SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — A sea of residents and their neighbors packed the City Green July 4 for the Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration in Sandy Springs. Staff estimates just under 10,000 spectators at City Springs, setting an attendance record for Stars & Stripes. Enjoy these photos from the event, with more available at appenmedia.com.
A sea of Sandy Springs residents and their
Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration. While brief showers sent some
thousands braved the rain to see fireworks launched after sunset.
Newsroom
the chance to offer suggestions and feedback on coverage. The newsroom has made rounds in Dunwoody, Roswell, Johns Creek, Forsyth County, Milton and Alpharetta, gaining valuable insight from
residents on how to strengthen reporting.
Beginning at 4 p.m. at Pontoon, staff will be on-hand for around an hour or so for one-on-one conversations and a Q&A session. This is your chance to get
to know staff, sound off tips or highlight topics that deserve more coverage.
An RSVP is not required but appreciated for this free event. Visit appenmedia.com/join to let us know you are coming.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
neighbors pack the City Green for the
home,
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Sandy Springs opens Fire Station 5 where it’s needed
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs celebrated the grand opening of Fire Station 5 on Mount Vernon Road July 1 with Fire Department leadership, staff and surrounding residents.
It’s the first new station Sandy Springs has built since incorporation.
The new state-of-the-art facility gives residents in northeast Sandy Springs better access to a response system for medical emergencies and conflagrations in their neighborhood.
Fire Chief Keith Sanders and his department typically arrives at emergency calls within eight minutes, where they can stabilize a patient before emergency medical services arrive.
At the March 2023 ground-breaking for Fire Station 5, he said the average response time for structure fires in the area was up to 14 minutes.
“This is a very special day and a historic day in the City of Sandy Springs,” Sanders said at the grand opening. “This state-of-the-art facility will provide our dedicated firefighters with the resources they need to respond to emergencies more efficiently and effectively.”
Fire Station 5 is a game changer
for the city because it will drive down average response times for EMS and fire calls throughout the city, but especially in the Sandy Springs panhandle.
Sanders said he estimates a fiveminute improvement.
The cities of Dunwoody, Peachtree Corners and Roswell border the north-
eastern region of the city, creating a somewhat isolated area.
Sandy Springs’ Engine 55, housed at Roswell’s Fire Station 27 on Holcomb Bridge Road, previously served residents in the area. The Roswell fire station is just across the Chattahoochee River and 2.6 miles away from the new Sandy Springs facility.
The panhandle also receives support from the city’s Fire Station 1 just east of Ga. 400 at Spalding and Roberts drives, which is more than 3 miles away from the new station.
The 6.3-mile drive from Fire Station 5 to City Springs, crossing over Ga. 400 and 9, is testament to the remoteness of northeast Sandy Springs.
Sanders said now that Engine 55 is at Fire Station 5, it will be the first on the scene in the panhandle.
He also said the ladder truck, or arial fire engine, at Fire Station 1 will continue to respond to large structure fires in the panhandle.
Now, panhandle residents have a 10,912-square-foot, two-story fire house smack dab in the middle of their community that blends into the surrounding neighborhoods.
See STATION, Page 12
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
A view of 7800 Mount Vernon Road from the Deerfield North subdivision shows Sandy Springs’ new Fire Station 5, designed to match with surrounding residential homes. Sandy Springs officials cut the ribbon July 1 on the new fire station, serving residents in city’s northeastern panhandle region.
OpenGov platform is up and running
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs launched its new online permitting portal OpenGov June 3, saving taxpayer dollars and improving upon its older software.
Cox Enterprises acquired OpenGov, valued at $1.8 billion, in February.
The new software allows all users — homeowners, contractors and design professionals — to apply for building and special event permits and complete planning and zoning applications.
The new portal is open for existing and active permits beginning July 8.
To register or log-in to an existing OpenGov account, visit sandyspringsga. portal.opengov.com/.
Once applicants are registered, the portal allows them to upload construction documents, download city review comments, request inspections and pay invoices.
Community Development Director Ginger Sottile said the old permitting software, Tyler Technologies’ EnerGov, failed to keep up with demands.
“OpenGov’s simple design and userfriendly application was a clear choice for us,” Sottile said. “We are excited to
rollout this new and improved software to streamline our permitting process.”
The City Council approved a roughly $390,000 contract in November 2023, saving the city $415,000 over three years. For fiscal year 2025, the city sees a deficit of roughly $60,000 from the switch.
Staff said on-the-go inspections and the ability to edit workflows made OpenGov their preferred vendor.
Some new features and procedures include online-only applications, chat features to communicate directly with staff and automatic issuing of permits and certificates.
The platform also separates inspections into construction phases, allows multiple parcels to be selected on one application and provides instructions for new users.
For new users of the OpenGov platform, visit sandyspringsga.gov/buildseminars, to access the archive and upcoming seminar announcements.
The Community Development Department is holding its next Build Seminar on OpenGov July 23.
New tate law cracking down on swatting calls in effect
By KATE VERITY Georgia Recorder
ATLANTA — Georgia Senate Bill 421, one of many pieces of legislation that went into effect July 1, aims to increase punishment for those behind so-called swatting calls in order to deter future harrowing law enforcement false alarms in Georgia.
With new potential to face steeper consequences, Georgia lawmakers intend to counter the increased number of swatting calls seen in recent years.
Swatting is the colloquial name for when a person calls 911 or emergency services and invokes a response from law enforcement – often a SWAT team –by intentionally reporting a fake emergency. High profile people are frequently the target of these incidents. Georgia’s Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has been targeted numerous times at her Rome home throughout her political career.
State Sen. Clint Dixon, a Gwinnett Republican, who sponsored SB 421, has also experienced firsthand how intrusive swatting is and how quickly it can go wrong.
Dixon was one of numerous Georgia
lawmakers whose homes were targets of swatting over the December 2023 holidays, with several calls taking place on or around Christmas Day. Marks included Marietta Republican Kay Kirkpatrick, Stone Mountain Democrat Kim Jackson, Roswell Republican John Albers and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones.
The legislation intended to deter swatting calls sailed through the General Assembly with bipartisan support this year, passing 48-0 in the Senate and 162-2 in the House. According to Dixon, the toughest deterrent in the new law is the increased penalty for a first offender. Prior to July 1, the penalty for a first offense swatting call on a dwelling is a misdemeanor.
“If it is to a residence or a government building or a court, it becomes a felony first offense, punishable with prison up to five years,” Dixon said. “Then the second and third offense, those penalties of course are felonies, but then it increases the time in prison and the fine to help deter; hopefully, to keep these swatting instances from happening.”
See SWATTING, Page 15
Two brothers qualify for Olympic trials
By HANNAH FRAZER hannah@appenmedia.com
NORTH METRO ATLANTA — Owen McDonald and his younger brother Cooper fulfilled their aspirations of qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in swimming.
It’s not everyday that sibling rivalry occurs at the most elite level of athletic competition, but for the McDonald brothers, it was pure excitement to be living their dream together rather than competing against each other during the trials in Indianapolis.
“It was like a big dream come true,” Cooper said. “I am doing this with my brother, and there is no one else I would rather do it with.”
The Rivers Academy graduates, from Milton, got their start at Dynamo Swim Club in Alpharetta. The company, with two more locations in Chamblee and Oakhurst, is home to many competitive swimmers.
Dynamo was also the starting ground for fellow Rivers Academy graduate Brooks Curry, whose team earned gold in the 2020 Summer Olympics in the 4-by-200-meter relay. Curry, from Dunwoody, is set to compete again this year in the same style.
Owen, 20, qualified in the trials for the 200-meter freestyle, 100-meter freestyle, 200-meter backstroke, and 200-meter Individual Medley.
Owen won his 200-meter freestyle preliminary heat but did not qualify to advance to the semi-finals which consist of the top 16.
Owen came close to making the Olympic team in the 200-meter individual medley. He advanced to the semi-finals, where he placed in the top eight, securing a spot in the final for a chance to make the Olympic team.
But, Owen finished fifth overall, just three spots shy of making the team.
Two years ago, he made “Athlete of the Week,” presented by Montlick Injury Attorney. On WSB-TV, Owen described the difficulty of achieving his Olympic dream.
“There’s always someone a step in front of you, and every time I overcome someone, there is someone else,” Owen said. “My mentality is if I keep improving … I will eventually be at the top.”
Owen will be transferring to Indiana University for the upcoming school year. During his sophomore year at Arizona State University, he was the team’s third-highest point scorer.
HALEY MCDONALD/PROVIDED
Owen McDonald stands next to his younger brother Cooper McDonald at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in swimming June 15 in Indianapolis. Both were participants in the trials.
His 17-year-old brother Cooper will also be attending Indiana University as a freshman. Cooper qualified in the 200-meter freestyle and the 400-meter freestyle.
The McDonald brothers faced each other in the 200-meter freestyle, embracing different mindsets when taking the block June 15 at the trials.
Cooper’s was pressure-free. Before diving into the water, he said he paused to absorb the atmosphere.
“I gave a smile,” Cooper said. “I am so grateful that I am here.”
His older brother Owen said he adopted a goal-oriented approach and maintained tunnel vision as he took to the diving block. The last seconds before he hit the pool consisted of self-talk, he said.
“I have done the training to do this,” Owen told himself.
Roswell General thrives with community-focused feel
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — People head to Canton Street to shop or socialize because of people and businesses like Bruno and Julie Constanzo and their shop, Roswell General.
Their store is on Woodstock Road, a block from the northern half of the historic district in downtown Roswell.
The atmospheres on Canton Street and at Roswell General are similar. Many of the old homes lining the street are newly renovated and sport local entrepreneurs inside.
Amid miles of shopping malls and office parks in North Fulton County, Canton Street and the surrounding Roswell Historic District offer something unique and familiar — a community.
There’s a reason that thousands of Metro Atlantans flood the district for Alive in Roswell, the monthly street festival every third Thursday from April to October.
Bruno Constanzo said Tim Stevens and his team at From the Earth Brewing off Holcomb Bridge Road set up a bar for the June 20 event.
“It’s more of a chill atmosphere,” Bruno Constanzo said. “It’s not like down on south end of Canton Street where it’s packed.”
For those looking to avoid the sardine can of humans around Heart of Roswell Park during Alive in Roswell, 53 Woodstock Road is the place to be.
While the local brewery served drinks, Roswell native Wade Hudson jammed out on his guitar and the Constanzos fired up their grill for patrons.
The feel is a neighborhood block party, and the Constanzos work to bring that spirit inside their store.
“We try to bring as many local things in as we can,” Julie Constanzo said. “Especially rubs and spices, people come in all time and if there good, we’ll try to keep them in.”
For the Constanzos, being local means supporting local.
“We look for three things,” Bruno Constanzo said. “Are they local, is it a small business like us, and sometimes, do they have a cause?”
He pointed to Augusta-based Recteq grills as an example of a product of higher quality and customer service than popular nation-wide brands.
The Constanzos secured anchor vendors like Yeti and Big Green Egg to allow them to focus on other local merchandise.
It’s not the case for every product or brand in the store, but the Roswell couple tries support companies like veteran-owned, Louisiana-based General’s Hot Sauce whenever they can.
Running a shop
When customers walk in the front door, they’re treated to a sensory overload for anyone devoted to the outdoors.
One shelf contains just about every color of Yeti cups imaginable, with variations of hues, tints and tones for customers to peruse.
On the other side of the shop, a wall full of grill tools and cookware from Georgia-based Big Green Egg also catches the eye. Items range from green egg-style salt and pepper shakers and bamboo skewers to the ever-popular Big Green Egg Acacia Wood Shelves.
If you’re a North Fulton County resident and looking for a Father’s Day gift next year, Roswell General makes it easy.
And don’t forget, there is a sizable selection of merchandise geared more toward those who don’t grill, camp or hang out in nature, male or female.
Roswell General sports a selection of “masculine” things like the Ultimate Cocktail Smoking Kit from a local inventor and “feminine” items like scented candles from nearby artisans.
It helps avoid household conflict, which may emerge if a spouse returns home with a bag of grilling equipment and nothing for their partner.
Opening during pandemic
Bruno Constanzo came up with a plan for a throwback to countryside general stores, and the purchase of the property went through in January 2020.
When Appen Media first reported on Roswell General in October 2020, the store had been open for just a few months.
Luckily for the owners, the pandemic gave them the time away from their day jobs to complete renovations and repairs, required after the pandemic sent their contractors home.
Bruno Constanzo, former home builder, said it helped that his former clients didn’t want them in their homes because he had the time to focus on the shop.
Today, the Constanzo family runs the store. Bruno says he spends 95 percent of his time at Roswell General or thinking about it.
PHOTOS BY HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Julie and Bruno Constanzo, owners of Roswell General at 35 Woodstock Road, stand behind the front counter at the shop, made of wood from a fallen tree at Barrington Hall.
Roswell General is a block from Canton Street at 35 Woodstock Road. Owners Bruno and Julie Constanzo turned the porch and front yard of the building into a community gathering place.
Newsroom answers community questions
By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com
ATLANTA — Community engagement is an essential part of Appen Media’s newsroom strategy.
That’s why reporters for the Herald and Crier newspapers seek out all sorts of reader questions. Sometimes those inquiries don’t lead to standalone stories because of time restraints or, more simply, the answers can be short.
Here are a few questions Appen has received and the answers your reporter has dug up.
What role does the Dunwoody city arborist and city managerial offices have in Dunwoody’s tree loss? Who authorizes and pays to remove limbs near power lines?
City Arborist Amy Bledsoe assesses and reviews all tree removals and new plantings on city property, according to an article in the April-June 2024 issue of the city-published Dunwoody Digest.
Bledsoe also answers questions from homeowners and developers, and works with the Public Works and Parks departments to care for the health and maintenance of trees within the city’s parks and public rights-of-way.
The city’s “No Net Loss” tree policy also stipulates a unit-for-unit match for replacing trees that are removed for construction projects throughout city streets, parks, and rights-of-way, the article says.
For specimen-sized trees, the replacement value is one-and-a-half times the unit value of the tree being removed. The article says care is taken to select new canopy trees that are native to Georgia, provide food and/or shelter for wildlife, and help lower the heat index by providing an adequate amount of shade. Some trees have been removed for projects currently under construction. Some will come down in the future for other projects.
For the Dunwoody High School Path Phase II project, Dunwoody Communications Director Jennifer Boettcher said one crape myrtle and five small-caliper hardwoods were removed.
Boettcher told Appen Media that since there is limited room in the public right of way to replant there, the city plans to work with Dunwoody High School to replace in kind on school property to be done in the planting season, which is late October to early March.
The Tilly Mill/Mount Vernon Intersection Improvement project, currently in the acquisition phase, may also require tree removal.
Have a question? Send it to newsroom@appenmedia.com or go to appenmedia.com/ask.
Boettcher said the quantities and sizes of all trees greater than 6-inch caliper will be documented once the contract is awarded and the right-of-way and construction clearing limits are staked. She said this will likely take place in the fall.
Boettcher said the city’s project documents include a landscape plan with a variety of replacement trees to be planted once construction is completed.
If you see limb removal along major corridors near the power lines, Boettcher said that is likely being done by a contractor, hired by a utility company.
Considering the Roswell Recycling Center is exclusive to Roswell residents, where are Alpharetta residents supposed to recycle? I used to always be able to drop off recyclables there.
Outside of the city’s waste and curbside recycling program, which services single-family homes and townhomes,
Alpharetta’s waste and subside recycling program services single-family homes and townhomes. Through that process residents can recycle cardboard, clean cans and food boxes, as well as mixed paper like mail and newspaper. This program does not accept glass and a few other recyclable products.
Alpharetta residents can recycle glass at the city’s Public Works Department drop-off site, located at 1790 Hembree Road. The facility is open 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
Residents can take other recyclables to Keep North Fulton Beautiful in Sandy Springs on Morgan Falls Road.
Communications Director James Drinkard previously told Appen Media the city has explored formalizing a partnership with the City of Roswell so Alpharetta residents could use the Roswell Recycling Center but that the effort has proven unsuccessful on multiple occasions due to cost.
Does the new Webb Bridge Dog Park separate big and little dogs?
Yes.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Roswell partners with Atlanta group for Juneteenth-themed art exhibit
By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com
ROSWELL, Ga. — Jeannette Barnett, president of African Americans for the Arts, said she creates art to impart history lessons to newer generations who may not know them.
One of her pieces, a portrait of Shirley Chisholm in pen and ink, hangs in the lobby of the Roswell Cultural Arts Center. In 1968, Chisholm became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress.
“I really try to offer inspiration to people about what has been done and what can be done,” Barnett said. “... I’m really trying to recreate and retell the story so that we don’t forget about these people.”
More information
The community will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite artworks in the “Our Freedom” exhibit until July 15. Paper ballots and pencils are provided on-site.
For the first time, the City of Roswell partnered with African Americans for the Arts, an Atlanta nonprofit, for an exhibit that speaks to the importance of Juneteenth, a federal holiday recognizing the emancipation of the country’s enslaved population.
In the past, the nonprofit has participated in the juried art exhibit for Roswell Roots, a month-long Black History Month celebration held every year.
“This is another layer of art and a way to consume art in the City of Roswell,” Roswell City Councilwoman Lee Hills said, also encouraging the community to view the “Our Freedom” exhibit before it ends July 31.
African Americans for the Arts was founded in 1998 with a mission to be a proactive voice in the African diasporic community.
“We strive to present our views as African American artists and as persons to our patrons through our creativity and talent,” Barnett said.
The collective consists of 35 painters, sculptors and photographers as well as quilt, doll and jewelry makers who meet monthly at the Hammonds House Museum in Atlanta.
“It’s a very supportive group,” Barnett said.
Barnett joined the organization a decade ago, around the same time she picked up painting, following her retirement from Georgia Tech as a budget analyst. But, from a young age she had an interest and began ordering instructional drawing books.
“I came from a very practical family … it’s just not something you do, but I always had a yearning for it,” Barnett said.
After she retired, Barnett began taking classes at a local senior center and found her love of acrylics.
“The very first time that I put a paint-
Art from members of the Atlanta nonprofit African Americans for the Arts hangs in the lobby of the Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Founded in 1998, the group’s mission is to provide a united, proactive voice for the cultural matters affecting the African American and diasporic African community.
African Americans for the Arts President Jeannette Barnett’s portrait of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, is shown in the “Our Freedom” art exhibit on display at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center until July 31.
brush to a canvas, there was something within me that said, ‘Yes, this is it,’” Barnett said.
But, she works within multiple mediums. Like other fine artists, Barnett said she likes to experiment. Another of Barnett’s portraits displayed, a woman in African garb at the forefront of a Juneteenth celebration, was created using oil pastel on fabric.
“As artists, we always have something to say,” Barnett said.
City Councilman Will Morthland and Roswell City
Hills stand with members of the Atlanta nonprofit African Americans for the Arts at the opening reception of its Juneteenth-themed art exhibit “Our Freedom” at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center June 14. AAFTA President Jeannette Barnett held the city’s proclamation recognizing Juneteenth, a federal holiday that recognizes the emancipation of the country’s enslaved African Americans.
AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA
AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA
CITY OF ROSWELL/PROVIDED Roswell
Councilwoman Lee
OPINION
Fording the Chattahoochee and marching through Providence, 1864
On July 7, 1874, Union Gen. Kenner Garrard wrote to Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, “The only good ford I can hear of is at this point (Roswell). The Island Ford, three miles above, is good for footmen, but no roads lead to it or from it, and on the other side it is thick woods and very hilly and two miles over to the Atlanta road.”
The Confederates held McAfee’s Bridge. Remains of this bridge are visible today from Holcombe Bridge Road at the river. (“Charged with Treason,” Michael D. Hitt)
In the early morning hours of July 9, 1864, the 4th Ohio Volunteer Cavalry was on the move. A group from the 2nd Brigade was sent to McAfee’s Bridge. The 1st and 3rd Brigades of the 4th Ohio left their horses in town and marched to the river at 3 a.m. The 17th Indiana and 98th Illinois of the 3rd Brigade were the first to approach the river. The 72nd and 123rd Illinois went about 200 yards to the left.
Captain Thomson of the 72nd Indiana was to lead his troops across the Chattahoochee River. He said, “You don’t mean to say we are expected to wade that river?” He added that he had never seen anything so perilous before. It was foggy with no visible moon.
One company each from the 17th Indiana and the 72nd Indiana were placed on the north side of the river as sharpshooters to distract the enemy and protect the Union soldiers crossing the river.
The Union artillery opened fire on the Confederate position, and at the same time the command of “forward” was given. According to Sgt. Maj. of the 72nd Indiana, on that command “without a moment’s hesitancy the men plunge into the water up to the armpits. Not a faltering one, not a laggard! But with a cheer they rushed into the water and
THE INK PENN
PROVIDED
The 16th Army Corps crossed the Chattahoochee River at the Shallow Ford, July 10, 1864. The drawing us by George D. Sayller of the 2nd Iowa Infantry. It later appeared in Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper.
charged for the other shore. General Garrard now rides to the water’s edge and cheers them on shouting, ‘Bully boys! Bully boys! Whiskey in the morning!’”
The Confederates on the south bank began to fire at the wading Union troops, but the Union soldiers were able to fire back, armed with Spencer repeating rifles, keeping only their heads above the water. Once they reached the south bank, they advanced up the hill and took prisoners.
Union General Dodge supervised the construction of a 700-foot pontoon bridge made from round poles and logs on July 11. The bridge was completed July 13.
Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson, commander of the U.S. Army of the Tennessee arrived in Roswell on July 14, 1864. With the bridge complete, the Union troops were
Crime-Solving sleuths in England
It’s no secret that I adore mysteries set in the U.K. Make it a cozy mystery with a strong female lead, and I’m set. If an author wants to hook me for life, setting it during World War I, between the wars, or in the midst of World War II will do the trick. This week’s books fit the bill.
“Murder by Invitation Only” by Colleen Cambridge
The third book in the “Phyllida Bright Mystery” series is every bit as good as its predecessors, and I’m eagerly awaiting the fourth due out in October. Set between the World Wars in a country house in England, it is both charming and intriguing.
Phyllida is Agatha Christie’s housekeeper, and in the earlier books, we learn
that she and Agatha have a past. What it is exactly is leaked to us as the series goes on. I’m sure that keeping Phyllida’s back story vague is part of what keeps readers coming back for more. But that’s not all. Every book is peppered with witty dialogue and multiple allusions to Agatha Christie’s books and plots.
In this outing, Agatha, and her husband Max Mallowan receive an invitation to a murder party but are in London. Intrigued, Agatha sends Phyllida. Of course, there is a murder at the murder party.
Once again, Phyllida emulates her favorite detective, Poirot, as she ferrets out the clues that will reveal the murderer. If you haven’t met Phyllida Bright yet, I highly recommend you do so soon.
What does one of my other favorite authors have to say about her? “Phyllida Bright, housekeeper to Agatha
ready to move south toward Decatur and Atlanta.
July 17, 1864, was the day McPherson led 20,000 soldiers along what would become Roswell Road, Roberts Drive and Chamblee Dunwoody Road. The men followed the railroad bed of what become the Roswell Railroad following the war. The town now known as Dunwoody was called Providence at that time, named for a church that sat close to the intersection of today’s Chamblee Dunwoody Road and Dunwoody Village Parkway.
At the fork, Major-General Dodge’s 16th A.C. of the Army of the Tennessee moved toward Nancy’s Creek and Old Cross Keys. General Logan’s 15th A.C., followed by Major General Blair’s 17th continued southeast on Shallow Ford Road to Nancy’s Creek where they camped. Garrard’s cavalry was posted east of the 15th Corps.
The goal of McPherson’s march to Decatur was to seize and destroy the Georgia Railroad between Decatur and the Stone Mountain depot.
A story passed down through the generations told of Confederate cannons placed on what is now Dunwoody Nature Center land, well below the street level of Chamblee Dunwoody Road. However, Civil War historians agree that it would not have been possible to fire at the passing Union troops from that location. The Civil War story for Dunwoody is the story of thousands of Union soldiers marching through a town of 170 people. There was no military action.
There are two Georgia Historical Markers in Dunwoody to commemorate the event. One at Spalding and Roberts Drive at the fire station titled “McPherson’s March to Decatur July 17, 1864” and one at the triangle of Nandina Lane and Chamblee Dunwoody Road titled, “McPherson’s Divergent Line of March, July 17, 1864.”
Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@ gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.
Christie, has the crime-solving skills to rival her employer’s famous detectives . . . Utterly delightful.”
“Locked in Pursuit” by Ashley Weaver
The quote about Phyllida Bright comes from this author of the “Electra McDonnell” series, another of my favorites. This mystery, set in England during World War II, has another strong female protagonist, but Ellie is no housekeeper. She’s a safecracker, roped into working for Major Ramsey to thwart the Nazis at every turn. Of course, both she and the major are good looking and single, but their backgrounds couldn’t be more different. He’s a nobleman. She’s carrying on the family tradition of thievery.
In this fourth installment, they discover an odd rash of burglaries in London, and soon figure out that the crimes have their origin in Lisbon. Spies are in search of something more important than jewels. Solving the crime is the main plot, of
course, but the subplots are what keep me coming back. There’s the chemistry between Ellie and the Major, something they fight hard not to give into it. There’s Felix, the family friend who’s clearly in love with her. There’s her quest to find out more about her mother and father. In each book, these storylines evolve and intertwine.
Unfortunately for me, this fourth book came out in May, which means I’ll have to wait until 2025 for my next fix. I’m hearing that Carly Simon song, “Anticipation,” as I think about waiting a whole year.
Happy reading!
Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, Tall Tales, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.
VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF
KATHY MANOS PENN
Facts about sunscreen
Brought to you by – Dr. Titilola "Lola" Sode of Epiphany Dermatology - Brookhaven
What type of sunscreen should I use? The best sunscreen is one that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for sunscreens labeled "broad-spectrum" to ensure protection against both types of harmful rays. Additionally, consider your skin type and any specific skin concerns when choosing a sunscreen. For oily or acne-prone skin, opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas. If you have sensitive skin, choose sunscreens labeled hypoallergenic or fragrance-free. Water-resistant sunscreens are ideal for outdoor activities or swimming. Ultimately, the most effective sunscreen is one that you will use consistently and reapply as needed.
How Often Should I Apply Sunscreen? It's essential to apply sunscreen liberally and frequently for adequate protection against sun damage. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to absorb into the skin fully. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating heavily. Remember to reapply after towel drying as well. Additionally, apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and any other uncovered areas. Sunscreen is a vital component of sun protection, but it's also essential to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak UV hours.
People, pints, and parks
Volunteering at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Brought to you by
- Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy
At Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC), we celebrate the power of community and the hard work and passion of our park's volunteers. Thanks to these dedicated individuals, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) thrives, preserving our city's greenspace. Whether you're skilled in identifying native plants or just really good at wielding a trash picker, there's a volunteer role with your name on it! Volunteering at CRNRA is not just about preserving nature, but it’s also about building connections and fostering a community that cares deeply for our environment. From trail maintenance and river cleanups to educational programs and special events, our volunteer teams do it all with smiles on their faces and mud on their boots. Who needs a gym membership when you can hike, lift fallen branches, and dodge the occasional squirrel in support of your local national park? Speaking of having good times while
doing good deeds, mark your calendars for Pints for the Park on July 22nd! Held at Gate City Brewing Company in Roswell from 6:00 - 9:00 PM, join us for an evening of connection, community, and fantastic brews. For every drink purchased, $1 will be donated to the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC). This is a wonderful opportunity to relax, enjoy a good time with friends, and contribute to a worthy cause. We hope to see you there! Want to learn more about Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy and all we do to support our park? Visit chattahoocheeparks. org. See you in the park!
TOM WILSON
The story of my native pollinator garden
About ten years ago, I attended a Georgia Master Gardeners Association (GMGA) conference in Athens, GA. The keynote speaker was Doug Tallamy, an entomology professor at the University of Delaware in Newark, DE. He talked about his theory of how we, humans and gardeners, have affected the decline in insects and birds by the introduction of exotic plant species in our environments. He explained how insects have evolved with certain native species and depend on them for food and habitat to lay eggs and raise their offspring. And how our native birds depend on those insects for food to raise their young. It follows that we humans depend on those insect pollinators and birds for our food plants’ pollination and seed production. A very common-sense idea and one that should be obvious to us all. In his 2007 book, Bringing Nature Home, Tallamy encourages each of us who have any land to begin to eradicate non-natives, to plant our native species, and to turn our pristine acres of non-productive grass lawns to a more productive use.
In 2018 my husband and I sold our home in Atlanta and moved to Ellijay. Our new home is on seven and a half acres and has both woodlands and former pastureland, which means a lot of sun. A perfect spot to grow natives and to create gardens
General:
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“In 2020, we were waiting six to 10 weeks for [Big Green] eggs,” Constanzo said. “It has greatly improved with most of the vendors, but we still have some issues every now and then.”
He said Big Green Egg products now arrive within days, and other household names like Yeti are down to about a week for deliveries.
“I don’t want to say supply chain issues
Station:
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Firefighters have a new sleeping quarters, kitchen, conference room, climbing wall and other amenities not found at many older facilities.
The Fire Department installed de-
About the author
This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Judy Peacock, a master gardener for thirteen years. Judy is a former resident of Atlanta, now retired and living in Ellijay, GA. She graduated from the University of Georgia majoring in Art Education. Judy volunteered at the High Museum of Art in the Department of Children’s Education. Judy loves gardening and is developing various types of gardens on their seven and a half acres. She is a member of the Speakers Bureau of the North Fulton Master Gardeners.
raised bed made of timbers already on our property. Though it was filled with weeds and grass, it was the perfect spot to plant this garden. After cleaning out the weeds and adding bags of compost, I could begin the fun part, selecting and planting the native pollinator plants.
comfrey, oregano, rue, catnip and fennel. And have planted some very tall lilies for my own viewing pleasure.
There is nothing more serene than to view this bed on an early summer morning or late afternoon as the pollinators make their way from flower to flower. Some mornings I find bumble bees sleeping on flowers. And we have a plethora of birds in our yard, including cardinals, goldfinches, blue jays, bluebirds, sparrows, wrens, various woodpeckers, phoebes, crows, hummingbirds, and many other bird visitors as they travel from the north to south.
As Doug Tallamy has proposed, if each of us used just a small portion of our land to create a habitat of native plants, we could make a native highway for our native pollinators and establish habitat, food, nectar and pollen to support them. We would not just be helping them but ourselves as well and the whole world. Many small steps can make a huge difference. Happy Pollinator Gardening!
for our pollinators. The land was already graced with many native trees, oaks, tulip poplar, hickories, maples, redbuds, dogwoods, sour woods, beech, and pines.
I wanted to create a pollinator garden. I also wanted as much variety as possible and for it to be beautiful. There was a
are perfect,” Constanzo said. “But they’re about 90 percent there.”
Julie Constanzo said their former business partners, Ken and Robin Moncrief, decided they wanted to spend more time with their families after retirement.
It’s easy to understand wanting to get out of the retail business and enjoy family time in fall 2021.
Four years after opening its doors, Roswell General is exactly what its owners said it would be, a place for the community to socialize and interact with something they could buy online.
contamination showers and gear wash stations with new technology to allow first responders to remove toxins after returning from fighting a fire.
If you’re driving along Mount Vernon Road, you may miss Fire Station 5 on your left. It looks like a single-family home. A battalion command vehicle, or red pickup truck, sitting in the parking lot may give it away, though.
I started with plants I had brought with me from Atlanta: Stokes’ aster, mountain mint, yarrow, bee balm, purple coneflower, and phlox. After visiting a native nursery near me, I added rose milkweed, butterfly weed, cardinal flower, downy skullcap, Penstemon, native hibiscus and Gaura.
I have also planted some non-natives that are not invasive. I like to tuck in nasturtium seeds along the front so that they will cascade over the walls, and the hummingbirds love them. I have added herbs:
It’s the kind of accountability that keeps customers coming in.
Upcoming
community programs
For motorists and pedestrians on Woodstock Road, the Roswell General logo jumps out.
Whether you’re looking at the building, the street front greenspace or Bruno Constanzo’s gold cart out front, it’s hard to miss.
The shop will be even more recognizable during its July classes with local restaurant partners, Roswell Baking Company and Keenan’s Pit Bar-B-Que.
Conversely, if you’re headed down Spalding Drive, the building jumps out more with its two-bay garage for fire trucks and large Sandy Springs Fire Department logo.
Mayor Rusty Paul, City Manager Eden Freeman and Fire Chief Sanders joined the Station 5 crew for the ceremonial hose uncoupling July 1 on Mount Vernon Road.
North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https:// appenmedia.com/opinion/columnists/ garden_buzz/.
Roswell Baking Company’s next class at the shop is July 14 from 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Roswell General invites students to bring their own drinks and enjoy a grilling masterclass.
The second is an adult-only class July 19 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. centered around three Italian pizza staples.
Keenan’s Pit Bar-B-Que’s All Things Chicken class from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 10 wraps up the scheduled community events.
Individual tickets cost between $50-75. For more information, visit www.roswellgeneral.com/.
Paul said the sweetest sounds in an emergency are sirens because they mean help is on the way.
“This new station brings us much closer to this part of the city,” Paul said. “Your presence here indicates that you really care about what goes on in this community, and how we deliver the kinds of services that you pay for.”
JUDY PEACOCK Guest Columnist
JUDY PEACOCK/SPECIAL TO APPEN MEDIA
A butterfly on Blue Mist Flower in my pollinator garden.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Metro Atlantans wait in line at Spice the Americas, one of the dozen food trucks and vendors on Mount Vernon Highway and Galambos Way for Independence Day.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Dozens of toddlers and elementary schoolers enjoy the City Springs splash pad (and fountains) during a hot and humid Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration. The splash pad is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week during the summer.
CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED
The night sky lights up over City Springs in a promotional image for the Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration on the Fourth of July. People stayed through a brief spell of thunder and rain around 7:20 p.m., enjoyed live music by A-Town A-List and grabbed their favorite snack from food trucks.
STARS, STRIPES IN CITY SPRINGS
A-Town A-List covers modern hits and 1980s classics for thousands on City
mance, oohs and ahs rang out whenever vocalists hit impressive notes.
photos at appenmedia.com
Throughout
Local band A-Town A-List keeps the crowd energized during the lead up to the
ebration at City Springs. Thousands on the City Green, Mount Vernon Highway and throughout downtown Sandy Springs celebrated Independence Day with food, fun and fireworks.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Green.
the perfor-
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Stars & Stripes Fireworks Cel-
Swatting:
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Perpetrators of swatting typically call emergency services to falsely report a serious incident, such as a domestic dispute turned violent or a bomb threat. The caller gives police the address of their target as the scene of a crisis, attempting to weaponize law enforcement into showing up at the victim’s door with guns drawn.
According to Peter Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, swatting is more than false bomb threats or homicides. It can also include falsely calling emergency services for situations like suicide prevention or requesting an ambulance – in essence anything that requires first responders to waste time and resources as the result of an intentional effort to mislead.
Dixon recommends that for anyone placed in a swatting situation, the safest way to react is to obey law enforcement completely.
“Open up the door and make yourself visible right away, and invite them inside, and just listen to whatever they tell you to do,” Dixon said. “It can be a very dangerous situation because they’re on high alert as well, not knowing what they’re walking into.”
Both law enforcement and residents are at risk in a situation like this.
“If done right, the homeowner should be understandably startled by the aggressive entrance or by the announcements made outside and the presence of officers surrounding their home either way, but then immediately followed with a sense of security and teamwork, if everything is done correctly, so that they would be able to see the police were only doing what they were supposed to do, which was to try and protect the public,”
North Fulton Community Charities, a non-profit in Roswell, Georgia, is seeking a Part Time Donor Operations Associate I.
Lawns by Amanda “Mom with a Mower”
This entry level hourly position is available now, averages 28 hours per week, and requires the ability to lift up to 75 pounds and work outside during the day.
70) 500 -496 0
Lawns by Amanda
500-4960
NFCC have been serving individuals and families in the North Fulton area for 40+ years. Our Mission “To Ease Hardship and Foster Financial Stability in our Community”. We provide opportunities for the whole community to thrive. NFCC is committed to provide professional development and pathways for advancement to all members of the NFCC team. To view the complete job descriptions, please visit our website at https://nfcchelp.org/work-at-nfcc/. If you wish to apply, please send your resume to mjallad@nfcchelp.org .
EEO Statement: NFCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. NFCC does not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disabilities, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis protected by the law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
said Chuck McPhilamy, public information officer at the Marietta Police Department.
The new law also includes a restitution clause. Prior to July 1, the court had the option to require a perpetrator to pay for any damages or harm that resulted from the swatting attempt. Now with SB 421, paying the cost of damage done will be a legal requirement.
With technology ever evolving, would-be swatters are finding it easier to commit these crimes. As a prosecutor, Skandalakis has seen technology make it more difficult to discern the source of a swatting call.
“You can have spoof phone numbers; you can do it through the internet,” Skandalakis said. “There’s so many different ways to do it, and sometimes it’s difficult to trace simply because you might be swatted from a different country. So it’s become more prevalent and more difficult at times to actually find out
exactly where the call came from.”
This story comes to Appen Media through a reporting partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom that covers statewide issues.
