2-17-17 Brookhaven Reporter

FEB. 17 - MAR. 2, 2017 • VOL. 8 — NO. 2

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Perimeter Business ► Children’s Healthcare announces new $1 billion hospital PAGE 4 ► MARTA helps attract another Fortune 500 company PAGE 5

Dancing with Officer Daddy

SPECIAL SECTION | P16-19

ICE arrests on Buford Highway draw criticism, activism

BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

Brookhaven Police Officer David Fikes dances with his daughter Caroline Fikes, 2, on Saturday, Feb. 11, at the third annual Daddy/Daughter Valentine’s Dance sponsored by Brookhaven Parks and Recreation at the Lynwood Park Community Center. Dads and daughters ages 5 to 15 enjoyed dinner and danced to music provided by a DJ. More photos, page 2.►

EDUCATION STAR Students, Teachers named Page 13

Retrofitting transportation solutions over mature communities carries some disruptive pain, but if we don’t deal with it now, the pain simply gets worse into the future.

RUSTY PAUL Mayor, Sandy Springs

See COMMENTARY, page 14

PHIL MOSIER

OUT & ABOUT American Girl Club celebrates Black History Month Page 9

Luis Sandoval, originally from El Salvador, became a U.S. citizen four years ago. He said the current national climate surrounding immigration has him worried and wanting to find ways to help.

“This is a nervous time,” he said the morning of Feb. 11 as he joined a gathering of more than 20 people at Plaza Fiesta on Buford Highway. The group was part of a grassroots effort seeking to inform Hispanic and Latino immigrants living on Buford Highway about alleged raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, on the corridor renowned for its immigrant population.

“I heard about the raids and especially since they are so close to us, it’s scary,” said Sandoval, who lives in Atlanta.

He said he currently has family members going through the process of becoming legal citizens and fears for their safety. “I’m here because I want to do my part for the comSee STORY on page 10

MARTA, city plan to revisit developing station site

BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

MARTA’s decision to kill its current transit-oriented development project at the Brookhaven/Oglethorpe station does not mean the end for plans to develop the site in the future.

“I don’t think anyone thinks 6 1/2 acres of empty parking lot is the best use of space,” MARTA Board Chair Robbie Ashe said in an interview.

No specific timeline has been set for when MARTA will come back to the city, See MARTA on page 12

2 | Community

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Dads and their daughters ages 5 to 15 enjoyed a special night out together on Saturday, Feb. 11, at the third annual Daddy/Daughter Valentine’s Dance.

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4 | Perimeter Business

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Perimeter Business A monthly section focusing on business in the Reporter Newspapers communities

Children’s Healthcare announces new $1 billion hospital A new, billion-dollar hospital is the centerpiece of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s plan for its Brookhaven campus and will likely contribute to the evolution of Buford Highway, according to city officials.

CHOA revealed its plans for the $1 billion to $1.3 billion project on Feb. 9.

Along with other developments in the works by CHOA and Emory University, including an Atlanta Hawks training and medical facility, it means the area of North Druid Hills Road and I-85 is set to become metro Atlanta’s latest major medical center.

The massive development also will contribute to redevelopment along Buford Highway as clinics and other health care businesses seek to build near CHOA and will likely locate along the corridor, said City Councilmember Joe Gebbia, who represents District 4 where CHOA is located.

“This will be part of the evolution of Buford Highway,” he said.

The new Brookhaven pediatric hospital eventually will replace CHOA’s 255-bed Egleston Hospital at Emory University, according to the announcement. That site’s future use has not been determined, according to the announcement. Other details of the

new hospital are scant, with the announcement launching an estimated 18 months of planning.

CHOA already has a 45-acre office complex at the intersection and for more than a year has hinted at massive redevelopment. It recently broke ground on the first phase, an eight-story medical building called the Center for Advanced Pediatrics. The new hospital has been discussed privately with state officials, as Gov. Nathan Deal was DYANA BAGBY quoted in CHOA’s Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Office Park is located on Tullie Circle in Brookhaven near the location of its planned $1 billion hospital. announcement press release. state, and its plans for a new hospital the largest in Georgia.”

“The health of Georgia’s children and continued statewide growth will “They are saying the cost is between has consistently been one of my top help ensure that Georgia’s kids have a $1 billion to $1.3 billion, but it will probpriorities,” Deal said in the press rehealthy future.” lease. “Children’s Healthcare provides Continued on page 7 Gebbia praised the project as “one of vital care for children from across the

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MARTA helps attract another Fortune 500 company

BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net

Perimeter Center’s MARTA train service has helped attract another Fortune 500 company.

WestRock, a multinational paper and packaging corporation, this month announced the relocation of its headquarters from Norcross to the Northpark Town Center towers in Sandy Springs, citing transit as among the reasons to place 800 employees there.

Northpark sits atop the Sandy Springs MARTA Station, while Norcross is in Gwinnett County, which has long rejected joining the MARTA system.

“This office will provide additional space for growth for our team and will enable us to enhance collaboration by colocating key functions,” WestRock CEO Steve Voorhees said in a press release. “Access to MARTA and key transportation hubs will also benefit our employees in the region.”

WestRock joins a trend of large corporations moving their headquarters from suburban office parks to urbanized areas served by mass transit. The intent usually involves attracting and retaining millennials as white-collar employees.

While the headquarters moves get a lot of publicity, most such moves affect a relatively small number of executives and management staff, with other offices remaining in the suburbs or other areas. WestRock has 39,000 employees around the world and will keep another office in Norcross.

WestRock, whose products include pizza boxes, was No. 251 on the latest Fortune 500 list, with about $11.4 billion in revenue. It formed in 2015 from the merger of RockTenn and MeadWestvaco. The company will make its Perimeter Center move in phases spread from fall of this year to spring of 2018, said spokesperson Chris Augustine.

The three-tower Northpark Town Center complex at Abernathy and Peachtree-Dunwoody roads, owned and managed by Atlanta-based Cousins Properties, is already home to another Fortune 500 company, Veritiv.

In recent months, Northpark has attracted civic-minded business organizations as well. The Perimeter Center Community Improvement Districts moved its headquarters there last year, and the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber of Commerce’s new Technology and Innovation Center will open there this year.

In a press release, Larry Gellerstedt, Cousins’ president and CEO, called WestRock’s relocation a “strong endorsement to the attractiveness of our office building and its prime location near public transit.”

Leaders of Perimeter Center cities and business groups are talking about expanding the transit options. The PCIDs and the cities of Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs are the midst of a “last-mile connectivity” plan for a transit circulator system in Perimeter Center— likely dedicated lanes for public and private buses that connect commuters with MARTA stations.

Bigger projects are long-proposed MARTA expansions northward along I-285 to Alpharetta. North Fulton mayors are discussing a possible transitfunding sales tax to go on the 2018 ballot, whether for MARTA or for other forms of transit.

In January, Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul joined a large group of Fulton and state officials who traveled to Dallas to view the metro area’s transit system. At the Jan. 17 City Council meeting, Paul said that seeing light rail trains in Plano, Texas, made him start leaning in favor of that transit form over “bus rapid transit,” meaning buses running in dedicated lanes.

“The rail system has ignited a total redevelopment of downtown,” Paul said of Plano. “They were ecstatic about what the train had done for their downtown area,” he said, adding that other cities that had opted out of the rail system were now seeking connections to it.

“It changed my mind about light rail a little bit,” said the mayor, adding he is now “much more willing” to support it locally.

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6 | Perimeter Business

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Sandy Springs, Cobb Chambers form stadium traffic task force

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The Sandy Springs and Cobb County Chambers of Commerce have teamed up to tackle Braves stadium traffic with a new task force.

The new “Transportation Task Force” has participation from the Fulton County School System and Kennesaw State University; industry organizations such as the Georgia Motor Trucking Association; major corporations such as Home Depot and Arby’s Restaurant Group; and local businesses such as Sandy Springs’ Wyndham Atlanta Galleria hotel.

The task force is in the early stages of a coordinated traffic response as SunTrust Park’s Opening Day looms on April 14.

“We are thrilled to be involved in this work,” said Tom Mahaffey, president of the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber of Commerce, in a written statement. As we all know, what happens in [Cobb’s] I-75 and I-285 intersection affects all of us. Essentially, traffic concerns don’t stop at the county lines.”

Gary Bottoms, chairman of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, said the group is considering such options as flexible work schedules and ride-sharing programs.

“I formed this task force to look carefully at what kinds of actions could be undertaken by the hundreds of businesses in Cobb and Sandy Springs to improve the Braves’ game day experience and help the traffic situation for everyone,” Bottoms said in a written statement.

Traffic impacts have been a huge concern since the Atlanta Braves baseball team in 2014 announced a surprise, secret move to Cobb’s Cumberland area, which surrounds a highway interchange that lacks mass transit connections. Stadium-goers

may bring economic opportunity for local businesses, but they also fear the costs of making the area’s already notorious traffic even worse.

SunTrust Park will host its first exhibition game, with fewer ticket sales than a full game, on March 31 and then hold Opening Day in April. Many games will be held in the evenings in the hopes of avoiding peak rush hour. The stadium also will host major concerts, with two already announced: Billy Joel on April 28 and Metallica on July 9.

The governments of Cobb and Sandy Springs had a rough relationship for months with little or no communication about stadium traffic planning. That relationship has improved, but few actual infrastructure improvements are in the works weeks before the stadium opens.

The Chambers of Commerce met about two weeks ago to kick off the task force’s work.

“Everyone has a stake in minimizing the time we are stuck in traffic and so we are asking for a lot of input before we craft our recommendations,” Bottoms said.

According to Mahaffey, the first meeting included briefings from a long list of agencies: the Atlanta Regional Commission; the Georgia Department of Transportation; Cobb and Sandy Springs government staff members; four area Community Improvement Districts, which are self-taxing business districts; Kennesaw State; and “several consulting groups.”

Fulton County schools spokesperson Susan Hale was among those in attendance. While few Braves games are expected to occur during school hours, some will, and the school district’s headquarters is in the traffic zone on Powers Ferry Road in Sandy Springs.

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Children’s Healthcare announces new $1 billion hospital

Perimeter Business | 7

DYANA BAGBY

At left, a rendering of the new Center for Advanced Pediatricts.

Below, construction has already begun on the 8-story, 260,000 square-foot center near the intersection of I-85 and North Druid Hills Road in Brookhaven. A new $1 billion hospital is also planned near the site as Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta expands its reach in the area.

Continued from page 4 ably be close to $2 billion,” he said.

“This will be a 10-year project.”

Gebbia said the development will “redefine” the North Druid Hills Road and I-85 interchange and will spur development, specifically Class A office space, in the Corporate Square, north of I-85, and Executive Park areas in the city.

“Our objective is to bring Class A office space to the city,” he said.

Mitigating traffic in the area will be a top concern for City Council, Gebbia added, and preliminary talks include the possibility of building a flyover bridge from I-85 directly to the hospital. He also said he expects more development from Emory University in response to CHOA’s plans.

“It’s not only a privilege but we’re honored CHOA has selected Brookhaven for this significant project,” he said.

City spokesperson Ann Marie Quill echoed Gebbia’s sentiment.

“As we like to say, we’re glad Children’s is growing with us,” Quill said in an email. “That hospital will be a great benefit to the community as far as serving children and for the local economy.

The CHOA/Emory/Hawks area is promising to be a southern gateway to the city that we will be proud of.”

The announcement indicates that other existing major CHOA facilities around metro Atlanta will remain in place and several expansions are underway. That includes CHOA’s Scottish Rite hospital on “Pill Hill,” the medical center in Sandy Springs, near the Brookhaven border, where Emory Saint Joseph’s and Northside hospitals also stand. An expansion of Scottish Rite to add beds is underway.

Another CHOA project, coming this year, is an urgent care center “in the Chamblee/Brookhaven area,” according to the announcement.

CHOA has a long relationship with Emory, as Egleston Hospital is a teaching affiliate of the university’s medical school. Emory is also expanding its medical presence at North Druid Hills and I-85, where the $50 million facility in partnership with the Atlanta Hawks basketball team is under construction.

“Specific transportation, site and building plans for the North Druid Hills Campus will be developed over the next 18 months,” the announcement press release says.

Dyana Bagby contributed to this report.

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8 | Out & About

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Beginners and advanced Zumba enthusiasts can dance to cardio-boosting beats in a class designed to get the blood flowing during February, National Heart Health Month. The class is sponsored by The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta and Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. Free and open to anyone age 12 and older.

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Georgia Blinds & Interiors 220 Sandy Springs Cir Ste 129 M-F: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Sun: Closed 404-252-6991 www.ga-blinds.com

Act3 Productions presents Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None,” a story that follows 10 strangers, each with a guilty secret, marooned on an island. One by one they are accused of murder, and then, one by one, they die. 6285 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs. Dates and ticket info: act3productions.org or 770-241-1905.

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Thursday, Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Atlanta Audubon Society Director of Conservation Adam Betuel discusses NestWatch, a free nationwide nest monitoring program run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Betuel wlll present tips on locating and safely monitoring nests and how to manage your NestWatch account. $15. Atlanta Audubon Society, located at the Blue Heron Nature Preserve, 4055 Roswell Road, Buckhead. Info: atlantaaudubon.org/ adult-workshops.

DIAGNOSING & DEALING WITH DYSLEXIA

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Jeff Lowenfels, garden columnist, founder of Plant a Row for the Hungry, and author of two award-winning books on organic farming and gardening, will speak on the benefits of using mycorrhizal fungi in gardening at a Georgia Perennial Plant Association speaker meeting. Open to the public; light refreshments at 7 p.m.

Free. McElreath Hall, The Atlanta History Center, 130 W. Paces Ferry Road N.W., Buckhead. Info: georgiaperennial.org.

Saturday, Feb. 25, 4 p.m.-7 p.m.

Parents can learn to identify dyslexia and empower themselves to help their children in a workshop led by Elaine LaCour, a 19-year veteran of the Atlanta Speech School. The event includes dinner and a panel of parents sharing their own journeys with dyslexia. $25 individual; $50 for family. Church of the Redeemer, 5185 Peachtree-Dunwoody Road, Sandy Springs. Info: redeemeratlanta.org or 740-298-1930.

‘THE INTERROGATION OF SADDAM HUSSEIN’ Tuesday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m.

John Nixon, author of “Debriefing the President: The Interrogation of Saddam Hussein,” appears at the Atlanta History Center as part of the center’s Livingston Lectures series. A leadership analyst with the CIA for 13 years, Nixon was the first primary interrogator of Saddam for the U.S. government. Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Road N.W., Buckhead. Admission $5 members; $10 nonmembers; free to AHC Insiders. Reservations required. Info: atlantahistorycenter.com or 404-814-4150.

FEB. 17 - MAR. 2, 2017

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Out & About | 9

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KIDS AND FAMILIES

‘MELODY CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH’

The exhibit includes images of 35 women who volunteered to have their torsos painted and photographed to raise money for breast cancer and genetic research programs at the Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem and for breast cancer education, advocacy and prevention in the U.S. Cost: $85; patron level tickets $218. The Stave Room at American Spirit Works, 199 Armour Drive N.E., Buckhead. Info: hadassah.org/atlanta or 678-443-2961.

Saturday, Feb. 25, 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Heritage Sandy Springs continues its monthly American Girl Club programming with the story of Melody Ellison, a girl from Detroit during the civil rights movement of the 1960’s. Learn about Atlanta’s own civil rights movement, and then celebrate Black History Month with the help of Melody’s story. RSVPs requested and recommended. Best suited for ages 5-12, and girls can bring their favorite doll. $8 members; $10 non-members; $15 at the door. Info: heritagesandysprings.org or 404-851-9111, ext. 2.

DR. SEUSS BIRTHDAY BASH Thursday, March 2, 10:30 a.m.

Join the world in celebrating Dr. Seuss’ birthday with stories, fun and games at the Buckhead Branch Library, 269 Buckhead Ave. N.E., Buckhead. Info: afpls.org or 404-814-3500.

JOURNEY TO LITERACY/KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Saturday, March 4, 3 p.m.

The Junior League of Atlanta offers kids an interactive reading event with related activities and a copy of the book to keep. Immediately afterward, the Junior League will host Kids in the Kitchen, a program that promotes a hands-on, healthy foods kitchen environment for kids and parents. Sandy Springs Branch Library, 395 Mount Vernon Hwy., Sandy Springs. Info: afpls.org or 404-303-6130.

STRIDES FOR SURVIVORS Saturday, Feb. 25, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

A 2.7-mile walk around Chastain Park’s PATH benefits Turning Point Breast Cancer Rehabilitation. The first annual event is hosted by Galloway School students Lauren, Samantha, and Emilie Scalise, three sisters whose mother and grandmother fought breast cancer within the same year.

Registration opens at 10:30 a.m.; ceremonies start at 11:15 a.m.; and the walk starts at 11:45 a.m. Opening/closing ceremonies are at The Galloway School, 215 West Wieuca Road N.W., Buckhead. Fee: $30 in advance, $35 on walk day. Registration: scal012.wixsite.com/stridesforsurvivors.

THIRD ANNUAL BREAST STROKES Saturday, Feb. 25, 8 p.m.

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Family Flashlight Fun Run 2016.

FAMILY FLASHLIGHT FUN RUN Sunday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m.

Adults, kids of all ages, strollers and dogs are all welcome in this second annual nearly 1-mile event in the Garden Hills neighborhood of Buckhead benefitting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The race begins at 335 Pine Tree Drive N.E. After the run, there’s a pizza celebration at the Garden Hills Recreation Center.

The event is organized by Garden Hills/ Peachtree Park Friends group volunteers.

Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 on walk day. Families can register as a Family Sponsor for $150, with race day recognition and up to six shirts and entries. Info: giving.choa.org/flashlightfunrun.

GET HELP PAPER SHREDDING EVENT Saturday, Feb. 25, 9 a.m.-noon.

A ProShred mobile shredding truck will be at Chastain Park until noon or when its capacity is reached in an event hosted by the Matt Brown Group of Keller Williams Peachtree Road and co-sponsored by Fidelity Mortgage, Duluth Friendly Painting & Contracting and Smart Home Solutions.

Residential use only requested; no need to remove staples, paperclips, fasteners or rubber bands. Free. Chastain Park, 4469 Stella Drive, Buckhead. Go to the Red Lot on Powers Ferry Road, in front of the Horse Park. Info: MatthewBrown@KW.com.

TAX PREP HELP

Ongoing The Community Assistance Center offers free help with tax returns. CAC’s team of trained and certified VITA [Volunteer Income Tax Assistance] volunteers can help filers earning up to $55,000 in 2016. Appointments are available now. CAC is one of many metro area VITA sites, an initiative of the IRS and the United Way. 1130 Hightower Trail, Sandy Springs. Info: 770-552-4889, ext. 221 or contact VITA@ourcac.org.

Hadassah Greater Atlanta presents “The Big Reveal,” a fundraising art exhibition and auction as part of Breast Strokes, HaSUBMIT YOUR EVENT LISTING WITH US AT dassah Bares All for A.R.T. [Awareness, Recalendar@ReporterNewspapers.net search & Treatment.]

Ultimately, it’s your experience that matters.

To be sure, we’re proud of our 29 years of experience in senior living. But, to us, what really matters is your experience at our communities.

We do everything with that idea clearly in mind.

So, go ahead, enjoy yourself with great social opportunities and amenities.

Savor fine dining every day.

And feel assured that assisted living services are always available if needed.

We invite you to experience The Piedmont for yourself at a complimentary lunch and tour.

Please call 404.381.1743 to schedule.

Da-Da-Da-DUM…Beethoven!

Sunday, February 26th • 3pm

Join us for an afternoon of music with the Beethoven Chamber Orchestra.

Please RSVP today as seating is limited. 404.381.1743

I n de p e n de n t & A s s i s t e d L i v i ng

650 Phipps Boulevard NE • Atlanta, GA www.ThePiedmontatBuckhead.com • 404.381.1743

10 | Community

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ICE arrests on Buford Highway draw criticism, activism presents

From left, Marnie Bell-Ferguson, Samuel Buchanan, Gabrielle Williams, Mariah Emerson and Heidi Lowe discuss how to approach residents of a Chamblee apartment complex.

Continued from page 1

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munity,” he said.

The grassroots effort, dubbed “Know Your Rights,” was a direct result of news reports and a rash of social media posts in early February raising alarms about ICE raids that led to nearly 700 arrests in several states, including Georgia. It is one of many efforts nationwide criticizing the federal government’s immigration policies, but ICE officials contend their agents were conducting routine, targeted arrests of those “posing public safety risks,” such as convicted felons.

On Feb. 13, Department of Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly issued a statement praising the efforts of ICE and other law enforcement agencies. He said they arrested “convicted criminal aliens and gang members, as well as individuals who have violated our nation’s immigration laws, including those who illegally re-entered the country after being removed, and immi-

gration fugitives ordered removed by federal immigration judges.”

Bryan Cox, a spokesperson for ICE’s southern region, was unable to say how many arrests happened in Brookhaven and on Buford Highway, but said in metro Atlanta there were about 30 people arrested between Feb. 6 and Feb. 10.

A total of 87 people were arrested in Georgia that same week, with nearly 40 people picked up in south Georgia, including Savannah, according to ICE. Throughout Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, there were 190 people arrested as part of targeted ICE operations, according to ICE numbers released Feb. 13.

Those arrested in Georgia included a Mexican national wanted in his home country on charges of homicide and attempted homicide and a Mexican national arrested in metro Atlanta area who previously pleaded guilty to felony cocaine distribution charges, according to ICE.

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Community | 11

People arrested by ICE in Georgia are taken to one of three ICE detention facilities in the state: the Atlanta City Detention Center; the Irwin County Detention Center in Ocilla, located about 188 miles south of Atlanta; or the Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, about 150 miles south of Atlanta.

Social media raises awareness, concerns

Many of the assertions on Facebook in early February spePHOTOS BY DYANA BAGBY cifically claimed there were nuLeft: Christian Rodriguez, who lives on Buford Highway in Brookhaven, and his friend merous raids at apartment comJennifer Zuniga, of Doraville, volunteered on a recent Saturday morning to help get out plexes on Buford Highway across information about ICE to Hispanic and Latino residents on Buford Highway. from Northeast Plaza. ImmigraRight: (l-r), Marnie Bell-Ferguson, Samuel Buchanan, Gabrielle Williams, Mariah Emerson and Heidi tion activists said ICE was arrestLowe discuss how to approach residents of a Chamblee apartment complex on Buford Highway. ing people who did not have criminal warrants. heightened interpanic because of Trump.” mother to deport her to Mexico. He said his Posts on social media also est.”

“Even people who are U.S. citizens, who younger siblings, ages 8 and 10, know they stated ICE agents were arrest“But this is just a are permanent residents, are burning up are not to open the door to anyone. ing people at gas stations on continuation of opmy phone,” she said. “The fear is great.”

“I know ICE is looking for those with felAbove Left: Middle: Vanessa Buford Highway as part of a erations,” he said.

Based on her experience, she said, ICE ony charges, but the whole community is Toro speaks to the group crackdown following President “The suggestion this agents under Obama focused on dangerrattled,” he said. of concerned citizens at Donald Trump’s Jan. 25 execis something new is ous criminals but now “we see everyone After talking about strategy, includPlaza Fiesta on Feb. 11. utive order directing the DHS not accurate.” can be thrown into a bag” and be arrested. ing instructions not to knock on peoples’ to prioritize the arrests and deCox also said he “Priorities have changed,” she said. doors but only to approach people in parkportations of undocumented residents believed certain groups are attempting to ing lots, the activists at Plaza Fiesta broke with criminal convictions. conflate ICE’s routine targeted operations up into teams, grouping Spanish-speakers ‘The whole A local government employee who with what is happening at the national levwith non Spanish-speakers. community is rattled’ spoke on the condition he would not be el.

Team members gathered up docuThe people at Plaza Fiesta on Feb. 11 said named said there were four arrests in Major Brandon Gurley of the Brookhavments copied from the ACLU, United We they understood there is a real fear among Brookhaven on Feb. 9 by ICE. All four inen Police Department said he and the deDream, Project South and the National immigrants. dividuals had criminal warrants against partment were not aware of any specific Lawyers Guild about the rights immi“I’m a concerned citizen and I’m disthem, the employee said. They were arICE arrests in the city. grants have if confronted by ICE agents. mayed as hell at what’s happening,” said rested at Park Towne North Apart“We have no idea,” he said in an email The teams then loaded into cars and Vanessa Toro, who lives in the Virginiaments, the employee said. Park Towne on Feb. 10. “We have not assisted ICE on sought out apartment complexes and Highland neighborhood of Atlanta and North Apartments are located across any of their enforcement activities. We are businesses along Buford Highway. helped organize the effort at Plaza Fiesta from Northeast Plaza. aware that they have been in and around Bell-Ferguson; Samuel Buchanan, a with Marnie Bell-Ferguson of Lilburn.

One allegation on Facebook stated Oakthe city in recent days. But they have not Spanish major at Morehouse College; HeiAllegations of people being arrested at cliff Elementary School in Doraville “notiasked for our assistance.” di Lowe of Tucker; and Oglethorpe Universchool bus stops were raised at the Plaza Fified several community leaders and attorA Feb. 8 email obtained through an sity graduates Mariah Emerson and Gabriesta gathering, but Cox said it was “categorneys in Atlanta about the police detaining Open Records Request sent to Brookhavelle Williams, who live near Tucker, drove ically false” that ICE agents were making undocumented people on Buford Highen police supervisors and command staff to an apartment complex in Chamblee. random arrests. way across from Northeast Plaza” located from Sgt. Delroy Stewart of the Uniform Bell-Ferguson and Buchanan apChristian Rodriguez, 18, lives just off in Brookhaven. Oakcliff Principal Delores Patrol Division, however, alerts officers proached a man with several children as Buford Highway in Brookhaven, and also Paschall said that was untrue. “No, we have that ICE is “conducting removal operations he got out of his car. Buchanan spoke to joined the group of people at Plaza Fiesta not,” she said Feb. 10. today on Buford Highway and is using our him in Spanish, letting him know about on Feb. 11. “I feel like I need to help my comICE officials have denied they are conparking lot as a staging area.” the rights he has in case of an ICE raid and munity out,” he said. ducting anything other than routine tarIn a Feb. 9 Facebook post responding who to contact should a raid occur.

But the concern about ICE raids and argeted arrests of residents in the U.S. illegalto a rash of social media posts The gentleman listened as his young rests is also very close to home for him. ly and who have felony convictions and about ICE raids on Buford son peeked from around the car. BeHis mother, born in Mexico, is undoccriminal warrants against them, Highway, the Brookhavcause there were not enough papers umented and has had a pending felony the same kind of operations they en Police Department to pass out to many people, Buchanan charge against her for eight years. conducted under former Pressaid officers would asked the man to take a picture with his The charge stems from a domestic viident Barack Obama. help ICE if asked. cellphone of the papers listing numbers olence arrest when she and Rodriguez’s “There is so much rumor Immigration atto call and websites to visit. stepfather got into a fight when he was a and speculation going on torney Carolina Emerson and Williams, who both speak child, he said. His mother is working with about random sweeps Antonini, whose Spanish, and Lowe talked to another man an immigration attorney to find a way to and that is not accurate,” office is located in the same complex. Emerson said he was get the charge dropped, he said. said Cox. on Buford Highvery receptive to hearing what they said.

“She pleaded guilty in DeKalb court Cox acknowledged way, said the difHe told them his entire family are legal res[eight years ago] because they didn’t have “given the current naference between idents, but many people in the complex a translator for her. She did it so she could tional environment” that ICE arrests under were undocumented and he would share get bailed out of jail,” said Rodriguez. “She’s when people now see an Obama and now the information with them. had this charge pending since then.”

ICE team in the field there is that “Latino peo“We just want to let them know we are Rodriguez, a Cross Keys High School is “certainly a ple are in a allies and we are rooting for them and to let graduate, said he understands ICE agents them know they can be covered and safe,” are targeting people with felony warrants Emerson said. and believes they are likely seeking his Luis Sandoval of El Salvador became a U.S. citizen four years ago and said he is worried for family members seeking to become legal residents because of the current national climate on immigration.

BK

12 | Community

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MARTA, city plan to revisit developing station site Continued from page 1 Ashe said.

“We don’t feel an urgent need to get this project out on the marketplace,” he said. “We are still digesting what happened. We are still thinking through the process of what we went through with all stakeholders and the feedback we received.”

The decision to discontinue the project was delivered to city officials by MARTA board members on Feb. 2 after a vote during the board’s regular meeting.

“MARTA appreciates the time and effort invested by the community in planning for Brookhaven TOD Project.

We are disappointed that we will not be able to advance this project to implementation. MARTA staff will now shift focus to implementing TOD projects at stations where greater readiness exists,” the statement from the MARTA board of directors stated.

MARTA’s board cited Ernst’s decision on Jan. 24 to suspend authorizing tax incentives for the project as well as ongoing delays in getting a vote on its rezoning request as reasons for quitting the project. Ernst at the time said a “reset” was needed in the relationship

between the city to a public/private and MARTA. partnership that “Mayor Ernst’s has more private statement indicatdollars than pubed the city adminlic,” Ernst said. istration’s support City Manager for an additional Christian Sigman delay in the rezonsaid he is confiing of the site. Addent that MARTA ditionally, Mayor and the city will be Ernst’s statement able to work out a indicated that the new development city administration ROBBIE ASHE at the site that will MARTA BOARD CHAIR would suspend all accommodate the work on the incendesires for MARtive request subTA to increase ridmitted to the Brookhaven Development ership and better utilize a mostly empAuthority. In light of this letter, today, ty parking lot.

February 2, the MARTA Board of Direc“MARTA is a partner – they always tors voted to cancel the award of the sohave been and always will be,” Sigman licitation and discontinue work on the said. “We share a vision for an impactBrookhaven TOD Project,” according to ful, high-quality and world-class develthe statement sent to the city. opment. MARTA and the city and the Ernst answered in his own stateresidents want a world-class city cenment that more work was needed “to ter.” make the development a true City CenSigman said after MARTA takes a ter.” “pause,” officials will want to begin “We’re sorry that we had to stop netalking again about what to build on gotiations on the financing of this projthe site. ect. The developer’s ask kept grow“We don’t view this as a rift, or a ing and the guarantees on delivery spat,” Sigman said. “It’s just easier to kept shrinking. But we look forward start over.

I don’t think anyone thinks 6 1/2 acres of empty parking lot is the best use of space.

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“To use the mayor’s words, this is more of a ‘reset’ than a switching off,” he said. “We plan to revisit the process and approach MARTA with a vision with what we want as far as infrastructure requirements and how it will be financed.”

Councilmember Joe Gebbia, who was vocal in his opposition to MARTA’s request for tax abatements from the city to help finance the development, said he envisions the city selecting its own development partner for the future project.

“This was a shock for them and they need to let the dust settle,” Gebbia said of the mayor’s decision to cut off authorizing tax incentives for the project.

A major reason for halting talks on tax incentives is because developers for the project, Brookhaven City Center Partners, a joint venture of Integral and Transwestern Development Company, continued to ask for more and more money, Gebbia said.

But tax incentives cannot be completely dismissed in plans for a future project, he said.

“If abatements provide a benefit to our residents over the long term, then that will certainly involve close scrutiny,” he said.

Ashe said MARTA officials are welcome to entertaining ideas from the city about future development at the site, but also expect to have significant say in the proposals because the land belongs to MARTA. “Given it is our land, we want a role in selecting the development partners,” he said. “We generally prefer to have input and control over what happens to our property.

“All along, we’ve had the goal and desire for this to be a community asset, like with our other developments,” Ashe said, noting that ensuring community buy-in for all of MARTA’s transit-oriented developments has been a priority for the transit agency.

S P EC I A L EL EC TI O N FO R C O NG R ES S S ET FO R APRIL 18

U.S. Rep. Tom Price was confirmed as President Trump’s new secretary of Health and Human Services Feb. 10, opening up a local race to fill his 6th Congressional District seat. A special election will be held April 18, with a runoff on June 20 if necessary.

The 6th District includes parts of Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs. Candidates still were qualifying for the election as the Reporter went to press. For updates on the final list, see ReporterNewspapers.net.

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E

very year, the Professional Association of Georgia Educators Foundation, known as the PAGE Foundation, identifies top students at public and private high schools across Georgia. The foundation says its Student Teacher Achievement Recognition program, or STAR student and teacher honors, has highlighted the achievements of more than 25,000 students since it started in 1958.

The program identifies high school seniors who post the highest SAT scores for their schools and rank among the top 10 percent or top 10 students in their class in grade-point average.

Each STAR student then chooses her or his STAR teacher. Once school winners are selected, regional STAR students and teachers are chosen to compete for the state title.

Atlanta Girls School

Sarah Walker Star Student

Atlanta International School

Melissa Hankinson Star Teacher

Cross Keys High School

Yusuf Azizi Star Student

Niall Gamble Star Student

Jacob Eismeier Star Teacher

Peter Radosta Star Teacher

North Atlanta High School

Ezekiel Day Star Student

Matthew Desoutter Star Student

Saachi Datta Star Student

The Lovett School

Claire Buffington Star Student

Chase McGrath Star Student

Jacob Ressler Star Student

Kristin Kramer Star Teacher

Scott Chruszcz Star Teacher

Bob Amar Star Teacher

LaRita Williams Star Teacher

Jack Dinges Star Student

Stephen Bengston Star Teacher

Weber School

Ross Williams Star Student

Michael Chalmers Star Teacher

Uwe Neuhaus Star Teacher

Clarisa Colton Star Student

Elizabeth Lamback Star Teacher

Mount Vernon Presbyterian School

Tim Perez Star Teacher

Pace Academy

Prashanth Kumar Star Student

Manav Mathews Star Student

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

Marist School

North Springs Charter High School

Jeanne Hall Star Teacher

Chamblee Charter High School

The Galloway School

Adrienne Rowe Star Teacher

St. Pius X Catholic High School

BK

Shunyang ‘Parker’ Liu Star Student

Dunwoody High School

Holy Spirit Preparatory School

Natalie Casal Star Student

Adam Lapish Star Teacher

Brandon Hall

Jacob Buck Star Student

Sam Baroody Star Teacher

Riverwood International Charter School

John Pearson Star Teacher

Jeremy Colton Star Student

The Westminster Schools

Liz Bailey Star Student

Jesse Breite Star Teacher

Rama Balachandran Star Teacher

14 | Commentary

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Opinion/ Traffic solutions: Looking to Dallas, which once looked to us In 1996, a delegation from Dallas came to Atlanta in search of transportation solutions. After all, metro Atlanta was the transportation hub of the South. Founded RUSTY PAUL as a railroad cenMayor, Sandy Spings ter, we had the region’s first urban limited access freeway, the nation’s busiest airport and the South’s first subway.

Twenty years later, a delegation from Fulton County, of which I was a part, visited Dallas to witness what our metro area could have looked like, if we had executed the plans that Dallas borrowed.

But from 1996 until the Legislature approved HB 170 and our voters approved last November’s TSPLOST, policymakers had woefully neglected our transportation infrastructure during a period when the regional population almost doubled.

Churchill called the time between World War I and World Ware II as “the years the locusts ate,” referring to the victorious Allies failure to maintain military readiness.

That phrase could apply to Georgia’s Two, there is no solution that eradiinfrastructure investment over the past cates congestion, but mobility can be imtwo decades. The stifling traffic we enproved. dure today is largely a function of enorThree, 20 years later, retrofitting transmous population growth unaccompanied portation solutions over mature commuby new transportation solutions to absorb nities carries some disruptive pain, but if it. we don’t deal with it now, the pain simply Make no mistake, Dallas is no trafgets worse into the future. fic panacea. When we arrived, we sat Four, fortunately, we can capitalize on in a construction zone near Love Field Dallas’ experience and craft even better for quite a while as drivers maneuvered solutions going forward. themselves around the work.

Like the Allies in WWII, we have a lot But Dallas has implemented a true reof catching up to do, but we can win in the gional light rail transit network, tolled end. managed lanes that offer commuters guaranteed 50-mph speeds and a smart blend of publicly and privately funded roads which bought significant new infrastructure improvements.

So, what did we learn?

One, we are paying a price for DALLAS AREA RAPID TRANSIT our 20-year neglect Downtown Plano, Texas light rail station. of infrastructure.

Letters to the Editor

Readers respond to commentary ‘Why Trump order inspired my first political protest’ In his commentary “Why Trump order inspired my first political protest” (Reporter Newspapers, Feb. 3), Conor Sen wrote that “you never know where the next great business opportunity will come from, but there’s a good chance it’ll come from abroad.”

This is the very reason Trump was elected. Americans have given up on themselves. American companies continue to command the largest market caps in the world. Here in Atlanta we have our very own global brands: Coca-Cola, UPS, Home Depot, Delta, Lockheed Martin, Aflac, just to name a few.

Great business started in America!

While I understand that this is an immigrant nation as well, let’s not forget the Americans who have called this land home for decades and generations, a.k.a., The Forgotten Middle.

Johnny Simpkins President and CEO Organnon Clothing LLC In response to “Why Trump order inspired my first political protest” (Reporter Newspapers, Feb. 3): These travelers and immigrants have

been much more thoroughly vetted than Trump has allowed himself to be. Why did we let him get away with it?

I suggest a new law requiring specific disclosures by presidential candidates, including (at a minimum) five

years of federal income tax returns.

That’s simple, straightforward and necessary to avoid the questions and turmoil that have arisen from our current president’s intransigence.

Karen Steanson

Have something to say?

Send letters to editor@reporternewspapers.net BK

FEB. 17 - MAR. 2, 2017

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Marching to my own holiday drum I feel like I’ve spent half my life sitting in traffic and the other half waiting for something to download.

And that’s a bad thing, because I’m not a patient person. But I find ways to make use Robin Conte is a writer of my time; and mother of four who in fact, I’m a lives in Dunwoody. She master at uscan be contacted at ing my time robinjm@earthlink.net. wisely. While I’m waiting for something to download, I’ll file my nails, fold laundry, make a pot of coffee and burn dinner. I can’t do any of those things while I’m in my car except for burning dinner, so in traffic, I sit and talk.

But while I’m sitting and waiting and making good use of my time, the world around me is pushing and pushing.

There is a force out there, a force to be reckoned with.

It’s as if some giant hand is turning pages on the calendar, flipping ahead and skipping entire months.

Like January.

You notice this force in August. You’re sunned and sandy and your skin is peeling; October is the last thing on your mind, because you haven’t even bought school supplies yet, but you’re staring at orangeand-black Halloween displays at every grocery store. You’re pushed through Labor Day straight toward Christmas, with Thanksgiving sort of smushed in there, too. You’re rushed to put it all up and then pressured to take it all down.

Then suddenly you’re shopping for heart-shaped cards and you look up and wonder, “What in the world happened to January?”

January is a rest stop in the Celestial Wheel of Holidays, and somehow I miss it every time. We go from Christmas and Hanukkah straight to Valentine’s Day, and I’m shouting, “Hang on! I’m still in December!”

This pushing force is a kid dragging his parents through a holiday-splattered theme park, and once again, he has dragged me straight past the rest stop of January.

Well I’ll do the dragging, if you don’t mind.

I’m not straggling, I’m not procrastinating — I’m savoring.

I like the decorations. I’ll keep the pumpkins till they’ve rotted. I’ll keep the poinsettias until they’re dead. I’ll keep the little Fourth of July flag at the mailbox until the first whiff of autumn. And I like it that way. I want to take it one celebration at a time, and I want to make it last.

Robin’s Nest Robin Conte

BK

In one of the top movie moments of all time (No. 39, on somebody’s list), Dustin Hoffman famously banged his hand on top of a cab and yelled, “Hey! I’m walking here! I’m walking here!”

Well, I’m living here. Stop pushing me, giant hand flipping pages of the calendar and skipping entire months! I’m living here. And I’m doing it on my own terms.

Now, if you don’t mind, I still have two weeks left in February, and I am going to sit down with a box of Valentine candy and eat it and enjoy it, while I wait for something to download.

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Introducing Three Sisters Catering

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Unique Party Places

Metro area venues for your next celebration If you’re looking for a venue for your next celebration – whether it be a wedding, birthday, bar mitzvah or Sweet 16 – check out this list of unique, unusual and historic places.

DUNWOODY NATURE CENTER

With trails, a creek, a hands-on educational center and even some beehives, it’s a great place for wilderness-loving kids to have a birthday party. Information: dunwoodynature.org.

HERITAGE SANDY SPRINGS

Heritage Green is home to the spring that gave the city its name and just one of this historic and cultural society’s event offerings. There’s also the modern event facility Heritage Hall, the Entertainment Lawn and the historic Williams-Payne House museum and grounds. Information: heritagesandysprings.org.

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Below, Oglethorpe University's trademark architecture is a match for anyone looking for Gothic atmosphere, while left, its art museum also offers up a setting for any type of celebration.

OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY

The trademark architecture makes Oglethorpe perfect for anyone looking for some Gothic atmosphere, but that’s only the beginning of the possibilities. The art museum, the library atrium, the stadium and more are available to provide a memorable setting for just about any celebration imaginable. Information: rentals.oglethorpe.edu.

BUCKHEAD THEATRE

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The restored 1930s movie house in the heart of Buckhead Village has an updated state-ofthe-art lighting and sound system, modern catering kitchen, event space, and other amenities. The venue can host performances and events, including lectures, comedy, Broadway plays, rock-and-roll acts, and private and public events. For more information, visit thebuckheadtheatre.com.

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ZOO ATLANTA

If you want a little wildlife at your celebration, Zoo Atlanta offers year-round daytime and evening events for 20 to 5,000 people. Birthday parties, weddings, family reunions and company picnics are just some of the events the zoo can handle. For more information, visit zooatlanta.org.

NATIONAL CENTER FOR CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS

FOX THEATRE

The Midtown icon not only hosts big concerts, Broadway shows and films, but it’s also available for private events in the elegant Egyptian Ballroom, Grand Salon, main auditorium and the soon-to-open Marquee Club. For more information, visit foxtheatre.org.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

If you’re looking for some pigskin flavor at your event, the College Football Hall of Fame in Downtown has 50,000 square feet of event space that can house up to 3,500 people for conventions, receptions, weddings, presentations and other special occasions. For more information, visit cfbhall.org.

10 Reasons why you’ll love us...

REASON #1

The Downtown museum provides a range of unique spaces to accommodate your next event. Whether you are planning a corporate meeting or training, a holiday gathering, wedding reception or dinner party, The Center offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the midst of history. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org.

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18 | Community

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CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA

The Downtown interactive museum and play place offers parties for children ages 2 to 8. Not only will kids get to explore the museum, but also “make-and-take” science or art project and more. For more information, visit childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

ACADEMY OF MEDICINE

The historic Academy of Medicine at Georgia Tech in Midtown is one of the city’s premier venues for weddings, receptions, conferences, and other special events. The 230-seat theater has six breakout rooms for conferences, while wedding parties will enjoy the private bridal suite. For more information, visit academy.gatech.edu.

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC PARK

The 21-acre legacy from the 1996 Summer Olympics is available for fundraisers, festivals, corporate receptions and more on the lawns, in the pavilions or amphitheater. For more information, visit gwcca.org/park.

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PIEDMONT PARK

The Midtown park has venues and areas perfect for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, anniversary parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, corporate meetings and charitable events. Whether you want to be on the dock at Lake Clara Meer or inside Magnolia Hall, the park might just be the place for a unique celebration. For more information, visit piedmontpark.org.

FEB. 17 - MAR. 2, 2017

■

Community | 19

www.ReporterNewspapers.net

OCCASIONS

•

WEDDINGS

•

MITZVAHS

•

BUSINESS

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Private Dining also available at: Atlanta Fish Market 404.601 .1 333 Chops Lobster Bar 404. 262 . 2675 Kyma 404. 528. 2895 Pricci 404. 528. 2895

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20 | Classifieds

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Reporter Classifieds HELP WANTED Atlanta Computer Group, Inc. seeks a Senior Auditor - Contribute accounting information and recommendations to strategic plans and reviews; prepare and complete action plans, implement standards, complete audits, and identify trends; determine and implement system improvements; forecast requirements; prepare annual budget and schedule expenditures; analyze variances; monitor revenue and expenses; coordinate financial data; interpret accounting policy for other departments; recruit, select, train, manage, provide job expectations and perform yearly reviews for accounting subordinates; establish internal controls; enforce accounting regulations and recommend new procedures. 40 hours/ week. Must have Master’s in Accounting and 1 year of experience as an auditor. Please send resumes to attention: David Stover, CFO, 5010 McGinnis Ferry Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005.

Adapted Special Needs Education Specialist - Shmalo family has F/T opening.

Duties: provide adapted education services to child w/autism. Req’s BA Education or foreign equiv, 6 m/exp. w/spec needs child. Location: Brookhaven, GA. Mail resumes to: 1090 Devine Circle NE, Brookhaven GA 30319.

Busy Sandy Springs real estate company has opening for receptionist/ office manager – Full-Time only, M – F, 9-5. Experience in real estate office preferred. Long term relationship desired.

Contact John at 404-236-0043, or John@ chapmanhallrealtors.com.

(404) 256-2525 or (770) 343-8565

Baily Int’l of Atlanta, Inc. seeks Auditor – Collect & analyze data to detect deficient controls, duplicated effort, extravagance, fraud, or non-compliance w/laws, regs, and mgmt. policies; prep audit reports; report to Exec. on asset util. & audit results, & rec. changes in ops & fin activities; inspect acct books & sys for efficiency, effectiveness & use of accepted acct proc. to record transactions. Must have Master’s in Accounting. Send resumes to: 3312-B North Berkeley Lake Road, Duluth, GA 30096.

Triple 7s Amusement LLC seeks Chief Strategy Research Analyst - Analyze operational and market trends and recommend changes to marketing and business development; collaborate with senior decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives; studying consumer habits, competitor’s strengths and weaknesses; conduct operational analysis to monitor competitors to identify areas for growth via new trends or products; analyze, estimate, and forecast strategic plans; develop sensitivity analysis models. Must have MBA in Marketing and 2 years of experience in a marketing or consulting related field. Send resume to 3099 Breckinridge Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096.

Medical Office Position - Northside Hospital area. Small established medical practice seeking P/T (3-4 days per week), mature, dependable, positive and enthusiastic personality.

Medicare coding experience preferred. Must live within a reasonable distance to this area. Excellent references.

Email resume to officeemploy123@gmail.com.

Drivers Wanted Senior Services North Fulton, a non-profit organization, has an opportunity for drivers in their transportation program. If you live in the Sandy Springs or Roswell area of north Fulton, would like to earn some extra money, set your own hours, like to drive, have a car, and like to be of service to seniors, please contact Mobility Manager at

(770) 993-1906 ext. 242 REAL ESTATE

Commercial Real Estate Services – Have a Commercial Building to Sell or Lease? Call Rick 678-209-3100. Proven local results.

APARTMENTS – RENT/LEASE Security Deposit - Does your landlord owe you money? Did your landlord not return all of your security deposit? You may be able to recover the amount taken from you or more. We are actively seeking tenants who have had their security deposits taken by landlords in Georgia. Please call The Offices of Shimshon Wexler, P.C. at (678) 699-1938, 315 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Ste 250, Decatur, GA 30030.

To Advertise, call 404-917-2200 ext 110 SERVICES AVAILABLE Matthew’s Handy Services – Small jobs and chores are my specialties. Shelves, organizers, carpentry, drywall, painting, and plumbing. Member of BBB – 404-547-2079 Email: mwarren8328@gmail.com.

Driveways & Walkways – Replaced or repaired. Masonry, grading, foundations repaired, waterproofing and retaining walls.

Call Joe Sullivan 770-616-0576.

Home Tending – Regular inspections of your unoccupied property. Call Charles, 404-229-0490.

Cleaning Services - do you want your house cleaned at a reasonable rate? Would you like someone that is Dependable, Professional and can give you Quality Service? Charlotte’s the one for you - call 404-604-7866!

Quinn Windows – Family owned and operated. Window replacement and home remodeling company since 1980. Visit www.

QuinnWindows.com or call 770-939-5634.

Home Improvement Specialist – Over 33 year’s experience. Tile, grout, countertops installation, kitchen & bath remodeling. 404219-1923

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Classifieds | 21

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22 | Public Safety

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Police Blotter / Brookhaven From Brookhaven Police reports dated Feb. 5 through Feb. 12.

The following information was pulled from Brookhaven’s Police-2-Citizen website.

POSSESSION AND DUI 4100 block of Peachtree Road — On

Feb. 5, in the early morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving under the influence.

2900 block of Buford Highway — On

4200 block of Peachtree Road — On

pended or revoked license.

3600 block of Buford Highway — On

Feb. 5, in the afternoon, an auto theft occurred.

3400

Feb. 10, in the morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving without a driver’s license.

100 block of Town Boulevard — On

block of Ashford-Dunwoody Road — On Feb. 7, in the evening, a woman was arrested and accused of forgery.

Feb. 5, in the evening, a man was arrested for shoplifting.

1900 block of Boulder Gate

4400

block of Peachtree Road — On Feb. 5, in the evening, a theft occurred.

3800 block of Peachtree Road — On

block of Buford Highway — On Feb. 5, at night, a man was arrested for theft by taking.

Feb. 9, a man was arrested and accused of public intoxication and consumption.

ARRESTS

Feb. 5, in the early morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving under the influence, with his ability impaired by .08 more than three hours later.

1500 block of Briarwood Road — On

Feb. 9, in the early morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving under the influence.

T H E F T A N D B U R G L A RY 3300 block of Buford Highway — On

Feb. 5, in the early morning, an auto theft occurred.

3600

I-285/ North Druid Hills Road

— On Feb. 6, in the afternoon, a man was arrested and accused of driving without a license.

3800 block of Peachtree Road — On

Feb. 7, after midnight, a man was arrested and accused of battery.

3500 block of Buford Highway — On

5, in the morning, a carjacking occurred.

Feb. 7 in the afternoon, a woman was arrested and accused of driving without a license.

3600 block of Buford Highway — On

2900 block of Clairmont Road — On

2600 block of Mabry Road — On Feb.

Feb. 5, in the morning, a theft occurred.

Drive — On Feb. 7, at night, a woman was arrested and accused of entering an auto that was not hers.

Feb. 7 in the morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving with a sus-

3100 block of Buford Highway — On Feb. 7, at night, a man was arrested and accused of driving with a suspended or revoked license.

3700 block of Buford Highway — On

Feb. 10, in the afternoon, a woman was arrested and accused of driving without a driver’s license.

3900 block of Peachtree Road — On

Feb. 11, in the early morning, a woman was arrested and accused of driving with a suspended or revoked license.

1700 block of Briarwood Road — On

Feb. 12, in the early morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving without a driver’s license.

1300 block of Briarwood Road — On

1500 block of Bates Court — On Feb. 9, in the evening, a man was arrested and accused of failing to keep his animal under restraint.

Feb. 12, in the afternoon, a man was arrested and accused of disorderly conduct.

500 block of Brookhaven Avenue —

Feb. 12, in the afternoon, a man was arrested and accused of disorderly conduct.

On Feb. 9, in the evening, a man was arrested and accused of obstruction and interference.

1300 block of N. Cliff Valley Way — On

Feb. 9, in the evening, a woman was arrested and accused of criminal trespass.

3500 block of Buford Highway — On

Feb. 10, in the morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving without a driver’s license.

2000 block of Johnson Ferry Road ƒOn

OT H E R I N C I D E N T S 2900 block of Clairmont Road — On

Feb. 5, in the evening, damage to property was reported. Later that same day, damage to property was reported in the 3000 block of Clairmont Road.

Community Briefs B R OOK H AVEN AWA RDED $ 5. 7M LO AN TO PURC H A SE P DK A I RP ORT LAND

The city of Brookhaven has received a $5.7 million Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan by the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority executive committee to purchase 33-acres of forested land next to the PDK Airport.

The city is buying the property to preserve as a green space. The DeKalb County Commission approved the purchase for the $5.7 million fair market value of the land in January. The City Council approved the purchase of the property in December.

“We are grateful to GEFA for awarding us this loan, which includes $500,000 in principal forgiveness, for the financing of the PDK Greenspace,” said Mayor John Ernst in a GEFA press release. “It helps us keep the promise we made to our residents to keep Brookhaven green and vibrant.”

According to the city and GEFA, the loan will finance the acquisition of 33 acres of forested land adjacent to the DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) that will preserve one of the largest remaining tracts of urban forest in metro Atlanta, and help protect the watershed of Peachtree Creek. The land will be publicly accessible and will include unpaved walking trails as part of the green space.

The city will pay 0.89 percent interest on the 20-year loan. The loan will finance an eligible conservation project, which qualifies for a reduced interest rate, and includes principal forgiveness up to $500,000, if all funds are drawn.

The city will use the $2.4 million it is receiving from DeKalb County as part of the Skyland Park property purchase for a new school to help cover costs for the airport land. The $2.4 million was specifically set aside to purchase green space.

“GEFA’s loan programs assist local governments with improving their environmental infrastructure,” said GEFA Executive Director Kevin Clark in the press release. “As part of the Clean Water program, cities and counties can also receive affordable financing for land conservation projects.”

HISPANIC CI TI ZEN’S P O L I C E A C A DEM Y B EG I NS M A R C H 2

The Brookhaven Police Department will hold its second Hispanic Citizen’s Police Academy, which is open to adults age 21 and over and held one night per week for 10 weeks beginning March 2 and running through May 4.

Classes will be held from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Thursdays at the Brookhaven Police Department on Buford Highway. Everyone who lives or works in Brookhaven is invited to attend.

The class is free of charge. A criminal background check is required for all applicants and the police department reserves the right to deny enrollment to those with a criminal history.

“This is a great opportunity to enhance the relationship between our police department and the Spanish-speaking citizens of Brookhaven,” Deputy Chief of Police Juan Grullon said in a press release.

The BPD Citizen’s Police Academy is designed to give residents an overview of how the department works and to educate students about basics of police work, the logistics of the police department and crime prevention programs.

“This program is not designed to make police officers out of students, but will create a growing number of responsible, well-informed citizens with the potential to influence others about the police department’s methods and goals,” according to a press release.

Contact Officer Carlos Nino via e-mail at carlos.nino@brookhavenga. gov with any questions.

BK

FEB. 17 - MAR. 2, 2017

■

Affordable Housing Task Force plans to wrap up recommendations by April

BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

The city’s Affordable Housing Task Force wants to present its recommendations to City Council by April on how to ensure residential units and homes for working class residents and people living near the poverty line are included in future development.

The idea is to have the recommendations included in the city’s zoning rewrite, which is set to begin in the next few months.

Task Force Chair David Schaefer of the Latin American Association said aging apartment units on Buford Highway are expected to be sold in the near future.

“There has to be some city intervention to make sure developers replace partially [the new development] with some affordable housing,” he said.

Task force members met Feb. 9 to get more input on what kind of regulations they would like to see the city implement to assure affordable housing continues to be made available as the city continues to see rapid development.

Task force members want to have input and provide guidance on how development along Buford Highway continues. They worry that current aging apartment complexes will be torn down and replaced, leaving the residents who live there, many of whom are immigrants, with no place to live.

Community Development Director Patrice Ruffin said Buford Highway “is a prime area for redevelopment” and the city could include a Buford Highway Overlay District as part of its zoning rewrite.

The task force could recommend that

the overlay rules include a requirement that a certain number of affordable housing units be provided in new developments before any major projects are proposed, she said. Incentives, including tax incentives, could be offered to developers who provide affordable housing, members said.

“If you can structure the incentives the right way, so it is not a burden, then it can be a real incentive,” City Manager Christian Sigman said. “If they [developers] know coming in they have to do it [provide affordable housing], but that you will take care of them on the back end ... it’s almost like a scholarship.”

The city is set to award soon a contract for the Peachtree Overlay District rewrite, which should take about six months to complete, Ruffin said. A contract for the full zoning rewrite is not expected to be issued for several more months and will likely take a year to complete.

Workforce housing, to include people on police and teacher salaries, is mentioned in the Brookhaven Peachtree Overlay District and members want to ensure affordable housing is not limited to just Buford Highway.

The U.S. government considers housing costs at or below 30 percent of one’s income to be affordable.

When the Task Force began in October, the city pulled data from the 2015 Georgia Power Community Profile that shows Brookhaven has an average household size of 3.15 people with 45 percent of those households having an income base below $49,999, indicating 45 percent of families in the city are low-income and between 14 to 20 percent are very low to extremely low-income households.

C IT Y SEL EC TED A S PA RT OF CD C DOOR-TO-DOOR SURVEY

The city of Brookhaven has been selected to participate in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a study of the health of persons living in the United States, according to a press release from the police department.

The National Center for Health Statistics, part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is conducting the study. The NCHS will conduct the survey between Feb. 16 and April 28.

A sample of about 514 people from DeKalb County will be asked to participate in the survey. Interviewers will be knocking on the doors of randomly selected households throughout the county. They will conduct a brief questionnaire at the doorstep in order to obtain demographic information used to identify sample participants for the survey.

“It is important for us to assure Brookhaven residents that this legitimate survey is a federally funded national effort with significant influence on health policy across the nation,” the press release said.

Each NCHS member will display a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identification card and will not be required to obtain or display a solicitation permit from the city of Brookhaven, the police department said.

Those with questions can call NHANES – Field Office Site at 404-220-7208.

BK

Community | 23

www.ReporterNewspapers.net

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24 |

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JAN. 22 - FEB.

4, 2016 • VOL. 10— NO.

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Study supports renovation of Brook Run Theater

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pages 8-10

Familiar sights crowd the new exhibit at the Atlanta History Center. Georgia Tech’s Ramblin’ Wreck holds

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center stage.

A billboard-read JAN. 22 - FEB. y Chick-fil-A cow 4, 2016 • VOL. reporternewspapers.n protests in one 8— NO. 2 corner. A few PORTER_NEWS FACEBOOK.COM/T feet away, a VarTWITTER.COM/RE reporternewspapers.n SPAPERS HEREPORTERNEW sity car-hop’s SPAPERS tray hangs from FACEBOOK.COM/THEREPORTERNEW TWITTER.COM/RE et a door of a ’63 2 PORTER_NEWS 7— NO. Plymouth reporternewspapers.n 4, 2016 • VOL. It’s no surprise that Valiant. ►Mixed-use developmen et the items JAN. 22 - FEB. in this particular ts are ts are museum show a hot trend, but seem familiar. ►Mixed-use developmennot for they’re not for ►Mixed-use developmen They’re all part they’re everyone of Atlanta. Each ts are a hot trend, but was chosen to a hot trend, but represent some important they’re not for ►Perimeter hotels everyone everyone the city, the exhibit’s feature of draw business draw business with MARTA access, curators say.

The exhibit, ►Perimeter hotels ►Perimeter hotels service, “Atlanta in 50 service, attractions Obdraw business jects,” which MARTA access, P17 | with opened Jan. 16 TROT with MARTA access, and is to be on display CALENDAR: TARTAN Pages 4-9 service, through July attractions attractions 10, is CALENDAR: TARTAN intended to show, in TROT | P17 P4-9 what makes Atlanta its own way, P4-9 Ana Avilez, 14, Atlanta. a member of CALENDAR: “I think my favorite TARTAN TROT | P17 “Dia de Los Reyes” the Danza Aztec Dance Group, thing is the festival at the King manuscript,” Atlanta History prepares for a performance guest curator during the Three Center on Jan. PHIL MOSIER Amy Wilson 10. See additional Kings Day or said on the day photos on page be15.► fore the show opened, as she and History Center exhibitions director Dan Rooney made last-minute Reporter Newspapers tweaks to the exhibit. She is working with pointAtlanta-based a new mobile ed toward a case 1Q, to survey market research holding a series residents

BY JOHN topics of state of handwritten and local interest.RUCHof our communities periodically firm, pages from a Inrternewspapers.

Religious Freedom johnruch@repo our first poll, yelabout low legal pad we ask about Restoration Act net on which the

BY DYANA BAGBY ers.net the proposed ture. Nearly two-thirds Rev. being considered Martin Luther eporternewspap A 200 dyanabagby@r King Jr. had in the state holerespondents of in the sidewalk reactions to the writLegislaten the acceptance saidnear would the bill a Dunkin’ law. Read Donuts should be rejected. at 6060 Run Theater speech for his more about Roswell the poll Road 1964 Nobel Prize.

Here are two Page 18 Renovating Brook andmarks and fit local comments a fire hydrant where “It’s the original $7.5 million was knocked on page 11. ► manuscript.” comdown by a vecost approximately hicle nearly a city of Dunwoody’s year ago and

BY DYANA BAGBY Wilson and remains misseasily into the ing. And for the a new feasiRooney started according to last four months dyanabagby@r work on the prehensive plan, Conserof 2015, eporternewspap if firefighters project in NovemThe Brook Run had needed water ers.net I’m so sick of Georgia ber 2014. The bility study from to battle a blaze there, they original idea Eugenia Calloway would Even behind the exhibit have found a looking like backward vancy. that we flipped through hydrant across having fire a proposal – gathering pages of the 1968 to let you know the objects that buf-the streetofgone “I am pleased has a Cross Keys High as well. foons. This is just Such long represent imporyearbook, glancing School that Dunwoody repair times a religious freedom tant themes and uncertain are now certain over the photographs there is siginspections for law or events in of many white legalized discrimina the city’s seems facility and that histoto be ry – had been 4,000 public for faces. But in a step in the need for this private tion, and used in a few the back of fire hydrants the yearbook in the community othplain and simple. areright she found first er high-profi an ongoing direction... nificant support President cernIffor Sandy conle museum shows the boys’ basto start ketball team Conservancy that Springs having and then the fire officials. and books, such isn’t enough, it’sRescue that need,” states to the coungirls’ basketball Fire considermore as “The Smithteam. a Jan. 15 letter bad Chief Keith Sanders is now sonian’s History Danny Ross in ing up a for the state economica ation for gearof America in tighter, “That’s me,” religion, period. accountable at she said, pointing cil. lly. Stepmore tion system. inspeca new theater Continued page smiling girl at to the one: bringing 14 the far right The cost to construct cost $24.5 milA 44-YEAR-OLD A 34-YEAR-OLD hydrant inspections in-house in the girls’ varsity team WOMAN WOMAN size would instead photo. One other The Atlanta History WHO LIVES about the same WHOofLIVES using private contractors, states. black IN BROOKHAVE center’s IN was study SANDY girl on as the exhibition, “Atlanta the far left; all the SPRINGS PHIL MOSIER lion, the feasibility has done N PHOTOS BY city players and the sent its feasibility coaches in between Objects,” showcases in 50 since its Cutno breaks The conservancy unique, were white. recently founding. local items like player Anjanice a varsity “That’s when Council members this katana from court during High School basketball I had the most study to City “The Walking come up at the “The At left, Dunwoody as she heads down her home Wolverines on Jan. 15. fun, when Dead” TV show.

I was playing 2016 Tillie O’Neal-Kyles, is expected to pack Lady issue the basketball,” the from School and founder of Every High away inspections she said. named the city’s the Miller Grove Calloway was 25 meeting.

2016 Humanitarian Woman Works, a nonprofi game against one of 17 students council’s Jan. will be done t that Nash talks of the Year, at Jamie Chatman, that there is support integrated Cross who Coach Angela the 10th annual helps achieve financial independence, one of the “Lynwood While Ross argues Keys High School he may Rev. Martin Luther who integrated by the SanAbove, Lady Wildcats with her players.

Integrators,” personal growth PHIL MOSIER ly 50 years ago, nearCross Brook Run Theater, King Jr. Day celebration attends a Rev. over strategy and family leadership, part of that for renovating Martin Luther council.by graduates of Keys High School nearly 50 years dy Springs at City Hall on first group was King Jr. Day dinner Lynwood High of black students battle from the ago. The Jan. Jan. 18. Story top, 62-37, and School, Cross on page 15.► to attend an came out on still face an uphill PHIL MOSIER fire depart22 Keys High School 18 program, held at Lynwood and celebration honoring are 8-9 all-white school in DeKalb The Lady Wolverines the 17 and Chamblee Park Recreation Continued on page The Lady Wildcats County and now Charter High a 12- 8 record.

Center, featured students ment,” Sandon page 15.► School. See additional currently have as the “Lynwood known comments additional photos photos on page Integrators.” this season. See ers 13.► said.

Reporter Newspapers “That way, I Continued on page is working with Atlanta-based 12 a new mobile know all hy1Q, to survey market research residents of our Reporter Newspapers topics of state firm, drants have communities firm, and local interest. is working with periodically about market research Atlanta-based In our first poll, Religious Freedom a new mobile a new mobile been touched 1Q, to survey we ask about market research Restoration Act periodically about is working with residents of our the proposed topics of state ture. Nearly two-thirds firm, being considered communities communities and have been and local interest.

Reporter Newspapers the proposed residents of our in the state periodically about of 200 respondents In our first poll, Religious Freedom we ask about 1Q, to survey reactions to the Legislasaid the bill should inspected.” we ask about LegislaAtlanta-based In our first poll, law. Read more Restoration Act in the state the proposed be rejected. Here about the poll ture. Nearly two-thirds and local interest. being considered Here are two Page 18 being considered are two and local comments That will mean topics of state Act rejected. in be of the 200 respondents state LegislaRestoration reactions to the on page 11. ► said the bill should said the bill should “more accuracy, law. Read more Religious Freedom on page 11. ► of 200 respondents be rejected. Here more about the poll local comments Page 18 are two accountability, and local comments ture. Nearly two-thirds more about the poll and ” Sanders said, on page 11. ► law. Read adding it will also give reactions to the firefighters hands-on I’m so sick of Georgia edge of where knowlthe city’s hydrants

BY DYANA BAGBY case they need looking like backward are in Even having a

BY JOE EARLE to find them rnewspapers.net proposal I’m so sick of Georgia dyanabagby@rep in an emerbufgency. joeearle@reporte orternewspapers.n foons. This is just of a religious freedom a proposal having et city’s Even the 18 looking on Even off But Page those inspections law having a proposal law like backward sound legalized discrimina seems to be a step City officials to are where the The chance to bufdepartment’s 120 people are preparing fire of a religious freedom I’m so sick of Georgia buffoons. This is just of a religious freedom direct control more than to look for a new city manager in the plain and simple. tion, right direction... in the of the crucial parks drew on Jan. 12. safety devices law to replace Marie seems to be a step start looking like backward library branch ends. The 2,910 legalized discrimina to start seems to be a step rett, who held GarDunwoody’s hydrants to room, standon city streets the job since isn’t enough, it’s If that having more considerBrookhaven’s into a meeting are actually owned inception. right direction... foons. This is just tion, bad plain and simple. tion, right direction... in the They packed ideas on a city of Atlanta’s by the the state economica for to voice their ation for religion, to start Department of A national search ing room only, having more considerWatershed legalized discrimina parks plan. isn’t enough, it’s If that Management, having more considerperiod. lly. for a new city city’s five-year which can take If that period. ager was expected bad manrewrite of the months to a bit familmake repairs.

A 44-YEAR-OLD A 34-YEAR-OLD to plain and simple.bad for ation for religion, the state economica for ation for religion, the discussion WOMAN WOMAN tails of a separation begin as soon as deSome found WHO LIVES period. lly.

WHO LIVES Sanders called between the city WOMAN IN BROOKHAVE isn’t enough, it’s lly.

IN SANDY SPRINGS that situation Garrett could iar.

A 34-YEAR-OLD N to all these A 44-YEAR-OLD a “challenge,” though be reached. Council and A 34-YEAR-OLD ago, we went he added he is WOMAN IN SANDY SPRINGS WOMAN bers met behind mem“A few years the state economica not aware of WHO LIVES 12 WHO LIVES any recent fire WHO LIVES closed doors with IN BROOKHAVE IN SANDY SPRINGS where firefighters Continued on page and a mediation Garrett N WOMAN had trouble finding a attorney on Jan. working hydrant A 44-YEAR-OLD N 20 to try to work out an on a public agreement.

IN BROOKHAVE WHO LIVES Mayor John Ernst Continued on page and members 14 of City Countinued on page 14

Sandy Springs Reporter

Published by Springs Publishing LLC.

aINtownPap

& their people

BY JOE EARLE Joeearle@repor ternewspapers.net

JAN. 22 - FEB.

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TROT | P17

Exhibit highlig hts Atlanta in 50 objects

Latin tradition

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Puppetry Arts Opinions on parks feel expand vary, as someCenter under this Atlanta’ss they’ve beenown puppet master way before

Survey: No to ‘Religi

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‘Lynwood Integrators’ honored for courage during desegregation

Nationwide search planned for new city manager

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