Skip to main content

Johns Creek Herald - January 8, 2026

Page 1

OPINION

Gardeners: Bulb handling after holiday season ► PAGE 18 J a n u a r y 8 , 2 0 2 6 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 3 0 , N o . 2

Piedmont Cancer Institute expands into Johns Creek

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

to lead her team. The Cougars answered with a run that knotted the score at 14 points apiece going into the second quarter. Chattahoochee posted their only lead of the game early in the period with a free-throw by senior Grace Harris, but South charged ahead and never looked back.

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Piedmont Cancer Institute is opening its seventh location along Johns Creek Parkway Jan. 12, reflecting its continued commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. With a team of 19 medical oncologists and 20 advanced practice providers, Piedmont Cancer Center delivers comprehensive oncology care while maintaining the personalized approach of a private practice. Two oncologists, Dr. Kyle Kidwell and Dr. Jay Rhee, will be accepting new patients in Suite 220 at 11315 Johns Creek Parkway. The private practice has six existing locations throughout Metro Atlanta, while remaining an independent medical practice. Piedmont Cancer Institute has provided care for individuals diagnosed with cancer since its founding in 1987. The practice has locations across the region, including Atlanta, Fayetteville, Locust Grove, Newnan, Sandy Springs and Stockbridge. Without the administrative layers and facility fees associated with large healthcare systems, Piedmont Cancer Institute says it can deliver high-quality oncology and hematological services at a lower overall cost while reducing delays in treatment.

See BASKETBALL, Page 20

See PIEDMONT, Page 21

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

Chattahoochee girls basketball head coach Lorenzo Withrite, blue shirt, shakes hands with South Forsyth girls basketball head coach Keith Gravitt,before the matchup between the teams at Chattahoochee High School Jan. 3. Gravitt coached the War Eagles to a 71-41 victory.

Hooch boys, girls fall to South Forsyth By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — South Forsyth stormed the court at Chattahoochee High Jan. 3 where both boys and girls teams walked away with double-digit wins. Chattahoochee hadn’t played since school let out for winter break, but the South Forsyth teams had participated

in a tournament. In the girls game, the War Eagles pulled ahead after a back-and-forth first quarter, eventually increasing the lead to 30 points in the 71-41 victory. South got off to a strong start in the first period when freshman phenom Carib Morris hit a step-back 3-pointer to put the War Eagles up 9-4. Morris went off for a monster double-double of 34 points, 14 rebounds and three steals

2025 DR. JOHN REYES

DR. INGRID REYES

DR. NATU MMBAGA

DR. SHELLEY ZIPPAY

DR. ZIN ALONSO

404.446.2496 | WWW.REYESOBGYN.COM

EMILY DIXON, CNM

DR. WHITNEY COOK

9TH YEAR IN A ROW!

THANK YOU!

LYNDSEY PULLIAM, CNM

SKYLER JACOBS, CNM

JULIET PULLIAM, CNM

KATIE VAUGHN, CNM

KRISTINE RAYNARD, CNM

ALPHARETTA | JOHNS CREEK | CUMMING

Best OB/GYN DR. TINA LU

DR. MIRANDA LONG

KRISTI PRESLEY, WHNP

JOANNE LEE, FNP

AMBER BECKER, WHNP

HEMALI PATEL, WHNP

“We focus on personal, compassionate care”

EMILY CHUNG, FNP

PAIGE MAROLF, WHNP

LANA WERTZ, CNM

ERICA RICHMOND, CNM

ANNA HEPBURN, PA


2 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

POLICE BLOTTER All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

770-442-3278 AppenMedia.com 319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

Man reports burglary at his parents’ home

HANS APPEN Publisher RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus CONTACT NEWS TIPS Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com. LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com. See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance. ADVERTISING For information about advertising in the Johns Creek Herald or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278. CIRCULATION To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 55-year-old Cedartown man reported finding evidence of a burglary at a Wills Lane home Dec. 11. Alpharetta police said the man reported the burglary about 9:30 a.m., saying the home belongs to his parents. The man said he is closing a sale of the home. The man noticed a window was smashed about 7 p.m. Dec. 10 and entered. In the kitchen, it appeared “someone or something” had defecated on a large pile of trash. The house, which is vacant, lacked security cameras. A neighbor reported seeing nothing suspicious. Nothing appeared stolen. The incident was classified as a felony forced burglary of a home. — Jon Wilcox

Package thief strikes at Roswell residence ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating the theft of a package from a front porch along Branch Valley Way Dec. 16. The victim, a 57-year-old Roswell woman, reported the theft Dec. 20. She said she received a notification from FedEx confirming the package’s delivery Dec. 16 with a photo of the parcel on her front porch. The package was missing when she arrived home. The victim said she thinks the package was taken between 2:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. The contents of the package are valued at $1,254, including six pairs of luxury shoes, one shirt and a designer bag.

PUBLIC SAFETY While the victim’s home has an operating Ring camera, she said it did not capture any suspects taking the package. — Hayden Sumlin

Woman loses hundreds to car repair swindle ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 30-year-old Marietta woman reported Dec. 12 she had been scammed out of $400 by men who offered to fix her car. Alpharetta police said the woman reported she was driving on Windward Parkway Dec. 6 when her car began to overheat. She managed to get the car to a cafe parking lot and called a mechanic company. Two men arrived at the car about 2 p.m. Dec. 7, offering to fix the vehicle for $350, which she paid with the money transfer app Zelle, police said. On Dec. 8, the men allegedly said they needed an additional $50 to make the repairs. The woman sent the money with Zelle. The men allegedly pushed back the date they could finish the repairs several times before becoming unreachable, police said. The woman said she spoke with employees of the cafe, who reported seeing no one work on the car. The woman provided the men’s phone numbers to officers, but calls were forwarded to voicemail, police said. The incident was classified as a misdemeanor theft by deception. — Jon Wilcox

Police report swastikas at Vickery Creek Trail ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating an antisemitic hate crime at Vickery Creek Trail after a male suspect allegedly spray-painted swastikas Dec. 21 at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. An officer said he was dispatched to Mill Street with backup to search for someone graffitiing at Vickery Creek Trail. After finding the first swastika on a

ASK APPEN

sign near the trailhead, the officer said a witness described the suspect as a white man in his mid 20s with facial hair and black and white Nike shoes. After searching the area, officers said they found no suspect. Officers located four swastikas, three on signs and one on a tree, across a 0.2mile stretch of trail at the Chattahoochee River National Recreational Area. The report says the National Park Service was notified because the swastikas were not located on the City of Roswell’s side of Big Creek. The specific crime listed on the report is a felony for interference with government property. Georgia’s Hate Crimes Act increases penalties for crimes motivated by bias against immutable traits, like race, religion and national origin. — Hayden Sumlin

Police arrest man wanted for assault DUNWOODY, GA. — Dunwoody Police arrested a 49-year-old Doraville man wanted by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office for simple assault Dec. 16 after he failed to identify himself. During a domestic dispute investigation, an officer said he detained a man who was refusing to talk and would not provide any identification at the Lacota Apartments off Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. During a search of the man, officers said they found his wallet containing a Guatemalan identification card that displayed a different name than he gave them verbally. After running a background check, officers said they found an active warrant for his arrest out of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office for failure to appear in court for a misdemeanor simple assault charge. After the Sheriff’s Office confirmed the warrant, officers said they transported the man to DeKalb County Jail. As of Dec. 22, he remains in jail. — Hayden Sumlin

What do you want to know about the community? Submit questions at appenmedia.com/ask or scan QR code.


NEWS

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 3

New laws address professional services, homeowner protections By Ty Tagami Capitol Beat ATLANTA — Most new laws from this year’s legislative session took effect in July, but a handful of significant bills became law on Jan. 1. They address shortages in accounting and dentistry, and they increase homeowner protections. They update campaign finance and vehicle licensing requirements. One adds a new look for car tags. House Bill 148, The Public Accountancy Act of 2025, was brought by Rep. John Carson, R-Marietta, a certified public accountant trying to address a shortage of accountants. It updates a

licensing framework established nearly three decades ago by offering new paths to becoming a certified public accountant. It also lets accounting firms do some work in Georgia without having an office in the state. House Bill 551 by Rep. Jason Ridley, R-Chatsworth, updates rules for owning and operating a motor vehicle, adding numerous new requirements around the issuance of temporary operating permits and setting standards for a new electronic system for issuing them. It also lets permitted property owners install an immobilization device on trespassing vehicles rather than just having them towed. House Bill 567 by Rep. Katie Dempsey, R-Rome, addresses regional shortages in

dentistry, authorizing licensed dentists to practice online, with regulation by the Georgia Board of Dentistry. It also permits coverage of teledentistry by dental benefits plans. “Geography should not be a barrier to dental care,” Kristen Morgan, the Georgia Dental Association executive director, said in May when Gov. Brian Kemp signed the bill into law. Senate Bill 35 by Sen. Larry Walker, III, R-Perry, gives homeowners more time to prepare for loss of insurance. It doubles the minimum notice period for nonrenewal of certain residential policies to 60 days, from 30. Senate Bill 112 by Sen. Clint Dixon, R-Buford, requires that manufacturer warranties of residential HVAC systems

LOCAL HOME SERVICES GUIDE CONCRETE

DRIVEWAYS & CONCRETE

Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs

$250 OFF* Mention ad for $250 Off. New Driveway. Cannot combine coupons.

BBB A+ Rating

FREE ESTIMATE Call 678-250-4546 Minimum job is $5,000

CONCRETE

Driveways • Patios • Walls • More

NEW or REPAIR and Patios • Slabs • Walls Sidewalks • Pool Decks

678.648.2010

FREE QUOTE

CONCRETE Call or Text to

Call Us For A FREE Quote

McKemey concrete Any job $2500 or more

LANDSCAPING

Competitive Pricing Many Local References

*Offer expires 10 days after publication

Call 770-771-5432

Call or Text to

770.450.8188

Call Us For A FREE Quote

$150 OFF jobs $1500 or more

770-771-5432

ELECTRICAL

98 • Tree Removal • Tree Pruning • Stump Grinding

• Full Insured • Free Mulch • Emergency 24/7

Bobby Albritton

Master Licensed Electrician Bobby Albritton

Master Licensed

Residential & Commercial Services

Electrician Call for a FREE Estimate

404-519-8635 Residential & Commercial Services bgalbritton@live.com

10% OFF

678.648.2010

Any job $500 or more.

Ask for Dave McKemey

McKemey concrete $250 OFF* Any job $2500 or more

Many Local References

*Offer expires 10 days after publication

678.506.0006

Call for a FREE Estimate!

ROOF WE

ROOF REPAIR & REPLACE

LEAKS

Call for a FREE Estimate! 770-284-3123

STOP

Call now for a FREE estimate for any of your lawn/home needs!

• Over 25 Years of Experience • Many Local References • Fair Prices for Professional Work • Maintenance & Installation Pine Straw & Mulch • Reliable, Punctual, Honest

ATTENTION - Double check ad for ALL content. Phone, web, address, coupons, etc. Assume nothing Reply back that ad is approved once ALL ITEMS HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY.

Call or Text to

TREE SERVICE

FREE ESTIMATES • Landscaping Residential & Commercial • Tree Services • Sprikler Systems • Maintenance & Installation Pine Straw & Mulch

See LAWS, Page 21

DRIVEWAYS

$250 OFF* ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC.

DRIVEWAYS

transfer to homebuyers. It also requires that warranties take effect on the date a system is installed by a licensed contractor and prohibits requiring product registration as a condition of warranty. Senate Bill 199 by Sen. Sam Watson, R-Moultrie, prohibits the State Ethics Commission initiating investigations of candidates within 60 days of their election. It also requires that local elected officials file mandatory financial disclosures with the Commission rather than locally. It also requires that political action committees maintain bank accounts with detailed reporting when they contribute to candidates in the state. It

$200 Leak Repairs or 10% OFF New Roof

FRUIT TREES

Fruit Trees NOT Producing Fruit? Fruit Tree Pruning Fruit Tree Planting  Soil Care

$200 leak repair. Up to 8 penetrations. (1-story house, up to 7/12 pitch). Some restrictions apply

99 Serving North Atlanta Since 1983. Affordable Quality Roofing. Based in Roswell. *Offer expires 10 days after publication

bloom and fruit Specialized Fruit Tree Prunning and Care

bloomandfruit.net

info@bloomandfruit.com


4 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

COMMUNITY

Spruill Center unveils sculptures celebrating Dunwoody’s history DUNWOODY, Ga. — The city’s collection of public art is growing with the addition of two sculptures outside the Spruill Center for the Arts on Chamblee Dunwoody Road. The sculptures take the form of two grazing horses, selected as a nod to Dunwoody’s pioneering Spruill family, which once occupied and worked the land surrounding the historic Cheek-Spruill Farmhouse just up the street from the arts center. “These sculptures offer us the opportunity to beautify Dunwoody’s landscape while also paying homage to the city’s history and honoring the family for whom our organization was named,” Spruill CEO Alan Mothner said. The horses, named Colorful and Spruce, are made of repurposed steel and were created by North Carolina artist Jonathan Bowling, whose sculptures have been purchased

for and shown in cities across the Southeast and Midwest. Both sculptures will be displayed outside the Spruill Center for the Arts for the next 18 months. They are in the northeast corner of the parking lot of the Dunwoody Cultural Arts Center, shared by Spruill, Stage Door Theatre and the Dunwoody Library, near the outdoor courtyard and stage. The Spruill Center for the Arts is a nonprofit organization fostering creativity and social connections through the arts. The Spruill Education Center offers 300 classes and workshops each quarter for all ages and skill levels through its 17 dedicated studio spaces and features a variety of community-based programs. For more information, visit spruillarts.org. — Hayden Sumlin

PERSONAL OR BUSINESS MONEY MARKET ACCOUNTS

3.50

% APY*

Guaranteed for 6 Months!

3651 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-407-6700 • www.touchmarknb.com *Annual Percentage Yield.APY is accurate as of print date and is subject to change without notice. Minimum deposit of $25,000 is required to open and obtain the APY. Fees could reduce earnings. Offer available to new customers only. Interest is compounded daily and credited to your account monthly. Limited time offer.

SPRUILL CENTER FOR THE ARTS/PROVIDED

Two new sculptures at the Spruill Center for the Arts, Colorful and Spruce, pay homage to Dunwoody’s Spruill family, which once lived and worked the land surrounding the historic Cheek-Spruill Farmhouse on Chamblee Dunwoody Road.

Chapel of Reflections Our chapel mausoleum offers timeless options of both cremation and traditional burial. Contact us for further information on the Chapel of Reflections and our many other offerings. 950 Mansell Road, Roswell, GA 30076 770-993-4811 | www.roswellfuneralhome.com


AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 5

THE REMODELING AUTHORITY

Let’s Discuss Your Project. 678.459.2292 Tune-Up Projects

Full Remodel Projects

Bathroom Tune-Up New Countertops, Sink & Faucet

Kitchen Remodel Total Cabinet Replacement

Enlarge Shower

Large Island

Vanity Replacement – Cabs, Counter, Sink

New Backsplash

Shower Glass

Cut Down 2-level Island

Shower Safety

Optimize Cabinet / Appliance Locations

Free Standing Tub Floor Tile, Wall Tile

Kitchen Tune-Up Paint Cabinets New Countertops, Sink & Faucet

Open Concept – Move Walls

Bathroom Remodel New Larger Shower

Plumbing Fixtures

Great Ideas Huge Showroom Open to the Public OPEN SATURDAYS 9-5 Mon-Fri • 10-4 Sat Showroom – Design Center 10591 Old Alabama Rd. Connector Alpharetta, GA 30022 (near Northpoint Mall)

BKGalleria.com

ALPHARETTA


6 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

COMMUNITY

Home Renovation Specialists Serving North Metro Atlanta For 30 Years

Quality without compromise Additions | Kitchens | Bathrooms | Basements Siding and Paint | Whole House Renovations Free Quotes! Office: 770.814.0064 | Cell: 678.642.8314 T:\ADS_2025\Appen Media Group\Filler Ads\ Shop, Eat, Read Local

SHOP LOCAL EAT LOCAL READ LOCAL

WELLSTAR HEALTH SYSTEM/PROVIDED

Parents Anna and Mike of Alpharetta hold their son, Lucas, after his birth on Jan. 1, becoming the first baby born in 2026 at Roswell’s Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center.

Wellstar North Fulton greets first 2026 baby ROSWELL, Ga. — The Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center welcomed its first baby of the new year, Lucas, before the sun rose on Jan. 1.

Alpharetta parents Anna and Mike celebrated the birth of their son at 6:09 a.m. weighing 6 pounds, 13 ounces. — Hannah Yahne


AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 7

Join today for $16/month

Support Local News Join Appen Press Club CHARTER MEMBER

DC Aiken Big Sky Franchise Team David & Michelle Bertany Amour & Duane Carthy

Adam Corder Patrick Cressaty Robert Flint Robin Fricton

Zachary Hahn Allison January Michael Kenig Roderick Liptrot

Bob Meyers Claude Nardy Cliff Oxford Bruce Paulk

Ross & Lori Ramsey Sarah Reiter Mark Rundle Matthew Sayle

Lynn Thomas Kim Truett Roger Wise Jr. Colt Whittall

Vickie McElroy Patricia Miller Anne Peer Jennifer Phillippi Robert Popp

Dave Rhinehart Sergey Savin Heather Sawyer Kate Seng Karen Shih

Bob Stevens Kimberly Verska Carol Williams

Ken Leffingwell Carol Lehan Melissa Libby Bonnie Lind Francia Lindon Karen Lippert Harlan Little Ross Long Kyser Lough Rita Loventhal Jerry Lucas Brenda Lundy Harry Lutz Rita Loventhal Karen Magill Freda Manning-Rumph Kyile Marshall Julie Martin Carla Masecar Valerie Matthews William Maxwell Rachel McCord Austin McCully Diane McDonald Karen McEnerny Jack McGinnis Lynn McIntyre Mike McLoughlin Margaret McManus Jennifer Mendoza Al Merrill Chris Miller Christine Miller Patricia Miller Joe Modica Fred Moeller Sarah Moen Catherine Moore Ralph Moore Carol Morgan Kathy Morgan Stu Moring Leslie Mullis Donna Murphy Jack Murphy Aileen Nakamura Caroline Naughton Richard Nichols Cindy Nolan North Fulton Master Gardners, Inc. Tricia Novarro

Bob O’Brien Diana O’Sullivan Anne Pappas Lynn Pennington Jonathan Peters Kurt & Leslie Phillips Mary & Jan Phillips James Potts Debra Powell Seth Price Joyce Provissiero Chuck Pugh Robert Radloff Raj Rajagopalan Ashwin Ramaswami Cheryl Rand Manu Rao Lori Rausch Jean Rearick Joseph Reed Righteous PR Angie Rigney Sean Riley Neil Robertson Kimberly Robinson Matt Rohs Kim Romaner Courtney Rozear Janet Sandberg Kelly Sarmiento Derek Scheidt Stephanie Schniederjan The Schoenblum Family Robert Scholz Stephanie Schuette Susan Searles Frances Segars Tracy Shealy Tina Shelton Lisa Shippel Steve Short Tom Simon Cindy Simpson Robert Singleton Faye Sklar Mitchel Skyer Judith Slaughter Andy Smith Lee Smith Tia Solh Morris Soriano

Gena Spears Donald Spencer Melissa Spencer Jan Stephens Wesley Stewart Cathryn Stovall Celeste Strohl Diana Sullivan Andy Sumlin Carol Tall Mike Tasos Candice Teichert The Small Business Advisor Suzanne & Bob Thomas William Tietjen Lisa Tilt Michael Townes Trunnion LLC Matthew Tyser Edward Votta Linda Wabler Ollie Wagner Lewis Walker Elizabeth Waller Valerie Walters-Gold Ann Marie Warning Terry Warnke Jonathan Washburn Michael Watson Michael Weiss Herbert Wells Beverly Whisenant Sally White Thom White Umpika White Mae Whiteside Ashley Whitt Jennifer Wieland Christine Williams Jamie Wimberly Jonathan Winkie Nancy & Dave Wistrand Theresa Woolridge Laura Wysong Jonathan Young

MEMBER+ Barbara Anderson Kerry Arias Scott Baynton Joseph Bell Rita Brown

Mark Casas David Conti Theodore Davis III Maureen Drumm Charlcie Forehand

Aileen Horton Deborah Jackson Ali Mahbod Richard Matherly Evan McElroy

MEMBER Carl Abernathy Bruce Ackley Salpi Adrouny Alpharetta Lions Club Omar Altalib Dave Altman Ron Altman Joel Alvis American Legion Post 201 Alice & Dr. Richard Appen Stewart Applbaum Gaye Armstrong Mary Asbury Carolyn Axt Bangkok Boxing LLC Sandra Balmer Shannon Banna Beth Barnes Michael Baron Janet Bass Caitlin Bates Jannet Bauer Barbara Bauschka Miriam Beattie Kathy Beck Laura Bentley William Bentley Leslie Berry Tom Billings Caroline Blackmon Tochie Blan Ron Boddicker Jodi Bogen Sherri Bolles-Rogers Helen Borland Debra Bowen Joe Bowen Kenneth Bowman Ryan Brainard Mark Brandus Mel Brannen Amy Bratten Carol Bright Linda Brill Dorothy Brouhard Erendira Brumley Bernhard Burgener Alvin Burrell Mike & Theresa Buscher Mary Busman Clea Calloway

Kirk Canaday James Carr Bridgette Carter William Carter William Cartwright Linda & Frank Catroppa Pat Check Virginia Christman Ann Coaloa Kim Coggins Evelyn Collazo Michael Mackenzie Communications Joan Compton Kathleen Cook Carol Cookerly Terri Coons Sarah Cox Rhonda Cude Connie Cunningham Christopher Cupit Bart Dean Duane DeBruler Marilyn DeCusati Rebecca Donlan James Dorsey Tom Driscoll Michael Dudgeon Jeanette Dummer DutchCrafters Amish Furniture Thomas Edmonds William Edmundson Denise Eicher Mim Eisenberg Danny Elkins Su Ellis Grady Evans Steve Fabian Carol Fain Martha Fasse Nell & Doug Fernandez Renai Fitzpatrick Daniel Fleck Lee Fleck Laura Floyd Andrew Flynn Cathy Flynn Paul Folger Adrienne Fontaine Mary Ford Nanci Foster

Amy Frederick Kelly Frommer Carol Fry Tim Fulton Andrew Garner Tracey Ganesh Steve Garrett Daniel Gay Matthew Geller John Gibbs John Gilberto Leslie Gilliam Bailey & Ryan Gladysz Michelle Glotzbach Harvey Goldberg Christopher Goodrich Jim Gray Ralph Griffin Elaine Gwynn Carolyn Hall Marilee Hamilton Susan Hanna Marion Hannah Roxanne Hazen Joe Hirsch Penn Hodge Dianne & Steffan Holmquist Joan Hostetter Julie Hostetter Krista Howland Austin Hughes Jacqueline Hursh Paul Huth Sue Jacques Lynn Johnson Tyler Jones Zach Jones Arthur Kebanli Laura Keck Mark Kelly Nancy Kennell Randall Kent Carol Kerr Allison Kloster Dyna Kohler Brett Koutnik Larry Krueger Jess & Chris Kysar Malinda Lackey Brandon Leach Dennis Lee

To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.

Scan QR code to join the Appen Press Club


Just opened? Appen Media publishes New Business Spotlights to highlight local businesses as they get started. Submit yours for free at appenmedia.com/newbusiness. 8 | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026

Legislature keeps focus on big tech’s influence on children By TY TAGAMI Capitol Beat ATLANTA — Big tech has reached so far into the lives of children that some Georgia lawmakers want to push back. After legal missteps to restrain the industry, the State Senate got new recommendations this month from a study committee that heard grim stories about the impact of social media and other platforms. Among those who testified were parents of children who died by suicide after extensive use of social media and experts who spoke of an escalating mental health crisis after the merger of two technologies. “Smartphones and social media, they take the person who is vulnerable, who is struggling mentally, and further isolate and distance them from real human relationships,” Dr. Stan Sonu, a medical director at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, told senators at a hearing at the state Capitol in November. He described a patient who had become withdrawn over the past year, burying his head in TikTok videos. He said the boy had high scores for anxiety, depression and thoughts of self-harm despite a calm demeanor. Sonu said he initially dismissed the changed behavior, ascribing it to teen angst. Then, the 12-year-old disclosed what had been bothering him: other boys had made him watch sex videos in the school cafeteria, bullying him afterward because of his discomfort. Sonu said the boy had been using social media to self-medicate. “Social media is, and I don’t say

APPEN MEDIA FILE PHOTO

this lightly, it is legalized digital heroin,” Sonu told the senators. “By leveraging neuroscience to grab a hold of our attention, it promotes this powerful illusion that your real-life problems can be pushed aside.” The committee is picking up the pieces after the tech industry torpe-

doed the General Assembly’s last attempt to rein in social media. The Protecting Georgia’s Children on Social Media Act sailed into law with broad bipartisan support last year, but an advocacy group for tech companies sued. A federal judge for the Northern

ASK APPEN

District of Georgia ruled in June that the plaintiff was likely to prevail on claims that the law violated the First Amendment’s speech protections. She issued a preliminary injunction against enforcement. The law required social media companies to make “commercially reasonable efforts” to verify users’ age, and it mandated parent consent for those under 16. It also banned advertising to children. It had been a priority for Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, a Republican who is now running for governor. Jones authorized the bipartisan committee — co-led by a Democrat and a Republican — that issued new legislative recommendations in late December. The committee proposed a prohibition on addictive platform design, stricter data privacy and making artificial intelligence platforms subject to product liability laws. The committee also backed measures to empower parents, such as a proposal that social media companies secure parent consent before letting minors access their platforms. But that would require age verification by everyone, like the mandate that prompted the federal judge to sideline last year’s law on the grounds that it was a “severe burden” on adults to require them to prove their age. The committee also recommended expanding on a measure that will go into effect next fall: a prohibition on student use of personal digital devices in public elementary and middle schools. The committee recommended extending the ban to high schools.

What do you want to know about the community? Submit questions at appenmedia.com/ask or scan QR code.


AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 9

VISIT THE APPEN MEDIA STORE Support local journalism by visiting appenmediastore.com – every purchase directly funds the vital work of the Appen Media newsroom.

SHOP AT APPENMEDIASTORE.COM AND SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM


10 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

Sponsored Section 10 | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026

PROVIDED

The Robotic Alliance: Three specialists, one purpose Brought to you by – Wellstar Urologist Dr. Scott Miller At Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, something unique is happening in the world of minimally invasive surgery. Nestled right here in Roswell, a multidisciplinary team of robotic surgeons has quietly become one of the most experienced collaborative groups in Metro Atlanta—and across the state of Georgia. The three surgeons—Dr. Scott Miller (robotic urologic surgery), Dr. Nathan Mordel (robotic gynecologic surgery) and Dr. Jay Singh (robotic colorectal surgery)—have collectively performed close to 9,000 robotic procedures over their careers. While that number is impressive, what it represents matters even more: thousands of patients who have benefited from smaller incisions, faster recoveries and precision that simply wasn’t possible a generation ago. Although each of the specialties typically addresses distinct conditions, the team often cares for patients whose needs overlap two or even all three areas. These are the moments when a truly coordinated approach matters most. Rather than sending patients to multiple locations or staging separate procedures, the surgeons’ combined expertise allows them to tackle complex, concurrent issues together—efficiently, safely and in one place.

MILLER

MORDEL

SINGH

Severe (frozen pelvis) endometriosis is a perfect example of the need for a cooperative surgical approach. This condition affects millions of reproductive age women, invading the genital organs, as well as bladder, ureters, colon and rectum, thus deteriorating their quality of life. Concurrent robotic intervention by urological, colorectal and gynecological surgeons simultaneously treats all three organ systems—and on a mostly outpatient basis. This collaborative model has become a defining strength of robotic surgery at Wellstar North Fulton. When specialists operate side-by-side, the conversation doesn’t just happen in the clinic—it continues in the operating room, where careful planning and shared

experience translate into smoother procedures and better outcomes. Patients may not witness the teamwork directly, but they absolutely feel its benefits during their recovery. Equally important, Wellstar has invested years in refining our techniques with next-generation robotic systems, which offer enhanced visualization, improved dexterity and precise tissue handling. Whether treating prostate conditions, complex colorectal disease or gynecologic disorders, robotics allows us to deliver the best aspects of minimally invasive surgery while maintaining a high level of surgical control. Roswell may not be the first place people imagine when they think of cutting-edge surgical innovation, but the reality is that our community has become a hub for it. With a concentrated depth of experience rarely found in a single hospital, Wellstar North Fulton is leading the way in advanced robotic procedures across Georgia. For us, the mission is simple: three specialties, one purpose—to give every patient access to the highest level of surgical care, close to home. Visit wellstar.org/northfulton to learn more about care at Wellstar North Fulton. Call (470) 956-4230 to schedule with Dr. Miller, (470) 956-4590 to schedule with Dr. Mordel and (470) 267-1930 to schedule with Dr. Singh.


HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 11

World-class surgeons mean more expertise for you. At Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, you’ll find advanced surgical treatment, including minimally invasive, laparoscopic and robotic surgery—all right here in your community. Our surgical team is ready to care for all your general surgery needs, including appendicitis, hernias, intestinal issues, traumatic injuries and gallbladder concerns. Robotic and minimally invasive techniques allow physicians to do complex surgeries with smaller incisions, less pain and less risk of infection. That means less recovery time and a shorter hospital stay for patients, so you can get back to doing what you love. wellstar.org/northfulton Wellstar North Fulton Surgical Services GYNECOLOGICAL SURGERY 2500 Hospital Blvd. | (470) 956-4590

GENERAL SURGERY 2500 Hospital Blvd. | (470) 956-4560

UROLOGY 2500 Hospital Blvd. | (470) 956-4230

COLON & RECTAL SURGERY 2500 Hospital Blvd. | (470) 267-1930


12 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

PROVIDED

From Symptom to Surgery The Value of Comprehensive Heart Care Teams

Brought to you by – Emory Heart & Vascular The signs of heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States, are not always straightforward and symptoms can vary. To have a comprehensive care team engaged from first symptoms to post-op appointment can greatly enhance your cardiac care and give you a better chance of surviving and thriving after a cardiac event. How comprehensive heart care works When every second counts, having a team that works as one can make all the difference. • A primary care physician who listens carefully to all symptoms — even those that seem unrelated — and quickly connects patients with a heart specialist when needed. • Cardiologists who act fast to order advanced diagnostics like stress tests, imaging and lab work to pinpoint the problem. • Surgeons and interventional specialists on standby for urgent cases, ensuring no time is lost when surgery or a procedure is required.

• Advanced practice providers, dietitians and rehab teams who guide recovery and help patients adopt heart-healthy habits post-surgery. • Seamless communication across every step, so patients never feel like they’re navigating care alone. A real-life example: seamless care in action Matthew Topel, MD, a cardiologist at Emory Healthcare, had a recent patient encounter that illustrates the benefits of comprehensive care at Emory. A patient went to their Emory primary care physician for symptoms they thought were gastric reflux, which got worse with exercise. Their doctor was concerned these symptoms could indicate heart disease and referred the patient to Dr. Topel. After evaluating their health history and worsening symptoms, Dr. Topel ordered a treadmill stress test. The results prompted a heart catheterization at Emory Decatur Hospital, which confirmed severe blockages in multiple heart arteries. The patient was then transferred to Emory University Hospital, where they underwent emergency quadruple bypass surgery. In under a month, Emory’s coordi-

nated care team guided the patient from a primary care visit to life-saving openheart surgery. “The timeliness from first symptom to surgery really highlights the benefits of having an integrated care team providing care each step of the way in a highly collaborative environment,” Dr. Topel says. “We spend a lot of time communicating with our primary care physicians. Our team recognized the need and got our patient on the path to diagnosis and treatment immediately.” Collaboration that improves outcomes A comprehensive care team ensures patients receive coordinated, personalized care at every stage. Collaboration among primary care physicians, cardiologists and surgeons reduces delays and improves patient outcomes. Patients also benefit from having a single, integrated team guiding them through complex decisions and treatments. “Heart health doesn’t always wait,” says Dr. Topel. “Integrated care is a benefit of being in a large, integrated health system like Emory Healthcare with experts in so many fields and high-volume surgical centers.” He also asks that people take their

symptoms seriously. “If someone has symptoms of heart disease and typical risk factors for heart disease like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, he or she should be evaluated by a cardiologist.” Heart care is most effective when it spans the entire continuum — from initial symptoms and diagnosis in the primary care setting, through advanced diagnostics and interventions, to surgical management and post-operative followup. “Every step involves intensive communication,” says Dr. Topel. “The goal is to make the whole process as seamless as possible.” Ready to transform your heart treatment? If you are concerned about your heart health, turn to doctors at the top of their field. Emory Heart & Vascular brings together more than 150 physicians and 18 specialized programs in cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery and vascular surgery. Next-day new patient cardiology appointments are available at one of our 24 locations. Visit emoryhealthcare.org/transform to learn more and schedule an appointment.


HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 13

Family history of heart disease? Emory Heart & Vascular can help rewrite it. MORE TREATMENT OPTIONS

Our expert heart & vascular team pioneers The difference? Emory Women’s Center at Johns the most innovative techniques and Creek uses research and innovation in health treatments. Giving you more options and to provide exceptional care, close to home. better outcomes than anywhere else. To From routine gynecology and menopause make more “tickle monster!” moments like management, to high-risk pregnancies and this possible. specialty care, our team is here for your journey no matter where it takes you. Visit emoryhealthcare.org/history to schedule an appointment. Visit emoryhealthcare.org/women to schedule an appointment.


14 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

Thank You for Voting for Us 11 Years in a Row! 2015, 2019, 2023 - 2025

2016 - 2018, 2020 - 2022, 2025 WINNER

Best Of North Atlanta

Best Of North Atlanta

Presented By

Presented By

Dr. Destinee Hood

9 out of 10 dentists disagree…. with insurance Brought to you by - Dr. Destinee Hood at Roswell Dental Care Most people expect dental insurance to work like medical insurance: pay monthly premiums and be protected from large, unexpected bills. In reality, dental insurance is built very differently. It isn’t a catastrophe safety net—it’s essentially a prepaid discount plan with a small, set annual benefit. That’s why many people are surprised when significant treatment isn’t “covered.” A cap on benefits—not on expenses Most dental plans limit what they’ll pay each year, typically between $1,000 and $2,000. Once you reach that number, the plan stops paying regardless of what care you still need. Medical insurance usually flips that model: after you meet your outof-pocket maximum, coverage expands. With dental insurance, the ceiling is on the insurer’s payout, not on your costs.

Family-owned and providing excellent services for over 40 years. Our services include: • Spa-Like Relaxing Atmosphere • Free Nitrous Oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation • Cone Beam 3D Radiography Digital Scanner – No More Gooey Impressions • Botox and Dermal Filler Master Injector • Platinum Invisalign Provider

Cost-sharing that erodes coverage Many policies haven’t changed their reimbursement fee structure since the 1960’s and still follow an old 100/80/50 schedule—preventive care at 100%, basic care at 80%, and major care at 50%—only until the annual maximum is hit. Deductibles, waiting periods, frequency limits, “missing tooth” clauses, and downgrades (for example, paying at the rate of a silver filling instead of a tooth-colored composite) further reduce the contribution. A quick example If you need a root canal and crown totaling $3,000, 50% coverage suggests $1,500 from insurance. In practice, after deductibles, downgrades, and earlier hygiene visits count toward your annual max, the plan often hits its $1,000–$2,000 cap quickly, leaving the rest to you. Your oral health needs don’t pause at the cap—only the plan’s payments do. So, is it really “insurance”? True insurance pools risk for rare, highcost events. Dental conditions are common and largely preventable, so dental plans are designed to emphasize maintenance— cleanings, exams, and X-rays—rather than absorb the full cost of complex care. Think of dental insurance as a coupon with rules, not a blank check for treatment.

Same day appointments available!

770.998.6736 • roswelldentalcare.com 1570 Old Alabama Rd • Ste 102 • Roswell, GA 30076

Where dental insurance helps Most plans reward prevention. Two “healthy-mouth” cleanings, exams, and routine X-rays are often covered at or near 100%. Using these benefits consistently helps catch issues early, when they’re simpler and less expensive to treat.

PROVIDED

A simpler, more predictable choice: our in-house Wellness Plan If you prefer transparency over fine print, our Wellness Plan replaces uncertainty with clear value: • Professional cleanings included • All X-rays included • Doctor exams included • Plus 15% off any needed restorative treatment Because it’s our plan, not a third-party policy, your care isn’t dictated by exclusions or downgrades. There are no rejected claims, no enrollment windows, no waiting periods, no racing the calendar, and no shrinking annual maximum. You and your dentist decide what’s best; the Wellness Plan makes it more affordable. Tips to maximize value either way • Know your numbers: annual maximum, deductible, waiting periods, frequency limits, and coverage percentages. • Time your care: for larger cases, phasing across benefit years can stretch limited dollars. • Use tax-advantaged funds: Use HSAs/ FSAs to lower your net cost. • Choose quality, not just “in-network”: materials, precision, and durability matter. Bottom line: dental “insurance” is a small yearly benefit with limits. Our Wellness Plan makes preventive care simple and takes 15% off restorative treatment so your decisions are guided by health—not caps and clauses. At Roswell Dental Care, we offer the best of both worlds: we’re fee-for-service and will file out-of-network claims to help you maximize any insurance benefits if you choose that instead of the Wellness Plan. Dr. Hood and her team personalize care, ensure you feel confident before treatment begins, and for added comfort we offer FREE nitrous oxide. Call 770-998-6736 or visit www.roswelldentalcare.com to start your path to comfortable, confident oral health.


HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 15

Sedation dentistry: navigating anxiety for the best dentist experience Brought to you by – Dr. Bradley Hepler, Atlanta Center for Dental Health

Many people get nervous going to the dentist. So many people have had bad experiences in the past or just don’t like it. Fear of the dentist is common and affects people of all ages. Whether it’s the sound of the drill or fear of potential pain, dental anxiety can prevent people from seeking the oral care that they need. Sedation Dentistry allows patients to relax while undergoing dental procedures. There is an alternative. You can have comfortable, anxiety-free visits to the dentist with Sedation Dentistry. Dental offices like the Atlanta Center for Dental Health offer comfort amenities including bottled water, snacks, courtesy Wi-Fi, a warm inviting environment, relaxing music, noise-cancelling headphones, Netflix movies, lavender eye pillows and warm neck pillows, cozy blankets, and warm face towels to make your visit as comfortable as possible. In addition to all those amazing benefits, you can also choose from a range of sedation options. Sedation Dentistry uses medications to help patients relax during their dental procedures. The goal is to create a calm, anxiety-free environment, making it easier for individuals to receive necessary dental care. This benefits not only

have all your work completed in one visit, be easily awakened, and not remember the experience of your visit. With Oral Sedation, you simply swallow some pills prescribed for you, lay back and fall asleep, and wake up at the end with your procedures complete and your new smile. All dental procedures can be completed with Sedation Dentistry from routine preventive care to a complete Smile Makeover. “Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life." -Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic A healthy mouth is part of a healthy body. Our wish for you is that you look and feel your best!

PROVIDED

anxious patients, but also patients with extensive needs that may require a longer visit, patients with a low pain threshold, or time efficiency allowing more to be done in a single visit. Sedation Dentistry focuses on keeping the patient comfortable and relaxed while receiving much needed dental care. Some patients choose to have their mouth numb so they don’t feel anything and then just

relax with their eyes closed while listening to music. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, inhalation sedation is a popular option that relaxes you while your procedures are completed. At the end of your visit, you simply breathe pure oxygen and then can drive yourself home. Many people choose Oral Sedation that allows you to sleep through the dental visit,

Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide the most modern advances in complete dentistry. Experience immediate results with procedures to greatly enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complimentary consultation to discover which of these options is best for you, please call us at 770-992-2236. Dr. Hepler is highly trained to provide you with the latest and best techniques to allow you to achieve your cosmetic and restorative goals.

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST OF NORTH ATLANTA 2022 2022

2023

2025

2024

2023

2024

2025

Best Dentist Dr. Bradley Hepler

Best Dentistry

TRUSTED, COMFORTABLE DENTAL CARE • General and Cosmetic Dentistry • Crowns and Implants • Root Canals and Tooth-Colored Fillings • Invisalign

• Whitening • Sedation Dentistry • Smile Enhancements with Botox and Dermal Fillers

Most Insurance Plans Accepted Financing Options Available

11190 Haynes Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (770) 992-2236 • atlantacenterfordentalhealth.com


HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

16 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

Can shingles shots lower the risk of Alzheimer’s? Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology Vein Care • Cosmetic Services

Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist

Insist on the BEST 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 23 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.

Dr. Brent Taylor

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. WINNER

Kathryn Filipek, PA-C

WINNER

WINNER

WINNER

WINNER

2025 WINNER Best Of WINNER Best Of WINNERBest Of WINNERBest Of Of 2021 Best North 2018 North 2020 North 2023 North Atlanta Best Of Atlanta Best OfNorth Best Of Atlanta Best OfAtlanta North North North North Atlanta AtlantaAtlanta Atlanta Atlanta Presented By 2017

2019

2022

2024

Presented By

Presented By

Presented By

Presented By

Presented By

Presented By

Presented By

Presented By

Accepting new patients. We accept Medicare. Schedule your appointment with Premier Dermatology today. 3180 North Point Parkway, Suite 420 • Alpharetta, GA 30005 PremierDermatologyAtlanta.com • 678-345-1899

Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology As researchers continue to search for the cause of Alzheimer’s disease, herpes viruses remain prime suspects. The herpes family of viruses includes herpes simplex 1 (HSV - the cause of cold sores) and varicella zoster virus (VZV – the cause of both chicken pox and shingles). Both HSV and VZV cause inflammation and, in some cases, cell death. They both have been known to cause brain infections (encephalitis) and thus it stands to reason that these viruses might increase one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Moreover, herpes viruses are with us for life. A lifelong infection that can cause inflammation in the brain… seems like an excellent candidate for causing at least some cases of dementia. Researchers speculated that herpes viruses might be a cause of the famous “amyloid” protein found to build up in Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, proving that these viruses cause dementia has been challenging. Every few years, conflicting studies come out that strengthen then weaken the evidence of an association between HSV, VZV and dementia. Most studies have been retrospective cohort studies meaning the study looks back at a group of patients and sees whether the group that developed dementia was also more likely to have been diagnosed with herpes or shingles. Cohort studies are not as effective at proving associations as randomized controlled trials, but large controlled trials are expensive and challenging to perform. No definitive randomized trial to answer the question has been carried out. However, the next best thing to a randomized controlled trial happened in Wales, where results of a vaccination policy provided surprising insights. On September 1st, 2013, the country of Wales began a vaccination program that made people aged 79 years old eligible to receive the shingles vaccine. Those already 80 years old were ineligible. Every year, those who turned 79 became eligible as well. Researchers assumed that there should be very little difference between those who were barely still 79 and received the vaccine and those who were 80 and barely missed the cut-off. What they found was that those who received the shingles vaccine were about 20% less likely

to develop dementia than were the unvaccinated. Just as exciting, those who were already diagnosed with mild dementia or “mild cognitive impairment” were less likely to suffer disease progression and die from dementia (as recorded on death certificates) than were the unvaccinated. Interestingly, even some past studies that seemed to not find a link between herpes viruses and dementia identified subgroups that suggest an association. For example, one study found that a diagnosis of shingles itself wasn’t a risk factor for dementia, but a diagnosis of shingles involving the eye or the tissue around the eye (herpes ophthalmicus) was associated with an approximately 6 fold increase in dementia incidence. This makes sense because many times the shingles virus re-emerges in a nerve that goes to the arm, the leg, the chest, the belly or the back. Presumably, in these cases, the virus is primarily living in nerves near the spine and not in the brain. In contrast, shingles in and around the eye indicates infection of a cranial nerve – a nerve with a direct link to the brain. The shingles virus is the only human virus conclusively known to replicate in cerebral arteries and to be able to cause diseases of blood vessels that supply the brain. Researchers speculated that herpes virus in a cranial nerve might cause diseased blood vessels leading to dementia. Whether herpes viruses infect brain cells and contribute to Alheimer’s disease protein “amyloid” or whether the viruses indirectly cause dementia by damaging blood vessels, the takeaway seems to be that herpes viruses do play a role in at least some cases of dementia given that vaccination is sometimes preventative. If you are interested in lowering your risk of shingles, your internist or family physician is the most likely doctor to offer a shingles vaccine. Your dermatologist will often assist with managing “cold sores” (herpes simplex), shingles outbreaks and some of their complications, while an emergency visit to the ER or an ophthalmologist is needed if you suspect you have shingles in or around the eye. Even those who have received a vaccine can sometimes suffer an attack of shingles, and early treatment with oral antiviral pills can greatly improve one’s chances of a good outcome.


OPINION

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 17

Giant footprints in Georgia’s history Georgia is famous for many wonders, such as cotton, peanuts, peaches, Southern hospitality, football teams, civil rights, the world’s largest and busiest airport, carpets, BOB MEYERS Coca-Cola, UPS, Columnist Delta Air Lines, Home Depot, the largest college campus in the world (Berry College) – the list goes on. But what about wonders less known and frequently unseen? Georgia has had them as well for eons. One of the best known is the legendary Bigfoot, also known by its Indian name Sasquatch. Reportedly seen in Georgia and other states throughout the United States, Bigfoot is so well known that the ape-like creature is part of Georgia’s folklore. Bigfoot represents mystery, the unexplained and the unexplored wilderness that will likely entice Georgians for centuries to come. Shyness, intelligence and a nocturnal nature make a Bigfoot elusive and rarely seen. Bigfoot is not a single creature. Several Bigfoot may gather together at any time. Sasquatch is described as a tall, hairy creature who walks on two legs and leaves huge footprints. Several North American Indian tribes especially on the West Coast have legends of human-like hairy forest creatures sometimes seen as spiritual guardians. The Hoopa Valley Tribe in northern California, for example, views a Bigfoot as the guardian of mountains who chooses to live away from people. Georgia has one of four museums in the United States devoted to Bigfoot. Expedition Bigfoot! The Sasquatch Museum in Blue Ridge says on its website, “We believe in the existence of Bigfoot/ Sasquatch either from personal experience and encounters or from witness testimony and evidence. Our museum provides a lot of that evidence and leaves the question of Bigfoot's existence up to you.” David Bakara and his wife Malinda opened the museum in 2016 which David says has some 70,000 visitors annually. About half of them are believers and half are tourists looking for something interesting to do. The Bakaras encourage people to tell of their sightings of a Bigfoot at the Bakara’s website, expeditionbigfootblueridge@gmail.com. When asked why so many people are skeptical about Bigfoot, David explains that many people who have seen a Bigfoot are afraid to talk about it because of the reaction of others.

ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA, INC.

Still from a famous 1967 film shot by Roger Patterson in Northern California thought by many to show a Bigfoot. Like all photos of Bigfoot, the image is not clear due to the nocturnal nature of the ape-like creature and its reluctance to be near people. RICK JACOB/PROVIDED

In 2007, hunter Rick Jacob captured several Bigfoot images with a camera mounted on a tree in a Pennsylvania forest. He also took photos of bear cubs, which helped viewers claim that the tall creature was not a bear. “They learn not to talk about it,” says David. There have been more than 145 reported credible and checked Bigfoot sightings in Georgia according to Matt Moneymaker, president of the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO). “We believe that for every sighting that gets reported, there are at least ten that are not reported,” Matt says. In Georgia, most sightings have been in mountainous areas, around Macon and most recently near the town of Folkston on the Florida border. BFRO seeks to “derive conclusive documentation of the species’ existence…through collection of empirical data and physical evidence…. These large apes are spotted mostly in forested regions with abundant protein sources. “ One of the biggest points of confusion that causes skepticism is references to Bigfoot as a singular creature. “Bigfoot is a population of animals

and not a singular folklore creature. People continue to see them today and sometimes more than one at a time,” Matt says. The Bigfoot species is most likely descended from Gigantopithecus, the largest apes ever known, estimated to be more than 10 feet tall based on fossils. They existed some 2 million years ago before becoming extinct about 100,000 years ago. Many photos have been put forward claiming to be a Bigfoot or Bigfoot group. Since Bigfoot is nocturnal, all of the photos are blurry, a fact that skeptics seize upon. Many of the photos, which can be found with a Google search, appear to be bears or individuals in gorilla suits. However, a few have been characterized as legitimate images of ape-like creatures. The most famous photos are stills from a film taken by Roger Patterson in 1967 and photos by hunter Rick Jacob in 2007.

Dozens of serious books have been written about the Bigfoot. Just check out Amazon. Bigfoot is known by other names in other countries: Yowie in Australia, Yeti in the Himalayas and Alma in Russia. Many other mysterious creatures have been studied. One of the better known is the Altamaha-ha or Altie, which supposedly inhabits Georgia’s Altamaha River and nearby marshes. Stories of Altie originated with the Muscogee (Creek) tribe prior to the arrival of European settlers. Scottish settlers brought stories of the Loch Ness Monster to Georgia. Other cryptids (animal whose existence is disputed) are the Mantis Man, Georgia Booger, Beast of Bladenboro, Chupacabra, Florida Skunk Ape, Thunderbird and others. Subjects for future columns? We shall see. Bob is a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission and Director Emeritus of the Milton Historical Society. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.


18 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

OPINION

GARDEN BUZZ

What to do with your amaryllis bulb after the holidays ED O’CONNOR

Nothing says the holidays like fresh flowers and plants in your home! Especially popular are amaryllis bulbs, which are very easy to grow and are readily available at most stores throughout the holiday season. Did you know that these bulbs can be forced to bloom in your home for years to come? This beautiful plant, native to the cape of South Africa, can even be planted in your garden for years of outdoor enjoyment. Eight years ago, I started planting the bulbs in my yard because I was curious to see if I could get them to re-bloom. After my first success, I just kept the cycle going. While the bulbs have tended to get larger, it’s really the same three bulbs that I’ve had rebloom over the years. Here’s how to bring the beautiful blooms back year after year. After the amaryllis blooms, it’s okay to cut the faded flowers, but do not cut the strapping green foliage. As with most bulb plants, the green foliage provides nutrition to the bulb to help the plant flower in the future. To reuse your bulb, I usually like to refer to some key dates on the calendar: April Fools’ Day, Halloween and Christmas. April: What does April Fools’ Day have to do with reusing your amaryllis bulb? Well, it happens to be around April 1 when the bulb can be safely planted outside in North Georgia without the fear of frost affecting the foliage. On or around April 1, I recommend that the bulb be planted in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, leaving the strapping foliage on the bulb. Fertilize the bulb with a liquid fertilizer until mid-August. From here, you should see the bulb grow significant foliage throughout the summer. It’s okay to leave the amaryllis in your garden permanently, but it will most likely not bloom until the following spring/summer. Halloween: The next key date is Halloween. Around the end of October, remove the bulb from the ground, leaving the strapping green foliage. Place the bulb in a paper bag and store in a dark, dry, cool (50°F) area, such as a garage. To force-bloom the bulb, it’s important to allow the bulb to rest and dry for at least six to eight weeks. Christmas: In mid/late December, plant the amaryllis bulb in a pot approximately 1 to 2 inches wider than the diameter of the bulb. The container can be any number of different materials, ceramic, plastic or glass. Trim Guest Columnist

PHOTOS BY ED O’CONNOR/PROVIDED

Clockwise from left, amaryllis brings beauty to cold winter days; plant the bulb in a sunny spot with well-draining soil in April; remove the bulbs from the garden and allow them to dry out in late October.

About the author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Ed O’Connor, a 2024 Master Gardener and member of the North Fulton Master Gardeners. Ed is a graduate of the University of Tennessee with a degree in business administration. He’s an avid gardener, hiker, camper, backpacker and all things outdoors. the dried foliage and roots. The bulb can be placed in either potting mix or glass ball/marbles medium. The upper half of the bulb should remain above

the soil surface. Water thoroughly and place in a warm sunny location. The ideal temperature should be between 70 and 75 degrees. When the plant begins to bloom, move it to a slightly cooler location that does not receive direct sun. This will prolong the life of the flowers. After blooms have faded, keep the bulb moist until April Fools’ Day when it will be time to place the bulb outside and start the process all over. Good plant care will ensure that you enjoy beautiful blooms year after year from your amaryllis! 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 about NFMG at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https://appenmedia.com/opinion/columnists/ garden_buzz. Save the date for NFMG’s 2026 signature event: Garden Faire on April 11, 2026. Learn more at nfmg.net.


r 1/8/26 Connect-It

Puzzles

PuzzleJunction.com

Connect-It

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

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

Johns Creek Herald .......................................January 8, 2026| 19

1

VPs (VICE PRESIDENTS) 1. Eisenhower’s VP. Wine country. Pie type. 2. Redhead’s dye. Washington’s VP. Sweater eater. 3. Clinton’s VP. Health check-up. Lure. 4. Sop up. Jefferson’s VP. Arizona city. 5. Pesky insect. “Peter Pan” Pouch. FDR’s VP. 6. Reagan’s VP. Outdoor fete. Type of sandwich. 7. Yellow-breasted songbird. Harrison’s VP. Send packing. PuzzleJunction.com

2 3 4 5 6

1/8/26 Sudoku7

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 VP’s 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 1. Eisenhower’s VP. Wine country. Pie type. solve the Sudoku column forTothe 3 answers on the puzzle, line. But each here’srow, the catch! Theand clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually contain theWashington’s numbers to line. 9. VP. for must the second or third answer in 1that Got it? Good luck! 2.bebox Redhead’s dye. Sweater eater. 3. Clinton’s VP. Health check-up. Lure.

7 2

9

4. Sop up. Jefferson’s VP. Arizone city. 5. Pesky insect. “Peter Pan” pooch. FDR’s VP.

1 4

6

6. Reagan’s VP. Outdoor fete. Type of sandwich.

5 3 1 7 1 5 3 4 9 4 3 2 5

6

7. Yellow-breasted songbird. Harrison’s VP. Send packing.

3 7 9 5 2

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

How to Solve: To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

7 3 8 5 4 1 6 9 2

2 9 6 8 3 7 1 5 4

5 1 4 2 9 6 8 7 3

3 4 1 9 7 5 2 8 6

9 7 2 6 8 3 5 4 1

6 8 5 4 1 2 9 3 7

Across 1 Goat hair garments 5 Foolhardy 9 Cot 12 Corker 13 Cowboy exhibition 14 Bundle 15 Jack of Rio Lobo 16 Healing plants 17 Pac 10 team 18 Weather consideration for travel 20 Put away for a rainy day 22 Golfer Ernie 23 Shade tree 24 Poet Teasdale 26 Something to avoid while on the road 32 1004, Roman 33 Mitch Miller’s instrument 34 Wine valley 35 Tableland 36 Beef on the hoof 37 Garbage barge 38 Toiletry item 39 Minus 40 Secreted 41 Phone destinations 43 Pigeon’s home 44 Wrecker’s job 45 Sidekick 46 Relaxes on a trip 50 Travel accomplishment 54 Poi source 55 Chicago airport

4 2 9 7 6 8 3 1 5

1 6 7 3 5 9 4 2 8

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

20

19 22 24

25

26

27

28

33

29

30

31

51

52

53

34

36

37

38

39

40

42

43

44 47

11

21

35

46

10

23

32

41

9

45

48

49

50

54

55

56

57

58

59

60

61

62

63

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

57 Plunge 58 Prayer’s end 59 Toils 60 Soon, to a bard 61 Biddy 62 Brings home 63 Longings Down 1 A Baldwin 2 Cattle member 3 Jai ___ 4 Good time for a long trip 5 Film part 6 Brouhaha 7 Gets the picture

8 Hotel manager 9 Ger. composer 10 Model Macpherson 11 At peace 13 Vermin 14 Working while off work 19 ___ mode 21 HS math class (Abbr.) 24 Blot 25 Grocery section 26 Carried 27 Weighty 28 Fertile soil 29 Implied 30 Lyric poem

31 Adage 35 Subway inits. 36 Travel cautiously by auto 42 Hoodwink 43 Elevator part 45 Lincoln or Ford, e.g. (Abbr.) 46 Bryce Canyon locale 47 Appellation 48 Small songbird 49 Loafer, e.g. 50 Clumsy boats 51 Kudzu, for one 52 Bard’s river 53 Camera part 56 Paintings

See puzzle solutions on Page 23

APPE 8 5 3 1 2 4 7 6 9

1

PuzzleJunction.com

RESS NP

A

UB CL

Solution

How to Solve: Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a challenging number puzzle, solved in a crossword style grid. The rules are easy: A number above the diagonal line in a black square is the sum of the white squares to the right of it. A number below the diagonal line is the sum of the white squares in the sequence below it. You may only use the digits 1 to 9, and a digit can only be used once in any sequence.

Dunwoody Crier 1/8/26 Crossword

appenmedia.com/join

SELL GOLD ALL TIME HIGH Highest prices paid.

BUYING: COINS & BULLION, FINE JEWELRY, STERLING FLATWARE. Precious Metals & More 201-320-7901 By appointments Johns Creek 30005 FREE ESTIMATES jewelry repairs and watch services


RESS NP

A

UB CL

APPE

20 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

appenmedia.com/join

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

South Forsyth junior Jack Pierce shoots a free throw at Chattahoochee High School Jan. 3. Pierce and the War Eagles went on to beat the Cougars 72-62.

Basketball: Continued from Page 1 Morris connected on five 3-pointers and has already broken school records this season – most points in a single game with 39 against North Atlanta. The 6’2” wing has deep range, is a two-sport athlete in flag football, and was On the Radar Hoops’ No. 1 standout player from the Parkview Tip-Off Classic tournament in November. Morris was named to ESPN HoopGurlz 2029 Basketball Prospects list and is Prep Girls Hoops’ No. 1 player in Georgia’s freshman class. As an eighth grader, Morris held more than 10 Division I offers and was one of just two players in her class, along with 13 in the 2028 class, invited to the USA Basketball Jr. National Team Minicamp this summer.

Locally Owned and Operated

• Pre-planning • Grief Support • Funeral Services • Veteran Services • Cremation Services

770-645-1414

info@northsidechapel.com www.northsidechapel.com During these turbulent times, we would like to highlight the continued courage and commitment of everyone who works in the health care, law enforcement, childcare, food service and utility sectors. We are extremely grateful.

12050 Crabapple Road • Roswell, GA 30075

She told Appen Media that she has been enjoying the up-tempo style of play the War Eagles have been finding this season. As for college, she said she has yet to decide on a top five list of schools. “It’s really fun to see that my hard work is paying off and see that maybe this can go further than I thought,” she said. “I think as a collective, we all just enjoy winning, and I really don’t like losing. We have really good team chemistry, and I think that plays a big role into how we play as a team.” South Forsyth Athletic Director and girls basketball head coach Keith Gravitt said he was pleased to see a season-high 16 team assists and nearly every player on the court scoring. “We’ve played some competitive teams, some very, very good teams from different states as well as in our state,” he said. “We feel that playing those type of teams are the things that are going to help as we get into the region play.” In the boys matchup, Chattahoochee head coach Jake Birdsong bowed out before the game due to the birth of his son, Tatum, earlier that day. Cougars Athletic Director Chris Short said the school knew since the middle of the night that the head coach may have to miss the game. “About three hours before game time, [Birdsong] texted me that the baby had arrived,” Short said. “We’re so excited for him and his family.” Senior Josh Coleman led Chattahoochee with 23 points as a veteran voice on the varsity squad. Junior point guard Jackson Nunes posted a near double-double with eight points and

nine assists. The War Eagles were fresh off a tournament win at Sequoyah High School to close out the 2025 portion of the season. After dealing with several injuries and illnesses at the beginning of the season, the boys wrapped up non-region play against Chattahoochee, while the girls have one more tournament remaining this month. South Forsyth head coach Chris Reonas said region 6 of 6A is strong through and through this season, and he said the War Eagles’ 8-6 overall record is indicative of the battles fought against tough teams. “We played a tough schedule on the road early on,” he said. “We need to buckle down, but we had a couple days off and are getting back into the flow of things. We need to work on finishing at the rim and limiting teams to one shot.” The Cougars kept the game close through the first two periods until South Forsyth made a push in the second half. Chattahoochee wasn’t able to keep up. South senior guard Luca Fornaro led the charge with a double-double of 25 points and 14 rebounds in the 72-62 victory. The War Eagles dominated the glass, holding Chattahoochee to only five offensive rebounds while South grabbed 12, and 28 defensive boards to Hooch’s 25. The game wrapped up non-region play for Chattahoochee as well, which is in a tough basketball region this season with multiple teams named in state and national rankings – Gainesville, Milton and Johns Creek.


AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 21

Piedmont Cancer Institute, a physician-led oncology practice in Metro Atlanta, is opening its seventh location Jan. 12 in Johns Creek. The expansion gives the private practice a central location in North Fulton to provide high-quality, patient-centered cancer care.

PIEDMONT CANCER INSTITUTE/PROVIDED

Piedmont: Continued from Page 1 The model allows patients to receive timely, coordinated care closer to home, supported by longterm relationships with their care teams. Piedmont Cancer Institute’s vision is to anticipate the future

Laws: Continued from Page 3 establishes uniform reporting dates for campaigns for all levels of office and requires redaction of home addresses from any records the Commission makes available to the public.

of oncology by expanding into new markets and welcoming additional oncologists, ensuring that advanced, patient-centered care remains accessible and affordable. By remaining independent, Piedmont Cancer Institute says it is uniquely positioned to adapt quickly, innovate meaningfully and continue providing world-class cancer care in the communities it serves. — Hayden Sumlin Senate Bill 291, the America First Act, by Sen. Steve Gooch, R-Dahlonega, establishes a special license plate featuring the American flag and the words “America First.” Funds raised from the sale of this plate will go to the state general fund. Gooch pushed the bill through as Senate majority leader, a post he has since left to run for lieutenant governor.

Notice of Public Internet Auction Johns Creek Police Department The following is a list of property located at the Johns Creek Police Dept. If you believe that you are the owner of this property, please call (678) 474-1600 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM. Proof of ownership and a valid ID will be required to claim any property. A public internet auction of the following items will begin the week of 2/09/2025. The auction’s website is www.propertyroom.com . Items: Computer Bag, Duffel Bag / Phone case, DHL ID, Sutton Bank Card / Mexican Passport / Ring / Gray Backpack with items / US Currency, Wallet / Georgia United Debit Card / Ps4, Ps4 Controllers, Xbox One S, Xbox Controllers, Samsung TV / Chase Debit Card / Debit Card / Black Backpack / Samsung Cell Phone / Wallet with misc. cards / Apple Phone & Case / Global Entry Card / Fitbit / Apple Phone / Basic Life Support card / Capital One Credit Card, Discover Credit Card / Backpack with contents / Firearms Case / Pants, White Underwear, White Hat, Airpods, Cigars, Lighter, Black Shoes, Condoms, Chapstick / Cell Phone / Cell Phone, US Currency, Pink Bookbag / Vaschy Backpack / Coast Soap Box, Face Mask, Hand Sanitizer, Vegtrug, Keyboard, Mouse, Surge Protector, Black Bag / Wallet with Picture, Play money, US Currency / GPS / Visa Debit Cards / Lawn Statue / Hiker Bag w/ Water bottles / Bag with Pet Supplies

Read Local, Shop Local Read at appenmedia.com/business


22 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

Full-time Sawnee EMC is seeking an Electrical Distribution System Engineer. Requires a bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, civil engineering or similar engineering discipline. Preferred experience in design, modeling and maintenance of distribution power systems. Must have strong computer, mathematical and communication skills. Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, January 9, 2026. Apply online: www.sawnee. coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-8872363 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. IT Professionals: Ent. Lvl to Sr Lvl. SW Devs. are needed for our Alpharetta, GA office. Pls send resume, Cvr Ltr., & Sal. Req. to Samprasoft LLC at 5455 Mcginnis Village Place, Ste 101, Alpharetta, GA, 30005. IT Infrastructure Project Leader sought by an IT service & solutions co. located in Duluth, GA. Reqs a min. of Bach’s deg in Electronics Engg, Comp Sci, Info Systems, or a rltd field, +5 yrs of progressive post-Bach’s exp in IT infrastructure system operation. Send resume to: SK AX USA Inc., formerly SK C&C USA Inc., @ 2055 Sugarloaf Circle, Ste 500, Duluth, GA 30097. IT Infrastructure Project Leader sought by an IT service & solutions co. located in Duluth, GA. Reqs a min of a bachelor’s deg in electronics engg, comp sci, info systems, or a rltd field, + 5 yrs of progressive post-bachelor’s exp in IT infrastructure system operation. Send resume to: SK AX USA Inc., (formerly SK C&C USA Inc.) @ 2055 Sugarloaf Circle, Ste 500, Duluth, GA 30097. Project General Manager sought by an IT service & solutions co. located in Duluth, GA. Reqs min. of Bach’s deg in Electronics Engg, Comp Sci, Info Systems, or a rltd field, + 5 yrs of progressive postbach’s exp in IT system mgmt. Send resume to: SK AX USA Inc., (formerly SK C&C USA Inc.) @ 2055 Sugarloaf Circle, Ste 500, Duluth, GA 30097.

Donor Operations Supervisor The Donor Operations Supervisor (Full-time) The Donor Operations Supervisor manages the donation door process and delegates tasks to staff, volunteers, and community service workers. As the face of NFCC, they provide excellent customer service while greeting donors and ensuring donations are properly removed from vehicles and sorted in designated areas. They are responsible for maintaining the security of merchandise and keeping all areas clean and organized. The Supervisor must be able to lift up to 75lb frequently and be on their feet most of their shift. They must enjoy staying busy, training and influencing other to work as a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Must have the ability to work Tuesday through Saturday 9am – 5pm. An extraordinary Total Rewards Package is included with this opportunity! If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

Software Developer & Computer Systems Analyst sought by s/ware solutions co. Must have proof of legal authorization to work in the US. M-F, 40 hrs/ wk. Job to be performed at 5470 McGinnis Village place, Ste 104, Alpharetta, GA- 30005. For full info about the job opportunity refer to internet posting at https://www.datasparx.com/career/ Refer to Job #: SD120825, SD120925, SD121025, SD121125, CSA120925, CSA121025, CSA121125, CSA121225 to apply send resume to hr@datasparx.com or else mail it to HR, DATASparx LLC, 5470 McGinnis Village Place, Ste 104, Alpharetta, GA- 30005. Ryder System, Inc. seeks an Application Development Lead in Alpharetta, GA, to participate and provide input into the design, redesign and development of technology products and applications. Telecommuting is permitted. Apply at https://www.jobpostingtoday.com/Ref #95376.

To place a classified ad, email classifieds@appenmedia.com. Deadline is Thursdays by 3pm

Infor (US), LLC has an opening for a Sr. DevOps Engineer in Alpharetta, GA. Develop and manage well-functioning applications with large databases. Test, troubleshoot, and upgrade software to ensure responsiveness and efficiency. Write clean, functional code and produce professional supporting technical documentation. 100% telecommuting permitted. How to apply: E-mail resume, referencing IN1068, including job history, to careers@infor.com. EOE.

Your North Atlanta News & Podcast Source AppenMedia.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY Cemetery Plots

Home Improvement

GREEN LAWN CEMETERY BURIAL PLOT IN ROSWELL, ROT-DOC GA. ONE AVAILABLE IN THE GARDEN OF FOUNTAIN, LOT Rot Repair Technician Don’t waste good paint on rotten wood. 79C. $3900. Call 404-626-7739. Minor repairs make a major difference! Interior/Exterior Painting, Pressure Washing, Gutters Rotten Wood, Deck Repair. Free Estimates. 770.899.1354 | www.rot-doc.com AARON’S ALL-TYPE GUTTERS Repaired and Installed. Covers, siding, soffit, facia. www.aarons-gutters.com. Senior citizen discount! 678-508-2432

Advertise your JOB OPENING in the newspaper and you too can say...

278 or emaoilm -3 2 4 -4 0 7 7 ll Ca ppenmedia.c classifieds@a


1 7

5 1 3 4 3 7 NATIONAL ADVERTISING 4 9 2 3 9 5 5 2

AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek | Johns Creek Herald | January 8, 2026 | 23

Autos Wanted Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Health & Fitness Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 877- 305-1535

Home Services

No more cleaning gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter backed by no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty. Call 1-833-610-1936 to schedule FREE inspection/ estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Military & Seniors get additional 10% off. Limited time. Restrictions apply, see rep for details.

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 833-640-4753 Bath & shower updates in as Have zip code of property ready little as 1 day! Affordable prices when calling! - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional Water damage cleanup: A small installs. Senior & military discounts amount of water can cause major available. 1-877-543-9189 damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code! Become a published author. Prepare for power outages We want to read your book! today with a Generac Home Dorrance Publishing trusted Standby Generator. Act now to since 1920. Consultation, receive a FREE 5-Year warranty production, promotion & with qualifying purchase* Call distribution. Call for free author’s 1-855-948-6176 today to guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit schedule a free quote. It’s not just dorranceinfo.com/ads a generator. It’s a power move.

Miscellaneous

Wesley Financial Group, LLC timeshare cancellation experts over $50 million timeshare debt/fees cancelled in 2019. Free info package. Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405 Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Dunwoody Crier 1/8/26 Connect-It

Solution

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends soon. 844-501-3208

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 Don’t let the stairs limit your as the largest carriers. No mobility! Discover the ideal long-term contract, no hidden solution for anyone who struggles fees free activation. All plans on the stairs, is concerned about feature unlimited talk & text, ©2026 Copyright starting at just $20/mo. Call a fall or wants to regain access to PuzzleJunction.com their entire home. Call AmeriGlide 1-877-751-0866 today! 1-833-399-3595 Inflation is at 40 year highs. Home break-ins take less than Interest rates are way up. Credit 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect cards. Medical bills. Car loans. your family, your home, your Do you have $10k or more in assets now for as little as 70¢/ debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your day! 833-890-1262 debt for significantly less than We buy houses for cash as what you owe! Free quote: Call is! No repairs. No fuss. Any 1-844-955-4930 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

Solution

PuzzleJunction.com

Connect-It Solution

SOLUTIONS

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

B E D R A S H A B A S B A L E R O D E O L U L U U C L A A L O E S E L A M S T A S H E D C L I M A T E E L M E L S T O L L G A T E S S A R A N A P A O B O E M I V S C O W S T E E R M E S A H I D L E S S T A L C C O T E A R E A C O D E S P A L T O W A R R I V A L U N W I N D S D I V E O H A R E T A R O A N O N W O R K S A M E N Y E N S N E T S H E N

1 P E C A N I X O N A P A

2 M O T H E N N A D A M S 3 G O R E N T I C E X A M 4 M E S A B S O R B U R R 5 G N A T R U M A N A N A 6 P I C N I C L U B U S H

7 T Y L E R E P E L A R K

7 3 8 5 4 1 6 9 2

2 9 6 8 3 7 1 5 4

5 1 4 2 9 6 8 7 3

3 4 1 9 7 5 2 8 6

9 7 2 6 8 3 5 4 1

6 8 5 4 1 2 9 3 7

8 5 3 1 2 4 7 6 9

4 2 9 7 6 8 3 1 5

1 6 7 3 5 9 4 2 8

TOP DOLLAR PAID for old vintage guitars! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Grecsch, Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. 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!

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Free quote. Ask about first application special! 833-860-0811 Peace of mind & early detection-Now more than ever, it’s important to get screened for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life LineScreening is simple & painless. 833-970-4172


24 | January 8, 2026 | Johns Creek Herald | AppenMedia.com/Johns_Creek

BUYING DIAMONDS

ALL SHAPES AND SIZES

BUYING GOLD & PLATINUM

CLASS RINGS, OLD SETTINGS, BROKEN AND UNWANTED JEWELRY

BUYING ALL FINE JEWELRY

BUYING ALL FINE WATCHES

BUYING COINS & CURRENCY

BUYING ALL STERLING SILVER

ROLEX AND OTHER CLASSIC MAKERS, VINTAGE AND OTHERWISE

COLLECTIBLE, BULLION, 1964 AND BEFORE SILVER COINS

PRECIOUS METALS AND GEMSTONES

FLATWARE, HOLLOWARE AND JEWELRY (NO POLISHING REQUIRED)

Amy Barbree, GG (404) 990-1192 barbreeandco.com amy@barbreeandco.com 3666 N Peachtree Rd #400, Chamblee, GA 30341 Appointments available Monday thru Saturday, call today to schedule an appointment.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Johns Creek Herald - January 8, 2026 by Appen Media Group - Issuu