Giving in droves for area needy
Crabapple Crossing students learn, share for less fortunate
By HANNAH YAHNE | hannah@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — The cafeteria at Crabapple Crossing Elementary School overflowed with 130 students Nov. 12, filling boxes and tote bags with donated food.
Over the past four years, the elementary school has partnered with STAR House Foundation for the two-week Raise Craze fundraiser that provides underprivileged kids with meals over Thanksgiving break.
“These families are having any number of struggles, be it food insecurity or childcare or a sustainable house,” Foundation Executive Director Stephanie Christiansen Butler said. “It really puts another layer on…because it really is a lot of the time that kid is home by themselves.”
STAR House Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides after-school tutoring and mentoring to children throughout North Fulton County. Currently, there are STAR House programs at Esther Jackson, Mimosa and Vickery Mill elementary schools.
See COMMUNITY, Page 20
School Board advances $14 million in upgrades to Autrey Mill Middle
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — The Fulton County Board of Education reviewed two contracts totaling over $20 million for school renovations at its Nov. 11 work session.
The projects would renovate Autrey Mill Middle School and upgrade the
audio and visual systems at three high schools.
The contract to renovate Autrey Mill totals $14.2 million with a 5 percent contingency fund. Funding comes through Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST).
The extensive renovations will remove and replace all light fixtures with LED lighting, replacing the emer -
gency generator, boilers and other heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, and installing a new intercom system. All acoustic ceiling tiles will also be removed and replaced.
The contracts, both awarded to Ward Humphrey, Inc., were placed on
See SCHOOLS, Page 21
HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
Parents help their kids fill food bags at Crabapple Crossing Elementary School’s fourth-annual Raise Craze fundraising event Nov. 12.
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POLICE BLOTTER
All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
Officers investigate attempted ATM theft
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating an attempted seconddegree burglary after an unidentified male suspect broke into the CVS off Alpharetta Highway (Ga. 9) Oct. 30 and tried to open an ATM.
The report says several officers were dispatched to the convenience store just before 6 a.m. after an alarm company alerted dispatch about a potential burglary in progress.
Upon arrival, officers said the front door appeared to have been forced open. Just inside the store, an officer said he noticed a damaged Allpoint ATM with the front face torn off and protruding wires.
Repairs for the damaged ATM are around $500.
The report says no merchandise was stolen during the incident.
After a search of the property, officers said they were unable to locate anyone matching the suspect’s description. The suspect is described as a man wearing cowboy boots and a gray hoodie.
Officers said the suspect left the scene in a white pickup truck, which was unable to be tracked.
The report says a Roswell detective took over the investigation at 7 a.m. with CVS employees en route to assist.
— Hayden Sumlin
Vehicle reported stolen from resident’s garage
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A car was reported stolen from a Webb Bridge Court garage Oct. 21.
Alpharetta police said a 45-year-old Alpharetta man told officers he found
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the vehicle missing after opening his personal garage.
The man said he was in possession of both of the vehicle’s keys. He said he is the only person who drives the car.
The man showed officers statements indicating he had made payments on the vehicle.
Officers checked Flock security cameras but found no video of the vehicle.
The incident was classified as a felony motor vehicle theft. — Jon Wilcox
Alpharetta resident reports car break-in at Hembree Park
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating a car break-in and unauthorized use of credit cards after a 46-year-old Alpharetta woman reported the felonies Oct. 31 at Hembree Park.
The Alpharetta woman said her boyfriend drove her Honda Pilot and parked it by one of the playing fields around 7:30 p.m. She said she left her spare key in the car, preventing it from being locked.
Officers said no forced entry to the vehicle was observed but the owner’s wallet and its content were taken.
The following items were reported stolen: a Truist debit card, an American Express credit card, a Chase credit card, $50 in cash, her Georgia driver`s license, her medical marijuana card, her social security card, an Air Tag and the spare key.
While speaking with the officer on the phone, the Alpharetta woman said she tracked her Apple AirTag to Houze Way and found her wallet lying empty on the sidewalk next to her spare key.
Later, she said her American Express card was charged $300 across two transactions at gas stations, and the Chase card was rung up for around $350.
The officer said the suspect also attempted to use the Truist card but had all four transactions declined.
As of Nov. 3, the case remains active.
— Hayden Sumlin
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Woman arrested on felony shoplifting charge
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — A 25-year-old Alpharetta woman was arrested on a shoplifting charge Oct. 22 after allegedly stealing almost $600 of merchandise.
Alpharetta police said officers were dispatched to a North Point Parkway department store about 10 p.m. after a theft was reported.
Officers viewed security camera footage allegedly showing two women entering the store with two children. One of the women concealed items from the cosmetics department in their cart under a blanket, police said.
The woman pushed the cart past points of sale and was apprehended, police said.
Officers obtained a warrant charging her with felony shoplifting.
She was taken to Fulton County’s Rice Street jail.
— Jon Wilcox
Roswell resident reports iPhone stolen from parcel
ROSWELL, Ga. — An 80-year-old Roswell resident reported the theft of his new Apple iPhone 17 Pro Nov. 2 from a package before it was delivered to his home in the northeast corner of the city.
The victim told officers that he went to a Verizon store to purchase a new phone but placed an order because of limited stock.
When he received his package, the man told officers that it appeared to have been opened and was empty.
Officers said there was clear tape covering the ripped brown tape that sealed the box. The packaging of the iPhone remained in the box, but the phone itself was missing, officers added.
The report says the package was shipped from Mount Juliet, Tennessee by FedEx, which has an active case number for the theft.
Officers said the cell phone’s serial number was listed on regional crime dashboards and ended the report.
— Hayden Sumlin
Cambridge sixth graders to play for GMSAA title
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — The sixth grade Cambridge feeder football team will face off against Carrollton at Hillgrove High School Nov. 22 to decide the Division A title for the Georgia Middle School Athletic Association (GMSAA).
Both teams are undefeated going into the matchup, and neither has allowed more than 30 points total this season. It will be the first time in Cambridge history that any football team has reached the championship game in the top division.
It won’t be the Bears’ first time facing an undefeated team this season after matching up with region foe Walton for the second-tolast game of the regular season. Cambridge’s tough defense held every other opponent to six points or fewer, and the Raiders weren’t able to break that trend.
Before moving up to the middle school league this year, this group won a championship last season [LINK: https://www. appenmedia.com/milton/milton-secondgrade-team-wins-gridiron-championship/article_aeafcfc2-b0e5-11ef-9f39-df17da52713c. html] in the fifth grade Cobb League 7A Division. If they win against Carrollton, it will make two straight undefeated seasons.
The Bears are averaging 34.0 points per game with Carrollton barely getting the edge over them with 34.1. These powerhouse high
school programs could have a rivalry brewing.
Assistant coach Tony Palazzo said the goal is to hand this “band of brothers” over to head coach Tyler Jones at the varsity level.
Palazzo said the team has found success in the grind, with head coach Austin Ragans’ pep talks motivating the young players to see the translation from repetitive actions in practice to dominance on the field.
“[Ragans] is the greatest motivator I’ve ever seen of young people,” he said. “He puts in the time, does the work, but he really has a talent at getting the kids to buy in and give all they can and the kids love it. We have a great group of kids who are very coachable and work really hard, embracing the work they know they need to do.”
Palazzo, a Furman University football alum, and Ragans, who played for Charleston Southern, have coached this group since kindergarten-first grade flag football. The pair coach alongside three other former Division I football players and two Division I baseball players.
The team grew from 20 players last year to 46 this year — the biggest middle school team Cambridge has ever fielded.
As is evident from their opponents’ point totals this season, the Bears’ foundation is defense. Palazzo highlighted the defensive line and safeties as one reason for the team’s success. He says the Bears are ready for whatever the title game has in store for them.
CAMBRIDGE FEEDER FOOTBALL/PROVIDED Cambridge sixth graders stand with teammates after beating Walton 40-6 Oct. 11. The team will face off against Carrollton Nov. 22 for a chance at a GMSAA championship.
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County schools react to passage of senior tax exemptions
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
NORTH FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Fulton County voters approved two property tax exemptions Nov. 4 that reduce the taxable value of a senior's qualified homestead by a percentage, thereby lowering the amount they owe to the school district.
The Fulton County School Board says it understands and appreciates the financial concerns of senior citizens, but has remarked the school district is facing significant financial pressures.
The first exemption, for residents who are 65 or older, takes 25 percent off a home's assessed value. The
second one, for residents who are 70 or older, reduces it by 50 percent.
Both exemptions passed easily with more than 75 percent of the roughly 125,000 votes across the county.
Fulton County Schools has one of the lowest millage rates in metro Atlanta, and the school district says the tax exemptions were developed with its legislative partners as a part of ongoing efforts to address the impact rising housing assessments have had on seniors.
“The impact of the passage of the exemptions cannot be addressed in isolation,” the district’s statement says. “The loss from local tax dollars the senior exemptions bring (estimated
at approximately $50 million) will be compounded by a loss of state dollars. At the same time, the district is managing higher costs for health benefits, employee compensation and inflation.”
The school district has been planning for exemptions, along with general cost escalations and declining enrollment.
Through its GLIDE initiative, officials say they can minimize the impact to classrooms and staff. The initiative (coined Growth Opportunities, Lean Operations, Investment in Innovation, Diversify Revenue and Enhance Efficiency) uses data and projections to prepare for a $93–95 million fiscal adjustment over
five years, ensuring FCS can continue delivering essential services while honoring its commitments to students and the community.
As the Sandy Springs and East Point communities are aware, Fulton County Schools closed two elementary schools this academic year due to declining enrollment and underutilization of facilities in the region. Rising operational costs and dwindling revenues also played a role.
“Further decisions about capacity are being considered and will be discussed in the coming years,” the statement says. “There are no immediate plans for action for closure or consolidation for the upcoming fiscal year.”
North Fulton charity schedules coat, Thanksgiving food drive
ROSWELL, Ga. — North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) is bringing back its annual CoatsGiving program, presented by Nalley Automotive, Nov. 17-22, at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Roswell.
The initiative provides warm winter clothing and Thanksgiving meals to hundreds of families across North Fulton.
Donation drop-off will run from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. on Nov. 17-19. Family distribution will take place Nov. 20-22.
With rising costs and limited resources, many families are turning to NFCC for help, and the nonprofit expects to serve roughly 600 families during CoatsGiving. The organization is specifically seeking coats for young children, from infants to 11-year-olds, to meet the growing demand.
“CoatsGiving is a beautiful example of what happens when a community comes together,” said Sylvia Cardona, vice president of community engagement at NFCC. “A warm coat and a holiday meal may seem simple, but they represent dignity,
care and connection for families who are working hard to make ends meet.”
CoatsGiving combines two long-standing NFCC traditions: the Thanksgiving food program that was started in 1984, and the Warm Coats drive, launched in 1994 by a local Girl Scout Troop. The programs merged in 2024 to better serve families in one convenient experience.
Here is how to give:
• Donate nonperishable food items, such as canned vegetables, dry potatoes, dry beans, cranberries, stuffing or dessert mixes.
• Provide new or gently used coats and winter accessories in all sizes, especially for young children.
• Contribute gift cards from Kroger or Walmart.
For donation guidelines, sign-up forms and more information, visit nfcchelp.org/ coatsgiving/.
Georgia Northern Ridge District welcomes October Eagle Scouts
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ALPHARETTA, Ga.— The Northern Ridge Boy Scout District (cities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton) is proud to announce its newest Eagle Scouts who completed their Eagle Board of Review on Oct. 23 at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church.
Pictured top row, from left
Eli Leaders, of Troop 841, sponsored by St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Eli’s project was the design and creation of six artificial fish habitats, eight natural fish habitat bundles, four fishing line collection bins and an educational sign about fish habitat and ecosystems at the Lakhapani Preserve Pond.
Blake Faunce, of Troop 143, sponsored by Greenleaf Capital Partners. Blake’s project was the design and construction of six wooden benches for Cumming First United Methodist Church.
Arpan Saha, of Troop 1717, sponsored by Cross of Life Lutheran Church. Arpan’s project was the design and construction of eight benches for the wooded area behind Rucker Road Farm Park.
John Lewis, of Troop 87, sponsored by Roswell Presbyterian Church. John’s project was the design and construction of two mobile book carts and a bookshelf for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta- Arthur M. Blank Hospital. John also held a book drive to stock the book carts and collected 1,657 books.
William Gibson, of Troop 629, sponsored by Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. William’s project was the design and construction of fencing around the triple zipline and a TEC course, as well as building four benches for people to sit and wait at these courses, for Sojourn Adventures, an outreach ministry of Perimeter Church
Bottom row, from left:
Michael Brandt, of Troop 69, spon-
sored by Alpharetta Methodist Church. Michael’s project was the design and construction of three storage racks and a storage cubby for the Chattahoochee High School Football Team equipment room.
Vishnu Arumugam, of Troop 3143, sponsored by American Legion Post 251. Vishnu’s project was the design and construction of four elevated wire plant tables and two wooden benches for the Chattahoochee Nature Center.
Luke Flores, of Troop 143, sponsored by Greenleaf Capital Partners. Luke’s project was the renovation of the Goat Shed at Denmark High School, which included pressure washing and painting the shed, adding gutters to the roof, which emptied into a water stock tank. Luke also built a goat ramp for the goats and a hexagonal tree bench to provide seating for the barn area.
Bilal Mourad, of Troop 12, sponsored by the Muslim American Society Youth Center. Bilal’s project was the design and construction of four raised brick garden beds and educational signs for the Masjid Al-Momineen.
Aayush Ahuja, of Troop 10, sponsored by St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. Aayush’s project was the design and construction of six fences for one of Lake Windward Elementary School’s play areas.
Kyle Jenkins, of Troop 985, sponsored by Northbrook United Methodist Church. Kyle’s project was the design and construction of a storage shed, a pathway from the shed to the gardens for the Northbrook United Methodist Church’s Community Garden. Kyle also replaced the bench at the garden.
Ethan Huh, of Troop 2143, sponsored by American Legion Post 251. Ethan’s project was the design and construction of two picnic tables and two benches for the Atlanta Promise Church.
PROVIDED
Newly awarded Eagle Scouts stand at Alpharetta Presbyterian Church at an Oct. 23 ceremony.
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Milton teen decorates her own path to profit
By HANNAH YAHNE hannah@appenmedia.com
MILTON, Ga. — Art became a healing outlet for Savannah Murray when she was 13 years old. After being bullied by her teacher, she started drawing without ever taking an art class and has since gained recognition as a published, award-winning artist. Now, at 19, Savannah is a business owner, combining her passion for art with the outdoors through her porch-decorating business, Pumpkinful Porch Designs.
“I’ve always been kind of artistic,” Savannah said, “and I always liked the fall and colors of trees. I thought, what can I do with art and something outdoors?”
The inspiration to start her own business sparked from frustration. As a young adult with autism, Savannah struggled to find a job despite her success as an artist and nature photographer. After months of interviews, Savannah’s mother, Theresa Murray, said it was difficult to see her daughter rejected for jobs she was qualified for. She recounted a time when Savannah was turned down for a dog sitting job despite volunteering with horses and being a certified raptor handler.
“It’s been an awakening for her, and she is just so full of pride in herself, knowing that she has the ability,” Theresa said. “She just needed to hire
herself because nobody else believed in her.”
No matter where an individual lies on the spectrum, it’s difficult for autistic adults to get a job, Theresa said. Recent estimates from the Autism Society of America found that 85 percent of individuals with autism who have a college degree are unemployed or underemployed. With those statistics in mind, Savannah set out on a mission to make her business a place where people on the spectrum can feel confident in the workplace.
“I know it’s hard to get a job being autistic,” Savannah said. “I think it would be cool to help other people get a job that they can do without being judged or having to be perfect at it … and help other people get hired.”
Decorating the porches of five or six homes in a day adds up, and Savannah wants help managing the 8,000 pounds of pumpkins she’s used so far this year. Savannah started preparing for her first year taking clients in June and has decorated more than 50 porches across the metro Atlanta area in 2025, even going as far as Athens to bring fall to customers’ front doors. Each house sparks new inspiration for Savannah as she balances the pumpkins’ color scheme to make the design flow across the porch.
See MURRAY, Page 11
SAVANNAH
MURRAY, owner, Pumpkinful Porch Designs
THERESA MURRAY/SPECIAL
Savannah Murray, owner of Pumpkinful Porch Designs, sits on a porch she decorated with heirloom pumpkins. In only her first year of business, Savannah has decorated over 50 porches across Metro-Atlanta.
THERESA MURRAY/SPECIAL
A truckload of pumpkins that Savannah Murray uses to decorate porches. The pumpkins are sourced from North Georgia and, after they’re used as decoration, are donated to a local farm as food.
and emails sharing how Savannah’s story has inspired others and allowed them to recognize that autistic individuals can do anything.
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“It can take her about an hour to do 20-30 pumpkins on a step,” Theresa said. “It takes practice for her and she’s getting better as she goes along with it.”
Savannah hopes to hire teenagers who are on the spectrum to help her transfer materials and coordinate with customers as her business expands. With pumpkin season winding down, she envisions building a brand that will encompass Hollyful – bringing Christmas-themed porch decoration – and Porchful Artistry that will decorate porches yearround.
Theresa said it’s really inspiring to see Savannah’s personal growth, and even more so when they receive messages of how her ambition has inspired children on the spectrum. Theresa said they receive phone calls
“It’s been really great for Savannah,” Theresa said, “but it’s also heartwarming to know that other people are being inspired by this.”
Savannah’s entrepreneurship has received a nomination for the Star Award at the annual Star Shine Gala hosted by Spectrum, a company providing autism support, education and resources. The award celebrates businesses that employ individuals with autism in metro Atlanta.
“People really do not understand the difficulties of autism,” Theresa said. “I think the world should be a little bit more accommodating to the autistic community because they have so many abilities and it’s being overlooked right now.”
To get in contact with Savannah Murray and add a seasonal surprise to your porch, visit https://pumpkinful. com/ or reach out to 678-706-7897.
Milton wins flag football tri-match
By ANNABELLE REITER annabelle@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell High School hosted a flag football tri-match Nov. 5 where Milton won both its matches, the Hornets split 1-1, and Cambridge lost both games.
Milton star receiver Alana Calhoun was notably absent from the game, recovering from trouble with her knee but expecting to be back this season.
Runner-up for Score Atlanta’s Miss Georgia award last year, receiver Caroline Marshall stepped up to fill the gaps, notching two touchdowns against Roswell and three against Cambridge.
Head coach Clark Nixon says his team is taking region play in stride to prepare for the postseason.
“I’m proud of how the girls rallied,” he said. “I think we’re in a great spot. We haven’t played our best yet, but we want to be peaking here at the end going into the playoffs.”
The Eagles got revenge for the varsity football team that was beaten by Roswell Oct. 31, pulling off a 20-13 comeback thanks to a game-winning sneak touchdown by junior Braelyn Swanick. Swanick is committed to Notre Dame for lacrosse.
Milton’s offense was steady through the Cambridge game, with scores by receivers Alliyah Holmes and Kaitlyn Weis to build up to a 33-0 final.
The last matchup of the night was a big defensive stand for both teams as there was an all-around shutout until Roswell’s Emmie Tuggle made it to the end zone with less than a minute and a half remaining in the game.
Tuggle was named to the All-Area First Team for her performance as a defender for the girls’ lacrosse team last year. Playing on both sides of the ball, Tuggle and senior Makayla Irby were pillars of the Hornets defense as well.
Another lacrosse player, sophomore Hazel Shively, was a consistent force against Milton with one receiving touchdown and nearly a second.
Hornets head coach Emily Liedberg described her team in one word with “sisterhood” and said she felt they adjusted well to the adversity in the game.
“We have a lot of multi-sport athletes and the coolest thing about it is that they all come together to play this sport,” she said. “We played our game, and we’re just going to get better every day.”
Cambridge’s defense was anchored by senior Sophie Sessa and sophomore Nevea Andersen. Andersen is a two-way player who was also instrumental to the
Bears’ offense as one of their best receivers.
Sessa and Andersen combined for seven flag pulls and a pass break up in a single Hornets drive.
Flag football regions and classifica-
tions differ from the region groupings for other sports. These three teams, along with Blessed Trinity, Chattahoochee,
and Mount
are battling it out for four playoff seeds.
Nearly a month and a half into the season, all that remains now is region play before the postseason starts Dec. 4. Two of the best teams in the state – Milton and BT – will duke it out for the Area 7 of D4 title.
Johns Creek, Centennial
Pisgah
ANNABELLE REITER/APPEN MEDIA
Milton junior Caroline Marshall, right, takes off with the rock after a lateral pass from senior Alliyah Holmes, center, to extend the play at Roswell High School Nov. 5. The Eagles won both their matches, besting Roswell 20-13 and shutting out Cambridge 33-0.
The Hornets congratulate sophomore Hazel Shively, center, after a receiving touchdowns of the night at Roswell High School Nov. 5. The Hornets split their two games that night, beating Cambridge 6-0 but losing 20-13 to Milton.
Beware of E-Bikes, E-Scooters as Christmas gifts without protecting your assets
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Meet Melanie Lindy from Touchmark National Bank!
Melanie is a lifelong Atlanta native and has been a member of the Alpharetta/Johns Creek community for over 30 years. She grew up in Dunwoody and attended Chamblee High School. She graduated from Georgia Southern University and had a lengthy career in education before entering the financial business world. Melanie joined Touchmark National Bank in 2021 as a Customer Service Representative and Lead Teller. Her customer focus and outgoing personality are qualities that make her perfect for serving Touchmark’s clients every day.
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Baa baa black sheep, have you any wool? Flock history
I would venture to say that many adults in Georgia remember childhood nursery rhymes or stories about sheep, for example: “Mary Had a Little Lamb," "Baa Baa Black Sheep" or "Little Bo Peep.” We consider sheep to be friendly and sometimes affectionate if not the brightest animals on the farm, and sheep may have a special relationship with their owners who often give them names and love them like pets. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison raised sheep. Woodrow Wilson kept a flock on the White House lawn during World War I to keep the grass trimmed and to save manpower.
Sheep have been raised in Georgia since the 1700s according to the New Georgia Encyclopedia. Both lamb and wool were important to our early settlers. Inventory data on sheep began in 1867 when there were about 45 million sheep in the United States. The number remained fairly constant until after the Second World War. Among the reasons for the post-war decline were the rise of synthetic fabrics, decline in the consumption of lamb, cheap imports that flooded the U.S. market and urbanization. Currently there are only about 7.5 million sheep in the U.S. and about 10,000 in Georgia.
Today, sheep farming plays a small but significant role in Georgia’s agriculture especially in Middle and South Georgia. In Fulton County, according to the USDA, there were 167 farms on 9,000-plus acres in 2022 of which about 3,500 acres were pastureland. This was 14 % fewer farms and 25 % fewer acres devoted to farms than in 2017.
Worldwide there are more than 200 sheep breeds but only two types of breeds, hair sheep and wool sheep. The hair-type breeds do not need to be sheered, a significant labor-saving feature. Hair sheep grow a coat of coarse hair that naturally sheds in the spring. They produce meat. Wool-type breeds must be sheared, usually annually. Their fleece is the result of centuries of selective breeding to produce fibers for textiles. Their wool is soft and insulating and contains lanolin, a natural oil. Some breeds have no horns, some have two and some have four.
People sometimes ask if a sheep’s wool will grow forever if the animal is left unshorn. The answer lies with Shrek, a famous sheep in New Zealand who really did not like haircuts. He hid out in a cave for six years before he was found in 2004. When shorn his owner could not tell that he was a sheep according to “Modern Farmer” magazine. When Shrek was
sheared his fleece weighed 60 pounds, enough wool to make 20 men’s suits. In 2015, a sheep named Chris who was lost and then found in Australia five years later, provided 91pounds of fleece, a world record. An Australian sheep’s annual fleece normally weighs about 11 pounds. While North Fulton is not known for raising sheep, a few people do raise them. Tom and Jane Grady purchased a property in Alpharetta in 1981. It was once owned by Walter Tucker (1909-1984), a farmer and skilled carpenter who bought
and cleared the land circa 1940 and built a barn that still stands. He and Jane have several Tunis sheep. “I love taking care of them,” says Tom. “They connect me to my relationship with God. John Chapter 1 tells us that Jesus was the Lamb of God. The 23rd Psalm says the Lord is my shepherd,” Tom notes. “Sheep are very fragile and fearful. They cannot survive without a shepherd. They follow me when I walk in a field because they know that I am their master.”
Tom breeds his sheep in October using
a ram provided by fellow sheep farmer and friend Phil Busman. The ram will stay in Tom’s yard with his two adult and one young female for about a month when his adult females will breed. After five months the two will probably give birth to twins. Within a half hour the newborn lambs will be standing by their mother and nursing.
Phil and Mary Busman have a working farm in Alpharetta which provides fresh grown vegetables to families who support the farm by purchasing harvests in advance. The Community Supported Agriculture, CSA, program they started in 2008 has grown by word of mouth until 73 families now take part. The farm has provided approximately 1300 baskets of food for its customers this year.
Phil gives the credit for CSA’s success to his sheep and to “responsible tillage.” He says, “a healthy ecosystem takes care of itself.” Phil has very few insects in his garden yet does no spraying or mowing because the sheep have kept the soil balanced.
Phil has four ewes, two pure Tunis and two crosses between Cotswold and Tunis plus one ram loaned for the breeding season to friend Tom Grady. Crossbreeding yields strong animals which Phil calls “hybrid vigor.”
Every year Phil sends the sheared wool to MacAusland’s Woolen Mills on Prince Edward Island in Canada to have it made into blankets and yarn.
Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@ bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.
BOB MEYERS Columnist
BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA
Phil Busman does not have to cut the grass. His sheep do it for him. In addition to pasture maintenance, the sheep help with vegetable growing by consuming plant residues. Phil and Mary have been raising sheep since 1990.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
During World War 1 President Woodrow Wilson and his wife Edith kept a flock of Shropshire sheep on the White House lawn. This avoided the cost of maintenance and freed men for military service. The wool from the sheep was auctioned off to raise money for the Red Cross. The photo was taken in 1919.
Attracting birds and pollinators to your winter garden
As temperatures drop and many plants go dormant, it is easy to assume that your garden enters a quiet, lifeless phase. But winter can be a time of surprising vibrancy and ecological value, especially if you intentionally create a haven for birds and pollinators. In Georgia’s relatively mild climate, it’s possible to support local wildlife year-round with just a few strategic choices.
Attracting birds and pollinators to your winter garden doesn’t just benefit the environment, it also adds life, movement and interest to the garden during what might otherwise be a dull season. Here's how to make your outdoor space a welcoming winter habitat.
Why attract wildlife in winter?
Winter is a critical time for many species. Birds and pollinators face food shortages, fewer water sources and the loss of natural habitat due to development and tidy landscaping. By offering food, shelter and water, your garden becomes a vital sanctuary. In return, it’s possible to enjoy bird song, pollinator activity on warmer days and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Plant with purpose: winter food
Native plants are the most important building blocks for supporting Georgia’s wildlife. While flowers may be fewer in winter, native seed heads, berries and evergreen plants offer much-needed sustenance.
Plant winter-blooming flowers
Select plants with blooms or berries in the winter to provide a much-needed food source for pollinators like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Some non-native winter-blooming options for Atlanta gardens include:
• Camellias: These evergreen shrubs produce vibrant flowers in shades of pink, red and white from fall to spring. They attract hummingbirds, bees and butterflies.
• Hellebores (lenten roses): Evergreen foliage and winter blooms in shades of white, pink and purple make hellebores an excellent choice for attracting early bees and buzz pollinators like bumblebees.
• Juniper: This evergreen shrub provides both nectar for pollinators and berries that feed birds throughout the winter.
Use native plants
Choosing native plants not only supports local wildlife but also helps main-
tain the ecosystem's balance. Native plants have co-evolved with local wildlife, providing the best possible food and habitat. Some Georgia native plants that attract birds and pollinators include:
• Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria): Yaupon supports pollinators and provides year-round shelter and nesting opportunities for small birds, protecting them from predators and harsh weather conditions. Its red berries continue through winter, providing a crucial food source for birds. Robins, mockingbirds, thrashers, wrens and more feed on these berries.
• Blackhaw Viburnum (Viburnum rufidulum): This plant produces clusters of dark blue berries that persist into winter, providing an essential food source for birds when other food is scarce. Mockingbirds, thrashers, catbirds and waxwings are known to feed on these berries.
• Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis): Wild indigo produces seed pods that provide food for goldfinches and pine siskins in winter.
• Partridge Pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata): This legume produces small, peanut-like seeds that are a valuable food source for mourning doves, quails and sparrows.
house overwintering insects and provide cover for birds.
• Add birdhouses or roosting boxes, which offer insulation from the cold and safety from predators.
• Trees and shrubs with dense foliage offer excellent shelter.
• Evergreen shrubs and dense hedges are valuable as natural shelter. It would be beneficial if at least 25 percent of the trees and shrubs in your landscape were evergreen.
Don’t forget the water
Water sources can be scarce in winter, especially when temperatures dip below freezing. Birds and insects need clean, accessible water every day.
As far as water sources go, the vessels should be filled no more than two to three inches deep (while changing the water frequently) and elevated in the middle of an open area to minimize predation by cats and other animals. Here are a few suggestions for adding water to your yard:
• Birdbaths: Use a heated birdbath or add warm water daily to keep it from freezing.
• Shallow dishes with stones: These are ideal for small birds or insects on mild days.
Other plants for winter wildlife
• Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana): With vibrant purple berries, this native shrub is a magnet for cardinals and mockingbirds.
• Hollies (Ilex spp.): Both evergreen and deciduous varieties provide dense cover and berries for food.
• Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana): Offers winter berries loved by cedar waxwings.
• Coneflowers and black-eyed Susans (Echinacea and Rudbeckia): Leave seed heads standing; finches will thank you.
• Goldenrod (Solidago spp.): Even after blooming, goldenrod stems and seeds feed small birds and provide overwintering shelter for beneficial insects.
Provide shelter
Many pollinators, including native bees, overwinter in leaf litter, hollow stems or soil. Don’t over-clean your garden; a bit of wildness is healthy. Resist the urge to rake everything away, especially in naturalized parts of your garden. Here are a few shelter tips:
• Leave brush piles or stacked logs in a corner of the garden, creating ideal nesting sites.
• Avoid cutting back dried perennials and ornamental grasses, which can
• Dripping water sources: Even a slow-dripping container can attract birds. By incorporating these practices into your Atlanta-area winter garden, you'll create a welcoming haven for birds and pollinators. Enjoy the beauty and satisfaction that comes from supporting local wildlife and preserving biodiversity.
Happy Gardening!
North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at: https:// appenmedia.com/opinion/columists/ garden buzz/.
About the Author
This Week’s “Garden Buzz” features Amy Magner, a Master Gardener since 2014. As a member of North Fulton Master Gardeners and Sandy Springs resident, she has taught various classes, including cancer wellness, at Farm Chastain. She is also a certified health coach, speaker and creator of the “Changing Aging” program.
AMY MAGNER Guest Columnist
WILL SMITH/ WITH PERMISSION FROM MOUNTAIN EXPRESS Black-throated Blue Warbler rests on a beautyberry.
You can get anything you want, just ask AI
We own an old F-150 Ford truck. The key was lost. I went to a local Ford dealer to see if they could make a new key for me (no) –“we are not able to do that for vehicles older than 2008.” I then asked ChatGPT how one might go about getting an after-market key made for an old truck (2007). It had some ideas, so I am still working on how I am going to solve my key problem.
Anyway, within 15 minutes after consulting Chat about my key issue, I was offered a much more convenient solution
than an after-market new key! I received a personalized email from a local Ford dealer offering me a great deal – “take $10,000 OFF” on a new 2025 Ford F-150 truck –which included a key – actually probably two new keys! So, not surprised, but yes surprised.
I suppose that Ai is that opportunity for all those tech companies who were not Google or people not named Page, Brin, or Schmidt, to become the company or individual that replaces Google and makes all the early hires near billionaires!
And the grift just keeps going. Data, data, data being collected without permission or compensation, organized, and sold –to help you – or anyone else - buy anything and everything you need – and stuff you don’t need or want, too! Money, money,
money. Power, power, power. At your and my expense.
I also read in Bloomberg about Zuckerberg's Ai effort and how Meta will mine all the data (users using Meta’s Ai to solve questions and such) to better target people for advertisers... of course he will, and they all will... The article mentioned that they would not be able to do that in the UK, or EU or one other place because of privacy laws restricting use/access to personal information such as the new Ai would/will generate. And that stopped me a bit in my tracks.
Why don’t we here in the United States have the same protections? Bueller?
Considering all the havoc that Ai is going to create - how almost impossible it is going to become/already is to discern true real-
ity – what is the truth vs. what is artificial information that may or may not be true, don't we need either a government or a benevolent billionaire – or a crowd-sourced something - to build a public domain Ai that does not track, does not collect, does not harvest personal information from its users and with architecture expressively designed to discourage or prevent – to the degree possible - mal use? Might that be the greater good that we collectively desperately need (although it is probably too late for even something like this)?
One would think that a solution along those lines would be something non-discretionary – that the security and welfare of us all hangs in the balance.
It probably does.
Cross your fingers, I guess.
RAY APPEN
Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com
answers in line 1 are 4, 6 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!
ON THE MENU
1. Icy coating. Low water mark. Squirrel's favorite snack.
2. Panda's dish. Lackluster. Racetrack shape.
3. Spare tire. Beaver's snack. Mountain peaks.
4. Blue whale's dinner. Crayola color. Hawaiian binge.
5. Hot spot. Horse's meal. Extra-large.
6. Pillow covering. Otter's dish. Wall painting.
7. Victory's margin. Bear's feast. Hurl.
1 African desert. Operatic solo. Supreme god of ancient Greece.
2. Spiraled-horned African antelope. Bunsen burner. To-do
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. Deep hole. Settee. African howler
4. Sleep interrupter. African dry river bed. Chatty bird
5. Skin disorder. Flu symptom. African river
6. African republic on the Gulf of Guinea. Drink garnish. Small goose.
7. Icy coating. African language. Wedding helper
Community:
Students grabbed a list, and parents helped fill bags with ramen, canned vegetables, granola bars and other non-perishable items donated by families at Crabapple Crossing. More than 70 meal bags were packed for students in the STAR House program at Esther Jackson Elementary School to take home for Thanksgiving break. Volunteers filled an additional 20 meal boxes for families at Crabapple Crossing, Northwestern Middle School and Milton High School.
“My favorite part of partnering with STAR House is that this goes right back to Fulton County students,” Crabapple Crossing Principal Laura Butler said. “We’re all in this together.”
Crissy Garner, mother of two
students at the school, spoke with her daughters the night before volunteering about the impact they’re making. She said the event is a good way to present to kids that not everyone always has cereal in the pantry or parents to make them snacks after school.
“Now I know that sometimes people need help,” Garner’s 9-year-old daughter said after volunteering, “and it made me happy that I can help them.”
In addition to food, families donated 82 sweatshirts and sweaters for STAR House students at Mimosa Elementary School. Each student in the program will receive a clothing item to help them keep warm throughout the winter. Donations include coloring books and bags of candy as well.
“You have all shown that you are kind kids and kind neighbors because you are kids helping kids,” Butler told students.
A full bag of food for a student in the STAR House program at Esther Jackson Elementary School packed during Crabapple Crossing Elementary School’s Raise Craze event on Nov. 12. One bag includes 34 food items, a card, coloring book and crayons.
Continued from Page 1
PHOTOS BY: HANNAH YAHNE/APPEN MEDIA
Student volunteers at Crabapple Crossing Elementary School with organizers of the Raise Craze fundraiser food-packing event Nov. 12.
Shelby Cinquegrani, left, reads a list of food to pack as her daughter grabs a can of green beans during the Nov. 12 event at Crabapple Crossing Elementary School.
Schools:
Continued from Page 1
the consent agenda for formal approval at the Nov. 20 School Board meeting. It is set to be approved alongside another contract with Ward Humphrey totaling $6.9 million to install new audio and video systems in theaters at Langston Hughes, Johns Creek and Centennial high schools. The schools will also receive equipment upgrades, including wireless microphones, an intercom system and other upgrades to make the system fully functional.
Upgrades are expected to be completed by December 2027 and will be funded through sales tax dollars.
Other items on the consent agenda
for the Nov. 20 meeting will be to update the district’s local facility plan with the state to reflect recent school closures and renovations. Following their closure in February, Spalding Drive and Parklane elementary schools will be phased out.
Another resolution will phase out the old facility for Camp Creek Middle School since a new building is under construction.
North Springs High School is also receiving renovations, including a new instructional building where the school’s athletic fields used to be. Staff expect construction on the new North Springs facility to be completed by August 2027.
The School Board will meet Thursday, Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. at the South Learning Center in Union City for its next board meeting.
Request for Proposals
Engineering & Design Services: SR372 @ Batesville Rd and SR372 @ New Bullpen Rd.
RFP NUMBER 26-PW01
Proposal Due Date:
December 18, 2025, by 2:00PM Local Time
Electronic submission via: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bidsrfps
Names for submissions received 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 proposals. If the contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the highest scoring Offeror whose proposal meets the requirements and criteria set forth in the request for proposals.
The City of Milton is requesting qualifications from qualified consultants to provide engineering design services for improvements to two intersections on SR 372. These projects are assigned PI# 0021207 and PI# 0021208 by the Georgia Department of Transportation and programmed with 80% federal funds and 20% local funds. The selected team will be expected to deliver both projects from concept report approval through to construction letting to meet both project schedules set up by the Georgia Department of Transportation. The intent of this two-step Qualifications-Based Selection procurement is to shortlist the top 3-5 SOQ's and then evaluate proposals from the shortlisted teams.
All qualified proposals will receive consideration without regard to age, handicap, religion, creed or belief, political affiliation, race, color, sex, or national origin.
The request for electronic proposals for RFP 26-PW01, Engineering & Design Services: SR372 @ Batesville Rd and SR372 @ New Bullpen Rd will be posted on the following websites the week of November 20, 2025: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
Invitation to Bid
Right of Way Maintenance Services
ITB NUMBER 26-PW01
Bid Due Date:
December 11, 2025, by 2:00PM Local Time
Electronic submission via: https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bidsrfps
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 responsible and responsive 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 to provide right of way maintenance services within the city limits of Milton, Georgia. The Contractor will be providing day to day right of way maintenance for the Milton Public Works Department. Examples of this work should be pothole repair, sign installation, small concrete repairs, and other related maintenance needs as specified in the bid document. 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 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-PW01, Right of Way Maintenance Services will be posted on the following websites the week of November 20, 2025:
https://www.miltonga.gov/government/finance/bids-rfps and https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/
Computer Professionals for GA based IT Firm: “Sr. System Architect to dsgn, dvlp, enhance, customize & co-ordinate activities to implement advance s/w module components using Dell Boomi. Provide technical dsgn assistance & architectural leadership to ensure applications are integrated & adhere to stated architectural & dsgn principles & standards. Implementation of data foundational procedures, guidelines & standards to improve the efficiency of information processing systems. Travel and/or relocate 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, Sandeza Inc, 13010 Morris Road, Ste 600, Alpharetta, GA 30004.
McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce LLP in Roswell, GA is seeking a SW Developer to dvlp & deploy multiple app dvlpmnt projs, including deployment on complex multi-platform SW systems w/in schedule, cost, & quality reqs. No trvl. WFH avail; must be available to work in the Roswell office three days/week. Salary: $109,283/yr. Send resumes to: careers@mccalla.com
Sawnee EMC is seeking a Mechanic with diesel engine experience to perform mechanical work and related maintenance on company trucks, equipment and vehicles. Requires high school diploma or equivalency. Must have valid CDL Georgia Driver’s License or the ability to acquire a CDL. Requires previous work-related experience. Some Heavy Lifting. Rotating day and night shift schedule. Must be available to work alternate shift assignments and irregular work hours.
Applicants must complete an application prior to 5 PM, December 1, 2025. Apply online: www.sawnee.coop/careers. If you require a paper application or an alternate format, please contact us at 770-887-2363 extension 7568.
Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Protected Veterans. Sawnee EMC is VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to
HELP WANTED
American Legion Post 201
Part Time Custodian – Needed Saturdays & Sundays start time 6:30 am. General cleaning of building, pick up and discard trash on grounds. Supervise community service workers when available. Must be able to lift 50 lbs., and move around safely and efficiently without aid of mechanical support, accept and sign for deliveries. Approx. 5-7 hours a day.
Part Time Bartender – Flexible schedule afternoon and evening hours, approximately 15-20 hours per week. Previous experience preferred but not necessary. Must be able to qualify for City of Alpharetta Pouring Permit.
If interested in either position please contact DiAna Casale (770) 475-9023 Mon-Thurs 10 am – 2 pm or americanlegionalpharetta@gmail.com. Detail job description for both available upon request.
Front Desk Intake Specialist (Bilingual-Spanish)
NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the part-time Front Desk Intake Specialist position. The Front Desk Intake Specialist is responsible for connecting clients to the programs and services that NFCC offers. The role includes data entry, updating clients’ applications, and keeping clients and students informed of programs and service enhancements. As the face of NFCC at the Intake desk, this role requires maintaining a professional and welcoming presence that reflects the organization’s values.
Proficiency in Microsoft Suite and Spanish are required. Experience using Salesforce or other CRM systems is a plus.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
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