Dunwoody approves $100,000 settlement to clear legal hurdle obstructing land sale
By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody has approved two $50,000 settlements with tenants of a city-owned property on North Shallowford Road, ending court eviction cases and allowing sale of the property for $7.78 million to proceed.
At its Feb. 27 meeting, the Dunwoody City Council voted unanimously to settle cases in DeKalb County State Court with Dr. Alan Miller and Dr. Jada Moore-Ruffin, tenants of 4553 North Shallowford Road in Dunwoody, making way for a sale of the 21,661-square-foot property to Summit Healthcare Group LLC.
VinoVenue
By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — For the past decade, Vino Venue has been a onestop shop for all things wine related in Metro Atlanta. As a retail space, restaurant, wine school, private event space and travel hub, the store aims to educate everyone interested in
One-stop wine shop appeals to all tastes
wine.
Michael and Lelia Bryan went on their first trip as a couple to Napa Valley, California in 2001. Lelia was a wine lover, but Michael Bryan was new to the spirit.
“He absolutely fell in love with it,” Lelia said.
Michael returned and decided to start teaching wine classes. In
the early 2000s, Lelia moved from Brookhaven to join Michael in Dunwoody and the pair opened the Atlanta Wine School on Holcomb Bridge Road. The school was a success, but the couple wanted to expand.
“We had so many people who would taste wine during their classes
City Attorney Ken Bernard said the settlement agreements will “buy the city peace” and resolve their tenancy issues without waiting on the lengthy court eviction process, which could take months or years.
Bernard said officials still believe they are justified in their attempt to evict Miller and Moore-Ruffin from the property, but waiting for the court to resolve the issue isn’t in the city’s best interests.
“We can wait and prove a point and try to win the battle,” Bernard said. “But you're gonna lose the [Summit Healthcare Group] deal because of the economy, their
DELANEY TARR/APPEN MEDIA
Vino Venue staff samples about 100 wines a week to maintain a wide selection for its customers.
Community gathers to reject antisemitism ► PAGE 8 March 9, 2023 | AppenMedia.com | An Appen Media Group Publication | Serving the community since 1976
See VINO, Page 6 See DUNWOODY, Page 14
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Police investigate report of assault at hospital
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police are investigating a 58-year-old East Point man who allegedly assaulted an employee at Peachford Hospital Feb. 25.
Police reports said officers responded to the hospital at about 10 p.m. after an altercation occurred between two employees. At the scene, a woman told police she had been punched in the chest by another employee in a “completely unprovoked” attack.
The victim said her attacker, who works on the same floor of the hospital, came to work in a “bad mood” and became irate when she asked him to pass some items out to hospital patients. Statements from several witnesses collaborated her story, the report said.
The suspect was sent home from the hospital prior to the officer’s arrival, but they later made contact with him over the phone. However, the suspect refused to speak with police at the time of the report.
The report did not say whether any charges were filed in the case.
Dunwoody man arrested for hit-and-run wreck
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Police arrested a Dunwoody man for allegedly fleeing the scene of a wreck on Jett Ferry Road Feb. 27.
Dunwoody police reports said the wreck happened at about 11 a.m. near the intersection of Jett Ferry and Mt. Vernon roads when the suspect struck another vehicle head-on while
turning out of a private driveway. After the wreck, the suspect driver turned into a nearby parking lot and fled the area.
The incident was captured on security camera footage from multiple nearby businesses. Police were able to identify and locate the suspect at his home in Dunwoody.
When confronted with evidence from the wreck, the suspect allegedly denied any involvement in the wreck. However, police also located the suspect’s vehicle and saw it matched the vehicle seen on security footage.
The man was placed under arrest for hit and run, driving with suspended registration and other traffic charges, and was transported to the DeKalb County Jail.
Duluth man files report for fraudulent purchases
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police reports said a Duluth man was recently defrauded of more than $7,000 through credit card purchases at a Dunwoody jewelry store.
The victim discovered Feb. 2 that someone had made five unauthorized transactions totaling $7,642.84 on his credit card at the Jared Jewelry Store on Ashford Dunwoody Road in January and December.
Later, the victim also learned that a suspect had changed the address on his credit card account to an address in Atlanta.
At the time of the report, no suspect in the crime was identified by Dunwoody police.
Resident claims contractor failed to perform project
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police are investigating a Buford-based plumbing company that allegedly took $3,500 from a local homeowner for a remodel job and never completed any work.
Reports said the investigation began Feb. 27 when a homeowner on Tillingham Court in Dunwoody reported they paid a plumbing company $3,500 as a deposit for the installation of a new steam shower in January.
The homeowner’s contract said the project would be completed by Jan. 26, but despite the fact that their deposit check was quickly deposited, no work was ever started on the project, the report said.
Once police identified the company’s owner, they found evidence that he had been charged with theft by conversion previously in Michigan in December 2022.
At the time of the report, no charges had been filed by police in the case.
Crooked credit activity sparks police complaint
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A man reported he received a letter from Capital One Feb. 16 in reference to an attempt to open a new credit card.
His son told Johns Creek Police Feb. 21 his father had not made the application, and that Capital One had been notified. It is not known when and where the account was opened or by whom, the police report said.
The man received another letter in the mail from GAP clothing in reference to opening a new GAP credit card, which had an outstanding balance of $800.
GAP informed the man the card had been opened in an unidentified store using his Social Security number and date of birth. The phone number on the account was inaccurate, the report said, and the account had been flagged as fraudulent.
The man and his son went to the Social Security Office and informed personnel of the situation and froze the man’s credit with all three credit bureaus.
2 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody PUBLIC SAFETY
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All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.
Perimeter leaders reject rental housing legislation
By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com
ATLANTA — Legislation introduced last week aimed at improving the affordability of Georgia homes has quickly drawn fierce opposition from officials in several Metro Atlanta cities.
House Bill 517, called the Georgia Homeowner Opportunity Act, was introduced by state Rep. Dale Washburn (R-Macon) Feb. 21 and would prevent local governments from regulating many different building design elements, from the style of porches to the number and types of rooms.
Supporters say HB 517, along with another bill barring local governments from placing moratoriums on new housing construction, would lower housing costs by cutting red tape and encouraging private sector innovation.
However, officials in Sandy Springs, Dunwoody and many other municipalities are skeptical of these claims, citing the “slippery slope” effect it could have.
“This legislation undercuts one of the core functions of all local governments to plan for the growth and development of their community, and it undermines the ability of local residents to have input through their local community planning processes,” Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul said March 1.
Speaking at a Dunwoody City Council meeting Feb. 27, Mayor Lynn Deutsch said they have seen several similar bills come through the Gold Dome unsuccessfully in past years, but typically those bills would not have affected Dunwoody.
“Except this year, they added a few things that we do regulate, lot size and frontage. Frontage is the big one, but it's just the beginning,” Deutsch said. “If they successfully pass this, then it opens the door for more, and it doesn't solve the problem.”
Deutsch said Dunwoody and Sandy Springs aren’t alone in opposing HB 517. City leaders throughout the state, along with the Georgia Municipal Association and the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia are currently developing an alternate “carrot approach” to fighting the state’s housing problems by incentivizing builders with funding for things like paving and sewer installation in certain situations.
“If state resources, city resources, county resources are going to be put into some type of … housing development, there needs to be some assurance of affordability,” Jim Thornton, director of governmental relations at the Georgia Municipal Association said to Capitol Beat.
HB 517 was heard before the Georgia House Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Wednesday, Feb. 28. During that meeting, Washburn pushed back against the notion the bill would restrict local government’s abilities to regulate housing standards, saying that the proposal instead seeks to eliminate excessive regulation preventing Georgia from developing “workforce housing.”
“This is preemptive,” he said. “And it is preemptive because we are seeing many, many counties and cities across Georgia now impose a lot of restrictions on single-
See HOUSING, Page 18
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 3 NEWS
Street art course registration underway at Spruill Center
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Spruill Center for the Arts and Brave Nu Ventures announced open registration for “Exploring Street Art in Atlanta,” a six-week course that explores the art form transforming the city.
Exploring Street Art in Atlanta, one of a handful offered in the United States, will run April 15-May 20. Classes will be held on Saturdays from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Spruill Center and at key street art locations in Atlanta.
Full scholarships are available to young adults who qualify. The link to the scholarship application is spruillarts.org/scholarships.
Exploring Street Art is open to the public and includes talks, mixed media projects and field trips:
• Week 1: Intro to Street Art Lecture –overview of Atlanta’s evolving cityscape from an urban art scholar.
• Week 2: ATL Street Art Tour – twohour trek through Castleberry Hill & Downtown to learn the stories behind iconic works.
• Week 3: Is Graffiti Art? Workshop – a closer look at graffiti and arguments for
and against its merits.
• Week 4: Graffiti Painting – a hands-on, and legal, workshop to create a piece with a graffiti teaching artist.
• Week 5: Artist Studio – an opportunity to meet the muralist behind several works and learn about their creative process.
• Week 6: Public Art Installation – a rare chance to work on a public mural with a local artist.
Brave Nu Ventures designed the course over 12 months, working with local artists, creatives and street art insiders. The course features a team of facilitators who will lead individual sessions. Students will learn about the cultural significance of street art in Atlanta. They will see and discuss the iconic murals, the contributions of edgier, and even anonymous artists, and the issues being addressed. By making art and touring the city, students will develop an aesthetic sensitivity to street art forms and techniques – from graffiti styles to how murals are made.
To enroll in Exploring Atlanta Street Art, go to spruillarts.org/classes.
Dunwoody High School’s half century of excellence to highlight July 4th parade
By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — The Dunwoody Homeowners Association’s annual July 4th Parade this year will honor Dunwoody High School’s more than 50 years of educational excellence, officials announced this week.
The parade theme, “50 years of Wildcat Pride, celebrating Dunwoody High School’s past, present and future,” was announced at the HOA’s annual meeting Feb. 26, by event co-chair Matt Webber.
The parade will begin at 9 a.m., Tuesday, July 4, and celebrate both American independence and the students and educators that make Dunwoody High School great, Webber said.
Along with the parade floats, marching bands, clowns and animals, people should expect to see a “less commercialized” side of the event, with students riding bikes, teams from the high school and more of a “neighborhood feel.”
“Hopefully we're going to be able to bring a lot of the high school into the parade,” he said. “That's one thing we're really trying to do to make it younger.”
Webber and event co-Chair Penny Forman also announced Dunwoody High School Principal “Coach” Tom Bass and
teacher Steve Fortenberry will serve as the parade’s grand marshals.
“They probably won't be at the front of the parade,” Webber said. “They don't like to be the center of attention, they like to be the center of the party, but they'll probably be back with the high school.”
Instead, another familiar face from Dunwoody High School may lead the festivities, Forman said.
“We might have the Wildcat mascot in the car that's representing all of them,” she said.
But regardless of who leads the parade, a huge turnout from the community and high school is expected, so they are already planning one big change – adding multiple large speakers along the parade route to broadcast music.
“One of the biggest challenges we have is getting a band, and a band makes the parade right,” Forman said. “If you don't have music, it's boring. So, that's what we came up with.”
More details about the parade should be announced by the Dunwoody Homeowners Association as the date draws nearer, but for now, officials say they are looking for parade sponsors, float entries and vendors.
For parade registration and more information, visit dunwoodyga.org.
4 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody COMMUNITY
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 5 Copyright ©2023 PuzzleJunction.com Dunwoody Crier 3/9/23 Crossword PuzzleJunction.com Solution on next page 44 Dangerous bacteria 47 Wine label info 51 Racetrack officials 52 Flower part 54 1980 Olivia Newton-John musical fantasy 55 Cherish 56 Like some stadiums 57 Endure 61 Kind of collar 62 Cairo’s waterway 64 ___ jacket 65 Lab item 66 Decomposes 69 Ham holder 71 Bishop’s jurisdiction 12345 6789 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 Across 1 Provide food for 6 Chooses 10 Breakfast staple 14 Diminish 15 Word with car or machine 16 Plumbing problem 17 Garland resident 18 Time period 19 Pastrami purveyor 20 Leans 22 Likely 24 Space invaders, for short 26 ___ out a living 27 Slalom curve 28 Like some payments 32 Farmer’s place, in song 34 Tree trunk 35 Portly plus 37 Yak’s home 41 Varieties 42 Artwork holder 45 Turn bad 46 Snappish 48 Photo, briefly 49 Goose egg 50 Tennis units 53 Ballroom dance 55 Nabokov novel 58 River islet 59 Neighbor of Ala. 60 Watchdog type 63 Surmise 67 Exclude 68 Mideast chief 70 Some singers 72 Make over 73 Depend 74 “La vita nuova” poet 75 Biblical plot 76 Bygone blade 77 Imperial decree Down 1 Mouse catcher 2 Tasman of New Zealand 3 Curbside call 4 J.F.K. postings 5 Leased 6 Kyrgyzstan city 7 Alka-Seltzer sound 8 Saw the sights 9 Golf shot 10 Icelandic epic 11 Cousin of a loon 12 Fish parts 13 Mata Hari and others 21 Things 23 Conveyor 25 Lightly burn 28 Passing notice 29 Mouselike animal 30 Fraternal group 31 Reposes 33 Hungarian composer 36 Water source 38 Orange Free State settler 39 Continental capital 40 Certain horse race 43 Tick off
Page 23
See solution
A Place for ALL Jews
Ashkenazi Orthodox Rabbi Yitzchok Werbin
5075 Roswell Rd
1 mile inside I-285
Sandy Springs
www.KesherTorahAtlanta.org
Valentine’s arrangements given to Dunwoody seniors
DUNWOODY, Ga. — This Valentine’s Day, groups of seniors in Dunwoody were gifted bouquets of flower arrangements, created with love by the Dunwoody Garden Club.
Members of the club, which meets
Vino:
Continued from Page 1
and want to buy them, want to learn more about them, want to be able to sample different wines,” Lelia said. “It really just made sense to have a place like Vino Venue.”
In October 2012, they opened the doors to Vino Venue, a so-called “wine emporium” with a retail store, cooking classes, tastings and a tapas-style restaurant. One month later, Michael Bryan was diagnosed with sarcoma, a rare form of cancer. He passed away five years later, in 2017.
Those five years were challenging for Lelia and the couple’s daughter, Willa.
“When he did pass, it was my goal to really just keep the vision he had alive,” Lelia said.
Vino Venue now sees 3,000 visitors annually for wine and cooking classes and conducts about 300 private wine
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monthly at the Dunwoody Parks North Shallowford Annex, created 50 Valentine’s Day flower arrangements in colorful coffee mugs at their February meeting and delivered them to residents of Sunrise Senior Living/Brighton Gardens and The Phoenix
events a year. The emporium also hosts a variety of guided wine trips throughout the year to destinations like Portugal and Piedmont, Italy.
The establishment has grown since it opened 10 years ago, but Lelia said she tries to maintain Vino Venue’s initial goal.
“We want to educate people who wanted to know more about the passion around wine,” Lelia said. “Not in a snotty or uptight way, but in a fun way, where people can really experience and try new things and broaden their horizons.”
Vino Venue offers more than 100 types of wine for sale. About 10 percent of the selection costs more than $75. Lelia said the goal is to make wine approachable for everyone.
“We pride ourselves in finding unique wines that aren’t going to break the bank, are very enjoyable and are between $10 and $20,” Lelia said.
The selections aren’t what a customer may find at a typical grocery store, because the Vino Venue staff takes time to find “unique gems.” Lelia said her team tastes about 100 wines a week to find the best bottles.
“It’s a labor of love, it’s actually a lot of work,” she said.
Across the years, Vino Venue has opened its wine classes to people with all levels of experience and interest. Atlanta Wine School, now housed in Vino Venue, offers Wine and Spirit Education Trust certifications.
in Dunwoody.
Each arrangement also contained a note of caring, Garden Club officials said. For more information about the Dunwoody Garden Club, visit www.dunwoodygardenclub.com.
The establishment also offers casual classes during the week that span across wine regions, like “taste of Italy” or “taste of Greece.” Wine professionals teach attendees about the flavors of the region, as well as the best pairings for different foods.
Every few months, Vino Venue puts on a “discover” festival, like the upcoming “Discover France Festival” on March 26. Attendees can buy a ticket and sample around 80 wines and foods centered around France.
Events like the discover series draw hundreds of customers, but Lelia said the business is “relationship-based.” Her goal is to bring customers in on any level of their wine education and keep the relationship growing.
“Michael was passionate about making people feel comfortable in whatever wine knowledge they have, but also in their preferences,” Lelia said.
As the managing partner of Vino Venue, Lelia is an avid wine drinker. She said picking a favorite wine is like “picking a favorite child.” She takes particular pride, though, in a wine that honors her husband.
Lelia had a close friend and winemaker in Italy scatter Michael’s ashes in a vineyard, and the winemaker dedicated the vineyard to Michael. The white wine created from the vineyards is sold at Vino Venue, and all profits go to sarcoma research.
“It’s a beautiful white wine, it’s very unique,” Lelia said.
6 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody NEWS
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 7
Community gathers to reject antisemitism
By LUKE GARDNER newsroom@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — On Sunday people of various faiths gathered at Temple Emanu-El to discuss ways to combat antisemitism after anti-Jewish flyers were distributed across the community in early February.
The event, titled “Georgia’s Fight Against Antisemitism,” consisted of small lectures from elected officials and religious leaders followed by a community discussion led by representatives from the AntiDefamation League.
Senior Rabbi Spike Anderson spoke to a crowd of more than 100 about the importance of uniting against hatred. Also present was Anderson’s friend and fellow faith leader the Rev. David Lower of St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Dunwoody. Lower spoke on the importance of interfaith relationships and showing up for the Jewish community.
“We are ready to do what is required of us,” Lower said.
The ADL-led community discussion centered around defining antisemitism, with several attendees detailing various examples. Presenter Eric Ross described the need to discuss actions, not people, as antisemitic because it allows room for apol-
ogy and growth.
Also discussed was the need for allyship and standing up for oppressed people who face injustice. Presenters referenced the complacency of the general public and the lack of allies the Jewish community had in the beginning stages of the Holocaust.
The importance of solidarity across faiths and among marginalized groups and the need to publicly reject hatred were themes present throughout the event.
“The ADL can’t be everywhere, but I can be where I am,” one attendee said.
The community event is largely in response to antisemitic flyers distributed in Dunwoody and Sandy Springs in early February. Georgia State House Rep. Esther Panitch, the state’s only Jewish legislator, was among several concerned citizens who awoke to find antisemitic flyers in their driveways.
Panitch said that such events can feel isolating and that seeing so many nonJewish community members show their outrage was comforting.
Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch, who is also Jewish, said that while she was upset, she was not surprised because similar flyers had been spread in a nearby area months before.
Free speech vs hate speech
The spreading of antisemitic flyers in February is one of the latest in a disturbing trend of increasing acts of hatred against Jewish people.
Multiple acts of antisemitic acts of gun violence have occurred in the U.S. over the past five years.
Last week, a Los Angeles man was charged with two hate crimes after shooting two Jewish men as they were leaving religious services.
In January 2022, a gunman took a Rabbi and three others hostage at the Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas. In October 2018, 11 people were killed in a mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Months later, in April 2019, one person was killed and three injured by a shooter at Chabad of Poway Synagogue in San Diego, California.
An Anti-Defamation League audit recorded approximately 2,700 antisemitic incidents in 2021, the highest number on record since the league began tracking them in 1979.
Temple Emanu-El project volunteer Rich Lapin said he believes that Antisemitism is a community issue, not just a Jewish issue.
“The degree to which antisemitism is
present becomes an indicator of the quality of life in a country and or community,” Lapin said.
Many speakers at the event shared the same sentiment. Several described the Jewish people as the “canaries in the coal mine” of a society. ADL Regional
See COMMUNITY, Page 20
Tucker
8 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody COMMUNITY YOUR SAFETY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY The health and safety of our customers, associates and services providers is our top priority, and we’re continuing to take extra precautions. Visit homedepot.com/hscovidsafety for more information about how we are responding to COVID-19. Home Depot local Service Providers are background checked, insured, licensed and/or registered. License or registration numbers held by or on behalf of Home Depot U.S.A., Inc. are available at homedepot.com/licensenumbers or at the Special Services Desk in The Home Depot store. State specific licensing information includes: AL 51289, 1924; AK 25084; AZ ROC252435, ROC092581; AR 0228160520; CA 602331; CT HIC.533772; DC 420214000109, 410517000372; FL CRC046858, CGC1514813; GA RBCO005730, GCCO005540; HI CT-22120; ID RCE-19683; IA C091302; LA 43960, 557308, 883162; MD 85434, 42144; MA 112785, CS-107774; MI 2101089942, 2102119069; MN BC147263; MS 22222-MC; MT 37730; NE 26085; NV 38686; NJ 13VH09277500; NM 86302; NC 31521; ND 29073; OR 95843; The Home Depot U.S.A., Inc. is a Registered General Contractor in Rhode Island and its Registration Number is 9480; SC GLG110120; TN 47781; UT 286936-5501; VA 2705-068841; WA HOMED088RH; WV WV036104; WI 1046796. ©2020 Home Depot Product Authority, LLC. All rights reserved. *production time takes approximately 6-8 weeks. HDIE20K0022A CUSTOM HOME ORGANIZATION Solutions for every room in your home Custom Design High-quality, furniture-grade product customized to your space, style, and budget. Complimentary Consultation We offer complimentary design consultations with 3D renderings Quick 1-3 Day Install* Enjoy your new, organized space in as little as 1-3 days. Affordable Financing We offer multiple financing options to make your project affordable [on a monthly basis]. HOMEDEPOT.COM/MYHOMEORGINSTALL 770-744-2034 Call or visit for your FREE IN-HOME OR VIRTUAL CONSULTATION Hello there, Our local team is based in your area. We’d like to provide you with a free in-home or virtual Custom Home Organization consultation and quote. Frank
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PHOTOS BY LUKE GARDNER/APPEN MEDIA Georgia State House Rep. Esther Panitch, the state’s lone Jewish legislator, discusses Georgia House Bill 30, which provides clearer definition of hate speech.
A wakeup call to learn your risk for diabetes
March 28th is an important day on the calendar. The fourth Tuesday in March is the American Diabetes Association Alert Day, a “wakeup call” to take time, learn your risk factors and determine if you or your loved ones are at risk for Type 2 diabetes.
Over 34 million Americans have diabetes, which happens when blood glucose levels, or blood sugar, is too high. Even more surprising is that 1 in 7 – or over 7 million adults - don’t know they have it. As we age, the risk of developing diabetes increases. Type 1 diabetes most often occurs in children and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is the most common kind for middle aged and older adults. Over time it can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, eyesight and nerve damage. Millions of additional Americans also have prediabetes, which means their glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to reach diabetic levels.
Learning your risk factors can start with taking the simple Diabetes Risk test on the American Diabetes Association website. Chances of getting it are higher if you are overweight, inactive or have a family history. Talk to your doctor to find if simple blood tests that can help diagnose diabetes, like an A1C test that can be given at any time of day and shows your average glucose level for the past three months, are a good idea for you. Become familiar with the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes, that include
increased hunger or thirst, feeling tired, losing weight without trying, going to the bathroom more frequently, blurred vision and skin infections or slow healing bruising. Your older loved one may also have signs of depression or cognitive issues.
The good news is that many Type 2 diabetes cases are preventable with healthy lifestyle changes. Develop a plan to review with your health care provider that addresses the following steps. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle, with a plan for walking or other forms of daily exercise. Manage your weight with healthy food choices, like eliminating sugar and refined carbohydrates. Stop smoking. Stay hydrated, water is a wonderful choice. Make sure you regularly take any prescribed medications for blood pressure or cholesterol, and track your numbers.
At Home Helpers we know a skilled and well matched Caregiver can help make each day the best it can be for your older loved one, whether it’s making sure a safe walk is a part of their day, following a healthy diet with nutritious meals, monitoring vital signs or creating bonds to battle social isolation. Our heart centered Caregivers can assist with all personal care, help around the house, or provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parkinson’s, etc.
We’re here to help – from six hours a day, several days a week to 24/7 and live-in care. For a free consultation contact Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs at (770) 681-0323.
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Colorectal cancer: moving beyond awareness
Brought to you by - Dr. Jay Singh, medical director of surgical services at Wellstar Health System
Since 2000, when then-President Bill Clinton designated March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the mission to decrease the worldwide incidence of the third most common cause of cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths has largely been successful if we simply measure “awareness.”
Unfortunately, as we have seen decreasing incidences in colorectal cancer related to screening, particularly colonoscopies, in older individuals, we
have seen a disproportionate increase of cancers at younger ages. As a result, the current recommendation for screening has gone down from 50 years of age now to 45, as of 2021.
Awareness begins with education of not only the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer but the fact that real prevention occurs before any symptoms can be seen. Awareness begins with understanding one’s own risks, including family history and personal behaviors that would immediately put someone at higher risk for developing colorectal cancer. We know that people with a first-degree relative who has had colorectal cancer are at twice the average risk of developing colorectal cancer and should generally get screened earlier. We know that people who smoke, consume alcohol or are obese are more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Adopting healthy behaviors, including quitting the use of tobacco products, reducing
alcohol consumption and eating meals that include fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can also reduce the risk.
Recognizing the impact that this disease has on individuals, families and society, Wellstar has invested in educational programs designed to get the word out, preventive programs that recognize that any test for colorectal cancer is better than no test and treatment programs that involve the comprehensive, multispecialty care of the disease process from diagnosis to treatment.
Wellstar has had an intensive focus on increasing access to screening by the creation and growth of a gastrointestinal service line spanning all our campuses and outpatient centers. This has been in coordination with growth of colorectal surgical services at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center and the expansion of our minimally invasive and robotics programs
throughout the system.
We are proud to have Atlanta’s first program recognized by the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), a quality program of the American College of Surgeons, at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center and hope to soon have that same accreditation at Wellstar North Fulton and Cobb medical centers. This accreditation demonstrates Wellstar’s commitment to providing personalized, high-quality cancer care close to home for patients in Georgia. Imagine, after being diagnosed with a potentially devastating illness, you could meet your whole treatment team and have a plan developed in one visit. This is all part of our mission at Wellstar to enhance the health and well-being of every person we serve.
Learn more about colorectal cancer screening at wellstar.org/cleancolons.
10 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
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HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 11
The intersection of faith communities and mental health
Brought to you by -
Cathy Murphy, Director of Community Outreach, Summit Counseling Center
Many people with mental health conditions, including suicide risk, often turn first to their faith community for help. On Thursday, March 30th the North Fulton Mental Health Collaborate will lead a panel discussion surrounding mental health and the important role of our faith communities.
Spirituality and Mental Health
Many turn to their faith community for support in dealing with mental health problems. Supportive relationships, such as family, long-term friendships and meaningful connections through faith can be important to building resilience and well-being. Faith communities can also play a key role in educating their members about mental health problems.
Culture and Mental Health
Culture can provide a lens for how people think about mental health and how people and mental health professionals interact with one another. Racial and ethnic minorities bear a greater burden from unmet mental health needs due to the stigma surrounding mental health in their culture. There is also a racial/ethnic inequity within the mental health workforce. Just this month, Rep. Michelle Au, D-Johns Creek, was able to get a last-minute amendment to H.B. 520 that would require a workforce study commission to examine cultural competence and language to better understand how the state can meet the mental health needs of Georgia’s diverse population.
How can faith communities address these issues and minister to those in need?
Educate your communities and congregations. Promote awareness
by educating the members of your communities and congregations about mental health issues through educational forums and other opportunities.
• Invite local mental health experts—including those who have experienced mental illness—to speak with your congregation or at community gatherings.
• Share facts and common myths about mental health.
• Organize additional meetings, dinners, or other gatherings for members of your congregation or community to have conversations about mental health.
Identify opportunities to support people with mental illnesses. Religious organizations can play an important role in supporting individuals living with
mental illnesses and encouraging them to seek help.
• Consider offering your organization’s meeting spaces for community conversations and support groups focused on addressing mental health issues.
• Provide space for peer-led groups that give people the chance to tell their stories in their own time and way.
• Support community programs (for example: peer mentoring programs or opportunities for volunteering) that encourage social participation and inclusion for all people.
Connect individuals and families to help. Strengthen the connections within your community to mental health services and support and enhance linkages between mental health, substance abuse, disability, and other social services.
• Learn the basic signs of mental illnesses and other facts about mental health to encourage those in need to seek help.
• Remind others that people can and do recover from mental health challenges and that help is available and effective.
• Train key community members (such as adults who work with the children, youth, older adults, veterans, and LGBTQIA) to identify the signs of depression and suicide and refer people to resources.
• Develop relationships with local
mental health service providers and other family and youth organizations to help direct individuals and families in need to available services and support in the community. other social services.
• Promote acceptance of those with mental health issues. The voices of leaders and members of faith-based organizations can greatly influence attitudes about mental health conditions and those who experience them.
• Talk about your own mental health openly.
• Be an example of taking good care of your mental health by making mental wellness a priority in your personal life.
• Be inclusive. Mental health affects all of us.
• Foster opportunities to build connections with individuals and families dealing with mental health challenges through trust and acceptance.
• Foster safe and supportive environments for people to openly talk about mental health, stress, trauma, and related issues.
Join us on Thursday, March 30th from 10:00-11:30am at Alpharetta FUMC, 69 North Main St., Alpharetta to be a part of this important discuss. Learn more about the event and our panelist on our website at summitcounseling.org
Information from mentalhealth.gov/ talk
12 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
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PAST TENSE
OPINION
Sandlot baseball in Sandy Springs
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Baseball games were popular in Sandy Springs long before Morgan Falls Athletic Complex existed. The community had a sandlot team, sometimes referred to as the “Sandy Springs nine” in the Atlanta newspapers.
According to “Images of America Sandy Springs,” by Kimberly M. Brigance and Morris V. Moore, many games were played at an unofficial ballpark between Boyleston Drive, Hammond Drive, Mount Vernon Highway and Roswell Road.
Baseball had begun by 1934 in Sandy Springs, because an outdoor meeting and wiener roast was held in August of that year to plan and raise money for uniforms. (Atlanta Constitution, August 8, 1934)
Sandy Springs baseball was part of the Regenstein’s family life. They moved to 10 acres on Mount Vernon Highway in 1946. Robert Regenstein was an umpire at the baseball field. When his efforts to bring City of Atlanta water to Sandy Springs were successful in 1950, the community held a Fourth of July celebration, which included square dancing and baseball.
When Robert and Jean’s daughter Barbara was born, employees of Regenstein’s store bought a baby-sized baseball uniform for her. The couple took Barbara to the Sandy Springs field in the uniform.
Scheduled league games for August 1, 1948, included Sandy Springs at Roswell and Alpharetta at Austell as part of the North Atlanta League; Dunwoody at Smyrna, State League; Irvindale Dairy vs. Tucker at Piedmont Park and Norcross at Duluth in the County League.
The Atlanta papers regularly reported on the various sandlot team results and the special achievements of the players.
Bill Hardigree of Sandy Springs was the fielding star of a game against the Federal Pen (Penitentiary) team. Sandy Springs
won 7 to 4, and Hardigree got six of those seven runs. (Atlanta Constitution, “Hardigree Leads Sandy Springs, Sept. 17, 1951)
John Davis moved to Sandy Springs with his family in 1962 at the age of 10. Little League baseball had recently become popular in the community.
“By the 1960s, baseball in Sandy Springs had taken on a life of its own and had become part of the town’s spirit, even if there was no official place to play it,” Davis recalled.
Local businesses and organizations sponsored teams, buying sports equipment and uniforms including Arlington Cemetery, the Optimist Club, Swofford Shoes, Northside Pharmacy, and Bondurant Sporting Goods. (Sandy Springs Gazette 2018, “Root, Root, Root for the Home Team”)
Davis played on a team sponsored by
eral existing leases and tenants.
Arlington Cemetery. He remembered the team marching down Roswell Road as part of a parade. The league played on fields at Mount Vernon Baptist Church and St. John United Methodist Church and at local elementary school fields.
In 1967, two parks were planned for the southern part of Fulton County in Palmetto and near Fairburn, and two parks in Sandy Springs, Hammond and Morgan Falls. The parks would have baseball fields and tennis courts. (Atlanta Constitution, March 30, 1967, “Four Parks Planned by Fulton”)
Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Sandy Springs. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.
Continued from Page 1
commitments … They want to get this to close. We want to help them and help the city.”
Qualified candidates send resume to: mike@appenmedia.com
Dunwoody became entangled in the dispute over tenancy after taking possession of the 4553 North Shallowford Road property and another property at 4555 North Shallowford Road, which had sev-
When the lease agreements ended in October 2022 and Dunwoody took possession of the buildings, several tenants allegedly refused to leave.
“The city is not a landlord. But when it bought the property, it became a landlord because there was a long lease on the property,” he said.
As part of the settlements, the city will pay each tenant $50,000 and will vacate the property in early March.
Bernard said they expect to close on
the sale to Summit Healthcare Group by March 8.
Councilmembers did not address the evictions directly, but Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch said the problems they are experiencing with the DeKalb County Court System are well-known and widespread.
“We don't run the court system in DeKalb, but you elect three people that do,” Deutsch said. “If you have concerns about how the court system is working or not working, please share with them.”
14 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist
IMAGES OF AMERICA SANDY SPRINGS/KIMBERLY M. BRIGANCE AND MORRIS V. MOORE
This 1940s Sandy Springs baseball team includes, front row, from left: Bill Sewell, Carl Jameson, Al Holbrook, George Coleman and Hubert Nix. Back row, from left: Charles Sewell, Billy Hair, Doyle Mabry, Richard Coleman and Richard Johnson
Dunwoody:
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 15
PRESERVING THE PAST
If only houses could talk
Sometimes we may pass a building every day for years without giving it a second thought. Such structures may reveal interesting stories if given a second look.
Today, I will describe two buildings side by side on Birmingham Highway in Milton, across the road from Scottsdale Farms, one an attractive white brick house and the other brightly painted green and white with a porch situated under a tall shade tree. The two houses are joined by the history of one family. What stories might these houses tell?
In an earlier column I profiled the life of Billy Albertson (1932–2021) a sharecropper’s son who lived to become a beloved local personality, famous for his vegetable garden on Hardscrabble Road. Billy’s garden was a symbol of friendship, neighborliness, and conversation by those who stopped by to chat, help in the garden, to buy fresh produce or to buy goats that Billy raised.
Circa 1950 Billy’s parents, Egbert Tabor Albertson (1892-1975) and Ola Bell Etris Albertson (1891-1969), purchased a 3-acre farm from Billy’s older brother Judge Albertson and his wife Lula Mae across Birmingham Highway from today’s Scottsdale Farm. Judge and Lula Mae moved to Atlanta for Judge’s new job. Since the family had been sharecroppers and moved from farm to farm every few years, the move to their own farm on Birmingham Highway was a welcome chance to settle down. The green wooden house was already on the property. As a teenager, Billy lived in the house with his parents and sister Betty and brother Bobby. For a while as a teenager, Billy worked at Judge’s mobile sawmill. After an accident at the sawmill Billy began his life’s work as a butcher, initially at the Crabapple Sausage Company, eventually at A&P grocery stores. Billy lived with his parents in the house until he married Marjorie Mary Cornelison (1935-2008) in 1955. About five years later he built the home on Hardscrabble Road that would become his landmark farm.
The widowed Egbert lived in the green painted house until his death in 1975. The house remained vacant from that time on.
Next to the painted green house is a white brick house built in 1956 that Denise and Janet’s cousin Shirley Pilcher and her husband Ronnie lived in for 60 years beginning in 1971 when Ronnie got out of the Air Force. Shirley and her father J.T. Albertson bought the house property from her grandparents Egbert and Ola in the 1960s, attracted by the fact that their Albertson kin lived next door. The house was red
brick until painted white about a year ago. The house has been kept up to date and is today a comfortable residence.
In 2015 Luca Gianturco, owner of Scottsdale Farms, bought both houses and surrounding property totaling 10.5 acres at the time, which he enlarged by purchasing parcels in subsequent years. He did not tear down the painted green house even though it would have required substantial renovation to make it inhabitable for two reasons. First, Luca has a keen sense of history, and the painted green house has stories to tell. Second, it serves a useful purpose as a storehouse for the bales of hay cut off the land around the house that he uses at Scottsdale Farms. He did put a new roof on the house to keep its contents dry.
Billy’s daughter Janet Bobeng has fond memories of regular Sunday family gatherings in the 1970s.
“Dad had 10 brothers and sisters, and some would always show up,” she says.
Up to 20 people sat on folding chairs under the large water oak tree in the front yard. A long wooden table was piled high with food brought by the guests.
“Those were special days,” recalls Janet.
Shirley Pilcher has a slightly different memory of those Sunday gatherings which she always attended since she lived next door. She says, “after the guests left, grandmother would cover the leftovers with a large cloth until evening when I would return to indulge in homemade biscuits and raw onions. It was such a happy place.”
In 2016, Luca bought some goats from Billy Albertson to serve as an attraction at Scottsdale Farms. Billy, and his daughter Denise Huntley, brought the goats to Scottsdale Farms and showed Luca how to castrate the goats. Billy looked across the street and told Luca that he had once lived in the green colored house. He took Luca on a tour of the property, and Luca took a picture of Billy and his daughter in front of the house. The photo has become a family gem. For Luca the picture brings back pleasant memories of the visit, and for Denise it evokes special memories of walking through the house with her father. Billy showed her where important events took place and the kitchen where Billy’s father made biscuits for the family.
So, when you are driving along country roads and see old houses or barns in lessthan-ideal condition, know that those old greying structures may have some tales to tell, if only we could get them to speak to us.
Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@ bellsouth.net.
16 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody OPINION
BOB MEYERS
Columnist
APPEN MEDIA’S FIRST EVER
Shopping Spree Giveaway
Start the year off right with a chance to win a $1,000 Shopping Spree courtesy of Appen Media and the Crier Newspapers.
Each week, our newsroom will hide this shopping cart image in the newspaper. Once you find it, visit appenmedia.com/shoppingspree and enter
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AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 17
A new series and an old favorite
I’ve been waiting for the most recent book in The Thursday Murder Club series to become available at my library. Only in Atlanta could a parking issue keep you from getting a library book. Seriously! I put the book on hold when it was first published in 2022, and I was delighted to get the email in October that said I could pick it up. I never would have imagined that early voting at the library would mean that the parking lot was destined to be full on the last day I could pick it up.
I have on a few occasions called the library to ask if they could hold a book for an extra day, and they’ve always been happy to oblige. This time, however, I couldn’t even get through on the phone. That meant I had to re-up my hold request, and I didn’t make it to the top of the list until February. The good news is that it was well worth the wait.
In the meantime, I indulged in a new-to-me series that was easy to get. Heaven forbid I do without reading material.
“Death in the Off-Season”
by Francine Matthews
I love it when I discover a new mystery series. I read a review of the seventh book in the Merry Folger series and immediately picked up the first one, “Death in the OffSeason.” What a treat. Publishers Weekly said it well: “Spunky but inexperienced, third-generation Nantucket cop Meredith Folger investigates murder in this spare, atmospheric debut.”
She’s the daughter of the local police chief and has recently been promoted to Detective when she’s assigned her first murder case. Not only does she need to solve the case, Merry has to deal with an all-male department that questions her competence.
This mystery checked all my boxes. A strong female lead, a well-plotted story and writing that brings the setting to life. I’ve always wanted to visit
Nantucket, and this series may do the trick for me.
It’s September on the island, and the fog and the chill provide an eerie setting for a murder that has its roots in the family dynamics of one of Nantucket’s oldest and wealthiest families. The extra treat was learning about cranberry harvesting. I’d never heard of a cranberry bog.
“The Bullet that Missed”
by Richard Osman
This may only be the third book in The Thursday Murder Club series, but the characters already feel like old friends. The four amateur sleuths return to solve another murder. All in their 70s, the four friends are as different as can be, but they get along famously.
They live in the luxurious Coopers Chase Retirement Village in Kent, England, and meet every Thursday to work on murder cases, most often cold cases. It’s appropriate that they meet in the Jigsaw room in the clubhouse. Aren’t all mysteries puzzles where you have to move pieces around to make sense of them? One way or another,
Housing:
Continued from Page 3
family homes … We should not allow cities and counties to impose such restrictions that housing costs are much higher than they have to be.”
No action was taken at the subcommittee meeting, but members later announced HB 517 would be eligible for further discussion at their session on March 1, 2023. Results from that meeting were not immediately available.
But even with more discussion, some local lawmakers say the bill is unlikely to move forward without some big changes.
the cold cases wind up involving the friends in a more recent murder. Sometimes, they stir up something that results in yet another murder, and of course, puts one or several of the friends in danger. The plot is filled with twists and turns, even a Russian spy.
I am happy to report that book four in the series is due out in September 2023. Next up, I have the second Merry Folger book and countless other mysteries to keep me entertained. When you read at least two books a week, it’s critical to keep your hold shelf at the library well stocked.
Note: Are you in a book club? Would you like to have a local author speak to your group? Contact me to arrange a date! inkpenn119@gmail. com
Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries locally at The Enchanted Forest in Dunwoody and Bookmiser in East Cobb or on Amazon. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.
State Rep. Long Tran (D-Dunwoody) speaks to the Dunwoody Homeowners Association at its annual meeting Sunday, Feb. 26. Tran gave an update on upcoming legislation that could impact Georgia residents.
In an email to Appen Media, state Rep. Shea Roberts (D-Sandy Springs) said that despite Georgia’s affordable housing shortage and hearing from concerned residents on both sides of the issue, she would not support the bill in its current form.
“I agree that HB517 is not the answer,” Roberts said. “But I do hope municipalities around the state will begin to think about more creative zoning categories that would allow for smaller lots and house square footages so we can offer more opportunity for first-time homebuyers.”
Appen Media’s requests for comment from state Rep. Long Tran (D-Dunwoody) were not immediately answered.
18 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody OPINION
THE INK PENN
KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist
ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 19
THE INVESTMENT COACH
No easy rules when it comes to retirement
A recent Wall Street Journal article delved into “Glimpses Into the Reality of a $1 Million Retirement” nest egg. The Dec. 28, 2022, piece noted, “Once a symbol of extravagant wealth, $1 million is now the retirement savings goal for millions of Americans.” The question for you may be, “Given inflation, taxes and other personal challenges, do I have enough with $1 million in today’s dollars?”
LEWIS J. WALKER, CFP
dollars if inflation averages only 2.5 percent per year. The economy and stock and bond markets are struggling as the Federal Reserve Bank raises interest rates in a battle to get inflation down to an annual rate of 2 percent. Playing with various assumptions and time frames will make you dizzy, but asking “what if?” questions can be useful in weighing variables as you attempt to visualize potential future reality.
last? Do you wish to pass assets to heirs and/or qualified charities? Will you be debt free on your retirement date? What will be your health care needs and how will they be funded? Will life insurance be in place to bolster the financial freedom of a survivor? Will life insurance also be used as a vehicle to support long term care needs or pay potential estate taxes?
Previously this column cited the work of Thomas Stanley and William Danko who authored “The Millionaire Next Door,” a best-selling book that defined a threshold level for wealth achievement as having a net worth of $1 million or more. By the end of 2022, it took a net worth in today’s inflation adjusted dollars of $1.89 million to equal the $1 million level specified when the book was published in 1996. If you were to ask a financial planner if a $1 million retirement nest egg is sufficient, the answer must be, “It depends.” Along with time frames, the planning variables are myriad.
How long before you wish to retire, or at least, proclaim yourself as being “financially independent?” Use an inflation calculator to determine the buying power of future dollars based on your time frame.
Say you’re 45 and want to be financially independent by age 65. In 2043, it will take $1,638,616 to equal $1 million in 2023
Community:
Continued from Page 8
Director Eytan Davidson expressed the need to stand in solidarity with all marginalized people, including people of color and the LGBTQ+ community.
Georgia State House Rep. Long Tran called attention to the rhetoric of rightwing politicians as a likely contributing factor to increased hate speech, specifically referencing the “locker room talk” of Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.
Davidson described the group who distributed the flyers as “loosely organized White supremacists hiding behind the first amendment.”
Besides containing antisemitic content, the flyers suggested that people who might take issue with them are un-American, rhetorically asking “You don’t support free speech?”
Dunwoody police chief Billy Grogan told WSBTV that those who distributed the fly-
In addition to inflation, taxes erode the net purchasing power of your gross earnings. You must consider both current and potential future estate and tax policies. Retirement money coming out of a qualified retirement plan like a 401(k) or Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is taxed as ordinary income. For accounts like a Roth IRAs or Roth option in a 401(k) plan, you invest after-tax dollars today so as to harvest tax-free dollars tomorrow. Will harvested dollars from personal non-qualified plan sources be subject to ordinary income or short- or longterm capital gains rates? More favorable long-term capital gains rates are blasted by some as a sop to the wealthy, as in “Warren Buffett pays a lower tax rate than his secretary.” With our national debt out of control, raising taxes on the so-called rich is a call. At $1-plus in liquid net worth, you will be tagged as “rich.” Count on it! A discussion of tax strategies that are available today is key to optimal future planning.
When you begin to tap your nest egg to provide retirement cash flow, how long do you estimate you will live and need money? Based on your age, and that of a spouse or partner, how long will the money have to
ers will not be charged because it is a free speech issue. Davidson assured the community that the ADL and law enforcement are keeping an eye on extremist groups.
Georgia House Bill 30
Rep. Panitch spoke about Georgia House Bill 30 at the event, explaining that it was introduced in 2022 and seeks to provide a legal definition and examples of antisemitism. Similar bills have received bipartisan support and have been adopted by several states. The bill seeks to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Working Definition of antisemitism.
The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee has taken issue with the definition’s discussion of Israel and has condemned the bill as potentially criminalizing pro-Palestinian speech.
Rep Panitch said the law contains examples of anti-Zionism and that “not all anti-Zionism is antisemitism.”
Panitch said in a previous interview that the bill would not affect incidents
How much of your nest egg will be tied up in a qualified retirement plan subject to ordinary income tax upon withdrawal? How much will be held in personal nonretirement funds where more favorable long-term capital gains rates may apply? How does Social Security play into retirement cash flow planning? Medicare is not free and costs for supplemental insurance plans rise every year.
Travel often is mentioned as a retirement goal. Well, “Why wait until retirement?” Suppose Italy is on your bucket list. Round trip tickets for two on Delta to Rome this fall can cost about $3,138 in coach, $3,838 in economy comfort, $6,662 in premium select, and $11,698 in business class. Careful shopping may reduce expenses, but the point is that when it comes to travel, comfort and style costs far more than the basics. A windowless inside cabin on a cruise ship costs much less than a suite with a balcony, but is that your idea of a good time? When saving for retirement, what level of freedom, flexibility, comfort, and style do you wish to aim for?
What other variables may impact the formulation of your financial plan? How secure is your job and earnings stream
like the spreading of antisemitic flyers, because that is considered free speech and is protected under the First Amendment.
To view the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of antisemitism, go to holocaustremembrance.com.
from employment? If you’re self-employed how secure is your income stream and what’s the potential future selling price for your business? Do you have sufficient insurance (life, health, medical, disability, liability, property and casualty, long-term care) to deal with the vagaries of life? Are current and proper legal documents in place such as powers of attorney covering assets and heath care, beneficiary designations, wills, and/or trusts to deal with incapacity and death, special-needs children and taxes?
These questions and more play into the investment strategies that you will pursue. Your current earning power and net worth, future projections, time frames, risk posture, tax considerations, inflation assumptions, current health status and long-term outlook, family obligations, debt levels, current planning for emergency situations and “what if?” questions, and other factors govern your financial planning strategies.
If it sounds complex, it can be. That’s why independent financial counsel is encouraged. But if you think planning can be complicated, try winging it!
Lewis Walker, CFP®, is a life centered financial planning strategist with Capital Insight Group; 770-441-3553; lewis@ capitalinsightgrp.com. Securities & advisory services offered through The Strategic Financial Alliance, Inc. (SFA). Lewis is a registered representative and investment adviser representative of SFA, otherwise unaffiliated with Capital Insight Group. He’s a Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA).
To learn more about the Anti-Defamation League, visit adl.org.
To learn about how to report hate speech on various platforms, visit adl. org/cyber-safety-action-guide.
To learn about the services and resources offered by Temple Emanu-El, go to templeemanuelatlanta.org.
20 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody OPINION
NFCC is looking for a full-time executive assistant to support the Executive Director and leadership team. This person will play a vital role in help keep the NFCC leadership team organized and productive and will interact with the board of directors and other important stakeholder groups. Sensitivity, discretion and attention to detail are a must. Candidate must have a two-year degree, bachelor’s degree preferred and should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience. For a complete job description visit https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/
Client Services Specialist
The full-time Client Services Specialist greets visitors to NFCC and assists them with obtaining services. In addition, this person conducts followup interviews, enters data and may participate in additional follow-up activities. A high school degree or equivalent is required along with at least one year in customer service or other relevant experience. Discretion and strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Spanish are also required. For a complete job description, please visit https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/
Truck Driver
NFCC needs a reliable driver to work part-time picking up scheduled donations. The person in this role may also assist with facility maintenance and must maintain accurate vehicle maintenance records. It is crucial that they represent NFCC with a professional and friendly demeanor. 1-2 years of box truck delivery experience is preferred. Candidate must maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license and be free of any traffic violations for the past three years. Work on Saturdays or Sundays may be required occasionally. For a complete job description, please visit https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/
Now Hiring: Office Coordinator
Local commercial real estate company is hiring an Office Coordinator. The role includes coordinating administrative tasks between our property management, leasing and accounting departments. The position requires exceptional communication and organizational skills, knowledge of MS Office, a strong work ethic, internal drive, and a positive attitude. This is an office only (not remote work) position. Please contact us Employment@ mpshoppingcenters.com for more information.
Workforce Development Coordinator
Develop programs and services for clients and students who are seeking employment, post-secondary education, or other career options. The coordinator collaborates with employers in the community who are hiring. The role also includes working one-on-one on job applications, resumes, interview preparations and offers tips for successfully securing and improving employment. Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or related field required.
For full job description see: https://nfcchelp.org/wpcontent/uploads/2023/02/Workforce-DevelopmentCoordinator-2023.pdf. To apply, send resume to cswan@nfcchelp.org.
Accounting Specialist
Responsible for the day-to-day transactions within the accounting department. The specialist is accountable for preparing financial transactions, processing invoices, and entering general ledger data which will assist in balancing the income statement, managing budgets, and preparing financial reports. Role works closely with the Finance Manager and Director of Finance and Administration. Bachelor’s Degree in Finance or related field required.
For full job description see: https://nfcchelp. org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/AccountingSpecialist-02.21.23-1.pdf. To apply, send resume to jrice@nfcchelp.org.
Wahoo Fitness, L.L.C. has opening in Atlanta, GA for Quality Engineer. Drive & lead new product development quality milestones. Provide expert guidance & direction in DFA & DFM. Operate in Agile & Lean. Mast or equiv + 1yr exp. Ability to travel to Wahoo Fitness locations abroad 10% of yr. Send resumes to Wahoo Fitness, Attn: M. Zilinski, 90 West Wieuca Rd NE, Ste. 110, Atlanta, GA 30342. Must ref job title & code: QE-KD.
POOL TECHNICIANS WANTED
Part-time & Full-time positions available. Pay is $12-$14 per hour. Hours starting at 6:30AM, Monday-Friday. Pick-up truck not required but must have your own reliable transportation. Gas allowance provided. Looking for people who enjoy working outside and are enthusiastic, dependable & punctual. Able to contribute independently or on a crew with consistently friendly attitude.
Well-established commercial pool maintenance company providing service in the North Atlanta Metro area.
Call Bill: 404-245-9396
Supportive Service Coordinator:
The Supportive Service Coordinator (“SSC”) will be responsible for managing the social/supportive services for a portfolio of properties, under the supervision of the Company Asset Manager. This position will serve as a liaison between the Asset Manager and the property management company. This individual will primarily be responsible for managing compliance and reporting for supportive services and, secondarily, procuring grant funding to supplement the property service budget, and identifying local service providers to augment property offerings.
Full time hours. Requires a Bachelor’s degree in social work or education and a minimum of 5 years’ experience.
For a full job description and to submit a resume, please reach out to: Samit Patel, spatel@rhgroup.org Resource Housing Group, Inc.
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 21
Full-time 770-393-1652 If you can’t lift your door, let Dunwoody Door Lift it! Dunwoody Door Lift Co. The ONLY garage door company in Dunwoody! We sell, install and repair garage doors and openers. Authorized Genie Dealer serving Dunwoody since 1973. Garage Doors Call today to place your ad 470.222.8469 or email classifieds@appenmediagroup.com • FAX: 770-475-1216 ONLINE INCLUDED Home Improvement ROT-DOC Rot Repair Technician Don’t waste good paint on rotten wood. Minor repairs make a major difference! Interior/Exterior Painting Pressure Washing Rotten Wood Deck Repair Free Estimates Thurman | 770.899.1354 | www.rot-doc.com
Retaining Walls Brick or Wood Contact Ralph Rucker. Many local references. Honest, punctual, professional and reasonable prices! 678-898-7237 Retaining Walls Full Service LANDSCAPING Company Capable of doing your job – grading, hauling and tree service. Ralph Rucker 678-898-7237 Landscaping Belco Electric “Family Owned Since 1972” Fast Dependable Service by Professional Uniformed Electricians Check out our new website: BelcoInc.com and follow us on: 770-455-4556 Electricians
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22 | March 9, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody Call today to place your ad 470.222.8469 or email classifieds@appenmediagroup.com • FAX: 770-475-1216 ONLINE INCLUDED Licensed • Insured • References Ogletree Enterprises a MALTA Award Winning Firm Installation Maintenance Seasonal Color Ken Ogletree 770.840.8884 AwArd winning LAndscApes 20 years of Keeping Dunwoody Green Landscaping Pressure Washing $250 OFF NEW DRIVEWAY! Mention this ad. Concrete driveway specialists. Driveways, Pool Decks, Patios, Walkways, Slabs. A+ BBB rating. FREE ESTIMATE. Call Rachael at 678-250-4546 to schedule a FREE Estimate. 30 years of experience. ARBOR HILLS CONSTRUCTION INC. Please note we do have a minimum charge on accepted jobs of $5,000. Driveways MARTINEZ MASONRY Retaining Walls • Patios• Repairs Walkways • Masonry Work martinezmasonry281@yahoo com 404-408-4170 Ask for Tony Martinez Concrete ALEX FRASER MASONRY INC. • BRICK • BLOCK • CONCRETE • STONEWORK FULLY INSURED Tel: (770) 664-2294 Cell: (404) 281-0539 Alex Fraser, President www.alexfrasermasonry.com E-Mail: afrasermasonry@aol.com Concrete/Asphalt Driveways A1 DRIVEWAY REPLACEMENT CO. Specializing in CONCRETE DRIVEWAY REPLACEMENT SIDEWALKS, PATIOS, AND SLABS Since 1974 Insured – Free Estimates www.a1drivewayreplacement.com 770-493-6222
Collectibles
KEEPSAKE POTTERY
McCoy and others from the 1950’s. $300/set or sell by piece. 678-221-7983
Budget
Used Cars
JAGUAR XK-8 CONVERTIBLE 2002, triple black, with superb lines, garners attention wherever you go! Wife’s garaged beauty, excellent condition! 103,000 miles. Second owner. Clean title. $7750. iaofga@gmail.com, 678-667-0391
Handyman
Haulers
Cemetery
ARLINGTON
2 plots, Garden G. Valued at $9800. Asking $6000. 404-285-0977
MATTHEW THE HANDYMAN Carpentry, Painting, Drywall, Plumbing, Electrical and Small Jobs. 404-547-2079
HANDYMAN: LET ME FIX what your contractor didn’t! Or add a new kitchen or bathroom. Insured. 20 years experience. 770-292-0576
Hogging, Clearing, Grading, Hauling, Etc.
Many local referencesCall Ralph Rucker 678-898-7237
Painters
Quality Without Compromise
ROBERT CROAWELL REMODELING
Full Service Contractor
Additions • Kitchens • Basements • Bathrooms
Interior/Exterior Paint • Minor Repairs • Licensed Insured Office: 770-814-0064 Cell: 678-642-8314
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | March 9, 2023 | 23 Solution CA TE R OP TS EG GS ABA TE SL OT DR IP TE XA N HO UR DE LI LI ST S PR O BAB LE ET S EKE ESS OV E RDU E DE LL BO LE FA T TI BE T IL KS FR AM E SO UR TE ST Y PI C ZE RO SE TS FO XT RO T AD A AI T FL A DO BE RM AN IN FE R OM IT EM IR AL TO S RE DO RE LY DA NT E EDEN SN EE U KASE Call today to place your ad 470.222.8469 or email classifieds@appenmediagroup.com • FAX: 770-475-1216 ONLINE INCLUDED ROOF LEAKING? Call us for roof repair or roof replacement. FREE quotes. $200 OFF Leak Repairs or 10% off New Roof. Affordable, quality roofing. Based in Roswell. Serving North Atlanta since 1983. Call to schedule FREE Quote: 770-284-3123. Christian Brothers Roofing Roofing KETNER CONTRACTING • Re-roofs • Repairs & Painting • Licensed/Insured • Excellent Referrals • Free Estimate • 25+ Years of Experience Neil Ketner 770-318-7762
Fabrics And Upholstery *DISCOUNT PRICES* -FREE Design Consultation• Thousands of designer fabrics IN STOCK Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-3 770-396-6891 770-396-6824 Miscellaneous Advertise your ITEMS TO SELL in the newspaper Tree Services DANGEROUS REMOVALS & TRIMMING FREE ESTIMATES INSURED & REFERENCES CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL 20% OFF WITH THIS AD! griffintreeservices.com 404-234-4810 Neumann’s Landscape & Tree Service Joe Neumann – 770-452-1173 or 404-644-7179 Bush
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