Sandy Springs Crier - June 29, 2023

Sandy Springs leaders approve 2024 budget

Perimeter area set to observe July 4 holiday

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

NORTH METRO ATLANTA — There are countless different ways to celebrate Independence Day in the Atlanta area, like backyard BBQs, pool parties, fireworks shows, fun runs and parades.

But if you’re looking for a truly great way to celebrate the nation’s 247th birthday, here are two fan-favorite July 4th events in the Perimeter area this year.

Stars and Stripes Fireworks

The City of Sandy Springs will light up the night sky over City Springs July 4 during the annual Stars and Stripes Fireworks Celebration.

Festivities will begin on the City Springs lawn in downtown Sandy Springs at 4 p.m., with music from the Platinum Band Atlanta starting at 7:30 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

“The turnout for this year’s events has been spectacular,” Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul said. “I’m thrilled to welcome the crowd back to City Springs to celebrate our nation’s 247th birthday under the stars.”

Food trucks will start serving at 6 p.m., but visitors can bring their own

See EVENTS, Page 7

‘System-wide failure’ creates water outage

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Thousands of homes in Sandy Springs were left without water for more than 24 hours last week after a water line breach caused low water pressure and water boil advisories throughout the entire city.

The City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management announced a water boil advisory for nearly all of

Sandy Springs at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 18, so a transmission main breach near Riverside Road and Don White Memorial Park could be investigated.

Watershed Management officials discovered the water transmission line that feeds Sandy Springs water from the City of Johns Creek was breached at a point under the Chattahoochee River, which required divers to fix.

Ultimately the water line was

repaired after an overnight lightning storm delay, and the advisory was lifted at 9 a.m. Tuesday, June 20.

Sampling conducted after the water line was fixed confirmed that there was no contamination of the system, water system officials said.

Speaking at the Sandy Springs City Council meeting June 20, Mayor Rusty Paul said city leaders were left flat-footed by this situation, which

See WATER, Page 4

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Sandy Springs officials said that thousands of homes in the city went without water for more than 24 hours after a breach in a main water transmission line was discovered under the Chattahoochee River near Don White Memorial Park.

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Sandy Springs Police Reports

Each week Appen Media requests police incident reports to inform residents about the safety of their community. Sandy Springs continues to withhold what it calls the “narrative reports.” It is the only city Appen Media covers that follows this practice, which goes against guidance from the Attorney General, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia Sheriff’s Association, Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia and Georgia Press Association. Appen Media will continue pursuing the release of more detailed documents

that belong to the public in order to inform residents how safe – or unsafe – their city is. Here are a few public safety items gleaned from reports that include limited details:

• On June 9 a Sandy Springs officer responded to a forgery incident at Roswell Road after a representative at the apartment complex said a resident turned in possibly fraudulent documentation to terminate her lease early without paying fees. The case was cleared by arrest on June 10.

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• On June 8 at a supermarket on Roswell Road, a Sandy Springs officer cited an owner for animal cruelty for leaving his dog in a vehicle unattended on a hot day.

• A Sandy Springs resident visited the police headquarters on June 6 to report that three bikes had been stolen off his screened back porch on Jefferson Drive sometime between June 2-3. The bikes are valued at $1,100. The case remains open.

Dunwoody officers cleared in 2022 Perimeter Center shooting

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Investigators have cleared two Dunwoody police officers of any wrongdoing from an officerinvolved shooting near Perimeter Mall in late 2022.

Dunwoody Police Sgt. Michael Cheek said June 20 that internal investigations by their department and the Sandy Springs Police Department have ruled Det. Jordan Laverty and Officer Eddie Estes were justified in using deadly force against an armed suspect on Dec. 8,

Doraville man arrested on drug, weapons charges

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police arrested a 22-year-old Doraville man June 14 after he was allegedly found in possession of narcotics, drug paraphernalia and a firearm during a traffic stop.

Reports said officers conducted a traffic stop on a black Chevy Cruze traveling northbound on Ashford Dun-

2022.

Prior to the shooting, officers were called to 124 Perimeter Center West at about 3 p.m., responding to a “trouble unknown call” and reported finding an armed suspect at the scene. The suspect allegedly pulled out a gun and pointed it at the officers, Cheek said at the time.

“The two officers on scene fired shots at the suspect and missed him,” he said. “Moments later, the offender was taken into custody without further incident.”

Neither the officers nor the suspect were injured in the shooting, but the

POLICE BLOTTER

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.

woody Road at about 2 a.m. after the vehicle was observed making several lane changes without using its turn signal.

During the traffic stop, officers alleg-

Dunwoody Police Department submitted the incident for independent review from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Sandy Springs Police Department.

Cheek said the GBI declined to investigate the incident because there were no injuries, but the Sandy Springs Police Department agreed to investigate.

“Their review was done concurrently with Dunwoody’s and resulted in the same findings,” Cheek said. “All documents have been forwarded to the Dekalb County DA’s Office for their review.”

edly smelled marijuana and were told there was “just a little bit of weed” inside the vehicle.

After the driver was detained and the vehicle was searched, officers seized 44.1 grams of marijuana from the vehicle along with a Glock pistol, multiple clear baggies, a scale and $500 in cash.

The driver was charged with possession of marijuana and weapon offenses and was transported to the DeKalb County Jail

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

The Sandy Springs City Council has approved a $141 million operating budget for fiscal year 2024, which begins July 1. Highlights include 12 new full-time staff positions, technology and equipment upgrades, park improvements and increased funding for local non-profit groups.

Sandy Springs officials pass ’24 spending plan

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — After weeks of meetings and public hearings, Sandy Springs officials have approved a budget of more than $141 million, which will guide city projects and expenses in the coming year.

In addition, the budget outlines another $300 million in transportation and capital spending.

City leaders unanimously approved the 2024 budget without any further discussion at a June 20 City Council meeting, following a final public hearing that passed with no comments from the community.

“There have been no changes in the proposed budget since our last meeting on June 6,” City Manager Eden Freeman said.

The 2024 budget calls for an increase in spending of $5 million – or 4 percent – more in day-to-day operations. The general fund budget of $141 million pays for items like salaries and utilities. The budget also anticipates revenues to increase by $8.8 million.

Highlights of the 2024 budget include 12 new full-time staff positions, technology and equipment upgrades for the Police Department and Fire Department, upgrades to city parks and the Perform-

ing Arts Center, and increased funding for local non-profit groups.

These projects and initiatives were based on a series of priorities relating to resident satisfaction and safety that the City Council adopted at its annual retreat in January.

As part of the 2024 budget, Sandy Springs will give all city employees a 6 percent cost of living raise and will absorb an expected 11 percent increase in health insurance premiums.

“We believe very strongly in being the highest paid in the region so that we can continue to attract and retain the highest quality talent to serve our community,” Freeman said.

In addition to the city’s general operation fund, city leaders have approved $221.5 million in spending through the county transportation sales tax and $74 million in spending from the 2024 capital improvement budget.

Some of the big-ticket capital projects include $1.2 million for intersection improvement at Lake Forrest Drive and Allen Road, $1.5 million for improvements at the Morgan Falls Athletic Complex and $1.4 million for enhancements to the Abernathy Greenway.

Prior to the first public hearing, city leaders announced the 2024 budget will be based on a millage rate of 4.731 mills.

A Place for ALL Jews

Continued from Page 1

turned into a city-wide “water crisis,” due to a breakdown in communication between Atlanta officials, Sandy Springs officials and members of the public.

“I do want to apologize to our community,” Paul said. “We generally are pretty good at communicating during emergencies and I think we did okay at communicating but we didn't live up to our normal standards.”

Following this incident, Sandy Springs elected leaders met with city staff and Atlanta representatives to assess where things went wrong and how problems can be resolved better in the future.

“Tragically, this is the second time in about the last decade, where we had a system-wide failure that affected virtually all of the city,” Paul said.

At the city’s annual retreat held in January, Sandy Springs officials said that improving local water reliability would be one of their top priorities for 2023.

City Attorney Dan Lee said that since the city’s inception in 2005, it has purchased its water from the City of Atlanta, using various systems built by different developers over the years, including some installed when Sandy Springs was part of unincorporated Fulton County.

“When developers wanted to leave Atlanta and go to unincorporated Fulton County, Fulton County would not provide water, so Atlanta was the only source,” Lee said. “To their credit, they allowed developers to build out their system and turn it over to the city.”

This mish-mash infrastructure of the city’s water system has caused countless headaches, Lee said. Without intervention, the city could face massive problems.

But until now, Lee said officials in Atlanta and Fulton County have been unwilling to take up the city’s concerns about water delivery, leading to multiple lawsuits, arbitration and appeals to the Georgia Supreme Court.

“We've prevailed on all five actions to get to the point of letting our experts go examine the system of Atlanta,” he said.

That examination produced a 1,100-page report on the water system, showing Sandy Spring’s water actually comes from the City of Johns Creek and the system needs roughly $50 million in immediate repairs.

“There has been no real improvement to the water system in 50 years,” he said.

But under Atlanta Mayor Andre

Dickens, Lee said Atlanta officials have been open to new negotiations over the city’s water contract, and Sandy Springs leaders believe a positive resolution is on the horizon in the next year.

Paul said after meeting with Dickens on Tuesday, they feel as if they have reached a better understanding of how to communicate in the case of a water emergency.

“I also want to thank the mayor of Atlanta. The city manager and I went

down and met with Mayor Dickens today, within 48 hours after the event to sit down and do some Monday morning quarterbacking,” he said. “So, if something like this happens again, we know who to call and they know who to call.”

In the future, Paul said that city residents should make sure they are signed up for Sandy Springs emergency alerts, which can be found by visiting sandyspringsga.gov/sandysprings-alerts.

Nearly all of Sandy Springs was under a water boil advisory for more than 24 hours June 18, as representatives with the Atlanta Department of Watershed Management repaired the main transmission line feeding water to the city.

“Tragically, this is the second time in about the last decade, where we had a system-wide failure that affected virtually all of the city.”

RUSTY PAUL Sandy Springs Mayor

Wildcat Park: Site on Roberts Drive get official name

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody officials have officially named a park space on Roberts Drive “Wildcat Park” after several months of public discussion.

The Dunwoody City Council approved the new park name at its June meeting in a 6-1 vote, with Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch opposed.

During a presentation prior to the vote, council members learned the city generated a list of eight possible names for the park on Roberts Drive, which until now has been referred to as “Roberts Drive Park.”

The city’s master plan shows that officials expect to spend nearly $10.5 million to develop the 12-acre park on the site of the former Austin Elementary School which was demolished in 2020. The funding is contingent on whether residents pass a $60 million parks bond this November.

Dunwoody acquired the property from the DeKalb County School District in 2016 in a land swap deal which traded land near the Dunwoody Nature Center, now used for the new Austin Elementary School on Roberts Drive for the former school grounds.

Village Crossing Park and Wildcat Park were the two top names selected by both

Dunwoody leaders and the public, Recreation and Parks Director Brent Walker said. However, the City Council also considered the name “Promenade Park” which was submitted by Post 6 Councilman John Heneghan.

Wildcat Park, named for Wildcat

Creek, which runs near the area, was ultimately approved but caused a serious discussion about how the city names its parks.

The park naming was initially expected at a meeting in May but was postponed after several possible names were shot

CITY OF DUNWOODY/PROVIDED

down over various concerns.

Once completed, the park would include a multi-use sports field, two tennis courts, four pickleball courts, a 50-foot splash pad, an ADA/Sensory playground, basketball courts, public art and nature trails.

A map provided by the City of Dunwoody shows how local officials intend to upgrade and expand the newly dubbed “Wildcat Park” on Roberts Drive in Dunwoody. Improvements will be completed using funding from the proposed 2023 Dunwoody Parks Bond.

Experiencing warmth in the midst of a deluge

I met the nicest people at the new Marriott Perimeter.

Here's what happened.

On Wednesday, June 14, I had my annual cardiologist checkup at St. Joseph's Hospital. As my car is in the shop, I took UBER to the appointment. When we finished, the weather was so comfortable I decided to walk over to Perimeter Mall which was only about ¾ mile from St. Joseph's.

Bad mistake! I walked to Lake Hearn Dr. with intentions of crossing the new bridge leading to the State Farm buildings. About halfway across the bridge, rain started and within seconds it was a deluge that only Noah would have appreciated. I had no arc, no umbrella, no cap, no cover..., and, no choice but to keep walking.

I walked into the new Marriott Perimeter Motel behind State Farm's building with not one dry spot on my body, and that's when an Angel came from behind the reception desk, looked at me and said "I'll get you a towel, which she quickly did. Rain still dripping from fingers and off my nose,

Events:

Continued from Page 1

food or purchase food from nearby restaurants. Alcohol will be permitted during the event, but only if purchased from on-site vendors.

Tents and personal speakers will not be permitted at the event, officials said.

For more information about the celebration, where to park, road closures and recommended viewing areas, visit citysprings.com/starsandstripes.

Dunwoody July 4th Parade

Beginning at 9 a.m., Tuesday, July 4, scores of floats, marching bands, clowns and antique cars will parade through Dunwoody during the Dunwoody Homeowners Association’s annual July 4th Parade.

This year, the parade will honor Dunwoody High School’s 50th anniversary with the theme, “50 years of Wildcat Pride, celebrating Dunwoody High School’s past,

TALK BACK

The Crier wants to hear from residents. Send your thoughts, notes and announcements to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

she offered not only a towel, but also hot coffee or tea while leading me to their dining area.

Two cups of hot coffee helped warm me and they refused to let me pay for anything even after I explained that I was not a hotel guest. Hopefully, a generous tip for my waitress helped show how much appreciated the Marriott's ultra warm hospitality.

I called for an UBER to go home and after a hot shower told my wife that "I met the nicest people at the new Perimeter Marriott today." Now I'm saying "thank you" to them and telling everyone in Dunwoody.

Clark Glenn Dunwoody, GA

present and future.”

Along with the floats, marching bands and other performers, people should expect to see a “less commercialized” side of the event, with students riding bikes, teams from the high school, and more of a “neighborhood feel,” event co-Chair Matt Webber said at an HOA meeting in February.

“Hopefully we're going to be able to bring a lot of the high school into the parade,” he said. “That's one thing we're really trying to do to make it younger.”

Webber and event co-Chair

Penny Forman also announced Dunwoody High School Principal “Coach” Tom Bass and teacher Steve Fortenberry will serve as grand marshals.

The parade will start at Jett Ferry and Mt Vernon roads and will continue down Mt Vernon to Dunwoody Village.

More information about the parade and its route will be released through the Dunwoody Homeowners Association website, dunwoodyga.org.

SUNDOWN SOCIAL: CELEBRATING LATIN AMERICA

What: Happening on select Thursdays, Sundown Social is a relaxed neighborhood gathering with live music and signature cocktails. This event will feature Mauricio Amaya, a multiinstrumentalist that plays folk and traditional music from Latin America. There will also be food trucks.

When: Thursday, June 29, 5:30 p.m.

Where: City Green, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

PRIDE MEET AND GREET WITH THE TELETUBBIES

What: The Teletubbies are coming from over the hills and far away to visit. You can give the colorful quartet a big hug, dance and snap a photo. Tickets grant you access to a 30-minute Pride celebration.

When: Friday, June 30, 3-5:30 p.m.

Where: Camp, 4551 Olde Perimeter Parkway, Dunwoody

Cost: $10

More info: camp.com

SUMMER PUPPET SERIES: FRISCH’ MARIONETTES’ WIZARD OF OZ

What: Adapted from the classic children’s novel into a musical featuring expertly hand-carved puppets and custom costumes, this show celebrates America’s rich musical heritage. Travel down the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy and find out why Lion, Tinman and Strawman are all singing the Blues.

When: Until July 1, times vary

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell

Cost: $7

More info: roswellgov.com

MILTON FARMERS MARKET

What: Every Saturday morning until Oct. 28, more than 30 vendors set up shop around Milton City Hall with fresh produce, fresh meat, sweets, coffee and tea, flowers, soaps, jewelry and more.

When: Saturday, July 1, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Where: Milton City Hall plaza, 2006 Heritage Walk, Milton More info: facebook.com/ miltongafarmersmarket

DUNWOODY FOURTH OF JULY PARADE AND FESTIVAL

What: The Dunwoody Homeowners Association and the Dunwoody Reporter newspaper will host the annual Fourth of July Parade featuring marching bands, floats, clowns, animal units and local celebrities. This year’s theme is “50 years of Wildcat Pride,” celebrating Dunwoody High School’s past, present and future. The grand marshals will be Principal “Coach” Tom Bass and Steve Fortenberry. When: July 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Mount Vernon Road and Dunwoody Village, Dunwoody

More info: dunwoodyga.org

INDEPENDENCE DAY WALKING PARADE

What: The Walking Parade has become one of Milton’s most beloved traditions. Find your most festive red, white and blue, and dress up you and your kids, your wagons, bikes and even leashed pets to walk or ride along in the parade. Before and after the parade, which starts at 11 a.m., people and pets can earn prizes for their patriotic attire and decorations as well as participate in a host of family-friendly activities, savor some treats and more.

When: Saturday, July 1, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Broadwell Pavilion, 12615 Broadwell Road, Milton

More info: miltonga.gov

JOHNS CREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

What: Celebrate the country’s independence with live music, activities, food and a fireworks display. Fireworks will begin after sunset. Lawn chairs and blankets are allowed. No pets, tents or personal fireworks.

When: Monday, July 3, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Newtown Park, 3150 Old

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Alabama Road, Johns Creek

More info: johnscreekga.gov

DUNWOODY FOURTH OF JULY PARADE AND FESTIVAL

What: The Dunwoody Homeowners Association and the Dunwoody Reporter newspaper will host the annual Fourth of July Parade featuring marching bands, floats, clowns, animal units and local celebrities. This year’s theme is “50 years of Wildcat Pride,” celebrating Dunwoody High School’s past, present and future. The grand marshals will be Principal “Coach” Tom Bass and Steve Fortenberry.

When: July 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Mount Vernon Road and Dunwoody Village, Dunwoody

More info: dunwoodyga.org

ROSWELL JULY 4 CELEBRATION

What: The City of Roswell will light up the skies on July 4 and include live music, other entertainment and food trucks. Bring your chairs and blankets to spread out at one of several fireworks viewing areas throughout the park. Fireworks will start at sunset.

When: Tuesday, July 4, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Roswell Area Park, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell

More info: roswell365.com

STARS AND STRIPES: JULY 4

FIREWORKS CELEBRATION

What: The annual Sandy Springs July 4 fireworks display will have food trucks and music. Blankets, lawn chairs and umbrellas are allowed and can be set up after 4 p.m. No outside tables, tents, personal sparklers or pets.

When: Tuesday, July 4, 6 p.m.

Where: City Green, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

JULY 4 FIREWORKS IN ALPHARETTA

What: Celebrate the country with the family under the stars watching a display of fireworks at dusk. Fireworks will begin at around 9:30 p.m. If there is a weather delay, the latest start-of-show will be 10:40 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring a blanket, picnic and games for a memorable evening together.

When: Tuesday, July 4, 9:30 p.m.

Where: Wills Park, 11925 Wills Road, Alpharetta

More info: alpharetta.ga.us

A pair of mysteries by Elly Griffiths

I stumbled across British author Elly Griffiths years ago and read quite a few of her Ruth Galloway books. Ruth is a forensic archaeologist who teaches and works on digs around England, some locally and some a bit farther afield. Why I haven’t kept up with the series is a mystery to me as I never fail to enjoy them.

The first book, “The Crossing Places,” won the Mary Higgins Clark Award, and there are 14 more to read after that. As I started this column, I googled the author and found her words on how she came up with the idea for that first mystery.

“We were on holiday in Norfolk, walking across Titchwell Marsh, when [my husband] mentioned that prehistoric man had thought that marshland was sacred. Because it’s neither land nor sea, but something in-between, they saw it as a kind of bridge to the afterlife … As he said those words, the entire plot of ‘The Crossing Places’ appeared, full formed, in my head and, walking towards me out of the mist, I saw Dr. Ruth Galloway.”

I admit, I’m now waiting for the plot of my next book to spring fully formed from my head. I suspect I’ll be waiting quite a while for that miracle. Meanwhile, I’ll continue to read Griffiths works, both her series and her standalone novels. I’ve read one of each in the past month.

“A Dying Fall”

In Book V, Ruth Galloway travels to Lancashire to investigate the find of an old university friend. He died shortly after writing her about his discovery.

I couldn’t put this one down because it concerns Arthurian legend. I always get hooked on books about the legendary king. Who knew that the Raven King was an ancient name for King Arthur? Given how many books I’ve read about him, I was surprised and delighted to learn something new.

Did Ruth’s friend find the remains of King Arthur? What happened to the bones he unearthed? As is the case in any good series, the relationships among the ongoing cast of characters are as important as the mystery.

Ruth is a single mother who’s trying to juggle a new romantic relationship, the presence of her little girl’s father, and her job.

If you haven’t read the series, I suggest you start with Book I so you can more easily follow the ups and downs of Ruth’s personal and professional life.

“Bleeding

Heart Yard”

The main character in this book, billed as a thriller, is DI Harbinder Kaur. She has appeared in two previous Elly Griffiths books, though the three are not described as a series. Still, it’s interesting to follow Harbinder’s career progression from a post in Shoreham to a position as a DI in the Criminal Investigation Department of the Metropolitan Police. For the first time, she has a team to manage, and she’s only just arrived in London when she has a murder to investigate—a highprofile murder of an MP.

This one kept me guessing. The murder takes place at a school reunion, and another death, one that happened nearly 20 years ago, keeps coming up. At the time, it was deemed a drug-related suicide, and the friends of that earlier victim are still haunted by it. When Harbinder arrives on the scene, she finds that her detective sergeant, Cassie Fitzgerald is one of the attendees. Is that a pro or a con? Will Cassie help the investigation or hinder it?

The deceased MP and Cassie Fitzgerald are both part of a group of close-knit friends, or at least they were close when the first death occurred. The relationships have shifted over 20 years. In alternating chapters, Harbinder, Cassie, and Anna — another classmate — share the narrative. The shifting perspectives set up a well-plotted whodunit with plenty of red herrings.

“Bleeding Heart Yard” is an Amazon Editor’s Pick, and I can see why. I’m hoping the author has another Harbinder Kaur book planned. Until then, I’ll continue with the next Ruth Galloway tale.

Note: Are you in a book club? Would you like to have a local author speak to your group? Contact me to arrange a date! inkpenn119@gmail.com

Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries locally at The Enchanted Forest in Dunwoody and Bookmiser in East Cobb or on Amazon. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www. facebook.com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.

THE INVESTMENT COACH

The real challenges in finding purpose

On radio and television you constantly hear ads about planning for a well-funded retirement. Suppose with the help of a financial advisor, and/or through pluck and true grit, you do it. You wake up on Day One of your next 10 years in retirement (whatever that is), and you, and the one you love, if a couple is involved, have all the money you ever needed, more than enough to do whatever you want. What would you do?

A longtime friend, prolific author, speaker, and trainer, Mitch Anthony, author of “The New Retirementality” and other books on both the meaningful and destructive uses of money, has said that in retirement you need enough money to sleep soundly at night, but you also need a purpose to wake up to in the morning. Lack of purpose is destructive. So, what is purpose?

Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881), British statesman, Scottish essayist, historian and philosopher, wrote, “A man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder ─ a waif, a nothing, a no man. Have a purpose in life, and having it, throw such strength of mind and muscle into your work as God has given you.” Substitute woman or person for “man” if you wish, but you get the point. Life without purpose leaves one adrift.

Life expectancy in England in the 1800s was approximately 40 years, which included high numbers of infant deaths. Life was hard and most people did not contemplate retirement as we know it today. They worked until they dropped. Very few lived into their 50s, let alone their 80s as Carlyle did. In the long history of mankind’s struggles, that you have the option of contemplating longevity, and actualizing a wellfunded retirement, is a gift from your Creator. And He has a plan for overcoming boredom, a by-product of retirement.

Boredom is the downside of hav -

ing ample time on your hands sans a plan to use it well with energy-bolstering purpose.

When a person is asked what retirement looks like to them, most answer with a laundry list of activities...travel, play more golf, fish or hunt, spend time with children and grandchildren, move to a retirement community, etc. These are activities, what a friend called “excessive leisure.” After sleeping, eating, grooming, and taking care of other daily necessities, over the average day you will have about 14 hours to fill, 5,110 hours in a year, 153,300 hours over a potential 30-year retirement. Beyond the activities listed above, which are fine but cannot be done to excess, what are you going to do to bring meaning and purpose into your life outside of “busy work?” What happens if you wake up morning after morning with ample money but no purpose? Boredom, loss of energy, physical and mental deterioration, restlessness, destructive behavior, drinking to excess, filing for divorce in search of something new, are potential results, but not positive outcomes!

Lots of things go into having a sense of purpose. Being useful and appreciated, perseverance, for example. Another British statesman, Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881), opined, “The secret to success is constancy of purpose.” The apostle Paul was verbally abused, stoned, beaten and driven away by skeptics and disbelievers, but he persisted in his mission aided by the Holy Spirit. Hardship and resistance often brings greater resolve to a purpose-fueled quest. Tenacity is a sign of dedication and purpose.

The “Baltimore Catechism” was published in 1885 as a compendium of Christian doctrine, posing a series of questions and answers. Question 1 affirmed that God made the world. Question 6 dealt with our purpose on earth, asking, “Why did God make you?” The answer: “God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him, and to be happy with Him for ever in Heaven.”

That explains the purpose God had in mind for us when we were given the gift of life. Jesus gave us

See WALKER, Page 10

KATHY MANOS PENN Columnist

LEWIS J. WALKER, CFP Columnist The Investment Coach

A day in the life outside the shell we call home

I always am surprised when I go “out” and end up meeting people. My default is to not be that social, probably to the point of being at a minimum an introvert if not downright anti-social. Yet, almost without fail, when I step outside of my default, I end up being pleasantly surprised.

RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus

So, my wife (Christina) is in Ohio helping her mom move out of the family house of the last 60 years or so into a more appropriate housing – no steps, easy to maintain, social atmosphere. I am here holding down the fort. The “fort” yesterday consisted of taking care of our three grandchildren for much of the day. Their other grandparent handed them off to me around 3 p.m. So, at that point it is me and three kids 8 and under. They are good kids, but their behavior is best when they are actively engaged in something. That is the rub, as we have not so long attention spans and we tend to compete and often that ends up – well, let’s say, “challenging.” We started out at my house with snacks. They weren’t hungry so I was 0 for 1 at that point. From home, we decided to go to Wills Park tennis courts and become “engaged.” Our 8-year-old granddaughter is quite good at tennis. She takes lessons and is one of the most athletic/coordinated kids I know. However, Leo, the middle sibling and Annie our youngest don’t play tennis at all. My plan was to let Phoebe hit against the backboard while I attempted to “play tennis” on the adjacent court with Leo and Annie, maybe turn it into a play catch, or miniature pickle ball, or something. It was hot, humid, and they didn’t last long. Yes, Phoebe wanted to keep hitting against the backboard, but

Continued from Page 9

two great commandments that underpin purpose. The first was, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” The second was to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Matthew 22:37-39).

Folks who are not religious certainly can find purpose and meaning in life. For all of us, God’s commandments about loving and selfless giving can aid us in our quest for purpose.

I lost the other two big time. Zero for 2. On to Wacky World, the giant playground adjacent to the tennis courts. We swung, looked for our name on the slats that surround the facility and quickly began to get bored. Then, out of the blue, the three of them decided to play hide and seek at the playground. Hello! I sat and watched, ultimately for well over an hour. I sat down on a bench next to a woman probably about my age who obviously was there for the same reason I was – to watch the grandchildren. We compared notes. She was down from Michigan to see her adult children. We talked about Alpharetta, the humidity, City Center and life in general. It turned out that we take the grandchildren to the same parks – the one on Cogburn Road and the one on Crabapple Road across the street from the Alpharetta traffic ticket courthouse place. I shared with her one of my very favorite places in all of Alpharetta which happened to be in the area that she traveled. The favorite place is the “fairy park” immediately adjacent (on the south side) to the Milton Library on Charlotte Drive and Mayfield.

Volunteers have turned a small patch of land with trees, bushes and little trails into a wonderland filled with gnomes, gnome houses, fairies, trolls, benches and more. We often can easily spend an hour or so exploring the fairy park and never once get bored. In fact, the kids usually protest and don’t want to leave. The lady on the bench thanked me and said that she would take her grandkids to look for the fairies.

A short time later, as I continued to watch from the bench, a mom came up and introduced herself and started a conversation. She shared with me that they had recently moved to Alpharetta –I guessed from Europe – and that they had just enrolled their kids in Fulton Science Academy (FSA, a local private

All around us are worthy charities that can benefit from your skills as a volunteer. Financial donations are welcome, but personal involvement will further bolster your sense of satisfaction and purpose. At a recent conference, this writer was asked what my guiding purpose was. “My purpose,” I said, “is to get to Heaven and take as many people with me as I can.” Supporting charities that do God’s work on earth is part of my mission.

An unknown author noted, “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote

STEM school that my youngest son Carl attended during middle school. FSA holds a special place in my heart. The mom and I – and a short while later her husband too – ended up talking about the school for some time. I shared that Christina and I traveled with FSA teachers, many of whom are Turkish, way back when for two weeks to Turkey, sort of like a field trip but across the ocean.

The school used to take both parents as well as kids on the trip the first of each summer but no longer since the current President Tayyip Erdogan (who was just now reelected to a third term) essentially banned or imprisoned a large percentage of the country’s teachers. I thanked them for our conversation when they left.

“Lets stay in touch,” the husband said. I replied that I was sure we would see each other again at Wacky World. I gave them my card and asked them to give Dr. Sener (headmaster/principal at FSA) my regards when they ran into him at FSA.

The kids continued their hide and seek. I noticed that our youngest, Annie Moon, had found a friend who was playing hide and seek with her. They both walked up to me, and Annie held out a length of thread that she said her friend had given her to tie around her finger as a ring. As I tried to tie the small thread around her finger, the father – Ross – of Annie’s new friend walked up and introduced himself. He was there with his young daughter and son.

As with the Turkish couple, Ross and I talked while we watched. We had common interests including “food” – or more accurately, the status of our sustainable or not sustainable food supply. We talked about health care. I am not sure, but I think he was either South African or lived some years in South Africa where health care is so different than in the States -universal and cheap/affordable.

He ended up sharing with me a pod-

every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” In addition to outreach efforts sponsored by houses of worship, we are blessed with charities in our community that provide essential services such as Atlanta Mission, Atlanta Community Food Bank, The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Habitat for Humanity, North Fulton Community Charities, no-kill animal shelters and pet rescue, and so on.

Countless testimonials from volunteers attest to the power of God’s grace and the energy one receives from service. Giving, whether time and/or money, feels good. Loving

cast that he recently listened to about our food supply (On YouTube search for “Peter Zeihan the shocking truth about global fertilizer”) and it should take you to his YouTube lecture. I ordered one of his books last night so I could learn more.

I shared with Ross an online lecture my daughter sent me which, after listening to it, finally made me understand this whole “organic” thing. I used to think that “organic” was just some sort of treehugger or marketing thing to get you to spend more. I don’t think that anymore. Basically, you really don’t want to eat nonorganic food unless you want to deal with the tragic/toxic consequences of ingesting food grown via the use of ultra-toxic herbicides – Roundup being the big one – or pesticides. I am now willing to pay extra to avoid that stuff; it makes sense to me now.

If you google “John Kempf embracing the connection between agriculture and health,” you should get a link to his regenerative agriculture podcast.

Ross and I exchanged contacts and I think if at least one of us takes the initiative, we will have more conversations in the future.

So, why don’t I go “outside” more? Go figure. I am missing so much.

*The use of Roundup is currently the focus of literally thousands of lawsuits. According to Forbes, “Monsanto (the owner of Roundup) has settled over 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, paying out about $11 billion as of May 2022. There are still 30,000 lawsuits pending…”

Many government institutions - such as city recreation departments - still use large quantities of Roundup to maintain grounds, sports fields, playgrounds (where thousands of children play and recreate) - and greenways adjacent to water sources likes creeks and rivers even though Roundup has repeatedly been associated with many forms of cancer.

one’s neighbor as oneself as Our Lord commanded is a proven antidote to boredom, listlessness, and a nagging lack of purpose, all silent killers of the spirit. Worthy causes are all around you. They need you!

Lewis Walker, CFP®, is a life centered financial planning strategist with Capital Insight Group (CIG); 770-4413553; lewis@capitalinsightgrp.com. Securities & advisory services offered through The Strategic Financial Alliance, Inc. (SFA), which is otherwise unaffiliated with CIG. Lewis a Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA).

Always helpful and kind, that was Ken Anderson

Soon after I began writing Past Tense for the Dunwoody Crier in 2006, I learned about Ken Anderson.

Local historian and co-founder of Dunwoody Preservation Trust Lynne Byrd told me that Ken had lived in Dunwoody his entire life and was happy to share his memories.

He enthusiastically shared memories and stories of the families he descended from. There was the Anderson and Carpenter families, but his ancestors also married into the Spruill, Eison (or Eidson), Donaldson and Copeland families.

I could always call Ken and ask what he knew about any subject. He helped me with articles, my “Images of America: Dunwoody” book and any other project on my list. Many of the photographs in the book were provided by Ken Anderson. He also told the history behind each photograph.

I remember asking him if he would come to the DPT History Booth several years ago to share his memories with visitors of Lemonade Days. He not only spent time in the booth, but he also brought old photographs of the original Dunwoody School. His sisters Carolyn Anderson Parker and Jane Anderson Autry also joined us one year in the booth. Visitors to the booth enjoyed hearing about early Dunwoody from those who grew up in the community.

The roots of Ken Anderson’s family in Dunwoody go back to the first half of the 19th century. Many stories were passed down through the family. There was the story of the day Union soldiers showed up on the family farm looking for food. Susan Carpenter gathered meat from a pot in her apron only to be told by the soldiers that she could put it back. They were not going to take food from her children.

Calhoun and Effie Mae Spruill Carpenter sold eggs, butter, vegetables,and peaches from the farm on a two-horse wagon they drove to Atlanta.

Ken’s mother told of the old Dunwoody Depot being placed on logs and rolled up the road to become a store and post office on the southwest corner of Chamblee Dunwoody and Mount Vernon Roads.

In 1958, Ken married Alvilene Price, whose family had moved to Dunwoody when she was a child. Both Ken and Alvi, as she is called, attended Dunwoody School.

Ken worked at General Motors for

28 years. While still working at GM, he began working part-time at Dunwoody Baptist Church. Later he became Director of Operations at the church, staying for 40 years until retirement in 2016.

For a few years, Ken was in his director role, and I taught preschool. It was nice to be able to stop by his office after the preschool day ended to talk history.

On June 15, 2023, I attended the memorial service for Ken and heard many more stories of the kind and compassionate man that he was. He was always helping others, both family and friends. As a lifelong member of Dunwoody Baptist Church who was also always there as a volunteer or an employee, Ken was usually making sure things ran smoothly during the services. He helped wherever he was needed, including changing a flat tire in the church parking lot.

Many memories were shared at the service, but the one that seems to sum up Ken Anderson is “He would give you the shirt off his back.”

December 12 was proclaimed Ken Anderson Day by Denis Shortal and the Dunwoody City Council in 2016. He was recognized for his “selfless service to the ministry of Dunwoody Baptist Church, his contributions to our community, and the inspiration he has provided to his colleagues, friends, and family.”

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

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Anderson was born in 1937, living all his life in Dunwoody.

Ken and Alvilene Price Anderson on their wedding day in 1958.

Fungus among us – the history and benefits of mushrooms

This week’s column is about mushrooms whose history as food goes back at least 7,000 or 8,000 years. Before we get into history, we should define what mushrooms are and are not.

Mushrooms are not plants, because plants need sunlight and carbon dioxide to synthesize their food. Mushrooms rely only on organic matter. Unlike plants, they do not produce chlorophyll (a green pigment that helps plants create their own food,) but they are high in nutrients. They live off dead and decaying matter, such as wood and leaves.

In addition to numerous kinds of edible mushrooms, there are thousands of species of other fungi including types of molds, mildews, yeasts, rusts and toadstools (poisonous mushrooms).

No one knows who ate the first edible mushroom, but it must have been thousands of years ago. Egyptian Pharaohs ate mushrooms, and for centuries mushroom consumption was limited to the wealthy. Louis XIV’s reign in the 17th century marked the start of cultivation and marketing of mushrooms. French gardeners grew mushrooms in caves, which provided a perfect environment. In the United States, mushroom farming became popular in the early 20th century. The first commercial mushroom farm in the U.S. was established in 1896 in Pennsylvania which today continues to be the leading producer of mushrooms in the U.S. In the 1920s waves of European immigrants brought with them knowledge of mushroom cultivation. New technologies and techniques, such as climate-controlled growing environments, revolutionized the industry and allowed for year-round cultivation. The resulting increase in production and lowered costs led to today’s widespread availability of mushrooms in supermarkets and restaurants.

Mushroom farming is big business today. World production of cultivated mushrooms is about 4 million tons a year. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that in 2021-2022, the U.S. sales by growers were $1.02 billion. The market research firm Market Data Forecast puts the global mushroom market size at $50.3 billion in 2021 driven by growing demand for healthy, low-calorie diets. One cup of raw mushrooms contains just 15

calories, 2.2g of protein, 2.3g of carbohydrates, and 0.2g of fat and lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

There are some large mushroom farms in Georgia and many smallscale farmers. An example of the latter is Jeff Dufresne who started growing mushrooms on his property in Milton just two years ago, satisfying a lifelong love of the edible fungi. Jeff grows Shiitake, Oyster and Lion’s Mane varieties, while his wife Josephine enjoys experimenting with mushroom recipes.

Dufresne says “Shiitake mushrooms have a rich meaty flavor and are great for soups, pasta and stews. Their proven medicinal benefits include helping to control blood pressure and cholesterol. Oyster mushrooms,” according to Jeff, “have a mild taste, silky textures, and are great with seafood, chicken or pork. They can be cooked or served raw in salads, and they help strengthen the immune system. Lion’s Mane are sweet and succulent, soft and chewy with a shellfish flavor. They help fight dementia and memory loss.”

Jeff lists several benefits of mushrooms beyond their culinary rewards. They can be a natural pesticide, can help clean up land oil spills and make good packing material being used by

companies such as IKEA. Research is being conducted on mushrooms as insulation and eventually as replacement for concrete blocks and bricks.

Jeff’s 4-acre farm is named “Pax Domus,” or House of Peace. Jeff cultivates mushrooms outdoors on hardwood logs and indoors in plastic bags which provide a more sterile environment and better control of temperature, humidity and light. Jeff, who is president of the Milton Historical Society, is happy to share his knowledge with anyone contemplating growing mushrooms. Contact him at Jeff@PaxDomusFarm.com.

According to Dr. Michael Yeh, medical toxicologist with Emory University, care must be taken when consuming mushrooms. Most varieties found in the wild are not edible. Many species are irritating to the gastrointestinal tract and can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Some mushrooms can cause severe organ damage such as liver or kidney failure, damage to muscles, and even seizures.

Most people do not realize, Yeh says, but even edible mushrooms should not be eaten raw with the exception of the familiar white button variety which make up about 90 percent of the mushrooms consumed in the United States, or the cremini

(brown button), both of which are found in local supermarkets. Fortunately, commercially available mushrooms are grown by knowledgeable mushroom farmers. There are five major mushroom growing companies in Georgia.

This is where the Mushroom Club of Georgia enters the picture. Sam Landes, treasurer of the club, describes it as an educational, scientific, outdoor social group with monthly meetings via Zoom. From March through November, the club organizes two walks per month in the metro area for its members where they learn to identify, collect and study edible and non-edible wild mushrooms. The combination of the pandemic and a short film has led to an explosion of new members, now totaling about 500. The film, “Here’s to Us,” can be seen at www.mychinet.com/ideas/allof-us/mushroom-club/. For information about the club, contact Sam at treasurer@gamushroomclub.org.

Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Jeff Dufresne, owner of Pax Domus Farms in Milton, holds some mushrooms he just harvested from mushroom logs on the ground behind him.

Shiitake mushroom logs at the Pax Domus Farms in Milton, one of three varieties of mushrooms grown on the property. Holes are drilled in the hard wood logs and mushroom plugs are placed in the holes. This is a cost-effective and efficient way to grow mushrooms outdoors.

Human Resources Manager

Handles all employee-related processes and procedures. This role will be responsible for Recruitment and Onboarding, Job Design, Employee Relations, Performance Management, Training and Development, Employment Compliance, Total Rewards and Talent Management. This position reports to the Director of Finance and Administration and will interact with the entire management team by providing guidance on all Human Resources related topics at NFCC. Bachelor’s degree in human resources or related field and 3-5 years of Human Resources experience, preferably in multiple HR disciplines required. Please visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/ to see the full job description. To apply, submit a resume to sholiday@nfcchelp.org and to mburton@nfcchelp.org.

Workforce Development Coordinator is responsible for developing programs and services for NFCC clients and students seeking employment, post-secondary education, or other career options. The workforce development coordinator collaborates with local employers to help match job seekers to open positions. They work directly with clients on the job application, resumes, and interview preparations and provide tips for successfully securing and improving employment to foster financial stability.  Bachelor’s degree in a human services, human resources, or other related field required and 2 years of professional experience in human services, human resources or career counseling preferred.

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Seeking Director of Children’s Ministry for Alpharetta Presbyterian Church. Part-time position with benefits.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Also have classroom or work experience in education and/or children’s ministry. Work with children’s ministry leaders to provide meaningful and engaging Sunday School and additional programs for children. Collaborate with committee, recommend curriculum to Session for approval and provide the curriculum for children’s Sunday School classes and Vacation Bible School.

Recruit, train and supervise all Children’s Ministry teachers and volunteers (this includes providing “child safety training” and assuring compliance with that policy).

• A person of mature Christian faith who will work collegially with others in support of the overall mission of the church.

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

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

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

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

Community Events Manager

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

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Carmichael, Brasher, Tuvell & Company is hiring an Income Tax Preparer, Corporate and Individual. Great pay and flexible, relaxed work environment. Seeking full and/or part-time individual for individual and corporate tax preparation and accounting. Prior tax preparation required and have working knowledge of QuickBooks. Our office is located in the heart of Dunwoody and work from home is an option. To apply email your resume to ccarmichael@cbtcpa.com.

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• A person of outstanding character and strong relational skills who is approachable, compassionate, energetic, honest, dependable, creative, joyful, fun, motivated and humble.

• A dynamic and grace-filled leader who is a role model for children and their families.

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Donor Operations Associate

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

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