Attendess of Adult Children of Aging Parents’s April 8 session at Dunwoody United Methodist Church listen as Northside Hospital Care Coordinator Rhonda Perling, top center, goes through her checklist on a smooth discharge. The nonprofit support group meets at the church the second Tuesday of each month.
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Discharge planning starts on day one of your loved one’s hospital stay.
That is one resounding takeaway from the April 8 gathering of Adult Children of Aging Parents North Atlanta, a nonprofit offering free in-person programs on the second Tuesday of the month at Dunwoody United Methodist Church.
The support group’s monthly sessions feature a wide variety of
experts in the care of older adults, often those whose close relatives fully or partially look after them during the day.
The crowd of around 30 at the April session featured caregivers, industry professionals and others interested in how they can best care for their loved ones.
One woman’s mother is refusing her suggestions that she increase her care level, while another couple is looking to understand the process more after one of their parents’ recent hospital stays.
ACAP North Atlanta, founded in 2023 as a chapter of a North Carolina-based educational organization, invited Northside Hospital Care Coordinator Rhonda Perling to share her insider knowledge and expert strategies to help families navigate posthospital care for their loved ones.
Before Perling educated the room and dived into nuances, the opening panel of ACAP North Atlanta’s leadership team got the conversation started.
See ACAP, Page 13
DUNWOODY, Ga.— The Dunwoody High School varsity girls and boys teams swept the April 1 DeKalb County Golf Championships at Stone Mountain Golf Club for the first time since 2017.
Coach Doug Friedlander has run the Dunwoody High School golf program for two decades, bringing home the county championship’s inaugural trophies in 2005.
The Wildcats last won the girls title in 2017, completing a four-peat at the time and cementing Dunwoody High School as the county’s golf powerhouse. This year’s championship brings Friedlander’s total titles to 22, including 15 for the boys and 7 for the girls, with six sweeps of both.
Dunwoody competes in the Georgia High School Association’s Class 5A.
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DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police arrested two men April 1 after a license plate check along I-285 yielded a driver’s active arrest warrant.
An officer said he checked the license plate of a westbound Mercedes-Benz driving erratically on I-285 and found its registered owner had an active arrest warrant out of Gwinnett County for a probation violation related to felony drug charges.
The officer said he initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle, which had two occupants, at the Texaco gas station along North Peachtree Road.
The officer said the driver, a 41-year-old Lilburn man, handed him another person’s driver’s license when he asked him to identify himself. Eventually, the officer said he received the man’s real ID and walked back to his patrol car to confirm the warrant.
At that time, another officer said the passenger, a 37-year-old Marietta man, handed him a small amount of marijuana from inside the vehicle.
After detaining the driver, the officer said the passenger attempted to break away from other officers while the vehicle was being searched.
The report says the search yielded more than 15 grams of marijuana and a loaded Glock 43 pistol.
Officers said a search of the driver’s criminal history found that he was on probation for a 2019 felony conviction for weapons and drug offenses in Gwinnett County.
While speaking with the passenger, officers said he initially provided them with a false first name. As officers were attempting to detain him, he began resisting.
Both men were arrested and transported them to DeKalb County Jail.
The driver’s warrants include posses-
sion of firearm by a convicted felon and the original warrant out of Gwinnett County for probation violation. Jail records show he was bonded out April 7.
Officers said the passenger was charged with disorderly conduct, possession of marijuana and false representations to law enforcement. Jail records show he was bonded out April 9.
— Hayden Sumlin
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police arrested a 37-year-old homeless man April 3 after employees at the Chamblee Dunwoody Road Public reported him for shoplifting.
An officer said he spoke with an employee who said the homeless man entered the store, gathered the items and nonchalantly left without paying.
When the employee confronted the man and asked him to return the items, she said the man told her “No.” The merchandise is valued around $115.
The officer said he and others were unable to locate a suspect near the grocery store.
A couple hours later, the officer said he received a call about a homeless man talking to himself near the tennis courts off Winding Branch Circle. The officer said that through store security footage, he immediately recognized the man who was in possession of Publix bags.
Officers said the man told them that all the merchandise was from Publix, and he shoplifted because he needed food. During a search of the suspect, officers said they found an opened bottle of wine belonging to the grocery store.
The officer transported the man back to Publix to review security footage and confirm his identity with employees.
The man was charged with misdemeanor shoplifting and transported to DeKalb County Jail. According to jail records, he was released April 6 with an agreement to appear in court.
— Hayden Sumlin
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody Police arrested a 33-year-old Atlanta man April 4 after Nordstrom Rack employees reported him for concealing merchandise within a backpack.
An employee told officers that he saw the suspect on security cameras grab a backpack belonging to the store and begin filling it with merchandise.
As the man was attempting to leave the store, the employee said he stepped in and detained him.
The value of the merchandise is just under $300, resulting in a misdemeanor charge.
According to jail records, the suspect was released April 6 with an agreement to appear in court.
— Hayden Sumlin
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Police investigated a burglary at a Mansell Road car shop where cash and tools were reported stolen March 27.
A 33-year-old Sandy Springs man said he arrived to work about 6 a.m. to find a broken windowpane in the garage, according to an Alpharetta police report.
Officers observed broken glass near the window.
He walked through the business and found $300 was taken from an unlocked cabinet, according to the report. The man said he had closed the shop about 6:30 p.m. March 26.
Tools valued at about $450 also were reported stolen. They included a drill, impact driver, batteries and chargers.
Several employees had touched the doors and cash cabinet, so officers made no attempt to lift fingerprints there. The broken windowpane appeared to have no fingerprints.
The incident was classified as a felony burglary, smash and grab. The investigation is ongoing.
The 2025 Lemonade Days Festival marks the silver anniversary of the annual event, a fundraiser of Dunwoody Preservation Trust.
The first official Lemonade Days was held in Dunwoody in 2000, but the roots of Lemonade Days began in 1999.
After a devastating tornado hit Dunwoody on April 9, 1998, the community quickly came together to help those who suffered damage. Dunwoody Preservation Trust put together the Replant the Dunwoody Forest plan to replace some of the 100,000 trees that were lost in the tornado.
In 1999, Brook Run was the site of DeKalb County’s recovery center. A one-year commemorative event was held which included the distribution of 900 trees. Mass was held at All Saints Church and a celebration at Kingswood Methodist Church. Interfaith Action brought together pastors, priests and rabbis to help support the community following the tornado.
A 5K was held in the Kingsley neighborhood in 1999, which was still recovering and rebuilding.
The first year of a Dunwoody event called Lemonade Days was 2000, held at Dunwoody Village. A 5K and Fun Run took place, along with carnival games, barbeque and music turning the commemoration into a celebration. Trees were once again distributed by Replant the Dunwoody Forest and a
home tour of rebuilt and remodeled homes was offered.
In 2001, Lemonade Days featured a two-day arts and crafts fair at the Shops of Dunwoody. On Sunday, carnival games, pony rides and a petting zoo made for a joyous day on the lawn of Cheek-Spruill House.
The Lemonade Days festival found its home of Brook Run Park in 2003. Carnival rides became part of the festival in 2007.
Reminisce about past festivals at this year’s Festival Flashback Tent, where photos, memorabilia and t-shirts will be on display in celebration of the Silver Anniversary. A Lemonade Days Legacy Lanyard will be available to children whose parents grew up attending the festival. Stop by the DPT Volunteer check-in booth to pick up yours.
The Lemonade Days lemonade stand will be on location and ready for photo opportunities, along with this year’s Honorary Lemonade Days Queen.
Hope Follmer, Director of Lemonade Days since 2016, is excited about the 25th annual festival. “Thank you to the Dunwoody city staff, police and parks departments, our local business sponsors and the thousands of festival goers who have shown up for two and a half decades to show their support of the DPT mission to preserve the past, celebrate the present and plan for the future of Dunwoody.”
Follmer brought the phenomenal Dunwoody Idol contest to the event in 2016 and Battle of the Bands in 2017.
This year’s Lemonade Days will see the return of the 5K on Saturday, April 26 at 8 a.m.
By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has been in office for 100 days. So far, she has tackled increasing the water and sewer rates, improving police recruitment and retention, and making some high-level staffing changes.
With a new administration comes some new faces. A few staff positions have changed, including the police chief, watershed director and county attorney.
Former DeKalb Police Chief Mirtha Ramos previously said county officials blindsided her with the news that she had 21 days to resign or face termination. She was placed on administrative leave in February. Assistant Chief Gregory Padrick is the interim police chief.
“I had no idea that it was coming,” Ramos said during an episode of the Decatur Dish show in February. “I knew it was possible. I am an appointed position, so I’m at the will of the CEO, and she has the right to come in and choose to pick whoever she wants. So, I mean, I knew it was possible.”
Cochran-Johnson named Reginald Wells the new director of Watershed Management after former director David Hayes retired. The county announced that Wells will lead efforts to enhance DeKalb’s water services, improve infrastructure, and comply with state and federal regulations.
Former County Attorney Viviane Ernstes also stepped down for another job opportunity. Attorney Matt Welch is serving as the interim county attorney. According to LinkedIn, Ernstes is now the deputy general counsel for the
DEAN HESSE/DECATURISH
With her left hand on a Bible held by husband, retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. William H. Johnson, III, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson is sworn in as DeKalb County CEO by retired Superior Court Judge Mark Anthony Scott at Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church on the Emory University Campus Jan. 17, 2025.
Association of County Commissioners of Georgia.
One of the first issues CochranJohnson tackled was raising the water and sewer rates on residents and business owners. She proposed, and the county commission approved, a plan to increase rates 10 percent annually over the next 10 years.
Rates will start to increase on July 1. Due to the timing, water customers will see a 20 percent hike by Jan. 1, 2026. After that, there will be an annual 10 percent hike on Jan. 1 from 2026 to 2034.
The rate increases will fund some operations and maintenance, debt service and the capital improvement
plan for 2025 to 2034.
Cochran-Johnson previously said the county can’t afford to continue putting off water and sewer projects.
“This is our moment to secure a better future for DeKalb County,” she said. “I am prepared to make the tough decisions necessary to protect our residents, create economic opportunities and ensure we leave a legacy of strong infrastructure for the next generation.”
Shortly after the water rates were approved, the CEO announced plans to invest about $10 million in police recruitment and retention efforts.
The county currently has 531 police officers on staff but funded 841 officers
in the budget. Cochran-Johnson previously said the department should have about 1,100 officers.
A pay increase for officers went into effect March 1. The base salary for police recruits is now $61,000, It is $62,525 for police officers and $70,000 for senior police officers. Master police officers, helicopter pilots, sergeants, lieutenants, captains, and majors received a 7.1 percent salary increase.
“This is just the beginning,”
Cochran-Johnson previously said. “In less than two months, my administration has already begun delivering on the promises I made to DeKalb County. This pay increase and recruitment effort marks a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to make DeKalb safer and stronger.”
In other public safety initiatives, Cochran-Johnson announced new policing strategies, including increased collaboration with state troopers and revisiting police pursuit policies.
Those policy revisions include inviting state troopers to patrol state highways in DeKalb County and allowing county officers more freedom to chase suspects.
In an interview with Decaturish on March 28, Cochran-Johnson said the strategy shift is intended to address pedestrian deaths and street racing.
Cochran-Johnson’s first 100 days has come with some uncertainty. The CEO announced an executive order temporarily freezing new spending and hiring for departments controlled by the CEO’s office until further notice, beginning April 3.
Page 16
number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!
1. The Gem State. Peter Pan villain. Uniform fabric.
2. One of the 7 Dwarfs. Charity. Wine bottle designation.
3. Charlie Brown loves him. Small whirlpool. Lock name.
4. Brouhaha. Moonfish. One of TV’s Simpsons.
5. Get-up-and-go. Coffee order. Bugs bugs him.
6. Church official. The “Oyl” in Popeye cartoons. Smell really bad.
7. Golf bag gadgets. High-hatter. Dear me, it’s a deer.
1 The Gem State. Peter Pan villain. Uniform fabric
2. One of the 7 Dwarfs. Charity. Wine bottle designation
How to Solve: Each line in the puzzle above has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, which each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!
3. Charlie Brown loves him. Small whirlpool. Lock name
4. Brouhaha. Moonfish. One of TV’s Simpsons
5. Get-up-and-go. Coffee order. Bugs bugs him
6. Church offical. The “Oyl” in Popeye cartoons. Smell really, really bad.
7. Golf bag gadgets. High-hatter. Dear me, it’s a deer.
puzzle solutions on Page 23
Holy Week and Easter Services All are welcome!
Palm Sunday, April 13
8:00AM and 10:30AM Holy Eucharist 7:00PM Artists Presentation of the Stations of the Cross
Wednesday, April 16: 7:00PM Tenebrae Service
Thursday, April 17: 7:00PM Maundy Thursday Foot Washing and Holy Eucharist
Friday, April 18: Good Friday Services
12:00PM Good Friday Liturgy, 6:00PM Every Person’s Way of the Cross, 7:00PM Good Friday Liturgy
Saturday, April 19: Holy Saturday 10:00AM Service, 6:30PM Easter Vigil and Holy Eucharist
Easter Sunday, April 20
8:30-10:00AM Breakfast, 9:45AM Easter Egg Hunt, 10:30AM Holy Eucharist
DUNWOODY, Ga. —Dunwoody announced its 2025 Street Paving Plan, covering 10 lane miles on 23 streets around the city, began April 8 in the Mayfair Park subdivision.
The Dunwoody Public Works Department says Brandy Turk Way, Mary Briggs Court and several streets in Dunwoody North are up next.
By the end of 2029, Dunwoody plans to complete resurfacing all city streets, fulfilling a commitment made by city founders to achieve a 20-year paving cycle. To date, the city says 259 lane miles have been paved, equals to 85 percent of the goal.
“We prioritize streets and develop our paving plan based on our most recent citywide paving assessment from 2023,” Public Works Director Michael Smith said. “Most of this year’s plan focuses on the Ashford Chase and Dunwoody North neighborhoods as well as the north end of Tilly Mill Road.”
The 2023 citywide pavement assessment report found an overall pavement condition index rating of 75 for Dunwoody streets, which is an improvement from 2009, 2013, and 2018, when the ratings were 69, 64, and 69.
The city says it budgeted $2.75
million of Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds for the work and received an additional $500,000 from the Georgia Department of Transportation through its annual Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant.
Dunwoody has around $450,000 left over for planned work in the future or more paving this year.
Crack sealing work is planned for parts of Dunwoody Park, Hammond Drive and Perimeter Center Parkway. In addition, patching work is set to take place along Peachford and Tilly Mill roads.
Dunwoody streets scheduled for resurfacing in 2025 include Ashford Club Drive, Brandy Turk Way, Brookhurst Drive, Cardova Pointe, Chardonnay Court, Devonash Lane, East Kings Point Circle, Glenshire Place, Haverstraw Court, Kings Point Drive, Kingsfield Court, Kingsgate Court, Kingsgate Drive, Marston Road, Marston Way, Mary Briggs Court, Montclair Court, North Peachtree Road, Tilly Mill Road, Valley Glen Way, Wellesley Lane, Wellesley Trace and Wickliffe Court.
For specific paving schedules and updates, visit www.dunwoodyga.gov/ paving.
— Hayden Sumlin
By JILL NOLAN Georgia Recorder
ATLANTA — A proposed last-minute attempt to limit the public’s access to police reports and communications with state lawmakers was abandoned April 4 as quickly as it emerged.
The proposed changes to the state’s open records law had popped up unexpectedly Wednesday April 2 in the gatekeeping House Rules Committee, bypassing the usual legislative committee process.
Rep. Rob Leverett, an Elberton Republican, said he had seen the proposed changes as just “extensions of existing law and were not really reflecting any new policy.”
But the proposal, Senate Bill 12, was immediately met with opposition from First Amendment advocates who warned the changes would weaken transparency laws.
Under the proposal, police departments would be able to shield almost all information about officers’ stops, arrests and incident responses. And it would have created broad new exemptions to prevent
public disclosure of the General Assembly’s activities, including communication with other parts of state government.
The change narrowing what police records are available for public inspection appeared to be in response to a lawsuit filed by the Appen Media Group against Sandy Springs that accused the city of withholding public police reports. The state Court of Appeals had recently ruled in Appen’s favor.
Gov. Brian Kemp also seemed cool to the proposal Friday.
“I haven’t seen what the Legislature has done other than just reading a blip in the paper about it,” Kemp told reporters. “But we’ll look at the legislation today. We’ll see what ends up passing or not passing. But I think the General Assembly knows that I’m a pretty transparent person, as you can see being out here answering your questions today.”
The House ultimately retreated from the changes Friday and passed a version that was more in line with the original proposal – to the relief of the bill’s sponsor, Danielsville Republican Sen. Frank Ginn.
By SARAH DONEHOO newsroom@appenmedia.com
METRO ATLANTA — Decluttering the house is a process that incites enthusiasm for some and dread for others. Getting off-task with cleaning is easy to do, and many possessions ride the line of being necessary or unnecessary depending on the day or how one is feeling.
No matter what, sometimes it’s high time unused furniture, appliances, clothing, books or electronics find their way to a new home or purpose.
Here are some local spots that can manage different kinds of unwanted stuff.
Recycling Services
If you want to recycle plastic waste and it is PET or HDPE, (recycling numbers 1 and 2, respectively) you can drop it off at a regular recycling center. Forsyth County recycling centers will accept the materials above as well as aluminum, tin, and steel.
The Sandy Springs Recycling Center offers to recycle the common recyclables above, electronics, appliances and household items like books and wood furniture. The Roswell Recycling Center will accept plastic, glass, cardboard and paper recycling.
Note that some centers are open only to residents of the county or city.
The Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) in Atlanta offers options by accepting most items that don’t fit into the typical parameters of cardboard, glass and plastic waste. If you’re getting rid of old or broken appliances, propane tanks, batteries, light bulbs or mattresses, CHaRM will divert them toward recycling and composting. ChaRM will also accept plastics whose recycle number is
4, 5 or 6, types of plastic that most centers won’t accept, including plastic bags.
Reusable shopping bags have become very popular as an alternative to plastic shopping bags, but at Publix and Kroger there are recycling bins to drop used plastic bags in. Simply ensure that the bags are clean and not torn.
The Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity accept car donations even if
the vehicle is not driveable. As long as the car isn’t in a hazardous condition, then it can be picked up free of charge.
Goodwill and Salvation Army accept nearly anything when it comes to used home goods.
Both The Salvation Army and Goodwill offer complimentary pick-up services, but only at specific locations. If the items are acceptable, then you can schedule a time to have your donations picked up on their website or over the phone.
One way to keep clutter at a minimum is that whenever you buy something, choose something else to either donate or sell. When it comes to moving, be it someone moving out, in or to a new home, one reason so many things end up in the trash is because of the time constraint on decision-making and sorting objects. Keeping an eye on clutter over time can help reduce this effect.
Moving things around can be stressful or jarring, but with the right resources it doesn’t have to be unmanageable. Donating or recycling unwanted items may seem like a burden. However, those steps can help others get use out of items in a way that can reduce the community’s consumption overall.
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Metro Atlanta’s fastest-growing performing arts organization, the City Springs Theatre Company, announced its eighth season of musicals at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center’s Byers Theatre.
New subscriptions for the 202526 season go on sale May 1, offering a diverse lineup of entertainment, including hit musicals from American comedy legends Mel Brooks and Tina Fey, and a stage adaptation of a Hollywood classic.
City Springs Theatre Company’s productions have garnered nationwide attention with acclaimed, locally produced productions of “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Jersey Boys,” “The Music Man” and “A Chorus Line.”
Executive Director Natalie DeLancey and Artistic Director and Tony Award-winner Shuler Hensley lead the nonprofit community theater, focused on youth training, attracting audiences and highquality productions.
“Our subscribers and patrons have come to expect two things
from our company — to be entertained and to experience production values that rival what they might see on Broadway,”
DeLancey said. “Over the years it has been inspiring to watch as our audiences grow and begin to take a sense of ownership and pride in our company.”
Hensley has directed one production each season since 2022, a tradition he is set to continue when the company presents the newest title in its upcoming season, the hit musical “Come From Away.”
Hensley said he and others continue to be impressed by the city’s talent.
“We have an amazing community of performers, including some Broadway veterans like myself who call Metro Atlanta home,” he said. “From our lead performers to our ensemble dancers, they all have contributed significantly to the success of our company.”
For more information about shows and ticket, visit www. cityspringstheatre.com.
— Hayden Sumlin
•Sept. 5-21, 2025:
“The Producers: A Mel Brooks Musical” Still the winningest show in the history of the Tony Awards and arguably the funniest musical ever on Broadway, “The Producers” has delighted audiences worldwide. Based on Mel Brooks’ 1968 film of the same name, the plot is simple: a down-on-his-luck producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the biggest flop in Broadway history, thereby bilking their investors (all of whom are “lonely, little old ladies”) and then running away to Rio. The play skewers Broadway traditions and sets the standard for modern, outrageous, in-your-face humor on Broadway. The production contains adult language and content and is recommended for ages 13 and older.
•Dec. 12-28, 2025:
“The Wizard of Oz”
This December, the yellow brick road leads to the Byers Theatre for an enchanting stage adaptation of the 1939 movie classic “The Wizard of Oz,” directed and choreographed by Broadway legend and Tony Award-recipient Baayork Lee. The timeless tale of teenager Dorothy Gale, who travels from Kansas to the magical Land of Oz retains the timeless songs from the film including “Over the Rainbow,” “If I Only Had a Brain/a Heart/the Nerve,” “We’re Off to See the Wizard” and “The Merry Old Land of Oz.” The play is suitable for all ages and will feature a special 1 p.m. Christmas Eve performance.
•March 13-29, 2026:
“Come From Away”
Based on an incredible, true story of the isolated town of Gander, Newfoundland, as the community came together to welcome 38 planes diverted from their destinations on September 11, 2001. What begins as an average day, turns into an international sleepover, as the people of Gander cheer the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family. Tony Award-winner Shuler Hensley, artistic director of City Springs Theatre Company, is set to direct the production, which is a regional premier. The book, music and lyrics come from Irene Sankoff and David Hein. The play contains some adult language and adult themes and is recommended for ages 10 and older.
•May 1-17, 2026:
“Mean Girls: The Musical”
From the mind of comedy superstar Tina Fey, the multi-Emmy-winning star and writer of TV’s Saturday Night Live and the series 30 Rock. “Mean Girls” is the brutally hilarious hit musical based on her popular 2004 film of the same name. Teenager Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious ways of her strange new home in suburban Illinois. The play took Broadway by storm when it opened in 2018. The production contains adult themes and is recommended for ages 10 and older.
If you live in Georgia, you can still get help with recovery from Helene or Debby through housing assistance, loans, resources and more. Stay in touch and check your application for updates.
If you live in Georgia, you can still get help with recovery from Helene or Debby through housing assistance, loans, resources and more. Stay in touch and check your application for updates.
Housing: FEMA may call for more information from an unfamiliar number. Be sure to answer, as FEMA may be able to help with immediate housing, additional support and information on housing opportunities.
Housing: FEMA may call for more information from an unfamiliar number. Be sure to answer, as FEMA may be able to help with immediate housing, additional support and information on housing opportunities.
Home Inspection: Inspectors will make an appointment before they visit and will show your application number and their photo ID.
Home Inspection: Inspectors will make an appointment before they visit and will show your application number and their photo ID.
SBA Centers: FEMA staff is available to assist at Small Business Administration centers in Coffee, Jeff Davis, Lowndes, Richmond, Screven, Telfair and Toombs counties.
SBA Centers: FEMA staff is available to assist at Small Business Administration centers in Coffee, Jeff Davis, Lowndes, Richmond, Screven, Telfair and Toombs counties.
Center for Rural Entrepreneurship:
Center for Rural Entrepreneurship:
208 E. 1st St., Vidalia, GA 30474
208 E. 1st St., Vidalia, GA 30474
Jeff Davis Rec Dept: 83 Buford Rd., Hazlehurst, GA 31539
Jeff Davis Rec Dept: 83 Buford Rd., Hazlehurst, GA 31539
McDuffie Woods CC: 3431 Old McDuffie Rd., Augusta, GA 30906
McDuffie Woods CC: 3431 Old McDuffie Rd., Augusta, GA 30906
Satilla Library:
Satilla Library:
200 S. Madison Ave., Douglas, GA 31533
200 S. Madison Ave., Douglas, GA 31533
Screven County Library:
106 South Community Dr., Sylvania, GA 30467
Screven County Library: 106 South Community Dr., Sylvania, GA 30467
Telfair CSC:
Telfair CSC:
91 Telfair Ave., #D, McRae-Helena, GA 31055
91 Telfair Ave., #D, McRae-Helena, GA 31055
VSU Foundation: 901 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA 31601
VSU Foundation: 901 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, GA 31601
Read your FEMA letter carefully. If you’ve applied for FEMA disaster assistance and were not approved, you may need to send additional documentation.
Read your FEMA letter carefully. If you’ve applied for FEMA disaster assistance and were not approved, you may need to send additional documentation.
Scan the QR code or go to fema.gov/HelpIsHere and select “check your status” to upload documents, track your application, update contact information, get directions or get help.
Scan the QR code or go to fema.gov/HelpIsHere and select “check your status” to upload documents, track your application, update contact information, get directions or get help.
fema.gov/HelpIsHere
fema.gov/HelpIsHere
ONLINE: fema.gov/HelpIsHere
ONLINE: fema.gov/HelpIsHere
DOWNLOAD: The FEMA App CALL: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
DOWNLOAD: The FEMA App CALL: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Space in Time is an event venue, really two of them, smack dab in the center of Sandy Springs off Hilderbrand Drive that’s available to rent for special events.
Ebony Hamlet is the owner of the event venue, located at 290 Hilderbrand Drive just southeast of the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center and Veterans Park.
“I was always the person in my family who was hosting the baby showers and birthday parties … and just family gatherings, I was always the go-to person,” Hamlet said. “My last family reunion that I hosted here in Atlanta, my elders pulled me to the side at brunch and said ‘you should really consider doing this professionally.’”
She said at first it wasn’t clear if she could turn her passion for coordinating and creating seamless events for her loved ones into a career.
In February, Visit Sandy Springs published an article “Black-Owned Business and Restaurants in Sandy Springs,” featuring a snapshot of some of the city’s entrepreneurs. Her advice to others considering a jump to entrepreneurship is to not let that thing go once it’s been found.
Hamlet worked at Priority Technology Holdings for nearly a decade before she was let go in summer 2020. Hamlet said a phone call from her sister helped with a shift in her mind set and an eventual pursuit of her dreams.
“I called her, along with some other people, and the first thing they would say is ‘oh my gosh, what are you going to do? …I’m so sorry this happened to you,’” she said. “Well, my sister dropped a gem on me; the first thing she said was ‘congratulations, what are you going to do now?’”
Hamlet said a lot of her life was tied to her job in corporate America, but her sister’s words encouraged her to take the first steps.
She spent most of the second half of 2020 traveling and studying venues across Europe and Brazil, including art galleries, coffee shops and banquet halls.
“I sort of became a student of event spaces and how to open one,” Hamlet said.
“Their restaurants and coffee shops are very quaint, but they make the most out of the space; I always knew I didn’t want a huge space, but I wanted an intimate one for the venue.”
With its location in the heart of Sandy Springs, Hamlet said she thinks the business’s Atlanta address, common throughout the nearly 20-year-old city, helps attract some interested customers looking to celebrate something
while staying in the state capital.
Plus, she said there’s ample free parking, which is hard to find in central Atlanta.
“I actually signed my lease in November 2020, but I needed renovations to be done, so the lease wouldn’t start until February,” Hamlet said. “I have heard about the golden years of owning an event space and how lucrative it is was, and I can honestly say I don’t think I’ve experienced that.”
Through the last four years, she said there have been highs and lows. Right now, Hamlet said she has one open weekend open coming up, which is a rarity. May is typically one of the busiest months for event planners and venues like Hamlet and Space in Time.
“You have a bunch of graduations … weddings, baby showers happening,” she said. “That’s usually a jam-packed month, and I’m not seeing that right now.”
The first space, Suite I, is more than 1,880 square feet and holds up to 125 seated guests for special gatherings like birthday celebrations, retirement parties, holiday mixers, baby showers, graduation parties and bridal showers.
Located in the same plaza with an adjoining courtyard, Suite II is slightly larger at 2,246 square feet and capable of holding up 150 guests.
Hamlet said the larger facility can host things like weddings, book signings, receptions and art shows with the space next door available, which can save the cost of turning over the same room for another event.
While Hamlet said she thinks people may be holding onto their cash now, Space in Time has a lot going for it.
“I think what makes Space in Time unique is I have two venues in one plaza,” she said.
“If you’ve ever attended a wedding, a lot of times in those venues they have to flip the room … changing it from the wedding ceremony to the reception …. We eliminate that.”
See PLANNER, Page 11
Ebony Hamlet, president and founder of A Space in Time in Sandy Springs, is loving her life as an entrepreneur after leaving behind corporate America to pursue one of her passions — running her own event venue.
Continued from Page 10
Hamlet also said she likes the intimacy of both spaces but has created distinct aesthetics for each that “quaint and whimsical.”
Baby showers are the number one event type, followed by weddings.
Clients come from all over, but one of the notable events at Space in Time
was when Fulton County District Fani Willis hosted a two-day conference with local law enforcement and prosecutors to lay out a game plan to combat crimes across the region.
While speaking with Appen Media April 10, Hamlet said she had three tours that afternoon. She said they’re most likely looking to grab that open weekend in May.
For more information about Space in Time and its owner Ebony Hamlet, visit spaceintimeatl.com
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Take the example of a well-known celebrity, let’s call him “Chris.” Chris was a beloved actor with a career spanning decades. Despite his success and substantial fortune, he never took the time to create a comprehensive estate plan. When Chris unexpectedly passed away, his family was left to navigate the complex and often confusing legal process of distributing his assets.
1. Legal Battles and Family Disputes: Without a clear and comprehensive estate plan, Chris’s family found themselves embroiled in legal battles. Different relatives claimed entitlement to various parts of his estate, leading to prolonged court cases and strained family relationships. A well-drafted estate plan could have provided clear instructions and prevented much of the discord.
2. Financial Burden: Chris’s estate was subject to significant taxes and fees that could have been minimized with proper planning. Estate planning tools such as trusts can help reduce the tax burden and ensure more wealth is passed on to
heirs rather than lost to taxes and legal costs.
3. Delayed Distribution of Assets:
The absence of a comprehensive estate plan meant that the distribution of Chris’s assets was delayed significantly. Probate, the legal process of distributing a deceased person’s estate, can be time-consuming and complicated. An estate plan can streamline this process, ensuring that beneficiaries receive their inheritance more quickly.
4. Business and Real Estate: Without a proper trust, Chris's real estate and business had to be liquidated to pay off the creditors at a substantially reduced price due to the probate process and disputes between the beneficiaries as to keeping or selling the business and real estate.
5. Unfulfilled Wishes: Without a comprehensive estate plan, there’s no guarantee that Chris’s assets were distributed according to his wishes. An estate plan allows individuals to specify exactly how they want their assets allocated, ensuring their intentions and wishes are honored after their death. Sign up for our upcoming workshops and webinars to learn more.
Continued from Page 1
Dr. Melissa Black, a geriatrician with her own practice, Empower Family Medicine of Decatur, said her decade with the Emory School of Medicine and in her own practice has taught her a lot about hospitals and medical insurance.
“I have a lot of experience working both in and outside of the hospital,” she said. “What people need to know as caregivers from the hospital’s perspective is that discharge planning starts on day one, and that is a universal saying.”
Black also said that hospitals want patients discharged as soon as possible, usually in less than three days, but it is not all doom and gloom because hospital visits are the most expensive form of care. Besides, people usually want to be home.
Rhonda Perling, the keynote speaker, is intimately familiar with the discharge process as supervisor of Northside Hospital’s Care Coordination Process.
“First thing I want you to do if anyone you love ends up in the hospital is get ahold of your case manager,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what you call them, discharge planners, care coordinators, case managers, we really don’t care as long as you call us.”
They are often the only healthcare workers “rounding,” or conducting regular visits to patients’ bedsides to assess, communicate and respond to their needs.
Often, doctors and surgeons do not have the full intricate knowledge of healthcare policy nuances necessary to provide patients with a complete picture of their options, including tradeoffs and financial
Northside Hospital Care Coordinator Rhonda Perling describes her role as a social worker assigned to help people with a smooth discharge and provide patients with their options at the April 8 session of Adult Children of Aging Parents. Perling said discharge planning begins on day one of someone’s hospital visit, and caregivers need to understand options for rehabilitation, palliative care or a return to home.
implications.
Perling provided an example of when a physician’s decision on a Friday afternoon ran into a speed bump when she notified him that the insurance office was closed, preventing her from verifying benefits, and her team was unlikely to find the patient a rehabilitation center over the weekend.
Perling said it’s probably not if someone will have to take care of one of their aging loved ones at some point in their life, but when. Luckily, she said there are several ways to make the process smoother.
Hospitals employ care coordinators, including
registered nurses and social workers, to manage patients’ healthcare needs, facilitate communication between patients and providers and ensure appropriate care settings and post-hospital needs are met.
“The one thing that we have to do immediately upon meeting you is gain trust,” Perling said, admitting not every industry professional is as dedicated as her team. “You’re scared, you’re in crisis and you don’t know what to do; Our job is to let you know what your options are, what your rights are … Medicare has rights.”
She also said it’s important that people know who has their medical power of attorney, in case they are unable to make healthcare decisions by themselves. Once a crisis has happened and you or your loved one is in the hospital, it’s hard to make rational decisions and meet legal requirements.
“I think it’s really important for every single one of y’all to talk to your next of kin,” Perling said, sharing some horror stories about some of her experiences. “Once you get it done, download it to your phone … do the same thing with your medication list.”
Seconding the Aging Children of Adult Children panel, she said discharge planning really does start on stay one of any hospital visit, regardless of the level of care.
The next support session is titled “Living with Dementia and an Update on Medical Treatments,” set for May 13 in Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s Asbury Room, accessible from the back parking lot.
The speakers are Dr. Melissa Black from Empower Family Medicine and Lynn Ross, a retired social worker who worked with the older adult population in home care and for the Center of Movement Challenges.
For more information, visit www.acapcommunity.org.
Continued from Page 3
The 5K is for the entire family, with awards to overall winners and age groups winners. All participants receive a commemorative T-shirt for the event. Sign up at https://runsignup.com/ Race/GA/Atlanta/LemonadeDaysK.
Carnival rides and delicious food and beverage options visitors expect from Lemonade Days will of course be part of this year’s event. A petting zoo and pony rides will be open on Saturday and Sunday. The addition of a Chalk Art Station this year will allow young and old artists a chance to display their talents. The Chalk Art Station will be open every day of the festival.
Lemonade Days 2025 takes place Wednesday, April 23 through Sunday, April 27. For hours and additional details on the 2025 Lemonade Days visit dunwoodylemonadedays.org.
Lemonade Days is the biggest fundraiser of Dunwoody Preservation Trust. Proceeds go towards educational programming for children and adults, community events and the rehabilitation of some of Dunwoody’s historic homes and cemeteries. DPT manages and maintains Donaldson-Bannister Farm in partnership with the city of Dunwoody.
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.
Continued from Page 7
“You don’t want to get into an argument with people that buy ink by the train car load,” Ginn said, referring to concerns from newspapers and others.
Ginn said he was trying to pass a “pro-business bill.” His proposal came in response to a Georgia Supreme Court ruling last year that unanimously found that a private contractor working for a public entity is still subject to the law and can be sent requests for public records they may possess.
Senate Bill 12 said that requests for those public records should go through the local governmental agencies that contracted with those third parties. This version is what now sits on the governor’s desk.
This story comes to Appen Media through a reporting partnership with Georgia Recorder, a nonprofit newsroom that covers statewide issues.
Continued from Page 1
After ending Chamblee High School’s consecutive championship run last year, the Dunwoody girls team posted a score of 283, outpacing Druid Hills by 15 strokes and Chamblee by more than 60.
Dunwoody’s Elizabeth Hanlon took first place, shooting an 87. Runnerup Alemia Mutert shot 94 with Cora Webster and Madeline Vicine carding 102s.
The boys team had its 14-year streak at the top of the standings come to an end in a one-stroke loss to Lakeside a year ago at Sugar Creek Golf Club. The Wildcats climbed back to the top of the county’s golf programs with a team score of 330, which was 14 strokes ahead of runner-up Chamblee (82-85-87-90).
The Dunwoody boys took the top three spots at the tournament. Reece Thompson won the tournament with a 79, taking two strokes off his sixthplace 81 at the county championship a year ago.
Jake Kelemen finished just two strokes behind with an 81, shaving off 11 stokes from his top 20 finish a year ago. Christopher Hazen’s score of 82 earned him in a three-way tie for third with Arabia Mountain’s Nigel Youmans and last year’s runner-up Dylan Lawson of Chamblee.
The boys and girls teams are now set to compete in the regional qualifiers in Cherokee County.
Glynn County Schools is hosting the May 19-20 GHSA Class 5A State Golf Championships. The boys are set to play at Pine Lakes Golf Course on Jekyll Island, while the girls will compete at Sea Island Retreat Golf Course on St. Simons Island.
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The freeze is in response to a pullback of federal funding initiated by the Trump administration.
“Let me be crystal clear, we are not eliminating services, and we are not laying off employees,” Cochran-Johnson said. “This is about being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, ensuring that our core services and the people that rely on them remain protected no matter what happens on the federal level, or as a part of the broader economy.”
She added later during the press conference that, “it is time we exercise great constraint and care today to ensure the future.”
The county receives about $346 million in federal funding each year, representing about 19 percent of the county’s $1.8 billion budget. That money provides programs for seniors, the homeless, accountability court, workforce development and food security, all of which Cochran-Johnson says are priorities for her administration.
Commissioners weigh in DeKalb County commissioners spoke favorably of Cochran-Johnson’s performance as CEO in her first 100 days.
Presiding Officer Michelle Long Spears noted that the County Commission is considering legislation related to affordable housing, such as reducing the minimum square footage requirements and establishing a housing trust fund and a land trust.
“In collaboration with the Board of Commissioners, CEO Cochran-Johnson has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing the housing crisis,” Spears said. “It is my understanding that the CEO is also in the process of appointing a housing officer who will be responsible for shaping the strategic direction of a
comprehensive county-wide housing plan and overseeing the implementation of these and other related initiatives.”
Spears said she has found CochranJohnson a compassionate, proactive and strategic leader. She has approached the first 100 days with urgency and focus.
“She has demonstrated a clear commitment to addressing long-standing housing and infrastructure challenges, maintaining fiscal responsibility, and laying the groundwork for sustainable growth across DeKalb County,” Spears said.
Deputy Presiding Officer Nicole Massiah said Cochran-Johnson is committed to addressing ongoing challenges. She added that the CEO has immediately faced and embraced challenging issues, tackling them with the County Commission.
Massiah said she hopes the CEO will prioritize economic development based on community feedback, especially in areas like South DeKalb Mall, Belvedere Plaza, Eastgate Shopping Center and Candler Road.
“This development will help enhance transportation options for residents who rely on public transit and ridesharing to travel to work or access basic necessities and conveniences,” she said. “Lastly, I am committed to working with the CEO to ensure that all residents experience equity, justice and ongoing service delivery throughout the county.”
Commissioner Ted Terry said he has worked alongside Cochran-Johnson on the County Commission, and her commitment to DeKalb is unwavering.
“As a commissioner, committee chair and member, CEO Cochran-Johnson knows firsthand what we as a county are doing well in as well as the areas that allow the opportunity to improve,” Terry said.
He said he expects she is working with her transition team to assess each area of the county’s government and “any actions will be for long-term goals for efficiency and effective service delivery.”
That is about how I feel today. Like, the cycle has rounded the corner and taken me back to the beginning. Again.
Since, 1990, our media company has “birthed” many publications since Christina and I bought the Revue in 1990 – and put many “to bed” in the 34 years since. We started a lot of websites – including one of the Internet’s early coupon sites – CouponsRUs.com – as well as NorthFulton.com (which was the second newspaper site in Georgia). We started a fax-based advertising program using - I believe - Mark Cuban’s software – and we partnered on a site that provided home-cleaning employment and home-cleaning services to the public – an early market iteration concept of Uber or Thumbtack that link providers to buyer/users.
It makes me tired just thinking about it.
We are now supposed to be retired and have passed the baton to our two sons – Hans and Carl – who continue plowing ahead. In the last couple years, they acquired the Dunwoody Crier from Dick Williams and started the Sandy Springs Crier. Last year – about 6 months ago –they bought Decaturish.com and brought it into the Appen Media family. Decaturish.com is one of the strongest local news websites I have ever seen and a huge shout out to its founder Dan Whisenhunt and the Decaturish team who continue to manage, write, promote, and care for it. Then, in the last 8 weeks or so, Hans and the crew launched a new print newspaper – Decaturish Ink.
It launched March 20 and is delivered primarily to driveways in the Decatur area and in newspaper boxes, newspaper racks, and on counter tops at local businesses. When Hans told me about Decaturish Ink, I offered to help him figure out how to get Decaturish Ink distributed – the circulation piece of the puzzle.
So, in addition to building a delivery staff for the new newspaper, I have been commuting daily to Decatur working on nailing down the delivery routes in the neighborhoods – as well as perusing Decatur businesses as distribution locations – just like I did for every other newspaper we started! It’s not a very “sexy” part of the business, but it has to be done. And I don’t mind because I actually enjoy all aspects of the business. Otherwise, I would retire – really retire.
Getting out there meeting people, talking with people, and learning from people is the icing on the cake for me – priceless. My very first stop dropping off a newspaper rack was Atlanta Vintage Books off Clairmont. I had never been there – or really anywhere else in Decatur –before. I ended up spending over an hour there talking with the owner Jan and others in the store. I met another bookstore owner there, and I found a couple First Edition books I want (Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath); I collect first editions. The owner asked me if we were
I have learned that Decatur is absolutely amazing –and fun, engaging, friendly, and nurturing. I had not the faintest clue. It has an energy – an attitude – and a curiosity across the board that is so new to me. ”
RAY APPEN Publisher Emeritus
starting another Creative Loafing. It was a question I was to hear more than a few more times that day. We talked about Creative Loafing for quite a while.
The next stop after the bookstore was Westside Market off North Druid Hills. I was only there for 45 minutes chatting with the manager who, in addition to being more than willing to have a Decaturish Ink newspaper rack in the store, asked me if she could advertise with us.
From there I dropped into Spiller Park Coffee and chatted with the cashier who welcomed one of our newspaper racks and then she gave me a free coffee. We talked about how amazing Decatur is and how fun exploring new restaurants up and down Buford Highway is. We had a great time, and she made me wish I was young again!
That is how my days go down in Decatur – every day. I have learned that Decatur is absolutely amazing – and fun, engaging, friendly, and nurturing. I had not the faintest clue. It has an energy – an attitude – and a curiosity across the board that is so new to me.
Hans got an email this week from someone in Decatur who I guess had just spotted one of our big blue newspaper boxes I am putting out. It made my day and makes me want to get back down to Decatur an hour earlier in the future – just because. The email read just this: “I saw a Decaturish news box in the wild today!!!! Y’all are awesomely feral!!!!”
“Awesomely feral”; I’ll take that, yessir. Any day. Decatur is going to be fun. I can feel the energy and the excitement in my bones.
Déjà vu, all over again.
The United Methodist Church (UMC) is a global denomination that traces its roots to 18th century England and a movement by John Wesley (17031791), an Anglican cleric. He emphasized the practical aspect of faith, evidenced by his focus on outreach, social justice and helping others. His movement grew rapidly in Britain and the American colonies.
Over time various Methodist groups, or denominations, emerged until 1968 when the two principal groups joined together to create the United Methodist Church. There are other Methodist groups but the UMC is the largest Methodist denomination in the world, with an estimated 12 million members and 42,000 churches. It is also the largest in the United States with some 5 ½ million members and nearly 30,000 churches.
Georgia is part of the Bible Belt which means that Christianity plays an important role in society. There are many distinct Protestant groups including United Methodist, Southern Baptist Convention, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Evangelical Protestant, historically Black Protestant churches and others. Non-Christian religions including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and some others have a comparatively small but non-the-less significant part of the religious mix in Georgia.
United Methodist
The Birmingham United Methodist Church is beautiful, committed to serving the community and large enough to make a difference. It serves the Birmingham area of Milton and surrounding areas of North Fulton, Cherokee and Forsyth counties. Parishioner Byron Foster said that when he drove by the church in 2006 and saw families with children by the church “It was like a Norman Rockwell painting.” He soon became a member.
Its ebullient Senior Pastor since 2022, The Reverend Mike Morgan, agrees that “genuine warmth and welcoming accounts for the church’s rapid growth.” Rev. Mike is a former artist and cartoonist for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and the Macon Telegraph and makes good use of his talents. He draws “For Heaven’s Sake!,” a nationally syndicated weekly comic strip that examines the quirks of the staff and congregation of the fictional Mainline
This is a recent cartoon by The Reverend Mike Morgan. Rev. Mike worked as a cartoonist for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He currently draws a weekly nationally syndicated column “For Heaven’s Sake!” that deals with the foibles of the staff and congregation of a fictional church. This cartoon was published March 31, 2025.
Memorial Church. Mike became Senior Pastor in 2022. The beloved John Wolfe, who pastored for many years, now serves as Pastor Emeritus.
The church was founded in 1835 as a Congregational Church named Darter Chapel after its founder Thomas Jeremiah Darter, a physician and merchant in the Birmingham community.
The church was located on what is now Taylor Road. Around 1847 some Methodist settlers from South Carolina moved to the area and joined Darter Chapel. Eighteen years later there were sufficient Methodist members to convert it to a Methodist Church. They changed its name in 1853 to Pleasant Hill Methodist Church and Dr. Darter joined the new church. The church moved to its current location on Birmingham Highway in 1872. It has undergone numerous changes and enhancements over the years. For a time the church
operated a school on its property.
In the community
Thanks to Associate Pastor Sam Halverson for providing information on the many activities of the church. Here are some highlights.
The church makes its 64 acres of property available in many ways. Three miles of walking trails and numerous fields for equestrian riding are available. The baseball field is used by the Milton Holbrook League. An outdoor amphitheater and prayer labyrinth are available to everyone. The church fellowship hall is used by many organizations and families in the Milton area. Music performances by Music Milton other groups are held throughout the year.
The church serves the homeless and those who need child support, funds student scholarships and disaster relief and works with a support group of
mothers of young children.
In this way the church carries out John Wesley’s commitment to helping others.
The bell
Church bells are nothing new. In the year 604 Pope Sabinian officially sanctioned their use. They called worshipers to prayer and announced significant events. Today they are used to announce church services, to celebrate special occasions, to mark times of mourning and to keep time.
At Birmingham UMC a historic bell had another meaning. Its installation after refurbishment brought parishioners and volunteers together in a common cause. Here is the story.
In May 2009 church volunteers removed a 294-pound bell from its old chapel and stored it until all was ready to install it in the belltower of the church’s new building. The bell, cast in 1892, was stored in Byron Foster’s barn prior to its complex installation.
The bell installation at Birmingham UMC took place in November 2009 before a large crowd of parishioners. Lillian Cole, a church member for more than 40 years, said that the ceremony was “so emotional” for the large gathering of church goers who attended the raising of the bell. We will tell the full story of the bell in a future column.
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.
I find it so rewarding having a fresh vegetable garden at home with a lot of nutritious vegetables and herbs that can be used all spring and summer and even saved to use throughout the winter. Growing my own healthy options is fun and gives me joy to share them with family and friends. There are a few things to consider when you want to grow a healthy vegetable garden. Today I’d like to answer the top questions I always get asked.
Where should I put my garden? Your garden’s location is very important. It needs to have 6-8 hours of sun daily. It is best near the house and near a source of water.
Why do I need a soil test? The soil needs to be well drained with a good texture so amendments may need to be added if your site is not optimum. You should have a County Extension soil test to measure the pH of the soil and identify what nutrients are needed for healthy vegetables. Why do I need a plan? Before you try it in your pots or garden, it is important to plan your garden on paper. It is much easier (and cheaper) to adjust a plan on paper than to replant all your vegetables. Plant the crops that you and your family like to eat. If you have limited space, container gardening is a great option. Consider using dwarf varieties that will give you plenty of yield with a few plants. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and okra, along with your favorite herbs like oregano, basil, sage and thyme, will produce plenty to eat and share. Containers look great with a thriller (tall plant), like a dwarf or bush tomato or cherry tomatoes, a filler (short medium height) like basil, peppers or sage, and a spiller (something hanging down). Herbs like oregano or thyme are great for that. What should I plant? In your vegetable garden, plant tall-growing plants together on the north or west side of the garden or pot so they will not shade the lower-growing plants. Plan to use the space continuously by planting the next-in-season crops after the current crops have been harvested. Next to consider are the different varieties of plants as well as when to plant your vegetables.
Why do I need a planting schedule? We live in hardiness zone 8a or 7b for Atlanta and north Georgia, and the last frost day is approximately April 15th. But it could be two weeks earlier or later because that is an average. Be sure to use recommended varieties for your garden and wait until the last frost has passed before planting in the spring. Whether buying seeds or plants, always buy the best quality seeds from a reputable company. When buying plants, purchase healthy plants without disease or insects present. Planting dates, spacing and depth are in the UGA Extension Vegetable Planting Chart, listed in the references.
How do I prepare my soil for spring planting? Preparing the soil is important for vegetable gardening, whether raised beds or beds in the ground. Have a soil test done at your County Extension office for a small fee and they will send you an analysis and summary of your garden’s lime and fertilizer needs.
How much do I need to fertilize? A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is recommended for most vegetables whether raised beds or inground gardens. Vegetables are
classified as light, medium or heavy feeders based on their fertilizer needs. Add fertilizer according to the soil test results. It’s good to start the soil prep early by adding organic matter such as compost, sawdust or chopped leaves if possible. Fertilizer should be mixed with the soil when preparing the soil for planting after the soil tests have told you what to add.
How do I control weeds, insects and disease? It’s also important to control weeds, insects and diseases to prevent serious losses. Preventative measures can also be used for insects and disease or begun as soon as it is noticed. Your county extension office can help you with identification.
Why do I need to mulch? A mulch of pine straw, leaves or compost will retain moisture and control weeds. Usually 2-4” is sufficient.
How much water do I give my plants? It is also important to keep consistent moisture in the garden. Your garden needs will vary with the soil type, stage of growth, amount of rain and temperature. Usually, vegetable gardens need about 1-1 1/2 inches of water per week. Be sure and water early in the day to allow the
This week’s “Garden Buzz” features Sandy Springs resident Robin Pollack, an accomplished artist and Master Gardener. Active in the Atlanta art community since 1970, Robin has taught for over 30 years at Chastain Arts Center and has been a Master Gardener since 2005. As a member of North Fulton Master Gardeners, she has taught vegetable gardening at Farm Chastain and her own garden. Her garden, influenced by her artistic eye, has been featured on tours including Atlanta Botanical Garden and Georgia Perennial Plant Association.
leaves to dry off.
How can I best use my food? Finally, enjoy your harvest by picking vegetables as soon as they are ripe to avoid disease and insect problems. What to do with too much food? Any surplus should be canned, frozen or shared as soon as harvested.
North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net.
SAVE THE DATE for NFMG’s 2025 signature event: Garden Tour on June 7th. Learn more at www.nfmg.net
City of Dunwoody To Hold
A Location and Design Public Information Open House For P.I. No. 0019209
North Shallowford Path DeKalb County
On Tuesday, May 13, 2025 (date) at the North Shallowford Annex located at 4470 North Shallowford Road, Atlanta, GA, 30338 (location) , the City of Dunwoody, Georgia will hold a Public Information Open House concerning the project listed above.
This project proposes to construct a shared use path along North Shallowford Road from Chamblee-Dunwoody Road to Cotillion Drive, a distance of approximately 0.8 mile. Context-sensitive streetscaping elements will be considered such as wayfinding signs, decorative pedestrian lighting, and landscaping.
The purpose of this Location and Public Information Open House is to provide the public with an opportunity to view the project, ask questions, and comment on the project.
The Open House will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. It will be informal, and the public is invited to attend anytime during these hours. There will be no formal presentation. A court reporter will be available to allow the public an opportunity to make verbal comments about the project.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information:
The meeting site is accessible to persons with disabilities. Accommodations for people with disabilities can be arranged with advance notice by contacting Ms. Michelle Hirose at 678-356-1149 (Michelle.Hirose@dunwoodyga.gov).
Written statements will be accepted concerning this project until Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Written statements may be submitted to:
Ms. Michelle Hirose Public Works Deputy Director City of Dunwoody 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road Dunwoody, Georgia 30338
We are looking for one person or couple interested in delivering weekly newspapers in South Forsyth, Alpharetta and the Johns Creek areas.
Requirements: Must have a perfect driving record and background check, reliable transportation, honest, hard-working and positive attitude.
For more information or to apply, email heidi@appenmedia.com and include a paragraph or two about who you are and any relevant background/experience. In the subject line of the email please put “Delivery Route Application.”
Full-Time Vice President of Community Engagement
Will finance big or small guaranteed. A+ rating at BBB. Kitchen, bath, tile, pavers, more. Free visit/ estimate. Big discount! 205-907-1749
Matthew the Handyman - Carpentry, painting, drywall, plumbing. Electrical and small jobs. 404-547-2079.
NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Vice President of Community Engagement position. The Vice President of Community Engagement (VPCE) is a senior leadership role responsible for developing and implementing strategies to build meaningful relationships with the community, donors, and stakeholders.
The VPCE will lead initiatives to increase awareness, partnerships, and financial support for the organization’s mission. This position oversees community engagement, marketing, public relations, and volunteer programs to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
Part-Time Thrift Shop Associate – Bilingual Preferred
NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the part-time Thrift Shop Associate position. One of the primary responsibilities of this role is to provide a high level of customer service in the Thrift Shop. The associate is responsible for all cash register and client clothing program transactions and keeping the merchandise in the store neat, clean, and organized. The role requires a friendly and customer-focused demeanor where all shoppers are treated with dignity and compassion.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
