06-22-18 Brookhaven Reporter

JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018 • VOL. 10 — NO. 13

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Brookhaven Reporter

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► City freezes new Buford Highway development for six months PAGE 12 ► Bestselling author Emily Giffin talks about Atlanta, writing and more PAGE 16

Branding Brookhaven: New CVB mission to create city’s own identity

Truckin’

The city has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on Super Bowl guide ads, a booth at Atlanta Midtown Music fest, and other high-profile events in what it says is a necessary effort to brand the city and boost local pride.

The money and push to do so is part of the council, administration and newly established Convention and Visitors Bureau efforts to create Brookhaven’s own sense of identity amid other well-established and PHIL MOSIER

See BRANDING on page 22

Aiden Hudson, 2, gets behind the wheel of a DeKalb County Fire Rescue engine from Station 15 – based at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport -- during a public safety “Touch a Truck” event June 16 at Blackburn Park. More photos, p. 11.►

STANDOUT STUDENT

Touché!

We want to be loved, we want to be understood, we want to be happy, we want our needs to be met, but in the dearth of any of those things, tender mercies can see us through.

Page 20

See ROBIN’S NEST, page 15

Jon Ossoff helps to spotlight soccer corruption

Council seeks mixed-use for Buford Highway townhome project

BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

Page 4 6

A proposed townhome development off Buford Highway was dealt a blow June 12 when the Brookhaven City Council delayed a rezoning request because members say they want to see more of a mixed-use development including retail and mix of housing and price points.

The delay, though, has angered residents who live on Bramblewood Drive, where the

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Access points for managed lanes concern top end cities

P R O JEC T S P L A NNE D NEA R P R O P O S ED EX P R ES S L A NE I NTER C HA NG ES Dunwoody City Manager Eric Linton is asking GDOT officials to consider these future planned developments when planning interchanges for the future express lanes on the top end of I-285.

Project name: Northpark Location: Mount Vernon at Peachtree Dunwoody Road Number of new vehicle trips according to Development of Regional Impact: 7,900 Project name: 1117 Perimeter Center West Location: Mount Vernon Road at Perimeter Center West Number of new vehicle trips per DRI: 12,000 Project name: High Street (in Dunwoody bordering Sandy Springs, massive mixed-use project that’s been on the books for years but no clear date for a groundbreaking set) Location: Hammond Drive at Perimeter Center Parkway Number of new vehicle trips per DRI: 28,000 Project name: State Farm’s Park Center (in Dunwoody) Location: Hammond Drive at Perimeter Center Parkway Number of new vehicle trips per DRI: 7,200 Project name: Peachtree Dunwoody Pavilion (business park)

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Location: Peachtree-Dunwoody Road at Lake Hearn Drive Number of new vehicle trips per DRI: 4,800

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“One of the ways to get people to ride buses is if they know they will not be sitting in traffic like everyone else,” Smith said. “If a bus is a faster commute, that is something they would be attracted to.”

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that would add even more lanes — four on each highway — in construction that could take a decade. The concept of the project is to allow toll-paying drivers to speed through the interchange in dedicated, entirely separate lanes, and is being touted by GDOT as a reliable way to get to where motorists want to go on time.

The elevated lanes near the proposed interchanges are GDOT’s way to reduce taking city right-of-way, Matthews told Brookhaven council members.

The current proposed managed lane interchanges, or access points, provide three access points: Johnson Ferry Road-Ga. 400, Perimeter Center Parkway-Ga. 400, and Mount Vernon Highway-Ga. 400.

These points are fairly evenly distributed geographically in the Perimeter Center area, Linton said in his letter to GDOT. But if Mount Vernon were removed or moved to Hammond, “not only is there less access but the interchanges also would be concentrated in one quadrant of the market,” Linton said in his letter to GDOT. “Dunwoody is concerned that this would result in more of the managed lane traffic being directed to its surface streets and that the northern 2/3 of the market would have less than ideal access to the managed lanes,” Linton said.

Three other major office building projects planned within a half-mile of the Mount Vernon interchange, Linton said in his letter, include a new 16-story office building and 10-story hotel on Hammond Drive in Dunwoody adjacent to the city’s MARTA station.

Smith of Dunwoody said there is good dialogue now between Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, GDOT and PCID and they are all getting together to discuss options to find a “solution that works for everyone.” Another meeting of these stakeholders is set for August, he said.

All cities are praising GDOT’s efforts to alleviate the notorious congestion at the top end of I-285 as well as the state’s commitment to ensuring bus rapid transit lanes will be included in the managed lanes.

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The Georgia Department of Transportation is hoping to alleviate traffic in the top end of I-285 that touches Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs with new elevated express lanes slated to begin construction in 2023. But where new access points from those express lanes will be constructed remains a concern for the cities.

Dunwoody City Manager Eric Linton last month sent a letter to Tim Matthews, senior design build project manager for GDOT, stating it is “critical for the managed lane network to have multiple, geographically distributed access points into the Perimeter market.”

One of those proposed access points is already a point of contention. The city of Sandy Springs has asked GDOT to move a proposed access point at Mount Vernon Road to Hammond Drive. But moving the access point to Hammond Drive will likely result in more traffic on Dunwoody’s surface streets, according to Dunwoody Public Works Director Michael Smith.

“We think there needs to be something further north than Hammond,” he said.

Instead, Dunwoody is supporting a managed lane interchange between Ga. 400 and Riverside Drive to help further disperse traffic in the region, according to Linton.

“Without such an interchange, traffic may flow unnecessarily into the Perimeter Center surface streets,” Linton stated in his letter to GDOT. Sharon Kraun, spokesperson for Sandy Springs, said the city is working closely with all stakeholders to determine the best site for access points.

“The city is working closely with its partners, including GDOT, the city of Dunwoody and Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (PCID), to explore options on where to locate access points for GDOT’s managed lane program,” she said in an email. “As options are evaluated, city staff will share this information with the city council and community and seek feed-

back.”

The behind-the-scenes tensions about the managed lane plans came to light at the Sandy Springs City Council’s Jan. 23 retreat, where GDOT officials presented the latest concepts and city transportation planners pushed back with counterproposals including moving the proposed managed lanes interchange from Mount Vernon to Hammond Drive.

GDOT spokesperson Jill Goldberg said at the time the agency will do “aggressive outreach” once it has what it considers to be a more solid plan. The Mount Vernon interchange, for example, was proposed relatively recently and is still being studied by engineers.

At a recent Brookhaven City Council meeting, GDOT’s Tim Matthews also addressed some of the city’s concerns about access points raised by Mayor John Ernst in a letter to GDOT. “This project has major implications and impacts on the adjacent cities given the addition of access points that are not part of the existing highway interchanges,” Ernst said in his letter.

“We want to be assured that any Brookhaven access point does not result in exasperating localized traffic congestion as commuters from neighboring cities come into Brookhaven to access I-285 managed lanes,” he said.

Brookhaven also shares Dunwoody’s concerns about the distribution of access point west of Ga. 400, Ernst said. “[I]t appears the planned locations will result in commuters driving into the congested Perimeter area just to access the I-285 managed lanes to go toward I-75 or I-85,” Ernst added.

The I-285 top end express lanes are still in the preliminary stages and nothing has been set in stone, but GDOT is already acquiring right-of-way where needed and is expected to begin the design process in 2020, Matthews told Brookhaven council members. There will be more time for public input as well, he said.

The managed lanes are a separate project from the Transform 285/400 project

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BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

BK

JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Community | 3

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Community Briefs

New Name, New Look, New Attitude!

The 190-page Brookhaven Zoning Ordinance Rewrite draft is now available for review and comment on the city’s website at brookhavenzoning.com. The rewrite will be officially unveiled to residents at public meetings planned for June 27, 28 and July 19.

The purpose of the Zoning Ordinance Rewrite is to provide regulations to implement the land use policies identified in the city’s Comprehensive Plan, character area study and other planning and policy documents, according to city officials. The document is the result of months-long work by a steering committee that was comprised of community residents and business owners appointed by the mayor and City Council.

“With public input into previous planning processes, we were able to gather input from residents and stakeholders to ensure their priorities and vision for Brookhaven were incorporated into the zoning revisions,” said Brookhaven Community Development Director Patrice Ruffin in a press release.

“The completion of the Zoning Ordinance Rewrite fits perfectly with the recently announced moratorium on all land use petitions and land development permits on Buford Highway. This will ensure the vision residents have for this area is preserved until it can be enacted into law,” Ruffin said.

The public meeting schedule: Wednesday, June 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. – Briarwood Community Center, 2235 Briarwood Way. Thursday, June 28, from 9 to 11 a.m. – City Hall Communications Conference Room, 4362 Peachtree Road Thursday, July 19, from 9 to 11 a.m. – City Hall Communications Conference Room, 4362 Peachtree Road Thursday, July 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. – Briarwood Park Community Center, 2235 Briarwood Way Comments can be submitted by creating an account and annotating the document directly through the consultant’s site at duncan.civicomment.org/brookhaven-zoningordinance.

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Minerva Homes got the goahead June 12 from the City Council to rezone 1.17 acres at 1296, 1302 and 1304 Kendrick Road to make way for a 9-townhome development.

There are three detached single-residential houses currently on the property. City staff, which is CITY OF BROOKHAVEN recommending approval of the reA design concept of the 9-townhomes zoning, notes the proposed develto be built on Kendrick Road. opment does not comply with minimum street spacing requirements of 50 feet for new private streets from adjoining residentially zoned property and will require a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Dan Cotter from Minerva Homes said an above-ground retention pond will be constructed and maintained by the homeowners’ association.

The development may have an impact on existing streets, transportation facilities and utilities, according to the staff memo. Traffic improvements and street enhancements would be necessary to reduce impacts on transportation facilities, the memo adds.

The Atlanta Business Chronicle reported prices for the townhomes could be in the $800,000 range.

HI S PA N I C C HA MBER OF C OMMERC E HO NO R S CITY

The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce recently honored the city of Brookhaven with its 2018 Welcoming City Award. The presentation was made at the organizations June 2 annual gala.

In October 2017, the city joined the Welcoming America Network, a nonprofit and nonpartisan national organization that connects nonprofits and local governments to help them build plans and policies that encourages newcomers and long-time residents to participate in social, civic and economic endeavors while highlighting the importance of being an inclusive city.

“In Brookhaven, we embrace everyone in our diverse community,” said District 4 City Council Member Joe Gebbia in a press release. “ BK

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COMING SOON TO

Ossoff helps to spotlight Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center Jon soccer corruption

TAJ MAHAL TRIO

SATURDAY • SEPT. 8

Jon Ossoff in Ghana earlier this month, as he arranged security for journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas following a soccer corruption exposé.

BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net

OCT. 30

T I C K E T S O N SA L E N O W

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A year ago, Jon Ossoff was in a national media spotlight as the Democrat making an unlikely – and ultimately unsuccessful – competitive run for the local 6th Congressional District seat. Today, the Brookhaven resident is the one putting a media spotlight on major issues as CEO of an award-winning producer of film and TV documentaries about international crime and corruption.

Ossoff and his company, Insight TWI, are enjoying a remarkable month. Insight TWI just won a One World Media Award – a coveted prize for documentaries – for a BBC feature on sex crimes and genocide committed by ISIS in Iraq. And a BBC broadcast of a new Insight TWI-produced documentary on corrupt soccer officials in Ghana shook the sports world just days before FIFA announced the 2026 World Cup will be partly staged in the U.S., possibly with some games played in Atlanta.

Speaking by phone as he traveled to pick up the award in London – and right after arranging security for the undercover investigator who revealed the soccer corruption – Ossoff said it’s fulfilling to work with journalists who, when necessary, are “willing to take risks and push the limits.”

“I think that corruption and self-dealing are at the heart of a lot of the dysfunction and suffering in the world today, and it’s impunity, it’s a lack of accountability, that feeds it,” he said. “And I think that

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where law enforcement lacks the will or the capacity to deter or punish it, journalists need to take on some of that responsibility.”

That’s the broad mission of Insight TWI, which has won Emmys, a Peabody and a BAFTA award since its 1991 founding.

Ossoff, who became its CEO in 2013, says it focuses on investigations of “official corruption, organized crime and war crimes” and “features and highlights work of local reporters rather than parachuting in.”

Among the topics of its documentaries in recent years, Ossoff says: corrupt officials stealing U.S.-funded food and medical aid; death squads and extrajudicial killings by criminal gangs and security forces in South Africa, Kenya, Mexico and El Salvador; and quack doctors who kill and mutilate women in Nigeria and Colombia.

The One World Media Award in the Popular Features category that Ossoff and other Insight TWI representatives accepted June 18 was for the BBC-broadcast “Stacey Dooley: Face to Face with ISIS.” The documentary followed a woman, long held as a sex slave by ISIS members, as she confronted one of its commanders in prison.

As a producer, Insight TWI provides resources to journalists and arranges broadcast deals, working especially frequently with the BBC. Sometimes the broadcaster commissions a documentary; sometimes Insight TWI offers one. The company is based in London, with small offices in the African nation of Ghana and in Ossoff’s Brookhaven home.

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Working in various countries gives Ossoff a broad view of journalism quality and freedom. While the U.S. has its First Amendment guaranteeing freedom of the press, Ossoff notes that the reality can be different. He says the BBC, despite its faults, has “got pretty much the most stringent editorial standards of any news organization in the Western world.”

And the journalism rights group Reporters Without Borders ranks Ghana as 23rd in the world for press freedom, well above the U.S. at number 45, on such standards as transparency, independence, selfcensorship and threats or violence against journalists.

“I think that American journalism broadly is failing to hold leaders accountable [and is] focused on the wrong things, and generally not living up to its obligation to the public… I think it’s a pretty dismal scene, to be honest with you,” Ossoff said.

Comparing the “starving” of U.S. public broadcasting with the BBC, he said, “I regret that the UK and not the US has the most prestigious and capable news-gathering and reporting organization in the world.”

For more about Insight TWI and to view “Betraying the Game,” see insighttwi.com.

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“He is a master of deep investigations, deep undercover investigations,” said Ossoff, who counts Anas as a colleague and friend of many years. “He is an extraordinary character… He’s an asset to his country and the world.”

In “Betraying the Game,” Anas and colleagues, posing as supporters of beloved teams, found soccer referees willing to accept unsolicited cash bribes. Working their way up the ladder, they show footage convinced a member of the FIFA Council – the group that organizes international soccer tournaments, including the World Cup – to accept a bag of $65,000 in cash as part of a scheme to set up a shell company to divert soccer sponsorship money to himself. The official, Kwesi Nyantakyi, later denied accepting the money as a bribe and claimed Anas tried to blackmail him.

Three hours before the documentary aired on the BBC, Ossoff says, the government of Ghana announced it was dissolving the national soccer association. FIFA has provisionally suspended the council member shown accepting the cash.

“I was in Ghana as all of this unfolded,” said Ossoff. “It’s rewarding to see the direct impact of that journalism.”

It can also be threatening; Ossoff was in

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“Betraying the Game” focuses on an investigation by Anas Aremeyaw Anas, an acclaimed – and controversial -- Ghanaian journalist known for culture-rocking undercover exposés, including one where he caught many judges accepting bribes. Because he relies on remaining anonymous for undercover stings, Anas appears in public only while wearing a mask made of strings of beads.

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Revealing soccer bribery

Ghana to work with U.S. officials and journalist rights organizations to assure Anas’s safety. As the documentary itself shows, Anas’s undercover methods are sometimes criticized as unethical and the results have sometimes inspired death threats.

“Anas’s techniques are controversial. He operates at the aggressive end of the spectrum of journalistic techniques. It’s worth noting he has his critics,” Ossoff said of the decision to include some of them in the documentary. “Now, personally, I think his work speaks for itself.”

Anas’s documentary is far from the only report on corruption in FIFA and such related international sports events as the Olympics. FIFA was rocked with a major scandal in 2015 when U.S. authorities brought charges against several top officials and accused them of bribery schemes related to staging and broadcasting games in the Americas.

Ossoff says that the body of journalism and law enforcement reports make it clear that “corruption is endemic in international soccer” and that it is important that viewers of Anas’s documentary realize it is not just an “African problem.”

“You saw in the footage just how commonplace, how pervasive, this culture was — that it was just normal for referees to be taking money in violation of rules for how the game is supposed to be conducted,” Ossoff said.

As the World Cup heads to the U.S. – and maybe Atlanta – in 2026, Ossoff says he hopes “that journalists and law enforcement officials will be vigilant that this [event] … be conducted ethically and transparently.”

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As CEO, Ossoff does not do any of the reporting or investigating. He’s a manager who oversees the documentaries, works with the journalists who make them, and negotiates the broadcast and distribution deals. But that work can be quite hands-on, especially when dealing with threats to the journalists who make anti-corruption documentaries.

“I do tend to get involved where there are serious health or safety issues,” said Ossoff.

In fact, he had just done exactly that in Ghana in response to threats that followed the broadcast of the new documentary “Betraying the Game,” about corrupt soccer officials.

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6 | Art & Entertainment

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ADRON: SUNDAYS ON THE RIVER CONCERT

KIDS AND FAMILIES DINNER AND A MOVIE

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PERFORMANCES BASSIST AND CELLIST DUO

Wednesday, June 27, 3-4 p.m.

Have a musical afternoon with bassist and cellist duo Blake & Ilana Hilley.

All ages. Free. Sandy Springs Branch Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs. Info: 404-303-6130.

WINE & READING SERIES

Sunday, July 1, 2 p.m.

Atlanta writer Annie Harrison Elliott is featured in the second of this six-month series of readings of new plays by nationally known local writers at the Dunwoody Nature Center. Her play, “General Gabler’s Daughter,” is a reimagining of Ibsen’s classic “Hedda Gabler.” Professional actors bring characters to life in this series, which is presented in partnership with Found Stages on first Sundays monthly at 2 p.m. through November. Includes a meet-and-greet with the month’s featured playwright, actors and directors. Complimentary wine and appetizers before and after each reading. $20. 5343 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody. Info: dunwoodynature.org.

SUNSET SIPS

Thursday, July 5, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

The Mark Miller Band — folk music, roots acoustic, Piedmont blues — is next up in this concert series at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Cash bar; picnics welcome. Sunset Sips concerts are held second and fourth Thursdays monthly from June to September (except in July when there is only this July 5 concert). Concert is included with general admission and free to CNC Members. Admission: $10 adults,

$7 seniors (ages 65+) and students (ages 1318); $6 children (ages 3-12); ages 2 and under free. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Info: chattnaturecenter.org.

DUNWOODY NATURE CENTER SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Saturday, July 7, 7-9 p.m.

Wren and the Wravens bring their blend of retro soul, pop, and R&B to this lineup of summer concerts, held every other Saturday evening, rain or shine, through July 21. Seating available on a first-come, first-served basis in the meadow or on the back porch. Outside food and drink welcome. Craft beers, sodas and water available. $5 adults; $3 students; free for members and for children 3 and under. 5343 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody. Info: dunwoodynature. org/2018-summer-concert-series.

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Sunday, July 8, 6-9:30 p.m.

Head out to the Chattahoochee Nature Center for a concert featuring Adron, who blends samba and international sounds with ‘70s pop and R&B. Bring a blanket or chairs and have a picnic. Cash bar on site. $12-$16. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Info: chattnaturecenter.org.

CONCERTS BY THE SPRINGS

Sunday, July 8, 7- 8:30 p.m.

The 22nd season of Heritage Sandy Springs’ outdoor summer concert series continues with jazz and R&B from Gwen Hughes & The Retro Kats. Gates open at 5 p.m. Picnics welcome. Food, beer and wine available. Free. Sandy Springs Society Entertainment Lawn at Heritage Green, 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs.

Info: heritagesandysprings.org or 404-851-9111.

Tuesday, June 26, 5:30-8 p.m.

Enjoy pizza and a movie courtesy at the Brookhaven Library on Tuesday evenings, courtesy of Friends of the Brookhaven Library on Tuesday evenings. Register by 4:30 p.m. on the day of the movie to be included for dinner.

Adults must be accompanied by a child.

Open to first 15 participants. Groups of five or more should call the branch fo an appointment. Free. 1242 North Druid Hills Road N.E., Brookhaven. Info: dekalblibrary.org/events.

GET ACTIVE BUTTERFLY ENCOUNTER

Daily through July 31. 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays and Saturdays. Noon to 4:30 p.m. Sundays.

Get up close and personal with hundreds of native butterflies surrounded by colorful nectar plants at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Special visiting opportunities include CNC Members Only hours and Breakfast with Butterflies. The Butterfly Encounter is included with general admission and is free to CNC Members. Admission: $10 adults, $7 seniors (ages 65+) and students (ages 13-18); $6 children (ages 3-12); ages 2 and under free. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell.

Info: chattnaturecenter.org.

JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Art & Entertainment | 7

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LEARN SOMETHING BOOKS FOR BREAKFAST SUMMER SERIES

Tuesdays June 26, July 24, Aug. 28, 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Meet other bookworms for lively discussion at a monthly book club meeting at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. The June 26 book selection is “The Vengeance of Mothers” by Jim Fergus. Adults of all ages. Members free; $5 nonmembers. 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Info: atlantajcc.org or Earl Finley, 678-812-4000, earl.finley@ atlantajcc.org.

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Wednesdays, June 27, July 25, Aug. 29 , 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join Heritage Sandy Springs for a summer lecture series commemorating the 100th anniversary of the end of “the great war.” Topics include why the war happened, the U.S. entry into the war, science and technology, and the local Emory Medical Unit’s involvement. This series, which began in May, continues on the last Wednesday of June, July and August in the Community Room at the Heritage Sandy Springs administrative building. Free. 6110 Blue Stone Road, Sandy Springs. Info: heritagesandysprings.org.

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Thursday, June 28, 7:30 p.m.

New York Times best-selling author Emily Giffin introduces “All We Ever Wanted,” her new novel in which three very different people must choose between their families and their values. Atlanta media personality Mara Davis will interview Giffin at the book launch party at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. $30-$35. Tickets include a pre-signed copy of the book, and a reception featuring wine, desserts and light bites. 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Info: atlantajcc.org/bookfestival or 678-812-4002.

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► Fourth of July Celebration

Chamblee offers free summer fun

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4, 5-10 P.M. KESWICK PARK, 3496 KESWICK DRIVE

Chamblee, a century-old city known for its antique-shopping scene, is also home to big summer events, including an Independence Day fireworks show and a concert series featuring some well-known pop and rock bands. A neighbor of Brookhaven and Dunwoody, Chamblee’s free summer events are easily accessible from Buckhead and Sandy Springs as well.

Here are the details on Chamblee’s Fourth of July Celebration and the final concert in this summer’s series, featuring the Gin Blossoms and the Rembrandts. For more information, see chambleega.com.

Chamblee’s Fourth of July Celebration includes a variety of daytime activities, including live music and food, and culminates in a 20- to 25-minute fireworks show after dark.

Live music will be performed starting at 6:30 p.m. by Bogey and the Viceroy. Led

by New Orleans native Bogey Thornton, the band plays classic soul, retro rock and pop, and current chart-toppers.

Food will be available from the Mad Italian, the Frosty Caboose, Cop-NStuff and the Island Chef Food Truck.

Attendees may also bring personal food and beverages, but no alcohol.

Parking will be limited at Keswick Park. Recommended alternative parking will be available 5-11 p.m. behind the IHOP restaurant in the Chamblee

Plaza shopping center, 5516 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. Attendees can also ride the MARTA Gold Line to Chamblee Station and walk the Rail Trail to the park.

OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:

Bike Parade: 5 p.m., starting from Chamblee Middle School, 3601 Sexton Woods Drive A parade of children who have decorated their bicycles, tricycles, wagons and similar vehicles in a patriotic manner. The parade starts at the school and ends in Keswick Park.

Cornhole Tournament: 5:30 p.m.

Eight teams will compete for prizes in the cornhole lawn games.

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The Summer Concert Series wraps up with two classic pop-rock bands from the 1980s and ’90s.

Gin Blossoms have sold more than 10 million albums with such hits as “Hey Jealousy,” “Until I Fall Away,” “Follow You Down” and the Grammy-nominated “As Long As It Matters.”

The Rembrandts are a Grammy-nominated band known for the hit songs “Just the Way It Is Baby” and “I’ll Be There for You” (the theme song from the TV comedy series “Friends”). Other hits include “Johnny Have You Seen Her,” “Someone,” “Burning Timber” and “This House Is Not a Home.”

Food, beverages and beer will be available for purchase, and guests can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks.

Peachtree Road will be closed during the concert. Parking and shuttle service will be available at Chamblee Charter High School, 3688 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, 6:30-11 p.m.

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City monitoring Dunwoody’s EMS ‘emergency’

BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

Brookhaven officials are not hearing major concerns from residents about ambulance response times in the city despite an EMS “emergency” being declared in the neighboring city of Dunwoody.

The state agency responsible for determining what companies and agencies will provide ambulance services to various areas of Georgia is set to take up Dunwoody’s call for creating its own emergency medical service in August.

Dunwoody is included in the state’s Region 3 EMS council, included under the umbrella of the state Department of Public Health. The council’s next regularly scheduled meeting is Aug. 9. Region 3 includes DeKalb, Fulton, Cobb, Douglas, Gwinnett, Clayton, Rockdale and Newton counties.

The EMS council will consider Dunwoody’s recent “declaration of an EMS emergency” following the city’s repeated complaints to DeKalb officials of slow response times from American Medical Response, the ambulance agency contracted through DeKalb County for the past five years. AMR’s contract with DeKalb expires Dec. 31.

AMR just went through a similar situation in south Fulton County. Leaders there asked the state Department of Public Health to open up its EMS region to competitive bidding due to slow response times from AMR – similar to what Dunwoody is experiencing currently.

The state agency eventually awarded the south Fulton EMS bid to Grady EMS over AMR. While Dunwoody has consistently raised concerns since 2016 about slow response times by AMR in its city, neighboring Brookhaven is not seeing an emergency nor publicly voicing concerns.

“We are reviewing performance data and monitoring the Dunwoody issue,” Brookhaven spokesperson Burke Brennan said.

AMR’s troubles in Georgia are not unique. The company has been consistently late in responding to emergency calls, representing an “imminent threat” to the public’s safety, according to complaints in Colorado Springs, according to EMS1.com, an online resource for EMS agencies.

In 2017, AMR was forced to pay more than $300,000 in penalties to Colorado Springs and El Paso County for more than 4,200 instances in which ambulance crews failed to meet their required response times under separate contracts with the two governments, according to EMS1.com.

DeKalb County has fined AMR more than $1.5 million for slow response times, but AMR is disputing the amount.

National standards set by state and local municipalities require 90 percent of ambulance calls respond in under 9 minutes. That’s the time AMR is contracted with DeKalb County to meet as well.

In Brookhaven in all of 2017, AMR’s response times include a low of 8 minute 36 seconds out of 241 calls in January to a high of 11 minutes and 1 second over 211 calls in September. The remaining months consistently fall in the 9 and 10-minute range.

According to data provided to the Dunwoody City Council, AMR responded to 1,026 calls in Dunwoody between January and November 2016.

Average response time was 10 minutes, 45 seconds. For all of DeKalb County, AMR responded to 82,851 calls between January and November with a 9 minute, 26 second average response time.

But mixed in those numbers are numerous 20- and 30-minute wait times as well.

The city of Dunwoody filed May 23 a “Declaration of EMS Emergency” with the Georgia Department of Public Health/ Office of EMS and Trauma asking for the “expeditious actions of remedy and relief for failing emergency service response times and patient care for residents/ businesses and visitors of Dunwoody.”

Included in the declaration is the statement that AMR fails “to meet contractual obligations of adherence to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) response time standards/ commonly referred to as ‘NFPA 1710’ emergency response time standard for “career” Fire/EMS services/ of an 8 minute and 59 second response time on 90 percent of its emergency calls.”

AMR and DeKalb have tried to address the issue by locating a permanent ambulance in Dunwoody, but city leaders are not impressed and say the only way to ensure the security of its residents and those who work and pass through the city is to provide its own service, according to Councilmember Terry Nall.

Nall said the city’s dedicated zone should be self sufficient from users of the service via insurance, Medicare and Medicaid.

“Dunwoody has a very high payer mix. Our city cost is likely to be for EMS radio dispatch, which we would incorporate within the ChattComm 911 dispatch center, along with Dunwoody Police,” he said.

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JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Community | 11

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12 | Community

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City puts six-month hold on Buford Highway redevelopment

BY DYANA BAGBY

with the city’s comprehensive plan for the corridor known for its interA six-month moratorium on new denational businesses and velopment along Buford Highway is restaurants and imminow in effect as the city goes through a grant communities. The public review process of the city’s new moratorium stops the zoning rewrite later this month and applications from cominto July. ing in while the zoning The draft zoning rewrite includes rewrite is completed, she a newly established Buford Highway said.

Overlay District. The draft plan of the zoning rewrite does not include a lot In May, the Planning of specifics for the Buford Overlay DisCommission rejected a trict, but it does lay out its scope that rezoning request on Buincludes implementing objectives of ford Highway to make the city’s comprehensive plan; provides way for a self-storage for connectivity of streets and commubuilding, saying it did nities to promote walkability and opnot fit in with the comportunities for alternative modes of prehensive plan for the travel; promotes provision of workarea. The developer withforce housing; and facilitates redeveldrew its request. opment of the area.

Speaking in favor of The zoning rewrite draft also inthe moratorium durcludes a section for increased building ing public comment at heights on Buford Highway up to 20 the June 12 meeting was stories. According to the draft, “HospiMarian Liou, founder tals, office buildings and hotels on [office institution], [industrial] or [mixedand executive director of use]-zoned lots within the boundaries We Love BuHi. We Love of the BHO district may be up to 20 stoBuHi is a nonprofit orries in height. Parking decks accessory ganization dedicated to to such uses may not exceed 8 stories CITY OF BROOKHAVEN preserving the history The shaded areas along Buford Highway are part of a six-month moratorium in height.” of Buford Highway and on new development approved June 12 by the City Council.

The draft rewrite also includes a defstrengthening the mulinition of workforce housing as “forticultural communities that live and sale housing that is affordable to those counties surrounding Atlanta and force housing is discussed in various work there through events, storytelling households earning no more than 80 some 140 cities, including Brookhaven, sections of the draft zoning rewrite, acand advocacy. percent of the median household inDunwoody, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, cording to city spokesperson Ann MaShe said keeping the “status quo” uncome for the Atlanta Metropolitan Stonecrest, Tucker, Peachtree Corners, rie Quill. til the new ordinance is adopted is supStatistical Area, as determined by the Milton and South Fulton.

No real specifics from the city’s Afported by her organization. She also current fiscal year HUD income limit The workforce housing definition fordable Housing Task Force’s recasked the City Council and staff to detable.” addresses affordability and then workommendations, such as inclusionary fine what success means for what hapThe Atlanta MSA area includes 28 zoning to require an affordability compens on Buford Highway. ponent in high-density developments, “Before the six-month moratorium are highlighted in the rewrite. commences, before we get too much “There will also be some additional further into the final recommendalanguage added regarding workforce tions of the zoning rewrite, I just ask housing in the Buford Highway Overeveryone here to ask themselves what lay section,” Quill said. “We are still success means and for whom,” Liou working on that section to ensure we are incorporating the task force recomsaid to the council. mendations as best we can. It will be “I would propose that we define sucavailable ahead of the first public meetcess as the ability of every current resing [on June 27].” ident or business owner who wants to The proposed zoning rewrite ordiremain on Buford Highway to be able nance is expected to be presented to the to do so,” she said.

Planning Commission and City Council The people who currently live and in September, according to Community work on Buford Highway should be of Development Director Patrice Ruffin. the highest priority when considering Should the council adopt the zoning orthe rezoning and an overlay, Liou said. dinance rewrite before the moratorium “We believe success to be the presexpires on Dec. 31, the council would be ervation of what truly makes Buford able to lift the moratorium sooner, she Highway, Buford Highway – its people,” said. she said. “In response to every immiRuffin explained the city has re3379 Peachtree Road, Suite 550, Atlanta, GA 30326 grant’s declaration that they are here ceived applications for development 404-355-5484 | olanskydermatology.com on Buford Highway that do not fit in to stay we say, ‘Yes, y’all belong here.’” BK dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

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Community | 13

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Council seeks mixed-use for Buford Highway townhome project Continued from page 1 townhomes would be built, because their 29 homes have been under contract to sell for nearly a year and they say ongoing delays puts undue hardships on them.

The council voted unanimously June 12 to defer for 90 days a vote on a rezoning request by Ardent Companies for approximately 15 acres on Bramblewood Drive and two parcels on Buford Highway for a 197unit townhome development.

Councilmember Joe Gebbia, who represents those living on and near Buford Highway, made the motion to defer the vote. He said there are many questions about the project that remain unanswered and a deferral ensures “the project does not die.”

In an interview after the meeting, Gebbia said he was unsure the council would vote to approve the proposed townhome development as it exists today.

“There are a lot of unanswered questions about resubmissions of potential projects that could be built there,” he said.

When asked what other projects, he clarified to say that Ardent Companies is being asked to submit new plans to the city but would not say anything further.

“That’s a conversation that is going on between Economic Development and Ardent right now,” he said. “It’s in their court and I’m going to let it stay there.”

City spokesperson Ann Marie Quill confirmed the city is in ongoing discussions with Ardent about the proposed development that includes a mixed-use component, including retail and a mix of housing types with different price points.

“In discussions with the developer, which happen with nearly every application, the council asked for additional input and possible options. None of those plans have been submitted as an amendment to the current plan and the current application continues to be the only plan under active consideration,” she said in an email.

“Council has expressed that they would like to see increased density near Buford Highway, with a mix of housing types and price points, and a retail component with Buford Highway frontage,” she said.

Neville Allison, director of Ardent Companies, said his proposed townhome development does fit with the comprehensive plan approved by the city for Buford Highway. “All we want is a fair shake at the hearing. We want to be heard and voted on,” he said.

The 90-day delay is more of an issue than a new site plan that includes more density and mixed-uses, he added.

“The real issue is the timing of the zoning is so protracted. We’re doing our best to accommodate what the city wants,” he said.

Gebbia did say the current plans do not fit in with the city’s vision for Buford Highway that includes more mixed-use development. City Attorney Chris Balch said the request to modify the plan did come from the BK

council, but he said he could not comment further due to the threat of litigation by Ardent Companies.

“This is a longstanding request [to modify],” Gebbia said.

The three-month deferral angered more than a dozen residents who own homes in the single-family neighborhood on Bramblewood Drive and who attended the council meeting. They say the city’s decision to postpone the rezoning vote puts them in “limbo” because the 29 single-family homes in the neighborhood have been under contract with Ardent Companies for nearly a year. Their home sales and the project can’t move forward without the rezoning.

Many of the Bramblewood Drive homeowners have already purchased a second home because they believed the rezoning was going to be a quick process, including a recommendation for approval by the Planning Commission in April.

Some Bramblewood residents said they are also not making major repairs to their home, such as fixing a water heater or air conditioner, because they don’t want to spend money on a house they keep expecting to be torn down.

“I want to remind you your month-bymonth [delays] are imposing severe hardships on residents of Bramblewood,” Crew

Heimer, a Bramblewood Drive resident, told the council during public comment.

“Our lives are in limbo.”

Heimer also accused the city of putting a “de facto” moratorium on the proposed development that coincides with its new six-month development moratorium on Buford Highway that was approved by the council June 12. The Buford Highway moratorium is needed until a zoning rewrite and Buford Highway Overlay district can be approved, according to city officials.

The city’s actions to delay Ardent’s rezoning request and not tell residents what is taking place reduces trust between the city and voters, Heimer said.

Steve Presser, who has lived on Bramblewood Drive since 1988, said the delays have got to end. “You can’t perpetuate this forever,” he told the council. “We are in a state of flux. We don’t know what will happen next. But we are not going to roll over.”

Resident Hillary Dwyer said the lack of transparency from the city is what upsets the residents the most.

“Our issue is simply that Brookhaven has not provided any transparency or reasoning to us regarding their decisions,” she said. “No one understands why they deferred it for so long. Ninety days seems very excessive for a deal that has no opposition and full support from the homeown-

ers.

“We have homeowners who have made major life changes in preparation for this deal, [and] our lives have been very much affected by Brookhaven’s lack of cooperation,” she added.

As part of the rezoning request, Ardent is asking to buy the public right-of-way on Bramblewood to include what is now planned as a gated community. The city deferred a vote to sell it at the June 12 meeting also. The city is asking $3 million for the right-of-way.

The City Council and Ardent have clashed before. Last year, the council voted in a rare 3-2 vote with Mayor John Ernst breaking the tie to deny Ardent’s request to build a wrought-iron fence around a 22unit townhome development on Pine Cone Lane. The council reversed the decision and allowed the gates because the process to deny the gates was flawed, according to the city attorney.

The 22 townhomes are part of a larger 73 townhome development by Ardent. This development is going up where the Park Villa apartment complex once existed and where many immigrants and low-income residents lived.

Ardent purchased the complex then razed it to build luxury townhomes, displacing dozens of families.

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14 | Commentary

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Opinion /Why Dunwoody declared an EMS emergency As elected leaders, we have a responsibility to the residents, visitors and businesses in the city of Dunwoody. First and foremost, ensuring public safety is our job Number One. Our city is home to 50,000 residents and is the heart of Perimeter Center, with more than 120,000 workers and hundreds of thousands more on I-285 as they pass through Dunwoody. It is critical we provide the highest levels of public safety and emergency response to all individuals within our city’s borders.

To that end, and after two years of increasingly inadequate Emergency Medical Service (EMS) to our community, the Dunwoody City Council issued a “Declaration of EMS Emergency” with DeKalb County on May 21. This was a necessary and urgent plea.

Prior to 2013, DeKalb County Fire held the EMS certificate from the Georgia Department of Public Health and its regional EMS Council, and invested in placing its own EMS units at all three county fire stations in Dunwoody.

Then in 2013, DeKalb County decided to “sublet” its EMS certificate to American Medical Response (AMR), a private EMS provider, via a five-year contract.

This is when DeKalb County stopped investing in and operating its own EMS service and also decided not to provide supplemental compensation to assure compliance and quality of service. Worse is DeKalb County charges the EMS provider an annual fee for operating the EMS service.

DeKalb County’s solution, to outsource its EMS, has resulted in noncompliant response times and measurable delays in getting EMS units to people in our community.

While DeKalb County Fire sends fire engines to medical calls, and many fire-

men are basic emergency ty leaders, staff and elected medical technicians (EMTs) officials. When the fire chief and paramedics, those fire is a member of Dun- and EMS/AMR leadership trucks are not EMS transport woody City Council. appeared at a Dunwoody vehicles. While fire engine reCity Council meeting in 2016, sponders can begin basic care, they openly admitted the the severity of the medical closest EMS unit at that moemergency often requires imment was at I-285 at Memorimediate EMS transport to the al Drive, some 20 miles away. hospital. Field care only goes This was unacceptable then so far. and is unacceptable today.

National standards, and In early 2017, DeKalb the DeKalb County EMS conCounty EMS/AMR unveiled tract itself, require an EMS a mitigation plan to post a unit to arrive within nine single EMS unit at a Dunminutes for 90 percent of all calls. But woody fire station. That unit did not stay in Dunwoody, EMS/AMR units rarely arin place because medical calls in central rive within nine minutes. DeKalb CounDeKalb County are so voluminous that ty EMS/AMR arrival is late by 15 minutes, AMR opted to post its units in the central 30 minutes, 45 minutes and sometimes part of the county. as late as 60 minutes. Even worse, at least On May 29, 2018, when asked to adone time in Dunwoody, EMS/AMR was a dress the deficient service in Dunwoody, no-show.

DeKalb EMS/AMR announced a repeat Despite admitting the delayed EMS/ of the same single-unit mitigation plan.

AMR response problem was “widely acAs before, it has again proven to be insufknowledged,” DeKalb County has not ficient. Delayed EMS/AMR incidents in pursued a “for cause” termination of the Dunwoody continue to occur.

EMS/AMR contract throughout the five Dunwoody City Council formalyears. By contrast, it is common for othly asked the state EMS Council to open er counties with private EMS providers Dunwoody as a dedicated EMS zone. to provide the radio dispatch service and Dunwoody is prepared to make the insupplemental compensation to its EMS vestment in public safety that DeKalb provider.

County should have made in the years Not only does DeKalb County not prosince 2013. vide any such investment, it charges the This is an EMS Emergency for DunEMS provider an annual fee, reported by woody residents, visitors, and businessAMR as $750,000 per year. This is backes. Dunwoody has become the forgotten wards from best practices and is a maarea of DeKalb County. We need the very jor reason DeKalb County EMS/AMR rebest level of dedicated EMS zone coversponse times are so awful. AMR is forced age. to invest in revenue to DeKalb County A dedicated Dunwoody EMS zone will rather than invest in compliant EMS deimprove the EMS services for the benelivery. fit of the public welfare. Dunwoody owes Dunwoody leaders registered comit to our residents and visitors because plaints early and often with DeKalb Counpublic safety is our job Number One.

Terry Nall

Reporter Newspapers wins 12 Georgia Press Association awards Reporter Newspapers won 12 awards — including seven first-place honors in its division — in the Georgia Press Association’s 2018 Better Newspaper Contest, whose winners were announced June 8.

The Reporter’s first-place honorees included: Photographer Phil Mosier, in news, sports and spot news categories; Managing Editor John Ruch for Business Writing in the Perimeter Business section; Robin Conte, whose “Robin’s Nest” column won in two categories; and Creative Director Rico Figliolini for Page One design.

Staff writer Dyana Bagby won second place in the “Enterprise Story” cate-

gory for her coverage of rapid changes to the communities along Buford Highway in Brookhaven.

The Reporter also won awards for local news coverage; website; layout and design; and “general excellence.”

The awards honored work that appeared in the Brookhaven, Buckhead, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs newspapers.

The Reporter’s sister publication, Atlanta INtown, also won a first-place honor in Magazine Commentary/Opinion Writing for Sally Bethea’s “Above the Waterline” column.

The awards were given in the name of

the Reporter’s parent company, Springs Publishing. Publisher Steve Levene accepted the awards at a June 8 ceremony on Jekyll Island, Ga. The GPA is a 132-year-old organization of Georgia newspapers. Its Better Newspaper Contest is statewide and this year was judged by members of the Kansas and Oklahoma press associations. Entries were judged in seven divisions based on the newspapers’ circulation. Reporter Newspapers was judged in the division that includes all weekly newspapers with a circulation over 15,000 and all of the GPA’s “associate media members.”

BK

JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Commentary | 15

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Love reveals itself in tender mercies I saw a movie many years ago called “Tender Mercies.”

I don’t remember much about it except that Robert Duvall was in it and it took place somewhere in the Southwest. I recently googled it out of curiosity and learned that Duvall played a has-been country music star in the film and won an Academy Award for his performance.

But what stuck with me for all these decades was the title.

It haunted me because I think it speaks to what we yearn for so often in our human condition…tender mercies.

We want to be loved, we want to be understood, we want to be happy, we want our needs to be met, but in the dearth of any of those things, tender mercies can see us through.

Being the curious being that I am and searching for fodder for this column, I poked around a bit and learned that the title phrase of the movie comes from the Psalms -specifically, Psalms 145:9. I investigated a little more and discovered a variety of translations for that particular psalm.

The King James Bible translates it this way: “The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.”

Many other translations, however, use the word “comRobin Conte is a writer passion” instead of the word “mercies” or “tender mercies.” and mother of four who There’s nothing wrong with compassion. Merriam-Webster lives in Dunwoody. She defines compassion as “sympathetic consciousness of others’ can be contacted at distress together with a desire to alleviate it.” And a quick therobinjm@earthlink.net. saurus check of the term will call up words like empathy, concern, kindness, care, and consideration.

But compassion, benevolent as it is, seems to me somewhat sterile, somehow distant. Mercy seems to be a call to action.

And tender mercy gives us the intent, invokes that gentleness of spirit that transforms an action into a transcendent moment. With tender mercies, we experience a softening of the heart, a catch in the throat, a transformation in both the giver and receiver.

With tender mercies, we experience the divine.

June is the traditional month for weddings, and my typical wish for couples who are joining together in matrimony is a life filled with love and joy. Now, having been seasoned by age and joy and yet a few sorrows and many disappointments, I have come to realize that joy has its counterpart in tender mercies.

When we are too discouraged to rejoice, we can still find solace in something as simple as a sunrise, a hummingbird, a wildflower…tender mercies in the natural world that surrounds us. If our hearts are open, we can find comfort in a smile, a gentle word, a thoughtful act...tender mercies offered by the people around us. And we can bring tender mercies to others, with a comforting word, a sympathetic ear, a forgiving heart.

The Beatles famously sang that “All you need is love.” I’ll agree with that.

And I submit that love in its strongest, yet gentlest form reveals itself in tender mercies.

Robin’s Nest

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Introducing Robin Conte’s debut book ‘The Best of the Nest’ “The Best of the Nest” offers 49 of Reporter Newpapers columnist Robin Conte’s witty essays on suburban family life, organized by seasons. They include some of the pieces that won Robin the first-place Lifestyle/Features Column award in the 2017 Georgia Press Association contest.

To follow updates on Robin’s book-related appearances, visit robinconte.com To order the book, visit bestofthenest.net BK

1Q.com/reporter or text REPORTER to 86312

22 | Community

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Branding Brookhaven: New CVB mission to create city’s own identity Continued from page 1 well-known cities in metro Atlanta and across the country. Money for the branding is coming from tourism dollars raised through the city’s hotel-motel tax.

Doing so ensures economic development for the city as well as a sense of community pride, according to City Manager Christian Sigman.

“We are establishing a regional and national presence because if not we will wither and die if nobody knows who we are,” Sigman said in an interview.

For example, he said, if someone mentions Vail, Colo., most people immediately have happy thoughts of skiing. Closer to home, he said, Sandy Springs tends to have a “corporate vibe” and Dunwoody is known as a bedroom community combined with Perimeter Mall and large offices in Perimeter Center. Decatur has a definite brand as well and even Chamblee is gaining the reputation for being a younger city with undertones of a blue-collar demographic.

“But when you say Brookhaven, you get the deer in the headlights look because no one knows who we are,” Sigman said.

“We have to find that thing that makes it us.”

The branding effort includes a yearlong commitment to purchase and place ads in Delta Air Line’s Sky Magazine that reaches 300,000 people a month worldwide. Last September, the city began purchasing full-page ads for $15,000 a month, spending approximately a total of $135,000 for nine months.

The city has also placed full-page ads the 2018 Stanley Cup official game program with games played in Washington, D.C. and Las Vegas; the 2018 College Football National Championship played at the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta; the 2018 Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl, also played at the Mercedes Benz Stadium; the Atlanta Hawks Lookbook for the 2017-18 season; and the special edition of the Atlanta Braves magazine for its inaugural season at Sun Trust Park.

An open records request shows the city paid Professional Sports Publications, a New York agency, $41,500 in three transactions between Jan. 1, 2017 and May 31, 2018. Professional Sports Publications specializes in placing ads in professional sports guides, but what these specific payments were for was not readily known.

City spokesperson Burke Brennan said the city paid $37,500 to be in the 2018 Stanley Cup program and the NBA Finals program guide. The city also paid $37,500 to be in both program guides for the NCAA Final Four and the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl.

The city also purchased ads in Georgia Trend magazine last year for $8,150 and $6,500 for 2018.

Free tickets to the sporting events are included with the advertisements, but Sig-

The city of Brookhaven purchased the back-page ad of the 2018 National College Championship program guide using hotel-motel tax money.

The city has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on such ads as part of an aggressive marketing and branding campaign.

man said the city always declines them.

The ads are created in-house by the Communications Department.

“Whether through Discover DeKalb, the city of Brookhaven and/or the Brookhaven CVB, it is important to note that all of these expenditures listed above are derived from hotel-motel tax proceeds which are designated by state law for tourism promotion,” Brennan said. “In other words, we are legally obligated to spend these funds in this fashion, and cannot use these funds for other purposes, such as police, public works, parks, etc.”

Brookhaven is not the only city advertising in such guides. Sandy Springs and Atlanta are in some of the same guides and cities from across the country also market themselves to reach as many people as possible.

“We’re establishing a regional and national presence because that’s what entities do. That’s what governments do, what churches do, what the Boy Scouts do,” Sigman said. “All cities do it.”

Money to pay for these types of branding ads is coming from the $1 million budget the city’s new CVB received as part of raising the city’s hotel-motel tax from 5 percent to 8 percent last year. The tax in-

SPECIAL

crease is tied to funding the Peachtree Creek Greenway but also includes money for tourism and can only be spent on tourism projects, Sigman said.

The city is also planning to spend $37,500 in a package deal to run ads in the official program guide for the 2019 Super Bowl to be played at Mercedes Benz Stadium and the official program guide for the 2019 NFL Pro Bowl game to be played in Orlando, Fla. A proposal to spend $100,000 on an ad in the Super Bowl guide to include four tickets to the game was eventually rejected by the CVB board for something more “modest,” Sigman said. The idea to hold a raffle for the Super Bowl tickets was part of that original idea, but logistics to do so were too complicated, he added.

The city spent nearly $50,000 to have a vendor booth for two days at Music Midtown this year and will likely do it again this year, he said. The booth was used to promote the Peachtree Creek Greenway, the Cherry Blossom Festival, seek out police recruits and let people know more about Brookhaven. Tickets did come with the vendor booths, but they were given to Oglethorpe University students, he said.

Before this year, Brookhaven heavi-

ly relied on Discover DeKalb, the tourism agency for all of DeKalb County, to try to market the city. But with the new funds coming in from the hotel-motel tax increase, the City Council decided it was time to focus on the city’s own individual restaurants, parks, festivals and other amenities to attract visitors and businesses, Sigman said. The city still collaborates with and pays Discover DeKalb to advertise in major publications or on billboards, for example.

The local CVB is also cross-marketing with local institutions such as Oglethorpe University, the Atlanta Hawks and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. A new restaurant association is in the works that will also come under the CVB banner to promote local eateries.

Promoting the city using these assets, as well as more direct city assets such as the Peachtree Creek Greenway under development, great parks, the best roads in Georgia ... creates a sense of place, purpose, and pride for being a community [and] being a city, Sigman explained.

And as Brookhaven works to determine its own identity, it is competing against other established cities, which Sigman described as “overt and subtle competition.”

The subtle ways cities market themselves is to show people they should live there, raise their families there and become a place they are proud to call home, Sigman said.

Those kinds of metrics cannot really be measured, but aggressive marketing and branding like advertisements in national magazines are intended to attract companies like the Weather Company or the Atlanta Hawks over a big-box store to grow the city’s property digest, increase the city’s wealth and provide a better overall living experience for all residents living in Brookhaven, Sigman said.

“We have to take overt actions now,” he said. “We are in our early formative stages and we need to get our name out there and these are the kinds of things we have to do.”

Sigman takes exception to the argument that perhaps Brookhaven is perhaps too small or doesn’t need to spend so much money advertising itself because it is not a city like Vail where tourists clamor to go to skiing, or even the small Outer Banks with its vast, scenic beaches.

Brookhaven doesn’t need those kinds of attractions to create an identity, he said. And creating an identity must begin somewhere. Advertising in magazines is part of that.

“We are a halo city to a world-class city,” he said. “We don’t have to have Mercedes Benz Stadium in our corporate limits to brand ourselves.”

The long-term benefit is that pride in a community creates a brand equity that everybody benefits from, Sigman said.

BK

16 | Art & Entertainment

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Author Emily Giffin

discusses Atlanta, her favorite bookshops, and more

Q: Author Emily Giffin.

SPECIAL

A:

BY EVELYN ANDREWS evelyn@reporternewspapers.net

Emily Giffin ‘All We Ever Wanted’ book launch party Thursday, June 28, 7:30-9 p.m.

MJCCA 5324 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody 30338 Tickets $30-$35. Info: atlantajcc.org/bookfestival

Emily Giffin is a novelist with a string of bestsellers she aims to continue in her ninth book, “All We Ever Wanted.” She’s also a Buckhead resident whose love of her city has helped to inform her books.

“Atlanta is such a diverse, beautiful city, but there is no more beautiful part than Buckhead,” Giffin said in an email interview.

Giffin will appear June 28 at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta in Dunwoody in support of her new book.

Her first novel, “Something Borrowed” was adapted for a 2011 movie starring Kate Hudson, Ginnifer Godwin and John Krasinski. She lives in Buckhead near Pace Academy, the school her children attend.

In the following Q&A, Giffin answered the Reporter’s questions about Atlanta, writing and more.

Q: Do any of your books have referenc-

es to Atlanta or inspired by places you go here?

A: I’ve set two books in Atlanta, includ-

ing my novel before this release, “First Comes Love.” I’m so proud of this diverse, vibrant city and think it makes a fabulous backdrop for my characterdriven and relationship-rich stories.

A review of “All We Ever Wanted” said the book is timely given the #MeToo movement. Were you inspired by that movement for this book?

Q:

How is this book different from your previous novels?

A:

This is the first book I’ve written that includes a male perspective, and the first time I’ve written from three different points of view. It’s also the first time I’ve really tackled issues of social class, white privilege and entitlement.

Interestingly, the #MeToo movement didn’t begin until I was mostly finished writing the novel. So in a sense, it was one of those “life imitating art” situations. And while the movement itself didn’t directly influence the book, I definitely wanted to tell a story that focused on women learning to seize control of their lives and, more pointedly, fighting back against having our voices and our concerns minimized. In other words, I am certainly aware of the sexism, and sometimes outright misogyny, in our society, and I think some of these concerns shaped the story, particularly the story arcs for the two main female narrators, Nina and Lyla.

Q:

What was it like to have a novel made into a movie?

A:

It was surreal and so much fun. I’m also really thrilled to announce that I’m developing a TV series with Black Label Media, the same producer who worked on the film “Something Borrowed.”

JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Art & Entertainment | 17

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Q: Q: What are your favorite bookstores?

A: In Buckhead, I usually go to my local Barnes & Noble, though there are so many great stores in the Atlanta area: A Capella Books (I love Frank Reiss, the owner) and Posman Books in Ponce City Market are two favorites. In the metro Atlanta area, I also love Eagle Eye Books in Decatur, FoxTale Book Shoppe in Woodstock, and Avid Bookshop in Athens.

Q: Are you friends with any other Atlanta authors?

A: I absolutely adore fellow Wake For-

est alum Kate T. Parker (“Strong is the New Pretty”). I’m also friends with novelists Susan Rebecca White, Colleen Oakley, Mary Kay Andrews and Patti Callahan Henry (though sadly for Atlanta, Patti relocated to Birmingham).

What was the first book you remember reading that had a profound effect on you?

A:

Goodness, there are just so many.

Too many to name. But I read Carson McCuller’s “A Member of the Wedding” in high school and it really changed and inspired me. I can still conjure all of the intense feelings that story awoke in me.

Q:

How has your writing evolved since you first began your career?

A:

I like to think that my writing continues to improve with every novel. I think the issues in my book have also evolved, which isn’t surprising given that I was 29, single and childless when I wrote my first novel. I’m now 46, married withs three children (two of them teens). The stakes in life have become much greater for both me and my characters.

18 | Art & Entertainment

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Senior musicians are still playin’ after all these years

PHOTOS BY JOE EARLE

Above, Clark Brown practices mandolin in his Brookhaven living room.

Right, Violinist Ronda Respess.

BY JOE EARLE Ronda Respess grew up in a musical family in New Jersey. Her mother was a pianist, her father a cellist. An aunt was a professional musician in Boston. Ronda was handed a violin when she was very young.

“There was a violin in the house that had belonged to my grandfather,” the 71-year-old Sandy Springs resident recalled recently. “My mother decided she would give it to me when I was young.

When I was 4 or 5, she took me into New York to get lessons.”

In fourth grade, she took lessons in her public school in New Jersey. She kept playing and earned a music degree from Indiana University. Then, in 1969, she took a job with the Atlanta Sympho-

ny Orchestra. She’s been there since, playing with the ASO for 49 years.

Along the way, the 71-year-old Sandy Springs resident has played dozens of concerts a year with the orchestra and performed all sorts of music. She’s played Carnegie Hall. More than a few times.

Respess isn’t the only older musician in metro Atlanta who’s still taking the stage after decades of performances. Performing music once may have seemed a young person’s game, but no more. From Atlanta Symphony Hall to farmers’ markets to arenas, local stages regularly host shows by musicians who display more than a touch of gray but are still playing after all these years.

Tom Gray, who once headed an Atlanta-based New Wave band named The Brains and now leads a blues band called Delta Moon, admits there was a time he thought it seemed laughable to say he’d still be playing music in bars past age 40.

“I thought that was old,” he said during a chat at a coffee shop in Decatur, where he now lives. How does he feel now about taking the stage at age 66?

“Actually, I feel good. I enjoy it still. I have to be more careful and I have to work harder than when I was young, but it’s still possible. It’s still fun.”

With the ASO, Respess regularly plays classics by composers such as Brahms and Beethoven, but she’s also developed a taste for newer works by modern orhestral composers. She simply likes being a part of the orchestra, no matter what they’re playing. She also has given back to the metro Atlanta musical community in other ways. She teaches and founded and serves as artistic director of Sandy Springs-based Franklin Pond Chamber Music, which promotes chamber music by young performers.

“I just love the music,” she said. “I just love being part of the collaboration that puts a piece like Brahms Two together. I’m more a collaborative person than a soloist. I love working all the little parts together into one whole. The best part is I get to listen to it from right there in the middle of the orchestra.”

She says it’s the music that’s kept her engaged for nearly half a century.

“It wasn’t the violin as much as the music,” she said. The violin was the vehicle.

I can’t say I fell in love with the violin. I fell in love with the music.”

But now she finds the work demands more of her physically, so after nearly a half-century of playing professionally, she’s contemplating retirement from the orchestra. She hasn’t decided when she wants to leave, she said. “I want to retire before I feel like I’m not doing the job the way I

When we play someplace, people know we’re playing for fun. It’s a way to be with people who are likeminded and just want to enjoy an activity together.

LYNDA ANDERSON

should,” she said.

Still, she plans to continue teaching and playing music after she retires. “I’ll play myself or play in quartets. Who knows?” she said. “I’m going to do what I want to do. I enjoy playing violin.”

In Brookhaven, Mandolin and guitar player and teacher Clark Brown, who’s 65, says his retirement from a career in the printing business means he can find more time to play music.

Brown first picked up a guitar as a teenager. He wanted to play rock and roll at first. “It was the ‘60s and everybody played guitar. I’d seen the Beatles on TV,” he said. He switched to the mandolin in the 1970s.

About seven years ago, he started playing music fulltime.

He performed at church and found jobs at farmers’ markets, weddings and Christmas parties. He arranged Beatles songs and other familiar pop tunes for the mando-

JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Art & Entertainment | 19

John and Lynda Anderson play their ukuleles on the screen porch of their Decatur home.

lin and developed a following.

Now his house is filled with mandolins – he has five – and guitars. He teaches mandolin and guitar at a music school in Decatur. The average age of his students, he said, is about 60.

“I love music,” Brown said. “One of my students the other day said, ‘I haven’t played my mandolin this week,’ and I said, ‘I’ve played three different mandolins and a guitar today.’”

John and Lynda Anderson like playing for an audience, too. “When we play someplace, people know we’re playing for fun. It’s a way to be with people who are like-minded and just want to enjoy an activity together,” Lynda Anderson said one recent afternoon as the couple picked ukulele tunes while sitting on the screen porch of their instrumentfilled home.

The Andersons play all sorts of instruments and all sorts of music. John, who’s 70 and retired from a four-decade career at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, plays clarinet, banjo, ukulele, guitar, harmonica,

squeezebox and hammered dulcimer.

Lynda, who’s 69 and a retired schoolteacher, plays mountain dulcimer, recorder, ukulele, guitar and bass guitar.

They perform together publicly a couple of dozen times a year with another pair of musicians as the Ukulele Society of Decatur. John also plays banjo in an old-time country dance band called the Peavine Creek String Band (named for the creek that runs through the yard of their Decatur home) and bass clarinet with the Callanwolde Concert Band.

“It’s fun to play,” John Anderson said.

“It’s also fun to have an effect, to perform for people. If people respond to you positively, it’s great.”

Gray says he, too, still feels a thrill when he’s in front of a receptive audience.

“A good show is always fun,” he said.

“It was when I was a kid and it is now.

When you’re onstage connecting with an audience and when energy is flowing both ways … that has not changed a bit since I was young.”

Let’s talk about something retirement communities hardly ever mention.

Accreditation.

Because having the confidence and peace of mind of accreditation is important.

So, let’s talk.

The Piedmont at Buckhead is accredited

by CARF International. It’s an independent organization that sets exceedingly high standards for care and service.

It’s a lot like an accreditation for a hospital or college.

Or a five-star rating for a hotel.

But like most things in life, you have to see it to believe it. So, let’s talk some more at a complimentary lunch and tour. Please call 404.381.1743 to schedule.

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

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

Leaders of the Jewish Democratic Women’s Salon were incorrectly identified in the June 8 “Around Town” column. They are, from left, Joanie Shubin, Kate Kratovil and Valerie Habif. To read the column online, see ReporterNewspapers.net.

20 | Education

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Madeline Janowski North Springs Charter High School

changer. It set everything in place,” she said.

Madeline’s mother, Stephanie, described how fencing is like a large family, where many fencers will see each other at multiple tournaments and constantly give each other encouragement and advice.

“You can lose a bout and the other fencer will come over and say, ‘You know what, if you had done this move or that move, you could have gotten a touch on me’.”

Madeline says her parents have been extremely supportive of her fencing, saying that they “have always driven me to reach the next level, to be competitive and achieve great things.”

In addition to the moral and motivational support, Madeline recognized the physical and financial effort her family has put into helping her succeed by taking her to practice and traveling with Madeline to her national competitions, often turning them into family vacations.

Her coaches also, she says, have been vital to her success, always giving her support and helping her practice, as well as just being there for her when she needs them. She found the fencing club she practices at because it was right near her house, but she has stayed with the club despite multiple new locations as she has developed relationships with her coaches and continues to learn from them.

Her coach, Kathy Vail, said that Madeline’s focus, determination and ability to set goals for herself are extremely impressive and are key reasons for her success. Coach Vail believes that Madeline is well on her way to a Division I NCAA Fencing scholarship.

“As a coach, it’s really a pleasure to work with a student like Madeline, who really enjoys her sport and understands the importance of hard work and really brings a lot to the table as an athlete,” Vail said.

At 7 years old, Madeline Janowski learned of what we become her passion: fencing.

Now, eight years later, the rising ninth-grader, who will attend North Springs Charter High School in August, has excelled within a very competitive sport, winning the state championship and competing on a national level.

Madeline became interested in fencing from watching it during the Olympics. Like many kids, she had played team sports at a young age, but her parents encouraged her to adopt an individual sport to help her build character and self-confidence.

“My parents wanted something more individual, and they came across fencing. They knew I was already kind of interested in it,” she said, so they signed her up for lessons.

Madeline fences with the epee, the most commonly used weapon in Georgia competitions. She competes in tournaments consisting of two rounds: pools and direct elimination.

The tournaments she has attended have ranged from just three fencers to over two hundred. A fencing match, or bout, consists of two fencers trying to score points -- called touches -- by touching the other person with their weapon. When one is using the epee, the whole body is in play.

Fencing didn’t always come easy for Madeline.

“At first I was kind of nervous about it and it took me some time to be able to fence other people,” Madeline said. “It wasn’t just: Hey, you wanna go fence?”

After a year and a half of fencing, she competed in her first national tournament.

Left, Madeline Janowski poses with her trophy after winning the 2018 state championship.

“I did absolutely awRight, Madeline Janowski fences against opponent at the ful, but it was cool to see 2017 North American Cup competition. all of that. It was a game

Standout Student

Education Briefs DEK A L B A S S I G N S N EW P EA C H TREE MID D LE PR INCIPAL

The DeKalb County School District has assigned a new principal to Peachtree Charter Middle School in Dunwoody.

Donnie Davis, a former assistant principal at Henderson Middle School in DeKalb County, will serve as the next principal, according to a letter to parents.

Davis replaces Scott Hepinstall, who had been the principal since 2009. Hepinstall was reassigned to another position in the school district following criticism over the schools administration’s handling of a widely-reported bullying incident in late 2017.

The school foundation plans to host an event to meet Davis on July 11 at the school, 4664 North Peachtree Road, from 5 to 6 p.m.

N OR T H SP RI N GS STUDEN TS C RE ATE AR T F O R S A N DY SP RIN GS C H A MBER EVENT

Two North Springs Charter High School art students designed table centerpieces for the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber’s event benefitting a nonprofit.

The June 12 event raised money for The Drake House, a Roswell-based nonprofit that provides housing and education for homeless single mothers.

The art students, Zoel Keith and Devante George, and their teacher John Gresens, used laser cutters to design and create wooden centerpieces for the Drake House Fashion Show, Rockin’ the Runway, which was held at the UPS headquarters in Sandy Springs.

“This is our 6th annual Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber Women’s Business Network fashion show benefitting The Drake House,” said, “and this year we are excited to unveil our new theme and branded name, Rockin’ the Runway, and collaborate with North Springs’ amazing art department on wooden centerpiece silhouettes that reflect this theme.”

What’s next?

Madeline is excited to compete in the Georgia high school fencing league, which will provide her with more competitions and more experience. She will continue to practice with Coach Vail at her current fencing club as she aims to improve and achieve even greater success.

As for her fencing, she’d like to continue to go as far as she can, perhaps to international competitions or play in the college league.

This article was written and reported by Max Goldstein, a student at Atlanta Jewish Academy.

Editor’s Note: Through our “Standout Student” series, Reporter Newspapers showcases some of the outstanding students at our local schools. To recommend a “Standout Student” for our series, please email editor@ReporterNewspapers.net with information about the student and why you think he or she should be featured.

“We will use them for years to come and are proud to share this example of bringing the business, non-profit and educational worlds together to support such a great cause,” said Karen Trylovich, the chair of the Women’s Business Network, the committee of the chamber that hosted the event.

Gresens praised the partnership as a way for the students to be a part of the community and work with other parts of the school, including the graphic design department, which helped them design the pieces. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for the kids to reach outside to the community and we’ve all learned something new,” he said.

R IVERWO O D S TUDENT S V I S IT G ER M A NY

Three Riverwood International Charter School Students are visiting Germany as part of a program led by former Fulton County Chairman John Eaves.

Malcolm Stewart, LaBrauns Stinson and Zechiah Weekley were chosen to participate in the 2018 Global Youth Ambassador Program, according to a press release.

The students are attending high school classes in Nuremberg, visiting Munich and Berlin and cultural sites.

The students stay with local families, according to the release.

SPECIAL

Malcolm Stewart, left, LaBrauns Stinson, second from left, and Zechiah Weekley, right, will visit Germany as part of program led by former Fulton County Chairman John Eaves, third from left.

JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Classifieds | 21

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Reporter Classifieds

SERVICES AVAILABLE

APARTMENT FOR RENT

Dentist - Center for Pan-Asian Community Services seeks Dentist to est. Dental program policies & procedures; provide patient services; review/recommend fees for scope of practice; train/oversee Dept Staff; ensure compliance w/ Fed/State safety policies; maintain current knowledge on Dental practices & procedures.

Required: DDS degree & license to practice in GA. 40hrs/wk. Mail resumes to Klyde Kim, Director of HR, 3510 Shallowford Road NE Atlanta, GA 30341.

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

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Candidate needs experience with all aspects of management including accounting, collections, office and maintenance personnel management, directing vendors and contractors, developing best practices and assisting in the development of annual budgets and long range planning. Candidate must have absolute understanding of condominium documents and excellent communication skills to interact with Board and home owners. Send resume to sandyspringscondominium@gmail. com

REAL ESTATE INVESTOR LOOKING FOR PARTNERS GREAT RETURN. INVESTMENT GUARANTEE WITH PROPERTIES.

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Big Library Book Sale July 7 - 14 365 Mt. Vernon Highway Stock up for summer reading!

The library will be closing for extensive renovations.

All used book inventory priced at $1ea.

10 am – 6 pm daily

CALL WILLIAM NOW 404-446-6146

Home Services Directory

Matthew’s Handy Services – Small jobs & chores are my specialties!

Shelves, organizers, carpentry, drywall, painting, etc.

BBB rated. Call 404-547-2079 or email: mwarren8328@gmail.com Property Home Tending by Charles – “On the market or just Away.” Regular inspections of unoccupied property. Call 404-229-0490.

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CEMETERY PLOTS Arlington Memorial Cemetery - 3 lots for sale in the Calvary Section located in lot 276D, spaces 2, 3 & 4. Asking $5,900 each or $17,000 for all. This section is almost sold out and prices through the cemetery would be $,6,900 each. Beautiful views and the most desirable section. Cemetery will assist in showing. Email: mrmccabe@hotmail.com Two beautiful plots - Discounted, Overlooks the Lake and beneath Oak tree. Arlington Memorial Park – 770-596-1093.

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Bring it by or call us for an estimate today and get polished for the holidays!

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JUNE 22 - JULY 5, 2018

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Public Safety | 23

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Police Blotter / Brookhaven From Brookhaven Police reports dated June 10 through June 17. The following information was pulled from Brookhaven’s Police-2-Citizen website.

T H E F T A N D B U R G L A RY 1200 block of Druid Knoll Drive — On

June 10, around midnight, items were reported missing from a vehicle.

1200 block of Druid Knoll Drive — On

June 10, in the early morning, an entering auto incident was reported.

3500 block of Brook-

leigh Lane — On June 10, in the early morning, an entering auto incident was reported.

1200 block of Druid

Knoll Drive — On June 10, in the early morning, items were reported missing from a vehicle.

1200 block of Druid

ARRESTS

ported stolen from a car.

vated stalking incident was reported.

4400 block of Peachtree Road — On

3500 block of Buford Highway — On

2000 block of N. Druid Hills Road —

June 12, at noon, a theft was reported.

June 10, in the early morning, a criminal trespass incident was reported.

On June 10, in the early morning, a man was arrested and accused of public intoxication and consumption.

3100 block of Buford Highway — On

June 12, in the afternoon, a car was stolen.

3800 block of Peachtree Road — On

June 12, in the afternoon, a theft was reported.

4100

block of Peachtree Road — On June 12, in the afternoon, items were stolen from a car.

2900 block of Clair-

mont Road — On June 12, at night, a theft was reported.

A S S AU LT 1400 block of N. Cliff

Knoll Drive — On June 10, in the early morning, an entering auto incident was reported.

Valley Way — On June 10, in the early morning, a criminal trespass incident was reported.

1200 block of Druid Knoll Drive — On

2000 block of Buford Highway — On

June 10, in the morning, five cars were illegally entered.

June 10, in the early morning, an aggra-

3400 block of Clairmont Road — On

June 12, in the afternoon, a simple assault was reported.

2400 block of Briarcliff Road — On

June 12, in the evening, a simple battery incident was reported.

1700 block of Johnson Ferry Road —

On June 10, in the evening, a man was arrested and accused of driving without a license.

3300 block of Clairmont Road — On

— On June 12, at night, a simple assault was reported.

June 10, in the evening, a man was arrested and accused of marijuana possession.

3400 block of Clairmont Road — On

1900 block of Bramblewood Drive —

2300 block of North Druid Hills Road

June 13, in the evening, a woman was arrested and accused of aggravated assault.

3500 block of Buford Highway — On

June 16, in the early morning, a woman was arrested and accused of family violence.

3400 block of Buford Highway — On

June 17, in the early morning, a woman was arrested and accused of family violence.

On June 10, at night, a man was arrested and accused of driving unlicensed.

1500 block of Nancy Creek Drive — On

June 11, in the afternoon, a woman was arrested and accused of special prohibitions in a park.

800 block of Town Boulevard — On

June 11, in the afternoon, a woman was arrested and accused of committing a hit and run.

1200 block of Druid Knoll Drive — On

June 10, in the morning, items were removed from a car.

2700 block of Apple Valley Road — On

June 10, in the evening, an entering auto incident was reported.

2800 block of Brookhaven View — On

June 10, in the evening, items were taken from a car.

700 block of Brookhaven Way — On

June 10, in the evening, items were taken from a car.

1700 block of Foresta Court — On June

10, at night, an entering auto incident was reported.

3700 block of Ashford Trace — On

June 11, in the early morning, items were taken from a car.

700 block of Brookhaven Avenue —

On June 11, in the morning, two people reported items missing from cars.

2400 block of Briarcliff Road — On

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June 11, in the morning, an entering auto incident was reported.

1100 block of Town Boulevard — On

June 11, in the evening, items were reported stolen from a car.

2400 block of Briarcliff Road — On

June 11, in the evening, items were reBK

Real Innovation for Real Cooks 761 Miami Circle, Suite D | Atlanta, GA 30324 404.233.6131 | www.builderspecialties.net

24 |

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NOW OPEN

Pediatric urgent care right in your neighborhood Children’s at Chamblee-Brookhaven You now have convenient access to pediatric urgent care in the Chamblee-Brookhaven neighborhood. So the next time your child’s doctor is unavailable, ours will be standing by, including evenings and holidays.

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©2018 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

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choa.org/urgentcare

In the Parkview on Peachtree shopping center