APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 • VOL. 9 — NO. 8
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► MARTA’s CEO speaks on response to I-85 disaster PAGE 5 ► ‘The good, the bad and the ugly’ of 2017 legislative session PAGE 14
BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net
PHOTOS BY PHIL MOSIER
Volunteers clean up a bank of the north fork of Peachtree Creek around Corporate Boulevard on April 8 as part of the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s annual “Sweep the Hooch” event. For more photos, see page 19.
Page 27
OUT & ABOUT Get grounded with I believe [President Earth Day events
Trump] is strong enough to force Congress to break through this nonsense and get something done. DAVID PERDUE U. S. Senator
See PERDUE, page 21.
SPECIAL SECTION | P22-26
City’s new medical center wants to grow
Picking up at Peachtree Creek
EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATOR Passing on her culinary passion
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Page 6
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is seeking to have 11.4 acres along the Northeast Expressway annexed into the city of Brookhaven for a proposed 8-story office building as part of a massive expansion of its new 45-acre campus at North Druid Hills Road and I-85. The expansion includes buying out a church. It’s just part of what city officials say is major medical-related redevelopment coming after years of anticipation to the Executive Park area. CHOA filed the annexation request with the city on April 5. It also is asking for a special land-use permit for some of the property in order to build the 8-story, 340,000square-foot building on land currently zoned only for five stories. CHOA also wants to build a parking deck. The annexation and SLUP requests are expected to be taken up by the Planning Commission and City Council in June. “If the annexation and SLUP is approved See CITY on page 20
6th District hopefuls square off in debate BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net
As the days tick down to the April 18 special election to fill the open 6th Congressional District seat, each of the 18 candidates in the large field are trying furiously to separate themselves from the pack. The latest public opportunity was at the April 9 candidate forum hosted by the Dunwoody Homeowners Association and Dunwoody Crier at Dunwoody High School. Voters are already early voting in the election to fill the seat that had been held by Republican Tom Price, who reSee 6TH on page 18
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Four-city planning partnership may hire staff member BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net
The Peachtree Gateway Partnership is seeking to raise $20,000 this year with plans to hire a full-time staff person. The partnership includes the cities of Brookhaven, Dunwoody, Chamblee and Doraville. Dunwoody City Council recently approved $2,500 to go toward paying a full-time staff member for the partnership that was loosely formed three years ago and officially became a 501(c) 6 nonprofit business organization last year. Brookhaven, Chamblee and Doraville also are expected to also chip in $2,500 apiece to the organization. Other partners, including DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, Georgia Power Co. and Epps Aviation, also are expected to contribute $2,500 apiece as part of a plan to raise $20,000 this year, said Dan Reuter, a private consultant for the partnership and former manager of community development with the Atlanta Regional Commission. The remaining funds are to be raised from private sources. The ARC helped organize the partnership that set such goals as improving transportation planning coordination between the four municipalities and DeKalb County as well as the development of a cross-jurisdictional trail network that could connect to the Atlanta Beltline and PATH 400. The ARC itself is not part of the partnership. Housed within the four cities’ areas are the DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, which borders Brookhaven and Chamblee; three MARTA rail stations; and the vacant former General Motors Co. site. The former plant is being redeveloped into a massive business district dubbed Assembly that includes Third Rail Studios, a film and TV production studio, with plans to also build retail, office and residential properties on the site.
Reuter said he is currently being paid $1,200 a month by the Peachtree Gateway Partnership’s board, which is made up of the mayors of the cities and representatives of the private partners. “I do think they will hire someone. It will probably be another part-time person and depends on how much money we raise,” Reuter said. The $20,000 could also be used for such things as branding the group, he said. “It’s not a lot of money,” he said. But it is part of the first formal budget for the group that was formed to find ways for the four municipalities to work closely together on such issues as transportation and also find ways to work well with DeKalb County. “Right now, we’re letting it evolve through dialogue,” Reuter said. The nonprofit status means the group can raise money from private sources in such forms as contributions, membership dues or sponsorships. The payments would not be taxdeductible, but can be written off as business expenses, Reuter said. Brookhaven Mayor John Ernst said that through the partnership, the four cities have devised a plan to have their trails connect “so none of the cities builds a trail to nowhere.” “It’s been working rather well,” he said of the partnership, “but we’ll see how it proves its worth year after year.” The board meets about six times a year, Reuter said. Staff members from each city also meet as part of a coordinating committee to discuss potential projects. “We discuss transportation issues and look at funding opportunities,” Reuter said. In February, Trees Atlanta teamed up with the Peachtree Gateway Partnership and helped organize a tree planting to celebrate Georgia Arbor Day. Volunteers and city staff from the four cities planted 177 trees in Georgian Hills Park, Dresden Park, on Winters Chapel Road and at the Dunwoody Nature Center.
City Hall can stay where it is through 2024 The city has arranged a lease extension for City Hall on Peachtree Road through 2024, avoiding a possible move. The lease was set to expire in December 2019. The owner of the building and property, Delta Life Insurance Company, had hinted in January about redevelopment, which would have forced the city to find a new home. City Manager Christian Sigman said in a press release he was able to negotiate the lease extension and keep City Hall where it is for at least seven more years. “This lease extension ensures stability of service for city residents and a stable working environment for city employees. It also affords the city favorable lease terms until such time when it is prudent to invest in a permanent City Hall,” Sigman stated in a press release. City Hall is currently located at 4362 Peachtree Road, next to Town Brookhaven. The city’s lease payment for the Peachtree Road site for 2017 is $294,175.01, according to spokesperson Ann Marie Quill. The three-story building houses city departments, administrative offices and the City Council chambers. The current site takes in
24,000 square feet. Monthly payments for City Hall will increase 2.5 percent per year as the current lease demands. The annual payments are:
2017
$320,440.68
2021
$356,605.78
2018
$328,451.64
2022
$365,520.93
2019
$336,662.96
2023
$374,658.95
2020
$347,908.08
2024
$384,025.42
The city moved into City Hall, a former Georgia State University building, in 2014. After the city was incorporated in December 2012, the city used an office building in Dunwoody for its first City Hall.
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Community | 3
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 ■ www.ReporterNewspapers.net
Community Briefs N EW PUB LI C WORKS DI REC TOR IN PLACE The city of Brookhaven’s new public works director began the job April 3. Lowe Engineers, the private contractor that operates the department, hired Hari Karikaran to manage the dayto-day operations for the department. Richard Meehan, who had been serving as Brookhaven’s Public Works Director since the city was incorporated, will remain with Lowe Engineers and available to assist in during the transition, according to a city press release. CITY OF BROOKHAVEN “With a record year of road and sidewalk projHari Karikaran ects ahead of us, I am confident that Hari Karikaran has the knowledge and expertise to manage these projects on time and on budget,” City Manager Christian Sigman said in the release. Karikaran has held multiple positions in DeKalb County government since 2006, including associate director of development, director of engineering services and director of facilities management. Karikaran managed county capital construction and maintenance of DeKalb’s 274 buildings in addition to county real estate transactions, according to the press release. Karikaran previously served as Deputy Director of Public Works for Charleston County, SC, and Senior Civil Engineer at the City of Savannah Water & Sewer Bureau. Karikaran obtained a master of science in environmental and water resources engineering and a master of environmental resources management from the University of South Carolina. He obtained his bachelor of science in civil engineering from University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
C ITY H IRES F I RST EC ON O MI C DEVELOP MEN T DIR ECTO R The city of Brookhaven has announced the hiring of Shirlynn Brownell as its first director of economic development. Brownell, former corporate solutions project manager at the Georgia Department of Economic Development, was scheduled to begin work on April 3, according to a press release. “With the addition of Shirlynn Brownell and the wealth of knowledge and expertise she brings from the state of Georgia, Brookhaven can take charge of its own destiny in terms of creating jobs SPECIAL Shirlyn Brownell and capital investments in the city,” Brookhaven City Manager Christian Sigman said in the press release. Prior to her appointment as corporate solutions project manager, Brownell served as project analyst at the state department of economic development. She recruited new industry on behalf of the state and also managed the relocation and expansion of various companies, including HD Supply, Equifax, Courion, Geo-Digitial and Stanley Black & Decker, according to the release. She also managed statistical research and analysis for the department’s eight Centers of Innovation, which dealt with aerospace, agriculture, energy, life sciences and information technology, logistics and manufacturing. “I have a longstanding passion for public service and economic development,” Brownell said in the press release. “My time with the state of Georgia has given me an excellent foundational understanding of how to generate jobs and investment in communities across the state. I am excited and ready to take on this new role, and I look forward to working in conjunction with the members of the city of Brookhaven to set and achieve new economic development goals for our city.” BK
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State awards $100,000 grant for Briarwood Park trail BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net
The city of Brookhaven has received a $100,000 grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to build and restore a 1-mile trail in Briarwood Park. City officials estimate the Briarwood Park Nature Trail project will cost $161,700 and will use city matching funds to cover the expenses above the amount of the $100,000 grant. The DNR announced the Brookhaven grant April 5 in a press release listing 14 grants totaling $2.3 million for recreational trails around the state. Plans are to begin the trail this year and finish within six months, city spokesperson Ann Marie Quill said in an email. “Funds will be used to restore a halfmile damaged by use and invasive species and build a half-mile of new trail on the perimeter of the park and within the park,” she said. “This trail is part of a trail system which includes a proposed multi-use trail,” Quill said. “It will link to an adventure play area and a natural play area as outlined in the Brookhaven Parks Master Plan adopted Feb. 9, 2016.” Mayor John Ernst welcomed the news. “I am excited the state of Georgia recog-
nizes the intrinsic value of Brookhaven’s Briarwood Park Nature Trail and has chosen to invest in this project,” he said in a statement. Greg Trinkle, president of the Briarwood Park Conservancy, said in a statement, “We have been working with the city to upgrade the Briarwood Park Trail for some time, and this grant award will really go a long way to realizing our collective vision for making this resource as attractive and accessible as it can be.” DNR reported that a total of 46 applications were received from state, federal, and local governments during this grant cycle totaling $5.3 million in requests. DNR administers the Recreational Trails Program under the guidance of the Federal Highway Administration. Funding for the program is appropriated by Congress in national highway legislation and is overseen by the Federal Highway Administration, according to a press release. Each year, the DNR offers awards through a competitive grant program. Agencies of state, federal, local government and authorized commissions are eligible to compete. Every recipient is required to match a grant by providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project.
Images of Briarwood Park where a new 1-mile trail is set to be restored using funds from a $100,000 grant. BRIARWOOD PARK REVITALIZATION PROJECT
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MARTA CEO won’t ‘gloat,’ will help after I-85 disaster BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net
MARTA is gaining lots of praise — and new riders — for stepping up service after the I-85 highway collapse that is snarling metro traffic. But Keith Parker, the transit agency’s CEO, says he’s not patting himself on the back or cheering the silver lining. “By no means do we gloat or bask in this,” Parker said of the I-85 disaster at an April 11 Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber of Commerce luncheon. That’s not to say he was shy about touting his own speedy Red Line commute time, which drew several exclamations of “wow!” from the crowd. “I got on the train at 8:48 this morning and was at my office at 9:01,” said Parker, a Roswell resident who rides from Sandy Springs’ North Springs Station to MARTA headquarters at Buckhead’s Lindbergh Center Station. Parker’s long-scheduled appearance at the luncheon at the Westin Atlanta Perimeter North hotel was intended to highlight the now familiar story of MARTA’s dramatic turnaround since he became its CEO and general manager in 2012. Parker presented his standard financial and customer charts laden with upward-tilting arrows, and touched on such other hotbutton issues as the Braves stadium and the Atlanta Streetcar. But the March 30 fire-triggered collapse of the I-85 overpass, which happened within smoke-smelling distance of MARTA’s HQ, has become a watershed moment for Atlanta public transit. It earned its own slide in Parker’s updated presentation. “And then there was a little bridge collapse,” he said. Parker noted the disaster site near Piedmont Road is about a third of a mile from MARTA’s Lindbergh Center headquarters and the Armour Yard, a railyard where the agency keeps many off-duty trains. He said he saw the smoke from his office. “As soon as we saw it, we sprang into action,” he said. That meant increasing service capacity by about 20 percent and extending service frequency and hours. Currently, he said, train frequency from North Springs is about 7 to 10 minutes, and in downtown Atlanta, about 5 minutes. The agency also leveraged existing partnerships with car rental services Uber and Lyft to offer discount rates to people going to and front MARTA stations. Internally, MARTA staff are urged to help first-time riders who may be confused and irritated. “They can be as rude as they need to be to us. We want to give them a dignified ride,” Parker said. While MARTA is seeing big ridership boosts, that also creates new challenges. Paying for extra service is a major one that the state and federal governments have pledged to assist. Another is “enormous pressure” on station parking, with garages filling up quickly.
After the “We view ourluncheon, selves as part of the Parker said transportation netthat specifwork,” he said. “All ic plans to of us are part of the borrow oversolution. ... In this flow parking case, one part of our near North family solution has Springs taken a hit.” and Sandy BRAVES AND THE Springs StaSTREETCAR JOHN RUCH tions are in Audience memKeith Parker, MARTA’s CEO and general the works manager, speaks at the April 11 Sandy Springs bers asked Parkand will be Perimeter Chamber of Commerce luncheon. er about anothannounced er looming traffic concern, the Atlanta soon. The agency also launched a web Braves’ new SunTrust Park in MARTApage showing real-time information on free Cobb County, and a public transit station parking availability. service that hasn’t been so well-received, While running trains, Parker also had the Atlanta Streetcar. to derail rumors “that I had started the fire On the Braves, Parker had a brief but — I’m not kidding.” He said reporters and pointed comment: “We’ve not been formalTwitter users asked about a conspiracy thely contacted by the Braves to provide serory that MARTA had set the blaze to boost vice. So when they’re ready, we’ll be ready.” ridership. (An avid social media user himOn the troubled Atlanta Streetcar, he self, Parker said in an admittedly unusual said the “critical safety issues” that led to a introduction that he planned to live-Tweet brief service stoppage have been resolved, his upcoming colonoscopy to be a good and predicted the streetcar, which currenthealthcare example to his children.) ly runs a circulator route in downtown AtMore seriously, Parker described lanta, will be a success once it plugs into MARTA as a family member of, not planned transit service on the BeltLine. a rival to, the Georgia Department of “When that [BeltLine connection] Transportation and the Georgia Regionhappens, I think it changes the game… al Transportation Authority. When you’re in a circle, you got limited
appeal,” Parker said. That transit is coming, as Atlanta voters recently approved a 0.5 percent sales tax boost devoted to MARTA funding. The agency expects that to raise billions over the next three decades for major citywide transit expansion. “For their half-penny, they’re going to get a tremendous return on their investment,” he said. TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT AND HQS Parker said he’s pleased with MARTA’s role in attracting major corporations to sites near rail stations, including State Farm in Dunwoody and WestRock and Mercedes-Benz USA in Sandy Springs. “That’s something we feel very proud about,” he said. It’s also among the reasons MARTA still intends to push for extending the Red Line further into North Fulton. Parker playfully asked for support from Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul, who replied, “I’m trying.” Parker also noted the agency’s recent successes in bidding out some station parking lots for transit-oriented developments, including a project about to break ground at Chamblee Station. However, he did not mention the recent failure, amid community opposition, of another TOD proposed at Brookhaven/Oglethorpe Station.
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6 | Out & About
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BROOKHAVEN
•
BUCKHEAD
•
DUNWOODY
•
SANDY SPRINGS
EARTH DAY EVENTS ELECTRONICS RECYCLING DRIVE
Monday, April 17 to Sunday, April 23, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Marist School will host an electronics recycling drive that’s open to the public. Free, with the exception of a $10 fee to recycle televisions. All hard drives from computers will be shredded to protect information. 3790 Ashford-Dunwoody Road N.E., Brookhaven. Info on accepted items: ewasteeplanet.com.
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Free nocturnal hike through Dunwoody Park and stargazing with the Atlanta Astronomy Club at 8:30 p.m. Friday. Free community yoga program led by Sweet Escape Yoga at 10 a.m. Saturday. The annual paintrecycling event runs Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there’s an overnight campout Saturday through Sunday. $20 per campsite for members; $25 for non-members. 5343 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody. Info: dunwoodynature.org.
BLUE HERON NATURE PRESERVE
Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Events include a Park Pride Restoration Workday, activities for children in the garden, a build your wildlife sanctuary workshop, native plant sale and Green Theater performances. Free admission. 4055 Roswell Road, N.E., Buckhead. Info: bhnp.org.
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A MOUNTAIN, LAKE, GOLFING COMMUNITY.
PERFORMANCES
LAKE ARROWHEAD. LIVE THE DREAM.
OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY CONCERTS Singers & Chorale Friday, April 21, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
WINDS ENSEMBLE Saturday, April 29, 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Spring concerts for the singers and the winds ensemble are open to the public and will be held at Oglethorpe’s Conant Performing Arts Center. Free. 4484 Peachtree Road N.E., Brookhaven. Info: calendar. oglethorpe.edu.
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DUNWOODY’S LEMONADE DAYS
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Wednesday, April 19 to Sunday, April 23. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.
More than 30 full-scale carnival rides, food vendors, a 5K run, three days of stage performances and the “Dunwoody Idol” contest are among the planned events. Hosted by Dunwoody Preservation trust, the annual Lemonade Days event is now in its 19th year. Free admission; carnival rides purchased separately. Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody. Info: dunwoodylemonadedays.org.
CHASTAIN CHASE Sunday, April 23, 8 a.m.
The Chastain Chase 5K benefits the programs of Cancer Support Community, a nonprofit that offers more than 120 free, professionally led support programs to cancer patients, survivors, and their families each month. The event includes a 5K, a 1-mile walk/run and a Tot Trot through Chastain Park. Preregister online for a discount. Registration opens at 7 a.m. at Galloway School, 215 West Wieuca Road N.W., Buckhead. Info: cancersupportcommunity.org.
Perimeter North Family Medicine is proud to serve the families throughout the Atlanta area. Offering a full range of adult and pediatric services, our physicians, Dr. Charles Taylor, Dr. Shetal Patel and Dr. Mithun Daniel offer the highest standard of care to keep you and your family happy and healthy. We accept most insurance plans and offer same-day appointments for sick visits.
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LEARN SOMETHING LADIES NIGHT OUT WITH MASTER CHEF CYNTHIA GRAUBERT Thursday, April 20, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cook alongside Master Chef Cynthia Graubart as she creates tapas and easy-to-prepare appetizers at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. Advance registration required. $65 for the community; $50 for MJCCA members. Kuniansky Family Center, MJCCA Zaban Park, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Info: Sandra Bass at sandra. bass@atlantajcc.org, or 678-812-3798. Continued on page 8
Mithun Daniel, D.O.
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Call 770-395-1130 for an appointment 960 Johnson Ferry Rd. NE, Suite 300, Atlanta, Georgia 30342 PNFM.com
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Continued from page 7
LOST CORNER PRESERVE POLLINATION MONTHLY HISTORY LECTURES : Saturday, April 22, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine. th
LOST CORNER PRESERVE
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7300 Brandon Mill Rd. 30328
Located at the corner of Brandon Mill Road where Riverside Drive turns in to Dalrymple Road. CELEBRATION
4 Wednesday January-May
Learn how7:30-8:30 to bringpm on$5the bees and butterflies suggested donation to FOLCin an educational experience for all OF ages including SECRET HISTORY LOST CORNERspeakers, LECTURE exhib&O PEN HOUSE : its and kids’ activities. Friends of Lost Corner will also have Sunday February 5, March 5 and April 2 plants for 3-5:00 sale. No Suggested donation: $5 per person, pmpets. $5 suggested donation to FOLC $10 per family. Mill Road, Sandy Springs. PreHOW 730 TO GBrandon ROW HERBS INDOORS AND OUT : April 1 SaturdayInfo: 10 am-12:00 pm $10 FOLC donation registration requested. friendsoflostcorner.org. POLLINATION CELEBRATION:
April 22 Saturday 11 am-3:00 pm $10 FOLC donation
HOW TO BUILD A WORM BIN: DRAW CITYSCAPES
LOST CORNER PRESERVE
is located on 24+ acres of beautiful woodlands with nature trails, a Draw cityscapes with Barbara Frieberg, based on the style of artist John Marin, who winding creek, community gardens, was known for his abstract landscapes and use of watercolor. to first 15assortment particihistoric Open buildings, and an of wildlife, trees and native plants. It pants, agesD18+. Free. Dunwoody Library, 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody. ISCOVER NATURE SATURDAY SERIES: has a rich and unique history dating Info: 770-512-4640. Mar 11 & 18, April 8 & 15 May 6 & 13 back to the settlement of the area in Saturday 10-10:45 am (Ages 4-6) 11-11:45 am (Ages 7-9) the mid-1800’s and the Civil War. $5/class or $25/series of 6 May 22, 20 Saturday am-12:00 pm $10 FOLC donation Saturday, April 1 p.m. to10 2 p.m.
MENTAL HEALTH FAIR BIRDS OF ATLANTA: THE 10 COMMON
Programs are provided by FOLC as an independent contractor and the Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks Department.
Saturday, April 29,25 10Saturday a.m. to 2 10 p.m. March am-12:00 pm $12 LL ABOUTAlliance BLUEBIRDS The NAMIA(National on :Mental Illness) Northside Atlanta Mental Health Fair
April 8 Saturday 10 am-12:00 $12 will feature about 40 exhibitors whopmprovide mental health services. A speaker panel NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP: follows a lunch free registered attendees. Free. Peachtree Presbyterian Church May 6 that’s Saturday 10to am-1:00 pm $25 friendsoflostcorner.org sandyspringsga.gov FellowshipNHall, 3434 Roswell Road ATURE PHOTOGRAPHY WN.E., ALK: Buckhead. Info: naminorthsideatlanta.org. May 6 Saturday 2-4:00 pm $20
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Friday, April 28, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, April 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, April 30, noon to 5 p.m.
The 11th annual Spruill Center Pottery & Art Sale, a fundraiser for the Ceramics Department, features ceramics, glass, jewelry and other items created by Spruill Arts students and instructors. Free admission. Spruill Arts Education Center, 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody. Info: spruillarts.org.
PARTIES FOR A CAUSE NIGHT VISIONS
BROOK RUN PLANT SALE
Wednesday, April 19 to Sunday, April 23, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Dunwoody Community Garden & Orchard plant sale features organically grown vegetables as well as colorful annual flowers and perennials priced from $1. Free admission. Find the sale at the greenhouse complex opposite the skate park at Brook Run Park, 4770 North Peachtree Road, Dunwoody. Info: dcgo.org.
34TH ANNUAL SA MPLE SALE
MAY 5 –7, 2017
Take advantage of discounted pricing on designer brand, high-end indoor and outdoor home furnishings, rugs, lighting & accessories.
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SPRUILL CENTER POTTERY & ART SALE
Friday, May 5: 9 AM – 6 PM Saturday, May 6: 9 AM – 6 PM Sunday, May 7: 10 AM – 2 PM
351 Peachtree Hills Ave, Atlanta Monday – Friday | Open to the Trade & Public More info at adacatlanta.com
Thursday, April 27, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
The Center for the Visually Impaired hosts its annual fundraiser “Night Visions” in a circusthemed evening at The Stave at American Spirit Works. Carnival-inspired cuisine, cocktails, silent and live auctions, roving entertainment and carnival games. 199 Armour Drive, Buckhead. Ticket info: cviga.ejoinme.org or 404-602-4279.
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CARS AND ’Q FOR THE CAUSE Saturday, April 29, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Choate Construction Company holds its 8th annual Cars and ’Q for the Cause, featuring 100-plus classic, muscle and exotic cars; barbecue from Jim ‘N Nicks; beer from Lagunitas, The Unknown Brewing Company and Second Self Beer Company; a silent auction; and live music. Benefits the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Advance tickets: $20 for event entry and dinner; $40 for entry, dinner and access to the bar. Tickets rise to $30 and $50 at the door. 8200 Roberts Drive, Sandy Springs. Info: carsnq.passioncff.org.
MONARCHS & MARGARITAS & MOJITOS
How are you going to provide safety and independence for your parents?
Saturday, April 29, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Dunwoody Nature Center’s annual gala is an upscale casual party in the meadow featuring live music by singer/songwriter Wesley Cook, catering from Alon’s, and a live auction. 5343 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody. Ticket info: monarchsandmargaritas.org.
VOLUNTEER CAC FOOD ’N FUN CHALLENGE
Have you noticed in your mom or dad: • Increased Forgetfulness • Messy Home • Poor Hygiene • Falls and Injuries • Changes in Personality • Social Isolation
We at Homecare Assistance can help! Schedule a free, no-obligation assessment and let’s talk about solutions.
Call our office for your free brochure: “Talking to Your Parents about Home Care”
404-355-9901 • HomeCareAssistance.com
Ongoing through Friday, April 21.
The Community Assistance Center’s Food ’n Fun Challenge aims to collect 60,000 pounds of food to help meet families’ increased need during summer months. Enter a team and complete food drives by Friday, April 21. Groups of volunteers are encouraged to schedule “Food Sorting Service Days” at CAC. 1130 Hightower Trail, Sandy Springs. Info: www.ourcac.org/food-n-fun-challenge.
VOLUNTEER FOR A BETTER SANDY SPRINGS DAY Saturday, April 22, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine.
More than 500 community volunteers will partner with more than 20 parks, schools and nonprofit organizations to landscape, plant, paint and do light cleanup of their grounds and facilities in the 15th year of this event. Site info and registration: leadershipsandysprings.org.
BUCKHEAD NORTHSIDE CIVITAN
Monthly on first and third Tuesdays, 12 p.m.
The nation’s Civitan community service clubs mark a century of service this year. The Buckhead Northside Civitan has been operating continuously since 1940, conducting numerous civic activities monthly and raising funds for mentally and physically challenged young adults throughout Georgia. The group announces its new lunch meeting location, The Southern Bistro, at Fountain Oaks Shopping Center, 4920 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs. Info: Jim Montgomery at 404-408-5849 or jmontyspartan@gmail.com.
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To make an appointment, please call (404) 845-5980 or visit GNG-ga.com 5445 Meridian Mark Road, Suite 120 Atlanta, GA 30342
10 | Dining Out
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Everybody Eats: Bert Weiss
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BY MEGAN VOLPERT Editor’s note: In this new series, Atlanta INtown dining reviewer Megan Volpert discusses food with citizens of Atlanta who are prominent for non-food-related reasons. For this installment, she spoke to Bert Weiss, namesake radio jockey for morning funny business on Q100 FM’s “The Bert Show,” which broadcasts from Sandy Springs. How do you like your eggs cooked? ► Well, I ate egg whites each and every morning for about 10 years until I just found out I have a food sensitivity to ... egg whites! And a sensitivity to yolks as well. So ... none. What are your two favorite things to put in mac and cheese, other than the mac and the cheese? ► Hot dogs. Sausage. Where’s a good place to go for a business lunch? ► Superica. Wine and beer, or the hard stuff, or none at all? ► Vodka! Tito’s specifically. Or tequila, Casa Dragones. A lot of people with stomach sensitivities have to eat the same stuff at the same time every day. Could we set a clock by what you’re eating? ► Oh, yeah. It’s so boring. I have had stomach problems for the better part of 20 years. I had food allergy tests done and I tested allergic or sensitive for 42 different foods. So, I’m learning to eat totally differently now. It’s super boring. I have never enjoyed the theater of eating so the adjustments haven’t been that big a deal.
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You’re a pretty healthy eater, but what is your guilty pleasure snack food? Favorite food for a football tailgate? ► Pizza! My kids kill me. I do so well then they come in the house and it’s always pizza. It’s my food kryptonite. What are your feelings about red velvet cake? ► Meh.
Bert Weiss eating goat cheese.
Q100
Is there any food so disgusting to you that you just won’t eat it? ► Goat cheese is my nemesis food. (See awkward photo.) Who does most of the cooking in your house? Who cooked while you were growing up, and are you teaching your sons to cook? ► Cooking has never been a priority in my life. My mom was an awful cook. My dad was terrible. When I moved out I ate mostly frozen foods. I’ve just signed up with Blue Apron to force me into learning how to follow a recipe. For as healthy as I eat, it’s terrible how I don’t make my kids eat healthier. Is Atlanta’s cuisine scene missing anything you loved to eat in San Diego? ► Well, those little dive Mexican restaurants are great in Atlanta, they just aren’t as abundant as they are back home. Taco Veloz, Cuernavaca and Taquito Express at the BP on Peachtree in Chamblee are my faves. What is the most memorable food-related story you’ve got from your time on The Bert Show? ► We have food challenges every time a famous chef comes in. Everybody works so hard on them. I didn’t come in last place when I simply used the contents inside a ham and cheese Hot Pocket. The Bert Show member that came in last was so hurt that she couldn’t talk about it for years.
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017
■
Dining Out | 11
www.ReporterNewspapers.net
Good news for street foodies Weekly food truck events are back in season, offering entertainment, activities and plenty of reasons to abandon your kitchen for a night. Here’s a sampling of local happenings:
BROOKHAVEN’S FOOD TRUCK ROUNDUP
Wednesdays through the end of October, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Summer break from the end of June through Aug. 15.)
Food trucks are up and running on Wednesdays at Blackburn Park, with live entertainment, activities for children, a beer and wine tent and at least eight food truck dining options. Limited seating is available. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs. Parking is free. The Food Truck Roundup is hosted by the city in conjunction with Fork in the Road, a joint venture between food truck provider Happy Belly and the Atlanta Street Food Coalition. Info: atlantastreetfood.com.
DUNWOODY FOOD TRUCK THURSDAYS
Thursdays from April 27 to Oct. 26, 5 p.m. until dark.
This annual event at Brook Run Park kicks off April 27 with local beer and a performance by Banks & Shane on the lawn beyond the playground at 7 p.m. Food trucks will be back every Thursday evening, and on May 4, the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta will sponsor live music, a DJ, and kosher food vendors for the event. Dunwoody Food Truck Thursdays is a partnership between the Dunwoody Homeowners Association, Redbird Events and the city of Dunwoody. 4770 N. Peachtree Road, Dunwoody. Info: dunwoodyga. org/Dunwoody-Food-Truck-Thursdays.
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12 | Community
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Traffic plans on hold until after Braves first homestand BY EVELYN ANDREWS evelyn@reporternewspapers.net
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As the Atlanta Braves play their first regular season games in SunTrust Park, local business owners and homeowners are watching game-day traffic to see how best to respond. Two trial runs offered by pre-season games didn’t provide enough information for them to make the call just yet. The season ticket holder exhibition game and a public college game that tested SunTrust Park and its extensive traffic plan seemed to go well, but it remains to be seen in the home opener game April 14 and in subsequent games what traffic will be like during regular season games that compete with weekday rush hours. Traffic results also were complicated by the I-85 collapse that snarled many of metro Atlanta’s commutes and closed DeKalb County schools. “I believe last Friday [the March 31 game] was an inappropriate day to gauge Braves traffic,” said Reed Haggard, the president of Riverside Homeowners Association, which is in Sandy Springs near the Cobb County border. Haggard said he didn’t trust the March 31 traffic results to be typical because they came during Spring Break and aftershocks to the bridge collapse, including DeKalb schools closing for the day and downtown workers telecommuting. Businesses in the Perimeter Center area are waiting to see what traffic conditions are like during weekday games before committing to a traffic plan or determining if one will be necessary, said Emily Haar, the director of Perimeter Connects, an alternative commuting program of the Perimeter Center Community Improvement Districts. They will have to adjust quickly after their first taste of a home game on a weekday, as the week following the April 14 game will have a game every day Monday through Thursday at 7:35 p.m. One of the Cobb Chamber’s and the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber’s responses to the traffic angst was to launch a website, cobbgameday.com, that hosts information on game days and commuting options. The website also suggests businesses ease traffic congestion by allowing employees to telecommute on game days and work flexible hours. The Atlanta Braves’ traffic plan was put to the first public test on April 8, when two college teams took over SunTrust Park for a game to benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, which the University of Georgia has now done for 14 years. The UGA baseball team played the University of Missouri in what was the first public game at the Braves’ new field in Cobb County. Traffic didn’t seem to be a problem for most who attended the college game, but
this game was already expected by some city officials to not be an issue. Sandy Springs city officials said at a meeting after the March 31 exhibition game that they expect the UGA game to be “much more low-key” and police will reduce their staffing in the area for it, Bryant Poole, the assistant city manager overseeing traffic and streets, said. For the exhibition game, Sandy Springs Police officers were stationed at key intersections, and signs were posted in the Powers Ferry Landing area on the Cobb County border — about 1.5 miles away from the stadium — to direct drivers off side streets and onto I-285. Sandy Springs’ officials called the exhibition game a problem-free “success.” But they also noted it was a restricted-attendance exhibition game held amid the I-85 collapse disaster that made all traffic go haywire anyway. “There were no issues we were aware of,” Poole said in an informal report to the council after the exhibition game. “We deem it a success.” The Braves staff will continue to learn from these “trial runs,” Beth Marshall, the senior director for public relations said. Everyone involved with the team and operations was surprised by how well traffic went during the exhibition game, she said. The collapse of I-85 likely played a role in lessening traffic, Marshall said, as many people decided to work from home or leave work early. Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul said he attended the game and the biggest problems he saw were inside the ballpark, with light and concession check-out malfunctions. “It’s a great facility,” he said. Those were the main lessons Braves officials learned from the exhibition game, Marshall said, and it was reported that all issues in the game were fixed, including a rain tarp that blocked view for the first two rows of seats and a malfunction with the video board. Sandy Springs has rolled out a program of traffic-counting at various intersections on game days and non-game days to get hard data on the stadium’s effects. Separating freak effects like the I-85 collapse from stadium impacts is one reason for the data collection. The I-85 situation will continue to be an X-factor long after Opening Day and the stadium’s first rock concert, as construction on the bridge won’t be complete until June 15. Paul said attendance at the exhibition game reached about 21,000 — about half the stadium’s capacity and roughly the attendance expected for a typical ballgame. “I felt very good about what I saw,” the mayor said of traffic, adding it passed the ultimate test: “I didn’t get a single email about it.”
Community | 13
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 ■ www.ReporterNewspapers.net
City may impose impact fees on new developments
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As Brookhaven continues to grow, city officials are looking at finding ways of covering the higher costs new developments impose on public facilities such as “the three Ps” — paving, police and parks. City staff members are researching impact fees in other municipalities, said city spokesperson Burke Brennan. He said it’s too early to have hard data on what the fees could be or how much could be raised. Mayor John Ernst said city impact fees are “something we are always looking at.” “I suspect we’ll have a more formal discussion this year,” he said. Sandy Springs City Council last year raised its impact fees on residential and commercial developments, and a study showed the city could reap up to $300 million by 2040 for parks, transportation and public safety. Ernst said he liked the idea that Sandy Springs dedicated money from impact fees to pay for sidewalks throughout the city and could see something like that in Brookhaven’s future. “I’m opposed to impact fees going to the general fund — they need to go to a stated purpose,” he said. In Sandy Springs, last year’s new residential fees were boosted by more than 300 to 500 percent, to up to $6,854 on houses and condos. The fee structure also includes exemptions, described as “affordable housing,” that are intended to encourage middle-income “workforce” housing and the demolition of older apartment complexes to replace them with ownership developments. Other fees apply to commercial, office and other types of development. Dunwoody City Council also is looking at possibly implementing impact fees in the near future. The topic was raised at the council’s February retreat and council members have asked for a formal presentation from city staff members on what impact fees could do. The Dunwoody council voted in 2011 against implementing impact fees. A report given to city officials at the time said that, based on projects already then on the books, the city could bring in $6.4 million in fees over 13 years to help pay for $29.1 million in projects for the parks, transportation and police departments. In Brookhaven, Councilmember Joe Gebbia has said he supports assessing impact fees on developers to assist with
workforce housing, especially along Buford Highway. The city’s Affordable Housing Task Force, formed late last year, is expected to make a presentation to the City Council, perhaps later this month, to address a proposed policy on how to define and incentivize affordable housing. A study presented to the Sandy Springs City Council showed that under the city’s previous fee rates, the highest total impact fee for a new residential unit in Sandy Springs was about $1,646. That was higher than Atlanta’s, which is about $1,500, but Milton and Roswell may charge over $4,000 and Alpharetta may charge nearly $6,500. Ernst said no specific numbers for Brookhaven have been discussed, but if impact fees were to be eventually levied against new development, they would have to go toward such things as stormwater mitigation and sidewalks. “Staff is doing the preliminary work on this for offsetting the impact of development on existing stakeholders, but no recommendation has been made to myself or council at this time,” Ernst said.
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14 | Commentary
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Commentary/Hits and misses of 2017’s General Assembly session With the General Assembly’s 2017 session in the books, Reporter Newspapers asked some local state legislators to review hits and misses of new Georgia laws. As one lawmaker put it, it was a year of “the good, the bad and the ugly.”
REP. TOM TAYLOR | HOUSE DISTRICT 79 Much of this session for me involved working on local bills for the three cities that I represent (Dunwoody, Chamblee and Doraville). I carried House bills at the request of the governments of those cities that allow them to raise their hotel/motel tax from 5 percent to 8 percent. This additional revenue is required to be used for projects to attract tourist dollars to those cities. Additionally, I carried two bills (HB 449 and HB 595) that the city of Doraville urgently needed in order to move forward on the redevelopment of the former General Motors site. This site is one of the prime areas for economic development not just in Georgia, but in the entire Southeast, and I was glad to be able to move forward with bipartisan support from Rep. Scott Holcomb (D-Atlanta), who also represents a portion of Doraville. I also carried one of Sen. Fran Millar’s bills in the House. SB 156 limits what county infrastructure sales tax can be used for. The rationale behind this was that DeKalb County was trying to use funds dedicated to transportation infrastructure for other purposes, such as building a new government center. I carried a second Senate bill as a companion to this, SB 143, which incorporated the language that I had in a House bill, keeping the property tax assessment freeze in place. At the request of MARTA management, I carried HB 506, which allows MARTA some flexibility in their contracting of concession services. All in all, a lot of “blocking and tackling,” getting things moved to help our cities and county. The take on the wrap up: The Good: Getting the above mentioned things accomplished to help our local governments. The Bad: Was able to advance my constitutional amendment (HR 58), which would allow cities to form independent school systems, out of committee in the House, but did not have the votes to get it passed. I will be continuing to push this issue. The Ugly: Having a faction of the DeKalb County delegation, led by former CEO and now state Rep. Vernon Jones, effectively block two very good pieces of legislation that would have reinforced ethics and standards in DeKalb County government.
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REP. SCOTT HOLCOMB | HOUSE DISTRICT 81 To begin, I was pleased that the 2018 budget included money to hire additional scientists and technicians to address the backlog in processing rape kits from older cases. It’s critical that we address the backlog, both in Georgia and nationally, so that rapists (to include serial offenders) can be caught and convicted. This effort was started with Senate Bill 304, which I helped to pass last year. HB 280, the latest version of the “Campus Carry” bill, is on its way to the governor. The bill is unpopular in the district that I represent and I voted against it. One bill that needed to pass but didn’t was HB 159/SB 130, a bipartisan effort to modernize adoption laws. The bill was held up in the Senate over politics and did not pass. Both Gov. Nathan Deal and House Speaker David Ralston publicly called for the Senate to pass the bill in the same version that was passed in the House — without controversial amendments that were added in the Senate. I added my voice to this effort, but in the end the Senate failed to act before the session ended. I actively supported two bills that would have continued the process of positive reform for DeKalb County. Unfortunately, neither bill passed. The first bill dealt with changes to the Ethics Board and the second bill dealt with the establishment of a charter review commission. It has been decades since the last review and DeKalb could benefit from this effort.
REP. MEAGAN HANSON | HOUSE DISTRICT 80 It was my honor to serve the people of Georgia House District 80 as your representative in my first legislative session under the Gold Dome. In the legislative process, it is important to have a seat at the table, so I was pleased to be appointed by the Speaker of the House to important committees, including the House Transportation Committee, Judiciary Committee and Special Rules Committee. I was also honored to be appointed by Gov. Nathan Deal to the Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Overview Committee (MARTOC), where I now serve as chairman of the Subcommittee on Public Safety. One of the complaints I hear most often regarding MARTA is about safety on trains and at the stations. My subcommittee will work with MARTA CEO Keith Parker and the MARTA board to create a user-friendly environment where more people feel safe taking their families to ride MARTA. I ran for this House seat because we needed a representative who could deliver results. This past session, I began to do just that. With a focus on transportation issues, I co-sponsored a House resolution that established the House Commission on Transit Governance and Funding because it’s time we look at how to most efficiently and effectively fund a world-class transit system as we continue to recruit major corporations to move to Georgia. Speaking of transit, I was pleased to pass a bill to allow MARTA more flexibility with their concession bidding contracts to help create user-friendly stations where patrons could pick up a coffee and newspaper for their ride. I sponsored a transportation bonding bill that, as sometimes good bills do, got rolled into another transportation bill, and thankfully was passed by both chambers. This bill extends the ability for cities to bond transportation projects once they have been approved by the public by a referendum vote. Once signed into law by the governor, cities will now have the ability to complete their transportation projects quicker. BK
Commentary | 15
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 ■ www.ReporterNewspapers.net
REP. WENDELL WILLARD HOUSE DISTRICT 51 A slow start marked the first weeks of the 2017 session of the General Assembly. Focus in both the House of Representatives and the Senate was on organizational issues, such as office and committee assignments. As I reflect on the entire session, overall it was a rather uneventful three months. The one constitutional obligation the General Assembly has is passing an annual budget, which we did in record time on the 38th day of the 40-day session. A number of good bills failed to get through this year’s legislative process. There are several possible reasons for this sad state of affairs. Some speculate that various members were focused on looking down the road, making plans to run for higher office. Others credit the failure to this year’s unusual level of rancor between the House and Senate that appeared to negatively impact the collegial cooperation that has resulted in more productive sessions in past years. Much like the common cold, every winter brings with it a gun bill, and 2017 was no exception. This year’s version of the “Campus Carry” bill was basically the 2016 version of the bill, vetoed by the governor, with some minor modifications. Because I believe the bill to have been poorly planned and drafted, I voted against it. The governor has not yet announced, as of this writing, whether he will sign or veto the 2017 version of the bill. On occasion, good bills make it through one chamber only to die in the other. The Adoption Bill is a good example. This bill modernized Georgia’s adoption procedures and streamlined the processes for the adoption of the more than 13,000 children currently in Georgia’s Foster Care program. Unfortunately, the bill fell victim to the rancorous atmosphere painfully evident in the closing days of the session. After working for two years on a complete revamping of the laws governing the Judicial Qualifications Commission, I was pleased to see the bill pass. This commission, commonly known as the JQC, oversees discipline and even removal of judges when necessary. The new bill ensures that the fairness, due process, and transparency that has at times been lacking will now be a hallmark of all activities of the critically important Judicial Qualifications Commission. 2017, a year of some good work and some missed opportunities, is in the rearview mirror. I hope the 2018 session will be more productive with a strong focus on tax reform, public safety, transportation and education.
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REP. BETH BESKIN HOUSE DISTRICT 54 I sponsored two bills this year that passed the General Assembly. The first, the “Business Judgment Rule” bill (HB 192), would restore the legal presumption that corporate and bank officers and directors acted in good faith and within the ordinary care standard in their process of making business decisions. This bill is very important in order to reinstate the deferential standard of review such officers and directors were accorded prior to a recent court decision, FDIC v. Loudermilk, a case that involved directors of Buckhead Community Bank. Also, as a member of the Georgia Child Support Commission, I sponsored this year’s legislation to clarify and modify certain child support provisions. That bill, HB 308, was incorporated into SB 137, which also passed the General Assembly. I think the most important legislation to pass the General Assembly this year is that related to K-12 education. As a member of the House Education Committee, I voted in support of HB 338, which will address underperforming schools. This bill will facilitate the appointment of a chief turnaround officer, as part of the State Board of Education, who will work with underperforming schools to improve student outcomes. We also passed HB 237, allowing the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement to authorize the Public Education Innovation Foundation, a nonprofit corporation, to accept and administer private donations to benefit public schools. Additionally, we passed HB 139 to require the State Department of Education to publish on its website school-specific and per-pupil expenditures, which will increase financial transparency. I supported each of these educational initiatives, which each await consideration by Gov. Deal. BK
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16 | Commentary
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Into the Grand Canyon of the kitchen drawer The other day, in honor of spring, I decided to clean something. Not wanting to overwhelm myself, I resolved to start small and set an attainable goal; after all, I did want to set myself up for success. So I cleaned out a drawer. But it wasn’t an ordinary drawer, it was THE Drawer. You know the one — it’s the black hole of the kitchen, the catch-all place for Things That You’ll Get To Later. It’s The Drawer of Misfit Junk. Cleaning it out is like hiking down the Grand Canyon. You pass layers of time as you go, and you stop along the way to excavate and reminisce when you hit the lower levels. You start at the most negotiable outcroppings — the piles of take-out menus and Band-Aids. You continue, trekking past a new address card for an old friend; a dead bouRobin Conte is a writer tonniere from last year’s senior prom; and a mini-fan that and mother of four hangs around your neck and sprays water, which was purwho lives in Dunwoody. chased for a summer concert at Chastain Park. And then She can be contacted at you reach the birthday card that you bought for your neighrobinjm@earthlink.net. bor and put where you were sure you’d find it, but when her birthday rolled around you couldn’t, and so were finally compelled to run out and get another one (which was not nearly as perfect as this one that you just found). Next, you hit the Layer of Random Photos. You find a picture from a homecoming tailgate, photos that your mother sent you of the Mother’s Day roses you sent her, proofs from your oldest child’s elementary school yearbook shoot, and a few photos of people you are sure you never knew. You stop for rest and nourishment, because you have now arrived at the Mesozoic deposits. After fully rehydrating, you dig in again. You pass an envelope full of school Boxtops for Education that you never turned in; a stack of receipts, neatly paper-clipped together, from Christmas 2005; warranties that have just expired for appliances that have just broken; a tiny box of wax strips for your
Robin’s Nest Robin Conte
daughter’s braces; and a clipon bow tie. You find earbuds in cases, earbuds out of cases, empty cases where earbuds used to be — until you reach, at the bottom of the drawer, the time before earbuds even existed in your house (let’s call it “B.E.”), where there lies a black foam disk that once covered the earpiece to a headset and a half-burnt candle in the shape of a 1. And you are stunned to realize that you have lived here this long and that enough time has passed for children to have become fully grown and for extraordinary and life-changing SPECIAL inventions to have occurred in Robin travels through time in her kitchen drawer. the world since you moved-in. Time has a funny way of warping and folding over onto itself again. I have a rule of thumb regarding time: I estimate how long ago I think something happened, and then I multiply that by three. Because however long ago I think something happened, it actually took place far longer ago than that. But digging through the drawer inverts that rule. Those things you unearthed that are now scattered all over the kitchen counter — they came from last week, last year, last decade. They are from a time that was both yesterday and a lifetime ago. Somehow, it’s all the same. And then you view your little junk drawer as what it really is: a time capsule of your family. So you pause, and then you put it all back again.
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Community | 17
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 ■ www.ReporterNewspapers.net
On Our Borders News knows few borders. Here are some stories happening in other Reporter Newspapers communities that may be of local interest.
P EA C H T R EE STREET BRI DGE REN OVATIO N STALLED
In Buckhead, a pedestrian-friendly, artistic renovationof the Peachtree Street bridge was on track to be completed by the end of April, but has been stalled by the I-85 collapse. The bridge, which connects Buckhead and Midtown, is undergoing a beautification project led by the Midtown Alliance and Central Atlanta Progress. The $3.5-million project is adding 30-foot white arches bearing the word “Peachtree.” It will also improve pedestrian safety by adding lighting and sidewalks with a wall separating the pedestrians from cars, Midtown Alliance President Kevin Green said. “We wanted to make it more comfortable for pedestrians because it is a pretty harsh environment,” Green said of the heavily-trafficked bridge. The feedback he has heard on the pedestrian improvements has been positive. Surveys the organization has done have found that Midtown residents rank pedestrian safety highly, Green said, so they wanted to address that in this project.
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B U C K H EA D A DA P TS TO L I F E A F TER I-85 CO LLAPSE
The I-85 collapse has affected nearly every part of life in Buckhead, frustrating businesses that are seeing fewer customers, residents of neighborhoods used as alternative routes, and commuters stuck in traffic much longer than usual. A wider acceptance of MARTA could be one positive change for the city, said Sam Massell, president of the Buckhead Coalition and former Atlanta mayor. “If people would try it, they would like it,” Massell said, repeating a mantra he has believed since the 1970s. Emily Haar, the director of Perimeter Connects, an alternative commuting program of the Perimeter Center Community Improvement Districts, lives in Buckhead, about a mile from the highway collapse, and has altered her travel schedule to use MARTA. She said she is glad she chose to live near a station. “Going back to MARTA was like a homecoming, just because it’s so easy to use,” Haar said.
S A N DY S PR IN GS SP EN DS $ 12K , C HAR G ES $500, F O R AF F ORDA BLE P OLIC E H O U SING
The city of Sandy Springs is charging $500 monthly rent for a three-bedroom house on Hammond Drive in its first experiment in providing affordable housing to public safety employees. Preparing the 521 Hammond Drive house for rental to a Sandy Springs Police officer cost the city about $12,000 in its debut role as a landlord, according to leasing and management documents. The officer, who drives a marked patrol car home, has been renting the house since Jan. 8. The house is one of several properties the city recently purchased as placeholders for a possible widening of Hammond years from now. Faced with the question of what to do with the properties in the meantime, City Council last year proposed renting some of the houses at affordable rates to police officers or firefighters. The city has a policy of attempting to preserve and create “workforce,” or middle-income, housing as real estate prices skyrocket. Many public safety employees earn middle-income salaries, which are often not enough to buy or rent a place to live in Sandy Springs. Mayor Rusty Paul has said it is “immoral” for public safety workers to be priced out of the community they protect.
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D UN WO ODY SETTLES F OURTH LAWSU IT AGA IN ST P OL I C E OF F ICER
The city has settled a federal lawsuit against Police Officer Dale Laskowski for $52,000 — the fourth such settlement in a year. The settlement agreement between Colton Laidlaw and the city was reached March 20, according to court documents. The settlement marks the fourth lawsuit the city has settled against Laskowski by men who alleged he conducted traffic stops and then searched and detained them illegally. The city’s insurance paid this most recent settlement and also paid to settle the three prior lawsuits for a total of $187,000. As part of the settlement, however, Laskowski denied any wrongdoing and the agreement is not an admission of liability. Police Chief Billy Grogan said Laskowski remains on the force. BK
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18 | Community
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Candidates filled the Dunwoody High School stage during the forum on April 9.
6th District hopefuls square off in debate Continued from page 1 signed this year to become U.S. secretary of Health and Human Services. The entire field of candidates attended the forum — 11 Republicans, five Democrats and two Independents — filling the stage in the high school auditorium. But only three questions could be asked during the two-hour forum. That wasn’t enough to help at least two undecided voters. “There are way too many candidates… especially for the short amount of time [of the forum],” said Christopher Whittaker, 27, who lives in north DeKalb, at the edge of the district. Whittaker said he was a “political junkie” who is making an intentional effort to educate himself about the candidates. “With the current political climate, I think this is a really important election,” he said. “It was a good forum. But I’m not particularly excited about any candidate. ... I’m still waiting for the candidate for me to really put my support behind. I’m expecting a little more.” Brad Smith, 60, of Sandy Springs, said that while he leans Democrat, he, too, was not overly impressed with any one candidate. Many of his friends have already voted, Smith said, but he was waiting so he could continue gathering more information. “Everybody just votes because there is a ‘D’ or an ‘R’ behind someone’s name. I refuse to do that,” he said. “I’m still having trouble making a final decision.”
The forum was mostly civil despite the heated attacks taking place in direct mail campaigns and TV commercials. The large crowd of about 300 people appeared friendly and packed with supporters. Applause broke out many times as people welcomed answers on immigration, taxes, infrastructure and climate change. Numerous Jon Ossoff signs were posted outside the high school and many supporters with Ossoff T-shirts and stickers sat in the crowd as Democrats hope to “flip the 6th” from a Republican stronghold to a Democratic seat in Congress. Ossoff’s strong polling as he rides a wave of fervor against President Trump has garnered national media attention and helped him fill a war chest with more than $8 million from all over the country. He received the loudest applause during the introductions. On climate change, several Republicans acknowledged that it is real, despite Trump’s skepticism. The Republican candidates did, however, agree with Trump’s executive order slashing the Environmental Protection Agency’s budget and regulations with the intention of putting that authority under control of the states. Amy Kremer, a founder of the Tea Party, said she is a “big gardener” and loves to be outside. But, she added, she is also a believer in the Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and said environmental control should be local.
6TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SPECIAL ELECTION
“This is not about your garden,” said Richard Keatley, a Democrat from Tucker, to thunderous applause. “I don’t understand how local control works to control climate change.” Keatley and Ossoff noted that climate change is a national issue with data from scientists and the U.S. military and intelligence communities concluding the issue is one of national security. Ossoff said it was necessary the U.S. abide by the Paris Agreement set to begin in 2020. “If we walk away from our commitments, history will condemn us,” he said. Independent Alexander Hernandez drew a loud round of applause when he shared his story of his mother coming to the U.S. illegally in the 1980s before she became a citizen thanks to President Ronald Reagan’s Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. She now owns a beauty shop and “became part of what makes America great,” he said, adding that Reagan’s policy could be a model used today to create a path to citizenship for some 11 million undocumented immigrants. The other independent, Andre Pollard, floated his idea — to audible laughter in the crowd — of integrating Mexico with the U.S. as a way to deal with immigration problems. Republican Karen Handel, a former Georgia secretary of state, said, “I definitely don’t support that.” Handel also said she does not sup-
Tuesday, April 18 REPUBLICANS David Abroms, Mohammad Ali Bhuiyan, Keith Grawert, Bob Gray, Karen Handel, Judson Hill, Amy Kremer, Bruce Levell, William Llop, Dan Moody and Kurt Wilson DEMOCRATS Ragin Edwards, Richard Keatley, Jon Ossoff, Rebecca Quigg and Ron Slotin INDEPENDENTS Alexander Hernandez and Andre Pollard For candidate profiles and election updates, see ReporterNewspapers.net
port immigration amnesty. “These individuals have come here and blatantly disregarded our laws,” she said. “I want our borders secure … after that, then we’ll have that conversation.” Bob Gray, a former Johns Creek city councilmember, said he was glad Trump raised the issue of immigration. He said the reason so many people want to move to the U.S. illegally is because of the “welfare benefits that are available.” “We have to turn off the spigot that is attracting illegal immigrants,” he said. Former state Senator Judson Hill, a Republican, also said he does not support amnesty. “I know we are a compassionate nation, but we are also a nation of laws.” People who moved to the U.S. should not get “special treatment,” Hill said. “We need to stand up for Americans and put America first,” he added, saying he wanted to make English the official language of the U.S. government.
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Community | 19
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 ■ www.ReporterNewspapers.net
Picking up at Peachtree Creek Forty volunteers cleaned up trash along Peachtree Creek during the April 8 “Sweep the Hooch” event. Organized by Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, the event draws hundreds of volunteers to pick up litter along 70 miles of the river and its tributaries.
A
A - Volunteers sign up at the beginning of the event. B - Among the litter trucked away from the Peachtree Creek was an old printer with a tree growing out of it. C - Jolie Intro, 12, finds trash to clean up. D - Volunteers Beth Intro and Ken Argot pull a mattress from the creek. PHOTOS BY PHIL MOSIER
BK
C
B
D
20 | Community
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City’s new medical center wants to grow Continued from page 1 and follows the anticipated timeline, construction would begin by the end of the year and be completed in the first quarter of 2020,” said CHOA spokesperson Brian Brodrick in an email. Plans are to raze the one-story office and clinical buildings in CHOA’s business park on Tullie Road to make room on that land for the new $1.3 billion hospital that was announced in February, Brodrick said. Adjacent to these buildings is the site of the new 8-story Center for Advanced Pediatrics, already under construction and set to open next year. The staff and personnel providing pediatric care in the current office buildings in CHOA’s Office Park would then be relocated to the proposed 8-story office building on Northeast Expressway, just a stone’s throw from where the hospital and Center for Advanced Pediatrics are located. This new “support building” on the Northeast Expressway is a separate replacement office space that will allow CHOA to “preserve space on its new campus for clinical operations that directly benefit children,” said Brodrick. The property CHOA wants annexed now is in unincorporated DeKalb County and includes the site of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta on Cliff Valley Way. CHOA is buying the church, approved by the congregation in March, and giving the congregation up to 18 months to move out. CHOA approached the congregation late last year about purchasing its building, according to Rev. Anthony Makar, senior minister. “It was not something we were looking for,” Makar said. “It was a very surprising reach out.” Makar said UUAC has been located on Cliff Valley Way for 50 years. When the church became integrated in the 1960s and was seeking a site to call home in Atlanta, it was turned away numerous times amidst controversy because it welcomed black members. “The church became a pariah in the Atlanta community,” Makar said. The only site where there was no con-
Emory Healthcare and the Atlanta Hawks teamed up to build the 90,000-square-foot sports complex in Executive Park. It is expected to be completed later this year.
troversy for the church was the spot on Cliff Valley Way “in the middle of nowhere,” Makar said. Then, when the I-85 overpass was built, the church became hidden even more. Selling to CHOA with its mission to serve children as it grows its North Druid Hills campus makes sense for the congregation at this time in its history, Makar said. “We’re looking forward to a new chapter ... and now we have the chance to choose a strategy of where we want to go,” he said. The bold move by the nonprofit children’s health care system portends, once again, substantial growth at the highly visible and accessible North Druid Hills Road and I-85 interchange. Emory University last year purchased 60 acres of Executive Park directly across the street from CHOA’s North Druid Hills campus, leading to speculation that the area would become a new “Pill Hill.” Pill Hill in Sandy Springs is home to Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, Northside Hospital and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite. Brookhaven Councilmember Joe Gebbia, whose district includes the CHOA and Executive Park properties, said he doesn’t know what Emory is planning, but he envisions an area developed more with medical offices than hospitals with beds, lead-
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ing to much less density than Pill Hill. “I expect it to have a medical overtone,” he said. “More like a Pill Hill Jr.” Executive Park is currently zoned for high-density multi-use development, including a 200-room hotel, according to the city of Brookhaven. Emory’s property also currently includes 400,000 square feet of space in nine office buildings. Zoning for a planned redevelopment in 2008 of Executive Park dubbed The Park at Druid Hills and approved by DeKalb County matches up fairly closely with how Executive Park was zoned when Brookhaven annexed the property in 2014. The zoning conditions and restrictions also match up fairly well with the plans submitted to Brookhaven by Emory last year. HGOR Planners and Landscape Architects designed the plans for The Park at Druid Hills in 2008 and also for Emory in 2016. The 2008 and 2016 plans include numerous parking lots, hundreds of thousands of feet of retail and hundreds of thousands of feet of office space as well as numerous parking decks. The zoning for Executive Park allows a 10-story, 200-room hotel at the corner of the property closest to North Druids Hills Road and I-85. Office buildings on the property are approved for up to 12 stories and parking decks for up to seven stories; 785 apartments are also included in the
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zoning. Both Emory University and CHOA are supposed to submit master plans to Brookhaven officials for what is planned on their properties, but to date no such plans have been filed. CHOA’s major developments include the hospital and the Center for Advanced Pediatrics; Emory’s major development underway now and expected to be completed this fall is the “Emory Sports Medicine Complex,” a partnership between the Atlanta Hawks and Emory Healthcare. The sports complex will serve as the official practice and training facility for the Hawks, the home of the Hawks Basketball Operations Team, the Emory Sports Medicine Center, Emory Physical Therapy and Peak Performance Project (P3), a world leader in applied sports medicine that is expected to attract athletes from around the world. Ask Emory what else they are planning and the response is basic. “Emory University is still in the early planning stages for its development of property at Executive Park. Other Emory plans for Executive Park will be announced when they become available,” said Dr. Jonathan S. Lewin, Emory University Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, in a statement.
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APRIL 14 - 27, 2017
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U.S. Sen. David Perdue speaks at the April 11 luncheon.
EVELYN ANDREWS
Sen. Perdue speaks to business leaders; protesters want town halls BY EVELYN ANDREWS evelyn@reporternewspapers.net
While U.S. Sen. David Perdue spoke to local Chambers of Commerce about Congressional issues at a Chamblee hotel on April 11, protesters outside called for him to stage town halls as part of their opposition to President Trump. In his speech to about 260 members of the Brookhaven and DeKalb Chambers, Perdue didn’t mention the protesters. But he did support Trump. Perdue joked that Trump is not “a choirboy and doesn’t claim to be.” But, Perdue said, he believes Trump can provide the push Congress needs to get momentum on important issues. “I believe he’s strong enough to force Congress to break through this nonsense and get something done. We cannot waste this opportunity because of partisan pol-
itics,” Perdue said. About 30 protesters outside the Marriott hotel in the Century Center office park said they wanted Perdue to appear in a public town hall forum, not a ticketed private event. “It doesn’t seem like you should have to be a big contributor or pay $50 to hear what he has planned for Georgia’s future,” protestor Sharmila Nambiar said. Nambiar said she has also tried to meet with the Republican senator in person, but has only been able to get a meeting with his policy director. The protesters, some from a group called Resist Trump Tuesdays Atlanta, are part of a nationwide movement of liberal activists who want Republican members of Congress to hold town halls and address criticisms of Trump. A similar activist group recently protested a private event attended by Georgia’s other U.S. senator, Johnny Isakson, and staged an anti-Trump march in Buckhead. For Perdue’s Century Center appearance, the protesters stayed on Clairmont Road, nearly a half-mile from the hotel, to avoid trespassing at the private office park. They had left before the luncheon ended. Perdue spoke about his role as a senator and several federal political issues.. “I’m charged to represent everybody, so that means [I] have to listen,” he said. On several issues, Perdue emphasized that Republicans and Democrats must work together to achieve progress, especially on healthcare laws. The Republicans’ Obamacare replacement law was stalled in late March after top party officials decided to not call a vote on it, as they feared not enough Republicans would support it. Perdue said he hopes the issue will remain a top priority and be brought up again in the next few weeks, but cautioned Republicans have to be willing to work with Democrats. “I think we’ve already seen Republicans have committed mistakes not asking for help from the other side,” Perdue said. “No supermajority has produced a decent law. Now its time to sober up.” More than 90 Georgia counties are down to a single healthcare provider and those may soon be out of business, Perdue said. Perdue also spoke about his support for strengthening the military and reducing the national debt, as well as his support for Trump. Michelle Eason, a Brookhaven Chamber of Commerce member, said she enjoyed Perdue’s speech and, unlike the protesters, she wasn’t bothered that she had to pay to hear him speak. “I think he spoke a lot of truth. We need to work together to address things,” Eason said, adding “I’m glad that he is in the Senate.”
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2017
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Horseback Riding Swimming (Heated Pool) Ropes Course Climbing Tower Tennis Canoeing Golf Gymnastics Dance Cheerleading Flag Twirling Archery Arts and Cras Knitting Chorus and Drama Outdoor Living Skills Basketball Volleyball Soccer Riflery Trip Day River Water Blob Campfire every night Counselor-In-Training Christian Leadership
We l c o m e t o R i v e r v i e w C a m p f o r G i r l s ! Yo u r Aw a r d Wi n n i n g C a m p E x p e r i e n c e ! C o n fi d e n c e , C h a r a c t e r, Ad v e n tu r e , I n s p i r a t i o n ! When you attend our summer camp or our mother-daughter weekends, you will have an amazing time on a mountain top, sharing moments of fun, faith, and adventure! Recognized as one of the South’s favorite private summer camp for girls, Riverview’s exciting programs are appreciated by both campers and parents! Girls from the South and International campers as well, are among our camp families!
Dr. Larry and Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors For more information and a free DVD: www.riverviewcamp.com 800-882-0722
Spring & Fall Mother-Daughter Weekend Also Available! Sign up online!
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has an extensive Frequently Asked Questions section for first-time camper families and several enjoyable videos!
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017
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INSPIRING FUTURE INNOVATORS Sign up by May 1 to save $15 using promo code INNOVATE15
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Registration for Dunwoody UMC
Summer Camps 2017
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Visit our website for a list of activities www.dunwoodyumc.org/leisure!
1548 Mt. Vernon Road • Dunwoody • 770-394-0675
Galloway’s g360 Summer Camp is open to all children ages 3 and up and is held on our campus in beautiful Chastain Park.
Register now for Summer 2017! gallowayschool.org/camp
Pony Pals Summer Camp Chastain Horse Park - convenient Buckhead location! Boys and girls ages 4-8 – Mon-Fri 8am-1pm Many weeks to choose from during Summer 2017 Camp activities for our younger riders include daily riding lessons, crafts and games!
Contact us at (404) 252-4244 or ponypals@chastainhorsepark.org or download registration form at https://www.chastainhorsepark.org/horse-camps
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APRIL 14 - 27, 2017
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SUMMER CAMP IN SANDY SPRINGS
SUMMER CAMPS 2017
CELEBRATING MORE THAN A DECADE OF EXCELLENCE
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CAMPS STARTING FROM $85 PER WEEK The City of Sandy Springs offers quality summer camps at affordable prices. Sports, Gymnastics, Art and Enrichment camps are available for preschoolers, children and teens. Learn more at registration.sandyspringsga.gov.
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SOCCER CAMPS AT EMORY UNIVERSITY EAGLE BOYS SOCCER DAY CAMPS
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Education | 27
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 ■ www.ReporterNewspapers.net
Elissa Oliver Riverwood International Charter School exciting. I teach ninth to 12th Educator graders, and this year I have around 180 students. This job is not monotonous by any means. We change up the lesson plans, cuisines, food and recipes according to what the students need to learn and what I feel like teaching. The culinary world changes every Elissa Oliver teaches cuday and we need to keep up linary arts at Riverwood Inwith the changes! Every year ternational Charter School. there are different challengShe joined the faculty at Rives and it is my job to overcome SPECIAL erwood in 2013, and also has them in a positive way while Elissa Oliver. taught classes at Viking Cookgetting the material they need ing School. In addition to an undergradto learn across. I believe in real-world situuate degree in recreation and leisure ations, so we cater meals in and outside of services from Middle Tennessee State the school. We do a lot of hands on in the University and a masters in health and lab and then also have classroom time for wellness education from the University discussion. I hold very high standards and of Mississippi, she earned a culinary cerI believe that students gravitate to that. Stutificate from Le Cordon Bleu. dents love structure. Editor’s note: Through our “Exceptional Educator” articles, Reporter Newspapers showcases the work of some outstanding teachers and administrators at our local schools. If you would like to recommend an Exceptional Educator, please email editor@ReporterNewspapers.net.
Exceptional
Q: What attracted you to teaching at first? A: I love the interaction with my stu-
dents, one on one. I am able to see their accomplishments first-hand. I get to make personal connections and help each student achieve individual goals. The kitchen is my domain and I can show my personality and creativeness through the food. Teaching high school allows me to have family time, which is very important for balance, having nights and weekends off. I love to cook and enjoyed working at Cherokee Country Club and restaurants, but I wanted to teach to inspire others. I was able to come to Riverwood in 2013 and turn the program around and make it a new hands-on experience for the students.
Q: Has the appeal changed? A: Of course, when I started, I thought, “I
am strictly a culinary teacher. I am their ‘chef,’ ” but then I realized it is so much more than that. Not every student I teach wants to be in the culinary job field, but every student has to eat and needs life skills. I am teaching these kids life lessons, professionalism and employability skills. We go over cost control and how to manage household budgets, writing resumes, organization and how to properly interview for a job. The appeal now is to teach them to be successful and get jobs for the future while cooking and learning new things. I get to continue my learning through the teaching experience as no two days are the same.
Q: What keeps you going year after year? A: Chef/culinary teacher in a high school
setting is my dream job! Every day is different, every year with different students is
Q: What do you think makes a great teacher? A: I think a great teacher is prepared, in-
volved, supportive and concerned for the different needs of students. I believe a great teacher is firm, consistent, fair, and
provides opportunities outside the classroom. I keep all my records from a student until they graduate from the school. I want my students to be successful and I walk around the classroom and lab so I am present in all situations. I also want to be a role model for all students and by having the characteristics of a great teacher I can achieve that.
Q: What do you want to see in your students? A: I want my students to be excited, creative, and passionate, not only about culinary arts, but school and their future. I want students to be motivated, involved, become leaders and hard workers. I want my students not to be afraid to ask questions and trust their instincts. I want my students to make great decisions in and out of school. I want my students to excel in communication and professionalism. I want the students in my classes and those who finished the culinary arts pathway to be successful!
Q: How do you engage your students? A: I engage my students because I am
engaged. I am excited each day when I come in to see what today will bring. Will there be something created that we have never seen or tasted before? Will a student try a food they have never had? When I show my enthusiasm, it is contagious. My hands-on approach is also a draw to engage students. A student might
not be good at paper testing but they can be creative in the kitchen and show their personality through their food and projects. I love my job and I tell the students they need to find something they love to do and get paid for it.
Q:
Do you have a project or special program you use year after year?
A:
Each year we try to cater the same events: the Fulton County principals’ luncheon and the Sandy Springs Education Force race and VIP Breakfast. This year, we catered the Fulton County superintendent’s Holiday Luncheon and hope to keep that going. I also am starting this year to give all of my Culinary 2 students the Serv Safe Manager exam so they can walk away with a certificate that will be useful after high school. I use the foundations books from the National Restaurant Association as my teaching tools and students can also get certifications from the NRA if they would like. We also are involved in the Family Career and Community Leaders of America competition. Riverwood Culinary won Silver at the National competition in 2016 in San Diego, California.
Q:
What do you hope your students take away from your class?
A:
I hope my students take away that anything they set their minds to they can achieve.
remarkable
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After big debut, group ponders ways to fight anti-Semitism BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net
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The Atlanta Initiative Against AntiSemitism, a new grassroots group founded by Dunwoody-area mothers, drew at least 200 attendees to its invitation-only debut meeting March 30 at Temple Emanu-El in Sandy Springs. Major topics included a push to enact a state hate crimes law and concern over a wave of anti-Semitic bullying in North Fulton schools. “Atlanta, you are an amazing example for the rest of the country to follow and I am proud to call you home,” said AIAAS co-founder Danielle Cohen, who broke into tears from seeing such a large crowd. Ten days after the forum, co-founder Lauren Menis said the group was “organizing the various moving parts of our grassroots effort. We also are working hard to compile and prioritize all of the incredible notes from our forum’s roundtable discussions to determine AIAAS’s best course of action to make the largest impact in the greater Atlanta community.” In just five weeks, the effort went from outraged Davis Academy moms texting each other to the major forum with representatives from about 150 organizations, including Christian and Muslim groups; such corporations as AT&T and Chick-fil-A; local governments; and such law enforcement officials as the director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Cohen, and many attendees, also became emotional when she described the reason AIAAS founders were outraged: a wave of anti-Semitic bomb threats, cemetery vandalism and other incidents that caused her young daughter to say “she believed another Holocaust could happen.” The bomb threat campaign was personal, with local targets including Dunwoody’s Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta and the Southeast regional office of the Anti-Defamation League, which co-sponsored the AIAAS forum. It also shows how complex battling hate and terrorism can be, with an Israeli man presently charged with making the threats. Lauren Menis, the Dunwoody homemaker and former journalist who first suggested the effort that became AIAAS, told the crowd that people have asked her whether the bomb-threat arrest undermines or lessens the need for the group. “To this I say a resounding no,” Menis said, noting the many other anti-Semitic incidents around the nation. Jared Powers, the CEO of the MJCCA, said the bomb threats taught him that in such times, the “love and friendship of others begins to shine through.” During the threat campaign, he said, he received dozens of supportive emails and post cards from around the metro area and the nation. “A local Muslim leader called us and offered to have his
[mosque’s members] guard our gates at night,” even though that mosque had received its own threats, Powers said. AIAAS members say they want to form more tangible goals, which was one reason for the invitation-only forum prior to future public events. The crowd gave many suggestions: lessons in being better role models; similar, localized forums; data-gathering on anti-Semitic incidents and hate crimes; a history tour of sites of local anti-Semitic crimes like the 1958 Temple synagogue bombing and the 1915 lynching of Leo Frank; a parade or march; a festival. There was also a request for more clarity about what organization would actually conduct any such event. One suggestion supported by many attendees is for Georgia to enact a hate crimes law. Rose noted that Georgia is one of only five states to have no form of hate crimes law. Among those expressing agreement was Sonja Brown, deputy chief of the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office.
ANTI-SEMITIC SCHOOL BULLYING The discussion also revealed concern about anti-Semitism in local schools. “We’ve gotten calls for the past year from a number of Fulton County schools [about] different anti-Semitic incidents,” Rose said in an interview during the meeting. At North Springs Charter High School in Sandy Springs, a swastika was found on a bathroom wall in November, and in February, some students handed out Valentines with such messages as, “My love for you burns like 6 million Jews,” Rose said. Fulton County Schools spokesperson Susan Hale confirmed both incidents and said the students involved in the Valentines incident were disciplined. Rose said North Springs responded well and brought the ADL in to conduct an educational program. She said the incidents appeared to be the product of ignorant bullying rather than part of an organized hate-group campaign. Among the meeting attendees was a North Springs teacher who suggested the state add an anti-hate lesson plan to the curriculum. Spike Anderson, Temple Emanu-El’s senior rabbi, said in an interview that he has heard of other incidents in “half-adozen different schools in the area” with less impressive response. “Sometimes they’re quite shocking in terms of what kids say to each other,” Anderson said, adding that “kids aren’t saying that in a vacuum. They’re getting it from somewhere.” Anderson said the response that does impress him is from AIAAS. “Sometimes it does take hyper-concerned laypeople to make this stuff happen,” Anderson said. For more information about AIAAS, see StopAntiSemitismATL.org. BK
Public Safety | 31
APRIL 14 - 27, 2017 ■ www.ReporterNewspapers.net
Police Blotter / Brookhaven From Brookhaven Police reports dated April 1-9 from Brookhaven’s Police-2-Citizen website. MURDER 2600 block of Buford Highway—On
April 7, Edward Wilson and Shavone Whitehead were arrested on charges related to suspicion of murder.
Road—On April 2, at night, items were stolen from a car. 2800 block of Buford Highway—On
April 2, two street robberies involving guns were reported. 3500 block of Buford Highway—On
April 4, in the morning, a forced-entry burglary was reported at a home. 1400 block of Northeast Expressway—
POSSESSION AND DUI
On April 4, a man was arrested and accused of theft by taking.
Buford
Highway— On April 5, in the early morning, a man was arrested and accused of driving under the influence of alcohol.
A S S AU LT 3500 block of Buford Highway—On April 2, after midnight, a simple battery occurred.
2600 block of Carlton
Place—On April 5, in the afternoon, a man was arrested and accused of public intoxication.
100 block of Executive Park—On April 3, in the afternoon, a battery occurred.
2100 block of Yancy
3500 block of Buford Highway—On April 3, in the evening, a battery occurred.
Lane—On April 7, a woman was arrested and accused of driving under the influence of alcohol. 100 block of Executive Park Drive—
On April 7, a man was arrested and accused of marijuana possession. Northeast
Expressway/Corporate Boulevard—On April 8, in the early morning, a woman was arrested and accused of marijuana possession.
T H E F T A N D B U R G L A RY 1400 block of Keys Crossing—On
April 1, a forced-entry burglary was reported at a residence. 1100 block of Town Boulevard—On
April 1, in the afternoon, items were stolen from a parked car. 1500 block of Lake Hearn Drive—On
April 1, at night, items were stolen from a parked car. 2400 block of Briarcliff Road—On
April 2, in the early morning, a theft was reported. 1900 block of N. Druid Hills Road—On
April 2, in the morning, items were stolen from a car. 2200 block of Lake Boulevard—On
April 2, in the morning, a burglary occurred at a business. 1600 block of Briarwood Road—On
April 2, a forced-entry burglary occurred at a private residence.
ARRESTS 2300 block of N. Druid Hills Road—On
April 5, in the afternoon, a woman was arrested and accused of not giving pedestrians the right of way in a crosswalk.
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N. Druid Hills
OP E N S A pril 2 2
1000 block of Barone Avenue—On
April 5, in the evening, a woman was arrested and accused of possessing a firearm or knife while attempting to commit a crime. 2300 block of Druid Hills Road—On
April 6, a woman was arrested and accused of committing a hit and run. 1700 block of Briarwood Road—On
April 7, at night, a man was arrested and accused of disorderly conduct.
OT H E R I N C I D E N T S
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5100 block of Lenox Park Circle—On
April 1, in the early morning, damage to private property was reported. 4000 block of Peachtree Road—On
April 1, a hit-and-run incident was reported. 3400 block of Buford Highway—On
April 1, in the afternoon, a verbal dispute was reported. 2900 block of Buford Highway—On
April 1, in the afternoon, a person was issued a criminal trespass warning.
READ MORE OF THE POLICE BLOTTER ONLINE AT
2000 block of
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