Johns Creek Herald - October 23, 2025

Voters will consider a $40 million bond in November to provide funding for a

Residents weigh pros, cons of performing arts center

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Some Johns Creek residents say an 800seat Performing Arts Center could provide a much-needed home for culture. Others worry it may come with too much financial baggage.

Residents attended an Oct. 16 question-and-answer session hosted by the city to learn more

about the project and a $40 million bond that could fund it. On November ballots, city voters will be asked to consider the bond, which would fund the majority of the art center’s potential $50 million construction cost. City staff have budgeted a 10 percent contingency to anticipate fluctuations in costs.

Between questions, residents offered snapshots of where their

support lies. Some, like Deb Terning, a pianist for the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, said the arts community has waited years for a center, adding the city has few suitable options where arts groups can perform.

Others, like Georgann Levy, said they are about the bond’s impact on property taxes.

See CENTER, Page 10

Early voting ends Oct. 31 for municipal elections

NORTH METRO ATLANTA. — Early voting for the 2025 elections began Tuesday, Oct. 14, and runs through Oct. 31.

City elections and the state Public Service Commission races are on the ballot this year. Election Day is Nov. 4.

In Fulton and DeKalb counties, polls are open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Oct. 18 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Oct. 19 and 26 from 12-5 p.m. In Forsyth County, polls will generally be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. during early voting. Voters can cast a ballot at any early voting location in their county.

Read candidate questionnaires and find more election coverage at appenmedia.com

The Georgia Secretary of State’s My Voter Page will show you your sample ballot and polling location. Visit that page at https://mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/.

If you live in a city, be sure to check your sample ballot to see who you will be voting for. If you live in an unincorporated area, there is still a race on your ballot for the state Public Service Commission.

The Fulton County polling locations include:

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

• East Roswell Library, 2301 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, GA 30076

• Joan P. Garner Library at Ponce De Leon, 980 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

• Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, Milton, GA 30009

• North Fulton Service Center, 7741 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs, GA 30350

• Robert F. Fulton Ocee Library, 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA 30005

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

• Sandy Springs Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

CITY OF JOHNS CREEK/PROVIDED

Performing Arts Center in the Town Center area.

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Sandy Springs Officer resigns amid Flock misuse probe

By CARL APPEN carl@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — A Sandy Springs police officer has resigned after allegedly using the city's Flock camera network to help develop a surveillance product for a company where he works, according to interviews and documents obtained by Appen Media.

Public records show Francis Michael Esposito had been with the Sandy Springs Police Department since 2016. According to an internal affairs report and other materials obtained by Appen Media, he resigned in August amid a department investigation into his alleged use of cityleased software to help improve commercial data platform Signal 8.

The Sandy Springs Police Department uses products from Flock Safety, an automated license plate reader and security software company based in Atlanta. The firm’s technology identifies and logs vehicles moving through town to assist police with criminal investigations.

Flock users can perform searches of identifying information – such as license plate numbers or descriptions – to help locate vehicles they suspect are connected to criminal activity. When departments make these queries, they can search certain databases of other agencies as well, tapping into a nationwide network of sources.

The platform also allows agencies to set up lists of vehicles to monitor, getting alerts if they appear in the network.

Flock says its system “is trusted by more than 5,000 communities across the country…” That figure includes all 10 of the cities and counties Appen Media covers in north Metro Atlanta.

Esposito joined the Sandy Springs Police Department in 2016 and was promoted to sergeant in 2021, according to public records obtained by Appen Media.

While employed as a Sandy Springs officer, Esposito began working for Cantonbased Signal 8, a public safety software startup founded by former Sandy Springs

Police Detective Brandon Puhlman, according to their LinkedIn profiles and other public materials.

Signal 8 connects “multiple systems in one interface to reduce time spent on administrative tasks” and help officers deploy quickly, according to its website.

Puhlman, who served with Sandy Springs Police from 2017 to 2021, did not respond to interview requests for this story. Esposito also did not respond.

Earlier this year, Esposito used his Sandy Springs Police credentials to conduct searches in the Flock network for the purpose of informing Signal 8 algorithms, according to a police internal affairs report obtained by Appen Media.

The report alleges Esposito searched Flock for license plate numbers belonging to himself and other employees of Signal 8 along with their families.

“Additionally, there were other entries identified relative to the same dates and reasons, but the names and vehicles could not be definitively identified,” as tied to Signal 8, it noted.

The report also alleges Esposito made searches for the personal license plate number of a fellow Sandy Springs officer.

Esposito’s Flock queries were not made for law enforcement purposes, but instead “for the benefit of a private company for which he was employed,” the investigation alleges. According to the internal affairs report, data gleaned from the searches was used to inform and improve the Signal 8 platform.

Sandy Springs Police officials also sent a letter to Flock Safety, which Appen Media obtained, alerting them to the allegations. In it they write that Esposito, “was utilizing his Sandy Springs Police Department Flock login to obtain Flock Camera data for commercial purposes to validate beta data for a product for a company identified as Signal 8.”

Esposito was under investigation for the alleged actions when he resigned in August.

However, Sandy Springs officials say

they consider his exit a termination. The reason, they told Appen Media, is because Esposito allegedly refused to answer questions during the probe.

“Frank Esposito was recently terminated after he failed to cooperate during an internal affairs investigation into possible misconduct,” Sgt. Leon Millholland told the newspaper.

In September, Sandy Springs sent Esposito a letter, obtained by Appen Media through a public records request, informing him the investigation had, “concluded with sustained findings of violations of department policies: Abuse of Position and Authority; Common Sense and Judgement; Conduct Unbecoming.”

The notice also stated that Esposito’s status, “is officially classified as Terminated, effective August 20, 2025.”

Appen Media also learned Esposito was not an active-duty officer during the time he conducted the alleged Flock searches, according to state, city and other records obtained by the newspaper.

The internal affairs report alleges Esposito made the license plate inquiries from January to April.

According to his personnel file and state records, Esposito resigned from his full-time post with Sandy Springs Police and joined the department’s volunteer Reserve Unit in January.

“Reserve SSPD officers are unpaid sworn officers that volunteer 10 hours a month with the department,” Millholland said. “All Reserve SSPD officers have the same access to department resources and must adhere to the same policies and standards as full and part-time sworn officers.”

Appen Media asked Flock for its reaction to the allegations.

“Upon learning of the situation last month, Flock promptly addressed it directly with Signal 8,” Flock Safety Communications Officer Josh Thomas said.

Managing Editor Pat Fox, Staff Reporter Annabelle Reiter contributed reporting.

County isolates legislative goals for 2026 session

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmeida.com

ATLANTA — The Fulton County Commission batted around legislative priorities Oct. 15 in advance of the Georgia General Assembly’s session beginning in early January.

The purpose is to isolate on issues the county wants its state senators and representatives to pursue under the Gold Dome.

The proposed legislative agenda will be finalized at the commission’s Nov. 5 meeting, according to External Affairs Director Jessica Corbitt.

In developing Fulton County’s

legislative priorities, Corbitt said she met with high-ranking county staff and commissioners before attending the state’s Association County Commissioners meeting early this month.

The top three priorities are to increase judicial resources for the Fulton County Superior Court, to oppose any legislation diminishing local control and to support an amendment to the Georgia Taxpayer Bill of Rights to allow online publication of millage rate advertisements.

Officials in North Fulton cities have cited their own concerns with the county’s Rice Street jail and the pace of criminal prosecutions.

In her presentation, Corbitt said no other judicial circuit in the state sees the volume and complexity of cases than the Atlanta Judicial Circuit, which includes the county’s Superior Court.

According to a state analysis, the Atlanta Judicial Circuit would need five or six additional judges for its bench to meet the current workload.

Fulton County’s priority for the judiciary is two-pronged. It is seeking creation of one or more additional Superior Court judgeships and passage of Senate Bill 10, authorizing the chief judge to appoint up to five judicial officers.

“This was in direct response to

legislation actually passed by the Board of Commissioners in December 2023,” Corbitt said. “Up until now, we have not been successful in securing an additional full-time judgeship.”

New judges would help manage the county’s high case volume and complexity. The judicial officers would handle civil and non-serious felony cases, achieving a similar result.

County Commissioner Marvin Arrington Jr. said he thinks the concept of appointed judicial officers is dangerous and additional ones would set a bad precedent.

See FULTON, Page 20

Fulton Ethics Board dismisses election-related ethics complaint

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

ATLANTA — The Fulton County Ethics Board dismissed a complaint Oct. 16 filed by Commissioner Dana Barrett that accused Commissioner Bridget Thorne of improperly influencing two stalled Election Board appointees.

The basis of the ethics complaint was Thorne’s comments about the Republican appointees to the County Elections Board, sitting member Julie Adams and twice-nominated Jason Frazier, during the Sept. 3 County Commission meeting.

“If Jason and Julie did anything that was illegal or harmful or falsely removed anybody, I’d be the first person to correct them,” Thorne said. “And they would take that correction.”

Later in the meeting, commissioners voted along party lines to “table” a vote on the Republican Party’s nominees to the Registration and Elections Board until a state Appellate Court ruling.

The county’s $10,000 a day fine is on hold until the appellate ruling.

Thorne, a Republican representing the east side of North Fulton, and Barrett, a Democrat representing Buckhead and southern Sandy Springs, rarely see eye to eye on the Fulton County Commission.

Appen Media included the quote in a Sept. 5 article, writing “Thorne said she would hold Frazier and Adams accountable …” and including more of her comments.

“We’re all up here,” Thorne said during the Sept. 3 meeting. “We all want fair, independent, accountable and transparent elections. That’s what was stated that you guys want. [The] Republican Party wants the exact same thing.”

Commissioner Barrett’s complaint alleged four violations of Fulton County’s Code of Ethics, including conflict of interest, improper influence, appearance of impropriety and disclosure of interest. After hearing Thorne’s comments, Barrett said she immediately texted her attorney who was in the crowd about potential ethics violations.

Ultimately, Barrett’s ethics complaint against Thorne backfired after the Ethics Board voted 4-3 to not send the complaint to a full hearing.

“Three of the members of the Ethics Board agreed that there was enough there to move forward, and one of the four who voted against moving forward openly stated that he had not watched the video,” Barrett told Appen Media after the ruling.

Since the complaint was dismissed, Barrett said there is not much else for her to do besides potentially penning a letter to the Ethics Board.

“I have concerns about the ethics hearing process in that it was not clear that I was going to be making an opening statement,” Barrett said. “I spoke, then Bridget spoke, I was not given the opportunity to respond to the new information that she added in her remarks.”

Thorne’s attorney wrote that her statement reflected “a general expectation of lawful behavior” and “an intent to correct unlawful conduct.”

Thorne said the dismissal confirms she acted within her ethical and legal responsibilities.

“This decision reaffirms what I’ve said from the start — the complaint was baseless,” Thorne said. “I’m grateful the Ethics Board applied the law and dismissed this politically motivated claim.”

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

WHICH JOHN BRADBERRY WILL PERFORM NEXT?

ACT I—Tea Party John

This John Bradberry originally ran as a Tea Party Republican. A republican who “would never raise taxes except for an emergency or public safety need”. (An empty slogan he still repeats today.) Tea Party John was a founder of Preserve Johns Creek, an extremely pro-homeowner advocacy group that opposed TSPLOST I, opposed any increased density (remember him Shakerag residents?) and actively cheered when business developments like the Amazon distribution center chose to locate in other cities.

ACT II—The 1% John Bradberry

After years on council and as Mayor, something changed. Abandoning his “core beliefs,” John went from only supporting a privately funded Performing Arts Center to becoming its biggest advocate. As he stated at the April 28th 2025 city work session, “I’ve shifted on this. I came to the realization that the City had a leading role to play.” In his State of the City speeches in 2024 and 2025 John made it clear the PAC was his utmost priority even if it meant “crowding out” other projects. “I’m all about the PAC at the top for year after year for as long as it takes to pay for this.” (city work session April 14th 2025). Make no mistake, prior to this election season, John Bradberry has been “ALL IN” on the performing arts center.

ACT III—All About John

Unfortunately for John and his 1% group, the citizens have realized what an absolute boondoggle the PAC has become. While supporting the arts is a good cause, the PAC was a rushed pet project for the 1% that John thought would wrap up an election for him by throwing a political bone to his wealthy and persistent arts supporters. It has become clear that the real costs of the PAC buildout over 20 years will be over $94,355,000. The bond referendum alone will be $63,355,000 once you account for interest over 20 years. Next, add $20,000,000 in “reserves” already committed with a final $11,000,000 in the budget for classrooms by 2029. Of course, this assumes the project is built on-time and on-budget. And the ongoing operations? Again, let’s listen to the Star of the Show, the Mayor himself: “We know this is probably never going to break even…if it does, I consider that complete gravy.” (Minute 53 of the April 28 th 2025 city work session).

Now, desperate to put space between himself and the PAC and willing to throw his 1% supporters overboard, John has been heard at multiple “Meet and Greets” saying, “At this point, I really don’t care if you vote for or against the pack…just vote for me.”

The End

It is time to close the curtains on The John Bradberry Show. Vote NO on the PAC bond and Vote Kelly Stewart for Mayor. Johns Creek deserves smart, principled leadership; Johns Creek deserves better than John Bradberry.

Christmas Gift Show

Blessed Trinity High School

Main & Aux Gym

11320 Woodstock Road Roswell, GA 30075

Saturday, Nov. 8th 9am – 5pm

Sunday, Nov. 9th

10am – 3pm

Over 110 vendors with a large variety of unique and beautiful gift items –Jewelry, Wreaths, Pottery, Fine Art, Holiday and Home Décor, Accessories, Knits, Children’s Items, Huge Bake Sale and much more!

• Tons of parking

• All booths are indoors

• Enter our Titan Tidings Raffle to win prizes

• Concessions will be available

• No Strollers Please

• $5 Admission

Dunwoody residents honor Charlie Kirk on his birthday

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — A grassroots effort, spurred by a trio of Dunwoody residents, saw around 100 people turn out at Brook Run Park Oct. 14 for an evening “Honoring Charlie Kirk and Celebrating Civil Discourse.”

The date of the memorial fell on what would have been Kirk’s 32nd birthday. During his “American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University Sept. 10, Kirk was assassinated by a lone gunman on camera in front of the entire world.

Kirk co-founded the conservative student organization Turning Point USA in 2012 and served as its executive director, forming a close relationship with President Donald Trump and Republican Party leaders.

Kirk is considered one of the most prominent conservative activists of his generation. His wife Erica accepted his posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House earlier in the day.

The Oct. 14 memorial service featured a Charlie Kirk-style friendly debate, a reflection, prayers and comments from people who knew him.

While Turning Point USA members attended and spoke during the memorial, it was put together unofficially by residents. Naturally, highlights of Kirk’s conversations with American college students played on the big screen between speakers.

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, a product of Dunwoody’s Village

Mill neighborhood, said he was proud to be back home for the memorial, which garnered some national attention.

“Charlie’s assassination has struck a nerve in the United States, and whether you agree with him or you didn’t, it just has,” Carr said. “I can’t tell you how many friends of mine reached out to me because their kids reached out to them when Charlie was murdered.”

Carr said he remains impressed with Kirk’s unique ability to get young people interested in politics, showing that being a conservative was not just acceptable but “cool.”

Reactions to his assassination reflect the nation’s political polarization, which some say created the conditions for 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson to get his father’s hunting rifle and kill the father of two young children.

Robinson’s text messages showed he “had enough of [Kirk’s] hatred,” revealing a premeditated murder, which the Federal Bureau of Investigation calls nihilistic violent extremism, or NVT.

Most Americans mourned the killing, but some were divided about his contributions to free speech and open debate. After facts surrounding his assassination became public, Americans briefly united in opposition to political violence before returning to the divisive rhetoric.

Jay B. Hickey, the host of the memorial and one of its chief organizers, said he woke up angry on the anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and wanted to do

PHOTOS BY: HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Right photo, from left, state Attorney General Chris Carr, former U.S. Rep. and U.S. Attorney Bob Barr and political commentator Bill Crane share their thoughts Oct. 14 during the “Honoring Charlie Kirk and Celebrating Civil Discourse” memorial at the Brook Run Park Amphitheater.

Mayor Bradberry and Mayor Pro Tem Tunki’s Leadership:

• 36% increase in public safety funding

• More police officers per capita than any time in city history

• Added five new police officers last year, including a new crime suppression unit

• Excellent response times from police and fire departments

• All prioritized public safety requests and critical needs are fully funded

• Tougher laws enacted to stop parking lot/intersection takeovers, extreme house parties, and stunt driving/racing

Mayor John Bradberry

Mayor Pro Tem Dilip Tunki

HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL: TITANS 3, EAGLES 0

ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA

The Blessed Trinity volleyball team exchanges high-fives after a win over Eagles Landing High School at Blessed Trinity High Oct. 14. The Titans advance to the second round, hoping to improve on a Final Four loss last year.

Blessed Trinity advances to second round of statewide tournament

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

*Valid at Duluth Location only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Mention Johns Creek Herald.

ROSWELL, Ga. — The Blessed Trinity volleyball team is headed to the second round of the Class 4A state tournament after sweeping Eagles Landing High three sets to none Oct. 14.

With the strongest schedule in Georgia, MaxPreps has ranked the Titans as the No. 2 team in the state behind backto-back 6A champions Alpharetta. The next-highest ranked team in Class 4A is Pace Academy at No. 6, which is slated for a potential Final Four matchup with Blessed Trinity.

However, to get there, the Titans will have to play Cartersville in the Elite Eight. The Hurricanes are the lone team to defeat Alpharetta in this season or last.

Blessed Trinity has already played Cartersville once this season, beating them 2-1 Aug. 21.

Titans head coach Eric Hodges says the rigor his team has sustained over the season, both in practices and with a tough regular season schedule, will take them the distance.

“We wanted to challenge ourselves constantly and we’ve done that,” he said. “Our setters and hitters have developed good connections. Tonight we worried about ourselves, took care of business and did our thing, which is what we’re hoping to do the rest of the season.”

The Titans swept Eagles Landing 3-0 without the help of Region 6 of Class 4A Player of the Year Destinee Chukelu, who was sitting for injury management. Chukelu is a junior committed to the University of California-Berkeley.

The Eagles struggled to find their footing in the first set, with a 12-point run by the Titans to kick off the match. BT only allowed five points in the time it took them to score 25.

Sophomore outside hitter Riley Gilmore was a major part of setting the tone in the first set and reflected on the Final Four finish last season compared to how the team is feeling gearing up for another postseason run.

“This year, we all just have more of a fight inside us to win,” she said. “We’ve learned a lot about adjusting to adversity and getting out of our heads. Today we did a good job adjusting, when they started blocking me I realized I had to hit around them and take smart shots.”

Gilmore has hit double-digit kills in six games this season before the firstround matchup, including a standout game posting 10 kills against Cartersville, who the Titans may be facing again in the Elite Eight.

Right side Raquel Mina and middle blockers Chloe Dunnigan and Cassidy Getant were consistent forces in Chukelu’s absence, taking on slightly bigger roles than normal.

Sophomore defensive specialist Abby Woodward was another pillar of the Titans’ sweep with a reliable serve that put BT onto several scoring runs.

The last two sets saw higher intensity, with the Eagles scoring 18 and then 20 points to narrow the Titans’ lead. Blessed Trinity, able to recover the lead regardless of the personnel on the floor, aimed to prepare some younger players for the level of play required later in the postseason.

In the election for Johns Creek City Council Post 3,

City Leaders Support Shafiq!

“I am confident that Shafiq is the right person for this role. He has been an active participant in every aspect of Johns Creek life. He is consistent, passionate, caring, and a day-one supporter of our community. He has my full support.”

- Anthony Shorter, Former Member of Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee

“Shafiq has spent the past decade working to increase community engagement, prioritize youth development, and celebrate our city’s cultural diversity. His experience and vision make him a great fit for City Council.”

- Kathy Smith, Former Executive Director of Leadership Johns Creek

“Shafiq is the right person for City Council because he knows what goes on in every corner of Johns Creek from the Symphony to the Hospital to the Chamber Of Commerce. And that’s because he cares deeply. Shafiq is full of ideas he’s able to operationalize those ideas, and he serves builder across our entire community.”

lyn Margolis, Former CEO of Emory Johns Creek Hospital

Roswell homecoming goes viral nationally

By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com

ROSWELL, Ga. — When homecoming king and senior quarterback Trey Smith gave his crown to the Hornets’ biggest fan, Jake Jeffries, he didn’t realize people across the country and world would be touched by the story.

Kaitlyn Ross, a reporter from 11Alive, posted an Instagram Reel Oct. 12 that quickly garnered hundreds of thousands of likes and comments. Now, videos of the crowning have been viewed millions of times.

National outlets and social media pages such as Fox News, Overtime Elite and World Star followed Ross with videos and posts of their own. The story has reached nearly every social media platform: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Reddit.

Smith was nominated to homecoming court by teachers just four days before the dance, as a representative of the football team. He met with school administration, where the plan started to come together – to honor the true heart of the football team.

Jeffries is the hype man on the sidelines, helping with handing out water bottles or game balls and is always there for a supportive gesture in the trainers room.

Smith felt that Jeffries would be a better representation of what it means to be a Roswell Hornet, so he ran to where Jeffries was standing upon receiving the

Center:

Continued from Page 1

During the roughly hour-long meeting, City Manager Kimberly Greer answered numerous questions and provided details about the project.

To be located across Lakefield Drive from City Hall, the arts center would be within the footprint of the city’s planned Town Center district. Greer said her

Trey Smith, left and Jake Jeffries, middle, stand with other members of the 2025 Roswell Homecoming Court Oct. 12.

crown – before it even made it on Smith’s head.

The crowd erupted as Smith began to transfer his homecoming king swag to Jeffries: the crown, cape and sash. Adjusting Jeffries’ crown as a final touch, Smith then gestured to the crowd for more noise.

Smith began a butterfly effect felt all over the country, spreading a message of kindness that has touched so many hearts.

Jeffries’ father Scott said the moment was “surreal” and the team’s inclusion of Jake on the sidelines was priceless. Jake hasn’t missed a game since ninth grade. Smith said multiple players on the football team

aim was to provide information without an opinion, leaving voters to make up their minds about whether the bond is a worthy pursuit.

If the bond referendum fails, the City Council intends to cancel the project but would likely retain the property, Greer said.

Town Center is envisioned as a walkable area to include the mega mixeduse Medley center and The Boardwalk recreation area. The area also is home to a Boston Scientific facility.

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.

who help with Roswell’s community-based instruction sector of the special education department have connected Jeffries with the team since middle school, and his relationship with the team has been invaluable.

“He’s such a fun guy to be around, he’s really funny and always cracking jokes,” Smith said. “He plays a big role in our team’s success, just being our hype man, so it was only right to give him the glory. It makes me happy that I was able to spread God’s love and spread God’s kindness and that it made people’s day brighter.”

Smith said the response has been overwhelming; his former teammates and Roswell alumni from all over the country have reached out to him. He said out of the whole experience, he is most proud to be a bit of light for those in the darkness.

Roswell Athletic Director Ben Sutter agreed with Smith that one of the best parts of homecoming weekend was watching the energy transfer to Saturday night at the homecoming dance and Jeffries enjoying his reign as king, leading a conga line with a blue lightsaber in line with the Star Wars theme.

“Jake is the ultimate Roswell kid, he doesn’t have bad days and he makes you smile just because he loves being out there,” Sutter said. “It’s bigger than football, it’s bigger than just Roswell. In a world where kids can get very caught up in social media and their own selves, it’s great for people to be able to see this and the type of kid Trey is as well as see how Jake is a valued part of the team.”

The general obligation bond could raise the city tax for a $525,000 home by about $80 per year or $6.67 per month.

Johns Creek residents are assessed a maintenance and operations property tax rate at 3.646 mills, the lowest among North Fulton County cities. In Alpharetta, the rate is 5.750 mills, and in Roswell, the rate is 4.949 mills. In Milton, the rate stands at 4.389 mills.

Levy said she has concerns about that increase to her taxes. She said she is worried the tax may increase as her home’s value rises.

“I live in that average home, and I didn't buy it at that price. I've been in Jon Creek for 21 years,” she said. “What's my value going to be in five years?”

Levy also said she had concerns about how often the center will be used and continual costs to maintain it.

“Maybe they do something at (Christmas) or Easter, but the rest of the time, it's going to sit empty,” she said.

Levy asked Greer to clarify how the building would be staffed.

Operating the center could cost about $300,000 a year, but that money could be offset by naming rights, sponsorships, donations, endowment funds and other means, Greer said.

Greer said particulars about staffing, including whether the center would be run as a nonprofit or private-public partnership, remain undecided, but city staff

have provided a model that includes six staff positions. The city also could offset those costs with rental fees and volunteers, she said.

But residents like Terning said they think the costs are well warranted.

For years, Terning said she campaigned with grassroots efforts for a center long before the discussion emerged from the City Council.

She said she is disappointed with how long it has taken to create a facility like the performing arts center.

“Even before 10 years ago, we were pounding the pavement trying to get a theater,” she said.

Too many residents are leaving Johns Creek to take in performances, and having an arts center in the community could keep audiences in the city, she said.

It could also attract residents from outside the city, bringing revenue to Johns Creek.

“People are going to come, and they're going to eat out, and they're going to do things,” she said.

Local groups also could benefit from having a space large enough to host their events, which sometimes are in need of spaces larger than they have available.

“I personally think there'd be a lot of use for it,” she said.

Election day is Nov. 4 and early voting has started. Check voter registration status and find polling information at mvp.sos.ga.gov.

ROSWELL HIGH SCHOOL/PROVIDED

NOTICE OF BOND ELECTION TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY OF JOHNS CREEK, GEORGIA

Pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Mayor and Council of the City of Johns Creek, Georgia (the “City”) on June 26, 2025, and a call for a referendum issued by the Fulton County Board of Elections and Registration, as Election Superintendent (the “Referendum”), notice is hereby given as follows:

1. On November 4, 2025, a special election will be held in the City to submit to the qualified voters of the City the following question:

GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS

( ) YES

( ) NO

Shall the City of Johns Creek issue general obligation bonds in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $40,000,000 for the purpose of (i) funding the construction, installation, and equipping of a Performing Arts Center and related facilities, and (ii) paying the costs and expenses related to such bonded indebtedness?

2. All qualified voters desiring to vote in favor of the issuance of general obligation bonds shall vote “Yes” and all qualified voters opposed to levying the tax shall vote “No.” If more than one-half of the votes cast are in favor of issuance of the general obligation bonds by the City (the “Bonds”), then the City will be authorized to issue the Bonds as provided by law.

3. The Bonds shall be general obligation debt of the City. The principal amount of the Bonds to be issued shall not exceed $40,000,000. The maximum rate or rates of interest on such debt shall not exceed six percent (6.0%) per annum. The maximum amount of principal to be paid in each year during the life of the debt shall be as follows:

13

Year 4 1,400,000

14 2,280,000 Year 5 1,470,000

15 2,395,000 Year 6 1,545,000 Year 16 2,515,000 Year 7 1,620,000 Year 17 2,640,000 Year 8 1,700,000 Year 18 2,775,000

Year 9 1,790,000 Year 19 2,910,000 Year 10 1,875,000

The City may issue aggregate general obligation debt which is less than $40,000,000 and reduce the principal amounts maturing which are shown above. The Bonds may be made subject to redemption prior to maturity, to the extent permitted by law, upon terms and conditions to be determined by the City.

4. If the Bonds are authorized to be issued, the City shall adopt a bond resolution providing for the levy of a tax sufficient in an amount to pay the principal of the Bonds at their respective maturities and the interest thereon as the same becomes due as required by the Constitution of the State of Georgia.

5. To the extent available, the City may combine available funds with proceeds from the Bonds, and any other available funds, to pay the costs of the purposes set forth in the form of the ballot question. Plans and specifications for these purposes have not been completed and bids have not yet been received but are expected to include an approximately 800-seat performance hall and a multi-purpose room that will in combination support both performances (for symphony, chorale, dance, theater, etc.) as well as meetings and gatherings for a true multi-purpose venue.

6. Reference is hereby made to Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 36 82 1(d), which provides in part that any brochures, listings, or other advertisements issued by the City or by any other person, firm, corporation, or association with the knowledge and consent of the Mayor and Council shall be deemed to be a statement of intention of the City concerning the use of bond funds.

7. In accordance with Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 36 82 2, the Referendum shall be held by the same persons, in the same manner, and under the same rules and regulations that elections for members of the Mayor and Council of the City are held. The returns shall be made to the officers calling or ordering the Referendum. Such officers, in the presence of and together with the several managers, who shall bring up the returns, shall consolidate the returns and declare the result.

8. The last day to register to vote in the Referendum is Monday, October 6, 2025, or as otherwise provided by law. Anyone desiring to register may do so by applying in person at the voter registration office located at the Fulton County Board of Registrar’s Office: 130 Peachtree Street SW Suite 2186, Atlanta, GA 30303-3460, or by any other method authorized by the Georgia Election Code.

9. The Referendum will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

This 23rd day of October, 2025.

Election Superintendent

12 | Johns Creek Herald | October 23, 2025

Community stage takes up shop in old Foot Locker

By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The City of Alpharetta has created a new community stage in an unlikely space — a former Foot Locker on the second level of the North Point Mall.

Located next to the food court and iconic merry-go-round, the Spotlight Community Stage has a slick facade just like the nearby Hot Topic and Champs Sports. But instead of welcoming customers, the Spotlight regularly hosts shows, events, theater, music and classes.

With room for an audience of 150, the stage offers dressing rooms, a lobby, professional level lighting and sound, giving residents and performers a true theaterstyle experience.

City officials established the Spotlight after studies showed residents wanted a theater for performances and events, said Kim Zane, cultural services manager. The stage launched in the summer and has quickly picked up steam.

A partnership with North Point Mall allows the City of Alpharetta to use the space free of rent. Refurbishing the former Foot Locker cost $174,000. Rental rates run from $35 per hour to $200 per day, depending on the equipment to be used.

From the start, officials focused on flexibility, making sure the seating, stage and could adapt to a variety of events and crowd sizes. Its stage, microphones, curtain, sound system, lights and other features also are able to relocate if the Spotlight finds a new home outside the mall.

It already has hosted musical acts, talent shows, dance recitals and summer camps.

Members of Arcadia Theater, a nonprofit performing arts group, took the stage Oct. 12 with a performance that included some of Broadway's most iconic numbers. The professionally trained performers showcased a variety of show tunes from numerous hits from “The Sound of Music” to “My Fair Lady.”

Jillian Melko sings during the opening of a performance that included numerous Broadway show tunes

munity Stage Oct. 12. See THEATER, Page 13

Theater:

Continued from Page 12

Stacia Ray said the opportunity to perform has enriched her life in a dramatic way. The full-time writer and editor rediscovered the stage decades after doing theater in high school.

“This is a true community theater essence,” Ray said. “People here are not out to try to get discovered on Broadway. They're here to get to know each other, to have fun in life.”

For Ray, the best part of performing are the interactions with fellow performers during rehearsals and performances, something she has found enormously rewarding.

“It was the idea of an instant family,” she said. “I get really emotional thinking about it.”

Arcadia is an offshoot of Act One Theater, a 30-year community theater group based out of Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.

Randy Bampfield, Arcadia managing director, said the Spotlight gives the group a space more suitable for productions. Spaces at churches are in high demand. Performances also faced limitations on content because churches are inherently faith-based.

Bampfield said the group’s productions are certainly enjoyable for audiences, but they also serve an important purpose for the performers.

The chance to get on stage allows them to practice their skills and build their resumes to pursue other gigs.

“It's something that we all do for fun and enjoyment, but … it gives them an outlet to utilize those skills and talents that they've developed over the years,” Bampfield said.

I have visited several Chambers and have found my home at the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce. The group is committed, involved, and I have made many good friends.

-Stacy Fotos, The Happy Dog Hotel

The facade to the Spotlight Community Stage is located next to North Point Mall’s food court.

From left, Arcadia Theater members John Jenkins, Michelle Peck, Carissa Arduini, Julie Ferguson, Sarah Jackson Brinson, Jillian Melko, Susanna Farfsing and Stacia Ray sing during an Oct. 12 performance at the Spotlight Community Stage.

PHOTOS BY: JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA

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.

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.

Vampires, Werewolves and Dermatology

October 31st might bring you children dressed as superheroes, vampires or werewolves seeking sweets or creating mischief. Although trick-or-treating has been part of American tradition since the 1920s, the legends behind some of the most popular costumes are far older. Tales of vampires and werewolves appear throughout the Middle Ages and perhaps as far back as the Epic of Gilgamesh (c. 1800 BCE). What inspired these frightening figures? Surprisingly, medicine offers intriguing clues. And oddly enough, the same science that helped fuel vampire and werewolf lore is now helping dermatologists fight sun damage and skin cancer.

A group of rare diseases known as porphyrias may have shaped these legends. Porphyrias disrupt the body’s ability to make heme, the molecule that gives blood its red color and carries oxygen. Heme production is an eight-step biochemical process beginning with aminolevulinic acid (ALA). Each step requires a different enzyme. When one enzyme fails, its substrate accumulates—like chocolates piling up in the famous “I Love Lucy” assembly line scene. These buildups, called porphyrins, damage the body.

Depending on which enzyme malfunctions, porphyrins may harm the nervous system or the skin. Neurologic damage can cause pain, seizures, or psychosis. But it is porphyria’s effects on the skin, hair, and teeth that echo most loudly in folklore.

Other medical conditions likely played a role as well. In hypertrichosis, individuals grow hair uncontrollably across the face and body, lending a wolf-like appearance. Rabies can cause aggression and biting, resembling the transmission of vampirism through a bite. Psychiatric conditions may have added their part, too—cases of hemomania, a compulsion involving blood, have been associated with multiple mental illnesses.

Medical historians still debate the exact diseases that inspired vampire and werewolf lore, but legends often arise from a blend of real observations and poetic license including the fisherman’s tendency to exaggerate the one that got away.

Accepting

Some porphyrias cause extreme sun sensitivity: a patient’s skin may blister after just minutes in sunlight. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to scarring, thickening, and dark pigmentation. Excess hair may also develop in sun-damaged areas. Teeth can even turn reddish—a condition known as erythrodontia. And in severe cases, victims might literally cry out in pain and flee the daylight. Add paranoia or hallucinations, and you can almost hear the medieval villager whisper: “He only comes out at night… with red teeth and wild hair.”

While no single disease explains the vampire or werewolf archetype in full, the combination of symptoms across different porphyrias could easily have fueled the central features of these myths.

Remarkably, the same biochemical pathway that gives rise to porphyria also powers one of modern dermatology’s most effective skin cancer prevention tools. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), often called blue light therapy, deliberately induces a brief, controlled version of porphyria in unhealthy cells. During PDT, a dermatologist applies aminolevulinic acid (ALA) to sundamaged skin. Abnormal cells absorb the ALA and become highly sensitive to light. When exposed to blue light, these cells are selectively damaged and destroyed—like Dracula at a beach party. By exploiting this weakness, PDT reduces precancerous growths known as actinic keratoses and lowers the risk of future skin cancers. It is one of several nonsurgical options in dermatology, alongside topical treatments like 5-fluorouracil and imiquimod, which also target precancers and some early cancers. For most patients, these therapies provide a safe and effective means of halting sun damage before it progresses.

The connection between folklore and medicine highlights how ancient fears sometimes foreshadow scientific discovery. What once seemed supernatural—avoiding daylight, growing thick hair, or exhibiting red teeth—can now be explained biochemically. And today, modern dermatology harnesses the very same pathways to save lives.

So, when a tiny vampire or werewolf comes begging for candy this October, you might smile at the candy bowl and think not only of myths, but also of medicine and of the curious ways that science and legend intertwine.

Dr. Brent Taylor

Kathryn Filipek, PA-C

Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology

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Hummingbirds have a history, too

People, places and things generally come to mind when we think of history. However, animals and birds may also have interesting histories. It makes sense to take a look at hummingbirds since they have been taking part in their annual migration south from Georgia and other states triggered by declining day length.

Hummingbirds evolved from European ancestors some 40-50 million years ago. Over time, they gradually disappeared from Europe. Today they exist only in the Americas where they have diversified into some 350 species.

Fossils from Europe reveal that early hummingbirds lacked hovering flight ability and had short bills. Following some 10 million years of evolution, the birds had sharp pointed bills, hovering ability and high metabolism which allowed them to eat almost constantly. Then as now, they consume large amounts of sugar every day in the form of nectar to support their colossal energy requirements. According to Stanford University, they have the highest metabolic rate of any animal and consume roughly their weight in nectar every day.

European explorers of the new world first noted hummingbirds in the 16th century. In 1557 Jean de Léry (1536–1613), a French explorer and writer, published a book, “History of a Voyage to the Land of Brazil,” based on his experiences while living for a year with a Brazilian Indian tribe. Early European explorers like de Léry had never seen anything like the tiny birds. His description of hummingbirds helped generate a wide interest in the birds.

In colonial times, hummingbirds were appreciated for their beauty but were not well understood. Adriaen van der Donck (circa 1618-1655), a Dutch attorney in New Amsterdam (today’s New York), in his 1655 book, “Description of New Netherland,” questioned whether hummingbirds were birds or insects, calling them “West India bees” due to their humming flight and frequent visits to flowers. Naturalist John Josselyn (1638–1675) wrote in his 1672 book “New-England’s Rarities Discovered” that “they sleep all Winter, and are not to be seen till the Spring, at which time they breed in little Nests.” He confused migration and hibernation.

By the Victorian era, hummingbird specimens had become popular collector

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

The striking Ruby throated Hummingbird is the most common hummingbird species in Georgia and throughout the eastern U.S. The iridescent red throat of the male is known as a "gorget." These tiny birds spend most of their time resting and consuming about their body weight every day. They move from flower to flower consuming all the nectar and small bugs they can to maintain the intense pace of their flight and their rapid wing beats of up to 80 beats per second. The sugar in nectar is particularly important as the birds bulk up for their annual fall migration from Georgia to southern Mexico and Central America. Depending on their point of departure, they fly non-stop 500 miles across the Gulf of America in one day without a stop.

items with major displays at events like the famous May to October 1851 Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations at the Crystal Palace in London. Victorian audiences were fascinated by the exotic and by miniatures. They referred to hummingbird taxidermy specimens as “living gems.”

The renowned ornithologist of the time was John Gould. His book, “A Monograph of the Trochilidae or Hummingbirds,” published between 1849 and 1861 contained 418 plates of hummingbirds hand painted by teams of colorists working under Gould’s supervision. Certain galleries today sell John Gould lithographs which in most cases are hand-colored prints from his original series. These are quite valuable, much more so than modern reprints which are also available.

The famous portrait artist and naturalist Charles Willson Peale (1741–1827) kept hummingbirds in his house allowing them to fly freely, sometimes sitting on his wife’s shoulder while she fed them sugar-water according to Alexander Wilson’s book, “The Natural His-

tory of the Birds of the United States,” published in 1878. A note: a portrait by Peale of George Washington sold in 2006 for $23.1 million.

During the second half of the 19th century, wearing the feathers or entire bodies of birds on ladies’ hats became very fashionable. Hundreds of thousands of hummingbirds were harvested for the fashion industry in New York, Paris and London every year. Not until 1918 did birds receive federal protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Hummingbirds played important and varying roles in Native American cultures and were part of Cherokee legends for hundreds of years. Due to their ability to hover and fly backwards they implied flexibility and strength. They brought joy and beauty. In the Cherokee Talagi language the word for hummingbird is “tsuwu,” which means “summer” or “sun,” which associates hummingbirds with flowers and light. Hummingbirds carried urgent messages from the Great Spirit to humans in times of necessity.

SMITH COLLEGE PROJECT/PROVIDED Jean de Léri was a French explorer, writer and Protestant minister who wrote a book History of a Voyage to the land of Brazil in 1557. His description of hummingbirds helped generate interest in the birds.

The only hummingbird that breeds east of the Mississippi is the beautiful ruby throated hummingbird. It is by far the most common in Georgia and along the East Coast.

Migrating hummingbirds and others fall victim to collisions with windows and buildings which account for up to one billion bird collisions a year. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Atlanta was ranked the 9th most dangerous city in the U.S. for birds during their spring migration and 4th during fall migration. Hummingbirds are the most frequent victims of collisions according to Birds Georgia.

Georgians love their hummingbirds, not only for their beauty but also for their amazing abilities. They can double their body mass prior to making their non-stop journey across the Gulf of Mexico twice a year. They are defenders of their territories which includes their favorite backyard feeders. They faithfully return every year to their preferred back yard.

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

BOB MEYERS Columnist

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Setting boundaries with small-leaf privet

Plants in the genus, Ligustrum, commonly called privet, are wellknown ornamental plants in the southern garden.

The “Sunshine” cultivar has been bred for its goldenyellow foliage and tolerance to a variety of soil conditions and sunlight. “Swift Creek” is known for its variegated, green-and-cream leaves. However, the original privet species that was used to breed these cultivars did not evolve alongside our native plant and animal communities. Native to Europe and Asia, Ligustrum sinense, also known as small-leaf privet or Chinese privet, was brought to the United States in the 1850s as an ornamental plant.

Since then, small-leaf privet has spread rapidly through yards and gardens and into natural areas across the southeastern and mid-Atlantic U.S. Now listed as a Category I invasive species, smallleaf privet has become a major threat to our locally evolved plants and animals.

Small-leaf privet is a shrub that grows rapidly into dense thickets. For the last century and a half, this feature has been attractive to ornamental gardeners who were looking for privacy shrubs and hedgerows that would fill in quickly. But small-leaf privet has boundary issues and a way of escaping. Their small, abundant fruits entice birds and other wildlife, who eat the berries and disperse the seeds in their droppings. The roots of smallleaf privet also sprout new plants and grow outwards, creating thick monocultures of this intrusive shrub.

Small-leaf privet is an adaptable species and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, climates and amounts of sunlight. It’s even resistant to a notorious plant adversary: deer. As small-leaf privet spreads throughout our natural areas, it shades out native plants, uses up resources and prevents new trees from establishing. Because of its pioneering nature, small-leaf privet is a common sight in open and disturbed areas, such as roadsides, fence rows and forest edges. With a tolerance for shade, it thrives in forest interiors, too.

Small-leaf privet can grow up to 20 feet tall, with multiple trunks

About the author

from UGA Extension or the Georgia Native Plant Society for more native plant options for your landscape. Removal by mowing, cutting or pulling by hand is possible when plants are small and tender. An attentive gardener may be able to spot new stems and control the spread this way. Remove as much of the root system as possible when hand pulling, as new plants can sprout from even small pieces of roots that remain in the soil.

and long branches. Leaves grow in an opposite (parallel) pattern along stems, with smooth margins and a little fuzz on the underside. Being a semi-evergreen plant, it keeps its leaves throughout the winter but will drop some before spring. Clusters of small, white flowers emerge in late spring and summer, which develop into waxy, deep purple berries that hang around through the winter. Because Ligustrum have been bred as ornamental plants for centuries, multiple species and cultivars exist and are still planted widely. Identifying small-leaf privet may be difficult and should be done with

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Gabrielle LaTora, Agriculture and Natural Resources agent for UGA Extension Fulton County. An entomologist by training, Gabrielle is interested in insects on farms and in gardens and is passionate about closing the gap between people and their food. In addition to helping coordinate Fulton’s Master Gardener Extension Volunteer program, Gabrielle oversees the North Fulton Community Garden, answers clients’ questions about gardening and natural resources, works with urban farmers, and delivers educational programs for Fulton County residents. Gabrielle presented “Insect Allies: Predators and Parasitoids in the Garden” in the spring 2023 Gardening Lecture Series presented by the North Fulton Master Gardeners, https:// youtu.be/NZ3um6QXXKc.

diligence.

So, what can be done? Prevention is the first step: avoid planting Ligustrum sinense cultivars in your landscape! There are plenty of locally adapted alternatives, such as inkberry (Ilex glabra), blackhaw (Viburnum prunifolium), and Carolina cherry laurel (Prunus carolinana). Check out resources

The most effective option for larger plants and thickets is to use herbicides. The “Georgia Pest Management Handbook: Home and Garden Edition” has the most upto-date herbicide recommendations for Georgia growers. When applying herbicides to woody plants, cut stump and basal bark treatments pose the lowest risks to non-target plants and animals. A cut stump treatment means that herbicide is painted onto the cut surface of a stump immediately after the plant is cut down. When applied correctly, the herbicide kills the stump and prevents new growth from resprouting. In a basal bark treatment, herbicide is applied only to the base of the tree or shrub. When using any pesticide, always apply according to label directions and rates, and be sure to wear personal protective equipment as listed on the label.

As plant-inclined people, we can garden thoughtfully to protect and preserve our forests and green spaces. Being aware of introduced species and the impacts they have on our local ecosystems is the first step. From there, we can make informed and impactful gardening choices.

If you have questions about small-leaf privet or other introduced species, contact your local county Extension office.

Happy Gardening!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at: https:// www.appenmedia.com/opinion/ columnists/garden_buzz/.

GABRIELLE LATORA Guest Columnist

BARRY RICE/SARRACENIA.COM, BUGWOOD.ORG

Small-leaf privet is a rapidly growing shrub that will form dense thickets if unmanaged.

KARAN A. RAWLINS/UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA, BUGWOOD.ORG

Birds readily eat the berries of smallleaf privet and disperse them throughout the landscape.

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, 4 and 6 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!

RIVERS OF THE WORLD

1. Tributary of the Ohio River. Seaweed. Farm vehicle.

2. Bad to the bone. Soup scoop. Glasgow’s river.

3. Like a yenta. World’s 2nd longest river. Three-toed bird.

4. Carpenter’s tool. Andes beast. River of Tuscany.

5. Garbage. Asian river that rises in the Himalayas. Ruler.

6. Ice house. 18-wheeler.

Rio Grande tributary.

7. Yorkshire river. Bugs bugs him. Dressing type.

1 Tributary of the Ohio River. Seaweed. Farm vehicle.

2. Bad to the bone. Soup scoop. Glasgow’s river

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. Like a yenta. World’s 2nd longest river. Three-toed bird.

4. Carpenter’s tool. Andes beast. River of Tuscany

5. Garbage Asian river that rises in the Himalayas. Ruler.

6. Ice house. 18-wheeler. Rio Grande tributary

7. Yorkshire river. Bugs bugs him. Dressing type

Memorial:

Continued from Page 6

something in Kirk’s honor.

“Thank you for giving us people like Charlie,” Hickey said during a prayer. “Whether people here completely agree with him or not ... thank you for giving us people who speak their minds and want to do it peacefully. God, use us and this memorial for your good.”

Hickey said he wanted to be sure to thank the Dunwoody Police Department for providing security at the event. Because of the increase in politically motivated violence across the United States, the Brook Run Park Amphitheater was surrounded by officers.

No threats were reported.

State Rep. Long Tran, a Democrat from Dunwoody representing northeast DeKalb and parts of Gwinnett County, kicked off the evening by participating in a Kirk-style debate with attendees.

“Jay is a friend of mine,” Tran said. “I don’t want to say that I’m just here because these are my constituents, I have friends and people I’ve known for over 10 years here.”

Tran, elected to serve District 80 in the Georgia House in 2023, said he got to know many community members during his time as a local Boy Scout leader and soccer coach.

“I now the pain even though we are on

different political sides,” Tran said. “I just felt like it’s important to be here to share and agree.”

Stephanie Gomez and Jessica Zolotarezsky, rounding out the trio of event organizers, were behind the scenes ensuring the run of show went smoothly.

Gomez said she was really broken up about Kirk’s death and made it her priority to honor him in some way. As for disruptions during the memorial, she said one woman called everyone “white supremacists” and a person with neoncolored hair gave her the “stink eye.”

Every generation was represented at memorial.

Two students from Riverwood High School played trumpets throughout the evening. A group of Dunwoody High School students standing at the back of the amphitheater said they were in the area and thought it was important enough to stop by.

From baby boomers to toddlers waving American flags at the memorial, Kirk’s life and legacy touched every generation.

Former U.S. Rep. and Libertarian Party presidential candidate Bob Barr, a conservative Republican, said it was a great pleasure to be at the memorial despite the sad occasion.

“I followed Charlie tremendously over the years, the far-too-few number of years that he was with us,” Barr said. “He had a great sense of humor, and I always enjoyed that in him. I miss him terribly … we need people like Charlie.”

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DEATH NOTICES

Kristina Getch, 89, of Alpharetta, passed away on October 11, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Norman Halden, 77, of Alpharetta, passed away on October 10, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Marian Jones, 96, of Roswell, passed away on October 8, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Willard Miller, 69, of Johns Creek, passed away on October 12, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Fulton:

Continued from Page 3

“The judges are elected by the people, and they are responsive to the people,” Arrington said. “We got a judge now that’s trying to hold us in contempt and fine us $10,000 a day that’s not responsible to the people, that’s not subject to a vote.”

Arrington is referencing a court order from Senior Superior Court Judge David Emerson, finding the County Commission in contempt of court for failing to appoint Republican nominees to the County Elections Board.

In August, Emerson found the Board of Commissioners in civil contempt and imposed a $10,000 per day fine unless Republican nominees are seated on the County Elections Board.

The Fulton County Board of Commissioners voted along party lines Sept. 3 to “table” a vote on the Republican Party’s nominees to the Registration and Elections Board until a state Appellate Court ruling.

The daily fines are paused until the ruling.

After the feedback, Corbitt said the county’s priority is to secure a Superior Court judgeship but there are some roadblocks, requiring the state to allocate funding.

“[Judicial officers are] another option to provide additional resources,” Corbitt said. “One of the things we’ve heard over and over again related to our challenges with the jail and our justice system is we just need greater throughput...”

Legal publications

Another legislative priority – the online publication of legal notices –comes amid local media’s shift away from print publications toward digital platforms. The Atlanta JournalConstitution is ceasing its print newspaper at year’s end.

The county’s legal organ is The South Fulton Neighbor, a weekly print

James Smith, 95, of Alpharetta, passed away on October 9, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

newspaper owned by Times-Journal Inc.

“The Neighbor publishes once a week, and frankly, most people do not consume information in print today,” Corbitt said. “There are numerous kinds of public notices, both from Fulton County as a government as well as from individuals doing business in our courts … and so we’re seeking changes.”

Maintaining local control

Corbitt said the final priority, which supports local control and opposes sovereign immunity waivers, stems from legislation covering service agreements between Gwinnett County and the newly created City of Mulberry.

A Georgia law passed early this year dictates the transition of services between Gwinnett County and the city. One provision removes Gwinnett’s legal protections for one year if it fails to cover costs related to infrastructure, public safety and elections.

The provision, SB 138, is seen as setting a precedent, establishing a model for similar laws or policies in other Georgia counties. Fulton County is opposing it because of the legislation’s perceived challenges to local control and increased avenues for litigation.

“That sought to waive that county’s sovereign immunity protections, which is, of course, a very serious matter as a local government,” Corbitt said.

The discussion devolved into a brief shouting match between commissioners over the potential impact on the County Commission’s ability to reject nominees to the County Election Board.

Corbitt said protection of home rule and sovereign immunity is a legislative priority because of the Association County Commissioners concern over precedent.

“We’ve also seen in the past, legislation that was really focused on Fulton County that sought to diminish either home rule powers or other powers of this duly elected body to make laws and to govern local affairs,” Corbitt said.

Voting:

Continued from Page 1

For the full list of early voting locations in Fulton County, click visit https://www. fultoncountyga.gov/inside-fulton-county/ fulton-county-departments/registrationand-elections/early-voting-locations.

Absentee Voting

The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Oct. 24. Absentee ballots must be returned by Election Day, Nov. 4. For more information about absentee ballot applications, visit https://georgia.gov/voteabsentee-ballot.

Forsyth County has a dropbox available during early voting at the voter registration and elections office lobby, 1201 Sawnee Drive in Cumming.

In Fulton County, absentee dropboxes are available at the Alpharetta Library, Buckhead Library, C.T. Martin Recreation Center, East Point Library, Robert F. Fulton Ocee Library, Sandy Springs Library, and Wolf Creek Library.

Absentee ballot drop boxes are available at the Berean Christian Church, Belulah Missionary Baptist Church, Dunwoody Library, Salem-Panola Library and TuckerReid H. Cofer Library. During early voting, absentee ballots can be turned into any drop box.

There is no absentee dropbox at the DeKalb VRE Office this year, but ballots can be hand-delivered to the office during the early voting period.

After early voting ends, absentee ballots can be returned to the DeKalb VRE Office during its business hours on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and until 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 4. Absentee ballots can also be mailed to the Board of Registrars, 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 300, Decatur, GA 30032.

Election Day

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. On Election Day, polls are typically open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but sometimes open later if there are technical problems. Usually, anyone in line at 7 p.m. will be allowed to cast their vote. Also, on Election Day, you must vote at the precinct listed on your voter registration.

NOTICE OF LOCATION AND DESIGN APPROVAL

P. I. 0019136

FORSYTH & FULTON COUNTIES

Notice is hereby given in compliance with Georgia Code 22-2-109 and 32-3-5 that the Georgia Department of Transportation has approved the Location and Design of this project.

The date of location and design approval is: July 16, 2025

Description and Project Proposal: The proposed project will construct an additional northbound and southbound through lane and northbound and southbound dual left turn lanes along SR 141, from Hospital Parkway/East Johns Crossing (City of Johns Creek, Fulton County) to Johns Creek Parkway (Forsyth County). Restriping will provide an additional through-lane along eastbound and westbound McGinnis Ferry Road, from Johns Creek Parkway (West) on the western side of SR 141 to Johns Creek Parkway (East) on the eastern side of SR 141. An RCUT will be constructed at the SR 141 and Johns Creek Town Center Driveway intersection. RCUTs will be constructed at two driveways located on McGinnis Ferry Road approximately 600 feet west of the Johns Creek Parkway (East) intersection. Additionally, a 10-foot wide shareduse path will be installed along northbound SR 141 between Hospital Parkway and north of Johns Creek Parkway to accommodate pedestrian and bicycle traffic. The total project length along SR 141 will be approximately 0.8 miles. The project will construct an additional northbound and southbound through lane and northbound and southbound dual left turn lanes along 0.8 miles of SR 141 in Fulton and Forsyth Counties, land lots 377, 378, 379, 380, 381, 400, 401, 1264,

The typical section along SR 141/Medlock Bridge Road/Peachtree Parkway consists of two to three 11-foot wide thru lanes in each direction, separated by an 8-foot to 20-foot wide raised median, with left and right-turn auxiliary lanes. There is curb and gutter throughout, with a 2-foot wide grass buffer, and a 5-foot wide sidewalk on the left shoulder and 10-foot wide shared-use path (SUP) along the right-shoulder. The City of Johns Creek would be responsible for acquiring property rights for this project.

Drawings or maps or plats of the proposed project, as approved, are on file and are available for public inspection at:

Brian O’Connor, Public Works Director, City of Johns Creek Brian.Oconnor@johnscreekga.gov 11360 Lakefield Drive Johns Creek, GA 30097 678-512-3210

Any interested party may obtain a copy of the drawings or maps or plats or portions thereof by paying a nominal fee and requesting in writing to:

Kimberly W. Nesbitt, State Program Delivery Administrator Office of Program Delivery

Attn: Chris Penuel CPenuel@dot.ga.gov 600 West Peachtree St NW Suite 1550

Atlanta, GA 30308

404-424-9035

Any written request or communication in reference to this project or notice SHOULD include the Project and P. I. Numbers as noted at the top of this notice.

Bilingual (English / Spanish) Donor Operations Supervisor

The Bilingual (English / Spanish) Donor Operations Supervisor (Full-time) 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 others to work as a team in a professional manner. 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

Sr. Quality Engineer to Investigat’g, plng & impl medical prdt improv & Eval critical qlty mnftr procs directly affect patient safety & prdt qlty. Must succ reduce defects of cl’nts devices and must aid in Prod. a better qlty prdt more effly. Writing, execut’g physical, chem test meth’d protocols. Use qlty policies like EU MDR, 21CFR820 set forth by FDA, reply to cust cmpnts., perf. audits, dvlp test methods, validat’n etc. Sr. Validation Engineer to create, review, execut’n, approval of validat’n protocols, reports, review, assess vendr protocols with Docmntn. Prepare doc like change cntrl, user reqmts spec (URS), dsgn qualif(DQ), installat’n qualif(IQ), ops qualif (OQ), perf qualif(PQ), clean’g validat’n, process validat’n(PPQ & CPV) in support of eqmt, Utlts, facilities, prdt & procs. Travel in the cntxt of reloc may be required at least 1-2 times/yr based on clients’ needs. Apply with 2 copies of resume to HR, Fusion Life Sciences Technologies, LLC. 6110 McFarland Station Dr, Suite 502, Alpharetta, GA 30004

Product Tester, Software sought by Ingenico Inc. in Alpharetta, GA to develop and execute software testing to test and evaluate software tools imbedded in payment hardware. Prepare Software Detailed Product Requirement Specifications, including functionalities, User Interface, and API for Firmware and Software Development Kits to support testing, quality assurance, and performance improvement. Serve as technical interface with customers’ developers to test and troubleshoot integration of our product into their solution. Respond to customer inquiries, triage issues, identify scope, and gather information to ensure cases are properly documented. Remote work possible from home office located within commuting distance of Alpharetta, GA HQ. Must work in office 2 days per week. Quarterly travel to client sites and training centers in Europe and Asia as needed. Interested candidates should email resumes to Laura McCartney at laura. mccartney@ingenico.com. Reference code PTS46 in response.

Part-time

ESL Contractor Instructor (Evening)

Bilingual (English / Spanish) Donor Operations Supervisor

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.

The Bilingual (English / Spanish) Donor Operations Supervisor (Full-time) 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.

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.

Truck Driver

Bilingual (English / Spanish) Donor Operations Supervisor

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 Bilingual (English / Spanish) Donor Operations Supervisor (Full-time) 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 Truck Driver works Monday through Friday 9am – 2pm and periodically on Saturdays or Sundays for special events.

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

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 others to work as a team in a professional manner. 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

Looking for a creative hairstylist for an established salon in Johns Creek. Bilingual preferred. Flexible hours. Call/ Text 201-320-7901

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

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 others to work as a team in a professional manner. Must have the ability to work Tuesday through Saturday 9am – 5pm. An extraordinary Total Rewards Package is included with this opportunity!

To place a classified ad, email

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

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