Buzz-ness helps those exploring beekeeping
County approves park project
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Outdoor enthusiasts are getting a new perspective on Forsyth County.
At its Sept. 4 meeting, the Forsyth County Commission progressed a project to give hikers access to the highest point in the county. The Barker Overlook project will provide visitors with a hike-in, hike-out trail to a mountaintop where, on a clear day, they can see as far as Brasstown Bald, Yonah Mountain, Dahlonega and Sharp Mountain.
Commissioners approved a $1.1 million contract with Vertical Earth for the project.
Located at the site of the former Barker “spaceship house” at Sawnee Mountain Preserve, the site will feature a picnic plaza, historical information about the house and educational signage about local geography.
Once dubbed the county’s most unique home, the Barker House was a flying-saucer-shaped residence designed by architect Jim Barker. Demolished in 2017, the house was located at an elevation of about 1,960 feet.
Cloudy conditions cast broad shadow over state economy
ATLANTA — Georgia is enduring its share of fallout from federal layoffs and spending cuts, less tourism from abroad to a pullback in film and TV spending by big Hollywood studios.
But the state’s multifaceted economy is also benefiting from a boom in data center construction, continued inmigration of retirees, and an expected boost to the aerospace industry due to European NATO nations pledging to boost defense spending in coming years, according to Rajeev Dhawan of the Economic Forecasting Center at Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business.
Dhawan delivered the semi-annual forecast during his Aug. 28 conference.
Job additions in calendar year 2024 totaled 41,900, much lower than the 66,800 jobs added in 2023. This pace was incidentally half of the rate of job creation seen from 2017 to 2019. In the first half of 2025 the state added only 11,700 jobs.
The biggest reason for this sharp slowdown and anemic job growth performance, Dhawan said, is the stress seen in the white-collar, middle-management, servicesector jobs that are battling AI advances, iffy world economic growth, and the changing focus of film-and-television production, where notably Marvel Studios has pulled up stakes for London. Revenue growth in the first half of 2025 for Delta Air Lines, the state’s largest private employer with a big footprint in international travel, was an anemic 1.0 percent, with coach ticket sales dropping by 3.6 percent. “The breadand-butter of middle-class jobs in three well-paying service sectors — corporate, information technology (including specialized movie production) and wholesale (B2B) — constitute almost one-fourth of the state’s employment base and have lost more than 37,000 jobs since Jan. 2023,” Dhawan said.
Following Dhawan’s “Triangle of Money” logic, the impact of anemic job growth in high-paying service sectors that affects consumer spending is also evident in the rate of
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
Stacy Navarrete, Steven Russell, center, and Nico Russell enjoy a day at the Indian Seats vantage point at Sawnee Mountain Preserve Sept. 7.
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Thieves steal vehicle at Halcyon Drive home
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A vehicle was reported stolen from a Halcyon Drive home Aug. 28.
The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched to the home after a Ford F-150 was reported stolen. The truck was valued at $40,000.
A 57-year-old Alpharetta man provided deputies a video showing footage of the incident.
Recorded about 5 p.m., the video captured two people wearing masks and gloves stealing the truck.
The truck featured a GPS, which was tracked to Harwell Road in Atlanta.
The incident was classified as a felony theft of an automobile. — Jon Wilcox
Appliances worth $175,000 reported stolen from facility
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — About $175,000 in appliances were reported stolen from a logistics company’s Windward Ridge Parkway warehouse Aug. 29.
The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said a company representative reported the alleged crime, saying 38 appliances had been stolen since March.
The company suspects an employee stole the appliances, authorities said.
The company rep said he discovered some of the appliances for sale on Facebook.
The items include washers, dryers, dish washers and refrigerators.
The incident was classified as a felony theft by taking.
— Jon Wilcox
Thousands in jewelry reported stolen at store
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — More than $12,000 in jewelry was reported stolen from a North Point Parkway store Aug. 21.
Alpharetta police said a 28-yearold manager said he suspected the jewelry had been stolen after he received an email from another jewelry store asking about the items. The jewelry was sent to the business for repairs.
The manager said he was unsure whether the package containing the items had been received.
He said the store has sometimes received deliveries with items missing.
The incident was classified as a felony theft by taking, greater than $1,500.
— Jon Wilcox
Woman falls victim to cyber bank theft
ROSWELL, Ga. — A 59-year-old Roswell woman reported falling victim to a felony cyber theft Aug. 19 after an alleged scammer gained access to her bank accounts.
The victim said she received a text Aug. 25 that she believed to be from the Digital Federal Credit Union, which notified her of potential fraud on her account.
Shortly after, she said a man identifying himself as a bank employee called her to speak about the potential fraud.
The victim said she allowed the caller to access her accounts after he listed her personal information, account numbers and recent transactions.
After confirming her account was linked to Veno, PayPal and Zelle, the victim said the caller paid himself $3,337.27 using the three applications.
The officer said the woman provided him with the usernames of the suspect’s accounts with each peer-to-
peer payment platform.
When speaking with the officer, the victim said she was already working on changing her passwords and security information for each account.
As of Sept. 2, the case remains active with no suspect identified.
— Hayden Sumlin
Woman reports dog bite while walking at apartment
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 24-year-old Alpharetta woman was treated for a dog bite after she was attacked at her apartment Aug. 24.
Alpharetta police said the woman told officers she was walking around the building when a large brown dog lunged at her and bit her leg above the knee. Paramedics told officers she likely would need stitches.
The dog had no leash.
Officers talked with the animal’s owner, a 31-year-old woman who also lives at the apartment. The woman said her dog, a large Shar Pei breed, was current on its vaccinations.
The owner said the dog has never bitten anyone before.
The case was turned over to Fulton Animal Control officers.
— Jon Wilcox
Man receives cut lip in fight after concert
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police investigated a reported battery at a Windward Parkway hotel Aug. 24.
Alpharetta police said a 22-year-old Suwanee man punched a 22-year-old man in the face. The alleged assault occurred after a concert, and both were allegedly intoxicated when an argument broke out, police said.
That night, Ameris Amphitheater hosted country singer Jason Aldean.
The injured man suffered a cut to his lip. He refused medical treatment — Jon Wilcox
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Appen Media launches online merch store supporting journalism
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Appen Media Group announced Aug. 19 the launch of its official online merchandise store, available at appenmediastore. com. The new store gives readers, supporters, and community members a way to show their pride in local journalism while directly funding the work of Appen’s newsroom.
All proceeds from the store will go toward supporting Appen Media’s mission of delivering trusted, independent reporting across North Fulton, south Forsyth and DeKalb counties.
“Local journalism is at the heart of our communities, and this store provides a new way for readers to take part in sustaining that mission,” said Hans Appen, Publisher of Appen Media Group. “Every shirt, mug, or tote bag purchased helps ensure we can continue telling the stories that matter most to our neighbors.”
The store offers a variety of branded items designed to celebrate both community pride and support for independent journalism. Purchases not only help expand Appen Media’s reporting resources but also serve as a visible reminder of the importance of local news.
To shop the collection and support local journalism, visit appenmediastore.com.
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I thought she was long dead: notes on a friend who is alive
RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com
I was going through the address book on my phone and texting folks to remind them to vote. At present I am through the letter “J.” Her name was in the Cs and initially I skipped her because, frankly, I was fairly sure that she was not with the living. The last time I had seen her she had serious health problems. Then one day she had put a note on the door of her business which said she was “done” – closed – out of the blue. It had been, I think, somewhere close to 10 years, and I had encountered nothing from or about her. I asked folks and no one knew anything. That’s why I was so surprised when – a short time after I messaged her, I got a reply.
It was almost like getting a second chance.
Oddly enough, that happened to us once before – years ago. A dear friend was in hospice in his home in Florida and was not expected to live much longer. We got the dreaded call – “Johnie passed.” Even though we knew it was coming, it felt like we had been punched in the stomach. Later that night, the phone rang again. It was the same person who had given us the awful news. This time the message was different – “Johnie didn’t die. He is alive. It was a mistake.”
We went into shock. What? How? It was now past midnight.
“What are you doing,” our son Carl demanded? We just looked at him. What was he talking about?
“You’re going to bed instead of getting dressed and driving down tonight to be with Johnnie” he almost shouted. You see, Johnie was part of all our lives; he was just as important to Carl as he was to us. “How many times do you get a second chance to be with someone you love after they have died,” he asked. Carl – cool head in windy spaces. Of course, of course Carl, what are we thinking?
We left about 30 minutes later, around 1 a.m. The eight-hour drive to Oviedo – just outside of Orlando –seemed to go by in a blink of an eye. I think we were in shock the entire way; time stalled – stopped. We arrived just before dawn. One moment we were in our living room in Alpharetta getting ready for bed and being lectured to by our son. The next moment we were by
Johnie’s bedside.
“You’re looking more beautiful than ever, Christina,” were the first words from his mouth when he noticed us walk in. I thought I was going to pass out and looked around furtively for something to land on just in case.
When we finally took our gaze off him, we realized that our other friends were also there in the living room – the ones who counted most –the ones who had received the same wonderful magical call. Noone seemed to be anxious or in a hurry or distracted. We talked. We held his hand. We ate. We waited. We circled up without touching and just were there. And he didn’t seem to understand why all his friends were making such a fuss about him. That was just how he was.
The sparkle in his eyes still showed through, undiminished. The imp in him that always seemed to be just on the other side of the curtain, seemed to be watching us, ready to poke fun. And he made each one of us feel as if we were the only ones in the room and the only focus of his attention. He was concerned that we needed sleep and asked Glenda – his wife – to make sure we were all OK/ taken care of.
Getting the text from Ann was a gift – just like the one from Johnie. We met for coffee the next day and talked for hours. She lives near South Carolina now on a small farm. When I last saw her, she was not in great shape and was the worse for wear from years of work in her businesses. Now she works out every day and reads a lot about world news and hikes. She just finished a 500-mile hike in Portugal and is planning what sounds like an amazing trek to Egypt. I think she is really focused on making up for lost time, although it is hard for me to consider what she did “before” as lost.
So, don’t overthink life. Covet time with friends. Don’t wait until someone dies to start to appreciate them and wish you had made the time while they were still alive. And don’t forget how random things seem to magically occur when you step outside your regular envelope and decide to remind people to vote or something equally generous.
I think I need to give Ann a shout and see if she doesn’t want to go hike a few miles of the AT. I’d like that –and so would she.
Carpe diem.
6 | Forsyth Herald | September 11, 2025
Buzz-ness offers entry point to beekeeping fans
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — They produce a nutritious food from flower nectar. Their sound may have a calming effect on the mind. They play a vital role in the natural environment.
And they are surprisingly low maintenance, said Brian Hudes, owner of Big Creek Bees in Forsyth County.
“Bees are very resilient,” Hudes said. “If you don't bother them, for the most part, they don't really care about you.”
Bees may be the perfect neighbor, and Hudes’ business aims to make their care even easier. He sells everything amateur and veteran beekeepers need to care for the insects. He also provides a concierge service, installing and caring for bees to anyone willing to host them.
“You will produce so much honey for yourself and your friends that they'll all get tired of getting all your honey,” he said.
Hudes, who grew up in the suburbs of Long Island, may be a relative newcomer to the art of beekeeping, but he has learned fast. The gastroenterologist decided to start his business to exercise his problem-solving skills while working with living things.
“To me, beekeeping was another patient, another sort of spectrum of treatments. It's right in my wheelhouse,” Hudes said. “It just feels good taking care of the bees. Plus, it's fun.”
He also likes the idea of leaving the planet in a better place than he found it.
An important insect
Bees have been around for about 130
million years, forming an essential part of the evolutionary development of 400,000 species of flowering plants, the World Wildlife Fund said.
About a third of the world’s food production relies on bees’ ability to transport pollen from one flower to another, the United Nations Environment Programme said.
Unfortunately, bee populations are in a precarious place.
An extensive study found between June 2024 and January 2025 that about 62 percent of commercial bee colonies in the U.S. died, marking the largest die-off on record, according to an extensive survey, the Apiary Inspectors of America said. It followed a 55 percent die-off from the previous winter.
Pesticides play a significant role in the troubling population decline.
Bees can travel up to 5-6 miles a day in search of food. During those travels, they can easily pick up pesticides from yards and fields, transporting them back to the hive.
“They come back, and they mix in with the other bees, and then all of a sudden, your bees die,” Hudes said.
It’s an easily overlooked tragedy, especially when considering how much bees have to offer humans.
Programs such as Virginia’s HIVES, or Honeybee Initiative for Veterans Empowerment and Support, are exploring the practice of beekeeping to help veterans manage their PTSD, anxiety and depression. Scientific studies suggest the sound of buzzing bees may have a calming effect, potentially easing symptoms of anxious thinking.
Hudes said he has witnessed that healing effect firsthand.
“It’s very calming,” he said.
The sting that heals Bee stings, although relatively rare, also have been shown to have healing properties.
Studies have shown bee venom and honey are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal, according to a 2023 scientific paper.
Big Creek Bees may soon relocate its brick-and-mortar location at 5695 Ga. 400 near Cumming, but it also operates an online store. The business sells everything would-be beekeepers need to host bees.
Hudes said he wants to connect with residents who would be willing to allow him to relocate somewhere on Ga. 400 between Alpharetta and Coal Mountain.
Hudes is particularly proud of his beehive boxes and frames fashioned out of wood double dipped in wax and pieced together with dovetail joints. The result is a structure that repeatedly withstands temperature and moisture swings.
Hudes also sells bee food, smokers and other tools and protective suits, which often are unnecessary given bees’ surprisingly docile nature.
“A lot of beekeepers don't even wear bee suits or gloves,” Hudes said. “You'll see the bees crawling all over them.”
Hands-on help
For those looking for an even more hands-off experience, Hudes is willing to install bee hives on properties and care for them. He splits the honey with the host.
Beekeeping enjoys enormous protections in Georgia. State law prohibits cities and counties from banning beekeeping, although it allows municipalities to regulate the practice through zoning ordinances.
Suburban beekeeping is hardly a fantasy considering the number of flowers in subdivisions and urban environments, Hudes said. A hives’ tens of thousands of bees can cover up to 80 square miles in search of food, navigating with landmarks, the sun and internal vectoring.
“Any of these fancy, upscale subdivisions, they have a lot of flowers,” Hudes said. “The bees are very happy with that.”
Hudes said his journey into the world of bees may only be about a year old, but already he has found incredible satisfaction and numerous benefits in his newfound fascination.
Beekeeping may seem difficult to learn and hard to keep up with, but Hudes promises it is actually far easier and more rewarding than many realize.
“That's why people spend all day in their beehives,” he said. “Because it becomes almost addicting.”
BRIAN HUDES/PROVIDED
Brian Hudes, owner of Big Creek Bees, stands in a south Georgia field that is home to dozens of bee hives.
Economy:
growth for sales tax collections at the state level. These collections grew at a solid doubledigit level in 2022 but have since fallen to low single-digit levels. Turning to positives in the state’s multifaceted economy, a data center construction boom initiated by technology giants has created an arms race in AI computing. With Georgia having surpassed Northern Virginia as the nation’s most active market for data centers, Dhawan noted that the data center boom has expanded beyond metro Atlanta to locations including Bartow and Richmond counties (home to Cartersville and Augusta, respectively) in the search for cheap land and energy.
“This is good news for construction industry, and other supporting professions (e.g.
HVAC technicians, ready-made concrete suppliers, and electricians) who have had steady work – more – and will continue to do so,” Dhawan said.
As electricity needs rise, more power plants will be constructed outside core Atlanta metro counties, along with the associated construction multiplier. In the interim, the state’s economy must ride the economic swells as best as it can before job growth starts to pick up by early 2026 as tariff rate structure settles, and the expected, and aggressive rate cuts by the Federal Reserve help the housing market.
The state’s aerospace and defense companies, including Lockhead Martin and Gulfstream Aerospace, will also benefit, Dhwan said, due to European NATO nations pledging to raise defense spending to 5 percent of their GDP. More demand for aerospace products will start its own multiplier for suppliers downstream that located all over Georgia.
— Patrick Fox
Economic highlights
Here are some key economic points from Rajeev Dhawan’s Aug. 28 Economic Forecast for Atlanta and Georgia:
• Georgia jobs: The state added 66,800 jobs in calendar year 2023 and that pace moderated to 41,900 jobs in 2024. Job additions will moderate further to 33,700 jobs in 2025 (3,400 premium). In 2026, the state will add 65,800 jobs (12,500 premium) and then 83,300 jobs in 2027 (19,200 premium).
• Income: Georgia’s nominal personal income will grow 5.4 percent in 2025, a similar rate of 5.3 percent in 2026, then 6 percent in 2027.
• Atlanta jobs: The metro area will add 24,800 jobs in 2025 (2,200 premium). As recovery takes hold in 2026, the metro area will add a respectable 44,300 jobs (9,900 premium), and 60,500 jobs (14,800 premium) in 2027.
• Housing market: Atlanta housing permitting activity grew by 4.7 percent in 2024; single-family permits increased by 6.5 percent and multifamily permits by 2.0 percent. Total permit numbers will fall by 21.5 percent in 2025 as multifamily permits experience a sharp drop of 40 percent and single-family permits also decrease by 10 percent. In 2026, total permit numbers inch up by 1.3 percent as single-family permits increase by 2.4 percent. Normalcy will return in 2027 when permit activity grows by 13 percent.
Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist
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Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.
He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.
Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 22 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.
Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.
Does testosterone make melanomas more aggressive?
Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology
Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is more common in men than women. That raises the question: does testosterone fuel melanoma? Is estrogen protective? Or are behavioral differences the real factor?
The answer is more complicated. Women actually develop slightly more melanomas than men until their late 40s. Then, around age 50, male incidence soars. By age 80, men develop three times as many melanomas as women.
If testosterone were causing melanomas and estrogen were protective, we would expect the opposite trend: higher rates in young men, then narrowing differences as testosterone declines with age. Instead, women lead in youth— when men’s testosterone is highest.
The tanning bed effect
One explanation may lie in tanning salons. Roughly 75% of tanning bed users are women, most aged 16 to 29.
Tanning bed use increases melanoma risk by about 75%. “Heavy users”—with more than 100 sessions—face a 150–200% higher risk. One study even estimated a nearly 2% higher melanoma risk per tanning session per year.
Because women use tanning beds far more often than men, this may explain why women develop more melanomas before age 50. But it does not explain why men overtake women so dramatically afterward.
Sun and biology
Studies suggest men generally experience more outdoor sun exposure than women. Still, that alone doesn’t account for the gap.
Biology likely plays a role. Estrogen tends to strengthen the immune system, while testosterone suppresses parts of it. T cells—critical in fighting viruses and cancer—are more adversely affected by testosterone than B cells. That difference could make men more vulnerable.
Chromosomes and cancer
Sex differences extend beyond hormones. Women have two X chromosomes, men an X and a Y. The X chromosome contains more tumor-suppressing genes. In effect, women often have a genetic “backup” that men lack.
Other cancers show a similar pattern.
Colon cancer is 33% more common in men. Leukemia is 37% more common. In the U.S., melanoma is about 36% more common in men than in women.
Clinical impact
What does this mean for patients?
I recently had a patient with a history of skin cancer—though not melanoma—ask if he should continue testosterone therapy.
A large Medicare study found that men who had taken supplemental testosterone were about 70% more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma. But the study could not control for other factors such as sun exposure or tanning bed use. Were testosterone users simply spending more time outdoors? How much of the risk came from the hormone itself?
Research also shows that men with metastatic melanoma and high testosterone levels tend to do worse. Whether testosterone supplementation should be avoided in men with only localized melanoma or other skin cancers is controversial. A patient might harbor undetectable metastatic melanoma, and supplemental testosterone could accelerate its growth.
Patient choice
In this country, patient freedom is paramount. The physician’s role is often to present the data and allow the patient to decide.
Some patients want to maximize life expectancy. Others balance quality and quantity of life. For some, the energy and mood benefits of testosterone may outweigh uncertain cancer risks. For others, minimizing risk comes first.
Based on current literature, the right answer is patient-specific.
The bottom line
Testosterone may contribute to worse outcomes in advanced melanoma, and supplementation could raise melanoma risk. But the evidence is not definitive. What is clear is that prevention and early detection matter most. Avoiding tanning beds, protecting your skin from UV exposure, and getting regular dermatology exams remain the best ways to lower melanoma risk.
For someone with a history of melanoma, testosterone supplementation is likely contraindicated. For others, the decision comes down to preference, risk tolerance, and weighing likely quality of life benefits against poorly defined quantity of life concerns.
Dr. Brent Taylor
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C
Keeping your balance with fall prevention
Brought to you by – Home Helpers
Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs
September is National Falls Prevention and Awareness Month, an often underrated issue that is extremely important for you or your older loved one. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans, with over 2.8 million emergency room visits annually. The National Commission On Aging (NCOA) reports that every 11 seconds an older adult is seen in an emergency room for a fall, and one in four seniors fall each year. Every 19 minutes an older adult dies from a fall.
Many of these falls result in serious injuries such as hip fractures, broken bones, and head injuries, which can have lasting consequences on independence and quality of life. More than 70% of all falls happen in the home, with bathrooms and bedrooms accounting for 80% of these incidents - highlighting the need to be proactive.
Be attentive to early warning signs in older loved ones, such as frequently holding onto chairs or walls while walking, struggling to rise from a seated position without support, or exhibiting muscle weakness. These behaviors can signal underlying balance or mobility challenges. Additional risk factors include adverse effects from multiple medications, vision issues, and problems with gait or dizziness from chronic health issues.
Often, the place that feels safest— one’s longtime home—can present hid-
den dangers. Clutter, poorly arranged furniture, inadequate lighting, throw rugs and uneven stairs can all contribute to falls. Simple home modifications like grab bars, shower chairs, improved lighting and addressing health concerns can make a significant difference in reducing these risks.
A skilled, heart-centered Home Helpers caregiver can play a vital role in fall prevention. Caregivers can assist with bathing and grooming—two activities of daily living that present significant hazards, especially in slippery bathrooms. Their expertise helps minimize risks, ensuring these tasks are performed safely. They assist with all personal care, help around the house, can accompany you on doctor’s visits and provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s support.
A dedicated caregiver can also provide support after a stroke, surgery or extended hospital stay. Encouraging balance and therapy exercises prescribed to improve strength and stability with consistent follow-up is essential for recovery and preserving mobility. For those in assisted living communities who become high fall risks, in-home care can make all the difference. With personalized care plans to meet individual needs, an older loved one can continue living in the community they love.
For a free consultation and exceptional care management from six hours a day, several days a week to 24/7 and live-in care, please call Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs at (770) 681-0323.
Building ‘We-ness’: Fostering Partnership in Your Relationship
Brought to you by - Will Goodwin, M.A
One of the strongest indicators of relationship satisfaction and resilience is what researchers call we-ness — a sense of shared identity, partnership, and emotional connection. Couples who cultivate this sense of togetherness tend to weather life’s inevitable challenges with greater ease and maintain deeper emotional bonds over time. But how do you actually grow this “we” in the daily grind of a long-term relationship?
1. Prioritize shared meaning
The Gottman Institute emphasizes the importance of building shared meaning — the rituals, values, and goals that define your relationship. This could be as simple as weekly coffee dates, celebrating milestones, or aligning on family traditions. These shared experiences reinforce the sense that you’re building a life together, not just coexisting.
2. Communicate as a team
Adopt language that reflects partnership. Saying “We need to tackle this” instead of “You have to fix this” fosters unity. Regularly check in about both practical matters and emotional needs to stay aligned.
3. Celebrate wins and face challenges together
Couples with strong we-ness don’t just stick together during tough times; they actively celebrate small victories and express gratitude for each other. Facing challenges as a team — even the minor day-to-day ones — builds confidence in your partnership.
4. Maintain individuality while prioritizing connection
We-ness isn’t about losing your -
self; it’s about blending individuality with partnership. Support each other’s personal growth while keeping your relationship a central, nurtured space.
5. Cultivate shared enjoyment
While there is much in life that requires us to maintain a certain level of seriousness, deep bonds between people are often formed and strengthened within the realm of pleasure and enjoyment in life. So whether it is a common hobby, a shared sense of humor, or a mutual topic of interest, investing in the experience of enjoyment as a couple can meaningfully contribute to your sense of we-ness in your relationship.
In the end, growing we-ness is an intentional practice. With small, consistent efforts, couples can deepen their bond, creating a partnership that feels connected, resilient, and truly shared.
Out of sight, still a threat: What we forget about prostate cancer
Men’s Health Reminder Checklist
Five years ago, you probably had hand sanitizer in your car, a thermometer in your bag and a mental checklist for every sniffle. That was life during COVID. But these days? It’s easy to forget what once felt urgent.
The same thing happens with men’s health—especially prostate cancer. For a brief moment, maybe after a friend was diagnosed or during a Movember campaign, it’s top-of-mind. But if nothing seems wrong, it quickly slips to the back burner.
That’s a problem—because prostate cancer doesn’t wait until you’re ready.
At Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, we see too many men surprised by late diagnoses. Why? Because they felt fine. Because they had no symptoms. Because they believed some version of the same three myths:
• “Prostate cancer doesn’t kill men.”
Actually, it’s the second leading cause of cancer death in men. When caught early, it’s highly treatable. But when ignored, it’s dangerous.
• “I don’t have symptoms, so I’m good.”
Most early-stage prostate cancers are completely silent. No pain, no urinary issues, no warning. That’s why screening matters
• “Testing leads to side effects.”
Screening doesn’t mean treatment. A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test is a simple tool that helps guide the next steps. Many men with slowgrowing cancers don’t need surgery— just monitoring. For those who do need treatment, options are far more
• Over 50? Ask about PSA screening.
• Black men or those with a family history? Start the conversation even earlier, when you’re 45 if you’re Black, and 40 if you have a family history.
• Already tested? Know your number and track changes over time.
• Don’t wait for symptoms. They often come late.
• Have questions? Ask. Your health is worth it.
precise and less invasive than they used to be.
Still, fear or discomfort around the prostate keeps many men from checking in until it’s too late. We get it. It’s not the most glamorous part of the body—but it’s vital.
Think of it this way: you’d never ignore a lump on your neck or blood in your stool. Why ignore the most common cancer in men (besides skin cancer) just because it’s not visible?
Our team at Wellstar makes prostate cancer screening simple, discreet and personalized. We’re here to talk through your family history, explain your risks and offer guidance without pressure. Whether it’s time for a PSA test, a digital exam or just a conversation, we meet you where you are.
Remember: ignoring prostate cancer doesn’t make it go away. It just makes it harder to treat. Learn more about prostate cancer care at wellstar.org/prostatecancer.
Ready to take action?
Visit wellstar.org/urology to find a location near you and book your appointment online. What’s out of sight shouldn’t be out of mind. Learn more about cancer care at wellstar.org/northfultoncancercare.
Brought to you by – Wellstar Urologist
Dr. Scott Miller
MILLER
At Wellstar, you'll find a multidisciplinary team of cancer care experts built around your needs and dedicated to comprehensive, personalized treatment.
We are a leader in cancer care, embracing innovation to improve patient outcomes. Our cancer specialists will help you understand the type of prostate cancer you have and every option to move forward, from active surveillance to leading-edge treatments such as radiation therapies and robotic prostate removal procedures. We also offer genetic testing, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and clinical trials that offer promising treatment. wellstar.org/prostatecancer
and
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!
MONSTER MASH
1. Comrade in arms. Exploding star. Scandinavian sea monster.
2. Scottish sea monster. Beige. Vitamin supplement.
3. Clamorous. Abominable Snowman. Oak dropping.
4. Mandolin relative. Kick out. Nordic demon.
5. Boxing venue. Greek female monster. Egg holder.
6. Japanese monster. Store sign. Hospital worker.
7. Kind of community. Wild dog of Australia. Giant monster.
1 Comrade in arms. Exploding star. Scandinavian sea monster
2. Scottish sea monster. Beige. Vitamin supplement.
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. Clamorous. Abominable Snowman Oak dropping.
4. Mandolin relative. Kick out. Nordic demon
5. Boxing venue. Greek
Park:
Continued from Page 1
The county acquired the property, along with 12.8 acres, in 2003.
“This project continues the county’s commitment to expanding outdoor recreation opportunities while preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Forsyth County and honoring the legacy of Jim Barker,” said Russell Brown, director of Forsyth County’s Department of Communications.
Sawnee Mountain Preserve is less than a 10-minute drive north of Cumming and is host to about 30,000 visitors each year.
The preserve includes about 960 acres and has 11 miles of hiking trails, an amphitheater, picnic pavilions, a visitor center and a bird observatory. The preserve also hosts numerous activities, such as rock and tower climbing and zip-lining.
The preserve also hosts a vantage point known as the Indian Seats, which offers a breathtaking view of the county.
On Sept. 7, dozens hiked to the Indian Seats, taking in one of the most pleasantly cool afternoons in weeks.
Golden sunlight filtered through dense foliage onto the stone-studded dirt paths. The surprisingly quiet forest was punctuated by the occasional lonely cricket and gentle rustle of wind in treetops.
Cumming resident Ava Parson said she tries to make the trip to the preserve once a week. She loves sitting on the big rocks at the Indian Seats promontory and doing her Bible quiet time.
Forsyth County’s spaces like these were a “very important” part of why she decided to move to the area
Ava Parson reads her Bible on a rock at the Indian Seats at Sawnee Mountain Preserve Sept. 7.
because they help her connect with the natural environment, she said.
“Not everyone obviously has access to be able to come to spaces such as this,” she said.
Parson said she supports any projects that allow other residents to share the natural space she has learned to love.
“Anything that adds on to the accessibility for people to get up here, if that's trails, restrooms, whatever
makes it so that people feel more comfortable to bring their dogs or their kids up here, I'm for it,” she said.
Stacy Navarrete, a longtime resident of Cumming and graduate of Forsyth Central High School, said she has been coming to the park since she was a teen.
Navarette said she is surprised the park doesn’t get more visitors but also admits she likes it that way. She worries the new project may make the park too busy.
“I say keep everything the way that it is,” she said.
JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
EL
DON MEXICAN RESTAURANT INC.
Purchasing Agent (Alpharetta, GA) Purchase products incl kitchen supplies, tableware, & cleaning materials. Assess vendors based on several criteria: price, quality, & timely delivery. Address product issues promptly, ensuring swift resolution through returns, exchanges, or refunds. Bach’s deg in Economics, Finance, or Business Administration; M-F, 40 hrs./wk; Send Resume to Kamil Kaya, Owner, El Don Mexican Restaurant Inc, 6320 Atlanta Hwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004.
Primerica Life Insurance Company seeks a Lead Robotics Architect to architect/design business application & automated solutions using Pega Robotics & develop automation operating model. $150,000 to $171,000/ year. Job in Duluth GA & allow remote work from anywhere w/in U.S. w/in EST hours. Health/Dental/ Vision ins., 401(K), PTO, Life/Disability Ins. & more. Apply @ https://primerica.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PRI. JOB #. R-380:082025
Apptad Inc in Alpharetta, GA seeks the following positions:
Solution Data Architect (s) to implement & optimize data architecture, data modelling, & data solutions. Salary: $135,533.00
Data Quality - Senior Developer (s) to troubleshoot complex data issues, optimize workflows & lead technical aspects of projects. Salary: $152,131.00
Data Engineer (s) to collaborate w/ data model architectures, data quality governance & data solutions. Salary: $152,131.00 Travel & relocation possible to unanticipated client location throughout the US. for all positions. To apply: E-mail resume & position applied for to: Lavanya Arunkumar, Director – Legal & Immigration immigration.usa@apptadinc.com
Software Developer (Cumming, Georgia) 4 Positions - Design and develop Software Applications. Determine design specifications or details, resolve information technology issues. Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system. Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design systems and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces. Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints. Master’s in Computer Applications or related required. Please email resumes to careers@bristechsolutions.com
Education Manager
The Education Manager is responsible for coordinating the educational activities ranging from formal classroom to on-line programs, and workshops. Programming includes ESL, GED, Workforce Development and Financial Support events for families working toward financial stability. The Education Manager supervises NFCC team members within the program department including the Sr. Education Specialist, Workforce Development Coordinator and contract ESL Instructors.
If you have a bachelor’s degree in Adult Education or other relevant field and 3 years’ experience in a non-profit program manager role or other relevant experience, we’d love to hear from you.
Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
Administrative and HR Coordinator
The Administrative & HR Coordinator provides comprehensive administrative support to the President and essential human resources functions to the Vice President of People and Culture. This dual role combines executive administrative duties including board meeting preparation, correspondence management, and event coordination with HR responsibilities such as recruitment support, benefits administration, and employee record maintenance.
The Administrative & HR Coordinator takes initiative, can multi-task and remain very organized. The role requires exceptional organizational skills, discretion with confidential information, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
If you have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, human resources 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
IT POSITIONS: Alpharetta, GA & various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S: SOFTWARE ENGINEERS: Archt solns bsd on tech rqmts & dvlp sw apps. Dvlp POCs, hgh lvl, Low-lvl dsgns & tech Specs/archt to impl biz rqmts. Dsgn & implmnt Scalable microsrvc-bsd archts u/Spring Boot. Dsgn & impl JMS srvcs, Kafka Bsd event driven archt solns u/ Kafka streams. Dvlp & dply AWS cld-bsd apps & provide post -prodtn app suprt. Skills req’d: Java, Groovy, Rest API, Kafka, Hibernate. Docker, Intellij, Gradle, Kibana & Jenkins. Bachelor’s in Sci, Tech, or Engg (any) w/5 yrs exp in job off’d or rltd occup is req’d. TEST ENGINEERS: Gather & anlyz sys rqmts. Create a test plan & strtgy. Dsgn & dvlp test cases. Set up & enhnc test frmwrk. Perf test exectn. Cndct defect logng & verfictn. Cndct sys, functnl, GUI, intgrtn, user acceptance, regresn, stress, smoke, sanity, positive & negative, boundary value, data drivn, backend, end to end, cross browser, & load test activities. Skills req’d: Java, C#, JavaScript, Unix, Linux, Selenium, SOAPUI, JIRA, SQL, DB2, HP-ALM, XML, TestNG, Junit, Ant, Maven & Jenkins. Bachelor’s in Sci, Tech, or Engg (any); Comp Apps w/5 yrs exp in job off’d or rltd occup is req’d. BOTH JOBS: Mail resume: HR, Verinova Technologies LLC.,4080 McGinnis Ferry Rd, Ste 1301, Alpharetta, GA 30005
Caremark LLC, a CVS Health company, is hiring for the following roles in Alpharetta, GA: Staff Data Engineer (R0697018) to Develop, build, and manage large-scale data structures, pipelines, and efficient Extract/Load/Transform (ETL) workflows to address complex problems and support business applications. Pay Range: $129688.00/year to $230000.00/year. Multiple Positions. Related degree &/or experience &/or skills &/or license required for all positions. The Company offers a full range of benefits. For more detailed information on available benefits, please visit https://jobs.cvshealth.com/us/ en/benefits. Apply online at http://jobs.cvshealth. com/. Or send resume to istappintake@cvshealth. com. Must reference job title, location, & Req ID.
ESL Contractor Instructor (Evening)
NFCC is seeking an Evening ESL Contractor Instructor to teach English classes through our Adult Education program, serving students throughout North Fulton and surrounding counties. Our ESL Program runs three sessions annually, with comprehensive lessons covering speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills, along with regular assessments to track student progress.
We’re looking for an instructor who is available to teach evening classes. The ideal candidate will be committed to maintaining strong enrollment of at least ten students per class and who can create an engaging learning environment that supports adult learners in achieving their English language goals.
If you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in TESL, TESOL, English with a TESL certificate, linguistics or applied linguistics with a TESL certificate, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
Truck Driver
NFCC is seeking a Truck Driver (Donor Operations Services Associate II) to join our Facilities team. Our Truck Driver collects scheduled donations from businesses, residential locations, and special events while serving as a key point of contact for donors to coordinate pickup appointments. As the face of NFCC during donor interactions, this role requires maintaining a professional and a welcoming presence that reflects the organization’s values. Additionally, this position contributes to facility maintenance operations as needed.
The Truck Driver works Monday through Friday 9am – 2pm and periodically on Saturdays or Sundays for special events.
If you have 1-2 years of Box Truck delivery experience, maintain a valid Ga Driver’s License free of any traffic violations for the past 3 years and enjoy providing excellent customer service, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
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