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Georgia’s new voucher program is starting, with lower demand than expected

By TY TAGAMI Capitol Beat

ATLANTA —Thousands of Georgians will soon be spending money from the state’s new subsidy for private K-12 education, as the first quarterly payouts appear in “promise scholarship” accounts.

Georgia Attorney General visits community group

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr paid the Rotary Club of Roswell a visit July 24.

More than 150 Rotary members and guests attended the meeting at Roswell Area Park to hear about Carr’s work. The club chose to bring Carr out to talk about his campaigns to address human trafficking, organized crime and opioid addiction.

See CARR, Page 12

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr speaks to the Rotary Club of Roswell on July 24.

More than 15,000 students applied for one of the $6,500 annual subsidies, and about 8,500 were approved. That means the state is on track to give about $55 million in taxpayer dollars — far less than budgeted — to families that have chosen private schooling over

attendance at their nearby lowperforming public school.

To qualify for the payments, most students had to spend a year attending one of the nearly 500 public schools performing in the bottom quarter of state academic measures. But the youngest students

have a way around that requirement. Under last year’s law establishing the payments, often referred to as a “voucher,” rising kindergartners need not have attended public school to qualify.

See VOUCHER, Page 12

Commercial tax digest keeps rising

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County officials noted the commercial tax digest is growing faster than the residential base, signaling success in the effort to control growth.

“That is definitely something we are interested in seeing,” CFO Brian Clark said at the first of three millage rate hearings July 22.

A second and third hearing are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Aug. 7 in the Forsyth County Administration Building, 110 E. Main St. A

vote will be called at 6:30 p.m. The county’s commercial tax base grew 12.98 percent compared to 3.49 percent the previous year. The residential tax digest grew 7.99 percent compared to 9.32 percent.

FORSYTH COUNTY/PROVIDED

Forsyth County CFO Brian Clark delivers a presentation on the proposed 2025 millage rate to commissioners July 22.

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

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Deputies allegedly find meth during traffic stop

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 38-year-old Cartersville man was arrested on drug charges during a traffic stop July 16.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies stopped a driver suspected of traveling 80 mph in a 55 mph zone on Browns Bridge Road.

Deputies determined the man had a criminal history that included charges of driving under the influence, reckless driving and drug possession, the sheriff’s office said. The man reportedly consented to a search of his person and vehicle.

The search revealed a substance suspected of being methamphetamine in a cigarette pack in his pocket, the sheriff’s office said.

The man was arrested on a felony possession of methamphetamine charge and cited for speeding.

— Jon Wilcox

Truck, gun reported stolen from driveway

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 57-year-old Cumming man reported his vehicle stolen from his driveway July 18.

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched to a Mountclaire Drive home where the theft was reported.

The man said he had last seen his white Ford F-150 about 8 p.m. July 17 in the driveway of his home. A pistol was inside his truck at the time.

The vehicle had a red Georgia Bulldogs license plate on the front and a hole under the Ford logo on the tailgate.

Deputies contacted the vehicle’s lien holder, which had no record of a repossession.

Deputies also checked Flock license plate cameras but found no video of the vehicle.

The vehicle was valued at $50,000. The gun was valued at $400.

The incident was classified as a felony theft of an automobile.

The investigation is ongoing.

— Jon Wilcox

Police arrest motorists for possession of drugs

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Two Alpharetta residents were arrested on drug charges during a Ga. 120 traffic stop July 9.

Alpharetta police officers stopped a car on Ga. 120 just west of Morris Road.

Officers searched the vehicle, discovering marijuana, methamphetamine, opioids and cocaine.

A 47-year-old man was arrested on charges of possession of marijuana and providing false information to an officer.

A 44-year-old woman was arrested on charges of possession of cocaine, methamphetamine and a Schedule II controlled substance.

A 54-year-old Rocklin, Cal., man was cited for failure to register a vehicle, having no tag displayed and not having proof of insurance.

— Jon Wilcox

Two paddleboards stolen from Martin’s Landing

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating the theft of two paddleboards worth a combined total of $1,700 from an activity building at Martin’s Landing July 20 near the Chattahoochee River.

The victim, a 59-year-old Roswell man, said he locked up his paddleboards on a rack behind the activity building around 3 p.m. July 17. When he returned three days later, the man said they were missing.

The stolen belongings include a

$900 11-foot-long red BIC paddleboard and a $700 10,5-foot-long white Tahe paddleboard.

The officer said the man suggested someone cut the paddleboards’ straps because the steel cable used to secure the paddleboards was undamaged and remained attached to the rack.

The owner said the kayaks behind the building were untouched from when he last saw his paddleboards.

The officer said he would follow up with the homeowners association and review footage from nearby security cameras.

The victim told the officer he wanted to press charges and would send him photos of the stolen paddleboards.

The case remains active.

— Hayden Sumlin

SUV linked to burglaries escapes police pursuit

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An SUV evaded Alpharetta police in a pursuit after officers investigated a report of vehicle burglaries July 9.

Alpharetta police said officers attempted to stop a black Nissan Rogue traveling east on Webb Bridge Road near Webb Bridge Way about 2 p.m. Officers said the vehicle appeared to carry three male passengers.

Officers investigated the area after they were notified a vehicle was suspected of being involved in vehicle burglaries in Sandy Springs.

The Nissan sped around officers, almost struck other vehicles, made a turn without signaling and exceeded speeds of 65 mph.

Police decided to end the chase after the vehicle sped through a red light.

Alpharetta officers later learned law enforcement in Oconee County attempted to stop the Nissan, which then fled into South Carolina.

A records search revealed the vehicle was rented in Boca Raton, Fla. Attempts to reach the rental agency were unsuccessful.

— Jon Wilcox

Cumming Vietnam veterans chapter to award new nursing scholarship

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A Cumming veterans group is creating a nursing scholarship to honor a longtime member and U.S. Navy corpsman who died this year.

Cumming Chapter 1030 of the Vietnam Veterans of America will begin accepting applications for the $5,000 Thomas Kirby Memorial Scholarship in August. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen and a relative

of a U.S. military veteran.

The scholarship may be given to students beginning their nursing education or those further along in the process.

The scholarship will be awarded in January 2026. The deadline for applications is Dec. 1.

Applications are available on the chapter website at vva1030cumming.com or by calling 770500-7234.

Kirby was thought of as the conscience of the chapter, often leading the way in charity work to assist

Forsyth County residents in need, the group said.

“Kirby knew from his service in Vietnam that caring and devoted military nurses were responsible for saving the lives of innumerable military service members,” the Cumming chapter said.

During the past 10 years, Cumming Chapter 1030 has supported 43 other Forsyth County high school seniors with scholarships totaling $113,000.

Thomas Kirby is remembered through a nursing scholarship to be offered by Cumming Chapter 1030 of the Vietnam Veterans of America.

VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA/PROVIDED

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Northern Ridge District

welcomes June Eagle Scouts

ALPHARETTA, Ga.— The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton) is proud to announce a new round of Eagle Scouts who completed their Eagle Board of Review June 26 at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.

Left to right Ronak Nambiar, of Troop 69, sponsored by Alpharetta First United Methodist Church. His project was the renovation of the outdoor space at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church by cleaning, pressure washing, and repainting the gazebo and three wooden benches, refurbishing the outdoor

plastic furniture, designed, constructed and installed a Little Free Library, adding mulch and flowers to garden beds, pathways, and dry patches and installed a raised and bordered pathway stones with mulch to improve accessibility and safety.

Samuel Haydock, of Troop 1134, sponsored by St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church. His project was the design and construction of a large rolling bin for collecting used and worn US Flags for a retirement ceremony, the collection of 23 worn flags, and then holding a retirement ceremony for these flags, on behalf of Saint Ann’s Catholic Church in Marietta.

Owner John Hogan & Designer Bobbie Kohm

Roswell residents protest city’s plans for Mimosa Hall

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — While a party was brewing down the road on Canton Street for Alive in Roswell, concerned residents gathered to protest the continued construction underway at Mimosa Hall and Gardens July 17.

The residents rallied around the message that they’d been bulldozed and betrayed by the City Council.

The city acquired Mimosa Hall in 2017 from its most recent owner, Sally Hansell, for $2.95 million. The hall is a part of the Founders Park Project, which commits more than $15 million from the city and includes Town Square and its nearby historic homes.

Protestors wearing orange tree protection fencing and holding signs, urged bystanders on street the to sign a petition asking city officials to save what is left on the grounds of the historic hall.

“This is a dereliction of duty,” demonstrator Jacqueline Bass said.

The group’s petition has grown to more than 850 signatures. It calls for the city to save what is left of the Neel Reid Gardens, including the stone garden steps, commit to seeking feedback from citizens about major projects and proactively save and catalogue recovered artifacts from the site.

On the morning of July 22, the group discovered that the Neel Reid garden stairs had already been demolished.

Atlanta architect Neel Reid lived in the home for several years, leaving behind historic works such as his garden and stone steps.

Bass, a small business owner specializing in project management and comprehensive historic preservation, said that the city’s project has little monitoring for historical conservation.

“There’s been a lot of outcries, professional and just concerned citizens who [want the city] to take a pause and look at it,” Bass said. “And the city’s just completely ignored any kind of request.”

Mimosa Hall was chosen as the first major focus and will transform the hall into an event venue under the approved initiative to improve public access, environmental sustainability and long-term use of the property.

On May 30, residents were shocked to find much of the property’s tree canopy felled.

Around 35 trees were removed in two specific areas of the site, with some selective removal for a newly landscaped garden and an event lawn area.

In another petition, residents were able to compromise with city officials to save a black walnut tree targeted for

removal for creation of an ADA pathway.

Councilwoman Sarah Beeson said that the city committed approximately $600,000 to help save the tree and others.

Nearly two dozen residents spoke at the June 30 Open Forum at City Hall to decry the city’s management of the project. As city officials began to address the questions, frustration rose among the crowd, prompting most of them to leave. Despite this, city staff continued to answer the questions.

Residents at the July 17 protest said they felt ignored by the city.

“They really didn’t address any of the questions,” demonstrator Simone du Boise said.

Protestors said that they want to see the city step back from the project to reevaluate plans.

“I’d like to see a stop work order issued immediately so that things can be assessed and not further destroyed,” du Boise said.

The day after the protest, residents found several more trees cut down and on the ground.

The concerned citizens said that they have no plans to stop fighting for the preservation of Mimosa Hall and Gardens until they see change and will continue to pressure the city to share how they intend to catalogue historic artifacts.

PHOTOS BY: SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA Demonstrators hold signs protesting the construction at Mimosa Hall and Gardens July 17.

Protestors wear orange tree protection fencing and hold signs to voice their anger about the construction at Mimosa Hall and Gardens July 17.

Home baker turns passion into business

By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — While juggling the busy stay-at-home mom life with her three children, Karen Bates still finds time for her passion, baking.

In her kitchen, Bates bakes up a storm, creating delicious art for friends, family and customers. Bates’s micro bakery, Karen B Cakes, sells custommade cakes, cupcakes and loaves of sourdough. Soon, she will add muffins and macarons to the menu.

Although Bates has been baking her whole life, the idea to share her gift with others started when her daughter had her second birthday while they lived abroad in China for her husband’s job.

“I was really craving American cake,” she said.

She found some ingredients to make the cake, and the rest is history.

“That’s kind of where it started, where I started really being like ‘Oh I like this,’” Bates said.

When her family moved to Singapore, Bates was able to sell her first cake to someone she didn’t know. A Milton resident for the past decade, Bates transformed her passion into an LLC in January.

She operates on a cottage food license, which allows her to run her bakery out of her home, so long as she adheres to certain requirements such as cleanliness and food labels.

See BAKER, Page 7

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SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Karen Bates, owner of Karen B. Cakes, stands in her kitchen next to a custom-made cake she made for her nine-year-old daughter’s birthday.

Baker:

Continued from Page 6

She brainstorms her recipes with her family and now offers 13 cake flavors, such as Cookie Monster, which consists of a chocolate chip vanilla cake covered in cookie dough buttercream or Razzmatazz, which includes vanilla cake filled with raspberry preserves and raspberry buttercream iced in vanilla.

“A lot of it is what my family likes,” she said.

Buttercream rules

Her business is an all-buttercream micro bakery that does not use any fondant. For custom-made cakes, Bates tries to decorate her pieces with all edible materials, using a range of sprinkles, frosting, rice paper and spring roll wrappers.

“Sometimes they take on a life of their own,” Bates said. “I love that it is edible art. You can do really fun things with it, and then it goes away.”

Her favorite part about the job is seeing people’s reactions to the edible art.

“It makes them so happy,” she said.

To Bates, her micro bakery is more than just a side hustle, it’s a way to make traditions, just like her ancestors who immigrated from Armenia to the United States.

“When they came over from Armenia, they stopped speaking Armenian and only spoke English,” Bates said. “The only thing that they did keep, though, was the food. I feel like that's a really strong thing.”

The “B” in Karen B Cakes is a symbol for her loved ones, reminding people that family comes first. The “B” represents her grandfather who was an entrepreneur

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Owner of Karen B. Cakes, Karen Bates, holds a homemade loaf of sourdough that she made in her kitchen.

and beekeeper.

“It just really makes me think about him and how hard he worked,” Bates said.

The spirit of entrepreneurship is something she hopes will live on in her family.

“I hope that it inspires them to know that they can do something, that if they have an interest that they can take it into the community,” she said.

Bates said that being able to gift her passion for

baking to the community is a blessing. Sharing her craft

In October, she will begin to offer sourdough and cupcake decorating classes through the City of Milton’s Parks and Recreation Department.

“I hope that through the classes that I can bless other people, and they can find something that they're excited about,” she said.

Bates said she hopes the cupcake decorating course will allow parents and their children to create new traditions. In the course, attendees will learn how to fill a piping bag, create designs, decorate with sprinkles and create colored buttercream. Supplies will be provided for guests. The course will be held once a month, on a Saturday, from 10-11 a.m.

“I really feel like it can be something that can help build your confidence,” she said.

The sourdough course will simplify the process of making loaves. Bates will teach how to feed the starter, how to bake sourdough bread on a schedule and how to mix, fold and score dough and what equipment is needed. Classes will be held one Saturday each month at 7 p.m.

Bates said her small business has been a slow growth process, since her three children are her main priority. She hopes the business will grow steadily and become a city staple by the time her 9-year-old reaches high school, but for now she finds her number of customers perfect.

“I’m still a busy mom,” she said. “I love being able to do things here and there on the side, which is what makes it so perfect, because I can kind of have it be whatever I want.”

Those interested in ordering baked goods from Bates can visit her website, karenbcakes.com

Proud All-Star celebration; where’s the apology?

MIKE TASOS Columnist

Message to all you Major League Baseball bigwigs: “We’re waiting for y’all to say ‘We’re sorry.’”

Albeit four years after it should have happened, we Georgia folks showed those ninnies in suits how to hold an All-Star celebration that went off without a hitch. During the entire five-day event, I couldn’t stop beaming with pride.

Atlanta, nee north Georgia nee Atlanta showed the baseball world what we all know: Southern hospitality isn’t a myth, but instead a reality that was on display from Friday until that wacky conclusion to the actual All-Star ballgame that ended as Tuesday night gave way to Wednesday morning.

For those working souls who were fortunate enough to be a part of the event, I’ll bet a steady dose of mid-day power naps ruled the day. Make no mistake: It was a “good” tired, one that will come around once in a generation. The last mid-summer classic held here was 25 years ago, back when Chipper Jones wasn’t even shaving.

Before sharing all the great things that happened, there are a few things that are stuck in my craw and I would be shirking my duties as a columnist by not addressing them, even if the MLB power brokers didn’t want to.

First and foremost, MLB owes us (as in Atlanta and Georgia) a heartfelt apology for snatching this event right out from under us in 2021. Commissioner Rob Manfred has few friends in general and could very well have a statewide bounty on his head for his wormy behavior that resulted in this four-year delay.

Without a doubt, Manfred’s refusal to address the cancellation and to discuss the tepid rationale for doing so (unfair Georgia voting laws! Really? Give me a break!). Manfred sequestered himself in an air-conditioned suite and missed a huge opportunity to offer a “mea culpa.” Instead, we got nothing but crickets.

And the principal instigator of the cancellation, gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, was part of the cricket brigade, uttering not a word about how devastating the loss of revenue was for business in and around the Battery.

Abrams is being touted as a gubernatorial candidate. I’m hoping voters have a good memory.

There were some Forsyth County

folks who made an impact. Former Mashburn Elementary and South Forsyth High School attendee, Zac Brown, led his group in a spot-on rendition of the national anthem, hitting every note perfectly, crooning the anthem a Capella no less. The performance set the tone for the most memorable All-Star Game in recent memory.

And Forsyth Central High School baseball coach Kevin McCollum was the pitcher for the high school home run derby, as well as throwing batting practice for the Historically Black College and University players before their game. The coach got the full MLB experience: “Filet mignon at 10:30 at night, so tender you could cut it with one of those plastic forks.”

While the crowd might have been a bit subdued, the attendees got downright raucous for its welcoming of a returning Freddie Freeman. And there was plenty left to roar for Ronald Acuna Jr., who scored a run to give the National League a 2-0 early lead.

I became a believer in Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who proved his season’s first-half numbers were no fluke as he won the made-for-TV HR Derby. And what a fun nickname he has: “The Big Dumper.”

The All-Star Village at the Cobb Gal-

leria only consisted of 500,000 square feet of everything baseball. Neighbor Jeremy Poisson treated his son Max to two-days of baseball overload, just as so may dads probably did.

Youngest son Greg used the HR Derby tickets to treat the former Forsyth Central baseball manager, Conner Miller, to a bucket-list night. Conner is a testament to a fighting spirit as he battles cerebral palsy. I was proud of Greg for taking good care of Conner. Greg also stayed til the end of the actual game.

I’m glad that the tribute to Hank Aaron is on my DVR and will be watched whenever I am seeking a feel-good moment.

All-in-all, it was a great showcase for our town. Baseball does its All-Star game the right way. It was a celebration and once again, we shined.

And in what might be a cruel form of justice for Manfred, there are whiffs that there might be an MLB work stoppage and lockout in 2026.

Have fun, Commissioner.

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.

You’ll encounter danger in the tall, tall

The other day, and despite the heat, I decide to get outside for a while after lunch.

I know, I know. This time of year, doing anything at all outdoors means dealing with sweltering summertime heat. It’s humid and sweltering. It makes you uncomfortable. It makes it hard merely to breathe.

Yeah. The fact is that this time of year, it’s just too darned hot.

Still, I feel the need to break free of the keyboard. But to where? Maybe Stamp Creek? Over off Highway 20, it flows sedately through the Allatoona Wildlife Management Area on its way to Allatoona Lake. The creek should be cool – at least enough to knock the edge off the heat.

Wading in a creek on a sweltering July day is a pleasant prospect, all things considered. But over even that, there hangs a question: Will the creek hold any fish? You know about me and fishing. You know I’ll just have to find out.

On my way out I retrieve one of the fly

rods. I also pick up an Altoids box full of flies. Dad used to carry flies in little metal Kodak film cans, though these days those metal cans are darned near impossible to find. Plastic ones show up now and then, but plastic’s not quite the same. So I’ve gravitated to Altoids boxes. They do fine too.

Is that everything? I think so. I open the garage door, and a wave of heat rolls in and swallows me up. And when I open the car door a minute later, an even more determined blast of superheated air hits me full in the face. Am I having fun yet? I will be, in a minute, once the car’s AC works its magic.

I start the engine and turn the “cold” knob all the way to 10. Unseen machinery whirrs into motion, fighting against the sweltering air, and slowly prevails.

Only then, secure in my bubble of cool air, do I set out for Stamp Creek.

The piece of Stamp Creek I’ll visit on this searing July day is accessed from parking areas near the Ga. 20 bridge. There are small parking areas on the south side of the highway on both sides of the creek. I pick the one to the west and pull off the pavement. I grab the rod, too, and then make my way downhill

toward water. In an instant I’m sweating. It’s just hot.

But then I’m at the edge of the stream. Left or right? I toss a mental coin and turn left, downstream, toward the expansive waters of the lake.

The creek is cool and soothing, a perfect respite from the heat. I work my way along, in no hurry, casting now and then. Small sunfish are responsive. The day is good, for I am catching fish and (thanks to the creek) I am cool.

Soon it’s time to begin the walk back. Leaving the cool water, heat again trumps all. Sweat returns, and by the time I reach the car, I feel like leading man in a one-act play set in a planetsized double-boiler. But again, the car’s AC provides relief. Soon comfort and joy return.

On the way home, I stop by the grocery store to pick up the makings of supper. And then, just because its close, I decide to make a quick stop at the thrift store.

I’ve come to love thrift stores. I have this hope that someday I’ll walk in and there’ll be a pile of handmade bamboo flyrods with a sign that says “Fishing Poles – $2 each.” It hasn’t happened

grass!

yet. But it could. And if it does, I have a fiver in my pocket. That would cover two rods and tax too. Maybe I’d even let them round it up and give them the whole thing.

I park in the shade of a big tree. Just the other side of the tree is what appears to be a homeless guy fanning himself with a floppy piece of cardboard. He appears to be…wilted. But it’s no big deal. We see that kind of thing all the time here in the promised land.

As I get out of the car, he calls out.

“Brother,” he says, “could you spare a dollar?”

Well. I could, but I don’t. Instead, I walk toward the store, moving away until the voice by the tree is lost in the general noise.

The store’s entryway is one of those airlock-style double doors designed to keep outside stuff outside. As I approach, the outer doors open, letting me in. Immediately the air is cooler. Then the inner doors open too. I step through them into blessed coolness, surrounded by the castoffs of others, searching for fire-sale pricing on things I don’t even need.

STEVE HUDSON Columnist

OPINION

The history and legacy of philanthropy in America

According to the annual Giving USA report on philanthropy by the Giving USA Foundation and Indiana University, the total in 2023 was $557 billion. DealAid, a fundraiser for non-profits, reports that 56 percent of Americans donated to charity in 2024 and that the average age of a U.S. donor was 65. Twenty-four percent of the total went to religious organizations. Education and human services were tied at 14 percent each, with health-related causes at 9 percent.

In the early days of our nation’s history, religion or moral obligation played a dominant role in giving. As more people gained wealth and status, giving back to society became a key motivating factor. Famous philanthropists such as John D. Rockefeller (1839-1937), Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919), Edsel Ford who established the Ford Foundation in 1936, and more recently Bill Gates and Warren Buffett have had an enormous impact on society.

Many people donate to organizations where they have personal ties, or work for corporations with ties to particular charitable organizations. A person with a relative with cancer, for example, might give to the American Cancer Society. An employee might feel satisfaction by taking part in a company fundraiser for its chosen charity. Some give to the United , which like the charity described below distributes money to a range of charities. Someone blessed with wealth may be motivated to leave a lasting legacy through charitable giving to fill a need that is not being met in their community.

ProPublica, a non-profit news service, reports that there are more than 55,000 charities designated as 501(c)(3)s in Georgia. Donations to those entities are tax deductible. They range from small local organizations to large multi-million-dollar hospitals, churches and other large charities. A quick note: there is a big difference between a non-profit organization and a 501(c)(3). This can cause confusion. Not all non-profits qualify for 501(c) (3) status which is granted by the Internal Revenue Service following a lengthy application process. A non-profit corporation is formed under state law. It operates like a regular corporation, but its profits must serve the public good not its owners or shareholders. A 501(c)(3) is exempt from federal income tax and often state taxes as well. Importantly, donations to 501(c)(3)s are tax deductible for the donor.

Early history

Philanthropy in the United States dates back to a generous gift by a Puritan clergyman, John Harvard. When he died in 1638, he donated half his estate and his collection of 400 books to a young school, which named itself Harvard College after the donor the following year. The

Hudson:

Continued from Page 8

I make a quick run through the store. Nothing catches my eye. So I turn to go, back through the airlock that isolates the comfort inside from the inferno beyond.

Yeah, it’s hot. But don’t they say that heat refines?

of John D Rockefeller taken in 1922. After founding Standard Oil Company in 1870, he spent In retirement much of his retirement directed toward modernizing the South through the General Education Board which he established in 1902 with an initial gift of $1 million. The GEB eventually grew to more than $180 million. The GEB funded thousands of schools in rural areas of the South, teacher training, agricultural modernization, public health and medicine.

Puritans in Massachusetts and the Quakers of Pennsylvania were the first to establish philanthropic institutions in their areas in the 1600s, such as the Scots Charitable Society of Boston.

Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was a pioneer of philanthropy. He advocated the notion that everyone should donate for the common good consistent with his or her means. In 1729, he founded a weekly newspaper, the Philadelphia Gazette, which for the next 30 years promoted various civic projects. His efforts led to a volunteer fire department, the paving of public streets and a scientific academy that eventually became the University of Pennsylvania.

In 1835, Alexis de Tocqueville, the famous French historian who profiled the United States in his book Democracy in America wrote about the strange practice by the Americans of supporting private initiatives for the public good. He said that voluntary giving was a special characteristic of the Americans.

I reach the car and can’t help but look toward the tree. The homeless guy is still there. He sees me, and he says again, “Brother, could you spare a dollar?”

And I stop.

I know what you are thinking: Don’t feed the need. Don’t be an enabler. Don’t fall for it. Don’t. He will just take the money and fritter it away.

No one will condemn me, I say to myself, if I just get in the car and go. I’ve got the power – the power to do what I

North Georgia example

This portrait of Andrew Carnegie, ScottishAmerican financier, was taken in 1865 and is part of the Brady-Handy Civil War photo collection in the Library of Congress. Carnegie built 1,800 libraries in the United States between 1898 and 1929, including more than 30 in Georgia. Worldwide, he built some 2,500 libraries.

It would be impossible to highlight multiple charities in a single column, but one that merits special mention is Southern Magnolia Charities, established in 2018 under President Marty Spear, who was succeed by Donna Savas, and is now led by Cynthia Knudson. Other board members since the inception include Lara Dolan and Judy Burds. All have played active roles with the Milton Tour of Homes committee which is the major fundraiser for the organization.

Southern Magnolia Charities donates money to other local charities each year and is known as “A Charity for Charities!” Other fundraisers have included a Comedy on the Green and a cookbook offered during a three-year disruption during COVID when homeowners did not want people touring their homes. The charity has raised $361,000 and has benefited 15 local charities.

The tour has become popular, and once tickets go on sale, they are sold out at lightning speed. This year’s tour is Sept. 20. Tickets go on sale Aug. 1. The website for the tour is https://southernmagnoliacharities.org/2025-milton-tour-of-homes.

You don’t have to be a Rockefeller or Carnegie to take part in giving. It is open to everyone.

Thanks to Judy Burds for her help with the column and to Marty Spear for suggesting the topic.

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.

want with my five-dollar bill. I open the car door and settle into the seat. I crank the engine. Cold air pours from the vents.

So heat refines?

I sigh, and I open the car door again. I climb out, back into the miserable July afternoon. I reach into my pocket and pull out the fiver and walk 7 yards and give it away.

“Thanks, brother,” he says. Did I throw away five dollars?

“You’ve been had,” you are thinking. “He played you.”

Maybe. Maybe not.

As I get back into my air-conditioned kingdom, with my groceries on the seat beside me, on the way home to my comfortable house and my cozy life and my prospects for tomorrow, I think again of the guy under the tree.

Sure, I gave him five dollars. Maybe I did it for him. But maybe I did it for me.

BOB MEYERS Columnist

PUBLIC DOMAIN

Portrait

Tips for engaging children in gardening activities

Gardening is more than just a fun outdoor activity. It’s an excellent way to engage children in hands-on learning and teach them valuable life skills. From sowing seeds to watching plants grow, gardening provides an immersive experience that fosters a love for nature, curiosity and responsibility. Here's how you can engage children in gardening and make it an exciting, educational journey.

Start simple with easy-to-grow plants

For beginners, it’s important to choose plants that are easy for children to handle. Flowers like sunflowers, marigolds, or zinnias are vibrant and grow quickly, offering instant gratification. Vegetables like tomatoes, beans, radishes, carrots or lettuce are also rewarding, as children can harvest their crops in a few weeks. Let children participate in every step of the gardening process: digging, planting, watering and caring for the plants. Children are more likely to eat vegetables they grow themselves. A 4-year-old may surprise you and eat a radish or lettuce when you never thought she would.

Incorporate fun, creativity in projects

Gardening doesn’t have to be all about the plants themselves. Children love creativity, so incorporate fun projects like designing a themed garden. Create a Fairy Garden with miniature decorations, or build a vegetable garden in the shape of a star or plant. Plant a Pizza Garden in the shape of a pizza. You could plant tomatoes, basil and peppers in the garden that you can use making a pizza.

Let kids use colorful plant markers to label their plants or design their own garden signs. You can even create a seed bomb by mixing clay, compost and wildflower seeds into small balls, which children can leave in various areas of the garden for the rain to wash the clay away and germinate wildflowers.

Teach valuable lessons about nature

Gardening offers a unique opportunity to teach children about the environment and the science of plant growth. You can explain how plants need sunlight, water and soil to thrive, and show how these elements work together. In addition, you can introduce basic concepts like photosynthesis, pollination and composting. Your child may already know these words if they are in elementary school.

Teaching children about beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies and ladybugs can also spark their interest in the ecosystem and biodiversity. By introducing them to the plant growth cycle, you help them understand the interconnectedness of all living things. Consider participating in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census on August 22-23. You can do this at home or attend one of the many public events in your area, such as the one on Saturday, Aug. 23 at the Sandy Springs Farmers Market, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA 30328. Children can help us count and do fun activities. Visit https://gsepc.org/ for details about doing the Pollinator Census at home.

Foster responsibility and patience

Gardening instills a sense of responsibility as children take on the task of caring for their plants. Wa-

up and ready to count pollinators at Lost

tering them regularly, checking for pests and ensuring the soil remains healthy all require consistent attention. Additionally, gardening teaches patience. Unlike many instant gratification activities, gardening takes time. Watching a plant grow slowly from a tiny seed into a blooming flower or a ripening tomato can teach children the value of persistence and the rewards of waiting.

Incorporate learning opportunities

Use gardening as an educational tool beyond science. Introduce or enhance math skills by measuring plant growth or counting seeds and plants. Gardening can also help with reading and language skills, particularly if you have children label plants or read gardening books together. Check out books at your local library, and read them together. Fun books include “The Great Pollinator Census” by Susan Edwards Richmond and “The Saved Seed” by Brenda Moore.

Create a sense of accomplishment

One of the most rewarding aspects of gardening is the sense of accomplishment that children feel when they see their plants flourish. Whether it's picking ripe fruit, seeing flowers bloom or simply admiring the beauty of a well-tended garden, these moments can boost a child's self-esteem and provide a sense of pride.

Gardening is a powerful tool for engaging children in meaningful outdoor activities while also fostering a deeper connection with the environment. By combining

creativity, learning and responsibility, gardening provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to explore the natural world and develop essential life skills. Through gardening, children not only learn how to care for plants but also gain a greater appreciation for the world around them.

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/.

Save the Date: The 2025 Great Southeast Pollinator Census is August 22-23.

About the author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Chris Adams, a Master Gardener for almost 20 years and a Sandy Springs resident. She loves to teach gardening classes, especially to children. She can be found once a month April-October at the Sandy Springs Farmers Market helping the children with a fun nature-based activity.

CHRIS ADAMS Guest Columnist

PHOTOS BY: CHRIS ADAMS/PROVIDED Planting tomatoes at the Sandy Springs Farmers Market

Dressed

Corner Preserve

Good luck!

TOOLS

1. River feature. Croupier’s tool. Hate.

2. Fireman’s tool. Family member. Conundrum.

3. Small whirlpool. Carpenter’s tool. Man of morals.

4. Dentist’s tool. Chess piece. Wanderer.

5. Saintly topper. Plumber’s tool. Killer whale.

6. Sculptor’s tool. Voting group. Sign of healing.

7. Command to a horse. Priest’s superior. Farmer’s tool.

1 River feature. Croupier’s tool. Hate

2. Fireman’s tool. Family member. Conundrum

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. Small whirlpool. Carpenter’s tool. Man of morals

4. Dentist’s tool. Chess piece. Wanderer

5. Saintly topper. Plumber’s tool. Killer whale

6. Sculptor’s tool. Voting group. Sign of healing

7. Command to a horse. Priest’s superior. Farmer’s tool

Continued from Page 1

Carr: AAPPEN PRESSCLU B

Roswell Rotary President Trummie Lee Patrick III said that the main reason they chose to bring Carr out to speak was because of Carr’s work to end human trafficking. Dave McCleary, Roswell Rotarian and past president, founded End Human Trafficking Now, which became an international movement.

“It was a great pairing of both what Dave's trying to accomplish and obviously what Attorney General Carr has tried to accomplish here in Georgia,” Patrick said.

Carr said that his favorite part about meeting local communities such as Ro-

DEATH NOTICES

Bennett Boyd, age 55, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on July 17, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Sydney DeSouza, age 88, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on July 18, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

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swell is being able to hear the good stories.

“It is so uplifting when you hear people helping other people,” he said.

Carr has served as Georgia’s Attorney General for nearly a decade and is setting his sights on the governor’s office. Although Carr did not speak about his campaign at the club meeting, he did speak about his future goals for the state.

During his talk, Carr highlighted his

Voucher:

Continued from Page 1

According to new figures from the Georgia Student Finance Commission, which oversees the program, a third of the recipients will be attending kindergarten. Nearly half will be in elementary school, with the rest in seventh through 12th grades.

The money will be paid out quarterly, starting this month. Families can use it for a variety of education-related expenses. Two-thirds said they plan to spend it on tuition, according to the commission. The rest will use it to cover home schooling costs and other allowable expenses, such as tutoring, therapy and curriculum.

Opponents of these vouchers argued they would mostly be used by the wealthy, who are more able to afford the difference between the amount of the subsidy and the cost of private school tuition, which can exceed $10,000 a year.

As state Republican lawmakers were pushing Senate Bill 233 to final passage last year, Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes, D-Duluth, summarized the opposition, mostly from fellow Democrats.

The vouchers are “a mirage for families like mine and for countless others across our state,” she said on the Senate floor, adding that they would undermine

Richard Dey, age 90, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on July 22, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Patrick Hawes, age 77 of Roswell, GA passed away on July 16, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

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initiatives, which include the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, which has led to more than 60 convictions and rescued more than 200 children. He also highlighted his work through the Gang Prosecution Unit, which has collected more than 100 convictions.

“Georgia is a leader in the fight against human trafficking, and that is in part because of the people in this room,” Carr said.

education for kids who don’t choose private school, since public schools would lose state funding for each student who took a voucher.

“It is a battle for the soul of our education system,” Parkes said.

“I’ve got news for you,” responded Sen. Greg Dolezal, R-Cumming, the chief cosponsor of the bill. “The wealthy already have school choice, including some wealthy members in this room who have been able to exercise school choice for their own children.”

Supporters of the bill, which Gov. Brian Kemp signed into law a month after passage, said the loss of state funding for public schools would not hurt them because they would no longer have to cover the cost of educating the voucher recipients. The commission reports that three quarters of recipients are “lowerincome,” meaning the students are coming from households with incomes at or below four times the federal poverty level. ($106,600 a year for a family of three and $128,600 for a family of four.)

Half of the recipients are Black and a third are white.

Two metro Atlanta districts will lose the most students — DeKalb County, with nearly 900 scholarship recipients, and Henry County, with nearly 800. Others rounding out the top five districts losing students to vouchers are Bibb County, at nearly 600 students; Richmond County at

Shaila Pandit, age 80, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on July 18, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Susan Stinecipher, age 53, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on July 17, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Carr also mentioned the state’s fight to combat the opioid crisis.

“This is the thing that keeps me up at night with a 20-year-old daughter,” he said.

On July 11, Carr announced that the State of Georgia is expected to receive up to $20 million from several recently proposed national settlements with eight drug makers accused of contributing to the opioid crisis. Funds from the settlements will be put toward addiction treatment, prevention and recovery services.

“I think this is going to make a big difference,” Carr said at the Rotary meeting.

To learn more about the club, visit roswellrotary.club.

nearly 500, and Savannah-Chatham County with more than 400. The commission cautioned that the numbers are a moving target because some students may yet opt out. But the participation numbers are well below the $141 million that lawmakers budgeted for this school year.

Tony West, Georgia director of Americans for Prosperity, a group that lobbied for this program, attributed the low participation to several potential reasons: parents haven’t heard of the program yet, they know about it but are skeptical or they did not apply because they do not live in the attendance zone of an eligible public school. Only 56% of applicants were approved, which suggests that many who applied do not live near an underperforming school. Address and state residency were the two main qualifying criteria.

“I think that strongly suggests that the eligibility requirements are too restrictive,” said West, who noted that 16 states with similar scholarship programs have not based eligibility on address. He can see his group lobbying state lawmakers to convert Georgia’s program to universal access.

“We’ll see what the political appetite is moving forward,” he said.

This story is available through a news partnership with Capitol Beat News Service, a project of the Georgia Press Educational Foundation.

Elizabeth Towater, age 80, of Milton, GA passed away on July 19, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Lori Young, 66, Roswell, GA passed away on July 21, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

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Vice President of Client Programs

NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Vice President of Client Programs position. The Vice President of Client Programs (VPCP) is a senior leader responsible for creating and implementing the Client Services department strategy for NFCC. This includes creating programs and services, monitoring their effectiveness and ensuring funds are distributed appropriately. The VPCP also leads a team of 13 client services staff who handle client intake, case management, impact and outcomes data, education (GED/English classes) and workforce development programs.

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

Workforce Development Coordinator

NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Workforce Development Coordinator position. The Workforce Development Coordinator serves as a crucial link between NFCC clients, Volunteer Coaches, and local employers.

The Coordinator collaborates with community businesses to identify hiring opportunities while working closely with Volunteer Coaches who deliver career readiness services including resume writing, job application assistance, and interview preparation. Through these efforts, the Coordinator helps clients improve their employment prospects that may lead to greater financial stability.

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

Senior System Engineering needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid Position] to be responsible for translating the core architecture for business requirements into the final technical solution (consisting of platform, network, software, cloud, etc.) through functional, performance, and reliability analysis using engineering models and techniques, primarily through software development throughout the vertical stack. 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-64826.

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Senior System Engineering needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid Position] to design, develop, document, and analyze overall architecture of systems including hardware and software. 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-68783.

Lead Software Engineering needed by AT&T Services, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA [Hybrid position] to design, develop, test, deploy, and troubleshoot applications with a focus on automation. 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-67911.

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Sawnee EMC is seeking an Accounts Receivable Clerk to reconcile consumer accounts and process members’ transactions (i.e., Cash, Check, Credit Card, or Money Order). Will supply information to customers and resolve customer inquiries through face-to-face communication. Requires: high school diploma or equivalency, proficiency in mathematics, monetary, and general office skills. A minimum of two years of related experience preferred. Position is full-time; must be flexible to work irregular hours, to include evenings and weekends.

Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, August 8, 2025. Apply online: www.sawnee.coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.

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.

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If you love working with children, Midway Preschool is hiring Assistant Teachers.Call Beth @ 770-752-0440 or email beth@midwayumc.org

Tax:

Continued from Page 1

Commissioners considered a maintenance and operations millage rate of 4.791 mills with an overall rate of 7.896 mills, which has been maintained since 2021.

The county projects $232.8 million in general fund revenue and about $4.8 million for contingency.

One mill generates $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, which by state law, is 40 percent of a property’s real – or fair market – value. A home that is worth $100,000 on the market would have a taxable value of $40,000, and a levy of 1 mill would cost the homeowner $40 in taxes.

County, School District and Chamber

of Commerce officials have highlighted balancing the residential and commercial tax digests as a priority.

For years, rapid population growth has been a major concern, bringing fears that services could be strained, resulting in ballooning taxes.

The county’s population growth is among the highest in the state. It has increased 57.5 percent since 2010, according to USA Facts.

In April, the Forsyth County Board of Education approved a resolution calling for the slowing of high-density residential developments and increasing the commercial tax base. The School Board cited increasing demands on school capacity and resources.

In May, commissioners approved a continuation of a residential zoning pause.

Commissioner Mendy Moore previously

said she supported the moratorium as a way of slowing residential growth.

“The No. 1 thing that (residents) have an issue with is the pace of our growth,” she said. “The pace and the density of the development in our county has far exceeded our ability to manage it. Our roads are gridlocked, and our schools are full.”

Earlier in the year, the County Commission reached an agreement with the business community after a protracted discussion about increasing transportation impact fees. Commissioners said the increase was necessary to ensure the business community was paying its fair share in supporting roadways. Business leaders worried the increase could stymie commercial growth.

Commissioner Todd Levent praised the Chamber of Commerce as instrumental in the commercial tax base’s resurgence. He

said the county has worked directly with the chamber to promote Forsyth County as a place for businesses to headquarter.

“Ever since I’ve been in office, we were working on bringing the commercial tax base up … It is a big deal,” Levent said.

That work has included bettering the Forsyth County’s schools, libraries, parks, roads, crime rate and housing. Those services and attributes are highly attractive along with its location on the periphery of other Metro Atlanta communities within driving distance of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The result is a reduced tax burden for residents and a stronger local economy, he said.

“When we started doing the right things and working together, the comm business started coming to Forsyth County,” Levent said.

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Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/ day! 833-890-1262

We buy houses for cash as is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-489-3936

Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees free activation. All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930

SunSetter. America’s number one awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Call now and SAVE $350 today! 1-855-914-1148

Old guitars wanted! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Etc. 1930’sto 1980’s. Top dollar paid. Call 866-433-8277

Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network! For more information www.communitypublishers.com/ category/all-products

Pest control: Protect your home from pests safely. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders & more. Locally owned & affordable. For service or inspection today! 833-860-0657 Have zip code ready!