093016 Sandy Spring Reporter by Reporter Newspapers

SEPTEMBER 30 - OCT. 13, 2016 • VOL. 10— NO. 20 FACEBOOK.COM/THEREPORTERNEWSPAPERS

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Perimeter Business ► Consulates help small businesses cross borders PAGE 4 ► Electric bikes roll into Perimeter PAGE 5

I’m so ready for this race!

City to rent ‘affordable’ house to police and firefighters BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net

The city of Sandy Springs will rent one Hammond Drive house as affordable housing for police or firefighters, while demolishing two others, the City Council decided Sept. 20. The house at 521 Hammond will be offered to city public safety workers, likely for $500 a month, following repairs estimated to cost $10,500. And 418 and 550 Hammond See CITY on page 12

PHIL MOSIER

From left, Laura Avalos, 10, Yuliana Villanueva, 9, Juan Seruin Jr. 7, and Sage Allen, 9, get in position for the sack race finale held during the Fiesta in the Park event at Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church on Sept. 25. The festival benefited Los Ninos Primero, a Sandy Springs educational program serving at-risk Latino preschoolers and their families. Sage won the race.

EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATOR ‘On fire’ for art

Page 20

... An inclusive, better educated and empowered community provides better opportunities for everybody.

BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net A 2.5-hour forum about the new Braves stadium’s traffic impacts on Sandy Springs, held Sept. 21 at Riverwood International Charter School drew about 250 residents, the mayor, state legislators, a Cobb County commissioner and a state Department of Transportation board member. What the forum didn’t have was the Braves. Reed Haggard, president of the Riverside Homeowners Association, which orga-

Javier Díaz de León

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2 | Community

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Community Briefs CITY, CHURCH ‘NEGOTIATING’ SANDY SPRINGS CIRCLE PLAN

The city and Sandy Springs United Methodist Church say they are “negotiating” about a controversial redesign of Sandy Springs Circle after the church last month delivered over 500 peti-

tions in opposition. That includes “another look” at whether the plan will include separate sidewalks and multi-use paths, according to church pastor Rev. Thomas Martin. The city’s redesign plan focuses on the section of Sandy Springs Circle be-

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tween Mount Vernon Highway and Hammond Drive. On the street, the plan turns two travel lanes into on-street, parallel parking. On the curbsides, the plan adds sidewalks where there are none, as well as a multi-use path. The plan dates back to a concept in the 2012 City Center Master Plan. But, SPECIAL since it was unveiled The Sandy Springs Police Department will purchase another in March, the plan small throwable robot to use for building searches. has drawn controversy and surprise, espeing on Sept. 20. cially for the lanes-to-parking change, Sandy Springs Police already own the multi-use path and limited pubone of the throwable robots, called the lic information meetings. The church Throwbot XT, and will spend the $15,894 is concerned the plan would move its grant from the U.S. Department of Jusdriveway and possibly take away land tice on buying a second one. The rofor an undisclosed private development bot will be available to the North Metro next to its building. SWAT Team, a collaborative force with

POLICE TO PURCHASE MINI ROBOT

The Sandy Springs Police Department will purchase a small robot designed to be thrown into dangerous buildings for surveillance after the City Council approved accepting grant fund-

officers from Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Johns Creek. The Throwbot is essentially a set of wheels with a tail to keep it steady, and a camera and microphone built into the axle. It’s about 8 inches wide and weighs about 1 pound. The motorized device can be tossed into a doorway or window and then drive around on its own, transmitting video and sound back to officers outside. The camera has an infrared system that allows it to see in darkness. The robot’s primary use is searching a building for possible armed suspects without putting any officers or police dogs in direct danger, Police Chief Ken DeSimone said. DeSimone, who served as a Marine in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, said he saw Throwbots used there for similar purposes. DeSimone brought the department’s current Throwbot model and demonstrated its use by tossing it from the podium to the floor in front of the mayor and council’s table. Earlier this year, the council approved the department’s request for the grant amid some “RoboCop” jokes.

FULTON COUNTY TO PAY EMPLOYEES ‘LIVING WAGE’

Fulton County’s commissioners have approved a plan to raise county employees’ salaries to an amount the county called “an annual living wage” of at least $31,000. The raises will be phased in over five years. They will increase paychecks for about 10 percent of the county workforce, the county said, and mean fulltime employees would make at least $14.90 an hour. “Increasing the wages of employees will not only help them make ends meet but also boost morale,” said FulSS

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ton County Board of Commissioners Chairman John Eaves. “Studies have found higher wages sharply reduce employee turnover and in the long run, that will save the county money in employment and training costs.” The council voted 5-2 on Sept. 21 to approve the pay hikes. Commissioners Liz Hausmann and Lee Morris voted against the proposal, a county spokesman said.

P L ANN I N G C OM M I SSI ON ER A PPOI N T ED

Andrea Cohen Settles was appointed to the city Planning Commission by the City Council Sept. 20. She replaces Steven Tart, who resigned. Settles was serving on the city’s Hospitality Board, so the council also named her replacement, Eugene F. Jordan.

44th annual Dunwoody Home Tour returns Oct. 5 The Dunwoody Home Tour returns Wednesday, Oct. 5 for its 44th year, featuring four houses in Dunwoody and Sandy Springs. The homes represent a variety of architectural styles and vintages, ranging from historic to new construction. One stop is the historic Mills B. Lane Jr. summer home on Spalding Mill in what is now Sandy Springs, built in 1938. The house is now home to a discerning collector of paintings, sculpture and antiques who calls the home his art gallery. Another stop is a 1978 home in the Georgian Colonial Revival style, that mainstay of Dunwoody architecture, which has undergone three years of renovation, including a new kitchen and a newly finished terrace level. The other two homes are in the Greek Revival style,

one built in 1978 and recently renovated, the other new custom construction. The tour is the major annual fundraiser of GFWC Dunwoody Woman’s Club, a member of both the GFWC Georgia Federation of Women’s Clubs and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, the country’s oldest organization of women devoted to advocacy in the areas of Arts, Conservation, Education, Home Life, International Outreach and Public Issues. Proceeds help fund college scholarships to high school seniors and women returning to college later in their lives; supporting Lost Corners Preserve in Sandy Springs; local schools’ libraries and art programs; and more than 30 other initiatives, including the Dunwoody Nature Center, Spruill Center for the Arts, Stage Door Players and Tallulah Falls School in

North Georgia, founded by GFWC GA. The tour runs 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 5. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door of the first stop, 5393 Redfield Circle, Dunwoody. For tickets and details, see dunwoodywomansclubs.com/home-tour.

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4 | Perimeter Business

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

Consulates help small businesses cross international borders BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net

The Indian government consulate for the Southeast, operating from a mansion on Sandy Springs’ Glenridge Drive, has the standard passport and visa office. But the main reason the consulate opened shop there in 2012 was to do business. The northern Perimeter area has 13 foreign government consulates, and many more unofficial “honorary consulates,” that play a little-known but key role in helping small businesses do international deals. “I jokingly say Sandy Springs is the only city with its own foreign policy, because we do have a significant number of consulates here,” said Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul. Countries with consulates in Paul’s city include India, Colombia, Costa Rica and Nigeria. And it’s not an accident—Paul’s predecessor, the late Mayor Eva Galambos, pushed hard to convince the Indian consulate to open in Sandy Springs. “Eva’s mindset, and it certainly still drives me today, is the world is no longer insular,” said Paul. “You’ve got to be able to look beyond your borders…If you’re not forming relationships around the world, you’re getting left in the dust.” Nagesh Singh, India’s consul general in Atlanta, said his country had business on its mind, too. “As the Southeast started emerging as

for example, frequently works with the Buckhead-based Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which represents mostly large corporations, and the Latin American Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, which represents mostly small businesses. Conexx, a private LEFT, CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS; RIGHT, CONSULATE GENERAL OF MEXICO, ATLANTA America-Israel busiAt left, Indian Consul General Nagesh Singh, left, receives a proclamation from Sandy Springs ness networking orMayor Rusty Paul last year. Right, from left, Javier Díaz de León, consul general, Consulate ganization serving the General of México in Atlanta, and Juan Perez and Gabriel Vaca, both with UPS, attend the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Membership Meeting on September 21. Southeast, frequently works on Perimeter small companies navigate rules, regulaa manufacturing hub…we started noticing business connections. tions and tax systems. And it goes both dithe growth here,” he said of the choice of a “Basically, it’s a triangle,” said Conexx rections—foreign companies coming here, Sandy Springs consulate. President Guy Tessler, describing the joint and vice versa. The booming Southeast economy also work among his organization, the Israe“The large corporations, the big boys, gets the attention of countries that are alli consulate in Atlanta, and the Israeli govhave their own ways of doing that,” Díaz ready longtime trading partners, such as ernment’s Economic Mission in New York said. “But we do help a lot of medium [and] Mexico, the second-biggest international City. Working together, he said, they can efsmall businesses.” buyer of Georgia goods. Mexico has long ficiently find the proper business partners Multinational companies like Coca-Cohad a metro Atlanta consulate, now operamong the hundreds or thousands availla and UPS also connect with the consulating from Chantilly Drive, just across I-85 able in the U.S. and Israeli economies. ates, the consul generals said, but more for from Brookhaven and Buckhead. That “triangle” recently went to work in direct talks about government policy rath“It’s no secret the Atlanta region has becreating an innovative Sister City relationer than nitty-gritty business help. come a multicultural and diverse market,” ship between Sandy Springs and the WestWhile the consulates act as a resource said Javier Díaz de Léon, Mexico’s consul ern Galilee Cluster, a group of local governfor business information, they don’t do it general and a Sandy Springs resident. alone. They often work with internationDíaz and Singh said their consulates’ Continued on page 9 al or cultural business associations. Díaz, business work usually involves helping

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Electric bikes roll into the Perimeter market dents who want to get around campus. And we have some people who are 75 to 85 years old and they say they don’t want to give up their quality of life,” Hunger said. In other words, there is no target market, he said. Hunger said his business does attract more leisure riders rather than competitive, hard-core cyclists. “There are two very distinct groups of cyclists,” he said. Helen Gardner, general manager of Peachtree Bikes with stores in Sandy Springs and Buckhead, agreed there are vast differences between those who like their road bikes and those who want to ride an e-bike. “I thought, ‘What’s the point?’” she said. “I didn’t understand them,” she said. But in the past few years as the popularity of e-bikes has moved from China and Europe to the U.S., Gardner and other touring and road bike fans and stores have opened up to a different kind of cyclist. “We don’t stock many e-bikes. We started carrying them a couple years,” she said. “But we’re still selling regular bikes hand over fist.” The e-bikes are preferred by a totally different clientele than what normally comes into their stores, and Gardner predicts they will bring in a “new genre of customers” in the coming years. Rebecca Serna, executive director of the Atlanta Bicyle Coalition, said she loves her

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Eric Hunger has opened his own ElectroBike store in Executive Park in Brookhaven.

BY DYANA BAGBY dyanabagby@reporternewspapers.net

It had been 18 years since Eric Hunger of Sandy Springs had gotten on a bike. Bad knees from playing tennis kept him from a onceloved form of leisure activity. Then he learned about electric bikes, which use a battery to provide pedal assistance for riders straining up a steep hill or needing an extra push after a long ride. His first ride on an ElectroBike, the brand of one kind of “e-bike,” as electric bikes are known, a couple years ago sold him on the product.

“I rode 4.5 miles around town and had a blast,” he said. Hunger was so sold on e-bikes that this month he opened his own ElectroBike store in Brookhaven’s Executive Park. ElectroBike is an e-bike brand founded in Mexico City, where there are 28 stores; there are also several stores in California. Hunger is banking on what he believes is an emerging form of transportation in the U.S. by bringing the concept to Georgia and Florida, and then, he hopes, the entire Southeast. “We have millennials coming in who want to commute to work. We’ve sold to college stu-

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The PCIDs are two jointly operated, Yvonne Williams has resigned as the president and CEO of the Perimeter Comself-taxing business districts in Perimmunity Improvement Districts after 17 eter Center, one on the DeKalb County years. side and one on the Fulton County side. In a PCIDs press release, Williams citWilliams has led the PCIDs since 1999 ed “life balance and through many major family considerations,” streetscape and roadincluding her daughway improvement projter’s upcoming entry ects, as well as many into college, as reasons influential planning for her resignation. studies. She also led the There is no successor PCIDs’ effort to provide in place, according to some key funding to PCIDs spokesperson speed up the forthcomBill Crane. ing I-285/Ga. 400 interCrane said the PCIDs board canceled change reconstruction its September meeting project. for lack of a quorum. “It “As we prepare to is expected that selecttake on and support ing an interim director the largest transporfor the PCIDs will top tation infrastructure JESSICA MCGOWAN their agenda when that project in the histoYvonne Williams meeting is re-schedry of this organization, uled,” he said. as well as within our “Yvonne Williams region, we want to led and helped build thank and recognize out our Perimeter Yvonne Williams for Community Improveher leadership, long ment Districts into tenure and service in one of the ‘best pracbuilding this organitices’ model CIDs in Georgia,” Crane said. zation,” said Central “We wish Yvonne WilPerimeter CID Board liams luck in all her Chair John Heagy in future endeavors as the press release, referring to the interwell as her intended focus on her famichange project. ly at this time.” -- John Ruch

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Electric bikes roll into the Perimeter market Continued from page 5 electric bike. She has a toddler who loves to be pulled in a trailer behind her. On the hilly roads of Atlanta, pulling a small child is no easy task, but with pedal assist, uphill climbs are eased. “We want biking to be an option to as many people as possible,” she said. And electric bikes are an option for people who want to ride a bike but are intimidated by, for example, the Georgia heat or the hills of their neighborhoods. “The e-bikes will fill an important role in this arena,” she said. Global research firm Navigant Research predicts electric bike sales around the world will jump from $15.7 billion in revenue in 2016 to $24.4 billion by 2025. More than 35 million bikes are expected to be sold globally this year, according to the firm. Electric bikes are powered by lithium

batteries and allow the rider determine how much help is needed during a ride. With the motor turned off, the bike operates as a traditional bicycle. A flip of a switch turns on the bike’s battery to give a boost, or pedal assist, so a rider can easily pedal with the e-bike taking over the hard riding. Many e-bikes also have throttles which allow riders to not pedal as the bike essentially transforms into a scooter. “We have had some people come in and say they are ‘cheater bikes,’” Hunger said. “But it’s up to you to decide how much exercise you want.” E-bike batteries can be charged in conventional electric outlets. In Georgia they are also are allowed on designated bike paths, according to state law. Hunger said his decision to locate in Brookhaven was sealed as he learned more about the Peachtree Creek Greenway project, a 12-mile multi-use path and linear park that is de-

signed to connect the cities of Brookhaven, Chamblee and Doraville and, in the long term, to the Atlanta BeltLine. The Brookhaven City Council approved in August a $35 million master plan for the greenway. In the Perimeter Center, there is also an ongoing push to DYANA BAGBY E-bikes can sell for $1,000 and up. ease car congestion by encouraging bicygy for the commercial area. While the PCIDs cle use with bike paths being built and striped plan does not specify e-bikes in its plan, it does in Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Brookhaven. feature a Cox Enterprise employee who comThe Perimeter Community Improvement mutes to her job on Peachtree-Dunwoody Districts has also gotten these cities to approve Road in Dunwoody on an e-bike. a proposed bicycle implementation strate-

8 | Perimeter Business

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Openings Cheeky Taqueria Chastain brought out the ribbon for its grand opening Sept. 19. On hand, Marian MacleodElliott, Nick Ridgely, Suzanne Brown, Adam Clark, general manager, Gene Suttonk, Zac Smith, Matt Hughes, Roger Prichard, Tom Mahaffey, Joe Luranc, Erica RockerWills, Beth Berger and Angela Forrester. The resturant, located at 4600 Roswell Rd. in Sandy Springs, serves Mexican cuisine.

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M ER CED ES- B ENZ US A B R EA KS G R O UND A groundbreaking for the Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters at 6480 Barfield Road in Sandy Springs was held Sept. 26. From left, Dietmar Exler, MBUSA’s president and CEO, Gov. Nathan Deal, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul lift the shovels. MBUSA is temporarily headquartered in Dunwoody while awaiting the new building, due in early 2018.

Complete Spine Solutions opened its newest location at Brookhaven Station, 4060 Peachtree Road, Suite J, and celebrated with a ribbon cutting on Sept. 20. On hand for the festivities, Alan Goodman, Simone Cingel, Alyssa Dennis, Francisco Albizu, Dr. David Shapiro, Arlene Shapiro, Rick Martin, Brookhaven City Councilmembers Linley Jones and Joe Gebbia, Department of Labor representatives, Meagan Hanson, City Councilmember Bates Mattison and Elizabeth Warren.

The Dunwoody Perimeter Chamber celebrated the relocation of Travelfaire after 32 years to 1711 Mount Vernon Road on Sept. 22 with a ribbon cutting. In attendance: front row, from left, Peggy Grant, Bill Grant, Meredy Shortal, Dunwoody Mayor Dennis Shortal, Celia Gardner, co-owner, Jan Gardner, co-owner, Jan McMullen, Carla Thomas and Melissa Brown. Back row, Scott Nathanson, Leslie Shahan, Gary Hinchliffe and Mary Jo Thrasher.

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Buckhead residents Robin and Doug Shore were honored by Kennesaw State University’s Coles College of Business with the naming of its Entrepreneurship Center at a ceremony on Sept. 24. The Shores established an annual scholarship eight years ago for deserving students in sales and marketing, the “Business Press Educational Foundation (BPEF)/Joseph Shore Scholarship Fund.” Doug Shore is an advisory board member for Springs Publishing LLC, the parent company of Reporter Newspapers.

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Join us for a free educational event featuring Jennifer Smrtka, ARNP-C, MSCN, an expert who will discuss topics about multiple sclerosis (MS). Plus, get some tips for talking about MS with friends and loved ones. Mayor Shlomo Bohbot, left, presents Sandy Springs City Manager John McDonough with a gift from the Western Gallilee Cluster.

SPECIAL

Consulates help small businesses cross international borders Continued from page 4

terms the Americans may take as a polite brush-off and Israelis interpret more literally. “The simple phrase ‘It’s interesting’ has caused many headaches and need for interpretation,” he said. Singh noted that doing business in In-

ments in Israel. Paul specified that he wanted the Sister City to be more than the typical cultural exchange. He wanted an ongoing economic development partnership focused on medical technology, tourism, and information technology and cyber security. Conexx helped find the right region of Israel with the right sort of industries to match Sandy Springs. Government leaders from Sandy Springs visited the Western Galilee last year, and some of the Israeli area’s SPECIAL From left, Yael Ron, Western Galilee Cluster, Lisa Nash, principal, leaders visited here Heards Ferry Elementary School, Yariv Hameiri and earlier this month, Mayor Yechilei observe schoolchildren at work. stopping at such places as Emory dia can be tough enough for Indians, as Saint Joseph’s Hospital. But besides that there are 29 national languages, each spotraditional form of exchange, “task forces” ken by at least 20 million people. “I’m more of officials from both sides are staying in comfortable speaking with you than [with touch for ongoing connections. someone] in southern India,” he said. The outcomes can be surprising. Paul Likewise, Southern hospitality can be said that during a stop at The Weber a surprise to Indian immigrants who are School, one Israeli mayor noticed the linomore familiar with north communities or leum floor—a common product here, but ones in California. Singh said that when he unusual in the Western Galilee. The mayand his wife took a walk after moving to or was interested in the durable material, Buckhead, they were surprised that drivers and it turns out some of it is manufactured waved at them. “’Who are these people?’” in Georgia. “It’s even mundane things like he recalled wondering. “Then I realized it’s that,” Paul said. a normal thing to do.” Doing business can require some cul“Better cultural understanding of each tural interpretation, and local consuls said other’s habits and ways is almost 50 perthey wished they were asked for help with cent of the job done,” Singh said, “wheththat more often from both sides. er it’s the political sphere or the economic Tessler said that Americans and Israesphere.” lis can misunderstand each other over

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10 | Commentary

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Opinion / Mexican community’s contribution to Georgia economy Wherever new immigrants go, they face significant challenges. Migrants have very high resilience and capability for integration with the members of the communities where they live, but most of the time, they struggle against social, economic, cultural and lawful impediments to move forward toward a better life due to their immigration status. However, they face them with dignity and perseverance. For instance, in Georgia, their adaptation process is in many ways a complex issue, considering the many economic and legislative obstacles that immigrants face in their quest for further or higher education. Unfortunately, many residents believe that immigrants do not deserve an opportunity for a better education, or to obtain valid identifications or access to driving licenses. This is hard to understand, considering that an inclusive, better educated and empowered community provides better opportunities for everybody. Nevertheless, some remarkable initiatives of understanding and acceptance have been carried out in this great city and in this state. Such is the case of “Welcoming Atlanta,” an initiative that promotes inclusion and welcoming to build a multicultural community in metro Atlanta. According to Welcoming Atlanta, the city boasts the second-fastestgrowing foreign-born population in the United States. The city government of Atlanta recognizes the richness of the cultural and economic contributions of these communities, and that makes a lot of sense. Since Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed announced in May 2014 the creation of Welcoming Atlanta, this initiative has focused on five key areas of immigrant integration: ensuring equitable access to services; expanding educational oppor-

On The Record

tunities; facilitating economic empowerment; enhancing public safety and fostering a connected community; and building immigrant civic engagement and leadership. Through this initiative, the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs was established, which has been working as the liaison between the city of Atlanta and the immigrant and refugee comJavier Díaz de León munity. The goals of this was appointed as the consul general of Mexico in Atlanta in office are, among others, June. He previously served as consul general in Raleigh, N.C., public safety, community and as deputy consul in New York and San Diego, Calif. engagement and economic development. ico. Georgia has increased its exports Here is some hard data that may proto Mexico more than 200 percent since vide an overview of the importance and NAFTA started. The top exports from contribution of the Latino and Mexican Georgia to Mexico are: insulated wire, community to Georgia: 1 in 10 Georgians aluminum sheets, gas turbines, civilian are Latinos; in 2014 the purchasing powaircraft and related engines and parts, er of Georgia’s Latinos was $17.6 billion and refrigerating or freezing equipment. (an increase of 1,232 percent since 1990); And on the other side, these are Georgia’s and Latinos in Georgia paid $1.9 billion in top imports from Mexico: insulated wire, federal taxes, and $1 billion in state and televisions, motor vehicles, refrigerators local taxes in 2013. or freezers, internal combustion piston Mexico’s importance for Georgia in engines, and lamps and light fittings. terms of our economic relationship is Mexico and Georgia share a strong surprising to many. Mexico is Georgia’s and vibrant relationship, since we are fourth-largest trading partner in the very important to each other. We are world, after China, Germany and Canabusiness partners and we share an interda. Our bilateral trade reached $9.7 bilest in common prosperity. lion dollars in 2015; but more importantMexican migrants moving to Georly, Mexico is the second-largest buyer of gia embrace a dream for a better life. We goods from Georgia, after Canada. Geormust understand their ideals and needs, gia exports to Mexico reached $3.4 bilbut also recognize their daily contribulion in 2015, when Mexico accounted for tions to the economy and social fabric of 9 percent of Georgia’s exports worldwide. Georgia. We encourage them to be proud Besides the above mentioned, Georof their roots, their culture and the place gia’s exports to Mexico have grown at an where they come from, but also to be an annual average rate of 10.2 percent in 21 integrated, empowered and vocal part of years since NAFTA came into force; Georthe communities they live in. gia is the 11th U.S. state in exports to Mex-

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“Everyone knows where I stand. We’re a democracy and votes were taken. In a democracy, majority rules.” --Dunwoody Mayor Denis Shortal, speaking at a Sept. 20 town hall, about the recent City Council vote to demolish the Brook Run Theater “I’m struggling with the lack of green space. In my experience, when a developer asks to up density in an area, the government gets something in return. I don’t see what benefits the city is receiving ... in an area full of concrete.” --Dunwoody City Councilmember Lynn Deutsch, speaking at a Sept. 26 council meeting about Transwestern’s proposed office tower

“The city is investigating into ways to intervene or try to ensure affordable housing when massive apartment complexes are disassembled and people are going to be displaced.” --Brookhaven City Councilmember Joe Gebbia about plans to redevelopment hundreds of apartments units in the Buford Highway corridor “The most important piece of advice I give a community like Atlanta that is considering [a cap park] like this is, find your champion.” --Tara Green, president of Klyde Warren Park in Dallas, which is a model for a similar highway-capping park proposed in Buckhead

“You can drive a truck or five or six freight trains through it.” --Brookhaven City Attorney Chris Balch on the city’s ethic ordinance provision for the method of removing a city councilmember “This is a boycott. No longer will Macy’s, no longer will Lenox…profit off of our suffrage. No longer can they get another black dollar off of our pain.” --“Sir Maejor” Page, leader of Black Lives Matter of Greater Atlanta, during a Sept. 24 protest at Buckhead’s Lenox Square Mall in the wake of more controversial police killings of black men and boys around the nation SS

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The uber-listmakers among us Robin’s Nest Robin Conte

I pulled something out of the pocket of a jacket I hadn’t worn since last season. I know you’ve had that serendipitous experience, of discovering perhaps a forgotten $10 bill or a Robin Conte is a writer Werther’s Original caramel that had been stuffed into a piece and mother of four who of clothing. But that’s not what was in my pocket; it was an lives in Dunwoody. She old list. can be contacted at I find them everywhere—lists in my purse, lists on my robinjm@earthlink.net. nightstand, lists under my lists. You see, I am a compulsive list-maker. I know I’m not the only one. There are those who are list-makers and those who are not list-makers, and then there are those who are uber-list-makers—the truly OCD among us—like me. I am an uber. If you’re not a list-maker, you’re not, and you know you’re not. You’re one of those happy-go-lucky, “que sera, sera” people who skip through life not worrying, being happy. What you don’t know is that you’ve been missing out. You don’t know the little tingle, the small rush, the spark of joy you get when you cross off an item on your list. It’s a cheap thrill, but it’s still a thrill. If you are a list-maker, you know that, too. What you may not know is the difference between yourself and an uber. I am here to illuminate the

distinctions. If you are a garden-variety list-maker, you will take the time to jot down the specific groceries you intend to buy or the items you need at the hardware store. You might make a note on your smartThing, reminding yourself to take the dog to the vet or that you need to update your tetanus shot. But you will be able to function normally without a list. If you are an uber, you cannot. Your day will not truly begin until you have a list. List-less, you will wander aimlessly through the kitchen, coffee cup in hand, wondering what you are supposed to do until you see, let’s say, a newspaper begging to be read. That will jolt you into action, so you will find a stray piece of paper and write down “read the newspaper,” along with 10 other tasks, and you can start your day. If you are an uber, you will then prioritize the jobs, and if you are an advanced uber, you will also designate the time periods within the day during which the jobs will take place. If you happen to complete a task that wasn’t yet written on the list, you will write it down just for the satisfaction of crossing it off again. You know you’re an uber if you need that fix. If you are an uber, you will take one task and break it down into multiple steps, i.e.: write the letter, address the envelope, stamp the envelope, mail the envelope. This allows for optimal crossing-off satisfaction. If you are an uber, you will throw a little party for yourself if you actually complete everything on your list. I hope you have been enlightened as to the differences among us. Now, if you are an uber, please cross this off your list and go about your day.

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12 | Community

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City to rent ‘affordable’ house to police and firefighters

JOHN RUCH

The city of Sandy Springs will offer this house at 521 Hammond to its own public safety workers for $500 a month, after $10,500 in repairs are completed.

Continued from page 1 will be demolished at an estimated cost of $15,000 each. A third recently purchased house, 380 Hammond, had not yet been inspected for its rental potential. That inspection is pending, according to city Facilities Manager Dave Wells. The city has been trying to figure out

what to do in the short term with houses it is buying as placeholders for a potential Hammond widening project that would be at least a decade away and is currently the subject of neighborhood controversy. This year, the city has authorized purchase of six Hammond properties, four of which have houses on them: 380, 418, 521 and 550 Hammond.

Sandy Springs was already was considering a possible housing stipend for public safety workers who can’t afford to live in the increasingly expensive city they serve. The Hammond house acquisitions led Councilmember Andy Bauman to suggest the affordable rental idea. According to a staff memo, the city has $200,000 budgeted for renovating or demolishing its Hammond houses. Inspections found that renovating 418 Hammond would cost over $50,000, and 550 Hammond would cost over $44,000—more than councilmembers were willing to pay. Another issue has been the city’s potential liability from acting as a landlord. City Manager John McDonough and city finance director Karen Ellis said that insurance coverage was available for about $400 to $500 per year. An independent property manager would be hired for a cost estimated to be about $100 to $130 per house per month. On defining an “affordable” rental rate, councilmembers gave widely varying estimates, from $500 to $1,500 a month. McDonough indicated he decided to take that as $500 a month with a 2 percent annual escalator to fit the affordable housing purpose. Mayor Rusty Paul said the city must devise a “fair and equitable” method of select-

ing any public safety workers as tenants. McDonough suggested a 90-day time limit on getting a tenant to avoid leaving the house vacant. Paul agreed, saying, “If we don’t maintain it, it’s going to be a magnet for problems.” Indeed, the city already issued a citation against itself for an untidy yard earlier this year at 521 Hammond. It remains unclear whether the Hammond house rental will be a one-time deal or a model for other city purchases on the street. The decision was made by mayor and council consensus in a non-voting work session. Councilmembers Bauman and Gabriel Sterling indicated that, while they didn’t oppose the house rental, they thought the original idea of a housing stipend program might be better. Sterling asked whether “it is better to give this money as some kind of benefit” for public safety workers to use in privately owned housing. “I opened this can of worms,” Bauman acknowledged, but said he ideally would opt for a “more widespread program.” He also expressed a desire “that our new housing would incorporate some workforce housing” and indicated behind-the-scenes discussions about that are underway.

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City Manager John McDonough has been named to double duty as general manager of the city’s Public Facilities Authority. The authority, which has the exact same membership as the mayor and City Council, oversees the City Springs project, and the leases for City Hall and the police headquarters. The general manager position is new, added to the bylaws on Sept. 20 at the same time McDonough was appointed. The general manager is allowed to act as the authority’s chief operating officer and execute contracts up to $250,000 without an authority vote. McDonough already has been doing similar tasks, so by naming him general manager, the authority is just formalizing the job and cutting down on special meetings for votes. Under the bylaws, McDonough is not eligible for any pay as general manager because he is already a city employee. If someone else who is not a city employee is ever named general manager, they could be eligible for whatever pay the authority deems appropriate -- John Ruch SS

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Hundreds voice concerns about Braves stadium traffic impact Continued from page 1 nized the forum, said the baseball team’s officials were invited, but did not respond. Some residents said that’s symbolic of the secret deal that brought the stadium to nearby Cobb and left Sandy Springs to figure out traffic solutions at its own expense. With officials largely recapping previously announced traffic management ideas, residents voiced frustrations, with a few shouting about the traffic “nightmare.” Others asked for the Braves or Cobb to reimburse Sandy Springs’ trafficrelated expenses or asked for ways to stop such high-impact, yet secret, development deals. “I wish we had somebody from the Braves and somebody from Major League Baseball joining us,” said one woman. “Our taxpayers are being asked to pay for infrastructure for the Braves stadium” without ever getting a vote on the deal. The Braves’ president of development, Mike Plant, was “not aware” of the invitation, according to spokesperson Beth Marshall, but did provide Cobb County Commissioner Bob Ott with some information for the meeting. “Is there a way, at the state level, to stop these back-room mega-deals from happening?” asked another woman. “We can all hold hands and sing ‘Kumbaya’ in the Perimeter Mall,” she said, but they are still coping with the results of a plan where Sandy Springs had no input.

Traffic fix updates

Mayor Rusty Paul gave an overview and update on traffic mitigation ideas. Some were the Braves’ own ideas, including moving weeknight game start times at the new SunTrust Park back to 7:30 p.m. Some were city ideas, including a new Powers Ferry Road/I-285 interchange in Cobb and a new, gated ramp allowing stadium-goers to go directly from I-285 to Interstate North Parkway without looping through neighborhood streets. One big message was that the city and the county are working together on solutions. Another big message: Major fixes like the Powers Ferry interchange can’t be done before Opening Day on April 14, and no one really knows how traffic will behave—except that there definitely will be more of it on local streets. “It’s kind of like planning for war,” the mayor said, predicting that some solutions “will go out the window on the day of the first game,” but that the planning effort itself is valuable for coping with the unexpected. Paul did offer some traffic mitigation updates and new ideas: ► Waze, a driver-direction app drawing national attention for directing commuter traffic through neighborhoods, has been an added concern SS

with the stadium. Paul said the city, Cobb and GDOT are working with the Braves and Major League Baseball to ask Waze to remove such cut-through options for game-day stadium traffic, though no deal has been reached. One resident noted that drivers may simply use other wayfinding apps. ► The city has hit a literal roadblock with its proposal to run express shuttle buses between the stadium and the Dunwoody MARTA station along I-285’s shoulder. The shoulder is too narrow at three places where bridges cross the highway, Paul said, adding that the city is still pushing for a modified shoulder-lane plan. ► The city is open to the possibility of permanently or temporarily closing one end of several streets near the Northside Drive/I-285 interchange to prevent cut-through traffic, if a majority of residents request it, the mayor said. ► The mayor recently met with both outgoing Cobb Chairman Tim Lee and Chairman-elect Mike Boyce, ensuring that planning continues in the months before Boyce takes office. Paul said Lee expressed a desire to “wrap up” some of the traffic issues before he departs. Cobb Commissioner Ott gave some stadium traffic-related numbers: about 40 weeknight games a year, out of 81 total games, each drawing an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 cars. The stadium will have few other large events, he said. Before Opening Day in April, an exhibition game with fewer tickets is slated for March 31.

JOHN RUCH

Mayor Rusty Paul provided an overview and update on ideas to mitigate Braves stadium traffic at a forum Sept. 21 at Riverwood International Charter School.

“there probably is” a way for the legislature to ensure more transparency on such stadium projects. Ott said he learned of the Braves deal only a week before the public did and later voted in favor only because he got some concessions on what was already a “done deal.” That deal was crafted by Lee, who likely was voted out this year, Ott said, “because it was too secret. It shouldn’t have been done that way.” Some residents and officials noted the stadium controversy is essentially a larger version of existing Cobb-Sandy Springs tensions on commuter traffic. New government cooperation may bring everyone closer on other solutions, they suggested. “I feel like I’m in an East Cobb meeting, frankly,” said Sen. Judson Hill, describing residents there as having similar stadiumtraffic “angst.”

Among the fascinating people who

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T.J. & Lois

ANDERSON Residents since 2012 Composer • Conductor Orchestrator • Professor Volunteer • School Librarian Book Reviewer

Resident ‘angst’

Some residents voiced concerns about specific traffic impacts, such as access to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area or Riverwood’s after-school activities. The answers were largely to expect congestion and count on a large contingent of traffic police. Getting some sort of financial reimbursement for traffic impacts was a repeated request from the crowd. Gerard Gunthert, a Sandy Springs resident and developer, called SunTrust Park an “urban planning disaster…to just plop a stadium down in the middle of suburbia” and asked state legislators to help “force Cobb County to do the right thing.” Another man suggested Cobb and Sandy Springs team up on the Braves as a “common enemy” to extract benefits from. State Sen. Judson Hill (R-Marietta) said such benefits are unlikely, but said he could “pledge to work toward” some type of benefit concept. Ott noted that Cobb contributed money to the city’s Abernathy Greenway, “So there is historically cooperation between the county and the city on projects that are not in Cobb.” State Sen. Hunter Hill (R-Smyrna) said

We appreciate spirited discussions and connecting with

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14 | Community

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After 60 years, farm stand and church remain linked BY JACLYN TURNER Drivers passing Mount Vernon Highway and Sandy Springs Circle might have wondered what happened to the landmark produce stand that sat by the side of the road for over 60 years.

Mason’s Produce was required to move for road work late last year from that corner of the Sandy Springs United Methodist Church property. But the church welcomed it to move into its parking lot off Sandy Springs Circle—just one way the church and the stand have helped each

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Denise Hudson, of Mason’s Produce, now sells goods from the Sandy Springs United Methodist Church’s parking lot, after having to relocate from Sandy Springs Circle due to construction.

other, personally and financially, in their long relationship. “Sandy Springs is like a family to us,” said stand owner Danny Hudson. “They had a need, we had a resource, and we wanted to continue the partnership of being good neighbors,” said Rev. Thomas Martin, the church’s pastor. Hudson, 56, took over ownership from his mother, Barbara Mason, about 15 years ago. Mason would go to the farmers market, and then go to the corner and sell off the back of her truck until it evolved into the permanent stand. One recent day, Hudson’s wife and stand co-owner Denise Robins Hudson, 49,

pulled up shortly after noon with fresh tomatoes to restock the stand’s supply. She recruited the help of Rick Schmidt, who has worked on and off with the produce stand for the last 30 years to unload the vegetables. Hudson walked stiffly, as a result of a fatal car accident involving another car going more than 100 miles per hour in 2011, paralyzing her daughter, Briana. The family was once again marked by tragedy this year. An electrical fire in January caused their family home in Williamson, Ga., to burn down. With the help of insurance and the church community, the house was quickly rebuilt, and made more accessible for Briana, who lives her life in a wheelchair, but doesn’t let that disability affect her spirit. “She said God’s going to heal her and make her well,” said Denise. “What’s hard is we depend on this [business] for my daughter’s care,” said Denise Hudson. “The money for this flies us to Baltimore for her doctor.” The doctor is the same one who treated Christopher Reeve, the late “Superman” actor who was paralyzed in a horse-riding accident. “[Danny Hudson] came to us with this problem,” said Rev. Thomas Martin. “We’d always had this partnership, of being neighbors. And after their house burned down, it was a no-brainer to help them out in their time of need.” “Not many churches would say, ‘Hey, you can sit down here and rebuild on our property,’” said Denise Hudson. “The church has been wonderful to let us be on their property.” In exchange for the space, the Hudsons donate leftover usable produce to the church’s weekly lunch and donate proceeds to the congregation when operating during church events. In addition to fruits and vegetables sourced from locally grown farmers across the South, Mason’s Produce sells firewood and pine straw. For special events at the church, they will serve hot boiled peanuts. “I think for the public to get fresh produce straight off the vine is really important,” said Denise Hudson. SS

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Mayor, council oppose Israel boycott as ‘anti-Semitism’ BY JOHN RUCH

“The BDS campaign is a global effort to isolate and punish Israel,” the ADL website says. “While not all advocates of BDS necSandy Springs’ mayor and City Council essarily are anti-Semitic and may be drivhave declared a Palestinian boycott of Israel en by their perception that they are merely to be “anti-Semitism” and “bigotry,” taking engaging in legitimate criticism of certain a stand on an international controversy in Israeli policies toward Palestinians, many a proclamation released during a sister-city individuals involved in BDS campaigns are visit by Israeli local government officials. driven by opposition to Israel’s very exis“The city of Sandy Springs opposes any tence as a Jewish state.” boycott, divestment or sanctions initiative “All too often, BDS advocates employ whose purpose is to instill hostility or proanti-Semitic rhetoric and narratives to isomote anti-Semitism,” says part of the proclate and demonize Israel,” the ADL site conlamation, which was read aloud and signed tinues. “For example, when advocates use by Mayor Rusty Paul at a Sept. 13 communiNazi analogies or conflate Jews and the Isty reception for the Israeli visitors at Conraeli government, that is anti-Semitic.” gregation Or Hadash. In recent years, many legislatures The proclamation is aimed at the Boyaround the country have proposed or cott, Divestment and Sanctions movepassed bans on contracting with businessment, a decade-old effort by a coalition of es that join the BDS boycotts. In Georgia, Palestinian organizations to use economic one such effort was led by state Sen. Judson pressure against what they describe as IsHill, a Republican raeli government “ocwho represents part cupation” and humanof Sandy Springs, rights abuses. and became law earBDS is extremely lier this year. controversial. The PalThe ADL website estinian BDS National says that attempts to Committee says the efcreate such laws can fort is a human rights run into legal chalprogram modeled on lenges on free speech resistance to South Afand other grounds. rica’s former apartThe ADL instead enheid system of racial courages non-bindsegregation. The Aning resolutions such ti-Defamation League as the one Sandy is among the organiSprings just issued. zations that say BDS is EXCERPT FROM THE SANDY SPRINGS “We concluded CITY COUNCIL PROCLAMATION fundamentally anti-Sethat resolutions are mitic in its goals and a vehicle for a much practices. more comprehensive, hard-hitting public ADL encourages governments to adopt rejection of BDS, and a more effective pubresolutions like Sandy Springs’, which delic education tool – two of ADL’s key goals,” clares that “the Boycott, Divestment and the ADL website says. “So, ADL urges legisSanctions (BDS) movement is an initiative lators to pass strong resolutions that contargeted against the Jewish people of Israel, demn the BDS movement and promote and is a movement that negatively impacts strong ties with Israel in arenas like trade, opportunities for peace in the region. research and development, and academic “Boycotts such as the effort supported cooperation.” by BDS promote bigotry and discriminaSuch cooperation was the purpose tion and cause economic harm,” the Sandy of the Israeli delegation’s visit to Sandy Springs proclamation says. Springs. Paul and other city officials travThe BDS movement website denies any eled to Israel last year as the first step of bigotry, describing itself as “an inclusive, the Sister City exchange program. The ananti-racist movement that is anchored in ti-BDS proclamation also echoes some of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights the thoughts city officials shared after that and is opposed on principle to all forms of trip, including the ethnic and religious tolracism and discrimination, including antierance they said they witnessed in cities Semitism and Islamophobia.” where “Jews, Christians, Muslims and DruThe website says that such claims are ze peacefully engage in business and daily an “attempt to redefine anti-Semitism to inlife.” clude criticism of Israel and opposition to City spokesperson Sharon Kraun said Zionism, the political ideology behind the she wrote the proclamation’s text at the establishment of an exclusionary, supremmayor’s request. acist Jewish state through the ethnic cleansThe proclamation will be presented to ing of Palestine.” the consul general of Israel at a future City The Anti-Defamation League website Council meeting, likely in October. counters that BDS is fundamentally bigoted. johnruch@reporternewspapers.net

The city of Sandy Springs opposes any boycott, divestment or sanctions initiative whose purpose is to instill hostility or promote anti-Semitism.

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16 | Out & About

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BROOKHAVEN

•

BUCKHEAD

COMMUNITY

•

DUNWOODY

•

SANDY SPRINGS

holds a reception honoring artists and host businesses at Fidelity Bank, 2 Perimeter Center East, Dunwoody, 30338. Free. Open to the community. To find out more and see participating artists and city-wide venues, go to: dunwoodyfineart.org.

POTTERY SALE

Wednesday, Oct. 5, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. The 44th annual Dunwoody Home Tour features four homes in Dunwoody and Sandy Springs. Tickets, $25, available at: dunwoodywomansclub.com/ home-tour, from Dunwoody Women’s Club members and also at area businesses. Pick up online ticket purchases at Will-Call, 5393 Redfield Cir., Dunwoody, 30338 (first home on tour).

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Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The 2nd annual Brookhaven Arts Festival gets underway! Check out more than 100 participating artists, featuring fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography and sculpture. Free entry. Continues Oct. 16, 12-5 p.m. 4047 Peachtree Rd., behind the Brookhaven MARTA station on the Apple Valley Road side, 30319. Questions? Go to: brookhavenartsfestival.com.

Saturday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Chastain Arts Center holds its 4th annual Pottery on the Porch sale. Check out functional, sculptural or for the garden pieces. See demonstrations of throwing on the wheel. Free and open to the public. 135 W. Wieuca Rd., NW, Atlanta, 30342. For additional information, call 404-2522927.

BEANS & BOWLS Friday, Oct. 14, 5-9 p.m. Spruill’s 15th annual “Free Beans with Every Bowl” sale gets underway. Purchase ceramic pieces and stay for a bowl of chili, made by Spruill Arts Ceramics Department students and instructors. Free. All are welcome. Proceeds benefit the department. Cash and checks preferred. Continues Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 16, 12-5 p.m. 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. Questions? Go to: spruillarts.org/bowlsale or call 770-394-3447, x223.

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Sunday, Oct. 16, 7 a.m. Certified as a Peachtree Road Race 2017 qualifier, this Rotary Club of Dunwoodysponsored 5K begins and ends at Perimeter Mall. The course is designed for runners—a fast and challenging course. The 1-mile Fun Run begins at 9 a.m.; Tot Trot, for ages 2-5, at 9:15 a.m. 5K, $25-$35. Music, awards, door prizes, refreshments. 4400 Ashford-Dunwoody Rd., NE, Atlanta, 30346. Register and learn more: rundunwoody.net.

THE ARTS

HOOS IN THE FOREST Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Reception for Dunwoody Nature Center’s inaugural Art in the Park event, “Hoos in the Forest,” featuring 20 whimsical creatures made of naturally found materials. Artist’s talk, tour, workshops, “poetry on demand.” Lunch and beverages provided. Free admission. Exhibit runs through Nov. 15. See additional details: dunwoodynature.org or call 770-394-3322.

OCTOBER 21, 22, & 23 | MIDTOWN AT TECH SQUARE

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Wednesday, Oct. 5, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The Dunwoody Branch Library holds a class for senior drivers. Topics include: blind spots; maintaining proper following distance; safety belts, air bags, antilock brakes and new technology; effects of medications; eliminating

SEPTEMBER 30 - OCT. 13, 2016

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distractions. Taught by certified instructor. Free. For those 55 and older. Limited to 20 participants. Call 770-512-4640 to register. 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338.

Robert Swan

Polar explorer & environmentalist

and magazines. Free. Open to the first 10 participants. Appropriate for those ages 13-17. 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. For further details and to register, call 770-512-4640.

Out & About | 17

WOULD YOU GET A LUNG CANCER SCREENING IF WE CALLED IT A “LUNG-OGRAM”?

MOVIE NIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE Wednesday, Oct. 5, 6:30 p.m. Polar explorer and environmentalist Robert Swan visits Pace Academy, who will discuss climate issues, part of the school’s Isdell Center for Global Leadership’s Year of Climate. Free. The public is welcome to attend. Knights Hall, Garcia Family Middle School, 5th floor, 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd., NW, Atlanta, 30327. Learn more by going to: paceacademy.org or calling 404-262-1345.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join others at the Brookhaven Branch Library for a screening of “Where the Wild Things Are.” Rated PG. Free. Open to all. The first five families in attendance receive a personal copy of the book. Snacks provided. 1242 N. Druid Hills Rd., NE, Brookhaven, 30319. To learn more, call 404-848-7140.

FALL GARDENING Saturday, Oct. 8, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Find out about fall gardening from the president of the Dunwoody Garden Club. Light refreshments provided. Free. For adults. No registration required. 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. Call 770-512-4640 to learn more.

STILL LIFE ART Tuesday, Oct. 11, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Get to know artist Frida KahFrida Kahlo lo and her work, Artist then create your own still life drawing based on her style. Learn how to use lines, shapes and angles. Free. For adults, ages 18 and up. Open to the first 15 participants. Call 770-512-4640 to sign up. Dunwoody Branch Library, 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338.

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, Oct. 15, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Gather at the Blue Heron Nature Preserve for their fall Open House, with Atlanta Audubon and Trees Atlanta also in attendance. Enjoy a bird walk, nature hike, planting trees, children’s crafts, theater performances and tours. Free. Open to the community. 4055 Roswell Rd., NE, Atlanta, 30342. Call 404-345-1008 or visit: bhnp.org for details.

KIDS’ STUFF CREATE CUPCAKES Monday, Oct. 10, 3-4:30 p.m. Fill your sweet tooth with this cupcake decorating session. Come create an edible masterpiece! Geared for those ages 10-12. Free. Open to the first 15 participants. Call the Brookhaven Branch Library at 404-8487140 or swing by 1242 N. Druid Hills Rd., NE, Brookhaven, 30319 to sign up.

ALTERED BOOKS Tuesday, Oct. 11, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Celebrate Teen Read Week at the Dunwoody Branch Library by making decoupage boxes out of old books

COMPUTER GAME DESIGN Thursday, Oct. 13, 6:45-8:45 p.m. Marcus Jewish Community Center-Atlanta offers a threesession workshop for teens, grades 8-11, covering fundamentals of video game design and programming, including how to build code with HTML, CSS and JavaScript. $80 for non-members; $60 for members. Continues Oct. 20 and 27. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. For more information, contact Paige Godfrey at 678-812-4082, or email: paige.godfrey@atlantajcc.org.

HEAD TO TOE! Friday, Oct. 14, 2:15-3:15 p.m. This program invites young audience members to think, observe and move like their favorite animals. Inspired by Eric Carles’ book of the same name. Free. All are welcome. Suitable for those ages 2-4. Sandy Springs Branch Library, 395 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328. For details, call 404-303-6130 or email: leah.germon@fultoncountyga.gov.

FUN ART Friday, Oct. 14, 3-4 p.m. Get creative with arts and crafts inspired by nature and the seasons. Free. For those ages 5-12. Open to the first 10 participants. Dunwoody Branch Library, 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, 30338. For information and to sign up, call 770-512-4640.

CRAFTY ANIMALS

Most women know to get a mammogram but not a lung screening. Yet lung cancer kills more women than any other type of cancer. The good news is a lung cancer screening can help detect it early when there are more treatment options. Northside Hospital Cancer Institute offers a low dose CT screening if you’re 55 – 77 years old and a current or previous smoker. It’s quick and easy and could save your life. For information call 404-531-4444 or visit northside.com/lung

Friday, Oct. 14, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Create animals using plastic bottles at the Sandy Springs Branch Library. Registration required by emailing: leah.germon@fultoncountyga. gov. Free and open to all. Suitable for ages 5 and up. 395 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, 30328. Questions? Call 404-303-6130.

Where the Extraordinary Happens Every Day

18 | Dining Out

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B A: The rooftop space at 5Church in Midtown B: Peanut butter and jelly pie C: Jumbo lump crab cake D: “60 second” New York strip steak E: The ceiling features the handpainted text of “Art of War”

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When Tom Catherall called it quits on the Here to Serve restaurants, he left a giant hole in Midtown where Shout used to be. Everyone was hit hard - the gay Sunday brunch crowd, the small firm business lunch crowd, the dinner between museum and theater crowd, and certainly some of Atlanta’s most fun and chatty servers. Shout did so many things so well without looking too much like it was aiming for the lowest common denominator. I am pleased to report that where Shout once was, 5Church is now holding it down and then some. The valet service is great and they have umbrellas. The patio and the upstairs deck are both shaping up to open as soon as the weather cools a bit. The decor is stunning. The layout of Shout always made it hard to people watch, with the darkened booth niches and huge circular bar blocking the view from the stairs. 5Church has really opened up the place, as well as classed it up by opting for a stark black and white color scheme that plays off the loud street art on the walls. Upon closer inspection,

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Dining Out Megan Volpert Megan Volpert lives in Decatur, teaches in Roswell and writes books about popular culture.

the whole ceiling is covered with the entire hand-painted text of Sun Tzu’s Art of War. Wear some hot pink and prep for a great photo op. The food lives up to the space. 5Church began in Charlotte and opened in Charleston before coming here as well, and they really understand how to do plates that are both Southern in their comfort and cosmopolitan in their construction. Might have something to do with James Beard Award-winning executive chef RJ Cooper. One dish for which he isn’t responsible is the “60 second” New York strip, featured on the menu in all three cities, from the mind of partner and chef Jamie Lynch. Equal parts delicious food and food for thought, the steak gets a quick sear on one side so the heat soaks up into it and leaves the other side barely cooked. Examining pink from one side instead of in the center results in a whole new mouthfeel and that is worth trying for a change of pace. On the other hand, there are a couple of plates that are worth ordering over and over again. They’ve got a wasabi crusted ahi tuna on a bed of miso foam and seaweed salad that will make you forget Shout ever existed. Ditto for the jumbo lump crab, which is done as a salad and not as a cake. On the brunch and dinner menus it’s a first course, but on the lunch menu it’s an entree. Personally, I could take a bath in it. This is also the case for the cave aged cheddar agnolotti, piled high with the pop of peas and the crunch of ham, straight out of autumn’s fantasy food land and hopefully will stay on the menu yearround. The sides are served family style and I don’t know why you’re bringing your kids to Midtown, but they will happily enjoy the mac ’n’ cheese while you bask in the afterglow of

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Dining Out | 19

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E that creamy agnolotti filling. For dessert, get the peanut butter and jelly, which is a delicious experiment in layers. Then again, the duck-fat beignets are a serious challenger and the oven roasted pineapple is improving. The coffee is from a roaster near the original Charlotte location, and as much as 5Church has brought its familiar touches from home, it fits into Atlanta already. The bar program is maybe a little on the fizzy and fruity side of things for me, but hey, what’s Midtown without a wild berry mojito and a rosemary gin fizz? There are a dozen kinds of bubbly, too, so if you miss Shout more often than you like to admit, go toast to 5Church’s success. 5Church is at 1197 Peachtree St. For more information: 5churchatlanta.com.

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20 | Education

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Exceptional Educator: John Gresens of North Springs Charter High School Editor’s note: Through our “Exceptional Educator” series, Reporter Newspapers is showcasing the work of some of the outstanding teachers and administrators at our local schools. If you would like to recommend an Exceptional Educator, please email editor@ReporterNewspapers.net. John Gresens teaches visual art, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry design and other art courses at North Springs Charter High in Sandy Springs. He has been teaching for seven years and sponsors the school’s participation in “The Deconstruction,” a twoday, online international competition during which students deconstruct something and reimagine it as something else. North Spring students won the competition two

years ago. For this year’s challenge, the students will deconstruct America.

Exceptional

Educator

Q: What attracted you to teaching at first? A: I was given some bad advice when I was a young person. I was always the “art kid,” and I knew that I wanted to be an artist from a very early age. Someone close to me in a position of authority told me, “You’ll never be able to make a living as an artist.” I listened and I was occupationally derailed for a long time. After marrying my wife, who is an artist and was a sculpture major at the time, I realized that I had to create. In 2003, my mother died in a house fire and I had an epiphany. In a moment of ex-

SPECIAL

John Gresens teaches visual art, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry design and other art courses at North Springs Charter High School.

treme clarity, I knew that I wanted to be an art teacher. Q: Has the appeal changed? A: I think it changes from year to year. This is such a dynamic occupation that is subject to radical shifts annually. Changes in policy, administration, strategy and technology all have such an effect on teacher motivation. I’ve had some real struggles with all of the previously mentioned issues in the past. While I have to deal with the non-classroom issues, I’ve really embraced the idea that the focus is, and will always be, the student. Q: What keeps you going year after year? A: The personal connections with my students that I get to develop are so rewarding. To be able to teach a 14-year-old student and watch her or him grow, change, struggle, fail, triumph and ultimately leave at 17 or 18 with a stronger sense of who he or she is, is amazing. I smile knowing that I had a part in that! Q: What do you think makes a great teacher? A: A wise teacher told me early in my career that teaching is all about relationships. I believed it then and I believe it now. All of the best teachers I know really care about their students and they let them know that daily. The strategies may be different, but the caring and communication are constants. If your students trust you, you can teach them anything. Q: What do you want to see in your students? A: I want to see them engage with process, find passion in the content, and execute a strong, informed product. All of this while showing respect for others and the studio. The sum of this should produce an artist or at least an art appreciator. Q: How do you engage your students? A: Every day is another show. It’s like being on stage, banging out a performance worthy of appreciation. I try to make sure that my passion for the content areas is always

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strong and that I’m actively learning on my time. Being “on fire” for the material carries over in my lectures and demonstrations. I also teach an adult wheel pottery class at the Spruill Art Center on Monday nights. Teaching adults in a three-hour block helps me to solve more advanced problems and bring that knowledge back into the classroom at North Springs. Q: Do you have a project or special program you use year after year? A: Two years ago we participated in “The Deconstruction.” It’s a 48-hour global project where you bring a bunch of stuff together, tear it apart and reassemble it to solve a creative problem. We won the whole thing in 2014! The competition/project “went dark” for a year as the organizers reloaded. It’s back this year and we plan to participate again. This year the theme is “Deconstructing America.” Check it out at thedeconstruction.org. I am also running a Maker Lab at North Springs. The whole student body will have access to my tools and equipment to satisfy their creative curiosities. I’ll have it up and running in the next month or so and it will be accessible a couple of days a week after school and at least one day before school. We’ll work collaboratively with science, some clubs and science teams to get them access so that they can learn and compete. Q: Is there a “trick” that works to get students involved? A: Have fun and tell them you care about them. Show them some passion. They might not completely buy in, but it’s hard to let down someone who explains their motivations and stays real. Q: What do you hope your students take away from your class? A: I hope that they will understand the challenges and beauty of communicating through objects and performances that are made from knowledge, wisdom, hard work and creativity. I also hope they will come out unafraid to take calculated risks for rich rewards.

CORRECTIONS In the Reporter Newspapers’ Education Guide [Sept. 16-29], a quotation from Riverwood International Charter School student Celine LaGrange was accompanied by a photograph of a different student. Here is Celine’s photo. Also in the Education Guide, Mount Vernon Presbyterian School’s production of “eurydice” was omitted from a list of plays planned at local high schools this fall. The play is scheduled to be performed Oct. 13-15 in the school’s Black Box Theater on its Glenn Campus.

SEPTEMBER 30 - OCT. 13, 2016

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Classifieds | 21

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Reporter Classifieds SERVICES AVAILABLE Home Tending - Regular inspections of your unoccupied property. Call Charles, 404-229-0490. Driveways & Walkways – Replaced or repaired. Masonry, grading, foundations repaired, waterproofing and retaining walls. Call Joe Sullivan 770-616-0576. Tranquil Waters Lawn Care – Pressure washing, flower beds, trimming, tree/shrubs installation, hauling of debris, pinestraw & mulch. Free estimates. Discounts for Seniors & Veterans. No contracts needed. Call Mike 678-662-0767 or Andrew 678-672-8552. Quinn Windows – Family owned and operated. Window replacement and home remodeling company since 1980. Visit www. QuinnWindows.com or call 770-939-5634.

To advertise, call 404-917-2200 ext 110 CEMETERY PLOTS

Matthew’s Handy Services – Small jobs and chores re my specialties. Shelving/ organizers, carpentry, drywall, painting, plumbing and minor yard work. Member of the Better Business Bureau. Call 404-5472079 or email: mwarren8328@gmail.com. Cleaning Services – Do you want your house cleaned at a Reasonable rate? Would you like someone that is Dependable, Professional and can give you Quality Service? Charlotte’s the one for you – call 404-604-7866!

YARD SALES Cross Creek Fall Yard Sale – Saturday, October 15, 8:00 – 2:00 (rain date: October 22). 1221 Cross Creek Pkwy (off of Bohler Rd). Large sale, great chance to kick off holiday shopping!

HELP WANTED

Arlington Memorial Park – 3 Mausoleum Crypts, Sunrise Chapel, outside level A #16, 17, 18. Includes entombment fees, crypt plates and use of chapel. $9,000 each. Call: 985-966-9029

PART-TIME HELP WANTED!

One Cemetery Plot: Arlington Memorial Park, Sandy Springs - Single plot in Monument section. $4500. Seller will pay deed transfer. Call: 404-641-4417

Consumer Research Panelists

HELP WANTED FT/PT Positions Available - Filo’s Greek Grill in Chastain Square is looking for experienced servers – Over 21 please apply. Call 404-455-9122.

Q Research Solutions, a leading consumer product testing company, is currently looking for consumers ages 18 and older in Sandy Springs/Dunwoody, GA (near the Perimeter Mall) who would like to be part of a special trained panel that would meet regularly on a part-time basis to assess food/nonalcoholic beverages for a period of approximately 12 months. For questions contact: websupportssprings@qrsglobal.com.

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22 | Public Safety

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Police Blotter / Sandy Springs The following incidents and arrests are some, but not all, of the reports filed with Sandy Springs police from Sept. 13 through Sept. 21. The following information was provided by Capt. Steve Rose of the Sandy Springs Police Department from its records and the information is presumed to be accurate.

R O B B E RY 5300 block of Roswell Road – On Sept.

13, a 34-year-old man reported that around 2:30 p.m., he was waiting for the bus at the MARTA stop in front of Southern Trace Apartments. He pulled out his wallet to get his MARTA card and was then assaulted by two men who took his wallet and cellphone. The wallet contained $600 cash. 8300 block of Roswell Road – On Sept.

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14, a 35-year-old woman said she was in her car at an ATM just after 10 p.m. making a deposit and withdrawing cash. She saw a man behind her after she withdrew the cash. The man then approached her and pulled a gun, demanding the money and other belongings. He reached in and pushed her, then took the money that was in her lap as well as two iPhones, her wallet and contents. After robbing her, the suspect walked north in the parking lot, so she drove near him, then tried to pin him in next to a wall. In response, he ran to the rear of the car and fired the weapon at her before fleeing into the wooded area. The victim was not hit but the car was hit twice. She then drove to a nearby phone and called police. Wow, this one could have gotten ugly

quick. Let’s review: First of all, avoid night transactions if at all possible. This was a drive-up ATM, so the first thing you want to do is have eyes on everything around you before the transaction. Most of the robberies with this scenario begin with the bad guy approaching from the back so check the mirrors constantly. If you see someone approach, you have the option to drive. Use it. Card in the slot? Leave it and cancel it within minutes. Action should not include following and then confronting the man WITH THE GUN, who just robbed you. Shots were fired. As much as we like money, it’s only money and not worth an early exit from this wonderful world, so remember, cooler heads prevail.

front door and went inside. They tried but could not get into the register room. They left in a small white pickup. 200

block of Sandy Springs Circle – On Sept. CAPT. STEVE ROSE, SSPD srose@sandyspringsga.gov 13, at Brooklyn Café, someone forced a rear door leading to the restaurant. Inside, the man tried to open the safe but failed. He rummaged around for a while, then walked to the bar area, returned, then left just before 5 a.m. He returned just before 6:30 a.m. with a circular saw and again tried, unsuccessfully, to open the safe. He eventually found an undisclosed amount of money and left.

5800 block of Roswell Road – On Sept.

13, it was reported that at Las Tortas Locas restaurant, someone got into the safe after forcing a back door into the building. The safe was open, having been opened with keys that were lying on a shelf next to the safe. 8700 block of Roswell Road – On Sept.

14, officers responded to an alarm and found that a building had been burglarized. 911 updates from someone watching closed-circuit TV indicated two males were inside trying to get into the safe. Further updates indicated the suspects were now out the door and into a car. The car headed up a hill about the time one of the responding cars entered the same hill, going down the driveway to a shopping center. They met head on. The suspects reversed and escaped the parking lot on the north end, then headed north on Roswell Road. Cops lost track of the suspects shortly thereafter. Video showed the two suspects using a large crowbar, prying the front doors open. They made a bee-line to the safe behind the counter, spending about eight minutes trying to open the safe that contained nothing. They left some fingerprints and a glove behind. 200 block of Northwood Drive –

Around 12:30 p.m., the resident reported she was upstairs when she heard a noise from her bedroom. She saw a person wearing all black just inside the sliding glass door. The suspect fled. He left a steak knife on the apartment balcony.

B U R G L A RY

800 block of Starlight Drive – On

100 block of Northwood Drive – On

Sept. 14, the resident reported sometime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., someone entered a residence, going through a number of drawers in different rooms.

Sept. 13, at around 3:30 a.m., four crooks broke into a business, pried open the

SEPTEMBER 30 - OCT. 13, 2016

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Public Safety | 23

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Missing is a computer.

not suspect her.

5800 block of Northside Drive – On

700 block of Starlight Drive – On Sept.

Sept. 14, the resident said between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. someone entered the home through an upstairs bedroom window. The burglar apparently cut himself, leaving behind some blood in several rooms. A phone company employee told her that a male had just left the residence and got into a red vehicle, possibly a Jeep Cherokee. She recognized the person as a friend of her daughter and noticed he had blood on him. He was able to get away. Detectives obtained his information and are investigating.

20, someone forced entry to a back door and entered the home. Nothing was taken.

7000 block of Marsh Court – On Sept.

15, residents said their cars were in the garage of their home overnight. The garage door was left open. The next morning they discovered someone had entered both cars, left unlocked, and taken several items. This is really a theft from a car, but because they were in the garage, it is coded as a burglary. 5400 block of Glenridge Drive – On

Sept. 15, the resident said that he arrived home just after 8 p.m. and found that his 50-inch TV was missing from his bedroom. Another TV was stolen from the living room. No signs forced entry were found. He was out of town for several days and said his girlfriend had a key, but he emphasized strongly, that he did

THEFTS 2000 block Treelodge Pkwy. – On Sept.

13, a 31-year-old woman said she was evicted and during that time, several pieces of jewelry as well as an iPad and Samsung tablet went missing. 8000 block of Gables Lane – On Sept.

13, a woman said she was evicted from her apartment and later found that a gold pendant, inscribed with the initials “BMF” was gone. 5900 block of Roswell Road – On Sept.

15, a 73-year-old woman reported that just before 1 p.m. she was shopping at a discount store when a man approached her, telling her that he was blind and needed help picking out a thank-you card. She helped him but noticed another man going through her purse. Both men fled with some cash and her credit cards. 200 block of Mount Vernon Hwy. –

On Sept. 15, an employee said he was restocking a candy rack and placed his $700 cellphone on the rack. When he walked away, someone stole the phone.

He went to the store video and saw that a male in a black-and-white shirt took the phone. The man later purchased an item with a credit card. The card information was turned over to detectives. 5000 block Riverview Drive – Four

Lenox AC units were stolen from a home under construction. 4900 block of Roswell Road – On Sept.

19, a 42-year-old woman reported that she was at a grocery store and placed her wallet in the shopping cart. During that time, someone stole it from the cart. She didn’t realize it until she went to pay. Her cards were used in Gwinnett County soon after.

THEFTS OF AND FROM VEHICLES Between Sept. 13 and Sept. 16, there

were two reported motor vehicle thefts and 15 thefts from vehicles.

A S S AU LT 7000 block Roswell Road – On Sept. 13,

arm. One man was charged with aggravated assault and the other, simple battery. Jail was involved.

F R AU D A man on Stone Mill Trail said some-

one opened an account at a bank using his personal information. Someone then tried to transfer $1,000 into the account using his credit card. The attempt was unsuccessful. The suspect’s phone number and email address were turned over to detectives. 6900 block of Roswell Road – On Sept.

15, a 27-year-old woman said she received a voicemail and call from someone saying he was Officer Adam Gardner, badge IRM05732. He referenced a case number of CP1073T, concerning the fact that she owed $11,000 to the IRS. He was coming to put her in jail and had a search warrant. She could avoid all this by paying some of the amount immediately. He asked for bank information but she said she was not comfortable with providing that so she purchased five $100 iTunes cards and provided the numbers to the fake agent. She then called her attorney who told her to call the police. By the time she figured out she was had, they had redeemed all but one of the cards.

two male roommates got into an argument over the power bill. One man threw something at the other man, hitting him in the face while he was in the shower. It ended up with one of the men cut with a kitchen knife requiring some READ MORE OF THE POLICE BLOTTER ONLINE AT staples in the

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SANDY SPRINGS NOTICE OF REZONING SANDY SPRINGS NOTICE OF CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT The City of Sandy Springs has completed a draft of its annual performance report to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the 2015 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. The Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) will be available for review at www.sandyspringsga. gov beginning September 23, 2016. To review the report, select the CDBG Program on the Community Development Department’s webpage. Comments can be emailed to cdbgprogram@sandyspringsga.gov. The report will also be available for review and comment in hard copy at the following locations: Sandy Springs City Hall (7840 Roswell Road, Bldg 500, Sandy Springs, GA 30350), Dorothy C. Benson Senior Multipurpose Complex (6500 Vernon Woods Drive, Sandy Springs, GA 30328), and Sandy Springs Library (395 Mt. Vernon Highway NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328). The City is accepting public comments on the report until October 10, 2016.

Petition Number:

RZ16-0097

Petitioner:

InLine Communities, LLC

Property Location:

0 and 6555 Roswell Road

Present Zoning:

R-3 (Single Family Dwelling District) and C-1 (Community Business District)

Request:

Request to rezone from R-3 and C-1 to TR (Townhouse Residential District) for a townhome development, with concurrent variances.

Public Hearings:

Planning Commission September 15, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. Mayor and City Council October 18, 2016 at 6:00 p.m.

Location:

Sandy Springs City Hall Morgan Falls Office Park 7840 Roswell Road, Building 500 Sandy Springs, Georgia 30350 770-730-5600

SANDY SPRINGS NOTICE OF REZONING

SANDY SPRINGS NOTICE OF REZONING Petition Number:

RZ16-0098

Petition Number:

RZ16-0100

Petitioner:

FM Glenridge, LLC

Petitioner:

Pulte Group

Property Location:

6045; 6065; 6085; 6095; 6105 Glenridge Drive

Property Location:

120 West Wieuca Road

Present Zoning:

R-2 (Single Family Dwelling District)

Present Zoning:

A (Medium Density Apartment District)

Request:

Request to rezone from R-2 to R-5 for the development of single family homes, with concurrent variances.

Request:

Rezone from A to A to allow a height increase for a partially constructed townhouse development with concurrent variances

Public Hearings:

Planning Commission October 20, 2016 at 6:00 p.m.

Public Hearings:

Planning Commission September 15, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. Mayor and City Council October 18, 2016 at 6:00 p.m.

Mayor and City Council November 15, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. Location:

Sandy Springs City Hall Morgan Falls Office Park 7840 Roswell Road, Building 500 Sandy Springs, Georgia 30350 770-730-5600

Location:

Sandy Springs City Hall Morgan Falls Office Park 7840 Roswell Road, Building 500 Sandy Springs, Georgia 30350 770-730-5600

24 |

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Published on Sep 28, 2016

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