MILTON, Ga. — St. Francis High School graduate Camryn Golston is a double threat — triple if you include her TikTok account with nearly 40,000 followers.
The valedictorian is a true coach's point guard, the kind her coach can rely on to ensure everyone is in the right spot for the play. Her impact on the court earned her a spot on a Division I basketball roster at South Alabama University (SAU).
Fitting rigorous athletic and academic routines into her schedule became a balancing act, but Golston never faltered from her goal of maintaining her No. 1 ranking in the class. Her parents say her ambition comes from a deep-rooted competitive attitude.
Since her elementary school days playing basketball against boys, she has loved to win. Even more, she cannot stand losing.
"It just doesn't sit right with my spirit," Golston said.
She and her family live in College Park, and they started making the hourlong drive up to St. Francis every weekday when she was in sixth grade.
Camryn's mom, Wendy, who is the Athletic Director at Carver High School and the vice president of Region 5-AAA, says basketball has matured her youngest daughter, and she carries the mentality of hating to lose into everything she does.
"She's always been very serious about basketball," Wendy said. "She took it serious when everybody was just out there playing around."
Wendy, who graduated from Mays High, reflected on family vacations to New York and Spain where Camryn would get her hands on any basketball available and dribble down busy sidewalks. She said Camryn's competitive spirit has occupied her entire life.
See GOLSTON, Page 26
GOLSTON FAMILY/PROVIDED St. Francis High valedictorian Camryn Golston, right, is crowned by South Alabama womens basketball head coach Yolisha Jackson during Golston’s official visit to SAU. Several weeks later, Golston committed to South Alabama to continue her athletic and academic career.
Goals on the Green invites soccer fans to view
World Cup
MILTON, Ga. — The Crabapple Market and Rush Union Soccer are hosting Goals on the Green for soccer fans June 19 to watch the United States Men’s National Team versus Australia.
The outdoor watch party will start at 1 p.m. on The Green at Crabapple Market. The soccer match will begin at 3 p.m.
The gathering is free to attend, with food trucks and soccer-inspired activities in downtown Milton.
The event comes four days after Atlanta hosted its first World Cup game: Spain vs. Cabo Verde.
A second Goals on the Green is planned for the final match of the World Cup on Sunday, July 19 from 1-5 p.m. on The Green at Crabapple Market.
— Hannah Yahne
North
Fulton SWAT merges four cities into single team
► PAGE 4
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Fire units contain kitchen blaze at Holcomb Bridge restaurant
CUSTOM FRAMING
ROSWELL, Ga. — The Roswell Fire Department, with assistance from the Sandy Springs Fire Department, responded to a structure fire at the Panda Express on Holcomb Bridge Road before 9 a.m. June 7.
Fire crews arrived on scene within six minutes of the alarm to find a cooking fire that had spread to the roof through the kitchen exhaust vent.
"The men and women of the Roswell Fire Department did outstanding work on this call,” Chad Miller, the department’s public information officer, said. “They recognized quickly that
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the fire had moved into the void space above the kitchen and got ahead of it before it could spread to the rest of the building. That fast, coordinated effort is what kept the damage limited to a single unit and kept everyone safe.”
Firefighters used saws to cut into the roof to access the burning material, keeping the fire from spreading throughout the five-unit commercial building.
Crews found heavy grease buildup in the exhaust system and heavy charring on the back of the cooking surface. Miller said this serves as a
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reminder of how quickly a commercial kitchen fire can grow.
“Grease builds up in exhaust hoods and ductwork over time, and a small flame can travel into the structure in seconds,” Miller said. “Routine cleaning and inspection of cooking equipment, along with never leaving cooking unattended, prevents most of these fires before they ever start."
All occupants had safely left the building before responding units arrived, and no injuries were reported on scene.
Hannah Yahne
ROSWELL FIRE DEPARTMENT/PROVIDED
Crews from the Roswell and Sandy Springs fire departments arrive on scene at the five-unit commercial building on Holcomb Bridge Road June 7. All occupants had safely evacuated after a fire sprang from the kitchen at the Panda Express.
North Fulton SWAT force merges 4 cities into 1 team
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
NORTH FULTON, Ga. — When students leave school for the summer, the North Fulton SWAT team moves in.
Police officers from across four cities gathered at Chattahoochee High School June 9 to run through a range of scenarios – including active shooter response – in what Zachary Frommer, commander of North Fulton SWAT and a captain of the Roswell Police Department, called a routine training.
The North Fulton SWAT team was formed in 2012 and consists of 65 officers who respond to highstakes situations, such as barricaded subjects or hostage negotiations.
In addition to training together twice a month, officers from Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek and Milton routinely respond to critical incidents together, because “crime knows no borders or jurisdictions,” Frommer said.
“We’re generally going to go back up the other teams anyway,” he said. “So, it makes sense to train together and combine resources.”
North Fulton SWAT officers receive instruction while attending a training exercise at Chattahoochee High School June 9.
Learning the layout
One of the primary objectives of joint training is to remove unknowns before officers respond to a crisis. For instance, when walking into Chattahoochee High School, officers recognized the layout as similar to
other area high schools – knowledge that can be critical under pressure.
“Immediately, that takes away a lot of unknowns,” Capt. Rick Fiorenza of Fulton County Schools Police said. “The more familiarity we can bring in to that, it eliminates a lot of these unknowns and makes it a lot more comfortable, a lot more effective to respond … should something happen.”
Fulton County Schools has its own police force that responds with South Fulton SWAT to supplement personnel in that area.
Inter-city collaboration allows departments to pool resources, share equipment and specialized skill sets that individual agencies may lack on their own. Cities can even purchase equipment together, such as armored vehicles or robots, and divide costs based on populations.
“When you combine these efforts, … you have it all right there as one team,” Commander Frommer said.
Emerging technology
That shared investment extends to emerging technology, which Frommer said is used in nearly every SWAT operation. Remotely operated robots
and drones allow officers to gather intelligence without putting personnel in harm’s way.
“Any time you can put a robot or a drone in instead of a person, you’re better off,” Frommer said.
One robot can navigate stairs while transmitting live video. Drones serve different tactical functions depending on the situation, like opening doors or accessing attics to give officers an idea of the scene.
“The technology is always changing,” Frommer said. “But luckily, the cities up here, we all support each other enough. We can keep up with it.”
The collaborative spirit between cities carries into how their police departments prepare for critical scenarios.
Johns Creek Public Information Officer Todd Hood said the training opportunities are a great collaborative effort that, at times, extends beyond the four cities to include the Fulton County Schools Police Department.
“Just in case the day you have to [respond] comes, we’ve all worked together, we’re all on the same page and we know what the expectation is,” Hood said.
HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
COMMUNITY
Police departments fundraise for Special Olympics Georgia
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
NORTH FULTON, Ga. — Local police departments across the state spent time at their local Dunkin’ Donuts June 5 to raise money and awareness for the athletes of Special Olympics Georgia.
Cops at Donut Shops is held annually in National Donut Day, and more than 30 cities participated in fundraising, including police departments in Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Roswell and Milton.
The Roswell Police Department has participated in fundraising since 2021, when the event was still called “Cops on Donut Shops,” a name that the department took literally and still does. By the end of the morning, officers were on the roof at the Dunkin’ Donuts Holcomb Bridge Road.
In just a couple of hours, the department raised $1,300 to support Special Olympics athletes. Public Information Officer Tim Lupo said the organization’s goal of creating a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with intellectual disabilities deeply aligns with the core values of the Roswell Police Department.
"We look forward to any opportunity we have to throw our support behind
their mission,” Lupo said.
Lt. Andrew Noblett, public information officer for the Milton Police Department, said supporting Special Olympics Georgia is more than a partnership, it’s about building meaningful relationships and demonstrating our commitment to every member of the community.
“The athletes of Special Olympics embody courage, determination and perseverance – values that align closely with the mission of the Milton Police Department,” Noblett said. “We are proud to stand alongside these incredible individuals, support their achievements and help create opportunities for inclusion, respect and success both on and off the field.”
Police cadets participated alongside Milton officers to raise nearly $800 to support Special Olympics Georgia.
The Dunwoody Police Department raised more than half of its fundraising goal of $5,000 to support Special Olympic athletes during Cops at Donut Shops.
In Johns Creek, the Police Department raised around $3,000 for Special Olympics Georgia. The department thanked those who donated on Facebook writing, “Your support helped make this event a great success, and we truly appreciate our community coming together for such an important mission.”
MILTON POLICE DEPARTMENT/PROVIDED
Milton Police cadets and officers fundraise for Special Olympics Georgia June 5 at a local Dunkin’ Donuts as part of the statewide fundraiser, Cops at Donut Shops.
The Milton Police Department raised almost $800.
Service member, veteran to receive a free wedding
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Weddings to Warriors is accepting applications through July 4 to grant a fully funded wedding to local military service members and veterans.
One military couple will be awarded a wedding valued at more than $35,000, with contributions from local businesses that could include catering, florals, photography and other donated services.
"As America celebrates 250 years of freedom, I couldn't think of a better way to give back than by honoring those who have served and sacrificed to protect it," said Brandy Yungel with Southern Weddings and Florals. "This is more than a wedding. It's an opportunity for an entire
community to say thank you."
This is the first year that Southern Weddings and Florals is offering weddings to warriors. Yungel said when she shared the vision, wedding professionals from across the state wanted to lend a hand.
At least one partner in the applying couple must be on active duty or be a veteran, National Guard member or Reserve member. The winning couple will be announced on July 13 at the Pardue Family Foundation Center, where the wedding will be held.
To apply for the contest, visit weddingstowarriors.carrd.co
— Elizabeth Girard
PARDUE FAMILY FOUNDATION CENTER/PROVIDED Weddings to Warriors will give away a wedding to a military couple valued at more than $35,000 at the Pardue Family Foundation Center in Roswell.
Area communities lay plans to commemorate Juneteenth
BY ELLE GIRARD elizabeth@appenmedia.com
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — With mid-June around the corner, many communities are planning Juneteenth festivals and events.
Juneteenth commemorates the day when slaves in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free. President Abraham Lincoln issued his preliminary Emancipation Proclamation in 1862 and it went into effect on Jan. 1, 1863. But the slaves in Galveston weren’t informed until June 19, 1865.
While the federal holiday is on Friday, June 19, celebrations will take place throughout the month.
Here is a list of events celebrating the holiday across Fulton County.
• A Juneteenth day of celebration is being hosted by the City of Alpharetta on Saturday, June 20, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Alpharetta Arts Center. From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., a celebration titled "I, Too, Sing America" will take place. A gallery reception titled "Juneteenth: Independence and Reflection" follows from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. A concert will conclude the day from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• The City of Atlanta is hosting its 14th annual Juneteenth parade and music festival at Piedmont Park, featuring live entertainment, 5K race, youth soccer tournament, and other activities
throughout the weekend. The event goes from Friday, June 19, to Sunday, June 21.
• The City of Hapeville is hosting its annual Juneteenth celebration on Friday, June 19, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the city's Jess Lucas Park. Workshops, lectures and panels will occur from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., followed by festivities such as live music and food trucks from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
• Roswell's Barrington Hall is hosting a Black experience tour on Friday, June 19, from 11 a.m. to noon, providing an opportunity to learn about the history and legacy of enslaved individuals who lived in the hall. The event is free and open to the public.
• African Americans for the Arts (AAFTA) presents a Juneteenth artist market and exhibit on Friday, June 19, at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center lobby from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The market is accompanied by the "Juried Juneteenth" art exhibition on display from June 8 to July 8. Attendees can meet participating artists and purchase works. The event is free and open to the public.
• The City of Sandy Springs is hosting a Juneteenth celebration and art exhibition on Friday, June 19, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the City Springs District. Live entertainment, food trucks, games, and a drum circle led by Djoli Kelen will be included in the outdoor celebration.
Sharon Forks Library to host noted author Mary Kay Andrews
By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com
CUMMING, Ga. — Mary Kay Andrews, the New York Times bestselling author of more than 30 titles, including “Summers at the Saint,” “The Weekenders” and “The High Tide Club,” will discuss her new release, “Road Trip,” at Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming, on Sunday, June 28 at 2:30 p.m.
Often called the queen of beach reads, Andrews will headline Forsyth Reads Together, hosted by Forsyth County Public Library, in partnership with Bookmiser and Arts On The Creek.
“I can't wait to reunite with readers in Forsyth County,” Andrews said. “Let summer begin!”
With 25 of Andrews' titles in a variety of formats available to check out, Sarah Brubaker, FCPL’s programming manager, called Andrews one of the system’s most in-demand adult fiction authors this year.
Since 2012, thanks to grants from the Forsyth County Arts Alliance and support of the Library's Friends & Advocates, the Forsyth Reads Together program has hosted such acclaimed authors as Kathryn Stockett, Shelby Van Pelt and Liz Moore, Brubaker said.
“Readers come not just from the county, but from around the state to celebrate these authors, listen to them speak and get their books signed,” Brubaker said. “Last year marked the first time that FCPL was able to host a second bestselling
author in a single year due to a new partnership with Bookmiser and Arts On The Creek. William Kent Krueger visited the Sharon Forks Library in October 2025 to celebrate the release of ‘Apostle's Cove’ to the delight of 300 attendees.”
This year, the same partnership is bringing Andrews to the Sharon Forks Library. Event registration is free, but for $32 attendees receive an autographed and personalized copy of “Road Trip” and, for the first 50 purchasers, priority seating and a photo with the author. Go to forsythpl.org/event/16208378 for details.
FCPL provides numerous opportunities to meet and interact with acclaimed authors year-round through the Forsyth Reads Together and Forsyth Writes Together programs.
Since 1998, Bookmiser has hosted author appearances across Metro Atlanta as well at its bookstore at 3822 Roswell Road, Marietta. Bookmiser’s co-hosted events have featured, among many others, Fredrik Backman, Brad Thor, Ann Patchett, Delia Owens and Charles Frazier. For more Bookmiser details, go to bookmiser.net.
Arts On The Creek founded the Johns Creek Literary Fair in 2022, with headliners including Rick Bragg, Kristin Harmel and this year’s keynote speaker, Ariel Lawhon, author of “The Frozen River,” who will appear Nov. 14. For more information about AOTC, go to artsonthecreek.org.
BILL MILES/PROVIDED Mary Kay Andrews will discuss her new book, “Road Trip,” June 28 at 2:30 p.m. at Sharon Forks Library in Cumming.
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Roswell earmarks grant for affordable housing
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — For the second straight year, Roswell is dedicating its annual Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) toward repaying a more than $2 million loan to redevelop the Pelfrey Pines Apartments.
The city has allocated its annual award of $443,594 as part of its five-year CDBG strategic plan, which prioritizes sustainable housing for residents. Although the affordable housing units are overseen by the Roswell Housing Authority, which is separate from the city, Roswell leveraged its government status to secure a Section 108 loan of $2.039 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in 2023.
The $30 million project pulls from multiple funding sources, including $4.7 million from Georgia Department of Community Affairs, $3.3 million from the National Housing Trust Fund and $3.6 million from Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta’s TogetherATL initiative.
A public hearing on the proposed Annual Action Plan the morning of June 3 drew no attendees.
Construction is progressing well, according to Randy Clack, a developer with Pennrose. Framing of the 102-unit building is set to begin this month, and the project is on budget and on schedule for potential completion by the end of this year – a month ahead of the expected January 2027 deadline.
In addition to one- and two-bedroom units, the property will offer amenities such as a fitness center, rooftop terrace, mailroom and community spaces.
Once construction is halfway complete, former residents of the original 40-unit building will begin receiving information about returning to phase one of the Grove Way redevelopment.
Tenants were displaced in 2022 after being notified the property had been condemned because of structural issues.
The building, constructed in the 1980s, had been primarily occupied by seniors and people with disabilities who earned less than 80 percent of the city’s median income.
After former residents exercise their right of first refusal, remaining units will open to current residents of apartments
located across the street that are slated for reconstruction in phase two.
“The plan is to relocate as many folks off of that phase two site into the phase one building when it’s complete,” Clack said. “We’re going to work with folks to make sure that we’re getting them into the type of unit that they want and need.”
Clack said the project was awarded additional funding last year
to reconstruct those two- and threebedroom apartments using the same low-income housing tax credits that were applied toward phase one. Together, the two phases will provide 204 rental units.
Clack estimates housing applications will open to the public in August or September, once former and current residents at Pelfrey Pines have made their decision.
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This aerial shot shows the construction site at 199 Grove Way where Pennrose has been rebuilding the Pelfrey Pines apartments owned by the Roswell Housing Authority.
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Alpharetta Juneteenth gala will feature art, live shows
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A Juneteenth celebration in Alpharetta will feature live performances and art.
The free community event will include dance, spoken word and multicultural music with light food and beverage at the Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton St., June 14.
The celebration seeks to celebrate freedom, resilience and African American culture, commemorating the day enslaved people in Texas learned of their emancipation in 1865.
Additional parking is available at 192 Mayfield Road and 1025 Powers Place.
From 3-5 p.m., the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Phi Phi Omega Chapter presents its annual Juneteenth celebration, “I, Too, Sing America.”
An opening reception for the exhibit “Juneteenth: Independence and Reflection” follows from 5-6:30 p.m.
From 6:30-9 p.m., KT Collaborative presents the “A Jazzin’ Celebration” concert with music, live painting and more.
For more information, visit artsalpharetta.org/call-for-artists.
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Jon Wilcox
Alpharetta will host a Juneteenth celebration at the Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton St., June 14.
Brew Moon Fest crowds fill downtown Alpharetta
By STANLEY LEARY newsroom@appenmedia.com
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A crowd of hundreds gathered in downtown Alpharetta on Saturday evening, June 6, for the 15th annual Brew Moon Fest, enjoying craft beer, live music and fellowship while helping raise funds for several local community projects.
The annual festival has become a hallmark event for the city, bringing together neighbors, businesses and nonprofit organizations in a shared effort to strengthen the community.
The event serves as one of the city’s signature fundraising events.
Guests sampled craft beers, enjoyed food from local vendors and listened to the Chuck Martin Band throughout the evening as organizers worked to support projects benefiting the Alpharetta community.
“The weather was great, and we do this for the community,” event coordinator Paula Fine said. “This year we are raising funds for the Alpharetta VFW and Lights on the Loop.”
Proceeds from Brew Moon Fest support several local initiatives, including renovations to Wills Park’s Wacky World Playground, the Old Rucker Farm, the Alpharetta Public Safety K-9 Maverick program, Alpha Loop “Find Your Way” signage and Patriot Pen programs through the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
The festival’s appeal extended beyond the fundraising mission.
“I love country music. I love downtown Alpharetta,” said Jesse Milwood, who attended the event.
Longtime resident Sean Woods said Brew Moon Fest reflects the strong sense of community that has drawn people to Alpharetta for decades.
“I have lived here for 30 years,” Woods said. “I live close by and love these events.”
As the evening continued, attendees filled the streets, creating an atmosphere that blended entertainment with community service. Organizers and volunteers said the event’s continued success demonstrates Alpharetta residents’ commitment to supporting local causes while celebrating together.
Adam and Jeannie Montgomery, Lori and Sean Woods, and Jennifer and Jimmy Reeves attend the Brew Moon Fest in downtown Alpharetta June 6.
PHOTOS BY: STANLEY LEARY/APPEN MEDIA Paula and Steve Smith dance to Chuck Martin’s band at the Alpharetta Brew Moon Fest.
From left, Gen Brannon, Chuck Martin and Allison Brannon pose during Brew Moon Fest in downtown Alpharetta June 6. Brannon and Martin attended McEachern High School together, and Brannon brought her daughter, Allison, to see Martin perform near her home.
From left, Susan Hanna, Marie Sharp, David Sandiford and Jacque Sandiford attend Brew Moon Fest in downtown Alpharetta June 6. The annual community event brings residents together while raising funds for local projects and organizations.
From left, Tom Ashworth, Tracy Ashworth, Sean O’Rourke and Lilas O’Rourke attend Brew Moon Fest in downtown Alpharetta June 6. The longtime friends attended the annual event to see friends and enjoy the Alpharetta community, according to Tom Ashworth.
From left, Tess Acexih, Tracie Morse, Beth Follet and Stephanie Huckaby attend Brew Moon Fest in downtown Alpharetta June 6. The empty nesters, who have been friends for more than 20 years, gathered to enjoy the annual community event and spend time together.
Jason Sautner dances with his daughter, Evelyn, at the Alpharetta Brew Moon Fest.
Chuck Martin, lead singer of the Chuck Martin Band, performs during Brew Moon Fest in downtown Alpharetta, Ga., on Saturday, June 6.
Sponsored Section June 18, 2026 | Milton Herald | 18
Most surviving spouses never realize they may only
Brought to you by – Estates Law Center USA
In Georgia, there is no automatic right of survivorship between spouses unless the deed specifically says so. When one spouse dies, many families never open probate because the surviving spouse continues living in the home and sees no reason to sell.
Years later, after the second spouse dies, the children discover there was no survivorship language, no trust, and no estate plan.
Now they have a problem.
We often have to open probate for the first spouse who died years ago and then probate for the second spouse.
Two probate cases.
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But even if your deed contains survivorship language, probate has only been postponed—not avoided. The property may pass automatically to the surviving spouse at the first death, but when that
spouse dies, the home still becomes part of their estate and often requires probate. The same issue applies to LLCs and family businesses. Without proper planning, ownership interests can end up in probate and create unnecessary delays and expenses for your family.
A survivorship deed may avoid probate at the first death. It does not avoid probate forever.
Your closing attorney's job is to close the transaction. Their job is not to create your estate plan.
If you want to protect your family from court proceedings, delays, and unnecessary expenses, talk to an estate planning attorney before it's too late.
OPINION
Why did the turtle cross the road?
BOB MEYERS Columnist
This is the time of year when turtles are most likely to be seen crossing a road in North Fulton or Forsyth County. They cross throughout the year, but we are in the middle of nesting season for most turtles.
According to Daniel Sollenberger, a senior wildlife biologist and state herpetologist with the Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, females are on the move “because they are looking for good places to lay eggs.” That means places where it is sunny to keep eggs warm and soil without too many vegetation roots that would suck moisture from the ground making it difficult to lay eggs.
“Small turtles lay small numbers of eggs, such as the bog turtle in the mountains of North Georgia which may lay only two eggs,” Sollenberger says. “Box turtles lay six or seven eggs in forests, woodland edges, even in backyards. Big turtles, like sea turtles, can lay hundreds of eggs. Most turtles lay between 10 and 20 eggs once a year.”
Georgia has 30 kinds of turtles, and about a dozen or so in North Fulton and Forsyth. They are divided into four groups:
1.) Basking turtles, which include most common freshwater turtles such as the painted turtle, slider and cooter; 2.) eastern box turtle; 3.) softshell turtle; 4.) snapping turtle.
Not categorized are the common musk turtle (also known as the stinky turtle because of its odorous secretion), eastern mud turtle and the striped neck musk turtle found only in rivers.
National Geographic estimates that there are 300 species of turtles worldwide of which 130 are endangered due to loss of habitat, poaching, pollution and the illegal pet trade. Add to that the risk of injury from boats. Other sources use different numbers, up to 360 species.
Georgia also has tortoises, but only in the southern part of the state. Tortoises evolved from aquatic turtles and adapted to dry land. Tortoises are a family of turtles that live exclusively on land.
The gopher tortoise is Georgia’s official state reptile and Florida’s state tortoise. However, any seen in this area are illegal pets that have wandered off. Their diet consists of a wide variety of plants. They are known for their digging ability. They spend up to 80 percent of their time in long burrows that are also used by other animals. The Smithson-
The eastern box turtle is a terrestrial turtle that spends most of its time on land. Males generally have red eyes. Females, like the one in this photo, have brown eyes. They do not like high temperatures, and in the summer are most active in the morning or after periods of rain. Their life expectancy is 25 – 35 years. On rare occasions, they have been known to live up to 100 years.
The eastern painted turtle with its red and yellow stripes is usually found in streams and shallow wetlands. They are common along the Big Creek Greenway in Alpharetta and Roswell
ian claims that tortoises can live up to 200 years, although most estimates are 50–100 years.
Turtle history and highlights Turtles are among the most successful vertebrates on earth, dating back some 260 million years. The earliest versions
did not look exactly like modern turtles, but they had a shell-like structure that evolved gradually over time. They survived the mass extinction of dinosaurs 65 million years ago.
They have been so successful for several reasons.
First, they can survive many months without food or water. Their burrowing ability allows them to escape heat and cold. Their hard shells are a defense against most predators, and their long lifespans allow them to delay reproduction during difficult times. Changes in habitat and road mortality are having negative impacts on turtles today.
We are now in the peak season for turtle activity in North Fulton and Forsyth Counties. The most abundant turtle in our area is the yellow-bellied slider. It basks in groups on logs and rocks in ponds, lakes and calm river stretches. They are common in retention ponds in
About this column
North Fulton, Forsyth and their surrounding areas have fascinating histories. Great stories abound about the places and people who came before us and what they accomplished to prepare the way for our generation. This column seeks to tell their stories.
Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek and Cumming. They are 8 to 12 inches long with a yellow streak behind each eye. Their life span is 50-100 years. They should not be confused with the red-eared slider which is not native to this area but is common in pet stores and local ponds. They are the descendants of released or escaped pets and are distinguished by the red stripes behind each eye.
The big boy
The common snapping turtle is the big boy in local waters, weighing 40 to 60 pounds. They like bodies of water with muddy bottoms such as Chattahoochee waters, Big Creek and Lake Lanier tributaries. June is the month when females are crossing roads, so don’t get involved with them. Especially, don’t try to pick them up from the front as they can strike with lightning speed. They are 8 to 29 inches long. They can live 40–50 years.
The eastern painted turtle with its red and yellow neck stripes likes streams and shallow wetlands. They are common along the Big Creek Greenway in Alpharetta and Roswell. They are 5 to 7 inches long and live 20-30 years.
We have one terrestrial turtle, the eastern box turtle with a domed shell in brown, black, yellow and orange patterns. Males are usually red-eyed, and females have brown eyes. They can be found in backyards, woodlands and meadows and can live 25 to 30 years, and on rare occasions up to 100 years.
Other turtles seen in our area are the eastern river cooter, common musk turtle, eastern mud turtle and the gulf coast spiny softshell.
If you see a turtle crossing the road and want to move it, move it in the direction it was traveling and do not relocate it. It may die if you relocate it. Female turtles have long memories and know where they are going.
Bob is a member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission, Director Emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and Trustee on the Board of Directors of the Alpharetta and Old Milton County Historical Society. You can email him at bobmey@ bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.
PUBLIC DOMAIN
OPINION
Ralph Rucker – goodbye my friend – Vaya con Dios
RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com
I just got the call. My friend Ralph Rucker died. Ralph? How can this be?
Ralph has been my friend for a very long time.
My mind is now filled with floating memories.
Ralph and I go all the way back to when we first started our newspapers in 1990. Rucker Turf and Tractor was one of our first advertisers — a John Deere dealership on North Main Street in Alpharetta, just south of Windward Parkway.
That friendship lasted through all the changes we both encountered through the decades — different jobs, businesses, kids, successes, failures, in health and out, and sure, time.
At one point, we were partners in a concrete business — foundations, walls, grading — in Greenville, South Carolina, 50-50, just before the financial collapse of 2007-08. Our timing wasn’t the best. When we first started, I was taking time off from the newspaper each week to drive up and try to find new customers for the business. Ralph was doing the same, but he was more on the operations side. That business probably would have done quite well in any other time.
In all the years I knew Ralph, he was never still. He would start businesses, get them up and running and making money, then either sell them or hand them over to one of his partners. I am not sure that money was a primary focus for him. I think he liked the challenge; he liked building things and creating value; he liked helping other people — especially his partners; and he liked to stay busy. He liked to work — a lot. That was just who he was.
Work, hard work, was one side that defined Ralph, and his faith was the other. We talked a lot over the years, and his faith was one topic that was never far away. After his family, after his wife Sarah, his faith seemed like his “home” — his never-any-doubt why, how and where. To be around Ralph was to almost by osmosis be comforted and assured that his faith — if you were interested — could also be your home, your “why” also. There was never doubt, and that idea, that way, showed through his person clearly, quietly and confidently to anyone in his orbit. But he never
pushed what he believed on you; that was for you to find, to figure out. He would help if you asked, but only then.
In all the years I knew him, I don’t think I ever heard Ralph say a disparaging thing — not a single sentence — about another person. Of course, I never had the presence of mind to ask him why he was like that. I suspect he saw everyone as just another person — like he was — someone who wanted to earn their way, someone who wanted respect, someone who felt joy and pain, someone who had a family close or far that they cared about, nurtured, and who gave them reasons to get up every morning. I don’t think it mattered to Ralph how much money they had or didn’t have, who they voted for, what language they spoke, what faith they had or how they got here. Everyone deserved a fair shake to Ralph — until they proved they didn’t.
We should all try to be more like Ralph; it would be a far better world than the one we currently know.
I think Ralph simply saw humanity as people — people just like him — and as long as they were honest and treated him with respect, he would reciprocate accordingly. Ralph was one of those people who, if you only had one lifeline, could only call one person because you needed help in some way — he would be one of the few you would think to call.
He was old-school. His word was his bond and a handshake was better than anything written on a piece of paper. His belief in right and wrong was immutable. If he believed he was right, no person or organization could move him; he didn’t move. It got him in trouble sometimes, but acting otherwise was not a club in his bag — not even a remote possibility. That part of the world was black and white for Ralph. There was right and there was wrong and almost nothing in the middle. It made life easy to see — simple.
I never recall Ralph not looking for ways to help other people; that seemed also to be something just hard-wired into his nature. He didn’t just talk about helping other people; he did it. For years he supported outreaches in Appalachia. Up until just a few months ago — in his mid-80s — he was driving up to Kentucky to deliver health and sanitary supplies to poor communities there; I know because
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Early organized soccer games in Atlanta
With World Cup games taking place soon in Atlanta, soccer is a popular topic. Although a few Atlanta schools and businesses formed soccer teams in the early 20th century, soccer took off in Atlanta in the late 1960s.
The Atlanta Chiefs, the first professional soccer team in Atlanta, started in 1967.
In May 1966, the Atlanta Braves announced they would sponsor the Chiefs soccer team, both playing at Atlanta Stadium, later called AtlantaFulton County Stadium. The Atlanta Falcons played their first season in the fall of 1966 at Atlanta Stadium, and the Chiefs began September 1967.
Atlanta Braves business manager Dick Cecil said, “The people haven’t been exposed to soccer before. But it’s a great game, fast with a lot of contact. Knowing that Atlanta is a tremendous sports town helped us to decide to try it.” (Atlanta Journal, May 11, 1966, “Cecil predicts no conflict as soccer invades Atlanta”)
Phil Woosnam coached the Atlanta Chiefs. In addition to players from England, Wales and Jamica, Woosnam recruited players from Africa, something other U.S. coaches had not done. The Chiefs won their league championship in 1968, and in 1969 they won the North American Soccer League’s first championship series, beating the San Diego Toros. (AJC, June 11, 1967, “Spartans must beware the Chiefs’ Nairobi trio,” ussoccer.com)
The soccer teams that followed in the Atlanta area were the Apollos, Generals, Silverbacks, Atlanta Beat and Atlanta United. A National Women’s Soccer League team is coming to Atlanta in 2028.
The first time you played or watched a soccer game depends on when you were born and where you grew up. Henderson High School in DeKalb County, where I graduated in 1975, had boys soccer but no girls team. My friend from Virginia recalls her high school had soccer teams for boys and girls in the early 1970s.
Appen Media Managing Editor Patrick Fox attended Andale High School in Kansas during the ’70s, where soccer was not offered to students. His early soccer memory was from refereeing a youth game while in college. “I was so winded running up and down the field that I kept calling penalties just to catch my breath. Never repeated that mistake.”
Soccer for boys began in 1968 in DeKalb County and quickly became popular. “Now more boys play the sport in DeKalb high schools than play American football.”
Recreation soccer leagues were
organized including teams within the YMCA Gra-Y program. (Atlanta Daily World, Feb. 22, 1968, “Atlanta soccer interest phenomenal in past year”)
Parents started the DeKalb Federation of Girls Soccer Clubs to convince the county that soccer should be offered for girls. Teams in the league represented nine of DeKalb’s high schools, including Dunwoody, Chamblee and Briarcliff. Their enthusiasm along with pressure to comply with Title IX led to the beginning of girls soccer in DeKalb County by spring of 1981. (Atlanta Journal, Feb 2, 1978, “Soccer for girls urged”)
Sandy Springs resident Chris Curth participated in soccer at Dykes High School in Fulton County from 1967 to 1969. Curth also played on a City of Atlanta team and played on the Atlanta Chiefs All Star team as the city’s high scorer.
Jeff Glaze of Dunwoody never
played soccer but remembers several friends who did. He recalls that Peachtree High School “…did quite well in soccer in the mid-1970s.”
One standout player was Lee Herron, whose jersey was retired.
If you don’t get a ticket to attend a World Cup game in Atlanta, there are plenty of places to view with other fans. Watch parties are planned at The Lawn at Ashford Lane in Dunwoody, Watchfest ’26 on the Decatur Square, Centennial Olympic Park, Sandy Springs’ Mutation Brewing and Piedmont Park, to name a few.
For more Atlanta soccer history, try the Atlanta United podcast series, “The History of Atlanta Soccer.”
Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist
1974 PEACHTREE HIGH SCHOOL YEARBOOK
Peachtree High School soccer team in 1974.
OPINION
GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA!
It’s time to get to work on Georgia Bass Slam
STEVE HUDSON Columnist
Everybody likes a challenge.
Some, for example, travel across the world to climb high mountains. They say the challenge is extreme and the view can be pretty good too.
Others drive hundreds of miles with a kayak strapped to the car to paddle down raging rivers so rough they’ll take your breath away. A buddy of mine used to do that, at least until it dawned on him one day just how much his kayak resembled a coffin. He sold his boat the very next day and took up stamp collecting instead.
That’s all well and good. But what if you want a challenge that’s a little less risky to life and limb…or one that you can pursue a little closer to home?
Well, I may have something for you. Have you thought about going for the Georgia Bass Slam?
“Slams” seem to be a thing these days. For instance, a “trout slam” might be catching a rainbow trout, and brown trout, and a brook trout all in the same day.
Similarly, kind of, a Grand Slam breakfast might be eating a waffle, some bacon, some hashbrowns, a couple of eggs and some toast down at the Waffle House on the way to catch those trout – or at least it used to be, back in those long-ago days when I didn’t worry too much about things like calories and cholesterol.
But let me get back to the Bass Slam.
The Georgia Bass Slam award is earned by anglers who catch at least five of Georgia’s 10 black bass species within a single calendar year.
Which species qualify? The list includes largemouth, smallmouth, shoal, Suwannee, spotted, redeye, Chattahoochee, Tallapoosa, Altamaha, and Bartram’s bass. Some of those may be familiar. Others may be fish you’ve never heard of. But all are out there, somewhere in Georgia’s diverse waters. And they’re waiting for you.
Georgia’s Bass Slam challenge is a great thing on a lot of levels. Chief among them, I think, is the fact that it encourages anglers to learn more about our state’s bass and to explore
and track down some diverse fishing opportunities that otherwise might go ignored.
Recognizing knowledge, skill
It also provides recognition for what is, by any measure, an impressive angling accomplishment. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Bass Slam challenge recognizes anglers who have “the knowledge and skill to catch five different species of black bass in a variety of habitats across the state. Who doesn’t enjoy a little recognition now and then?
One thing that pursuers of Bass Slam status tell me they enjoy is the challenge of identifying the various types of black bass that call Georgia home. Different species can have remarkably similar appearances, so you’ll need to learn those nuances that let you distinguish one from the next.
To help get you going, DNR offers some great online resources through BassSlam.com. One that’s particularly helpful is an interactive map which shows the general range where each of the species might be found. That’s a huge help in figuring out where to fish, especially if you’re going after a species with which you’re less familiar.
There’s also abundant info to help you conclusively identify the fish you catch – and that’s important, since your catches must be verified before you’re eligible for the Bass Slam award. You’ll also find insights on what sort of water or cover you should focus on as well as on what kind of bait or lure might be best. You’ll find this for each of the Bass Slam species.
Then it’s just up to you to hit the water and put some qualifying fish in your net.
What do you need to keep in mind when actually fishing for these bass? In waters where length limits are in place, eligible fish must be of legal size. For places or species with no minimum length limit, Bass Slam contenders must be at least 8 inches long.
When you land an eligible fish, document it with photos, which are an important part of your entry. Photos must include at least one shot showing you with the fish. You must also include a side view of the fish on a measuring board or next to a measuring tape or ruler. Add other photos that you think may help confirm the ID of each fish.
Mark your calendar
Since this is a calendar-year contest, your entry must be wrapped up and submitted online by midnight Dec. 31. Include your photos as well as your name, DNR customer number, the length of each fish (weight is optional), and the county and body of water where each fish was caught. Check the complete rules on BassSlam.com.
Then, once your catch is verified, you’re a Georgia Bass Slam winner!
If you achieve Bass Slam status, you’ll earn not only bragging rights but also a personalized certificate, two passes to the Go Fish Education Center in Perry and some commemorative stickers for your tackle box or cooler or car. You’ll also be recognized on the Bass Slam website and at the Go Fish Education Center in Perry.
In addition, you’ll be entered into a random drawing for the year’s special Bass Slam grand prize. Last year’s grand prize winner was William Strasburg of Marietta, one of 68 anglers to earn Georgia Bass Slam status in 2025. Strasburg has been participating in the program since 2017 and has earned six Bass Slams over the years. As grand prize for 2025, he received a cooler, camp chair, tackle box and a framed bass print.
There’s no doubt that Georgia’s Bass Slam program is growing in popularity every year. But a bigger question might be this: Why has bass fishing so captured the imagination of the fishing world?
Black bass have long been appreciated by the angling community. Back in 1881, for example, Dr. James A. Henshall wrote a book (actually, the first book ever written on bass fishing) entitled “Book of the Black Bass.”
“No doubt the Black Bass is the appointed successor of the Lordly Trout,” he wrote. He added that in his view, black bass “will eventually become the leading game fish of America.”
I’d say the good doctor nailed it. The mystique of trout notwithstanding, there’s really no doubt that bass are the most-pursued fish in America today – and Georgia, with its 10 resident black bass species, is a fine place to go after them.
Get out there and get to work on that slam!
Each line in the puzzle below has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 5, 5 and 4 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!
SPORTS PERSONALITIES
1. Dark black. Slightly obese. San Diego sportsman.
2. Thighbone. Baltimore sportsman. Bread unit.
3. Farm structure. Cincinnati sportsman. Arm, for one.
4. Tennessee sportsman. Turnpike sign. Wanderer.
5. Pricy gem. Edmonton sportsman. King or queen, e.g.
6. Miami sportsman. Marianas island. Urban haze.
7. Pipe problem. Military clique. Los Angeles sportsman.
1 Dark black. Slightly obese. San Diego sportsman
2. Thighbone. Baltimore sportsman. Bread unit
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. Farm structure. Cincinnati sportsman. Arm, for one.
4. Tennessee sportsman. Turnpike sign. Wanderer
5. Pricy gem. Edmonton sportsman. King or queen, e.g.
Golston:
Continued from Page 1
Wendy said Camryn's elementary school report cards said, "Camryn does not have to be perfect at everything."
Wendy said Camryn has brought the same perfectionism, though now a positive quality, into her academic and athletic endeavors as a teenager. Wendy said it was an important part of her parenting strategy to allow her daughters to be the authors of their own stories.
Camryn has two older sisters. Wynter is a master's student at Georgia Southern, and Jadyn is a junior at West Virginia University. All three Golston daughters play their own sport — Wynter, a soccer player, and Jadyn, a swimmer — to avoid inter-sibling competition.
That didn't keep Camryn from always striving to outdo her sisters. Her parents never believed in allowing their children to win unwarranted, so Camryn learned from an early age how much it stung to lose.
When she entered high school, she enjoyed a winning basketball culture in St. Francis's powerhouse program that has sent over a dozen athletes to Division I schools in the past 10 years.
Her first three years of high school, she traveled out of state every weekend from March through the summer to compete with an AAU team in Florida called Essence. It was a significant time commitment that added to Camryn’s balance with schoolwork and being a normal teenager.
Her senior year, she found a little more free time playing for the Georgiabased Southeast All Stars. She also was invited to try out for the Overtime Select team, and she made the final cut for an unforgettable experience playing for Overtime Select's Dream in the league's second year.
Camryn’s senior year brought her greatest tribulation yet when both of Wendy’s parents passed away within six months of each other. Two days after Camryn’s 18th birthday, her grandmother passed away, and her grandfather passed in April.
In school ball, which also started several days after Camryn’s birthday, St. Francis won their 15th consecutive region championship this year before falling in the Final Four of the state tournament. Camryn had won two backto-back state titles in her first two years with the program, and it was tough to end her career on such a note.
She said the end-of-season banquet this year, which took place several days before graduation, was emotional, especially saying goodbye to head coach Aisha Kennedy – affectionately known as “Coach G” to players – who became more than just a mentor.
"I've known Coach G my whole life
St. Francis point guard Camryn Golston smiles for a senior photo ahead of graduation.
basically," Camryn said. "I've always been around the team, just in the background at practices, at games, watching and learning."
Wendy attributes some of the reason Camryn was able to thrive at St. Francis to the relationship the family has with coach Kennedy. In the early ’90s, when Wendy was in college at Georgia State, her brother was in high school at Wheeler alongside Kennedy. Their prior relationship allowed more attention and care to Camryn's development, according to Wendy.
Camryn was never willing to slow
down either in basketball or academically. That led to the amount of sleep she got taking hits later down the road. Camryn was able to bounce back and figure out a more workable schedule, but it took more than a few sleepless nights to get there.
Camryn describes herself as "a big numbers person" but also a "people person," similar to the assistant coach assigned to point guards she will be working with at SAU.
She describes her basketball playing style as "very fast-paced ... and for someone of my size, I play very physical."
GOLSTON FAMILY/PROVIDED
"I'm very big on controlling my controllables now," she said. "This year, that's been a big point of emphasis. I can't control whether I make the shot, but I can control my energy, I can control my effort."
Controlling her effort in the classroom culminated in a 104.4 GPA (4.0 on weighted scale). She plans to attend medical school after undergrad.
Camryn is carrying the same highenergy attitude and toughness that captured national recruiting attention into whatever awaits her at South Alabama. And she won't be without her family's support.
Continued from Page 21
I drove with him. I recall trips to Africa where he took supplies, money, medical equipment and anything else he believed was needed. He recruited others to help. His caring and his willingness to walk that walk was infectious; his light shone through any dark night and was always a beacon for good.
It is really hard for me to think that he is not here now. He would call me usually once a month or so just to check in. And I would do the
City
of Milton
same for him. He was a big man in so many ways — I always thought maybe a cross between John Wayne, Gen. George Patton and Dwight D. Eisenhower. But he also was a lot of Mother Teresa and Albert Schweitzer at the same time. I thought for some reason he was indestructible. But he wasn’t.
His life, though, will live on. His example, I know, will remain in the minds of everyone who worked with him or knew him in any direct way. His works will not be forgotten. His legacy, unlike the man, will endure. Of that, I am 100% sure — just like he was 100% sure of his faith and his reasons to do good and be good.
PUBLIC NOTICE OF SALE OF PROPERTY
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the City of Milton will offer the following property for sale via online auction beginning Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. and the final auction ending Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Full property descriptions, as well as the bidding process, will be available through the City's website's home page at www.miltonga.gov by following the link provided for www.GovDeals.com
Vehicle:
* 2012 Ford Expedition
The buyer will have up to 5 business days to pay with exact cash, money order, or cashier's check and 10 business days to remove the vehicle. The vehicle will be available for inspection by appointment only, at 750 Hickory Flat Rd, Milton, GA 30004. Appointment requests should be emailed to Captain Russ Womack at russell.womack@miltonga.gov
• Cremation Services
info@northsidechapel.com www.northsidechapel.com
During these turbulent times, we would like to highlight the continued courage and commitment of everyone who works in the health care, law enforcement, childcare, food service and utility sectors. We are extremely grateful.
City of Milton Notice of Public Hearing Board of Zoning Appeals
The City of Milton Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing for the variances described below at the following time and place:
Date & Time: July 21, 2026, 6:00 P.M.
Location: City of Milton 2006 Heritage Walk Council Chambers Milton, Georgia 30004-6119
678-242-2524
Consideration of Primary Variances
V26-06, 14880 Freemanville Road
Applicant: Sarah & Joseph Rothwein
Request:
Sec. 3.1.4, Accessory Structure Setbacks – Unified Development Code. To allow a proposed garage accessory structure to be located in front of a proposed single-family home.
Invitation to Bid
Gunston Hall Circle Rehabilitation Project Project #TS2-2515 ITB NUMBER 26-PW08
Bid submissions will be publicly announced via a virtual bid opening at approximately 2:30 PM at the City of Milton City Hall located at 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton, GA 30004. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the lowest reliable bidder whose bid meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the invitation for bids.
The City of Milton is requesting bids from qualified parties for the Gunston Hall Circle Rehabilitation Project. The scope of work for this project generally consists of the installation of geogrid and backfill material, reconstruction of roadway and curb and gutter with associated road shoulder work. The Contractor will be required to complete the project by September 30, 2026. All qualified bids will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin. The time and terms of payment, along with the plans and specifications can be found in the solicitation of bids posted on the websites below. A bid bond of 5% is required when submitting bid response.
The request for electronic bids for ITB 26-PW08, Gunston Hall Circle Rehabilitation Project will be posted on the following websites the week of June 11, 2026: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
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Ralph Moore
Carol Morgan
Kathy Morgan
Stu Moring
Leslie Mullis
Donna Murphy
Jack Murphy
Aileen Nakamura
George Nathan
THE FUTURE OF LOCAL NEWS
Caroline Naughton
Richard Nichols
Cindy Nolan North
Fulton Master Gardeners, 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
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.
Fran Russell
Janet Sandberg
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.
Alcon Research, LLC has openings for Associate III, Manufacturing Production Process Engineering for the Johns Creek, GA office. Responsible for completing nonconformance investigation activities (including product assessments) and identifying, designing and implementing improvements to equipment and processes in support of the corrective and preventative action (CAPA) program and continuous improvement efforts at Johns Creek Manufacturing. 40 hours per week. Please send resumes to Sylvia Cruz, Alcon Research, LLC, 6201 South Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76134, Ref. No. WYA0626
Sr. Field Engineer sought by LG Electronics USA, Inc. in Alpharetta, GA to mng info flow of CAC engg for escalated service cases. Reqs: BS, or foreign equiv in Mechanical Engnrng, Comp Sci, Electrical Engnrng or rltd field & 2 yrs exp in job offd or rltd role in Commercial Air Conditioning field. Must possess exp w/ AHU, VRF, Commissioning service, Centrifugal chillers, GHP air conditioning systms, & etc.50% travel req (about 10-15 days/month) throughout Western US region to provide on-site tech support for qlty issues & on-site troubleshooting. Apply at: https://lge-careers.com/
Bolt Solutions, Inc. seeks a DevOps Site Reliability Engineer (“SRE”) Lead in Alpharetta, GA, to manage the company’s network security, connectivity, and databases. Send resumes to the People Director, NA, Melissa Vernocy mvernocy@boltinsurance.com.
Computer Professionals for GA based IT Firm : “Sr. Software Engineer to Dsgn cloud-based solutions across IaaS & PaaS based environments within public cloud. Dvlp & configure automation solutions & build scripts for deployments. Manage infrastructure across various clusters, automate day-to-day system administration tasks. Provide authentication solutions & migrate/upgrade virtual machines on hybrid cloud. Travel to various unanticipated worksite loc’ns with frequency dependent on Project and/or Client requirement throughout the U.S. may be required.” Apply w/2 copies of resume to HR, Powermind Solutions, Inc. 11539 Park Woods Cir, Ste # 703, Alpharetta, GA 30005.
Data Analyst ($93,974) - Alpharetta, GA. Anlyz & process hlthcare datasets; gnrte insights, idntfy trnds & suprt data-driven decision-making. Crte BI dashboards, data visliz & Anlytcl reprts. Trnslate biz & ops reqs into queries, metrics & reporting slutions. Suprt data vldtn, mdel testing & Anlytcl processes. Reqs: MA in Data Analytics or rltd; 1 yr exp as Data Speclst/smlr in hlthcare iduty w/ data anlyz skills. Send CV to Jiten Chhabra, CareValidate Inc., 4575 Webb Bridge Rd, Ste 4345, Alpharetta, GA 30005. Code: 0420.
Midway Preschool is looking for an experienced Young 5’s/Prek teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Contact Beth at beth@midwayumc.org.
a power move.
APC seeks a vibrant, relational leader to serve as Youth Director for middle and high school students. 20–25 hrs/week | Up to $25/hr. Ideal candidates have a passion for youth mentorship and a background in education, coaching, or youth leadership. Retired teachers and ministryminded professionals encouraged to apply. Strong volunteer team and pastoral support in place.
To apply: Submit a brief introduction and resume to jobs@alpharettapres.com.
place a classified ad, email classifieds@appenmedia.com. Deadline is Thursdays by 3pm
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