► PAGE 4
A look north from Chateau Drive along Chamblee Dunwoody Road shows improvements made during the Georgetown Gateway project, including an expanded sidewalk, new multiuse path and a mid-block crossing.
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Nearly a decade in the making, Dunwoody is celebrating completion of the Georgetown Gateway, a massive public works project of transportation upgrades that may have regional impact.
as a gateway into the southern heart of the city.
Elected officials and senior staff gathered for a ribbon-cutting Dec. 15 in front of the Georgetown Park playground to celebrate Dunwoody’s largest public works project to date.
The Georgetown Gateway does two things. It extends the Dunwoody Trailway, connecting Brook Run and Pernoshal parks to the Chamblee Dunwoody Road corridor. It also upgrades stormwater piping, gas lines and traffic signals while relocating 22 utility poles. More than 250 truckloads of asphalt were used in the paving process. CITY OF DUNWOODY/PROVIDED
The project, which runs along Chamblee Dunwoody Road from I-285 to North Shallowford Road, establishes infrastructure for the next halfcentury.
With more than 13,000 vehicles using the roadway each day, Chamblee Dunwoody Road serves
NEWS TIPS
770-442-3278
AppenMedia.com
319 N. Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009
HANS APPEN Publisher DICK WILLIAMS Publisher Emeritus CONTACT
Contact reporters directly or send story ideas to newsroom@appenmedia.com.
LETTERS, EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Send your letters, events and community news to newsroom@appenmedia.com. See appenmedia.com/submit for more guidance.
ADVERTISING
For information about advertising in the Dunwoody Crier or other Appen Media properties, email advertising@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.
CIRCULATION
To start, pause or stop delivery of this newspaper, email circulation@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs Police arrested a 40-year-old Atlanta man Dec. 16 after a high-speed chase on Ga. 400 and I-285, ending with a road intervention known as a PIT maneuver.
A PIT, or precision immobilization technique, is a method used by law enforcement to stop a vehicle by forcing it to abruptly turn 180 degrees and stall.
It’s a police procedure with a controversial reputation. Sandy Springs Police allows officers with the right training to use it under certain circumstances. The department has not said how they came to the decision to pursue the suspect coming out of Roswell or execute the PIT maneuver to immobilize the suspect’s vehicle.
Appen Media first found out about the Dec. 16 incident through a Sandy Springs Police Department Facebook post.
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.
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police arrested a 46-year-old Atlanta woman for DUI after finding her vehicle in a ditch along Cotillion Drive.
An officer said a Chrysler PT Cruiser had crashed through a fence on the southern side of Cotillion Drive just west of North Peachtree Road.
The officer said the driver told him she passed over a hump in the roadway after exiting I-285 westbound.
The driver said she tried to reverse out of the ditch but was unable to.
When asked where she was coming from, the driver told officers that she was at a cocktail party two hours earlier and drank “a couple of glasses of champagne.”
The officer said he detected the smell of alcohol on the driver’s breath and observed other signs of intoxication.
An officer said the driver “continued her attempt to explain what happened but appeared bewildered by the fact that her vehicle had crashed through a fence.”
The report says the driver allegedly lost her balance multiple times and fell into a bystander at the scene and continually repeated details about the incident.
Eventually, an officer said he had enough probable cause to detain the driver for operating her vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Early Monday morning on Dec. 16, Roswell police attempted to pull over a vehicle for failing to use a turn signal, according to the agency. When the driver instead accelerated and began weaving through traffic on Holcomb Bridge Road, the officer turned off their blue lights.
A second Roswell Police officer saw the vehicle shortly after and tried to pull it over. The driver allegedly chose to speed up and flee from law enforcement once more.
At this point police dispatch gave the vehicle’s description to neighboring agencies.
The suspect then headed southbound on Ga. 400 towards Sandy Springs.
Hearing the exchange from dispatch, Sandy Springs Police officers responded to Ga. 400, according to the agency’s social media post and spokesperson. After spotting and attempting to pull the vehicle over, officers pursued it onto I-285.
After reading an implied consent notice for drivers 21 years or older, officers said the suspect agreed to blood testing at headquarters.
At the Dunwoody Police Department, officers said the suspect withdrew her consent for the blood test. Officers then seized the suspect’s driver license and submitted a notice of pending license suspension.
The suspect was booked at DeKalb County Jail for DUI, improper lane usage and driving on the wrong side of the roadway.
Hayden Sumlin
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police responded to Brook Run Park Dec. 13 after an incident between two dog park patrons ended with a battery.
The victim, a 38-year-old Marietta man, said he got into an argument with another male about their pets at the dog park.
After the victim left the area and walked east along the park’s trail, the other man drove over and cursed him out.
The victim said when he briefly turned away, the suspect struck him in the face with his car door and drove off.
Officers said they observed lots of bruising on the victim’s nose and bleeding from facial injuries. Also, officers said the victim was able to get the suspect’s license plate.
Through security footage and information provided by the victim, officers said they identified a 35-year-old Stone Mountain man as a suspect.
Officers said security footage did not show the battery, but they were able to
It was on that highway that officers “were able to perform a PIT maneuver” on the car and take the driver into custody.
As of Dec. 19, the Sandy Springs Police post has more than 850 likes and 120 comments.
Most commenters expressed appreciation to local law enforcement, with one person writing they witnessed the vehicle “flying” in the emergency lane said were thankful after the “wild and pretty scary” incident.
Another person said the department should leave PIT maneuvering to the Georgia State Patrol.
Law enforcement agencies around the county have different policies for when vehicle pursuits and intervention maneuvers can be performed.
Typically, those directives weigh the potential danger of the action compared
See MANEUVER, Page 11
confirm the suspect’s license plate.
The department’s report says the case remains active.
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Police arrested a 23-year-old Tennessee man Dec. 15 after he allegedly exposed himself to female customers at Perimeter Mall’s Nordstrom Rack.
Officers said loss prevention employees directed them to the men’s clothing department where they detained the suspect.
After reading him his Miranda rights outside the store, officers said the suspect voluntarily admitted to exposing himself to female customers.
At that point, officers placed him in custody inside their patrol car.
Loss prevention employees showed officers security footage of the incident. Officers said the suspect is shown approaching patrons with his genitals exposed outside of his pants.
The suspect allegedly told officers that he is employed as a bus driver and was in Dunwoody to use his gym membership.
Officers said the suspect was charged with violating the city’s ordinance on public indecency.
Before transporting the suspect to DeKalb County Jail, officers issued him a criminal trespass warning, barring return to Nordstrom Rack.
According to county jail records, the suspect was released the evening of Dec. 15.
In November of 1917, The Atlanta Georgian newspaper suggested local families invite soldiers from Camp Gordon to their homes for Christmas dinner.
“The Georgian’s idea is that we should make this Christmas a ‘Soldier’s Christmas’ by taking the boys in brown into our homes and closer to our firesides and into our hearts on Christmas Day.”
The World War I training camp was in Chamblee, on land that is now DeKalb Peachtree Airport and beyond. In December 1917, 25% of the men were given passes to leave Camp Gordon for 38 hours during Christmas. Many were able to enjoy Christmas dinner with generous Atlanta families. Those who received a longer pass due to unusual circumstances traveled by train to visit family.
At 4 p.m. December 24, 1917, the bugle sounded and marches, drills, and rifle training paused until December 26 at 7 a.m. Eight thousand men headed to downtown Atlanta on the trolley or in cars. Other soldiers stayed on base where entertainment and a Christmas feast was planned.
The camp was decorated with multiple Christmas trees provided by women’s church and social groups. Religious services and celebrations took place at the YMCA and Knights of Columbus buildings, the base hospital and the infirmaries.
A building for Jewish soldiers was
completed in October 1918 and became known as the Little White House. The Jewish Welfare Board began work to improve the social and religious life of Jewish soldiers in early 1918. All soldiers were welcome at the Little White House.
Christmas dinner was served December 24, 1917, and featured roast turkey and boiled ham as the entrees. The side dishes were cranberry sauce, dressing, rice and gravy, green peas, corn and candied sweet potatoes. Dessert included lemon, apple and mince pie. Fruit, layer and mince cake were served. Plenty of fresh fruit, celery, olives and nuts were also included on the menu.
According to historian Franklin Garrett’s “Atlanta and Environs,” soldiers who did not have an invitation to stay with a family or a hotel room spent Christmas Eve night at the downtown YMCA. It was so crowded, some had to sleep on the floor. Christmas Day 1917 in Atlanta did not offer much entertainment for visiting soldiers, because stores, offices, and public buildings were closed. By Christmas 1918, WWI had ended. Many soldiers were given ten-day furloughs. Those who remained were entertained with Christmas dinner, music and dancing. They were also invited to gather at the YWCA Hostess House.
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.
1 11 9
4 New Years Day City Hall closed Free First Saturday Winter Wonders Dunwoody Nature Center | 1 p.m.
Art Commission Meeting City Hall | 7:30 a.m.
Sustainability Committee Meeting City Hall | 8 a.m.
Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting City Hall | 6 p.m.
Master Gardener Talk ”Plant Selection” DCGO Greenhouse Complex Brook Run Park | 11 a.m.
Puppet Palooza: “Wish Tales” Stage Door Theatre | 10:30 a.m. Return of the Dad’s Improv at Stage Door Theatre 7:30 p.m.
Opening Reception: Rial Rye and Emma Chammah Spruill Gallery Exhibit runs through Feb.
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
ATLANTA — This may be the time for prospective homebuyers to call an agent.
John Hunt, chief analyst and principal of MarketNsight, says current mortgage rates at around 6.5 percent are keeping home sales below pre-pandemic levels, despite a chance that rates will climb next year.
Because of a drop-off in economic activity amid an uncertain election cycle, pending home sales are increasing with mortgage rates. Hunt calls this “opposite world,” because home sales should decrease as mortgage rates increase, which was the case in 2022-23.
Economists generally consider a balanced housing market as having six months of supply. Hunt said Atlanta has about three and a-half months today, up from less than 30 days in December 2021.
Speaking at the virtual Dec. 12 MarketWatch with industry professionals and economic forecasters Hunt said that while mortgage rates have dipped slightly, a shortage of housing supply is keeping costs high for buying a home.
“Less inventory is going to equal higher prices; it’s just like 2020 all over again, the pandemic housing boom,” he said. “It’s the definition of insanity; we did not address the right problem, which is the supply side.”
Hunt said he can sound like a broken record while harping on the lack of housing affordability across the country.
“It is an indisputable fact that we have a housing shortage of epic proportions in this country,” he said. “Attainable housing is the defining issue of our time.”
He offers prospective buyers valuable insight into market trends and industry professionals advice on how to get sales done.
When 30-year fixed mortgage rates breached 5.25 percent in June 2022, the short-lived pandemic housing boom turned into a 20-month wait for inventory to recover.
While higher mortgage rates kept homeowners on their lots, prospective buyers left the market because of inflationary pressure on home prices, less inventory and the declining value of their dollars.
Since 2019, Atlanta home prices in November are up 62 percent, hitting a record-high of $540,000 in June.
Americans who own a home saw their investment create wealth, while prospective buyers saw their chances of doing the same diminish.
Unlike the Great Recession’s housing bubble, analysists say there is no lack of demand or oversupply in the market.
It’s good news for the health of the U.S. economy and homeowners, but prospective buyers are largely unable to afford the homes available in the market, Hunt said. He encourages people to drive until they qualify.
The problem is lower rates lead to higher demand for homes, which keeps their already historically low supply at a high price point.
“Zoning and land use regulations are the crux of the problem,” Hunt said. “We’ve been underbuilding for decades in this country.”
In April 2020, Hunt and his team were the first in the nation to call the bottoming out of housing demand in the U.S. economy.
By May 2021, MarketNSight’s weekly analysis was reporting builders intentionally slowing sales of new homes as the housing supply hit a nationwide low.
The purpose of the Federal Reserve’s rate hikes between March 2022 and July 2023 was to squash demand in the U.S. economy, but Hunt said price points for homes
MARKETNSIGHT/PROVIDED
A graph from MarketNSight shows the relationship between the 30-year fixed mortgage rate and pending home sales from 2022-now, which analysts say will not close any time soon. MarketNSight Principal John Hunt said pending sales went negative as soon as rates breached the 5.25 percent threshold, showing a negative correlation between the two when there is not a presidential election.
did not come down as a result.
When the Fed cut its primary interest rate from a 20year high in September, mortgage rates started climbing, which means more Americans cannot qualify for a mortgage and down payment.
Hunt pointed to comments from Fed Chairman Jerome Powell in September, echoing his analysis and saying the Fed cannot fix high prices in the U.S. housing market, which are due to a lack of supply.
“There’s a correlation between 2020 and 2024 that I want to make note of … we saw a downward track all the way to first week of November,” Hunt said. “Before every election, activity and investment of all types tends to fall off because uncertainty kills it.”
Following both elections, MarketNSight data shows spikes in home resales, seemingly confirming an election season has its impacts on the national housing market.
From 2022-23, Hunt said rate dips saw jumps in pending sales, but the trend reversed itself in 2024 amid the presidential election.
“We live in opposite world in 2024 because when we peaked the fourth week in April at 7.22 percent, rates fell very nicely, and over that same period, pending sales collapsed,” Hunt said. “That’s not what should have happened.”
When mortgage rates began to climb in September, pending sales went up along with them.
“It makes no sense, it defies logic,” Hunt said. “But it’s happened.”
There are two factors prospective homebuyers can monitor that influence mortgage rates, the Fed’s prime rate and 10-year Treasury bond yield.
Professor Rajeev Dhawan, holder of the Zwerner Chair of Economic Forecasting and director at the J. Mack Robinson College of Business at GSU, also spoke about the impact of Fed policy on the housing market.
Dhawan, an award-winning economic forecaster, said he anticipates a 25 basis point cut in December, but also sees no economic signals that would lead the Fed to rush lower rates.
He said tariffs proposed by President-elect Donald Trump will damage the 10-year Treasury bond yield, which may spike mortgage rates. Dhawan said the strength of the U.S. dollar and its role as the world’s reserve currency makes him doubt tariffs will cause meaningful inflation.
His regional concerns include workforce participation, job quality and his forecast of rising mortgage rates taking prospective buyers out of the market.
Dhawan was largely optimistic throughout the December MarketWatch, which he has been a part of for more than eight years.
In terms of consumption and consumer behavior, he said year-over-year inflation data is showing higher confidence and a declining rate of price increases.
Lori Lane, president and managing broker of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ New Homes Division, said 2024 started out stronger than years past, but things have only recently picked up after the election.
“A common trend was that [the election] kept people on the fence waiting to see what would happen,” she said. “We’ve seen an increase in traffic and more serious buyers getting back into the market, and I think people are realizing they will never see rates that low again.”
Your DHA Farmers Market 2025 Season
Winter Hours: 10am - 1pm (January - March)
Summer Hours: 9am - 12pm (April - December)
(The market will be closed on April 26 for Lemonade Days)
The DHA Farmers Market is located in the heart of Dunwoody, at the front of Brook Run Park, 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody, GA 30360. North Atlanta’s most convenient farmers market.
We are your weekly stop for locally grown, pesticide free produce, meats, seafood, eggs, honey, nuts, sauces, spices, baked goods, and pet treats, just to name a few. Along with a delicious variety of locally made meals & beverages - with vegan, plant based, and gluten-free options to choose from. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy live music, while strolling with the kiddos and pooch in tow. Shopping for the freshest seasonal items, and supporting your local community. TO
We believe that farmers markets
Owner John Hogan & Designer Bobbie Kohm, re-imagining how bath & kitchen remodels are done. Complete Remodeling Design and Installation Services. We even remove walls! Guiding you through the whole design process. Ask about our 3D Renderings. Making bath & kitchen remodeling fun, easy and affordable.
Name: Home Clean Heroes
Owner: Poolani Jasti
Description: Home Clean Heroes is revolutionizing the cleaning industry with exceptional, reliable and safe services. Our commitment to easy scheduling and our dedicated team of “grime-fighters” ensure a spotless home, giving local
families more time to enjoy life. Home Clean Heroes donates a portion of every cleaning to first responders.
Opened: January 2024
Address: Cumming, Georgia 30041
Phone: 770-554-2224
Web Address: https://homecleanheroes. com/atlantanorth/
Name: Compass Courier and Logistics
Owner: Randy Hicks
Description: Same-day delivery services for urgent medications, medical supplies, and equipment benefit medical institutions, pharmacies, and healthcare practitioners. We help critical goods arrive on scheduled time, enhancing patient care and reaction times. We also provide the automotive, dental, legal industries with same-day delivery services.
Opened: April 2024
Address: 56 Perimeter Center E, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30346
Phone: 770-905-2848
Web address: https://gocompasscourier.com
Name: Made in the Shade Alpharetta
Owner: Jason and Mindy Roaderick
Description: Made in the Shade Alpharetta offers a full line of custom window coverings throughout the north metro area. We bring the showroom to you including shutters, rollers, Romans, natural wovens, draperies and motorization. Call today and let’s add that next layer of design to your home!
Opened: April 2024
Address: 2605 Milford Ln., Alpharetta, GA 30009 Phone: 770-588-1611
Web Address: mitsalpharetta.com/
Name: Sutton Total Tennis
Owner: Alex Sutton
Description: Sutton
Total Tennis is a specialty tennis and pickleball retail shop that offers a wide range of equipment and services. Alex holds certifications with the USPTA and USRSA for instruction and racquet services. The shop carries racquets, paddles, shoes and apparel as well as restringing and regripping services.
Opened: July 2024
Address: 12050 Etris Road, Roswell, GA
Phone: 470-550-1264
Web Address: suttontotaltennis.com
Name: Chewy Vet Care
Owner: Chewy, Inc
Description: Chewy Vet Care is a veterinary practice that offers a wide array of services, from routine wellness care to urgent care and surgeries. Our passionate, friendly care team provides the highest-quality medical care, backed by Chewy’s award-winning customer service designed to help you and your pet feel at ease.
Opened: May 2024
Address: 4531 Olde Perimeter Way, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30346
Phone: 404-205-8001
Web address: chewy.com/vet-care/clinics/dunwoody-ga/perimeter
Brought to you by -
Dr. Kehinde Olumesi of Epiphany Dermatology - Brookhaven
As skin matures, it undergoes various changes that necessitate regular skin checks to ensure overall skin health. Differentiating between age spots, healthy moles and potential skin cancers is crucial. Age spots, often appearing as flat, brown, or black spots on sun-exposed areas, are generally harmless but can be mistaken for more serious conditions. Early detection of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Therefore, routine skin examinations are essential for mature skin to maintain health and catch any issues early.
Addressing skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures
Dermatologists can assist with a
variety of skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures for mature skin. Common issues such as dryness, age-related pigmentation and conditions like rosacea, psoriasis and eczema, which can persist or develop with age, are also addressed with specialized care plans.
In addition to treating conditions, dermatologists offer rejuvenating procedures to enhance the appearance and health of mature skin. Treatments such as chemical peels, laser rejuvenation and injectable treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture and promote collagen production. These procedures not only rejuvenate the skin but also boost confidence and overall well-being. Establishing a relationship with a dermatologist ensures that your skin receives comprehensive care tailored to its evolving needs, promoting long-term skin health and vitality.
PROMPT APPOINTMENTS NOW AVAILABLE IN
By HAYDEN SUMLIN Hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs officials held a ribbon-cutting Dec. 19 for the city’s newest roadway, Spruill Lane, while also celebrating some progress with Mount Vernon Highway projects.
The roadway is named in honor of the prominent Spruill family, with deep roots in the Sandy Springs community dating back to the early 19th century. The family’s contributions to the region are extensive, holding land that now encompasses Dunwoody’s Perimeter Mall and serving as the namesake for the Spruill Center for the Arts.
“Spruill Lane honors the legacy of the Spruill family, while providing much-needed relief for our residents, pedestrians and commuters,” Mayor Rusty Paul said. “This project would not be possible without the continued support and patience of the community throughout the construction process.”
The surrounding neighborhoods are just hoping construction wraps as quickly as possible.
The city says the opening of Spruill Lane marks a significant milestone in the ongoing Mount Vernon Highway and Johnson Ferry Road improvements.
The $18 million project, funded through the city’s share of a 1 percent countywide sales tax, aims to improve vehicular and pedestrian mobility and reduce congestion. The idea is to alleviate the bottleneck conditions for east-west traffic on Johnson Ferry Road, Mount Vernon Highway and
Continued from Page 1
The three-year construction timeline wore on surrounding residents who experienced sporadic traffic delays and confusion about the project’s scope and timeline.
north-south traffic on Roswell Road.
In tandem with Spruill Lane’s opening, the traffic light at the Johnson Ferry Road and Mount Vernon Highway intersection will be deactivated, permanently separating the roads.
When the project is estimated to be completed in 2026, Mount Vernon Highway and Johnson Ferry Road will be two-way operations.
Because of the significant work to redesign the busy corridor, many utilities are being relocated and dozens of mature trees are being uprooted. The landscape plan calls for the replanting of 132 trees to replace the 123 that are being removed.
Meanwhile, the city is working on corridor improvements along Mount Vernon Highway from Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church to the Sandy Springs MARTA station on the east side of Ga. 400. That project, with funding from TSPLOST and the Perimeter CID, includes a multi-use path on the south shoulder and a 6-foot-wide sidewalk on the north side.
The city plans to wrap up all improvements to the Johnson Ferry Road and Mount Vernon Highway corridors, totaling around $28 million, in early 2026. There’s a two-year construction estimate, and Sandy Springers are about halfway there.
When the projects are completed, cyclists will be able to take Mount Vernon Highway from City Springs to PATH 400, assuming planned multiuse paths along Peachtree Dunwoody Road are in place.
Public Works Director Michael Smith said the project originated from the city’s 2011 Transportation Master Plan and design work began around 2015.
“It’s eight or nine years in the making, and of course construction was three years,” Smith said.
The west side of the Chamblee Dunwoody Road corridor had its 4-foot-wide sidewalk replaced with a 6-foot-wide ADA-compliant sidewalk. On the east side of the roadway, a 12-foot-wide path for pedestrians and cyclists now connects into the Dunwoody Trailway at Kent Drive.
“There’s wasn’t a center-turn lane, just two lanes,” Smith said. “The final product is consistent with what we envisioned in the original plan, having a wider sidewalk and better pedestrian environment with trees, lighting and the landscaping.”
There were challenges along the way, especially with utility relocation and installation taking up two-thirds of the construction timeline.
“We rebuilt the infrastructure really,” Smith said. “The county replaced the water main, the gas company replaced their lines through the project … all the existing utilities had to move out of the way, so that was a real challenge.”
The city says work crews installed 54 new storm drains with more than 3,900 feet of piping, replaced 2,650
CITY OF DUNWOODY/PROVIDED
Dunwoody Public Works Director Michael Smith, at center left, cuts the ribbon for the Georgetown Gateway project, the city’s largest to date. The project includes new landscaping, pedestrian lighting, wider sidewalks, a new multi-use path, art installations and significant utility upgrades along Chamblee Dunwoody Road.
feet of gas supply and relocated 22 utility poles.
Along Chamblee Dunwoody Road from I-285 to North Shallowford Road, there is now a center-turn lane with several mid-block crossing beacons and a MARTA bus stop. The lanes were also narrowed to bring down speeds after community feedback indicated specific concerns with motorists hopping off I-285.
Smith is also excited about getting paths and sidewalks around the city connected with the regional trail network, and the Georgetown Gateway is a big step.
The next ribbon-cutting for a path project is for the completed phase one of the Ashford Dunwoody Road path in front of Perimeter Mall. City staff said it will likely
be early next year, but the multi-use path is open to the public.
Connecting that path to the Dunwoody Village and Sandy Springs’ PATH400, which the city is chipping away at, would eventually get people from the Atlanta Beltline to the Village’s NFA Burger without a car.
It’s years away, if not a decade, but the regional trail network is coming together.
One of the features of the project, gateway signage in front of the Shell gas station, received mixed feedback from residents posting on the Dunwoody Area Community Forum on Facebook.
Now with landscaping surrounding the large “Dunwoody” sign, motorists crossing over I-285 from Brookhaven and Chamblee have a more aesthetic welcome to the city.
The corridor is a key entrance to Dunwoody from neighboring Brookhaven and Chamblee, who seem to be in a north DeKalb County competition for the loudest city gateway signage.
The $1 million price tag for the 16 signs drew criticism from residents concerned with the city’s looming operational deficit, but capital projects draw from a different funding source.
The Dunwoody Art Commission is also planning on installing a large-scale sculpture — “Human Interfusion by Struzik Art — somewhere along the corridor next year.
Mayor Lynn Deutsch said the city will continue to prioritize the city’s busiest corridors and multigenerational upgrades.
“This project is out largest public works project to date,” Deutsch said. “It was primarily funded by the federal government, and we’re thrilled that our partners stepped up in such a great way to help us transform the Georgetown area.”
Continued from Page 2
to the possible harm of not interfering.
In a 2023 report, the U.S. Department of Justice recommended pursuits, “should take place only when two very specific standards are met: (1) A violent crime has been committed and (2) the suspect poses an imminent threat to commit another violent crime.” It says that the potential danger caused by fleeing from police is not reason enough to pursue. The example offered in the report is, “if a suspect begins driving more recklessly after police intervention, it is important to discontinue the pursuit.”
Sandy Springs Police Department's chase policy says officers must "continually balance the need to pursue against all known or apparent risk" to public safety.
The directive states that officers should not assume a driver is involved in something more serious, “just because he or she is fleeing,” and must instead rely on the other factors such as the nature of the offense committed, the immediate danger to the public if they are not apprehended and traffic conditions.
It adds that termination actions, such as the PIT maneuver, “are authorized only when the initial pursuit is justified.”
Records provided by the agency do not identify the suspect or any charges other than fleeing from police. The incident report, meant to be a record of everything the responding officer observes while responding to a scene, is one sentence, that the officer “was involved in a vehicle pursuit on Ga. 400.”
Later, the first Roswell Police officer would find out the driver’s identity. Through that agency’s incident report and documents obtained from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Appen Media learned that the suspect is a 40-yearold Atlanta man. He is charged with misdemeanor counts of traffic violations and fleeing from police, along with felony counts of possession of a controlled substance and fleeing from police.
Sandy Springs charged fleeing from police with the higher felony degree, while Roswell cited it as a misdemeanor.
The subject is a convicted felon. He is currently booked at Fulton County Jail with bonds totaling $38,750.
Sandy Springs’ policy mandates certain reporting obligations after pursuit and intervention incidents. It lays out a number of reports and reviews the department must make, including recording all involved subjects’ actions and observations during the events, ending with a final justification determination from the police chief.
Appen Media has requested those documents from the city.
Join today for $16/month
DC Aiken
Big Sky Franchise Team
David & Michelle Bertany
Amour & Duane Carthy
Adam Corder
Barbara Anderson
Kerry Arias
Scott Baynton
Joseph Bell
James Bennett
Carl Abernathy
Bruce Ackley
Salpi Adrouny
Alpharetta Lions Club
Omar Altalib
Dave Altman
Ron Altman
Joel Alvis
American Legion Post 201
Alice & Dr. Richard Appen
Gaye Armstrong
Mary Asbury
Bangkok Boxing LLC
Shannon Banna
Beth Barnes
Janet Bass
Jannet Bauer
Barbara Bauschka
Kathy Beck
Laura Bentley
William Bentley
Leslie Berry
Tom Billings
Tochie Blan
Ron Boddicker
Jodi Bogen
Sherri Bolles-Rogers
Helen Borland
Debra Bowen
Joe Bowen
Ryan Brainard
Mark Brandus
Mel Brannen
Carol Bright
Linda Brill
Dorothy Brouhard
Erendira Brumley
Bernhard Burgener
Alvin Burrell
Mike & Theresa Buscher
Mary Busman
Clea Calloway
Kirk Canaday
James Carr
Bridgette Carter
William Cartwright
Robert Flint
Robin Fricton
Zachary Hahn
Allison January
Michael Kenig
Rita Brown
Mark Casas
David Conti
Theodore Davis III
Maureen Drumm
Sarah Carver
Frank Catroppa
Pat Check
Virginia Christman
Christopher Cleary
Ann Coaloa
Kim Coggins
Evelyn Collazo
Michael Mackenzie
Communications
Joan Compton
Carol Cookerly
Terri Coons
Rafik Cressaty
Rhonda Cude
Connie Cunningham
Christopher Cupit
David Davis
Duane DeBruler
Marilyn DeCusati
Rebecca Donlan
Tom Driscoll
Michael Dudgeon
Jeanette Dummer
DutchCrafters Amish Furniture
Thomas Edmonds
Mim Eisenberg
Danny Elkins
Su Ellis
Martha Fasse
Nell & Doug Fernandez
Lee Fleck
Cathy Flynn
Mary Ford
Nanci Foster
Amy Frederick
Kelly Frommer
Carol Fry
Tracey Ganesh
Daniel Gay
John Gibbs
John Gilberto
Leslie Gilliam
Bailey & Ryan Gladysz
Michelle Glotzbach
Harvey Goldberg
Roderick Liptrot
Bob Meyers
Claude Nardy
Cliff Oxford Ross & Lori Ramsey
Charlcie Forehand
Michael Gavin
Aileen Horton
Deborah Jackson
Ali Mahbod
Christopher Goodrich
Phyllis Goodrich
Ralph Griffin
Elaine Gwynn
Marilee Hamilton
Susan Hanna
Marion Hannah
Roxanne Hazen
Ashley Herd
Joe Hirsch
Penn Hodge
Dianne & Steffan Holmquist
Joan Hostetter
Austin Hughes
Lynn Johnson
Tyler Jones
Arthur Kebanli
Laura Keck
Mark Kelly
Nancy Kennell
Randall Kent
Carol Kerr
Allison Kloster
Dyna Kohler
Larry Krueger
Jess & Chris Kysar
Malinda Lackey
Dennis Lee
Ken Leffingwell
Carol Lehan
Bonnie Lind
Francia Lindon
Harlan Little
Ross Long
Kyser Lough
Rita Loventhal
Brenda Lundy
Rita Loventhal
Karen Magill
Kyile Marshall
Julie Martin
Carla Masecar
Valerie Matthews
William Maxwell
Rachel McCord
Austin McCully
Sarah Reiter
Mark Rundle
Lynn Thomas
Kim Truett
Roger Wise Jr.
Richard Matherly
Evan McElroy
Vickie McElroy
Patricia Miller
Anne Peer
Diane McDonald
Karen McEnerny
Lynn McIntyre
Mike McLoughlin
Jennifer Mendoza
Al Merrill
Chris Miller
Christine Miller
Joe Modica
Fred Moeller
Sarah Moen
Catherine Moore
Carol Morgan
Kathy Morgan
Stu Moring
Tracy Morton
Leslie Mullis
Donna Murphy
Jack Murphy
Cindy Nolan
Tricia Novarro
Bob O’Brien
Anne Pappas
Lynn Pennington
Jonathan Peters
Kurt & Leslie Phillips
Mary & Jan Phillips
Debra Powell
Joyce Provissiero
Chuck Pugh
Robert Radloff
Raj Rajagopalan
Ashwin Ramaswami
Cheryl Rand
Jean Rearick
Joseph Reed
Righteous PR
Neil Robertson
Kimberly Robinson
Matt Rohs
Kelly Sarmiento
Stephanie Schniederjan
The Schoenblum Family
Robert Scholz
Stephanie Schuette
Susan Searles
To join go to appenmedia.com/join and follow the prompts to select your membership level and select your t-shirt size! Questions? Email Hans Appen at hans@appenmedia.com or call 770-442-3278.
Robert Popp
Sergey Savin
Helen Scherrer
Kate Seng
Carol Williams
Tina Shelton
Lisa Shippel
Joanne Simmons
Tom Simon
Cindy Simpson
Robert Singleton
Faye Sklar
Judith Slaughter
Andy Smith
Marcia Smith
Gena Spears
Donald Spencer
Melissa Spencer
Gloria Stathos
Robert Stevens
Wesley Stewart
Cathryn Stovall
Celeste Strohl
Diana Sullivan
Andy Sumlin
Mike Tasos
Candice Teichert
The Small Business Advisor
William Tietjen
Lisa Tilt
Michael Townes
Matthew Tyser
Ollie Wagner
Kanyatta Walker
Lewis Walker
Jonathan Washburn
Michael Watson
Herbert Wells
Sally White
Thom White
Michael Weiss
Tony White
Umpika White
Susan Wilson
Jamie Wimberly
Nancy & Dave Wistrand
Jonathan Young
Scan QR code to join the Appen Press Club
PAT FOX Managing Editor pat@appenmedia.com
Early this year, I recounted an experience with my cardiologist in which I was made to wait nearly an hour beyond my appointment time to see the doctor.
It was a 25-mile drive, and I’d arrived 10 minutes early to unravel any snags in paperwork which had already been completed and verified online.
My frustration made the visit almost worthless. There is no medical device that adjusts to accurately record my vitals after I’ve endured a long wait. With limited time on earth, must we spend it reading Field and Stream on office furniture?
Airlines are required by law to report delays, and they are rated each year on their performance. Doctors are not.
There is no authoritative database anywhere that tracks a doctor’s
adherence to seeing patients on time. Healthcare surveys suggest some practices double-book appointments or slice visit times so thin that any in-depth consultation creates a glacial turnover rate in waiting rooms.
And it extends beyond that.
A 2022 study by Merritt Hawkins, a division of staffing firm AMN Healthcare, showed that simply scheduling an appointment with a doctor averages 26 days – up 8 percent from its last survey in 2017. The survey covered 15 major U.S. cities and included physicians in family medicine, dermatology, obstetrics/ gynecology, orthopedic surgery and cardiology.
A more recent study by the Consumer Choice Center reported the average wait for a GP appointment in the United States in 2023 was around 21 days. That’s 2 to 10 times longer than in many European countries.
So, I took my cardiologist’s advice from last year and booked a morning appointment for this year. It didn’t work – 40 minutes in the waiting
room, then, after a tech took my weight, blood pressure and heart rate, another 15 minutes of isolation in the examination room.
At that point, I walked out, went to the checkout and asked to see a different doctor. The receptionist was happy to comply, except I’d have to wait till January for an appointment.
A nurse standing nearby caught my attention. I turned to her and expressed my frustration, drawing on every ounce of civility left in my body.
And, immediately, we connected. It was not love. It was empathy. It was shared frustration. It was…OK, love – “filling the heart so full of radiance that it overflows upon the outward world.”
“For heaven’s sake,” I said, “if I have to spend all this time sitting around, the least you can do is give me an EKG while I’m waiting.”
“Come with me,” she said.
And so, I got an EKG. I never knew a patient could order an EKG. Who knew?
When the doctor finally entered,
he apologized profusely for my wait, looked at the EKG and declared my heart as strong as an ox. He then checked all the major veins and arteries for any blockages. He went over my medications and wrote an order for a heart CT scan.
He really is a nice guy, this cardiologist, and I always regret my impatience.
“Sorry for my attitude, but my wife has a doctor’s appointment in a couple of hours, and I didn’t want to be late for that,” I said. “I don’t want to lose you,”
“I promise you, I get here at 7 every morning,” he said. “And, it just gets away from you.”
This is a conundrum. Doctors are not lazy. They’re just stretched thin. My GP says he stays up until midnight most days filling out paperwork.
The Association of American Medical Colleges predicts the United States could face a shortage of up to 139,000 physicians by 2033. About half of those will be for primary care. Stay healthy, my friends.
Twice this year, I’ve reviewed books by Jonathan Santlofer.
I read a review of his second Luke Perrone suspense novel, “The Lost Van Gogh” and decided to begin with the first in the series, “The Last Mona Lisa.”
Both are intriguing mysteries that mix in art history and the modern world of art. The main character, Luke Perrone, is an art history professor and an artist who sets out to learn more about his French grandfather. The tale is based on the true story of the theft of the Mona Lisa by a Louvre museum guard in 1911, but the grandson and today’s art world are all fiction.
Next, I picked up the Van Gogh
mystery, described as “another thrilling story of masterpieces, masterminds, and mystery.” It was every bit as good as the first one, and I found myself hoping for a third Luke Perrone outing.
Imagine how surprised I was to get a message from Jonathan Santlofer himself thanking me for my review of his book. It’s not often that a bestselling author takes the time to personally thank a reviewer. He also said he’d look for my books. May I just say, wow? We messaged back and forth a few times, and I found out that he has started a third Luke Perrone book. When I indicated I planned to read some of his earlier books, he suggested “Anatomy of Fear,” and that’s the subject of this week’s review.
“Anatomy of Fear”
by Jonathan Santlofer
Written in 2007, this novel has nothing to do with art history or art theft. Instead,
the main character is a talented NYPD sketch artist who’s more comfortable with pencil and paper than he is with people.
When Nate Rodriguez is called in to sketch a killer who leaves behind a drawing of his victim at each crime scene, he also analyzes the killer’s artwork. Combining what he sees in the killer’s sketches with the details from a handful of witnesses, he goes beyond creating an image of the killer. He also develops insight into the killer’s mind, the mind of a fellow artist. What do the brushstrokes tell him? Why does the killer draw his victims?
What sets this book apart is the inclusion of sketches drawn by the author, who is also an artist. We see how Nate’s composite image of the killer evolves. We see the evolution of the killer’s drawings. It’s easy to see why “Anatomy of Fear” won the Nero Award for Best Novel. I admit I was hesitant to read this
book, as I long ago stopped reading novels focused on serial killers. Jeffrey Deaver was one of my favorites, but I gave him up along with all the others whose plots were just too dark for me. What can I say? Tastes change. And change again.
Yes, this book is about the hunt for a serial killer, but somehow, there’s more to it. Maybe it’s Nate’s back story and his relationship with his abuela. Whatever it is, I plan to get the second Nate Rodriguez book. Can you tell I’m a fan?
Happy reading!
Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her Dickens & Christie cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ KathyManosPennAuthor/.
RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus ray@appenmedia.com
I write a very long Christmas letter every yearlike typically 3000 words or so. Like for the past 45 years-ish. Mainly for family friends who at one point were interested in how Appens and Appen kids were doing. - But now most of those family friends - mostly my parent’s friend’s - have died so my list is down by half - at least.
Earlier this month I decided not to write one this year - maybe not again. So, maybe this end-of-year column can replace my Christmas letter - but 500 words instead of 3,000.
Lots of words about being thankful - grateful.
I am thankful for friends in their late 80’s - now sola - who are busy redoing their kitchen or signing up for physical therapy because she wants to improve her core. I am thankful both still play a mean game of Rummikub and get angry when they lose. I like their grit; they set good examples for all.
I think I will be thankful for those teachers at Alpharetta Elementary who were there when my now adult kids - Hans, Amelia, and Carl went there - and are now volunteering or substituting back at Alpharetta Elementary after all those years …. So now my grandchildren Phoebe, Leo, and Annie Moon get to know them too - something about continuity and people who simply care. Thank you and, while AE is on my mind, I miss Principal Jackie Littlefield, still. Why do the good die so young?
I think I want to say thank you for anyone and everyone who brings light
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
to other people’s lives - in any way. And an extra big hug to folks who have grace - like, any kind of grace. I am a huge fan of grace. I don’t have a bucket list but if I did, one of the top ones on the list would be to find more grace.
2024, hummm. It is a good year for re-programming your brain to find positive thoughts about something - like this year - that surely had a deficit of healthy positive activity / events - like working crossword puzzles or Wordle in order to improve your mind / memory. Finding positive stuff about 2024 - quite the brain tease / exercise. Come on Ray, you can do it.
Grandchildren - young ones at least - can make any year a good year; they made mine. Most children live in a state of grace - and spread it just by their presence alone. Same deal with pets - especially our dogs.
Taylor Swift - sure, I’ll find grace in Taylor. Not exactly sure why but I think it’s there.
Roger and Rafael - sure, both of them as well. Grace, class, integritylight in the darkness. Bravo for them.
All those neighbors and emergency folks who acted when the chips were down for all those who were in harm’s way from this year’s weather disasters. Hard to not see the grace in their actions - and in their hearts.
The light is there if one is able to tune out the distractions - the noisethe selfishness - the fear.
Family, friends, community. Family, friends, community. Maybe 2024 has taught us where to lookwhere to live more. Maybe a “bad” year has a silver lining, and we just need to focus and breath, and believe in each other more.
Maybe that’s it. I think I’ll go with that thought. How about you?
The City of Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council of Chambers of Dunwoody City Hall, located at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, Georgia 30338, for the purpose of due process of the following:
ZBA 24-22, 1727 Brandywine Court, Dunwoody, GA, 30338: Variance from Sec. 27-58 to allow a home addition to encroach into the rear setback. Should you have any questions or comments, or would like to view the application and supporting materials, please contact the City of Dunwoody Community Development Department at 678-382-6800. Members of the public are encouraged to call or schedule a meeting with the staff in advance of the Public Hearing if they have questions or are unfamiliar with the process. The staff is available to answer questions, discuss the decision-making process, and receive comments and concerns.
06/24/1936 – 12/09/2024
James Newton Hancock III, age 88, passed away on December 9, 2024, at his home in Dunwoody, GA. Newt, as he was known during his childhood, was born June 24, 1936, in Ocilla, GA to James Newton Hancock, Jr. and Louise Russell Hancock. He graduated from Irwin County High School in 1954 and Auburn University in 1959, where he was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity. During his junior year of college, he met the love of his life Carol Hogan of Massey, Alabama. They married on December 31, 1961. Jim, as he was known during his college and career years, started his
long career in the floor covering business working in Atlanta for R.A. Siegel Co., Vol T. Blacknall Co., Wellco, and Barrett Carpet. Jim was an active member of Dunwoody Baptist Church since 1975, where he taught Sunday School, served on various committees, and most recently served as President of the Young at Heart Council. Jim was preceded in death by his first son Kirk Hancock (Ruth). He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carol, his son Jay Hancock (Jody), and daughter Kristi Moore (Andy), six grandchildren, and four greatgrandchildren.
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.”
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
& Painting
Referrals • Free Estimate
25+ Years of
The Food Pantry Supervisor supports all aspects of the Food Pantry including inventory control, receiving products, client orders, supervising and managing volunteers, entering data and creating reports and supporting client intake. The Supervisor is the primary backup support to the Food Pantry Manager.
The Client Services Specialist (Part-time) serves as the first point of contact at NFCC, welcoming clients and managing the intake process. This role connects clients with NFCC’s programs and services while maintaining accurate records through data entry and application updates. The Specialist also keeps clients informed about program enhancements and available services.
The Supervisor must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Good interpersonal communications skills are required and MS Office (Excel) experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends, lift up to 42lbs, use a pallet jack, push and pull items, and be on your feet for several hours.
The Specialist must be proficient in Spanish and have the ability to work with a team in a professional manner within a fast paced environment. Microsoft office skills are required and Salesforce experience is a plus. Must have the ability to work evenings & weekends.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
