🌱 Juneteenth Official Johns Creek Celebration + Health Reform Bill

Hi all. It's me, Rose Mendez, your host of the Patch newsletter. Here are all the things you need to know about what's happening in town.

But first, today's weather:

Cloudy and mild with showers. High: 71 Low: 61.

Check out what our local sponsor can do for you:

Suffering from the pain, tingling, and numbness of peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or even chemotherapy? RealWave Neuropathy Treatment Centers has the proven solution. Their special non-invasive ultrasound device helps to normalize sensation, improve blood flow, and regenerate nerves — and with an 89% success rate in 12 weeks or less, you can get back to living your life. Plus, Medicare and many insurance plans cover it. Find out more today or call 877-301-3441.

Want to see your business featured in this spot? Click here to get started.

Here are the top three stories today in Johns Creek:

1. On Feb. 28, Johns Creek City Council officially voted to recognize Juneteenth as its own official celebration in Johns Creek. Before the vote, some Johns Creek officials wanted to combine Juneteenth and Jul. 4 into what Mayor John Bradberry called a "Freedom Festival." But some Johns Creek residents disagreed, including Nicole Washington. She said, "Juneteenth is more than a party. It’s a remembrance. It’s a celebration" of the end of slavery. Brian Weaver said, "Right now, what we’re trying to get the city to do is to recognize and acknowledge" Martin Luther King Day, Black History Month, and Juneteenth. The city council is still discussing whether to officially observe Black History Month and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. (WSB Atlanta)
2. The state House of Representatives’ Public Health Committee unanimously approved a new mental health reform bill cosponsored by Reps. Todd Jones, R-South Forsyth, and Mary Margaret Oliver, D-Atlanta. The bill's goal is to increase the size of Georgia's mental health workforce and make it easier for people to get help who struggle with homelessness or are in and out of jail. Rep. Dr. Michelle Au, D-Johns Creek, created a last-minute amendment requiring a workforce study commission to help meet the needs of the state's diverse population by examining cultural competence and language. (Rome News-Tribute)
3. The co-owner of a Medlock Bridge Road business told Johns Creek Police that he wants to pursue criminal charges against an employee and her husband who allegedly embezzled $1.8 million from his business from 2009 to December 2019. In March 2020, the employee signed a promissory note agreeing to pay back the funds but stopped paying in April 2022 after she filed a criminal complaint of rape against the co-owner. (Appen Media)

Today in Johns Creek:

• Beginning to Intermediate Oil and Acrylic Painting Thursday Mornings Winter At Johns Creek Arts Center (10:00 AM)
• Cooking and Crafts At Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center (4:30 PM)
• Wine Tasting: Women Winemakers At Cibo & Vino Sandwiches, To-Go Meals, and Wine Club (5:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Johns Creek Police Department posted a picture of a woman who is wanted for fraud in connection to the theft of mail in the City of Johns Creek. If you know the identity of the woman, please contact Det. T. Morgan or email him at troy.morgan@johnscreekga.gov in reference to case number 2023-000597. (Johns Creek Police Department via Facebook)
• The Johns Creek Police Department reminds the community to do any app-based transactions at the police station exchange zone to make it safer for everyone. JCPD said, "If the buyer isn’t willing to meet you there, you’ve likely saved yourself from a scam or robbery." (Johns Creek PD via Twitter)
• Looking for a new home online is great, but sometimes you just need to see the house in person. Check out the latest open houses in the Johns Creek area, including a huge six-bedroom home on Redcoat Way on Sunday, Mar. 5. (Johns Creek Patch)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• Help for Ukraine Art Exhibition and Auction (March 4)
• Parent Summit Live (March 11)
• Add your event

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Thursday! See you tomorrow for another update.

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!