Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - April 17, 2025 by Appen Media Group

Historical Society honors Roswell’s past residents

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. —

Volunteers provided a fresh, new look to more than 31 monuments in the Old Roswell Cemetery April 12.

Twice a year the Roswell Historical Society invites the public to help clean and maintain the monuments in Old Roswell Cemetery. The effort helps preserve the markers from weathering and erosion.

Teams of volunteers gathered early in the morning to begin

work. Equipped with toothbrushes, various scrubbers, water and D/2 Biological Solution, thanks to a partnership with Home Depot, the teams navigated the sacred grounds.

Roswell Historical Society’s Cemetery Project coordinator Leah Brooks uses a spreadsheet to assign volunteers with monuments to clean. The document records which monuments are due for refurbishing. Markers can only be cleaned every five years to avoid corrosion.

See CEMETERY, Page 25

Seniors swing at Rotary’s Golden Gala

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Rotary Club invited the golden residents of the community for dancing and music at the first annual Golden Gala.

From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. April 11, seniors and caretakers danced the afternoon away at the American Legion Post 201. More than 200 seniors

dressed in their best party attire to take part. Laughs and smiles brightened the room as attendees danced and sang to classic songs.

“They were anxious to get this party going,” Golden Gala Chair Sue McCormick said.

McCormick created the gala to help senior citizens socialize with others.

While all seniors were invited, McCormick’s main goal was to help get residents out of the

house.

“I see a lot of people in their homes, socially isolated, depressed, sitting in front of the TV, doing nothing, not having anything to look forward to,” McCormick said.

As a Rotary member, she began to realize that the organization needed to do more for seniors living in the community.

See GALA, Page 25

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

American Legion Post 201 in Alpharetta April 11.

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Justin Dye and Morgan Bennett scrub a headstone to help slow down erosion at the Old Roswell Cemetery cleaning day April 12.

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Speeding motorcyclist eludes police pursuit

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A motorcyclist eluded police on Ga. 120 near North Point Parkway April 3.

Officers ordered a speeding red and black motorcycle to stop after it passed them about 6 p.m., according to an Alpharetta police report.

The motorcycle continued west, making a right turn onto North Point Parkway.

Police soon lost sight of the motorcycle.

Officers reviewed recordings from traffic cameras but failed to identify the motorcycle’s license plate. The bike was last seen on the recording eastbound on Webb Bridge Road past Alpharetta High School.

The driver was wearing a green sweatshirt and matte-black helmet.

The incident was classified as a fleeing or attempting to elude.

Jon Wilcox

Roswell aids Sandy Springs to help wrangle speeder

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police deployed a tire-deflation device on an Audi S4 at East Crossville and Mansell roads April 4 after Sandy Springs Police notified them of a felony pursuit.

Officers said dispatch notified them that Sandy Springs Police were pursuing a vehicle into the city for traffic offenses, including felony fleeing and eluding around 2:25 a.m.

Roswell officers said no one from the department was involved in the pursuit, but the vehicle was observed ignoring traffic control devices, failing to maintain lanes and speeding, all while placing the public in danger.

Roswell officers positioned themselves at East Crossville and Mansell roads, anticipating the pursuit would head their way and laying down a tire-deflation device.

When the vehicle sped through the intersection, the vehicle’s front right tire hit the “stop sticks” and continued south on Ga. 9.

Eventually, the suspect ditched the vehicle at the Norcross Street intersection.

Officers said a search of the area with K9 units from Alpharetta and Woodstock were unsuccessful.

The suspect is believed to be a 35-yearold Atlanta man, the registered owner of the vehicle, who has allegedly fled from Sandy Springs Police on other occasions.

Because the windows are tinted, officers said they were unable to identify the driver.

Sandy Springs Police towed the vehicle and took over the case.

— Hayden

Sumlin

Altercation with pedestrian results in damage to car

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 52-year-old Alpharetta man reported his car was damaged during an argument with a pedestrian April 6.

The driver was northbound on Ga. 9 when he saw a male pedestrian in the roadway, according to Alpharetta Police. The driver honked and told the pedestrian to get out of the roadway.

After an argument ensued, the pedestrian charged the driver’s vehicle.

The Alpharetta man drove away but was forced to stop at a red light.

At the traffic light, the pedestrian approached the vehicle and threw an object at it, resulting in a dent and damage to the paint. Damage was assessed at about $800.

The Alpharetta man parked at a nearby parking lot to confront the pedestrian. The pedestrian ran away.

Traffic cameras in the area were facing the opposite direction and captured no recordings of the incident.

—

Jon Wilcox

Dunkin Donuts manager reports overnight burglary

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating an April 6 burglary at the Dunkin Donuts off Ga. 9 near the Alpharetta city limits after an unidentified man took more than $1,100 in cash.

Officers said they spoke with the manager before 5 a.m. April 7 and reviewed security footage of the burglary from just before midnight.

Security footage shows a man wearing a grey sweatshirt, blue jeans and a grey mask or bandana enter the building through a door with a keypad.

Officers said the man then went through the safe and cash registers taking just under $1,200 in cash.

Security footage also shows the man also grab a $3 drink from a cooler.

The manager told officers that only she and her assistant manager know the new security code and it is unlikely any former employees would know the new door codes.

Officers said there have been two similar incidents at the coffee shop, one last November and another in February. The case from November is inactive, but it involved the theft of more than $600 by a person wearing the same clothes as the April 6 suspect captured on security footage.

Officers said the February incident involved the assistant manager and a former employee. They said a former employee accessed the building with an old key, but did not take anything after the assistant manager ran him off.

While officers said that case is active with a warrant pending, there is no record of the former employee’s arrest. Employees told officers that the former employee was a suspect in both incidents.

Police did not identify a suspect in the April burglary because they said employees could not explain how the former employee would have known the code to the keypad.

THE PICTURE FRAMER

— Hayden Sumlin

No ice – yet, as Alpharetta weighs offer for park rink

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta City Council delayed a decision to allow a youth sports group to fund and head redesigns at Union Hill Park that would accommodate ice sports.

The proposal, discussed at an April 14 meeting, calls for design, construction, management, maintenance and funding through a group seeking a space for their youth athletes.

The group is searching for a new home after The Cooler, 10800 Davis Drive, announced it would no longer provide a rink for ice sports. The Cooler is converting to facilitate pickleball.

City Administrator Chris Lagerbloom presented the proposal to the City Council, asking for direction. Lagerbloom worked with city staff to resolve legal concerns and find a way for the space to allow ice sports and concerts.

“I’ll highlight that they have come and asked for not a single dollar of city investment,” Lagerbloom said.

Union Hill Park, located on Union Hill Road at the north edge of the city, already has an outdoor pop up skate

blossom & browse

FRIDAY, APRIL 25

SATURDAY, APRIL 26

11am – 3pm

CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED

A plan calls for a Union Hill Park event space to be renovated to allow ice sports. The City Council considered a plan that would provide for the sports and its current use for outdoor concerts at an April 14 meeting.

park, as well as a covered arena.

With tryouts looming later in the month, Lagerbloom asked the council to consider quick action. There are few alternative ice rinks for the group’s players to play at, he said.

“We really have a fairly short runway to be able either decide whether there is something here we can move forward with or we get to a point where we say we did our best,” Lagerbloom said.

A plan calls for rollup doors along the venue’s exterior to allow concerts to retain an outdoor feel. During events, the ice rink would be covered.

Lagerbloom said the renovations could allow the space to host events in the winter when outdoor temperatures are low.

City Councilman Donald Mitchell said a youth league could be an asset for the city because Alpharetta Sports & Entertainment Group has submitted

a petition to attract an NHL franchise to the North Point area.

“It would be a feather in our cap to already have this program in place and to be trying to train up youth into hockey in our area,” Mitchell said.

Councilman John Hipes said he needed more information before giving the project the green light. He said he had concerns about what percent of youth sports participants would be Alpharetta residents.

“I’m going to keep saying it. It is a taxpayer facility,” Hipes said.

The park has received renovations converting it from a roller hockey rink to an outdoor concert space and park after voters approved a 2021 bond referendum.

Hipes also pointed out the venue is often used as a last-minute alternative for events when inclement weather occurs.

Councilman Dan Merkel agreed, saying he needed to know how many participants would be coming from inside city limits. He added he understood the importance of acting quickly.

“We can move forward fast if we need to, but we are going to need all the information,” Merkel said.

A SPRING SALES EVENT

Roswell reports on city’s budget health

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell officials assessed the city’s financial health at the April 14 City Council meeting.

Chief Financial Officer Bill Godshall highlighted the budgeting process, credit score rating, balance sheet of the city and the most recent audit.

Godshall reported that Roswell was given a clean audit for fiscal year 2024 which ended June 30, 2024. The external auditors gave an unmodified opinion for the past fiscal year, after seeing no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies, and no instances of noncompliance. The audit was completed and filed on time and is now available on the city’s website.

“This is important because it demonstrates the integrity and commitment to internal control and financial reporting,” Godshall said.

Late last year, the City Council formally approved a resolution to switch its fiscal year to coincide with the calendar year. The measure required a separate six-month budget, running from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2024.

The audit for that interim budget is expected to be issued by June 30.

According to Godshall the city should have no concerns over its credit rating. Roswell maintains a AAA credit score supported by its strong balance sheet, high liquidity, history of clean audits and favorable budget to actual results.

Godshall presented several key highlights from the fiscal year 2024 balance sheet. The city maintains $115 million in bonds and other debt, a 2.5 percent difference from fiscal year 2023 which stood at $118 million.

“We can pay our current liabilities seven times over,” Godshall said.

Roswell also saw a 7.2 percent increase in its net assets, standing at $415 million.

The general fund for the city was also highlighted during the presentation. For total revenues, the city’s final budget is $98.2 million with an actual $99.7 million. For total expenditures, the city’s final budget is $96.4 million with an actual $90.7 million. Roswell’s actual net excess over budget was $9 million, which was $7.2 million over the final budget.

“That's a substantial amount of

cash, that's very strong liquid balance sheet, and provides comfort to our vendors and other service providers,” Godshall said.

As of June 30, the city holds $174 million in cash and $96 million in investments, all of which meet Georgia investment guidelines.

“We’re not broke,” Council member Lee Hills said.

While the six-month period has not yet been audited, Godshall presented the estimated numbers from the general fund for the time period.

During the six months, the city took in $64.5 million in total revenues, a $2.6 million variance from the amended budget. The city also saw $63 million in expenditures, a $3.3 million variance from the allotted $66.3 million in the amended budget.

“We finished the year with an excess of a budget of 1.5 million, of which 1.4 is committed to encumbrances that will be carried forward into the ’25 period,” Godshall said.

Quarterly reporting will occur on the second committee meeting following quarter-end, with first

quarter results available to the public at the April 29 meeting.

The public is able to access the monthly and quarterly financial results on www.roswellconnections. com.

In other business, the City Council deferred action on a land exchange agreement with developer Atlantic Communities for the second time.

The exchange would include 1.3 acres owned by the developer at Ga. 9 and Hill Street and an equal-sized parcel owned by the city.

The 6-acre mixed-use project will consist of around 80,000 square feet of commercial space, up to 143 multi-family apartments, up to 16 townhomes and a 300-space parking deck.

First approved at the Jan. 13 City Council meeting, the agreement would allow the Roswell Development Authority and the Downtown Development Authority to finish specific scopes of work related to economic development projects brought forward by the city.

Councilman William Morthland said that the item will come in front of council again, although he does not have an exact date.

Taste of Alpharetta e-currency now accessible on mobile app

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Taste of Alpharetta’s digital currency TasteBucks goes on sale at 10 a.m. April 14.

Purchasable through a Taste of Alpharetta mobile app, the currency will be redeemable for food, beverage, merchandise and activities. The app can be downloaded on Google Play and the App Store.

Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) officials told Appen Media attendees will be also able to buy TasteBucks with cash at the event.

This year’s festival will offer delectable dishes from more than 60 local restaurants 5-10 p.m. May 8 in downtown Alpharetta.

Food samples range from $1 to $6. Kidz Zone unlimited play wristbands are available for purchase for $15 or $25 for two.

Fans are encouraged to take advantage of special early bird discounts.

Early bird discounts will offer 30 TasteBucks for $25 and three Kidz Zone wristbands for $10 each. Discounts will be available until 11:59 p.m. April 20.

Janet Rodgers, president and CEO of ACVB, said the festival offers much more than just food.

“It’s an invitation to experience unique culinary experiences and discover all that our city has to offer and to see why it earned the distinction as a Top 3 Culinary Town of the South,” Rodgers said.

The festival also will feature live music performances, interactive activities and more.

Attractions

The Kidz Zone, presented by Georgia United Credit Union, will offer a variety of exciting games, inflatables and challenge courses. With an unlimited-play wristband, kids of all ages can enjoy more than a dozen activities, including an obstacle course, carnival rides, games, mini golf and inflatables.

The festival will feature a variety of regional and local bands on four stages.

The Locally Grown area is a hands-on, interactive space designed to help attendees learn about the local food system, from pollinators to sustainable farming practices. Talk with leaders and innovators in the local food industry to learn how food gets to our plates.

Participating organizations include 2BlackBeekeepers, Cambridge FFA, Cambridge High School Agaretta Box, Fresh Harvest, Johns Creek Environmental Campus, Sumthin About Spice, The Farm at Old Rucker Park and UGA Extension Fulton County.

Located at Milton and Roswell/Canton streets, the Beverage Garden invites adults 21 and up to enjoy a selection of exclusive beverages from Casamigos

What: Taste of Alpharetta

When: Thursday, May 8th, 5-10 p.m.

Where: Downtown Alpharetta

To purchase TasteBucks, download the Taste of Alpharetta’s mobile app on Google Play or the App Store.

For more information about the festival, visit www.tasteofalpharettaga.com or follow the festival on social media channels through @TasteofAlpharetta

Tequila and other official sponsors, including Chloe Wine and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

The space will also feature a comfortable seating area, live music and a 360 photo booth.

Fans are encouraged to compete for a seat as an official judge for the 2025 Culinary Competition. Judges will join top food critics, social media influencers, Alpharetta restaurateurs, and community leaders in blind tasting entries from top restaurants to determine the winners in categories of Best Appetizer, Best Entrée and Best Dessert.

Fans are invited to complete an application form by noon April 9 for a chance to win.

All attendees can help recognize the city’s best culinary talent by casting a vote in the People’s Choice Awards. Voters can visit the app or scan QR codes on signage located throughout the event from 5 p.m. to midnight.

Winners will be announced on the event’s social media pages a week after the event.

There are multiple ways of getting to the event, including a park and walk with locations at the City Hall parking deck, Milton Avenue parking deck and Alpharetta Community Center.

Free shuttles will run every 10-15 minutes from 5-10 p.m. from the Wacky World Playground, 1815 Old Milton Parkway and Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11915 Wills Road.

Rideshare drop-offs and pick-ups should be routed to Innovation Academy, 125 Milton Ave.

Additional handicapped parking spots will be marked on the first floor of the Milton Avenue parking deck. All park and ride shuttle lots will include a handicapaccessible bus for pick-ups and drop-offs.

— Jon Wilcox

I sort of became a student of event spaces and how to open one.

EBONY HAMLET, president and founder, A Space in Time

8 | Alpharetta-Roswell Herald | April 17, 2025

Event planner leaves corporate life to pursue her passions

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Space in Time is an event venue, really two of them, smack dab in the center of Sandy Springs off Hilderbrand Drive that’s available to rent for special events.

Ebony Hamlet is the owner of the event venue, located at 290 Hilderbrand Drive just southeast of the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center and Veterans Park.

“I was always the person in my family who was hosting the baby showers and birthday parties … and just family gatherings, I was always the go-to person,” Hamlet said. “My last family reunion that I hosted here in Atlanta, my elders pulled me to the side at brunch and said ‘you should really consider doing this professionally.’”

She said at first it wasn’t clear if she could turn her passion for coordinating and creating seamless events for her loved ones into a career.

In February, Visit Sandy Springs published an article “Black-Owned Business and Restaurants in Sandy Springs,” featuring a snapshot of some of the city’s entrepreneurs. Her advice to others considering a jump to entrepreneurship is to not let that thing go once it’s been found.

Hamlet worked at Priority Technology Holdings for nearly a decade before she was let go in summer 2020. Hamlet said a phone call from her sister helped with a shift in her mind set and an eventual pursuit of her dreams.

“I called her, along with some other

people, and the first thing they would say is ‘oh my gosh, what are you going to do? …I’m so sorry this happened to you,’” she said. “Well, my sister dropped a gem on me; the first thing she said was ‘congratulations, what are you going to do now?’”

Hamlet said a lot of her life was tied to her job in corporate America, but her sister’s words encouraged her to take the first steps.

She spent most of the second half of 2020 traveling and studying venues across Europe and Brazil,

including art galleries, coffee shops and banquet halls.

“I sort of became a student of event spaces and how to open one,” Hamlet said.

PLANNER, Page 9

SPACE IN TIME/PROVIDED

Ebony Hamlet, president and founder of the Sandy Springs event venue A Space in Time, is loving her life as an entrepreneur after leaving behind corporate America to pursue one of her passions — running her own event venue. See

Planner:

Continued from Page 8

“Their restaurants and coffee shops are very quaint, but they make the most out of the space; I always knew I didn’t want a huge space, but I wanted an intimate one for the venue.”

With its location in the heart of Sandy Springs, Hamlet said she thinks the business’s Atlanta address, common throughout the nearly 20-yearold city, helps attract some interested customers looking to celebrate something while staying in the state capital.

Plus, she said there’s ample free parking, which is hard to find in central Atlanta.

“I actually signed my lease in November 2020, but I needed renovations to be done, so the lease wouldn’t start until February,” Hamlet said. “I have heard about the golden years of owning an event space and how lucrative it is was, and I can honestly say I don’t think I’ve experienced that.”

Through the last four years, she said there have been highs and lows. Right now, Hamlet said she has one open weekend open coming up, which is a rarity. May is typically one of the busiest months for event planners and venues like Hamlet and Space in Time.

“You have a bunch of graduations … weddings, baby showers happening,” she said. “That’s usually a jam-packed month, and I’m not seeing that right now.”

The first space, Suite I, is more than 1,880 square feet and holds up to 125 seated guests for special gatherings like birthday celebrations,

BUSINESSPOSTS

retirement parties, holiday mixers, baby showers, graduation parties and bridal showers.

Located in the same plaza with an adjoining courtyard, Suite II is slightly larger at 2,246 square feet and capable of holding up 150 guests.

Hamlet said the larger facility can host things like weddings, book signings, receptions and art shows with the space next door available, which can save the cost of turning over the same room for another event.

While Hamlet said she thinks people may be holding onto their cash now, Space in Time has a lot going for it.

“I think what makes Space in Time unique is I have two venues in one plaza,” she said. “If you’ve ever attended a wedding, a lot of times in those venues they have to flip the room … changing it from the wedding ceremony to the reception …. We eliminate that.”

Hamlet also said she likes the intimacy of both spaces but has created distinct aesthetics for each that “quaint and whimsical.”

Baby showers are the number one event type, followed by weddings.

Clients come from all over, but one of the notable events at Space in Time was when Fulton County District Fani Willis hosted a twoday conference with local law enforcement and prosecutors to lay out a game plan to combat crimes across the region.

While speaking with Appen Media April 10, Hamlet said she had three tours that afternoon. She said they’re most likely looking to grab that open weekend in May.

For more information about Space in Time and its owner Ebony Hamlet, visit spaceintimeatl.com

SPACE IN TIME/PROVIDED

Balloons, chandeliers and formal place settings stick out in Suite I and II at Space in Time, an event venue and small business run by local entrepreneur Ebony Hamlet. The venues are just 10 feet away from one another off Hilderbrand Drive in Sandy Springs.

HELP IS HERE

If you live in Georgia, you can still get help with recovery from Helene or Debby through housing assistance, loans, resources and more. Stay in touch and check your application for updates.

Ways FEMA Can Help

Housing: FEMA may call for more information from an unfamiliar number. Be sure to answer, as FEMA may be able to help with immediate housing, additional support and information on housing opportunities.

Home Inspection: Inspectors will make an appointment before they visit and will show your application number and their photo ID.

SBA Centers: FEMA staff is available to assist at Small Business Administration centers in Coffee, Jeff Davis, Lowndes, Richmond, Screven, Telfair and Toombs counties.

Center for Rural Entrepreneurship:

208 E. 1st St., Vidalia, GA 30474

Jeff Davis Rec Dept: 83 Buford Rd., Hazlehurst, GA 31539

McDuffie Woods CC: 3431 Old McDuffie Rd., Augusta, GA 30906

Satilla Library:

200 S. Madison Ave., Douglas, GA 31533

Screven County Library: 106 South Community Dr., Sylvania, GA 30467

Telfair CSC: 91 Telfair Ave., #D, McRae-Helena, GA 31055

VSU Foundation: 901 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA 31601

Keep Your Recovery On Track

Read your FEMA letter carefully. If you’ve applied for FEMA disaster assistance and were not approved, you may need to send additional documentation.

Scan the QR code or go to fema.gov/HelpIsHere and select “check your status” to upload documents, track your application, update contact information, get directions or get help.

fema.gov/HelpIsHere

Stay in Touch

ONLINE: fema.gov/HelpIsHere

DOWNLOAD: The FEMA App CALL: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)

Doraville-based banks sign merger agreement

DORAVILLE, Ga. — The holding company for Metro City Bank announced the acquisition of First IC Bank and its parent company March 17 with the signing of a definitive merger agreement.

The merger, expected close in the fourth quarter of 2025, brings together two Doraville-based banks and former competitors.

Metro City Bank operates 20 banking offices across seven states, including Alabama, Georgia, New York and Texas, finishing last year with $3.6 billion in assets. Its holding company, MetroCity Bankshares Inc., is publicly traded on the Nasdaq stock exchange.

First IC Bank maintains 10 banking locations and two loan production offices across six states, including California, Georgia, Texas and Washington, with $1.2 billion in assets at the end of last year. Its holding company, First IC Corporation, is also publicly traded.

Under the terms of the agreement, First IC shareholders will receive more than 3.38 million shares of MetroCity common stock and just under $112 million in cash, subject to adjustment.

Based on price of the stock at the time of the deal, MetroCity is paying $22.17 for each share of First IC, bringing the cost of the deal to around $206 million.

First IC Corporation Chairman Chong Chun said the bank is thrilled to announce the merger with MetroCity.

“I am proud of our strong team, the bank and legacy we have built together, and the positive impact we’ve made in our communities,” Chun said.

Toro Development announces office lease at Medley Johns Creek

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Toro Development Company announced April 3 that Boehringer Ingelheim, a state leader in animal health innovation, has leased 73,000 square feet of office space at Medley.

The 43-acre site under construction in Johns Creek is being developed on the site of a formerly defunct office campus. Toro razed the site’s other existing, functionally obsolete building to make way for Medley's mixed-use style. The two buildings were formerly home to State Farm, before it relocated its campus to Park Center, a mixed-use regional hub in Dunwoody’s Central Perimeter.

Boehringer Ingelheim says it will move into its new headquarters with nearly 500 employees next summer, ahead of Medley’s grand opening, set for October 29, 2026.

Toro Development Company says Medley, a 43-acre mixed-use development in the heart of Johns Creek’s Town Center, is set for a grand opening October 29, 2026.

goal is to develop a workplace that reflects our unwavering commitment to advance the health and well-being of animals and generates energy and pride within our employees.”

“By combining with MetroCity, we ensure our shared values to create a better bank, offering enhanced services and opportunities for our employees, customers, key partnerships and the communities we serve will be our legacy.”

The deal isn’t fully locked in yet. The announcement says it is “subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including receipt of required regulatory approvals and approval by the shareholders of First IC.”

The combined company is expected to have around $4.8 billion in assets, $3.7 billion in deposits and $4.1 billion in loans.

In a pitch to prospective investors, the announcement says the merger will temporarily lower MetroCity’s “real” value per share, but thanks to the extra profits it brings, they expect to recover that loss in about two and half years.

MetroCity also expects its profit per share to jump by around 25 percent in the first year after the merger because combining companies will drive down costs.

Chairman and CEO Nack Peck said his team has long competed with and admired the First IC franchise and are excited about combining the two organizations.

“The combined bank will have the capacity to service our customers better, offer enhanced opportunities for our employees and continue offering excellent returns to our shareholders,” Peck said.

— Hayden Sumlin

Stream Realty’s Bryan Heller and Parker Welton, who represented Toro in the deal, say it marks the largest new Class-A office lease north of the Perimeter in nearly five years. It’s another sizable relocation reflecting the “flight to quality” trend in office real estate.

“Medley fills a long-standing gap in Johns Creek’s office offering — a city that, while a demographic powerhouse and the envy of municipalities nationwide, has long lacked a vibrant, all-day destination that truly brings it all together,” Heller said.

TDC Chief Vision Officer Mark Toro said an active and energized mixeduse destination is the ultimate “people magnet” for employers.

“Medley’s fully amenitized and pedestrian-driven environment gives Boehringer Ingelheim a distinct competitive advantage as it seeks to recruit, retain and return the best and brightest in a setting that fosters innovation and collaboration,” Toro said.

Boehringer Ingelheim is set to occupy two full floors of Medley’s lifestyle office building overlooking the shops and dining along Medley Boulevard. Including the street-level retail, the reimagined office building is currently being renovated and set to encompass 150,000 square feet.

Peter Ploeger, country managing director for the U.S. Animal Health business at Boehringer Ingelheim, said Medley will bring a new energy to the company’s headquarters.

“This is not just a new building; it's a move that symbolizes our forwardthinking mentality and our commitment to animal health," Ploeger said. “Our

Boehringer has a large footprint in the state from manufacturing operations in Gainesville and Athens to the recent expansion of its global research and development building in Athens.

"Boehringer Ingelheim’s decision to invest in Fulton County reinforces our reputation as a premier destination for business and innovation," Board of Commissioners Chair Robb Pitts said. "This major investment not only fuels job creation but also enhances our position as a leader in the life sciences industry."

Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry said this city is excited for Boehringer Ingelheim to join its growing business community.

“Their selection of Johns Creek, the first municipality in the state of Georgia to be designated as a gold level BioReady Community, furthers our reputation as a leader in health, wellness and innovation,” Bradberry said. “This significant relocation is just the latest sign that Johns Creek is the place to be.”

In addition to office space, Medley is set to encompass 150,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and entertainment space, a 175-key boutique hotel, 750 multifamily residences, 133 forsale townhomes and an activated 25,000-square-foot Plaza.

Toro Development Company says it will infuse its signature approach to resort-style hospitality, entertainment and community building at Medley, which includes hosting approximately 200 events per year, ranging from outdoor wellness classes and live music to art festivals and watch parties.

—

Hayden Sumlin

Plant lovers share kinship at Wills Park Garden Faire

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — By the time the gates opened at 9 a.m. sharp April 12, more than 120 green thumbs had lined up at The Grove at Wills Park for first dibs at the annual Garden Faire.

Having arrived almost an hour earlier, Roswell couple Julie Burroughs and Michael Joseph stood at the head of the line. Expecting stiff competition from fellow botany buffs, they were strategizing a game plan to maximize their haul in a minimum amount of time.

“We have a system,” Burroughs said. “We’ve been doing this for years and years and years.”

Burroughs and Joseph were the first of thousands to visit the expo at The Grove behind the Alpharetta Community Center, 175 Roswell St. in Alpharetta.

Sponsored by the North Fulton Master Gardeners, the 24th annual event offered hundreds of flowers, vegetables, herbs and other plants.

Funds went to the Master Gardeners’ community education and growing efforts.

For residents serious about gardening, the sale marks one of the best opportunities to find growing things, particularly ones adapted to growing in the area, Burroughs said.

“This is the best day of the year,” she said. “I love native plants, and this is the best sale in Georgia.”

Rows of potted plants lay waiting on tables throughout the lush lawn. Customers thoughtfully perused the offerings with dogs and wagons in tow as Master Gardeners stood by eager to offer advice.

A perfect selection

Master Gardeners cultivated many of the plants on sale. Their leaves, free of blemishes, glowed with vitality in the warm spring sunshine.

Standing amid rows of fragrant roses for sale, Chris Callahan and his wife Kathy Watson were considering whether to take one home.

Volunteer Susan O’Neill said the nonprofit had raised the flowers since January in a greenhouse to ensure their perfection.

“If you go in the greenhouse, especially on a hot afternoon, the aroma is just out of this world,” O’Neill said.

Callahan said roses hold a special place in his heart. When his mother was bedridden with an illness, his father planted a rose garden outside her window.

“It really lifted her spirits,” Callahan said. “And that was just Dad. He wanted to make it as sweet and

comfortable as he could for her.”

Watson said she was raised around roses on a farm where her mother, a “reluctant gardener,” planted them everywhere. While Watson said she has yet to get over the work they can require, she is nevertheless drawn to the flowers.

O’Neill advised the couple the work is well worth it.

“You'll cut those and put them in a vase, and when you walk in your house, it’s ‘Oh, my God,’” she said.

Across the lawn, Marietta resident Ariel Roberts was pushing her cart of finds when she was stopped by Master Gardener Jeanette England.

One of her plants, a succulent with hanging, jagged leaves, was hiding a secret, England said.

“Look up orchid cactus,” England said, showing a photo on her phone of an enormous blossom with long, feather-like fuchsia petals.

O’Neill was delighted.

“I literally love it,” she said. “I’m so

excited.”

‘Nature nerds’ and ‘plant fools’

O’Neill, whose home is filled with aquascaping aquariums and more than 60 plants, said she loves attending plant sales in part because of people like England. The sales are the perfect place to get advice, learn something new and make friends with fellow “nature nerds,” she said.

“Every year I come here, I meet someone like that, and it's awesome,” she said.

Acworth neighbors Carol Parris and Katherine Nordby, were sharing a similar moment while buying a pair of Japanese maple saplings from Jim Sidon, a nearby vendor.

The friends, who live down the street from one another, bonded over their shared love for gardens.

Nordby hoped to plant the tree in her yard where she is planning a Japanese garden.

Parris, a self-described “plant fool,” said she became “addicted” to gardening while working in her grandfather’s garden when she was young.

“I just followed him around, and I learned to love it all,” she said.

After putting in the work, there’s something wonderful about relaxing with plants, she said.

“I sit in an easy chair, and I look at a window, and I watch the breeze blow and the flowers bloom,” Parris said. “It makes my heart sing. It thrills my soul.”

Sidon, who is raising thousands of seedlings at his home, said he understands Parris’ obsession.

Although Sidon’s primary source of income is a landscaping company, he spends his free time grafting, cultivating and collecting hundreds of varieties of trees. He said he finds it fascinating that the trees have ancestors that once came from East Asia.

“It’s kind of a hobby gone berserk,” he said.

PHOTOS BY: JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

Visitors browse a wide selection of plants laid out on tables at the 24th Garden Faire at The Grove in Alpharetta’s Wills Park April 12.

Chris Callahan and Kathy Watson look over roses for sale at the 24th Garden Faire at the Grove in Alpharetta’s Wills Park April 12.

Lily Amato, left, catches up with a friend as her dog, Big Daddy, stands guard at the Garden Faire April 12.

GrillFest is a celebration of all of our favorite foods that can be prepared on the grill, smoker, or flattop griddle. Guests will enjoy unlimited samples of juicy burgers, smoked BBQ, and an array of grilled meats from wings to steaks. Don’t worry veggie lovers—we’ve got you covered, too, as our restaurant partners and chefs will also have your

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favorites fired up on the grill. GrillFest will include craft beer and craft cocktails, along with bourbon and tequila tastings from our spirits partners. Enjoy live entertainment all day and visit with our vendor sponsors just in time for summer—think outdoor living, summer fun, and grills and gadgets for the outdoor chef.

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Ranch offers unique care to assist special campers

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Every morning, Nehemiah Lamb unlocks the doors at Waller Park Recreation Center to begin the day at his non-profit’s spring break camp, but this camp is no ordinary one, it is unique.

Lamb founded the Unique Individuals Ranch, a program dedicated to children and young adults with neurodivergence or developmental disabilities including, Autism, ADD, ADHD, Behavioral Disorder and Down syndrome.

Coming up on its 10th anniversary in October, Lamb founded the program after realizing that there is a gap in certain kinds of care.

During his time as a camp and childcare director at another organization, Lamb began wanting to offer neurodivergent populations with a tailored service to be able to truly support them.

“I felt it wasn’t enough, so I resigned and created Unique Individual Ranch,” Lamb said. “Every kid deserves the same opportunity [and] experience, regardless of how it looks.”

Staff welcome the campers with

open arms, ready to take on the day. From 8 a.m. until the very last camper leaves at 3 p.m., participants are given engaging activities that they may not have otherwise.

Like their name, each day is unique, filled with gym time, reading, hikes and sensory activities. Throughout the spring break camp, attendees are get opportunities like bowling and field trips.

The spring break camp allows campers to have fun and relax, just like their other peers do on their break.

“I love it, just because it gives the community an opportunity to grow, but then it gives the kids [the opportunity] to experience something different,” Lamb said.

Each participant gets individual care tailored to their own needs, while prioritizing a safe environment to create opportunities for socialization.

The main goal is to allow campers to feel comfortable and find a sense of belonging. Lamb said that the mission is to “create an experience for each child to grow in their own unique way, because growth looks different [for] different kids.”

Owner John Hogan & Designer Bobbie Kohm

UNIQUE INDIVIDUALS RANCH/PROVIDED Unique Individuals Ranch provides specialized care for those with intellectual disabilities at their yearly spring break camp. During the camp, campers will go on hikes and even field trips.

Society honors Centennial senior with scholarship

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Martha Stewart Bulloch Chapter of The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution honored Samer Layous with the Marcheta Knight Weitz Scholarship.

Layous, a senior at Centennial High School, was presented with the $1,000 scholarship by regent Cynthia Waskowsky and Scholarship Chair Beth St. Jean April 14 at Roswell Area Park.

“It feels really good. I'm excited to win this in a room full of a lot of amazing women,” Layous said.

School counselor Melissa Freeman and Career and College Coordinator Caroline Truax nominated Layous for the award based on his achievements through his academic career.

Layous will graduate in the top 5 percent of his class with a 4.0 grade point average. He is a member of the school’s Chess Club and Kindness Club and

volunteers at the St. John Chrysostom Melkite Catholic Church on Ponce de Leon Avenue.

Layous has served as the football team captain and has been a starter all four years. He holds the school records for the longest field goal, 54 yards, and most career soccer goals, also 54. at Centennial.

In July, Layous will head to Marist University in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he hopes to be a walk-on for the football team while he studies business.

His mother, Raina, stood alongside Layous as he was applauded for his achievements. She said she will miss him but is excited for his new chapter of life.

“He's just a well-rounded person,” St. Jean said.

The Scholarship is given annually to students in honor of Marcheta Knight Weitz, a late member of the chapter.

“In her will, she set up a foundation [so] every year we have the money for the scholarship,” St. Jean said.

ceremony at Roswell Area Park April 14.

Register to bike with the mayor of Roswell

ROSWELL, Ga. — Bike with Mayor Kurt Wilson at the annual Bike Roswell! Mayor’s Ride April 27.

More than 400 riders will bike from City Hall around the city alongside the Mayor and City Council members to help advocate for biking in the Roswell area.

Three routes are available for participants, including the 18-mile challenge, 42-mile workout and 60mile metric century tour, which will each parade down Canton Street before exploring the rolling hills and

flat sections of the city.

Rest stops will be provided for each route with drinks and snacks. Pre-ride mechanical support, as well as t-shirts will also be given to participants.

All proceeds from the ride support bicycle advocacy in the community through Bike Roswell!, a non-profit advocating for safer cycling options for residents of Roswell and Georgia.

Riders are asked to meet at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Roswell, GA 30075 for registration

between 6:45 a.m. and 7:45 a.m.

A warmup will be conducted by Training Think Tank at 7:30 a.m.

The ride will begin right at 8 a.m. and finish across from Rock ‘N’ Taco on Canton Street Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill St., Roswell, GA 30075, where a lunch and free beverage will be served.

Registration for the Mayor’s Ride is $45, with an early pack pickup April 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lucky’s Burger and Brew 1144 Alpharetta St., Roswell, GA 30075 or April 26

from 2 to 4 p.m. at Roswell Bicycles 670 Houze Way, Roswell, GA 30076. The Roswell Family Ride will also be held for those ages 8 and up who are looking for an easier stroll. The free ride will consist of four miles and will begin at the same time and place as the Mayor’s Ride. Registration for this ride ends April 25.

To register for the rides, visit www.bikeroswell.com/mayorsride/.

— Sarah Coyne

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

From left, Cynthia Waskowsky, Samer Layous and Beth St. Jean stand at the Martha Stewart Bulloch chapter of The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution scholarship

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Robert E. Krimmel named president, chief executive officer and director

ALPHARETTA, Ga.— Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. (OTC Pink: TMAK), the holding company for Touchmark National Bank, today announced that Robert E. (“Bobby”) Krimmel was appointed as its President, CEO and director of Touchmark National Bank. Krimmel most recently served as Chief Administrative Officer of First Farmers and Merchants Bank and Chief Financial Officer of First Farmers and Merchants Corporation. Krimmel succeeds Dr. J.J. Shah, who is retiring from Touchmark National Bank after seven years of service. Dr. Shah will remain on Touchmark’s Boards as Chairman.

During his almost 10-year tenure at First Farmers and Merchants Bank, Krimmel positively impacted financial results by growing net income by 56%, maintaining annual average core earnings per share growth rate of 8%, and reducing operational efficiency by 5%. At First Farmers, Krimmel successfully managed most of the major support functions including accounting, treasury, information technology, project management, internal controls, information security, fraud, risk management, facilities, management reporting systems, corporate communications, and shareholder services. Additionally, Krimmel provided executive leadership to the internal audit and the regulatory compliance functions and was the primary liaison for all regulatory authorities and external auditors.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr. J.J. Shah, Chairman of the Boards of Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. and Touchmark National Bank, said, “After seven years as President and CEO of Touchmark National Bank, I have decided to step down to spend more time with my family and welcome the next generation of leadership to Touchmark National Bank. We are excited to have someone with Bobby’s strategic vision and experience to lead Touchmark National Bank into its next chapter of growth. We think we have the right leader to oversee dynamic change with a focus on deepening our ties to the Alpharetta and other local markets.”

“We are grateful for the leadership and steady hand Dr. Shah provided to Touchmark for the past seven years,” said Byron Richardson, lead director

of Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. “Since joining Touchmark as lead director last year, I believe the future is bright for local banking opportunities and that Bobby is the right fit to lead Touchmark National Bank into the future.”

Commenting on his new role, Krimmel said, “Touchmark National Bank is located in one of the most vibrant parts of the Atlanta MSA with more than 600 technology companies and a growing local economy. I look forward to working with the Touchmark team to enhance the bank and grow its brand in the north Fulton County market with a focus on small business banking.”

Prior to joining First Farmers, Krimmel served as Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer for HeritageBank of the South in Albany, Georgia. While at HeritageBank, he managed the accounting, treasury, tax, accounts payable, loss-share accounting and reconciliation departments. He also directed HeritageBank’s investment portfolio, managed the interest rate risk analysis, and was responsible for Security and Exchange Commission and regulatory reporting. Before joining HeritageBank, Krimmel was Vice President and Controller at Green Bank in Greenville, Tennessee.

Krimmel is a Certified Public Accountant and has completed the Graduate School of Bank Investments and Financial Management and the Financial Managers School. He holds Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Accountancy degrees from East Tennessee State University. He is the past Treasurer of the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee, Vice Chairman of Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury, Treasurer for Cub Scout Pack 369 and youth basketball coach.

About Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. and Touchmark National Bank

Touchmark Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for Touchmark National Bank, a community bank founded in 2008 and headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, serving north Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb and Dekalb counties. As of December 31, 2024, Touchmark reported total assets of $449 million and total shareholders’ equity of $72 million. For more information about Touchmark, visit us at www.touchmarknb.com under Investor Relations.

Bobby Krimmel

County approves polling location changes

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — The Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections met to discuss polling place changes at their monthly board meeting April 10 at the Elections Hub and Operations Center.

Polling place changes will take place at around 68 locations across Fulton County in 11 cities across the county, including Alpharetta, Atlanta, Chattahoochee Hills, College Park, East Point, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Sandy Springs, South Fulton and Union City.

Traditionally, polling places are modified if the site is no longer willing to host election operations, is undergoing renovations, boundary line changes or due to voter complaints about parking or other issues.

“There were several that are undergoing renovations, especially in Fulton County Schools for the summer months they either have a conflict or they have renovations happening,” Director of Registration and Elections Nadine Williams said.

In addition, the Board approved the minutes from the February 13 regular meeting, during which advance polling locations were approved, some of which also include modifications.

Fulton County will provide the cities with a certain number of advance voting sites for the election.

and Elections discuss polling locations for the 2025 elections at a regular meeting April 10.

Requests for additional locations will be at the expense of the respective city.

The changes come ahead of the advanced voting for the Nov. 4 Municipal General Election held between Oct.14 to Oct. 31. A municipal general run-off election will be held Dec. 2, if needed.

A Special Primary Public Service Commissioner Special Election will also be held June 17, with a run-off on July 15, if needed.

Under the changes, the advance voting location for the June election provided for the City of Milton will take

place at Milton Library 855 Mayfield Road Milton, Ga. 30009.

Under the direction of Fulton County, advance voting for the June election will take place at the following locations:

• Johns Creek: Ocee Library 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road Johns Creek, Ga. 30005

• Alpharetta: Alpharetta Library 10 Park Plaza Alpharetta, GA 30009

• Roswell: Roswell Library 115 Norcross Street Roswell, GA 30075

• Sandy Springs: Sandy Springs Library

395 Mount Vernon Highway Sandy Springs, GA 30328

Absentee ballot drop boxes will be available at the Sandy Springs, Johns Creek and Alpharetta locations.

Advance voting will be held Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. between May 27 and June 13, with the election taking place on June 17.

As of now, the City of Roswell will use Roswell Library as the advanced voting site for the Nov. 4 election, as provided by the county. The city also chose during the March 25 Committees of Council meeting to provide another site at the East Roswell Library for the general election and the Dec. 2 municipal general run-off election, if needed.

“It’s not that we as a city or even the county are necessarily eliminating those locations on the municipal side. Instead, it was that these are private locations who decline usage,” Councilwoman Beeson said during the meeting.

The cost of the additional site will be $41,770, with an additional $16,087 if a run-off is needed, from available funding within the General Fund operating budget.

Polling location changes for all other cities for the general election will be provided to residents through the Secretary of State website at www.mvp. sos.ga.gov/s/.

If a polling location changes for a registered voter, they will be notified via precinct card prior to an election.

County honors top students at banquet

ATLANTA — Fulton County Schools honored top performers during the 2025 Career, Technology, Agriculture and Engineering Student of the Year Banquet March 27 at the Georgia Aquarium.

The district says the banquet featured students from every high school across the county

Cheryl Preheim, an anchor on 11Alive Morning News, hosted the annual celebration of CTAE students, one of the career clusters or focus areas that Fulton County Schools offers.

Students are given the option to pursue work-based learning as juniors and seniors in high school with options like agriculture, food and natural resources; art, audio-visual technology and communications; and information technology, business and management. The 2025 Career, Technology, Agriculture and Engineering Student of the Year Banquet recognized three

top performers. Mridula Bharathi, the valedictorian of Alpharetta High School’s 2025 class, took home first place across all CTAE students within Fulton County Schools. The high school senior runs her own podcast, “The Neurological Disorder,” which debuted in December 2022.

Another North Fulton student, senior Maximillian Draughn from Cambridge High School in Milton, received the runner-up. Draughn is currently an intern with the city of Alpharetta, running a small farm business from Old Rucker Farm.

Other North Fulton honorees include Georgia Hipp from Centennial in Roswell, Anish Kelam from Innovation Academy in Milton, Neel Adlakha from Northview in Johns Creek, Ella Bell from Johns Creek High School and Shakshi Bhimani from Cambridge.

— Hayden Sumlin

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Members of the Fulton County Board of Registration

FULTON COUNTY SCHOOLS/PROVIDED Fulton County Schools students gather around 11Alive anchor Cheryl Preheim, center, during the 2025 Career, Technology, Agricultural and Engineering (CTAE) Student of the Year Banquet March 27 at the Georgia Aquarium. The top two winners hail from Alpharetta and Cambridge High schools in North Fulton.

Alpharetta fishing store helps support veterans

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An Alpharetta fishing supply business raised thousands of dollars to give veterans a fly fishing trip.

Alpharetta Outfitters, 79 S. Main St., raised $8,000 through a raffle of donated items. The funds allowed 30 Project Healing Waters participants to enjoy a day catching “low-sodium stripers,” according to the business.

Nonprofit Project Healing Waters

Tell the Herald

is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and disabled veterans through fly fishing and associated activities, including education and outings.

Additional funds can be donated through Alpharetta Outfitters by calling 678-762-0027 or emailing shop@alpharettaoutfitters.com.

— Jon Wilcox

Send your photos, announcements and letters to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

Alpharetta Outfitters raised $8,000 to provide a day of fishing for veterans through the Project Healing Waters nonprofit.

Enjoy a car-free Canton Street at Roswell Moves!

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Moves! is back to hit the streets April 27 on the historic Canton Street from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The open streets event creates an expansive car-free urban oasis for friends and families to come together and celebrate their love for outdoor activities.

The event will kick off with the Mayor’s Ride, at 8 a.m., followed by the Family Bike Parade at 11 a.m.

A mix of activities, demonstrations and games for enthusiasts of all ages will be available between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Eventgoers can also enjoy the

sounds of live music on two stages by Mojo Vinyl and Bike Roswell, along with shopping, eating and drinking. Children will be able to learn the basic safety and skills to prepare for the summer with Kiwanis Kids Bicycle Safety Rodeo. All riders will be given a free bike check by REI mechanics.

To test the skills they learned, children can then go take a spin on the REI Pump Track to learn more about mountain biking. To learn more about the free event, visit www.bikeroswell.com/ roswellmoves/.

— Sarah Coyne

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve plans Earth Day celebration

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve is inviting the community to join in celebration of the planet April 19.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the preserve will mark Earth Day with family activities and education on sustainability and environmental protection.

“It’s a fun, free family event,” said Lizen Hayes, the preserve’s executive director.

Numerous nonprofits and local businesses will host hands-on activities for kids from making pine cone bird feeders to seed bombs. Many of the crafts will be made from recycled items.

Ranch:

Continued from Page 14

“We want them to have a place that feels like home, but also for them to grow, and then also to give parents the ease of mind,” Lamb said.

Full time employee and Fulton County Schools special education

Johns Creek will serve as an ideal location for the celebration, Hayes said.

The city has Green Community and Tree City USA designations and is home to numerous organizations and residents who care about the planet.

Hayes said the celebration is special because there are few other opportunities for communities to rally around the message of sustainability.

“It’s important to bring the community together around something we can all relate to and get behind, which is our planet,” Hayes said.

— Jon Wilcox

teacher Lipika Ghosh encourages the campers to embrace their disabilities and to get out of their comfort zones.

“I don’t look at it as a disability. They are very capable of doing a lot of things, which is why I feel more connected with these kids,” Ghosh said.

Not only does Unique Individuals Ranch offer an annual spring break camp, but also after-school

Earth Day celebration

What: Autrey Mill

Nature Preserve’s Earth Day celebration

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 19

Where: Autrey Mill

Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Road

Information: autreymill.org

MILL NATURE PRESERVE/PROVIDED

The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve invites children and their families to celebrate Earth Day with a host of hands-on activities.

enrichment, soccer, basketball and summer camp.

“It’s the most fun time of the year,” Lamb said.

Registration is now open for summer camp, as well as volunteer opportunities. Summer camp will take place between May 27 and July 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Waller Park 250 Oak St. Roswell, Ga. 30075. Parents are encouraged to sign children up as soon

as possible as spots are limited. The camp will cost $450 per week. Scholarships are available through the Roswell Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs Department for families who need assistance. Awards range from $50 to $450 per week but are not guaranteed.

To learn more about Unique Individual Ranch, visit www.uiranch. org.

ALPHARETTA OUTFITTERS/PROVIDED

How to Participate:

Pre-Registration is REQUIRED. Scan the QR code to register. Registrations will NOT be accepted on site.

$20 registration fee per car.*

Where to bring your clutter

By SARAH DONEHOO newsroom@appenmedia.com

METRO ATLANTA. — Decluttering the house is a process that incites enthusiasm for some and dread for others. Getting off-task with cleaning is easy to do, and many possessions ride the line of being necessary or unnecessary depending on the day or how one is feeling.

No matter what, sometimes it’s high time unused furniture, appliances, clothing, books or electronics find their way to a new home or purpose.

Here are some local spots that can manage different kinds of unwanted stuff.

Recycling Services

If you want to recycle plastic waste and it is PET or HDPE, (recycling numbers 1 and 2, respectively) you can drop it off at a regular recycling center.

Forsyth County recycling centers will accept the materials above as well as aluminum, tin, and steel.

The Sandy Springs Recycling Center offers to recycle the common recyclables above, electronics, appliances and household items like books and wood furniture. The Roswell Recycling Center will accept plastic, glass, cardboard and paper recycling.

Note that some centers are open only to residents of the county or city.

The Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) in Atlanta offers options by accepting most items that don’t fit into the typical parameters of cardboard, glass and plastic waste. If you’re getting rid of old or broken appliances, propane tanks, batteries, light bulbs or mattresses, CHaRM will divert them toward recycling and composting.

ChaRM will also accept plastics whose recycle number is 4, 5 or 6, types of plastic that most centers won’t accept, including plastic bags.

Reusable shopping bags have become very popular as an alternative to plastic shopping bags, but at Publix and Kroger there are recycling bins to drop used plastic bags in. Simply ensure that the bags are clean and not torn.

Donation Centers

The Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity accept car donations even if the vehicle is not driveable. As long as the car isn’t in a hazardous condition, then it can be picked up free of charge. Goodwill and Salvation Army accept nearly anything when it comes to used home goods.

answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

CARTOON CHARACTERS

1. The Gem State. Peter Pan villain. Uniform fabric.

2. One of the 7 Dwarfs. Charity. Wine bottle designation.

3. Charlie Brown loves him. Small whirlpool. Lock name.

4. Brouhaha. Moonfish. One of TV’s Simpsons.

5. Get-up-and-go. Coffee order. Bugs bugs him.

6. Church official. The “Oyl” in Popeye cartoons. Smell really bad.

7. Golf bag gadgets. High-hatter. Dear me, it’s a deer.

1 The Gem State. Peter Pan villain. Uniform fabric

2. One of the 7 Dwarfs. Charity. Wine bottle designation

How to Solve: Each line in the puzzle above has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, which each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

3. Charlie Brown loves him. Small whirlpool. Lock name

4. Brouhaha. Moonfish. One of TV’s Simpsons

5. Get-up-and-go. Coffee order. Bugs bugs him

6. Church offical. The “Oyl” in Popeye cartoons. Smell really, really bad.

7. Golf bag gadgets. High-hatter. Dear me, it’s a deer.

Dances

Dances:

Line

Riverside Sounds announces 25th anniversary concert lineup

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Riverside Sounds, the city’s longest-running free outdoor concert series, is celebrating 25 years of live music with a diverse 2025 lineup.

Held on the fourth Saturday of each month from April through July, the series brings nationally recognized and up-and-coming artists to the stage at Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.

This year’s lineup features genres ranging from alt-country and blues to Latin fusion and soulful Americana.

2025 concert schedule:

April 26 – Town Mountain

Known for their vibrant fusion of bluegrass, honky-tonk and Americana, Town Mountain brings raw, rootsy energy to the stage with influences from Jerry Garcia to Willie Nelson.

May 24 – Bee Taylor

Taylor’s blend of blues, jazz and Americana—along with her commanding presence and soulful lyrics—offers a performance that’s both powerful and personal.

June 28 – ¡Tumbao!

Fresh off an international tour, this nine-member psychedelic Latin fusion ensemble delivers a fresh mix of salsa, funk, cumbia, Latin rock and R&B.

July 26 – Amythyst Kiah

A Grammy-nominated singersongwriter, Kiah merges Americana, blues and alt-rock. Her latest album, Still + Bright, showcases a bold, genreblending sound.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. Beer, wine and sangria will be available for purchase from sponsors Top Job Beverage and Events, FabFoodTrucks.com and Gate City Brewing Co.

Food vendors will include Bento Bus, Tacos & Tequilas, Viva Pita, Smash Hit Burgers, A Little Nauti, Hungry Hippo, The Patty Wagon and Urban Wings.

The 2025 season will be the last held at Riverside Park before it temporarily closes for reconstruction. Beginning in fall 2025, the Bond-funded project is expected to last through spring 2027 and will include updates to enhance park amenities.

For more information or to stream the official 2025 playlist, visit roswellriversidesounds.com.

— Jamie Godin

Alive in Roswell returns for its 2025 season

ROSWELL, Ga. — Alive in Roswell invites family and friends to come celebrate the beginning of its 2025 season April 17 on Historic Canton Street and Roswell Antique and Interiors Lot.

The celebration promises a vibrant energy with live music, food trucks, artisan vendors and interactive activities.

Community members can enjoy the free event every third Thursday through October from 5 to 9 p.m.

“We are thrilled to bring back Alive in Roswell for another season,” Roswell Mayor Kurt Wilson said.

While strolling the street attendees can enjoy rock, pop and dance hits from the 1970s to the early 2000s by Radio Star, a dynamic cover band

The season opener ‘s live music is sponsored by Rock ‘N’ Taco Roswell and Fifth Third Bank, with music production by Southeast Elite Entertainment.

For more information about the festival, visit www.aliveinroswell.com.

— Sarah Coyne

Clutter:

Continued from Page 20

Both The Salvation Army and Goodwill offer complimentary pick-up services, but only at specific locations. If the items are acceptable, then you can schedule a time to have your donations picked up on their website or over the phone.

Minimizing Clutter

One way to keep clutter at a minimum is that whenever you buy something, choose something else to either donate or sell. When it comes to moving, be it someone moving out, in or to a new home, one reason so many things end up in the trash is because of the time constraint on decision-making and sorting objects. Keeping an eye on clutter over time can help reduce this effect.

Moving things around can be stressful or jarring, but with the right resources it doesn’t have to be unmanageable. Donating or recycling unwanted items may seem like a burden. However, those steps can help others get use out of items in a way that can reduce the community’s consumption overall.

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Crowd hears senior care advice from team of experts in the field

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Discharge planning starts on day one of your loved one’s hospital stay.

That is one resounding takeaway from the April 8 gathering of Adult Children of Aging Parents North Atlanta, a nonprofit offering free in-person programs on the second Tuesday of the month at Dunwoody United Methodist Church.

The support group’s monthly sessions feature a wide variety of experts in the care of older adults, often those whose close relatives fully or partially look after them during the day.

The crowd of around 30 at the April session featured caregivers, industry professionals and others interested in how they can best care for their loved ones.

One woman’s mother is refusing her suggestions that she increase her care level, while another couple is looking to understand the process more after one of their parents’ recent hospital stays.

ACAP North Atlanta, founded in 2023 as a chapter of a North Carolinabased educational organization, invited Northside Hospital Care Coordinator Rhonda Perling to share her insider knowledge and expert strategies to help families navigate post-hospital care for their loved ones.

Before Perling educated the room and dived into nuances, the opening panel of ACAP North Atlanta’s leadership team got the conversation started.

Dr. Melissa Black, a geriatrician with her own practice, Empower Family Medicine of Decatur, said her decade with the Emory School of Medicine and in her own practice has taught her a lot about hospitals and medical insurance.

“I have a lot of experience working both in and outside of the hospital,” she said. “What people need to know as caregivers from the hospital’s perspective is that discharge planning starts on day one, and that is a universal saying.”

Black also said that hospitals want patients discharged as soon as possible, usually in less than three days, but it is not all doom and gloom because hospital visits are the most expensive form of care. Besides, people usually want to be home.

Rhonda Perling, the keynote speaker, is intimately familiar with the discharge process as supervisor of Northside Hospital’s Care Coordination Process.

“First thing I want you to do if anyone you love ends up in the hospital is get ahold of your case manager,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what you call them, discharge planners, care coordinators, case managers, we really don’t care as long as you call us.”

They are often the only healthcare

what your rights are … Medicare has rights.”

The one thing that we have to do immediately upon meeting you is gain trust. You’re scared, you’re in crisis and you don’t know what to do; Our job is to let you know what your options are, what your rights are … Medicare has rights.”

RHONDA PERLING Northside Hospital Care Coordinator

workers “rounding,” or conducting regular visits to patients’ bedsides to assess, communicate and respond to their needs.

Often, doctors and surgeons do not have the full intricate knowledge of healthcare policy nuances necessary to provide patients with a complete picture of their options, including tradeoffs and financial implications.

Perling provided an example of when a physician’s decision on a Friday afternoon ran into a speed bump when she notified him that the insurance office was closed, preventing her from verifying benefits, and her team was unlikely to find the patient a rehabilitation center over the weekend.

Perling said it’s probably not if

someone will have to take care of one of their aging loved ones at some point in their life, but when. Luckily, she said there are several ways to make the process smoother.

Hospitals employ care coordinators, including registered nurses and social workers, to manage patients’ healthcare needs, facilitate communication between patients and providers and ensure appropriate care settings and posthospital needs are met.

“The one thing that we have to do immediately upon meeting you is gain trust,” Perling said, admitting not every industry professional is as dedicated as her team. “You’re scared, you’re in crisis and you don’t know what to do; Our job is to let you know what your options are,

She also said it’s important that people know who has their medical power of attorney, in case they are unable to make healthcare decisions by themselves. Once a crisis has happened and you or your loved one is in the hospital, it’s hard to make rational decisions and meet legal requirements.

“I think it’s really important for every single one of y’all to talk to your next of kin,” Perling said, sharing some horror stories about some of her experiences. “Once you get it done, download it to your phone … do the same thing with your medication list.”

Seconding the Aging Children of Adult Children panel, she said discharge planning really does start on stay one of any hospital visit, regardless of the level of care.

The next support session is titled “Living with Dementia and an Update on Medical Treatments,” set for May 13 in Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s Asbury Room, accessible from the back parking lot.

The speakers are Dr. Melissa Black from Empower Family Medicine and Lynn Ross, a retired social worker who worked with the older adult population in home care and for the Center of Movement Challenges.

For more information, visit www. acapcommunity.org.

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Attendess of Adult Children of Aging Parents’s April 8 session at Dunwoody United Methodist Church listen as Northside Hospital Care Coordinator Rhonda Perling, top center, goes through her checklist on a smooth discharge. The nonprofit support group meets at the church the second Tuesday of each month.

Service Commission primary election draws 8 vying for two seats

By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — Several candidates have qualified for the statewide Public Service Commission primary to be held June 17.

Two seats on the Public Service Commission will be on the ballot alongside municipal races this f all. Races are being held for the Districts 2 and 3 seats. Currently, all members of the PSC are Republican.

The candidates must live in their districts, but the elections are statewide, so voters across Georgia can vote in both races. The districts include much of east and southeast Georgia that includes Athens, Augusta and Savannah for District 2; and the Metro

Cemetery:

Continued from Page 1

“It’s a really peaceful activity, and it’s really a way to show respect to your community,” Brooks said.

Her favorite part about the semiannual cleaning day is the experience of reconnecting with Roswell’s past.

“It just gives me a lot of empathy,” Brooks said.

Brooks’s counterpart Sonia Earls knows the cemetery like the back of her hand, with multiple generations of her family buried on the site. Through the therapeutic cleaning, she is also able to reconnect with her own past. One of her favorite parts of the project is to be able to share their stories.

“It’s just honoring them in a way to respect them and all they gave to Roswell so that we could enjoy it today,” Earls said.

A little bit of elbow grease goes a long way, but the real magic happens with the D/2 spray, which helps reverse stains caused by mold, mildew, algae, lichens and air pollutants.

The goal of the project is to help honor the citizens of Roswell who rest in the cemetery. While the cleanings help honor citizens, they serve to teach the history about the residents who used to live in

Gala:

Continued from Page 1

Through her work with her company, Synergy HomeCare, McCormick has seen many seniors who live at home develop depression and loneliness. She said she hopes the Golden Gala carries

Atlanta counties of Fulton, DeKalb and Clayton for District 3, reported Appen Media media partner WABE.

The Public Service Commission is charged with setting “fair and reasonable rates for services under its jurisdiction.” Utilities, like Georgia Power, are typically regulated by the PSC. The commission’s main job is to govern Georgia Power’s rates and plans.

PSC elections were last held in 2020 and have been on hold since 2022 due to a federal lawsuit alleging the election process for commissioners violates the Voting Rights Act, according to WABE.

Commissioner Tim Echols, who represents most of east Georgia, and Commissioner Fitz Johnson, who

the city.

Professional restorers also help to repair broken markers, urns and walls.

Close to190 years old, the cemetery is the final resting place for some 2,500 people on the 10-acre property.

Some graves are unmarked, and the project is working to identify the plots. Through a combination of ground penetrating radar and research of historic records, the team is able to provide markers for the unidentified burials.

“There is no shortage of monuments to be cleaned,” Brooks said.

Registration is now open for the Oct. 18 cleaning day. To learn more visit surveymonkey.com/r/FallCleaning2025.

on for years.

“We decided to try this and get it out there and see if there was a need, and it’s just amazing,” McCormick said.

The free party featured live performances, raffles, line dancing, food and drinks. Those in attendance were also able to take pictures with a 1941 Classic Convertible.

Gail Lafleche worked with McCormick

represents metro Atlanta, are up for reelection.

According to the Georgia Secretary of State website, here are the qualified candidates:

District 2

• Alicia Johnson (D)

• Tim Echols (R, incumbent)

• Lee Muns (R)

The winner of the Republican primary will face Johnson in November.

District 3

• Keisha Waites (D)

• Peter Hubbard (D)

• Robert Jones (D)

• Daniel Blackman (D)

• Terrell Fitz Johnson (R, incumbent)

The winner of the Democratic primary

will face Fitz Johnson in November. Early voting will be held May 27June 13, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Saturday voting will be available on May 31 and June 7 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as Sundays on June 1 and June 8 from 12-5 p.m.

Here are some other key dates:

• Voters can begin requesting absentee ballots on March 31.

• May 19 is the deadline to register to vote for the special election.

• June 6 is the deadline to request and absentee ballot.

• Election Day is June 17.

• If there’s a runoff, Election Day will be July 15.

• The primary winners will then be on the ballot on Nov. 4.

to create the event, with her main job coordinating the line dancing lessons.

Her favorite part of the gala was seeing members of the community who may not have opportunities to mingle regularly get out and celebrate with others.

“It’s community, because people get a chance to get out and socialize and enjoy an afternoon,” Lafleche said.

For more than 40 years, the Alpharetta Rotary Club has worked to foster the community and improve the quality of life. The club is a volunteer service organization with around 150 members who represent a broad area of businesses and professional activities in the community.

To learn more visit www. alpharettarotary.com.

PHOTOS BY: SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA Cemetery Project coordinator Sonia Earls uses elbow grease to help clean a headstone April 12 at the semi-annual Old Roswell Cemetery cleaning day.

Morgan Bennett scrubs away dirt on a headstone at the Old Roswell Cemetery cleaning day April 12.

The history of the Birmingham United Methodist Church

The United Methodist Church (UMC) is a global denomination that traces its roots to 18th century England and a movement by John Wesley (17031791), an Anglican cleric. He emphasized the practical aspect of faith, evidenced by his focus on outreach, social justice and helping others. His movement grew rapidly in Britain and the American colonies.

Over time various Methodist groups, or denominations, emerged until 1968 when the two principal groups joined together to create the United Methodist Church. There are other Methodist groups but the UMC is the largest Methodist denomination in the world, with an estimated 12 million members and 42,000 churches. It is also the largest in the United States with some 5 ½ million members and nearly 30,000 churches.

Georgia is part of the Bible Belt which means that Christianity plays an important role in society. There are many distinct Protestant groups including United Methodist, Southern Baptist Convention, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Evangelical Protestant, historically Black Protestant churches and others. Non-Christian religions including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and some others have a comparatively small but non-the-less significant part of the religious mix in Georgia.

Birmingham United Methodist

The Birmingham United Methodist Church is beautiful, committed to serving the community and large enough to make a difference. It serves the Birmingham area of Milton and surrounding areas of North Fulton, Cherokee and Forsyth counties. Parishioner Byron Foster said that when he drove by the church in 2006 and saw families with children by the church “It was like a Norman Rockwell painting.” He soon became a member.

Its ebullient Senior Pastor since 2022, The Reverend Mike Morgan, agrees that “genuine warmth and welcoming accounts for the church’s rapid growth.” Rev. Mike is a former artist and cartoonist for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and the Macon Telegraph and makes good use of his talents. He draws “For Heaven’s Sake!,” a nationally syndicated weekly comic strip that examines the quirks of the staff and congregation of the fictional Mainline

This is a recent cartoon by The Reverend Mike Morgan. Rev. Mike worked as a cartoonist for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He currently draws a weekly nationally syndicated column “For Heaven’s Sake!” that deals with the foibles of the staff and congregation of a fictional church. This cartoon was published March 31, 2025.

Memorial Church. Mike became Senior Pastor in 2022. The beloved John Wolfe, who pastored for many years, now serves as Pastor Emeritus.

The church was founded in 1835 as a Congregational Church named Darter Chapel after its founder Thomas Jeremiah Darter, a physician and merchant in the Birmingham community.

The church was located on what is now Taylor Road. Around 1847 some Methodist settlers from South Carolina moved to the area and joined Darter Chapel. Eighteen years later there were sufficient Methodist members to convert it to a Methodist Church. They changed its name in 1853 to Pleasant Hill Methodist Church and Dr. Darter joined the new church. The church moved to its current location on Birmingham Highway in 1872. It has undergone numerous changes and enhancements over the years. For a time the church

operated a school on its property.

In the community

Thanks to Associate Pastor Sam Halverson for providing information on the many activities of the church. Here are some highlights.

The church makes its 64 acres of property available in many ways. Three miles of walking trails and numerous fields for equestrian riding are available. The baseball field is used by the Milton Holbrook League. An outdoor amphitheater and prayer labyrinth are available to everyone. The church fellowship hall is used by many organizations and families in the Milton area. Music performances by Music Milton other groups are held throughout the year.

The church serves the homeless and those who need child support, funds student scholarships and disaster relief and works with a support group of

mothers of young children.

In this way the church carries out John Wesley’s commitment to helping others.

The bell

Church bells are nothing new. In the year 604 Pope Sabinian officially sanctioned their use. They called worshipers to prayer and announced significant events. Today they are used to announce church services, to celebrate special occasions, to mark times of mourning and to keep time.

At Birmingham UMC a historic bell had another meaning. Its installation after refurbishment brought parishioners and volunteers together in a common cause. Here is the story.

In May 2009 church volunteers removed a 294-pound bell from its old chapel and stored it until all was ready to install it in the belltower of the church’s new building. The bell, cast in 1892, was stored in Byron Foster’s barn prior to its complex installation.

The bell installation at Birmingham UMC took place in November 2009 before a large crowd of parishioners. Lillian Cole, a church member for more than 40 years, said that the ceremony was “so emotional” for the large gathering of church goers who attended the raising of the bell. We will tell the full story of the bell in a future column.

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

BOB MEYERS Columnist

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIRMINGHAM UMC

View from the air of Birmingham United Methodist Church, 15770 Birmingham Hwy, Milton, and a small part of the 16-acre campus.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIRMINGHAM UMC Portrait of The Reverend Mike Morgan, Senior Pastor of Birmingham United Methodist Church in Milton.

PHOTO CREATORS SYNDICATE

OPINION

Vegetable Gardening during the springtime

I find it so rewarding having a fresh vegetable garden at home with a lot of nutritious vegetables and herbs that can be used all spring and summer and even saved to use throughout the winter. Growing my own healthy options is fun and gives me joy to share them with family and friends. There are a few things to consider when you want to grow a healthy vegetable garden. Today I’d like to answer the top questions I always get asked.

Where should I put my garden?

Your garden’s location is very important. It needs to have 6-8 hours of sun daily. It is best near the house and near a source of water.

Why do I need a soil test? The soil needs to be well drained with a good texture so amendments may need to be added if your site is not optimum. You should have a County Extension soil test to measure the pH of the soil and identify what nutrients are needed for healthy vegetables. Why do I need a plan? Before you try it in your pots or garden, it is important to plan your garden on paper. It is much easier (and cheaper) to adjust a plan on paper than to replant all your vegetables. Plant the crops that you and your family like to eat. If you have limited space, container gardening is a great option. Consider using dwarf varieties that will give you plenty of yield with a few plants. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and okra, along with your favorite herbs like oregano, basil, sage and thyme, will produce plenty to eat and share. Containers look great with a thriller (tall plant), like a dwarf or bush tomato or cherry tomatoes, a filler (short medium height) like basil, peppers or sage, and a spiller (something hanging down). Herbs like oregano or thyme are great for that. What should I plant? In your vegetable garden, plant tall-growing plants together on the north or west side of the garden or pot so they will not shade the lower-growing plants. Plan to use the space continuously by planting the next-in-season crops after the current crops have been harvested. Next to consider are the different varieties of plants as well as when to plant your vegetables.

Why do I need a planting schedule? We live in hardiness zone 8a or 7b for Atlanta and north Georgia, and the last frost day is approximately April 15th. But it could be two weeks earlier or later because that is an average. Be sure to use recommended varieties for your garden and wait until the last frost has passed before planting in the spring. Whether buying seeds or plants, always buy the best quality seeds from a reputable company. When buying plants, purchase healthy plants without disease or insects present. Planting dates, spacing and depth are in the UGA Extension Vegetable Planting Chart, listed in the references.

How do I prepare my soil for spring planting? Preparing the soil is important for vegetable gardening, whether raised beds or beds in the ground. Have a soil test done at your County Extension office for a small fee and they will send you an analysis and summary of your garden’s lime and fertilizer needs.

How much do I need to fertilize? A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is recommended for most vegetables whether raised beds or inground gardens. Vegetables are

classified as light, medium or heavy feeders based on their fertilizer needs. Add fertilizer according to the soil test results. It’s good to start the soil prep early by adding organic matter such as compost, sawdust or chopped leaves if possible. Fertilizer should be mixed with the soil when preparing the soil for planting after the soil tests have told you what to add.

How do I control weeds, insects and disease? It’s also important to control weeds, insects and diseases to prevent serious losses. Preventative measures can also be used for insects and disease or begun as soon as it is noticed. Your county extension office can help you with identification.

Why do I need to mulch? A mulch of pine straw, leaves or compost will retain moisture and control weeds. Usually 2-4” is sufficient.

How much water do I give my plants? It is also important to keep consistent moisture in the garden. Your garden needs will vary with the soil type, stage of growth, amount of rain and temperature. Usually, vegetable gardens need about 1-1 1/2 inches of water per week. Be sure and water early in the day to allow the

About the authors

This week’s “Garden Buzz” features Sandy Springs resident Robin Pollack, an accomplished artist and Master Gardener. Active in the Atlanta art community since 1970, Robin has taught for over 30 years at Chastain Arts Center and has been a Master Gardener since 2005. As a member of North Fulton Master Gardeners, she has taught vegetable gardening at Farm Chastain and her own garden. Her garden, influenced by her artistic eye, has been featured on tours including Atlanta Botanical Garden and Georgia Perennial Plant Association.

leaves to dry off.

How can I best use my food? Finally, enjoy your harvest by picking vegetables as soon as they are ripe to avoid disease and insect problems. What to do with too much food? Any surplus should be canned, frozen or shared as soon as harvested.

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net.

SAVE THE DATE for NFMG’s 2025 signature event: Garden Tour on June 7th. Learn more at www.nfmg.net

PHOTOS BY: ROBIN M. POLLACK/PROVIDED

Cherry tomatoes from Robin’s garden.

ROBIN POLLACK Guest Columnist

Robin with her tomatoes.

A sense of Déjà vu all over again in Decatur

That is about how I feel today. Like, the cycle has rounded the corner and taken me back to the beginning. Again.

Since, 1990, our media company has “birthed” many publications since Christina and I bought the Revue in 1990 – and put many “to bed” in the 34 years since. We started a lot of websites – including one of the Internet’s early coupon sites – CouponsRUs.com – as well as NorthFulton.com (which was the second newspaper site in Georgia). We started a fax-based advertising program using - I believe - Mark Cuban’s software – and we partnered on a site that provided home-cleaning employment and home-cleaning services to the public – an early market iteration concept of Uber or Thumbtack that link providers to buyer/users. It makes me tired just thinking about it.

We are now supposed to be retired and have passed the baton to our two sons – Hans and Carl – who continue plowing ahead. In the last couple years, they acquired the Dunwoody Crier from Dick Williams and started the Sandy Springs Crier. Last year – about 6 months ago –they bought Decaturish.com and brought it into the Appen Media family. Decaturish.com is one of the strongest local news websites I have ever seen and a huge shout out to its founder Dan Whisenhunt and the Decaturish team who continue to manage, write, promote, and care for it. Then, in the last 8 weeks or so, Hans and the crew launched a new print newspaper – Decaturish Ink.

It launched March 20 and is delivered primarily to driveways in the Decatur area and in newspaper boxes, newspaper racks, and on counter tops at local businesses. When Hans told me about Decaturish Ink, I offered to help him figure out how to get Decaturish Ink distributed – the circulation piece of the puzzle.

So, in addition to building a delivery staff for the new newspaper, I have been commuting daily to Decatur working on nailing down the delivery routes in the neighborhoods – as well as perusing Decatur businesses as distribution locations – just like I did for every other newspaper we started! It’s not a very “sexy” part of the business, but it has to be done. And I don’t mind because I actually enjoy all aspects of the business. Otherwise, I would retire – really retire.

Getting out there meeting people, talking with people, and learning from people is the icing on the cake for me – priceless. My very first stop dropping off a newspaper rack was Atlanta Vintage Books off Clairmont. I had never been there – or really anywhere else in Decatur –before. I ended up spending over an hour there talking with the owner Jan and others in the store. I met another bookstore owner there, and I found a couple First Edition books I want (Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath); I collect first editions. The owner asked me if we were

RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus

starting another Creative Loafing. It was a question I was to hear more than a few more times that day. We talked about Creative Loafing for quite a while.

The next stop after the bookstore was Westside Market off North Druid Hills. I was only there for 45 minutes chatting with the manager who, in addition to being more than willing to have a Decaturish Ink newspaper rack in the store, asked me if she could advertise with us.

From there I dropped into Spiller Park Coffee and chatted with the cashier who welcomed one of our newspaper racks and then she gave me a free coffee. We talked about how amazing Decatur is and how fun exploring new restaurants up and down Buford Highway is. We had a great time, and she made me wish I was young again!

That is how my days go down in Decatur – every day. I have learned that Decatur is absolutely amazing – and fun, engaging, friendly, and nurturing. I had not the faintest clue. It has an energy – an attitude – and a curiosity across the board that is so new to me.

Hans got an email this week from someone in Decatur who I guess had just spotted one of our big blue newspaper boxes I am putting out. It made my day and makes me want to get back down to Decatur an hour earlier in the future – just because. The email read just this: “I saw a Decaturish news box in the wild today!!!! Y’all are awesomely feral!!!!”

“Awesomely feral”; I’ll take that, yessir. Any day. Decatur is going to be fun. I can feel the energy and the excitement in my bones.

Déjà vu, all over again.

RAY APPEN

Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com

Appen Media launched a new newspaper in MarchDecaturish Ink.

Sneezing our way through all this pollen

Lots of records being set these days. At this writing, the Braves can’t buy a win.

The stock market is acting squirrely. There are recordsetting tariffs being imposed, leading to unrest despite promises that things will eventually get better.

No, the record that comes to mind involves that yellow, eye-watering yellow menace known as pollen.

Fox 5’s David Chandley (my favorite weather guy) keeps giving viewers the number each night, imparting that the day’s pollen count.

It is amazing me that there is a poor soul who is really taking one for the team. I can visualize the poor sap surrounded by that irritating yellow powder, faced with the unenviable task of tallying every granule.

“Yep, there’s about 4,000 times more than yesterday. By golly, we set another record!”

I visited the Bagel Hole recently where the owner was waving a white flag, surrendering to the reality that cleaning off his patio table was a futile endeavor.

“I just cleaned them off two hours ago,” he said, showing that his white flag of capitulation was stained yellow.

It’s so relatable, having a deck that looks like it’s made out of true “Yella Wood,” and not the stuff that’s advertised on TV that provides a good meal for pesky beavers.

I’m all for a wintertime treat, going outside and glimpsing a cushy blanket of soft snow on the deck. After all, there’s no question that, since we don’t live in Minnesota, eventually the white stuff will dissipate.

But this year, maybe it’s because the Braves opened the 2025 season with seven consecutive losses, the pollen just seems more menacing.

That’s right: A snowfall is a thing of beauty while a pollen storm spurs thoughts of “How the heck can I get rid of this stuff and get it out of my clothes.?”

If I’ve heard it once this year, I’ve heard a veritable litany of folks saying: “I’m usually not bothered by pollen, but this year…”

That proclamation is inevitably punctuated by a nose-blowing fit and two or three uproarious, earthshattering sneezes.

It must be a boon for any car

wash owner. Trying to keep a car free from the stuff is an impossible dream. My first car was a 1971 yellow Volkswagen Super Beetle. It would have fit right in here. Too bad I never saw a morsel of pollen in Bakersfield. But don’t get me started about the dusty, polluted air.

It’s also a great time for anyone selling air filters. The other day, while getting my Acura serviced, the tech wheezed and sniffled as he showed me filters that needed to be replaced.

I guess all this yellow dust is good for the plants. I know the bees sure like it, based on the squadron that have descended on the yard. I’m good with the bees. Just no more massive yellowjacket colonies this summer.

Riding my Harley, there’s definitely enough pollen in the air to make me use a bandana to act as a filter to assist my not having to ingest any of the stuff. The other day, sure enough, there was a smattering of the yellow dust on my Lynyrd Skynyrd bandana, forcing an unheard of trip to the laundry basket. I sure hope it

Searching for Charles Sherman Rose aka Michael Rose.

CITY OF ALPHARETTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The following item will be considered by the City Council on Monday, May 5, 2025 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

a. PH-25-09 City of Alpharetta Capital Improvement Element (CIE) Consideration of a resolution authorizing transmittal of the Fiscal Year 2024 Capital Improvement Element and Annual Report.

Note: Georgia law requires that all parties who have made campaign contributions to the Mayor or to a Council Member in excess of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) within the past two (2) years must complete a campaign contribution report with the Community Development Department. The complete text of the Georgia law and a disclosure form are available in the office of the City Clerk, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.

doesn’t shrink. We’ll get through all this and have a nice sultry summer. Now, fixing the Braves? Not so sure that’s a quick task that is both doable and realistic.

Mike Tasos has lived in Forsyth County for more than 30 years. He’s an American by birth and considers himself a Southerner by the grace of God. He can be reached at miketasos55@gmail.com.

In Memoriam

Sarah DeVore Rucker

August 4, 1941 – April 11, 2025

Sarah Frances (Devore) Rucker was born on August 4th, 1941 to Fred and Lala Devore. Sarah was one of four children. Her father, Fred Devore, worked at Crabapple Corners Antiques and also served as de facto Mayor to the town of Crabapple. Lala went to work for the Oxford Pants Company in 1950. Sarah, at the age of nine, took on the role of preparing dinner for Fred, Lala, her older sisters Jaunita, Ann, and baby brother Johnny. Sarah was a self-taught cook, and this was the beginning of a lifelong dedication to creating wonderful main dishes and desserts. She will always be remembered by family and friends for her specialty Coconut, Strawberry, and German Chocolate Cakes. Sarah created a cookbook one year for her children and grandchildren titled, “Mama Sarah’s Recipes.” It will be long cherished and passed through future generations.

Crabapple, Sarah and childhood friend Ralph Rucker, would marry in 1960 and have four children: Scot Rucker, Elise Rucker, Tracy Spivey and Dee Provencial. Sarah and Ralph were long time members of Crabapple Baptist Church. She spent many Sundays playing the piano or singing for the Sunday Church service. For the last several years she has enjoyed serving Christ with her friends at First Baptist Alpharetta. Sarah is survived by her husband, four children, nine grandchildren and twelve greatgrandchildren. Her family and many of her friends called her Mama Sarah. Her memory will be cherished by all who were blessed by her kindness, graciousness and servant heart.

Visitation: April 16, 2025, 11:00-3:00 pm and 5:00-8:00 pm, Northside Chapel, 12050 Crabapple Road, Roswell

As well as teaching herself the art of cooking, Sarah also developed a love of music and began to play the piano in her early years. She would later become a very accomplished, self-taught pianist and organist who could play by ear.

Having grown up together in

Celebration of Life: April 17, 2025, 2:00 pm, First Baptist Church of Alpharetta, 44 Academy Street, Alpharetta In lieu of Flowers please make donations to Samaritan’s Purse; The Gideon’s International; Integrated Community Ministries/www.ky-icm.org.

MIKE TASOS Columnist

VINCI Energies seeks General Counsel for Alpharetta, GA office. Req JD, Master of Law’s degree or equiv. & 5 yrs wrk exp in offered or similar position for a multinational business. Must be licensed to practice in US. Duties incl negotiating complex corporate agreements & contracts. May telecommute from anywhere in continental USA. Up to 10% domestic & intl trvl req. Email resume w cvr ltr to gaby. beyer@vinci-energies.com, ref job #GC001.

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Sawnee EMC is seeking a Billing Clerk to audit the billing process by ensuring accuracy in accordance with Sawnee EMC rate schedules and fee policies. Requires: high school diploma or equivalency, two-year certificate or degree and a minimum of two years of related accounting experience demonstrating proficiency in mathematics, and general office skills. Position is full-time; must be flexible to work irregular hours, to include evenings and weekends.

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

Full-Time Vice President of Community Engagement

NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Vice President of Community Engagement position. The Vice President of Community Engagement (VPCE) is a senior leadership role responsible for developing and implementing strategies to build meaningful relationships with the community, donors, and stakeholders.

The VPCE will lead initiatives to increase awareness, partnerships, and financial support for the organization’s mission. This position oversees community engagement, marketing, public relations, and volunteer programs to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

Part-Time Thrift Shop Associate – Bilingual Preferred

NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the part-time Thrift Shop Associate position. One of the primary responsibilities of this role is to provide a high level of customer service in the Thrift Shop. The associate is responsible for all cash register and client clothing program transactions and keeping the merchandise in the store neat, clean, and organized. The role requires a friendly and customer-focused demeanor where all shoppers are treated with dignity and compassion.

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

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Milton Multi-Neighbor Garage Sale! Stonebrook Farms subdivision off Thompson Road. 9:00 AM April 19th (rain date May 3rd) Amazing neighborhood garage sale! Furniture, clothing, home décor, kitchenware, tools, toys, studio supplies, books, and so much more!

Bargains! Multi-Family in Lexington Woods Neighborhood, Sargent Road, Johns Creek, April 26 from 8 am - 3 pm.

JOHNS CREEK, DoubleGate Subdivision

Community Sale (enter into Twingate Dr. from State Bridge). Saturday 4/26 8am-2pm RAIN OR SHINE. See signs & balloons. Online info: doublegate.net

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2008-2024

Alpharetta-Roswell Herald - April 17, 2025

Historical Society honors Roswell’s past residents

Seniors swing at Rotary’s Golden Gala

POLICE BLOTTER

Speeding motorcyclist eludes police pursuit

Jon Wilcox

Roswell aids Sandy Springs to help wrangle speeder

Altercation with pedestrian results in damage to car

Dunkin Donuts manager reports overnight burglary

THE PICTURE FRAMER

No ice – yet, as Alpharetta weighs offer for park rink

blossom & browse

CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED

A SPRING SALES EVENT

Roswell reports on city’s budget health

Taste of Alpharetta e-currency now accessible on mobile app

Attractions

Event planner leaves corporate life to pursue her passions

Planner:

BUSINESSPOSTS

HELP IS HERE

HELP IS HERE

Ways FEMA Can Help

Ways FEMA Can Help

Keep Your Recovery On Track

Keep Your Recovery On Track

Stay in Touch

Stay in Touch

SPONSORED BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Doraville-based banks sign merger agreement

Toro Development announces office lease at Medley Johns Creek

Plant lovers share kinship at Wills Park Garden Faire

A perfect selection

Ranch offers unique care to assist special campers

Society honors Centennial senior with scholarship

Register to bike with the mayor of Roswell

Protect Your Assets, Your Home, And Your Family In 3 Steps

Reserve Your Seat For A FREE Estate Planning Workshop

The consequences of not having a Property Estate Planning done by an attorney

Robert E. Krimmel named president, chief executive officer and director

County approves polling location changes

County honors top students at banquet

Alpharetta fishing store helps support veterans

Enjoy a car-free Canton Street at Roswell Moves!

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve plans Earth Day celebration

Ranch:

How to Participate:

Where to bring your clutter

Recycling Services

Donation Centers

CARTOON CHARACTERS

Riverside Sounds announces 25th anniversary concert lineup

Alive in Roswell returns for its 2025 season

Clutter:

Support Local News Join Appen Press Club

CHARTER MEMBER

MEMBER+

MEMBER

Crowd hears senior care advice from team of experts in the field

Service Commission primary election draws 8 vying for two seats

Cemetery:

Gala:

The history of the Birmingham United Methodist Church

Birmingham United Methodist

OPINION

Vegetable Gardening during the springtime

About the authors

A sense of Déjà vu all over again in Decatur

Sneezing our way through all this pollen

CITY OF ALPHARETTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

In Memoriam

Sarah DeVore Rucker

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