Bicentennial was impetus for Dunwoody 4th parade PAGE 5
June 30, 2022 | AppenMedia.com | An Appen Media Group Publication | Ser ving the community since 1976
New study charts learning declines among students due to pandemic By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@appenmedia.com
ROCAPOINT PARTNERS/PROVIDED
A rendering shows plans for the upcoming Campus 244 development on Perimeter Center Parkway. The first phase of the project’s construction involves a “reimagining” of the former Gold Kist headquarters.
Campus 244 grows by three DUNWOODY, Ga. — The developers behind Campus 244, Dunwoody’s new mixed-use development on Perimeter Center Parkway, have announced three new businesses coming to the project. Transportation logistics company Transportation Insight, staffing company Insight Global and restaurant CT Can-
tina & Taqueria are the latest businesses to sign on for a space in Campus 244. That brings the project to more than 80 percent leased, according to co-developer RocaPoint Partners. Transportation Insight and Insight Global have both signed long-term leases for portions of the 12-acre de-
velopment’s 400,000 square foot office building. The companies will bring on employees to the space in late 2023. CT Cantina’s 9,000 square foot restaurant will spill out onto Campus 244’s central greenspace and include an “expansive”
See CAMPUS, Page 9
ATLANTA — Younger students may have been less vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus, but they were hit hard academically, according to a recent Georgia State University report. The study, conducted by the Metro Atlanta Policy Lab for Education, reviewed data from three area school districts, including Fulton County Schools, to measure student achievement in math and reading over the course of the two-year-long pandemic. MAPLE has been collecting this data from the three districts since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. It released its first findings in spring 2021 which looked at data in the first year of the pandemic. The recent update states, “Student Achievement Growth During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” found many students have begun to recover
See REPORT, Page 8
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Wanted man arrested with stash of marijuana DUNWOODY, Ga. — Police allegedly found four ounces of marijuana in the vehicle of a Marietta man who was wanted for obstruction June 14. An officer identified a truck as belonging to the man, who had an active arrest warrant out of Cobb County. The officer pulled the man over at the intersection of Ashford Dunwoody Road and Meadow Lane. Police placed the man under arrest and confirmed the warrant with Cobb County authorities. While conducting an inventory on the man’s truck, the officer located a backpack that allegedly contained 4 ounces of marijuana divided into four individual packages, according to the report. The officer transported the man, Kyle Pfaff, 28, to the DeKalb County Jail and charged him with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.
Driver flees scene after striking bus DUNWOODY, Ga. — A Sandy Springs man was arrested June 15 after he allegedly struck a MARTA bus while driving and fled the scene in late April. Police were called to the area of Chamblee Dunwoody Road and Mount Vernon Road April 29 regarding a hitand-run. The bus driver told police the man was attempting to pass the bus on the left side to reach a turn lane and struck the back of the bus in the process. The bus driver provided police with the vehicle description and license plate number. The next day, police located the vehicle on the Flock camera database
PUBLIC SAFETY headed toward the owner’s registered address in Sandy Springs. Police went to the address and found the vehicle in the driveway with damage consistent with the collision. After knocking on the door, police observed the man “exit a possible back bedroom, look through the open patio window, and walk back into the bedroom.” The man then continued to peek at officers through the patio and bedroom windows “over the course of 45 plus minutes,” according to the report. Unable to make contact with the man, police impounded the vehicle. An officer slipped a piece of paper with his contact info under the front door. The officer saw the man walk to his front door, pick up the paper and read it before walking back into his bedroom, according to the report. The 37-year-old man was arrested about eight weeks later.
Couple cited for theft, cocaine possession DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police arrested a couple June 16 after they were reported for shoplifting and allegedly found to be in possession of cocaine. Police responded to Walmart on Ashford Dunwoody Road in reference to shoplifting. An employee told police the couple had only scanned a few of the items in their cart at the self-checkout before attempting to leave. The doors the couple attempted to exit through were locked, and they then went to the bathrooms. Police saw the man outside the restroom and detained him. An officer brought the woman out of the restroom to question. The woman said they had a receipt for the merchandise in her purse. When police checked the woman’s purse for the receipt, they located a plastic bag containing a substance that tested positive for cocaine, multiple used hypodermic needles, a blue grinding device that contained marijuana and a spoon with cocaine residue on it. While searching the man, police found two knives, a small bag of cocaine,
more hypodermic needles and another spoon, according to the report. James Lang, 34, of Dallas, Georgia, and Megan Huckaby, 33, of Kennesaw, were arrested and charged with possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and shoplifting.
Dunwoody man cited for giving fake name DUNWOODY, Ga. — A Dunwoody man wanted in Monroe County allegedly gave police a false name during a stop June 19. Around 9:30 p.m., a patrolling officer noticed a vehicle in the parking lot of a strip mall on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard near Peachtree Boulevard. The officer noticed the car was occupied by at least two people, and more people then approached the vehicle and spoke with the driver, who handed them a paper bag, according to the report. The officer ran the vehicle’s tag and found the driver was wanted out of Gwinnett County for failure to appear. The officer continued to patrol the area and noticed the car remained in the lot for about 10 minutes. The officer then pulled into the parking lot, at which point the driver began to back out of the parking space. The officer stopped the vehicle. The officer was able to identify the driver, and the passenger advised that he did not have his ID. When asked for his information, the passenger gave the officer a false name. After the information the passenger gave did not return to anyone, the officer requested a fingerprint scanner to the scene. When the scanner arrived, police were able to get the man’s true identity. Seeing the man’s name, the reporting officer remembered that he had arrested the passenger a few months prior, according to the report. Police learned the passenger had an active warrant out of Monroe County for a probation violation. The 29-yearold was taken to the DeKalb County Jail and charged with giving police false information.
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COMMUNITY
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | June 30, 2022 | 3
dunwoodyga.gov | 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody GA 30338 | 678.382.6700
CITY OF DUNWOODY/PROVIDED
Dunwoody Municipal Court offers amnesty through July 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road on MonDUNWOODY, Ga. — The Dunwoody Municipal Court is offering an amnesty days, Tuesdays or Fridays between 8:30 program during July to individuals with a.m. and 4:30 p.m. past-due traffic citations and/or active If individuals pay their fines in full, all bench warrants for failing to appear in contempt fees will be forgiven. Additioncourt. ally, if the individual’s offense(s) requires The goal is to settle outstanding violaa mandatory court appearance, they will be granted a future court date to appear tions with the court and reduce arrests. before a judge, and all warrants will be Dunwoody Municipal Court Clerk Norcleared and warrant fees forgiven. laundra Huntington said the program is Accepted forms of payment include cash, timely because it is designed to encourmoney order, cashier checks and credit age people to go back to court while eascards (Visa and MasterCard only). No ing their financial burden. personal checks will be accepted. For “Some people may think this is a trick, more information, callHERALD 678-382-6973. but it’s definitely not,” Huntington said. ALHARETTA-ROSWELL HERALD | FORSYTH HERALD | JOHNS CREEK — Chamian Cruz Those who want to participate can walk MILTON HERALD | DUNWOODY CRIER into the Dunwoody Municipal Court at
Advertise your JOB OPENING in the newspaper and you too can say...
July Highlights 12 1
“Black Panther” Pics in the Park
4
Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade
5
City Hall 6 p.m.
“Progressions”
Spruill Gallery exhibit through September 3
Sustainability Committee Meeting
Presented by the Dunwoody Homeowners Association 9 a.m.
via Zoom 8 a.m.
16 History Alive
City Hall closed
“Two Very Different Vietnam Combat Tours” Dunwoody Preservation Trust Donaldson-Bannister Farm 9:30 a.m.
Dunwoody Art Commission Meeting City Hall 7:30 a.m.
7
Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting
17
Monthly Community Bike Ride
9
Groovin’ on the Green
21
Dunwoody Development Authority Meeting
Public Hearing: Proposed Millage Rate Increase
25
Dunwoody City Council Meeting
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City Hall 6 p.m.
“Sassfolk” Brook Run Park Amphitheater 6 - 9 p.m.
City Hall 8 a.m.
Public Hearing: Proposed Millage Rate Increase City Hall 6 p.m.
Dunwoody City Council Meeting City Hall 6 p.m.
il .8469 or ema Call 470.22a2ppenmedia.com classifieds@
14
Pernoshal Park 9 p.m.
Planning Commission Meeting
Meet at Village Burger 3:45 p.m.
City Hall 5 p.m.
City Hall 6 p.m.
Food Truck Thursdays every Thursday through Oct. 27 Brook Run Park
Dunwoody Farmers Market
every Saturday | 9-12 Brook Run Park
Groovin’ on the Green | July 9
4 | June 30, 2022 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
BUSINESSPOSTS
Avalon developer plans new Johns Creek project JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Mark Toro, the mind behind Alpharetta’s iconic Avalon shopping center, announced plans June 22 to create a new mixeduse destination in Johns Creek. Toro Development Company plans to redevelop a 43-acre site on Johns Creek Parkway at the intersection with McGinnis Ferry Road, currently occupied by two mid-rise office buildings formerly occupied by State Farm. The company aims for the development to support the city’s vision for its recently passed Town Center project and bring new retail, dining and entertainment to the area. Toro Development Company plans to develop the office campus into “a vibrant, walkable mixed-use environment” and energize community building with public events and “exceptional” retail and restaurants at the street level and residential units above. Concepts for the development include chef-driven restaurant patios, greenspaces with soft seating and an event plaza for weekly live music and entertainment. The company will purchase the parcel from New York-based U.S. Realty Advisors, which has been seeking a partner to redevelop the site since State Farm moved out of the area. “Suburban office campuses are a dying breed,” Toro said. “We will transform this property by introducing a mix of uses that will buzz with energy, excitement and connectivity. Johns Creek deserves a place to call its own, a Third Place where people come together to celebrate first dates, birthdays, marriage proposals and everyday moments that bring invaluable meaning to our lives.” The development seeks to give Johns Creek residents a “third place” outside of home and the traditional office to gather and feel connected to
NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
Business: Peachy Corners Cafe Owners: Long and Susie Tran Description: Peachy Corners Café is your friendly neighborhood coffee shop and bubble tea shop. It’s a family-owned business that supports the community and provides warm and welcoming space. The Alpharetta location will serve some food items such as Vietnamese sandwiches and chicken pho. Catering and private event bookings are available. Opened: June 8, 2022 Address: 2815 Windward Pkwy, Suite 210, Alpharetta, GA 30005 Phone: 678-902-8473
TORO DEVELOPMENT COMPANY/PROVIDED
Mark Toro, the mind behind Alpharetta’s Avalon development, plans to build a new mixed-use destination in Johns Creek on the site of an office building formerly occupied by State Farm. their community. In coming months, the company will engage residents to learn about the experiences they want in the area. Toro Development plans to complement Johns Creek’s Town Center Vision, which focuses on five key themes: arts, culture, wellness, sustainability and innovation. “Our Town Center is generating a lot of interest and excitement,” Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry said. “We are looking forward to reviewing the proposed development plans.” Mark Toro said the development doesn’t aim to be Avalon 2.0, but a unique destination to complement Johns Creek’s identity. — Jake Drukman
Business: Restore Hyper Wellness + Cryotherapy Owner: Raymond Wilson Description: Restore delivers a system of total balance, energy and proactive healing that allows you to feel your best, reach your full potential and do more of what you love through use of the 9 elements of Hyper Wellness. We believe in nurturing the body and leveraging strategic, controlled stressors. Opened: May 2022 Address: 4706 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Building B1, Suite 200 Dunwoody, GA 30338 Phone: (404) 602-0114 Website: restore.com
Your Dunwoody Neighbor & Trusted Real Estate Advisor Nicole McAluney REALTOR®
c: 678.427.8697 | o: 770.284.9900 NICOLEM@ANSLEYATLANTA.COM
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PAST TENSE
OPINION
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | June 30, 2022 | 5
Early Fourth of July fun and a parade tradition begins in 1976 Early Fourth of July celebrations in Dunwoody usually consisted of simple events that were typical for a farming community. Sue Kirby Jameson, who came to Dunwoody in 1914, VALERIE recalled that the BIGGERSTAFF Dunwoody Improvement Club planned early Fourth of July festivities. Her father Tolleson Kirby and others in the club planned sack races, track events and a backwards race for girls. There was also a greased pig chase and greased pole climb. The day ended with fireworks. According to Jameson, the event took place “between Burnham’s Store and the old post office, in front of the public well, near Dr. Puckett’s Store and Spruill blacksmith shop.” In today’s Dunwoody, that would be in the triangle of Nandina Lane, Chamblee Dunwoody Road and Mount Vernon Road. Picking blackberries, blackberry pie, and blackberry jelly were part of Horace Long’s July 4th memories. Ken Anderson recalls a hayride from Dunwoody to Chastain Park in a wagon filled with not only hay, but watermelons as well. Frank and Hortense Smith lived at Donaldson-Bannister Farm from 1956 until 1974 with their two children. They spent each Fourth of July painting the picket fence around their home and pastures and having a picnic under a large oak tree. To celebrate the bicentennial in 1976, Gerry Spruill and other members of the
Dunwoody Woman’s Club planned the first Dunwoody Fourth of July parade. The parade began at Georgetown Shopping Center on Chamblee Dunwoody Road and ended at Dunwoody Village. The Grand Marshals were Cecil Day and Mike Tilleman. Honorary Grand Marshall was 88-year-old Effie Spruill Carpenter. Her Spruill and Copeland ancestors, and the Carpenter family she married into were all early settlers of Dunwoody. Music was provided by the Chamblee High School Band and the North DeKalb Volunteer Bicentennial High School Band, which consisted of band members from various north Atlanta high schools. The parade was an annual tradition into the early 1980s, led by the Dunwoody Woman’s Club. It discontinued for a few years, returning in 1991 under the leadership of Bill Robinson and Joyce Amacher. Many volunteers and the support and sponsorship of the Dunwoody Homeowner’s Association made it all possible. The parade of 1991 honored all veterans, with U. S. Army Major Jarred Ogden, a Gulf War Veteran as Grand Marshal. The parade route that year was the same one that is still followed. For many years, Pam Tallmadge chaired the parade. Her enthusiasm and love for the parade is contagious. This year, the parade is chaired by Penny Forman and Matt Webber, with a theme of “Parade of Stars.” Pam Tallmadge will be Grand Marshal. Co-chair Forman describes the much-anticipated event. “The 2022 parade will have well over 100 entries including some fan favorites like the 116th Army Band, the Echo
PROVIDED
Effie Spruill Carpenter, age 88, served as Grand Marshal of the first Dunwoody July 4th parade in 1976. Hill Horse Riders, the Lawn Chair Drill team, and many floats, decorated cars, and our local officials. It’s going to be another fun parade for our wonderful
community.” You can email Valerie at pasttensega@ gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.
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Sign-ups open for Dunwoody Junior Wildcat Football program
KEN LANGLEY/PROVIDED
Registration is open for sixth, seventh and eighth grade students interested in participating in the Dunwoody Junior Wildcat Football program. By CHAMIAN CRUZ chamian@appenmedia.com DUNWOODY, Ga. — Registration is now open for sixth, seventh and eighth grade students interested in participating in the Dunwoody High School feeder football program. Dunwoody Junior Wildcat head coach Mike Nemetz said there are no tryouts, so registration is for individual players. The season begins July 25 and playoffs end in early November. “The coaches are focused on teaching the fundamentals of football while preparing players for the high school level,” Nemetz said. The feeder football program was created by head coach Jon LeDoyen
in 2018. Since then, it’s grown from having just a seventh-grade program with 19 players to having more than 60 players, Nemetz said. The teams play in the Georgia Middle School Athletic Association, which has over 50 teams in the metro area. In the past two years, all the teams in the Dunwoody Junior Wildcat Football program have been to playoffs, and the sixth-grade team won the GMSAA Championship in 2020. Nemetz said that during the program, the teams will practice on the turf at Dunwoody High School, which is also where they will play home games. To register, visit dunwoodyjuniorwildcatfootball.net.
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Harry Norman, REALTORS Atlanta Perimeter Office | 4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, GA 30338 | 770-394-2131 Office
OPINION
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | June 30, 2022 | 7
THE INK PENN
Big news from the Friends of the Dunwoody Library
Have you missed the big indoor book sales at the Dunwoody Library? I sure have, so it made my day when I received the latest Friends of the Library newsletter (FODL) with this KATHY announcement MANOS PENN from Jackie Wiley, president of the FODL: “We are excited to be able to get back to having indoor sales. Due to space limitations, we will be dividing the sales into a children’s sale and an adults’ sale. Both will be held in the Williams Room.” With only four-legged children in our family, I’ll pass on the children’s book sale, but the August adults’ sale is already marked on my calendar. • •
Children’s and YA book sale – July 8, 9 and 11, 2022. Big 4-day Adults’ book sale – August 25, 26, 27, and 29, 2022.
Two summer events mean the
FODL volunteers are hard at work organizing books, magazines, and more. Meanwhile, their ongoing sale in the Dunwoody Library lobby offers “armchair travel” through mysteries with a sense of place, a theme that continues through June. Come July, “beach reading” takes over as the theme. For the big events, the FODL accepts cash, credit cards, and checks; but lobby sales require cash and correct change. Not sure you can come up with the correct change? Consider donating the difference to help the FODL in their support of the Dunwoody Library and the Dekalb County Public Library System. The other good news is that the group has resumed taking donations of gently used books during regular library hours. For a detailed list of other materials they accept, visit https://friendsofdunwoodylibrary. com. In general, they accept books, magazines, DVDs, records (LPs), audiobooks, puzzles and games. I delivered three bags of fiction and reference books last week in my neverending quest to free up more space on my bookshelves.
The FODL newsletter also included an informative update from long-time Dunwoody Branch Manager Elizabeth Meszaros-Bardoczi. • •
• • •
Checkouts of chromebooks are now available at the Dunwoody branch. “Oceans of Possibilities” Summer Reading Program is open for youngsters and adults. Sign up: Summer Reading During the summer, most children’s activities are outside or pickup for “Take and Make.” In-house programming for adults may be scheduled in the meeting room (limited attendance). StoryWalk® displays continue at Brook Run Park and Dunwoody Nature Center, in partnership with Dunwoody Parks and Recreation, DeKalb County Public Library, and DeKalb County Library.
ture the FODL volunteers, I see a team of Energizer bunnies scurrying around. They accept and catalog the donations. They organize books for sale by genre and author, something not many groups do. They pack up unsold books to donate to other organizations and to store for future sales. And they do it all again. Are you a book lover? An avid reader? An Energizer bunny? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, consider volunteering for the FODL. Email them at vp@friendsofdunwoodylibrary.com and let them know your area of interest. They’d love to have you. Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries locally at The Enchanted Forest and on Amazon. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ KathyManosPennAuthor/.
The library offerings, the FODL’s two big events, and the ongoing lobby sale offer plenty of reading fun for the community this summer. When I pic-
Happy 4th of July New Show, Same Ride.
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Report:
NEWS
Continued from Page 1 academically in the second year of the pandemic. However, progress is uneven across student groups. “The impact of the pandemic on student achievement growth has been greater in math than in reading…[and] students who were in elementary school when the pandemic hit, have fared worse than students who were in middle school,” wrote Tim Sass, the MAPLE faculty director who led the research.
Effects in middle schools
Middle school students still faced challenges, however. According to the research, the pause in learning growth averaged more than seven months for seventh grade reading across the three districts, and it ranged anywhere from zero to seven months for eighth grade math. “The pandemic undid much of the progress schools and communities had made pre-COVID to reduce historic disparities,” Sass noted in the report. In addition to Fulton Schools, data is being pulled from Clayton County Schools and a district which has chosen to remain anonymous. In the May 2021 report, researchers found widespread learning “pauses” in math and reading across the three districts. Students were not necessarily losing knowledge, but they were not advancing academically to where they should have been. The news was no surprise to officials with Fulton County Schools. The district had reported a stall in learning that set in almost immediately after schools shut down in March 2020. By August 2020 when school resumed, some Fulton County Schools students were several months behind where they should have been academically, based on testing data. The MAPLE report noted achievement trends across the three districts were influenced by geography, economic status, race and ethnicity. Most were disparities and factors in place even before the pan-
demic, creating academic disparities. Students eligible for free and reduced lunches and minority students fared worse than any other group in the first year of the pandemic.
In-person teaching is key
A year into the pandemic in 2021, MAPLE researchers found COVIDrelated issues continued to disrupt learning. However, student achievement was boosted when instruction returned to the classroom as quickly as possible. On average, elementary students who returned to in-person instruction during fall 2020 had significantly higher learning growth than their peers who continued to learn remotely, according to Sass. Of the three districts in the study, only Fulton County Schools opened for in-person instruction in the fall of 2020. Fulton County Schools officials say the decision to quickly resume in-person instruction likely helped stem further learning loss during the pandemic. “The return to face-to-face instruction, coupled with our accelerated curriculum and intensive supports like small group tutoring, extended day sessions, and a more robust summer school, all related to the [academic] recovery,” said Brian Noyes, chief communications officer for Fulton Schools. Fulton County Schools also directed most of its COVID relief funding to implementing a comprehensive “Bridge to Success” program to get learning back on track. With only two years of data to review, MAPLE researchers say there is still a lot to be learned as far as best practices and strategies. But it recommends attention be focused primarily on the most vulnerable students. “Recovery efforts ought to target students who experienced the greatest declines in national rankings and have been the slowest to recover,” Sass wrote. “Participation [in these efforts] may need to be mandated or incentivized and is key to the programs’ success.” To read the full report, visit gpl.gsu. edu/, and click on “Publications.”
COMMUNITY
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | June 30, 2022 | 9
Dunwoody, North Fulton students appointed to military service academies NORTH METRO ATLANTA — Ten students from Dunwoody and North Fulton County recently accepted appointments to U.S. military service academies for the 2022-2023 school year. The students’ names were released in an announcement from Georgia’s 6th Congressional District. Appointed students will report to their academies
Campus: Continued from Page 1 patio. Campus 244 will also be home to the 145-key Element Hotel, which will include a lobby bar and chef-driven restaurant. CT marks Campus 244’s first restaurant tenant. The cantina also has a location in Alpharetta’s Halcyon, another RocaPoint development. The development’s first phase now has only a “small amount” of restaurant space and two vacant office spaces left to lease. The next phase of construction will focus on a new tech office and life science building that will be between 300,000 and 400,000 square feet. “In a post-COVID world, today’s workforce desires unique office spaces that combine the best elements of work from home with the best of in-person collaboration,” said Jonathan Schmerin, managing principal of Georgetown Company, one of the project’s developers. “Campus 244 will bring something different to the Central Perimeter market and we’re already seeing interest from a variety of forward-thinking concepts.” The first phase of Campus 244’s development involves a “reimagining” of the former Gold Kist headquarters into the project’s five-story office building. — Jake Drukman
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later this summer. Eight of the students will attend West Point Military Academy, while the other two will attend the United States Naval Academy. Students appointed to West Point include: • Kate Bacon of Dunwoody, a student at Dunwoody High School • Wade Parkes of Dunwoody, a student
at Dunwoody High School • Robert Ferris III of Roswell, a student at Roswell High School • Evan Plunkett of Roswell, a student at Roswell High School • Ryan Scott of Roswell, a student at Blessed Trinity High School • William Reid of Alpharetta, a student at Alpharetta High School • Tanner Bivins of Alpharetta, a stu-
dent at Wesleyan School • Jeffery Wu of Johns Creek, a student at Johns Creek High School Students appointed to the United States Naval Academy include: • Austin Taylor of Dunwoody, a student at Mount Vernon High School • Adam Walker of Alpharetta, a student at Alpharetta High School
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE The City of Dunwoody has tentatively adopted a millage rate which will require an increase in property taxes by 16.48 percent. All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearing on this tax increase to be held at Dunwoody City Hall, 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody GA 30338 on Friday, June 17, 2022 at 8 a.m. Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at the same location on Monday, July 11 at 8 a.m. and Monday, July 11 at 6 p.m. This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 3.040 mills, an increase of 0.430 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 2.610 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $525,000 is approximately $90.30 and the proposed tax increase for nonhomestead property with a fair market value of $2,325,000 is approximately $399.90
10 | June 30, 2022 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
Dunwoody Crier 6/30/22 Crossword
JOIN THE TEAM Appen Media Group is looking for a Reporter to cover local news in the north Atlanta area. Appen is investing in its newsroom, expanding when (and where) others are contracting. This position will contribute to that goal by covering city and county governments, as well as collaborating on stories with other members of the team. There will be additional opportunities to cover themes in health, business, sports or the arts. We are looking for a team player who will make a difference in the community and our workplace. A commitment to communication is critical. The ideal candidate would be able to spot unique angles and stories that address broader questions of the community. We are looking for someone with professional reporting experience, though it can be from a collegiate newsroom. If you’re excited by a fast-paced environment and genuinely care about community journalism, we want to hear from you. Applicants should email a resume and selected clips to Director of Content and Development Carl Appen at carl@appenmedia. com. Preliminary questions about the position, environment or hiring process are also welcome. Professional discretion is guaranteed.
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AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | June 30, 2022 | 11
12 | June 30, 2022 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
COMMUNITY
United Methodist Churches navigate debate over LGBTQ+ ruling By JAKE DRUKMAN jake@appenmedia.com CUMMING, Ga. — For many in Forsyth County, and in North Metro Atlanta, church is an integral part of life and community. Organized religion offers a space for many to gather with those who share their beliefs and values and foster companionship. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, however, religious congregations can represent a frightening uncertainty. While some churches may be accepting of those with differing sexualities or gender identities, others may see those individuals as an affront, incompatible with their beliefs. The United Methodist Church is a force of Christianity in North Georgia, with dozens of churches in North Metro Atlanta alone, each operated independently but with a shared set of beliefs. That unity was shaken early this month when the United Methodist Church’s North Georgia Conference announced that more than 70 churches in the area would disaffiliate from the greater United Methodist Church. The split represents about 9 percent of the conference’s more than 700 North Georgia churches, though the disaffiliat-
ing congregations were mostly in small rural communities, representing about 3% of the UMC’s North Georgia membership. The disaffiliation, which is set to take effect at the end of the month, came amid debates within the UMC regarding same-sex marriage and the ability of gay people to become clergy members. John Hutchinson, interim director of communications at Cumming First United Methodist Church, said disaffiliation is not a decision churches can make lightly. He said their church buildings and furnishings are owned by the UMC itself, rather than by the individual church. Congregations have to go through several processes and receive approval from their conference to disaffiliate. In addition to being a lengthy process, Hutchinson also said disaffiliation is expensive for the individual churches. Christian Headlines reported June 7 that some of the more conservative UMC congregations are planning to join the Global Methodist Church, a newly launched theologically conservative denomination, while more progressive UMC churches may also disaffiliate in the future to join the Liberation Methodist Connexion, an LGBTQ+ friendly denomination.
Cumming First UMC, which has about 2,500 members, is not disaffiliating from the church. Hutchinson, who also serves as the church’s director of music, worship and arts, said the church is accepting of LGBTQ+ members, though its members have varied opinions on the issue. “We have the full gamut of opinions on this from the very conservative to the very progressive,” Hutchinson said. “We have gay members who are very open about that, and who we welcome in every way, shape and form. We really do strive earnestly to welcome all people, to love all people and value all people regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, physical, mental, emotional ability, any of that. So that’s our church position.” Hutchinson also said Cumming First cannot perform same-sex weddings under the UMC’s codes. The denomination’s policies are codified in what it calls the Book of Discipline, which also prohibits the ordaining of “practicing” homosexuals as clergy. Hutchinson said that Cumming First strives to be inclusive of all people, and that if the greater UMC opts to change its policies on homosexuality, Cumming First will follow its guidance.
We have the full gamut of opinions on this from the very conservative to the very progressive.” JOHN HUTCHINSON Interim Director of Communications at Cumming First United Methodist Church “We are a United Methodist Church, and as such, we follow the Book of Discipline, period,” Hutchinson said. “At the same time, we do everything we possibly can to welcome everyone, love everyone regardless of who they are. We do everything we can to include people up to what the church allows, which quite frankly is just about everything. And if the church changes, then we will be even more inclusive.” In addition to Cumming First, Appen Media reached out to six other UMC congregations in North Metro Atlanta. Some did not respond, and those that did either declined to comment or did not engage on the topic of LGBTQ+ issues.
AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | June 30, 2022 | 13
CLASSIFIED LINE AD RATES Call 770-442-3278 Full-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.
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
Part-time We are looking for workers to help set up and breakdown the Alpharetta Business Association tents and tables on Saturdays. Here are some details: • 2 to 3 hours every Saturday • Must have a truck, van or SUV transportation • Must be able to lift 50 lbs • Pick up tents, weights, tables and supplies at ABA storage unit and transport the equipment to the Farmer’s Market • Must arrive to the market by 7:30 a.m. to set up 3 tents with weights, tables and banners in designated areas at the market • Must arrive back at the market at 1:00pm to take down the tents, pick up tents, weights, tables and supplies. Then, at 1:15pm, load your vehicle and transport the equipment back to ABA storage unit. Contact: Manager@alpharettafarmersmarket.com
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14 | June 30, 2022 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
CLASSIFIED LINE AD RATES
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Driveway $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 $4,500. Tree Services Services Tree Neumann’s Landscape & Tree Service: Joe Neumann 770-452-1173 or 404-644-7179.
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ALEX FRASER MASONRY INC. • BRICK • CONCRETE Alex Fraser, President www.alexfrasermasonry.com E-Mail: afrasermasonry@aol.com
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AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | June 30, 2022 | 15
Service Directory Painters
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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
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CELEBRATING MY 41ST YEAR! THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU!
Roofing 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
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Is Your Company Hiring? Submit your opening at appenmedia.com/hire
16 | June 30, 2022 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody
Happy 4tH of July! The Jan & Rocky Team honors those who work hard every day to protect our country and its freedom.
SEE WHAT THE POWER OF TWO CAN DO FOR YOU. OVER 40 YEARS of EXPERIENCE SELLING DUNWOODY & SANDY SPRINGS THE JAN & ROCKY TEAM
JAN BROWNFIELD (C): 678-427-9799 ROCKY SEAMAN (C): 678-362-0712 Jan.Brownfield@HarryNorman.com Rocky.Seaman@HarryNorman.com JanAndRockyTeamWeb.HarryNorman.com
Harry Norman, REALTORS® Atlanta Perimeter Office | 4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road | Dunwoody, GA 30338 | 770-394-2131 Office | HarryNorman.com The above information is believed accurate, but is not warranted. This offer subject to errors, omissions, prior sale and withdrawals without notice. If your home is currently listed, this is not intended as a solicitation.