ALPHARETTA, Ga. — British new wave band Wang Chung and other artists are on tap to perform at 2025’s Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival.
The City of Alpharetta announced the lineup, which features more than 30 artists downtown Oct. 10 and 11. Performances will be held at six freeto-attend outdoor stages and an exclusive ticketed Listening Room concert at the speakeasy-style bar Roaring Social.
Wire & Wood pairs nationally known artists with emerging talent, celebrating songwriting, storytelling and live music.
Morgan Rodgers, director of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services, said the festival is “easily” his favorite event of the year.
“Wire & Wood turns downtown into one big front porch of live music,” Rodgers said. “With the full schedule out, now’s the time to map out your weekend.
See CHUNG, Page 22
CITY OF ALPHARETTA/PROVIDED Crowds enjoy a live performance at a previous Wire & Wood festival in downtown Alpharetta.
Alpharetta fills leadership positions from own ranks
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta is reshaping its chain of command by naming the director of public safety as assistant city administrator and creating fire and police chiefs to lead their own departments.
The Alpharetta City Council
Police seize payload of meth in Roswell
► PAGE 4
approved the leadership changes at an Aug. 18 meeting attended by about a dozen firefighters and police officers. Councilman John Hipes described the changes as significant and exciting, saying he expects the city to benefit from the move.
“As of tonight, we are a better and stronger and safer city,” Hipes said.
Bungalow business owner sets course
► PAGE 8
John Robison was appointed as assistant city administrator, filling a position that has remained vacant since late 2024 when James Drinkard left the city after a 24-year career to serve as Warner Robins’ first full-time city administrator.
See LEADERSHIP, Page 14
Milton opens season in loss to Buford
► PAGE 11
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
Newly appointed Fire Chief Brad Denkinger, left; Police Chief Trent Lindgren, middle; and Assistant City Administrator John Robison, right; congratulate one another during an Aug. 18 City Council meeting.
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POLICE BLOTTER
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Alleged assault reported at Main Street business
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police charged a 28-year-old Alpharetta man with aggravated assault, accusing him of attempting to stab another man Aug. 6.
Alpharetta police said officers were dispatched to a business’s parking lot on Main Street about 6 p.m. after a theft was reported.
A 25-year-old Alpharetta man told officers the 28-year-old lunged at him with a knife during an argument in the older man’s truck, police said. The younger man said he was riding in the vehicle to complete handyman jobs because his license is suspended.
The 28-year-old attempted to run over the younger man after he exited the vehicle, police said.
The younger man said he owes the other man money, which led to an argument earlier in the day.
Two employees of the business and a video corroborated the alleged assault, police said.
Officers obtained two warrants for aggravated assault.
The 28-year-old man had left the area when officers arrived.
— Jon Wilcox
Roswell resident reports attempted armed robbery
ROSWELL, Ga. — A 25-year-old Roswell man reported an attempted armed robbery Aug. 11 just before 5 a.m. at his residence off Hemingway Lane.
An officer said he met with the man just before 6 a.m. at the Roswell Village condominium complex.
When the officer asked the victim why he waited an hour to report the incident, the victim said he did not call because he was not assaulted, and nothing was stolen.
The victim said he eventually decided to call to document the incident.
The officer said he checked the victim’s Cash App account, which had three declined transactions, ranging from $1 to $200, posted during the incident.
When the officer asked about suspects’ identities, the man said he did not know them and provided a general description.
The report concluded after the victim said he wanted the attempted robbery investigated.
— Hayden Sumlin
Truck reported stolen from apartment lot
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A vehicle was reported stolen from an apartment complex Aug. 9.
Alpharetta police said officers were sent to the apartment about 7:40 a.m. and spoke to a 33-year-old Alpharetta man.
The man contacted the department after discovering his white Chevrolet Silverado was missing, police said. The vehicle was parked at the apartment on the evening of Aug. 8.
The man said there was no chance the truck was repossessed, adding he is the only person who has the keys.
Before the call, numerous vehicle burglaries were reported in the area.
— Jon Wilcox
Officers arrest Loganville man with stolen gun
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police arrested two 31-year-old men Aug. 11, one from Chicago and the other from Loganville, after a traffic stop allegedly turned up marijuana and a stolen handgun in their vehicle.
warrant was confirmed and he was later transported to Gwinnett County Jail.
Because responding officers discovered the passenger’s warrant and reportedly smelled the odor of marijuana, he said he conducted a search of the vehicle.
When the driver, a 31-year-old Loganville man, was instructed to step out of the vehicle and asked about any weapons, officers said he notified them of his firearm in the car door.
Officers said they determined the semiautomatic Glock 40 pistol was stolen from a Stone Mountain woman in September 2020 via a report from the DeKalb County Police Department.
The search of the vehicle also yielded 10 grams of marijuana belonging to the driver, officers said.
The driver said he purchased the handgun, valued at $500, “cheap” and “from the street” inside the city of Atlanta for around $250.
Officers also said they found more than $3,000 in cash within the vehicle, which the driver said was from his musical and clothing business.
The Loganville man was charged with felony theft by receiving, possession of less than 1 ounce of marijuana, no insurance and a broken headlight before being transported to Fulton County Jail Aug. 12.
According to jail records, the man paid a $7,500 surety bond Aug. 14 and was released.
— Hayden Sumlin
Man cited for obstruction during police drug arrest
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 28-year-old Alpharetta man was arrested on drug and obstruction charges after an alleged scuffle with officers Aug. 8.
Alpharetta police said officers attempted to apprehend the man, who had two outstanding warrants for aggravated assault, at a Haynes Bridge Road gas station.
The victim said a woman in her 30s or 40s knocked on his door and asked for money to get a ride. When he tried sending the money via Cash App, the man said his banking institution flagged and declined the transaction.
After telling the woman he could not give her money, the victim said a man with gray hair appeared, began waving a handgun with a red dot sight and pointed it at him.
The victim said he braced to be shot but the suspects ran away from his residence. He also said the male suspect called him a racial slur before running away.
An officer said he found a gray Audi Q5 Premium with a suspended registration status and no insurance using an automatic license plate reader mounted on his patrol car.
The officer said he conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle at 8520 South Holcomb Bridge Way while traveling westbound along Ga. 140.
The front seat passenger, a 31-year-old Chicago man, had an outstanding felony warrant for failure to appear out of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office for intent to distribute marijuana.
In a separate incident report, an officer said the Chicago man’s
The man flexed his arms and pulled away from police as they arrested him, police said.
A glass pipe allegedly fell out of his pants pocket as officers wrestled him to the ground.
The pipe had a dark brown residue, police said..
The man allegedly kicked officers before he was moved to a patrol vehicle.
The man was charged with misdemeanor possession of drug related objects and two felony counts of obstruction of officers.
— Jon Wilcox
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More than $750,000 worth of methamphetamines were seized from a Roswell apartment during an Aug. 7 raid.
Roswell police, federal agents
seize $750,000 worth of meth
ROSWELL, Ga. — More than $750,000 worth of methamphetamines were seized in a joint investigation between the Roswell Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection began the investigation Aug. 2 when a package containing approximately 8 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine was intercepted from Mexico, destined for a Roswell apartment. Roswell detectives linked the package and the recipient to 290 Old Holcomb Bridge Way in the Villas Del Mirasol Apartments.
Detectives then conducted a controlled delivery of the package Aug. 7. When the resident accepted the delivery and brought the package inside, the team served a search warrant. Two suspects were detained.
During a search of the apartment, a drug operation was found. Detectives found six more bottles of liquid methamphetamine, as well as crystal methamphetamine and cocaine, all with a street value of more than $750,000.
Detectives also found drug packaging ledgers, multiple cell phones, digital scales and more than $10,000 in U.S. currency.
Mayor Kurt Wilson said detectives suspect the apartment was used as a drug conversion lab.
“Our mission is not just to seize drugs, it’s to protect the people of Roswell,” Mayor Kurt Wilson said. “Especially our families and children, and especially from the criminals who try to poison our community.”
Both suspects were taken into custody and transported to the Fulton County Jail, where they both face charges of trafficking methamphetamine and trafficking cocaine.
Roswell Police have said that the investigation is still active. The investigator urges anyone with additional information to contact the Police Department at 770-640-4100. The public can also provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www. StopCrimeATL.org.
— Sarah Coyne
Owner John Hogan & Designer Bobbie Kohm
ROSWELL POLICE DEPARTMENT/PROVIDED
Veteran college football writer previews season at breakfast
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — If someone watches Southeastern Conference schools compete in the fall, they call 30-year Dunwoody resident Tony Barnhart “Mr. College Football.”
The legendary sportswriter stopped by his hometown Aug. 11 to chat with the Village Mill ROMEOs, a group of “retired old men eating out” once a month on Monday mornings at J. Christophers.
Dunwoody resident David Gordon, a South African immigrant, said it’s mindboggling to follow a sport where players cycle through every couple of years, but he’s working on it.
For most of the audience, listening to Barnhart talk college football is a sign the heat and humidity are waning.
After half a century covering college football, Mr. College Football said his 50th season covering the sport for newspapers, radio, television and the internet will be his last.
Barnhart has worked for the flagships of sports media: CBS Sports, ESPN’s SEC Network and College Gameday, as well as the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He is currently a columnist for TMG College Sports and a contributor to a weekly SEC radio show.
In a letter shared with the ROMEOs, Barnhart said his 92-year-old mother told him that 50 is a nice round number.
“I will work through the CFP National Championship game in Miami on Monday, Jan. 19. Then I will retire,” he wrote. “I never thought I would write those words.”
Mr. College Football’s season preview at the Village went through the state of the sport and its relationship with the NCAA, his predictions for each round of the 12-team playoff and some insider information on recruiting classes and new players.
“The irony with all the problems that we’re having in college football …,” Barnhart said. “While there’s financial issues
SAYE/PROVIDED
Tony “Mr. College Football” Barnhart and his wife Maria, a four-time president of the Dunwoody Woman’s Club, enjoy a trip to Gainesville, Florida July 26 for a reception honoring the legendary sportswriter and the couple’s friends Jerri and Steve Spurrier. After his 50th season covering the sport, Barnhart will retire to family, writing and charitable work.
going on, the game on the field is better than it’s ever been.”
He said Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals and a wide-open transfer portal is a big challenge for the sport that will require legislation or collective bargaining to resolve. Barnhart said no one knows the solution.
If the playoffs are going to expand from 12 to 16 teams across the country in a couple of years, he said the two most prolific conferences — the SEC and the Big Ten — are going to need to agree on a format.
His top four teams at the end of this upcoming season with a first-round bye in the playoffs are the Texas Longhorns, the Penn State Nittany Lions, the Clemson Tigers and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Texas quarterback Arch Manning was impressive during the 2025 SEC Football Media Days in July, he said.
“The four first-round games are played on campus at the home of the higher seed,” Barnhart said. “And basically, they said give us more on-campus games.”
He said he predicts the University of Georgia to match up with the University of Miami in Athens, setting up former Bulldog quarterback Carson Beck to face his replacement, Gunner Stockton.
“I’m just imagining that he will receive a warm reception as he drives onto Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium,” Barnhardt said. “This would be perfect, [Beck] drives on the field in his Lamborghini and Gunner Stockton drives on with his ’79 Ford pick-up.”
A few hours later, college football fans got the first top 25 poll of the 2025-26 season from the Associated Press. Reporters from around the country agreed with Mr. College Football, ranking the
Manning-led Longhorns as the nation’s preseason top team for the first time in history.
After the 2026 National Championship Jan. 19 at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, Barnhart is planning to retire, write some more books, work with his wife Maria on charitable endeavors and spend time with their two grandchildren. He said the first book after his retirement will be a collection of essays from each stop on his “Thank You” tour of some of his favorite spots across schools in the Southeastern Conference.
Mr. College Football is a 1976 graduate of the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism. He got his first full-time job in the newspaper business as a one-person sports department for the Union City Times in South Carolina.
Of his six published books, the most recent, “The 19 of Greene: Football, Friendship, and Change in the Fall of 1970,” recounts his experience with racial integration in small-town Georgia as a member of the county’s first integrated football team.
Tony and his wife Maria moved to Dunwoody in 1994. Today, there are four generations of Barnharts living in Dunwoody with no plans of leaving anytime soon.
Maria has served as president of the Dunwoody Woman’s Club, a local branch of the international service organization, four times. Tony and Maria are involved in several charities, including the annual Honduras Outreach International Golf Tournament in May and the Big Game Ball Aug. 27 to benefit the National Down Syndrome Congress.
Maria said she is passionate about the work of the NDSC and programs for individuals with Down syndrome because of her younger brother who was diagnosed.
As for her husband’s retirement announcement and her relationship with Steve Spurrier, Maria said the reception honoring both college football legends was as exceptional as their legacies.
THE PICTURE FRAMER
ROB
I love getting to pick out stuff for people to try on, and just help people find things.
ROSWELL, Ga. — Nestled underneath her parents’ coffee shop, guests can find Macy Pettett piecing together clothing to create the perfect outfits in her store, Bungalow 1088.
The smell of coffee and pastries seep into the playful atmosphere of the boutique, where Pettett creates content and working in the store.
Pettett has been raised to be an entrepreneur, helping her parents with their coffee shop, Crazy Love Coffee House, which opened in 2017.
“I worked up there since we opened and did socials and a lot of different creative things,” Pettett said.
She continued her passion for running a business and went to Kennesaw State University to study culinary sustainability and hospitality.
“It’s just kind of helped transfer into this,” she said.
Her father introduced the idea to Macy, encouraging her to open a clothing boutique underneath the coffee shop.
“They thought, ‘why not open up a clothing boutique,’” she said.
While her parents technically own the space, Pettett runs and manages the boutique.
Like her parents coffee shop, Bungalow 1088 was founded on Christian principles. Guests can find Bible verses sprinkled throughout the store.
Pettett wants the store to be like
June, Pettett said business has been “really good and really busy.”
“We’ve had a lot of good support from the community, but also from our church and our friends,” she said.
Pettett has two favorite parts to owning a boutique, picking out the pieces of clothing and meeting people.
“I love getting to pick out stuff for people to try on, and just help people find things,” she said.
a ministry that reaches out to the community for Jesus. She said the goal for the boutique is to make customers feel confident and feel good about what they’re wearing, while also showing Christ’s love.
“A lot of people feel very intimidated by church and different stuff,” Pettett said. “This is providing an environment to welcome people.”
Her inspiration for the store comes from places like Anthropologie and Free
People. Pettett uses Pinterest to research the newest trends.
“We try to pick out a lot of clothes that would look good on everyone,” she said. “[We pick] not as much confusing styles, but more simplistic, fun colors, more solids, not as many patterns.”
When designing the store, Pettett and her mother drew inspiration from other boutiques, picking bits and pieces of their favorite colors and designs.
Although the store just opened in
Bungalow 1088 also offers free personal styling sessions for customers to get their new favorite outfits. Customers can come in to give Pettet a vision and favorite colors, so that she can pick out some new pieces for them.
“I just thought fashion was really fun to just express yourself,” Pettett said.
The boutique also sells devotionals, purses, shoes and even hand-made furniture.
To learn more about the boutique, visit bungalow1088.com.
PHOTOS BY: SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA Macy Pettett opened her Bungalow 1088 in June underneath her parents coffee shop in Roswell at 1088 Canton St.
Macy Pettett’s boutique offers unique pieces for customers to feel confident in.
Bungalow 1088 also sells goods for homes, including devotionals, wine glasses and handmade furniture.
Dances & Dance Instruction
Dances:
Line Dance Instruction:
Connect-It
is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!
WHO’S ON FIRST?
1. Muse of poetry. Clothing. Actor McQueen or Zahn
2. Actress Blanchett or Cohen. Nervous. Dig up.
3. Seabird. Parsley unit. Actress Hamilton or Hunt
4. Actor Quaid or Hopper. Court panel. Three feet.
5. Light on one’s feet. Actor Brolin or Spader. Hayseed.
6. Austrian peaks. Actress Ryder or Keegan. Goulash.
7. Japanese robe. Aleutian island.
Actor Gooding Jr. or singer Gooding Sr.
Who’s On First?
1 Muse of poetry. Clothing. Actor McQueen or Zahn.
2. Actress Blanchett or Cohen. Nervous. Dig up
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. Seabird. Parsley unit. Actress Hamilton or Hunt
4. Actor Quaid or Hopper. Court panel. Three feet
5. Light on one’s feet. Actor Brolin or Spader. Hayseed
6. Austrian peaks. Actress Ryder or Keegan. Goulash.
7. Japanese robe. Aleutian island. Actor Gooding, Jr. or singer Gooding, Sr.
Milton opens season with loss to Buford
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
BUFORD, Ga — The Milton Eagles’ comeback fell short Aug. 14, dropping the season opener to the Buford Wolves, 20-13 in the inaugural game at Buford’s $62 million Phillip Beard Stadium.
It was Milton’s first loss in nearly two years and the first time losing to Buford since 2019. Snapping a 25-game win streak required Buford to capitalize on several Eagle mistakes.
Buford, ranked No. 13 in the country by MaxPreps, has a loaded senior class with eight SEC commits. Quarterback Dayton Raiola is committed to Nebraska, as well.
Facing a defense that forced four turnovers, the Eagles never trailed by more than two scores, remaining neckand-neck with Buford until the final minute of the game.
Eagles quarterback Derrick Baker was the primary target of the Wolves’ defense. Baker said at practice the day before the matchup that Phillip Beard will be the biggest stadium he has played in.
Throughout the game, Baker had to
step out several times when his helmet was knocked off during play. The native of Naples, Florida, threw 6-for-15 for 1 touchdown and two interceptions and rushed for 78 yards in his first game in an Eagles jersey.
“[Milton] is a great place with great
coaches,” he said. “I’ve felt the best here than I have in any other place.”
His 55-yard touchdown to E.B. Bailey, a transfer from Chattahoochee High School, gave the Eagles their only lead of the game in the first quarter.
Milton junior Jordan Carrasquillo
led the team in receptions with three for 44 yards and one touchdown. The score came when Baker was sitting due to helmet trouble, when 14-year-old freshman Trey Hasan kicked off his Milton career with a 28-yard touchdown to Carrasquillo in Hasan’s fifth down and second pass attempt as an Eagle.
Milton coach Ben Reaves remarked that after two years of great success, the team is ready to be back in its former “underdog” role.
“We’re hungry to prove ourselves,” he said. “With youth, with inexperience, it’s tough to make all the plays, but by the time we get into the playoffs, we have a 10-game season ahead of us. The way that we played, the way that we work, we will be ready to make all those plays.”
Returning to being underdogs has included what Reaves describes as “reloading, not rebuilding.” He explained some of his stars would be playing on both sides of the ball this year, which was not required until the state championship game last season.
The Eagles will get back on the horse Aug. 22, traveling to Orlando, Florida, for a game against The First Academy for the Royals’ season opener.
SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA
Milton quarterback Derrick Baker loses his helmet after a run against a stiff Buford defense Aug. 15 at Phillip Beard Stadium.
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Festival of the Painted Rock returns to Chattahoochee Nature Center
ROSWELL, Ga. — The Festival of the Painted Rock is making its return Aug. 30 at Chattahoochee Nature Center Aug. 30.
The arts celebration from the late ’80s and ‘90s will feature live music, food, art installations and activities, all while
celebrating the area’s natural beauty.
The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Food and drinks from Tipsy Thaiger, From the Earth Brewing and King of Pops. Guests will also have access to all Chattahoochee Nature Center grounds and entry into a butterfly encounter.
The festival, inspired by the Chattahoochee River, which in Creek language means “rocks-marked” or “painted,” serves as a joint fundraiser for the Roswell Arts Fund celebrating its 10th anniversary and Chattahoochee Nature Center celebrating its 50th anniversary. General admission tickets are $65, and VIP Experience tickets are $115. To learn more, visit roswellartsfund. org/festival-of-the-painted-rock/.
— Sarah Coyne
Billboard Music Award winner to headline Sandy Springs fest
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs announced that the Billboard Music Awardwinning band Lit is headlining Friday night Sept. 26 at the third annual Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival.
The festival will take place in the heart of Sandy Springs Friday, Sept. 26, from 4-10 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 27, from 11 a.m.10 p.m.
Lit is an American rock band from Orange County, California, formed in 1988. They are best known for their platinum-selling 1999 power -pop punk album “A Place in the Sun” and its massive hit single “My Own Worst Enemy.”
The band is set to headline the main stage Friday night at 8 p.m.
In addition to Lit, the family-friendly festival features music all day long across multiple stages, an artist market with more than 80 vendors and a Kids Zone.
Festivities will span across the City Springs District, encompassing the City Green, Blue Stone Road and the surrounding areas. Admission to the festival is free.
The weekend also includes the Blue Stone 5K-9 Saturday, Sept. 27, hosted by the Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks Department.
Registration for the road race for people and pups is now open for $35 at RunSignUp. com/Race/GA/Atlanta/BlueStone5k9
The 5K-9 is a part of the city’s Adaptive Recreation Program offerings in collaboration with Catalyst Sports. For those interested in reserving adaptive hand cycles and foot pedal bikes, contact desiree@catalystsports.org.
A full schedule, including the complete calendar of events and musical line-up, will be announced in the upcoming weeks.
For further details, visit bluestonefest.com.
— Hayden Sumlin
CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED
Sandy Springs said Billboard Music Award-winning band, Lit, is headlining this year’s festival Sept. 26-27 at City Springs.
Leadership:
Continued from Page 1
Operations Chief Brad Denkinger will serve as fire chief. Major Trent Lindgren will serve as police chief.
Since 2006, the Department of Public Safety has worked to make the city one of the nation’s safest, Hipes said. Robison began as public safety director in 2017.
Mayor Jim Gilvin said the department’s restructuring is necessary, given Alpharetta’s growth. Since 2006, the city has added about 20,000 residents.
“Alpharetta has been very successful for many years,” Gilvin said. “As the city grew and evolved, we do a lot more now than we ever had to do.”
City Administrator Chris Lagerbloom said Robison, Denkinger and Lindgren will provide the right kind of leadership to meet Alpharetta’s changing needs.
Robison began his career with the city in 2002 and remained with the city until September 2011, leaving with the rank of lieutenant to serve the City of Powder Springs. In Powder Springs, he rose to the rank of police chief before returning to Alpharetta.
Robison holds a doctorate in public administration and is a published author.
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
Firefighters and police officers attend an Aug. 18 City Council meeting that saw the appointment of a new assistant city administrator, police chief and fire chief.
“John is an amazing leader and very committed to our organization and wants to expand his horizons beyond the world of public safety,” Lagerbloom said.
Robison will help coordinate the city’s day-to-day operations and staff of about 450 employees. He will assist in leading an office that includes a staff
leadership of Lindgren and Denkinger. He said he expects the change to provide better efficiency.
Both departments include a staff of about 110 employees. The starting salary for police officers is $61,100. Firefighters start at $56,250.
Denkinger began serving Alpharetta as a volunteer in 1999 before moving to full-time in 2001. He has expertise in general fire service and hazardous materials and holds a master’s degree in public safety.
Councilman Doug Derito said he expects Denkinger to uphold the city’s standards in firefighting and meet residents’ high expectations.
“He’s going to make a fine chief,” Derito said.
Lindgren began his career in law enforcement as a City of Atlanta police officer following the Sept. 11 attacks. He joined Alpharetta in 2006, serving in various units.
of almost 10, providing a second in command to Lagerbloom and an option for succession in case of an emergency.
“I need to make sure that if all of sudden I can’t come to work tomorrow, we can still function,” Lagerbloom said.
Robison brings a passion for leadership development and extensive experience in law enforcement to the role, which is well suited for broad backgrounds, said Lagerbloom, who also boasts a former career in policing.
“He will bring that angle to this new position, to help our team grow, help us work better together,” Lagerbloom said. “And when we do that, we serve the citizens better.”
Police and fire
Lagerbloom is looking forward to the new direction of Alpharetta’s fire and police departments under the
Lindgren holds a master’s degree in public administration and is a graduate of numerous professional police schools.
“He will provide steady leadership in law enforcement and be tough on crime,” Lagerbloom said. He understands what our Alpharetta expectations are with respect to the safety we have created.”
Denkinger and Lindgren said they are looking forward to working together and building the identities of their respective departments.
Recruiting for city positions can represent a challenge given the industry’s small pool of candidates, Lagerbloom said.
Hiring from within presents numerous advantages, such as reliability and familiarity.
“It speaks highly to the organization that the talent to lead into the future is from within,” Lagerbloom said.
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Housing market offers chances for negotiation
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is an American institution — so ingrained in our housing finance system that many assume it has always existed. In reality, this product emerged in the mid-1930s to early 1940s, largely as part of New Deal-era housing reforms designed to stabilize the mortgage market during the Great Depression. Prior to that, home loans were often 10-year terms, interest-only, with large balloon payments at maturity.
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The move to 30-year amortization was primarily about affordability — reducing monthly payments to a level within reach of middle-class households while still offering lenders a reasonable expectation of repayment. It worked. The 30-year mortgage helped fuel post-World War II homeownership growth, cementing its place as the default mortgage term in America.
Yet, the average homeowner today occupies a home for just under 12 years, according to national housing tenure data. During that time, many refinance at least once, meaning very few actually hold their original mortgage for its full term. Moreover, after 10 years on a standard 30-year fixed loan, only about 35–40% of the principal has been paid down — well below the halfway point. This slow equity accumulation is a product of amortization schedules that front-load interest payments.
From a risk perspective, principal paydown is not the primary driver of mortgage default. Having lived through multiple foreclosure cycles, I’ve seen that defaults are almost always triggered by life events — job loss, illness, divorce or death — not by the amount of principal repaid. Equity position may influence a borrower’s decision to walk away in extreme negative equity cases, but historically it is a secondary factor.
Meanwhile, in other credit markets, terms have evolved to meet modern affordability pressures. Auto loans, once limited to 3–5 years, now stretch to 7–10 years despite the fact that vehicles are depreciating assets. See AIKEN, Page 17
Bob Meyers, Judge, Columnist for Appen Media
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D.C. AIKEN Guest Columnist dcaiken.com
Aiken:
Continued from Page 16
Housing, in contrast, is generally an appreciating asset over the long term, yet mortgage structures have remained frozen in mid-20th-century form.
Extending mortgage terms to 40 years could be a pragmatic step toward addressing today’s affordability challenges. For example, on a $500,000 loan, stretching the amortization from 30 to 40 years could reduce the monthly payment by roughly $150. While that may not sound transformative, for many households it could represent the difference between budgetary strain and financial breathing room, covering groceries, utilities or other essentials.
Critics will recall the 2000-era proliferation of exotic mortgage products, including interest-only loans, and associate them with the 2008 housing crisis. But history is clear: it was lax underwriting, stated-income programs, speculative lending and poor regulatory oversight — not the concept of extended or interest-only terms — that fueled the collapse. Properly underwritten, longerterm mortgages could expand access without materially increasing systemic risk.
We continue to finance homes today under the same basic structure our grandparents and even greatgrandparents used. In an era of higher home prices, stagnant wage growth, and persistent affordability challenges, perhaps it’s time to reconsider whether the 30-year fixed mortgage should remain our default option—or whether, like other financial products, it should evolve to meet the realities of the 21stcentury housing market.
DC Aiken is Senior Vice President of Lending for CrossCountry Mortgage, NMLS # 658790. For more insights, you can subscribe to his newsletter at dcaiken.com.
The opinions expressed within this article may not reflect the opinions or views of CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC or its affiliates.
Shade perennials add color, texture to wooded yard
When my family first moved into our home, our backyard was filled with tons of trees, invasive English ivy and not much else. I loved the privacy and shade that the trees provided but really felt the yard was lacking visual interest. I’m drawn to abundant, dense landscapes and find a lot of inspiration in naturalized-looking English gardens. I had the opportunity to work with a landscape designer on my yard a few years ago and was introduced to several plants that helped achieve that exact vibe in my North Fulton yard. Now that the yard is firmly established, here are the plants I would definitely use again:
1. Autumn fern
There are a few other ferns in my backyard, but these are my favorite. They are low maintenance and offer a unique leaf shape, which stays in the garden year-round. And what is better suited for the woods than a fern?! These plants are used as a border and tucked into a rock garden in my yard.
2. Azaleas
Yes, azaleas seem like a boring, played-out option… everyone has an azalea bush, right? That’s what I thought, mostly because I was used to seeing them planted in a row as a hedge alternative in front yards. Tucking this shrub in among dense trees gives it a chance to pop like a specimen plant, and because the plant grows tall, the flowers get to make a big show. I also like growing azaleas away from the house so they can grow with little to no pruning. Left on their own, the growth habit seems much airier and more natural. Azaleas come in a variety of colors to choose from; the plants in my yard are George L. Tabor.
3. Acorus gramineus ‘Ogon’
Most of my plants had dark-colored foliage, and this lime-green mounding grass is a beautiful contrast. It doesn’t die back in winter, and because the leaves grow long and droop a bit, it makes quite a statement along the borders. I have this planted in my much sunnier front yard, and it does just as well as in the shade. Acorus was outcompeted by the lawn it was planted near, but the rock garden and borders in the shade garden have proved to be a perfect placement. Some trim the leaves in the fall/winter, but I leave it alone year-round.
4. Ajuga reptans ‘Chocolate Chip’
Ajuga reptans is hands down my favorite plant in the yard. This variety has deep purple/emerald, evergreen leaves that form an extremely dense mat. The flowers pop up bright purple and last for months. I think it just looks so unique. I’m actually in the process of adding more of this to my yard; that’s how obsessed I am. This is planted as ground cover around my walkways and rock garden. It dies back a little in winter, but I have no bare spots, which I like. Ajuga comes in several varieties with different leaf and flower colors. The foliage is very tolerant of being walked on, the flowers not so much. Pollinators also love these flowers.
5. Hosta Halcyon
There are many hostas to choose from, but Halcyon stands out to me because of its leaf color and size. Growing up to five feet in diameter, these plants cover a large
amount of space, and the blue-green color of the leaves makes for an interesting addition to the landscape. Hostas do have a couple of caveats. They die back to the crown in the winter, so you will need to mulch over the area during the cold months to avoid bare dirt.
Hostas are also a favorite food for deer. Unless you have a fenced yard, you will need to protect them by continually spraying with repellant or cover with a layer of bird
About the author
This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Ashley Jones Brodkin, who has been a Master Gardener since 2024. Her passion is recreating naturalized landscapes for entertaining and has recently been devoted to learning more about herbalism, permaculture and edible landscapes.
netting. The bird netting is barely visible from a distance and is a great deterrent.
6. Aucuba japonica Variegata (Gold Dust)
This shrub has dense, evergreen foliage and is great as a backdrop or a screen. I love the dark green foliage with golden flecks, and it thrives in full shade. In fact, I have one plant that sits in mid-day sun, and it really struggles. My full-shade plants are doing much better.
This list of shade perennials has transformed my wooded yard into a vibrant and textured oasis. With careful planning and consideration of each plant's needs, you too can create a lush and inviting outdoor space even in the shadiest of areas.
Happy Gardening!
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. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https://appenmedia.com/opinion/columnists/ garden_buzz/.
ASHLEY JONES
PHOTOS BY ASHLEY JONES BRODKIN/PROVIDED
Wooded shade garden in mid-April
Halcyon hosta, chocolate chip ajuga and autumn ferns along a rock border
The story of a wheel and a special lady
A friend asked me if I knew anything about a wagon wheel embedded in a tree on Mayfield Road near downtown Crabapple. I did not, but I decided to investigate. It turns out that the tree is on the property where Fannie Etris Holcombe lives. She is a lovely woman soon to celebrate her 106th birthday. I profiled Fannie and her family in a column in March 2024. The wagon wheel embedded in the tree provided an opportunity to catch up with her and to uncover a bit of intriguing local history at the same time.
I sat down with Fannie, her son Steve Holcombe and his wife Myra in Fannie’s living room. Before he retired, Steve owned a construction company and Myra worked for the Cherokee County Schools. Steve loves history and knows a lot about the area.
Fannie is spirited and vibrant. She makes her own breakfast every morning and enjoys talking about her family history. Her four children take turns visiting with her every afternoon.
Fannie was raised on Etris Road in Roswell. The road is named for her father William Samuel Etris (1875-1963) who was born in Milton. He came from a family of 11 children. He and his wife also raised 11 children on their Etris Road farm. Fannie, born in 1919, was the youngest child.
William Etris was a gold miner and lived in Cleveland, Georgia, as a young man. That is about 18 miles
DEATH NOTICES
Christine Beldowicz, 54, of Roswell, passed away on July 31, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Donna Dutkiewicz, 61, of Roswell, passed away on July 24, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Dora Freeman, 93, of Roswell, passed away on July 27, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
from Dahlonega, where gold had been discovered in 1828, 20 years before the Gold Rush to California.
After he married, he moved to Etris Road in Roswell where he grew cotton and corn on a 40-acre farm.
Growing up on Etris Road Fannie attended Mount Oliver Baptist Church on Hardscrabble Road next to today’s Roswell High School. The church was established in 1907 on land donated by Tommy and Alec Oliver and was dedicated in May 1909. Original membership was 5 males and 7 females.
In those days, according to Steve Holcombe, a circuit preacher held a service at the church once a month. Many country churches in the South
Samuel Harrington, 90, of Roswell, passed away on July 24, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Robert McGarry, 84, of Alpharetta, passed away on July 26, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
James Puckett, 72, of Roswell, passed away on July 28, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
could not afford to pay preachers for weekly sermons, and even then, many churches paid their preachers with chickens or eggs. They received cash only during revival meetings.
For many years, Fannie went to church in the family wagon pulled by a mule and was jammed full with a dozen family members. Sometimes she walked to church which was about 2 miles away, she says.
In 1939 Fannie married Otis Holcombe (1916-2006), a trained machinist and mechanic. They lived initially on Cox Road and later on King
Lavone Rippeon, 86, of Roswell, passed away on July 26, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Donald Slappey, 74, of Roswell, passed away on July 25, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Nancy Veasy, 76, of Alpharetta, passed away on July 25, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Road in Milton. In 1961, the couple and their children moved to Crabapple to a house on a 3-acre parcel which had been part of the farm owned by John Gilford Green (1879-1963). James Cash bought the parcel and house from Green and owned it until he sold it to the Holcombe family. The house was built circa 1955.
James Cash constructed a building next to the house which was subsequently converted into a machine shop by Otis Holcombe.
Delouris West, 82, of Roswell, passed away on July 26, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Malcolm Young, 54, of Alpharetta, passed away on July 23, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
BOB MEYERS
Columnist
PHOTOS BY BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA
A wheel from an old hay rake is imbedded partially inside this tree in front of the house where Fannie Holcombe lives in Crabapple.
Fannie Holcombe sits in her favorite chair in her living room. She will celebrate her 106th birthday in December.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
TRAFFIC SIGNAL UPGRADE ITB 26-004
The City of Alpharetta is requesting bids from qualified contractors for the TRAFFIC SIGNAL UPGRADE at the Intersection of Kimball Bridge Road and Northwinds Parkway including, but not limited to, removing the existing traffic light poles as well as signal heads and signs, ordering and purchasing new mast-arms, installation of new mast-arms, signal heads, signs, pull boxes, directional bores, pedestrian lights, and running necessary wires and cables per the plan provided along with this bid package. The entire intersection shall not be closed during construction. However, temporary lane shifts with proper traffic control would be acceptable. The location of work is at the intersection of Kimball Bridge Road and Northwinds Parkway, within the City of Alpharetta.
The ITB documents will be available online Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at our bid posting website , https://cityofalpharetta. bonfirehub.com/ . Interested parties must log in to review the ITB documents. This procurement is also advertised on the Georgia Procurement Registry Event ID: PE-66085-NONST-2026-000000067 (ITB 26-004 Traffic Signal Upgrade).
Bidders must direct all questions and comments exclusively through the Opportunity Q&A tab prior to the posted Question Due Date on the bid posting website . All official communication will be provided through the bid posting website. Bidders are responsible for monitoring the webpage for any status updates, addenda, or the final award notice. Direct communication with any other City staff regarding this ITB is not permitted and may result in bidder disqualification.
This procurement is issued under the authority of the City of Alpharetta’s Procurement Policy, also following State of Georgia and Federal applicable laws. The City has the right to reject all bids or proposals, to reject any bid or proposal that has not followed or met the City’s scope of work or specifications (non-responsive) or reject any bid or proposal that shows that a bidder cannot meet one or more of the requirements (non-responsibility). The City has the right to ignore unimportant mistakes that do not affect the work or service to be provided, the purchase of requested item(s), or proposal pricing in order to award a contract that is in the best interest of the City.
a) All federal, state, and/or local permits have been obtained for this project.
b) The work is solely within City-owned right of way or property. No right of way or easement acquisitions are needed.
c) The Schedule of Items form will be used as the primary representation of each Bidder ’s cost/price. The award of this project will be by total base bid.
The Awarded Contractor will place the order for purchasing new mast arms within ten (10) calendar days from Notice to Proceed and shall continuously pursue the work without interruption to completion and achieve Final Completion of the Work by sixty (60) calendar days from when the field work (i.e., installations) begin . Liquidated damages will apply per GDOT Standard Specifications for Construction of Transportation Systems, 2021, Section 108.08.
Bidders are required to submit a bid bond for 5% of bid total with each bid prior to bid due date/time. Payment and Performance bonds in the amount of 100% of awarded bid will be required from awarded contractor
Bids will be due on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 10:00 AM . All responses must be received before closing at https:// cityofalpharetta.bonfirehub.com/ , webpage for this project. We will not accept paper hard copy, mailed, faxed, or e-mailed responses. We will not accept responses received after the closing time.
A public bid opening will be held via Microsoft Teams shortly after the ITB due date / time has passed.
For information not found at our bid posting website, please contact Debora Westbrook at the City of Alpharetta Finance Department via email at purchasing@alpharetta.ga.us or at 678-297-6052.
Wheel:
Continued from Page 19
Steve Holcombe painted the large sign, which says Holcombe’s Machine Shop on the side of the building. The sign has faded over the years, but that adds to its charm and historic character. It is also a local landmark.
Fannie’s mother was partial to roses. She had a rose garden in front of the house next to a small pine tree. An abandoned wheel from a hay rake rested against the tree behind the flowers. Hay rakes were important to farmers who needed to gather and store dry hay for their animals.
Hay rakes date back to the early 19th century and were used primarily for gathering hay and grain. They were also used to clear fields and lawns and for spreading soil. Early rakes were pulled by horses or mules. Later, tractors pulled them.
The rake wheel rested against the tree behind the rose garden for years. The tree gradually grew around the wheel, creating a kind of unique sculpture. The wheel adds to the character of the tree which has adapted to the metal. It looks very cool.
Thanks to Myra Holcombe for her
CITY OF ALPHARETTA
NOTICE OF CONSIDERATION OF CITY CODE AMENDMENTS
The following item will be considered by the City Council on Monday, August 25, 2025 and Monday, September 8, 2025 during the Alpharetta City Council Meeting and Public Hearing, which begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Alpharetta City Hall, located at 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia. The purpose of the public hearing shall be for public review and comment regarding the following:
Consideration of an ordinance to amend Chapter 4 of The Code of the City of Alpharetta, Georgia, referred to as the Alcohol Ordinance. Specifically, to amend the following: Sec. 4-1. Definitions; Sec. 4-17. Distance requirements; Sec. 4-49. Consumption sales only; and to strike entirely and reserve the following: Sec. 4-398. Minimum distance requirements within downtown district; Sec. 4-399. Waiver procedure and standards; Sec. 4-400. Definition of downtown district; Sec. 4-402. Alcohol/food sales ratio; Sec. 4-450. Definition of mixed use development district; and Sec. 4-451, Minimum distance requirements within mixed use districts; and for other purposes.
A copy of the proposed amendment will be on file with the City Clerk and will be made available upon request.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA, GEORGIA
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE OF BRIDGES AND GUARDRAILS ITB 26-006
The City of Alpharetta is requesting bids from qualified contractors for the REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE OF BRIDGES AND GUARDRAILS including, but not limited to, grading, patching, painting, cleaning and sealing deck joints, repairing undermining, and related bridge work. Also, this project includes cleaning, priming, and painting multiple guardrail sections. The location of the work is at multiple bridges and guardrails within the City of Alpharetta, Georgia.
The ITB documents will be available online Thursday, August 14, 2025, at our bid posting website, https://cityofalpharetta. bonfirehub.com/. Interested parties must log in to review the ITB documents. This procurement is also advertised on the Georgia Procurement Registry.
This procurement is issued under the authority of the City of Alpharetta’s Procurement Policy, also following State of Georgia and Federal applicable laws. The City has the right to reject all bids or proposals, to reject any bid or proposal that has not followed or met the City’s scope of work or specifications (non-responsive) or reject any bid or proposal that shows that a bidder cannot meet one or more of the requirements (non-responsibility). The City has the right to ignore unimportant mistakes that do not affect the work or service to be provided, the purchase of requested item(s), or proposal pricing in order to award a contract that is in the best interest of the City.
The Schedule of Items form will be used as the primary representation of each Bidder’s cost/price. Award of this project will be by base bid plus any selected alternates.
The Awarded Contractor will be required to continuously pursue the Work without interruption to completion, and to achieve Final Completion of the Work in one hundred eighty (180) calendar days from the notice to proceed. Liquidated damages will apply per GDOT Standard Specifications for Construction of Transportation Systems, 2021, Section 108.08.
Bidders are required to submit a bid bond for 5% of bid total with each bid prior to bid due date/time. Payment and Performance bonds in the amount of 100% of awarded bid will be required from awarded contractor. The Performance bond must have provision to keep the bridge in good condition for a period of not less than seven years.
Bids will be due on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM. All responses must be received before closing at https:// cityofalpharetta.bonfirehub.com/, webpage for this project. We will not accept hard copies, mailed, faxed, or e-mailed responses. We will not accept responses received after closing time.
A public bid opening will be held via Teams shortly after the ITB due date/time has passed.
For information, please contact Beth Rucker at the City of Alpharetta Finance Department via email at purchasing@ alpharetta.ga.us or at 678-297-6052.
CITY OF ALPHARETTA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The following items will be considered by the City Council on Monday, September 22, 2025 commencing at 6:30 p.m. in the Alpharetta City Hall Council Chambers, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, Georgia.
a. PH-25-14 Spirit of God Church – Change of Condition
Consideration of changes to conditions of zoning related to the Spirit of God Church. The requested changes to conditions of zoning related to site layout, building design, retaining walls, tree removal, and stormwater. The property is located at 1200 Upper Hembree Road and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 552 & 553, 1st District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
b. E-25-08 Tesla EV Chargers at Kroger Shopping Center
Consideration of an exception to allow Tesla EV chargers in the Kroger shopping center parking lot. An exception is requested to Unified Development Code (UDC) Subsection 2.2.15(D) to reduce the front setback along Windward Parkway to allow for Tesla EV chargers and associated equipment within the front building setback. The property is located at 12870 Highway 9 and is legally described as being located in Land Lots 1049 & 1112, 2nd District, 2nd Section, Fulton County, Georgia.
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.
Supp t
L OCALJOURNALISM
City workers set up the main stage in the heart of downtown Alpharetta Oct 13, 2023.
Chung:
Continued from Page 1
Come early, stay late and just listen to the music.”
Wang Chung will take the stage Oct. 10, performing a set that includes chart-topping hits like “Everybody Have Fun Tonight,” “Dance Hall Days” and the title track of “To Live and Die in L.A.”
Oct. 11 features Gaelic Storm, a Celtic band that blends Irish and Scottish influences with rock, country and folk. Since breaking out with “Irish Party in Third Class” on the film “Titanic,” the band has topped the Billboard World Albums Chart six times.
This year’s festival also includes a Listening Room concert, which showcases an intimate performance by Randall Bramblett & Friends.
During his decades-long career, Bramblett has performed with icons like Steve Winwood and Gregg Allmann, and artists such as Bonnie Raitt and The Blind Boys have recorded his songs.
Tickets are $30 and available at wireandwoodalpharetta.com or by calling FreshTix at 678-701-6114 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
All proceeds will benefit the city’s Music Match program to support live
If you go
When: 6-11 p.m. Oct. 10 and noon-11 p.m. Oct. 11
Where: Downtown Alpharetta Lineup:
Oct. 10: Wang Chung, Ansley and the Hold, Brooke Livingston, Derrick Chapman, Elby Faser, FRUTE, Gareth Asher, Mattie Taylor, Moonlark, Paul McDonald & The Mourning Doves, The Pussywillows, Ryan Boss, Stormfolk
Oct. 11: Gaelic Storm, Boy Named Banjo, Amanda Belair, Anita Aysola, Arkose, Chris Canterbury, Craig Gleason, Chuck Treece, Crane, Heidi Huelskoetter, Josh Joplin Group,
performances by local artists yearround.
Attendees are welcome to peruse a variety of other attractions.
A Live Art Lounge on Canton Street will feature interactive installations and live demonstrations by local visual artists.
The Music Makers Market on Commerce Street near City Hall will showcase music-inspired artwork and handcrafted goods from local and regional creators. Official festival merchandise like commemorative posters, T-shirts and stickers will be available.
More than 50 downtown restaurants will offer dine-in and take-out service.
Numerous free parking options are available during the weekend. Parking decks will be open at City Hall, 2 Park Plaza; MIlton Avenue, 92 Milton Ave.; Alpharetta Community Center, 175 Roswell St.; and 45 Roswell St.
Janet Rodgers, president and CEO of the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau, said Wire & Wood shines a spotlight on the city’s music scene, boosts local businesses and celebrates what makes the city special.
“Wire & Wood has become one of Alpharetta’s most cherished events, uniting nationally acclaimed singersongwriters with music lovers from across the Southeast,” she said.
Kristopher James, Lizzie No, Lydia Hamby, Rocco Gorelik, Soup, Sweet Megg, Rosey, Sarah Mootz, Tyler Ramsey, Wim Tapley & The Cannons
Tickets for a Listening Room performance by Randall Bramblett & Friends at Roaring Social are $30 and available at wireandwoodalpharetta.com or by calling FreshTix at 678-701-6114 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Information: Visit wireandwoodalpharetta.com or check out @wireandwoodfest on social media platforms.
APPEN MEDIA FILE PHOTO
Administrative Assistant
NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the full-time Administrative Assistant position. The responsibilities of this critical role are to provide a wide variety of administrative tasks primarily to the President and other department leaders as needed. Duties include board meeting preparation, report preparation, general correspondence.
The Administrative Assistant takes initiative, can multitask and remain very organized. They play a vital role in helping keep the NFCC leadership team organized and productive.
If you have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, communications or another relevant field, at least two years of administrative experience and enjoy project management and coordination, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
CHEP USA seeks Senior Director, Digital Customer Solutions in Alpharetta, GA to Develop a strategy to grow market share. Telecommuting permitted up to 3 days per week. Apply at jobpostingtoday.com/Ref# 14916.
To place a classified ad, email classifieds@appenmedia.com. Deadline is Thursdays by 3pm
Senior App/Prod Support needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid position] to work as a liaison and escalation point for clients and other IT organizations as a subject matter expert across the business and applications towers for the business processes they represent. Apply at http://att.jobs/, select JOB SEARCH and APPLY and select Search by Requisition Number at the left bottom of the page and enter Job Number: R-78041.
Manager, IT Operations at Landis + Gyr Technology, Inc. (Alpharetta, GA). Support & administration of Software & Services database infrastructure. Reqts: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or related field + 5 yrs of exp in database architecture & administration. Exp must include 5 yrs each of the following: SQL level troubleshooting for Oracle, MSSQL & Postgres databases; supervising/managing team; No-SQL database platforms such as BigQuery & Mongo; SQL scripting; BCP / DR solutions for database platforms; implementing & managing database backup & recovery procedures; overseeing the design, implementation, & maintenance of database solutions; managing data security & access; creating & modifying data structures to ensure efficient data storage & retrieval; data audits & checks; conducting performance tests & evaluating metrics to optimize database performance. Exp may be gained concurrently. To apply, please send resume via email to lisa.hudson@landisgyr.com or mail to Landis + Gyr Technology, Inc., c/o Lisa Hudson, 30000 Mill Creek Ave, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022. Please reference job title (Manager, IT Operations).
Principal Engineer, System Security Architect at Landis + Gyr Technology, Inc. (Alpharetta, GA). Audit system architecture & high-level designs prior to execution by the Development team to ensure designs minimize or eliminate the security vulnerability of Landis+Gyr’s (“L+G”) products, solutions, & services. Reqts: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic or Software Engineering + 5 yrs of exp in the job offered or 5 yrs of exp in software architecture. Exp must include 5 yrs each of the following: product architecture for an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Head End System; architecting product to incorporate security features; & integrating third party security solutions into products. Security certification such as CISSP or CCSP. Exp may be gained concurrently. To apply, please send resume via email to lisa.hudson@landisgyr.com or mail to Landis + Gyr Technology, Inc., c/o Lisa Hudson, 30000 Mill Creek Ave, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022. Please reference job title (Principal Engineer, System Security Architect).
Ryder System, Inc. seeks Data Developer IV in Alpharetta, GA to design and develop database objects, queries, Stored Procedures, SSIS packages, and other tasks related to maintaining data. Telecommuting permitted. Apply @ www.jobpostingtoday.com/ Ref #25213.
Ryder System, Inc. seeks Application Development Lead in Alpharetta, GA to participate and provide input into the design, redesign and development of technology products and applications. Telecommuting permitted. Apply @ www.jobpostingtoday.com/ Ref #41405.
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