Sandy Springs Crier - July 20, 2023

North Fulton Community Charities requests back-to-school donations

Fulton County existing schools prep for facelift

By DELANEY TARR delaney@appenmedia.com

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Fulton County Schools will move away from adding new school buildings over the next five years as part of a capital plan aimed at “protecting the investment” in its existing 108 education facilities.

In June, the School Board approved a $2.1 billion budget for the 2023-2024 school year, with $612 million targeted for capital projects. Typically, the capital fund goes towards major construction projects — including the cost to build new schools.

Community Assistance Center reports local need is on the rise

BY ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Nonprofit leaders are sounding alarms over the rising number of people needing help with everyday living expenses in Sandy Springs and Dunwoody, as more families seek help.

Speaking to the Sandy Springs City Council June 20, Community Assistance Center CEO Francis Horton reported the nonprofit, which supplies food, financial

and career assistance, and other support, has experienced a 47 percent increase in usage this year.

Horton reported a 57 percent uptick in usage at the CAC client choice food pantries, with 77 percent of the clients from Sandy Springs and many from families that have never needed assistance before.

“More and more families find themselves in a position of making the decision, ‘Do I buy food, or do I pay rent?’

and we're trying to help alleviate that decision a little bit by providing some financial assistance to help with rent and utilities,” he said.

In 2022 CAC served 6,908 individuals, and by May 2023 it reported more than 4,700 people had already been served by the organization, putting the organization on a path to easily pass last year’s numbers.

See CAC, Page 8

In the upcoming year, though, Fulton Schools Chief Operations Officer Noel Maloof said the district is headed away from adding schools due to declining enrollment across the county. Instead, the capital plan focuses on renovations, replacements and “behind-the-scenes” construction.

See SCHOOLS, Page 20

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Education Special Section

Starts on page 10

ALEX POPP/APPEN MEDIA

Leaders of the Community Assistance Center in Sandy Springs recently reported the group is dealing with an avalanche of need in the community, caused by rising costs of housing, food and medical care.

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COMPARING POLICE TRANSPARENCY

Sandy Springs vs. Roswell Sandy Springs Roswell

What do you think? Send thoughts, questions and tips to newsroom@appenmedia.com

Each week Appen Media requests police incident reports to inform residents about the safety of their community. Sandy Springs continues to withhold what it calls the “narrative reports.” It is the only city Appen Media covers that follows this practice, which goes against guidance from the Attorney General, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia Sheriff’s Association, Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia and Georgia Press Association. Appen Media will continue pursuing the release of more detailed documents that belong to the public in order to inform residents how safe – or unsafe – their city is.

Officer wins unemployment appeal

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. — A Dunwoody police whistleblower fired from the department in 2020 due to alleged misconduct has won an unemployment appeal with the Georgia Department of Labor for more than $10,000.

In a July 6 decision, GDOL Hearing Officer Tracey L. Lee said the City of Dunwoody failed to provide concrete evidence that ex-police officer Austin Handle knowingly, willingly or deliberately violated rules or orders that would disqualify him from receiving unemployment benefits.

Handle was fired from the Dunwoody Police Department in April 2020 for “police violation, due to dishonesty,” during an investigation into whether the officer used his patrol vehicle’s lights and sirens to speed through his neighborhood.

Handle claims these accusations were false and he was fired in retaliation for speaking up about sexual assault and misconduct perpetrated and sanctioned by senior officers within the department.

An internal report released by the city in 2020 alleges internal strife within the department had been going on for years. The report cited nearly 50 allegations of sexual harassment and professional misconduct against senior officers. Many of the allegations centered around former Lt. Fidel Espinoza, who resigned before the probe concluded in July 2020. Some officers said Espinoza had been harassing them for years.

Spruill Gallery plans ‘In Light’ exhibition

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Opening July 20, the Spruill Gallery at the Spruill Center for the Arts in Dunwoody will open the exhibition, “In Light,” with artists In Kyoung Chun and Steven L. Anderson.

The new exhibition invites art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the vibrant colors and “ethereal beauty” of the natural world, skillfully interpreted by these artists.

Chun, a native of Seoul, South Korea, is an Atlanta-based painter known for capturing the “essence of seasonal enjoyment” with her loose watercolor technique. Her work is in collections at The High Museum of Art, the City of Atlanta Mayors Office of Cultural Affairs and the Fulton County Public Library.

In contrast with Chun’s approach, Anderson will feature his “ReNaturing” series during the exhibit, with 19th-century engravings that collide with an inspired use of color, infused with “energy and contemporary relevance,” officials said.

Anderson is co-director of Day & Night Projects, an Atlanta artist-run gallery he helped start in 2016. His works have been featured in public and private collections throughout the United States since 1996.

“In Light” will open July 20 and will end Sept. 2, 2023. A closing reception for the exhibit will be held Aug. 24 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information about this exhibition and the Spruill Gallery, visit www.spruillarts.org/gallery.

Following the report, legal invoices and documents obtained by Appen Media showed Dunwoody paid more than $400,000 for legal services to address employment matters within the police department.

More recent invoices obtained through several open records requests show that the city spent $141 on legal services in Handle’s case in 2023. However, heavy redactions in the invoices make it unclear whether this is all the city spent fighting the unemployment payout.

“They're trying to make it out like they're being transparent, and they have accountability. But I think in the court of public opinion, we won a long time ago,” Handle said in an interview with Appen Media July 7.

After he was terminated in April 2020, Handle filed for unemployment insurance, but the Department of Labor denied the claim. Decisions during several other appeals, including this most recent hearing, have since reversed that decision.

Additionally, Handle’s certification with Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council has since been retroactively reinstated, and the organization has administratively dismissed the city’s charges.

“The claimant did not make any statements against his self-interest to warrant a disqualification,” Lee wrote in the July 6 Decision. “The employer has not shown that the claimant was at fault by a deliberate, willing and knowing action on his part. Therefore, benefits are allowed.”

The City of Dunwoody has 15 days to file an appeal against the decision, which they have done previously. But city officials haven’t commented on whether that’s going to happen yet.

In an email Monday, July 10, Dunwoody Communications Director Jennifer Boettcher said the city does not comment on employment claims.

Despite a possible appeal from the city, Handle, who serves as vice chair of the Lamplighter Project, a national organization that encourages law enforcement officers to speak out against police corruption or injustice, said he is more energized now than ever.

Handle said he and other members of the Lamplighter Project will visit Washington D.C. later this month to celebrate National Whistleblower Appreciation Day, July 30, and this win is icing on the cake for their organization.

“I stand by what I said a few years ago, which is ‘keep the faith,’” he said. “I feel ecstatic, relieved and I feel confident, more now than I ever have been.”

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Alan Mothner, chief executive officer of The Spruill Center for the Arts, stands in front of the building in April. “In Light,” a new exhibition at the Spruill Gallery will open July 20.

North Fulton charity announces campaign to collect school items

ROSWELL, Ga. — From July 24-26, North Fulton Community Charities is collecting new backpacks and school supplies to donate to children in need for its annual Back to School program.

Donations can be dropped off from July 24-26 from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Elkins Pointe Middle School. A list of needed school supplies can be found on the nonprofit’s website.

The nonprofit will distribute supplies to families from July 27-29.

Last year, the program helped more than 1,200 students in elementary, middle and high schools across North Fulton County. The seasonal assistance program also accepts financial donations and volunteer help.

Director of Development Sherri Morgan said inflation has impacted many families across North Fulton County and has left some people struggling to afford basic school materials.

“Our back-to-school program helps parents provide their children with needed school supplies while leaving more money in their pocket to go toward essentials like food and housing,” Morgan said.

Alpharetta police find fertile ground in Garden State

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — The Alpharetta Police Department is seeking to bolster its ranks in a second out-of-state recruitment effort July 12-14 in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey.

The effort is led by Police Capt. Jakai Braithwaite, who said the initiative follows a successful first run last year, which yielded the department nine new officers. All but one of the nine is still with the department.

Rather than the traditional hiring scenario of candidates traveling to job locations, Braithwaite said the department opts to bring the necessary equipment and resources to the applicants.

“When I think about myself when I was right out of undergrad, 23-24 years old, didn’t have any money, by the time I was done with this process, I might have flown out here three to five times,” Braithwaite said. “So how do we take that expense off the table?”

Braithwaite, a New Jersey native, said he oversaw the department’s recruitment efforts last year. Through connections in his home state, Braithwaite identified a demand for police careers in the area and a logistical opportunity.

In the police hiring event, applicants participate in the State of Georgia standard physical agility test and virtual panel interviews. Those interested in working for the 911 Center complete a pre-qualification phone call and dispatch preparatory exam, as well as data processing and decision-making tests.

“The testing, which is designed to present challenges unique to each job function, are great opportunities for candidates to showcase their abilities and determination,” Braithwaite said.

Other required tests, such as the psychological screening, are conducted virtually, and candidates can be evaluated at home.

One Alpharetta officer built a mobile training unit that can be transported to New Jersey for applicants to complete the physical tests. Through Braithwaite’s connections, the city will also use the Hasbrouck Heights High School gym at no cost.

Braithwaite said Hasbrouck Heights, which sits some 15 miles from New York City, is an ideal location for drawing candidates from across the New York metropolitan area.

He said there are interested candidates in North Fulton County and Metro Atlanta, but many of those who try out for the roles may not meet the requirements of the hiring process or face barriers such as residency requirements.

Those who do qualify then must choose among competitive local agencies.

“Then you get somebody like Roswell that says, ‘Oh, boom, let’s throw this money. Now we’re the highest paid in the state,’ and then Sandy Springs says, ‘Oh, let us come and do this,’” Braithwaite said. “Now Milton wants to try to get in this, and Cobb County, and all the agencies do it.”

As of publication, Alpharetta offers new police officers starting pay of $57,581 with a $5,000 signing bonus. In Milton, new officers make a base salary of $53,893, with bonuses up to $4,000 based on certification.

Sandy Springs is offering $56,672 for recruits and a $10,000 bonus for out-ofstate hires.

“Our agency takes pride in its recruitment efforts and is committed to finding individuals who are passionate about serving on our team,” Braithwaite said.

Stage Door Theatre celebrates 50 years

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Since 1973, the Stage Door Theatre has captivated live audiences with theatrical performances, arts education and community engagement.

To mark its 50th anniversary in Dunwoody, Stage Door Theatre has announced new partnerships with Piccadilly Puppets, Dad’s Garage and some of Atlanta’s best theatre artists, including India Tyree, Hannah Marie Smith and Bill Balzer.

"Our 50th season is a testament to the enduring spirit of Stage Door Theatre," Justin Ball, producing artistic director

of Stage Door Theatre said. "These new partnerships allow us to continue providing exceptional entertainment and educational opportunities for all."

Main stage shows produced for the Stage Door Theatre’s 50th anniversary season will include productions of “Tuesdays with Morrie,” "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play," "The Mad Hatterpillar: A Puppet Musical," and "Native Gardens." Tickets for these shows are on sale now.

For tickets and to learn more, visit www.stagedoortheatre.org.

ALPHARETTA POLICE DEPARTMENT/PROVIDED Capt. Jakai Braithwaite speaks to prospective Alpharetta Police Department recruits at a 2022 hiring event in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey. The department is returning to the city July 12-14 to expand its reach.

Dunwoody leaders refine path for medical cannabis

By ALEXANDER POPP alex@appenmedia.com

DUNWOODY, Ga. —Ailing Dunwoody residents who need THC oils to treat a range of illnesses may be one step closer to having dispensaries just down the street.

At the July 10 Dunwoody City Council meeting, members discussed a possible zoning ordinance which would define how medical cannabis dispensaries would be regulated locally and a new map identifying four areas where they might be located.

If approved by the City Council at a future meeting, cannabis dispensaries could be opened in certain areas near Dunwoody’s borders with Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Doraville and Peachtree Corners, tucked at least 1,000 feet away from schools and places of worship.

Since Georgia’s Hope Act was signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2019, the possession and sale of low-level THC oil has been legalized as medicine for people with 17 specific medical conditions, like end-stage cancer.

Unlike traditional cannabis flower or THC oil purchased illegally on the street or in states where it’s legal, Georgia law stipulates legal low THC oil must contain less than 5 percent THC.

“This is not for recreational cannabis, not to get high like some type of recreational use. This is specifically only for medical purposes,” Deputy Community Development Director Paul Leonhardt said.

As with the Council’s last discussion in February, when a moratorium banning cannabis dispensaries in the city was extended until September, Leonhardt said they aren’t aware of any medical cannabis companies looking at Dunwoody for potential expansion. But with the recent opening of a dispensary in Marietta and rumors swirling of a potential unidentified Brookhaven dispensary, leaders have started to define local regulations.

“The State of Georgia has decided that medical cannabis is a valuable medical resource to residents,” Leonhardt said. “So now it's on us to identify how we want to make that product available to residents in the city.”

So far, the Georgia has issued two licenses for five dispensaries, Leonhardt said. One license has been issued to Truelieve for locations in Marietta, Macon and Pooler. The second license has been issued to Botanical Sciences, which has not announced its dispensary locations.

Eventually the current laws will allow 30 total dispensaries statewide, with many expected to be clustered around Metro Atlanta.

Dunwoody staff were able to visit the Trulieve Medical Marijuana Dispensary on Cobb Parkway in Marietta after it opened in April. Leonhardt said they were able to learn a lot from the visit, calling the dis-

pensary, “unobtrusive” and without a large impact on the surrounding area.

Similarly, Dunwoody officials have learned from municipalities in Florida, where medical marijuana has been legal since 2014, under much more permissive laws.

Leonhardt said at the minimum, Dunwoody must require dispensaries to be 1,000 feet from public or private schools, and places of worship – a distance more than three times what is required for liquor stores.

Additionally, city staff have proposed placing a 2-mile spacing requirement on dispensaries, to prevent dispensary businesses from clustering in areas where sales are permitted.

However, Leonhardt said if the city does place strict requirements on medical cannabis businesses, it will likely push businesses out of the local market.

“Because we have this relatively hard cap right now, only 30 locations,” he said. “If we have regulations that are very stringent, they may not come to Dunwoody, but go to Sandy Springs. Due to the low

number of licenses that exist statewide.”

No one in Sandy Springs government responded to requests for information about how the city plans to address the issue of medical cannabis businesses.

A location analysis map of Dunwoody shows potential dispensaries could be opened around Perimeter Center, on certain parcels near the Georgetown Square and I-285, and in southeast Dunwoody along Winters Chapel Road and Peachtree Industrial Boulevard.

“Even if we wanted to, we couldn't go lower than this,” Leonhardt said of the proposed regulations.

No action was taken on the item at the meeting and there were no public comments. However, several councilmembers shared their opinions after Leonhardt’s presentation.

Echoing the comments made by several members of the Dunwoody Planning Commission, who voted to approve the proposal at a meeting June 13, Post 6 Councilman John Heneghan said he is in favor and may support removing the 2-mile anti-clustering measure.

“This is medicine that people need for very serious medical conditions,” Heneghan said. “I'm in favor of approving this. I may be in favor of reducing that 2-mile limit, because based on what I'm seeing, even down to 1 mile, I'm not sure it allows too many extra.”

Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch, who also shared concerns about potential medical cannabis dispensaries at the February meeting, said she is still unconvinced that Dunwoody is right for these businesses.

Deutsch specifically said all examples of dispensary businesses they have seen so far run afoul of the city’s requirements on window transparency, which is a problem.

“What continues to concern me and what may make Dunwoody a ‘no’ location … is we have not yet ever seen an example of one of these where the windows are not fully covered and we don't allow that,” she said. “I say we try it with the current regulations and then if we need to make changes we can.”

Leonhardt said the proposal will return to the City Council’s agenda at a meeting in August.

CITY OF DUNWOODY/PROVIDED

A map published by the City of Dunwoody shows different areas of the city where medical cannabis dispensaries could be opened in the future. Sections in blue show areas around public and private schools, or places of worship, where these businesses would be prohibited.

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CAC Communications Director Laura Deupree said the huge increase is being seen across the nation due to factors like inflation and interest rates. Dupree said some economic factors are a storm that nonprofit groups have little control over.

Deupree said in times of economic trouble, groups like CAC act as an advance warning system for state and national officials.

“We’re out there doing triage and are the canary in the coal mine,” she said.

That warning system is going off loud and clear now, as CAC is handling more clients than ever, many of whom may have great full-time jobs but still find themselves unable to provide for their family due to cost increases.

Horton sited the case of one recent CAC client.

“She's working the same 40-hour job she was working four years ago, driving the same car, living in the same two-bedroom apartment,” Horton said. “Her kids are in the same school. She's shopping at the same stores. She made it through COVID, then the price of life went up, and she

can no longer pay the bills.”

The shift in need has caused CAC to rethink its strategy, Deupree said, because in many cases what assistance used to keep clients afloat, just doesn’t cut it anymore.

Over the past year, the group found that about 40 percent of their clients who received a financial pledge for rental assistance never came back to redeem it – a confusing and worrying phenomenon for group leaders.

Horton said staff eventually discov -

ered the amounts they were pledging to people, typically a payment of about 50 percent of their rent, just wasn’t making enough of a difference in clients’ lives.

“Where people used to come in $1,000 in debt, now they're coming in $2,000, $3,500, and you get too many of those and you just can't cover a lot of it,” he said. “So, the recent resources that we had at that time, just were not enough to sufficiently fill that need.”

Even the group’s successes had a dark side, he said. He cited the 636 evictions the charity prevented in 2022, and said that with more money, they likely could have prevented more than 900 local evictions.

“These are all big-city needs; poverty, hunger, housing,” Horton said. “We're trying to meet those in small-town ways, we're trying to build community.”

Deupree agreed.

“Now’s just a time when the disparity in our community is brought to light,” she added.

However, when things go right and clients do get the help they need, these problems are resolved successfully more often than not.

CAC reported that within 180 days of delivering assistance, 93 percent of clients have stabilized their housing situation, 85 percent have kept their utilities connected, and a little over half have completely resolved their

crisis.

Horton said the nonprofit has seen the profound impact it can make on clients’ lives.

“I was there one Saturday morning in March, a lady came in for a final tax appointment,” he recounted. “She was a little bit early, so she sat down, and I introduced myself. She said, ‘I've got to tell you this, CAC saved my life,’”

Horton said the organization strives to uphold the dignity of clients and build trust.

CAC is always looking for help from the community during hard times, and any gift of time, money, food or donated items, will touch more lives than the donor could imagine.

To assist in the effort, Deupree suggested gifting a few extra cans of tuna, beans or spaghetti sauce to the client choice pantry, or doing a closet cleanout for donations to the CAC thrift store locations. Even a small monetary donation would go a long way, she said.

“We really need any and all help the community can give, even $20 a month. That would really move the needle for some of our clients,” she said.

For more information about the Community Assistance Center, its services, how to help or how to get help, visit ourcac.org.

CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/SCREENSHOT Community Assistance Center CEO Francis Horton speaks to the Sandy Springs City Council at a June 20 meeting. Horton gave an annual update on the group’s activities to help needy individuals in the area.

DUNWOODY FOOD TRUCK THURSDAYS

What: Scheduled every Thursday through October, this event features a variety of food trucks and live music.

When: Thursday, July 20, 5-8 p.m.

Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody

More info: facebook.com/ dunwoodyfoodtruckthursdays

ALIVE IN ROSWELL

What: Alive in Roswell is a free, familyfriendly monthly festival held every third Thursday evening from April through October, featuring music, food trucks and hundreds of interactive vendors. It also sees participation from the many surrounding boutiques, small businesses and restaurants. Free regular trolley service connects the free parking at Roswell City Hall and Woodstock Park to the event. Dogs are allowed at Alive in Roswell, but please bring them on a leash and clean up any deposits from your baby. Animals are not allowed on the free trolley.

When: Thursday, July 20, 5-9 p.m.

Where: Canton Street & Roswell Antique and Interiors lot, Roswell

More info: aliveinroswell.com

ROTARY CLUB OF ALPHARETTA

CONCERT SERIES: DOCK ROCK BAND

What: Dock Rock Band will take listeners on a musical journey through the iconic hits of the ’70s and ’80s. Kurt Thomas is set to open.

When: Friday, July 21, 7-11 p.m.

Where: Town Green, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta

More info: facebook.com/ RotaryClubAlpharetta

SANDY SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET

What: Open every Saturday until Nov. 18, the market features fresh produce and artisan foods.

When: Saturday, July 22, 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Where: City Springs, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

More info: citysprings.com

CAULEY CREEK PARK GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

What: The opening celebration for the 203-acre Cauley Creek Park will include carnival rides and games, music, food

ALIVE IN ROSWELL

What: Alive in Roswell is a free, family-friendly monthly festival held every third Thursday evening from April through October, featuring music, food trucks and hundreds of interactive vendors. It also sees participation from the many surrounding boutiques, small businesses and restaurants. Free regular trolley service connects the free parking at Roswell City Hall and Woodstock Park to the event. Dogs are allowed at Alive in Roswell, but please bring them on a leash and clean up any deposits from your baby. Animals are not allowed on the free trolley.

When: Thursday, July 20, 5-9 p.m.

Where: Canton Street & Roswell Antique and Interiors lot, Roswell More info: aliveinroswell.com

trucks and more.

When: Saturday, July 22, 4-8 p.m.

Where: Cauley Creek Park, 7255 Bell Road, Johns Creek More info: johnscreekga.gov

2023 OPM SUMMER FEST IN GEORGIA

What: Get up close and personal in a live performance by Filipino bands Rivermaya, The Teeth, Neocolours, Gloc-9 and INTRoVOYS. They will be performing their No. 1 hit songs.

When: Saturday, July 22, 7 p.m.

Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

Cost: Tickets from $93 More info: citysprings.com

TRAIL TOUR TUESDAY: BIRMINGHAM PARK

What: Milton’s outdoor recreation supervisor will lead a guided tour of Birmingham Park.

When: Tuesday, July 25, 3-5 p.m.

Where: Birmingham Park, 750 Hickory

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT!

It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.

Flat Road, Milton More info: miltonga.gov

DAVE MATTHEWS BAND

What: A jam band formed in 1991, Dave Matthews Band is known for playing songs differently each live performance. The band’s 1994 major label debut album, “Under the Table and Dreaming,” was certified platinum six times. As of 2018, the band had sold more than 25 million concert tickets and a combined total of 38 million CDs and DVDs. The band won the 1996 Grammy Award for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for “So Much to Say.”

When: Tuesday, July 25, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta

Cost: Tickets from $155 More info: livenation.com

CITY GREEN LIVE: A1A

What: In 1992, A1A won a Jimmy Buffett sound-alike contest for

Margaritaville Records and became an integral part of the Parrothead community with its colorful, familyfriendly show. They have a great relationship with the official band and draw record crowds to their performances. The opening act is Run Katie Run.

When: Friday, July 28, 7:30 p.m.

Where: City Green, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs

Cost: Lawn seating is free More info: sandyspringsga.gov

B98.5’S B AT THE MOVIES

What: Bring the family, your blanket or beach chair, and relax under the stars as “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” features on the giant screen. Mayfield Ice Cream will be providing free ice cream for attendees, available while supplies last.

When: Saturday, July 29, 7 p.m.

Where: Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody

More info: dunwoodyga.gov

July 20, 2023

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Eaton Academy offers multiple programs, both in person and online, since a “one size fits all” approach to education is not effective in today’s world.

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The full-day K-12 school, with its 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio, allows instructors to address students’ individual learning styles, while maintaining social distancing. Students achieve significant academic and personal success resulting from STEAM-related activities and multisensory instruction. The challenging college-prep curriculum is delivered in a safe, nurturing environment.

For students with more significant academic and social needs, the Pace Program helps students develop life skills and independent living strategies. Pace students follow the traditional school day and work to develop greater selfsufficiency and independence, on their way to earning a high school diploma.

The Independent Study Program (ISP) , tailored to students’ schedules and academic needs, permits individuals to work at their own pace. The tutorial setting enables aspiring athletes and performers to work toward

graduation while following their dreams. Some students enroll in ISP to accelerate their scholastic work; others seek academic remediation. ISP arranges the one-to-one sessions on a schedule that accommodates the students’ needs for flexibility.

Post-Graduate Programs

LEAP is designed to help individuals strengthen their life skills in order to achieve greater independence. Participants benefit from job readiness training, life skill development, and scholastic support.

The LIFE program places young adults into their own apartments. Participants meet with a LIFE coach several times each week for support with topics such as budgeting, hygiene, roommate relations, and housekeeping.

Supported Employment prepares young adults for the workplace. Assistance is given with resume writing, applying for positions, and keeping a job.

College Exploratory offers individuals college level, non-credit courses so they can gauge their readiness for university life.

Eaton Academy is the ideal place for families to discover education options and independent living solutions.

EATON ACADEMY NOW ENROLLING

Brookhaven honors Lynwood Park School with historic marker

In June 2023, a historic marker for Lynwood Park Elementary and High School was installed in front of the former school on Osborne Road by the City of Brookhaven. The Lynwood Park Foundation has made it their mission to see the history of Lynwood Park remembered and honored.

The large plaque reads, “Lynwood Park Elementary and High School, 19491968.” At the top of the marker is an image of a red schoolhouse, the first school built for the community. Minnie Lee Cates donated the land and J.C. Lynn served as administrator of the estate.

In 1949, the community purchased land at the end of Osborne Road for a new school. The land was deeded to DeKalb County, and the county built the new school. Jeanes Supervisor Narvie Harris, DeKalb School Superintendent Jim Cherry, Principal Harvey Coleman and PTA President Mrs. McDaniel were all present for the groundbreaking.

Following the Brown vs. Board of Education 1954 Supreme Court ruling stating that separate public schools for Black and White students were unconstitutional, Georgia built new schools or made improvements to Black schools, but segregation continued. Lynwood School and other schools in Georgia that were built or had additions constructed are known as equalization schools. Despite these changes, facilities, books and supplies at the schools were not equal.

The original enrollment of Lynwood School consisted of students from Doraville, Chamblee, and those already in the Lynwood Park community. The students came from a consolidation of Black schools in the north part of DeKalb County.

After the class of 1968 graduated, the school closed, and high school-age students were integrated into Cross Keys High School and Chamblee High School. Elementary-age students were assigned to Jim Cherry, Montgomery, and Huntley Hills Elementary School.

The newly installed marker begins with this paragraph: “This was the site of Lynwood Park Elementary and High School, home of the Mighty Rattlers, from 1949 until 1968. As the oldest African American community in DeKalb County, Lynwood Park was known for its unity, strength, and independence in an era of legal, racial segregation.”

Kathy Wells provided leadership and perseverance to see the marker

designed, completed and installed. “The Lynwood Park Foundation is committed to our mission, which includes preserving the history of our community and ancestors past and present. We strongly felt our history needed to be recorded and recognized. In 2020, our organization partnered with the city of Brookhaven leaders in ensuring that the city recognized and preserved the history of the original Lynwood Park Community.”

The City of Brookhaven adopted a resolution recognizing the historic importance of the Lynwood Park community and school on Oct. 13, 2020.

Wells and the Lynwood Park Foundation sought recognition for a “…community of people who not only created their own history, homes, churches, schools, and businesses, more importantly they built an astute bond of love, protection, and unity for one another. We stand

proud of our organization and the city of Brookhaven for standing strong in spirit and determination to recognize our ancestors.”

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.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF/APPEN MEDIA

A marker stands in front of Lynwood Park School in the Lynwood Park community. The marker was placed by the City of Brookhaven in June to recognize the historic significance of the school.

VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF Columnist

The company you keep says a lot about you

I have a friend here in Alpharetta I’ve known for decades. We went to school together at FSU, lived in the same dorm, swam at the same sinks, camped out at St. George Island together with our posse with kegs of beer on weekends and such. I don’t think you can sleep in the dunes at St. George with kegs of beer anymore. That was a long time ago.

We’re both married and have adult children. We are retired or very close. We’ve both survived bouts of prostate cancer and we’ve both stumbled into older age sometimes clueless and other times with firm and clear resolve. And we are headed into, well, those later chapters of life now.

And boy, who knew?

My friend is an artist – a talented musician, writer, painter, and who knows what else. He never ceases to surprise me. We were both big Dylan fans back in the day. At one point,

I am sure he knew and could play almost every recorded Bob Dylan song ever made.

Dylan still makes up maybe half of my play list – with the Stones, Jackson Brown, Velvet Underground, Hendrix, Tracy Chapman and Van Morrison making up most of the remainder. When I did my hike seven years ago, it was the same playlist that it is now. I don’t think I have added more than a few songs in the last 20 years. Sad. While I seem to be stuck in one place musically, he has probably moved on, I think; his playlist today probably doesn’t overlap so much with his old one, I suspect.

Neither of us would have imagined back then that after all the water under all the bridge, and all the years that we should end up living within a couple miles of each other in North Fulton. Life is funny.

It reminds me of water; water is going to go where it wants to go, and at the end of the day, one rarely has control of water. The older I get though, the more I believe that very little in life is random. There is a reason – a

plan – somewhere. Nothing else makes sense or explains this stuff.

Our relationship is still the same, but it’s not.

Time, I find, has a sneaky way of messing with people, relationships, friendships and the status quo. I can count on one hand the number of truly close friends I have. If I include the friends who are still so close, but who have changed in ways that are no longer as convergent with our shared relationship back then, my list probably expands to two hands, but not more.

The friends I have from the only-one-hand group will always be there, and the relationship will never change. We can pick up the phone after years, and it is like not a day has passed. We can do that today. We can do that in 20 years. Depending on who goes first, we’ll attend each other’s funerals.

We know each other’s kids and spouses well. The kids are almost as close to us as we are to each other. We’ve been to their weddings. We’ve driven or flown down for funerals of their grandparents. We keep track

of their lives, their careers and their families as if it were our own. And when the chips were down, we are the ones who always show up.

“Just show up,” is what my son Carl says about things that are important. Just show up. My friend’s kids know, and they appreciate their parents’ friendships almost as if it is their own – which actually, it really is.

My friend and I have been through a few rough patches in our relationship, but we have managed to fight off those times and stay connected and stay friends, good friends. A lot of the reason that we have been able to do that is because we keep talking, we keep communicating, we keep working at staying connected; we don’t throw in the towel because of stupid differences or not so important divergent points of view. It takes work. It takes will. And at the end of the day, what is more important than family and the close friends you keep?

The company you keep defines you, who you are, and is worth fighting for to the very end. The company you keep makes it all worthwhile.

his long-awaited return to the airwaves, Caddy partners with his new co-host – and wife! - Donna, to bring his loyal listeners everything they’ve come to expect and love from Cadillac Jack.

PRESERVING THE PAST

Silk, cotton, Georgia land auction and the Civil War

When European settlers came to Georgia, some thought that planting mulberry trees, which are home to silkworms, would be the road to riches.

Silkworms would provide the fiber to make silk cloth which was highly prized by the European upper classes. In 1734, a group of persecuted German-speaking Protestants from Salzburg, Austria, founded the town of Ebenezer about 25 miles northwest of Savannah. After a decade, the residents began producing high-quality silk from the mulberry trees they had planted.

The Revolutionary War ended production completely in 1779. It did not recover after the war, and cotton replaced silk production. Cotton was easier to grow and was more profitable than silk. Along the Georgia coast, around 1785, growers began importing long staple Sea Island cotton seed from the West Indies.

Farmers in North Fulton began growing a different type of cotton as well. Lynn Tinley, a board member of the Milton Historical Society with a PhD from Emory University in American Studies with an emphasis on textiles says, “short staple Upland cotton fibers are lower quality than Sea Island cotton fibers, but the plant produces higher yields. It is well suited to the climate in North Fulton.”

Seeds are particularly difficult to remove from short staple cotton. (Staple refers to the length of fibers.) The rapid expansion of short staple cotton production in this part of Georgia was made possible by the perfection of the cotton gin which Eli Whitney patented in 1794. According to the National Archives, Whitney’s idea was based on earlier gins and on ideas from others. Whitney thought he would become rich by making and installing gins throughout Georgia and the South, charging farmers a fee for doing the ginning for them. Farmers revolted, and Whitney’s dream of great wealth did not come true.

Upland cotton is well suited for basic products such as canvas and denim jeans. It is low maintenance, soft and strong. Ninety-five percent of the cotton grown in the U.S. is short staple. As staple length increases, cotton becomes softer and silkier and is ideal for sheets and towels.

Unlike the plantation system on the coast, cotton production in this

area was linked to the 19th century land lotteries, notes Lynn Tinley. There were a few large landowners in this area. Most, however, grew cotton on portions of 40- to 100-acre lots obtained directly or indirectly through the land lotteries. As subsistence farmers, they kept a portion of their cotton for personal use. The remain -

Although many individuals worked to develop a

he was able to produce three bales of cotton per acre while the average was one or two. His Broadwell DoubleJointed Cotton Seed was very well known throughout the cotton belt.

J.J. Rucker, brother of professional baseball star Nap Rucker, founded the Rucker Cotton Seed Company circa 1911. He actively promoted his Rucker Select No. 1 seed in newspapers throughout Georgia. In 1930, he built a cotton gin in Crabapple which remained open until the 1950s. In a testimonial ad in the Atlanta Semi-Weekly Journal in 1918, the Roswell Manufacturing Company said it always paid a premium for Rucker cotton and in turn received a premium for its goods in local and foreign markets.

The Roswell Manufacturing Company played an important role in the history of cotton. Lynn Tinley has done extensive research on the company and its relationship with local farmers. She will present a public presentation on the local cotton industry sponsored by the Milton Historical Society in November at the Milton Library.

Roswell King first arrived in North Georgia in 1830. He was on the board of the Darien Bank and came to the area to scout out a new branch location. He knew the cotton industry, having overseen cotton plantations and been a cotton agent in Darien, and he believed Vickery Creek would provide the perfect water supply to power a cotton manufacturing company. Together with some prominent Darien families, he founded the town of Roswell in 1839. In that year he and his son Barrington established the Roswell Manufacturing Company with a cotton mill and adjacent mill village to house its workers. The factory spun ginned cotton into coarse yarn and then wove some of it into coarse cotton cloth. He later built another cotton mill and converted a sawmill into a wool mill. During the Civil War, the factory sold cloth to the Confederate government for army uniforms. The mills were largely destroyed during the Civil War. Some of the mills were rebuilt and remained in operation until the 1970s.

You can contact Lynn Tinley at lynntinley38@gmail.com.

der was a cash crop which they had ginned and then sold.

Two of the most notable cotton growers in North Fulton were John B. Broadwell (1855-1953) and Joel Jackson Rucker (1880-1960). Broadwell was a breeder of cotton plants. By using only the seeds from his best plants

Bob is director emeritus of the Milton Historical Society and a Member of the City of Alpharetta Historic Preservation Commission. You can email him at bobmey@bellsouth.net. Bob welcomes suggestions for future columns about local history.

BOB MEYERS

Columnist

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM STATHAM

John Broadwell invented new strains of cotton and promoted his Double Jointed Cotton from his wagon in addition to selling to selling to the Roswell Manufacturing Company. He was a man of many talents. His tombstone is inscribed “He was a farmer merchant, miller, inventor and plant breeder.”

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

machine that would remove seeds from cotton, Eli Whitney patented the cotton gin in 1794 which led to the rapid increase in cotton production and the production of cotton cloth in Georgia.

NEW GEORGIA ENCYCLOPEDIA

Early Georgia colonists planted mulberry trees in hopes of producing silk for cloth which was highly prized in Europe. After the Revolutionary War silk production was largely replaced by cotton.

‘Freedom’ will make you hug your kids

Before you castigate me and my ability, or lack thereof, as a movie reviewer, load your Winchester and let me have it.

I’m no Siskel (he was the skinny one, right?) or Ebert (the one who looked like he ate buttered popcorn by the bucket). Shucks, I’m no Joe Bob Briggs either. No clue as to whatever became of him and his goofy drive-in movie reviews.

I’m on unfamiliar ground here, sort of like asking kids how they enjoyed their summer vacation and getting a pithy “Buy a calendar you idiot! It’s not even August and school starts in two weeks” reply.

After reading a bit about “Sound of Freedom” and how the movie was a scam, a sham and not worth the tankof-gas price of admission, I played hooky from work and traipsed all by my lonesome to the local AMC movie house.

With all the publicity billing the

movie as unpalatable as a bug sandwich, I had to see it for myself. After all, I’ve been going to movies for long enough that I can amuse anyone who will listen that a ticket to the Tejon Theater in Bakersfield was 35 cents.

Joey Lemucchi’s dad owned the moviehouse and we started the tradition of having a schoolboy fight.

There was nothing like a brawl in the lobby, a double feature and a handshake after the fisticuffs were brought to the conclusion by Mr. Lemucchi with a stern look, a lecture and carte blanche for soda pop, candy and popcorn slathered with butter so real I’d wager that the plaque it formed is still stuck to arteries some nearly 60 years later.

Before the lights dimmed, I wished I could have settled my nerves with a little trading of blows with Joey. I would have happily bought the popcorn, although any real butter used to enhance the tasteless offering would have to be like contraband and smuggled in. I swear, AMC lets you use as much butter as you want in the self-serve dispensers but there’s

no way it’s real melted butter. It’s not even close to Parkay. About the only thing that type of gruel is good for is staining your clothes. I usually pass on applying it. My cardiologist is grateful, I’m sure.

Can you believe it, more than 400 words and not a word about the movie. I warned you I was no movie reviewer, especially when what I’m watching doesn’t involve belly laughs or lots of things getting blown to smithereens.

There was no way to muster even a little chuckle while watching “Sound of Freedom.” Before the movie started, I was uneasy and queasy. It was like going to the dentist. Nothing enjoyable, maybe a tear or two, but you know the experience will do you lots of good.

For those of you not familiar with the film’s subject matter, it’s child trafficking and an up close, behind-the-curtain look at a world so repulsive, I found myself muttering “no” to no one, just an affirmation to myself that evil monsters in a world inhabited by vermin with behavior so reprehensible, exists and defies

belief.

Jim Caviezel plays Tim Ballard, a former US government agent whose tenacity is refreshing.

The reality is that there are those with mountains of cash who can live out fantasies so perverse I can’t imagine that mindset. And while Caviezel’s Ballard is the hero, when you see this movie, see if we agree that the dad whose children were abducted is the most inspiring and pitiful character you’ve ever seen.

Pay no attention to the bad publicity. Go see this movie. After you arrive home, shaking and processing, try to forget the line: “God’s children are not for sale.”

To me, “Sound of Freedom” affirmed what I believe. Evil exists.

I also believe, deep in the recesses of my soul, that the folks in the white hats will win.

Mike Tasos has lived in Forsyth County for more than 30 years. He’s an American by birth and considers himself a Southerner by the grace of God. He can be reached at miketasos55@ gmail.com.

MIKE TASOS

Columnist

Walking in the garden, there are fungi among us

Walking in the garden this morning I observe something new! Overnight, suddenly there are fungi everywhere! White mushrooms, orange mushrooms, puffballs and bracket fungi! The showstopper and the source of my interest was a blue fungus. How unique – a blue mushroom with a royal blue underside or gills. My internet research determined it is commonly called indigo milk mushroom and goes by the scientific name of Lactarius indigo.

CAROLE MACMULLAN Guest Columnist

So how did these fungi suddenly appear? Like all organisms they need moisture, nutrients and light. This week the conditions were perfect. Fungi spores are opportunists waiting for the perfect conditions to spring into life! Spores can wait for weeks, months and even years to germinate. Fungi do not germinate from seeds but reproduce by spores. Spores wait for the perfect moment to pop out of the ground and grow.

Fungi are not green; therefore, they do not contain chlorophyll and do not carry on photosynthesis, so biologists kicked fungi out of the Plant Kingdom several decades ago and assigned them to their own kingdom, Fungi! Scientists also discovered fungi differ from plants in their cellular structure. Fungi cells contain cell walls like plants, but their chemical composition is different. Plants have cell walls constructed from a chemical called cellulose, but Fungi contain a different chemical called chiton. Like all living things, fungi contain DNA, and variations in the DNA found in the nucleus of fungi can create the many different genera and species assigned to the Fungi Kingdom.

I also observed a fairy ring, a cluster of fungi that grows in a circular pattern. Why in a circular pattern? If we had the ability to view beneath the surface, we would find decaying organic material, the source of nutrients for fungi. Fungi are one of the main contributors of decomposition on the Earth. The fairy ring in my yard was probably sustained by the remains of a maple tree that was removed two years before. Underground its root system is decaying. This decaying process creates a perfect opportunity for spores to germinate and for the above ground mushrooms to grow, prosper and continue their life

cycle.

I challenge you to walk around your yard or wherever your favorite walk takes you and observe the fungi you might see. If you have children or grandchildren, give them a minilesson on fungi.

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 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.

Learn more

• Morel Mushroom Hunting Club - https://morelmushroomhunting.com/

• Fairy Ring Mushrooms - https://site.extension.uga.edu/bartow/ fairy-ring-mushrooms/

• Indigo Milky - https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/indigo-milky

About the author

This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Carole MacMullan, a Milton resident and master gardener since 2012. Carole describes herself as a born biologist. Since childhood, she has loved to explore the out-of-doors and garden with her mother. When she entered college, she selected biology as her major and made teaching high school biology her career for 35 years. After retirement in 2008, she had three goals: to move from Pittsburgh to Atlanta to be near her daughter and granddaughter, to volunteer, and to become a Master Gardener. Shortly after moving, she became involved with the philanthropic mission of the Assistance League of Atlanta (ALA) and in 2012, completed the Master Gardener program and joined the North Fulton Master Gardeners (NFMG) and the Milton Garden Club. Carole uses her teaching skills to create a variety of presentations on gardening topics for the NFMG Lecture Series and Speakers Bureau. She also volunteers weekly at the ALA thrift store and acts as chair of their Links to Education scholarship program. Her favorite hobbies are gardening, hiking, biking, and reading.

MRBLACKSARMY.WEEBLY.COM/ Parts of a fungus

UGA PHOTO FROM BARTOW COUNTY Fairy Ring

PHOTO BY MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION Lactarius indigo, Blue indigo milk mushroom with gills.

Schools:

Continued from Page 1

“Overall, in general the district is shrinking, not at a rapid pace,” Maloof said. “We don’t have the need as we have had the past 20 years to continue building new schools.”

Fulton County Schools enrollment is expected to decline over the next 10 years, despite some pockets where Maloof said enrollment is “exploding.”

Because the district already has 108 schools, Maloof said the county is focused on “protecting the investment” it has in existing buildings.

The capital project construction is largely funded by the Education Special Local Option Sales Tax, which generates over $180 million annually. While the tax has brought in hundreds of millions of dollars, Maloof said it isn’t enough to cover all the school district’s needs.

Jehana

Jehana (ID# 52300663) is an adorable joy. Easy out of the kennel, easy to walk. Our photo team said, “She’s a cute low-rider and looks to be a fairly recent mama. Medium energy at best, very low-key and easygoing. She loved getting pets and giving kisses, just lay down on the concrete and wanted hugs and kisses. Adorable and would probably love being somebody’s couch potato.” Netflix anyone?

Expand your family by 4 furry little feet; meet Jehana and have a loving friend forever. All adoptions include spay/neuter, vaccinations and microchip. If you would like more information about Jehana stop in anytime or email adoption@dekalbanimalservices.com or call (404) 294-2165. All potential adopters will be screened to ensure Jehana goes to a good home. The shelter is full. We need your help to make sure these pups get to

“Although we do bring a lot in, we have to prioritize,” Maloof said.

Priorities are determined through a facility assessment at every school. It considers age, future plans and the condition of each structure and its “critical systems” like air conditioning and electricity.

The top priorities are then slotted into the five-year capital projects plan, scheduled in steps through 2027. Several North Fulton County schools are slated for major renovations.

In Alpharetta, Manning Oaks Elementary and Summit Hill Elementary are in the process of major renovations with an expected completion date in 2024.

Johns Creek will also see major renovations through August 2025 at Abbots Hill and Ocee elementary schools.

Other schools in Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Sandy Springs are set for roof replacements and freezer system replacements.

A few schools are set for full replacements and reconfiguration. The county

has been exploring reconfiguring Holcomb Bridge Middle School and Haynes Bridge Middle School in Alpharetta into kindergarten through 8th grade schools. The replacement and reconfiguration projects do not have a set date.

In Sandy Springs, the county plans to replace North Springs High School by the end of 2027.

The district will replace 13 turf fields with artificial turf throughout 2024 and 2025.

“This will allow that sort of 24/7 feel, and you don’t have to wait for grass to grow back before you can get back out on the field,” Maloof said.

Alpharetta High School and Milton High School are scheduled to have their fields fully replaced by December 2024.

Cambridge High School in Milton will have its competition and practice fields replaced by March 2025, as well as its track. Roswell’s Centennial High School and Roswell High School will have their practice fields replaced in 2025, as will Johns Creek High School and Chattahoochee High School.

The county is also investing in districtwide improvements to its infrastructure.

“Overall, the infrastructure is focused on better technology,” Maloof said. “The other piece is going to be around efficiencies with our mechanical systems.”

The operations officer said the school district hopes to be “good stewards” of taxpayer moneys with the focus on “protecting investment.”

live long and happy lives; foster or adopt to save a life and meet your new furry friend, stop by DeKalb County Animal Services.

FREE DOG FRIDAY Free dog adoptions on Fridays through the end of the summer for all dogs 25 lbs or more.

Human Resources Manager

Handles all employee-related processes and procedures. This role will be responsible for Recruitment and Onboarding, Job Design, Employee Relations, Performance Management, Training and Development, Employment Compliance, Total Rewards and Talent Management. This position reports to the Director of Finance and Administration and will interact with the entire management team by providing guidance on all Human Resources related topics at NFCC. Bachelor’s degree in human resources or related field and 3-5 years of Human Resources experience, preferably in multiple HR disciplines required. Please visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/ to see the full job description. To apply, submit a resume to sholiday@nfcchelp.org and to mburton@nfcchelp.org.

Workforce Development Coordinator is responsible for developing programs and services for NFCC clients and students seeking employment, post-secondary education, or other career options. The workforce development coordinator collaborates with local employers to help match job seekers to open positions. They work directly with clients on the job application, resumes, and interview preparations and provide tips for successfully securing and improving employment to foster financial stability.  Bachelor’s degree in a human services, human resources, or other related field required and 2 years of professional experience in human services, human resources or career counseling preferred.

To view the entire listing visit https://nfcchelp.org/ work-at-nfcc/. To apply, please submit resume to Carol Swan at cswan@nfcchelp.org.

SENIOR TAX MANAGER

Business Accounting Services

Part-time

Donor Operations Associate

The Donor Operations Associate greets and removes donations from vehicles and sorts merchandise in a designated area.  They are responsible for keeping the merchandise secure, all areas free of debris and the donor door area neat and clean.  This position is the face of NFCC so they are expected to provide excellent customer service and treat each donor with a professional and friendly demeanor.  High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Ability to perform low to moderate facility maintenance tasks.  To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/work-atnfcc/  To apply, please complete an application for employment and email to Marten Jallad,  mjallad@nfcchelp.org.

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE

Community Events Manager

The Community Events Manager is responsible for all aspects of NFCC’s community events, from inception through execution, including helping secure sponsorships. Events may include annual golf tournament, annual fundraising gala, community engagement events, donor recognition events, and other community events. Position requires a highly organized, creative, and motivated person to lead event planning, sponsorship, and community engagement. Bachelor’s Degree preferred with 2-3 years special events and fundraising experience. To view entire listing visit: https://nfcchelp.org/workat-nfcc/  To apply, send a resume to Sandy Holiday, sholiday@nfcchelp.org.

Prepare company (1120, 1120S, 1065) and individual income tax returns, review (and sometimes prepare) monthly financial statements, to communicate well with clients on their business needs (tax planning, etc). Enrolled Agent (EA) and a minimum of 3 years tax experience required. Base salary plus incentive pay based on completed work. Come enjoy working with our great team!

Resume: nick@businessaccounting.com

INCOME TAX PREPARER

Carmichael, Brasher, Tuvell & Company is hiring an Income Tax Preparer, Corporate and Individual. Great pay and flexible, relaxed work environment. Seeking full and/or part-time individual for individual and corporate tax preparation and accounting. Prior tax preparation required and have working knowledge of QuickBooks. Our office is located in the heart of Dunwoody and work from home is an option. To apply email your resume to ccarmichael@cbtcpa.com.

Appen Newspapers is looking for one or two folks to help deliver our newspapers. Work is part time and flexible. Routes can be done at night or during the day - on your schedule - within our deadlines. Comfortably earn $550 or more a month on your own schedule. This is a great way to get out as well as contribute to helping your local newspaper! Perfect for retired person who wants to stay active or a parent with school-aged kids - deliver during school hours. Also good way to earn supplemental income at night. We have had many retired couples deliver our papers and almost all have managed a route well and enjoyed the time and the work.

Requirements include reliable vehicle, clean driving record, availability, reliability, and honesty. Prior delivery experience is good, but not required. It helps if you live relatively close as papers are picked up to be bagged and delivered from our office in Alpharetta. Delivery areas can be Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek, South Forsyth, Dunwoody, or Sandy Springs typically - depending on open routes.

Please contact our Office Manager Heidi to set up an appointment to come in and fill in paper work or start the process via Email!

Call 770-442-3278 and ask for Heidi or Email Heidi@AppenMedia.com

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