12-27-2013 Dunwoody Reporter by Rough Draft Atlanta: Atlanta Intown, Reporter Newspapers

Inside Land grab Legislators growing weary of cityhood movement? COMMUNITY 2-3

Dunwoody Reporter

HONORING EVA

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pages 7-

DEC. 27, 2013 — JAN. 9, 2014 • VOL. 4 — NO. 26

Year in review City debated citizens over numerous issues COMMUNITY 4-5

Our top photo picks for 2013

Farewell, Eva Rep. Wendell Willard sings mayor’s praises COMMENTARY 6

King for a day Celebrate holiday season with a Mexican ﬂair OUT & ABOUT 14-15

A dozen letters Senior earns rare athletic achievement STANDOUT STUDENT 18 PHOTOS BY PHIL MOSIER

Reporter Newspapers strives to give readers a variety of in-depth news and community coverage throughout the year, accompanied by compelling visuals. We’ve taken a careful look through the archives and selected some of our favorite images captured by photographer Phil Mosier over the past 12 months. These include: Above, left, in “Give it a spin,” Ritch Fusakio helps “turn over” the engine on a B-17 aircraft at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, during the nonproﬁt Liberty Foundation’s event. Above, center, “Hitting the ﬁeld - of screen,” from left, Brooks Bowling, Hugh Carter, Billy Gingrey, Bryce Bowling and Luke Gingrey, enjoy video games before Buckhead Baseball’s Opening Day festivities. Center, below, “It’s cool in the pool,” Olivia Langell, left, and Caroline Seelke, members of The Branches “Gators” swim team, get ready for action. Right, “Walking on water,” Samantha Black intently listens to paddleboarding instructions at Morgan Falls Overlook Park. To see more of our 2013 cover photos, go to pages 16-17.

Construction begins on controversial city projects BY JOE EARLE

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Work is under way on two of the city of Dunwoody’s most controversial projects: the redesign of Dunwoody Village Parkway and the second phase of construction on the multi-use trail through Brook Run Park. Workers began clearing trees from the

center median of the parkway on Dec. 10, and will begin removing the median and putting in erosion control systems in January, city Public Works Director Michael Smith said. The project is expected to take six to eight

months to complete, he said. The city plans to narrow the four-lane roadway and add bike lanes and sidewalks in what it calls its “Main Street Project.” Meanwhile, on Dec. 9, Dunwoody City Council narrowly approved the construction contract for the second phase of the Brook Run Trail, which will add a 1.06-mile segSEE CONTROVERSIAL, PAGE 22

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COMMUNITY

DeKalb legislators skeptical new city bills will be approved BY MELISSA WEINMAN

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Some DeKalb County legislators question whether any of the bills for creating cities in central DeKalb will be approved during the upcoming legislative session. At a Dec. 19 town hall meeting in Brookhaven, members of DeKalb County’s legislative delegation discussed how to handle the competing efforts to create new cities. Three groups – the Lakeside City Alliance, the City of Briarcliff Initiative and Tucker 2014 – have all commissioned feasibility studies and are angling for legislative approval to make their municipal dreams a reality. The problem is, all three proposed cities overlap in the area around Northlake Mall. “How are we going to resolve this mess?” Angela Trosclair of Tucker asked. “The question you ask is really something that worries me a lot,” said Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver, D-Decatur. “We’re about to do some serious damage.” Rep. Tom Taylor, R-Dunwoody, said he’s not sure there will be enough time to untangle the mess before the 40-day

session of the General Assembly wraps up. Due to earlier primary elections this year, the Legislature will likely convene sometime in late April, Taylor said. “We’ve got an extremely compressed session,” Taylor said. “If any of these comes up – and I say if – because there’s a certain level of DeKalb and Fulton fatigue [in the Legislature] … if it’s not essential, I don’t know that it’s going to happen this session.” Rep. Mike Jacobs, R-Brookhaven, said he thinks the chaos surrounding the cityhood bills could be their demise. “Frankly, I can’t tell you what’s going to happen,” Jacobs said. “I think it makes the process more difficult, particularly this year.” Oliver said she thinks there needs to be a cohesive discussion or planning process for potential new cities and annexations proposed by existing cities. “I think that discussion needs to go together in some way,” Oliver said. “Everything in my district is subject to one new city or another.” Jacobs said he doesn’t favor any sort of moratorium or master planning pro-

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COMMUNITY

DON’T WEIGHT ON THE HOLIDAYS.

TACKLE THAT DREADED RESOLUTION NOW! MELISSA WEINMAN

From left, Rep. Mike Jacobs, R-Brookhaven, Sen. Fran Millar, R-Dunwoody, Rep. Howard Mosby, D-Atlanta and Rep. Tom Taylor, R-Dunwoody, spoke to residents at a meeting of the DeKalb County legislative delegation in Brookhaven.

cess. He thinks if the bills aren’t ready, they won’t be approved. “It may be self-correcting,” Jacobs said. Rep. Karen Bennett, D-Stone Mountain, said she’s concerned about the effect the cityhood efforts could have on her constituents, even though they aren’t included in any of the boundaries. “I represent a significant number of people in unincorporated DeKalb and we have no voice,” she said. “At the end of the day we don’t want more damage.” There’s also another proposed city effort in south DeKalb County, which proponents would like to be called the city of Stonecrest. Deborah Jackson, the mayor of Lithonia, told the legislators that proposal concerns her.

Studies ﬁnd new cities feasible Recently released studies show proposed new cities in central DeKalb County would be financially viable. Three new cities – Tucker, Briarcliff and Lakeside -have been proposed in the central DeKalb area. Their proposed boundaries overlap in the area around Northlake Mall. Proponents of the city of Lakeside in November released a study showing their city was financially feasible. Backers of the other two cities released their own, separate studies in December. According to a study by the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University released Dec. 21, the Tucker community, if incorporated into a city, would have estimated annual revenue of approximately $16.6 million and annual expenses of approximately $13.3 million. The City of Briarcliff Initiative reported Dec. 17 that its feasibility study, conducted by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia, predicts a city of Briarcliff would have annual operating expenditures of $37,013,278, while revenue would be $54,432,544. The Lakeside City Alliance said Lakeside would have annual expenses of $29,909,347 and revenues of $35,245,527.

“While we support the establishment of cities, we are concerned about this movement that seems to be a land grab, and have an impact on existing cities,” Jackson said. She said the proposed city of Stonecrest, “surrounds Lithonia and chokes us.” Brookhaven City Councilwoman Rebecca Chase Williams said her city stands behind groups hoping to create their own cities this year just south of Brookhaven’s borders. “As the newest city in DeKalb, we support the other cityhood efforts. It’s a little more complicated with more than one city coming forward,” Williams said. “We’re finding local control and providing services closer to the people has been working very well for us.”

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COMMUNITY

Year in review What 2013 was about, for Dunwoody In Dunwoody, 2013 turned into a cranky year. Many residents found something to complain about, whether it was removing trees to make way for a 12-foot-wide, concrete trail through the forest at Brook Run Park or moving the dog park from one spot in Brook Run to another.

Dissatisfaction showed in odd places. Yard signs decrying city projects sprouted on busy roadsides. Church halls filled with people who wanted to take over the school system from DeKalb County and start their own city system. City government meetings turned into lecture halls. The Dunwoody Charter Commission

City projects take off In his State of the City Address in February, Mayor Mike Davis announced, “It’s time for us to act.” The city had spent its early years planning, he said, and in 2013, “our goal is to turn ... our vision into reality.” Soon city contractors were at work all over town. They built a 12-foot wide, concrete multi-use trail through the forest in Brook Run Park. The city built new parks in the Project Renaissance multi-use development, as city officials saw it as a way to turn illused properties into new play areas and homes. By year’s end, work was under way to transform Dunwoody Village Parkway into a narrower, more cyclistand pedestrian-friendly road.

City riles dog park fans The city’s plans to remake the dog park in Brook Run Park drew growls. City officials said the trees shading the current 4-acre park have been damaged by dogs, and the soil has been impacted by constant use. They proposed moving the park to another location within Brook Run and managing the park to protect it from overuse. Dog park fanciers responded by packing City Council meetings to complain that the changes raise safety issues because the new park is near a playground and a skate park.

Andrea Sneiderman Just days before her July murder trial was scheduled to begin, DeKalb District Attorney Robert James announced that he would drop the most serious charges against Andrea Sneiderman. Sneiderman had been charged with conspiring to kill her husband, Rusty Sneiderman. Andrea Sneiderman’s former boss, Hemy Neuman, was sentenced to life in prison in 2012 for shooting Rusty Sneiderman in front of a Dunwoody day care center. Andrea Sneiderman’s trial proceeded on the remaining perjury charges, and a DeKalb County jury found Sneiderman guilty of 9 of the 13 counts against her, such as lying under oath and concealing evidence. She was sentenced to serve five years in prison.

DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

By Joe Earle | joeearle@reporternewspapers.net

had to ask for a bigger meeting room as its gatherings, which promised little more than sleepy civics lessons, turned into pointed, heated debates on the city’s future. But not everyone was angry all the time. Two incumbents seeking re-election to City Council held their seats.

Hundreds of residents showed up to eat from food trucks during a new program at Brook Run called “Food Truck Thursdays.” And when the city formally opened the first phase of the Brook Run trail with a parade, dozens of kids and parents showed up with decorated bikes and wagons to celebrate.

Opposition rises As the city moved forward with its plans, yard signs sprouted all over Dunwoody attacking them. Some criticized the removal of trees to make way for the new path through Brook Run Park. Others objected to the city’s plan to rebuild Dunwoody Village Parkway or to a stalled proposal to consider building a roundabout at the intersection of Vermack and Womack roads. The people behind the signs organized a new, grassroots group calling itself Save Dunwoody. Like-minded folks packed meetings of the City Council and the city Charter Commission to complain about the direction being taken by city government. In the fall, the group coalesced around candidates for City Council seats who claimed they wanted to oust incumbents and change the city’s direction.

Two incumbents re-elected while one outsider claims seat After a divisive election that yielded public complaints about city projects and city officials’ perceived lack of communication with residents, Dunwoody’s voters responded with mixed messages. The two incumbents who sought re-election – Councilmen Denny Shortal and Doug Thompson – were returned to their council seats. But challenger Jim Riticher, one of three candidates who ran together and said they wanted a “clean sweep” of the council and a change in city direction, won the only seat with no incumbent on the ballot. After winning re-election with 51 percent of the vote, Thompson said the race had been “so close that I don’t think either side can think their platform was the consensus opinion of the majority of Dunwoody.”

Bonser retires from council City Councilwoman Adrian Bonser, who was elected as one of Dunwoody’s original city councilors and has held her post since, did not seek re-election, citing health reasons. During 2013, Bonser clashed at times with other council members and Mayor Mike Davis. After a council rewrite of the city procedures for handling ethics complaints against city officials, a complaint filed against Bonser – which she often had described publicly as being politically motivated – was finally heard and dismissed as “frivolous.” In her final council meeting, Bonser asked the city to reimburse her for her legal fees defending herself. Other council members agreed she should be repaid the $1,777 her legal defense cost her. DUN

COMMUNITY Top Stories @

ReporterNewspapers.net • DeKalb schools fallout continues • High-end apartments lure new tenants • Work starts soon to shut down Ga. 400 toll plaza • Map, timeline for Ga. 400 trail released • Fancying fine living leads to a backyard chicken coop

DeKalb school board members replaced It was a tumultuous year for the DeKalb County Board of Education. In February, Gov. Nathan Deal removed six members of the school board after a regional accrediting agency put the school system on accreditation probation. A report from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools cited the school board members with financial mismanagement and meddling in the operations of the schools. Interim Superintendent Michael Thurmond, a former labor commissioner and state legislator, was brought on to help lead the struggling school system.

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Parents want city schools Seeing the DeKalb school system’s troubles, a group of Dunwoody parents organized to try to create a separate public school system in the city. In 2012, State Rep. Tom Taylor, a Dunwoody Republican, introduced legislation to allow “new” cities created since 2005, including Dunwoody, and contiguous cities to start their own school systems. A group calling itself Dunwoody Parents Concerned About Quality Education sponsored a study that found Dunwoody could operate its own schools and have a $30 million surplus from the amount city taxpayers were paying for DeKalb County schools. Shortly after the release of the study, a new parents’ group called Georgians for Local Area School Systems, or GLASS, organized to lobby the state Legislature to pass Taylor’s bill next year. DUN

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DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | 5

COMMENTARY

Eva, it’s hard to say goodbye

Reporter Newspapers Our mission is to provide our readers with fresh and engaging information about life in their communities. Published by Springs Publishing LLC 6065 Roswell Road, Suite 225 Sandy Springs, GA 30328 Phone: 404-917-2200 • Fax: 404-917-2201 Brookhaven Reporter | Buckhead Reporter Dunwoody Reporter | Sandy Springs Reporter www.ReporterNewspapers.net Atlanta INtown www.AtlantaINtownPaper.com

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Eight years…wow, it’s hard to believe. It seems more like two years, rather than eight, since Sandy Springs became a city. But, what I want to talk about is our mayor, Eva Galambos, and the great leadership we’ve had from her. To have us come out of the gate as not only the talk of the state, but nationally and even internationally. Hardly a week goes by that she isn’t being interviewed by someone asking about how we have accomplished all that we’re doing as a new city, especially through private companies contracting for services. Eva envisioned long before we became a city we could be different. What she meant was, Sandy Springs could provide city services at a higher quality and lower price than comparable governments, and that’s exactly what has been accomplished. Her leadership has kept our city true to its core services and freed up millions of dollars for capital improvements so sorely needed in our community. Look at what has been accomplished in so many areas under her leadership. Really too numerous to start listing, but one in particular that stands out is parks and recreation: Morgan Falls Overlook Park, youth sports activities, partnering with the public schools to use the playgrounds for the public, and on and on. Go to the city webpage [www.sandyspringsga.org/CityDepartments/Recreation-and-Parks] and just scroll through all the programs offered by the city to this community - most of which would have never been available but for the fact we became a city. Having long-term vision is difficult for public officials, yet Eva has met this challenge. She leaves the city with a cash reserve of $32 million, and we began in 2006 with $0 in the bank - doing so while we weathered the worst economic time

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Rep. Wendell Willard of Sandy Springs represents District 51 in the Georgia House of Representatives and serves as the city of Sandy Springs’ attorney.

On the record: A year in quotes

Advertising Director of Sales Development Amy Arno amyarno@reporternewspapers.net

in our memory. How was this done? It was done through great city leadership, led by Eva. When people ask me about Eva and what kind of person she is, I explain she is the most charming and engaging person - she never knows a stranger. But don’t ever think you can pull something over on her. As she listens to your proposal she will in a kind way explain REP. WENDELL WILLARD what deficiencies she sees in your approach, and why. GUEST COLUMN After working with Eva over the years, it’s easy to tell when she has made a decision. She stiffens her neck, lowers her chin against her chest and gives a very compelling explanation of why she agrees or does not agree with you. So, due in great measure to Mayor Eva Galambos, our city has been launched, and is on a chartered course continuing the delivery of services which enhance our lives, add value to our properties, and make us proud to tell others we live in Sandy Springs. She may no longer be mayor, but the foundation she has prepared will sustain our city far into the future, with the new leadership continuing the course. Yes, she is receiving much deserved recognition for her years of work on our behalf, but the greatest tribute we can pay her is to not let our heritage of this great city be diminished. Thank you, Eva, and Godspeed.

Here are some of the things people in Reporter Newspapers communities had to say in 2013. “After two years of meeting and planning, we have our first tangible piece of the trail, and it feels pretty great.” –Denise Starling, executive director of Livable Buckhead, on the proposed trail along Ga. 400, in May.

–Dunwoody City Councilwoman Lynn Deutsch, on the controversy surrounding the city’s dog park, which city officials want to move from one location to another within Brook Run Park, in December. The move has drawn strong opposition from dog park users.

“We realize that many of our residents would prefer to keep the landscape free of additional billboards. While I agree, we must adhere to the law.” –Sandy Springs Mayor Eva Galambos, explaining why new billboards were appearing around the city, in July..

“A year to the day that the citizens voted to incorporate the city of Brookhaven, they’ll see their own police cars patrolling. That’s a significant milestone.” –Brookhaven Mayor J. Max Davis, announcing the start of the city’s police department, in July.

“I think you could sum it up by saying there doesn’t seem to be a preponderance of people saying they’re so concerned about this issue that it needs to be addressed immediately.” –Brookhaven resident Bill Roberts, on the city’s ongoing legal battle with the Pink Pony, an adult entertainment club, in September.

“We get the bar bill, but we don’t get a drink.” –Atlanta City Councilwoman Yolanda Adrean, on the effects of development on community borders, in September.

“One of the challenges we have with our dog park is it is regional in nature. That’s a problem. When people say to me, ‘But we love it so,’ I say, ‘Go home to your communities and replicate what you love.”

“I never liked the logo, and I think there are a lot of people who agree. But I dislike spending money to change the logo just three years after council adopted it. I dislike that even more.” –Dunwoody City Councilman Terry Nall, on a decision not to spend $40,000 to develop a new city logo, in October.

Correction

Editor's note: An article in the Dec. 13 edition of Reporter Newspapers about students attending The Art Institute of Atlanta provided incorrect information about ownership of The Hub, a student housing facility in Sandy Springs. The Art Institute of Atlanta leases the property.

DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

DUN

HONORING EVA

Eva’s way: Sandy Springs mayor never took ‘no’ for an answer BY DAN WHISENHUNT

danwhisenhunt@reporternewspapers.net

MUZEL CHEN

Mayor Eva Galambos fought for the city for “many, many years” and “never gave in.”

City Councilman Tibby DeJulio pulled his friend Mayor Eva Galam- Sandy Springs Mayor Eva bos to his side as they stood before a larger-than-usual crowd in the Galambos, who leaves ofﬁce council chambers. It was Dec. 17, the night of Galambos’ last council Jan. 7, was not only the meeting as mayor of Sandy Springs. founding mayor of the city in DeJulio and the mayor have been friends for years. They worked together and turned the community of Sandy Springs into a city. DeJu- 2005 but also an inspirational lio, like many of Galambos’ friends, was also her loyal foot soldier in the ﬁgure for the startup of other new cities in Atlanta’s northern march toward cityhood. “When you work with Eva, there is no compromise with quality. Ev- suburbs—including Dunwoody erything has to be done right. Of course, it has to be done right this min- and, most recently, Brookhaven. ute,” DeJulio said with a smirk. “There’s a wrong way, there’s a right way, In this special section, we and there’s Eva’s way.” review her remarkable career At the December council meeting, DeJulio told the mayor that the and public life. road leading up to City Hall will be named “Galambos Way.” It’s fitting tribute for a leader who wins more arguments that she loses. In 2005, she won the mother of all her arguments when 94 percent of Sandy Springs residents voted to incorporate. She was also elected the city’s first mayor. The mayor remains a popular figure, winning re-election in 2009 with 84 percent of the vote. Her office gives her power and her reputation gives her influence. Galambos is not shy about using either; defying her means challenging one of the toughest, smartest Georgia politicians. Galambos said the politician she most admires is former U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, a leader so uncompromising her critics dubbed her “The Iron Lady.” “She had determination and she fought for what she believed,” Galambos said. “She was able to change how things were going in Great Britain, so I think she was a wonderful role model.” While she will forever be known as Sandy Springs’ first mayor, it is one of the least remarkable things about her. She’s a Jewish-German immigrant. Her first memories are walking down a street with her mother in Berlin. Her father was a judge in Germany who lost his job when the Nazis rose to power. He escaped with his family to Italy, and from there fled to the U.S. in 1939. She spoke only a “spattering” of English when she arrived in Georgia, but in five years she would graduate as valedictorian of her class at Athens High School. She obtained a master’s degree and a Ph.D. at a time when few women were expected to have careers outCONTINUED ON PAGE 10

HONORING MAYOR EVA GALAMBOS

ALL the BEST

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DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | 7

HONORING EVA

1928 – Galambos born in Berlin, Germany.

1939 – Galambos immigrates to the United States, to Athens, Georgia.

1948 – Graduates from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s in Business Administration.

1933 – Galambos’ family leaves Berlin for Genoa, Italy.

1954 – Eva and John Galambos have the first of three children.

1949 – Marries John Galambos, receives master’s degree in Industrial Relations from the University of Illinois.

1944 – Graduates from Athens High and was the valedictorian that year.

1960 – Moves to Sandy Springs to a house on Trimble Road.

Mayor Eva Galambos: Creation of city high on ‘satisfaction list’

Q. A.

ing the ridiculous 21 percent penalty per gallon on water that Sandy Springs users pay the Atlanta Watershed Department. The delay in addressing this serious inequity is a result of (1) the intransigence on the part of two Atlanta mayors to negotiate on this matter, and (2) the incredible hold-ups in federal courts. Our city attorney is ready to deal with this matter in State Court, and it is my great hope that we will gain equity in the coming months.

What accomplishments are you proudest of?

Other than my three wonderful children, the creation of our new city of Sandy Springs has given me more satisfaction than any other activity in which I was engaged.

Q. A.

What has been your biggest disappointment?

I regret that during my two terms we have not succeeded in lower-

gle?

Was the creation of the city of Sandy Springs worth the strug-

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HONORING EVA 1969 – Graduates from Georgia State University with a Ph.D. in Economics.

1975 – Becomes president of Committee for Sandy Springs.

1992 – Galambos moves to the Grogan’s Bluﬀ Neighborhood, behind the current location of City Hall.

2005 – Sandy Springs residents vote to incorporate. Galambos elected city’s first mayor.

Yes. Not only have the citizens of Sandy Springs gained a more attractive city, with better infrastructure and new parks, but they are also enjoying the pleasures of civic involvement. The enthusiasm of our residents in participating in our public life is palpable. The next milestone will be a public downtown area where our folks can live, shop and enjoy each other, deriving all the benefits of urban life at its best.

Q. A.

What has surprised you the most about the city of Sandy Springs in its first eight years?

I have been pleasantly surprised by how much infrastructure the city has been able to install and afford on the same, identical tax millage we paid before we became a city. Before cityhood, we lost the

2006 – Galambos begins first term as mayor.

Atlanta?

Did you imagine other cities would follow so quickly? Is regionalism dead in metro

I never dreamed beyond the creation of Sandy Springs. Once Dunwoody was born, the pattern was clear. DeKalb County neglected its northern tier just as Fulton had neglected us. The fate is the same. As for regionalism, I do not think it is dead. However, its main manifestation last year in the TSPOST debacle showed how it was wrong. It tried to impose a list of projects from the top down. True, there was a

FOR EVA GALAMBOS, a true woman of valor from Sandy & Dave Abrams

A woman of valor–seek her out, for she is to be valued above rubies. Her husband trusts her, and they cannot fail to prosper. All the days of her life she is good to him. She opens her hands to those in need and offers her help to the poor. Adorned with strength and dignity, she looks to the future with cheerful trust. Her speech is wise, and the law of kindness is on her lips. Her children rise up to call her blessed, her husband likewise praises her: ‘Many women have done well, but you surpass them all.’ Charm is deceptive and beauty short lived, but a woman loyal to God has truly earned praise. Give her honor for her work; her life proclaims her praise. — from Proverbs 31

2013 – In April, Galambos announces her retirement. Her last City Council meeting was Dec. 17.

2008 – Sandy Springs buys former Target building for $8 million, and Galambos sees it as a potential site for a future City Hall.

vast majority of our taxes for local services into the bowels of Fulton County. Now we have a 125-person police department (vs. 40 with Fulton), and we can afford new parks and other amenities.

Q. A.

2009 – Galambos re-elected with 84 percent of the vote.

small group of elected local officials who traded projects among themselves. But it was a poor show of how a regional organization needs to involve the governments and elected officials who are closest to the people. This was another lesson that “central planning” does not work.

Q. A.

What are your plans as you leave oﬃce?

It is time for my patient husband to have me at home more. I do plan to tutor Sandy Springs third graders in reading. Gov. Nathan Deal spoke recently in Sandy Springs and reminded us that workforce development is one of most important economic development tools, and workforce development is stymied if a third grader advances without full reading skills.

THANK YOU MAYOR GALAMBOS

For Your Leadership and Vision in Guiding our Community

Pond & Company Building Communities Through Architecture - Engineering - Planning www.pondco.com

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DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | 9

HONORING EVA Mayor Eva Galambos enjoys herself at a party thrown in her honor at Heritage Sandy Springs on Dec. 8. It’s been said that “when you work with Eva, there is no compromise with quality. Everything has to be done right... There’s a wrong way, there’s a right way, and there’s Eva’s way.” Galambos has remarked that the politician she most admired was former U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, known as “The Iron Lady.” “She had determination and she fought for what she believed,” Galambos said. “She was a wonderful role model.” PHIL MOSIER

Thank you! Mayor Eva Galambos - Thank you for your commitment and dedication to your community, your efforts behind localized governance, and for enhancing the quality of life for citizens throughout the metro area.

Dunwoodyga.gov

**IMPORTANT NOTE** These Illustrator color swatches should only be used when printing CMYK (Process) colors. Please refer to the Dunwoody Brand Style Guide for proper use of this mark.

DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

Eva’s way: Sandy Springs mayor never took ‘no’ for an answer CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

side of the home. With her intellect, and ambition, she could’ve been almost anything she’d wanted. She moved to Sandy Springs in 1960 with her young family. “We wanted a large lot, and we wanted to be where there was plenty of room around us,” Galambos said. “When we moved on Trimble Road, there was a 14acre site next to us with cows. It was the edge of development.” Galambos grew frustrated as development started cropping up in the community around her. “I realized how mistreated we were by Fulton County, and realized that was not what I expected from local government,” Galambos said. “That made me passionate about protecting our neighborhoods. We were being inundated with gas stations and commercial development at every corner.” That was the beginning of what would become a decades-long fight. Galambos became president of the Committee for Sandy Springs in 1975. The effort to incorporate was also a political struggle, pitting black Democrats in the state Legislature against white Republican lawmakers from the suburbs. Galambos said when she was younger she identified as a Democrat, but now identifies as a Republican. She and her husband John, who worked as a physician, resented how government spent taxpayer money. “The thing that really brought about the change was when we started paying huge income taxes and we realized how much of our income was being redistributed,” Galambos said. “That’s what turns liberals into conservatives. When they see how the money is wasted, you get a different philosophy.” Galambos had a knack for recruiting talented allies in her fight against big government. She reached out to Kar-

en Meinzen McEnerny around 2001 for help when the state Transportation Department was considering a controversial plan to realign Roswell Road. McEnerny was elected to the city’s first council in 2005, along with Galambos. Over the years, their relationship showed signs of strain as McEnerny pushed for policies that Galambos didn’t support. The councilwoman frequently found herself in the voting minority on city council. “Eva is somebody to never underestimate,” McEnerny said. “She is one of the most focused, hardworking women I have ever had the opportunity to meet.” Trisha Thompson-Fox, a member of the Sandy Springs Council of Neighborhoods, first met Galambos in the 1990s. Galambos enlisted her to fight zoning in Fulton County to protect Sandy Springs from overdevelopment. The more time Galambos spent as mayor, the more frequently she found herself at odds with the Council of Neighborhoods. She was criticized for votes in support of commercial and residential developments that some council members opposed. Galambos said her view on protecting neighborhoods has not changed over the years. “I still absolutely cherish the neighborhoods and want to maintain them as they are, but when you’ve got commercial development that isn’t impinging on a neighborhood, you have to understand a developer’s viewpoints,” Galambos said. “I don’t think the Council of Neighborhoods often listens to the developers.” Fox said that the friction between Galambos and the Council of Neighborhoods hasn’t gotten in the way of her relationship with the mayor. “We have not always seen eye to eye, but I respect her opinions and her abil-

HONORING EVA

PHIL MOSIER

City Councilman Tibby DeJulio, left, presents Mayor Eva Galambos with a ﬂying pig statue during a Dec. 8 going away party in Sandy Springs.

This pig has ﬂown, but was its origin an ‘urban myth’? BY DAN WHISENHUNT

danwhisenhunt@reporternewspapers.net

The story is told every time a new city forms in Georgia. According to Sandy Springs Mayor Eva Galambos’ autobiography, “A Dream Come True: My Very Good Life,” state Sen. Vincent Fort (D-Atlanta) once said “Pigs will fly when Sandy Springs is a city!” Since then, the flying pig has become a symbol of Georgia’s new city movement. Sandy Springs regularly holds meetings in the Flying Pig Boardroom. Galambos, retiring as mayor, received a statue of a flying pig as a parting gift. When residents in Brookhaven voted to incorporate in 2012, state Rep. Tom Taylor brought a toy flying pig to the victory party. But Fort says the story is just not true. Fort said recently he never said any-

thing about flying pigs. He said to his knowledge, no one in the Democratic Party said it. Fort said the quote is most likely an “urban myth.” “Whoever is saying that is misremembering … ,” Fort said. Galambos referred questions about the flying pig to state Rep. Joe Wilkinson (R-Sandy Springs), who said he was present 13 years ago and heard Fort say it. Wilkinson said Fort made the comment with a chuckle, in a jovial way, when Wilkinson brought up the subject of Sandy Springs during a gathering of the Fulton County delegation. “We were discussing many things, but of course, I was pushing Sandy Springs, and we started talking about stuff and the comment was made,” Wilkinson said.

ities, and I hope she respects my dedication to the mission she set out,” Fox said. Even Galambos’ biggest political foes have a grudging respect for her abilities. State Sen. Vincent Fort, D-Atlanta, was one of the most high-profile opponents of Sandy Springs incorporating. He said he’s still not convinced that the city, with its unique model of outsourcing public services to private companies, is the success Galambos and her supporters claim. There’s no doubt in his mind about the caliber of his opponent, however. “You know, she is a worthy adversary. I’ll say that,” Fort said. “I respected her energy and focus and determination.” Galambos’ focus and determination has won her respect, but also led to accusations that she retaliates against people that disagree with her. In 2011, for example, she convinced the council to delay buying right of way for a streetscape project because some property owners

along the road wanted to rent space to billboard companies. DeJulio said many people have the wrong impression of his friend. “She has fought for the city for many, many years, and she never gave in, and she has given that appearance of being tough,” DeJulio said. “But she’s also a very giving and a very caring person. She cares more for the people of Sandy Springs than you can imagine.” She showed rare emotion during the Dec. 17 city council meeting. Galambos read a poem she’d written about her fellow council members. It was a tender moment from someone not known for being sentimental. She’s less poetic when it comes to discussing her own legacy. When asked what she’d like people to remember her for, Galambos didn’t flatter herself. “I don’t prescribe what they should remember about me,” Galambos said. “That’s up to them.”

Thanks, Mayor Galambos, for making our home town a great place to start and grow a business. Springs Publishing LLC Reporter Newspapers

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DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | 11

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Presbyterian Church welcomes virtuoso violinist Nadir Khashimov, who performs with the winner of the Liszt Competition, pianist Alexander Ullman. Open to the community. Donations accepted at the door. 1978 Mount Vernon Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. For more details, go to: www.slpres.org or call 770393-1424.

Peter Pan & Wendy Thursday, Jan. 9, 10:30 a.m. – The Marcus

Jewish Community Center of Atlanta presents a coproduction with the Synchronicity Theatre, “Peter Pan and Wendy,” based on the classic Peter Pan story. In this musical, Wendy’s having trouble coming to terms with growing up. Her life gets sprinkled with a little pixie dust when Peter Pan whisks her away to Neverland where children never grow up. Show recommended for ages 3 and up. Additional shows: Jan. 12, Jan. 16, and Jan. 19. Morris & Rae Frank Theatre, 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. For showtimes, prices and other information, visit www.atlantajcc.org/boxoffice, or call 678-812-4002.

Instrumental Music Sunday, Jan. 12, 4 p.m. – 9 String Theory,

the unique musical collaboration of domra virtuoso Angelina Galashenkova-Reed and award-winning classical guitarist John Huston, perform at Dunwoody United Methodist Church. Concert includes music from Argentina, Russia, Romania, Spain, France, Italy and the U.S. $10 suggested donation. In the Chapel, 1548 Mount Vernon Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. Call 770-394-0675 for details. Go to: www.facebook.com/9StringTheory to find out more about the duo.

Tuesday, Dec. 31, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. –According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. That’s more than 38,000 blood donations needed every day. Northside Hospital hosts a community blood drive. All donors receive a free t-shirt and free parking. Requirements: in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and are 17 years or older. For more details or to schedule an appointment, contact Mandy Snavely at 770-667-4010 or via email: mandy.snavely@northside.com. Center Pointe, Building 2, Lower Level Conference Room, 1100 Johnson Ferry Rd., NE, Atlanta, 30342.

One for the Chipper Saturday, Jan. 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Area res-

idents can put discarded Christmas trees to good use during Keep Sandy Springs’ recycling program, “Bring One for the Chipper.” Program now collecting clothing and small household items for donation to American Kidney Services. Remove decorations and lights before dropping off trees. Drop off at Home Depot, 6400 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Sandy Springs, 30328, and also at the Sandy Springs Recycling Center, 470 Morgan Falls Rd., Sandy Springs, 30350. Mulch is available free to the public, by contacting Davey Tree at 770-4517911. Find out more by visiting: www.knfb.org.

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Acupuncture Tuesday, Jan. 7, 7:15-7:45 p.m. – Acupuncturist Taian Wang discusses the basic theory behind Chinese medicine and demonstrates several treatments used in Chinese medicine. Free and open to the public. Suggested audience: adult. Sandy Springs Branch Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328. Email: comments@co.fulton.ga.us or call 404-303-6130 for additional information.

Learn Bridge Wednesday, Jan. 8, 9:30-11:30 a.m. – Do

you want to learn how to play bridge? The Bridge Club of Atlanta will show you how! Two new beginner classes get under way Wednesdays in January. Additional class, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Attending first class is free; six-week series is $110. Bridge Club of Atlanta, 4920 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, 30342. Questions? Call Sam at 770-254-6033 or email: sam@ sammarksbridge.com.

DivorceCare Wednesday, Jan. 8, 6:30-8 p.m. – DivorceCare and DivorceCare for Kids brings people together to discuss topics such as depression, loneliness, faith, kids, single sexuality, finances, and others – through one of life’s most difficult experiences. DivorceCare for Kids is for children ages 5-12 to help them make sense of their world. These classes run concurrently with DivorceCare and also begin Jan. 8, 6:30-8 p.m. Classes designed to join in progress. Dunwoody United Methodist Church, 1548 Mount Vernon Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. Call 770-394-0675 or email: cathy.wright@dunwoodyumc.org for adults or diane.morgan@dunwoodyumc.org for details.

Called & Gifted Workshop Friday, Jan. 10, 7-9:15 p.m. – St. Jude the

Apostle Catholic Church hosts a Called & Gifted workshop, designed to help you find the presence of spiritual gifts in your life. Workshop includes the five steps of discerning those spiritual gifts, and how these gifts can change your own life and the world. Workshop continues Saturday, Jan. 11, 9:30 a.m.- 4 p.m. $50 per person, includes course materials, meals and refreshments. 7171 Glenridge Dr., Sandy Springs, 30328. For more information and to register online, go to: www.stjudeatlanta.net or call 770-394-3896.

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Medicinal Plants & Aromatherapy Saturday, Jan. 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. – Get a holistic start to the New Year with a look at what Mother Nature has to offer! Join others in learning about the world of healing plants. Beginners’ class focuses on herbs and oils used to treat a variety of ailments, with an emphasis on women’s needs. Class includes a hands-on presentation and crafting of floral water and teas for participants to take home. $25, general public; $20 members. Advance registration required by Jan. 8. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell, 30075. Call 770-992-2055 or visit: www.chattnaturecenter.org to register or to find out more.

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your relationship with stress and pain into life-enhancing solutions through breathing techniques, mind and body awareness, movement (adapted for any physical challenges) and relaxation practices. Techniques are based on evidence from major universities. Free, but RSVP required to 404-843-1880. Also held on Jan. 23. For members of the Cancer Support Community, 5775 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Suite C-225, Atlanta, 30342. Go to www.cscatlanta.org to learn more.

Sunday, Jan. 12, 1-3 p.m. – Join the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta for a summer Jewish overnight camp fair. Speak with camp directors and alumni, and learn more about the federation’s scholarship opportunities. Free and open to all. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. Questions? Visit: www.jewishatlanta.org/jewishcamp or contact Hayley Wasser at hwasser@jfga.org.

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Slumber Party Tuesday, Jan. 7, 6:30-7 p.m. – Show off your pjs at the library!

Enjoy bedtime stories with sleepytime songs. Wear your pajamas and bring stuffed friends. Free and open to the public. Appropriate for ages 3-5. Open to the first 20 participants. Brookhaven Branch Library, 1242 North Druid Hills Rd., NE, Brookhaven, 30319. Call 404-848-7140 to sign up.

Turtle Tours Saturday, Jan. 11, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. – Her-

itage Sandy Springs’ “Turtle Tours,” an educational series appropriate for children ages 2-5, continues. In this program, children find out what museum mascot “Spring” the Turtle’s “favorite color” is. Free; donations encouraged. 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs, 30328. For more information, email: kbrigance@heritagesandysprings.org, call 404-8519111 or visit: www.heritagesandysprings.org.

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From left, Ivan Tiaseca, Fatima Biviano, Lauren Fitz and Karime Soriano prepare before performing in a Christmas play at the Three Kings Day celebration.

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Gabriela Gonzalez-Lamberson remembers celebrating Three Kings Days when she was growing up in Los An-

geles. Three Kings Day brought a little something extra each Christmas season. The day, celebrated in Mexico and throughout Latin America and South America, marks the point in the Biblical story of the birth of Jesus when the three wise men, or kings, arrived with gifts to honor the newborn. “It is a very important tradition within the Mexican culture,” said Gonzalez-Lamberson, who is of Cuban heritage but grew up in a community with Hispanic families from many countries, and works as executive director of the Brookhaven-based Instituto de Mexico, Inc. In some homes that decorate for the holidays with nativity scenes – the tabletop displays that usually include figures of Mary, Joseph, shepherds and angels – the figures of the kings were not added until Three Kings Day, Gonzalez-Lamberson said. At times between Christmas and Three Kings Day, the figures of the kings might be placed in rooms other than the one containing the nativity scene so children could imagine the Kings are on their journey, she said. In some families, children received presents on Three Kings Day. For the past 11 years, the nonprofit group Gonzalez-Lamberson directs has put together a public celebration of Three Kings Day. Organized to disseminate the art and culture of Mexico, the institute works to “keep traditions alive within the Mexican population and also create a friendship bridge between the Mexican and non-Mexican populations,” she said. Three Kings Day is one of four community celebrations the organization sponsors. The others, she said, are Children’s Day in April, Mexican Indepen-

out & about Three Kings Day When: Sunday, Jan. 5, 2014, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Melissa Babcock, M.D.

Where: Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., NW Admission cost: free For more information: www.atlantahistorycenter.com or 404-814-4000

dence Day in September, and the Day es by Mariachi musicians and folk dancof the Dead in November. ers, and an appearance by the three For the past couple of years, the kings, Gonzalez-Lamberson said. “We Three Kings Day celebraactually have the three tion has attracted about kings there,” she said. 1,000 participants, she “Each family gets to take said. About 70 percent of a photo with the three those who attend are Hiskings.” panic, she said. The goal is to work to This year, the celebrakeep Mexican traditions tion is scheduled for the alive among families now afternoon of Sunday, Jan. living in metro Atlanta. 5, and will be held at the “Part of what we do is Atlanta History Center to keep traditions alive,” in Buckhead. Admission she said. “We live in a sois free. Children 12 and ciety where there is asyounger who attend will similation. As generaGabriela Gonzalezbe given small presents, tions continue, traditions food and tickets to a raﬄe Lamberson, executive become morphed. But for larger presents, such as director of The Instituto our mission is to continde Mexico, Inc. bicycles – “the shiny, sassy ue those traditions and to fun things when you go continue to talk about the to Walmart,” she said. importance of those traditions – what is The celebration includes performancbehind it and why.”

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COMMUNITY

Cover photos of the year Reporter Newspapers staff thought the following photos captured the essence of life in our four local communities in 2013. Above, left, “Handshakes all around,” from the March 22-April 4 issue, from left, Max Marion, Hudson Fletcher and Jake Oliver, members of the Dunwoody Middle School baseball league, congratulate each other after a win. Above, right, in “Snap, crackle and pop,” which ran Nov. 15-Nov. 28, Sammy Heetderks, 6, left, and sister Hannah, 9, play in a large pile of leaves at their Brookhaven home. Right, “Lithe like a lion,” from Feb. 8-Feb. 21, Emma Hancock, left, and Mattie Martinez, right, surround Cecilia Bouska, center, during the “Lion King Dances of the Circle of Life” performance at The Galloway School. Left, “Dazzled by dragons,” which ran in the Jan. 25-Feb. 7 edition, Anna Grinshpon, 5, holds a paper dragon she made during a Chinese New Year program at the Sandy Springs Library. ALL PHOTOS BY PHIL MOSIER

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Above, “A pie in his eye” which ran in the Aug. 23-Sept. 5 issue, featured Mariah Andrews, left, making perfect contact with Sandy Springs librarian Marlan Brinkley, right, at the branch library. Below, “Taking ﬂight like a bird,” from the Feb. 22-March 7 edition, Tilden Ellis, 4, left, and his friend Grayson Richmond, 3, take a break from the nationwide Great Backyard Bird Count at the Dunwoody Nature Center.

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EDUCATION

Standout Student

Student Proﬁle:  Amelia Cole, senior  The Galloway School

By the end of high school, Amelia Cole will have received a dozen varsity letters for her participation on The Galloway School’s soccer, basketball and cross country teams. Cole’s athletic achievements put her in the running for the special 12-letter award, a rare achievement in Galloway history. “Only one girl got the award last year,” Cole said. “It’s really not that common for people to earn so many letters.” Excellence in the athletic arena has always been her goal, but Amelia didn’t always have the 12-letter award to work toward until high school. “I’m not even sure I knew about the award until sometime in freshman year,” she said. “But when I found out about it, it became my goal to get the award,” Cole said. Cole had a strong foundation for the skills she developed as an athlete and student at Galloway. She began playing soccer at the age of 3, and it has become an integral part of who she is. “I started going to Galloway before I was 3, so everyone knows me there. I have an older sister so they always knew me and they’ve always supported me,” Cole said. One of her supporters is her former soccer coach, Edgar Flores. Flores was her sister’s coach as well as Amelia’s coach in her freshman year, and is a close family friend. Flores now coaches at Dunwoody High School but has remained an important member of Cole’s support system.

“He was my coach, but he’s also a friend. He gave me a lot of advice. He always tells me to play with heart and fight for what I believe in,” Cole said. Flores described Amelia as “fast and fearless,” and a strong competitor. “She was always competing – with herself, with her sister, to make the team better,” Flores said. “She’s a unique athlete ... If Galloway has a Hall of Fame, someday she’ll be in it.”

What’s Next: Amelia plans to attend Elon University in North Carolina in the fall. She intends to keep playing soccer and to major in Special Education or Early Childhood Education. This article was prepared by Varsha Narendra, a student at Dunwoody High School.

Do you know a standout high school student? Send nominees to editor@reporternewspapers.net.

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A community of 1,300 students, ages 3-years-old through 12th Grade. Jan_2014_HIES_Reporter.indd 1

12/12/13 4:10 PM

EDUCATION

‘Last Dance’ marks end of an era for Chamblee High building BY MOLLIE SIMON Chamblee Charter High School students, parents and alumni threw their old school building a goodbye party before its scheduled demolition over the coming winter break. On Dec. 13, the Chamblee Parent Teacher Student Association held a “Last Dance” in the high school gym. “We did this so that people would have a really good last memory of the building and the people who have gone here,” said former Chamblee Governance Council Chair Belinda Wedgwood. The idea for the event came together in October, and the organizers reached out through Facebook to encourage alumni in the area to attend. The goal for the evening was to raise around $5,000 for school equipment and supplies. “Many of the active parents in the school were concerned about increased needs during the move into the new building, so we wanted to think of a creative way to support the teachers and students,” said Chamblee PTSA president Lisa Thule. The high school building, constructed in 1963 with additions in 1964, 1967, 1971, 1975 and 1997, has been used for a large part of the school’s history. Chamblee High marks its centen-

The old-fashioned way:

nial in 2017. Students will move in January into a new academic building. New athletic fields and performing arts facilities are scheduled to open at the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year. The Dec. 13 party featured a jazz cafe, the dance, and the opportunity to add hand-drawn graffiti to a cafeteria wall. Local businesses contributed to the event. “A high school should really be a central draw to the community, and I hope that people will want to be involved in what happens at the new school,” said Wedgwood. The dance brought some multi-generation Chamblee High families to the school. Sophomore Coen Williams, who played tenor sax and trombone with the jazz band, shared the occasion with his dad, a 1986 graduate. “I still look back on high school fondly, and I have remembered so much just since walking back in the doors [for the dance],” said Erin McNicholas of the class of 2004.

MOLLIE SIMON

Above, students, parents and teachers threw the old Chamblee Charter High School building, scheduled to be demolished over winter break, a party on Dec. 13. Left, senior Jessica Cruz adds her comments to the “Graffiti Wall” in the school’s cafeteria during the event. The party was a chance for everyone to say goodbye to the facility, and to also raise money for school supplies and equipment.

Mollie Simon is a senior at Chamblee Charter High School and a student intern with Reporter Newspapers.

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 4300 block of Dunwoody Park – A burglary to a residence, using forced entry, resulted in the theft of a laptop and costume jewelry, and was reported on Dec. 9; a burglary to a residence, using forced entry, resulted in the theft of a laptop, TV and jewelry, and was reported on Dec. 9.  4900

block of Glaze Drive – A

 2300 block of Dunwoody Crossing – A burglary to a residence, using forced entry, resulted in the theft of cash, a TV and video games, and was reported on Dec. 12.  4300 block of Georgetown Square – A burglary to a non-residence, using forced entry, resulted in the theft of cash, ﬁnancial records and a laptop, and was reported on Dec. 12; a burglary to a non-residence, using

DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

 1900 block of Calder Court – A suspicious person was reported on Dec. 13.

 100 block of Perimeter Loft Circle – A burglary to a non-residence, without using forced entry, resulted in the theft Read more of the of computer equipPolice Blotter online at ment, and was reported on Dec. 15. www.reporternewspapers.net

burglary to a residence, using forced entry, resulted in the theft of a shotgun, riﬂe, laptop, coins and a safe, and was reported on Dec.10.

forced entry, resulted in the theft of cash and stamps, and was reported on Dec. 13.

100 block of Perimeter Center



Place – A burglary to a residence, using forced entry, resulted in the theft of an iPad mini, two TVs and a Wii system, and was reported on Dec. 17.

A S S A U LT  4600 block of Ridgeview Road – Simple assault/battery was reported on Dec. 10.  4300 block of Dunwoody Park – Assault through intimidation was reported on Dec. 10.

DUN

PUBLIC SAFETY

Woman charged with impersonating police officer A 45-year-old Roswell woman has been charged with impersonating a Dunwoody police officer. Dunwoody police were contacted Nov. 21 by a resident of Milton who said he had received a phone call from people who claimed to be Dunwoody detectives and a woman who asked for personal information. Dunwoody police said they didn’t make that call. When a Dunwoody detective called a suspect’s phone number and identified himself, a woman who answered claimed she was Dunwoody Police Detective Annette Davis, police said in a press release. “The suspect questioned why she had never met the detective if he worked for Dunwoody police, then ended the conversation,” the press release said. Dunwoody police said detectives located Annette Davis, who on Dec. 18 was taken to the DeKalb County Jail on a charge of impersonating an officer.

2300 block of Dunwoody Crossing – Simple assault/battery was reported on Dec. 13; assault through intimidation was reported on Dec. 16. 4400 block of Ashford Dunwoody Road – Assault through intimidation was reported on Dec. 13. 5200 block of Marston Road – Simple assault/battery was reported on Dec. 16. 2100 block of Peachford Road – Simple assault was reported on Dec. 17.

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Harassing communications were reported on Dec. 11. 4700 block of N. Peachtree Road – A civil dispute was reported on Dec. 11. 4900 block of Winters Chapel Road – Animal complaints were reported on Dec. 11. 4300 block of Ashford Dunwoody Road – Five reports of prostitution were reported on Dec. 11. 4500 block of N. Peachtree Road – A civil dispute was reported on Dec. 12.

1100 block of Hammond Drive – Public indecency/indecent exposure was reported on Dec. 9.

1st block of Perimeter Center Place – Harassing communications were reported on Dec. 13.

1st block of Perimeter Center East – Harassing communications were reported on Dec. 10; harassing communications were reported on Dec. 12.

100 block of Perimeter Center West – Disorderly conduct was reported on Dec. 14.

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DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | 21

COMMUNITY

Workers began clearing trees from the center median of Dunwoody Village Parkway on Dec. 10, and will remove the median and put in erosion control systems in January. The remodel, what the city calls its “Main Street Project,” is expected to take six to eight months to complete.

SPECIAL

Controversial city projects get under way CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

won the third after the incumbent did ment to the 12-foot-wide, concrete trail not seek re-election. through the park. The council approved Critics of the projects remained unthe project 4-3, with Councilwoman convinced of the need for them even as Lynn Deutsch and Councilmen Terry the city was moving ahead with conNall and Denny Shortal voting against struction. the proposal. “The Dunwoody Village Parkway Mayor Mike Davis later defended project is Exhibit A of Dunwoody City both projects as important to the city. Council incompetence ...,” Save Dun“I consider both the Main Street woody member Jim Dickson said in an Project in Dunwoody Village and the email. “Several council members who continuation of the Brook Run multivoted for this project design claim it was use trail as critically significant projects necessary to promote economic develof change for Dunwoody,” Davis wrote opment while acknowledging ... they in an email. “The Main Street Project in had serious doubts it ever would.” Dunwoody Village gives the entire vilMerry Carmichael, who also was lage area a much needed lift, and will active in Save Dunwoody, said “once help promote future investment and reagain, the cart has been put before the development opportunities. ... horse. ... Building this now toward the “Continuation of the Brook Run Dunwoody City Council’s ‘future vimulti-use trail provides the community sion’ is a waste of our taxpayer dollars, with opportunities for active recreation both local funds and federal grants.” and access not available before. The trail And Paul Lowry, who lives on Peelwill open up areas of the park previouser Road across from Brook Run Park, ly inaccessible in the past, and provide questioned the cost of the projects, and users of all ages and abilities with acsuggested the reworking of the parkway cess to the more than 100 acres of Brook should include contributions from busiRun Park. It’s not just another phase of nesses in the area. “I’m really into puba trail, but a key cog in the overall citylic-private,” he said. “If we want to crewide trail network, oﬀering new pedesate a village up there, I think the private trian access to shops, restaurants and people up there should help do it.” neighborhoods, and eventually connectMembers of the council were critical ing Brook Run Park to Georgetown and of the cost of the second phase of the future areas within the city.” Brook Run Trail. Both projects were the focus of heatThe council agreed to approve up to ed debate in Dunwoody for much of $666,600 for the construction contract, 2013. Opponents joined with residents including a 10 percent contingency who questioned a proposal to study infund. The city originally had budgeted stallation of a roundabout at the inter$441,000 for the job, Parks and Recresection of Vermack and Womack roads ation Manager Brent Walker said in a to create a group called Save Dunwoody, memorandum to the council, but the and posted yard signs decrying the projlow bid on the project was for $606,000. ects. The diﬀerence would be made up by usThe projects also became issues in ing funds originally allocated for future the 2013 campaigns for three seats on work on the trail, city officials said. Dunwoody City Council. Incumbents Davis called the increase in the anticreclaimed two of the seats, but a critic ipated cost of construction “a sure sign of the projects, newcomer Jim Riticher, the economy is coming back.” | 22 DEC. 27, 2013 – JAN. 9, 2014 | www.ReporterNewspapers.net

“Main Street Project” plans call for narrowing the parkway’s four-lane road, adding bike lanes and sidewalks to make the area more cyclist- and pedestrian-friendly and planting new trees.

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