how to handle them or care for them and explaining each animal’s personality,” Hayes said. She also shared that high school student volunteers can participate in projects like animal care and data-collection, as well as make use of the preserve’s resources and staff for their own projects. One high school student worked on creating a grid to figure out the different kinds of trees at the preserve. Later, she went on to work for the US Forest Service.

“If you can think of something that would be helpful here, we can usually accommodate it. We have all kinds of fun projects,” Hayes said. “I would love to do a display that shows how we moved all the buildings here. We have pictures and newspaper articles, and I’d love to have someone do something creative that would help us get our information out there. We always need website help too.”

One volunteer, Emily Moore, stumbled upon Autrey Mill twelve years ago and has been volunteering since February 2025. Several days a week, she and her husband Scott work with animals, building barn pens, animal ramps and other woodworking projects. She especially enjoys taking care of the goats.

“Because we’re so close, we put them in the barn at night three days a week. And I love that they know us. When we get out of the car, one little goat always does her little baa’s at us,” Moore said. “It’s a beautiful connection, having a pet goat without having a pet goat.”

Moore added that Autrey Mill encourages younger people to volunteer. “Even things like picking up pine cones for crafts for the preschool children, which is wonderful, because I think a lot of places really put limits on that. There is something for everyone here.”

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve: autreymill.org

Chattahoochee River Cleanup

Johns Creek gets its name from one of the Chattachoochee’s local tributaries, which also forms the city’s southern and eastern border. Whether you’re in Shakerag or Newtown Park, the river is always a visible line of sight in the distance and a reminder of the natural habitat in the community’s backyard.

Chattahoochee Riverkeeper works to protect the river through organizing cleanups and advocating to encourage habitat preservation. Their annual trash cleanup event, Sweep the Hooch, occurs at various access points along the river. In 2025, 1,500 volunteers removed 41 tons of trash.

The 16th Annual Sweep the Hooch cleanup is on Saturday, March 21. Volunteers are invited to be either walkers/waders — who will pick up trash on land near the river and in shallow water — or paddlers, who will use kayaks and canoes to pick up litter. The nearest access points are McGinnis Ferry, Jones Bridge or Abbotts Bridge. Chattahoochee Riverkeeper: chattahoochee.org

Johns Creek Beautification

Each spring, daffodils bloom around the 5K trail around Cauley Creek — a vibrant result of the annual Daffodils4Hope dig day each October.

Daffodils4Hope is a citywide daffodil planting campaign by Johns Creek Beautification to raise awareness and symbolize hope, beauty and support for cancer survivors.

“Everyone’s planting daffodils at the same time, and at the end, we have a big celebration at Cauley Creek Park. You can see on their faces how happy they are. It’s so much fun,” JCB President Liliana Brenner said.

Johns Creek Beautification began in 2007, the same year as the city’s founding. Brenner has been part of the non-profit since 2018, and this is her second year as president.

“It’s a city that gave a lot to me, personally,” she said. “We moved here about 20 years ago, and right away, we felt so comfortable, so integrated. I guess that’s one of the reasons that I was volunteering, just to give back to the city.”

Brenner said that the JCB’s aim has always been to “enhance the well-being and natural beauty of the community.”

During the dig day planting event, volunteers — from high school students and families to groups like the Ismaili Civic Group, Young Men’s Service League and the North Fulton Master Gardeners — come together to plant daffodils. Organizations can also sponsor and plant daffodils at their business, school or community group.

Another JCB program, Art Spot, creates sculptures and public art installations for the City of Johns Creek.

Three life-size dog sculptures sit along the trails of Newtown Park, keeping company with passersby as they stroll. At the Bell Road and Boles Road Round-

about, a forged-steel horse rises on its hind legs as cars circle through. Soon, a third one will be placed near Johns Creek City Hall to commemorate the legacy of Native Americans as the first inhabitants of the Johns Creek area.

Another initiative, the Secret Garden Tour invites visitors into private home gardens, each with a distinctive atmosphere, live music and artists. Residents can volunteer their gardens or volunteer in other ways, including assisting with registration, tabling, setup and artistic activities during the tour. Tickets will be available to purchase on March 1. Proceeds from the tour will support the upcoming public art sculpture.

“I love volunteering here because it gives me the chance to give back in a very visible, meaningful way. Seeing the smiles of families, runners spotting the daffodils along the 5K route and people discovering sculptures makes all the work worth it,” Brenner said.

Johns Creek Beautification: johnscreekbeautification.org

City of Johns Creek: Ecological Restoration

Two recent environmental projects organized by the city demonstrated additional ways neighbors have been able to pitch in to help out.

Privet removal

City staff and community volunteers removed an estimated 300 pounds of Chinese privet, an invasive plant species common in the Southeast, at Shakerag

Park in December.

“Johns Creek residents can help by learning to identify invasive species, planting native species, avoiding dumping plants in the wild, cleaning hiking, sampling, fishing, boating and other equipment well between trips, and ensuring current landscape plants are well contained and controlled,” Communications Director Bob Mullen shared in an email.

Floating wetlands

“The Floating Treatment Wetlands project at Shakerag Park is more than pretty plants. Wetland plants were successfully installed by city staff and community volunteers not just as aesthetic enhancements, but as functional elements engineered for real environmental impact,” Mullen wrote.

These floating plants work to absorb pollutants, reduce erosion and improve fishing conditions.

Along the shoreline, shallow, planted zones called littoral shelves, act as natural barriers to runoff. In addition to the wetlands installation, several new pet waste stations were also added throughout the park, ensuring that residents can easily dispose of their pet waste during walks.

Arts, music and literature

To many, the support of local arts, literature and music can be just as important in shaping a community as its outdoor environments are. For those looking to give back through the arts and cultural events, the city is home to several organizations that are open to volunteers.

The Art Center

The Art Center creates opportunities for art enthusiasts to gather and participate through workshops and classes, exhibitions and art-making spaces, such as a ceramics studio and fine arts classrooms.

“The Art Center is committed to fostering and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion

through our arts programming,” said Executive Director Stephanie Donaldson.

Adult volunteers can contribute in the clay studio, working with kilns and guiding creative projects, while high school students — from Eagle Scouts to Beta Club members — volunteer their time setting up events or playing music at exhibitions. Most recently, a team of 22 volunteers laid down a stone walkway path at the center.

Current intern, twelfth-grader Vanessa Hahn, was first involved with The Art Center through taking a digital art class.

“I really loved the environment, the teachers and all the staff,” she said. “At the end of my junior year in high school, I wanted to find a more career-oriented summer occupation, so I reached out. This is a very nurturing environment; it’s definitely an experience I would recommend to people. I enjoyed their connections with other groups too, like meeting the staff at the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra through one of their programs.”

Volunteers can assist classrooms in summer and spring break camps, organize art activities at city festivals and help with exhibitions and instruction at the center.

“Our volunteer programs are really the heartbeat of The Art Center. We are grateful for their time, their creativity and generosity that helps make it possible for us to keep the arts accessible to everyone,” Donaldson said.

Upcoming festivals with volunteering opportunities include the Lunar New Year Celebration on February 21, The Art Center’s 30th Anniversary Celebration on March 21 and the International Festival on May 2, where The Art Center will feature various art activities, representing different countries.

The Art Center: itstheartcenter.org

Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra

The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra offers volunteer opportunities supporting both performances and organizational operations. Roles include usher-

ing, ticket and refreshment sales, working on audience development, offering artistic support, publicity and media relations, marketing and fundraising. Volunteers can also assist with grants, legal affairs and community outreach with schools and houses of worship.

Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra: johnscreeksymphony. org

Johns Creek Historical Society

The Johns Creek Historical Society was founded in 2017, after founders Joan Compton and Claudette Stecher Lopez recognized the need to document the area’s history.

“The rapid development that began in the 1990s, along with longtime residents moving away, led to the loss of physical connections to the past, including historic buildings,” Compton said. “[The organization] was formed to try to capture as much history as we can before it’s completely lost.”

A typical day’s work involves interviewing residents with roots in the area, digging through historical records, studying maps and consulting books to piece together stories. Compton said she gets calls from authors, universities and students wanting information about their ancestors or where they grew up.

An ongoing project, that began in 2017, researched the abandoned Macedonia African Methodist Church Cemetery. The Historical Society worked on having the headstones repaired and is continuing to research the lives of those buried there.

The nonprofit organization plans to soon restart their pre-COVID monthly meetings, which would consist of updates and speakers with expertise or knowledge about a particular topic of interest, and offer new programs open to the public, as well. They are looking for a centralized location for Johns Creek history archives and museum, and to expand their board.

Volunteers can reach out to work on genealogical or history research, as well as programming, oral histories, history markers around town, reaching out to schools and businesses, data entry and digitizing records and organizing the archives of photos, documents and objects.

Whether it’s the city’s origins as Cherokee land or the gold rush that hit 200 years ago, Compton said there is much to be discovered and shared about the history of Johns Creek.

“I think it’s important to realize, you know, most of us do not have roots in this area,” she said. “But if you live here, or if you work here, just think about how we’re not the first ones who came here. It’s important to use your imagination and learn some history about who was here before and how they lived.”

Johns Creek Historical Society: johnscreekhistory.org

More ways to volunteer and give back

In addition to volunteering at parks and cultural centers, there are other great ways to get out and give back to the community in Johns Creek.

Your local library

Teen and adult residents can sign up for volunteer opportunities at the Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library and Ocee Library branches through the Fulton County Library System.

According to the website, these include one-time projects, like National Volunteer Appreciation Week in April, where volunteers are needed for event setup and execution and special talents such as artists, musicians, photographers and singers. Other special events, such as National Library Week in April, the Summer Reading kickoff in June and closing celebration in July also require volunteer assistance.

Fulton County Library: fulcolibrary.org/volunteer-at-fulcolibrary

City of Johns Creek

Work a city event, even for just one evening, by volunteering with the City of Johns Creek.

Residents and community partners are invited to volunteer for a variety of city-sponsored events throughout the year — from large festivals like the Johns Creek International Festival to smaller events such as Adaptive Recreation Bingo Night and community concerts.

Volunteers can sign up through POINT, the city’s volunteer hub, to view upcoming events and register for shifts.

Take part in a Johns Creek tradition and participate in a festival, with many to choose from for each season. Festivals in 2026 include: the Lunar New Year celebration, International Festival, Juneteenth Festival, Independence Day, Arts Festival and the Diwali Celebration.

City of Johns Creek: johnscreekga.gov

One Johns Creek

Part of the One North Fulton coalition, One Johns Creek is an initiative encouraging a drug-free environment for young people and families.

Volunteers can work on areas such as substance misuse prevention and community education through assisting with community events and awareness campaigns. Volunteers can sign up for single day shifts at annual events, such as DEA Take Back Day or Community Safety Day. ##

Learn more at onenorthfulton.org/one-johns-creek.

Community and Creativity Shine at the Johns Creek Literary Fair

By Shawne Taylor

By all accounts, last fall’s Johns Creek Literary Fair was a huge success. The event, held from noon to 5 p.m. on November 15 at city hall, welcomed over 500 book lovers who came out to hear from guest speakers and meet dozens of local authors in person.

The keynote speaker was New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Karen White, who showcased and signed her latest release, “The Lady on Esplanade,” the third novel in her Royal Street series.

With a whopping 37 novels under her belt and nearly two million books in print in 15 languages, White was a big catch and an exciting addition to the third annual literary fair.

Nathan Deal, Georgia’s governor from 2011–2019 was another special guest, touted as the “catnote” speaker, as he was promoting his first published literary work, “Veto, the Governor’s Cat” at the event. The fair also showcased a panel of award-winning historical fiction authors, including moderator Kimberly Brock and novelists Meagan Church,

Carolyn Newton Curry and Piper Huguley. Brock is the author of the recently published “The Fabled Earth,” and was twice shortlisted for the prestigious Townsend Prize for Fiction. Church is a bestseller who penned “The Mad Wife.” Curry was the 2015 Georgia Author of the Year for Biography and most recently released the novel “Trudy’s Awakening.” And Huguley is an award-winning literature professor and author of “American Daughters.”

Bookmiser was on hand at the literary fair to sell copies of all of the noted authors’ books.

New venue, successful fair

2025 was the first year the event was held at Johns Creek City Hall. Previous JCLF’s were held in the Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater at Newtown Park. But Hurricane Helene in 2024 motivated organizers to find an indoor venue — a change that not only protected against potential bad weather, but also allowed the literary fair team to track attendance numbers.

“This is the first year we had a hard headcount,” said Kathy Cioffi, owner of KRC Communications, author and JCLF and Arts On The Creek founder, “since City Hall has strict fire marshal requirements.” But, she added, “having nearly 500 attend [made it] one of the most successful literary fairs to date.”

Cioffi said the organizing committee plans to hold the literary fair at city hall again. And, now that people are more aware of the new location, they expect even higher attendance numbers in 2026.

YA and adult authors at the 2025 event

G.A. Anderson

Kristine Anderson

Ashley Baker

Allison Bettes

Priscilla Birdsong

T.M. “Mike” Brown

Sally Chaffin

Eileen L. Cooley

Paul Darden

Ralph Ellis

Brittany Groussman

Dr. Oscar J. Harp III

Jamie Lindberg

L’Mireille

The birth and growth of the JCLF

The idea of a Johns Creek Literary Fair originated in 2022. As a longtime volunteer with a variety of book-related organizations in the area, including Roswell Reads and Atlanta Authors, Cioffi thought it was time for Johns Creek to have a book festival of its own.

“I tested the idea in 2022 with a Book Fest sponsored by [my nonprofit organization] Arts on the Creek at the Johns Creek Arts Festival,” she shared. “It was such a success that I approached the city of Johns Creek to support the idea in 2023, which they did.”

Since then, Arts on the Creek has partnered with the city to plan and make the annual events possible. Having city hall as the new location for the fair only deepens that partnership.

As the event grows, Cioffi and other organizers work to keep it fresh, with different themes and headliners planned each year. Kristin Harmel was the keynote guest in 2023, Rick Bragg in 2024 and, of course, Karen White for 2025.

“This year, [we featured] historical novels,” said committee member and local award-winning author Soniah Kamal. “Every year, we have one panel of authors. And each year, we feature a different genre. This year it’s historical. Last year [was] legal eagles.” The 2026 theme is in the works, but hasn’t yet been announced.

Kamal also wanted to point out that the Johns Creek Literary Fair is a free event. “And [readers] are going to meet authors, local authors that they probably haven’t met before who are doing wonderful work,” she added. “And it’s just a nice, fun day.”

Local authors in the spotlight

In fact, one of the highlights of the Johns Creek Literary Fair is that guests get to meet local authors and perhaps find some new books to add to their TBR (tobe-read) list.

Over 24 local writers were at the 2025 event, signing and chatting about their books, including YA and adult authors, children’s book authors and the JCFL’s three-year master of ceremonies George Weinstein, who is also the executive director of the Atlanta Writers Club.

We were able to speak to a few of the authors in attendance at the event and learn a little bit about their process, their published works and what they have coming up next.

Weinstein’s day job is in consulting, something he’s done along with project management, for 30 years. And with that, he still finds time to write and publish. His most recent novel is a pre-apocalyptic dystopian comedy titled “Offlining,” published under the name GJ Weinstein.

When asked what advice he’d give to writers who are just starting out, Weinstein’s response is simple. “Hang in there. There’s a long, long journey. Don’t think that wherever you are right now is the end or, you know, is even a tenth of the way there,” he said. “This is the forever journey, and the only writer who fails is the one who quits. Don’t quit, just hang in there. And you’ll eventually accomplish the goals you set out.”

Another thing he shared were his thoughts on the subject of authors and AI. “As far as editing goes, anybody who’s been using Microsoft’s Word has been using AI for years … to flag grammar problems and things like that. And that’s the extent to which I use AI,” he said. “I don’t want some regurgitative program telling me, ‘here’s some great ideas for your next book, or here’s what you ought to do with your plot.’ If it’s not coming out of my head, it’s not going to serve.”

Learn more about George Weinstein at georgeweinstein.com.

Mike Nemeth

Katherine Nichols

Renee Propes

Sandra Fernandez

Rhoads

Scott Sargent

Jeffrey Schnader

Tracy Solheim

George Weinstein

Children’s book authors

Sunsheray Carter

Maisha Cerqueda

Melissa Robinson

MJ Young

George Weinstein — multi-genre author

Weinstein is a Marietta-based, award-winning author and president of the Atlanta Writers Club. He’s been writing for 25 years, starting with his first published book, the bestselling Southern Gothic historical novel, “Hardscrabble Road.”

“It took me eight years to get that book published,” Weinstein shared. “It took me 12 years to write it and then another eight to get it published. So it was a real labor of love. I had to hang in there a long time.”

But that’s the process, he explained, “You just hang in there and you stay in the game.”

Having now authored seven books, readers may wonder if he’s at the point where he makes a living from his writing. His answer? “Oh, goodness, no. There are very few writers who make a full-time living on their novels. Now, this is a wonderful hobby,” he said. “Just the best hobby there is.”

G.A. Anderson — women’s fiction author

A first-generation Canadian, now settled in metro Atlanta, Anderson — also known as Gaby — didn’t set out to pursue a creative path; her degree from the University of Denver is in business administration. But years ago, she found herself putting her stories to paper after friends and family members suggested she consider writing a book.

Today, she’s published two. Her first book “South of Happily” took 20 years from start to finish. “Why? Because I had a really nasty divorce, then I got remarried and had two little kids, and I had to work,” she explained. “So, just life. Making a living and getting by, and writing took a backseat.”

Her follow-up novel, “Dream a Little Dream” took less time to write and publish, though the process, she said, was much the same.

“The process [for the first book] was … sort of my therapy, because of some traumatic things that happened in my life. The book sort of became my therapy,” she said. “I wrote the whole first draft while we lived in Colorado. When we moved to Atlanta, I joined the Atlanta Writers Club. And … they taught me how to write better. And it took another 10 years. Through another 10 years, I got it. I managed to get it published. Five pages at a time.”

It was her current husband that pointed out the connection between the therapeutic and creative aspects of Anderson’s writing process. “It’s actually something that my husband said. He said, ‘The way that the character grows in the book, I don’t think you realize how much you’ve grown in the book as well.’” She shared.

“He said, ‘I don’t think you understand the arc that your main character has is also the arc that you are having.’ So that was enlightening. And there was a lot of therapy in the book,” Anderson said, “because I wanted to show good therapy … what it looks like … that it’s not boring. I didn’t want the usual terrible therapist [as a plot point].”

Today, in addition to writing, Anderson works in behavioral health management. She was joined at the Johns Creek Literary Fair by her daughter, Alex Murphy, who shared her thoughts on watching her

mother create and grow as an author.

“It’s been really cool watching her write this [latest book] and kind of bloom as she’s written it. She has gotten a lot more confident, and it’s been really, really nice to see how much she believes in herself now versus when she first started writing. I love seeing her like that.”

Anderson’s books are available from her website, as well as on Amazon and other online booksellers. Learn more at anderson-author.com.

Brittany Groussman — YA fantasy author

Groussman, author of “Darkness in the Forest,” graduated from Kennesaw State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. “Yes, in psychology,” she said. “I’m also a fencing coach, so all of the sword work in the book is based off of actual fencing instructions.”

“Darkness in the Forest” is Groussman’s debut, self-published YA fantasy novel, which took her five years “on and off” to finish. The book is part of a planned Wilder Warriors series that tells the tale of protagonist Linnea and her younger brother as they “fight to protect their forest from a mysterious darkness.”

“This story actually came to me when I was talking to my niece,” said Groussman. “Funny enough, she … heard I was writing a different book at the time and was like, ‘oh, Aunt Brittany, can you write a book with a character like me?’ We started talking and she gave me some ideas, and it crafted this entire story in my head. So I’ve got this kind of loosely based on her and her younger brother as the main characters.”

Groussman shared that she has been marketing her book for about a year now. “[Darkness in the Forest] published in July of 2024. I started marketing around January, 2024. I probably should have started a little sooner than that,” she said. “But it’s been marketed that long.”

The time put into getting the word out about her novel and having people pick up and read the book seems to have paid off. “The feedback on the writing is actually very positive,” she shared. “Even though it’s young adult, I have adults that enjoy it because I’m a bit more of a narrative writer and I like to deal with that imagery and all of that.”

“I probably write a little bit more mature,” she added, “which is why I’ve got it [listed] as young adult and not middle grade.”

For more about Brittany Groussman and Darkness in the Forest, visit brittanygroussman.com.

Paul C. Darden — teen and YA historical fiction author

Paul Darden is not just an author, he’s also a middle school teacher — originally in the Bronx and now in Loganville. His historical fiction “Freedom Runner” and “Rise of the Runners” books are part of a planned seven-book Time Runner series aimed at teens and young adults.

The idea to write the first one was sparked by a student in one of his classes.

“I had a student come to my classroom [when we were covering] Colonial America,” said Darden. “And he pulled me aside and said, ‘okay, when are we going to learn about my culture?’ I paused for a second, looked at him and said, ‘we’re not.’ He’s from Jamaica. [So] I thought about it for a second during lunch, and I was like, ‘wow, this kid is going to be in our school system for … 12 plus years, and he’s not going to learn about his culture, as if his culture has added

nothing to society. And I [thought], let me see if I can find something that kind of encompassed not just him, but the other students. And I couldn’t.”

When Darden couldn’t find any books to use that highlighted the student’s culture during that historic time period, he decided to research and write his own.

“As a teacher, [I was] already creating materials for my students to read and engage with anyway. So I said, let me pick up where I left off. I [had] started writing in college, and then fast forward, and we’re here.”

Published under his own Serious Pens Publishing company, “Freedom Runner” found a following. This led to a Rise of the Runners ebook series with a free online book and teachers guides to go along with it — allowing teachers to seamlessly integrate it into

their classrooms.

“A lot of schools have what they call REP or reading time,” said Darden. “It might be 30, 10, 40 minutes a day when kids can sit down [and read]. So teachers can take the free ebook, and … grab the teacher’s guide, and the kids can read and answer questions, and they can break it down.”

Learn more about the book series at seriouspenspublishing.com.

Planning for the next JCLF

Each year, the JCLF is planned by a nine-person committee. The current committee lineup includes:

▪ Corinne Wilde — special events planner, City of Johns Creek

▪ Kathy Cioffi — founder and director, Johns Creek Literary Fair

▪ Nilendra Chanda — co-director, Johns Creek Literary Fair

▪ Ron Cioffi — president and founder of Arts On The Creek

▪ Gaby Anderson — three-year JCLF committee member

▪ Soniah Kamal — three-year JCLF committee member

▪ Tulip Chowdhury — two-year JCLF committee member

▪ Sandra Hardy — two-year JCLF committee member

▪ Toni Bellon — one-year JCLF committee member

Cioffi shared that planning for each year’s event starts the day after the current literary fair ends and becomes nearly a full-time job leading up to the next one.

The committee has already started on plans for 2026. “Yes, planning has begun,” Cioffi said. “More info to come.”

Kamal was happy with the turnout at 2025’s fair and expects the next one to be just as much fun. She also shared more about the process in selecting the authors that will appear.

“Almost all of them are from metro Atlanta,” she said. “They have to apply. We have a lot of local authors … and they apply, and then [the] selection committee … decides [who will attend]. We try to give it a good mix of books and topics and authors.”

One of the main criteria for selection? “Usually they’re independent authors,” she said. “So that means that they’re independently published, self-published. [Another] criteria would be [for] newer authors. So [published] within the last three years.”

While some literary fairs choose not to include self-published authors, the JCLF celebrates them. Kamal said the committee likes to “give everyone a chance.”

“As best as we can,” she added. “Self-published, newer books, fantasies, science fiction, children[s books].”

That great mix of genres and authors, traditionally published and self-published makes the Johns Creek Literary Fair a standout event for readers of all ages and represents the inclusive, community-focused values of this north metro city. ##

Five Newsletters. Countless Stories. One Inbox— Yours.

To stay connected and informed about news and events happening in and around Johns Creek - sign up to receive our regualar curated newsletters tailored to your interests.

Opening Bites is your go-to source for the latest in restaurant openings, events and food and beverage trends throughout all of the northern suburbs.

UrbanEBB is where business, culture and news intersect with stories that shape the metro Atlanta landscape.

PLUS, newsletters from our THE CREEK, Peachtree Corners and Southwest Gwinnett, magazines deliver local news, events and updates from one of Georgia’s most dynamic communities.

Choose one, two or all five — your inbox, your rules.

Scan the QR code to signup.

Close to Home: Three Bespoke Boutiques Provide a Unique Retail Oasis

By Arlinda Smith Broady

If you’re looking for a birthday present, a shower or house-warming gift or just something out of the ordinary with style and sophistication for yourself, you might want to try a trio of bespoke boutiques tucked away in an unassuming corner of the Johns Creek Home Depot strip mall on State Bridge Road.

Haven Lane Design, Blossom & Vine and All Inspired Boutique are three different yet tangentially classy retailers that offer floral, home goods, interior design and fashion — run by female entrepreneurs that understand their customers.

All Inspired owner Karen Brown hit the nail on the head when she suggested sending the husbands to the big box home improvement store and have the ladies luxuriate in the sights, scents and sensations down the way.

Haven Lane Design

Andrea Parker, lead designer and owner of Haven Lane Design, chose her Johns Creek location for its

proximity to high-income customers from nearby affluent areas. Peachtree Corners, Berkeley Lake, Alpharetta and similar cities are a 20-minute drive (or less) away.

“That was part of my strategy of picking this location,” she said. “I wanted to be in the world where I’m pulling from this little quadrant of places.”

Parker has been in the area for the past eight years and just last year decided to go from a home office to a full storefront.

“It’s something I’ve been working towards for several years,” she said. “Most people don’t start a business without some thought in their head of what it’s going to look like, what it’s going to be like. So this was always an extension of what we’ve already been doing for eight years as a team.”

Parker is a 1998 graduate of the University of Georgia and has been in the design business in some form or fashion since graduation.

“I worked for other designers. I ran a showroom down at the Merchandise Mart. I worked at ADAC,” she said, referring to the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. It’s a large campus in Atlanta’s Buckhead com-

munity, serving as a hub for interior designers, architects, builders and design enthusiasts. ADAC houses numerous showrooms and design studios.

Balancing motherhood and design

Parker stepped away from working as a full-time designer while she raised her four children.

“When I went through the early throes of motherhood and couldn’t really be a full-time worker,” she said, “I was still doing consultations and always running some sort of little project here or there for neighbors or friends of friends, things like that.”

Eventually, she wanted to branch out and do larger projects and get

back to being a full-service design team.

“I wanted a place where we can truly come in and implement a project for people, whether it’s renovation or just refinishing, refurbishing a family room or bedroom or something like that,” she said. “I really wanted to take it to the next level and have an actual location [where] people can come in and see us and see what we’re all about.”

A brick-and-mortar space

Parker explained that showing inspirational photos of what a room could look like and then not being able to obtain the exact piece of furniture would be frustrating for her and the clients.

“Sometimes, as a designer, it can be hard to portray things to a customer just through a photo, just to say, ‘trust me, this table is quality, and you’re going to love it,’” she said. “So it’s easier, even if I don’t have that exact table in my store, it’s easier to point to this table I do have … and tell them that it will be great in their space,

and it’s from the same company, so the quality is the same.”

A brick-and-mortar space also allows customers to see her aesthetic right away and understand how she pulls things together.

“Having a location definitely helps with the design business,” she said. “It helps the client understand we’re a legit business that has good resources, and we know how to curate beautiful things.”

Another perk is walk-in customers.

“Sometimes the customers are not necessarily wanting to jump into an entire project, they just want new throw pillows, a new lamp or some accessories or gifts,” she said. “We have lots of gifts, so it’s been really fun to be in the community and get to meet people.”

Blossom & Vine

Amy Rider has had different occupations profession-

ally — including foster care and adoption and physical therapy — but she’s always had a love for gardening and flower arranging.

“I was a stay-at-home mom for a period of years. And about a year before we opened our store, I went with my sister and took a class at a flower shop downtown, near the zoo area,” she said.

She fell in love with the class and thought about becoming a florist for her next act.

“When I went to that class, I told my sister that I could do this every day,” she said.

Her husband, Tim, was in a transitional phase of his own — selling his business and contemplating what he’d like to do next.

“He said I should look into this and think about opening a shop,” Rider said. “So I started kind of dreaming about it and wrote a business plan.”

A spring break trip to New York turned out to be the perfect opportunity to check out floral shops there.

“We just went around to a bunch of different shops,” she said. “One of the floral designers told me that if you want to change careers and go into floral design, I should go to Paris and study with this lady named Catherine Muller.”

A week in Paris

World-renowned floral designer, Catherine Muller, has Flower Schools in New York, Paris and London. According to her website, the international florist’s specificity is to “reproduce what she can see in nature, using only fresh and finely-arranged elements so as to turn her work into a little jewel.” She’s known for saying that Mother Nature is varied enough so that you don’t need to use any artifice.

“So Tim said, ‘yes, we should definitely go to Paris, and you should definitely do this,’” recalled Rider.

She enrolled in a class called “A Week to Become a Florist.” The week-long course had participants from all over the world.

“There were women from the Congo, Jordan, Mexico, Singapore, Korea — all over the world. But [Muller] teaches her classes in English,” said Rider. “It was a class of just floral design all day long. And, of course, you can’t really become a florist in a week, but it’s a great start, and it gives you a lot of design experience right off the bat.”

The experience confirmed her initial desire to open a florist business.

“I got home and finished writing my business plan, started looking for places, and step by step, moved through the process of opening a shop,” she said. “We’ve never done retail before, so there’s a lot to learn, but our classes are one of the things that I think really set us apart.”

Classes and unique experiences

Indeed, Blossom & Vine offers group classes in flower arranging every month, as well as private classes.

“This summer, we’re doing even more — four or five a month, because traditionally, the summer is kind of slow for florists,” she said.

A June 2025 event featured a local author who did a book signing and mini lecture. Rider has also planned to add plant rescue classes where attendees can bring in sick houseplants for some TLC.

“We’re trying to offer some experiences that maybe you just don’t get every day,” she said.

As soon as you open the door, you can tell it’s not a typical flower shop. The store’s garden-style florals and bespoke arrangements are named after Georgia towns.

There are also many plant-adjacent products, such as floral-scented linen spray for bedding, wicker picnic baskets, embroidered tea towels and books about gardening, flower arranging and cooking — not to mention original works of art.

“I feel like we really have a curated selection of things that you don’t see everywhere else,” she said. “We have three local artists that we offer their original art.”

Of the three shops, Rider has been in business the least amount of time. Open since November 2024, she’s optimistic that she made the right choice and that she’s providing a service that resonates with the community.

Her husband plays a significant role in the business, providing leadership, guidance and support in various aspects, including financial management and delivery. Without a retail or marketing background, Rider said she’s going somewhat by instinct on what’s best for her shop.

“When we started the shop, I wanted it to be a hospitable environment,” she said. “I like hosting at my home, and I wanted our shop to be a place where you just walk in and relax, get a glass of infused water and have kind of a mini vacation.”

All Inspired Boutique

Karen Brown and her daughter, Kelly Pierce, purchased All Inspired in 2022, aiming to create a female-focused business that boosts women’s confidence and careers. With corporate backgrounds in marketing and professional development, they shifted gears post-COVID to start this venture.

“Like everyone else, after 2020 and the coronavirus, we decided we wanted to try something different,” she said. “We didn’t want to wait and continue doing the same thing we were doing. We wanted to go into business together. So we took this leap, and it’s just been amazing ever since.”

With the desire to find an opportunity to help women, the two had been looking at several types of businesses to purchase.

“We had looked at different businesses, from a health spa to more options in the retail-oriented industry,” Brown said.

But the thought of the synergy of female-owned stores really appealed to them. And even though the post-COVID era has seen many large retailers fold up, Brown said both her online sales and brick-and-mortar business are doing well.

“Our online is doing very well, but our specialty is the experience when you walk through our doors; you’re treated like a visitor in someone’s home, instead of a customer,” she said. “I tell the girls all the time that I want everyone to feel a little bit better when they walk out than they did coming in.”

An uplifting shopping experience

Brown said the level of customer service is really part of the appeal.

“We really make an effort to uplift women,” she said. “If you think about it, sometimes trying on clothes in the dressing room is not always a positive experience because of the way we feel about our body image or about ourselves.”

That’s why her fitting rooms try to boost confidence.

“Our dressing rooms have sayings in each one,” she said. “Phrases like ‘you are beautiful’ [or] ‘you are lu-

minous’ are meant to be uplifting in a place where women sometimes struggle.”

All Inspired isn’t just the name of the store, it’s the philosophy behind it.

“We have women from all different walks of life that are coming in,” she said. “Either they’ve had a baby and they’re having to go up a size, or they’ve lost a lot of weight and they’re going down a size; or they’re going on a trip and they want a whole wardrobe, or maybe they’re buying a gift for a friend that’s going through chemo.”

Community events

Being inspirational is the kind of retail therapy Brown and her associates provide. But the retailer also shares inspiration in other ways — drawing the community into the shop for charitable events and themes is a way to give back and add a spark to someone’s day.

“We do an event called ‘Gathering for Good’ where we host a private shopping event for different charity groups — typically after hours,” she said. “They will shop, and I give back 15% of the proceeds to that sponsor charity.”

Other fun events are Galentine’s Day, holiday open house, theme parties and raffles.

“We do a lot to welcome in the community,” Brown said.

The store caters to women aged 30 and up, focusing on trendy, real-woman clothing and accessories. Like in the other two shops, Brown strives to work with local vendors — especially other women.

“We work with local female jewelry designers,” she said. “Some of our candles are the same way. So we try to get local [female-made items] as much as we can.”

One for all and all for one

All three women are happy and excited about their shared energy and cross-promoting of each other’s stores, though it was a happy accident that they ended up near each other. Blossom & Vine and Haven Lane Design are two halves of what used to be a FedEx store. Neither needed the entire space, but it works well as

two parts of an interior-design type of vibe. They’re all just getting started with the shared possibilities they can create.

“We all have goods that work together, but are different enough that we’re not in competition,” said Brown.

They also have similar retail philosophies as far as giving customers a memorable experience in a community-focused atmosphere with great, high-quality products.

One of Parker’s favorite things is hosting mahjong events at the store to build community and customer engagement. The events include wine, appetizers and a 20% off shopping pass for participants, making it a fun social experience.

“We have an instructor that comes, and we make it a fun girls night,” said Parker. “And then, of course, we offer the full mahjong sets and all the cute stuff that you can buy to play mahjong.”

Rider said they all have the kinds of places where you can come in every now and then if you just want a cute little thing.

“Sometimes, especially ladies, we like cute things to put in our space, just to freshen our space,” she said.

And they all refer customers to check out the neighbors.

“If you can’t find what you’re looking for in one shop, you’re bound to come across it in one of the others,” said Brown. ##

This article was originally featured in Peachtree Corners Magazine and has been updated to run in this issue of THE CREEK.

FRIDAY, APRIL 24 10 A.M. – 7 P.M. SATURDAY, APRIL 25 10 A.M. – 3 P.M.

SHOWCASING MORE THAN 80 PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS WHOSE WORK INCLUDES FINE ART PAINTINGS, CERAMICS, POTTERY, PHOTOGRAPHY, JEWELRY, AND MORE.

Mount Pisgah Christian School is a leading Early Learning–Grade 12 independent Christian School proudly welcoming Johns Creek families.