Dunwoody Crier - May 18, 2023

Georgia tax collections fall sharply in April

► PAGE 9

Bike fans pedal Dunwoody

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody officials and residents celebrated National Bike Month Thursday, May 11, with an energetic tour of the city’s many bike-friendly amenities, while looking at upcoming projects to add more connectivity and safety on local roads.

City Councilman Joe Seconder said the yearly “Bike to Lunch” event has long been a community activity. This year, they chose a 6-mile route from City Hall on Ashford Dunwoody Road to Takorea, a restaurant in the Georgetown Shopping Center on Chamblee Dunwoody Road.

With the pending approval of a Dunwoody Trail Master Plan by the PATH Foundation, Seconder said they used this year’s event to showcase projects that will continue to make Dunwoody a bike-friendly community.

“We're gonna stop along the way and show you what is in the plans,” he said. “We got this master trail plan and move things on the books and it's like, ‘hey, let's stop here and take a look.’”

Seconder said that for road cyclists, Dunwoody is already a very bike-friendly city, with its network of bike lanes added to miles of local roads over the last 12 years.

Education Special Section inside this edition Page 11

Marcus Center expansion plan nears final step to city approval

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — After a series of public meetings and new noise mitigation efforts, Dunwoody officials seem to be nearing an agreement with the Marcus Jewish Community Center over plans to install new facilities at the recreation center on Tilly Mill Road.

Community center representatives and Dunwoody residents addressed the Dunwoody City Council May 8 over the proposed construction of 12 new pickleball courts and a multi-purpose court on the facility’s eastern grounds.

Kathy Zickert, an attorney with Smith, Gambrell and Russell representing the Marcus Jewish Community Center, said they intend to add four new open-air pickleball courts to the recreation center and eight covered courts, as well as a viewing platform on a nearby existing building.

Dunwoody Senior Planner Madalyn Smith said that since the project received conditional approval from the Dunwoody Planning

See DUNWOODY, Page 6

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Led by Post 5 Councilman Joe Seconder and Dunwoody police officers, cyclists head northeast on Ashford Dunwoody Road during the city’s annual Bike to Lunch event May 11. See BIKE, Page 4

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Warrants issued for five suspects in Dunwoody apartment shooting

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Authorities have filed warrants against five people in connection with an April shooting at a Dunwoody apartment complex that hospitalized two men.

One man was shot in the abdomen multiple times and another was shot in the ankle during an incident at the Hartley Apartment complex on Madison Drive April 21, Sgt. Michael Cheek of the Dunwoody Police Department said previously.

POLICE BLOTTER

Cash reported missing from Dunwoody ATM

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Police said that an undetermined amount of cash may have been stolen from a Dunwoody bank ATM.

Dunwoody police responded to the Georgia United Credit Union on Till Mill Road April 6 after receiving reports that bank employees had learned an ATM was missing several “cassettes” that typically store money in the machine.

Employees verified the ATM was in good condition, did not appear to have been forcibly entered and could only have been opened by a three-step unlocking procedure that involves several different codes and keys.

Once opened by bank staff, the ATM was found to be missing all cash and its money storage cassettes,

Initially, police believed the incident occurred between two men who exchanged gunfire in the apartment and the breezeway, but they have since increased the list of suspects to include three other men, who are facing charges for narcotics, firearms and a litany of other offenses.

One of the men involved in the shooting was forced into his apartment at gunpoint, then both men opened fire at each other. Following the shooting, both men were hospitalized for their injuries.

Police also conducted a search at the complex and seized multiple guns and a

which was unusual but would need to be confirmed by a bank audit.

At the time of the report, Dunwoody police had not identified any possible suspects.

Two drivers charged for passing school bus

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police cited two drivers for allegedly overtaking and passing school buses on Mount Vernon Road.

Police cited the drivers between 2:50 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. May 4, after they failed to stop for a school bus that was dropping off students on Mount Vernon Road with its warning signs activated.

Both drivers were charged with violating OCGA 40-6-163, which carries a fine of $250 and requires those accused to appear in municipal court.

Police probe string of vehicle break-ins

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police

“substantial” amount of drugs and cash, Cheek said.

Gaquan Javor Napier, 22, was arrested and charged with kidnapping, home invasion, armed robbery, aggravated assault, false imprisonment and possession of a firearm during a felony. Jakwanis Singleton, 23, has been charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during a felony.

Warrants have also been issued for three other men still sought by police, Cheek said.

are investigating a string of vehicle burglaries and two stolen vehicles that took place at homes and businesses earlier this month.

Reports said five vehicles were burglarized and two vehicles were stolen during the string of incidents May 2. Vehicles parked at homes off Andover Drive, Eidson Drive and Tilly Mill Road were targeted by thieves who stole electronics, cash and other items by breaking out windows.

A Ford F-150 pickup truck with a U-Haul trailer was stolen from a home on Andover Drive, where another vehicle had been burglarized. Police also discovered a 2023 Honda Civic was stolen from the Walmart store on Ashford Dunwoody Road at about 2:25 a.m.

Security camera footage from several of the incidents identified several young male suspects who were seen driving a white or silver SUV.

At the time of the report, authorities had not indicated whether any suspects had been positively identified.

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.

CRIER NOTES

VFW names Scout of the Year honorees

DUNWOODY, Ga. — The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10822, Dunwoody & Sandy Springs, recognized Boy Scout Troop 266 Eagle Scouts Daniel Murphy, Blake Boettcher and Jackson Madden with the Scout of the Year Award. This is an annual VFW program that recognizes Eagle Scouts who have risen above their peers in exemplifying the qualities of their rank. The Scouts are pictured with Capt. Michael Reed, senior vice commander of Post 10822 and Lt. Col. (Ret) Thomas Ariail, commander.

ANNEMARIE MADDEN/SPECIAL TO APPEN MEDIA

From left, Senior Vice Commander of Post 10822 Capt. Michael Reed, Daniel Murphy, Blake Boettcher, Jackson Madden and Lt. Col. (Ret) Thomas Ariail, Commander, stand at the Troop 266 Scout Hut at Dunwoody United Methodist Church.

The Crier is first and foremost a community newspaper. Send us your notes, awards and photos to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS THE CRIER?

Friends from Dunwoody recently traveled to Pero and were kind enough to bring the Crier along. They successfully took the Inca Trail to Macchu Picchu. Pictured are Shelley Gerson, Scott Kenith, Carrie and Jeff Budd and Mark and Rita Joshi.

Bike:

Continued from Page 1

There are multiple biking clubs in and around Dunwoody, he said, and judging from online communities like Strava, local roads are getting a lot of use from cyclists. But Seconder said all you have to do is visit a farmers market on a Saturday, to see just how many Dunwoody families are casually interested in biking.

“When I think about a ‘cycling community,’ I just call it the community,” he said.

So, for casual cyclists who aren’t comfortable riding on busy roads, there aren’t many safe alternatives.

“We're trying to build it so that the folks who have a 10-year-old child could safely ride to Dunwoody Village and go to Village Burger or go to Brook Run Park, and our 70-year-old retirees,” he said. “So that instead of riding on the road, with just a white line separating you from a 2,000-pound motor vehicle, we want to have that separated.”

In the future, Seconder said city leaders hope to have a “hub and spoke system” of biking connections and trails branching off from Brook Run Park so people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy biking in the community.

Dunwoody officials are expected to vote on the Dunwoody Trail Master Plan when it is presented at a meeting this summer.

During Dunwoody’s annual Bike to Lunch event on May 11, participants were given a tour of the city’s many bike-friendly amenities and a look at upcoming projects that will add new connectivity and safety to major Dunwoody roads.

PHOTOS BY ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

After introductions, instructions and a safety briefing, a convoy of bikes peddled by Dunwoody residents leaves city hall May 11, during the city’s annual Bike to Lunch event.

Waka Flocka Flame

Waka Flocka Flame (ID# 49411853) - Celebrity spotting alert. It’s our very own Waka Flocka Flame! Waka is a handsome guy who loves treats and getting pets. He is both potty trained and crate trained. He even has a few commands down pat, like "sit," "down," and "stay." What do you say to giving this local celeb his furever home?

Meet Waka Flocka Flame at Dekalb County Animal Services today, located at 3280 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Chamblee GA, 30340. Our shelter is full. We are currently offering FREE Dog Adoptions. Adopt and save a life.

Expand your family by four furry little feet; meet Waka Flocka Flame and have a loving friend forever. All adoptions include spay/neuter, vaccinations and microchip. If you would like more information about Waka Flocka Flame or if you have questions about adopting, fostering or volunteering please email adoption@ dekalbanimalservices.com or call (404) 294-2165; all potential adopters will be screened to ensure Waka Flocka Flame goes to a good home.

Continued from Page 1

Commission in April, the neighborhood recreation club has tweaked its plans to include new noise control efforts, which was the main community concern.

Other improvements include minor upgrades to the center’s west parking lots and pool area.

A noise study reportedly showed the neighbors closest to the proposed expansion would be impacted by noise from the new pickleball courts and proposed adding several sound barrier options to the project.

“One is fencing that directly surrounds the courts, and then the other option is fencing along the setback line,” she said. “Both options, again according to the sound consultant, are appropriate and do a good job of attenuating noise from the pickleball courts.”

The project would be bound to those options, but with those noise abatement strategies, city staff recommended approval of the proposal.

“Provided they're providing these noise abatement strategies, we don't anticipate any adverse impacts,” she said.

Council shares thoughts

Zickert said they were happy to make the changes after hearing feedback from the community. Additionally, she said they will ensure effects from light and traffic are also mitigated.

Dunwoody City councilmembers still had questions about how the noise mitigation would work and whether it would be effective.

“If what they're installing is not effective, we essentially have no recourse to remedy to mitigate that,” Councilman Tom Lambert said. “So, if there's a way to do that, that would make me feel a lot more comfortable, but otherwise I’m pretty happy with what they proposed.”

Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch said that beyond this specific proposal, the Marcus Jewish Community Center must have a method to address noise complaints made by neighbors, especially considering the community center’s highly popular summer camp program, which has allegedly drawn neighbors’ ire for years.

Deutsch asked community center representatives to commit to using the quietest pickleball equipment possible and to work out a system of managing neighbors’ noise concerns, as they arise.

“The JCC is a tremendous asset to Dunwoody … but you're not always

the best neighbor,” she said. “Obviously, I'm not asking you to be quiet all the time. I'm just asking you to try your hardest and your darndest to be a good neighbor all the time.”

No decision was made on the proposal, but Deutsch said it will return at a council meeting in several weeks.

Park name approved

At the meeting, the Dunwoody City Council also approved an official name for the city’s future park on Vermack Road.

Out of a list of eight, City Council voted to name the 9.3-acre park, “Homecoming Park,” after the route that Dunwoody High School’s homecoming parade takes through the city.

“I really like Homecoming Park, because to me it's a park that is inviting to everyone,” Councilwoman Stacey Harris said. “It's simple. It's homecoming, it's warming. It's welcoming. It's where that homecoming parade goes.”

Councilmembers also considered naming the future park on Roberts Drive, but ultimately voted down the most popular name choice, “Old Buck Park,” which would have been named for a train that once went through the area.

“Dunwoody residents back in the 1800s used that train regularly to get into Atlanta to sell their goods. Teddy Roosevelt rode it right through Dunwoody in 1905,” Lambert said. “I think that name has a lot of ties not only to the history of Dunwoody but also specifically to that area.”

A motion to approve the name failed after Mayor Deutsch pointed out that the word “Buck” could easily be changed to an expletive if vandals were to replace one letter.

“I'm not meaning to make a crack up,” she said. “Do you know what's going to happen to the sign when we put it up? What's going to happen to that “B”?

City staff will have four more weeks to consider naming the park on Roberts Drive and it will be placed back on the council’s meeting agenda.

“Just remember the sign. Maybe there's time to find something else historical,” Deutsch said.

Dunwoody: “Provided they're providing these noise abatement strategies, we don't anticipate any adverse impacts.”

MADALYN SMITH

Dunwoody Senior Planner

1 Wood sorrel

4 Garam ___ (Indian spice mixture) 10

18 Golfer Woosnam

19 ___ loss for words

22 Actress Vance, to her buds

See solution Page 23

Georgia tax collections decline sharply in April

By DAVE WILLIAMS Capitol Beat

ATLANTA — A downturn in state tax collections predicted several months ago is starting to show up.

The Georgia Department of Revenue brought in $4.19 billion in tax revenues last month, down 16.5 percent compared to April of last year, the agency reported Tuesday.

The declining revenues were found primarily in individual income taxes, which fell 32.4 percent from April 2022.

The sharp year-over-year drop in individual income tax collections is due in large part to the first-year implementation of legislation the General Assembly passed last year that permits certain pass-through entities such as S-corporations and partnerships to make entity-level tax elections on behalf of their individual partners. The bill took effect in tax year 2022 for returns filed this year.

Individual income tax payments declined by 49.4 percent last month compared to April 2022. Tax refunds also were down, but the 37.9 percent drop in that category was more than offset by the falloff in payments, resulting in the net decrease.

Net sales taxes actually rose by 2.4 percent, with consumer spending still strong due to a still robust state economy. Corporate income tax receipts in April increased by 4.7 percent over April 2022.

With gasoline prices up significantly over past year, state motor fuel tax collections shot up by 83.5 percent.

The state’s chief economist, Jeffery Dorfman, told lawmakers in January that state tax revenues were likely to drop sharply this year because last year’s huge increase in capital gains tax payments was unlikely to be repeated.

This story is available through a news partnership with Capitol Beat News Service, a project of the Georgia Press Educational Foundation.

Governor vetoes legislation to broaden no-bid contracts

By JOHN RUCH SaportaReport

ATLANTA – Gov. Brian Kemp has vetoed legislation that would have expanded no-bid contracts for local public works and MARTA projects, saying there was “no reason” for it.

House Bill 193 passed the Georgia General Assembly near the end of its session in March. The bill began as a proposal to raise the dollar amount for local governments’ public works contracts that could be exempted from competitive bidding requirements – from $100,000 to $250,000.

In the Senate, it was adopted with an amendment allowing a similar, but much broader exemption for any “rapid transit authority.” The amendment would have allowed no-bid purchases of “any goods, supplies, equipment, other property or services” from a vendor who already has a similar contract with the state or federal governments or any county or municipal government within the transit service area. The annual total of such purchasing or contracting could be up

to $250,000.

The amendment was introduced by state Sen. Brandon Beach (RAlpharetta), who did not respond to comment requests at the time. MARTA spokesperson Stephany Fisher at the time said only that the legislation would help with unspecified “potential safety and security initiatives.”

Sen. Josh McLaurin (D-Sandy Springs), who was among the “no” votes, previously said he opposed it as making contracting “less accountable to taxpayers.”

Kemp announced the veto on similar grounds.

“As a general matter, the state must competitively bid any construction or public works contracts more than $100,000.00,” he wrote in a veto signing statement. “There is no reason competitive bidding requirements for local governments should be more lenient than those for state-issued contracts.”

Fisher, the MARTA spokesperson, declined to comment on the veto.

This story originally appeared on SaportaReport.com.

Preparing middle school students for a complex world

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, critical-thinking 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 2023-2024 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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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 its renowned Primary Years Program for students in preschool through fifth grade.

High Meadows School’s accomplished and experienced faculty lead each student on this journey. Through 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 curi-

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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 1,380 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.

Developing self-directed world citizens through integrated learning

Brought to you by – Endeavor Montessori, Dunwoody

A Montessori education offers a curriculum that focuses on developing physical, cognitive, social and emotional growth, enabling them to reach their full potential and gain an appreciation for learning that lasts a lifetime. Endeavor Montessori opened fall 2019 in Dunwoody, GA, and is enrolling children ages 6 weeks-12 years for 2023 - 2024.

Endeavor Montessori’s curriculum is distilled from the experiences and knowledge of esteemed Montessori certified teachers and leaders. Designed for infants through elementary school age children, the curriculum implements a modernized Montessori approach that cultivates the whole child through a nurturing and inspiring school environment, as well as our rigorous yet celebratory approach to learning through critical thinking, cultural awareness and entrepreneurship.

At Endeavor Montessori, teachers know that each child learns differently and will accommodate each student’s specific needs and learning style. Children, and parents, will benefit from a

warm and close-knit school community with educators who are passionate about the growth of each child.

One of Endeavor Montessori’s main goals is to develop self-directed citizens of the world. Through a global approach to learning, cultural awareness and a sense of connection with all human beings will be instilled in each child. Children will benefit from learning that these differences should always be respected and from the integration of global languages into their curriculum.

Endeavor Montessori offers a learning environment where children are exposed to appropriate levels of technology, integrated seamlessly into an enhanced Montessori curriculum. This approach, along with a Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Math (STEAM) program, addresses the demands placed by modern education, while also strengthening children’s innate desire to seek knowledge on their own and find the answers to their own questions.

To learn more about our curriculum, and for enrollment for children ages 6 weeks-12 years, call (770)-637-1242 or visit our website at endeavormontessori.com .

Be amazed.

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Students learn amongst a warm and supportive community that shares common values and visions. We teach life skills, instill Jewish values, and provide diverse experiences so that our students become well-rounded and self-confident individuals. We celebrate both the ways our diversity makes our school vibrant and the

individual differences that make our school community so unique. With a retention rate of 97%, The Davis Academy community is comprised of families from across the globe, nation, and 31 metro Atlanta zip codes.

The school offers many options for prospective families to learn about the school and community. Parents can schedule a personal tour. In addition, families can engage in wonderful Nurture events that are free and open to the community.

To learn more or schedule a tour go to www.davisacademy.org/admissions/ visit or call 678-527-3300.

The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy 8105 Roberts Drive, Atlanta, GA 30350 770-671-0085 www.davisacademy.org

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 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-of-the-art academic facilities along with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts.

Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan enrolled 1,207 students in grades K-12 for the 20222023 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.

The Wesleyan School

5405 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-448-7640

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“If a student can’t learn the way we teach…we should teach the way a student can learn.”

Brought to you by - Mill Springs

Those are the words of Mill Springs Academy’s founder, Tweetie L. Moore, and the words that Mill Springs administration, faculty, and staff continue to live by today. Founded in 1981, Mill Springs provides a values-based college preparatory program for students with ADHD and learning differences. Mill Springs’ school-wide Community Structure encourages students to participate in their own education by teaching self-advocacy, social problem-solving skills, and how to forge their own path. Our small class sizes allow teachers to provide each student with individualized instruction. Our highly skilled faculty and counselors provide academic rigor on all levels, from kindergarten through 12, in a supportive, nurturing environment.

Mill Springs Academy also offers students a wide variety of opportunities outside the core curriculum. Mill Springs’ fine arts program encourages students to

PROVIDED

explore their creativity through painting, sculpture, set design, music, performance, and more. Our robust athletic programs allow students to play at a competitive level while building teamwork and confidence.

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The Power of Psychological Testing

The Summit provides comprehensive psycho-educational evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults who have suspected learning differences, attention problems, and cognitive and emotional issues. Overall, psychological testing can be a valuable tool for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals in supporting a child academically, emotionally, and socially!

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Property owners used creativity to enjoy swimming

next to the home for friends and family to enjoy.

Albert Martin, a descendant of the Goodwin family, recalled swimming at Silver Lake in Brookhaven. He lived in the Solomon Goodwin home for several years, previously located on Peachtree Road.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF

Columnist

Before the d evelopment of neighborhoods and country clubs with swimming pools as an amenity, people had to use some ingenuity to have a place to swim. Often swimming was done in a nearby creek or lake. Sometimes a lake or pond was dug on the property.

Through the 1940s and 1950s the only people with pools in the areas north of Atlanta were owners of summer homes or those who worked in the city but decided they wanted to experience living in the country.

The William Wardlaw summer home, built in the 1930s, had a pool and changing rooms for guests. The home was on Mount Vernon Road in today’s Dunwoody Club Forest subdivision.

Lois Pattillo Bannister had a pool constructed near her home at the corner of Chamblee Dunwoody and Vermack roads. That home is known today as DonaldsonBannister Farm. Stone from a nearby quarry was placed around the creek near the bridge at Vermack Road to form a swimming pool. She had changing rooms, a bath house and picnic tables built on the banks of the creek. Vermack Swim and Tennis is located on the property where Bannister built her creek pool.

Owners of the farm after Bannister continued to use and enjoy the pool. Hank and Meredith Ogden Conklin swam there while living at the farm with their parents, Henry and Leila Harris Ogden, between 1946 and 1956.

Bonnie Smith Nichols lived on the farm between 1956 and 1974 with her parents Frank and Hortense Smith and brother Frank. They also swam in the pool along the creek.

When Linda and David Chesnut owned the farm, the creek was no longer part of

the property. They built a swimming pool on the north side of the home.

Longtime Dunwoody residents and neighbors Carlton Renfroe, Ann Renfroe, Keller Henderson Barron and Jane Autry all recalled swimming with various owners of Vermack Creek pool. Renfroe, who remembered the closest public pool was at Chastain Park, also swam at the Lawson General Hospital pool where his father worked.

The Nunnally home, in what is now River Oaks subdivision, had a metal pool

The Carroll McGaughey family had a pool at their home on Ridgeview Drive. They shared their home and pool with soldiers of World War II recovering at Veteran’s Hospital #48 in Brookhaven and Lawson General Hospital. (The Atlanta Constitution, August 16, 1946, “Veterans Feted by Elks Group”)

The Ramseys dug a lake on their property located behind the Dunwoody School. Carlton Renfroe and Keller Henderson Barron occasionally joined the Ramsey children and swam in the family lake.

Sally O’Keeffe Gurley Batson visited her grandmother Clara Cassidy’s summer house along Happy Hollow Road, known today as the Cassidy Lamb Home. The property had a creek pool, but Sally and the other children preferred their Uncle George Harvey Ferguson’s pool and slide across Happy Hollow.

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.

Two Canadian authors whose books are worth the wait

I didn’t plan it this way, but the last two books I read were by Canadian authors. One a new novelist, the other an old hand.

My reading selection is governed by the availability of books at the library. I don’t visit there and peruse the shelves. Instead, I log on to the website and search for the books on my never-ending TBR list. That list is populated with books that sound interesting based on reviews I’ve seen in the paper or online. If the library has it, I put it on hold.

Sometimes, they’re bestsellers and I wind up as number 85 or something higher on the waitlist, meaning it could be months before I get the wonderful email that says, “Come get your book.” Other times, it seems I’m the only one looking for

a particular book, and it comes available almost immediately.

Though “The Maid” and “A World of Curiosities” are both bestsellers, they came in pretty quickly and in the same week, and I devoured them both.

“The Maid” by Nita Prose

The protagonist, Molly Gray, is a 25-year-old who struggles with social skills. Through the years, her grandmother has been her guide in understanding and reading the intentions of others. Molly doesn’t always know when she’s being made fun of or misled, and when her grandmother dies, life becomes more difficult for her.

A maid at a prestigious hotel, she is good at her job and appreciated by her manager, but not necessarily by her coworkers. She finds herself in a pickle when a guest dies in one of her rooms. The red herrings and clues abound in this puzzler. Who is out to get Molly? Who is on her

side? Will her social missteps do her in?

This mystery is well-plotted and the main character is endearing, all the things I love in a good book.

“A World of Curiosities” by Louise Penny

As is always the case with a Louise Penny mystery, I couldn’t put this one down. Inspector Gamache is back in the village of Three Pines surrounded by family and friends and soon, of course, a crime, or perhaps several.

I found this installment in the longrunning series to be much darker than the previous ones, though none of them are by any means light. Perhaps this one is more disturbing because it reveals more about Armand Gamache, his early life and early cases, and the toll that those cases have taken on him. The mystery moves between the case that brought Gamache and his son-in-law Jean-Guy together and their current life as co-workers and family. Though that

case is in the past, it inserts itself into the present day.

This is a book about evil. Can someone be born evil? If so, can they ever change? What is a psychopath? What toll does evil take on the men and women who must deal with it as they seek to solve cases and put killers behind bars?

Once again, Louise Penny does a masterful job of portraying the evil in our world and the impact it has. After this one, though, I may need a palate cleanser, something a bit more light-hearted. Please drop me a line if you have a recommendation.

Author Kathy Manos Penn is a nominee for the 2023 Georgia Author of the Year Award. 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/.

OGDEN FAMILY PHOTO

Hank Ogden and sister Meredith swim in the pool created along Vermack Creek in this photo from 1955.

KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist

DEATH NOTICES

Beverly Boardman, 81, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 9, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Kenneth Christian, 83, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 5, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Alexander “Alex” Finnell, 23, of Milton, passed away on May 5, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Sarah Pippin, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 6, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Susanne Sonke, 80, of Roswell, passed away on May 8, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Nellie Taylor, 91, of Milton, passed away on April 28, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

John Vlahiotis, 70, of Alpharetta, passed away on May 6, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Part-time

Facilities/Property Manager for church in Alpharetta area.

Benefits.

Needs basic competency of the practices, methods, and equipment utilized in facility maintenance, construction, and repair activities; including skills and abilities related to plumbing, janitorial, electrical systems, painting, carpentry, construction, and heating and air conditioning systems. Basic understanding of IT and AV technology would be helpful. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to manage contractors/volunteers. Requires successful completion of a criminal record and child abuse background check, a valid driver’s license and the ability to perform physical tasks.

Qualified candidates please send resume to Alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.

Administrative Assistant for Youth and Children

Protestant church in downtown Alpharetta seeks a parttime (15-18 hours per week) Administrative Assistant for Youth & Children’s Ministries. In addition to normal administrative duties the candidate will assist with scheduling, social media, securing supplies, maintaining attendance records, planning events and mission trips.

Qualified candidates are a person of outstanding character who is friendly, organized, able to prioritize, exhibits an understanding of the importance of confidentiality, and is willing and able to work in an environment that is welcoming and inclusive of all people.

A degree from an accredited college or university is preferred. Computer competence within Office 365, editing, and writing skills are required. Experience with REALM is a plus.

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE

Appen Newspapers is looking for one or two folks to help deliver our newspapers. Work is part time and flexible. Routes can be done at night or during the day - on your schedule - within our deadlines. Comfortably earn $550 or more a month on your own schedule.

This is a great way to get out as well as contribute to helping your local newspaper! Perfect for retired person who wants to stay active or a parent with school-aged kids - deliver during school hours. Also good way to earn supplemental income at night. We have had many retired couples deliver our papers and almost all have managed a route well and enjoyed the time and the work.

Requirements include reliable vehicle, clean driving record, availability, reliability, and honesty. Prior delivery experience is good, but not required. It helps if you live relatively close as papers are picked up to be bagged and delivered from our office in Alpharetta. Delivery areas can be Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek, South Forsyth, Dunwoody, or Sandy Springs typically - depending on open routes.

Community Events Manager

The Community Events Manager is responsible for all aspects of NFCC’s community events, from inception through execution, including helping secure sponsorships. Events may include annual golf tournament, annual fundraising gala, community engagement events, donor recognition events, and other community events. Position requires a highly organized, creative, and motivated person to lead event planning, sponsorship, and community engagement. Bachelor’s Degree preferred with 2-3 years special events and fundraising experience. To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/workat-nfcc/  To apply, send a resume to Sandy Holiday, sholiday@nfcchelp.org.

BI REPORTING DEVELOPER

Tirehub, LLC (Dunwoody, GA) works in a team envrnmnt using an Agile/Sprint dvlpmnt mthdlgy for cllcting reqs, dsgning & dvlping anlytcl rprting; Leverages Power BI to dvlp cmplx data models, reports, & intgrted prfrmnce metrics across sales, ops, & finance; Leverages T-SQL query skills to collect & cleanse data; Dvlps & mntns user security across reports & data while wrking clsly w/team membs to review designs & drive data quality via stndrd calculations, report labels, & blncing controls. Master’s in Cmptr Scnce, IS, Data Anlytcs, Engnring w/1 yr of prior work exp in the position offered or directly rel. Must know (thru acad training or work exp) dvlping SQL & DAX code for tables, views, datasets & KPIs (Key Performance Indicators). Email resumes to TirehubTalent@Tirehub.com

Successful completion of a criminal records and child abuse background check is required.

Send resumes to alpharettajobopening@gmail.com.

Please contact our Office Manager Heidi to set up an appointment to come in and fill in paper work or start the process via Email!

Call 770-442-3278 and ask for Heidi or Email Heidi@AppenMedia.com

longer term lease. Reasonable $

Contact Ray Appen via Text (770-527-4042) or email me at RayAppen@Gmail.com – or just call me but best to text and I will return your call.

SANDY SPRINGS

Near 400 & Northridge. 2 offices. $475 month each, includes utilities. 770-331-3915

Donor Operations Associate

The Donor Operations Associate greets and removes donations from vehicles and sorts merchandise in a designated area.  They are responsible for keeping the merchandise secure, all areas free of debris and the donor door area neat and clean.  This position is the face of NFCC so they are expected to provide excellent customer service and treat each donor with a professional and friendly demeanor.  High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Ability to perform low to moderate facility maintenance tasks.  To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/work-atnfcc/  To apply, please complete an application for employment and email to Marten Jallad,  mjallad@nfcchelp.org.

Newspaper Delivery Route Openings with Appen Media Group

We are looking for one person or couple interested in delivering weekly newspapers in South Forsyth, Alpharetta and the Johns Creek areas.

Requirements: Must have a perfect driving record and background check, reliable transportation, honest, hard-working and positive attitude.

For more information or to apply, email heidi@appenmedia.com and include a paragraph or two about who you are and any relevant background/experience. In the subject line of the email please put “Delivery Route Application.”