01-11-2013 Brookhaven Reporter by Rough Draft Atlanta: Atlanta Intown, Reporter Newspapers

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Education Guide Winter 2013 PAGES 13 - 28

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JAN. 11 — JAN. 24, 2013 • VOL. 5 — NO. 1

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City hires ﬁrst permanent employee COMMUNITY 4

Party on Synagogue celebrates 125th anniversary FAITH 6

Street feet Group brings warmth, love to homeless MAKING A DIFFERENCE 8

Warning shot Gun control discussion needed now COMMENTARY 11

Tightly wound Tennis center contract being challenged COMMUNITY 33

Unplain Jane Literary society reveres novelist Austen COMMUNITY 34

PHIL MOSIER

Jenny Morgan, member of the Skyland United Methodist Church and altar prayer team, soaks up the “Friday Night Fire Worship service,” on Jan. 4 in Brookhaven. The contemporary service, held the ﬁrst Friday of each month, is an open gathering without an agenda or order, attracting people from all communities. Another photo on page 30.

Legislators gearing up for return to Gold Dome BY MELISSA WEINMAN

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Council delays vote on strip club regulations BY MELISSA WEINMAN

melissaweinman@reporternewspapers.net

As state lawmakers head back to the Gold Dome in 2013, they have a lot to think about. Each year, the state budget looms as a daunting task, and this year is no different. Georgia is a balanced budget state, meaning that tough cuts must be made when revenues are down. “It’s going to be a difficult financial year for the state. The budget picture in particular looks bleak,” said Rep. Scott Holcomb, DDeKalb. The hospital bed tax, which collects funds for indigent care, expires this year, Holcomb said. “That is going to be a pretty intense debate about whether that tax gets extended or not extended. There’s some pretty extensive re-

Brookhaven City Council voted Jan. 8 to delay a controversial decision on adopting a new ordinance to regulate adult businesses. On Dec. 17, its first day of opeartions, the city adopted all of DeKalb County’s ordinances, including one regulating adult entertainment businesses. But council is looking to replace the county’s ordinance with one that has been adopted by other cities in the metro area, including Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, and most recently, Doraville. Attorney Scott Bergthold said the new ordinance is similar to the one already in place in DeKalb County. It would ban the sale of alcohol and prohibit contact between dancers and customers. But Bergthold said “there are a number of constitutional de-

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The city of Brookhaven will hold a public hearing on zoning and sign ordinances at the “Little White House,” 2536 Caldwell Road, on Jan. 14.

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Brookhaven city officials plan a series of public meetings, including a “town hall” to gather public opinion, during the month of January. Brookhaven City Council will hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. on Jan. 14 to consider adopting the proposed Brookhaven Zoning Ordinance and Brookhaven Sign Regulations Ordinance. The meeting will be held at the “Little White House,” 2536 Caldwell Road. The second read of the ordinance will be considered at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 15 at the Ashford Dunwoody YMCA, 3692 Ashford Dunwoody Road. Brookhaven also will host an open house at 2 p.m. on Jan. 16 to introduce residents to the city’s Community Development Department. People are invited to learn about the city’s building, permitting, inspec-

tion and business license processes. Staff from the Community Development and Finance departments will be on hand to answer any questions. Brookhaven City Hall is located at 200 Ashford Center North in Dunwoody. There will be a tour of city hall following the open house. At 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 24, the city will host a “town hall” meeting at Marist School, 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Road, NE. The town hall meeting will be a more informal way for the community to interact with the mayor, city council and department heads for the new city of Brookhaven. Officials will explain the functions of different city departments, present updates on the city’s ordinances, and talk about future plans. There will also be time for residents to ask questions.

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As Brookhaven’s new city government takes shape, the business community is organizing as well. The Brookhaven Chamber of Commerce had its first official day Jan. 1, said Todd Lantier, the chairman of the board of directors. The chamber evolved from the Brookhaven Community Connection, a monthly networking group for Brookhaven businesspeople. When it came time for the nonprofit to refile its articles of incorporation, the group officially changed its name to the Brookhaven Chamber of Commerce. The leaders of the Brookhaven Community Connection – including Lantier, who served as president - stayed on to become founding members of the board of directors for the Chamber of Commerce. Arthur Freeman was brought in to act as the chamber’s executive director and CEO, and Terrell Carstens is the deputy director. One of the chamber’s main functions will be to serve as an advocate for businesses at City Hall. “We are the voice of businesses in Brookhaven,” Freeman said. Lantier said the board is more than just symbolic leadership – members are taking a very active role in the chamber’s startup. “We are the employees,” Lantier said. “We’re all giving money, we’re seed funding it. Our commitment to this is we’re putting our own money here.” The chamber’s leaders are no strangers to start-up organizations after spending the past several months helping to create the city of Brookhaven. Lantier represented District 2 on the Governor’s Commission on Brookhaven. Freeman and Carstens volunteered for the commission to help get the new city up and running, Freeman said. “We were all heavily involved in the movement and ultimate creation of the city,” Freeman said. Freeman said he was retired before taking the executive director position for the chamber, having spent part of his career in environmental engineering and part of his career in information technology. He volunteered to work with Brookhaven Yes, an advocacy group that promoted creation of the city of Brookhaven. “It was kind of interesting because I was a retired citizen and decided to just volunteer with Brookhaven Yes. But because of my background, I kept getting placed in positions with more and more responsibility,” Freeman said. “When it was over, I realized I was out of work and I liked it too much. It would be kind of fun to continue in some capacity. I did not want to work for City Hall, but then Todd [Lantier] came by and offered me the position of executive director and I jumped on it.” BK

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Freeman said the chamber is now in the process of organizing and planning. Committees have been formed to concentrate on membership, business development, economic development, education and the work force. A public announcement and inaugural event are in the works for February. “We’ve had two board of directors meetings putting together our strategic plan for 2013,” Freeman said. Lantier said he’s pleased with the new chamber’s direction. “I’m thrilled. I’m really excited about how things are going,” Lantier said.

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Susan Hiott was sworn in as city clerk, Brookhaven’s ﬁrst ofﬁcial permanent employee, on Jan. 8.

City hires ﬁrst permanent employee, the city clerk BY MELISSA WEINMAN

melissaweinman@reporternewspapers.net

Brookhaven City Council swore in its first official permanent employee on Jan. 8. The council hired Susan Hiott to be the city clerk, the official record keeper of the city. Mayor J. Max Davis said he was excited about finding so qualified a person to serve as one of the city’s most important positions. Hiott served as the clerk for the city of Smryna for 10 years. She also has experience working as clerk for the cities of Roswell and Acworth. “It’s an extremely difficult position to fill,” Davis said. “There aren’t many

clerks.” Hiott is a Master Municipal Clerk and Certified Municipal Clerk, which are state and international certifications for achieving the highest educational, experience and service requirements in her field. Hiott has served as a past president of the Georgia Municipal Clerks and Finance Officers Association and is a member of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, and Georgia Council of Court Administrators. “We have the highest qualified clerk in the state of Georgia,” Davis said.

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COMMUNITY Hiott said she’s looking forward to The clerk will also oversee the adopthe challenge of helping organize a new tion and publishing of Brookhaven’s city. code of ordinances, coordinate the elec“I think it’s exciting to be able to go tion process, and handle requests for ininto a brand new city formation under the and see all the start state’s Open Records up,” Hiott said. “I’m Law. just very interested in Brookhaven is still it all and wanted to be “I think it’s exciting to be searching for a city in on it.” manager, who will be able to go into a brand She said she is inthe city’s top administerested in seeing the new city and see all the trative official. start up. I’m just very way the start-up city The city has hired operates. an executive search interested in it all and “I come in from firm to find candidates wanted to be in on it.” to fill the position. Smyrna which is a traditional city,” she said. Bob Slavin of Slavin “I want to compare the Management Consul– SUSAN HIOTT two types and be in on tants said he has alBROOKHAVEN CITY CLERK the ground floor.” ready received severThe city clerk’s real good resumes and is sponsibilities include posting the position in recording and mainprofessional journals taining the city council’s meeting minsoon. Slavin said it will likely be about utes, organizing meeting agendas, and a month before they bring candidates in coordinating the records management for interviews. and retention program for the city, “As we get people in we’ll begin that Bookhaven officials said. vetting process,” he said.

City names department heads Brookhaven’s Interim City Manager Marie Garrett announced the department heads who will be in charge of the city’s various services. Brookhaven City Council awarded bids to private vendors to provide services for the city, and the department heads are employees of those companies. The following people will be serving as department heads: • • • • • •

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FAITH

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Bobby Ezor remembers why he ta in the 1880s. They didn’t fit in with joined the Ahavath Achim Synagogue the German families who established 34 years ago. the city’s first synagogue, The Tem“They offered us a free membership ple, in the 1860s, so they started their if we married there,” the Buckhead lawown synagogue, said Doris Goldstein, yer recalled. “We’ve been a member of the Ahavath members ever since.” Achim since 1963 and auThis month, Ezor rethor of “From Generation pays his debt. He has asto Generation,” a histosembled a documentary ry of the synagogue pubfilm, titled “Reunion, Relished for its centennial. newal, Ruach,” that will “You had this estabserve as the centerpiece of lished Jewish commua celebration of the Bucknity of 400 to 500 peohead-based congregation’s ple. These were people 125th anniversary and its who assimilated to a cercontributions to metro Attain extent,” Goldstein lanta and its Jewish comsaid. “Then along comes munity. an influx of these funnyBobby Ezor “I’ve been here for a rellooking people with long atively short time,” Ezor beards and black coats. said over lunch at a Buckhead sandwich They spoke Yiddish. …. That’s how shop recently, “but I came A.A got started.” to realize this place has A handful of men orgatouched this community nized the new synagogue, in more ways than you can the city’s second, in 1887, imagine.” she said. Ahavath Achim, The congregation, the name they chose for known to many simply it, translates as “love of by its initials, “A.A,” once brothers” or “brotherly was among the largest Jewlove,” she said. ish congregations in the “Of the original 18 country, members say, and members, only six had it still claims more than permanent addresses and 1,000 families on its rolls. were listed in the 1888 A.A.’s sanctuary, located at edition of the city direcDoris Goldstein Peachtree Battle Avenue tory,” she wrote in a book and Northside Drive, seats published to coincide with 3,000. A.A.’s 120th anniversary. The rest, she But it traces its 19th-century beginsaid, probably lived in rented rooms nings to a small group of Eastern Euor with family members. “These Eastropean emigrants who settled in Atlanern European Jews wanted to replicate

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FAITH Ahavath Achim Synagogue celebrates its 125th anniversary What: Premier showing of “Reunion, Renewal and Ruach,” a documentary about the synagogue, premiere of a new song by Los Angeles-based songwriter Craig Taubman, and live music by a band that features A.A. Associate Rabbi Lawrence Rosenthal on guitar.

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something new: the “AAbsolute Shabbat,” a service set to pop music from performers such as the Beatles, Elvis Presley, Simon and Garfunkel or U2. Sandler said some members no longer want to be part of a passive audience “where the people up on the stage do it for you and you came to watch the show.” Instead, “now we really want to engage people,” he said. As A.A. celebrates its 125th year, “we stand at a very interesting place,” the rabbi said. “It’s not a crossroads. It’s a road. Where we stand is on the road of renewal, to what it means to be a congregation in the 21st century.”

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much of the traditional life they left behind,” she wrote. A.A.’s original building, located at Gilmer and Piedmont streets in downtown Atlanta, opened in 1901, according to Goldstein’s book. The congregation built a second, larger home on Washington Street in the 1920s and relocated to its present facilities in the 1950s. As it’s grown, the congregation has changed as well. A.A. started as an orthodox congregation, then joined the Conservative Movement in 1952, Goldstein said. “It was changing through the times,” she said. Ezor set out to capture the congregation’s history and its contributions to the community by interviewing members. He originally envisioned a short movie compiled from interviews taped with a home video camera, he said. But he soon realized his subject required more. “One guy came in – he’s 97 years old – and he says how he saw Jackie Robinson come to town to play the Atlanta Crackers and saw him steal home,” Ezor said. “Another says how he came face-to-face with Coretta Scott King.” He sought help from a writer friend and called on professional videographers to record his interviews. He got Broadway actress Tovah Feldshuh to record the voiceover. As he compiled interviews, Ezor realized A.A. had contributed leadership to Atlanta and its Jewish community. “It’s really been a ‘mother ship’ for the starting of programs in the Jewish and secular communities,” he said. “A.A. is everywhere. There are pieces of A.A.’s heart scattered all over this town.” In the 1980s and 1990s, as metro Atlanta sprawled across north Georgia, A.A.’s congregation changed, members said. Membership declined as new synagogues opened in the suburbs. A.A. Rabbi Neil Sandler said the metro area now has nearly 40 congregations. So, as it reaches 125, A.A. is changing again, this time to attract younger families and others who are returning to the city. The synagogue offers a variety of services and spiritual experiences, from traditional services to meditation to activities for children. Sandler offers as one example of

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

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The temperature was forecast to drop (PLL), run by Drew Benton, a former below freezing on Dec. 13. At 10:46 director of SafeHouse Atlanta, which p.m., clutching a new blanket wrapped creates programs that are based on local in plastic, Buckhead lawyer Kel Long community needs. “30WG is a homestepped cautiously on the street toward less rescue group. We don’t give them a shadowy alcove in downtown Atlanta. money. We don’t offer food. Our hope “We’re with Project Live Love and is to help these people make it through Three-Oh-We-Go. the night alive and Would you like a warm,” he said. Do you know an organization or blanket?” he asked. “We reach these individual making a difference From under a dipeople after the shelin our community? Email sheveled mound of ters have shut their editor@reporternewspapers.net covers, a disemboddoors for the night. ied voice murmured, We always think “OK.” about how to show It was the voice of a homeless man them some love,” Long said. who is one of an estimated 7,000 homeOne night in 2009, Long and Benless people in this area. Indoor shelters ton found each other by chance while only offer about 2,600 beds so, especialhelping the homeless. They decided to ly in winter, the math - and the elements join forces and founded 30WG for the - are against the homeless. next season. And whenever the temps dip to 30 Benton is 33, 6’4”, a stocky, nittydegrees or below, Long and his team gritty, street-wise type with many tatgo. Ergo - Three-Oh-We-Go! (30WG), toos. Long is 52, 5’7”, a lean, cosmopolwhich has delivered blankets, hats, itan type and natty dresser. scarves, foot warmers and socks to more “Kel brings maturity and sincerity to than 2,200 homeless people in just two the mix. He captures one audience, and years. I another,” Benton said. “Together, we’re 30WG stems from Project Live Love a great team with credibility.”

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE J.D. MOOR

Kel Long kneels next to a homeless woman after giving her a blanket. Long, a Buckhead attorney, helps deliver hats, scarves, foot warmers and socks to some of the 7,000 homeless people in downtown Atlanta, whenever the temperature dips below 30 degrees.

Back when he was in his 20s, Long was impressed with colleagues who invited the homeless to breakfast, and then sat and talked with them during the meal. “I didn’t have the balls to do that,” Long said. “But three years ago on a sub-freezing night, I saw a homeless man stretched out on a bench. His feet in tennis shoes poked out at the end of his blankets and, as a duck hunter, I thought, ‘I’d sure like some foot warmers if that were me.’” The next day, Long bought out a store’s stock of foot warmers, $500 worth. He learned quickly that activating the warmers before handing them out was the way to be sure the homeless would use them, not sell them. 30WG volunteers are unique first-responders. They know when to go, but not necessarily where, because the landscape of homelessness often changes. On this first deployment of the season, they spent several hours criss-crossing so-called “hot spots” known to attract the homeless. They zipped around in small, SUV-led convoys to the city’s churches and private parks, tumbled out of their vehicles, then moved in packs

on foot. Long has noticed that some 30WG volunteers can’t get enough of connecting with the homeless, while others can’t handle it at all. “When they see them actually bedding down on the streets, meet them and talk to them, that experience goes deep,” he said. Jason Horrell of Buckhead, 30, was one of the volunteers on Dec. 13. “It’s more than doing something good for these people. It’s about establishing relationships. I remember some of these folks from last year,” he said. Tony, a man in Coca-Cola Park, said he’d been homeless for at least a year, after losing his job as a semi driver. “These are pretty nice people. I needed a better hat to keep my head warm and I’m glad they had one for me,” he said. That knowledge warms the hearts and souls of everyone with 30WG. “This can be gut-wrenching work, but we are helping them,” Long said. To volunteer or donate, visit: http://projectlivelove.com/theaction/ three-oh-we-go/

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Perimeter Business A new monthly section focusing on businesses and businesspeople in the Perimeter area. Perimeter Business Focusing on business in the Reporter Newspapers communities

Restaurateurs cook up local following By Melissa Weinman In the late 1970s, a developer invited businessman Doug McKendrick to help open a restaurant in an area just outside of the city of Atlanta. There wasn’t much out there at the time - the new retail area was surrounded by farmland, McKendrick recalls. Today, that area is known to most as the Perimeter, and it has come a long way since the ‘70s. It’s now a bustling commercial center with a large, upscale shopping mall, hotels and one of the largest office districts in the Southeast. It’s been through several incarnations, but since 1995, that first restaurant space has been home to McKendrick’s Steakhouse, which now is regarded as one of the top steakhouses in Atlanta. The Perimeter, and in the larger sense the communities of Sandy Springs, Dunwoody and Brookhaven which touch it, are a prime spot for restaurateurs, too. “I think the corporate business, all the office buildings out here create a tremendous amount of demand,” McKendrick said. “The Perimeter Center area is one of the best areas to come to.” McKendrick said much of his business comes from the corporations that call Perimeter home. “You have all these office buildings out here and when they have a meeting, they want a nice place to go. I think we provide them that,” McKendrick said. But the area is home for a lot o f people, too. “We have built business with local people that have been coming here for 15, 16, 17 years,” McKendrick said. “Our staff knows them.” McKendrick said he sees the Perimeter area gaining popularity because it is a more convenient place to dine for people living in the north metro Atlanta suburbs. See ReStauRateuRS, Page 18

Publisher’s note In this issue, we’re introducing a new section, Perimeter Business. Most of our readers live and/or work in the area that is broadly-defined as the “Perimeter.” It is one of the largest and most important business and office markets in metro Atlanta (and the Southeast), home to major U.S. companies and an eclectic mix of Steve Levene small and mid-size businesses. Stories in this section will cover a range of topics with an emphasis on people—the business leaders and owners, entrepreneurs and employees—who contribute to the dynamism and diversity of the Perimeter market. We welcome your input; please email me at publisher@reporternewspapers.net.

Christopher North Chris Segal, a partner in 101 Concepts, visits the recently renovated Food 101 restaurant in Sandy Springs. Segal and other restaurateurs have found success bringing upscale dining options to the Perimeter area.

For advertising and editorial information, call 404-917-2200 ext. 112 or email publisher@reporternewspapers.net. Reporter Newspapers www.ReporterNewspapers.net |

JAN. 11 – JAN. 24, 2013 | 9

COMMENTARY Reporter Newspapers Brookhaven Reporter | Buckhead Reporter Dunwoody Reporter | Sandy Springs Reporter www.ReporterNewspapers.net Published biweekly by Springs Publishing LLC 6065 Roswell Road, Suite 225 Sandy Springs, GA 30328 Phone: 404-917-2200 • Fax: 404-917-2201

Q&A

STR EET T ALK

Q: Do you think state or federal lawmakers should try to do something to prevent gun violence? Asked at various locations in the Reporter Newspapers communities.

A B OU T U S

Our mission is to provide our readers with fresh and engaging information about life in their communities. CONTACT US P U BL I S H ER Ste ve L e ve n e s t e v e l e v e n e @r e p o r te r n e w spape rs. ne t

“It’s hard to say, because people are still going to go out of their way just to get a gun.”

Karwaski Mitchell

“I think Congress should challenge those who try to justify owning automatic riﬂes and extended clips, but not necessarily hand guns.”

Troy Sneed

M A N A G I N G EDI TOR Joe Earle jo e e a r l e @r e p o r te r n e w s pape rs. ne t

“Absolutely. I like the idea of having an armed police ofﬁcer in all of our schools. I think our teachers and our children would feel better if we do that.”

Gerald Freedman

ASSOCIATE EDITOR/ DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Dan Whisenhunt da nw hi s e nh u n t@r e p o r te r n e wspapers. ne t S TA F F W R I TER M e l i s s a We i n m a n me l i s sa w e i n m a n @r e p o r te r n ewspapers. ne t COP Y E DI TOR D ia n e L . Wy n o c ker D I R ECTOR OF CR EAT IVE A N D I N TE R A CTI V E M EDIA C h r i s to p h e r N o r th chr i s nor th @r e p o r te r n e w s papers. ne t G R A P H I C DES I G N ER Wa l te r C z a c h o w sk i w a l t e r @r e p o r te r n e w s p apers. ne t

“Yes. I think they should implement a bill that would control who gets a gun or not. I think they have the power to do it, they just don’t want to.”

Cassand Alexander

A DVE RTI S I N G DI R E C TO R Amy Arno a mya r no @r e p o r te r n e w s p ape rs. ne t

“No, I don’t. I think there’s too much government in our lives as it is now. As is the situation with Mexico, only the bad guys have guns.”

Stan Cathell

“I sort of have had mixed feelings on that. I believe in an individual’s right to protect themselves, but I think more could be done for school safety. I think there should be some sort of trained person in all schools.”

Nicole Maslanka

A DVE RTI S I N G S A L ES Je n n i f e r C h a n a b erry S e n i o r A c c o u n t E xe cut ive jenniferc@reporternewspapers.net Sandi Edelson S e n i o r A c c o u n t E xe cut ive sandiedelson@reporternewspapers.net C LA SS I F I ED A DVERTI SING & O F F I CE A DM I N I S TR ATO R D e b o r a h D a vis d e b o r a hda vis @r e p o r te r n e wspapers. ne t CON TR I BU TOR S Phi l Mo si e r, J. D . M o o r, M a rt ha No dar, To m O d e r, C h u c k Stanley EDI TOR I A L I N TE R NS S t a cy B u b e s , L a u r e n D uncan, S he l b y E g g e r s , M i ka y la Farr, Cha r l ot t e M c C a u l e y, F e l ipa S chmidt

“Deﬁnitely. Even felons can get guns. It’s too easy, it’s too dangerous. They need to be more strict about it, because people are dying from guns every day.”

“Yes. I am against assault weapons. I would imagine they should not be sold.”

Barbara Pryor

Andrez Reid

“I believe in gun safety and the right to bear arms, but I believe more really has to be considered about the mental health of people.”

David Thomson

FREE HOME DELIVERY 65,000 copies of Reporter Newspapers are delivered by carriers to homes in ZIP codes 30305, 30319, 30326, 30327, 30328, 30338, 30342 and 30350 and to more than 500 business/retail locations. For locations, check “Where To Find Us” at www.ReporterNewspapers.net For delivery requests, please email delivery@reporternewspapers.net. © 2013 With all rights reserved Publisher reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertising for any reason. Publisher assumes no responsibility for information contained in advertising. Any opinions expressed in print or online do not necessarily represent the views of Reporter Newspapers or Springs Publishing, LLC.

JAN. 11 – JAN. 24, 2013

“Assault weapons – I can’t think of a reason to have those.”

Kevin Perry | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

“I would say, ‘Yes.’ I believe everybody should have weapons, but I don’t know about assault weapons.”

“I think they should up the security in schools.”

Craig Smoak

Heidi Nicole BK

One nation under the gun Seven years ago I was working my after-school gig at a convenience store in Tuscaloosa, Ala. A man rushed through the door and pointed a small silver pistol at me. “Open the register!” I did what he asked and then hid behind the counter. I’ve thought back on that event more than once since the school shooting tragedy in Connecticut last month. Carrying a gun wouldn’t have prevented the robbery (it probably would’ve placed me in greater danger), but taking guns away from law-abiding citizens wouldn’t have prevented it either. As our elected leaders discuss measures to curb gun violence, it’s worth remembering that many of us hold a nuanced view of the subject. Guns are a part of life growing up in the South. My father owned a gun, but we never hunted. Other friends and family members own guns. I’ve been shooting once. A friend of mine took me to a range and let me use his revolver. I’m comfortable around guns, or as comfortable as you can reasonably be when in the presence of something that can kill you. Where I differ with my gun-owning friends is their belief that Second Amendment rights trump my rights to personal safety. A right to a life without feeling the need to arm myself everywhere I go deserves equal consideration. Guns are America’s drinking problem and I believe we are being enabled by people who equate gun ownership with personal freedom. Guns are a right but they’re also a responsibility. They are not panaceas for crime or fun little toys. Even the people who sell guns are sensible enough to set some ground rules. As I interviewed people at a local gun range for their reactions to the school shootings, I took note of a sign on the door that told customers not to walk in with a loaded weapon. Do guns sometimes deter crime? Yes. Is it fun to shoot? Yes. But these things are only small pixels of the whole picture. Guns also kill people accidentally, whether it’s a child finding one in a home or an innocent bystander getting caught in the crossfire. Sometimes, rarely, a maniac goes on a rampage and commits an atrocity so horrific that even the stone faced, hardened journalists are moved to tears. Another pixel of the picture involves mental health. There are too many people who are uninsured who are herded in and out of crisis centers because there is no support for more routine care. Other people are under treatment for mental illness, but have too easy access to guns. We have to ensure people who may have a mental illness that includes violent tendencies,

or are on medication that can cause violent behavior as a side effect, have restricted or no access to weapons. The shooter in dan Connecticut was under whisEnhunt treatment ASSOCIATE EDITOR for mental illness as was the shooter in Aurora, Colo. Pundits and other paid windbags present the debate as a simple ‘yes or no’ question: you either want everyone to have guns or no one to have them. Any suggestion of compromise automatically gets tossed into the vast wasteland between the two polar extremes. Perhaps if we could look around that terrain a bit we might find solutions that make sense for both sides. We’ve never looked, or at least haven’t looked too hard. Guns do not solve problems. I tried to explain this to my brother the other day. While he was visiting my mom on Christmas, someone broke into his apartment and stole his electronics. He told me he wanted to buy a gun. “What if I’d have been home when the burglar broke in,” he asked. Playwright Anton Chekhov cautioned that introducing a gun in Act I meant at some point during the show it had to be fired. We’ll never know what could’ve or wouldn’t have happened if our personal stories involved a gun. The randomness of chance suggests that sometimes we’ll be armed and ready. Sometimes we’ll be caught off-guard, with our guns hidden in another room. Sometimes someone carrying a gun for self defense accidentally shoots us first because he or she thought we were about to shoot them. My brother is frustrated. I get that. He wants control over an uncontrollable situation, but guns will only give him an illusion of control. I also can’t control whether he gets a gun or not. We’re all responsible for our own choices. Guns, unfortunately, sometimes make bad choices harder to undo. I told him I hope he never has to use that gun. Personally, I hope he never buys one. I hope I never have to carry one because we’ve decided that every mall, church and school house in America should be the O.K. Corral. If we don’t begin having a constructive discussion about this, that day may come sooner than any of us would like.

Hammond Glen Senior Community has big news to share! 2013 is going to be a Big Year for Hammond Glen Senior Community Be one of the first 50 people to tour our community and find out what all the excitement is about. You’ll receive a complimentary dinner for 2 in our “Café 335”, a $5.00 gas card for your trip to see us, and a “surprise gift” to take home with you. *Gifts limited to the first 50 people (over 65 years of age) who tour our beautiful community*

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 11

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out& about

Brookhaven • Buckhead • Dunwoody • Sandy Springs

For Kids

MLK Day Stories Tuesday, Jan. 15, 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. – Preschoolers

ages 3-5 will hear stories about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and what Martin Luther King Day means. Part of the story time series. Free and open to all. Buckhead Branch Library, 269 Buckhead Ave., NE, Atlanta, 30305. Email: comments@co.fulton.ga.us or call 404-8143500 for more information.

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

Saturday, Jan. 19, 4-6 p.m. – Absolute be-

ginners or knitting pros are invited to hang out, enjoy snacks and crafty company. The Atlanta Knitting Guild will teach and offer advice on knitting and crochet. Supplies provided for those wanting to learn. Registration required. Free and open to the public. For middle and high school students. Sandy Springs Branch Library, in the Meeting Room, 395 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328. Email: marlan.brinkley@fultoncountyga.gov or call 404-303-6130 with questions and to sign up.

Chinese New Year Saturday, Jan. 19, 3 p.m. – Celebrate Chinese New Year with Ms. Leah as she tells seasonal stories and has fun activities for the entire family! Free and open to the public. Space is limited; sign up is under way. Appropriate for ages 3-7. Sandy Springs Branch Library, 395 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328. Come by, call 404-303-6130 or email: leah. germon@fultoncountyga.gov for more information or to register.

Girls’ Basketball Sunday, Jan. 20, 4 p.m. – Girls’ AAU Spring

basketball tryouts with the Ga. Pistols continues. Tryouts for 5th and 6th graders at 4 p.m.; 7th and 8th graders at 6 p.m. at Pace Academy, 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta, 30327. On Sunday Jan. 27, girls in grades 3rd through 5th (2nd graders are permitted to try out) at 1 p.m.; 6th through 8th grade, 2:154 p.m. Held at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, 805 Mt. Vernon Highway, Atlanta, 30327. No tryout fees. The Ga. Pistols are a nonprofit, volunteer sports organization. Questions? Contact Jack Feagin at 404-966-8469 or via email: jfeagin2@gmail.com. Visit www.gapistols.com for more details and to see other tryout dates.

Teen Driving Wednesday, Jan. 23, 6-8 p.m. – This free

two-hour class, designed by Sandy Springs Police, helps parents and their new (or soon to be) teen drivers ages 14 to 16. The class covers: Joshua’s Law; graduated driver licensing; parent coaching; teen responsibility; occupant protection; and crash dynamics. A parent must accompany each teen. Registration prior to the class is necessary. For more information or for a registration form, e-mail: sandyspringsteens@gmail.com or contact Officer Tim Sheffield at 770-551-6939. Sandy Springs Police Department, 7840 Roswell Rd., Suite 301, Sandy Springs, 30350. For more details, go to: www.sandyspringspolice.org.

Children’s Safety Thursday, Jan. 24, 6-8 p.m. – Sandy Springs

Police puts on an anti-abduction and anti-bullying class for children ages 8-12. Parent/guardian must be present and a waiver signed prior to attending class. Only open to Sandy Springs residents. Contact Officer Larry Jacobs to find out more and to learn the location of the class. For more details visit: www.sandyspringspolice.org or call 770-551-6900.

Community

Document Destruction

Civil Rights Lecture

Monday, Jan. 21, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. – Volunteers

Tuesday, Jan. 22, 8 p.m. – Taylor Branch pres-

from Hands-On Atlanta assist with recycling/destroying documents. Free and open to all. Sandy Springs Recycling Center, 470 Morgan Falls Rd., Sandy Springs, 30350. Call 770-551-7766 to find out more.

Dog Training Monday, Jan. 21, 7 p.m. – The St.

Francis pet ministry at Saint Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church offers dog training classes, led by Lennox Gavin, for the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen test. Classes meet for five weeks. $125. Also “Family Dog 101,” a basic training class, offered at 8 p.m. 3110 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Brookhaven, 30319. Call St. Martins at 404-228-0753, visit: www.stmartins. org/pet_ministry or email: petministry@stmartins. org to learn more.

ents his newest book, The King Years: Historic Moments in the Civil Rights Movement, in which he looks back on his own work and rediscovers what lessons endure today. $5 for Atlanta History Center members; $10 for non-members. Reservations required. Call 404-814-4150 or reserve tickets online at www.atlantahistorycenter.com. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., NW, Atlanta, 30305.

“Great Decisions” Thursday, Jan. 24, 7:30-9 p.m. – “Great De-

cisions” is based on a briefing book from the nonpartisan Foreign Policy Association.Topics include: Future of the Euro; Egypt; NATO; Myanmar and Southeast Asia; humanitarian intervention; Iran; China in Africa; and threat assessment. $30, includes briefing book. Program continues through March 14. For more details and to register, visit: http://gciv.org/programs/gd/dunwoody or call 404832-5560 x 17. Dunwoody Methodist Church, 1548 Mount Vernon Rd., Dunwoody, 30338.

Education Guide www.ReporterNewspapers.net

wintEr 2013

Inside

first person

Standout Students

Catching up after leaving high school paGeS 26-28

Freshman year tough, but fun, too paGe 24

School tech continues to evolve

PHIL MOSIER

North Springs Charter High School students Stephen King, left, and Sam Satterﬁeld, center, learn graphic design from teacher Cam Lupiani during an introduction to Graphics arts class on Jan. 8 in Sandy Springs.

Disparity within school systems when supplying technology

SPECIAL

Kargil Behl, left, and patrick Marr, both third graders at pace academy in Buckhead, proudly show off their ipads, used during school lessons.

BY DAN WHISENHUNT

danwhisenhunt@reporternewspapers.net

Technology blends so seamlessly into daily life that it sometimes gets taken for granted. But the desktops, laptops, tablets and electronic “smart” boards aren’t cheap and not having them will put a school at a disadvantage. AdvancED, a national accrediting body that includes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, recently placed DeKalb County Schools on accreditation probation. A few weeks earlier, Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson pledged that 100 percent of all classrooms would have interactive white boards, technology that some schools have already discarded in favor of personal tablets and computers. AdvancED’s scathing report on the school system specifically singled out its weaknesses in technology. CoNTiNueD oN paGe 14

SPECIAL

EDUCATION GUIDE

access to technology varies across school systems “I do have access to technology. I normally use a computer. I use music to study.” – alEX woods Junior, pace acadeMy

CoNTiNueD fRoM paGe 13 PHIL MOSIER

North Springs Charter High School students use technology in the “earth Systems” Computer Lab on Jan. 8. HSP_Reporter_5x8_010813_ol2.pdf 1 1/8/13 2:50 PM

“With only approximately 35 percent of the system’s schools equipped with some level of connectivity, the current technology system is woefully inadequate to support the complex needs of a large school system especially in an-

ticipation of future requirements of the state-wide assessments,” the report says. Local schools reported investing heavily in their technology infrastructure. Tony Perez, director of technology and media at Atlanta Girls’ School,

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

EDUCATION GUIDE

“AIS provides plenty of technological resources to the students and faculty. There are smart boards in every classroom, there are three computer labs open to students and available for teachers to use during classes, and the whole campus is equipped with a BriCE williams wireless network and wireless printsEnior, atlanta ers so students can also work from intErnational sChool their own laptops and tablets. Smartphones are not necessary in class, but they can be used during breaks. The software resources available are also very high quality, such as Adobe CS5 Professional collection and the newest Microsoft Office collection. Also, Moodle is an especially useful tool that each class uses for teacher-to-student communication and transfer of electronic documents or assignments. Overall, AIS does a great job meeting the demand for technology created by the students and faculty.”

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said the school provides a laptop for every student and was recently recognized as an Apple Distinguished School. The sixth grade students use iPads and seventh through 12th grade use MacBook Pro laptop computers. Seniors also have the option of purchasing the laptops. Perez said he’s done away with the electronic smart boards. He said the

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boards weren’t suited to how girls’ learn best. They’re a clever bunch, he said. Some have even gotten root access to their computers, allowing them to bypass administrator restrictions. It’s allowed, Perez said, as long as they follow the rules. “We know who they are and we al-

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CoNTiNueD oN paGe 16

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 15

EDUCATION GUIDE

Students have access to numerous technological tools CoNTiNueD fRoM paGe 15

ways make sure they’re working for good and not evil, and if they’re working for evil we take their laptop away from them,” Perez said. All of the schools monitor computer use to some degree and have computer conduct policies in place for their stu-

Family Open House Saturday, January 26, 2013 2:30 p.m. 1 Whitefield Drive SE Mableton, GA 30126 n (678) 305-3000 n (678) 305-3027 www.whitefieldacademy.com

“At Pace, we definitely have a significant amount of access to technological devices. In the Upper School, we have two large computer labs and multiple laptop carts throughout the school -- some classes lindsEy ZwECKEr even use iPads to view their textbooks. I sEnior carry around my personal laptop to every pace acadeMy class and use it in almost all of them. But for those that don’t have a personal laptop, you can always check one out and use it for class. As well as laptops, pretty much every classroom has a large Mac desktop that connects to a smart board and a projector to view presentations or other visual aids. In my AP Psychology class, we frequently use the smart board to watch educational videos and view PowerPoint. Pace definitely has all the essential technological devices needed for a great learning environment.”

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

dents. Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School also is an Apple school, according to spokeswoman Peggy Shaw. She said 100 percent of the classrooms have smart boards. “Laptop computers are issued to students in fifth through 12th grades, and

EDUCATION GUIDE we have iPad carts available for pre-K through fourth-grade students,” Shaw said. She said the school has budgeted approximately $200,000 for technology in the current fiscal year. All of the classrooms at The Galloway School are outfitted with Promethean Boards and all classrooms have at least one computer. Josh Weeman, Galloway’s director of technology, said the school has a one-tofour computer-to-student ratio and has currently budgeted $280,000 for technology. Weeman said the school would like to implement a one-to-one program to put MacBooks in the hands of all its fifth through 12th grade students. Alan Preis, head of instructional technology at the Atlanta International School, said there are smart boards in all classrooms. “Primary classrooms have access to laptop and iPad carts,” Preis said. “Our secondary laptop program began with grades six and seven this year and will expand to grades six through 10 next year.” Caitlin Goodrich, spokeswoman for Pace Academy, said the school has a systematic upgrade program. All of the classrooms have computers or smart boards, usually both. “Each year, 25 percent of the computers on campus are renewed,” Goodrich said. “Teacher laptops and noteCoNTiNueD oN paGe 18

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“Lovett adopted the oneto-one laptop program several years ago: each student in grades 4 - 10 is issued a laptop (by Lovett) and students in grades 11 and 12 supply their own device. In almost every one of my classes there is a need for laptops, smart boards and Wi-Fi, as we consistently work with online/ technological resources to enhance our education.” – william smith sEnior, loVEtt sChool

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 17

EDUCATION GUIDE

Technology a part of daily life for students Continued from page 17

books are being refreshed this year, with teachers having a choice of a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro. New iPad and laptop and notebook carts are also planned.” The Lovett School also has an arsenal of technology in the classroom, according to spokeswoman Jen Sarginson. All middle and upper school students and their teachers have laptops. Colleen Glaude, Dean of Instructional Technology at The Westminster Schools, said technology makes up 6.6 percent of the school’s budget, and like many of the other schools, the classrooms are outfitted with smart boards. She said the school also has a one-to-one laptop

Christopher Bowman Junior Marist School

“We definitely have a lot of access to technology in our classes at Marist because the administration makes sure that teachers are adapting their styles to the future of the classroom and the needs of each incoming generation technologically. In many of my classes, we’ve used the school’s tablets for chat discussions, online articles, or essay writing, and personally I also use my home computer or Marist’s computer lab daily for schoolwork, laying out the school newspaper, etc. There will be a lot more technology use next year, too, as we introduce a new tablet program for each student, in addition to the pre-existing smart boards in the classrooms. We already have the option of using our own devices in class, but I’ve never taken advantage of that.”

program for students. Mount Vernon Presbyterian School is

We do one thing.

And we do it really, really well.

We’re an elementary school. We educate young children. We give

them the solid academic foundation upon which all future learning is based. We teach them respect, kindness and compassion. We prepare them for the world as it is and give them confidence in their ability to make their mark on it.

345 10th Street, NE I Atlanta, GA 30309 I 404-873-6985 www.thechildrensschool.com

The Children’s School is a coed, independent elementary school that welcomes families of all races, faiths and cultures.

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

a “completely wireless campus,” and every upper school student has a laptop.

“One of our goals is to keep costs down for our families while expanding

EDUCATION GUIDE “As a high school student and a member of our robotics team, technology is a major part of my daily life. As such, it is great that Westminster provides such reliable access to all forms of technology for us students. We use smartphones, laptops and smart boards on a daily basis in classrooms to do homework, share Emily Chu documents, and learn lessons in new, The Westminster creative ways. In addition to all these Schools classroom technologies, as a member of the robotics team, I have access to and training for many different tools and technologies such as mills, lathes and standard hand tools to accomplish our daily work on the team. Westminster’s provided laptops are also a great help for robotics because we have access to different technologies such as CAD (computer-aided design) at our fingertips. With all these provided technologies, I can’t think of anything else that students would need to be provided with to successfully complete our daily schoolwork.” the use of technology,” spokeswoman Allison Toller said. “This includes seeking out more online, web-based textbooks to eliminate the greater expense of printed books.” Novelette Brown, spokeswoman for Marist School, said the school in 2012

gave all teachers Lenovo X230T tablet laptops. “During the summer of 2013 all students will be issued the Lenovo X230T for their use,” Brown said. “This will provide technological equality for all students during their years at Marist.”

B o ot h We s t e r n A r t M u s e u m

...bringing history to life for students!

T h e L i f e o f L i n c o l n : C i v i l Wa r C o m e s A l i v e ! 10 Score and 4 Years Ago

Tuesday, February 12, 2013 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

F r i d a y, A p r i l 2 6 , 2 0 1 3 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Celebrate Lincoln’s 204th birthday! Explore the Presidential Gallery, read the Lincoln letter, participate in art activities, and enjoy the movie Young Mr. Lincoln by John Ford in the Booth Theatre!

Presentations of life of a soldier during the Civil War, demonstrations of blacksmithing,medical encampments, signaling cannon firings and more at Booth Museum and Bartow History Museum.

Students: $5 Adults: $3

Call 770-387-3849 to Schedule Your Group Today! 501 Museum Drive, Cartersville, GA 30120 www.boothmuseum.org www.ReporterNewspapers.net |

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 19

EDUCATION GUIDE

h all talK

Q&A

“i am surrounded by technology all the time in the classroom. everywhere i look there are computers and smartphones that can be used to answer whatever question is being asked. in order to complete my schoolwork, the only thing that i would need is an access to the internet. everything you could possibly need is at the touch of your ﬁngertips. Some schoolwork requires the need for a word processing application. This can be done on both a computer and even a smartphone.”

Sam Cimowsky, Junior North Atlanta High School

Q: Do you think you have sufﬁcient access to technology and digital devices, such as computers, tablets or smartphones, in your classes? Are there other devices you need for your work in school?

“i think that we do not have sufﬁcient access to technology in our classrooms. i think we could use several desktops. if we had computers in our classrooms we would get a lot more done and be more productive. on the other hand i think that computers are deﬁnitely enough. We don’t need tablets or any other devices because i really think they would just be misused in some cases because they are more for games and apps, and break more easily, so i think computers would be less distracting and better used for an educational purposes.”

Chad Davis, Sophomore Riverwood International Charter School

“While most of my classes utilize smart boards and teachers have laptops, i feel students do not always have access to technological devices. Students should be able to regularly use tablets, smartphones, or computers to enhance their education. at Marist, if you do not have a class with multiple desktops or have a study hall, the entire day can pass without using technology.”

Catherine Mullins, Senior Marist School

“although no technology is absolutely necessary for use in schoolwork, the Weber School allows students to bring in laptops, tablets and smartphones for an added aid. for students who do not own things like that, like myself, Weber has personal computers that can be checked in and out. We also have two computer labs and computers in the media center that are always available. I think Weber does a great job making technology available for those of us who can’t bring in our own devices.”

Jenna Kahn, Sophomore The Weber School

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

EDUCATION GUIDE “Technological devices used during class depend on the individual. Many students use computers or tablets that they bring to class for themselves, but at the same time many students prefer paper and pen. access to a computer for use outside of school is necessary for many/most school assignments, but no other devices have been needed in my experience. occasionally, students are assigned movies to watch, which can often be found online as well. overall, access to technological devices other than computers is at a student’s discretion, but access to computers has become necessary. Computer access is available through the school during school hours should one need it.”

“at Riverwood iCS there is plenty of access to computers through the media center and the subject-speciﬁc computer labs. There, students are able to utilize desktop computers that have access to Galileo and many other research tools. our teachers are able to reserve these spaces ahead of time for use during class. otherwise, they are only available during lunch and/or before and after school. Riverwood also recently changed their cellphone policy so that students are able to use smartphones during class with a teacher’s permission for educational purposes. However, there is no use of tablets in the school to my knowledge at this time.”

Estella Dieci, Junior

Danielle Gately, Senior

The Atlanta International School

Riverwood International Charter School

“i think we have plenty of access to technology at Galloway, from laptop carts to permanent computer labs, from ipads to promethean boards in every classroom. We’ve now started the process of embracing that technology—sophomores build facebook pages to learn about Julius Caesar, statistics students create infographics about various global phenomena, and students redesigned our Head of School’s ofﬁce with the help of some ipad apps—but we still have a ways to go.”

Max Levy, Senior, The Galloway School

A Comprehensive Educational Experience for students in grades 1-8

Which Test: SAT or ACT? As founder of Applerouth Tutoring, I often help parents think through the difficult task of college admissions. Parents know the ACT is an alternative to the SAT, but often do not know how they can help their student choose between the two tests. Students tend to feel more comfortable with one test format over the other. Over the past twelve years, I’ve seen time and time again how that extra comfort can translate into a significantly higher score to send to colleges. It’s important to make as informed a decision as possible about your student’s test preparation.

Making an Informed Decision Students become familiar with the SAT format when they take the PSAT in 10th grade, but not all students take the ACT equivalent, the PLAN. Parents often ask me how they can use just a PSAT score to make this important decision. If your student’s PSAT results are close to his/her SAT goal, focus on SAT prep. By the end of junior year, if your student has not seen meaningful gains on the SAT, I recommend that you schedule a mock ACT to determine if that test is a better fit. If your student struggles with the PSAT, I always recommend you schedule a mock ACT as early as the beginning of junior year. If his/her ACT score is in a significantly higher percentile than the PSAT score, I recommend that you focus on ACT prep right from the beginning. It is a great idea for students to invest 3 hours and take a real or mock ACT. There is zero risk!

When students find out early which test is a better fit, they can avoid a lot of unnecessary stress and frustration down the road.

Find Out More You can speak with me and learn more about the SAT and ACT at one of our upcoming FREE event:

ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 27

1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. Presentation at 1:30 p.m. followed by school tours.

January 15th 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mount Pisgah UMC 9820 Nesbit Ferry Rd Johns Creek, GA 30022 300 Grimes Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30075 678.205.4988 www.swiftschool.com

January 28th 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wyndham Atlanta Galleria 6345 Powers Ferry Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30339

Preregister at applerouth.com/reporter or call 404-728-0661

Rolling Admissions

www.ReporterNewspapers.net |

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 21

EDUCATION GUIDE

Amazement encourages engagement

Inspiring students from 18 months to 8th grade

wonder what I’ll learn today?

An extraordinary, curious, open mind. A sense of wonder nurtured and inspired. Lessons experienced, not just taught. Collective engagement and personal success. Gifts of knowledge and wisdom extending far beyond the classroom. Welcome to Springmont.

Hall talk “Holy innocents’ has done an excellent job providing technological devices for use in the classroom. Though a computer is all we really need at Hi to complete schoolwork, access to smart boards, ipads and other technological resources has allowed us to extend our learning capabilities far beyond the average school. Because of the exposure to technology i have had at Hi, i feel more than prepared to tackle schoolwork in any college setting. Like any piece of technology, smart boards in our classrooms sometimes give us problems. on the occasions we’ve had problems with them, the iT department at HieS has always been quick to offer a solution and get us back working.”

Robert Moore, Senior Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School springmont.com (404) 252-3910

ATLANTA’S FIRST MONTESSORI SCHOOL

RIVERSIDE MILITARY ACADEMY

“Mount Vernon presbyterian School highly encourages technology in the classroom. although our teachers typically do not allow smartphones in class, they do want us to use our computers and tablets so that we can access online resources and create personalized notes and projects. i feel as if Mount Vernon incorporates technology into the curriculum as frequently and consistently as possible, and I cannot imagine a more efﬁcient way to introduce technology in a school environment.”

Morgan McConnell, Junior Mount Vernon Presbyterian School: “I feel conﬁdent in saying that i have adequate access to technology at Holy Spirit prep. each classroom has a projector so instructors utilize powerpoint instead of just board notes, and i am highly encouraged to use my computer in class to take notes. for math homework, we use an online program called MyMathLab (or MathXL, depending on the course) which often provides examples and help if stuck on a problem. “

Alex Munoz, Senior Holy Spirit Preparatory School

For 105 years Riverside Military Academy has produced young men of purpose, integrity, and character. As one of the preeminent college preparatory academies in the U.S., we prepare young men for success in the na�on’s premier colleges, universi�es, and the ve service academies. The class of 2012 earned over $2 million in scholarships and cadets were admi�ed to over 85 colleges and universi�es including the U.S. Military Academy‐West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy. Our Corps of Cadets consists of over 430 cadets from 22 countries.

Riverside is s�ll enrolling cadets. Campus Open House ‐ February 24

Call 770‐538‐2938 or apply@riversidemilitary.com to RSVP.

www.riversidemilitary.com 770.538.2938 Gainesville, GA

North Springs has done a great job providing technology for use in the classroom. Students still cannot bring their own electronics to school, but the school is in the process of setting up a BYeD (Bring Your educational Device) program so students can start possibly bringing more electronics to supplement their education as needed. i have loved the active-boards installed in most classrooms, and more than anything i think these have had the greatest impact on my four years in high school. North Springs also provides laptop carts for teachers to use for in-class research and ipod Touch carts as well.

Tarrek Shaban, Senior North Springs Charter High School

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013

| www.ReporterNewspapers.net

EDUCATION GUIDE “at Holy innocents’ we have access to all of the technology that we have in today’s generation. We all get laptops, and we also have access to ipads. Teachers are even discovering educational apps on our phones. My laptop is my primary technological device because it is accessible at all times during the school day, and ﬁts the needs of my schoolwork. My phone is also another device i use to take quick videos of labs, record, and take pictures for various assignments.”

Mary Wade Ballou, Senior Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

“at North atlanta we do have access to the technology, but expanding it would only make things better. We have ﬁve desktop computers in each classroom as well as access to a computer lab. Teachers have the ability to check out Mac carts, or enough laptops that every student in the class can use one for that period. We are not allowed to use phones although that would be very helpful. Some teachers allow students to bring their own technology from home and use that during class. i think we have sufﬁcient access and do not necessarily need anything; however if teachers had enough laptops for every student each day the nature of our assignments could change.”

Let us introduce our family to yours. Come visit! Admissions deadline is Feb. 15, 2013.

www.paceacademy.org/admissions

www.facebook.com/PaceAcademy

Lucy Saltmarsh, Junior “We deﬁnitely have a lot of access to technology in our classes at Marist because the administration makes sure that teachers are adapting their styles to the future of the classroom and the needs of each incoming generation technologically. in many of my classes, we’ve used the school’s tablets for chat discussions, online articles, or essay writing, and personally i also use my home computer or Marist’s computer lab daily for schoolwork, for laying out the newspaper, etc. There will be a lot more technology use next year, too, as we introduce a new tablet program for each student, in addition to the pre-existing smart boards in the classrooms. We already have the option of using our own devices in class, but i’ve never taken advantage of that.”

Christopher Bowman, Junior Marist School

North Atlanta High School

“Yes, however the newer mobile technology (smartphones, tablets, etc.) is usually owned by students and is simply allowed to be out when the teacher allows it, which means those who do not have personal access to such technology do not have access in the classroom. i like some applications of the smart board, especially for science and math classes. also, i would like to see more use of the internet or smartphone apps. Class websites are really useful as a resource in assigning homework and posting helpful links.”

Start Small. Think Big.

St. Martin’s helps your child discover new heights.

Jake Greenberg, Senior Riverwood International Charter High School

The Day School of The Sandy Springs Christian Church

Mother’s Morning Out Through Pre-K Afternoon Enrichment Program Summer Camp “A preparatory preschool providing preschool age children an environment of warmth and acceptance to grow socially and academically within the framework of Judeo Christian principles.”

For additional info: 404-252-3950 | www.thedayschool-sscc.org

Combining the social and spiritual community of a small school with big-school academic and enrichment programs, St. Martin’s offers increasing opportunities to grow and learn. Our students graduate ready to thrive at a bigger school— preparation recognized by Atlanta’s top-ranked high schools.

Attend our Open House January 12, 2013 9am–noon Beginners Program (3-year-olds) through 8th Grade

Tour our new Middle School building and renovated campus! Questions? Call Blythe Marsau, Director of Admission, at 404.228.0709 or visit stmartinschool.org

3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Rd. Atlanta, GA 30319

301 Johnson Ferry Road (Corner of Abernathy & Johnson Ferry Road) www.ReporterNewspapers.net |

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 23

Sandy Springs United Methodist Preschool and Kindergarten > Ages 12 months - Kindergarten > Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. > Early Drop Off & After School > SACS Accredited > Certified School of Excellence

Registration in January for 2013-2014

Call now for tour! 404-250-9455

85 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Atlanta 30328 4475 SSwww.ssumc.org reporter adN_4475 SS reporter adN nnadolski@ssumc.org 11/13/12 10:30 AM Page 1 | Email:

Academics | Character | Community |

Experience the Epstein Difference • Highest quality academics • Award-winning innovative technology • Dynamic visual and performing arts • Championship athletics • Supportive community atmosphere

PrEschooL 9:00–10:30 am Wednesday, January 16 monday, February 11

EDUCATION GUIDE

The view from ﬁrst year: College is hard, but worth it A year ago, I was just like any procrastinating high school senior—relieved to have most of, if not all, my college applications submitted. As acceptances and rejections trickled in throughout the spring, my family, teachers and older friends offered advice about the collegiate experience that awaited me. Among the most popular tips that would help me tackle freshman year was the warning that there was much more work in college than there was in high school. With that in mind during the first few weeks of French, astronomy, history and religion classes, it was not until after I’d adjusted to my new academic routine that I fully enjoyed the subjects I studied. I had never before had to work so hard for a good grade in history—my favorite subject—but despite the heavy workload, my passion for examining topics like Napoleonic Wars and Italian Unification motivated me to pore over every book, write each lengthy essay and attend all classes. College is definitely more demanding than high school, but because assignments are also more engaging, the rigor is not as daunting as one might expect. Having decided to attend the University of Georgia as a Foundation Fellow—like former Reporter Newspapers intern Megan Ernst—I knew that my four undergraduate years would be different from those of most of my friends. Though I was impressed at the Foundation Fellowship interview weekend by the countless testimonials attesting to the program’s myriad of benefits—including a full-ride and travel stipends— I find UGA’s Honors Program just as magnificent. Honors students receive priority registration for classes, the opportunity to earn a joint Bachelor’s and

ELEmEntary 9:00–10:30 am thursday, February 7 miDDLE schooL 9:00–10:30 am thursday, January 24 RSVP required as space is limited 404-250-5607 or sberk@epsteinatlanta.org

Master’s degree in four years, and access to some of the University’s best advisors and faculty. Finding a niche has proved diffiLeighton cult for some rowEll of my friends, so I feel forFIRST PERSON tunate to have my family of 25 fellow Fellows. We will get to travel throughout the world together during college. In March, the older Fellows will spend their spring breaks in Costa Rica and South Africa. The freshmen will travel to New York and Washington D.C. to connect with distinguished UGA alumni, talk with economists and writers, and explore the two cities. What we are most excited about, however, is the chance to meet with Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. Two months later, we will fly to England and spend our “Maymester” at Oxford University, choosing from classes like International Conflict and Biomedical Ethics. Of all the colleges I considered attending, that I have been given such a rich experience in my home state of Georgia has been beyond belief. Prior to starting college, I was advised to leave behind a few things from high school. Several people told me to room with someone other than my best friend from home, which worked out nicely because her dorm is only five minutes away and my roommate has become one

The Heiskell School Educating Leaders Since 1949

“Train up a child in the way he should go

and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

OPEN HOUSE

Friday, January 18, 2013 9:00 am - 11:00 am or 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Friday, February 15, 2013 9:00 am - 11:00 am

335 Colewood Way, NW Sandy Springs, GA 30328 epsteinatlanta.org

Campus Tour and Information Session

2 Years - 8th Grade

sacs accreditation 3260 Northside Drive, NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30305

(404) 262-2233 | www.heiskell.net

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

EDUCATION GUIDE SPECIAL

CALL BEFORE 2/15/13

from left, Caroline Moore, Leighton Rowell and Treva Tam, all freshman and foundation fellows at the university of Georgia, enjoy a home football game against florida atlantic university.

of my greatest friends. Many advised against being as involved in extracurricular activities as I was in high school. I went to a few organizations’ information sessions, but last semester my only outside activities were copy editing for The Red & Black and working with the Young Democrats. While being overly committed is risky, being without responsibilities to anything other than homework is deeply dissatisfying. Although New Year’s resolutions don’t usually work, I am intent on joining new clubs in the second semester. Having taken most of the advice I received, I felt it was my duty to compile a list of my own suggestions for people in my position during senior year. Here are my findings: --The library is an unbeatable study spot because no matter how great your friends are, they will never follow you there. --Taking astronomy because you think it merely entails stargazing is severely misguided. That class is weeding out the weakest of our world’s future as-

trophysicists; it really is rocket science. -- Challenging classes help test your limits in the classroom, but prevent you from going downtown—in a college town like Athens, this is a blessing for some and a curse for others. -- Finally, as tempting as it can be, watching an entire season of a television show in your free time instead of writing a massive paper is similarly inadvisable. Netflix isn’t going to disappear, but your high average just might. I’m only a second-semester college freshman and I wouldn’t dare say I have everything figured out, but this handful of important realizations is what got me through my first semester. Here’s to hoping the next one is as good or better.

770-394-2626

The Davis Academy Grows Great Minds, Strong Spirits and Big Hearts

Leighton Rowell attends the University of Georgia. While a student at North Springs Charter High School and an intern for Reporter Newspapers, Leighton wrote occasionally about her experiences applying to colleges and choosing one to attend. For this issue, she writes about her experiences during her first term at UGA.

Freshen up your wardrobe and home with one stop! NOw OpeN!

the bird & the bee

home & garden Visit our new home and garden shop in the back.

Join us for an Open House on Sunday, Jan. 13, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Or schedule a private tour today: Lisa Mirsky, Director of Admissions 678.527.3300 Proud Affiliate of:

www.davisacademy.org

Atlanta’s Reform Jewish Day School

2968 Atlanta Road, Smyrna, GA 30080 770-432-5120 | Open Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 1-5

View our Digital Editions on your smartphone or tablet

ReporterNewspapers.net www.ReporterNewspapers.net |

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 25

EDUCATION GUIDE

Catching up with our ‘Standouts’ now in college In nearly every issue, the Reporter Newspapers recognize a student at a local high school for her or his contributions to the local community and

the school. We checked in with a dozen 2012 Standout Students who have gone on to college to see what they’re up to now.

Paroma Chakravarty is a freshman at Cornell University. She was a Top 10 student at Chamblee Charter High School, where she served as co-captain of the varsity volleyball team and president of the National Honor Society. At Cornell, Paroma is involved in the Solar Ovens project team, “in which we designed and built wooden ovens that use the heat from the sun to cook food. These ovens are for use in rural communities in Nicaragua,” Paroma said. She also works on a project team studying biofuels.

HANDS ON LEARNING “TOURSDAY” Visits / Tuesdays at 9am OPEN Tuesday, February 5, 2013 at 9am HOUSES Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at 9am

GAC practices a non-discriminatory policy of admissions.

ALIVE WITH

ACTIVITY OUTCOMES MATTER

SPIRITUALLY FOCUSED

Expanded Area School Bus Routes in 2013-14 1575 Indian Trail Road / Norcross, GA / 30093 770-243-2274 / www.greateratlantachristian.org

Justin Eisenberg is a freshman at Georgia Tech. He is majoring in materials science and engineering. As a senior at North Springs Charter High School, Justin worked in Tech’s Hess research lab, where he was the only high school student on the research team. “I am currently doing research in a chemical engineering lab on biologically-resistant polymer surfaces,” he said. “I also work in an electrical engineering lab on the patents for photolithography.”

Katie Keith studies at Furman University. While a student at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, she spent Thanksgiving break teaching in Haitian schools. Katie hopes to return to Haiti. Since her trip “over 100 water filters have been installed …. to reduce the spread of disease,” she said, and “an additional $10,000 has been raised to put 65 children through another year of school.” She intends to double major in studio art and biology. “I have not decided on a career path at this point, though I am very interested in the medical field and hope to work with children. I envision that my education will enable me to serve Haiti more fully in the future.”

We plant seeds...and watch them grow! Classical Christian Education PreK-8th Grade Ansley Park Area

Open House January 19, 2013 10:00 a.m. www.heritageprep.org

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

Educating students 2.5 to 6 Now Enrolling Join us for an Open House January 13 & February 10 2-4pm info@carlislemontessori.com | 404-949-0053 1036 Lindbergh Drive Atlanta Ga. 30324

EDUCATION GUIDE Max Greenhouse attends Tufts University. At Riverwood, he was involved in theater and organized several efforts to raise awareness about Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS) and AIDS. “I am majoring in drama and acted in a show, produced another, and directed a 10-minute short at Tufts this semester,” he said. “I also participated in the Boston Walk to Defeat ALS with my cousins earlier this semester.”

Jake Hudgins is on a pre-med track at Davidson College, where he plays football. He received the George Morris Scholar-Athlete Scholarship during his senior year at Dunwoody High. “It definitely is very tough balancing a full football schedule with the academic rigor of Davidson. It’s a lot of work with not much down time, but I can say I’ve learned more this semester than I have any other, and while it is extremely tough, Davidson seems to really make an effort to make sure we have all the available resources to succeed,” Jake said.

Caroline James attends Georgetown University. She was president of The Westminster School’s Environmental Campus Organization and often met with the school’s administration to check on what the school was doing about its “green” aspects.

Where good kids become great people.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School develops in students a love of learning, respect for self and others, faith in God, and a sense of service to the world community.

www.hies.org 404-255-4026

- Mission Statement

All-School Open House, Saturday, January 26, 1:00 p.m. A community of 1,300 students, ages 3-years-old through 12th Grade.

Jan_2012_HIES_Reporter.indd 1

��

12/13/12 9:30 AM

in partnership with LDA-GA/CHADD-GA

RESOURCE FAIR 2013

A 501 (c)(3) NonproﬁtOrganization

Sunday, January 27th 2-5 pm Wyndham Hotel 6345 Powers Ferry Rd. NW Atlanta, GA 30339

• The One Place to Get Informedtherapies, schools, ﬁnances, recreation and much more! • Free to the Public • More than 75 Exhibitors

Megan Emery and Trey Brooks attend the University of Alabama and Auburn University, respectively. As seniors at Dunwoody High School, the two won Parent Teacher Student Organization scholarships. Megan is studying business and hospitality management at the University of Alabama. Through the scholarship, she has formed life-long friendships since she joined the same sorority her mom was in.

• Professional speakers on: dyslexia social skills executive functioning social/emotional development the language of IEPs and 504s • Special guest appearances • Free Exclusive Resource Directory

Presenting

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Early experiences determine how the brain is wired. Are you eager to know more about Little Da Vinci International School success? How the school is sustaining a 50% growth each year? How our students are building strong foundations and how bilingualism and flexible mindedness are fostered? You are welcome to our Open House!

CoNTiNueD oN paGe 28

2 YEARS OLD THROUGH KINDERGARTEN

Now is the best time to develop now is i your child’s Thinking Power! p E-no Level

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804 Town Boulevard, • Curriculum aligned with NCTM (National Council Suite 2095, Atlanta, GA 30319 of Teachers of Mathematics) and NCTE (National 404.416.3221

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INNOVATIVE LEARNING THROUGH PLAY APPROACH INTEGRATED MUSIC, SPORTS, ARTS, COOKING, NATURE, OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS PROGRAM AMAZING MULTILINGUAL SUMMERCAMP EXPERIENCE

Saturday, March 16 10:00am - 2:00pm

Visit our website for details www.littledavincischool.org 4055 Roswell Road,Atlanta, GA 30342 At the Blue Heron Nature Preserve

678-510-1214

The Little Da Vinci International School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice, educational program or any other program, activity, or service.

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 27

EDUCATION GUIDE

Where these ‘Standouts’ headed after high school CoNTiNueD fRoM paGe 27

Evan Greenberg is a freshman at the University of Georgia. While a senior at Riverwood, he received the Best Actor award at the Shuler Hensley Awards for Excellence in High School Theater.

Zeena Lattouf attends Emory University. While a senior at Pace Academy, Zeena and some of her friends traveled to Jordan to build houses with Habitat for Humanity.

Constance Nozière published Japan: A Guide for Teenagers when she was a student at the Atlanta International School. She now attends Cornell University.

Harrison Parker attends Harvard University. During his time at Westminster, he competed in fencing at the Junior Olympics and played the bagpipes. “I’m bouncing around between computer science and the classics as potential majors,” he said, “but I could still go a third route.” Harrison no longer fences. Instead, he participates in kendo, a Japanese martial art based on fighting with swords. Harrison still plays his bagpipes, although, he said, it is “harder in the cold weather!” Compiled by Leighton Rowell and Mikayla Farr

“An Exceptional School for Exceptional Students”

Exceptional forTours Exceptional Students” OPEN HOUSES:“An January 27 and MarchSchool 31 from 2-4. by appointment. College prep and vocational programs designed for 4th - 12th and postgraduate students with high functioning Autism, Asperger’s, ADD, and ADHD • SACS & GAC Accredited • Open Enrollment • Robotics, Drama, Chess • Low Student-Teacher Ratio

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Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

inal theatrical production, “The... Love Letters,” set during the jazz era, featuring singing, dancing, poetry, comedy, drama and more. “The... Love Letters” features the year 1927, with a modern twist. Also on Sunday, Jan. 20, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and the show at 5:30 p.m. Free admission. Reserve seats via e-mail: Loveletters2013@gmail.com to specify your performance date. For more information, contact Tatiana Randolph at trandolph@oglethorpe. edu. Oglethorpe University, 4484 Peachtree Rd., NE, Brookhaven, 30319. www.oglethorpe.edu/calendar.

“fiddler on the Roof” Saturday, Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m. – Compa-

ny J at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta presents one of the most popular Broadway musicals in history, “Fiddler on the Roof.” Tickets, $12-$30, with discounts for students, seniors, groups and MJCCA members. Additional shows: Jan. 20, 3 p.m.; Jan. 24, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 27, 1 p.m.; Jan. 27, 5 p.m. (sensoryfriendly performance, designed for children or adults with autism or other sensitivity issues); Jan. 31, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 3, 10 a.m. (sing-along performance); and Feb. 3, 3 p.m. In the Morris and Rae Frank Theatre, 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody, 30338, For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: www.atlantajcc.org/companyj or call the Company J Box Office at 678-812-4002.

peachtree Strings Sunday, Jan. 20, 3-4 p.m. – The Peachtree

String Quartet features Haydn String Quartet Opus 74 Number 3 in G minor “The Rider,” Bridge’s “3 Idylls for String Quartet” and Beethoven String Quartet Opus 59 Number 3 in C Major, “Rasumowsky.” Open to the public. $20 in advance; $25 at the door; $10 for students. Garden Hills Recreation Center, 335 Pine Tree Dr., Atlanta, 30305. For additional details contact Barry Levine at 404-2337345 or via email: barrylevine@mindspring.com. Visit the Peachtree String Quartet on Facebook: or email: pulgram@gmail.com for details.

Sandy Springs’ newest concert series, Heritage Winter Classics, continues with the Franklin Pond Quartet. Free and open to all. Indoors at the renovated Heritage Hall. 6110 Bluestone Rd., NE, Sandy Springs, 30328. Call 404-851-9111, email: events@ heritagesandysprings.org or go to: www.heritagesandysprings.org to find out more.

od You’

Thursday, Jan. 24, 7:30 p.m. – The North Springs Charter School’s Drama Magnet presents “The Odd Couple,” Neil Simon’s hit comedy, in two versions: Simons’ original 1965 classic and his 1985 contemporary, female remake. The original male version stars mismatched roommates - divorced slob, Oscar Madison, and his newly separated, clean-freak best friend, Felix Unger. The female version has Florence Unger and Olive Madison in the starring roles. The two versions performed on alternate nights, so theatre goers won’t have to miss either one! Tickets: $15 adults; $10 students/seniors; $5/Thursday, which is student night. Purchase online at www.showtix4u.com and at the school’s box office one hour prior to each show. Buy one ticket, get the other ½ price. Bring stub to box office to purchase ½ price ticket. Performances at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 25, 26, 31, and Feb. 1-2; matinees at 2 p.m. on Jan. 26 and Feb. 2. The Jan. 24 performance features the female version; the male odd couple opens on Jan. 25. 7447 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs, 30328. For more information go to: www.northspringshigh. com or call 770-551-2490.

“Peter and the Wolf” Saturday, Jan. 26, 10 a.m. – This children’s

classic comes to life in a concert for the young ... and young at heart, providing an opportunity to learn about Peter and the Wolf, Prokofiev, and the ability of the organ to serve as an orchestral instrument. Featuring: Nicole Marane, organ; John Lemley, narrator; and John Lawless, percussion. Adults, $10; ages 5-12, $5; under 5, free. Family maximum, $20. Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, 3180 Peachtree Rd., NE, Atlanta, 30305. To find out more, call 404-266-2373, email: prumc@prumc.org or go to: www.prumc.org.

Sandy Springs/Buckhead 4920 Roswell Road 404-255-6368

GeT LiSTeD!

Submit listings to Calendar@ReporterNewspapers.net

Mardi Gras Ball Saturday, February 2, 7:00 pm – Stage Door

Players will host Krewe of Thalia & Melpomene, a Mardi Gras Masked Ball, to benefit Dunwoody’s own professional theatre company. A cocktail reception with silent auction will be followed by a seated dinner, music, entertainment, and dancing until midnight. The event will be held at the Holiday Inn Perimeter. Tickets are: Single $75; VIP $100; Table of 10 $750. To purchase tickets call the Stage Door Players box office at 770-396-1726 option #5. For additional information, contact Robert Egizio at 770-396-1726 option #7 or email robert@stagedoorplayers.net.

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Tuesdays – Bluegrass Wednesdays – International Folk Music Thursdays – Blues Fridays – Cabaret/Jazz Saturdays – Singer/Songwriter night Doors open at 6:30 every night • Restaurant menu,Tapas & Full Bar available For expanded schedule, tickets and table reservations visit www.steveslivemusic.com 234 Hilderbrand Drive, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | 404-418-6777

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Saturday, Jan. 26, 9 a.m. – The 2nd annual

Thursday, Jan. 24, 1-4 p.m. – Support the Dunwoody Library by attending their book sale! Free admission. Friends only hours 1-4 p.m.; open to all from 4-8 p.m. Additional hours: Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Jan. 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Jan. 28, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. - which is “Bag Day”- buy a bag for $6 and fill it up! Dunwoody Branch Library, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. Call 770-512-4640 to learn more.

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frosty fun 5K Frosty Fun 5K gets underway at the Capital City Club in Brookhaven. Run loops around the Brookhaven neighborhood, and is suitable for serious runners, occasional runner/walker, and families. Baby strollers welcome; no pets. Event offers children’s activities and music, and sponsor tables for food, drink and sports gear. All entrants receive t-shirt. Check-in at 8 a.m. Race begins at 53 West Brookhaven Dr., 30319. Proceeds benefit Kindred Spirit, a residential home for pregnant teenagers. For more details contact Lauren Middlebrooks via email: Cam2brooks@gmail.com or call 404-642-2151. Go to: www.kindredspiritfamily. org/frostyfun5k to register.

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nk ! Oi

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1/17 - 1/19

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1/24 - 1/26

From Funnyordie.com, ABC’s “According to Jim” Tickets available at www.TheImprovAtlanta.com Receive 25% off with promo code “reporter”

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Reporter Newspapers www.ReporterNewspapers.net w w.ReporterNewspapers.net Brookhaven ● Buckhead ● Dunwoody ● Sandy Springs

Get listed in our calendar in print and online @ www.reporternewspapers.net Click on “Out & About” to view or submit listings www.ReporterNewspapers.net |

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013 | 29

Here’s Looking at You!

To view photos from your community visit www.ReporterNewspapers.net. To submit your photos email photos@reporternewspapers.net PHIL MOSIER

PHIL MOSIER

Ready to go on

Belt it out

Left, Dulce aguilar is an angel in “pastorela de Cristo Rey,” a Christmas play performed during the Three Kings Day celebration at the atlanta History Center on Jan. 6 in Buckhead. Right, Joanna Chavez waits to go out and wow the audience. The festivities, presented by the Mexican Consulate, included traditional music and dance.

Matt Hurd, left, and Meredith freeland sing during the “friday Night Fire Worship service,” at Skyland united Methodist Church in Brookhaven on Jan 4.

Restaurant Guide

View these listings online with a map of each location at www.ReporterNewspapers.net. The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.

2955 Cobb Pkwy SE, Suite 240 – Akers Mill & Cobb Pkwy Akers Mill Shopping Center | 770-988-9991 Open 365 days: 6 AM – 4 PM New York Style Gourmet Bagels, 3 egg breakfast sandwiches, over-stuffed bagelwiches, pizza melts, scooper melts and fresh baked muffins. Beverages consist of a coffee station that has everything you need to customize your perfect cup of coffee including unique blends, creamers and U-Bet syrup along with fresh squeezed orange juice and soft drinks. Try the Cubsta® - iced coffee made with frozen coffee cubes. Catering services also available.

Chin Chin Chinese Restaurant

McKendrick’s Steak House

4505 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta, Georgia, 30346 770-512-8888 | www.mckendricks.com Lunch; M-F 11-2:30 Dinner: M-Th 5-10, Fri/Sat 5-11, Sun 5-9 Selected by Zagat as the number one rated steak house in Atlanta, McKendrick’s serves only prime cuts of meat as well as the freshest seafood all of which is complimented by an extensive wine list. McKendrick’s has been a steak house tradition for Atlantans and visitors alike since 1995.

MoSaiC Restaurant

3887 Peachtree Rd, Buckhead/Brookhaven & other locations 404-816-2229 | www.ChinChinAtlanta.com Mon-Thurs 11:30-10:30, Fri/Sat 11:30-11, Sun 12-10:30 Fine Asian Cuisine - Its atmosphere, service and quality of food are above reproach. You can sit in the dining area and watch the preparation of food through a large plate glass. The menu is extensive, offering items in every category including chicken, seafood, pork, beef and duck. There are also vegetarian dishes for those who prefer.

3097 Maple Drive, Buckhead 404-846-5722 | www.mosaicatl.com Mon–Thur 11:30–10, Fri/Sat 11:30–11, Sun Brunch, 10:30–3, Dinner 3–9 MoSaiC is a popular neighborhood, Buckhead eatery, located between Peachtree & Paces Ferry. Visit this hidden gem for a charming escape from city living. Our eclectic wine list and seasonal menu is sure to please the palate.

Flavor Restaurant & Bar

Featured Restaurant

236 Johnson Ferry Rd. NE, Sandy Springs GA 30328 404-255-7402 | www.flavorcafebakery.com Mon: 10.30am to 3.00pm Lunch only Tue: to Fri 10.30am to 10.00pm Lunch and Dinner Sat and sun 8.00am to 10.00pm Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Flavor with a twist. Taking traditional dishes and giving them a new twist. Babaganoush * Tabuli * Hummus * Lambchop Kabob * Jumbo Shrimp

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks

600 Ashwood Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30338 770.399.9900 | www.mccormickandschmicks.com M-Th: 11-9, Fri: 11-10, Sat: 4-10, Sun: 4-9 From fresh seafood and shell fish to aged steaks and garden fresh salads, our goal is to exceed your dining expectations. Our menus reflect seafood from the Pacific Rim, Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. We also source products from local ranches, farms and wineries to showcase regionally inspired dishes.

Jan. 11 – Jan. 24, 2013

Tantra Restaurant

2285 Peachtree Rd. N.E., Atlanta, GA, 30309 404-228-7963 | tantrabuckhead.com Tantra restaurant in South Buckhead features a contemporary American menu highlighted with the exotic flavors of Persian & Indian cuisine. The menu is crafted by Executive Chef Terry Dwyer and his staff. Popular items include: mussels in roasted pepper broth with chipotle and star anise, large plump scallops caramelized in a basil rub with a dried lime beurre blanc to compliment, grilled Australian lamb served with crisp eggplant frites and horseradish-ghost chile aioli.

Sophie’s Uptown

54 Pharr Rd, Atlanta GA 30305 404-812-0477 | www.sophiesuptown.com Mon. – Fri. 10 – 7 Sat. 10 – 4 Closed on Sun. People treats – Animal love. Your community café and bakery dedicated to saving Atlanta’s Homeless Animals. Gluten free and sugar free desserts. Homemade bakery favorites, coffee, ice cream, sandwiches, salads and more, all in a great atmosphere

Uncle Julio’s Fine Mexican Food

Los Bravos Mexican Restaurant

2042 Johnson Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta 30319 770-452-9896 | www.losbravosatlanta.com Mon - Fri 11 - 10:30, Sat 12 – 10:30, Sun 12 – 10 Mouth-watering agave margaritas, carne asade, taco salads, fajitas, poblanos, quesadillas, taco salads, Mexican soup, guacamole…. It’s all at your fingertips regardless of what part of Atlanta you live in.

Pig-N-Chik

4920 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs/Buckhead, 404-255-6368 5071 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Chamblee/Brookhaven, 770-451-1112 1815 Briarcliff Rd, Emory area 404-474-9444 Mon-Thurs. 10:30–10; Fri/Sat, 10:30–11; Sun, 11–10 | pignchik.netTreat your friends and family to the best food in town at Pig-N-Chik. From barbecue ribs and pork to turkey and chicken wings, our irresistible dishes will have your taste buds begging for more. And don’t forget our delicious desserts!

Come by to see our beautiful renovated facility. Great for hosting business or private functions or just stop by and try one of the delicious menu items. Receive 20% off the month of January. Now Open in Vinings! 4300 Paces Ferry Rd, Vinings GA 30339 770-384-0012 Open 7 days a week 7 AM – 2 PM These restaurants are paid advertisers.

| www.ReporterNewspapers.net

1860 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta 30309 | 404-350-6767 1140 Hammond Dr NE, Sandy Springs | 678-736-8260 Sun-Thurs, 11–10; Fri & Sat, 11–11 | Uncle Julio’s created a unique restaurant concept around original recipes that demand only the freshest ingredients tailored after Uncle Julio’s family tastes. Beyond tacos, enchiladas and tamales, Uncle Julio’s specializes in marinated and mesquite grilled beef and chicken fajitas, ribs, quail, frog legs, and jumbo shrimp.

Advertise in the Restaurant Guide and reach 130,000+ discriminating diners. Call 404-917-2200 ext 130.

EDUCATION

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The chairman of the DeKalb school board is promising the board would work together to pull the system’s accreditation out of jeopardy, but the board member representing Dunwoody and Chamblee thinks the accreditation process is flawed. Some in the community aren’t waiting for the board to work things out and have started a petition asking Gov. Nathan Deal remove the entire school board. As of Jan. 8, it had 749 signatures. District 1 Board of Education member Nancy Jester wants to turn the tables on the DeKalb County Schools’ accusers, AdvancED, a national accrediting body that includes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. On Dec. 17, AdvancED announced that the system is on accreditation probation and gave school board members until December 2013 to resolve numerous issues related to board governance. In short, AdvancED found that the board meddles too much in daily school operations to advance individual political agendas. Jester sees it differently and in a series of blog posts said AdvancED has a political agenda too, namely to protect what she refers to as “educrats,” officials who benefit from the accrediting body’s policies. She said AdvancED’s report about the school system identifies problems she’s already discovered. Jester said AdvancED’s policies regarding board conduct would prevent her from speaking about the issues she said she’s tried to bring to everyone’s attention. “While I’m flattered by AdvancED’s extensive use of my research and statements, their conclusions, required actions, indeed, their paradigm for ‘team governance’ would prevent me or any other board member from discovering and properly alerting the public to these misdeeds,” Jester said via a blog post written on Dec. 26.

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Among the fascinating people who

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floor for purchases for which the superintendent needed to submit a report.” Jester says in her Jan. 3 blog post that DeKalb schools’ staff drew up a policy it could not follow. “So, let me sum it up for you,” Jester wrote. “Staff writes policy and the board approves it after giving everyone a 30-day window to comment or bring up any potential conflicts with the policy. “Board chair asks staff to comply. Staff says they can’t because previous staff didn’t purchase the right software. AdvancED cites the board for both following and not following policy.” To see Jester’s blog, visit http://whatsupwiththat.nancyjester.com/. While Jester sees it as an issue of staff not doing its job, others see it as an issue of board members not doing their jobs.

Many who signed the petition had harsh words for school leaders. “The buck starts with the school board. Throw the bums out! Right now!” wrote a parent from Stone Mountain. Another wrote: “There is no sense to their madness. Don’t make these kids suffer more by losing accreditation. Replace them.” Caroline Lord, a long-time DeKalb County resident and activist, said she would work with the governor and state lawmakers to get board members tossed out. “The checks and balances at the county level, at the state level, at the SACS level have failed us, and now the only thing that can salvage it is intervention by the governor,” Lord said. Reporter Newspapers broadcast partner CBS Atlanta contributed to this report.

DeKalb CEO’s home searched

Mattie Hickey-Middleton Exercise Specialist since 2005 Dancer • Swimmer • Exercise Therapist • Teacher Music Lover • Volunteer • Canterbury Court Ambassador

My motto is exercise AND socialize.

IT’S ALL ABOUT HAVING FUN!

The DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office conducted a search warrant Jan. 7 at the home and offices of the county’s top elected official, Chief Executive Officer Burrell Ellis. The timing was calculated. Ellis was busy at the time the searches began, testifying before a special grand jury about the county’s bidding process, according to CBS Atlanta, Reporter Newspapers broadcast partner. “I haven’t done anything that I’m aware of, nor has my staff done anything I’m aware of that was inappropriate,”

Ellis said when asked about the search warrant. Investigators emerged from Ellis’s Stone Mountain home carrying computers and boxes. Search warrants suggest that Ellis is suspected of bribery and “bid rigging,” essentially doing favors for people that helped him get elected, CBS Atlanta said. The investigation began when the county’s District Attorney Robert James convened a special grand jury to look into the county’s bidding process. James, the D.A., had no comment.

Running 17 exercise classes each week, plus private sessions with people recovering from injury or surgery, would surely exhaust an average person. Of course, Mattie’s far from average. She’s a bundle of energy who loves to dance, works a variety of music into her classes, and joins Canterbury’s walking club whenever she can, especially when they’re training for the annual Peachtree Road 10k. She says residents and staff are so much like family that she’s always encouraging people to move here.

Mattie invites you to discover her Canterbury Court.

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JAN. 11 – JAN. 24, 2013 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

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Sandy Springs: Losing bidders have history of raising a racket BY DAN WHISENHUNT

danwhisenhunt@reporternewspapers.net

Operation Tennis Inc. in December filed a lawsuit to overturn the city of Sandy Springs’ decision to award a contract to a competitor. But disputing the contracts to run tennis centers may be as popular as the game itself, public records and newspaper reports show. In the past, disputes have arisen over contracts to run tennis centers in Sandy Springs and at Blackburn Park, a DeKalb County facility located in what is now the city of Brookhaven. Operation Tennis’ lawsuit alleges the winning bidder, Groslimond Tennis Services, gave the city “bogus” third-party evaluations of previous work. Some of the evaluations were written by people who appear to work for Groslimond. President Gery Groslimond denied those allegations. City Attorney Wendell Willard wrote Operation Tennis attroney Bruce Brown Dec. 4 the RFP did not require proposals to include “unaffiliated” third-party evaluations. “Due to the limited number of public tennis centers that are privately operated, such a requirement may have been difficult or impossible to meet and may have limited or precluded competition,” Willard’s letter says. Brown said Willard’s response doesn’t make sense. “You would expect the city, which was duped, to now challenge Groslimond, throw out the bid, etc.,” Brown said. “Instead, the city is taking the position that the evaluations did not have to be from those who were unaffiliated with the bidder. In other words, your mother, brother, employee, heck, you could even submit a self-evaluation, and it would be OK with the city.” The history of tennis center operations contracts in Sandy Springs and DeKalb County shows losing bidders opposed contract awards in 2009, 2010 and 2012 by using similar arguments. In 2009, people who supported Fulton Tennis Services’ contract to run the Sandy Springs Tennis Center stormed Sandy Springs City Council meetings. Council members questioned the process and said the winning company – Windward Tennis Management – wasn’t qualified. Council members kept Fulton Tennis Center Services through December 2012. Complaints in the 2009 RFP focused on the city’s use of three different panels of individuals to review competing proposals. The third panel made the decision to go with Windward. One of the members of the second panel in 2009 was Vicki Willard, wife of City Attorney Wendell Willard. Another member of the second review panel was Manny Guillen. Guillen and Vicki Willard have also served on the board of directors for the nonprofit Sandy Springs BK

Tennis Association, federal tax records show. Wendell Willard is also listed as the Tennis Association’s registered agent on state incorporation records. Guillen and Vicki Willard were not paid for their work on the Tennis Association board, tax records show. The association’s unpaid board members also include Ivo Barbic, the CEO of Fulton Tennis Center Services, according to the tax records. Guillen has been on the association’s board since it was founded in 2008. Tax records show Vicki Willard was on the board in 2008, but left the board in 2009. Barbic joined in 2009 and is still a member, according to the association website. Wendell Willard said Mayor Eva Galambos asked his wife to serve on the second RFP review panel in 2009. According to meeting minutes, Galambos said the final evaluation panel that in 2009 recommended Windward didn’t know enough about tennis. Guillen and Vicki Willard weren’t on the final panel, according to city spokeswoman Sharon Kraun. Galambos said the most recent RFP process was designed to avoid the problems that arose in 2009. “We had a very controlled system this time that followed the procedure of the big contract selections for the city in 2011,” Galambos said. In 2010 controversy arose again, this time in DeKalb County. Operation Tennis, the company now suing the city of Sandy Springs, ran the Blackburn Tennis Center in Brookhaven for decades before the county in 2010 awarded the contract to Universal Tennis Management. Supporters of Operation Tennis stormed DeKalb County Commission meetings, questioning the process and saying Universal Tennis Management didn’t have enough experience running tennis centers. The county delayed the contract, but eventually kept Universal. DeKalb County Commissioner Jeff Rader wasn’t sure why there were similar complaints about the RFP processes in DeKalb and Sandy Springs. Universal made a proposal in response to the recent RFP to run Sandy Springs Tennis Center. Groslimond in 2010 made a proposal to take over the Blackburn operations contract. Operation Tennis Inc. bid on the Sandy Springs Tennis Center contract in 2009. Blackburn Tennis Center is located in Brookhaven, which could soon move to take control of it. Then it could issue its own RFP for tennis services. Players at Blackburn say the courts need repairs. “They are very nice, just the courts need resurfacing, but that seems like it will be an issue for the city of Brookhaven to make the call on,” player Mary Craven said.

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From left, Abigail Pilger listens to Steve Thomas, a self-taught historian, dressed in a costume he made himself, as Nancy Mayer, right, shows off her attire from the Jane Austen novel “Sense and Sensibility.”

Local ‘Janeites’ celebrate Austen, their favorite novelist BY MARTHA NODAR Nancy Mayer discovered Jane Austen’s novels about 30 years ago while researching early 19th century England. “Jane Austen is a realistic writer who depicts real people in real situations,” the Sandy Springs retired teacher said. Mayer was so impressed with Austen’s work that she joined the Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA), a literary society of Austen fans in the United States and Canada.

She and other members of the metro Atlanta chapter of the Austen society – who call themselves “Janeites” – meet regularly to discuss the author’s enduring stories. They often meet in Buckhead or Sandy Springs. Each December, Austen society members hold a special event to commemorate the author’s birthday, which is Dec. 16. This year’s birthday bash, held at the Dunwoody Branch of the DeKalb County library, attracted members who dressed in costume

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Atlanta chapter members of the Jane Austen Society gather around goodies during the celebration noting the novelist’s birthday. BK

COMMUNITY appropriate to Austen’s time. Maytion of marriage from the Bible.” er dressed in clothes from the Austen Mayer said religion for Austen was novel “Sense and Sensibility.” “as natural as breathing.” Austen’s faMembers and guests used the occather was a clergyman in the Church sion to compare notes on their favorof England and many of her heroines ite novels or characters. marry clergymen. “Austen’s char“Marriage is acters are almost a very imporlike relatives,” said tant issue in Jane Abigail Pilger, a Austen’s work,” Dunwoody resiDabundo said. “Marriage is a very dent and member “Not only for the important issue in Jane of the Dunwoody couple, but for Austen’s work. Not only Woman’s Club. what it represent“What happens ed to the comfor the couple, but for in Austen’s novels munity. The couwhat it represented to is real life,” said ple unites with the community. The Mary Morder, a other characlong-time memters through their couple unites with other ber of the Austen marriage.” characters through society. And yet, raththeir marriage.” Kennesaw State er than lecturing University Engthe reader about lish professor and religion, faith or – LAURA DABUNDO religious studies moral standards, KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY coordinator LauMayer emphara Dabundo dissized Austen uses cussed her recent dialogue “to show book, “The Marthe fabric of her riage of Faith: characters.” Christianity in Jane Austen and Wil“Jane Austen was ahead of her liam Wordsworth.” In her book, time, that is why her appeal is timeDabundo draws similarities on how less,” Mayer said. she believes each incorporated their While Austen’s novel “Pride and faith into their prose and poetry rePrejudice” remains the favorite of spectively. Dabundo said she presumes many, Helena Jeny insists that AusAusten must have extracted “the noten’s “Emma” is “the best British novel

From left, Alexandra Thomas, 15, Nancy Mayer, Diane Brannnen and Abigail Pilger confer during the Jane Austen birthday bash at the Dunwoody Public Library on Dec. 16.

in every sense.” “Every word counts; every sentence moves the story and is targeted toward the end,” Jeny said. “Austen is the master of streamlin-

ing.” For more information about the Atlanta chapter, visit: www.jasnaatlanta. org.

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percussions either way,” he said. “From everything I’ve been told, the budget cannot be balanced unless there’s some action taken on the bed tax.” Rep. Mike Jacobs, R-Brookhaven, said the tax on hospital stays was implemented under Gov. Sonny Perdue as a way to fund a hole in the state’s Medicaid program. “It was a big issue a couple years ago and it’s likely to be a big issue again this year,” Jacobs said. Lawmakers also plan to address ethics. Rep. Tom Taylor, R-Dunwoody, said the Senate has proposed a $100 gift cap, while the House of Representatives is looking at a zero gifts policy for legislators. “Ethics reform is probably the top issue this session. I would imagine we will see some kind of ban or restriction on lobbyist gifts. Whatever it is, I’m for it,” Jacobs said. Taylor, who serves on the MARTA Oversight Committee, known as MARTOC, said legislators plan to make some changes to the struggling rapid transit agency. He said the committee will look at ways to save money, including outsourcing functions such as human resources and janitorial services. “This year we will be reopening the MARTA act for the first time in 43 years, which should be rather interesting,” Taylor said. Jacobs, the MARTOC chair, said there will be MARTA legislation introduced this year. It will relax the required 50-50 split on operational and capital spending for an additional three years. It will also shift some of the appointments on the MARTA board, particularly the Fulton County appointments, giving more power to local mayors, Jacobs said. “This is a bill we had last session that didn’t make the cut on the final day of last year’s legislative session, and the bill’s sponsors, including myself, intend to bring it back. It probably also will contain some other reform measures,” Jacobs said. The Legislature may also take action on the DeKalb County School District,

if necessary. The school system was recently placed on accreditation probation by AdvancED, an accrediting agency. Sen. Fran Millar (R-Dunwoody), who chairs the Senate education committee, said at a recent forum that DeKalb County schools are his No. 1 priority. “I’m guardedly optimistic we can turn this thing around,” Millar said. A Jan. 17 hearing of the Georgia Board of Education is scheduled to consider suspending the DeKalb school board members. If the state board recommends suspension, Gov. Nathan Deal will have the authority to do so. “We could not intervene until SACS put DeKalb County Schools on one step away from losing accreditation,” Millar said. Jacobs said it may not be necessary for legislators to intervene. “Obviously, the school board being placed on probation is of great concern to parents like myself and DeKalb county citizens in general,” Jacobs said. “I tend to believe they should be removed. But there’s a statutory process to be followed in order for that to happen, and we’ll know within the next month or two how that process has played itself out. And then there may or may not be a role for the Legislature to play.” Dunwoody’s City Council asked Taylor to sponsor legislation to explore creating an independent city school system. At a recent legislative forum at Dunwoody United Methodist Church, Taylor emphasized that such a measure would be incredibly difficult to put into law, as it would require support from two-thirds of the House and Senate to amend the state constitution. “That is a big deal and requires a state constitutional amendment,” Taylor said. He encouraged residents who support the idea of a Dunwoody school district to raise money for a feasibility study, similar to those conducted during new cities’ incorporation efforts. “Bottom line is: education will dominate. It always has. It’s about two-thirds of the budget,” Millar said. BK

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From police reports dated through Jan. 1. The following information was pulled from DeKalb County Police Department’s Crimetrac system (www.crimemapping.com/map/ ga/dekalbcounty) for the zip code 30319 and the lower Buford Highway corridor. The information on the website is presumed accurate. BU RGLA RY  2600 block of Ashford Road – A residential burglary, without using forced entry, was reported on Dec. 20.

AS S A U LT  2800 block of Ashford Road – Simple battery was reported on Dec. 16.  1100 block of Francis Street – Simple assault/simple battery was reported on Dec. 30.  3000 block of Ashford Dunwoody Road – Domestic violence/simple assault/simple battery was reported on Jan. 1.

A U TO THEFT  3700 block of Ashford Dunwoody Road – Theft of an auto was reported on Dec. 19.  1500 block of Aragon Way – Theft of an auto was reported on Dec. 21.  3700 block of Ashford Dunwoody Road – Theft of an auto was reported on Dec. 25.  1900 block of Johnson Ferry Road – Theft of an auto was reported on Dec. 31.

THEF T  3200 block of Lynwood Drive – A larceny from the mail was reported on Dec. 23.

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 3600 block of Duberry Court –A larceny of articles from a vehicle was reported on Dec. 15.  1600 block of Windsor Parkway –A larceny of articles from a vehicle was reported on Dec. 16.  3600 block of Sunderland Circle –A larceny of articles from a vehicle was reported on Dec. 18.  3900 block of Peachtree Road –A larceny of articles from a vehicle was reported on Dec. 20.  3900 block of Peachtree Road – Entering an auto with the intent of theft was reported on Dec. 20.  4000 block of Peachtree Road – Entering an auto was reported on Dec. 20.  1500 block of Aragon Way –A larceny of articles from a vehicle was reported on Dec. 21.

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COMMUNITY

City Council delays vote on strip club regulations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

fects” with DeKalb’s law that would not hold up in court. Eight clubs in DeKalb, including the Pink Pony, signed a 2001 settlement with the county that allowed the clubs to continue to sell alcohol in exchange for an annual $100,000 fee. Pink Pony attorney Aubrey Villines argued that the city is bound to honor the settlement agreement. He said the DeKalb law has been effective and no new clubs have opened in the area since. “For some reason, legislation is being crafted that will put us out of business,” Villines said. “That’s going to put us in the courthouse. You don’t need to do that.” Councilman Bates Mattison said the issue is one that could involve the city in costly litigation if the Pink Pony decides to sue. “I believe it’s an issue that will have a tremendous economic impact on the city,” Mattison said. Mattison said he wanted to table the issue to see if there is another solution. “It’s a decision that potentially affects one or more businesses in the city,” Mattison said. “I believe it’s our duty to explore every option before we make a decision.” But Bergthold said other cities and counties in the area have adopted the

stronger ordinance to protect themselves the ordinance. before new adult businesses are a threat. Bergthold said doing so would vio“Those cities didn’t wait until the late the Equal Protection clause by holdwolf was at the door,” Bergthold said. ing one business to different standards Bergthold presented the council with than another. a number of documented cases, some Mayor J. Max Davis said the adult local, illustrating the negative secondbusiness ordinance is just one of many ary effects associated DeKalb County laws with sexually orientthe new city adopted. ed businesses, includ“We adopted a ing prostitution, drug sexually oriented “I believe it’s our duty trafficking and propbusiness ordinance erty crimes. He said along with 800 othto explore every option research shows an iner pages of ordinancbefore we make crease in crime leves. I don’t want peoa decision.” els up to 1,000 feet ple to feel like we’re around such busifocusing on this one nesses. prurient area,” Davis – BATES MATTISON Bergthold said said. “We have a duty DISTRICT 3 CITY COUNCILMAN there is such a large to make sure our orvolume of docudinances are fair. mented negative secIt’s just part of what ondary effects that we’re doing over the courts do not require a local crime study. next six months to a year.” Nude dancing is protected as free Councilwoman Rebecca Chase Wilspeech under the First Amendment. liams said the council must improve Therefore, legislation would only regulaws that are weak or flawed. late the proven secondary effects of such “In my mind it’s about looking at the businesses. best laws and code,” Williams said. “I’m “This ordinance doesn’t regulate what kind of dismayed we’re having to spend people can see,” Bergthold said. so much time talking about this at the Mattison asked Bergthold if the city get-go.” could grandfather the Pink Pony under Mattison made a motion to table the the current conditions before adopting vote until Jan. 14. Councilmen Joe Geb-

bia and Jim Eyre voted to table it, and Williams voted against it. Michael Cap, the Pink Pony’s chief operating officer, told the council the Pink Pony has been a good neighbor. He said there’s never been a prostitution arrest at the club and employees are drugtested and take a Breathalyzer test before leaving each night. “For all the secondary effects shown tonight, we have studies that say different,” he said. Cap said the Pink Pony would like to avoid a lawsuit and hopes the city will give the club a chance to prove itself. “Right now, you’re making a judgment without even knowing us,” he said. “We’ve had a very clean and good reputation with DeKalb County for a long time and I’d like to continue that with Brookhaven.” The city of Doraville, which recently adopted an ordinance similar to the one being considered in Brookhaven, was sued by the Oasis Goodtime Emporium on Dec. 31. That club was one of the eight that signed the 2001 settlement with DeKalb. Davis said the council will consider all the facts and options before voting. “We just need to be careful and have our due diligence in place,” Davis said. “We’re going to be very deliberate with the decisions we make.”

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