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Grogan announces plans to step down following 15 years heading city police
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King-sized service From left, Alpharetta resident Regina Taylor; Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch; Stockbridge resident Kimberley Miller; and Dunwoody resident Gwen Kovar stand with shovels and a sapling at Brook Run
Park during the city’s eighth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Jan. 15. In partnership with Trees Atlanta and the Daffodil Project, volunteers planted more than 125 saplings and 5,000 flowers.
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DUNWOODY, Ga. — City Manager Eric Linton announced the retirement of Police Chief Billy Grogan Jan. 11. Grogan, who is Dunwoody’s first and only GROGAN police chief, will step down June 1. He has more than 41 years in law enforcement. “I’m grateful for the high standards he set and the leadership and commitment he showed every day,” Linton said. “I will miss Chief Grogan professionally and personally, but I’m confident that he has set the department on a course for continued excellence.” Communications Director Jennifer Boettcher said Linton has begun the process of finding Dunwoody’s next police chief. She also said no decision about Grogan’s replacement has been made. Grogan began his career in 1981 with the Marietta Police Department, where he rose to the rank of deputy chief. He was named police chief of the newly formed City of Dunwoody in 2008. “I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and professional individuals within the law enforcement community while in Dunwoody,” Grogan said.
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18-year-olds charged in gunfire incident DUNWOODY, Ga. — Police arrested two 18-year -olds Jan. 2 after a witness reported a gunshot at 8209 Madison Drive. Officers met with the witness who said he observed four young men walking on the breezeway of the apartment complex. After seeing a male wearing a white jacket chamber a round, the witness said he heard a gunshot from a stairwell at the end of the breezeway. Officers located a shell casing from a 9 mm pistol where the witness said the suspects were standing. The witness also identified the apartment the subjects had been entering and exiting. When officers knocked on the door of the apartment, they identified the four suspects matching the description provided by the witness. The owner of the apartment eventually gave permission for officers to conduct a sweep of the apartment. Officers found a Glock 19 9 mm luger, which had been reported stolen out of Brookhaven. When officers spoke to the male wearing a white jacket, the suspect said he fired the shot and received the stolen gun from a family member. The witness was able to identify the male wearing a white jacket during a lineup of the four suspects. The suspect, an 18-year -old Dunwoody man, was transported to DeKalb County Jail on a warrant for reckless conduct. DeKalb County Judge Joshua Davis denied a warrant for possession
PUBLIC SAFETY of a stolen firearm due to insufficient probable cause. A second suspect, an 18-year old Chamblee man, allegedly falsely identified himself to officers. He was transported to DeKalb County Jail with a citation for false representation.
Police arrest person sought on warrants DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police turned over a 24-year -old Ellenwood man to Sandy Springs Police Jan. 4 after a license plate check revealed he had two arrest warrants. A Dunwoody officer said he conducted a traffic stop at the shopping center on Hammond Drive next to Rooms To Go. A license plate check through the Georgia Crime Information Center revealed the vehicle had no insurance. The driver also had warrants for two probation violations. One warrant for probation violation out of the Cochran Police Department is related to marijuana possession. Cochran Police did not wish to place a hold on the wanted man, a Dunwoody officer said. The second warrant for probation violation out of the Sandy Springs is related to multiple traffic offenses. Sandy Springs Police arrived on scene and took custody of the wanted man. The black Mercedes-Benz was left next to the Rooms To Go where the wanted man is employed.
a drug overdose and found the victim deceased. In partnership with Gwinnett County Police, Dunwoody Police investigated who sold the lethal dose of drugs that resulted in the victim’s death. The departments identified Ivan Jerel Lightsey, who is in custody at Gwinnett County Jail on unrelated drug charges. In the past six years, Dunwoody police have responded to more than 156 overdose incidents, 35 of them fatal. Most of the incidents involve heroin, fentanyl and prescription pills. Officers have administered the life-saving drug, Naloxone, at least 79 times since 2015. “We hope this arrest sends a clear message to drug dealers that if you sell drugs in our community, and those drugs lead to someone’s death, you will be held accountable,” Chief Billy Grogan said.
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Alleged dealer charged following overdose death DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police charged a 44-year -old Norcross man with felony murder Jan. 12 in connection to the overdose death of a 34-year -old man last August. Officers responded to the 1200 block of Coronation Drive Aug. 2 regarding
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Dunwoody swears in elected officials, police officer By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com DUNWOODY, Ga. — Some 75 people packed Dunwoody City Hall for the swearing-in of four incumbent officials Jan. 8. Before the meeting, Mayor L ynn Deutsch and councilmembers Stacey Harris and Joe Seconder took photos with their families in front of the dais. The mayor recognized two Doraville councilmembers at the swearing-in, Stephe Koontz and Gerald Evan. State Rep. Esther Panitch, who serves District 51 north of Dunwoody in Sandy Springs, also attended. Superior Court Judge Stacey Hydrick swore in Mayor Deutsch to begin the City Council meeting. Deutsch was elected to a second four year term after she ran unchallenged in the November municipal election. Hydrick is a resident of the city and Dunwoody High School alumna. Three incumbent councilmembers, Harris, Seconder and John Heneghan took their oath of office together in front of the dais. Heneghan, who has served on the City Council since 2008, ran unopposed for the Post 6 seat in 2023. Seconder garnered about 70 percent of the vote over challenger Marianella Lopez in the Post 5 contest. Councilwoman Harris defeated her opponent Chris Ozor for the Post 4 seat with 79 percent of the vote. Councilman Tom Lambert was named mayor pro tempore. He will fill in for the mayor when she is unavailable. Deputy Chief of Police Mike Carlson introduced Officer DeMario Tinsley, who joined the force Dec. 27. Tinsley previously worked as a field technician for Arcadis before joining the department. He was a Marietta police officer from 2017-18. “For all these people here tonight, the most important thing they just saw was you taking your oath of office,” Deutsch said. “We are incredibly grateful that you have chosen to serve our community, along with your fantastic colleagues.” Deputy Chief Carlson also presented a discussion item for approval of a 5-year contract with Flock Safety for license plate readers. Carlson said license plate readers have proven to be an asset, preventing criminals from entering and exiting the city undetected. City staff recommends entering the 5-year contract, which locks the price of the license plate readers at
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From left, Judge Stacey Hydrick of the DeKalb County Superior Court swears in incumbent councilmembers John Heneghan, Stacey Harris and Joe Seconder Jan. 8. While Heneghan ran unopposed, Harris and Seconder defeated challengers in the Nov. 7 municipal election.
their current rate. Carlson said the Flock Safety system will continue to operate as the new contract is discussed. Mayor Deutsch motioned for the contract approval to be put on the consent agenda for the Jan. 22 City Council meeting. Because Flock Safety announced a price hike Nov. 27, the proposed contract will save the city $33,500 in the first year or $167,500 over the five-year period. After the swearing-in ceremonies, resident Joseph Bell spoke during public comment at a third consecutive City Council meeting. Bell, a resident of the Adams Parc subdivision, spoke about land erosion near his home in the Adams Parc subdivision. According to Bell, an underground water quality basin is the root cause of soil erosion near his property on Wallace Lane. Since speaking at the Nov. 27 and Dec. 11 council meetings, Bell provided an update on his effort to have the issue addressed by city staff. “During the holiday weekend, I spent my time reading the Dunwoody stormwater policies”, Bell said. “I discovered the power of stormwater management rests exclusively with Madam Mayor and the City Council.” Bell also said he has scheduled a meeting with Councilman Heneghan Jan. 12 after his dissatisfaction with the Jan. 2 response from Public Works Director Michael Smith. “Please, do what you said on paper,” Bell said.
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From left, Mayor Lynn Deutsch, Police Officer DeMario Tinsley and Deputy Chief of Police Mike Carlson smile after Dunwoody’s newest officer took his oath of office Jan. 8.
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Waldron has contributed to the creation of new programs and volunteer opportunities, like the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. She has also started events, including the Groovin’ on the Green concert series and Kids to Parks Day. Waldron has been credited as the leading force behind the department’s marketing efforts, public art opportunities and increasing social media presence. In 2020, the National Recreation and Parks Association named Waldron “Parks and Recreation Month Hero.” “It’s been a pleasure to help grow Parks and Recreation in Dunwoody over the years, and I’m excited to take the lead moving forward,” Waldron said. “We have a dedicated team, and together we haven’t skipped a beat.” Waldron is an active member of the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association. She was awarded the District 6 Distinguished Professional in 2023.
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Zoning Board of Appeals okays 3-home subdivision By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com DUNWOODY, Ga. — The Jan. 4 Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals meeting drew some 50 residents to hear a request to build a 3-lot subdivision at Tilly Mill Road and Renfroe Lake Drive. While residents took no issue with subdividing the 2.38-acre lot, most objected to a requirement that the developer build a section of the Tilly Mill Road multi-use path. The lot at 5383 Tilly Mill Road, zoned single-dwelling residential-100, includes a one-story home constructed in 1900. The applicant, Michael Phelps of Southern Heritage Home Builders, proposes to demolish the existing home and subdivide the existing property into three lots with three new homes. When the Zoning Board of Appeals eventually approved the developer’s request for a variance, many residents were upset that the board left intact a requirement for the developer to build a section of the Tilly Mill Road multiuse path. Zoning Board of Appeals Chair Joe Tuttle reminded residents throughout the meeting that decisions related to the Trail Master Plan are not in the board’s purview. The three proposed lots meet the baseline zoning requirements for the single-dwelling district but fail to meet contextual requirements for street frontage relating to adjacent lots. The two properties used to determine the 3-lot subdivision’s required area and street frontage are 2077 Renfroe Lake Drive and 5150 Sheridan Lane. Staff said the 3-lot subdivision satisfies lot area requirement of 17,380 square feet but fails the street frontage requirement of 151 feet. The three proposed lots have 150,
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An image shows the approved 3-home subdivision at 5383 Tilly Mill Road. Because the subdivision increases the number of single-family lots, Dunwoody’s Code of Ordinances requires right-of-way improvements from the developer. 107 and 147 feet of frontage, which meet the 100-foot requirement for single-dwelling residential but fail contextual requirements for street frontage. The approval criteria for a special exemption requires staff to ensure it follows the municipal code and does not negatively affect the character of existing neighborhoods. Staff recommended approval of the request with two conditions: requiring compliance with the proposed site plans and preserving a 44-foot oak tree abutting Tilly Mill Road. Because the subdivision increases the number of single-family lots, Dunwoody’s Code of Ordinances requires public right-of-way improvements, including a 12-foot multi-use path along the Tilly Mill Road portion of the street frontage, staff said. Residents of the 40-home subdivision surrounding Renfroe Lake Drive say they are in favor of the 3-home subdivision after
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the developer agreed to reduce the number of homes from four to three on Dec. 17. “The biggest problem in this case is looking at the recommendation that was made from staff…”, Renfroe Lake HOA President Robert Hein said. “To me, as an attorney, that says the Tilly Mill path is going to be built on this location on the east side.” Other residents spoke against building a 12-foot multi-use path on Tilly Mill Road. “Our feeling is that you have the power, if you want, to approve the variance but without the condition of the path,” Hein said. Seven of the nine public comments at the meeting related to the multiuse path on Tilly Mill Road. Referencing the defeat of a bond
referendum for parks and trails in November, many residents spoke against requiring the developer to build a section of the proposed path. Opposition points included loss of tree canopy, failure of the bond referendum and aesthetics of a partially completed path. While the Tilly Mill Road path was not included in the list of projects for the proposed bond, the multi-use path on Tilly Mill Road from Womack Road to Mount Vernon Road is in the Dunwoody Trails Master Plan. Familiar opponents of the Trails Master Plan, No Bond Committee members Bob Hickey and Tom Simon, spoke against building sections of the path on the east side of Tilly Mill Road. Hickey and Simon, along with other residents, said they would prefer the path be on the west side of Tilly Mill Road, if it is built at all. Simon, who lives on the east side of Tilly Mill Road, has opposed the PATH Foundation’s development of the Dunwoody Trail Master Plan since its adoption in May 2023. According to the city’s website, the plan calls for a 12-foot-wide concreate path for pedestrians and cyclists on Tilly Mill Road from Womack Road to Mount Vernon Road. While city staff recommended plans to build the path on the east side of the road in 2022, Simon said he wants the shared-use path to be built on the west side of Tilly Mill, as originally planned. “The city is trying to make the developer pay and start this path on the east side…,” Simon said during his public comment.
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Residents continue opposition to Tilly Mill Road path plan By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
Opponents of the Trail Master Plan Bob Hickey and Tom Simon spoke against building sections of the path on the east side of Tilly Mill Road. “The city is trying to make the developer pay and start this path on the east side…,” Simon said during his public comment. Hickey and Simon, along with other residents, said they would like to see the path built on the west side of Tilly Mill Road, if it is built at all. Simon, who lives on the east side of Tilly Mill Road, opposed the PATH Foundation’s development of the Dunwoody Trail Master Plan before its adoption. “The biggest problem in this case is looking at the recommendation that was made from staff…”, Renfroe Lake HOA President Robert Hein said. “To me, as an attorney, that says the Tilly Mill path is going to be built on this location on the east side.” The residents of the 40-home subdivision surrounding Renfroe Lake Drive took no issue with the three-home subdivision. “Our feeling is that you have the power, if you want, to approve the variance but without the condition of the path,” Hein said.
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Paths and trails throughout Dunwoody remain a hotbutton issue with residents. The latest manifestation occurred at a Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals meeting Jan. 4, when about four dozen people showed up to oppose a condition requiring a developer to build part of a multi-use trail along the east side of Tilly Mill Road. Last May, the Dunwoody City Council approved a Trail Master Plan based on months of public input sessions and HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA collaboration with the PATH Foundation, From left, Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals Chair Joe Tuttle, Vice-Chair Ellen a Metro Atlanta nonprofit committed to Etheridge, member Ardy Bastien and member Tara Targovnik hear from residents increasing greenway space. about a proposed subdivision on Tilly Mill Road Jan. 4. The Zoning Board of Appeals The Trail Master Plan includes 68.7 voted unanimously to approve the developer’s request for a 3-home subdivision. miles of multi-use walking and biking trails connecting countless Dunwoody one on the east side of the roadway, the Trail Master Plan], which means it’s neighborhoods, nine city parks, 11 the other on the west. Estimated costs probably 5-10 years down the road,” schools, seven shopping centers and two for the west side option came in at Smith said. MARTA stations. $3.5 million. The east side option was The plan calls for dividing Dunwoody estimated at $4.2 million. Path spurs remarks at meeting into four sections; North, West, Central Smith said the City Council Despite its back-burner status, the and East. It breaks down how the supported the east side proposal and city is laying the groundwork for the construction of side paths, raised onethat city staff endorsed the idea because Tilly Mill Road path. way cycle tracks and traffic calming more residents could access the path About 50 residents turned out Jan. 4 measures on existing streets might without crossing a major roadway and for a Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals impact each area. there is less traffic from driveways and meeting to oppose a condition requiring Public Works Director Michael Smith side streets. that a residential developer build a said his department had been developing Smith also said there are more section of the trail as part of his plans Subdivision variance conditions a sidepath on Tilly Mill Road before the utilities on the west side, which would for a three-home neighborhood at 5383 The approval criteria for a special Trail Master Plan was adopted. complicate planting trees as a street Tilly Mill Road near Renfroe Lake Drive. exemption requires staff to ensure it “The Trail Master Plan is kind of a buffer. The lot, zoned single-dwelling follows the municipal code and does not 12-28-2016_HindsonMelton_01-19-11_HindsonMelton.qxp -2016_HindsonMelton_01-19-11_HindsonMelton.qxp 12/15/16 12/15/16 11:22 AM11:22 PageAM 1 Page 1 guiding document at this point,” Smith Still, the east side option requires residential-100, is 2.38 acres with a one- negatively affect the character of existing said. “It has the path on the east side of temporary easements or rights-of-way story home constructed in 1900. neighborhoods. Tilly Mill, so that’s the plan.” from up to 20 properties. The applicant, Michael Phelps of Staff recommended approval of the Before approval of the Trail Master Full-scale construction wouldn’t Southern Heritage Home Builders, developer’s request with two conditions: Plan, the City Council was presented begin for some time, though. proposes to demolish the existing home requiring compliance with the proposed with two options for the 12-foot-wide “The Tilly Mill project is not in the and subdivide the existing property into site plans and preserving a 44-foot oak multi-use path along Tilly Mill Road, first two phases of implementation [of three lots with three new homes. 12-28-2016_HindsonMelton_01-19-11_HindsonMelton.qxp 12/15/16 11:22 AM Pagetree 1 abutting Tilly Mill Road. When the Zoning Board of Appeals Because the subdivision increases eventually approved the developer’s the number of single-family lots, ourand clients and community with integrity, honesty, integrity, and courage.” ving “Serving our clients community with honesty, and courage.” request for a setback variance, many Dunwoody’s Code of Ordinances residents spoke out against leaving requires public right-of-way intact the requirement for the multi-use improvements. In this case, the 12-foot 12-28-2016_HindsonMelton_01-19-11_HindsonMelton.qxp 12/15/16 11:22 AM Page 1 path. multi-use path. Seven of the nine public comments City staff said similar projects, at the meeting related to the multi-use including the cycle track and sidewalk “Serving our and LLC community with honesty, integrity, and courage.” path. in front of the new Publix on Ashwood Hindson & clients Melton Because the city’s website still lists Parkway, paths on Hammond Drive in Attorneys at Law two alternatives for the path, residents front of State Farm and a 6-foot sidewalk “Serving our clients and community with honesty, integrity, and courage.” who spoke at the meeting argued to on Roberts Drive are examples of other “Serving our clients and prevent construction on the road’s east required right-of-way improvements community with honesty, side. imposed on developers. They pointed to loss of tree canopy, While similar projects have not integrity, and courage.” the aesthetics of a partially completed called for a 12-foot multi-use path, it path and failure of a proposed $60 is required on the right-of-way in front Conveniently located at: million local parks and greenspace bond of the approved 3-home subdivision on KarenHindson Hindson last November. Tilly Mill Road. Joy Melton Melton Joy Melton 1050 Crown Pointe Pkwy Karen Karen Hindson Joy 770-939-3936 While the Tilly Mill Road path was “This is the third city I’ve worked 770-512-8383 770-939-3936 770-512-8383 Suite 500 770-939-3936 404-702-7390 not included in the list of bond projects, for,” Community Development Director the multi-use trail, which would run Richard McLeod said. “It’s standard Conveniently located at: Conveniently located at: Karen Hindson Joy Melton from Womack Road to Mount Vernon practice for all projects that are on 770-939-3936 770-512-8383 Road, is in the Dunwoody Trail Master designated routes, which have right-of1050 Crown Pointe Parkway, Suite 500 1050 Crown Pointe Parkway, Suite 500 Plan. way needs or infrastructure needs.” Conveniently located at:
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State representative seeks more aid to assist students pursuing degrees By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com METRO ATLANTA — Rep. Chuck Martin is seeking to revisit the Georgia College Completion Grant this legislative session, a measure that could make MARTIN it easier for students to finish their degrees. In the 2023 fiscal year, the program awarded $7.3 million to more than 6,000 undergraduate students at eligible colleges and universities across the state. The grant program, which launched July 1, 2022, can cover up to $2,500 in financial aid gaps for students who are at least 80 percent finished with a four-year degree program. The need-based effort is meant to help students who are low-income or who have outstanding balances that may serve as a barrier to attending classes. Last spring, Martin, the chairman of the House Higher Education Committee, sponsored House Bill 249, which sought to raise the maximum award under the program to $3,500, as well as lower the four-year degree completion requirement to 70 percent, or 45 percent for a two-year
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The Georgia College Completion Grant is set to be revisited this legislative session. Rep. Chuck Martin said he plans to work with the Governor’s Office and reintroduce the proposal with a focus on helping students wrap up their degrees. degree. The bill saw overwhelming support in the House and the Senate, but Gov. Brian Kemp vetoed the measure in May. “I support veterans initiatives and making education more affordable,” Kemp said in the veto message. “However, the proposals in this bill are subject to appropriations and the General Assembly failed to fully fund these educational incentives.” In addition to the expansion of the Georgia College Completion Grant, HB 249 would have enabled veterans to receive free training to operate commercial vehicles. In an interview with Appen Media,
Martin said the bill will run this year with a focus on helping students finish their programs of study. “We feel real good about the information we have thus far,” he said. “We're going to keep working with the Governor's Office and the folks here, too, in the House and the Senate, to try to move that forward this year.” The Georgia College Completion Grant is the product of House Bill 1435, which was also sponsored by Martin in the 2022 legislative session. The grant program will conclude June 30, 2025. In the Georgia House, Martin represents District 49, which covers much
of North Fulton County, including Roswell, Alpharetta and Johns Creek. Martin said the Georgia College Completion Grant was aimed at ensuring students can complete their degrees without being dropped from courses or potentially having to take a break from school because of financial barriers. “Then, they're in a position to earn more because they have their certificate, or they have their degree, and can earn more and be a big part of our economy,” he said. “And if they have other student loans, they're in a position to earn. They have a degree. They have their certification and can earn and pay those back.” While HB 249 would make it possible for students to receive additional aid, Martin said a student is not guaranteed an increase. The dollars would still be awarded on an individual basis. “It is dollars that are important and hard to come by, so we want to make sure they're being deployed in the best possible way,” Martin said. According to the Georgia Student Finance Commission, 58 percent of College Completion Grant recipients earned a degree, diploma or certificate in the 2023 academic year. The Georgia General Assembly convened Jan. 8.
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Chattahoochee River brewpub seeks buy-in from residents By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Steve Mollica and the group behind a proposed Chattahoochee River brewpub at Roswell Road and Roberts Drive will participate in a community meeting Jan. 22. A brewpub is a hybrid between a restaurant and a brewery, where beer is primarily brewed for sale inside the establishment. Typically, breweries will produce more beer annually and will not include food services. “We’re basically going for a brewpub, super simple,” Mollica said. “We are not going to distribute or
anything, so it will all be onsite.” When Mollica brought the brewpub rezoning proposal to a community meeting last summer, he said some 20 residents strongly opposed the effort. Residents along Roberts Drive said at two public meetings July 28 and Sept. 20 that they did not want a brewpub in their neighborhood at two community meetings. The Sandy Springs Council of Neighborhoods also advocated against rezoning the property in a protected neighborhood. “We applied last year, and then they kind of pushed our application to this year because of some administrative stuff,” Mollica said. “So basically now, we are starting the
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process over.” The property is on the east side of Roswell Road before the bridge crossing the Chattahoochee River into Roswell. “The only thing that is on the waterfront in Sandy Springs is Ray’s on the River,” Mollica said. “We’re trying to do something for regular people.” Ray’s on the River, an awardwinning restaurant on the Cobb County border, requires a dress code for diners. Mollica joked that his proposed brewpub would allow hats and flip flops. Following the success of Pontoon Brewing in Sandy Springs, Mollica said the location along the river would provide the perfect location. William Odrey owns the 1.72acre property at 9755 Roberts Drive. According to the Fulton County Board of Assessors, Odrey bought the property for $650,000 in August 2006. Mollica said he has an agreement with Odrey to buy into the property, pending a rezoning. Before Mollica tried to buy the site, Odrey had been trying to get it rezoned. Mollica said he posted a notice about the public meeting on the “ATLbeer” subreddit page Jan. 3 to bring the brewpub to the
attention of Sandy Springs residents who support the rezoning that would allow commercial. “We need people, especially those who live in Sandy Springs, and especially those who live on the north side of town to come out and support our cause,” the post said. As of Jan. 11, the post has received seven upvotes and one comment. While Mollica did not survey the homeowners on Roberts Drive, he said residents in the area were overwhelmingly supportive. “We just got to find the people on our side, and they’re out there,” Mollica said. There are a few hurdles for a brewpub along the Chattahoochee River. Mollica said a character area change and zoning change will each take about six months to complete. If the property is rezoned for commercial use, construction of the brewpub would take another year. While the brewpub remains up in the air, Mollica said he has a few local brewers on board. Potential operating partners are still farther down the road. “The building has to be mostly up, for those conversations to even happen,” Mollica said.
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A Street View image from Google Earth shows the property at 9755 Roberts Drive in March 2022. For the proposed Chattahoochee Rover brewpub to be constructed at the site, the property must be rezoned.
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10 | January 18, 2024 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
NEWS
Atlanta Regional Commission recognizes green communities By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com ATLANTA — During his first meeting as chairman of the Atlanta Regional Commission Jan. 10, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens previewed the year ahead and recognized several local governments as green communities. The ARC is the official planning agency for the 11-county region, including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties. The Georgia General Assembly created the Atlanta Regional Commission in 1971, the state’s first Metropolitan Area Planning and Development Commission. The agency is designed to assist local governments in improving the quality of life of residents by focusing attention and resources on issues affecting the region. The Atlanta Regional Commission Board consists of the commission chair from each county surrounding Metro Atlanta, mayors throughout the region, 15 citizen members and a representative from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. In the commission’s 53-year history, Dickens is the first Atlanta mayor to serve as chairman. The 41-member board unanimously elected him Nov. 8. “I look forward to collaborating with each and every one of you as we work together to fulfill ARC’s vision of creating one great region,” Dickens said. “We are all residents here, and we all want the region to thrive.” The first discussion item at the board meeting was a presentation on the Green Communities Program, which encourages local governments to reduce their environmental footprint. The program aligns with one of the commission’s goals of healthy, safe and livable communities in Metro Atlanta, Dickens said. Green Communities is a voluntary certification program developed in 2009 that provides cities and counties with a framework for environmentally sustainable practices. Some examples include reducing energy and water use in operations,
Grogan: Continued from Page 1 “Their steadfast commitment to serving this community has set an unwavering standard for excellence, making the Dunwoody Police Department a source of immense pride for our community.” In 2023, the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police named him the
Alpharetta, Atlanta and the airport,” Dickens said. “It’s also important to have public transit.”
providing curbside recycling and educating the community about emerging clean energy opportunities. Crystal Jackson, a planning manager for climate and sustainability, presented seven Metro Atlanta cities and counties with certification awards. “When we created the program many years ago…we wanted to create a culture of sustainability within our local governments and communities,” Jackson said. “We wanted Metro Atlanta to be known as a green region, and we’ve done that over the past several years.” The program has 10 categories and 80 measures for judging applicants, including land use, transportation and energy efficiency, with points assigned to each area. The Green Communities Program has four certification levels: bronze, silver, gold and platinum. In 2021, the cities of Norcross, Roswell, Woodstock, Douglasville and Milton joined Cobb, DeKalb and Douglas counties to recertify as Green Communities. Jackson said the application process typically takes six months for local governments to complete. Every four
years, local governments must recertify. At the Jan. 10 board meeting, five communities were recertified, and two local governments were certified for the first time. “It’s not a static program,” Jackson said. “The measures we put in place in 2009 are not the same measures that we are using today.” DeKalb County and the cities of Dunwoody, Peachtree Corners, Sandy Springs were recertified as a gold-level Green Community. Brookhaven and Johns Creek were recognized with a sustainability certification for the first time in 2024. While Brookhaven received gold-level certification, Johns Creek met the bronze standard. After the board meeting, Dickens said he believes Atlanta performs as a region and collaboration across communities can deliver more for residents. When asked about the importance of the Ga. 400 corridor, Dickens said reducing commuting time and increasing public transportation are important to him. “It’s one thing to have everybody in car being able to get back and forth between
ARC Board looks ahead Dickens thanked former Board Chairman Kerry Armstrong, who served in the role for a decade, for working with him during the transition of the board’s leadership. As chair, Dickens was tasked with appointing three officers to positions. He appointed Woodstock Mayor Michael Caldwell as vice chair, Forsyth County Commissioner Chairman Alfred John as secretary and Gwinnett County Commission Chairwoman Nicole Hendrickson as treasurer. In addition to his role as board secretary, John was also appointed as chair of the Ethics Committee. Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul will serve as vice chair of the Strategic Relations Subcommittee. Dickens outlined upcoming events and regional priorities for his two-year term as chairman, including reconnecting the region, emergency preparedness funding and health care access. In 2024, the ARC is set to approve the Metropolitan Transportation Plan, which allocates $168 billion in federal, state and local funding through 2050. The fouryear update to the plan concluded last year, and its final review and adoption is anticipated in February. The plan includes improving major roads and interchanges, expanding transit service, building a network of express lanes and developing a bike-ped network. Dickens discussed additional planning efforts in 2024, including the development of a climate action plan, an update to the region’s freight plan and a clean electricity plan. Agency updates from staff include adopting a new 4-year plan on aging for Metro Atlanta, selecting projects for funding through the 2024 Livable Centers Initiative and several initiatives related to affordable housing. “Now serving as the chairman of the board, the center of the region can carry out the quarterbacking for some of these conversations,” Dickens said.
Outstanding Chief of the Year. Grogan holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a Masters of Public Administration from Kennesaw State University. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Georgia Law Enforcement Command College, the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange, and the Senior Management Institute for Policing at the Police Executive Research Forum. Grogan has published numerous law
enforcement articles and two books on law enforcement’s use of social media. He also hosts a website called “Top Cop Leadership,” which provides informational resources and consulting for officers preparing for and serving as police chief. “I am excited about what lies ahead for me but, at the same time, I’m sad about closing this chapter of my life,” Grogan said. Grogan has participated in a variety of community programs including Coffee
with a Cop, Polar Plunge, National Night Out and Read Across America. In addition, he serves in leadership roles with various nonprofits including I Care Atlanta, Special Olympics Georgia and Convoy of Care. “One of the main reasons Dunwoody became a city was to improve public safety in our community, and Chief Grogan embraced this challenge from day one,” Mayor Lynn Deutsch said. “We’ve been so lucky to have his leadership and are so grateful for his service.”
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Dunwoody Community Development Director Richard McLeod, center, and his staff accept a gold-level certification through the Green Communities Program from Atlanta Regional Commission Chairman Andre Dickens, right, Jan. 10. Dunwoody was required to resubmit their application because every four years, local governments must recertify.
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AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | January 18, 2024 | 11
Calendar
JAN. 18 — JAN. 28
SAXOPHONIST REGGIE HINES
What: Whether he’s performing at international jazz festivals in Stockholm, Montreux, Bermuda and St. Lucia or closer to home in and around Atlanta, veteran saxophonist Reggie Hines always asks his audience the key question: “How many of you want to go on a musical journey?” When: Friday, Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m. Where: The Velvet Note, 4075 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta Cost: $42 More info: thevelvetnote.com
JESSE COOK
What: An accomplished guitarist and prolific filmmaker, Jesse Cook composed his first album “Tempest” more than 25 years ago, playing all the instruments. His compositional style mixes flamenco with everything from classical and jazz to zydeco, blues and Brazilian samba. When: Friday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m. Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: Tickets starting at $47.10 More info: sandyspringsga.gov
TALKING TECH WITH BILL NUSSEY
What: Bill Nussey, partner at Tech Square Ventures and Engage and author of “Freeing Energy,” will speak about clean energy and the history of computers in the Computer Museum of America’s “Talking Tech” speaker series. When: Saturday, Jan. 20, 2-3 p.m. Where: Computer Museum of America, 5000 Commerce Parkway, Roswell Cost: $10 to $15, free for museum members More info: computermuseumofamerica.org
PORTRAIT SOCIETY OF ATLANTA EXHIBITION
What: The Portrait Society of Atlanta presents its annual member exhibition. When: Until Jan. 20, business hours Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us
LYRICS AND LAUGHS
TALKING TECH WITH BILL NUSSEY
What: Bill Nussey, partner at Tech Square Ventures and Engage and author of “Freeing Energy,” will speak about clean energy and the history of computers in the Computer Museum of America’s “Talking Tech” speaker series. When: Saturday, Jan. 20, 2-3 p.m. Where: Computer Museum of America, 5000 Commerce Parkway, Roswell Cost: $10 to $15, free for museum members More info: computermuseumofamerica.org
What: Join this comedy show, featuring award-winning comedian Rita Brent as the co-host, along with Griff from the “Get Up! Morning with Erica Campbell” morning show. There will be performances by comedian Rodney Perry, seen in “Coming 2 America” and Tyler Perry’s “Madea’s Big Happy Family,” comedian Cocoa Brown from BET’s “Comic View,” as well as musical guests. When: Sunday, Jan. 21, 6 p.m. Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: Tickets starting at $65 More info: sandyspringsga.gov
Cost: $15-28 More info: stagedoortheatrega.org
THE MAD HATTERPILLAR
What: Local author and former U.S. State Department official Dorothy “Dot” Padgett will speak and sign copies of her book “Jimmy Carter: Elected President with Pocket Change and Peanuts.” Padgett organized the Carter presidential campaign effort known as the Peanut Brigade. Her book chronicles Carter’s path from a peanut farm in rural Georgia to the White House. When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m. Where: Roswell Library, 115 Norcross Street, Roswell More info: forl.net/atlanta-authors
What: “The Mad Hatterpillar” is a puppet-centric children’s musical, following the journey of Maddie, a caterpillar determined to become a butterfly and escape her mundane garden walls. Like her real life counterpart, she sheds her heads at each new stage of life, stacking the molted heads upon her new one. Each of these heads symbolizes a stage of Maddie’s growth into self-acceptance. When: Jan. 26-Feb. 11, times vary Where: Stage Door Theatre, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody
FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT! It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAYS: POP UP SHOP
What: Once a month, J. Keaton Designs hosts a pop-up shop with local businesses in one-hour shopping sessions. Reserve a slot online. When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 12-5 p.m. Where: J. Keaton Designs, 9 Dunwoody Park, Dunwoody More info: jkeatondesigns.com
ATLANTA AUTHORS SERIES: DOT PADGETT
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GALLERY RECEPTION: EARTHBOUND What: This reception is for an art exhibit that ponders questions about Earth, which has inspired and intrigued artists, poets, philosophers, scientists and everyone who has somehow been touched by its invisible warmth. What physical and emotional impact does the environment have on humanity? And, how might humanity care for this Earth for future generations? When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 5-7 p.m. Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta More info: artsalpharetta.org
GRABBING THE HAMMER: A TRUCKER NARRATIVE
What: “Grabbing the Hammer Lane: A Trucker Narrative” is a one-act play about prodigal rebellion and fleeting moments for redemption. The play is sponsored by Roswell Roots, a community-wide, monthlong festival that celebrates Black History Month. When: Sunday, Jan. 28, 4 p.m. Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell Cost: $18-20 More info: roswell365.com
Visit AppenMedia.com/Calendar Provide the details for your event including title, description, location and date Click the red button that reads “Create event” That’s it! Submissions are free, though there are paid opportunities to promote your event in print and online.
Sponsored Section January 18, 2024 Dunwoody Crier | 12
Providing an exceptional college preparatory program since 1976 Brought to you by - Saint Francis School
Saint Francis School is a SACS/SAIS accredited, independent, non-profit, nonsectarian college preparatory school founded in 1976. The mission of Saint Francis School is to provide a college preparatory program to students with diverse academic ability in a structured environment that is challenging and supportive. Kindergarten – 8th grades are located on the 24-acre Roswell Campus while the High School is located on the 47-acre Alpharetta campus. The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio, and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allows students to enjoy success in academic areas and develop the selfconfidence necessary to be successful in college. Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, Traditional and Support classes. With a 100% acceptance rate
to college and with the majority of graduates qualifying for the Hope Scholarship, Saint Francis alumni attend a wide variety of programs ranging from Ivy League schools, to small private colleges to prestigious Art Institutes. Saint Francis is a Google Apps for Education Classroom, utilizing laptops in grades 4 – 12. Specialized reading programs offered include Fundations®, Wilson Reading System®, Just Words® and supplemental support from Cars® and Stars® Reading Comprehension. Sports are offered at both the middle and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian. For more information call 770.641.8257 Ext. 56 (Grades 1– 8) and 678.339.9989 Ext. 33 (Grades 9 – 12) or visit our website: www. saintfrancisschools.com.
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
Education solutions for every mind, every age Brought to you by - Eaton Academy Eaton Academy offers multiple programs, both in person and online, since a “one size fits all” approach to education is not effective in today’s world. Academic Programs The full-day K-12 school with its 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio allows instructors to address students’ individual learning styles. Through the use of STEAM-related activities and multisensory instruction, students achieve academic and personal success. The challenging, college-prep curriculum is delivered in a safe, nurturing environment. For students with more significant academic and social needs, the Pace Program helps them develop life skills and independent living strategies. This approach is perfect for students on the spectrum, those with developmental delays, and individuals with other scholastic challenges. Pace students follow the traditional school day and work to develop greater self-sufficiency and independence, on their way to earning a high school diploma.
The Independent Study Program (ISP), tailored to students’ schedules and academic needs, permits individuals
EATON ACADEMY NOW ENROLLING A Challenging Approach to Education that Features: • STEAM-Oriented Classrooms • Attention to Individual Needs • Customized College-Prep Programs for K-12 • 5:1 Student: Teacher Ratio • Independent Study Classes for Credit • Supportive, Nurturing Environment • Post-Graduate Options Available
to work at their own pace. The tutorial setting enables aspiring athletes and performers to work toward graduation while following their dreams. Some students enroll in ISP to accelerate their scholastic work; others seek academic remediation. ISP arranges the one-to-one sessions on a schedule that accommodates the students’ needs for flexibility. Sessions can be in person or online. Post-Graduate Programs LEAP is designed to help individuals strengthen their life skills in order to achieve greater independence. Participants benefit from job readiness training, life skill development, and scholastic support. The LIFE program places young adults into their own apartments. Participants
meet with a LIFE coach several times each week for support with topics such as budgeting, hygiene, roommate relations, and housekeeping. Supported Employment prepares young adults for the workplace. Assistance is given with resume writing, applying for positions, and keeping a job. College Exploratory offers individuals college level, non-credit courses so they can gauge their readiness for university life. Eaton Academy is the ideal place for families to discover education options and independent living solutions. Whatever students need, Eaton works to create the perfect education solution for them.
CALL 770.645.2673 OR VISIT EATONACADEMY.ORG PHOTOS PROVIDED
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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Where children develop a love of learning Brought to you by – MJCCA Preschools MJCCA Preschools are where children develop a love of lear ning and find friendships that last a lifetime. The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta has been providing outstanding early childhood education to discer ning Atlanta families for more than 60 years. The Weinstein School in Dunwoody and The Schif f School at Temple Emanu-El in Sandy Springs both of fer full- and halfday options for children ages 6 weeks to Pre-K, and The Weinstein School also has an outstanding T ransitional Kindergarten program. MJCCA preschoolers experience our innovative and progressive curriculum, infused with traditional Jewish lear ning all in a safe and supportive environment. Our war m and loving teachers focus on four traditional areas of child development: social and emotional growth, literacy, cognition, and movement/ physical development. Exceptional
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enrichment and extracurricular classes allow children to explore their interests and try new things. The Schif f School is accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission with Quality. The
Weinstein School is a NAEYCaccredited program (National Association for the Education of Young Children) — a distinction awarded to only the top 7% of preschools nationwide and is
Cognia and GAC with Quality Accredited. Registration for 2024-25 is now open. T o lear n more and schedule a tour visit atlantajcc.org/ preschool or call 678.812.3834.
ing, n r a le f o e v lo a g Buildin life. r o f s ip h s d n ie r f and REGISTRATION IS OPEN
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DUNWOODY SANDY SPRINGS
16 | January 18, 2024 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
This is The 805! Brought to you by – Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, located at 805 Mt. Vernon Highway, NW, in Sandy Springs, enrolls 1,395 students in Grades PK3-12. HIES is a unique, vibrant learning community filled with encouragement and every imaginable opportunity for students to explore their talents, pursue their passions and achieve their full potential. HIES offers an educational program encompassing academics, arts, athletics and spiritual formation. Through opportunities to grow intellectually, spiritually, physically and emotionally, students develop their individual worth and dignity. The challenging academic program prepares students for higher education and emphasizes learning as a pathway toward ethical leadership and a commitment to the common good. Students learn in small classes and actively participate in all classroom discussions. HIES is a community where close connections between students and teachers flourish within the curriculum. The
Upper School offers nearly 30 Honors and Advanced Placement classes. With a team of highly regarded college counselors, HIES is committed to working closely with each student and family to help navigate the college search and application process. As a Global Member of Round Square, an international network of 200 schools in 50 countries, HIES provides a multicultural education for students. The school is a welcoming and supportive environment that embraces the differences inherent in a diverse community and embodies the inclusive Episcopal tradition of respect for the beliefs of others. HIES is an active Christian community of faith engaged in local, national and international service to others. The school is easily accessible from all parts of Dunwoody and Metro Atlanta. Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School: This is The 805! Where students pursue their passions and are challenged to reach their full potential. Join us on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, for our Open House (grades PK3-12).
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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High Meadows School its renowned Primary Years Program Inspiring future for students in preschool through fifth global citizens and grade. High Meadows School’s accomplished experienced faculty lead each innovative leaders and student on this journey. Through Brought to you by – High Meadows School
There is no place like High Meadows School. Since 1973, High Meadows students in Pre-K through 8th grade have learned through experiential, immersive educational opportunities offered both in the school’s spacious, light-filled classrooms and across 42 acres of grassy fields and scenic woodlands. High Meadows School’s progressive curriculum is focused on developing future global citizens and innovative leaders who embrace challenge and think for themselves. High Meadows lower years classrooms offer low student-teacher ratios in which instruction emphasizes academic excellence, love of learning, critical thinking, and environmental and social responsibility. As a nationally recognized and award-winning leader in progressive education, High Meadows is an accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering
interactive, inquiry-based instruction, supported by of-the-moment technology and our nature-based campus, High Meadows teachers are unequaled in their intellect, passion, and compassion for these kids. Every day they inspire authentic learning opportunities that are engaging and sticky (literally and figuratively!). When children graduate from High Meadows, they are empowered with a deep respect for international perspectives, an intuitive understanding of life’s interconnectedness, and an exceedingly strong sense of self. Education is an expedition that starts from the moment we are born. When we teach children to be curious and inquiring at an early age, we create within them a love of learning that lasts an entire lifetime. What is more important than that? Please visit our website at highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940 to learn more about High Meadows School.
Visit our website to learn more and schedule a campus tour.
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
Fulton Science Academy Private School
Accredited and STEM Certified College Prep Gifted School Integrity, Curiosity, Advocacy, Resiliency, Empathy Brought to you by - Fulton Science Academy Private School Recently named as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, recognized as a National Character School by Character.org, ranked as the best private school overall in Georgia by Niche.com, and named Best K-12 Private School in North Atlanta by Appen Media, Fulton Science Academy Private School (FSAPS) offers Georgia students a transformative education. FSAPS serves a high population of advanced and gifted students in Pre-K through High School. As an accredited and STEM certified school, FSA has a reputation for its exceptional academic results. FSAPS ranks in the top 1% among all subjects and all grades in nationally normed tests in comparison to other schools in the nation. FSAPS provides its students with
opportunities to grow, learn, and play in an environment conducive to fostering academic growth. We have developed a high quality advanced academic program emphasizing a S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) curriculum and gifted education. Our approach to learning focuses on using hands-on, collaborative, and engaging instructional practices to prepare students for life beyond FSAPS. FSAPS’s environment is structured to minimize distractions and stress, while cultivating work ethic, self-initiative, strength of character, and well-developed social skills. Nestled in the heart of Alpharetta near downtown, FSAPS is accessible and strategically located. With approximately 960 students, FSAPS emphasizes small classes and intimate student-teacher ratios. The small and structured environment, along with uniforms, keeps
students focused on their studies. Since there are little to no disciplinary issues, the faculty and administration invest their time in teaching and continually improving their educational model. The school considers the development of the whole student as important as academics. For a creative outlet, students take part in art, music, engineering, and computer classes every week. Many other enrichment opportunities are offered, including free after-school clubs, band, orchestra, top performing academic teams, and athletics to develop students’ social skills. FSAPS is proud to have some of Georgia’s strongest academic teams. FSA offers a daily Social Emotional Learning program, which is facilitated by our Counseling Team and executed by classroom teachers. This curriculum teaches students how to develop the skills necessary for constructive and
compassionate interaction with others, and the lessons are an integral part of every school day. Additionally, the high school program includes daily College Preparation Time helping the school achieve a 100% graduation rate and a 100% 4-year college-bound rate with students attending some of the nation’s top colleges every year. FSAPS has fostered a “yearn to learn” culture where students embrace an innovative, STEAM curriculum. The FSAPS student body is diverse and reflects award-winning academic teams, competitive athletes, personal entrepreneurs, and award-winning critical thinkers. Built upon the core values of character, excellence, and innovation, FSAPS has engineered a school of tomorrow, today. Enrollment is open to all Georgia residents. www.fultonscienceacademy.org
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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Integrity. Curiousity. Advocacy. Resiliency. Empathy.
Serving Advanced and Gifted Students
2019
2020
2021
We Thank the Community for Naming our School as the Best K-12 Private School in North Atlanta for Five Years in a Row! Our approach to learning focuses on using hands-on, collaborative and engaging instructional practices to prepare students for life beyond FSA. • STEAM powered learning visible in every classroom
• Focus on gifted education by providing a challenging curriculum 2022
2023
• Various opportunities for individualized education
• Intentional design for the use of 21st Century Skills
• Incorporation of college and career readiness into daily learning Enrollment is open to all Georgia residents. Competitive Admission Criteria 3035 Fanfare Way • Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 admissions@fultonscienceacademy.org • www.fultonscienceacademy.org • 678.366.2555
20 | January 18, 2024 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
Change lives, change the world Brought to you by - Wesleyan School Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child. Our leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work, and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan prepares students for each stage of life and provides them with the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Wesleyan’s school motto is JOY-Jesus, Others, Yourself, and every aspect of school life is oriented to reinforce this philosophy of putting Jesus first and others ahead of ourselves. A college preparatory environment,
students have access to a wide range of academic opportunities along with athletics, arts, service and other extracurricular activities. Wesleyan’s 85-acre campus provides state-ofthe-art academic facilities along with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts. Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan enrolled 1,206 students in grades K-12 for the 2023-2024 school year. Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area. Supervised care before school is included in the cost of tuition and after care is available (K-8) until 6 p.m. at an affordable rate. Wesleyan School 5405 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-448-7640 https://www.wesleyanschool.org/
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Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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Discover 55 years of excellence: where education meets faith at Dunwoody Baptist Preschool Brought to you by - Dunwoody Baptist Preschool For more than 55 years, Dunwoody Baptist Preschool has embraced a vision focused on fostering a love for learning while nurturing each child within a Christ-centered environment. Our unwavering commitment is not only to inspire academic growth among our early learners but also to guide their spiritual development. Our devoted teachers and staff are deeply invested in ensuring that every student understands the unconditional love of God. Accredited by COGNIA, we uphold rigorous educational standards. At Dunwoody Baptist Preschool, we provide a range of classes tailored to different age groups: 2, 3, 4, and 5-day Playmates classes for children aged 6 months to 2 years, and 5-day Preschool classes catering to 3-year-olds, 4-year-olds in Pre-K, and our distinctive Young 5’s class. Additionally, we offer Early Morning drop-off, Extended Day programs, and an array of enriching classes encompassing cooking, phonics, science, Spanish, art, ballet, piano, and music. Children at DBP don’t just learn in
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My child is struggling with their body image – how can I help them? Brought to you by - Sarah Mixson, LMSW, at Summit Counseling Center Anyone can struggle with body image; Research shows that children as young as 3 years old can have body image concerns. As a therapist who works with children and teens, this question comes up a lot from parents. And the truth is, cultivating a positive body image in your children starts with you. Children and teens often look at the people closest to them to guide their own relationships with their body. As a parent, demonstrating a healthy attitude towards your own body can promote self-acceptance and appreciation in your child. Some other ways you can help your child include: 1. Encouraging open conversations about their feelings and concerns related to body image. 2. Coming from a place of validation and support and trying to understand where your child is coming from.
3. Focusing on their strengths, talents, and character rather than solely on appearance. 4. Using body neutral language (avoiding words like ugly, skinny, or fat) 5. Having a conversation around social media and how it makes them feel can have a big impact. 6. It’s important to remember that consistency and patience are key in supporting your child through their journey toward a positive body image. Having a poor body image can lead to lower self-esteem and impact emotional well-being. If you are seeing these signs in your child, The Summit’s compassionate team s here to guide you through. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier future for you and your family. Reach out today to get started at summitcounseling.org or 678-893-5300.
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
A proven education with impact Brought to you by – Endeavor International School In an increasingly competitive world, children need an education that prepares them for a complex economy. Endeavor International School, an IB (International Baccalaureate®) middle school in Dunwoody, Georgia serves students from 6th grade to 8th grade. We offer an empowering education and implement the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP), ensuring a rigorous education in the sciences and arts with professional educators trained to develop young minds to their maximum potential. Students graduating with an IB diploma are 18 percent more likely to be admitted to an Ivy League university and 22 percent more likely to be admitted to the top 25-ranked schools in the United States, according to Crimson Education’s IB survey. At Endeavor International School, we help students get into the best high schools and prepare them for success when they get there. Our teachers are highly trained in their subjects and offer an effective,
unique learning experience unlike any other program in the Atlanta area. With small class sizes and immersive instruction techniques, students can learn in a collaborative fashion and develop thinking and communicative skills that serve them in and outside the classroom. At Endeavor International School, your child receives more than a high-quality education – they learn how to enjoy learning. Our students are taught how to think beyond the standardized test and dig deep into their subjects, absorb the curriculum, and develop high-level, criticalthinking skills. Not only do our students gain a strong grasp on their material, but they better understand their own minds, which puts them in an advantageous position as they go on to high school and beyond. We are now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year! See our school for yourself and speak with our educators about how we can help realize the dreams you have for your child’s future. Visit our website at EndeavorInternationalSchool.com or call us at 770-802-2194 to learn more.
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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We teach children to thrive Brought to you by – Endeavor Montessori, Dunwoody A child’s first years of education tremendously impact their future. That’s why we help children build a foundation of knowledge and skills that will empower them to succeed academically, socially, and personally. With a strong foundation, your child can reach new heights. Endeavor Montessori is now enrolling children ages six weeks to 12 years for 2024 - 2025. Our curriculum implements a modernized Montessori approach that cultivates the whole child intellectually, emotionally, and socially. In addition, our rigorous yet celebratory approach inspires critical thinking, cultural awareness, and entrepreneurship. With our holistic approach, children develop in all areas. From building critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills to forming meaningful connections, our students enjoy an educational experience that prepares them to succeed in various ways. To make this high level of
education possible, At Endeavor Montessori, our staff includes professionally-trained Montessori educators who understand the importance of accommodating each student’s needs and learning style. We take this approach to ensure every student succeeds and realizes their educational goals while being part of a close-knit school community. Endeavor Montessori offers a learning environment where children experience appropriate levels of technology that are integrated seamlessly into an enhanced Montessori curriculum. This approach, along with a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) program, addresses the demands placed by modern education while also strengthening children’s innate desire to seek knowledge and find the answers. Let your child thrive with Endeavor Montessori. To learn more about our curriculum and for enrollment for children ages six weeks to 12 years, call (770)-637-1242 or visit our website at endeavormontessori.com
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
Be By and Beyond the Education.
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26 | January 18, 2024 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
OPINION
Trump, southern border, abortion, Biden, guns, QAnon There, I said it. Full stop. A percentage of the people already stopped reading. A percentage just experienced a rise in blood pressure. Another percentage are angry or are preparRAY APPEN ing to get angry. Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com Why? I recently had lunch with one of my oldest and best friends who lives in Sandy Springs. We have known each other all our lives. We grew up together in Rockledge, Florida, and have been best friends now going on 63 years. Our almost three-hour lunch was fun, and we caught up on everything ranging from our mutual friends to our own health issues to who has died and who got divorced. We also talked about Trump, Biden, Hillary, Israel, Hamas, abortion, guns and a few other similar subjects. We agreed on none of the political topics. In fact, we have polar-opposite opinions on most of them.
So, something odd happened at our lunch. Or, I guess I should say that what did not happen was odd. We didn’t get angry with each other. We didn’t label each other with meaningless generalizations and stereotypes such as “liberal” or “conservative.” Did we offend each other? No. Did one or both of us storm off in a fit anger? No. Did either of us get mad? No. We talked and had lunch. We left our lunch happy that we each found and made the time to catch up and visit. And we both look forward to catching up some more – perhaps on the golf course. Maybe I’ll caddy for him. He is a great golfer – probably close to scratch – and I only play once every two years. I’d be good with that. How did this happen? I honestly don’t know. That is why I am asking. Most of the time I can talk with anyone about anything –- regardless of political affiliation – and have a rational, unemotional conversation – without anger or angst involved. Why is that so hard? The past few years have seen families split apart along political lines. I
know I lost friends. I don’t know anyone that didn’t happen to. In the past I did get mad at people. People got mad at me. We stopped talking to each other. We stopped associating with each other. We stopped sending Christmas cards to each other. We wrote each other off and stopped believing in our shared, collective worlds. Even today, I have truly dear friends who – because we each value each other’s friendship and companionship so much, we avoid discussing like the plague anything even remotely political. To me, that is absurd, yet I go with the flow that maintains the peace. I think I have been able to learn from the past though and can discuss politics or political issues without allowing my side of the conversation to turn into anything personal or snarky. Why my old friend and I can talk about politics without raising our voices, I don’t know, but I am thrilled that we could. We talked, we argued, we referenced sources of our thoughts and beliefs, and we each listened to the other – listened without a whole lot of effort. That back and forth – without any
snarky emotions – was a good thing. I learned some things from him and he pointed out stuff that I had not thought about – and vice versa. I questioned his sources of information, and I suggested that if all the stuff that he communicated to me was true that surely there would be – or would have been action taken within our legal system. Yes, I told him, our system is not perfect, but when both sides have basically unlimited money to “support/ push” investigations and when laws are broken, most of the time “rule of law” holds someone accountable, regardless of party and no matter what the talking heads want you to believe. Usually, when someone breaks the law, they are held accountable – period, fact. Talking to each other and listening to each other are the only ways to really start to begin to understand and deal with the polarization that is killing the country. It isn’t impossible. It isn’t unrealistic or pie in the sky. It can be done, but we must be willing to listen to opinions that we don’t necessarily agree with and not throw a fit about it. Can’t we just get along?
If patience is a virtue, we may never see heaven’s gate Airline passengers are lucky to have access to information about which airline to choose if ontime arrivals and departures are important. Lounging on airport furniture, PAT FOX reading your Kindle Managing Editor is no substitute for the sunny beach in the Caymans you’d expected to catch that afternoon. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics tracks all sorts of information about flight delays and cancellations. You can get a clear picture of which airlines are most likely to get you on that beach before sundown. The latest data for 2023 ranks Delta as your best bet. The airline and its network carriers pulled up to the gate within 14 minutes of scheduled arrival time nearly 85 percent of the time, according to aviation data firm Cirium. Alaska Airlines came in second with 82 percent of its planes arriving promptly. American was third at 80 percent. Frontier and Jet Blue came in at around 68 percent. And while airlines like to blame weather-related causes for delays, the data shows that most of the time, the fault lies with personnel. Most delays are preventable.
Airlines are required to report performance. There are no such requirements for doctors. More’s the pity. If doctors’ offices were required to track the amount of time patients spend in waiting rooms past their scheduled appointments, imagine the fallout. We could shop around for those practices that value your time as much as theirs. That’s not to say doctors are lazy. There is an enormous shortage of physicians, and it’s getting worse. A 2020 study by the Association of American Medical Colleges predicts the United States could experience a shortage of from 54,100 to 139,000 by 2033. About half of those empty slots will be for primary care. Right now, there are more than 1 million physicians practicing in the United States. Over 40 percent of them will turn 65 or older in the next decade, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges. Moreover, national surveys following the COVID pandemic show many of these older doctors are likely to leave their practice sooner rather than later. Will anyone be left? Amid the furor surrounding Medicare funding, it might be wise to consider that even if the program survives in perpetuity, there may be no one available to see about your heart condition, your tennis elbow or your chronic cough.
Even so, there ought to be ways to streamline the process of seeing a doctor. Most practices require you arrive 15 or 30 minutes early, presumably to fill out paperwork you’ve already submitted through that black hole the industry calls a “health portal.” Consider that the entire healthcare experience has become so cumbersome, many patients don’t see a doctor until their condition becomes so severe they require hospitalizations. Others forego the doctor’s office and opt for a trip to the emergency room. Is it any wonder? A couple of years ago, I went in for cataract surgery, a procedure I had discussed extensively with my ophthalmologist beforehand. The day of the procedure, with an IV pumping me with sedatives, I was approached by one of the staff who showed me a large cardboard menu of lens options. He wanted me to pick the one I wanted. Is this Pep Boys? I wondered. So, I did the only thing a reasonable cataract patient on drugs would do under the circumstances. I threw a fit. Nurses and staff went wild, bustling about, screaming that there was a problem with the scheduled procedure. The doctor finally approached me and asked what the problem was. I told him I wanted the exact same procedure he and I had gone over and agreed to the week before in his office.
Systolic off the charts More recently, I visited my cardio doctor for a routine checkup. I arrived early as instructed. Then I waited…and waited…and waited. Forty-five minutes beyond my appointment time, I decided to reschedule. I’d driven over 20 miles for nothing. Just then, a young assistant called me in and deposited me in Room 2 for another 10 minutes. When the cardiologist entered, I bucked up and told him that this wouldn’t be a good time to check my blood pressure, and I told him why. He apologized for the wait, saying the workload is such that patients inevitably get backed up. He recommended one way to avoid this is to schedule appointments for the morning. Then, he went over the medications I was taking, asked whether I was having any issues. I wasn’t till then. And, he wished me a good day, apologizing again for the wait. I am not sure how much time he spent with me, maybe 10 minutes tops. I’m sure there are reasons doctors run late. Emergencies pop up. Some patients require extended visits. Records have to be updated. I get all that. And there is nothing I can do about it. But, doctors should know patients value their time, too. Someone has to say it. Sorry.
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PAST TENSE
OPINION
Sandy Springs road names: Mt. Paran, Heard’s Ferry and Dalrymple Neighbors living in the area around Powers Ferry Road and Mt. Paran Road decided to form a Baptist church in 1860. They called it Mt. Paran, taking the name Paran VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF from the Bible. The road name Columnist originated from this church, but was sometimes spelled
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incorrectly, such as the Mt. Perrin spelling on a 1923 map. The first church building was “… built of split logs and had a dirt floor and a chimney made of sticks and clay,” according to Belle Ezzard. Her grandfather, Thomas Henry Burdett, was the first man to be baptized from the church. Ezzard told of Burdett losing his footing and causing himself and the preacher to slide under water in Nancy’s Creek. Another church was built around 1880 after a sawmill was operating nearby. The church was built in a common style for the day, with two front doors, one for women and one for men. (“Sandy Springs Past Tense,” Lois Coogle) John Heard was born in 1835 and died in 1930, a long life for the time. Heard’s Ferry Road is named for John Heard. The ferry was previously known as Isom’s Ferry and operated by James Isom. Union soldiers used Isom’s Ferry to cross the Chattahoochee on July 8, 1864. According to the Isom’s Ferry Georgia Historic Marker, “Cox’s division Schofield’s 23rd A.C. crossed Isom’s July 8 (1864). Hascall’s division joined July 11, and by the 14th the adjusted corps line connected with the left of Howard’s 4th A.C. along the ridge of Mt. Vernon Road near Crossroads Church.” The ferry was located where Sope Creek meets the Chattahoochee River. “Sandy Springs Past Tense” includes rates for the usual customers of Isom’s Ferry. Two horses and one wagon cost 50 cents, while one person on horseback was 12 cents. When cattle were loaded on the ferry, the cost was 4 cents each. Heard was part of the 9th Battalion Georgia Artillery during the Civil War. Before the war began, he married James Isom’s daughter Abbie Isom. He took over the ferry in 1868 and
This 1923 Fulton County map appears in Lois Coogle’s “Sandy Springs Past Tense.” Note that Mt. Paran Road is spelled Mt Perrin. continued to operate it until 1890. John Dalrymple was born in Laurens County, South Carolina, in 1809. He married Elsy Ball in Fulton County in 1858, as recorded in the Georgia Fulton County record of marriages. Elsy Ball was one of nine children of Peter and Margaret Ball. Peter Ball operated a mill along a creek that became known as Ball Mill Creek and near the road called Ball Mill Road. In 1859, John Dalrymple is recorded on the Georgia Tax Digest as owning 202.5 acres and his father-inlaw Peter Ball owns 1,188 acres. Elsy and John Dalrymple had three children. Their daughters
DEATH NOTICES Irma Carr, 98, of Milton, passed away on January 5, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Wade Hansard, 62, of Roswell, passed away on January 5, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Betty Peyton, 80, of Alpharetta, passed away on January 8, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Lynn Farnsworth, 81, of Roswell, passed away on January 4, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Dorothy Hayes, 73, of Alpharetta, passed away on January 5, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
Mark Ryan, 55, of Alpharetta, passed away on January 3, 2024. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.
PROVIDED
married men from the area. Margaret Dalrymple married James Mayfield, and Catherine Elizabeth Dalrymple married John Hardegree. Elsy and John’s son Lewis Dalrymple married into another local family when he married Sarah Eison. Margaret and James Mayfield are shown on the 1920 census living on Bull Sluice Road, and 87-year-old Elsy Jane Dalrymple is listed as living with them. Bull Sluice Road was named for the railroad that was built as a spur of the Roswell Railroad. The purpose of the spur was to transport supplies for the construction of Morgan Falls Dam. 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.
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OPINION
THE INK PENN
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The Ink Penn’s favorite books from 2023 Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and every newspaper known to man published December lists of the best books of 2023, so I thought, “why not me?” My list includes best books I KATHY MANOS PENN the “read” in 2023, not Columnist necessarily the best books that were published. The first two top the list because they stayed with me long after I put them down. The rest are in no particular order. They are simply books I found the most engrossing and entertaining of the many I read last year. “The Echo of Old Books” by Barbara Davis The first time I used the term “book hangover” was when I reviewed this novel. Reading the story about a pair of mysterious books evoked a feeling I couldn’t shake, and I found myself reflecting on the tale weeks after I put it down. “Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett I found it difficult to find words to describe Ann Patchett’s latest. Engrossing, moving, a magical story I couldn’t stop thinking about--none of
that quite captured how I felt about it. It’s the story of a family living on their Michigan cherry farm during the pandemic, and its depiction of family relationships is masterful. “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus This book is everything you could want in a novel—fast paced, witty, touching in spots and laugh aloud funny in others. Its portrayal of how women were seen in the 1950s and 1960s is more than believable, while other elements are intentionally fantastical. “The White Lady” by Jacqueline Winspear As a long-time fan of Winspear’s Maisie Dobbs series, I knew this standalone would be a winner. Its main character, Elinor, was a preteen in Belgium during WWI and is living in post-World War II Britain when the story opens in 1947. The tale moves between the two World Wars and details her role in both. If you’re a history buff, this book will fit the bill as not only engaging but also informative. “Killers of a Certain Age” by Deanna Raybourn Buzzfeed’s one-liner says it all:
In Memoriam
Bernard Edward “Barney” Keleher
Bernard Edward “Barney” Keleher (93) died peacefully at home January 8, 2024, from head trauma sustained in a fall three weeks ago. Barney was born May 18, 1930, in Garden City, NY. He attended Georgetown University on a football scholarship and after graduation served as a helicopter pilot in the US Air Force. Barney moved to Atlanta in 1966 where he met Linda (Frederickson) Keleher, his wife of 53 years, their having met in September, 1969. Becoming engaged in December. And married in February. Barney was an agent for Mass Mutual Life Insurance Company. He was an avid golfer as a member of Ansley Golf Club, and as a Charter Member of Dunwoody
Country Club. Barney and Linda have three children, Katie Edwards (St. Simons Island, GA), Bart (Abbe) Keleher (Nashville, TN), and Virginia (Travis) Lindsay (Freeport, PA); ten grandchildren, Sarah Kate, Virginia, Elsie, Jacklyn, Anne, Hayes, Calvin, Griffin, Marion, and Tripp; and 16 nieces and nephews. Barney loved Irish songs and singing them loudly for all to hear. He also enjoyed sitting on his back deck with a glass of wine and watching the birds. A Funeral Mass took place at 2PM Friday, January 12, at All Saints Catholic Church. The Keleher family suggests that remembrances of Barney be made by reaching out to loved ones and sharing a hug in lieu of flowers.
“This Golden Girls meets James Bond thriller is a journey you want to be part of.” I described it as a rollicking read, an entertaining and imaginative book about four menopausal women in their sixties who are retiring from careers as deadly assassins.
as she witnesses history, the good and the bad. Her meetings with Luc, the name she gives her devil, evolve and change through the years. I enjoyed it for the history lessons, the romance, and the beautiful writing.
“Winter Solstice” by Rosamunde Pilcher This is an older book recommended to me by one of my newsletter subscribers. As the book jacket says, “The December solstice is … about hope, renewal, and rebirth,” and the friendships in Pilcher’s story reflect that spirit. It’s a heartwarming story about friends, family, and neighbors with scenery described so vividly that you will as though are there. I saw the waves crashing on the Cornwall coast and the snow falling in Scotland.
“Homer’s Odyssey” by Gwen Cooper Mesmerized is the word that comes to mind when I think of this nonfiction book. Homer, an indefatigable blind kitten, weighed only two pounds when the author adopted him. If you give this one a try, I predict Homer will capture your heart as he did mine. There you have it, a few of my most enjoyable books from 2023. Could I name more? Why, of course, but these are top o’ mind. Now, I’m back to choosing books for 2024 from my ever -growing TBR list. Happy 2024 reading to one and all.
“The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V. E. Schwab I couldn’t put this one down, and I can see why it is described as a genre-defying tale. It starts in 1714 in France, where young Adeline LaRue makes a deal with the devil. She will live forever, but no one will remember her. The story unfolds
Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, Tall Tales, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ KathyManosPennAuthor/.
In Memoriam
Leon Furth
Leon Furth was born in Brooklyn, NY on August 2, 1929 and died peacefully on January 4, 2024 in Dunwoody, Georgia at the age of 94. Leon is survived by his wife of 64 years Beatrice (Bea), his children Robin, Adam, Robert (Meredith) and Heather (Phil) along with his five grandchildren Rebecca, William, Lauren, Heidi and Sara and many close friends. Leon was born to Alphonso and Lucille Furth. He graduated from Erasmus Hall High School on Flatbush Ave. in Brooklyn, N.Y. He entered the U.S. Army in 1950 and began basic training at Fort Devens, MA with the 278 R.C.T. then went on to Fort Bragg, N.C. and Fort Drum, N.Y. In 1951 he deployed to Korea to fight in the War then afterwards was stationed in Japan. After the Army he went on to graduate from Delaware Valley University in 1959 with a degree in Animal Science. He married
Beatrice Winokur from Philadelphia, PA in June of 1959. Afterwards they moved to Rockland County, NY where he began working for Johnson and Johnson then eventually for Schering Plough Animal Health/Merck for over 40 years. Leon was passionate about working out at the JCC, taking care of his yard and was often found grilling or smoking meats on his Traeger grill. Leon was an active member and volunteer of VFW Post 10822. He enjoyed working out with his friends, swapping stories and telling jokes with fellow soldiers. The funeral is scheduled for 2 PM on Monday January 7 at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Leon’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the veterans charity of your choice. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.
30 | January 18, 2024 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
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