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gear up Dunwoody named in top-10 Cities for festivities in Digital City Survey awards to celebrate DUNWOODY, Ga. — The Center for Digital Government has named Dunwoody a top-10 winner city in the annual Digital Cities Survey, which has recognized municipalities using technology to strengthen cybersecurity and enhance transparency for 23 years. Dunwoody was honored, along with the top 10-ranking cities in each of five population categories, during the National League of Cities’ City Summit Nov. 16 in Atlanta. Dunwoody, with a population of 51,000, was ranked ninth in the category of cities with up to 75,000. In announcing the award, the organization described Dunwoody as having “a strong foundation in data-driven decision-making.” The organization cites the city’s use of surveys and feedback requests to obtain citizen input, in addition to tracking key performance indicators to monitor engagement. They also highlight the decision to move data to the cloud, segregating access and using policies to ensure data storage complies with Georgia’s Open Records Act. “This recognition reinforces the outstanding work of our Technology Department in leveraging new tools to increase cybersecurity and improve our effectiveness across all departments,”

See DUNWOODY, Page 8

the holidays By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

CITY OF DUNWOODY/PROVIDED

From left, Dunwoody Technology Manager Jordan White, Technology Director Ginger LePage and City Manager Eric Linton accept the Center for Digital Government’s award as a top-10 winner of the annual Digital Cities Survey Nov. 16.

DUNWOODY, Ga. — The City of Dunwoody’s Brook Run Park will shine bright with 85,000 lights and an Aprèsski theme throughout December. The Parks and Recreation Department will bring Holiday Lights back for the fourth annual celebration. Opening night festivities will take place Dec. 1 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch will flip the switch on the lights at 6 p.m. This year’s opening night coincides with the 15-year anniversary of the City of Dunwoody, which was incorporated on Dec. 1, 2008. The first 125 guests will receive special mugs, and the light display will include an illuminated anniversary logo. The Mega Tree will return with animated lights synched to holiday music. Opening night festivities will include free hot cocoa and character photo-ops beginning at 4 p.m. In addition to lights, Dunwoody Parks and Recreation will also mark the season with two letter campaigns. Letters to Seniors will be distributed

See EVENTS, Page 20

2 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody

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All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

Police arrest suspect wanted in carjacking DUNWOODY, Ga. — A 37-year-old Dunwoody man was arrested and turned over to the Brookhaven Police Department around 2 a.m. Nov. 7, after allegedly carjacking a 25-yearold Atlanta woman’s red 2015 Ford Escape. Dunwoody officers were dispatched to Leisure Lane in reference to an agency assistance call shortly after midnight. Brookhaven officers said a carjacking had just occurred in their jurisdiction and the vehicle was headed toward the residence of David Lloyd whom they identified as the person operating the vehicle and who had made threats toward the owner of the vehicle. Dunwoody officers arrived at Lloyd’s residence and set up a perimeter. He was placed under arrest and turned over to Brookhaven Police without incident.

Stone Mountain man cited for drugs, weapon DUNWOODY, Ga. — A Dunwoody officer charged a 19-year-old Stone Mountain man with several drug-related offenses Nov. 10, after conducting a traffic stop on a gray Mitsubishi Eclipse for no insurance and suspended registration. The officer said he was traveling west on Meadow Lane Road toward Ridgeview Road around 7:15 p.m. when he conducted the traffic stop. During the traffic stop, police said

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PUBLIC SAFETY probable cause was established for additional charges of possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, possession of a schedule II narcotic and drugs not in original container. The Stone Mountain man had a Bear Creek Arsenal AR-15 rifle, $3,374 in cash and drug paraphernalia in his possession during the arrest, the police report stated.

Man arrested on I-285 for driving under influence DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody police arrested a 27-year-old Norcross man for driving under the influence and improper lane usage around 1 a.m. Nov. 8, after the officer conducted a traffic stop on I-285 eastbound at the off-ramp for Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. The driver, identified as Austin Thomas, passed a Dunwoody patrol vehicle at a high rate of speed and was unable to maintain a lane. The responding officer said Thomas slurred his speech and was not articulate during their conversation. While Thomas denied consuming any alcohol, the officer said there was an open case of Miller Lite beer bottles in the rear of the vehicle. After he initially refused to participate in the standardized field sobriety evaluations, Thomas eventually complied and failed several of the evaluations. Police determined he had been operating a vehicle under the influence. Thomas was arrested and transported to DeKalb County Jail without incident.

Norcross man arrested for DUI and obstruction JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police arrested

a Norcross man Nov. 11 after he failed to maintain lanes and followed another vehicle too closely on Medlock Bridge Road. When police conducted a traffic stop, they believed the suspect had bloodshot, watery eyes and smelled alcohol on his breath. The suspect told police he was heading to work but changed his story multiple times, according to the police report. The suspect refused field sobriety evaluations and made several derogatory, racist comments toward officers on the scene, the police report said. Police arrested the suspect for driving under the influence. After transporting him to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta, the suspect was refused for his behavior and was eventually transported to the Fulton County Jail on Rice Street. The suspect was charged with driving under the influence, following too closely, willful obstruction and improper lane change.

Man scammed of $4,100 with threat of fake warrant JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — A Johns Creek man told police Nov. 13 he was scammed out of $4,100 by someone claiming he had an active warrant for his arrest. The man told police the caller said the warrant was for a civil action and that if he did not pay the $4,100, he would be arrested. The man said he sent the money through a cryptocurrency exchange company, according to the incident report, and was instructed by the scammer on what account to send the bitcoin to. The man provided police with three photos containing an arrest warrant, instructions on payment and the receipt for evidence.

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UGA’s Hairy Dawg packs City Springs

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By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Hundreds of families and Dawgs fans from Metro Atlanta packed into the City Springs Studio Theater Nov. 19 for Cookies & Cocoa with Hairy Dawg, an annual event put on by one of the University of Georgia Alumni Association’s affinity groups — Women of UGA. The atmosphere was overwhelmingly optimistic after the Bulldogs defeated the University of Tennessee Volunteers 38-10 in their last conference game of the 2023 season. The annual Cookies & Cocoa event has become a tradition in many Metro Atlanta households, according to Women of UGA councilmember Mandy Rodgers. Women of UGA have put on the event every year since 2017. While last year’s event was held at Villa Christina in Brookhaven, this year’s event was held at City Springs for the first time. “We do try to look at the map and make it as central as possible, which is hard because we have such a big alumni group,” Rodgers said. The UGA Alumni Association created four affinity groups to be led by 15-person leadership councils who steer the mission and programming for each distinct group. The other three affinity groups are UGA Black Alumni, Young Alumni and Latino Alumni. Rodgers said the entire alumni community is invited to the affinity group’s signature event. Women of UGA selected a specific charitable organization for the first time in the annual event’s history. The alumni group raised over $10,000 for Embark@UGA, a campusbased initiative for students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, according to a Women of UGA Facebook post Nov. 21. Proceeds from donations, UGA bookstore purchases and admission fees for the event contributed to the charitable donation. While the event was at a new venue this year, all the previous activities, including story corner with special guests, “Letters to Uga” activity station, cookie decorating and the Hairy Dawg Holiday Photo. “We try to do the photos at the beginning because everyone wants to have their kids as clean and crisp as possible,” Rodgers said.

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

The Women of UGA Leadership Council takes a photo with the team mascot, Hairy Dawg, Nov. 19. The alumni group raised over $10,000 for Embark@UGA, a campus-based initiative for students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

For each of the four time slots from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the City Springs Studio Theatre, story time began at the halfhour mark, giving everyone ample time to take a photo with Hairy Dawg. After gathering all the young Dawg fans in the story corner, the Alumni Redcoat Pep Band performed to conclude the event. While author and former wide receiver Malcom Mitchell has been a special guest reader in previous years, Rennie Curran and his daughter Eleana read their book, “What Does It Take To Be a Star?” Curran is a former professional athlete, three-time All-American at the University of Georgia and the chief executive officer of Game Changer Coaching. The Currans were asked how it felt to be able to share their motivational children’s book at an alumni event. “For me, it’s definitely an honor because UGA is such a big part of my life and a big part of how I’m able to pass on my experiences to her,” Rennie Curran said. “It felt good because I want to empower little kids,” Eleana Curran said. “…to tell them that there is a way to become what you want to become, as long as you put that work in.” C. Lee Zell, president of the University of Georgia Alumni Association Board of Directors, was also in attendance. Zell joined Miss UGA 2023 Sarah Park and Chuck Kinnebrew to serve as special guest readers at different time slots throughout the day. “I came here with my daughter, and it was actually her first time meeting Hairy,” Alpharetta resident Dan Middleton said. “We got some great Christmas photos…this is a great event and its local.”

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4 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody

NEWS

Businesses mix it up with chamber’s help at networking event By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — It’s tough enough running a small business these days, but being bashful can be a real handicap. Each month, the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber of Commerce gathers business owners – introverts and extroverts – and puts them in a room to rub elbows. Financial planners, real estate agents, entrepreneurs and other small business owners gathered at City Barbeque Nov. 16 to forge some new connections in a laidback setting at the chamber’s Networking at Noon. The event is a unique networking opportunity, where each guest gives a 1-minute elevator pitch to present their business over lunch. Each attendee is also guaranteed two contacts from a drawing out of the group’s business cards. Afterward, the contact information of everyone present at the event is shared with all attendees for network strengthening purposes. Attendees can meet each other without leaving their seat. Jon Wittenburg, owner of Minuteman Press at 7840 Roswell Road, said he has been a chamber member since he opened

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

City Barbeque at 6649 Roswell Road sits in Abernathy Square, centrally located in Sandy Springs. The restaurant was selected to host the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber of Commerce’s Networking at Noon Nov. 16.

his business in Sandy Springs 11 years ago. “I’m an introvert, so these things, especially when I first started, were never easy for me,” Wittenburg said. “But, you can’t sit by the closet and expect to meet people.” Wittenburg said events like Networking at Noon are more attractive to small business owners because of the affordable price. Admission is $20 for members and $35 for non-members.

About 40 business professionals from an array of industries showed up for the lunch and networking opportunity Nov. 16. Wittenburg said the chamber has evolved over the years, and new leadership has recently emphasized small businesses. During the COVID-19 pandemic some networking events were held virtually, but it wasn’t the same, Wittenburg said. “I try to frame my business as a onestop-shop for businesspeople,” Wittenburg said. “So, my customers are primarily doing print marketing things.” Wittenburg said several chamber members are his client, and his business model is geared toward the print marketing needs of other small businesses. He even provided four door prizes awarded to guests selected by drawing at the meeting. Lena Liebrecht, director of communications and events for the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber, said the networking series has been going on for years, with different iterations. She said the location changes every month. “We can make sure we’re maximizing the community members of Sandy Springs,” Liebrecht said. “It’s not always an option, but we try to use a member’s

location as well.” Michael Tuhus, president of Proven Solutions, 300 Colonial Center Parkway, liked what he saw at the Nov. 16 networking meeting, the first he’s attended. “I would say that it was scintillating, and it was an interesting variety of businesses represented,” Tuhus said. “One minute was enough to get a general idea.” Two members are randomly selected at the end of each meeting to give a 4-minute presentation at the next session. Area business operators have another meet-and-greet option. On the last Tuesday of each month, the Sandy Springs Perimeter and Brookhaven chambers team up for a networking event, Coffee and Contacts. Representatives from the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts sit on the board of the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber of Commerce, which facilitates the joint gathering. There will not be December networking events, Liebrecht said. The next Coffee and Contacts is Nov. 28 at Symphona, 1050 Crown Pointe Parkway from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Like Networking at Noon, attendees will network and learn more about fellow attendees and how their businesses may best complement each other, Liebrecht said.

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JAMIE TUCKER/JET-IMAGING

The owner of Jewelry Artisans, Jamie Kresl, stands in the middle of the Ashford Lane showroom, with his team of designers, sales professionals and consultants. Jewelry Artisans’ 50-year anniversary sale concluded Nov. 11.

Perimeter area jewelers mark 50th anniversary By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com DUNWOODY, Ga. — Although the City of Dunwoody celebrates its 15-year anniversary at Brook Run Park Dec. 1, there is a pillar of the community with its 50-year anniversary already behind them. Jewelry Artisans, located in Ashford Lane at 4500 Olde Perimeter Way, was founded in 1973 by David Geller, a thirteenth-generation jeweler, who left his family business to strike out on his own. Geller, with a passion for custom design, opened his first little shop on Roswell Road in Sandy Springs just north of Mount Paran Road. After about 20 years in business, and three different locations on Roswell Road, Jamie Kresl joined the team as the store manager. In 2000, Kresl purchased the store with aspirations to add jewelry lines and expand the showroom. Eventually, in 2006, Jewelry Artisans moved to its current location at Ashford Lane, an outdoor mall near Perimeter Center. The warm, inviting studio and showroom has welcomed thousands of people in the past 17 years, earning Jewelry Artisans a reputation in the community. With over 500 five-star Google reviews, the store’s reputation in Metro Atlanta is overwhelmingly positive. Frankie Doughtie, a customer for 20 years, said she highly recommends Jewelry Artisans. “Wonderful people to work with and very talented and trustworthy,” she said. “I wouldn’t go anywhere else for all my jewelry needs.”

Another customer, Ronda Powell, said it only took one week to have a ring with a missing diamond repaired at the store. “They also helped design a new ring using stones from my deceased father’s ring that I can now wear in remembrance of him,” Powell said. “Highly recommend!” This year, Jewelry Artisans won Appen Media’s 2023 Best of Perimeter award for best jeweler in the shopping and commerce category, beating out Camelot Jewelers, Status Jewels and Dunwoody Diamonds USA. What’s more, the store placed in the top three for the Atlanta’s Best Award for jeweler, losing to Worthmore Jewelers in midtown Atlanta and Decatur. “As we look back over the past 50 years,” Kresl said. “We feel immense gratitude for the many friendships that have been forged, and the generations of families that we have been privileged to serve.” Success starts at the top A large part of Jewelry Artisans’ success can be attributed to the can-do attitude of owner Jamie Kresl. Like founder David Geller, Kresl’s passion for custom design hits home with clients looking to put their own unique spin on an item or seeking an unusual, non-traditional jeweler. “The team is so friendly and helpful,” customer Robin Adams said. “I just bought two amazing [and] very unique rings today, and they helped with my repair needs as well.”

See JEWELRY, Page 11

6 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody

COMMUNITY

Café serves community in downtown Alpharetta

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

McKinley, Shawn, Kenny, Woods and Brooke Libby smile outside Warm Waves Coffee House Nov. 17 on North Main Street in Alpharetta. The family-owned coffee shop opened its doors in 2021 after testing the waters at the Alpharetta Farmers Market.

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

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ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The family-owned Warm Waves Coffee House on North Main Street serves as a gathering place with an intentional and curated menu for the Alpharetta community. Some 15 years ago, Milton resident Kenny Libby said his wife Shawn gifted him a coffee roaster for Father’s Day, and he began sampling different beans and coffees. “It was just such a difference between what you buy at the grocery store and roasting fresh coffees,” Kenny Libby said. “It kind of became a personal hobby of mine. I just loved it.” Initially, Kenny Libby shared the coffee he roasted at home with friends and family. But, when his daughter Brooke needed to fundraise for a World Race gap year mission trip, she thanked those who donated with coffee. The Libbys then set up shop at the Alpharetta Farmers Market in 2018 and soon found success. “The next year, we signed up, and we built an espresso bar and then stepped it up and started making espresso drinks and more offerings, and it just became really popular,” Kenny Libby said. With a proof of concept, he said the family purchased a commercial coffee roaster that year to be housed in a building he owns in Norcross. Throughout 2019, he was trained through the Specialty Coffee Association and received his professional roasting certification. “Our goal when we started this was to become wholesale coffee roasters,” Kenny Libby said. ”Our plan wasn’t to open a coffee shop. At the end of 2019, we felt pretty

good about the quality of our coffee that we were roasting, and we felt comfortable starting moving past just friends and family with the coffee and start selling it to the general public.” The new business venture hit a hurdle when the COVID-19 pandemic forced Warm Waves to close its existing accounts. But, on the way home from the last Alpharetta Farmers Market of the season, Kenny Libby said he and daughters Brooke and McKinley spotted a former day spa for lease at 52-A N. Main St. “We signed the lease in December of 2020 and then built out the place and opened up in August of 2021,” Kenny Libby said. Warm Waves serves the standard fare of tea and espresso in traditional sizes, but guests can also sample seasonal drinks crafted by the shop’s baristas, including bourbon butterscotch, sweet potato pie and fall spice. “I think, in general, we are just really proud of our sauces and our syrups, and I think that sets our menu and our coffee apart in a lot of ways,” Brooke Libby said. Brooke Libby now works as a barista and manager at the Alpharetta coffee shop. She is also set to become manager of Warm Waves’ forthcoming second location in Suwanee. She said the shop’s fan favorite flavor is the beehive, a combination of cinnamon, vanilla and honey, but its lavender and vanilla flavor is a popular summertime choice.

Menus, hours and more information can be found at warmwavescoffee.com.

See COFFEE, Page 7

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

Warm Waves Coffee House borders North Main Street in Alpharetta Nov. 17. The family-owned coffee shop serves espresso, tea, seasonal drinks and fresh pastries.

Sandy Springs City Green will feature new ice rink SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs residents and visitors can enjoy a new ice rink on the City Green at 1 Galambos Way beginning Nov. 24. The ice rink, Skate City Springs, will be open until Jan. 21. People are invited to glide, spin, stride and laugh with friends as they skate, or just watch from the sidelines with a cup of hot cocoa. Adult tickets are $15 per hour. Tickets for children (ages 2-10) are $13 per hour. Admission includes skate rental. Attendees of Skate City Springs must purchase a timed admission online and arrive a few minutes early to pick up their skates. Skate City Green will be open daily and is scheduled for special hours while kids are out of school for the holidays. The City of Sandy Springs encourages folks to bundle up and check availability before coming in person. The City Green is a 4-acre park, which serves as the outdoor component of the City Springs complex. The park features a large lawn, covered seating, picnic tables and free WiFi.

COMMUNITY

AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | November 30, 2023 | 7

CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED

Decorations are beginning to appear around City Hall, next door to where Skate City Springs will kickoff Nov. 24.

Coffee: Continued from Page 6 “When we opened this place up, I think, above all else, we wanted this to be a space where people could come and gather and spend time together and have good conversation,” Brooke Libby said. The sourcing of Warm Waves’ coffee is also a priority. Kenny Libby said the shop works with small farmers to cut the middleman and maximize profits for the small-scale operations. The coffee shop works with an eighthgeneration Honduran coffee farming family, a boutique partner in Nicaragua and a family-operated Ethiopian company. Beyond the coffee, Shawn Libby said Warm Waves serves a variety of fresh pastries in partnership with St. Germain Bakery in Atlanta. The shop also employs an in-house chef who prepares blueberry muffins, orange cardamom cake, quiches and egg bites. “We try to incorporate a little bit of everything so people can have something nice to eat, excellent coffee, great atmosphere, positive vibes, good community,” Shawn Libby said. “And our goal is, really, to partner with local, family-owned businesses as well. That’s really important to us because we’re a family-owned business.”

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Alpharetta mayor chides CID official for favoring Forsyth County proposal By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Alpharetta Mayor Jim Gilvin called out True North 400 Executive Director Brandon Beach Nov. 6 for what he views as working to promote business in Forsyth County. In an October interview on Atlanta Community Profiles with Lou Wieland, Beach shared his anticipation of a National Hockey League arena at The Gathering at South Forsyth, a venue that Alpharetta had been seeking to help revitalize its North Point Corridor. At the Nov. 6 City Council meeting, Gilvin issued a statement about Beach’s comments during the interview. Gilvin noted Beach serves as vice chairman on the Fulton County Devel-

opment Authority, and he questioned why an official who supports economic development in North Fulton would encourage a project in Forsyth County. “It’s very frustrating,” Gilvin said. Beach also serves in the Georgia State Senate, representing District 21 which includes North Fulton and parts of Cherokee County. His district lies within a stone’s throw of The Gathering. In an Oct. 25 email to Beach, the Alpharetta City Council and city staff, Gilvin questioned why the executive director publicly expressed support for a development outside of True North 400’s boundaries. True North, a community improvement district, represents businesses and commercial property owners in a band that roughly follows Ga. 400 from Mansell Road

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December Highlights

Art 5 Dunwoody Commission Meeting

1 Dunwoody is 15! The City of Dunwoody was incorporated on December 1, 2008. Happy 15!

Après-Ski Holiday Lights Opening Night and SouperBowl of Caring Food Drive Brook Run Park 4 - 8 p.m.

1-31 Après-Ski Holiday Lights Brook Run Park Nightly, 5 -10 p.m.

1-17 It’s a Wonderful Life A Live Radio Play Stage Door Theatre

2 First Free Saturday

Dunwoody Nature Center 1 p.m.

City Hall | 7:30 a.m.

Board of 7 Zoning Appeals City Hall | 6 p.m.

City Council 11 Dunwoody Meeting City Hall | 6 p.m.

Planning Commission Meeting City Hall | 6 p.m.

16 Game Night

Dunwoody Preservation Trust N. Shallowford Annex 5 - 10 p.m.

Dunwoody Farmers Market

final market for the season; reopening Jan. 13 Brook Run Park

25-26 City Hall closed

“We think we can support an NHL team and do very well with that. So, we’re hoping to get that in the next few months. Hopefully an announcement will come soon on that.” BRANDON BEACH True North 400 Executive Director north to McGinnis Ferry Road through Roswell, Alpharetta and Milton. The businesses tax themselves to help fund economic development initiatives within the CID’s boundaries. “Could you please explain to me why you are pushing for an enormous economic development project outside of the CID district which would directly compete with commercial properties actually in the North Fulton CID and the City of Alpharetta?” Gilvin wrote in the email. As of Nov. 13, Gilvin said Beach has not responded to his inquiry. “Now, if he has a legitimate reason for working against our property owners, then I would expect him to at least share that with me,” Gilvin said at the Nov. 6 meeting. The Gathering at South Forsyth is a proposed $2 billion development on some 100 acres along Union Hill Road, Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Ga. 400 in south Forsyth County. If approved, it is expected to produce more than 12,000 long-term employment opportunities, as well as 20,000 construction jobs during its 10-year development. The anticipated project has been billed as a major entertainment hub for Metro Atlanta since its unveiling at a Forsyth County Commission work session in April. Earlier this year, a Tweet by hockey anchor John Buccigross spurred rumors that an NHL arena would return to Atlanta. At the time, Alpharetta was speculated to be the destination, but

Dunwoody: Continued from Page 1 City Manager Eric Linton said. “We work as a team with no silos, and this award shows how that cooperation and coordination benefits the Dunwoody community.” The Center for Digital Government also called attention to the city’s use of

now, the planned 750,000-square-foot arena at The Gathering could be the target. In September, the Forsyth County development also hired Senior Project Executive Frank Ferrara, who helped secure an NHL tenant when he administered the Arizona State University ice hockey program. In the Lou Wieland interview, Beach discussed his role as executive director of True North 400, and he said he hopes to see the arena deal come to fruition. “We think we can support an NHL team and do very well with that,” Beach said in the interview. “So, we’re hoping to get that in the next few months. Hopefully an announcement will come soon on that.” Beach also noted the demand for walkable areas with retail and commercial components like The Battery Atlanta, Avalon and downtown Alpharetta, saying The Gathering could become a similar draw to the region. “It’s just a great way of life, and people want that,” Beach said. “They want that sense of place, if you will, and a gathering spot. And I think that’s what that development up there in Forsyth will do. It’s not in Fulton County, but it’s right on our line.” In an email to Appen Media, Alpharetta Economic and Community Development Director Kathi Cook said the city cannot forecast the economic impacts that a professional arena would have on Alpharetta without a specific proposal from a developer. But, Cook said the development of Truist Park in Cobb County and the Deer District in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, demonstrate how arenas “can spur revitalization and mixed-use development of immediately surrounding properties and positively impact the community.” Cobb County officials reported The Battery Atlanta, the development that includes Truist Park, grossed $38 million in tax revenues in 2022. The development grossed more property tax income than Cobb County’s residents. Beach did not return Appen Media’s repeated requests for comment. technology in policing work, using data collected from the police department’s records management system and additional sources to develop and implement strategic policing methods. “We’re grateful to be honored on a national level, and it gives us motivation to keep innovating,” Dunwoody Technology Director Ginger LePage said. “I’m proud of my team and the rest of the staff who work together to not only learn but embrace new technology.”

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1 Tubers 5 Bird (Lat.) 19 17 18 9 Dutch cheese 21 22 23 20 13 Charles Lamb 24 25 26 27 28 14 Nocturnal insect 31 32 29 30 15 Snake toxin 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 17 Resoluteness 19 Run off 41 42 43 40 20 Martin or 47 48 49 44 45 46 McQueen 21 Linear unit 50 51 52 53 23 Belief 57 58 54 55 56 24 Irritate 27 Most hateful 59 60 61 62 63 64 29 Wedding words 67 68 69 65 66 31 Sweat 33 Plateau 71 72 70 35 Perk 73 74 75 36 Ger. prison 40 Play parts Copyright ©2023 PuzzleJunction.com 41 Pinch 11 Electron tube 45 Compass 73 Atlas Shrugged 43 Singer Turner 12 Moons about point author Ayn 44 Flowerless 16 Beef, e.g. 46 Highlander 74 Elec. units plants 18 Bird word 48 Gr. letter 75 Energy units 47 Shelter 22 Hawaiian 51 Respiratory 49 Newts garlands disorder Down 50 Intensify 25 Ex-serviceman 52 Test 53 Second sight 26 Ireland 54 Rebuff 1 Conifers 54 Music systems 28 See 30 Down 55 Singing voice 2 Got down 57 Levies 29 Holyman 56 Superﬂuous 3 Distance 59 Succeeding 30 With 28 Down, 58 Give markers 60 Sum (Abbr.) painting style expression to 4 Balm 62 Accumulate 32 Brim over 61 Hang over 5 I love (Lat.) 65 Loosen laces 34 Declaration 63 Warble 6 Oath 67 Amateur picture 37 Candy or buoy 64 Tennis units 7 Component show 38 Pismires 66 Goal 8 Seafood choice 70 Chem. element 39 Short inhalation 68 Chart 9 Garden resident 71 Indicate 42 Combustible 69 Printer’s 10 Describe in discomfort material measures vivid detail 72 Camp shelter

See solution on Page 20

Solution on next page

10 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com

NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

Name: Ark Coffeehaus Owners: Priscilla Wells and John Yacoub Description: HOSPITALITY: Our business is hospitality, but our medium is darn good coffee (&tea..shrubs..etc) We believe every customer should be met with an incredible experience as well as some darn good food. We source much of our ingredients from local farms and manufacturers and we believe in practicing regenerative principles. Opened: November 2023 Phone: (678) 626-7021 Address: 4448 Tilly Mill Rd Ste G, Dunwoody, GA, United States, Georgia Website: https://www.arkcoffeehaus.com/

Spotlights Appen Media aims to help promote members of the business community. Publishing New Business Spotlights is a way to help pursue that goal and inform readers about the new services opening nearby. Submit your opening for free at appenmedia.com/newbusiness.

Name: Perimeter Beauty & Barber Institute Owner: Brian Reynolds Description: Perimeter Beauty & Barber Institute is committed to improving our student’s future by motivating and providing long-lasting experiences in the growing demand for cosmetology. Our curriculum is relevant in preparation for state licens-

Name: AllCare Primary & Immediate Care Owner: Capital Healthcare Description: AllCare Primary & Immediate Care provides a breadth of healthcare services, including annual physicals, preventive care and immediate health needs! We are open 7 days a week to provide easy access and the best quality care for our patients. We can accommo-

date same-day appointments, including walk-ins, and are currently accepting new patients. Opened: November 7, 2023 Address: 13800 Highway 9, Suite K, Alpharetta, GA 30004 Phone: 678-935-9614 Web Address: https://allcarefamilymed. com/locations/Alpharetta

ing and obtaining employment. We strive to prepare students for opportunities in a dimension of cosmetic industries. Month Opened: November 2023 Phone: (470) 299-5145 Address: 4719 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, #205 Dunwoody, GA 30338 Website: https://www.perimeter.school/ Business: Spherion Northeast Atlanta Owners: Nasser Nammari and Aysha Abdullatif Description: Spherion Northeast Atlanta is a local staffing and recruiting agency with a focus on temporary staffing, temp-tohire, direct hiring, on-premises staff management and outsourced talent acquisition. Our mission is to drive careers, grow businesses and better the communities we call home through matching the right candidate with the right employer. Opened: October 2023 Phone: 678-695-4004 Address: 4511 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd A 4, Atlanta, GA 30338 Website: https://www.spherion.com/ouroffices/northeast-atlanta_16466/

NEWS

AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | November 30, 2023 | 11

Sandy Springs police arrest driver Atlanta Track Club seen ‘laying drag’ at headquarters lists local athletes SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Sandy Springs Police Department’s advice for Traffic Tip Tuesday Nov. 14 was related to security footage of a vehicle laying drag at 7840 Roswell Road, which is also police headquarters. “Word of advice: If you are going to lay drag, make sure you are not directly outside of a police station,” the department’s Facebook post read. Cameras at the Police Department’s headquarters captured a black Dodge Charger doing donuts in the rear parking lot at 1:06 a.m. Oct. 26. Laying drag is defined as operating a vehicle “in such a manner as to create a danger to persons or property by intentionally and unnecessarily causing the vehicle to move in a zigzag or circular course or to gyrate or spin around,” according to state law. Police said the driver was later arrested at a traffic stop, where officers determined the driver had a suspended license. The driver also received citations for not wearing a seatbelt, disregarding a stop sign, driving with bald tires and laying

for achievement in cross-country

SANDY SPRINGS POLICE/PROVIDED

A frame from security footage at the Sandy Springs Police Department’s headquarters Oct. 26 shows a vehicle laying drag, or doing donuts. The vehicle was later stopped by officers at a traffic stop, where the driver was identified and arrested. drag. The Sandy Springs’ police dashboard lists a traffic offense less than a half mile away from police headquarters at Adair Lane and Spring Creek Lane Oct. 26 at 1:06 a.m.

The department declined to offer more information related to the incident and arrest. To view a video of the incident, visit https://www.facebook.com/ watch/?v=2099974503675675

Jewelry: Continued from Page 5 Kresl announced Jewelry Artisans’ once-in-a-lifetime sale Oct. 13, which was inspired by the family-owned business’ anniversary. The anniversary sale made half of the store 50 percent off, including discounts from 10 percent to 40 percent in other areas of the store from Oct. 27 to Nov. 4. Kresl said he extended the 50-year anniversary sale to Nov. 11 because of the excitement it generated among his clients and employees. Also, some of Jewelry Artisans’ loyal customers were not up to date on the store’s Instagram page, @jewelryartisans, and requested an extension. While the store’s showroom typically has four or five clients perusing the selection, the anniversary sale brought dozens of people to the Jewelry Artisans’ collection of unique and traditional designs. “It was just an overwhelming success,” Kresl said. “We were very, very busy, probably busier than we’ve ever been outside of Dec. 23.” Kresl said Saturdays were the busiest days of the sale. The trusted jeweler is known for resizing rings, replacing watch batteries, restringing pearls and replacing necklace clasps.

JAMIE TUCKER/JET-IMAGING

Beatriz De'Irisarri, head custom designer at Jewelry Artisans, works on a sketch of a client’s custom designed item at 4500 Olde Perimeter Way in Ashford Lane. They are also skilled in transforming heirloom family rings into new pieces and turning small diamonds into earrings. The store is uniformly praised in the Metro Atlanta community for their ability to update pieces and reset diamonds, making them a reliable choice for those looking to revamp their jewelry. Kresl was able to preview some new offerings on the horizon at Jewelry Artisans before the start of the holiday season. As a part of Kresl’s passion to offer unique, unusual and custom items in the showroom, he has followed the growing trend of lab-grown diamonds.

“Lab-grown diamonds are taking off big time,” Kresl said. “I would call us one of the leading suppliers of lab-grown diamonds for... everything.” Kresl says the possibilities for labgrown diamonds are virtually endless, but they are primarily used for engagement rings and fashionable jewelry. “Whether it is a simple solder, an extensive restoration, a watch repair, pearl restringing or appraisal, we treat all of your jewelry with the utmost level of care,” Kresl said. “Thank you for giving us the opportunity to be your personal jeweler.”

ATLANTA — The Atlanta Track Club announced its 2023 All-Metro High School Cross Country Team Nov. 8, 42 student-athletes from six counties in Metro Atlanta. The 2023 All-Metro team includes 10 state champions and the reigning 2022 Runners of the Year, Harrison High School’s Samantha McGarity, and Marist School’s Tommy Latham. Latham won the Class 6A title for the second consecutive year at the Georgia High School Association State Cross Country Championships Nov. 3-4. In total, the All-Metro Team includes 17 high school athletes from North Fulton, Perimeter Center and Forsyth County. The girls team includes: Stella Chambliss (Marist School, ’24); Zoe Garcia (St. Pius X, ’24); Ruby Little (Marist, ’24); Claire Petersen (Blessed Trinity, ’24); Sanam Rangaraj (Cambridge, ’24); Caroline Rodgers (Marist, ’27); Morgan Grace Sheffield (Denmark, ’24); and Claire Shelton (Dunwoody, ’24). The boys team includes: Ethan Bridge (Denmark, ’24); Chris Connolly (Chattahoochee, ’24); Haris Flyn (Mount Vernon, ’26); Jackson Hogsed (Lambert; ’25); Christian Jiminez (Roswell, ’24); Tommy Latham (Marist, ’25); Ben Sydell (Denmark, ’24); Liam Hanemann (Marist, ’25); and Ben Winn (South Forsyth, ’25). Runners are selected for the All-Metro Team based on their performance at the state meet, major invitationals and head-to-head competitions, the Atlanta Track Club said. The 42 athletes will be recognized at an invitation-only banquet in Midtown Atlanta Dec. 5. At the banquet, the 42 boys and girls will be named to the first, second and third All-Metro Team. Out of the 42 athletes, one male and one female will be named the AllMetro Cross Country Runners of the Year "Atlanta may be Running City USA, but the future of running is strong across the entire state of Georgia," Atlanta Track Club CEO Rick Kenah said. "It's inspiring to see not only the runners who are being honored for the second, third or even fourth time, but also first-time honorees experiencing this life-long memory."

12 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody

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Local News Is Growing This year, even more than ever before, the news is in crisis. More than 17,000 news media jobs were cut just by June, at national and local outlets including at some of the biggest names like NPR, The Texas Tribune and Gannett. In fact, newsroom layoffs are up 20% from last year. Some of these outlets laid off more than 10% of their staff in the last few months — even as we head into a critical election year. These are devastating numbers. But all is not lost. Many local and independent newsrooms continue to launch across the country. Small newsrooms like ours continue to grow, adding new journalists and expanding reporting and investigations. How is that possible? It’s all thanks to readers like you. Local news is different from other outlets: we’re strengthened by supporters who believe in the power of journalism that cares about its community. Today, during our end-of-year campaign, consider supporting us. Our newsroom — and our community — will be stronger because of you.

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Calendar

NOV. 30 — DEC. 10

HOLIDAY HOP N SHOP

What: Take advantage of the free shuttle, running from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., as you browse for handcrafted items for everyone on your list at four unique markets. The shuttle, running every 15 to 20 minutes, will bounce around the Alpharetta Christmas Market at Innovation Academy, the Heartfelt Holiday Gift Market at the Alpharetta Community Center, the Santa Paws Market at The Hamilton Hotel and the Holiday Market at Avalon. When: Saturday, Dec. 2, times vary Where: Various locations in Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

CHRISTMAS IN CRABAPPLE & TREE LIGHTING What: Enjoy caroling, sweet treats, crafts, hot cocoa and cheer to usher in the holiday season. Santa will also be at the event, with complimentary photos. The tree lighting will take place at dusk with holiday singalongs from local choirs. When: Saturday, Dec. 2, 2-6 p.m. Where: Broadwell Pavilion, 12615 Broadwell Road, Milton More info: miltonga.gov

HOLLY JOLLY BLOCK PARTY

What: The Holly Jolly Block Party is a celebration for the whole family and marks the start of the North Fulton holiday season. The event will feature the lighting of the Johns Creek 40-foot Christmas tree, holiday market and displays, Santa Claus, an Elf Zone with games and activities, live music, food trucks, live llamas and college football on TVs. When: Saturday, Dec. 2, 4-8 p.m. Where: Johns Creek City Hall, 11360 Lakefield Drive, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

ROSWELL UMC CHRISTMAS GIFT & CRAFT SHOW

What: The sixth annual show hosted by Roswell United Methodist Church will feature more than 100 small boutique businesses in a festive outdoor and indoor setting. Shop from artisan jewelry and food, bath and beauty products, trendy clothing, unique art, and home and holiday

SPARKLE SANDY SPRINGS 2023

What: Sparkle Sandy Springs is a holiday celebration with twinkling lights and a nighttime parade. The evening kicks off with live music by The Rupert’s Orchestra and snowflakes falling on City Springs. Explore the Sparkle Village, Gift Market and enjoy new attractions including the Sparkle Wonderland and Skate City Springs. The parade kicks off at 6 p.m., and the evening concludes with a menorah and tree lighting. When: Sunday, Dec. 3, 4-7 p.m. Where: City Springs, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs More info: sandyspringsga.gov/sparkle-parade

decor. There will be food selections in the cafe from local Roswell restaurants, a bake sale, a raffle and a Giving Tree, a donation tree to raise money for youth missions. When: Friday & Saturday, Dec. 2-3, times vary Where: Roswell United Methodist Church, 95 Pratt Street, Roswell More info: rumc.com/christmasgcs

SPARKLE SANDY SPRINGS 2023

ROSWELL DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

What: As Clara’s dreams come to life, Herr Drosselmeier uses magic to transform the Nutcracker doll into a

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Prince. Accompanied by her handsome escort, Clara enters a fantastical new world now taking shape about them, the Land of Snow. At the conclusion of the festivities, Clara and her Prince are bid a happy farewell as the dancers wave goodbye to the fantasies that must fade away with her dream. When: Until Dec. 3, times vary Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: $27-$50 More info: sandyspringsga.gov

PANCAKES WITH SANTA

What: Every year, Milton firefighters cook and serve breakfast with pancakes and bacon. At this free event, guests can also visit with Santa before he heads back to the North Pole to prepare for his big day. Registration is not required to attend and eat a pancake breakfast, but to visit Santa, please make a reservation for a 15-minute window. When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 8-10 a.m. Where: Fire Station 44, 13690 Ga. 9, Milton More info: miltonga.gov

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’

What: This beloved American holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen

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characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. When: Dec. 1-17, times vary Where: Stage Door Theatre, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody Cost: $28 for adults; $20 for students; $15 for children More info: stagedoortheatrega.org

CHRISTKINDLMARKET ROSWELL

What: The first annual Christkindlmarket will be set up for your holiday season on the front lawn of Bulloch Hall with authentic food, crafts, drink and activities. When: Until Dec. 24, times vary Where: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell More info: roswell-christkindlmarket. com

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT BROOK RUN PARK

What: Holiday Lights returns for a fourth year with a self-guided walkable display, ceremonial lighting, free hot cocoa and concessions from Top Job Beverages and DonutNV Atlanta. When: Dec. 1-31, 4-8 p.m. Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody More info: dunwoodyga.gov

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16 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody

PAST TENSE

OPINION

Brookhaven Post Office dates to 1832 In the archives of DeKalb History Center, the writings of Mrs. Willig of Brookhaven include the story of a few early residents, the post office, library and the Brookhaven/North VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Atlanta Planning Council which was Columnist active in the 1950s and 1960s. One of these days when I determine Mrs. Willig’s first name, I will include that when I reference her document. For now, I will say that I greatly appreciate her recording this history. The first Brookhaven post office was established in 1832, but since the name Brookhaven did not exist yet, it was known as Cross Keys. The Cross Keys election precinct was also formed at Hastings D. Palmer’s store that year. Throughout DeKalb County, early white settlers had recently obtained land through a land lottery. This land was previously home to the Creek Nation. The first postmaster was named

John Glenn. By the following year, James Mauldin took over as postmaster. Next was James W. Reeve in 1839 and John Y. Flowers in 1852. The original location of the settlement and post office was on Old Cross Keys Road (Ashford Dunwoody Road today) west of Peachtree Road, where the road crosses Nancy Creek. J. C. McElroy of Doraville, who lived from1852 until 1953, remembered that the earliest Cross Keys post office had a sign which included two painted and crossed keys. (Atlanta Journal, August 26, 1953, J. C. McElroy obituary) The post office was moved to a point between Doraville and Chamblee before 1864 but the name remained the same. The location was about ¼ mile south of where Oglethorpe University was built. Martha C. Polk became postmaster August 8, 1866. There were several postmasters following Martha Polk including Christopher C. Hart (Harts Mill Road) in 1898. In 1894, the words Cross and Keys were combined into one word, Crosskeys. The Crosskeys post office was discontinued

January 31, 1907, and mail was delivered out of the Chamblee post office. The post office was established with the name Brookhaven on January 30,1924. Jesse D. Atkins was the first postmaster, followed by James Woodall later that same year. The post office started out in Menhennet’s Feed Store. Mrs. T.R. Jarrell recalled going to the store and smelling the hay when she mailed a letter. Menhennet’s was located on the corner of Dresden Drive and Peachtree Road. The post office moved from Menhennet’s to Harkey’s Drug Store on Peachtree Road in the 1930s. Ida Ray and Lucie D. Woodall worked at the post office with Woodall becoming the postmaster October 5, 1933. Eula Smith, Jane Childs and Raymond Sills followed as postmasters. Thomas V. Sorrels became postmaster in 1948 and told this story. “For years employees kept a pair of scissors that were hit by a bullet when the post office and drug store were held up.” This was during the time the post office was in Harkey’s Drug Store. Construction of a new post office

began in 1953. The building was located near a Goodyear Tire location. “In 1955 the use of the name Brookhaven was discontinued at that post office because it became a part of the Atlanta System,” states Willig. Paul Wright, owner of a Brookhaven dairy farm, shared some memories about the post office. He said in the early days of the post office, two deliveries of mail were brought to the post office each day. The man who delivered mail to the post office drove a T model touring car. People picked up their own mail from the post office until home delivery started in the 1950s. The post office moved to 3967 Peachtree Road in 1963. It had grown from 3 mail carriers in 1948 to 20 in 1975. Today the Brookhaven post office is located on Dresden Drive. Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com.

THE INK PENN

To me, all books are mysteries at heart I’m a huge fan of mystery novels, and you can always find at least one in the stack of books on my nightstand. Not all of them, however, are murder mysteries. You’ll find the art heist KATHY MANOS PENN occasional or crime caper in the Columnist mix, and, on occasion, a mystery of an entirely different nature. “Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett I’ve delayed writing a review of this amazing book because I’ve found it difficult to find words to describe it. Engrossing, moving, a story I haven’t stopped thinking about since I finished the book a week ago--none of that quite captures how I feel about it. It’s the tale of a family living on their Michigan cherry farm during the pandemic. The two younger adult daughters have returned to the farm their parents run and are sleeping in their childhood rooms. One is still a college student taking classes long

distance. Another is a would-be actor worried her career opportunities may be passing her by. The eldest, who never left, will one day take on the family farm. Lara, their mother, was once an actor who was renowned for her portrayal of Emily in “Our Town.” She embodied Emily, especially when she played the role at Tom Lake, a regional theater in Michigan. The daughters turn their confinement together into an opportunity to learn the full story of their mother’s romance with a famous actor. Do we ever think of our parents as having romantic lives? Or do we see them merely as parents? In this book, the girls delve into the romance, perhaps learning more than they bargained for. At the same time, Lara and her husband reflect on their life together. I’m fond of saying that all books are mysteries at heart. This magical book unveils the mystery behind relationships. As one review says, it “enfolds the nature of storytelling, the evolving dynamics of a family, and the complex interaction between destiny and choice.”

I highly recommend this latest Ann Patchett masterpiece. Don’t just put it on your TBR list. Put it on your “mustread now” list. Can you hear me saying in my command voice, “Get thee to the nearest bookshop and start reading it today?” “The Curse of Braeburn Castle: A Scottish Castle Murder Mystery” by Karen Baugh Menuhin Now, for a murder mystery. This is the third book in Karen Menuhin’s Heathcliff Lennox series, and I found it every bit as entertaining as the first two. Lennox, who detests the first name his mother saddled him with, served as a pilot in WW I. He’s 30ish, good looking and a trifle shy and awkward with the ladies. As do many amateur sleuths, he stumbles into a murder investigation in Book One and runs afoul of the law. In this installment, he’s developed an uneasy relationship with the Scotland Yard inspector from the first adventure and been called into help. Enter a team of archaeologists, a ghost, a castle, and a murder, of

course, and you have the perfect ingredients for a murder or two or three. You never know. His adorable pets — Mr. Fogg the dog and the kitten, Mr. Tubbs — accompany him everywhere and add a delightful dimension to his personality. Read this cozy mystery for the atmospheric Scottish island setting, the well-plotted mystery and characters you’ll grow to love. I’m adding “Death in Damascus,” Book Four in the series, to my TBR list, and I’m happy to report there are 11 books in the series. There you have it, two mysteries. One about the choices we make in life and how they shape us, the other about a dashing WW I veteran on a sleuthing adventure on a remote Scottish island. Both are entertaining in their own ways. Award-winning author Kathy Manos Penn is a Sandy Springs resident. Find her cozy mysteries on Amazon or locally at The Enchanted Forest, Bookmiser, Tall Tales, and Johns Creek Books. Contact her at inkpenn119@gmail.com, and follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/KathyManosPennAuthor/.

OPINION

AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody | Dunwoody Crier | November 30, 2023 | 17

Balancing needs, wants and stuff in the ER at least three times but possibly four times or more. They still can’t identify with any degree of confidence what the problem is. Mind you – she lives in Boston and is being treated in one of the best hospitals in the country. So where is the connection between all “my stuff” and the health problems of my niece? Well, which connection should I throw out there? The default “connection” is going to have to be that we all struggle with life and that today’s “life” may just be the most difficult ever. All it takes is to turn on the TV or go to your news-source online and experience a tidal wave of datapoints all converging on your brain and body simultaneously. Nothing is static. Everything is changing / evolving – continuously. You don’t know what is true. You don’t know who is honest. You don’t know who to trust. We-are-drowning in information that we cannot process. And this is even before that other tidal wave has arrived at scale – AI. In 1971 – over 50 years ago - social scientist Herbert Simon (who would win the Nobel prize in economics in 1978) wrote the following: “In an information-rich world, the wealth of information means a dearth of something else: a scarcity of whatever it is that information consumes. What informa-

tion consumes is rather obvious: it consumes the attention of its recipients. Hence a wealth of information creates a poverty of attention." He also observed (in 1971) this: "Even before television, we lived in an environment of information conveyed mostly by our neighbors, including some pretty tall tales. We acquired a variety of techniques for dealing with information overload. We know that there are people who can talk faster than we can and give us an argument on almost any topic. We listen patiently, because we cannot process information fast enough to refute them; that is, until the next day, when we find the hole in their argument. A relevant rule that my father taught me was, "Never sign in the presence of a salesman." By adopting such rules and their extensions, we allow ourselves the extra processing time needed to deal with the information overload. ... I think that all levels of intelligence, human beings have common sense protecting them from the worst features of their information environment. If information overload ever really gets the best of me, my last resort is to follow the advice of Gertrude Stein in the opening pages of The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas: `I like a view, but I like to sit with my back turned to it.' I wrote my niece a letter telling her how

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much we loved her and how much she was on our mind. I tried to say that in a world where there was so much “stuff” that she needed to listen to her body first because so much of everything else was not trustworthy; she could, however, trust her own body and her own instincts. I wanted to tell her that if she would put down her phone – and computer- for 30 days and avoided any and all social media during those 30 days and, at the same time, reconnected with her body through exercise, meditation, and walks in the woods and such, that I was sure that the impact could be staggering. We need to create space for ourselves and for each other – space where context has the time to grow and be appreciated. We need to recognize the toxic nature of unrestricted data and unrestricted access. We need to slow down and touch things and people – and feel drops of rain. Data is not people; it is not alive, nor does it nurture. People nurture: we need each other, face to face.

APPE

These times are interesting. Sometimes – well actually, often – I catch myself feeling overwhelmed with “stuff.” Much of the “stuff” seems out of my control which is frustrating. However, perhaps RAY APPEN an equal amount Publisher Emeritus usually is within my control because I am the one who created it. Sometimes I try to step back and organize what all this “stuff” is really. So, we have “obligations” – like, for example, promises I have committed to like doing work or paying a bill, attending a meeting, or working in the yard etc. Then there are “needs” – stuff that might include going to the dentist or getting that 5-year colonoscopy. These differ from those “wants” though and while “wants” one would think should not be stressors, if you comingle those with the promises, obligations, and needs, collectively they usually create the big “S” – stress. My sister’s 16-year-old daughter has recently been having health issues; she can’t hold food down and gets excruciating pain in her gut area. Like, she hasn’t really eaten in the last three weeks and has been

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GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA!

OPINION

Trout on Tenkara: adventures continue We are ankle-deep in a small stream somewhere up in northern Georgia, and we are fishing for trout with tenkara. Tenkara, you may remember, is that traditional Japanese fixed-line approach to STEVE HUDSON flyfishing that doesn’t Columnist use a reel. It’s kind of like high-tech cane pole fishing, in a way, but with high-tech rods and with flies. It’s clean and sweet and elegant, and we are both becoming real fans. Anyway, we’re on a small stream, about ten feet across, and the fish are sized accordingly. There are plenty of them, too, and she is catching her share. But despite her success, there is a look in her eyes that I recognize. I’ve seen it before. I wait patiently for her to put the thought into words. “So,” she says at last. “These little ones are fun. But could somebody land a BIG trout on tenkara?” That made me wonder: What would it be like to take on one of those giant trouty leviathans on a fixed-line tenkara rod? The idea is intriguing, and the prospect seems feasible. In fact, there are a number of trophy trout fisheries hereabouts where it might possibly happen too. So where and when? She takes a look at the calendar, and I make a couple of calls. And that’s how we find ourselves one brisk November day at The Retreat at Hiawassee River, standing

knee-deep in clear and icy cold water and thinking of big ol’ trout. The Retreat at Hiawassee River is a popular wedding and event venue near the north Georgia town of Hiawassee. Good wedding venues are always nice to visit. But for flyfishers, there’s another big draw here. A section of the Hiawassee flows through the property, and lurking in that lovely stretch of water are some trout of (how to put it) thought-provoking proportions. Trout like that one there – “Did you see that?” she says. I turn toward where she’s looking, toward a patch of water where ripples like small tidal waves are slowly spreading across the surface. “Was that a trout?” she asks in disbelief. Yes it was. And a very, very good trout too. “Okay,” she says, opening the rear hatch on the car. “Where is the rod?” A moment later she’s ready. “No waders?” I ask, seeing that she’s still got on her hiking shoes. “I think I’ll just fish from that little gravel bar,” she says, calling to me over her shoulder, for she’s already on her way to the water. In seconds she’s in position, up close to water’s edge within easy range of a run on the far side of the flow. In her hand is a Kyojin II tenkara rod from Zen Tenkara, a purpose-built big fish rod. It should handle these trout with ease, and it proves to be an accurate casting tool, too. In addition, with a

length of just 12 feet, it’s short enough to handle relatively tight conditions should they occur – and on a stream like this, they might. I ease up and join her at water’s edge, far enough back so as not to spook fish. “Try it over there by the bank,” I suggest helpfully, but she’s already making the cast and drops the little nymph rig about an inch from the very spot I was eyeballing. The current is smooth, and the strike indicator (that’s flyfishing talk for “bobber”) begins to drift downstream. Drift…drift…nothing… She casts again…another drift…still nothing… But she is patient and focused and casts yet again. I can tell that she senses that the run has something to offer… Cast…drift… This time the indicator stops, bobs, and suddenly disappears. She sets the hook. Something happens under the water. The line goes tight, and the rod bends like we’ve never seen it bend, like there might be something profound on the other end of the line. And there is. Several minutes later we get our first glimpse of what’s happening below as a swirl breaks the surface. A shape begins to materialize. It grows more distinct. “It is HUGE!” she says. She handles the rod adroitly, holding the upper part of the grip with her rod hand and bracing the lower grip on her forearm, using the fingers of her other

hand to touch the rod above the grip for greater control. She works the rod back and forth, keeping it low, controlling the fish. The rod does its work. She does hers too. The fish flashes at the surface. “Oh my,” she says, her voice intense, low, and still the battle goes on. After a while, the fish tires. She moves it toward the shore. I net it for her, as proud of her fish as I have ever been of anything, as proud of her as I have ever been of anyone. And the fish is really, truly, absolutely huge. How big? Almost too big for the net! Sometimes inches and pounds lose their meaning, and “big” is all that matters. This is one of those times. This fish cooperates. We get a photo, and we get a picture of the two of us as well. We ease the fish back into the water, and with a single flick of its tail it disappears into the depths it calls home. It’s the first of many big fish that day. All on tenkara. And we have our answer. Big fish on tenkara? You bet – and there’s a kiss too right there by the river as the big one swims away. “Now move,” she says, grinning. “I want to make another cast. I think there might be one more…right…there…” She casts. The indicator begins its drift… For info on the Zen Kyojin II, visit zentenkara.com For info on The Retreat at Hiawassee River, visit hiawasseeretreat.com

THE INVESTMENT COACH

Home from war and adjusting to a new normal This column was written on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2023. Fiftynine years ago, in 1964, I was a young Air Force officer stationed at Tan Son Nhut Base in Saigon, LEWIS J. WALKER, CFP Air Vietnam. The Columnist day before this The Investment Coach Veterans Day, a special mass was held at St. Brigid Catholic Church in Johns Creek to honor veterans. A reception followed at Holy Redeemer Catholic Elementary School. At the reception, a little girl handed me an adorable handmade card as she said, “Thank you for

your service.” Inside a note read, “Thank you for protecting our schools, neighbors, and most of all, us!” The card is a keeper; the sentiment, much appreciated. On Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023, a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) article entitled “Your New Co-Worker Is a Total Drill Sergeant,” subtitled, “Companies hungry for new recruits line up to hire military veterans,” commanded my attention. Callum Borchers, the writer of the piece noted, “Veterans and companies that recruit from the armed forces say vets’ appeal is rooted in hard work, humility and attention to detail. Many a manager has complained to me that such qualities are hard to find in the age of quiet quitting and “coffee badging.” The “coffee badging” trend is a way that workers use to get away from returning to office mandates. A piece on

forbes.com noted that employees show up at the office to have a cup of coffee, be seen, and “earn an imaginary badge for it, then go home to do their work.” This writer serves as vice-chairman of the board of a financial services company headquartered in Atlanta. The CEO has been wrestling with how to get folks back into the office in our post-pandemic era where “what was” does not seem to be “what is” currently. While adjusting to new realities post-COVID is not the same as “coming back into the world” after a tour of duty in a war zone, there are parallels. Out of college less than two years, and a transportation officer in the U.S. Air Force at Lincoln Air Force Base, Nebraska, in late November 1963, I left for Vietnam. After some training in the

Philippines on the realities of guerrilla warfare and the ever-present threat of terrorism, what the Israelis are dealing with today, by the way, I was stationed at Saigon’s Tan Son Nhut Air Base, the gateway to South Vietnam at that time. The base shared runways with the civilian airport and was the headquarters for the Vietnamese Air Force and Military Assistance Command Vietnam. While not a pilot, I flew trips each month on C-123 aircraft to supervise deliveries to bases in the delta to the south and to the north, many of which were composed of dirt and clay air strips. Because we lived under the constant threat of bombings in town, attacks by the Viet Cong, and aircraft being shot at, I received hazardous duty pay.

See WALKER, Page 20

PRESERVING THE PAST

OPINION

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The history of cattle in North Georgia – a beefy business The cattle industry is possibly Georgia’s oldest agricultural pursuit dating back to the Georgia Colony established in 1732 by King George ll. The colony, the last of the original 13 American colonies, BOB MEYERS Columnist was governed during its first 20 years by the Georgia Trustees, appointed by the king. One of its key members was General James Oglethorpe who spent ten years in Georgia. Among the inducements to attract settlers from Europe to the colony was an offer of free passage, land and cattle. Even though agriculture is no longer the largest employer in the state, cattle have played an important role throughout the ups and downs of our agrarian history. Today the Georgia cattle industry is big business. Cattle are raised in all 159 Georgia counties. Beef cattle is the fifth largest commodity produced in Georgia after poultry, cotton, peanuts and timber. According to the Georgia Cattleman’s Association, there are approximately 15,000 cattle producers in the State, most of which have fewer than 100 head, yet, according to the US Department of Agriculture farmers raised 478,000 head of beef cattle plus 92,000 milk cows in 2023. Cattle farm revenue, or gate value, is about $658 million according to the USDA. The North Georgia Cattleman’s Association is one of 75 county and area cattlemen's associations in the state. The goal of the organization is to protect and preserve the state’s cattle heritage. For more than ten years until his retirement last year, Billy Martin was president of the North Georgia association. At one point he was the largest cattle operator in the area with more than 200 head of Hereford beef cattle on rented land and on his 100 acre farm, or ranch, in the Free Home community where North Fulton, Cherokee and Forsyth counties come together. He calls his farm Sunset Ridge. Like many cattlemen, Billy took to cattle raising after other successful careers. Initially he spent 20 plus years with Hewlett Packard in management and sales. Wanting to go into business for himself, Billy bought a small company with four employees in 1983 called Southern Staircase which he sold twelve years later with 180 employees. He started in the cattle business in 1987 with little knowledge but with the same passion to succeed that served him so well previously.

The Sunset Ridge logo has been well known in the local cattle industry for more than 20 years. Billy is partial to Hereford cattle, a meat breed originally from Herefordshire, England because they are strong, hardy and known for their longevity. Many live and produce calves beyond the age of 15 years. They are docile and easy to raise, and their meat is tender. They are about the same weight and height as the popular Angus breed, 1200 to 1500 pounds for cows and 2000 to 2300 pounds for bulls. The breed is known for ease of calving and excellent mothering abilities, all characteristics that make them profitable to raise. They are generally red/brown and white with white faces. They can be horned or hornless (polled). In 2011 one of Billy’s bulls won a national championship. “I love that breed,” he says. Billy raises only registered heifers. (Female cattle who have yet to give birth. Once a heifer has her first calf, she is called a cow.) Registered cattle are like cattle with pedigrees. Papers that come with registered cattle tell a great deal about the actual animal you own or are thinking of purchasing. Those papers trace the ancestry back through several generations and make it possible to breed cattle to achieve specific characteristics. Billy became an expert in Hereford genetics, a science which has been responsible for “a lot of changes under the skin where the meat is,” says Billy. He explains that through genetic testing and artificial breeding, “we can produce bulls that can reproduce parts of the body that will carry on to generations of offspring.” This, he explains, has resulted in a quantum leap in the amount and quality of beef under the skin. “More of the meat is marbled and graded prime,” he notes. “Cattle genetics is the most rewarding part of my career and the most profitable part of my business.” Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

BOB MEYERS/APPEN MEDIA

Billy Martin stands by a display of just a few of the many awards he has won for his high quality registered Hereford cows and bulls.

A Hereford bull on Billy Martin’s cattle farm in the Free Home community. Herefords are docile and their meat is well marbled and tender.

20 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody

Events: Continued from Page 1 to Dunwoody assisted living communities for their residents to open and enjoy. Look for the mailbox at City Hall and Spruill Arts Center starting Dec. 1. Letters will be accepted until noon on Dec. 21. Also, children can send messages and pictures to Santa by emailing Santa. Claus@dunwoodyga.gov. Santa will respond with a personalized, mailed letter all the way from the North Pole. Messages will be accepted from Dec. 1 until Dec. 15.

Sandy Springs SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The festivities at City Springs begin with the opening of Sparkle Wonderland, Sparkle Village, Skate City Springs, and the gift market and food trucks at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3. The holiday celebration and parade get into gear with live music by The Rupert's Orchestra and artificial snowflakes falling on City Springs at 4:30 p.m. The Sparkle Parade steps off at 6 p.m. and concludes with a menorah and tree lighting around 6:50 p.m. The schedule is subject to change. Road closures begin at 3 p.m. and attractions close at 7 p.m. Residents can also explore the Sparkle Village, a month-long display of miniature homes, decked out in decor and twinkling lights from Nov. 24 to Dec. 31 The six-foot-tall wooden houses are decorated by local businesses, schools and nonprofits. Some of this year's participants include the Abernathy Arts Center, Heards Ferry and High Point Elementary, Los Niños Primero and the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber.

CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED

The cast of the City Springs Theatre Company’s production of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” performs a song-and-dance act in 2022. The production runs Dec.

8-24, with five additional performances added so that more guests can celebrate the holiday season.

If residents cannot make it out to the Sparkle Sandy Springs parade and holiday celebration Dec. 3, Broadway’s holiday favorite, “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas,” opens Dec. 8 in the Byers Theatre at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, 1 Galambos Way. The City Springs Theatre Company brings the Christmas classic to Metro Atlanta audiences, with additional performances already in place to meet the demand for this holiday classic. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas is part of the 2023-24 PNC Bank Season and is made possible by a generous individual donation from Barbara and Yardy Williams. “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” will be performed December 8-24, 2023. Group tickets are available for companies and organizations interested in making the production part of their holiday celebrations. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas is based on the classic 1954 Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye movie of the same name. The show features seventeen songs by the legendary songwriter Irving Berlin, including “Blue Skies,” “Happy Holidays,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” and the musical’s Oscar-winning title song. Returning to direct and choreograph “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” is Broadway’s Sara Edwards, who previ-

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The City of Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council of Chambers of Dunwoody City Hall, located at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, Georgia 30338, for the purpose of due process of the following: ZBA 23-20, 5383 Tilly Mill Road: Special exception from Sec. 27-147 (3) to allow relief from the contextual lot characteristic standards and a variance from Sec. 16-241 (e) to allow relief from the design standards for new lots for a fourlot subdivision. ZBA 23-21, 1463 Kings Down Drive : Two variances from Sec. 27-269 to allow retaining walls to encroach into the front and rear setbacks and to allow retaining wall height of 7 feet. Should you have any questions or comments, or would like to view the application and supporting materials, please contact the City of Dunwoody Community Development Department at 678-382-6800. Members of the public are encouraged to call or schedule a meeting with the staff in advance of the Public Hearing if they have questions or are unfamiliar with the process. The staff is available to answer questions, discuss the decision-making process, and receive comments and concerns.

ously directed and choreographed CSTC’s 2022 production of “Anything Goes.” “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” is included in current subscriber season packages. Individual tickets range from $37-$145 with discounts for seniors, students, groups, and active and retired military personnel, and are on sale now. For more information, call 404-4774365 or visit https://www.cityspringstheatre.com/

Roswell

The annual lighting of the Christmas tree at Heart of Roswell Park will take place Dec. 1 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event will include choral performances, hot chocolate, fire pits and s’mores, live reindeer, a special reading of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Mayor Kurt Wilson and a visit from Santa Claus. The culminating event is the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree at the center of Heart of Roswell Park. Canton Street, between Norcross Street and Magnolia Street, will be closed, creating a holiday atmosphere that extends into the downtown business district. The event is free and open to the public. Roswell Dance Starz will present “Frozen: A Winter Dance Spectacular,” an all-ages, family-friendly performance featuring ballet, pointe, jazz, contemporary and tap styles Dec. 2 at the Cultural Arts Center on Forrest Street. There are two showtimes, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Dec. 2. Performance run time is one hour with no intermission. Roswell Dance Starz is the resident dance company of the Recreation, Parks, and Historic and Cultural Affairs Department. The company is comprised of several divisions divided by both grade level and talent, from rising second grade through twelfth grade. Acceptance into Dance Starz is by audition only. Auditions for the 2024-25 season are May 13-15. For more information, visit https:// Solution www.roswell365.com/event/rds-frozen-2023/ Y A M S A V I S E D A M E L I A M O T H V E N O M E L O P E W I L L P O W E R M I L I D E A S T E V E P E E V E M E A N E S T P E R S P I R E I D O M E S A T I P S T A L A G A C T S N I P T I N A M O S S E S L E E E F T S E S C A L A T E E S P S T E R E O S T A X E S N E X T T T L A M A S S U N T I E H O M E M O V I E M O A N T E N T B O R O N R A N D A M P S E R G S

Walker: Continued from Page 18 In short, I learned quickly that the world was not one big cocktail party. I had to show up, do my job, and stay at the base for long hours if need be. I learned to make quick decisions, often under pressure, and perform as if lives depended on it, because they did. When given an order by a superior officer, the only answer was, “yes, sir.” When I gave an order, I expected the same response. Salute and be saluted. If I had told my superior officer that “I really don’t think I want to show up for the war today,” I’d have received a response totally unprintable in this newspaper. Between December 1963 and December 1964, I grew up. Fast. I did not see it then, but my military experience was a gift that was of incalculable value after I returned to civilian life. When you’re in a war zone, all you think about is survival and getting home. While I won’t get into details, there were times in Vietnam when I seriously faced the reality that “I could die today.” There are some reading this that faced the threat of death from COVID, and/or who had loved ones or dear friends plauged by the disease. Some of you had loved ones on ventilators in hospitals. Those who recovered are just glad to be alive, appreciative of the gift of life. All of us that went through COVID have had to adjust to a new normal of some kind. While going back to the office or job site post-COVID is not the same as coming back from a war zone, there are similarities. Adjusting to a “new normal” of any kind, post-war zone, or post-COVID, is new, yes, but it isn’t normal. It’s hard to go back to “what was.” But for many, going back to the office or other workplace is important. It’s where you learn teamwork. It’s where you grow and learn from others. It’s where you get noticed, important when promotions are considered. Employers should look for ex-military recruits. Many are glad to be home. They are proud of their service, proud of our country, proud of their families, and proud to be a breadwinner in the greatest country in the world. Don’t believe we are the greatest country in the world? Spend some time in a war zone, or in a third world country. Lewis Walker, CFP®, is a life centered financial planning strategist with Capital Insight Group (CIG); 770-441-3553; lewis@capitalinsightgrp.com. Securities & advisory services offered through The Strategic Financial Alliance, Inc. (SFA), which is otherwise unaffiliated with CIG. Lewis a Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA).

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24 | November 30, 2023 | Dunwoody Crier | AppenMedia.com/Dunwoody

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TIP YOUR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY PERSON This holiday season, consider giving your newspaper delivery person a tip for their weekly delivery of the free community newspaper to your driveway. These folks work hard to make sure you are informed of all the local happenings, rain or shine, week in and week out. Importantly, at Appen Media, we have always been intentional about our desire to keep delivery of our newspapers free. That said, it would mean the world to us if you would consider tipping your newspaper delivery person so that they will have a little extra money for the holiday season. If you can help us help these amazing people, we promise to keep delivering high quality news to your driveway, for free, every week. Free home delivery of 105,000 homes is hard work – and we couldn’t do it without our amazing delivery folks.

How you can give your delivery person a tip: 1 We have created an online portal at www.appenmedia.com/deliverytip.

100% of every dollar you contribute will be spread out evenly between the 24 newspaper delivery people that Appen Media employs. Whether you give $5 or $50, they will greatly appreciate it. 2 If you prefer, you can also mail a check made out to “Appen Media Group C/O Newspaper Delivery Tip” to 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.