Children rush to collect plastic eggs sprinkled across the Cambridge High School
annual community egg hunt March 21.
Egg hunt draws thousands to Cambridge High campus
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — An estimated 3,000 people attended Milton’s community egg hunt March 21 to enjoy food, outdoor activities and hunt for eggs spread across the Cambridge High School football field.
“The community egg hunt is such a fun reminder of what
makes Milton special,” Emily Salerno, Milton Community Outreach Manager said. “Having this one on such a beautiful day, with incredible support from our sponsors and vendors, made it even better.”
Participants raced against others in their age group to collect plastic eggs which were exchanged for goodie bags of candy. Throughout the 4-hour
event, 16 egg hunts took place which included a sensorysensitive egg hunt.
“The community egg hunt is about more than just egg hunts,” the city posted on Facebook. “From giant inflatable slides to climbing walls to trucks with treats and a whole lot more, there was plenty to kids and their folks amused and engaged for hours on end.”
County extends access to healthcare services Page 4
Alpharetta Lions Club banquet celebrates public safety heroes
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — In a room overlooking the Atlanta National Golf Course, Alpharetta Lions Club members, award recipients and spouses gathered March 26 to celebrate select public safety personnel for their service to the cities of Alpharetta and Milton.
Two individuals from each city’s public safety departments were recognized as outstanding members of the police, fire or emergency communications departments. It’s the 25th year that the Alpharetta Lions Club has honored local public safety officials.
After the twin towers collapsed Sept. 11, 2001, Lions Club members wanted to recognize heroes in their communities for serving with the same bravery and commitment as those who selflessly saved lives on 9/11.
See BANQUET, Page 25
Emergency Communications Officer Sheana Miller attends the Alpharetta Lions Club annual public safety awards dinner March 26 to be recognized as Alpharetta’s Outstanding Communications Officer of the year.
OKSANA SOLOVEI/PROVIDED
football field at Milton’s
HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
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Sandy Springs amends policy to allow motorcycle chases
By CARL APPEN carl@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Sandy Springs Police Department has amended its rules for vehicle pursuits, now allowing officers to chase motorcyclists.
The move expands a policy that was already more aggressive than surrounding jurisdictions, according to a 2025 analysis by Appen Media.
The reporting indicated that the previous year Sandy Springs officers had engaged in more than twice the number of chases than police in Alpharetta, Dunwoody and Roswell combined, based on interviews and an analysis of public records.
According to a department report recently obtained by Appen Media, the agency updated its policy in October to allow officers to pursue motorcycles.
A police spokesperson said there wasn’t a specific incident that spurred the change.
“No reason in particular other than a policy review and update,” the spokesperson told the newspaper. Law enforcement officials agree that the decision to pursue fleeing motorists is a balancing act; departments must weigh the risk for officers, suspects and bystanders against the danger of not apprehending the suspect at that time.
How Sandy Springs police make that calculation is what sets them apart from neighboring cities.
Alpharetta, Roswell and Dunwoody policies prohibit officers from pursuing vehicles based on traffic charges alone.
Following the Department of Justice’s guidance, Alpharetta and Roswell also say pursuits should be avoided if it’s evident the suspect could be apprehended at a later time.
Sandy Springs relies on a more situational approach, allowing pursuits based on the “totality of circumstances.”
In 2024, Alpharetta reported five police pursuits, Roswell documented 10
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The aftermath of pursuit along Ga. 400 and I-285 in 2024 shows a Sandy Springs Police Department patrol car pinning a suspect’s Volkswagen against the median barrier. The city has expanded its chase policy to allow pursuing motorcyclists.
and Dunwoody logged two.
Sandy Springs officers engaged in at least 41 car chases in 2024, according to an Appen Media analysis. They logged another 39 in 2025, the department said in its annual report.
Those figures are up from 2023, when Sandy Springs reported 17 pursuits.
Department officials attributed the rise to a “major policy change” in 2024.
The amended policy allowed for more discretion or freedom for officers, allowing them to pursue a fleeing vehicle if they have reasonable suspicion that a crime has been committed or is about to occur.
The October change further expanded that allowance.
The city does not shy away from its practice of pursuing vehicles and using
Precision Immobilization Techniques, or PIT maneuvers.
The Sandy Springs Police Department has published footage of some its chases, ending in box-ins or PIT maneuvers, on social media.
“When running from the police, do not enter Sandy Springs,” they said in a January Instagram post showing an SSPD officer PIT-ting a chevy on Peachtree Dunwoody Road.
The officers won’t be totally unaccustomed to chasing suspects on two wheels, however.
In one incident from February 2025, Sandy Springs police tried to pull a bicyclist over for riding without a bike light. When the suspect allegedly failed to stop, two police cars got on either side of him. Eventually, a spokesperson told Appen Media, “he gave up.”
SANDY SPRINGS POLICE DEPARTMENT/FACEBOOK
A NEW CHAPTER IS CALLING. A PLACE THAT FEELS LIKE YOURS.
The right move isn’t just about where you go — it’s about how you grow. Inspired by the Ritz-Carlton standard, Peachtree Town & Country believes exceptional service is rooted in trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. With the opening of our new permanent office in North Atlanta this April, we continue to build a brand defined by intention.
For those who expect more of themselves, and their brokerage, this is your next move. Your next chapter starts here.
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North Fulton taps into health, senior services
Alpharetta building upgrade brings county aid to residents
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
NORTH FULTON, Ga. — Residents in North Fulton County will have access to health services closer to home soon when the county opens its new health and human services operation at 4700 North Point Parkway in Alpharetta.
Fulton County has invested $15.4 million since 2019 restoring the facility to offer a range of services under one roof, such as senior services, recovery treatment and behavioral health therapy.
The location includes a new neighborhood senior center where residents can take provided transportation to participate in activities, such as art or nutrition classes. Lunch will be provided daily.
Pamela Roshell, Ph.D., chief operating officer for Fulton County, said they know many individuals in the community have adults that they’re caring for at home. That’s why the new building offers adult day services, providing relief for caregivers to rest or prioritize other business for the day.
Children and adults can get
outpatient or group therapy at the center, and families of those with developmental disabilities can receive training or support services on site.
The Fulton County Board of Health will relocate to the new building off Ga. 400, allowing residents to obtain vital records without traveling downtown. The center will continue offering services including children’s dental and specialized healthcare for women, infants and children.
Restaurant and business owners can visit the center’s environmental health and inspections unit on site.
Individuals that have opted to receive treatment through Fulton County’s alternative sentencing program can participate in group treatment sessions, substance use testing and program meetings at the center.
Roshell emphasized that the facility is not a housing facility, crisis or emergency center, and it does not offer inpatient treatment.
A ribbon cutting on the Fulton County Health and Human Services –North is scheduled for Thursday, April 16 at 11 a.m. On Saturday, April 18, residents can attend a community open house from 10 a.m. until noon to tour the facility and learn more about its available services.
HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
Fulton County’s new Health & Human Services building located minutes off Ga. 400 in Alpharetta offers a range of services under one roof, such as senior services and therapy programs.
KENNY GRIMES PHOTOGRAPHY/PROVIDED
seven points via five goals and two assists, ending Cambridge’s 5-0 streak in the fourth quarter and scoring the final goal of the game to beat the Bears 12-8.
Milton girls lacrosse outlasts Cambridge
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — Milton girls lacrosse mounted a fourth quarter comeback to defeat Cambridge High 12-8, notching revenge on last year’s 8-7 loss to the Bears.
The teams share a common loss this season to West Forsyth. Milton’s 12-9 defeat is their only one so far this year. Cambridge has taken two more to Florida teams Ponte Vedra and Lake Highland Prep.
Last time the teams met, Bears goalie Susie McElheny shut the Eagles out in the final period to secure a win for Cambridge. This time around, the Eagles would not be denied in the fourth quarter. After Cambridge went on a 5-0 streak starting in the second frame, senior attacker Kylie Waters found the back of the net from close range to tie the game.
After two more Milton goals by Taglienti sisters Anna Kate and Eleanor, Waters scored her fifth goal of the game on a free position shot to close out the 4-0 run in the fourth quarter.
Waters reflected on how the team came together to secure the win.
“When we’re in a rush on offense, that’s when we make our most mistakes,” she said. “I think we did a really good job taking our time and being patient because we just wanted it more.”
Waters was often guarded by Cambridge’s Johnson sisters, Gabi and Abby. Gabi, a senior, played on the same club lacrosse team as Waters with Eagle Stix. The pair also attended many recruiting camps together.
Waters, Gabi and several other players from both teams gathered after the game to take a group photo. Waters said the familiarity makes for a competitive game. The teams have a rivalry of sorts despite their friendship.
“I just love playing against [Gabi] because she really challenges me,” Waters said.
She said the team’s second wind in the fourth quarter came from a necessary push from coaching staff.
“Honestly, I think we play best when we get yelled at,” she said. “The name written over our chest doesn’t make us a winner. We actually have to win the game, that’s what Coach Meg told us.”
From left, Milton senior Kylie Waters drives on Cambridge sophomore Ella Alberici at Milton High School March 24. Waters posted
Milton Down & Derby event to benefit children’s hospital
MILTON, Ga. — The Milton Friends of Children will host its fourth annual Down & Derby fundraiser at The Green at Crabapple Market Saturday, May 2.
The event supports Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, helping ensure that children across Georgia have access to the life-saving care, critical programs, advanced treatments and care for pediatric patients and their families.
Down & Derby invites guests to don bold hats and seersucker suits for an evening of live entertainment, food and giving opportunities, blending the excitement of race day with a philanthropic experience.
“Down & Derby has quickly become a can’t-miss event, not only because of its vibrant atmosphere, but because of the meaningful difference it makes in the lives of children,” said Jennifer
Linn, co-chair of the 2026 event. “Every ticket purchased and every sponsorship secured helps fuel hope, healing and brighter futures.”
Guests at Down & Derby can expect an immersive derby-inspired experience offering an open bar, a live and silent auction and music.
Sponsorship packages are open for individuals and companies looking to align their brand with a local organization while making a powerful community impact. Opportunities range from prominent event recognition to exclusive VIP experiences.
Early ticket purchases are strongly encouraged and can be purchased online.
The Down & Derby will be from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. at 12650 Crabapple Road in Milton.
— Hannah Yahne
RACHEL YATTEAU PHOTOGRAPHY/PROVIDED
Fashion at the Down & Derby is always in fine form, with guests wearing florals and bright colors to suits and cowboy boots.
The crowd gathers around the giant screen in the courtyard to watch the Kentucky Derby in May 2025.
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Hidden Gem in Alpharetta: Phase Family Learning Center Brings Four Community Pillars Under One Roof
Alpharetta, GA — Tucked into the heart of Alpharetta is a one-of-a-kind facility quietly transforming how families live, work, worship, and celebrate together. Phase Family Learning Center is redefining community support by offering four essential services — childcare, coworking, event hosting, and church gatherings — all within one welcoming space.
Four Entities. One Building. Endless Possibilities.
Childcare That Supports the Whole Family
Monday through Friday, Phase Family Learning Center provides values and principles based childcare, camps, and after-school services designed to nurture children in a safe, engaging environment. While children learn and grow, parents don’t have to choose between productivity and proximity.
Coworking Designed with Parents in Mind
During regular operating hours, parents enjoy access to a free coworking space — allowing them to work comfortably while their children are cared for just steps away. In addition, The Commons coworking space extends its offerings to the broader community, featuring flexible workspace, a professional podcast studio, meeting rooms, and private business offices for rent. Entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small business owners alike are finding a home base that fosters productivity and collaboration.
A Premier Destination for Events
Looking for the perfect venue?
Phase Family Learning Center offers seven private event spaces ready to host everything from corporate meetings and fundraisers to birthdays, weddings, fashion shows, and the increasingly popular NFC Nights. Whether planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration, the center’s team works closely with hosts to turn dream events
into memorable realities.
A Place for Worship and Community
On Sundays, the building transitions into a place of worship, hosting church services from Futures Church and ATL Hub. Though weekday operations pause, the mission of serving families continues through faith-based community gatherings.
Supporting Families Through All Phases of Life
Phase Family Learning Center lives up to its name by supporting individuals and families through every stage — from early childhood education to entrepreneurship, celebration, and spiritual growth. By blending practical services with intentional community-building, the center has become a hidden gem for families seeking connection and convenience in one central location.
Residents of Alpharetta and surrounding areas are encouraged to schedule a tour and experience firsthand how Phase Family Learning Center can support them in this next chapter of life. Through all phases of life, they are here to serve.
Phase Family Learning Center 470-298-7579 alpharetta.work@phase.center
So, if you are a physically challenged adult and you’re in the Metro Atlanta area, you instantly have a community where you can … just be together.
RICK THOMPSON, Founder, Champions Community Foundation
Disabled adults find kinship at Champions Place
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — For Alison Schwab, living at Champions Place in Roswell alongside 13 other physically disabled young adults is the college experience she never had.
“This has been adulthood with training wheels, and it’s been really nice to have this safety net and knowing that all of these people have my back,” Schwab said.
Schwab has grown up alongside most of the residents since she was 11 and started playing wheelchair sports with them through the Titan Program, another arm of the Champions Community Foundation.
The Champions Community Foundation was founded in 2009 by Rick Thompson to fight the isolation and depression that young adults with conditions, such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, can face after aging out of high school.
Two of Thompson’s three kids were born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy – his daughter passed away when she was 3. Matthew, his second son, was once expected not to live past 10, but is now in his 30s.
When Matthew was nearing the end of high school, Thompson found his life’s calling starting the Titan Program which has grown to offer wheelchair sports and social events to more than 130 individuals. That turned into a dream of offering people in this community a safe and accessible independent living environment.
The importance of this is amplified during March, National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. In 2024, nearly 500,000 Georgians ages 15 and older were living with a disability that
impacts their independent living abilities, according to the Center for Research on Disability. Nationally, that number raises to 16.2 million individuals with independent living disabilities.
Thompson said people have come from across the country to see what Champions Place offers and walked away crying once they see that independence is possible for their loved one.
The Champions Place Foundation has a partnership with Georgia Tech and Google through which they’ve donated assistive technology that helps residents control their fans, televisions, lights and make hands-free calls.
Thompson recognized that the ability
to live independently is something they had to share with others who aren’t living at Champions Place. So, they launched Champions Place @ Home and have equipped 54 homes with physically challenged young adults with the same technology.
“For the first time, the parents in this community are going places and seeing things because they can,” Thompson said. “Because of the infrastructure and support, they’re not worried about it.”
Since opening in 2020, Champions Place offers a social hub to those involved in the Champions Community Foundation. Volunteers host monthly events, such as trivia and movie nights,
and they throw holiday parties and fundraisers on-site.
For those unable to make in-person events, the nonprofit created Champions Community Connect, an online option for people to participate in Bible studies and bingo nights. They offer an “Around the World” series that teaches about different cultures by “traveling” to various countries – next month is the Galapagos Islands.
“So, if you are a physically challenged adult and you’re in the Metro Atlanta area, you instantly have a community where you can … just be together,” Thompson said.
See CHAMPIONS, Page 9
HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
From left, residents Noelle Ford, Sarah Grace, Adam Laarhoven and Josh Cusick smile after participating in a group rowing workout session at Champions Place March 17.
BUSINESSPOSTS
Champions:
Continued from Page 8
The building contains four residential “quads,” each with four bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchenette, laundry machines and television. Common spaces are spread throughout the house, such as fire pits, dining area, family room and kitchen.
Volunteers host events in the family room, like group workouts or karaoke, or invite residents out to play adaptive golf and other sports.
“We’ve changed their lives and their parents’ lives,” Thompson said. “And there’s over 500 volunteers a year that have changed perceptions and all that, but it doesn’t stop there.”
Most of the residents at Champions Place are employed, mainly at retail or customer service jobs. Thomspon said the residents have learned that they can have
purpose through jobs, through volunteering and community.
“It’s words like self-reliance, self-esteem and purpose,” Thompson said. “They are fiercely independent – they almost brag about it.”
The independent living community has plans to expand resident capacity by 40 percent by late 2027. Plans for a new twostory building will offer four more resident rooms and two in-house staff apartments. Thompson plans to have two occupational therapy students from Georgia State on call overnight in exchange for apartment housing at Champions Place.
With this addition, Thomspon said they’re going to welcome six new families.
The Champions Place Foundation is fundraising $4 million to construct the new living space, and Thompson said they’re at about 75 percent of that goal in nine months.
“Sometimes I think we’re in the hope business,” Thompson said. “We give
people hope. They’re in despair and we give them hope.”
It’s all laughter and chit chat when residents gather in the family room. They joke with one another and greet volunteers as they come and go from the building.
Despite residents’ ages spanning from 26 to 42, they’ve bonded through their shared experiences.
“I’m not related to them by blood, obviously,” resident Josh Cusick said, “but I do think of them as my chosen family.”
CHAMPIONS PLACE/PROVIDED
Residents at Champions Place gather for a photo in the family room.
Is your home always market ready?
Here’s how to stay prepared without the stress
Brought to you by - Regan Burr | REALTOR | HOME Luxury Real Estate, North Atlanta | 404.909.9520 | Regan@HOMEgeorgia.com | Instagram: @homewithreganburr
In a community like Milton and throughout North Atlanta homes can move quickly when they’re priced and presented well. And while many people think preparing to sell starts when the “For Sale” sign goes up, the truth is the best results usually come when your home has been market ready long before that decision is made.
Life changes fast. Job relocations, growing families, downsizing, or simply the right opportunity can shift your plans overnight. When your home is consistently cared for and thoughtfully styled, you’re able to move forward confidently instead of feeling overwhelmed. As the fitness gurus say, If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.
Here’s how to keep your home looking fresh, polished, and ready without feeling like you live in a showroom.
Declutter like you might move next year
You don’t have to strip your home of personality, but clean surfaces and organized closets make a huge difference. Buyers in North Atlanta are often looking for space, and that includes storage space. If your closets are overflowing, it sends the message that there isn’t enough room.
A good rule of thumb? Keep closets about 70% full and clear off kitchen and bathroom counters as much as possible. It makes your home feel bigger instantly.
Keep paint and finishes fresh
Neutral walls will always win in resale. Soft whites, light warm neutrals, and subtle grieges photograph beautifully and appeal to the widest range of buyers. If you notice scuffs on trim or doors, touch them up right away. These small details may seem minor, but they communicate whether a home has been well cared for.
Stay ahead of curb appeal
In Milton and North Atlanta, curb appeal matters. With larger lots, beautiful landscaping, and charming front porches, buyers form opinions before they even step inside. Keep hedges trimmed, refresh mulch seasonally, pressure wash driveways and walkways, and make sure your front door feels welcoming. Updated hardware, fresh planters, and clean windows go a long way in our market.
Maintain instead of postpone
Little things become big things in a buyer’s mind. Fix the dripping faucet. Replace burnt out bulbs. Service your HVAC regularly. When a home feels maintained, buyers feel confident. When small issues are visible, they start wondering what else hasn’t been addressed.
Style with intention
I asked my dear friend and local interior designer here in Milton, what she recommends for homeowners who want to stay market-ready.
Her advice? Edit and elevate.
She suggests investing in updated light fixtures, using crisp white bedding in the primary bedroom, and incorporating cohesive pillows and accessories that feel intentional-not random. Swapping outdated fixtures for simple, modern lighting can completely transform a space without a major renovation.
She also encourages homeowners to soften bold design choices. Personality is wonderful, but neutral foundations help buyers emotionally connect to the home.
Make deep cleaning a habit
A consistently clean one is far easier to show than one that’s cleaned in a rush. Add baseboards, ceiling fans, grout, and windows to your regular rotation. In our competitive North Atlanta market, a home that looks and smells fresh stands out immediately.
Keeping your home market-ready isn’t about perfection. It’s about pride of ownership and thoughtful upkeep. Whether you’re planning to sell next month or five years from now, these simple habits protect your investment and give you flexibility when opportunity knocks.
And in a place like Milton, being ready can make all the difference.
The most dangerous place for seniors
Brought to you by – Bath and Kitchen Galleria
The bathroom, a place we take for granted, transforms into one of the most hazardous areas in the home for aging seniors. With slippery surfaces, high tub walls, and the need for frequent maneuvering, the risk of falls—the leading cause of injury among older adults—spikes dramatically. John Hogan, President of Bath and Kitchen Galleria and Aging in Place Expert says, “Proactive bathroom modifications are not merely an upgrade; they are an essential investment in the long-term safety, independence, and dignity of our seniors.”
To mitigate the dangers, several specific aspects of the bathroom should be modified to create a supportive and accessible environment:
Shower and Bathtub: The single greatest fall risk is often stepping over a high tub wall. The ideal solution is a curbless or low-threshold walk-in shower to eliminate this barrier entirely. For added security, install a permanent shower seat or bench and a handheld showerhead to allow for comfortable, seated bathing. Shower floor should have non-slip tile surfaces.
Grab Bars: Strategically placed sturdy, professional-grade grab bars are critical. They must be securely anchored into wall studs, not just
the drywall. Placement is key: near the toilet to assist with sitting and standing, and both inside and just outside the shower/tub for secure entry and exit. Modern grab bars come in a variety of stylish finishes to seamlessly blend with your décor.
Toilet Area: A standard toilet can be difficult to use for those with limited mobility. Installing a comfort-height or raised toilet seat reduces the strain on joints and makes the transition from sitting to standing much easier. Pairing this with well-placed grab bars provides a significant boost in stability.
Flooring and Lighting: Replace slippery tile or remove loose bathmats and throw rugs, which are tripping
hazards. Install slip-resistant flooring throughout the bathroom. Finally, good lighting is paramount. Bright, even lighting—including motion-sensor nightlights—helps seniors navigate safely, especially during middle-of-thenight trips.
By implementing these thoughtful changes, the bathroom can evolve from a high-risk area into a secure, comfortable, and accessible space that supports an aging senior’s desire to age in place safely at home. For more information visit Bath and Kitchen Galleria’s showroom at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector in Alpharetta (no appointment needed) or call them at 678-459-2292.
Tune-Up Projects
Kitchen Tune-Up
Paint Cabinets
New Countertops, Sink & Faucet
New Backsplash
Cut Down 2-level
Island
Bathroom Tune-Up
New Countertops, Sink & Faucet
Enlarge Shower
Shower Glass
Shower Safety
Full Remodel Projects
Kitchen Remodel
Total Cabinet Replacement
Large Island
Optimize Cabinet / Appliance Locations
Open Concept –Move Walls
9-5 Mon-Fri • 10-4 Sat
Showroom – Design Center
Bathroom Remodel
New Larger Shower
Vanity Replacement –Cabs, Counter, Sink
Free Standing Tub
Floor Tile, Wall Tile
Plumbing Fixtures
New Lake Society on Lake Lanier raises the standard for active adult living
Brought to you by - Lake Society on Lake Lanier
One of Lake Lanier’s most anticipated new home communities has arrived.
Lake Society on Lake Lanier is a dynamic new destination for elevated active adult living exclusively for those ages 55 and better. The community makes the most of its spectacular setting on 186 acres along Lake Lanier where picturesque views of the lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains on the horizon await around every corner. Against this backdrop, Lake Society’s carefully refined master plan combines an array of resort-style amenities, community docks and boat slips with a select portfolio of luxurious, low-maintenance homes from two awardwinning Atlanta new home builders. The community’s first release is now selling with introductory home prices ranging from the $600s to over $1 million. Lake
Society will celebrate its Grand Opening on Saturday, April 25 from 11 am to 2 pm with the premiere of six new designer model homes.
Lake Society was designed for living well, and homeowners will find no shortage of ways to connect and enjoy here. The community’s amenities will be centered in a 14,000 square foot clubhouse home to gathering spaces, a demonstration/catering kitchen, activities rooms, theater, golf simulator and putting green, as well as restaurant dining at The Crown & Anchor. Just beyond will be the club pools - a beach entry resort pool with cabanas and a covered, heated lap pool with warming room - and an outdoor amphitheater and games lawn as well as the Racquet Club which will offer both clay tennis courts and pickleball courts. An onsite Activities Director will keep the social scene thriving with a bustling calendar
of events, activities, and clubs to enjoy. Initial construction work on the Club has already begun.
Perhaps the Lake Society’s most irresistible attraction is its stretch of shoreline along Lake Lanier. Community docks and 134 available boat slips will delight lake lovers who can get the boat in the water without leaving the neighborhood. There will also be kayak and paddle board storage and a lakeside pavilion and barbecue area, not to mention gorgeous vantage points throughout the community to enjoy breathtaking views across the water with the blue ridge of mountains in the distance. The community is connected by a network of winding sidewalks, meandering trails, and quiet green spaces.
New single-family homes at Lake Society are offered by leading Atlanta home builders Southwyck Communities
and O’Dwyer Homes. Each brings to the community a proven track record of excellence in crafting exceptional new active adult homes that combine thoughtful design and trusted quality. All homes on offer are designed for sophisticated, low maintenance livingcombining easy functionality, versatile options, and tailored style that home buyers can personalize to fit their unique life and lifestyle.
New homes at Lake Society are pre-selling now. Those interested in exploring this iconic new destination are encouraged to experience it firsthand by scheduling a tour or joining the Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, April 25 from 11 am to 2 pm for the official unveiling of the community’s model home villages. Additional information on Lake Society, directions to the community and more can be found at lakesocietylanier. com.
How does the probate process actually start?
Brought to you by
– Estates Law Center USA
Many people assume the court automatically begins probate when someone passes away. But that’s not how it works.
Probate usually begins when someone needs legal access or title to assets—such as a home, vehicle, or financial accounts. When families try to transfer ownership, they often discover that probate must first be opened through the court.
In most cases, nothing actually happens with the estate until someone files paperwork with the probate court to officially open the case. This is usually done by a family member, an executor named in the will, or sometimes an attorney assisting the family.
Once probate is opened, the court oversees the legal process of
identifying assets, paying debts, and eventually distributing what remains to heirs or beneficiaries. While this process may sound straightforward, it often becomes lengthy and expensive.
Many families are surprised to learn that probate can take 1–2 years or longer to fully complete. During that time, assets can be tied
up in court, and loved ones may not have immediate access to funds or property.
In addition to the time involved, probate can also be costly. In many cases, probate expenses can total 5–15% of the value of the estate when court costs, attorney fees, administrative expenses, and delays
are considered. That means a significant portion of what someone spent their life building can be lost to the probate process.
For example, an estate worth $500,000 could potentially see $25,000–$75,000 or more consumed by probate-related costs and delays.
This is one of the reasons many families choose to plan ahead.
With proper planning, it is often possible to avoid probate entirely. One of the most effective ways to do this is by establishing a living trust, which allows assets to pass directly to beneficiaries without the delays, costs, and court involvement of probate.
Instead of assets being tied up in court for years, a trust allows families to maintain privacy, reduce expenses, and ensure a smoother transfer of wealth to loved ones.
Understanding how probate works—and how it can negatively impact your family is an important part of estate planning.
If you'd like to learn more about how probate works and how to avoid it, we walk through the process stepby-step in our educational workshops or one on one consultations.
PROVIDED
A maturing housing market
“The Atlanta real estate market is not slowing, it is maturing. After several years of extraordinary pace, we are returning to a market where preparation, pricing discipline, and trusted guidance once again determine the best outcomes.”
— Bill Rawlings, Founder & CEO, Peachtree Town & Country
Atlanta’s housing market is entering a
more balanced phase after several years of historically low inventory and rapid price growth. While the pace has moderated from the extraordinary conditions of 2020–2023, demand across much of Metro Atlanta remains strong.
Inside the Perimeter Intown neighborhoods continue to face structural supply constraints.
Limited land and redevelopment opportunities keep inventory tight, and well-prepared homes in desirable neighborhoods continue to attract strong buyer interest.
Outside the Perimeter
Greater land availability has allowed inventory to expand modestly in many suburban markets, giving buyers more options and creating a healthier negotiating environment. Even so, most Atlanta submarkets remain below the six-month supply considered a fully balanced market.
A market returning to fundamentals
What we’re seeing today is not a slowdown, but a return to fundamentals. Buyers are more thoughtful, sellers must price strategically, and preparation plays a critical role in achieving the best results.
At Peachtree Town & Country, our focus remains the same: providing the local expertise and strategic guidance that helps our clients navigate the market with confidence.
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RAWLINGS
Volunteers pitch in to rebuild Wacky World playground
By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Community was more than just a concept for the 1,500 volunteers who helped rebuild Alpharetta’s beloved Wacky World playground at Wills Park.
On March 23, the next generation of the playground began to take shape. The sounds of power tools and worksite radio music mingled as the volunteers focused on the task at hand.
Volunteers swarmed over the worksite, performing all manner of tasks. Some toted 2-by-4s or handed out cups of screws. Others operated heavy machinery like jackhammers and power saws.
Most everyone was getting their hands dirty.
The project is part of a $29.5 million parks bond approved by voters in 2021.
The new playground’s rubber surface, sunshades and play structures came at a cost of about $2 million with some $500,000 from donations.
Morgan Rodgers, Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services director, said relying on volunteers provided some cost savings, but the primary motivation was to cultivate a sense of community and ownership for Wacky World. The original playground was constructed with volunteers in 1997.
“It is intangible, but it is so important,” Rodgers said. “The sense of community is hard to put a price tag on. It’s priceless, and we want to make sure that we’re doing everything we can to build that.”
Work on the new playground proceeded at a surprisingly quick pace,
Rodgers said.
“If you’d come out here seven days ago, there was nothing out here but holes, absolutely nothing,” he said.
Rodgers said he likes to imagine volunteers running into each other years later and sharing fond memories of the work they shared.
“People are going to see each other and say, ‘You were at that community build. You were the one that was holding that board where I screwed it in,” he said.
Numerous residents from across Alpharetta participated in the two-stage build from March 9-14 and on March 23-25. Residents ages 21 and up were allowed to contribute.
Even older residents like Bonnie Steadman, who uses a walker, were put to work. Steadman spent four days working at the tool tent.
“I’m handicapped, and I have had a blast,” said Steadman, who once frequented the original playground when her sons were children.
Representatives of Play by Design, which was responsible for the design, oversaw the reconstruction process each day. Their team also is responsible for safety code compliance.
Play By Design owner Lee Archin, who worked alongside volunteers, said he was impressed with the enthusiasm of Alpharetta’s residents and the city’s commitment to including them.
“There was history created here 20 some years ago when Wacky World was first created by volunteers,” Archin said. “And people still talk about that like it was yesterday. Their experience that they had, It’s very sacred.”
Rodgers said he thinks of the
community build as a professional construction process that draws on local pride. Volunteers were sorted into skilled and unskilled worker categories, each equally important.
Many skilled workers were self-taught who developed a degree of expertise through ambitious home renovations.
“Most of them are lawyers, doctors, salesmen and all that,” Rodgers said. “But they’re just handy. They’ve built decks on their house. They’ve done all their home improvement projects.”
Best friends Kori Fortman and Kelley Janzen said they fall into that category. The women spent the late morning drilling screws into a tower.
Janzen is currently redoing her pantry at home and soon plans to rebuild her kitchen’s cabinets. Fortman renovates and flips old furniture in her free time.
The friends, both with young children, said a good playground is essential for any community. They and their children frequented the previous Wacky World, particularly enjoying its size and safety features.
For Janzen and Fortman, helping out was only fair considering how much they plan to use the new facility.
“If you’re going to participate in the fun afterwards, then you might as well participate in the work,” Fortman said.
PHOTOS BY: JON WILCOX/APPEN MEDIA
Volunteers and construction professionals gather March 23 to rebuild the popular Wacky World playground at Alpharetta’s Wills Park.
Volunteers work on a playground structure at Wacky World in Alpharetta March 23.
OPINION
Housing flexibility can help sustain North Fulton
By KATHY SWAHN, NANCY DIAMOND, JACK MURPHY North Fulton Improvement Network Executive Team Improvenorthfulton.org
In a 2022 study, the real estate firm Redfin estimated that almost 1 in 3 empty-nest baby boomers live in houses with 3+ unused bedrooms. With limited downsize options and high interest rates, there doesn’t seem to be much incentive to move. Add to that, the fact that many of us have accumulated a lot of “stuff” that our kids don’t want but we can’t part with, and you have a real bottleneck.
Here is one reason financially savvy seniors may be motivated to sell. Public schools in North Fulton, the gem that attracted most of us to this area in the first place, are losing enrollment at a significant pace. And the impact that may have on future housing prices is something to consider.
Yes, it is true that a nationwide decline in birth rate is impacting schools everywhere. But the numbers that Fulton County Schools (FCS)
recently released show that the decline is more severe in our area than in most. Given the tactics that DeKalb County is considering –closing 27 schools – FCS may need to take a similar approach.
Overall, FCS showed a decline of 1,579 students countywide. Eightythree percent of that decline was in north county schools. Enrollment at private schools also showed a decline. Where these students went is a different research project.
In our view, the most important differentiator impacting enrollment is the number of new housing units available to families. In the fourth quarter of last year, there were 437 homes (single family, townhouses, or condos) available in South Fulton. There were 339 available in North Fulton. North Fulton schools educate 62 percent of the total FCS student population.
We don’t have enough workforce housing options in North Fulton to attract young families and encourage student growth! It is in all our best interests to come together to solve this challenge.
Affordable housing continues to be a serious issue across North Metro Atlanta. Groups like the North Fulton Improvement Network are trying to help, and Appen Media is dedicated to covering the process. Send ideas, questions and feedback to newsroom@appenmedia.com. Find more information from NFIN at improvenorthfulton.org.
We don’t need to simply build more housing…we need the right kind of housing.
We need housing for seniors to downsize without losing the community they helped build. We need places for nurses, teachers and public safety workers to have the option to live close to their jobs. We need places for young families to put down roots, populate our schools and pay local taxes.
In short, we need more attainable units for middle-income workers. To accomplish that will require average
citizens to urge elected officials to work together to solve the problem. The first step is to adjust zoning rules that restrict housing options.
Housing density seems to scare almost as many people as the term “affordable housing.” However, many communities have developed zoning that allows for “gentle” density –the kind of zoning that allows for duplexes and triplexes that can look much like any other single-family home.
If you want to help maintain the value of your home when you choose to sell, you need to get involved with your elected officials. Tell them that you want zoning that will save our schools.
In a recent op-ed in the Appen papers, Superintendent of Fulton County Schools Mike Looney said, “Strong schools help create stable neighborhoods and a thriving local economy. It is well established that communities with strong public schools attract families and support healthy property values, protecting the investment many residents have made in their homes.”
GARDEN BUZZ
Things to know before you go to the Garden Faire
By MARY LYN PAOLELLA & CHRISTINE WILLIAMS
If you are a gardening enthusiast, come see us at the 25th anniversary of the North Fulton Master Gardeners’ annual Garden Faire!
This free event will be held at The Grove at Wills Park on Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are excited to be partnering with Alpharetta Community Agriculture Program/Old Rucker Farm, the Georgia Native Plant Society-North Metro Atlanta Chapter and the City of Alpharetta Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services.
Garden Faire 2026 will provide one-stop shopping for garden enthusiasts with a large selection of shade and sun perennials, native plants, indoor plants, tomatoes and other culinary offerings, as well as two horticultural education sessions and a space for children’s gardening activities.
This year, the Master Gardener volunteer team is focused on bringing the community a wide breadth of passalong plants from their gardens or the gardens of friends, family and neighbors. These passalong plants include a variety of ground covers, perennials, hostas, irises and daylilies, along with some select vines, shrubs and trees. Look for interpretive signage over many of the plants that provides tips on caring for them.
The Master Gardeners UGA Extension Volunteers’ primary mission is horticultural education and environmental stewardship. These volunteers will be on hand to help with your gardening questions and needs. This is your opportunity to pick their brains — and the Master Gardeners love that! Look for their booth, volunteer T-shirts, Master Gardener aprons or distinct name tags.
Through the marketplace, you will find garden-related vendors offering hard-tofind plants — including sweet-smelling roses, colorful native azaleas, lush hostas, succulents, daylilies, begonias, camellias, hydrangeas, pollinator plants, trees, shrubs, carnivorous plants and other natives — as well as nature-inspired pottery, gardening gifts, seeds, tools, birdhouses, feeders, educational offerings and more.
Adding to festive atmosphere:
• Two educational talks on gardening topics with expanded Q&A sessions
• Food vendors providing light bites
Garden
• More plants than you can imagine
• The Fleatique, showcasing gently used, secondhand garden and home treasures
• A booth dedicated to garden-related crafts produced by North Fulton Master Gardeners
• Live music from Cedar Hill Bluegrass Band
If you bring young ones, look for the Children’s Gardening Corner in the center of the action from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children will be engaged in a handson gardening craft, coloring activity or perhaps learning about carnivorous plants.
Garden Faire will feature two Garden Talk sessions hosted by expert speakers:
• 9:30-11 a.m.: Steps for Successful
Garden Design, Selection and Installation
— Keying off Your Vision
• 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Vegetable Gardening 2.0 — Good Practices from Soil to Seed to Sustenance
In addition to extended Q&A segments at each talk, attendees can expect a door prize or two and packets of seeds. The Garden Talks are free; registration is recommended at Eventbrite. How do you get there: The Grove at Wills Park is at 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta, Ga. Park at the Alpharetta Community Center or follow signs to overflow parking at Amana Academy, 285 S. Main St., Alpharetta, Ga. 30009. A free shuttle will transport attendees to and from Garden Faire, running continuously
About the authors: This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnists are Mary Lyn Paolella and Christine Williams, co-chairs of the 2026 Garden Faire. A Master Gardener since 2021, Mary Lyn has always had a passion for plants and nature. As a child, her dad would take her to his garden in the fields of North Carolina where she first experienced the value of multigenerational “passing along” of plants and knowledge.
Mary Lyn is an enthusiastic dahlia grower and gardening explorer.
A lifelong nature lover, Christine Williams relishes getting dirty. From a young age, she loved exploring in any nearby woods, meadows or open fields.
A Master Gardener Extension Volunteer with Fulton County since 2011, she received her Certificate of Native Plants from the UGA/State Botanical Garden of Georgia in 2024.
from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with a short break from noon to 12:30 p.m.
A limited number of carts and wagons will be available for those who forget to bring their own. A secure area is available to hold purchases near the Alpharetta Community Center parking lot while you retrieve your car.
This event is a major fundraiser for all participating partners. Proceeds support educational activities for children and adults, community outreach, and restoration of public gardens and green spaces. The North Fulton Master Gardeners also fund annual scholarships to the University of Georgia School of Horticulture, Gwinnett Technical College Horticulture Program and the Georgia 4-H Foundation Collegiate Scholarship Fund.
We look forward to seeing you at Garden Faire on April 11 at The Grove at Wills Park in Alpharetta!
North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in horticulture and ecology 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.
Visit North Fulton Master Gardeners at these events throughout the year:
• Alpharetta Farmers Market (starting April 18)
• Sandy Springs Farmers Market: Diggin’ in the Dirt kids’ activities
• Crabapple Festival in Milton this fall
NORTH FULTON MASTER GARDENERS/PROVIDED
Faire Plant sale (top), Visit Ask a Master Gardener booth for gardening questions and information (middle), Happy gardener with purchases (bottom)
PAOLELLA
Banquet:
Continued from Page 1
“We have heroes among us to in this community,” said Fran Schefer, the vice president of the Alpharetta Lions Club. “Between police, fire, 911 who are serving their community with evidence of that same type of bravery and commitment to going all the way they could to help others.”
Recognitions started with Officer Sheana Miller, this year’s Outstanding Communications Officer for the Alpharetta Police Department. After serving in the United States Army, Miller became a communications officer and has been with Alpharetta for 5 years.
Milton firefighter Derek Hofmann was recognized as the Milton’s Fire-Rescue Departments’ Employee of the Year after dedicating eight years of service to the city.
Lieutenant Michael Bechara received an award
for Firefighter of the Year for the Alpharetta Public Safety Department. Bechara started with the Alpharetta Volunteer Fire Corps in 2016 and was hired by the Alpharetta Fire Department one year later.
Detective Randy Dula was recognized as the Milton Police Department’s Outstanding Officer of the Year after two years with the department. Before starting his career in law enforcement in 2013, Dula served in Afghanistan. He joined law enforcement after leaving the Army because Dula saw an opportunity to continue fighting criminal activity stateside and still help people overseas.
“The community of Milton itself, they hold the first responders of Milton very close to their hearts,” Dula said. “That’s one of the things that I really enjoy seeing because you’ve got a community that works along with you.”
Alpharetta Police Officer of the Year Evan Makhoul was honored but unable to attend the celebratory dinner because he was called to join his National Guard unit. Lt. Jason Carter accepted the award on his behalf.
Lacrosse:
Continued from Page 5
Head coach Tim Godby said after a tough performance against West, the Eagles showed up in a big rivalry game.
“I just knew all we had to do was just execute,” he said. “We’ve been working on being more patient offensively. Our defense had a lapse in the middle of the game, and they picked it up at the end when it counted, got some stops, some ground balls, rose to the occasion when they had to.”
Eagles goalie Alyssa Brackley stopped two of the Bears’ four free position shots and also grabbed two interceptions for turnovers.
Milton scored five goals before the Bears got on the board with a transition goal by Mia Johnson. Gabi led the team with three goals, three assists, one draw control, one caused turnover, and four ground balls. Senior Logan Collen also was a major contributor with two goals, including one grabbing a slightly errant pass then spinning around to direct the entropy in the direction she wanted it.
Cambridge attacker Kasey Dwyer was one target of the Milton defense, which shut her down for most of the first half until she found the back of the net on a free position shot. Dwyer also posted two assists and was put on the circle for a few draws in the fourth quarter for a boost of energy after sophomore Linden Donner left the game.
Donner, who later returned to the match, pulled down four draw controls as the difference-maker to put Cambridge on their five-goal swing. The Bears defense had been performing well to shut out several of the best players in the country but struggled in the final frame while missing Donner.
KENNY GRIMES PHOTOGRAPHY/PROVIDED Milton girls lacrosse head coach Tim Godby provides guidance from the sideline at Milton High School March 24.
HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
Milton Firefighter Derek Hofmann was recognized as the Milton’s Fire-Rescue Departments’ Employee of the Year by the Alpharetta Lions Club after dedicating eight years of service to the city.
DEATH NOTICES
Barbara Bacarella, age 83, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 19, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Margie Gonzalez, age 81, of Roswell, GA passed away on March 22, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Scott “Marc” Hunt, age 62, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 23, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Doris Ramsay, age 92, of Milton, GA passed away on March 22, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
During
Susan Rosser, age 86, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 21, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Donald Vining, Sr., age 93, of Alpharetta, GA passed away on March 20, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
David Westbrook, age 77, of Roswell, GA passed away on March 20, 2026. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
in the
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, 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!
ISLAND HOPPING
1. Oranjestad’s island. Whip. Cheese in a ball.
2. Practical joke. Wading bird of Egypt. Hawaiian island.
3. Ticked off. Viti Levu Island is part of it. British topper.
4. Volcanic Indonesian island. Gold bar. Young pigeon.
5. Trade. French Polynesian island. Annoyance.
6. Engage. Moonfish. Trinidad’s island kin.
7. Verdant. Main Philippines island. Suite spot.
1 Oranjestad’s island Whip. Cheese in a ball.
2. Practical joke. Wading bird of Egypt. Hawaiian island.
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. Ticked off. Viti Levu Island is part of it. British topper.
4. Volvanic Indonesian island. Gold bar. Young pigeon.
5. Trade. French Polynesian island. Annoyance 6. Engage. Moonfish. Trinidad’s
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Jason Hunyar
Jacqueline Hursh
Susan Huss
Paul Huth
Jeffrey Hyde
J. Craig Inman
Sandra Jacobs
Sue Jacques
Lynn Johnson
Tyler Jones
Zach Jones
Amy Kanderis
Arthur Kebanli
Laura Keck
Mark Kelly
Nancy Kennell
Randall Kent
Carol Kerr
Sally Klaskala
Allison Kloster
Dyna Kohler
Brett Koutnik
Larry Krueger
Jess & Chris Kysar
Malinda Lackey
Sarah Lamm
Daniel Lashinsky
Richard Lapin
Christine Law
Brandon Leach
Dennis Lee
Ken Leffingwell
Carol Lehan
Melissa Libby
Bonnie Lind
Francia Lindon
Karen Lippert
Harlan Little
Jarrett Long
Ross Long
Kyser Lough
Rita Loventhal
Jerry Lucas
Brenda Lundy
Harry Lutz
Rita Loventhal
Karen Magill
Freda Manning-Rumph
Kyile Marshall
Julie Martin
Support Local News Join Appen Press Club
MEMBER (CONT.)
Carla Masecar
Valerie Matthews
Theresea Mattioli
William Maxwell
Nicole Mayer
Rachel McCord
Austin McCully
Diane McDonald
Evan McElroy
Karen McEnerny
Jack McGinnis
Lynn McIntyre
Mike McLoughlin
Margaret McManus
Jennifer Mendoza
Al Merrill
Chris Miller
Christine Miller
Patricia Miller
Milton Animal Hospital
George Mobley
Joe Modica
Fred Moeller
Sarah Moen
Catherine Moore
Ralph Moore
Carol Morgan
Kathy Morgan
Stu Moring
Leslie Mullis
Donna Murphy
Jack Murphy
Aileen Nakamura
George Nathan
Caroline Naughton
Richard Nichols
Cindy Nolan
THE FUTURE OF LOCAL NEWS
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
Pankaj Rajankar
Ashwin Ramaswami
Cheryl Rand
Manu Rao
James Rasmussen
Paula Rattray
Lori Rausch
Jean Rearick
Joseph Reed
Scarlett Reynolds
Righteous PR
Angie Rigney
Sean Riley
Neil Robertson
Kimberly Robinson
Matt Rohs
Kim Romaner
Courtney Rozear
Fran Russell
Janet Sandberg
Continued innovation in digital media has changed the ways in which people buy, sell and interact with products and services. It has caused businesses to reassess the ways in which it communicates with potential customers and advertises its products. It has been well documented that these changes have had a destructive impact on local newspapers, which continues to be a primary source for local news, but is no longer a primary source for local advertising dollars – historically the lifeblood for reporters and their coverage. At Appen Media Group we want to address this conflict head on, and build new and innovative approaches to monetizing local news and creating a sustainable future for local journalism in metro Atlanta.
Kelly Sarmiento
Derek Scheidt
Stephanie Schniederjan
The Schoenblum Family
Robert Scholz
Robert Schreiner
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
Heidi Sowder
Gena Spears
Donald Spencer
Melissa Spencer
Jan Stephens
Wesley Stewart
Cathryn Stovall
Celeste Strohl
Diana Sullivan
Andy Sumlin
Kathy Swahn
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
Deborah Weiss
Michael Weiss
Herbert Wells
Benjamin Wemberly
Beverly Whisenant
Sally White
Thom White
Umpika White
Mae Whiteside
Ashley Whitt
Jennifer Wieland
Christine Williams
Jamie Wimberly
Jonathan Winkie
Nancy & Dave Wistrand
Kalle Wood
Theresa Woolridge
Laura Wysong
Jonathan Young
THE APPEN PRESS CLUB
One solution is the creation of a membership driven organization called the Appen Press Club that is dedicated to recruiting people and companies to join as members. Members pay recurring monthly or annual dues that are 100% dedicated to sustainable journalism. By providing predictable revenue, Appen Press Club members and partners help fund the salaries and expenses of local reporters who will no longer be subject to the whims of marketing budgets and an ever changing advertising world. In turn, those reporters will provide the readers they serve with highly researched and qualified journalism focused on subjects that directly affect their quality of life.
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.
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