City kicks off new councilmember series
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody’s new “Connect with Council” series brings elected officials to local coffee shops for informal talks with residents. It’s not the first time the city has provided opportunities for residents to speak one-on-one with their elected officials, but the June 27 gathering with Councilman Tom Lambert kicked off a newly branded series.
The initiative sprang out of the
David Abes, grand marshal of the Dunwoody 4th of July Parade, waves and smiles to crowds in Dunwoody Village. Abes, founder of DASH Hospitality, helped create the Village’s entertainment district with his restaurant group.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
March City Council retreat. Lambert, who represents District 3 covering the eastern third of the city,
Florence said the city chose the name of the series intentionally so it can remain open-ended.
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Spectators braved a hot and humid morning for the Dunwoody 4th of July Parade’s record-setting 115 floats.
With roughly 30,000 people watching some 2,500 participants parading down Mount Vernon Road and into Dunwoody Village, there were too many smiles and cheers to count.
At the corner of Mount
Vernon and Jett Ferry roads, Bill Grants’ 1962 Massey Ferguson tractor sat behind Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s first place float. Grant, who owns a local home building company, said the tractor has been in the parade for decades. This year, Bo Quinnelly and his sons manned the tractor on its 2.7-mile trek to the Village.
Dunwoody United Methodist Church took the top prize in the float category
See PARADE, Page 13
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POLICE BLOTTER
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Officers report man smashing van windows
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police arrested a 38-year-old resident June 25 after officers allegedly caught him vandalizing a van in the Target parking lot off Perimeter Center Place.
Target security told officers they were chasing an armed suspect who had damaged a white Chevrolet Express.
An officer said he spotted the suspect running with a hammer toward the Dunwoody MARTA Station entrance.
The officer said his partner cut off the suspect, ordered him to surrender and placed him under arrest.
Officers said the suspect gave a false first name, which they discovered after finding a warrant out for his arrest warrant from Sandy Springs for theft by taking, the report says.
Officers put security footage from the target parking lot and photos of the van in evidence.
The owner of the van said he did not know the suspect. He estimated a new paint job and windows will cost between $8,500 and $11,000.
Officers secured misdemeanor warrants for giving a false name to an officer and criminal trespass with a felony warrant for criminal damage to property.
Allegedly armed teenagers booted from Apple Store
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police trespassed two Stone Mountain 14-year-olds from Perimeter Mall after the armed teenagers allegedly disregarded security’s requests.
Mall security called officers after
the two 14-year-olds were seen carrying firearms and refused to leave the Apple store, according to reports.
The mall’s security officer, assisted with a K-9, said multiple tenants at the mall complained about two teenagers wearing black ski masks. The officer also said he first saw the suspects walking from the Dunwoody MARTA station around 3 p.m.
Dunwoody officers said they located the suspects in front of Nordstrom around 7 p.m. and told them they were trespassing.
An officer said he saw a firearm grip sticking out of one suspect’s pocket.
Officers said the 14-year-old placed his hand on the gun and backed away after they told him he was being detained.
Officers were able to disarm the 14-year-old.
The other suspect ran during the brief struggle, but another officer apprehended him.
The first suspect carried a 38 Special and the other had a pink SCCY 9mm pistol, according to the report.
Officers searched the suspect’s backpacks, finding empty novelty marijuana bags, tobacco remnants, screwdrivers and a Varo credit card.
Officers said they were unable to contact the cardholder and did not charge a suspect for possessing it.
Officers said they contacted juvenile intake, which told them the teenagers did not meet criteria to be accepted.
Instead, officers filed juvenile complaint forms, pre-sentence reports and issued criminal trespass warnings for both suspects.
Officers called the guardians of both suspects. The grandmother of one suspect answered and contacted the other suspect’s mother.
Officers said the grandmother picked up both teenagers and took them home.
The charges include loitering and prowling, possession of a handgun by a minor and obstruction.
Burglars take $30,000 in sports memorabilia
ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell Police are investigating a burglary June 25 at Hot Hands Sports Cards on Canton Street after employees reported an estimated $30,000 in stolen merchandise.
An employee said he arrived at 10 a.m. to open the store and discovered an open window near the front register with merchandise scattered throughout the store.
The employee estimates the stolen merchandise totals between $25,000 and $35,000.
Officers said they did not observe forced entry into the store and didn’t know if the window had been locked overnight. Officers also said large amounts of sports trading cards, empty boxes and the cash register were spread across the floor.
The owner said he was the last person at the store.
Because the store is closed Sunday and Monday, employees closed at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 22.
When employees closed shop, they wiped down the display cases, removing any fingerprints.
Officers said they located fingerprints on glass cases and other surfaces throughout the store. Officers said they discovered the building’s power had been shut off.
Police said cameras went dark between 1:05 a.m. and 11:12 June 25.
Officers said the store’s power box does not appear to be broken into, but they believe the perpetrator shut it off manually.
The Criminal Investigations Division responded and lifted additional fingerprints.
Later, an officer said the store’s landlord contacted him with security footage from the exterior of the building.
Officers said they contacted surrounding businesses for access to their security cameras, including video of cars driving on Canton Street around the time of the incident.
OPINION
Fording the Chattahoochee and marching through Providence, 1864
On July 7, 1874, Union Gen. Kenner Garrard wrote to Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, “The only good ford I can hear of is at this point (Roswell). The Island Ford, three miles above, is good for footmen, but no roads lead to it or from it, and on the other side it is thick woods and very hilly and two miles over to the Atlanta road.”
The Confederates held McAfee’s Bridge. Remains of this bridge are visible today from Holcombe Bridge Road at the river. (“Charged with Treason,” Michael D. Hitt)
In the early morning hours of July 9, 1864, the 4th Ohio Volunteer Cavalry was on the move. A group from the 2nd Brigade was sent to McAfee’s Bridge. The 1st and 3rd Brigades of the 4th Ohio left their horses in town and marched to the river at 3 a.m. The 17th Indiana and 98th Illinois of the 3rd Brigade were the first to approach the river. The 72nd and 123rd Illinois went about 200 yards to the left.
Captain Thomson of the 72nd Indiana was to lead his troops across the Chattahoochee River. He said, “You don’t mean to say we are expected to wade that river?” He added that he had never seen anything so perilous before. It was foggy with no visible moon.
One company each from the 17th Indiana and
The 16th Army Corps crossed the Chattahoochee River at the Shallow Ford, July 10, 1864. The drawing us by George D. Sayller of the 2nd Iowa Infantry. It later appeared in Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper.
the 72nd Indiana were placed on the north side of the river as sharpshooters to distract the enemy and protect the Union soldiers crossing the river.
The Union artillery opened fire on the Confederate position, and at the same time the command of “forward” was given. According to Sgt. Maj. of the 72nd Indiana, on that command “without a moment’s hesitancy the men plunge into
the water up to the armpits. Not a faltering one, not a laggard! But with a cheer they rushed into the water and charged for the other shore. General Garrard now rides to the water’s edge and cheers them on shouting, ‘Bully boys! Bully boys! Whiskey in the morning!’”
The Confederates on the south bank began to fire at the wading Union troops, but the Union soldiers were able to fire back, armed with Spencer repeating rifles, keeping only their heads above the water. Once they reached the south bank, they advanced up the hill and took prisoners.
Union General Dodge supervised the construction of a 700-foot pontoon bridge made from round poles and logs on July 11. The bridge was completed July 13.
Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson, commander of the U.S. Army of the Tennessee arrived in Roswell on July 14, 1864. With the bridge complete, the Union troops were ready to move south toward Decatur and Atlanta.
July 17, 1864, was the day McPherson led 20,000 soldiers along what would become Roswell Road, Roberts Drive and Chamblee Dunwoody Road. The men followed the railroad bed of what become the Roswell Railroad following the war. The town now known as Dunwoody was called Providence at that time, named for a church that sat close to the intersection of today’s Chamblee Dunwoody Road
See MARCHING, Page 15
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF
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That simple DIY project— not really so simple
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Sandy Springs Police Foundation blurs meeting records
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Tracking the Sandy Springs Police Foundation, the chief entity behind the city’s police training complex, just got a little more difficult.
In the process of requesting meeting records from the nonprofit, Appen Media and its newsroom has hit a snag.
In April, Appen Media reported the city intends for the foundation to be the primary funding source for the training facility, which would sit next to the new police headquarters and municipal court currently under construction at 620 Morgan Falls Road.
Cost estimates for the training facility sit at between $37-$45 million.
The Sandy Springs Police Foundation supports the city’s Police Department in acquiring the resources to maintain an elite standard of safety and efficiency, its website says.
It differs from the Sandy Springs Police Benevolent Fund, a nonprofit formed in 2010 to support law
enforcement in times of crisis. Georgia’s Law Enforcement Strategic Support Act, passed in 2022, allows individuals and businesses to donate to the foundation and receive dollar-fordollar tax credit.
It’s a win-win for residents and corporations looking to bolster public safety in Sandy Springs.
Through community support and donations, the foundation looks to provide improved recruitment, training, police equipment and technology.
Specifically, the foundation’s website explains it’s focused on constructing a firearms training facility in Sandy Springs to provide a convenient location for local law enforcement qualifications.
During the 2025 budgeting process, city officials decided to split the cost of a $100,000 scoping study for the shooting range between city tax dollars and the Police Foundation.
Appen Media first learned of the foundation from June 2023 emails obtained through the Open Records
CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED
A January 2023 map shows the site of a proposed firing range and training center behind the Sandy Springs Police headquarters.
Records:
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Act. The emails contained messages in which local police officials thanked members of the Atlanta Police Foundation for guidance about “starting up a non-profit fund.”
After two attempts through open records channels, Appen Media received the agenda and draft minutes from the March 4 Sandy Springs Police Foundation meeting.
The open records request returned the nonprofit’s bylaws, the agenda and an account of motions made, votes taken and topics discussed.
Subsequent requests for meeting minutes have been denied, and information about the Police Foundation’s actions has dried up.
After repeated requests for an explanation, city spokespeople told Appen Media the foundation is a separate nonprofit from the city and is not subject to the Georgia Open Records Act.
When asked why the city provided the first set of documents and then stopped, Communications Director Carter Long issued a reply.
“City email accounts were initially used,” she wrote. “Because of that, the city clerk provided the documents requested that were on file in the city’s email archive. Since then, the foundation has maintained its own records, including agendas, minutes and other documents.”
Agendas typically show what items will be discussed, and meeting minutes summarize those talks.
The foundation’s website offers the minutes and agenda of the March meeting, along with the agenda for a June meeting. The June document
mentions approval of minutes from a May meeting, but that event is not mentioned on the site.
In the city’s initial June 27 response to Appen Media, it did not address how much money the foundation has raised or where the funds come from.
Shortly after, City Manager Eden Freeman who serves as the foundation’s treasurer sent an email saying the nonprofit has received $75,330, none of which came from the city.
Of note, the initial email was sent to Freeman’s @ sandyspringsga.gov domain. Her response came from a @ sspdfoundation.org domain.
The remaining six members of the Executive Committee include Mayor Rusty Paul, chair; Councilman John Paulson, vice chair; Police Chief Kenneth DeSimone; Maj. Nable, secretary; police Sgt. Leon Millholland, director; and local businesswoman Gail Early Jokerst, director.
Because the city says the Sandy Springs Police Foundation is separate from the government, it is not subject to the Georgia’s open records and meetings laws, cornerstones of the First Amendment and the state’s sunshine laws.
However, Freeman did answer Appen Media’s questions through her role as treasurer of the foundation.
All but one person on the Executive Committee are city employees or elected officials.
For now, the foundation says its plan is to release agendas and minutes on its website.
It’s still unclear when documents from the May 23 meeting, or other meetings of the Sandy Springs Police Foundation’s Executive Committee, will be shared with the public.
Facts about sunscreen
Brought to you by – Dr. Titilola "Lola" Sode of Epiphany Dermatology - Brookhaven
What type of sunscreen should I use? The best sunscreen is one that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for sunscreens labeled "broad-spectrum" to ensure protection against both types of harmful rays. Additionally, consider your skin type and any specific skin concerns when choosing a sunscreen. For oily or acne-prone skin, opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas. If you have sensitive skin, choose sunscreens labeled hypoallergenic or fragrance-free. Water-resistant sunscreens are ideal for outdoor activities or swimming. Ultimately, the most effective sunscreen is one that you will use consistently and reapply as needed.
How Often Should I Apply Sunscreen? It's essential to apply sunscreen liberally and frequently for adequate protection against sun damage. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to absorb into the skin fully. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating heavily. Remember to reapply after towel drying as well. Additionally, apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and any other uncovered areas. Sunscreen is a vital component of sun protection, but it's also essential to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak UV hours.
Each
Atlanta Hearing Associates is
Atlanta Hearing Associates is a large audiology practice that encompasses 5 different locations throughout Georgia. Our offices provide comprehensive hearing tests, tinnitus assessments, ear cleaning, and hearing devices for all ages.
Every doctor you will meet is focused on your needs as a patient and works with every manufacturer to provide a personalized fitting.
We also partner with different agencies to provide audiological care to veterans, ATF officers, reservists, police departments, Cochlear implants recipients, and community wellness groups.
We accept all major insurances for patients who have a hearing healthcare benefit that they are eligible to use.
Our offices are located in Atlanta, Decatur, Dunwoody, Lake Oconee, and Milledgeville.
Back to school care
Checking in on your child’s health
LEWIS
Brought to you by - Dr. Brandi Lewis, pediatrician at Wellstar
As you prepare for the new school year, give your child a positive start by completing your own homework assignment—checking in on their health. Before heading back to the classroom, prioritize your child’s physical and emotional well-being with a visit to your family’s Wellstar pediatrician. Our compassionate pediatricians share your goal of
keeping children healthy as they grow.
“I believe in treating the whole child. What I mean by that is, of course, their physical health is very important, but I also feel that their emotional health is very important,” said Wellstar Pediatrician Dr. Brandi Lewis. “My goal is for all my patients to be resilient, happy and healthy. My role is to work with families to accomplish that goal.”
Preventative check-ups and screenings help children stay ahead of health issues, and our pediatricians will ensure your child is up to date on their vaccines and discuss which immunizations are needed to prevent
disease. Your family’s pediatrician can also help you navigate health requirements at your child’s school. Heading back to school healthy Teach your child healthy habits so they can feel their best throughout the school year.
• Practice good hygiene. Show children how to wash their hands properly and remind them to do it frequently. Do not send your children to school if they are sick.
• Get moving. Children should have about 30 to 60 minutes of moderate activity every day. Staying active can be a fun family activity— ride bikes around the block, play tag in the yard or go for a walk in the park.
• Eat healthy . Teach children about good nutrition by encouraging them to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and limiting sugary drinks.
• Get plenty of sleep. Children aged 3 to 5 should get about 10 to 13 hours of sleep a day. Children 6 to 12 years old should get nine to 12 hours, and teenagers need about 8 to 10 hours.
While the end of summer is often a busy time, planning now will help ensure the whole family has a healthy, successful year.
Find a Wellstar pediatrician near you at wellstar.org/kidcare.
An ongoing healthcare partner means more support at every age.
At Wellstar, you’ll find lifelong primary care partners committed to every aspect of your well-being, at every stage of life.
Your primary care provider knows your complete health history—with ready access to our integrated system of specialists, imaging facilities, labs and hospitals. We’ll help you get the best treatment, right when you need it. From preventative care and screenings to acute and chronic illness management, the expert providers at Wellstar personalize your wellness plan to your unique needs, putting you at the center of your own care. wellstar.org/primarycare
People, pints, and parks
Volunteering at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Brought to you by - Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy
At Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC), we celebrate the power of community and the hard work and passion of our park's volunteers. Thanks to these dedicated individuals, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) thrives, preserving our city's greenspace. Whether you're skilled in identifying native plants or just really good at wielding a trash picker, there's a volunteer role with your name on it! Volunteering at CRNRA is not just about preserving nature, but it’s also about building connections and fostering a community that cares deeply for our environment. From trail maintenance and river cleanups to educational programs and special events, our volunteer teams do it all with smiles on their faces and mud on their boots. Who needs a gym membership when you can hike, lift fallen branches, and dodge the occasional squirrel in support of your local national park? Speaking of having good times while doing good
deeds, mark your calendars for Pints for the Park on July 22nd! Held at Gate City Brewing Company in Roswell from 6:00 - 9:00 PM, join us for an evening of connection, community, and fantastic brews. For every drink purchased, $1 will be donated to the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC). This is a wonderful opportunity to relax, enjoy a good time with friends, and contribute to a worthy cause. We hope to see you there! Want to learn more about Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy and all we do to support our park? Visit chattahoocheeparks.org. See you in the park!
Sober curious summer
you by – Jennifer Acker, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor at Summit Counseling Center
Summer is officially upon us. The temperature is rising, kids are out of school, and we are spending more time outdoors. Whether it’s poolside snacks, barbeques, or picnics, people love any excuse to get together with friends for food and fun. Often at these events there is an expectation to indulge in the alcoholic beverages being offered. However, more and more people are choosing to live a sober lifestyle. In 2018 the term “Sober Curious” gained popularity after the publishing of the book Sober Curious written by Ruby Warrington. This movement aims to challenge social norms around alcohol and encourage mindful consumption. For those in recovery from an Alcohol Use Disorder or being sober-curious and taking a step back from alcohol,
these fun get togethers can be hard to navigate. Here are some practical tips to have a sober summer.
1. Bring your own preferred beverage and keep it in your hands
2. Try a mocktail
3. Bring a friend for support who is also not drinking alcohol
4. Plan to leave the event before heavy alcohol consumption begins
5. Plan your own event that does not include alcohol
No one has to miss out on fun summer activities because alcohol will be involved. There are many reasons why someone chooses not to drink alcohol. We can respect someone’s decision not to drink alcohol by accepting their decline of an alcoholic beverage and offering an alternative. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your decision.
TOM WILSON
Brought to
Media buys Decaturish.com, staff to stay on
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Appen Media Group, publishers of the Herald and Crier newspapers, announced July 1 it has purchased the digital news company Decaturish from longtime owner and founder Dan Whisenhunt.
The Alpharetta-based company will keep on Whisenhunt and assistant editor Zoe Seiler to continue their coverage of DeKalb County along with the Decaturish core of freelance writers and photographers. Debbie Inglis will stay in her advertising and marketing role with the company.
“We couldn’t be more excited to add the Decaturish brand to our media company. We have always admired what Dan has been able to achieve and his dogmatic approach to local journalism,” Publisher Hans Appen said. “The synergies and shared values between our two companies made this an easy decision and we can’t wait to build upon what is already a success story for local news.”
In its purchase of Decaturish, Appen aims to expand its online presence and expand its geographic reach to the east Metro suburbs. Before the acquisition, its newsroom covered a mostly northern cohort of cities, from Sandy Springs and Dunwoody up to south Forsyth County.
Appen also plans to build on the Decaturish brand by introducing new print media formats. The company intends to introduce at least two new local newspapers to the DeKalb County market, continuing its focus on government, business, public safety and community reporting.
“Decaturish is a beloved brand that is relied on by members of the community for news that most directly effects their quality of life,” Appen said. “Nothing that people love about Decaturish will change. AMG’s focus will be to expand and improve on what works already, and to give the Decaturish team the tools they need to make that happen.”
The move is the latest in Appen’s efforts to reinforce the local news environment in Metro Atlanta. The company purchased the Dunwoody Crier in 2019 and launched the Sandy Springs Crier in 2021. To help finance the movement, Appen created the Appen Press Club, a member-driven program where readers can pledge financial support to the work of local news. Decaturish brings with it a similar format, with loyal followers who recognize the importance of independent reporting in their community.
Newsroom staff to make last stop in open forum series at Pontoon
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Staff reporters with Appen Media Group are closing out its “Listening Tour” at Pontoon Brewing Company in Sandy Springs July 18.
Since January, the tour’s open
Series:
Continued from Page 1
or location that might fit for future gatherings,” Florence said. “Members of the Dunwoody City Council are always looking for new ways to connect with city residents and stakeholders.”
The second “Connect with Council” features councilwomen Stacy Harris and Catherine Lautenbacher July 12 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Dunwoody Village’s Valor Coffee.
The front parking lot at Ark Coffeehaus filled up around 9 a.m. as people came to speak with Lambert or grab a “darn good” cup of drip coffee.
The shop has become a community hot spot after siblings John Yacoub and Priscilla Wells opened doors to customers last November.
Some residents met Lambert for the first time and asked general questions about public service and local government. Others who have known Lambert for years came to thank him for work serving his constituency or to criticize him for not listening to their concerns.
“The topics discussed were pretty diverse,” Lambert said after the event. “As you might imagine there were a few people that wanted to talk about trails — both pro and con — but trails did not dominate the day.”
Residents took turns talking to Lambert one-on-one and in small groups, covering topics like city ordinances and codes, water quality, homelessness and stormwater.
“For some residents, the topics that concern them may not always align with the prevalent stories in the current news cycle or the items that appear on the agenda for a City Council meeting,” Lambert said. “But that doesn’t make them any less important, especially to that individual.”
One District 3 resident came with concerns about code changes, and Lambert said he scheduled a meeting with city staff and the resident to go over details.
Four Oaks resident Diane London took an opportunity to voice her opposition to plans for a 12-foot-
forums have provided visitors the chance to offer suggestions and feedback on coverage. The newsroom has made rounds in Dunwoody, Roswell, Johns Creek, Forsyth County, Milton and Alpharetta, gaining valuable
insight from residents on how to strengthen reporting.
Beginning at 4 p.m. at Pontoon, staff will be on-hand for around an hour or so for one-on-one conversations and a Q&A session. This is your chance to get
From left,
Mill Road.
District 3.
Tom
,
with residents June 27 in east
said conversations with residents covered topics like water quality, homelessness, the city’s codes and ordinances and stormwater.
wide path on her side of Peeler Road. London is one of dozens of Four Oaks residents who have either requested input on the path’s design or outright opposed the plans for it.
During the back-and-forth, Lambert said the path is going on the
to know staff, sound off tips or highlight topics that deserve more coverage.
An RSVP is not required but appreciated for this free event. Visit appenmedia.com/join to let us know you are coming.
2025, will run from the Winter’s Chapel Road shopping center along the north side of Peeler Road to Lakeside Drive and Windwood Hollow Park.
London, who lives on the north side, said the Dunwoody Trail Master Plan shows the path on the south side of the road once it passes Lakeside Drive. She wants to know why plans call for the roughly 2,000foot section behind her home to stop and switch to the south side.
The elected official and informed citizen eventually reached an impasse, with Lambert describing current plans as a win-win for involved parties and London sticking to her concerns.
If it has not become clear, Dunwoody residents disagree on a few things.
Despite some contentious conversations with neighbors, Lambert said he also heard suggestions for new services the city could provide and enthusiasm about the many new and exciting things happening around the city.
Toward the end of the two-hour event, rising high school senior Emily Terry spoke with Lambert about her interest in local government and civic participation.
Terry, who lives part-time in Dunwoody but attends Duluth High School in Gwinnett County, said her conversation with Lambert taught her the ins and outs of what local elected officials do every day.
“My interest in politics began around the start of COVID-19 when I had more free time to learn about it,” Terry said. “Since volunteering at school, I wanted to know what more I could be doing for the community I am part of.”
A member of the up-and-coming Generation Z, Terry said the meetand-greet gave her a glimpse into what her future in public service could look like.
north side of Peeler Road because of safety concerns, logistics and costs.
London said she does not oppose a multi-use path on Peeler Road but she does not understand the city’s decisions related to design.
The path, in design through fall
Lambert said he didn’t know what to expect during the first iteration. He’s looking to hold the gathering once a quarter with the possibility of a nighttime “Tavern Talk.”
“I was pleased with how well it went – both the attendance and the fact that I was engaged in conversation the entire duration of the event,” Lambert said.
PHOTOS BY: CITY OF DUNWOODY/PROVIDED
Councilman Tom Lambert speaks June 27 with Amy and Emily Terry, a rising senior at Duluth High School who’s interested in local government. Lambert said he told Terry how he got started with public service to wrap up the “Connect with Council” meeting at Ark Coffehaus on Tilly
Councilman
Lambert
right, chats
Dunwoody’s
Lambert
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from second place Grayback Base of the United States Submarine Veterans and third place Sons of the American Revolution.
In the musical category, the Spirit of Atlanta edged out Atlanta CV Drum Corps and the Dunwoody High School marching band.
Spirit of Atlanta also took home the coveted Best Overall award.
Judges said the most-spirited parade group is obviously the Precision Lawn Chair Drill Team with runner-up awards given to the Twilight Swirlers and DHS cheerleaders.
Reports of lawn chairs stolen from Mount Vernon Road circulated the Dunwoody Area Community Forum on Facebook in the lead up to 9 a.m.
While some neighbors offered sympathy, others questioned the need for reserving a spot.
Spectators sitting multiple rows deep along Mount Vernon around 8:45 a.m. displayed the benefit of planning ahead.
With partly cloudy skies and temperatures around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, thousands of people flooded the Williamsburg shopping center at Jett Ferry and Mount Vernon roads to watch the parade kickoff.
Participants filed down into the parking lot of All Saints Catholic Church before stepping off at 9 a.m.
A Dunwoody Homeowners Association banner led Grand Marshal David Abes’s open four-seater with City Manager Eric Linton just behind in another convertible.
Parade organizers said they chose Abes for the honorary role because of the work of his company DASH Hospitality in reimagining and boosting the entertainment and food allure of Dunwoody Village.
The float for the Torres family and “Dinowoody” comprised several dinosaur costumes and inflatables spread out across multiple vehicles.
Local politicians in the parade included DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond, Superintendent Devin Horton and Education Board Member Anna Hill.
While Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch waved from a convertible in a blue-and-white striped dress, councilmembers sported Independence Day-themed costumes and bikes.
Councilmembers bike route
Councilwoman Stacey Harris said she came up with the idea July 2 during a morning walking along Mount Vernon Road.
In previous years, the Dunwoody City Council manned a trolly, allowing them to jump out to speak with constituents. This year, councilmembers rode bikes around the mayor’s convertible and
COMMUNITY
chatted with people along the route.
Harris said she expected people familiar with Councilman Joe Seconder to assume he came up with the idea of biking the parade.
“I got an e-bike for Christmas, and I love it,” she said. “We’ve done the trolley every year that I’ve been on council, and I was like, ‘let’s mix it up and do something different.’”
Harris said councilmembers had a ton of fun and didn’t run into each other, making things easier for first responders along the route.
Appen Media asked councilmembers at the after-parade festival if there’s a consensus for the parade next year.
While Councilman Rob Price indicated he is leaning toward a return to the trolley, the question is still up in the air.
Harris said her attendance estimate is similar to prior years.
“It’s like this every year,” she said. “And you know last year, when it was pouring rain, Dunwoody stayed. We love our parade, this is Dunwoody.”
Festival fills Village
Popular attractions at Dunwoody Village’s post-parade festival included the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile, Kona Ice, two bouncy houses and Boy Scout Troop 266’s barbecue grill out.
While scouts sold food tickets, scoutmasters said they provide around 800 meals each year and use the proceeds for camping trips throughout the year.
First responders from Dunwoody Police Department and Dekalb County Fire Rescue Department stuck around after the parade to chat with residents, keep people safe and enjoy pork sandwiches.
Dunwoody Homeowners Association President Bob Fiscella thanked everyone for coming out and making the Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade the largest in the state of Georgia.
Fiscella also thanked festival emcee Jimmy Economos and Police Chief Mike Carlson at the stage.
Economos thanked his wife Leah for organizing sponsorships for the parade and festival.
Dunwoody Idol winner and Marist student Lauren Schroder sang “The StarSpangled Banner,” silencing the bustling crowd.
Schroder said performing at the after-parade 4th of July Festival was more difficult than singing at the 2024 Lemonade Days.
Mayor Deutsch made sure to thank both 4th of July Parade co-chairs Penny Forman and Matt Weber for their herculean effort to put together the largest Independence Day parade in the state of Georgia.
“We are so grateful that you are all here to gather and celebrate happy things,” Deutsch said. “We’ll see you next year!”
of parade floats and Dunwoodians
Day.
Dunwoody Councilman Joe Seconder is all smiles after setting off on the 2.7-mile parade route along Mount Vernon Road to Dunwoody Village. Seconder, known for his cycling in the community, flashed some skills during the parade.
St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church is hosting the inaugural Dunwoody Oktoberfest on September 28, 2024 from 12pm to 6pm. This is a free family friendly event benefiting the Malachi’s Storehouse and Anchor Respite ministries of St. Patrick’s. Entertainment includes carnival games and arts & crafts for kids, German cars on display, live polka bands, food concessions, biergarten, beer hall, local vendors, and more! Please visit www.dunwoodyoktoberfest.com for sponsorship and volunteer opportunities.
Location: St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church - 4755 N Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30338
THE CITY OF DUNWOODY, GEORGIA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The City of Dunwoody Planning Commission will meet on Tuesday, August 13th, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of Dunwoody City Hall, which is located at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, GA 30338, for the purpose of due process of the following:
Special Land Use Permit Request (Case SLUP 24-01) for 140 Perimeter Center W: The applicant, Starbucks Coffee Company c/o Gaskins + LeCraw, requests a Special Land Use Permit to allow a drive-through facility.
Should you have any questions, comments, or would like to view the application and supporting materials, please contact the City of Dunwoody Community Development Department at 678-382-6800. Staff is available to answer questions, discuss the decision-making process, and receive comments and concerns.
PHOTOS BY: HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
A tsunami
head down Mount Vernon Road and onto Dunwoody Village Parkway during the July 4th Parade. The Dunwoody 4th of July parade brought thousands to Dunwoody Village to celebrate Independence
North Fulton Community Charities, a non-profit in Roswell, Georgia, is seeking a Part Time Donor Operations Associate I.
This entry level hourly position is available now, averages 28 hours per week, and requires the ability to lift up to 75 pounds and work outside during the day.
NFCC have been serving individuals and families in the North Fulton area for 40+ years. Our Mission “To Ease Hardship and Foster Financial Stability in our Community”. We provide opportunities for the whole community to thrive. NFCC is committed to provide professional development and pathways for advancement to all members of the NFCC team. To view the complete job descriptions, please visit our website at https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/. If you wish to apply, please send your resume to mjallad@nfcchelp.org
EEO Statement: NFCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. NFCC does not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disabilities, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis protected by the law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
and Dunwoody Village Parkway.
At the fork, Major-General Dodge’s 16th A.C. of the Army of the Tennessee moved toward Nancy’s Creek and Old Cross Keys. General Logan’s 15th A.C., followed by Major General Blair’s 17th continued southeast on Shallow Ford Road to Nancy’s Creek where they camped. Garrard’s cavalry was posted east of the 15th Corps.
The goal of McPherson’s march to Decatur was to seize and destroy the Georgia Railroad between Decatur and the Stone Mountain depot.
A story passed down through the generations told of Confederate cannons placed on what is now Dunwoody Nature Center land, well below the street level of Chamblee
Dunwoody Road. However, Civil War historians agree that it would not have been possible to fire at the passing Union troops from that location. The Civil War story for Dunwoody is the story of thousands of Union soldiers marching through a town of 170 people. There was no military action. There are two Georgia Historical Markers in Dunwoody to commemorate the event. One at Spalding and Roberts Drive at the fire station titled “McPherson’s March to Decatur July 17, 1864” and one at the triangle of Nandina Lane and Chamblee Dunwoody Road titled, “McPherson’s Divergent Line of March, July 17, 1864.”
Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.
