Sandy Springs Crier - August 3, 2023

Biggerstaff: Moonshine stories abound from the Great Depression

► PAGE 9

Sandy Springs police face suit over allegation of extreme force

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — An Alpharetta man has filed a use of force lawsuit against the Sandy Springs Police Department after he was allegedly held at gunpoint during a traffic stop in February.

U.S. District Court documents allege Sandy Springs police officers violated the rights of Alpharetta resident Charles Lyons through “excessive and unnecessary” force during a Feb. 25, 2023, traffic stop.

Wine shop shares the craft

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Tucked away in a small plaza on Hilderbrand Drive in Sandy Springs, Beer and Wine Craft invites guests to step away from the traditional retail and tasting rooms and into the world of winemaking.

The shop, which also includes the Sandy Springs Boutique Winery and

Tasting Room, first opened in 1969 as Wine Art. Following decades of relocation around the Atlanta perimeter, head winemaker Joe Keenan bought the business in October 2012. From there, he dedicated it to teaching customers the art of vinification.

Keenan sold the shop in June to his wife Shanie Mattox, a graphic designer who makes most of the labels for the store. Together, the couple sell

signature wines by the bottle and offer tastings, events and beer and winemaking classes.

Although Keenan’s interest in wine was sparked by a winemaking kit Mattox had gifted him, he is well-versed in millennia of wine history, which he warmly shares with customers at the beginning of his classes.

See WINE, Page 12

The complaint alleges Lyons’ Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable search and seizure was violated when an officer held him at gunpoint for a theft by receiving warrant, disregarding a computer notice that Lyons should not be detained over the warrant.

Lyons was initially pulled over for the arrest warrant just days before the Feb. 25 incident and was not held at gunpoint or taken into custody. The complaint said police computer notes entered by the first officer showed Lyons was not a threat and should not be stopped for the warrant hit.

See FORCE, Page 9

Owner Shanie Mattox, left, and head winemaker Joe Keenan operate Beer and Wine Craft at 203 Hilderbrand Drive in Sandy Springs.

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Armed suspect shot by officers

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — A 27-year-old Sandy Springs man was shot during a confrontation with police at an apartment complex off Roswell Road July 25.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation officials, who will investigate the shooting, said Benjamin Wright was shot after he confronted officers conducting a drug investigation at the Sandy Springs apart-

ment complex, Victoria Heights at about 3:30 p.m.

When officers knocked on an apartment door, Wright allegedly stepped out wearing an armored vest and holding a handgun, pointed the gun at officers and was shot.

GBI Spokeswoman Nelly Miles said officers were at the apartment to serve an arrest warrant for Wright, and after the shooting, he and a female were detained by police.

Initially, officers did not believe they

hit Wright and continued their investigation. But after they learned Wright was shot in the armored vest, he was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

No officers were injured in the incident.

The Sandy Springs Police Department requested the GBI to conduct an independent investigation into the shooting.

Officials have declined Appen Media’s requests for more information on the incident.

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Police arrest two juveniles linked to armed robberies

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. —Sandy Springs police have arrested two juvenile suspects after a series of armed robberies in the city.

Sandy Springs Police Chief Ken DeSimone announced his officers arrested two female juveniles Sunday, July 16, in connection with a spree of pedestrian robberies the week before. Officers are searching for a male juvenile suspect in connection the cases, he said.

All three suspects were connected to five armed robbery cases in the city, Sgt. Matthew McGinnis of the Sandy Springs Police Department said.

However, the case numbers associated with the incidents do not appear in the police department’s Police2Citizen incident search page, so no information was available on when or where the robberies occurred.

McGinnis said Friday, July 21, he did not know why these cases were not found in the system.

Police investigators are working with other law enforcement agencies to deter -

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. While Sandy Springs police occa-

mine whether the suspects are responsible for robberies in other jurisdictions.

The two arrested suspects are being held in the Regional Youth Detention Center without bond on multiple armed robbery charges. McGinnis said additional charges are pending.

Police declined Appen Media’s requests for more information on the arrests, instead issuing a brief Facebook statement and directing the media to the department’s open records office. Open records requests for documents in the cases were not immediately available.

sionally issue press releases on major incidents, 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.

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

Sandy Springs Police Reports

Residents plead for resolution on Dunwoody drug treatment centers

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Residents and area community leaders packed Dunwoody City Hall July 24, to share stories of addiction, substance abuse and recovery prior to a vote extending the city’s temporary ban on new addiction treatment facilities.

Dunwoody issued a moratorium on drug rehabilitation centers in February after city staff recognized conflicts in Dunwoody’s zoning ordinance. A new ordinance fully defining residential substance abuse treatment facilities was set for discussion at the City Council’s first meeting in July, but the matter was tabled upon recommendation of City Manager Eric Linton.

City staff have asked for seven more months to study the issues surrounding treatment centers before crafting an ordinance.

“Since Dunwoody is still a young city, staff recognized that our code did not provide clear zoning expectations for drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers and other facilities for the treatment of drug and alcohol dependency,” Dunwoody Communications Director Jennifer Boettcher said. “The temporary moratorium gives staff more time to review state require-

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Residents share stories, concerns

During the meeting’s public comment, residents pleaded for city leaders to reconsider the temporary ban, which would have expired in August.

Speaking from personal experience, either as addicts or those who treat them, residents said local drug treatment facilities strengthen their communities, and efforts to strengthen regulations on them would only hurt the community.

Tom Hetrick, who grew up in Dunwoody and went to Dunwoody High School, said he became an addict at a young age, and he believes there are kids still in the community being affected by drugs and alcohol, just like he was.

“Year 18 of my life, I discovered drugs and alcohol, and for much of the next decade, I kind of fumbled around in life … I got lucky, I didn't lose my life like so many of my friends did,” Hetrick said. “If you ask your kids if they know of any friends who struggle with this, if they've ever heard stories of somebody they know dying, I'd be surprised if they didn't give you a couple of examples.”

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PHOTOS BY ALEXANDER POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Dozens gathered at Dunwoody City Hall July 24, to speak in opposition of extending a ban on new substance abuse treatment facilities in the city. Speakers included recovering addicts and caregivers, who shared personal experiences with the City Council.

See CENTERS, Page 5

A Place for ALL Jews

Drug enforcement seizures aid Alpharetta police funding

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Every year, the Alpharetta Public Safety Department receives funding from the city for operational costs. But, some of the department’s expenses are also covered through local drug enforcement.

These funds are generated through the Equitable Sharing Program, an asset forfeiture program run by the U.S. Department of Justice that allows assets or proceeds from federal crimes to be liquidated. Assets that are seized from illegal drug activity are managed by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Once these assets are liquidated, Alpharetta Police Lt. Andrew Splawn said the funds can be used for anything besides salaries, benefits and recurring expenses. This can include weapon accessories, accommodations and supplies — even Yeti cups.

In 2022, the department used $102,525 in confiscated asset funding for a range of expenses, including equipment and machinery; employee training and travel; and general supplies and materials.

For example, some $21,579 was used for firearms. Of the $15,425 used for supplies, the department purchased $13,953 in Yeti cups for all Public Safety employ-

ees, with the remainder funding miscellaneous items such as magnets, weapon lights and phone chargers.

But, before an asset can be converted into real dollars, it must undergo a process of oversight.

Splawn said two Alpharetta police detectives are assigned to DEA task forces. One is assigned to the high-density drug trafficking area, or HIDTA, task force, and the other is assigned to the financial investigation team, or FIT.

The HIDTA task force is responsible for drug enforcement, while the FIT task force investigates money laundering. FIT investigations are not always drug-related but oftentimes are, Splawn said.

“Throughout the course of their investigations, if there's any money or property that is either helping facilitate the illegal activity, or it's a proceed or benefit from the illegal activity, those funds are seized,” Splawn said.

The department also has a Special Investigations Unit, which focuses on narcotics, vice and human trafficking offenses. While this is not one of the DEA task forces, Splawn said assets seized by the unit are still counted in the department’s confiscated assets fund.

“There's no difference in how we spend the money, whether it comes federally or locally,” he said. “But once we have

the money, it can be spent on things like training, equipment, initiatives. In fact, much of our second floor is paid for with asset forfeiture money. We got a SWAT bus and some other high-dollar items that are typically hard to budget for.”

Once an asset is seized, a judge determines if it had aided a crime or was the benefit of a crime. If the judge rules that it was not, the asset is returned to its owner. If it was, the Department of Justice uses a formula to determine how much an agency receives from the forfeiture.

“That's kind of the key thing that sometimes gets missed is that whenever assets are seized, assets or money is seized, whoever the property is taken from has a right to a hearing,” Splawn said.

Such assets can include land, homes and, most often, vehicles.

To liquidate the assets, the Alpharetta Police Department submits the funds to GovDeals, an online auction-based marketplace for governments and educational agencies. After the assets are awarded to the department, the rest of the process is conducted through the state, Splawn said.

He said to provide a layer of oversight and prevent abuse, all expenses covered by asset forfeiture must be approved by the chief of public safety.

Dunwoody approves raises, $10,000 police signing bonus

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — The Dunwoody City Council approved a sweeping set of new benefits for its Police Department, including a 10 percent mid-year pay hike and $10,000 signing bonus for new officers.

The pay increase was unanimously approved at a meeting July 24, following months of discussion about how the city can recruit and retain more police.

Officials said the city has increased police salaries six times since 2021 to stay competitive in the region.

“The city has regularly reviewed the compensation of public safety and other staff to recruit and retain top talent

Centers:

Continued from Page 3

Speakers at the meeting included treatment center representatives and caregivers.

Ben Mesika, who got clean of drugs and alcohol in 2000 and now works with the Dunwoody-based Atlanta Recovery Place, said local treatment centers are sometimes the only thing keeping addicts off the street, out of jail and alive.

“We care for these people,” Mesika said. “You can't even imagine what this means to us to be able to see these individuals get back their lives on track.”

The main issue

City officials said only new permits for treatment centers will be banned during the seven-month moratorium extension, and no existing facilities should be affected.

But multiple public speakers disagreed with that assertion, saying by extending the moratorium, Dunwoody is making it so that facilities can’t supply the growing demand for substance abuse treatment in the community.

“The moratorium that you passed in February of 2023 was ill advised,” Mariettabased lawyer Stephen Katz said. “The moratorium that you are considering today is also ill advised and compounds the problem.”

Katz said the new moratorium has been expanded to include inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities.

“To say on the agenda that you're only extending it is misleading to the citizens of Dunwoody,” he said.

Mesika, of Atlanta Recovery Place, said the moratorium seems to be specifically targeting certain organizations, which definitely will be affected by the seven-month

for our community,” City Manager Eric Linton said. “This increase is significant. It reflects our commitment to public safety and keeping Dunwoody competitive in a challenging environment.”

The starting pay for a Dunwoody police officer with a high school degree and no experience was raised to $56,970, and an officer with a bachelor’s degree and five years’ experience will be paid $68,544.

Raises go into effect Aug. 1 and will be in addition to the 4 percent pay raise officials approved in early 2023.

The Police Department also offers a host of other benefits to new and existing employees, including a $10,000 signing bonus, a take-home vehicle program and a $800 a month housing stipend for officers living in the city.

delay.

“It's actually directed directly at us,” Mesika said. “Because we applied for business license and permits to finish remodeling one of our current buildings. And for somebody to say this is not affecting a current business, that's an outright lie.”

In an email statement after the meeting, city spokeswoman Boettcher said there are no pending applications that could be delayed by the moratorium. However, Boettcher did not comment on the legitimacy of Mesika’s claims.

Officials comment

After hearing the speakers and staff presentations, City Council members shared their support for recovering residents and their dedication to the zoning process.

“Your stories today were very powerful and moving and we are so grateful and incredibly proud of the work hard work you have put in to reach this point,” Mayor Lynn Deutsch said.

Post 6 Councilman John Heneghan said if city staff need seven more months to get the zoning for treatment centers right, he would approve it.

“As somebody said, everybody has been touched by dependency,” Heneghan said.

“I'm one of those, my family, everybody is … This is not about dependency; this is a zoning issue. We take zoning very seriously, and we want to make sure that our zoning laws are right.”

The City Council unanimously approved the moratorium extension after a short discussion, but officials urged city staff to complete the ordinance draft as quickly as possible.

“This year rather than February next year, it would be great if we can get this figured out,” Post 2 Councilman Rob Price said.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Audience travels back decades with ‘Schoolhouse Rock Live!’

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

MILTON, Ga. — At Milton Arts Council’s fifth annual Community Theatre production, President Bill Purdie stepped out of a giant Magnavox television and welcomed an audience of about two dozen to a show filled with nostalgia and fun.

The musical “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” sent the audience back to 1973, the same year the animated educational TV series began. Held at Mill Springs Academy from July 21 to July 23, the show featured around 20 songs, performed by five voice-trained actors under the direction of Glenda Gray.

The musical is about a teacher named Tom, wet behind the ears and nervous about his first day of school. One Saturday morning, he turns on the television, and figments of his imagination appear, who help him prepare for the big day through engaging songs about grammar, history, math and science.

“I usually enjoy a good morning hallucination …” said Tom, played by Marshall Cain.

In an interview with Appen Media, Gray voiced her excitement about the show and recalled watching “Schoolhouse Rock!” as a young girl.

“The nostalgia, for at least my generation, is huge,” Gray said. “We’re all like, ‘Oh, I remember that one!’ You know, just automatically jump back to your childhood, and sit in front of the Saturday morning cartoons.”

Gray also commented on the musical’s fun, interactive aspect. Tom and his hallucinations walked between the rows of audience members, sat beside them, talked to them. By the end of the show, balloons covered the floor.

The Community Theatre is one of many services the Milton Arts Council (MAC) offers. The nonprofit also has children’s programs, like summer camps and the Children’s Theatre, a creative writing contest and Milton’s Got Talent. It also takes performances to assisted living facilities and provides scholarships.

Last year, Purdie said MAC saw involvement from about 1,800 people.

“What I have learned is that the city, like others, has a great deal of talent, particularly in our youth,” Purdie said.

The nonprofit is a spin-off of the Milton Cultural Arts Committee, which was dissolved by the city in 2018 to provide more funding opportunities. Purdie said Milton is one of the only North Fulton cities that doesn’t fund the arts.

More Information

For its first Children’s Theatre production, the Milton Arts Council will present “We Are Monsters” Oct. 14-15. Kids, grades 3-8, can register and audition by Aug. 20. Rehearsals will be Tuesdays and Sundays, from Aug. 27 to Oct. 8.

“When the city charter was adopted in 2006, and the city was born, there was no provision made for [the arts],” Purdie said. “So, we're kind of on our own, which is a bit difficult.”

The nonprofit relies on donations and government grants from Fulton County and the state.

“We've proven to the City Council that we can do this, and that we're serving a lot of people,” Purdie said. “We've been creative.”

AMBER PERRY/APPEN MEDIA

In the Milton Arts Council’s fifth annual Community Theatre production, actors perform in “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” July 23 at Mill Springs Academy. Standing from left are: Emily Estrada , Lauren Quesnel, Eddie Estrada and Marshall Cain Christie Lee Fisher sits on the stage.

Director Glenda Gray and Milton Arts Council President Bill Purdie stand on stage before the “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” performance July 23.

PICS IN THE PARK: ‘READY PLAYER ONE’

What: Enjoy this free summer movie series event, showing “Ready Player One.” There will be free popcorn and candy, and other giveaways. Top Job Beverages will also be on-site with additional concessions. A popcorn cart will be open from 8:30-10:30 p.m.

The movie begins at 8:35 p.m.

When: Friday, Aug. 4, 8:30 p.m.

Where: Pernoshal Park, 4575 North Shallowford Road, Dunwoody

More info: dunwoodyga.gov

MILTON FARMERS MARKET

What: Every Saturday morning through October, more than a dozen vendors set up shop around Milton City Hall with fresh produce, fresh meat, sweets, coffee and tea, flowers, soaps, jewelry and more.

When: Saturday, Aug. 5, 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

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

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: FLANNEL NATION

What: Flannel Nation is set to perform as part of Johns Creek’s free summer concert series. Food trucks will be on-site. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Concerts are rain or shine. Gates open at 6 p.m. to allow for setup, and music begins at 7 p.m. Dogs are not allowed, except for service animals.

When: Saturday, Aug. 5, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Mark Burkhalter

Amphitheater at Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek

More info: johnscreekga.gov

CONCERTS BY THE SPRINGS: GUARDIANS OF THE JUKEBOX

What: Described as “a visual and sonic highlight reel of one of the most influential decades in music history,” Guardians of the Jukebox is an ’80s-nostalgia juggernaut. Lawn seating is free. Blankets, lawn chairs and umbrellas are allowed, but no pets.

When: Sunday, Aug. 6, 7 p.m.

Where: Heritage Amphitheater Lawn,

‘WHIMSY’

What: The exhibit “Whimsy” will feature artists who consider works by Dali, Magritte, Chagall, Bosch and others for inspiration. Presenting a wide variety of art showcasing the breadth and depth of artists’ imagination, artworks will include surrealism and fantastic imagery.

When: Aug. 9-Sept. 23, business hours

Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta

More info: alpharetta.ga.us

6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

‘WHIMSY’

What: The exhibit “Whimsy” will feature artists who consider works by Dali, Magritte, Chagall, Bosch and others for inspiration. Presenting a wide variety of art showcasing the breadth and depth of artists’ imagination, artworks will include surrealism and fantastic imagery.

When: Aug. 9-Sept. 23, business hours

Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

ROSWELL HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S TRIVIA NIGHT

What: Come out and share your knowledge of Roswell’s rich history from its founding in 1854 to the present day. Teams are encouraged, with a max team size of four members.

When: Thursday, Aug. 10, 7-9 p.m.

Where: The Vick, 1182 Canton Street, Roswell Cost: $25 ticket includes one drink

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT!

It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.

More info: roswellhistoricalsociety. org/events/trivia-night

GRACE ON THE GREEN: CHRISTIAN MUSIC SERIES

What: Crabapple Market is hosting “Grace on The Green,” a worship event with live music from The Well Collective.

When: Friday, Aug. 11, 7-9 p.m. Where: The Green at Crabapple Market, 12650 Crabapple Road, Milton

More info: crabapplemarketga.com

ROSWELL YOUTH THEATRE AUDITIONS FOR ‘ELF THE MUSICAL JR.’

What: Roswell Youth Theatre invites student performers to audition for “Elf the Musical Jr.,” open to middle and high school ages. Participants only need to attend one night but must stay the entire time.

When: Monday & Tuesday, Aug. 14-15, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Cost: $25

More info: roswellgov.com

GROOVIN’

ON THE GREEN: BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

What: Groovin’ on the Green, a free series at the Brook Run Park amphitheater, will feature the band Deep Velvet. Guests are encouraged to walk or ride bikes to the concert. Bring your own picnics or pick up dinner from a featured food truck. Dogs, on a leash, are also welcome.

When: Saturday, Aug. 12, 6-9 p.m.

Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody

More info: dunwoodyga.gov

easy

MARIUPOL: THE CITY THAT DOESN’T EXIST

What: This exhibit is a collection of original photographs by Ukrainian artist Anna Rumiantseva, who has recorded what Mariupol used to be before the war in her home county. The exhibit can be viewed at the Alpharetta City Hall Community Room Monday through Thursday, 8:30 to 5 p.m., and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

When: Until Sept. 11

Where: Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta

More info: alpharetta.ga.us

PAST TENSE

Moonshine stories abound from the Great Depression

The name “moonshiners” evolved because the people who produced alcohol operated their stills at night. The necessity of keeping stills and the production of alcohol secret was due to Prohibition, and later, taxes that would be due if discovered. (georgiaencylcopedia.org)

Richard Adams recalled that his father and two of his father’s brothers made and sold moonshine. One of the Adams brothers lived along what is now Hewlett Road in Sandy Springs. A large amount of glass was discovered behind the house by the homeowner.

Adams grew up along what is now Dunwoody Club Drive and shared the story of the night there was a raid on the family home.

“We had considerable bottles of white lightning. Knowing the cost issues if found, my mother placed the filled bottles under the mattress and got in bed pretending to be sick.”

The marshals asked a young Richard Adams if he knew where his daddy’s liquor was hidden, but Adams knew to say he knew nothing about his dad’s business.

(Memoirs of Richard Adams)

When Ralph Glaze was a boy growing up along Winters Chapel and Peeler Road, he remembers the rumor of moonshine production between Happy Hollow and Winters Chapel Road along what is now Dunwoody Club Drive. Adults used to say, “Don’t go down there,” sometimes using the story of a monster to keep children away. The monster was a moonshineproducing still. (Ralph Glaze oral history for Dunwoody Preservation Trust, 2017)

J. W. Wilborn and Frank Self of Sandy Springs shared the story of Tubby Sewell and his multiple stills. They recall him as a local bootlegger who kept residents in whiskey. Sewell drove a 1944 coupe that “could go down the road 90 miles an hour and turn around and meet the police coming back, turn that thing around at ninety miles an hour right in the middle of the road.” (Sandy Springs Gazette Volume 1, 2017)

Force:

Continued from Page 1

“The Plaintiff was completely compliant with the officers' stop at any previous time and this stop as well,” the complaint said. “Officer Baker would have been able to accomplish the traffic

In the 1930s, Tubby Sewell was the main supplier of whiskey for Sandy Springs.

“If you needed a pint of whiskey, why you called this number, and he said put two dollars in the mailbox. When you went back by you picked up your whiskey.”

The Ware family once lived on land where Life Center Ministries is today on Mount Vernon Road. The cottage that still stands on the property was built by Bill

stop goal without pursuing this amount of excessive force.”

Lyons, who will represent himself in court, claims he was given confusing and conflicting commands during the traffic stop, “which could all at once not be done at the same time” and feared for his life during the alleged ordeal.

While Lyons was not injured during the incident, he claims his case should be

Ware’s great grandfather John Ware. Farmers sometimes tried the moonshine business during the Great Depression to help their families survive, but Bill Ware says the Wares’ difficulties started before the Depression. (From Bill Ware oral history for DPT, 2017)

When farming was not enough, his grandfather William Ware opened a store in Roswell and tried moonshining. Rather than keep a still on Ware land, it was built

considered police brutality and has named the responding officer, his supervisor and the department as parties in the suit.

In the complaint, he cites multiple other cases where courts have found individuals’ rights were violated when held at gunpoint by officers.

“The force was not applied in a good faith effort to maintain discipline but maliciously for the purpose of causing harm,”

PROVIDED

across the road where Brooke Farm is today. The family eventually sold their land and moved in with a relative who had a home in Kirkwood.

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.

the complaint states.

The complaint was filed in U.S. Northern District Court March 17, 2023, and was later amended in June after a ruling by Judge Mark H. Cohen.

The Sandy Springs Police Department has not filed a response to the complaint, and Appen Media’s requests for comment and documents were not immediately answered.

The Ware family home, built in the late 1800s, is now on the property of Life Christian Ministries. William Ware operated a still across the road in what is now Brooke Farm subdivision.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF

Columnist

Buried history: Bethlehem Methodist Cemetery and Church

PRESERVING THE PAST Bethlehem Cemetery on Clubhouse Drive in Alpharetta’s Windward community of Alpharetta is an example of how a cemetery can become largely forgotten despite its significant historic value. With burials as early as 1828 and records dating back to 1838, according to attorney and local historian Tim Spruell, the cemetery is the final resting place of some of the area’s earliest settlers, some with familiar last names such as Cunningham, McGinnis, Dodd, Nesbitt, Douglas, Pace, Shirley and Tribble. There are at least 74 markers, most of them illegible, and numerous other fieldstone markers without names, and some graves without markers, possibly the graves of slaves. Twentysix marked graves are those of babies less than 1 year old, and many graves are young children, a testament to the hard life and diseases of the time.

According to Spruell, in 1890 the Bethlehem Methodist Episcopal Church, South (the church’s complete name) reported on their deed. The value of the church and property was estimated at $250, but the deed was “conditional” on remaining a church property. The membership, which had been declining, moved from Bethlehem Church to the newer Ocee Methodist Church in 1920 and was completely dissolved in 1932 meaning that according to the terms of the deed the property would revert to the original owner. Spruell believes the original owner was Cornelius Cauley who had two daughters. One was Judah Ann Cauley Rogers and the other married a Shirley. Since the Ocee Methodist Church was the last to exercise any church function ownership of the property, ownership may be an open question today.

The church, according to research done by Windward resident Betty Cruickshank, now deceased, was one of the oldest in old Milton County. It was one of six churches on the Alpharetta Methodist Church circuit. Some congregations could only afford a preacher once a month, and members rotated between circuit churches on Sundays. Methodist churches of the time were often served by itinerant circuit preachers not only for economic reasons but also because John Wesley (1703-1791), founder of the Methodist church, believed that

itinerant preachers were more effective at spreading religion than those who remained with one church.

In 1736, Wesley traveled to Georgia with James Oglethorpe and preached in the Savannah area for almost two years before returning to England.

The cemetery is on land encircled

by the 1,500 acres once owned by James Wright Shirley, which is now part of the Windward Community. According to Billy Bates (1926-2021), who spearheaded efforts to preserve North Fulton County cemeteries, James Wright Shirley always insisted on being present when plowing was

done near the cemetery because he knew that slaves and Indians were buried there in unmarked graves.

Mobil Land Development purchased the land in 1978. Don Rifenberg, who was vice president of Development Operations for Mobil, managed the construction of the Windward Community. He recalls discovering the cemetery that was unknown and completely overgrown when he was scouting locations for a new road. Fortunately, Don, who has ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War and Civil War, has a keen sense of history and was determined to save the cemetery. Well, the cemetery was almost unknown. Tim Spruell recalls Halloween hayrides to the cemetery in the mid-1970s for Ocee Methodist Church Sunday School children organized by his great uncle Billy Brooks, a school bus driver and owner of a pick-your-own-crops farm.

After the cemetery closed and families died or moved away due to development, the cemetery was abandoned until Don rediscovered it. From time to time, Boy Scout troops or volunteer groups have had cleanups and performed repairs, but the cemetery currently is basically not cared for like scores of other cemeteries in Georgia.

Betty Cruikshank did extensive research on the Bethlehem Church “which sat on the northeast side of the cemetery.” She described the church: “The parishioners came from the surrounding farmland by buggy, surrey and wagon, tying their horses to the trees. The front door led to a center aisle flanked on each side with rows of handmade wooden benches with slat backs….In one pulpit was the ‘Amen Corner,’ two or three benches placed lengthwise, reserved for the elderly whose sight and hearing might be somewhat impaired.”

Betty reported that during the Great Depression, several families took up residence in the rotting church building before it eventually collapsed and was burned. She believed that it was likely that an earlier church, probably made of logs, sat on the site.

The cemetery is worth a visit by those with a love of history, especially out of the way places with interesting stories to tell.

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.

PHOROS BY BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

At least two Confederate soldiers are buried in the cemetery. This marker is for Stephen Decatur Tribble, one of four Tribble family members in the cemetery.

Some of the headstones in Bethlehem Cemetery are in good condition, but due to erosion are difficult or impossible to read.

BOB MEYERS

Columnist

Wine:

Continued from Page 1

To Keenan, winemaking is a craft he has enjoyed for 16 years, and through the shop, he shares that craft with the community.

“This is unique to Atlanta,” Keenan said. “This store here, there's nothing like it.”

An artistic process

Beer and Wine Craft buys concentrated grape juice from a distributor. Customers can choose from more than 100 grape varieties, some grown in the Napa Valley in California; Tuscany, Italy; Bordeaux, France; the Barossa Valley in Australia; and the Willamette Valley in Oregon.

“We don't bring in the grapes,”

Keenan said. “I don't ever want to bring in the grapes. Once you pick that grape, it is on its way downhill faster than you know. It’s got bad microbes in it that [causes it to spoil] real easy. It oxidizes real easy. Everything goes wrong with it.”

The juice is treated with sulfites, which are naturally occurring in grapes. It is then placed into a primary fermenter, where it stays for 15 days.

Keenan also ferments wine in his beloved Hungarian oak barrels, a process that lasts between two and three months.

While French, American and Hungarian oak barrels come from subspecies of the white oak tree, he said the Hungarian barrels leave a perfect finish because of the size of the cellulose cells.

“This is an art, not a science,” he said. “You have to taste it on a regular

basis.”

After the wine rests for the allotted time, it is fined and cleared, which involves stopping the fermentation process and adding sulfites and clearing agents. The wine is then transferred into a carboy, a large, clear jug.

The wine remains in the carboy for roughly two weeks before it is transferred to another carboy to remove unwanted sediment. The beverage is refined for two more weeks until it is siphoned into a third carboy. Then, it is ready to be bottled.

From start to finish, the process takes between six and eight weeks. Keenan said every 6 gallons of wine yields 30 bottles.

In the back of the shop, customers can also buy supplies to make their own beer. Here, there are kits complete with instructions, hops, spices, yeast and malt extract to create a variety of ales.

However, because the shop does not have a license for beer tasting, it only offers classes and sells supplies. Beer and Wine Craft will host winemaking classes from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 16, Oct. 7, Nov. 4 and Dec. 2. Each class is $75 per person.

Beer making classes are set at the same time on Sept. 23, Nov. 11 and on an undetermined date in December. Beer classes are $55 per person.

Fruits of labor

After a decade of leading its wine production, Keenan has cemented Beer and Wine Craft as a Sandy Springs staple where customers can enjoy wines that cannot be found anywhere else.

“It's just a really, really nice craft, and people enjoy it,” he said. “It takes less than two hours to make 30 bottles of it. It takes about half an hour to start it, half an hour to fine and clear it and about 45 minutes to bottle it.”

In addition to offering guests the opportunity to make their own batch, the shop keeps red, white and dessert wines stocked by the bottle and for tasting. Its standout selection is its private reserve, a Chianti-style blend that won Keenan a silver medal at the American Wine Society’s Commercial Wine Competition in 2022.

Beer and Wine Craft is open every day, with hours varying from late morning or noon to early evening. More information on tastings and classes can be found at beerandwinecraft.com.

Fermenting red wines await bottling July 25 in the back of Beer and Wine Craft at 203 Hilderbrand Drive in Sandy Springs. Customers can make their own red, white and fruit wines at the shop, which requires three visits over four to eight weeks.

PHOTOS BY SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Beer and Wine Craft, 203 Hilderbrand Drive in Sandy Springs, includes a tasting room where guests can sample a variety of house-made wines. The American Wine Society awarded the shop’s private reserve a silver medal in 2022.

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.

To view the entire listing visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/. To apply, please submit resume to Carol Swan at cswan@nfcchelp.org.

Part-time

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.

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE

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.

SENIOR TAX MANAGER

Business Accounting Services

Prepare company (1120, 1120S, 1065) and individual income tax returns, review (and sometimes prepare) monthly financial statements, to communicate well with clients on their business needs (tax planning, etc). Enrolled Agent (EA) and a minimum of 3 years tax experience required. Base salary plus incentive pay based on completed work. Come enjoy working with our great team!

Resume: nick@businessaccounting.com

Garage

Dunwoody Door

The

Co.

770-393-1652

If you can’t lift your door, let Dunwoody Door Lift it!

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!

Call 770-442-3278 and ask for Heidi or Email Heidi@AppenMedia.com

Neil Ketner 770-318-7762

Electricians

Belco

“Family Owned Since 1972” Fast Dependable Service by Professional Uniformed Electricians

Check out our new website: BelcoInc.com and follow us on: 770-455-4556

Cemetery

SANDY SPRINGS-Arlington Memorial Park

2 Niches, side by side Sunrise Chapel Mausoleum

Valued at 5K each, asking $2500 each 404-403-9134

Handyman

MATTHEW THE HANDYMAN

Carpentry, Painting, Drywall, Plumbing, Electrical and Small Jobs. 404-547-2079