May 29, 2025 | AppenMedia.com
PHOTOS
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10822, representing Sandy Springs and Dunwoody in Central Perimeter, prepares to place flags at the grave of every former service member May 22 at the North Atlanta Memorial Park off Winter’s Chapel Road near the DeKalb-Gwinnett County line. VFW Post 10822 has kept the Memorial Day weekend tradition running for years.
By HAYDEN SUMLIN | hayden@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. — Each year before Memorial Day, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10822 places American flags at every service member’s grave in North Atlanta Memorial Park.
The VFW post is a more than 90-year-old institution in Sandy Springs and Dunwoody. What was once a group of mostly World War II veterans is now led by those who fought in the Vietnam War with younger generations who served during the Global War on Terror.
By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga.
— Elected leaders and a few hundred members of the business community gathered May 20 for the inaugural Envision Perimeter on the 12th floor of the King building. Envision Perimeter is the product of several groups coming together, the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, the new Greater Perimeter Chamber and the
business community that backs both.
Since commercial owners rallied together to form a self-taxing commercial district just north of I-285 in 1999, Central Perimeter has gone from farmland to one of the largest edge cities in the United States.
Central Perimeter sports some of Metro Atlanta’s newest Class A office space.
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch and Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul speak on how both sides of the county line are investing in Central Perimeter’s growth, making it a more attractive commercial district.
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By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
DUNWOODY, Ga. —Dunwoody Police
Chief Mike Carlson is sounding the alarm on a surge in sophisticated scams that are targeting residents. He said some financial losses have mounted into the hundreds of thousands of dollars in recent weeks.
In a May 19 social media video, Carlson stands in the city’s new Real Time Crime Center at City Hall as he explains ways residents can avoid falling victim to fraudsters.
“We’re investigating more cases of sophisticated online and telephone scams,” Carlson said in the video. “The target? It’s often older people, but really — all ages are vulnerable.”
The scams come in many forms, from fake jury duty notices, bogus toll violation messages and get-rich-quick schemes to fraudulent requests to use cryptocurrency, or Bitcoin, ATMs.
Some scams start on dating apps or messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. Criminals build trust over time before persuading victims to send money — only to vanish once funds are transferred.
The Sandy Springs City Council approved an ordinance in December to place signs warning of potential fraud at every cryptocurrency ATM in the city.
Some tips from the Dunwoody Police Department to avoid becoming a victim include:
• Beware of unsolicited investment offers, especially online.
• Don’t answer unknown phone numbers.
• Never share personal information — legitimate agencies like your bank or the IRS will not contact you demanding money or personal details.
“If something doesn’t feel right — trust your gut,” Carlson said. “Talk to a friend or family member. Don’t be scared or embarrassed. These scams are designed to fool anyone.”
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Dunwoody Police Deputy Chief Oliver Fladrich discusses sophisticated scams that are targeting residents at an April 14 City Council meeting. After City Councilman Rob Price expressed concerns about one resident’s $200,000 loss, the Police Department took steps to educate the public.
City Councilman Rob Price raised the topic at the April 14 meeting. Price mentioned City Manager Eric Linton’s report, citing a resident who lost more than $200,000 to an unidentified scammer.
“I’m wondering, is there anything we can do to get some more information out in the community, create some sort of handout that could be on the Police Department’s website?” Price said. “I don’t know that it would prevent these, but if we could prevent one … that’s a qualityof-life level of money that this person lost.”
Linton reported that one of the city’s new civilian public safety ambassadors met with the victim at Dunwoody City Hall about a fraud.
“The victim stated that she received a message from what she thought was Microsoft stating that her computer had been compromised,” Linton wrote. “She contacted someone claiming to be with customer support who convinced her to withdraw $25,000 from her bank, then convert it to bitcoins.”
Later, the resident was instructed to
wire more than $175,000 to a business with the understanding that she would meet for an exchange with a representative of the FBI.
“When the male arrived and took possession of the gold she asked him for his ID, to which he stated that he was not with the FBI and then left the location in a white sedan,” Linton wrote. “The total loss was $201,580.”
While the fraud incident was a lifealtering crime for one Dunwoody resident, police are taking steps to help more citizens recognize potential threats.
City Councilman Price said it’s up to friends and family to connect their loved ones with the materials to help them better recognize common scams and fraud tactics.
Police Chief Carlson’s video was prompted by City Councilman Price bringing up his concern.
While the documented loss was significant, Deputy Chief Oliver Fladrich said some of the fraud incidents “are way higher than even the $200,000.”
May 14 press conference to discuss plans to collect more than $104 million in delinquent water bills.
By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson said at a May 14 press conference that the county is owed $104.7 million from delinquent water bills, and there are 600 accounts, each with a balance over $5,000.
The CEO outlined steps the county is taking to collect money it says it is owed, including recorded conversations with customers disputing bills and shutting off water for customers who don't respond to the county's notices.
DeKalb County is under scrutiny for its handling of high water bills. Decaturish has talked to a few residents who have water bills of more than $8,500, $18,000, and $42,000. Those residents are disputing the charges, and a couple have had their water shut off while they await a resolution.
"Let me begin by being clear and on the record when I say there are no mass disconnections of water taking place here in DeKalb County," Cochran-Johnson said. "And we have not disconnected any resident who has disputed a bill and continued to pay undisputed bills as they have moved forward."
DeKalb County says that some
residents haven't paid a water bill in years and haven't paid the regular bill even if they are disputing a high charge. The CEO said the delinquent accounts have not responded to the county.
"This is money due to DeKalb County, as well as our residents" Cochran-Johnson said. "What has occurred for the past eight years will not take place for eight months in my administration. We have perpetuated a behavior that is simply not sustainable, nor is it fair."
Cochran-Johnson took office in January, replacing Michael Thurmond, who was term-limited.
Beginning July 1, a 10 percent water and sewer rate increase will take effect. Water billing advocates have been concerned about the impact the rate hike will have on residents, particularly those who are low-income.
"Over the past several decades, DeKalb County did not increase water rates at what should have been a proper rate in order to allow us to make the necessary capital improvements," Cochran-Johnson said. "With that being said, we look forward to collecting this revenue that can be used by DeKalb County throughout our water system for needed upgrades." See OVERDUE, Page 4
The DeKalb County Commission approved the rate adjustment in February and requested the CEO implement affordability measures like shut-off protections, a discount program, and a bill cap to mitigate the impact some residents will feel. Measures also included creating a customer advocate office to handle water billing disputes.
Community advocate pulls support
Cochran-Johnson says the county already has most of the affordability measures in place, but critics say she is not implementing the shutoff protections or creating the customer advocate office.
During a press conference on May 13, DeKalb Water Watch rescinded its support of the rate increase due to the shut-offs for some customers disputing their bills.
“We encouraged newfound trust and in good faith endorsed the county’s significant rate increase,” DeKalb Water Watch Community Advocate Katherine Maddox said. “The county’s recklessness and failure to implement our affordability policies, railroading over citizens’ rights, just like the former
administration, compels me to, with regret, rescind DeKalb Water Watch’s endorsement of the Cochran-Johnson administration’s 10 by 10 rate increase."
Maddox cited the county's "refusal to deliver on a comprehensive affordable water plan" as a factor in the group's decision.
In her May 14 remarks, CochranJohnson said the County Commission passed a resolution, which is different from legislation.
"The Board of Commissioners, along with myself, we are dedicated to ensuring that no one is adversely affected," Cochran-Johnson said. "There is a difference between a resolution and legislation. Legislation creates a law. In all honesty, a resolution is only as good as the paper it's written on, unless you decide to implement it. However, we are dedicated to ensuring that every provision of the resolution is honored.
"In practice, we're already doing what the resolution says," she added. She encouraged residents experiencing high bills to contact the county's water advocates, a team of nine customer service representatives
handling disputes.
Residents who provide proof that their leaks have been addressed will have their accounts adjusted within 90 days, Cochran-Johnson added.
Documenting agreements
The CEO said that beginning June 1, the county will begin aggressive measures to collect these bills.
"We are building a system that is fair, that is accurate and a system that is compassionate, but also we are seeking accountability," CochranJohnson said.
The new measures include providing payment plans in writing with a digital signature from the customer, implementing a recorded customer service line and conducting and recording resolution consultations via Zoom.
"You will be required to submit a digital signature that acknowledges you understand the terms and conditions and you acknowledge the payment amount that you have agreed, based upon whatever your circumstance may be moving forward," Cochran-Johnson said.
"Also, we are instituting a recorded service line, so if you cannot remember the conversation, we will. We can play it back for you," she added.
Cochran-Johnson said the county is taking measures to reduce ambiguity, end confusion and create a documented path forward.
Deputy Director of Metering and Utilities Lyn Ferguson said that currently, customers with outstanding balances will receive an automated call reminding them of their balance.
"Customers are encouraged to call back and speak with a representative to establish payment arrangements or set up reasonable installment plans to avoid disconnection," Ferguson said. "Customers who have not contacted the county in months...they are also being called, emailed and mailed collection notices to prompt communication with the county."
If the county doesn't receive a reply or payment within 30 days, the resident will receive a 10-day disconnection notice.
"After that 10th day, the final attempt is made to contact the customer. If no response is received, thereafter the services are scheduled for disconnection," Ferguson said. "These disconnections are due to non-payment or water waste, which are often the result of unrepaired leaks."
15
5K Run/Walk • 1 Mile Walk • kids4DAD Tot Trot Peachtree Road Race Official Qualifying Event Wills Park Pool Parking Lot Start/Finish 1815 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta Crash Clark, 99X, Emcee Race website: run4DAD.org
letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with 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!
1. Jekyll’s partner. Like some gas. Garbage.
2. Sea bird. Valuable fur. Clark’s partner 3. Poe’s bird. Lum’s partner. Like a busybody.
4. Hardy’s partner. Small salmon. Kind of test.
5. Musical mark. Fibber McGee’s partner. Territory in North-Eastern Canada.
6. Baby buggy. Popeye’s partner. Latin American Dance.
7. Bird venerated by ancient Egyptians. Delilah’s partner. Half-moon tide.
1 Jekyll’s partner. Like some gas. Garbage
2. Sea bird. Valuable fur. Clark’s partner.
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. Poe’s bird. Lum’s partner. Like a busybody
4. Hardy’s partner. Small salmon. Kind of test
5. Musical mark. Fibber McGee’s partner. Territory in NorthEastern Canada.
6. Baby buggy. Popeye’s partner. Latin American dance
7. Bird venerated by ancient Egyptians. Delilah’s partner. Halfmoon tide.
Continued from Page 1
According to data from global commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield, the commercial district outperformed all Metro Atlanta submarkets in leasing activity throughout 2024. With more than 1.3 million square feet of new leasing and the largest year-over-year increase, Perimeter just beat out midtown Atlanta. Cushman & Wakefield cites proximity to downtown Atlanta, relative affordability when compared to the urban core and a strong talent base as reasons for a spur in demand.
The event was thrown as a community celebration of progress within the business district, which encompasses pieces of the cities of Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs.
Regent Partner Principal John Bell, whose team leases the King building, is an Atlanta native, Marist graduate and member of the Perimeter CIDs’ Fulton County Board. He said he’s had a front row seat to Central Perimeter’s growth, from farmland to urban streetscape.
“This development has long been a part of the Perimeter story,” Bell said. “An icon, a landmark? Yes, but also a symbol of what this district is: established, resilient and forward-moving.”
The theme of the summit was “Every Piece in Place,” a nod to the wrap up of major enhancements to the Ga. 400 and I-285 interchange just north of “Pill Hill” in Sandy Springs.
Getting infrastructure on par Situated at Ga. 400 and I-285, the King and Queen buildings off Concourse Parkway gave attendees a 360-degree view of Central Perimeter with the Buckhead and Atlanta skylines on the horizon.
Georgia Department of Transportation
Commissioner Russel McMurray said the wrap-up of the $800 million Transform 285/400 project at the major intersection is the first critical piece of the puzzle for mobility improvements within Metro Atlanta.
“Today is a full circle moment. This is where we did a ceremonial groundbreaking, too long ago I might add, for this big project,” McMurray said. “Back when we were struggling to figure out how to fund [the project] … PCID came through with a $10 million investment to help us advance the project.”
That project broke ground in 2017, indicating the protracted timeline that typically goes with major infrastructure improvement projects.
McMurray said the ongoing progress on PATH400 is one piece of the puzzle and an example of several organizations and cities coming together. The multi-
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Tristan Cleveland, an urban planner with the firm Happy Cities, discusses successful redevelopments and retrofits May 20 at the inaugural Envision Perimeter on the 12th floor of the King building.
use trail along Ga. 400 checks a lot of boxes for regional trail advocates. When completed, it will allow pedestrians and cyclists to get from Central Perimeter to Buckhead and the Atlanta Beltline.
The Georgia Department of Transportation built a part of the trail system through one of the busiest interchanges in the country, allowing each Central Perimeter city to build their own connections. Sandy Springs has its portion of PATH400 funded up to Central Perimeter.
McMurray wrapped up by mentioning the kickoff of work on the Ga. 400 Express Lanes project, from the North Springs MARTA station in Sandy Springs to McFarland Parkway in Forsyth County.
“We’re going to give you a reprieve from orange barrels for a little bit,” he said. “Enjoy the Transform 285/400 for now … there’s more investment coming in future mobility that will continue to make this Perimeter Center thrive economically and competitively.”
Picking Central Perimeter
Perimeter CIDs Executive Director Ann Hanlon said another critical piece of the puzzle is public safety, which the commercial district financially supports.
“We’re all really trying really hard to make this a great place,” Hanlon said. “But the foundation of that success, one of the things that makes our job easy, is that Perimeter is the safest, most accessible market in Metro Atlanta.”
Hanlon then introduced the police chiefs in Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs to discuss how their departments partner with the Perimeter CIDs and each other to ensure they’re where they need to be in the community.
While the Dunwoody Police Chief Mike Carlson touted camera technology and drone usage, Sandy Springs Police Chief Kenneth DeSimone touted his department’s new electric motorcycles and bicycles for patrols along PATH400 and throughout Central Perimeter.
Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul said it’s hard to believe that a quarter of the 21st century is already behind us and it’s
his job to prepare for the next 25 years.
“This is one of the most important economic regions for the whole Southeastern region,” Paul said. “That doesn’t mean we can rest on our laurels. We’ve got to do a refresh and look at what demands are going to be in the next 2530 years to be able to hold onto what we have here, expand it and grow it.”
One panel during the summit featured Cushman Wakefield Executive Director Ken Ashley, a Dunwoody native, in conversation with representatives of new Central Perimeter tenants like Newell Brands, TriNet and Marketwave.
Each corporate leader spoke on what attracted them to Central Perimeter, citing the district’s amenities, transportation options and community energy.
Another panel, “The Perimeter Experience: Culture, Community & Belonging,” promoted sponsorships and community service at the Dunwoody Nature Center and commuting shuttles through the CIDs’ Perimeter Connects program.
Looking at next steps
Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch introduced the keynote speaker, citing intentional public and private investment that seeks to balance density in Central Perimeter.
“Projects like High Street and Ashford Lane show that density done well has tremendous positives, and we plan for much more of this in the future of Dunwoody” Deutsch said. “Dunwoody is thriving to be a happy, connected city.”
Tristan Cleveland, an urban planner with a doctorate in philosophy from Dalhousie University’s Healthy Populations Institute, said suburban retrofitting began in Miami-Dade County in the early 1990s.
“All of this great works that’s happening across Atlanta of bringing walkability and transportation design, it can thank this change,” Cleveland said.
With urbanization and growth comes resistance from some residents of Central Perimeter cities. Whether it’s apartment renters being priced out with ongoing redevelopment or homeowners frustrated with neighborhood encroachment, some people are not on board.
Cleveland said skyrocketing housing values is an issue for low-income people, but it also increases the commercial tax base and decreases the residential burden.
In Dunwoody, residents fight city plans to put 12-foot-wide paths in front of single-family homes. In Sandy Springs, homeowners and schools fight over field lighting.
Two things that seem popular among a large majority of residents across north Metro Atlanta are increasing walkability in commercial areas with paths and expanding access to natural landscapes with trails.
By ZOE SEILER zoe@appenmedia.com
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — DeKalb County is working to improve access to trails and build new ones throughout the county.
The County Commission adopted the trails and greenways master plan at its April 22 meeting.
DeKalb County has about 65 miles of greenways, trails and paved paths, but they are largely disconnected from each other. The master plan paves a path for the county to connect the trail network.
“As trail projects are completed over time, the trail network will become increasingly interconnected and will help move people to the places they need to go, promote health and wellbeing, improve sustainability and resilience, and increase equitable access to communities and local destinations,” the executive summary of the plan states.
The master plan focuses on paved or hard-surface trails and does not address soft-surface or natural-surface trails. Overall, it proposes a countywide greenway vision network and offers design recommendations.
“The Countywide Greenway Vision Network is the proposed trail network that best meets the goals and principles that have been shaped and defined by public input, key stakeholders, existing conditions analysis, and county staff,” the plan says.
Setting priorities
The master plan establishes three goals:
• Link together a safe, connected system
• Improve access for residents, visitors and park patrons
• Ensure sustainable expansion and maintenance of the system
It also establishes greenway network principles, such as:
• Increase connections between existing network segments
• Increase access to trails and greenways for all regional residents
• Provide access to primary local destinations
• Support inter-county and regional connectivity
• Limit network to sustainable mileage along primary trails
• Distribute trail facilities equally and equitably across the county
• Provide a safe and comfortable experience for trail users
“The County is defined by three broad zones of current trails: a cluster of northern DeKalb cities with existing local trail networks and the Peachtree Creek Greenway; a prominent east-west corridor of the Stone Mountain Trail, connecting the cities of Decatur and Stone Mountain; and two major trails in the southeastern and southwestern corners of the county along the South River and Arabia-Panola Mountain areas,” the plan says.
A key goal is to identify trail corridors that provide routes through the unincorporated areas and connect the existing trail system.
Individual projects
One of the recommended projects is the Covington Highway multimodal connector in southeastern DeKalb.
By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com
Readers bound for sand, surf and sun have long known to pack Wendy Wax’s seaside stories. The author, born and raised in Florida, moved back in 2022 after decades in Atlanta. She has the word “beach” in the title of six of her 17 novels and two novellas, and numerous others feature beaches on the cover and/or as the setting.
Fittingly, “Just Beachy” is the author’s latest release. Wax will return to Georgia for the book’s Roswell launch June 7 and a series of additional appearances around the metro area sponsored by Bookmiser.
The new novel’s name aside, however, Wax’s books are far more than “beach reads.”
“My protagonists are primarily female,” the USA Today bestselling author said, “and I write journeys of self-discovery and the bonds of friendship that get us through the toughest times. I deal with serious subjects. I just believe that Mary Poppins had it right. A spoonful of humor helps the harsh realities go down.”
Wax first hit on that winning formula for contemporary women’s fiction in the early 2000s. After graduating from the University of Georgia and following a broadcasting career as a television writer, producer and on-camera talent, she was at home with a newborn and a 2-year-old when she decided to write a novel.
JOANNA SOUZA/PROVIDED
USA Today bestselling author Wendy Wax will launch her latest novel, “Just Beachy” June 7 in Roswell.
“I chalk that up to post-pregnancy hormones and lack of sleep,” she joked. “I didn't realize how hard it would be, but I needed something creative to focus on in the midst of changing diapers and cleaning up messes.”
And focus she did – to the tune of nearly a book a year since 2003.
As something of a thank-you for that diligence, Atlanta is rolling out the red carpet for “Just Beachy.” The book launches with an afternoon tea in Roswell alongside New York Times bestseller Karen White on June 7, followed by additional appearances in Sandy Springs, Dahlonega and Newnan.
Details about Wax’s North Fulton events are below, along with other June events.
Tuesday, June 3, Rita Daniels on “Harriet Tubman: Military Scout and Tenacious Visionary: From Her Roots in Ghana to Her Legacy on the Eastern Shore.” Friends of the Sandy Springs Library and Bookmiser will spotlight Daniels, a Tubman descendent, at 5:30 p.m. Free. Sandy Springs Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway Northeast. 770-509-5611. bookmiser. net/events.html
Saturday, June 7; Monday, June 9, Wendy Wax Georgia launch week sponsored by Bookmiser. On June 7, Atlanta Authors will present Wax in conversation with Karen White at 2 p.m. Roswell Adult Recreation Center, 830 Grimes Bridge Road. On June 9, Friends of the Sandy Springs Library will feature Wax at 6 p.m. with Colleen Oakley. Sandy Springs Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway Northeast. Two additional appearances will be held in Newnan and Dahlonega. All are free. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/events.html
Saturday, June 7, illustrating books with Rob McClurkan, children’s book author and illustrator. 4 p.m. Free. Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Road, Cumming. 770-781-9840.
forsythpl.org/event/13298617
Wednesday, June 11, Emily Carpenter with Kimberly Belle, discussing Carpenter’s latest thriller, “Gothictown.” 5:30 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com
Tuesday, June 24, Johns Creek Books and Gwinnett County Public Library will host Katherine Scott Crawford with her May release, “The Miniaturist's Assistant.” 6 p.m. Free. Duluth Library, 3180 Main Street, Duluth. 770696-9999. johnscreekbooks.com
Friday, Saturday and Monday, June 27, 28 and 30, Friends of the Roswell Library Book Sale. See website for hours and details. Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St., Roswell. 404-6129700. forl.net
Sunday, June 29, Books & Brews with Christopher Swann. Hosted by Read It Again Bookstore at Pontoon Brewing, Sandy Springs. 1 p.m. Free. Pontoon Brewing, 500, 8601 Dunwoody Place, Sandy Springs. read-it-again.com
To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.
METRO ATLANTA — Art Pharmacy is partnering with Wellstar Health System to address the isolation and loneliness pandemic.
The new program allows participants in the Wellstar Live to the Beat heart health program to improve their health by engaging in fun, nonclinical community events. Live to the Beat is a community outreach program that partners with local faith communities to connect participants with community health sources.
Art Pharmacy combines decades of research in the field of arts and health with non-clinical community events like the arts, movement, nature and service to help patient health.
The group will connect participants to community-based activities that will benefit patient’s mental health and well-being.
To learn more about Art Pharmacy, visit www.artpharmacy.co.
— Sarah Coyne
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This 5.1-mile trail was ranked as high priority since it would connect five schools, 53 transit stops, the Southeast Athletic Complex and other activity centers.
“The trail would connect the northern end of the Arabia Mountain Trail in Lithonia and Stonecrest to the future Snapfinger Trail, which would be a key north-south connection between the Stone Mountain Trail and South River Trail,” the plan says.
The proposed design is a 12-foot-wide trail with a 6-foot buffer between the path and the road. The estimated cost is about $19.5 million.
Another high-priority project is the Farmers Market Trail that would connect the South Peachtree Creek Trail to the Stone Mountain Trail in western DeKalb.
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“The Farmers Market Trail is the second-highest ranked trail from the prioritization process for its ability to link these two existing trails as well as its connection to nine transit stops, Medlock and Mason Mill parks, a grocery store, charter school, and its namesake, the DeKalb Farmers Market,” the plan says.
The plan proposes a 12- to 14-foot-wide trail with a 5-footwide shoulder on each side. The estimated cost is about $9.7 million.
The third high-priority project is the Stone MountainLithonia Road trail in eastern DeKalb. It would connect the Arabia Mountain trail to the Stone Mountain trail, linking 48 transit stops, three libraries, two grocery stores and downtown Lithonia.
The 9-mile trail could be 12 to 14 feet wide, with a 5-foot buffer along the street, and two feet of “shy space” between the trail and a fence along CSX right of way. The estimated cost is about $28.7 million.
The organization has more than 100 members and is seeking younger generations of veterans to join.
Its annual activities are extensive, including monthly trips to the VA Hospital in Atlanta, essay contests for local students and a float in the state’s largest 4th of July Parade in Dunwoody.
VFW Post 10822 Commander
Tom Ariail saluted the few dozen who showed up on a Thursday morning to honor those who gave their lives to protect the United States.
Smiles, jokes, hellos and thankyous rang out among the volunteers, corporate sponsors and veterans.
While decades separated
DEKALB COUNTY/PROVIDED
The DeKalb County trails and greenways master plan aims to connect the county's existing trails, pictured left, through a greenway vision network, pictured right.
generations of Post 10822 volunteers, you’d never know it based on parking lot conversations before folks set out to place flags. A millennial who served in Afghanistan shook hands with his friend, an infantryman during Vietnam, joking about I-285 traffic on the drive over.
City Councilman Joe Seconder, a retired U.S. Army major and Operation Iraqi Freedom combat veteran, held court in the parking lot, serving as a branch between older and younger retired service members.
Vietnam veteran Robert Ledford leads the flag-placing tradition at Post 10822.
Ledford, a former commander of VFW Post 10822, is heavily involved in the community, also serving on the board of the Friends of the Dunwoody Library.
Each veteran’s gravestone includes
service branch.
“That’s one thing that you’ll see on a grave. They won’t put down unmarried or whatever, they’ll put down their service,” Ledford said. “It’s the one thing they’ll always remember, it defines your life.”
While generations of Americans share some common experiences, military cohorts throughout American history made the same life-defining decision to protect their country.
“You’ll have friends that no matter how long you’ve been apart, you know,” Ledford said. “You’ve lived an experience that not everyone can.”
One of Ledford’s favorite things about the post’s flag-planting tradition is the worn dirt mark on the bottom of each wooden stake. The flags are reused each year and seldom end up on the same grave twice. The flag’s attachment to one deceased veteran
carries to another the following year.
“So, one veteran gets to visit another veteran the next year,” Ledford said. “Some little girl asked me why they were dirty, and that’s what I told her.”
While monthly post meetings attract 30 or so members, there were plenty of fresh faces at the memorial park for the flag placing Thursday.
“Look at all these people who aren’t members,” Ledford said, pointing to City Councilman Rob Price and employees from Inspire Brands. “We really appreciate it to recognize the veterans, especially those who have passed … really means something to all of us.”
The next scheduled Post 10822 monthly business meeting is June 10 at 11: 30 a.m. in the Dunwoody United Methodist Church’s Elmworth Room at 1548 Mount Vernon Road.
Hydrangeas are getting a head start with the mild spring, with blossoms forming early this year. So, let’s explore some pruning techniques that will help you enjoy these beauties now and in the future.
Hydrangeas are popular ornamental plants known for their large, showy blooms and lush foliage. Proper pruning is essential for maintaining the health, shape and blooming potential of hydrangeas. In this guide, we'll explore what you need to know about when and how to prune hydrangea plants for optimal growth and beauty.
Before diving into pruning techniques, it's crucial to understand the different types of hydrangeas and their specific pruning requirements:
• Bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla): Known for their large, round flower clusters, bigleaf hydrangeas bloom on old wood. This means they set their flower buds in late summer or early fall for the following year's blooms. Pruning at the wrong time can remove these buds, resulting in reduced flowering.
• Panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata): Panicle hydrangeas produce cone-shaped flower clusters and bloom on new wood. They are more forgiving when it comes to pruning timing and can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
• Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens): Smooth hydrangeas produce large, white flower heads and bloom on new wood. Like panicle hydrangeas, they can be pruned in late winter or early spring.
• Oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia): Oakleaf hydrangeas feature distinctive oak-shaped leaves and produce cone-shaped flower clusters. They bloom on old wood, so pruning should be done immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year's buds.
The timing of hydrangea pruning depends on the specific type of hydrangea you have:
• Bigleaf and oakleaf hydrangeas: Prune immediately after flowering, typically in late spring or early summer. This allows the plant to develop new growth and set flower buds for the following year.
• Panicle and smooth hydrangeas: These varieties can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Since they bloom on new wood, pruning encourages vigorous growth and abundant flowering during the upcoming season.
Follow these general pruning guidelines for healthy, attractive hydrangea plants: Remove dead or damaged wood: Begin by cutting out any dead, diseased or damaged branches. Make clean cuts just above a healthy bud or lateral branch. Shape the plant: Trim back any overly long or straggly branches to maintain a neat and compact shape. Aim to create a balanced silhouette while preserving the plant's natural form.
Thinning out: To improve air circulation and reduce overcrowding, selectively thin out interior branches. This helps prevent disease and promotes better light penetration, leading to healthier growth and more abundant blooms.
Deadheading: After flowering, deadhead spent blooms by cutting the flower stalks back to a pair of healthy buds or lateral branches. This encourages the development of new growth and may result in additional blooms later in the season.
Tips for successful pruning:
Use sharp tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make precise cuts and minimize damage to the plant. Sanitize tools: Before pruning, sterilize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution to prevent the spread of disease.
Avoid over-pruning: While it's essential to remove dead or unwanted growth, avoid excessive pruning, especially on bigleaf and oakleaf hydrangeas, as this can diminish next year's flowering. Monitor soil moisture: Hydrangeas prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil. Water deeply during dry periods to keep the root zone evenly moist but avoid waterlogged conditions.
Apply mulch: Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, in spring to a depth of 2-4 inches.
Fertilize sparingly: Hydrangeas generally do not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced, slowrelease fertilizer in spring, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as these can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense
This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is John Fox, a 2024 Fulton County Extension Master Gardener. John was the CEO of Emory Healthcare for 16 years and has an interest in landscapes and plant biology.
of flowers.
Proper trimming is essential for maintaining the health, appearance, and blooming performance of hydrangea plants. By understanding the specific pruning requirements of different hydrangea varieties and following best practices for timing and technique, you can ensure that your hydrangeas thrive with beautiful blooms year after year.
Happy gardening!
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 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. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at: https://www. appenmedia.com/opinion/columnists/garden_buzz/
Johns Creek, a city of more than 82,000 inhabitants (2020 census) residing in 31 square miles has a fascinating history.
History highlights
In the early 1800s Johns Creek was part of Cherokee territory. European settlers established trading posts along the Chattahoochee River, some of which gradually became crossroads communities where pioneer families gathered, families such as the Rogers, McGinnis, Findley, Medlock, Cowart, Bice, Nesbit, Spruill, Summerour and more. The community of Sheltonville (or Shakerag) became a ferry crossing with McGinnis Ferry, Rogers Ferry. Other nearby ferries were Nesbit Ferry and Warsaw Ferry.
The discovery of gold in the Cherokee Nation about 45 miles north of Johns Creek in the 1820s eventually led the U.S. government to exile the Cherokees to Oklahoma in what is known as the notorious Trail of Tears. About that time the name Johns Creek began to appear on maps, although the origin of the name is uncertain.
DON L. SHADBURN /COURTESY OF JOHNS CREEK HISTORICAL SOCIETY
John Rogers was a successful and influential plantation owner in Johns Creek. He was married to Sarah Cordery, a Cherokee. Their house built in 1804 still stands in Johns Creek. Rogers was also a friend of Andrew Jackson. This image is from a miniature portrait.
A few Cherokees remained in Georgia after the forced migration, including Sarah Cordery (1785-1842). She was married to pioneer John Rogers (1774-1851), a respected and powerful plantation owner, whose house built in 1804 still stands in Johns Creek. He and his sons played important roles in the area’s history, particularly during the time of the Cherokee removal.
Andrew Jackson came to town Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) did not spend much time in Johns Creek, but he certainly had an impact there and throughout the South. As president (1829-1837) he strongly advocated for the removal of Indian tribes to west of the Mississippi River. In his 1829 State of the Union address to Congress, President Jackson called for Indian removal. He signed into law the Indian Removal Act of 1830 that
The City of Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on Thursday, July 10, 2025 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 25-09, 4555 Village Springs Run, Dunwoody, GA, 30338: Two variances: one from Sec. 16-78 to allow retaining walls to encroach into the 75-foot stream buffer and one from Sec. 27-269 to allow retaining walls to encroach into the rear setback.
ZBA 25-10, 1957 Rotherham Way, Dunwoody, GA, 30338: Variance from Sec. 27-58 to allow a deck to encroach into the rear setback.
ZBA 25-11, 4670 Eidson Road, Dunwoody, GA, 30360: Two variances: one from Sec. 27-576 to allow a shed to encroach into the street setback and one from Sec. 27-58 to allow a shed to encroach into the rear setback. 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.
Portrait of Andrew Jackson, canvas painting by Thomas Sully, 1845. Jackson was a military hero and the most portrayed president in history, reflecting his leadership.
called for the removal of all Indians to the west of the Mississippi River. During Jackson’s presidency and that of his successor Martin Van Buren more than 60,000 Native Americans from at least 18 tribes were forced to move west.
In 1820, Jackson when traveling in the area, visited the home of John Rogers in Johns Creek and may have spent the night. The two men had fought together in the Creek Wars in 1813. Their relationship was further indicated by a letter from John Rogers to Andrew Jackson dated Feb. 1, 1816, housed in the Library of Congress. At the time of his visit, Jackson was becoming a national figure based on his success as a military leader, and John Rogers was important in part due to his connections with the Cherokees.
Johns Creek is unique for several reasons
First, Johns Creek has no post office, so when incorporated in 2006, it had to continue to use existing ZIP codes from communities Johns Creek inherited parts of. The alternative was to restructure postal routes and create new ZIP codes which is expensive. So, some Johns Creek citizens live in the community but have mail addresses from neighboring cities such as Alpharetta, Duluth, Suwanee and Peachtree Corners. This can frustrate residents who naturally would like their mailing address to be Johns Creek. Fortunately, mail delivery is not affected.
Second, the city includes four historic unincorporated communities
that have kept their original names, Ocee, Newtown, Sheltonville (or Shakerag) and Warsaw. Each has its own story to tell, and each started out as a crossroads community. In February 2025 I wrote a column about the history of Shakerag.
Third, Johns Creek had its own mini gold rush when gold was discovered in Shakerag in the early 1840s, a decade after the famous Dahlonega gold rush. It even experienced a short skirmish during the Civil War.
Fourth, Will Rogers (1879-1935), a cowboy, humorist and entertainer, had deep roots in Johns Creek. His father was a Cherokee senator and judge who helped draft the Oklahoma State Constitution. Will was raised on his father’s farm in Oklahoma where he learned his cowboy skills from the ranch hands. Will’s family, like many others had migrated from Georgia to Indian Country in the 1830s. Will’s great uncle John Rogers (1774-1851) was a wealthy farmer who owned 640 acres along the Chattahoochee River. A number of Will Rogers’ ancestors are buried in the Rogers-Bell Cemetery in Johns Creek. I wrote a column about Will Rogers in April 2024.
Fifth, the 46-acre Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center seeks to preserve the history of the Johns Creek area. It offers many programs and facilities. I am particularly impressed with the historic buildings that have been moved to the park and carefully restored to their original conditions. These include the Warsaw Methodist Church, originally a Moravian church built in the mid-1850s, the home of the pioneer Summerour family, a tenant farmhouse and the Green Store, an original country store which, when moved to Autrey Mill, was found to have many items stored away that were used to stock the store shelves. They have been maintained and are on display.
Thanks to reader Radhika Gopalan for suggesting Johns Creek as a subject for a column and to Joan Compton, president of the Johns Creek Historical Society for her assistance. Contact the Historical Society for further information on Johns Creek history. Go to johnscreekhistory.org. The Historical Society has done extensive research on a wide range of historic subjects.
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.
Community Engagement Manager
NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Community Engagement Manager position. The Community Engagement Manager oversees all aspects of NFCC’s community events from planning through execution, including creating timelines, managing vendors and securing sponsorships. Events range from the annual golf tournament and fundraising gala to donor recognition and community engagement gatherings. The ideal candidate must be highly organized, creative, and motivated to successfully lead event planning and community engagement initiatives.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
UI/UX Graphic Designer. FT (Morrow, GA) Create graphic elements for the user interface. Perf tests on user interface elements. Make layout adjustments based on user feedback. Formulate a comprehensive UI/UX strat. Master Deg in UI/UX Design, or Other Rltd Field. Send resume to Joon Company, Inc. (dba Beauty Master) Attn. HR, 1400 Mount Zion Rd. Morrow, GA 30260
Vice President of Client Programs
NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Vice President of Client Programs position. The Vice President of Client Programs (VPCP) is a senior leader responsible for creating and implementing the Client Services department strategy for NFCC. This includes creating programs and services, monitoring their effectiveness and ensuring funds are distributed appropriately. The VPCP also leads a team of 13 client services staff who handle client intake, case management, impact and outcomes data, education (GED/English classes) and workforce development programs.
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org
