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SEPT. 19 — OCT. 2, 2014 • VOL. 8 — NO. 19
A green flash on the field
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History Center renovates to make the past ‘not boring’ BY JOE EARLE
joeearle@reporternewspapers.net
PHIL MOSIER
Copeland Stukes, right, a member of the Green Rockets soccer team, maintains control down the field as Hammie Shiver, left, a member of the Cheetahs, defends, during the first league game at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church on Sept. 13. The Cheetahs won 4-0.
Fulton tax commissioner says he’s just doing his job, offers no apology for his salary
They want more company. To show it, they’re getting a new front door. And a lot more. The Atlanta History Center has begun a dramatic renovation of its West Paces Ferry Road facilities that will create a new entrance for its museum building, a new display of Atlanta history, add an historic log cabin to its collection, and, if the city of Atlanta signs off, could provide a new home for the historic Cyclorama painting. The center plans to bring more than $50 million worth of construction projects and new programs to its Buckhead campus over the next few years. “It’s definitely an exciting time,” History Center Vice President Hillary Hardwick said. “It’s a great time for Atlanta and it’s a great time for the Atlanta History Center. We used to say we were one of Atlanta’s best kept secrets -- and we didn’t say that proudly. We want to open up.” The $21 million construction project now under way will provide a new entry drive off West Paces Ferry, move the front of building closer to the street, create a new entry façade for the museum, double the size of the building’s atrium, add a central hallway connectSEE BEST, PAGE 8
BY COLLIN KELLEY Fulton County Tax Commissioner Arthur Ferdinand has faced – in his estimation – 1,000 lawsuits since he took the job in 1997. Those lawsuits have come from disgruntled residents, the county and the municipalities he serves, while lawmakers have tried unsuccessfully to curb Ferdinand’s unorthodox – but completely legal – pocketing of money from selling off liens on delinquent properties. That process has made him the highest paid elected official in the state. Ferdinand, a native of Trinidad and former executive
at IBM, is unapologetic. “If I do more work, I should be compensated,” he said, noting that he also handles tax collection for the city of Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Johns Creek and Chattahoochee Hills. “I don’t apologize for it one bit.” Ferdinand gave a wide-reaching talk and answered questions at the Sept. 11 Buckhead Council of Neighborhoods meeting. The tax commissioner’s name has come up numerous times during recent BCN meetings, mainly stemming from his salary. SEE FULTON, PAGE 4
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Fulton County officials have reopened the Buckhead Library branch on Friday afternoons. County commissioners voted Sept. 3 to restore Friday hours at 10 of the county’s 34 branches, including the Buckhead branch. The Buckhead Library is scheduled to be open from 1 until 5 p.m. on Fridays. “I am overjoyed that my fellow commissioners saw fit to restore Friday library hours for 10 of the branches of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library,” Commission Chairman John Eaves B RIEFS said in a statement released after the vote. “The unanimous support this proposal received reflects how much of a priority this is for our county.” Fulton officials earlier this year reduced library hours, including eliminating Friday hours at a number of branches, as a budget-cutting move.
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Fulton County voters who want to vote early in the Nov. 4 election will have the chance to cast their ballots on several Saturdays and Sundays as well as during the week, county officials announced. Early voting is scheduled from Oct. 13 through Oct. 31. During the first week of that period, including the weekend days of Oct. 18 and 19, seven sites across the county will open for early voting, the county said in a press release. During the next two weeks, from Oct. 20 through 31, including the weekend days of Oct. 25 and 26, an additional dozen locations will open, the county said. The following sites in Buckhead were listed as locations for early voting: Chastain Park Gymnasium, 140 W. Wieuca, from Oct. 13-31, including weekend voting on Oct. 18, 19, 25 and 26; the Northside Library, 3295 Northside Parkway, from Oct. 20-31, including weekend voting Oct. 25 and 26.
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Fulton tax commissioner unapologetic over his salary CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 were underpaid. Several resiHis annual salary reaches about dents attending $383,000. Much of that comes the BCN meetfrom the $1 he takes home from eving who had reery lien he sells or settles. As an exceived liens ample, Ferdinand said if he sells the against their lien on a $100,000 property in Fulproperty were ton, he gets $1 while the county gets frustrated with $1,000. That’s money in the counFerdinand bety’s piggybank it wouldn’t have had cause they said if the property had been allowed they had nev- Arthur Ferdinand to sit derelict or was subjected to er received offoreclosure. ficial word from the tax commisFerdinand was first appointed tax sioner’s office before the liens were commissioner in 1997. He said his sold. wife “forced” him to go to the interOne resident suggested that regisview, but he not only got the job, he’s tered mail should be used for such corremained entrenched there, even after respondence, but Ferdinand said the the position became an elected one. county would never approve the inHe’s been re-elected three times – in creased cost. “From 49 cents to $3 per 2004, 2008 and 2012. piece of mail will not happen,” he said. He brushes away criticism by saying Ferdinand said both Fulton Counhe boosted Fulton County’s tax collecty and Atlanta had tion rate from the countless numbers lowest in the state of properties that to the highest, at were sitting aban99 percent, which doned and derelict he continues to maintain. “My of- “If I do more work, I should with his office unable to collect taxfice collects more be compensated... I don’t es or no investors taxes than DeKalb, apologize for it one bit.” willing to buy the Cobb and Gwinliens. nett put together,” Atlanta City he said. – ARTHUR FERDINAND CouncilwomThe Legislature TAX COMISSIONER an Mary Norhas tried severwood, who was al times to change in attendance at the law that allows the BCN meetthe tax commising, said the city’s sioner to personalnew code enforcely gain when liens ment commission would try to track are sold, and Ferdinand said he would down individuals and corporations retire if the law was ever successfully to get those properties back on the changed. He also said he believed that tax rolls. most elected and appointed officials
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New APS superintendent: Time to remake the school district BY JOE EARLE
joeearle@reporternewspapers.net
Atlanta’s new school superintendent says now is the time to remake a school system battered by scandal. “This is our best opportunity,” Dr. Meria Carstarphen told school officials and parents who gathered at North Atlanta High School on Sept. 9 to hear her first “State of the Schools” address. Carstarphen started her job as superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools in July. She said she has already made some personnel changes at schools and reorganized some district departments, but that more changes are needed. Carstarphen’s said that for her “state of the schools” talk, the 10th delivered by an Atlanta superitendent, she reviewed past remarks and found they often included pronouncements such as the district was “climbing the hill” or “almost [at] the mountaintop.” “The time for proclamations is over,” she said. “We need to go backwards on proclamations. Right now, we are at the base of the mountain and we need to start all over again.” Among the troubles Carstarphen must deal with is the aftermath of the cheating scandal that led to criminal charges against some APS teachers and administrators. On the same day Carstarphen delivered her “state of the schools” speech, a dozen former APS employees faced trial on charges stemming from changing students’ answers on high-stakes tests so they would get higher scores. Two days after her “state of the schools” speech, Carstarphen told members of the Buckhead Business Association she and members of the school board had “a heavy lift, but it’s not impossible” to address the district’s troubles. “Our charge as an administration is to model ways the community has trust in us and isn’t embarrassed by us,” she said. She has begun work on the district’s next budget, she said. She said she planned to “open up the budget to the public, be-
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cause, right now, it’s a black box, even to me.” She said that during her 10 weeks on the job, she had seen “a lot of good and a lot of growth in Atlanta Public Schools. It’s just not consistent. I’ve seen some of the finest teaching I’ve seen in my life in this district and I’ve seen some stuff that makes me want to run out of the room screaming and crying.” Her message and humor appeared to charm her audience. “I was very impressed with her energy, her optimism, her directness of message,” dentist Scott Allman said after her BBA talk. “I was wondering what kind of a person would knowingly walk into that kind of mess that is the Atlanta schools. I’m very encouraged about the future of the school district after hearing her speak.” Answering questions after her Sept. 9 speech, Carstarphen said she took the job in Atlanta because she thought she had the skills to tackle APS’ problems. What’s needed, she said, “is an extensive rebuild, but it has to happen.” She said repeatedly that APS educators need to focus on the needs of students. “If we focus on the children, we will never go wrong,” she said. “We will never have to look over our shoulders.”
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BY COLLIN KELLEY Plans are under way to construct three platform tennis courts at the Bitsy Grant Tennis Center in Buckhead. The project is being paid for through private donations to the American Platform Tennis Association and will be given to the city of Atlanta upon completion. HGOR planners and landscape architects have been retained for the project, and the platform tennis courts are expected to be completed by February 2015. Lessons, clinics and league play through the Peachtree Paddle League are just a few of the program offerings that will be available to the public once the courts are completed. The new courts are part of the ongoing renova-
tions and upgrades to Atlanta Memorial Park, which also includes the Bobby Jones Golf Course. What exactly is platform tennis? It is a combination of tennis and racquetball also known as “paddle tennis.” The sport began in northeastern states in the 1920s as a way for tennis players to stay active during the winter months. It’s played on a court that is one-fourth the size of a tennis court. The court provides an all-weather aluminum surface and is surrounded by 12-foot high screens. The Peachtree Paddle League, formed in 2005, has been instrumental in growing the sport in Atlanta. The league has 11 teams and holds a championship event each year.
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Norwood: Low turnout may put Buckhead projects in jeopardy At-large Atlanta City Councilwoman Mary Norwood told the Buckhead Council of Neighborhoods recently that the turnout for public meetings on the proposed infrastructure bond referendum has been low, and that might put potential Buckhead projects in jeopardy. “We’ve only had about 300 people show up at the meetings,” Norwood said Norwood said she was worried that the concerns of Buckhead residents about transportation and traffic issues were not being heard at the meetings. This week, the city launched a new
interactive map that shows potential projects and programs being considered for the proposed infrastructure bond referendum. The bonds are intended to raise money to help clear a $900 million backlog of projects. The interactive map can be found at www.infrastructuremap.org. In addition to viewing potential projects in their
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Bond hearings scheduled
neighborhoods, residents also have the ability to provide feedback and leave comments for city officials. Estimated expenses and criteria for each proposed project will also be available. Along with the map, the city is also hosting another round of public meetings on the bond referendum. -Collin Kelley
Meetings to discuss the bond proposals are scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations: Sept. 23 John C. Birdine Recreation Center, 215 Lakewood Way, SW. Sept. 25 Atlanta City Hall Auditorium, (Old Council Chambers), 68 Mitchell Street, SW. Sept. 30 Piedmont Hospital – Shepherd Center, Callaway Auditorium, 7th Floor, 2020 Peachtree Road, NW.
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The Atlanta History Center has raised over $32 million to restore and build a new home for “The Battle of Atlanta” painting.
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‘Best kept secret’ undergoing major renovations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
ing the exhibits, and add a coffee shop/gift shop/bookstore. History Center officials hope that the work will make the facility seem more inviting, and will help change the way Atlantans view history. “One of our big goals is changing the perception of history and the Atlanta History Center,” Hardwick said. What do they hope to convince people about history? “It’s not boring,” History Center President and CEO Sheffield Hale said. “It’s fun. It impacts their lives.” In the past, he said, history “was taught so badly that people thought it was names and dates and dead folks, and had no relation to them.” To change that, Hale and Hardwick say the center is opening up both physically and philosophically. “The first thing I did when I got here was take down the fences,” Hale said. “The reaction I got was far beyond anything I thought I’d see. ... Who wants a chain-link fence in their front yard? Those kind of symbolic things matter. The architecture matters. The way this old building looked to people, they didn’t know what it was and they didn’t come in.” Hale says the new bookstore/gift shop/ coffee shop planned as part of the renovation will provide one way the center can become more welcoming to the public. He hopes it becomes a place where the center’s neighbors will come for coffee or to relax. The shop will offer places to sit and Wi-Fi connections, he said. “It’s not going to be like any other mu-
AUCTION
seum bookstore,” Hale said. “It’s going to be a community living room. What I want it to be is the coolest bookstore/café/living room you’re ever been to.” The center used focus groups to determine what people wanted to see. Audience feedback said one thing museum goers wanted, Hale said, was coffee. “Coffee and a chair,” Hardwick said. As the building gets a new entrance and façade, the center’s main exhibit showing the history of Atlanta is being re-tooled, too. The exhibit, which hadn’t changed since it was installed in 1993, has been removed, and center historians are reworking it. They intend for the new exhibit, scheduled to open in 2016, to be more interactive and to do a better job of bringing Atlanta history to life. “We’re going to talk about your neighborhood,” Hale said. “One week it could be Morningside, the next week it could be Old Fourth Ward. Everybody loves to talk about their neighborhood. ... We think that construct of ‘neighborhoods’ might be a disciplined way for us to get out into the community.” And Hale wants the History Center to get out more. He thinks the nonprofit center should have a greater impact on the community. “When we started this project, one of our goals was to really change the way people feel as they walk onto this 33-acre campus,” Hardwick said. “We’re changing. ... All of this helps reinforce that. It mirrors the organization we‘re becoming.” Thursday, October 16th 6:00pm (ET) 1051 Abingdon Ln, Alpharetta, GA 30022
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Changes under way at the Atlanta History Center The Atlanta History Center has begun a major renovation of its facilities. Over the next few years, more than $53 million is to be spent on projects at the museum and on its grounds. The work, History Center officials say, is intended to make the facility more visible from the street and more inviting to visitors.
1. New entrance from West Paces Ferry and new atrium. Construction is under way to build a new entrance to the History Center and enlarge the building’s atrium to 5,300 square feet. The $21 million project will change the look of the building and add a new gift shop/ coffee shop/bookstore that center officials hope will be used by neighbors as well as museum visitors. The plan includes moving the front of the building closer to West Paces, landscaping the drive to reflect the center’s gardens, and adding a hallway through the building that will connect all the center’s exhibits. Opens 2015.
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4. Elias Wood family cabin. The center is moving to its campus a log cabin that originally was located in the Hollywood Road area. The cabin, home to Elias and Jane Wood, was built on land ceded to Georgia by the Creek Indians in 1821, and dates to Atlanta’s earliest days, the center says. Opening fall 2014.
2. New history of Atlanta display. History Center historians are working on a new display of center artifacts and documents, and plan to tell the story of the city of Atlanta in a new way. It’s the first reworking of the center’s main exhibit since the building opened in 1993. The new exhibit, the center says, will allow visitors to see, hear, touch and explore the exhibits through new media. Opens 2016.
Read all of our editions online
3. Cyclorama. The History Center has raised more than $32 million to restore and build a new home for the 128-year-old painting “The Battle of Atlanta,” which now is on display at the Cyclorama in Grant Park. If city of Atlanta officials approve the deal, the History Center plans to build a new home for the painting as one of its displays. The money raised includes $10 million for maintenance of the painting. History Center conservators plan to restore the painting to its original size, adding 3,268 square feet that was removed in 1921, and hang the painting the way it was originally displayed.
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5. Goizueta Gardens. A $3 million gift from the Goizueta Foundation will be used to rehabilitate and tie together the History Center’s 22 acres of gardens, which include six public gardens that illustrate the horticultural history of the area. Ongoing.
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Source: Atlanta History Center
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COMMENTARY Reporter Newspapers Our mission is to provide our readers with fresh and engaging information about life in their communities.
Q&A S T RE E T TA LK
Q: Are you paying attention to the statewide campaigns for governor and U.S. Senate?
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“Yes. I would like to see more progressive election [results].”
Bob Chalfant
“I have been paying attention to the Senate race -- because of the advertising. It’s unavoidable.”
Matthew Barker
“The senate race in particular, yes. I like Michelle Nunn. ... I’m interested in the environment and landscaping of property. I think she’s better about that, about preservation of trees. I liked her dad, too.”
Joan Ama-Leo
Founder & Publisher Steve Levene stevelevene@reporternewspapers.net Editorial Managing Editor Joe Earle joeearle@reporternewspapers.net Intown Editor: Collin Kelley Associate Editor: Ann Marie Quill Staff Writer: Ellen Eldridge Copy Editor: Diane L. Wynocker Creative and Production Director of Creative & Interactive Media Christopher North chrisnorth@reporternewspapers.net
“I am. I think it is an important race with a lot at stake. We need a strong candidate for Georgia’s representation.”
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“Not as much as I should. Probably 30 percent, which is what I hear through the media.”
James Stempel
Advertising Director of Sales Development Amy Arno amyarno@reporternewspapers.net Senior Account Executives Jeff Kremer Janet Porter Account Executive Susan Lesesne Sales Consultants David Burleson Linda Howell Office Manager Deborah Davis deborahdavis@reporternewspapers.net
“A little bit, yeah. I think it affects our future. But on the other hand, I don’t like either of the politicians running for office. I don’t have anything to vote for.”
John Goree
“Yes, I am. There’s a pretty good chance a Democrat wins the Senate. That hasn’t happened in a while.”
Carlos Leon
“No. Because we’re relocating. We’ve got to go where the job goes.”
Naoko Tsunoda
Contributors Phil Mosier, Matha Nodar,
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. © 2014 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.
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SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 2014
“No. It’s just not something I’ve been paying attention to. I haven’t followed politics lately.”
“I’m actually thinking about going to vote. The makeup of the Senate hangs in the balance.”
“No. I am a new resident here, so I just haven’t paid attention.”
Michael Kuniansky
Jamey Propst
Richard Washington
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COMMENTARY
She’s got a hammer and knows how to use it After living for 38 years in Sandy Springs, Julia Woodman was talking one recent afternoon about moving. “This was country when I moved out here,” Woodman said as she sat in her sprawling, art-filled home on Powers Ferry Road. “Cars on Powers Ferry were an event. Now they’re a menace.” She feels it’s time to move. Her husband died two years ago. She wants to be closer to her family in Cobb County. “It’s lonely here,” she said. “It’s isolated because everybody has 2 acres. I don’t know my neighbors.” But, unlike many aging Sandy Springs residents who contemplate settling into smaller, more manageable homes, Woodman had some special,
casions at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Buckhead, a medallion worn at Georgia State University’s formal ceremonies, more tea services. AROUND She’s studTOWN ied abroad, teaches, and JOE EARLE has developed a following. Her work has been displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, among others. That’s a long way from where she started. She grew up on a farm in North Carolina. Her dad ran a dairy just outside Asheville. She “always had been arty,” she said, so she went to college in New York to study industrial deJOE EARLE sign. There, she met her Metalsmith Julia Woodman in her art studio. husband-tobe. He was a well, considerations as she planned her military man who taught ROTC at the move. time. After she married, they travelled After all, not everyone who’s downall over, from Fort Knox to Iran. “We sizing takes an anvil with them. Or a moved 19 times in 20 years,” she said. hammer to use on the anvil. Or a metOnce he retired, he found work al press. near Atlanta and they settled in Sandy “This is my 50-ton press,” she said, Springs, out in the country. She decided sitting in her basement studio crowdto go back to school and, at age 49, ened with metal-working tools. “It only rolled at Georgia State University with weighs 1,400 pounds, but it has 50 tons plans to study sculpture. She found she of pressure.” She uses it to make bowls. liked working with metal. “I discovered “I want to make bowls into my 80s.” I had a little talent,” she said. “I startSo, how old is she? “81. And I’m still ed winning competitions and commismaking bowls. Can you imagine?” sions.” Well, yes you can. After an hour talkIn 1986, she started spending poring with Woodman, you can imagine tions of her summers doing metal work her tackling all sorts of things. She raat an international craft school near diates enthusiasm and energy. And she’s Asheville. Eventually, she won a scholstill eager to try new things. arship to study metalworking in Finland “If you stop learning, you get ripe “from second and third generation Faand fall off the vine and rot,” she said. bergé masters.” She’s a metalsmith. Not just a silverShe intends to keep working with smith, she says, but a metalsmith. She metal as long as she can. “All so I can works various kinds of metal into works continue working with metal, so I can of art. “Metal requires an enormous sling a hammer.” amount of discipline,” she said. After all, it’s still fun. And fun is imShe earned her B.F.A. degree deportant. signing and making a silver teapot and “You don’t stop playing when you get creamer. She moved on to other things – old,” she said. “You get old when you processional crosses used on special ocstop playing.”
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dragons. Free. Outdoors. The community is welcome to attend. Food for sale. Kids’ activities. Sandy Springs United Methodist Church, 86 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328. Call 404-2569091 in case of inclement weather. For further details, visit: www.leadershipsandysprings.org.
Monday, Sept. 22, 4:30-5:30 p.m. – Come
join Out of the Box Art Studio and go “Dali-style” in clay! Create and glaze a “timeless” clay melting clock inspired by the Salvador Dali piece called “Persistence of Memory.” Free. Open to the public. For preschool, elementary and middle school audiences. Registration required and started Sept. 3. Space is limited. Come by the Sandy Spring Branch Library, call 404-303-6130 or email: leah.germon@fultoncountyga.gov to sign up. 395 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328.
Tasty Parfaits Tuesday, Sept. 23, 4:30-5:30 p.m. – Help celebrate the first day of autumn with the Young Chefs Academy. Get a hands-on cooking lesson, and make some tasty fall harvest parfaits. Free. For ages 6 and up. All are welcome. Registration required and started Sept. 3. Space is limited. Come by the Sandy Spring Branch Library, call 404-303-6130 or email: leah.germon@fultoncountyga.gov to sign up. 395 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328.
Moonlight Movies Friday, Sept. 26, 6-10 p.m. – Sandy Springs “Movies by Moonlight,” now in its 10th year, shows “How to Train Your Dragon 2,” an animated, action comedy set in a world of burly Vikings and wild
FUNDRAISERS
Book Sales Monday, Sept. 22, 6-9 p.m. – The 55th annu-
al American Association of University Women book fair includes more than 75,000 gently-used books at bargain prices. Find Southern authors, mysteries, science fiction, reference, business, history, politics, biography, romance, foreign language, cookbooks, arts, travel, military and children’s books. Audio tapes, cassettes, CDs and DVDs also available. Opening night admission, $10; all other times, free. All are welcome. Sale continues through Sept. 28, mall hours. Cash and checks only. Perimeter Mall, in the Dillard’s Wing, 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta, 30346. For more: 404-261-7646 or bookfairaauw.org.
Thursday, Sept. 25, 1-4 p.m. – The Friends of
the Dunwoody Library hold their book sale. Browse titles and take home books, magazines, CDs, DVDs and much more. Members only from 1-4 p.m. All are welcome 4-8 p.m. No admission fee. Sale continues Friday and Saturday, Sept. 26-27, 10 a.m.5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29, from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., is “Bag Day.” Buy a bag for $6 and fill it up! Proceeds benefit the Dunwoody library. 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. Email: membership@FriendsofDunwoodyLibrary.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 29
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SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net
Education Guide www.ReporterNewspapers.net
Inside Be flexible
Schools must remain open to options PAGE 14
Up, down Test results fluctuate statewide PAGE 19
FALL 2014
Are standardized tests relevant?
A meeting of the minds
HALL TALK 15-17
School merger will ‘strengthen community’ BY ANN MARIE QUILL
annmariequill@reporternewspapers.net
DEVI KNAPP, ATLANTA JEWISH ACADEMY
Atlanta Jewish Academy students, from left, Dan Jutan, Eliott Dosetareh and Mia Azani, study in their classroom. The academy is a merger of Greenfield Hebrew Academy in Sandy Springs and Yeshiva Atlanta High School in DeKalb.
There’s a new cat in town. The jaguar is the mascot representing the new Atlanta Jewish Academy, a merger of two longtime private Jewish schools in the Atlanta area – Greenfield Hebrew Academy lower and middle school in Sandy Springs and Yeshiva Atlanta High School in DeKalb. Backers say the merger creates the only Jewish day school in metro Atlanta serving pre-K through 12th grade students. “A family can come here knowing this is a full-service place,” said new Head of School Rabbi Pinchos Hecht, who moved from Florida to take the position. Meanwhile, a very different kind of new school is emerging in Buckhead. The Atlanta Classical Academy opened this year with 450 students selected from 1,341 who entered a lottery to attend the new public charter school. The school follows the classical education model, which follows Western traditions and has been popular with Christian schools, though organizers have said no religious material will be in the curriculum. Matthew Kirby, chairman of the school’s board of directors, said the school took “a very traditional, liberal-arts approach.” The classical academy opened offering classes from kindergarten through eighth grade. Its organizers plan to add a grade SEE SCHOOL MERGER, PAGE 28
New tests, growth models on the agenda for area schools BY ANN MARIE QUILL
annmariequill@reporternewspapers.net
The Georgia Department of Education is rolling out new statewide tests this year in an effort to add more “rigor” in the evaluation of schools and students. “We need to know that students are being prepared, not at a minimum-competency level but with rigorous, relevant education, to enter college, the workforce or the military at a level that makes them competitive with students from other states,” Georgia School Superintendent Dr. John Barge said earlier
this year when the announcement was made. One parent with children in the Atlanta Public Schools system said that while she didn’t know much specifically about the new tests, that teachers in Buckhead public schools have been preparing the students for them. “I know they’re supposed to be higher rigor,” said Sara Catherine Kibler, who has a ninth-grader at North Atlanta High School, a sixth-grader at Sutton Middle School and a child who recently graduated
from North Atlanta. “I expect to see drops in scores; I don’t necessarily expect them to be super at first. But I know the teachers have been changing their curriculums for several years to prepare.” The new tests, called Milestones, this year will replace the End of Course Tests, or EOCT, and the Criterian Referenced Competency Tests, or CRCTs, now used in Georgia public schools. The new tests will be aligned to Common Core standards, state officials said. The state claims that a benefit of the new testing system is that it provides one consistent measure across grades 3-12, whereas previously, students took
www.ReporterNewspapers.net |
SEE SCHOOL, PAGE 18
SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 2014 | 13
FACT:
EDUCATION GUIDE
Studies show that children who spend time in the garden develop a love for fruits and vegetables.
Dr. Meria Carstarphen delivered her first “State of the Schools” address on Sept. 9.
JOE EARLE
School systems pursue options for more flexibility BY ANN MARIE QUILL
annmariequill@reporternewspapers.net
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DeKalb schools may soon pass Fulton County schools to become the state’s largest charter system if they succeed in its plan to convert its operations to a more flexible model. In April, Superintendent Michael Thurmond informed the DeKalb Board of Education that the district would pursue charter system status. A public hearing on the decision will follow an Oct. 6 school board work session, where the proposal will be discussed. Georgia’s school systems are exploring options for more autonomy following a Georgia Department of Education mandate from several years back that they choose an operating model by June 2015. Schools must choose a charter system model or an “Investing in Educational Excellence System” model, called “IE2,” or retain the status quo. The charter system and IE2 models allow school systems to sidestep many state rules and regulations while also requiring more accountability. “In exchange for increased autonomy, including waivers from state law, . . . districts receive the flexibility to be innovative and thereby [must] show greater accountability and higher student performance,” said Trenton Arnold, a regional superintendent for DeKalb schools, at a public hearing on Aug. 28. According to Atlanta Public Schools’ website, the types of flexibility schools may pursue under the charter and IE2 options include customizing course offerings; waiving class-size requirements to allow for college-like settings; waiving class-time requirements to allow students to explore internships or dual enrollments; or hiring subject experts for
teachers and non-traditional gifted programs. The Atlanta Public School System hasn’t chosen what model it will pursue. “These are things that will dramatically change the way we do business,” said Superintendent Meria Carstarphen during her Sept. 9 “State of the Schools” address. “We haven’t chosen a model. APS could be very similar to what it is today; it could be very different.” APS currently has a survey on its website seeking community feedback on the direction it should take, and says if it decides to pursue the charter or IE2 option it will submit its application to the state by Nov. 5 following a presentation at its Oct. 6 board meeting. In Fulton, officials seem pleased that they converted in phases to charter status in 2012, with a final group of schools set to switch by this time next year. “Our charter system is really beginning to gain a lot of traction,” said Superintendent Robert Avossa, at Fulton schools’ back-to-school news briefing in August. He cited examples of what some Fulton schools have been able to do as a result of the conversion. At Centennial High School in Roswell, a physical education credit was waived, meaning that students in an athletic club or marching band can take a high-level credit course such as math or science instead. Meanwhile, Northview High School in Johns Creek applied for a class-size waiver, allowing the school to create larger classes to simulate a college experience. “We’re excited to see if we can replicate some of those strategies across the district,” Avossa said.
EDUCATION GUIDE
Q&A H AL L T AL K
“It’s good to see what level you’re at compared to other students in the state. They could be shorter, though.”
Thomas Beson The Marist School “I think standardized tests are important because it’s a way to judge everyone’s intelligence by the same scale. Although it leads to questions of upper class privilege, it’s still important to have a way to grade everyone’s intelligence, and I can’t think of another alternative that would complete that task.”
Olivia Hagen, The Galloway School “I think they are an important way to gauge students’ knowledge.”
Jordan Gold The Weber School
Q: Do you think standardized tests are important? “I think they provide a good baseline for national rankings. Other than that I don’t see a purpose. I think a more personalized curriculum is more important.”
Liam Collins Riverwood International Charter School “Standardized test are not important because they do not determine a student’s true abilities. People are smarter in certain areas that are not covered in a standardized test. These tests are not designed to improve intelligence, nor are they fair. They are only a measure of what students have learned and retained prior to taking the tests. Standardized tests test students on memory, as opposed to skills. Everyone has different learning styles, and with standardized tests, students are forced to comply with solely one style of learning, which makes standardized test absolutely biased.”
Skylar Gardner Riverwood International Charter School
Which Test: SAT or ACT? As founder of Applerouth Tutoring, I often help parents navigate the complicated world of college admissions testing. Parents know the ACT is an alternative to the SAT, but they often do not know how to help their student choose between the two tests. Recently announced changes to the tests have contributed to the uncertainty. Students tend to feel more comfortable with one test format over the other. Over the past thirteen 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 equivalents, the PLAN/ ASPIRE. Parents often ask me how they can use just a PSAT score to make this important decision. The easiest way to make this decision is to have your student take a mock ACT so that they can compare their PSAT/SAT score equivalents to the ACT scores in order to make the best choice. If it’s been a year or more since they last took the SAT, they may additionally want to sit for a mock SAT test. Compare your student’s percentile rankings on the two tests, and then put your energy into the test your student more naturally excels at. There is zero risk and a lot of benefit to using meaningful data to make the right decision early on because 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 these tests, including the “new” SAT, at one of our upcoming FREE EVERYTHING COLLEGE ADMISSIONS SEMINARS:
October 4th 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Roam Dunwoody Atlanta, GA 30338
Educating students with language learning disabilities and differences 5 years old through 12th grade
October 22nd 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Wyndham Powers Ferry Atlanta, GA 30339
October 25th 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Second Ponce Baptist Church Atlanta, GA 30305 To view more information about locations or to preregister, go to applerouth.com/calendar or call 404-728-0661.
www.ReporterNewspapers.net |
SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 2014 | 15
EDUCATION GUIDE “Standardized test are important, because of the fact that they give people insight as to how students perform in school, because there are so many school systems and they are all different. The only problem with that is that not a lot of people are good test takers and in some cases this can make or break your future.”
Courtney Jeffers , Riverwood International Charter School
“I think they serve a purpose to make sure you comprehend the subject matter.”
Elizabeth Lamar Riverwood International Charter School
“Standardized tests are important because it is critical for students to practice time management and the ability to work for what they want. Also, colleges need to know the students that they are admitting.”
Lily Maslia, The Galloway School
schools varies.”
“I think it’s a necessary evil. While it doesn’t necessarily correlate to intelligence, I think it’s important to have in the college process because the quality of
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“I find standardized tests useless because they don’t really prove how someone could solve a problem in the real world. The testing environment is too controlled and relates to nothing in real life. Standardized tests just show how well a person can bubble in an answer.”
Sarah Waindle, Riverwood International Charter School “Standardized test are important for the state to know how well students are performing, but these scores not only reflect on you but the teachers as well. Some students aren’t the best test takers. This shouldn’t affect the student’s or teacher’s capabilities. The student could be a genius, but according to the test he’s not meeting requirements. And the same for the teacher.”
Aiya Kadi, Riverwood International Charter School “SATs are good because they test your knowledge. But, SLOs are annoying because we obviously don’t know the content.”
Alycia Cooper Riverwood International Charter School
EDUCATION GUIDE “I don’t think standardized tests are fair because they don’t really measure your knowledge of school materials, just your test-taking skills. Additionally, studies have shown that teenagers from richer backgrounds do better on standardized tests because they can afford to hire tutors to teach them how to game the system.”
Tara Subramaniam, The Westminster School
“Standardized tests are not important because not everyone learns the same and not everyone can recall the same information.”
Ereka Fitts, Riverwood International Charter School “I think when they say ‘standardized,’ that doesn’t apply. Students in advanced classes will find the tests easy. They really need to be ‘standardized’ a lot better.”
Collins Vise, Riverwood International Charter School
“I like the tests that you can’t really study for. They compare students by intelligence rather than how hard they work.”
Chase Luther Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School “I think standardized tests are essential because they allow colleges to fairly compare students from different schools. If you go to an easy school and have high grades, but a poor SAT score, colleges will then be able to view your grades in context.”
Berhan Getachew, The Westminster School
“I think that standardized tests [referring to the SAT] are good in theory and that they give universities a chance to easily compare students from all around the country. However, I think they have become something that no longer does that. They seem much more focused on how well you can learn to take a test, rather than how well you understand the material it is covering.”
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Alicia Martinez, Atlanta International School “Standardized testing has very little to do with really learning and internalizing the nature of the information you learn. Much of it is repeating facts and showing how well you are able to recall information, rather than apply it to real-life situations and thinking critically. While it may have provided a good baseline for testing knowledge, there is much left to be desired as a means of gauging academic understanding.”
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EDUCATION GUIDE
School systems brace for new tests, growth models CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
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a series of individual tests. Barge warned that parents should expect lower scores this year due to the increased expectations embodied in the new tests. However, this year the tests will have no bearing on whether or not students are held back, the state board recently announced. Robert Avossa, Fulton Schools superintendent, said he welcomes the higher challenges the new test will bring. “We’re anticipating a dip in academic outcomes, but y’all have heard me say this before, it’s the right thing to do,” Avossa said during a back-toschool news briefing in August. “We need to raise the bar.” With Georgia having one of the lowest scores in the nation, he said, “we’ve got to make sure we tell parents how their kids are truly doing.” Kibler said that standardized tests should hold students and teachers accountable. “We keep complaining that Georgia has low national standards for education, then we start complaining when we want to hold children accountable,” she said. Avossa did express concern that schools may not be able to adequately prepare students for the new tests, and that the changes the state has made in the past have often left districts scrambling. To help parents prepare their children, the DeKalb school system was planning to hold an interactive workshop to gain a better understanding of the tests. The new testing system will include open-ended questions -- to better gauge students’ content mastery,
the school system says. The plans are for the tests to be administered entirely online in five years. The state of Georgia awarded a bid on May 28 for a $107.8-million, fiveyear contract to CTB/McGraw-Hill to develop the new testing system. The state education department also said it would provide indepth information on student progress through an online tool called the Georgia Student Growth Model, found at www.gastudentgrowth.gadoe.org. “Historically, Georgia’s assessment system has only enabled us to ask certain questions: ‘What percentage of students met the state standard?’ for example, or, ‘Did more students meet the state standard this year compared to last year?’ the DOE said. “The [new model] will allow all stakeholders to take a deeper look at student growth by school and school district, asking questions such as, ‘Did students in this school grow more or less than academically similar students across the state? or, ‘Are students growing as much in math as in reading?’” Users can search student-growth data by district, grade, assessment and subject area. Parents and teachers will be able to view reports for their specific students. Results from the growth model will be used in the College and Career Ready Performance Index. “They’re pretty complicated to understand,” Avossa said, “but we want to make sure . . . all kids are growing at least one year in one year’s time [and] we can begin to close the gap that exists in some of our schools.”
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EDUCATION GUIDE The Georgia Department of Education has released the results of its second College & Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI), a measure of public schools that takes into account CRCT and EOCT scores. Those tests will be replaced this year by Milestones. Statewide, both elementary and middle schools saw increases overall, while high school scores saw a dip. Overall, Atlanta Public Schools and Fulton County schools increased scores at all three levels, while DeKalb County schools fell in all three. Here are the results, based on a 110-point scale, from 2013 and 2012 for schools in Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody and Brookhaven.
Buckhead schools E. Rivers Elementary Garden Hills Elementary Morris Brandon Elementary Sarah Smith Elementary Warren T. Jackson Elementary Sutton Middle North Atlanta High APS Elementary Schools (all) APS Middle Schools (all) APS High Schools (all)
2013 76.8 76 94.2 86.6 93.2 84.3 70.6 67.1 65.4 59.2
2012 72.7 68.6 90.7 89.8 94 77.4 64.8 59.6 60.4 58.9
Brookhaven schools Ashford Park Elementary Montgomery Elementary Woodward Elementary DeKalb PATH Elementary DeKalb PATH Middle Chamblee Middle School Chamblee Charter High Cross Keys High Dunwoody schools Austin Elementary Chesnut Elementary
2013 87.6 89 48 83.2 90.9 87.9 78.6 72.8 2013 96.5 84.1
2012 77.9 88.6 64.2 83 85.4 82.7 80.3 63.6 2012 95.1 70.2
How can (i) explore new ideas and build on the ideas of others?
Dunwoody Elementary Kingsley Elementary Vanderlyn Elementary Peachtree Middle Dunwoody High DeKalb Elementary Schools (all) DeKalb Middle Schools (all) DeKalb High Schools (all)
93.7 68.9 95.2 72.8 79.1 62.9 59.9 62
85.4 68.7 94.2 81 80.9 64.1 66.2 65.1
Sandy Springs schools Dunwoody Springs Elementary Heards Ferry Elementary High Point Elementary Ison Springs Elementary Lake Forest Elementary Spalding Drive Elementary Woodland Elementary Ridgeview Middle Sandy Springs Middle North Springs High Riverwood High Fulton Elementary Schools (all) Fulton Middle Schools (all) Fulton High Schools (all)
2013 65.9 91.2 73.9 86.9 64.2 78.6 85.8 71.7 75.8 75.6 73.5 77.8 74.6 77.6
2012 82 90.9 77.8 72.2 66.9 71 72.9 67.3 69.2 71.3 69.5 76.6 73.5 69
Source: Georgia Department of Education
APS, Fulton schools improve CCRPI scores, DeKalb sees dip
Curiosity and passion drive learning. When students explore their questions, passions, and interests in a hands-on, experiential learning environment, they grasp subject matter on a deeper level. They make connections that inspire original ideas. They understand how context and action impact their world. Prepared to be college-ready and globally competitive, Mount Vernon students are the new generation of innovative thinkers, engaged citizens and compassionate leaders.
LearNiNG aNd LeadiNG by exaMPLe Open House Nov 13, 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m. Group Tours Preschool–Grade 4: Oct 29, 8:30 a.m. Grades 5–6: Oct 15, 9:30 a.m. Grades 7–12: Oct 8, 8:30 a.m.
Preschool–12. Family. Community. mountvernonschool.org 404.252.3448
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EDUCATION GUIDE
PHOTOS BY ANN MARIE QUILL
Lending a helping hand Dozens of students from Mount Vernon Presbyterian School honored the Sept. 11 National Day of Service by volunteering at the Sandy Springs Library. Students planted flowers, pulled weeds, and hauled and laid down mulch. Their efforts were organized by Sandy Springs resident Sylvia McAdams, who is working to improve the library’s grounds following cuts in services. Top left, Emily Hollis, left, and Arden Tahtinen empty mulch from a wheelbarrow. Bottom left, Epi Yonas, left, and Jacob Munoz do a little raking. Center, third-graders help plant flowers in front of the library sign. Top right, left to right, Curran Jolly, Zack Betz and Brooks Scarborough lay down mulch. Bottom right, Eric Soelberg helps pull out a stubborn weed.
Where will your child go and how will they get there? The Society of Mary founded Marist School more than 100 years ago to provide an education unlike any other. Our faculty and curriculum encourage excellence in all of our students. Beyond the classroom, we offer a comprehensive array of extracurricular activities to inspire exploration and uncover students’ hidden talents. Through it all, we instill a sense of personal responsibility, foster spiritual growth, and teach the joy of serving others.
Learn more about what Marist has to offer. Please visit marist.com or call Jim Byrne, director of admissions and financial aid, at 770.936.2214. Help your child prepare his or her future—no matter where it leads.
OPEN HOUSE
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EDUCATION GUIDE SPECIAL
Left, the Rt. Rev. Rob Wright, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, with Paul Barton, the new head of school at Holy Innocents’, and his wife Leanne, at the Celebration of New Ministry service.
experience EPSTEIN. We’re way more than you imagined.
Holy Innocents’ installs new head of schools Paul Barton was recently installed as the new head of school at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal in Sandy Springs. Special guest the Rt. Rev. Rob Wright, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta and a Holy Innocents’ parent, led the service. The entire student body participated in the ceremony, called the Celebration of New Ministry.
SSEF hosting first Footprints for the Future 5K The Sandy Springs Education Force (SSEF) will host its inaugural Footprints for the Future 5K and Family Fun Run on Saturday, Nov. 8. The event, part of the RUN & See Georgia Grand Prix Race Series, will provide families from throughout metro Atlanta and Sandy Springs the opportunity to come together for a day of fitness and fun. Money raised from the event goes toward SSEF’s mission of inspiring and supporting Sandy Springs public school students to graduate and pursue productive lives beyond high school by providing educational and enrichment programs. Footprints will start at Lake Forest Elementary School, 5920 Sandy Springs Circle, NE. For more information, visit www.sandyspringseducationforce.org.
Mazel Tov to the Epstein Class of 2010 We are proud of your achievements in high school and wish you continued success in your freshman year in college. COLLEGE ATTENDANCE Ohio University Tufts University Tulane University United States Air Force Academy University of Alabama University of Central Florida University of Florida University of Georgia University of Glasgow University of Michigan University of South Carolina University of Vermont Washington University in St. Louis
Boston University Brown University Christopher Newport University Duke University Elon University Emory University Georgia College and State University Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia State University Haverford College Indiana University New York University North Georgia College and State University
WE ARE ACADEMICS. n 3 Valedictorians n 2 Salutatorians n 4 National Merit Finalists n 83% National Merit Scholars or National Honor Society
WE ARE CHARACTER. n 75% played sports n 42% team captains of a sport n 65% officers in Student Council or a club
THE EPSTEIN SCHOOL
WE ARE COMMUNITY. n 19 graduates served in international, regional or national positions of leadership for Jewish youth groups
Solomon of Atlanta We are The Schechter EpsteinSchool School. We invite you to get to know us and our newly-renovated campus: www.EpsteinAtlanta.org/Tour
THE EPSTEIN SCHOOL Solomon Schechter School of Atlanta
335 COLEWOOD WAY NW | SANDY SPRINGS, GA 30328-2956 EPSTEINATLANTA.ORG
THE EPSTEIN SCHOOL Solomon Schechter School of Atlanta
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MED
ZED
EDUCATION GUIDE
Recently featured on CBS news
House Calls for Sick Kids
mymedzed.com 404-382-8859
Riverwood Cross Country runners Elizabeth Graves, left, and Anna Hayden.
SPECIAL
Riverwood runners earn state and national recognition The Riverwood Lady Raiders Cross Country team is currently ranked 5th in State Class 5A. Junior Anna Hayden is ranked No. 1 in the state. Sophomore teammate Elizabeth Graves is No. 2. Both Hayden and Graves have been recognized this year by Ga. MileSplit with “Runners of the Week” honors. With Hayden meeting the MileSplit U.S. First Team standard and Graves meeting the Milesplit U.S. Second Team standard, this is the first time that the Raiders have ever had two athletes qualify for first and second team national elite status in one season.
Connecting learning to life at every level. We THINK BIG. Pace Academy's Isdell Center for Global Leadership www.paceacademy.org/icgl
Mount Vernon named an Ashoka Changemaker School Mount Vernon Presbyterian School has been selected into Ashoka’s Changemaker Schools Network, joining 59 innovative schools across the country. The school, the only one in Georgia to date, was chosen for equipping students with the vital skills necessary to address the needs of the community through empathy, teamwork, problem-solving and leadership. Bo Adams, chief learning and innovation officer at Mount Vernon, said, “If school is supposed to prepare kids for real life, then why doesn’t school look more like real life? For more than a decade, this central question has guided my research and professional practice as an educational leader. “Through design thinking and real-world context and problem solving, we are striving to nurture engaged citizen leaders and people that give, rather than get or take, for their education.”
Free digital textbooks available through the Georgia Department of Education
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Teachers, school leaders, parents and students can now access free, interactive digital textbooks through the Georgia Department of Education’s website. “As we implement the new standards, we know teachers and parents need highquality resources,” State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge said. “We developed these textbooks and other resources for middle and high school virtual school courses, and the students who have used them have been very successful. Much of their success can be attributed to these exceptional resources in the hands of our teachers.” The textbooks, which can be accessed by visiting www.gavirtuallearning.org/Resources, are currently available for middle and high school courses. They cover an array of content areas in language arts, math, science and social studies. Many of the textbooks feature supplemental or interactive content, including study guides, discussion questions, games, audio recordings and quizzes. These resources are aligned to the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards and are free for use by schools, districts or individuals.
EDUCATION GUIDE
Introducing the Southeast’s first Pre-School-12th grade Jewish Day School
Combining the best of Greenfield Hebrew Academy & Yeshiva Atlanta PHOTOS BY PHIL MOSIER
It’s a match! The Dunwoody High School girls’ varsity volleyball team faced the Holy Innocents’ Lady Bears in the North Springs Charter High School gym on Sept. 11. Above, Holy Innocents’ player Kat Glover, right, with Dunwoody’s Caroline Madden, left, and Bridget Boyle defending. Center, Golden Bears players Helania Theos, left center, and clockwise, Sarah Joe, Kat O’Connor, Kat Glover, Kate Chesser and Haley Collins celebrate after winning the first game. Left, Lady Bears’ Haley Collins bumps, or passes, the ball. The Dunwoody Lady Wildcats won the match, two games to one.
Rabbi Pinchos Hecht, Head of School Dr. Paul S. Oberman, Associate Head of School, Upper School Leah Summers, Associate Head of School, Greenfield Pre-School - 8th Grade
For more information, please call (404) 843-9900 or (770) 451-5299
Come take a closer look. what school should be.
Atlanta families are invited to the
2014 Elementary School Fair October 29, 10AM – 12PM at The Temple
Come meet representatives from these schools: • Atlanta International School • Atlanta Jewish Academy • Cliff Valley School • The Children’s School • The Davis Academy • The Epstein School • The Friends School of Atlanta • The Galloway School • The Lovett School • The Paideia School • Pace Academy • Trinity School • Woodward Academy • St. Martin’s Episcopal School • The Westminster Schools • Springmont, Atlanta’s First Montessori School
This event is hosted by
1589 Peachtree St, NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-872-8668 welc@the-temple.org
This event is FREE and parking is FREE and convenient in our covered deck
OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 9, 2014 EVENING TO INFORM Thursday, December 4, 2014 PRESCHOOL PREVIEW Thursday, December 11, 2014 IB World School | Preschool – Eighth Grade | Roswell, GA | 770.993.2940 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School
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www.highmeadows.org
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EDUCATION GUIDE
• Dramatic Arts • Computer Play • Music
• Judaics • Baby Sign Language • Zoo Phonics
E SCHOO BL L XI Ful l- a half- nd d prog ay r a ms; 2-da y, and 5 3-day -day
TIONS OP
At the MJCCA’s NAEYC-accredited preschools, our loving, highly-trained, and experienced teachers guide your child through our exceptional program.
FL E
For Ages 6 weeks - Pre-K
• Preschool Garden • Handwriting Without Tears • Ready, Set, Go...to Kindergarten
SPECIAL
Celebrating Epstein’s renovations, front row from left, Ted Blum, Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul, President of Board Mark Stern, Jack Halpern, Lynne Halpern, Carolyn Oppenheimer and City Councilman Graham McDonald. Back row, from left, Amy Fox, Tamar Stern, Head of School Stan Beiner, Greg Lewis, Bryan Lewis, Ramie Tritt and Joyce Tritt.
Epstein School celebrates first phase of renovations THE SUNSHINE SCHOOL at Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta • 678.812.3720 THE WEINSTEIN SCHOOL 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody • 678.812.3834
preschool@atlantajcc.org atlantajcc.org/preschool
The Epstein School in Sandy Springs recently celebrated the completion of the first phase of renovations resulting from its Building Our Future Capital Campaign. The changes include a new, restaurant-quality kosher kitchen and cafeteria, major overhauls of the Orkin Education Building and Halpern Family Building, combined with a state-of-the-art renovation of the Goldstein Media Center and the Cavalier Bet Tefilah.
DeKalb School District boosts budget surplus to $30.9 million
Lovett Developing young men and women of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in college and in life. Learn more at www.lovett.org.
Join us for an Open House: Saturday, November 15 Kindergarten, 1:00 pm
Sunday, November 16
Grades 1–5, 1:00 pm Grades 6–12, 3:30 pm
The Lovett School practices a nondiscriminatory admission policy. Financial aid is available.
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The DeKalb County School District has announced a 35 percent increase in its surplus for Fiscal Year 2014, reporting an additional $10.9 million in reserves over the $20-million surplus previously estimated. Superintendent Michael Thurmond cited an increase in revenue collections as well as lower expenditures to produce a FY14 fund balance of $30.9 million. “The additional $10.9 million in reserves demonstrates that we are making significant progress in stabilizing the finances of the DeKalb County School District,” Thurmond said in a press release. “Our goal is a fund balance of $66 million. We’re just halfway there, but we are confident that we will reach that milestone.” When Thurmond was appointed interim superintendent in February 2013, the school district faced a budget deficit of $21.4 million. The $30.9 million fund balance represents an improvement of $52.3 million since the end of FY2012. Earlier this year, the district announced an anticipated surplus of $20 million in a budget that made new investments in instruction, technology and school safety. The FY14 budget also eliminated furlough days, and provided the first pay raises to teachers and staff in six years.
Cross Keys teacher earns State Farm grant Glenda Bonds, a Business Computer Science teacher at Cross Keys High School in Brookhaven, received a State Farm Student Achievement Grant to lead her students in a semester-long service and learning project to address the issue of senior citizens’ hunger. Bonds’ project begins on Oct. 5, and continues through Global Youth Service Day in April 2015. Throughout the school year, students will partner with the Senior Connections’ Meals on Wheels program to assist in preparing and distributing meals to the elderly. “Service learning enhances academic achievement and serves as an avenue for civic involvement for students,” Bonds said. Bonds is one of 130 State Farm Student Achievement Grant recipients for the 2014-2015 academic year.
EDUCATION GUIDE
Inspiring students from 18 months to 8th grade
Marist’s Styf is a national ‘Teacher of the Future’ Marist School 7th grade science teacher Sarah Styf has been selected by the National Association of Independent Schools to participate in its Teachers of the Future program. As one of only 35 teachers nationwide chosen for the program, Styf will participate in a variety of initiatives that aims to strengthen learning and teaching at independent schools, as well as grow the instructors’ personal and professional leadership capacities. The 2014-15 NAIS Teachers of the Future were selected from a pool of nominees who “exemplify creativity and innovation in the classroom, inspire academic excellence in students, and who serve as opinion leaders among their colleagues and peers,” according to a National Association of Independent Schools press release. “You don’t want to make smartphones or any other new technology the enemy,” Styf said. “There are a lot of really cool apps out there that can be used to make the classroom fun and the lessons informative.” Styf ’s frequent tweets give parents who follow her an open door to class activities and lessons. “When I saw the criteria for the Teachers of the Future program, Sarah immediately came to mind,” said Styf ’s nominator, Tricia Glidewell, Marist School dean of faculty. “From introducing her colleagues to the Kagan Method of teaching to inspiring a group to attend a Critical Thinking Conference to sharing how she uses TED talks in her classroom, she has not only been an innovator herself, but she has inspired creativity and innovation in others.” Styf earned a BA in biology from Kalamazoo College and an MA in physics education from the University of Virginia. She began teaching seventh and eighth grade science through Marist School’s middle-school-tailored Foundations program in 2010.
St. Martin’s students learn to be ‘digital citizens’
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.
Join us for an Open House! Upcoming Dates: November 7th January 11th January 29th
ATLANTA’S FIRST MONTESSORI SCHOOL
springmont.com • (404) 252-3910
Open House
Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014 10:00 a.m. Presentation at 10:30 followed by school tours
St. Martin’s Episcopal School recently delivered iPads to all its 4th and 5th graders, and HP Chromebooks to all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students. The school did a test program with two grade levels last year. They will use the devices throughout the school day and at home for homework assignments. In addition, 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade classrooms each have five iPads that students can use in small groups or centers for different learning activities. Those iPads are housed on campus at all times. In the Early Childhood preschool, a mobile cart housing 20 iPads is available for teachers to “check out” and bring to their classrooms for learning activities. In addition to teaching students how to use these devices for their academic work, St. Martin’s is intentionally teaching students how to be good “digital citizens” -- be responsible with their equipment and be accountable for how they use them.
SPECIAL
From left, 7th-graders Lily Steck, Kyra Graap (in back) and Jordan Wissman use their Chromebooks.
• Cultivating the dyslexic brain-type • Building on the students’ strengths and talents • A school where dyslexics excel Grades 1-8
Rolling Admissions
300 Grimes Bridge Road | Roswell, GA 30075 | 678.205.4988 | www.swiftschool.com
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EDUCATION GUIDE
PLAY. Passion.
Purpose.
At The Children’s School, Hands-on learning is child’s play Experience hands-on learning for yourself at The Children’s School’s fall open house Nov. 2, 2014 2pm to 4pm
From left, Caswell King, Gracie Ackaway, Lauren Young, Charlotte Hermann, Katie Crofton and Knox Pittman.
St. Martin’s students earn high marks in French contest Middle School French students at St. Martin’s Episcopal School recently took the National French Contest exam, also known as “Le Grand Concours,” administered by the American Association of Teachers of French. Several students received high accolades on the exam. Eighth graders Charlotte Hermann and Knox Pittman both ranked No. 7 in the nation. Seventh-graders Gracie Ackaway, Caswell King and Lauren Young, and eighth-grader Katie Crofton, ranked in the top 10 in the state.
RSVP at www.thechildrensschool.com or call 404-835-4603 An independent elementary school serving students age three through sixth grade 345 Tenth Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
The Davis Academy Inspires Inquiring Minds, Caring Hearts, and Confident Leaders
Triple Accreditation • Engaging Academics • Exceptional Faculty World Languages • Fine Arts & Athletics • Contemporary Judaism Integrated Technology • Guiding Values & Community Service
Come see for yourself! Call 678-527-3300 to schedule a private tour or visit www.davisacademy.org for 2014-2015 Parent Information Session dates.
Proud Affiliate of:
Where the Journey Begins
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DeKalb schools’ online tool allows parents to view progress The DeKalb County School District has a new and updated Campus Portal, a confidential and secure website that allows parents and guardians to log in and view their children’s progress in school. “The Campus Portal strengthens the partnership between our schools, and our parents and guardians,” said Michael Thurmond, superintendent of the DeKalb County School District. “With Campus Portal, academic information is shared confidentially and quickly, allowing parents to know right away if their students are on the right track or need academic help. Campus Portal helps keep our students on track, and reestablishes the bond between schools and homes.” Parents and guardians designated with legal rights to student records may receive a Campus Portal account. In order to create a Campus Portal account, parents and guardians will need to retrieve an activation code and create a username and password. For more information, visit www.dekalb.k12.ga.us.
Sandy Springs Education Force, Mount Vernon named STEM award finalists The Technology Association of Georgia has announced that the Sandy Springs Education Force and Mount Vernon Presbyterian School have been named finalists for the 2014 STEM Education Awards. The awards recognize schools, programs and companies for outstanding efforts and achievements in supporting and promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education in Georgia. Selected among 220 nominees, SSEF has been named a finalist for its work in partnership with the Georgia Tech Research Institute in presenting a comprehensive and community-wide STEM event. “Our partnership with GTRI has inspired countless students in Sandy Springs to consider a future career in STEM, and we are honored to share this recognition with them,” said SSEF Executive Director Irene Schweiger in a press release. Mount Vernon was chosen as a finalist for its design thinking approach to learning. The school instituted the first, comprehensive K-12 design thinking program in Atlanta.
EDUCATION GUIDE
Pace’s Knights get a new home On Aug. 29, Pace Academy’s varsity football team took on the Our Lady of Mercy Bobcats in the first athletic competition at Walsh Field, a new facility within Pace Academy’s existing Athletics Complex. The game marked the end of a two-year, $32-million capital campaign for the Arthur M. Blank Family Upper School, a 75,000-square-foot building that recently opened on the school’s W. Paces Ferry Road campus in Buckhead. More than 1,300 donors contributed to the campaign, which exceeded its goal by more than $3 million, allowing for the completion of the school’s satellite Athletics Complex, located at 5700 Riverview Road in Cobb County. Pace Academy parents, volunteers, and alumni Leigh and Tim Walsh (Pace Class of 1981) contributed to the campaign, the largest alumni capital gift in Pace Academy history, and Walsh Field is named in their honor. “Participation in Pace Athletics has had a tremendous impact on me, on Leigh and on our three children,” said Walsh, who served as chairman of Pace Academy’s Board of Trustees from 2011 to 2014. “It was time for the quality of our facilities to match the quality of our student-athletes, and our family is fortunate to be part of making that happen.” The Walsh Family cut the ribbon on Walsh Field during a back-to-school event for faculty and staff on Aug. 28, and they participated in the inaugural coin toss prior to the Aug. 29 game. In addition to the opening festivities, the Knights’ 2014 state champions in track and girls’ soccer received state-championship rings during halftime, and the Knights went on to defeat the Bobcats 14-12. Walsh Field includes a state-of-the-art stadium with bleacher seating, a FIFA-regu-
SPECIAL
Pace Academy’s new Walsh Field. The school’s Athletics Complex also includes a baseball field, multipurpose field for football, soccer and lacrosse, locker rooms, an athletic training facility and a snack bar.
lation grass field and a Beynon track. The facility fulfills the school’s original vision for the Riverview Road property, which it acquired in 2005. In addition to Walsh Field, Pace Academy Athletics Complex includes Charlie Owens Baseball Field, a multipurpose field for football, soccer and lacrosse, locker rooms, an athletic training facility and a snack bar.
Raiders attend Governor’s program Four Riverwood International Charter School students, after an audition and interview process, were selected to participate in a four-week 2014 Governor’s Honors Program at Valdosta State University. Students Garon Berenson in technology, Max Kantor in theater, Callaway Powlus in music and Pascal Acree in biology were selected. GHP is a residential summer program for approximately 700 intellectually gifted and artistical-
ly talented high school juniors and seniors from across the state. Students spend their mornings in their major area of nomination exploring topics not usually found in the regular high school classroom. During the afternoons, students choose one of the other 20 areas in which to study. Evenings are filled with seminars, activities, concerts and performances. Now in its 51st year, GHP is fully funded by the Georgia General Assembly.
Grant to improve school superintendents’ skills The Wallace Foundation is investing $3 million in a five-year effort to help the DeKalb County School District improve the instructional leadership skills of its principal supervisors or regional superintendents. The initiative is to improve the quality of teaching and learning in schools by providing more effective instructional support to school level leaders.
Where good kids become great people.
BEYOND EXPECTATIONS At Galloway, students (ages 3-18) are inspired to push beyond intellectual boundaries, to embrace challenges, and VISIT GALLOWAYSCHOOL.ORG to discover more about themselves and the world for more info and to sign up for an admissions tour. around them.
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.
- Mission Statement
www.hies.org 404-255-4026
All-School Open House Saturday, Dec. 6, 11:00 a.m.
A community of 1,360 students, ages 3-years-old through 12th Grade. www.ReporterNewspapers.net |
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EDUCATION GUIDE
School merger aims to strengthen Jewish community CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
each year until it reaches 12. Dr. Terrence O. Moore was hired as its first principal. He was the founding principal of Ridgeview Classical Schools in Colorado, which Atlanta Classical Academy is modeled after. The new school is located at the Northside Drive campus of the Heiskell School, a private Christian school that closed this summer. It’s open to all students in the Atlanta Public Schools System, but it’s located in the North Atlanta High attendance zone. Ian Ratner, chairman of the Atlanta Jewish Academy board, said talks of creating a new Jewish K-12 program have been going on for years. About two years ago, “a working group was formed to really get more involved in the analysis,” he said. The boards of both schools voted this summer to merge the schools. Both Ratner and Hecht say there are numerous benefits to merging into one school. Hecht said aside from operations becoming more efficient, a merger provides growth opportunities for faculty. “There’s more professional opportunity for steps up they can take in a larger system with a full school,” he said. A full school also strengthens the community, he said. “Where I was a principal earlier, many of my students became my parents, and that speaks to a certain kind of continuity, and you build a community,” Hecht said. Ratner explained that the K-12 model also helps students retain their Judaism. “The less breaks in the system, the less opportunity to leave the Jewish system,” he said. “There’s a much smaller number of Jewish children in Atlanta in high school than are in elementary school. What that says is that all of us aren’t doing a good enough job because we’re attracting kids into the elementary school but for some reason we can’t keep them engaged in high school.” Ratner said the school’s enrollment picked up some this year, and that having a school from early childhood to 12th grade helps with recruitment efforts as parents won’t have to worry about where
PHOTOS BY ANN MARIE QUILL AND DEVI KNAPP, ATLANTA JEWISH ACADEMY
Top, Atlanta Jewish Academy student Sophia Harris. Above, left, Ian Ratner, chairman of the Atlanta Jewish Academy board, with Head of School Rabbi Pinchos Hecht. Left, from left, students Ariela Bland, Shimon Horwitz and Rayut Shmuel.
to send their children when it’s time to enter high school. He said a study conducted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta a number of years ago called for lower and high schools in the community to align. “That’s been buzzing around Atlanta for a long time, he said. “We’re just the first people to say we’re doing it.” Ratner pointed to other successful pri-
Now Open at Ponce City Market! “Learning Begins at Birth” –Dr. Shinichi Suzuki Contact Kelly Perryman for more information kperryman@suzukischool.com or 404-869-1042 Founded 1976 ■ www.suzukischool.com
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vate schools in the community with lower and high schools. “One of the things about the Kthrough-12 model that struck me is that most of the leading independent schools – not necessarily Jewish schools – whether its Woodward, Pace or Paideia or Westminster, all have adopted this uniform Kthrough-12 model.” Erica Gal, a parent with children in
preschool and kindergarten at the school, said that continuity is what attracted her to Atlanta Jewish Academy. While it’s her second year involved with the school, she said that she was aware in the beginning of a possible merger. “It’s important to us because we do see our involvement in the school and where we put our kids in terms of a long-term commitment,” she said. “As parents we’re thrilled and excited about the possibility of our kids growing up in this system that takes them from children to adults.” Ratner said a full school also helps from a fundraising perspective. “It gives you a much longer life of a family,” he said, “instead of the family starting in kindergarten and by the time they get to grade 6 or 7 they are already looking at different options. . . . You want families to develop that longterm fundraising relationship that says, ‘Hey, we’re going to get you on a program where you’re going to make a donation every year for the next 10 years.’ You get them bought into the programs. So from a fundraising and investment perspective it is absolutely the winning model.” The school’s name, too, leaves space at the front, in case a major donor comes through during the school’s fundraising. Names were solicited from board and steering committee members, and then a survey was sent to the board, with survey results later analyzed. Possible names were categorized, but “academy” was a name that popped up frequently. “‘Academy’ gives a sense of educational quality,” Ratner said. “‘Jewish’ identifies who we are.” Right now the schools remain on their respective campuses. But the plan is for the high school to eventually move to the Sandy Springs campus adjacent to the theater arts building. The Yeshiva campus will then be turned into a sports complex, retaining its state-of-the-art gym, and adding a soccer field, baseball diamond and tennis court. “I would not be shocked, when other schools see the energy that this kind of combined institute can create, if there were other similar mergers going up very quickly,” Hecht said.
out & about CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
Charity Golf
for-profit ministry of The Lutheran Church of the Ascension. $5 bracelet provides unlimited access to games, bounce houses, pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting and more. Sand art cart for additional fee. For toddlers and young children ages 6 and under. 4000 Roswell Rd., NE, Atlanta, 30342. Visit: www.openarmsbuckhead.org or call 404-256-1330 with questions.
Howl-O-Weenie Saturday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. – The an-
Friday, Sept. 26, 4-11 p.m. – Enjoy a charity golf outing benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project. $150; features all-inclusive golf, drinks, BBQ. Enjoy live music, silent auction, “best dressed” award, exotic car display. $85 for party only. All proceeds donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Rain or shine. Chastain Park’s North Fulton Golf Course. 216 West Wieuca Rd., NW, Atlanta, 30342. Purchase tickets at: https://hackersballcharitygolf.eventbrite.com. Call Steven Parker at 678-776-0628 with questions.
nual Howl-O-Weenie festival benefits DREAM Dachshund Rescue. Free admission. All are welcome to enjoy. Festivities include howling contest, costume contests and doxie races. Also features a silent auction, microchipping, face kissing contest, hot dog lunches and beer for sale. Brook Run Park, 4770 N. Peachtree Road, Dunwoody, 30338. For additional details and the schedule, visit: www. dreamrescue.org.
PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS
Swing Night
Sandy Springs Sprint Saturday, Sept. 27, 8 a.m. – Woodland Elementary School holds its second Sandy Springs Sprint, a 5K Family Run/Walk fundraiser. Adults, $20; child, $10. No charge or registration for children 3 years and under. Rain or shine. No pets, bikes or scooters. Strollers allowed. Kids’ Fun Run begins at 9 a.m. Proceeds benefit the school. Park at North Springs High School, 7447 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs, 30328. For further information and to register, go to: www.sandyspringssprint.com.
Open Arms Festival
Thursday, Sept. 25, 7 p.m. – Peachtree Road United Methodist Church kicks off its music season by welcoming Joe Gransden and his Big Band for a night of swing music, dancing and fun. Tickets, $25. Enjoy light appetizers and dessert throughout the evening. In the church’s Fellowship Hall. Childcare available with reservation. Buy tickets and find out more at: www.prumc.org. For additional information, call the church’s music department at 404-240-8212. 3180 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta, 30305.
Savor Sandy Springs Blue Grotto promotes relaxation and conversation, and prepares you for a stunning meal. Our menu is graced with fresh, innovative sushi and other Asian cuisine. The complementary and contrasting flavors and textures will both excite and delight you!
Pottery on the Porch Saturday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. – Chas-
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The festival, an annual fundraiser, benefits Open Arms Lutheran Child Development Center, a not-
tain Arts Center presents the 2nd annual Pottery on the Porch, Artists show, where onsite artists sell both thrown and hand-built works. Food trucks, Raku demonstration, hourly door prizes from artists. Free. Open to the community. 135 West Wieuca Rd., NW, Atlanta, 30342. Call 404-252-2927 for details.
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Aleta Aaron’s “Autumn Joy,” on display at the Buckhead Branch Library, was snapped outside her home.
Local photographers bring color to area libraries BY MATHA NODAR Exhibitions at two Buckhead libraries showcase works by local photographers this month. Ruth Gogel of Buckhead and Aleta Aaron of Sandy Springs join fellow members of the Buckhead-based Atlanta Artists Center in displaying images at the Buckhead branch and at the Northside branch of the Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library System.
Buckhead Branch
The “Tenth AAC Photography Exhibit at the Buckhead Public Library” runs from Sept. 30 to Oct. 27, and in-
cludes 70 pieces by Aaron, Gay Allen, Cheryl and Paul D’Amato, Nathan Dean, Judith Dunne, David Foster, Louise Georges, Joe Hoyle, Al Johnson, Nafisa Shariff, Russell Streur, Cole Thomas and Saul Torres. This exhibit is part of the Atlanta Celebrates Photography Festival, an annual event promoting the art of photography in Atlanta for the last 16 years. Aaron’s “Autumn Joy” is one of the images included in the exhibit. While walking outside her home, Aaron noticed a multicolor array of fallen leaves had gathered together in a path almost floating in a slate of water. “It had rained the night before,” she said. “The rain had made the leaves fall
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COMMUNITY down from my Japanese Maple tree.” Aaron turned around and got her camera. Fellow AAC members Valerie Gruner and Robert Kelly offered their views on Aaron’s image. “We don’t often get to see the tree leaves preserved in such a lovely, delicate pattern,” Kelly said. “The colors are wonderful!” “I feel like the joy in Aleta’s image is the near celebratory scatter of the color, like confetti,” Gruner said. “The lovely wet aspect of it makes one practically feel the crispness in the air.” Gruner is exhibiting her work at the Northside Branch along with Gogel, Jim Freeman, Grace Hawthorne and Streur.
Northside Branch
The “AAC Exhibit at the Northside Public Library” consists of 10 pieces and runs from Oct. 2 to Oct. 30. This exhibit is not formally associated with the ACP annual event. Gogel’s “Ready to Go” is one of the photos included in this exhibit, which shows a pile of boats in the sand at a marina in Florida ready to be launched into the water. She said this is a repeated theme in her compositions. “I love the water and the marine motif,” Gogel said. Recalling her youth, Gogel said her family frequently spent their vacations at Michigan’s upper peninsula, where she and her father would go fishing.
Events What: “AAC Exhibit at the Northside Public Library” Where: Northside Public Library, 3295 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta, 30327, 404-814-3508 When: Oct 2 through Oct. 30 Admission: Free Library Hours: Mon, Wed: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues 12-8 p.m. Thurs 2-6 p.m. Sat 1-5 p.m. What: “Tenth AAC Photography Exhibit at the Buckhead Public Library” Where: Buckhead Public Library, 269 Buckhead Ave., Atlanta, 30305, 404-814-3500 When: Sept. 30 through Oct. 27 Reception, free to the public: Sat. Oct. 4, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Admission: Free Library Hours: Mon, Thurs: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues 2-6 p.m. Wed 12-8 p.m. Sat 1-5 p.m.
For more information about the festival visit acpinfo.org.
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Bruce Duner blows the shofar at Congregation Or Hadash in Sandy Springs.
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The Jewish New Year starts with the stuffed in a box. emotion-stirring call from a ram’s horn, an “I started pulling a bunch out and the instrument known as the shofar. second or third one I tried, I said ‘That’s Signaling a call to action, shofar blowit!’” Duner said. “I just looked at my wife ers resonate with the words from the Toand she smiled.” rah, asking congregations to commemoNow, Duner said he displays his rate the sacred occasion of Rosh Hashanah shofar above the fireplace in his livwith loud blasts. ing room and takes it down to blow it The high holy holidays start the Jewish during the month leading up to Rosh calendar over, and faithful members look Hashanah. inward to reflect on the year in terms of Or Hadash’s younger shofar blowdeeds and their relationship with God. er, Rosenfeld, who attends Kennesaw At the Congregation Or Hadash, in State University, said he starts practicing a Sandy Springs, generations are representmonth and a half before the holidays to ed by the alternating roles of two shofar build up his lung capacity. blowers. Bruce Duner, a man in his 50s, He believes he had a bit of natural taland Adam Rosenfeld, a ent, but his practicing man in his 20s, have been since he was “just a kid” To hear the shofar, read this blowing the shofar for helped him develop the article on our website at about six years. lung strength needed to ReporterNewspapers.net Rabbi Analia Bortz produce the sounds. The said these two do a magfirst year he blew the innificent job blowing the strument, he said, “I was shofar. exhausted.” “Tears come out of your eyes when “Another gentleman, who was supthey blow the shofar,” she said. “[It’s] a posed to blow that year, couldn’t come most pristine and beautiful sound.” to synagogue because his kid was sick,” Duner, who had played trombone from Rosenfeld said. “So I stepped up.” middle school through college, thought he He said he felt he performed “OK,” but would use that experience when he volundoes a much better job now. His role as teered to blow the shofar for services at Or one of two shofar blowers makes him feel Hadash. But it turned out his years with like he is helping out his community and the trombone only helped a little -- shofars the rabbis, he said. have no mouthpiece attachment or pitch “It’s nice to be up there; it’s my favorite control, and the sound is created only by part of the service,” Rosenfeld said. “For the shape of the horn itself and the posime, it’s a breathing exercise because I’m tioning of the player’s lips. not very musically accomplished—except Duner found his shofar in 2008, when for this.” he visited Israel for his son’s bar mitzvah. Duner said the first year he and Rosen“I’d always wanted to buy one,” Dunfeld worked together, they practiced beer said, adding that a “shofar has to choose forehand. Now, they alternate blowing the you—like Harry Potter’s wand.” 100 notes necessary during the day-long Visiting various shops in Israel, Duner service. said some stores displayed decorated sho“It’s an honor to be able to blow it for fars and made a big deal out of their arthe community, a huge honor,” Duner rangements, but the place where Duner said. “And it’s nice we can volunteer, but if found his shofar simply had several horns other people want to do it, we find a way.” BH
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Rosh Hashanah marks period of reflection, atonement BY ELLEN ELDRIDGE
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During the 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Jews awaken spiritually to examine their deeds and atone with their creator. Rabbis in the communities of Dunwoody, Buckhead, Brookhaven and Sandy Springs say they seek to provide inspiration as well as healing in sermon topics. Rosh Hashanah, which begins Sept. 24, signals the start of the Jewish New Year. In Dunwoody, Rabbi Mark Zimmerman, of the Congregation Beth Shalom on Winters Chapel Road, compares the importance of Rosh Hashanah to the Super Bowl. “It’s the Super Bowl of Jewish spirituality,” Zimmerman said. “It’s SPECIAL an opportunity Rabbi Mark to take stock of Zimmerman life, pause and see where we are as individuals and as a community.” It’s a time when Rabbi Analia Bortz, of Congregation Or Hadash in Sandy Springs, leads her congregation in “an unapologetic way of reliving” the year. She describes the holiday as a time “to show with pride who we are by the contributions we’ve done for the world.” Bortz said she plans to preach about the history of contributions made from the 1900s through to today, noting her hope to inspire the congregation with a call to action against the anti-Semitism in Europe, particularly in France and Belguim, where she said non-Jews are reacting harshly toward Jews. Bortz said her sermon will speak
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out against the vandalism in synagogues and the murder of Jewish reporters in Europe, calling her congregation to action not through vengeance but by increasing their contributions to the world. “The idea is about taking action by producing more contributions to the world,” she said. Zimmerman said that during the 10-day period, certain themes appear. One, he said, is connection to community and getting spiritually reconnected to our world, which is often driven by business and secular concerns. “We don’t have as much time to pause and ask why we’re here and what is this life all about,” Zimmerman said, noting that he plans to discuss the goings on in Gaza and the rise of the group known as the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Part of taking stock is what is going on in SPECIAL the larger comRabbi Neil munity, ZimSandler merman said,
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Sermon topics among rabbis to focus on healing, hope CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33 en, said he will talk about healing afnoting the “frightening growth of ter the difficult summer. anti-Semitism around the world.” “It’s been a difficult year for the He described a sanctuary, which is Jewish people given what transpired required to have windows, and how in Israel over the summer, but of those windows remind those inside course it hasn’t of the outside world. ceased yet giv“People are disconnecting spirituen the continally – our job is to reconnect them uation of the spiritually to the Jewish communibeheadings in ty,” Zimmerman said. “Anti-ZionIraq,” Kassorla ism is the new anti-Semitism.” said. Rabbi Neil Sandler, of Ahavath He said his Achim Synagogue in Buckhead, also Rosh Hashaplans to discuss Israel during Rosh nah sermon SPECIAL Hashanah. will note that Rabbi Hayyim “I’ve been a rabbi more than 30 at the moment Kassorla years and I realize everybody has difthere is relative ferent desires and needs, so I think calm in Israwhat I try to do over the years is try el, but he said the question is, “How to bring a message of current import, long will that continue?” like this sermon, and then I always One of the central prayers of Rosh want to make certain I bring a more Hashanah asks to let the year end personally introspective and personwith all its curses and all its negatival message also,” ity, and let the new Sandler said. year begin with all He said his apits blessings, Kasproach will connect “I’m concerned with what sorla said, noting the dots between plans to kill memwhy Jews in Buck- studies show—a drift away bers of the Jewfrom Israel. We have to head need to conish community on tinue to care about continue to care, connect Rosh Hashanah Jews in Israel. came out in the and work on its behalf.” “I’m concerned news during the with what studsummer. ies show—a drift “We need to fo– NEIL SANDLER away from Israel,” cus on the posiRABBI he said. “We have tive, the miracles of to continue to care, the land of Israel, connect and work the miracles of the on its behalf.” Jewish people and The theme in the Torah that the miracle of Jewish existence, and Sandler said he plans to discuss inthe hope of a serene and joyous new volves the moment, called “Heenyear,” he said. aynee” in Hebrew, meaning “I am The Jewish communities focusing here; I am present,” Sandler said. “I on healing and looking to God for am here to say I have a place in the hope and inspiration continue Sept. concern of Israel and I must act on 24 through Oct. 4. its behalf.” “When things look the bleakest, Rabbi Hayyim Kassorla, of Conthat is when the sun comes out,” gregation Or Veshalom in BrookhavKassorla said.
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Georgia Shakespeare plans to hold a $100-a-ticket fundraiser next week as part of a new program to raise the cash it needs to stay open. The Brookhaven-based theater company recently cited “insufficient financial resources” as the reason it had to cancel its production of “Henry V,” which was scheduled to open Oct. 1 at the Conant Performing Arts Center on Oglethorpe University’s campus. “We obviously regret that we will be unable to go forward with the show, but given our current financial status and our inability to secure strategic funding for operating capital, we felt it simply not possible to do so,” board chair Daniel Norris said in a press release. “We regret the inconvenience to our patrons, supporters and to the artists committed to working on the show.” The theater company’s board and staff plan to evaluate the theater company’s long-term direction and decide by early October what they should do. “During the next few weeks, we will continue our ongoing conversations with all the stakeholders in the community in an attempt to identify a solution to our fundraising needs, and determine our ongoing viability,” Norris said. This year, Georgia Shakespeare initiated a fundraising campaign to raise $750,000 in operating capital from strategic funders to eliminate debt and create a working capital reserve. “Unfortunately, ... we have been
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404-252-6991 ON SELECT HUNTER DOUGLAS Georgia Blinds & Interiors WINDOW FASHIONS Select WINDOW FASHIONS Georgia Blinds & Interiors 220 Sandy Springs Cir Ste 129 220 Sandy Springs Cir, Ste 129 Follow Us At Fac Select www.gablinds.com 220 Sandy Springs Cir Ste 129 Offer2 Atlanta GA Atlanta GA Offer2 Atlanta GA Mon-Fri: 10:00AM - 5:30PM Georgia Blinds &4/1/14 Interiors * Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for purchases made – 6/13/14 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate will be is M-F: 10am-5:30pm M-F: Select Sat 11:00AM 3:00PM 22010am-5:30pm Sandy Springs Cir& Ste-Interiors 129 Georgia Blinds reward card and mailed within 6 weeks ofAtlanta rebate GA claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable Offer2 law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be Saturday 11am-3pm Closed Sundays Saturday 11am-3pm 220month Sandy Springs Cir limitations Ste 129apply. Ask participating dealer for Select 7 months after card issuance and each thereafter. Additional details and rebate form. © 404-252-6991 M-F: 10am-5:30pm 404-252-6991 Offer2 All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Follow Us At Facebook or Twitter 404-252-6991 Atlanta GA www.gablinds.com Douglas. SPG14MB3 Saturdaywww.gablinds.com 11am-3pm 404-252-6991 mail-in rebateM-F: offer purchases valid for purchases made 4/1/14 – 6/13/14 participating dealers U.S. only. Rebate will Us be issued form of a prepaid or Twitter Follow Atin theFacebook 10am-5:30pm Manufacturer’s mail-in* Manufacturer’s rebate offer valid for qualifying made 9/16/14 –12/16/14 fromfrom participating dealers in in thetheU.S. www.gablinds.com Uslaw, Ata $2.00 Facebook reward card and mailed within 6 weekswww.gablinds.com of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject toFollow applicable monthlyorfeeTwitter will be assessed against card balance Window Dressing ON SELECT HUNTER DOUGLAS
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* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer for purchases 4/1/14 6/13/14 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate be issued inonly. the form of a prepaid * Manufacturer’s month mail-in rebate offer valid for purchases made 4/1/14 –– do 6/13/14 from participating dealers inwillthe U.S. Rebate will be issued in the form of a pre All rights reserved. Allvalid trademarks used made herein are the property ofand Hunter Douglas. SPG14MB3 thereafter. Additional limitations participating dealer details rebate ©2014 rights 41522 reward card and mailed within 6apply. weeks Ask of rebate claim receipt. Fundsfor not expire. Subject to form. applicable law, aHunter Douglas. $2.00 monthly fee All will be assessed against card balance 404-252-6991 reward card andreserved. mailedAllwithin weeks of rebate claim receipt. Fundslimitations do notapply. expire. Subject toforapplicable law, a ©$2.00 monthly trademarks used are property of Hunter Douglas. HOL14MB2 7 months6after card herein issuance andthe each month thereafter. Additional Ask participating dealer details and rebate form. 2014 Hunter Douglas.fee will be assessed against card b All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. SPG14MB3 41522 UsandAtrebate Facebook or Twitter 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations apply. Ask participating dealerFollow for details form. © 2014 Hunter Douglas. www.gablinds.com | | All rights reserved. Allwww.ReporterNewspapers.net trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. SPG14MB3
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PUBLIC SAFETY
Local police say they benefit from military backgrounds, gear BY ELLEN ELDRIDGE
elleneldridge@reporternewspapers.net
Police in Sandy Springs stand ready with riot-control equipment – shields, masks, helmets, rifles. They own a Hummer. And Dunwoody’s police department has its own armored vehicle. Although images of violence and riot-gear-clad police in Ferguson, Mo., reverberated across the country, raising questions about the “militarization” of community police departments, local officers say that while that kind of gear is seldom, if ever, used, here, they believe it is necessary to keep up with the criminals they confront. Sandy Springs Police Chief Ken DeSimone points to a case of weapons in a conference room at police headquarters that was pulled off criminals. DeSimone says he has a Thompson submachine gun in his office. “We’re not outgunning the bad guys,” DeSimone said. “We’re just staying even with them.” Dunwoody Chief Billy Grogan says distinctions should be made between police gear and military gear. The BearCat armored personnel carrier Dunwoody owns, he said, is a not as strongly armored or “weaponized” as the military version of the vehicle. “It’s not as offensive as the military
would have,” Grogan said, noting that military gear and police force gear is often similar, but while the military has a grenade launcher that launches actual grenades, some police units have grenade launchers that launch tear gas.” Dunwoody’s BearCat has been used only a half-dozen or so times since the city bought it, Grogan said. It’s mostly deployed “to transport the [North Metro] SWAT Team in safety” during confrontations with hostage-takers or other dangerous situations, Grogan said. “We think it’s a good tool to keep officers and citizens safe,” he said. And Sandy Springs’ Hummer is used only for parades and community events, including the recent National Nights Out, SSPD Sgt. Ronald Momon said. Still, there are many similarities between police and the military when it comes to training, preparedness and discipline, local police officials say. DeSimone, who retired from the United States Marine Corps Reserve at the rank of colonel after 32 years of service, said he believes a military background is good for local police officers because the training acts as an equalizing experience.
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SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net
The North Metro SWAT team’s main functions include drug raids and executing high-risk warrants, says Sandy Springs police Capt. Rob Stevens.
“People from all races, all walks of life and all economic classes,” work together in the military, DeSimone said. “You have the rich people coming in and the poor people coming in. It’s the great equalizer.” Momon, who has 15 years military experience, says law enforcement agencies act as para-military organizations and model themselves after the military in rank structure, grooming and uniform appearance, physical fitness and discipline. “The main aspect of the military training as it relates to law enforcement is mainly the discipline aspect,” Momon said. “Military members are trained very heavily in discipline. In my opinion, this prepares you better to handle the dangers and stress of law enforcement.” Grogan agrees. “The military is a structured environment, and structure transfers well into a police environment,” Grogan said. But applying a military mindset to policing local communities sometimes can get police officers into trouble, Grogan said. While he doesn’t have military experience himself, he believes it’s good to hire officers who have been honorably discharged from the military. Regarding the question of local police officers being “too military,” Grogan said the difference lies in whether a group is policing a group of people or an individual. Grogan said police have to make sure their response to any given situation is appropriate. “Common sense is the number one trait of a good police officer,” DeSimone said, noting good judgment follows closely. Grogan says police must stay engaged with the communities they serve. “In general, it’s important for the police department to have a good relationship with the community,” Grogan said, adding that when a relationship is developed between police and the
SPECIAL
community as in Dunwoody, then a crisis, if one were to occur, would be better worked out. “You can work through that crisis in a well-thought-out, collaborative way, where police can respond appropriately,” Grogan said, adding that trust is a key component in building a relationship between police and the Dunwoody community. Training makes a great difference when it comes to police use of military gear, said Sandy Springs police Capt. Rob Stevens, commander of the North Metro SWAT Team, said. The SWAT Team’s main functions include drug raids and executing high-risk warrants, Stevens said. He said Sandy Springs has had three hostage rescue situations since 2006. “We [SSPD] have a specialty unit for riots,” Stevens said. “When you mix units to do the same job, you create issues. Long guns and SWAT teams don’t need to be in a riot.” Patrol officers have riot-control training and the “mobile field force,” a 30-man force of officers trained by larger agencies to quell riots and maintain crowd control would act as the frontline, Stevens said. They have been taught by larger agencies in formations and in civil unrest, Stevens said. Stevens, who began his career with the Fulton County Police Department more than 20 years ago, joined the Sandy Springs department in 2006. In 2009, he helped create the North Metro Multi-jurisdictional SWAT Team and he now commands its more than 50 members. “They are cross-trained in active shooter situations,” he said, adding that the SWAT Team is “not there for offensive, but defensive; to rescue.” Stevens said the SWAT Team doesn’t want to be portrayed as a bunch of tattooed tough guys scaring the community. “We want people to know we’re there to help,” he said. BH
THE BROOKHAVEN CITY COUNCIL STOPS SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS!
THE BROOKHAVEN CITY COUNCIL STOPS SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS AFTER PINK PONY CAN’T ACCEPT 1 MILLION DOLLAR A YEAR BUSINESS LICENSING FEE. BROOKHAVEN’S COUNCIL PROPOSALS
PINK PONY’S SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
• Proposed 1 million dollar a year licensing fee.
• Offered $ 2.5 million over 12 years of an agreement.
• Proposed NO billboards within city limits.
• We agree not to have billboard within city limits.
• Proposed buffer zone.
• Agree to buffer zone proposal.
• Proposed paying all attorney fees involved in case.
• Agree to pay up to $200,000 in attorney fees.
THE MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL ARE NOT LISTENING TO THE VOTERS! CALL THEM! MAYOR J MAX DAVIS
jmax.davis@brookhavenga.gov
Direct: 404-386-5629
REBECCA WILLIAMS
rebecca.williams@brookhavenga.gov
Direct: 678-509-5540
BATES MATTISON
bates.mattison@brookhavenga.gov
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JOE GEBBIA
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www.ReporterNewspapers.net |
| 37 SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 20149/16/14 9:40 PM
PUBLIC SAFETY
Police Blotter
The woman’s Vince Camuto handbag that contained a Tori Burch wallet with $120 in U.S. currency, a license, an Apple iPhone with a pink case, an AE card and a Regents debit card were also inside the vehicle.
From police reports dated Aug. 17 through Aug.30. The following information was provided to the Buckhead Reporter by the Zone 2 precinct of the Atlanta Police Department from its records and is presumed to be accurate.
RA P E 1100
block of Huff Road—On Aug. 17, a woman was invited to a get together by a male friend. While at the location, she agreed to have consensual sex, and the two fell asleep in the bed nude. She later awoke to find a stranger having sex with her. She thought it was her friend. She said “stop” and the stranger said, “Oh my God, I thought this was…,” but did not finish his statement.
2000
block of Peachtree Road NE— On Aug. 19, a woman phoned police to report a burglary. When police arrived, she said she was raped two weeks ago by her roommate/ex-boyfriend. She contacted the man to stay at his place after
leaving work, and at the apartment they spoke, before going to bed. When the man asked for sex, the woman said “no” and added she did not want to do anything sexual with him. The two lay down and the woman told the man to stay on his side of the bed. While they were lying down, the man pulled the woman’s pants down and had sex with her.
R O BBERY 1700
block of Ellsworth Industrial—A man ran up to a woman as she was unloading her vehicle, pointed a black pistol in her chest and demanded she hand over her keys. She complied and the man jumped into her vehicle and drove away.
Reporter Classifieds
silver pistol to the victim’s head and demanded he “give me your ... wallet.” He gave up the wallet, saying it had no cash inside. The gunman pointed at a wooden box, which contained an engagement ring,that was sitting on a blanket in the passenger seat and demanded the victim 2000 block of Northside Drive—On “hand it over.” When the driver put his Aug. 23, a man left a gas station, driving hand on the gear shift, the gunman said, on Northside Drive around Collier, when “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” The a Ford Crown Victoria came around him driver handed the ring over and the susfrom behind and stopped in front of pects ran toward the apartment complex him. A man got out of the Crown Victonear 499 Northria and approached side Circle NW. his window, with Read more of the a black semi-au 600 block Police Blotter online at www.reporternewspapers.net to handgun. He of Holmes Street knocked on the NW—On Aug. window with his 22, three to four gun, and said, “Give me your ... wallet.” men approached a residence, where three The victim stepped on the gas and drove people sat on the front steps. They had to a church at Northside Drive and Kingautomatic handguns and an assault, and swood, and called 911. they demanded the residents “Get on the ... ground.” The gunmen searched 1500 block of Northside NW—On the residents’ pockets and then stripAug. 18, while waiting for traffic to pass, searched them while they were lying on a man put his car into park and noticed the ground. One gunman took a set of two men approaching his vehicle from house keys, an iPhone 4, wallet and a Red the sidewalk. One man put a black and 2010 red Mazda from one resident. An
To Advertise, call 404-917-2200 ext 110
HELP WANTED
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Matthew’s Handy Services – small jobs and chores are my specialty. Member of the Better Business Bureau. Shelving/ Looking for a caregiver to take care of your organizers, towel bars, carpentry, drywall, sick loved one? – Look no more!! I have 13 painting, plumbing & minor yard work. Call GARAGE / YARD SALES years experience: CNA, CPR and 1st aid. Call 404-547-2079 or email mwarren8328@gmail. Friday (10/3) and Saturday (10/4) – 9 AM – 5 678-665-2803. com. PM – 2885 Coles Way, Sandy Springs 30350. Household items, furniture, women’s apparel and An affordable Caregiver/CNA – Will care for you or your loved ones in their homes. Please contact misc. items. Call – 770-395-1418. POLICE DEPARTMENT 573-301-4243 for more information LOST & FOUND PROPERTY Saturday (9/27) – 8 AM – 3 PM – Buckhead Baptist Church Ladies Ministry Yard Sale, 4100 CNA – Years of experience, dependable, great Roswell Rd NE, 30342. Children’s clothing, references, own transportation, live-in, day or Sandy Springs Police Department – is seeking owners for Lost and Found Property. These night care. Call 404-441-9134. books, toys, household items and more. property items are not for sale. To view the property items list, visit the Sandy Springs Police ANTIQUES WANTED CNA specializing in elderly care – Caring hands Department website at www.sandyspringspolice. Bronze, Marble Sculpture, Sterling, & loving heart in the comfort of your own home. org To claim property, you must have valid Paintings, Art Glass – Honest & Reliable. Full/Part-time, day/night. References available. identification and proof of ownership. Lucien 404-719-3559 Call 678-427-4135.
SEEKING RENTAL Retired Atlanta Symphony Orchestra cellist Bruce Klingbeil – Interested in renting a house in Brookhaven. If you or anyone you know has a house for rent in Brookhaven or vicinity, please contact Mr. Klingbeil at PO Box 191121, Atlanta GA 31119-1121
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CAREGIVER
Elderly Care – Experienced CNA available for compassionate, care. Call Kathleen 678-4910532 or Hellen 404-494-6016. 10 years experience – Trained and competent in working to support healthcare clients with various needs. References available. Call Pamela, CNA at 404-358-0724.
SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net
CLEANING SERVICES I Love to clean houses! – Call 678-221-7716. Great prices. Houses, Apartments, Offices & more – Affordable prices, excellent references. Call 770-837-5711
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PUBLIC SAFETY Apple iPhone 5C and wallet with a Bank of America credit card and debit card was taken from the second resident, and a set of keys and an Android Max cellphone were taken from the third resident. 1500
block of Marietta Boulevard— On Aug. 27, a robbery by a man who approached the front driver side door and pointed black pistol at the driver, demanding he “give over his cellphone,” a Motorola Droid Ultra. When the driver refused, the gunman said he would shoot him. The driver complied, and stepped out of the car. A second man came from behind and took the driver’s camouflaged green wallet, which contained a driver’s license, Social Security card, bank card, and $3 in cash from his back pocket.
1000
block of Collier Road—On Aug. 27, a robbery of a pedestrian was reported after a woman walking to her job noticed a small, four-door sedan following her. The car pulled into the driveway and turned around as if it was going to exit. At that point, the woman crossed the driveway behind the vehicle. As she came around the passenger’s side, a man stepped out of the car, pulled out a black pistol and said, “Give me your purse.” “I don’t have any money,” she said. The gunman then placed the barrel of the pistol to her forehead and said, “I don’t care. Give me your purse.” She gave him a brown purse that contained a wallet with $5 and a cancelled bank card. The driv-
er remained inside the vehicle during the incident. 1600 block of Defoor Avenue— On Aug. 30, a robbery was reported after four men with handguns demanded items from a group walking to their car, near a restaurant. A gold Invictus watch, two USAA credit cards, a black iPhone 5S, a military ID, a credit card and a license were taken from one person. A gold Invictus watch, a military ID, two gold bracelets, two gold chains, a gold iPhone 5S, two credit cards and a license were taken from another person. The victims were unharmed and were unable to provide a description of the robbers.
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block of Peachtree Road—On Aug. 26, a robbery was reported after a man walking to his car heard a voice call out, “Hey, hey.” When he turned around to see who was calling him, a man with a black revolver hand gun pointed at him. The man dropped his laptop bag, which contained his laptop, on the ground. “Give me your car keys or else I will shoot,” the gunman said and the man gave the robber his keys. The gunman picked up the laptop bag off the ground and proceeded towards the victim’s car, advising the man to walk into the wooded area nearby and not look back until he left the scene. The man entered the woods, grabbed his cellphone out of his pocket and called 911. He was not injured during the robbery.
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SEPT. 19 – OCT. 2, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net
BH