Condos on Fischer Mansion property

AJC, DeKalb, 11/20/06, by Chandler Brown

How to save a historic mansion: Convert to condos

From the story:

In the early 1960s, Tom Reilly remembers driving his sister to and from her private school situated on the daffodil-dotted hills of Flowerland, a 100-acre estate off Chamblee Dunwoody Road.

"I remember going up that old driveway, lined with azaleas," Reilly recalled this month. "It was beautiful."

A two-year battle threatened to destroy this rare icon of Atlanta history. But the jewel of Flowerland — the neoclassical Fischer Mansion — is about to become the centerpiece of a new luxury development of mini-mansions.

This month, a condominium developer plans to tear down a church on the Flowerland property, but will leave the stately mansion, its carriage house and surrounding gardens intact.

Atlanta-based Stafford Properties plans 13 two- and three-story "mansion-style" condo buildings with a total of 55 units. Fischer Mansion will be converted into three condo units, and the carriage house will be used as the development's clubhouse, overlooking a new pool, Stafford project manager Mark Jones said recently during a tour of the property.

The project, called the Preserve at Fischer Mansion, is set to open in spring 2007, with prices starting at $350,000. Plans call for some of the new buildings to feature red bricks and white columns to "blend in" with the historic structures, said sales agent Mary Grace Stubbs.

and

Dr. Luther Fischer, co-founder of Crawford Long Hospital, built the mansion for his wife, Lucy, in the late 1920s. Graced by a sweeping front porch and tall windows, the mansion was designed by one of Atlanta's most famed architects, Philip T. Shutze. Completed in 1930, it is surrounded by lush gardens and century-old woodlands overlooking Nancy Creek.

Reilly, a retired BellSouth and Cingular Wireless executive, said he has documented 55 animal species on the site, from Canadian geese to red-tail hawks.

"Those woods have never been logged, lived on or farmed," Reilly said.

Lucy Fischer, a lover of flowers who became an invalid late in life, died in 1937, Reilly said. Luther Fischer moved out of the home and later remarried. He died in 1953.

During the next few decades, most of the land was sold to residential developers.

A private Catholic school occupied the mansion and what was left of Flowerland for much of the 1960s, and Atlanta Unity Church purchased the mansion and seven surrounding acres in the late 1970s. The church initially used the mansion for services but later built a modern worship center and education building on the property. The mansion then was used for weddings and special events.

and

Meanwhile, Jones, the Stafford developer, heard about the controversy and persuaded company officials to step in.

The battle ended in summer 2005 when Stafford announced plans to buy the land and preserve the mansion. A few months later, Stafford bought Fischer Mansion and its seven acres for $3.9 million, according to DeKalb County tax records.

Stafford gave the church a year to find a new home. Atlanta Unity held its final service on the property late last month and has relocated to Norcross.

"We've always encouraged the good in all people, and I think that's been manifested in this situation," said John Strickland, senior minister at Atlanta Unity Church.

"The whole thing turned out where everybody won," Reilly said. "The church got its money. ... DeKalb County and the state of Georgia got to keep a very important piece of history."

City of Dunwoody, pros and cons

GoDeKalb.com, News, 11/20/06, by Mary Swint

BOC Disapproves City of Dunwoody Though Study Claims Impact on County Minimal

From the story:

The debate over creating a new City of Dunwoody got down to dollars and sense last week when DeKalb County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution opposing the incorporation and a citizens group presented findings that the city was financially feasible.

District 5 Commissioner Lee May, who sponsored the resolution, said it was time for the commission to take official action on the incorporation issue.

“It’s been general consensus on the commission that we are against the city of Dunwoody,” May said. “It was necessary to have something official and on the record to say we are opposed to this.”

The Board’s resolution, approved by a 5-1-1 vote on Nov. 14 (with Commissioner Elaine Boyer casting the only dissenting vote) was the second time this year the Board formally stated their opposition to the creation of a City of Dunwoody. This resolution and one in February called for a “complete and thorough analysis of all fiscal, administrative and operational consequences” of the proposed incorporation.

and

“This is about the right to vote,” Ken Wright, President of Citizens for Dunwoody, Inc. said in response to the Commissioners’ resolution. “We're disappointed that any elected official would not support the right of citizens to vote on what happens in their community

State Sen. Dan Weber sponsored a bill in this year’s legislative session to allow for a referendum on the creation of a City of Dunwoody on the northern end of DeKalb County. The bill did not pass but similar legislation is expected in the 2007 session of the General Assembly. Weber did not immediately return calls for comment.

At a public forum on Nov. 12, Citizens for Dunwoody presented to about 100 people information on the costs and benefits of incorporating Dunwoody based on a feasibility study by the Carl Vinson Institute and their own research. The study said DeKalb would lose $4.1 million annually from Dunwoody incorporation and the financial impact on DeKalb would be minimal.

Dunwoody’s preliminary budget could range from a $2.29 million deficit to a possible surplus of $4.71 million, according to the study. Some of the disparity is due to uncertainty on whether the county would share $1.6 million in HOST revenue with the new city.

The presentation said the proposed City Charter would cap the property tax millage rate at one mill above the current rate for the first three years. A citywide referendum would be required to increase property taxes above this cap. The property tax assessments for homeowners in Dunwoody would be capped for five years in accordance with the assessment freeze approved in a recent countywide referendum.

Much of the city’s revenue would come from property taxes, franchise fees and business licenses.

and

The BOC’s new resolution opposed incorporating the major regional retail center at Perimeter Mall and the Perimeter Community Improvement District (CID). It called this area “a vital part of the county.” The CID is a self-taxing district that uses additional property taxes on private commercial property for transportation and infrastructure improvements.

The resolution also opposed “legislation that would transfer assets to the proposed City of Dunwoody at less than the current fair market value, and the sharing of other revenues without the input of the County.”

If Dunwoody becomes a city, it would take control of Liane Levetan Park at Brook Run, Windwood Hollow Park, Dunwoody Park’s ball fields and Nature Center, and the historic Donaldson-Chesnut House. In the study, the Carl Vinson Institute estimated a transfer cost of $6.3 million for the three parks. The county has committed about $11 million in bond funds to expand facilities at Brook Run. Legislation may be introduced to ensure Dunwoody receives the bond funds.

and

Dunwoody would also get the North Police Precinct facility. A new precinct would be established south of I-285 for unincorporated DeKalb.

An Impact Fee Study for the county in November 2004 said the land at the North DeKalb Police Precinct had an estimated value of $1,625,000 and the county planned to replace the current building with an 18,000 square foot new building at an estimated cost of over $3 million.

The resolution said all residents of unincorporated DeKalb should be allowed to vote in a referendum on incorporation of Dunwoody. Weber’s 2006 bill would have allowed only the residents living within the borders of the proposed City of Dunwoody to vote in 2007 on whether or not to form the new city.

The new city’s boundaries would be the Fulton County and Gwinnet County lines on the west, north and east sides, and I-285 and the Doraville city limits on the south side. This would match the Dunwoody Homeowners Association’s traditional definition of Dunwoody.

Incorporation of Dunwoody would create another layer of government “that may not be any more responsive to the needs of the citizens in this area”, the resolution said.

Weber’s 2006 bill called for a Dunwoody city council composed of a mayor and six council members elected at large to represent three districts. The study presentation at the Nov. 12 meeting proposed a mayor and four council members for the new city that would have a population of 40,000 people. The study pointed out by contrast each of the seven county commissioners represents 140,000 to 350,000 people.

Two more forums on the Dunwoody study are scheduled for Dec. 14 and Jan. 21. More details about the Nov. 12 presentation may be found at http://www.citizensfordunwoody.org/

AJC asks for opinions on City of Dunwoody

AJC, Northside, 11/19/06

Tell us what you think: Should Dunwoody incorporate?

From the story:

Dunwoody residents alone should not get to decide how many police officers patrol their streets or how properties in the community get developed. In fact, no local community in DeKalb should be able to break away from County Commission control and make such decisions.

That's the official position adopted by the Board of Commissioners on Tuesday ("DeKalb board opposes cityhood moves," AJC Metro, Nov. 15, reporter D.L. Bennett).

The community of about 40,000 has debated incorporation for about a year, following the lead of Fulton's Sandy Springs, Milton and Johns Creek.

State Sen. Dan Weber (R-Dunwoody) said he wasn't surprised by the commission's vote, saying the board fears losing control.

Weber wants to have a measure before Dunwoody voters in June.

Should Dunwoody incorporate? If so, why? If not, why? We've asked the question in the past, but opinions seem to go back and forth on the issue.

Please send responses to Northside Opinions editor Carla Caldwell at ccaldwell@ajc.com. Please include your full name, community and a daytime telephone number.

Hart County 23, Dunwoody 7 in playoff football

Anderson Independent-Mail, 11/17/06, by David Pittman

Hart County rolls Dunwoody

From the story:

HARTWELL, Ga. — Dunwoody head coach James Teter had the understatement of the night.

"We kind of self destructed," he said of his team’s second half performance.

Dunwoody turned the ball over on its first six possessions of the second half, helping Hart County to a 23-7 opening-round 8-AAA playoff victory.

Every time Dunwoody was close to scoring, the Wildcats either fumbled or threw an interception to score.

"I didn’t realize it was happening that much," Hart County head coach Joby Scroggs said of Dunwoody’s never-ending flow of turnovers. "We’ll take that anytime we can get it."

Dunwoody was able to stay close for much of the game despite its eight turnovers on the night.

With the score 14-7 early in the third quarter, Dunwoody was about the run the ball in for a touchdown from the 1-yard line. But Hart County’s Steve Burton caused a fumble that was recovered by teammate Shane McCord.

Dunwoody was running away from the Kentucky-signee in the first half, so Hart coaches switched McCord’s position on the defensive line and good things started happening for the Bulldogs.

"It was a good move and I started making big plays when we need it," said McCord who had two fumble recoveries in the game.

In the first half, Hart County was almost outplayed by the Wildcats. Dunwoody had 11 first downs and nearly 200 yards on offense. Hart’s usually explosive offensive was held to just 100 yards in the first half.

Hart’s junior quarterback Kurvin Curry said his team made too many mistakes in the first half.

"They did everything we expected them to do," Curry said. "We just kept shooting ourselves in the foot."

Hart scored one of its two first-half touchdowns thanks to the first Dunwoody turnover that gave the Bulldogs the ball on the Dunwoody three-yard line.

Jerod Jackson picked off Dunwoody’s Jeron Sykes’ slant pass and returned it 57 yards. On the next play, Ren Teasley ran off the right side of the line for the game’s first touchdown.

Dunwoody scored its only touchdown on a 17-play, 99-yard first half drive. But whatever first half success Dunwoody was able to get was wiped out by its disastrous second half.

"Every time you hit them, they caved in," said junior defensive back Richie Rucker, who had two interceptions.

Preview of DHS at Druid Hills HS, Dec 5

AJC, DeKalb, 11/16/06

GAMES TO WATCH: Five of the best season matchups

From the story:

Dunwoody at Druid Hills, Dec. 5, 7 p.m.: The first big area matchup of the season, pitting the two best teams returning to Region 5-AAA. Both teams won 20-plus last year, so this one should be good.

Michael Alpert of AJC calls DHS defense of title a "challenge"

AJC, Northside, 11/16/06, by Michael Alpert

BOYS BASKETBALL: FIVE QUESTIONS: Momentum, new challenges mingle

From the story:

Can Class AAA Dunwoody become the first team to win a third consecutive state championship since Mitchell-Baker did in Class AA from 1998 to 2000?

It's going to be challenging, especially without Charlotte signee An'Juan Wilderness, a two-time player of the year. But returners Zac Swansey and Delwan Graham average a combined 30 points, more than a third of the Wildcats' average per game last year.

and

Is Dunwoody's Zac Swansey as good as billed?

Just ask the University of Georgia, which last week got his letter of intent. He averaged 24 and 19 points the past two seasons and has proved himself a heady, highly athletic guard who'll be relied upon following the graduation of several key players.

Are Chattahoochee's Duke Mullis and Dunwoody's Scott Bracco the Northside's best coaches?

The numbers don't lie here. Mullis enters his 10th season having led the Cougars to region titles three times and having averaged 20 or more wins in the past eight seasons. Bracco starts his seventh season looking for a third consecutive state title. Before the championships in 2005-06 he steered the Wildcats to the sweet 16 in 2001 and '03 and the final four in '04.

Jeff Haws of the AJC doesn't think much of Dunwoody's chances

AJC, DeKalb, 11/16/06, by Jeff Haws

FIVE QUESTIONS: Area primed for a second stellar season

From the story:

What are the chances Columbia and Dunwoody can defend their titles?

It's probably about 50 percent for Columbia and 20 percent for Dunwoody. The Eagles are probably the favorites in Class AAAA, as they bring back the core of Lance Storrs and Jeremy Price from last season. The Wildcats lost their best player in An'Juan Wilderness, but there's a solid group returning that should keep them among the best teams in the state.

Zac Swansey pre-season profile

AJC, DeKalb, 11/16/06, by Glenn Lafollette

DUNWOODY PREVIEW: UGA signee Swansey seeks big senior season

From the story:

Dunwoody's Scott Bracco is a sharp basketball coach. With back-to-back state championships to his credit and three straight trips to the state's Final Four, the seven-year skipper knows talent when he sees it.

That's why senior Zac Swansey was so easy to notice.

"Zac's a special player," Bracco said. "During our first title run two years ago, our team, as good as it was, only allowed three players to score over 30 points on us all season. Two of them were top 50-rated players going into college. The other one was Zac."

Swansey, now the starting point guard for Dunwoody, was then playing for a 15-15 Flowery Branch team. It was the kind of team that allowed Swansey, a sophomore at the time, to roll up high numbers, including 35 points in the season-ending loss to Dunwoody. It was comfortable, but just not where Swansey wanted to be to achieve his dreams.

"I wanted to play Division I basketball, and I really wanted to play in the [Southeastern Conference]," Swansey said. "It just came down to improving my game, and to do that I had to be around better competition night in and night out. At a place like Dunwoody with coach Bracco, that's all you get. It was a perfect fit."

The move instantly turned into a positive. Swansey helped carry Dunwoody to its second consecutive state crown while leading the Wildcats in scoring with 19.2 points per game and another 6.3 assists.

and

"I knew what I was getting in Zac. I mean I saw him play," Bracco said. "We couldn't stop him. He's probably got the best midrange shot in the state, and he's easily one of the smoothest guards in the state. We just didn't know what he was going to do."

Swansey, who signed a letter-of-intent with Georgia last week, got the attention he coveted.

"I just don't think this would have happened at my old school," said Swansey, who also looked at St. Louis and Ole Miss. "I mean, I might have gotten some attention, but not like here. To be able to play four more years and do it in-state, I couldn't ask for anything better."

and

"Zac is going to give you all the effort you can ask for," Bracco said. "He's talented. There is no doubt about that. His skills are there, but a lot of players have those in high school. What he's got transcends to the next level. He can shoot, and he works hard to make his teammates better. He's going to be a great player."

Listening to his coach, sounds like Swansey already is.

Dunwoody players named rising stars (!)

AJC, Northside, 11/16/06

BOYS BASKETBALL: OTHER TOP PLAYERS: Rising stars contribute more than points

From the story:

Delwan Graham, Dunwoody, Jr., F

He played in the last two seasons in the shadow of 2006 graduate An'Juan Wilderness, but is expected to step forward as one of the Wildcats' top players. He averaged 12 points and 11 rebounds in helping Dunwoody win its second consecutive Class AAA championship last season, before joining teammate Pierre Jordan among 174 players at the Adidas Superstar Camp last summer.

and

Five emerging players ...

> Pierre Jordan, Dunwoody, Jr., G: Coming off a season in which he averaged 11 points, four assists and three steals, he attended the Adidas Superstar Camp last summer. Last year as the first guard off the bench, he scored a season-high 19 against Druid Hills and three clutch 3-pointers that helped avoid an upset by M.L. King.

Appalachian St Univ signs David Port of DHS for baseball

GoASU.com, 11/16/06, by Appalachian Sports Information

Baseball Inks Seven During Early Signing Period

From the story:

November 16, 2006 - BOONE, N.C. – Seven student-athletes committed to play baseball at Appalachian State University during the early signing period, head coach Chris Pollard announced on Thursday. The early class consists of six high-school standouts, including five from North Carolina, and one of the nation’s top junior-college pitchers.

Appalachian’s seven early signees are: RHP/3B Seth Grant (Henderson, N.C./West Henderson), SS Doug Jones, (Charlotte, N.C./South Mecklenburg), OF Andrew Manning (Goldsboro, N.C./North Lenoir), IF David Port (Dunwoody, Ga./Dunwoody), LHP Brandon Sutton (Goldsboro, N.C./North Lenoir), LHP Nick Terry (Senoia, Ga./Starr’s Mill/Young Harris J.C.) and OF Jason Wallace (Greensboro, N.C./Ragsdale). All seven will join the Mountaineers in the fall of 2007.

and

IF DAVID PORT (Dunwoody, Ga./Dunwoody): Named the top prospect at 2005 Georgia Perfect Game event … identified as one of the nation’s top high-school prospects by Collegiate Baseball … chose Appalachian over College of Charleston, Georgia Southern, Indiana, Vanderbilt, Michigan, UAB and Jacksonville State.

EatZi's closes in Dunwoody and Buckhead

AJC, Holiday Guide, 11/16/06, by Elizabeth Lee (with Bill Husted)

EatZi's closes Atlanta locations

From the story:

EatZi's, the gourmet takeout store known for the opera music that serenades shoppers, closed its Buckhead and Dunwoody stores today, an employee confirmed.

and

EatZi's, founded by Phil Romano, the creator of such chains as Romano's Macaroni Grill and Fuddrucker's, is a privately held chain with other locations in Chicago and Dallas.

It offered an array of 100 ready-to-eat entrees and side dishes, made-to-order salads and sandwiches, and dozens of varieties of fresh bread and elaborate desserts, as well as dozens of cheeses. It also stocked some packaged foods, such as chips, wine and jams, and fruits that could be toted along with a packaged salad to lunch. Cafe seating let workers duck into the store for a quick lunch.

EatZi's opened its first Atlanta location in Buckhead, near the intersection of Piedmont and Peachtree Roads, in 1998. The Dunwoody store opened in 2004.

Light Up Dunwoody on Nov 19, 2006

Dunwoody Crier, Teaser, 11/14/06

Dunwoody 'Lights Up' Sunday

From the story:

Light Up Dunwoody has been a community tradition for about 10 years. It all began when Bill and Peggy Grant decided to light the holly tree planted at the Triangle (intersection of Ashford-Dunwoody Rd and Mount Vernon). For years, Boy Scout Troop 266 volunteered their time and hung the lights.


The farmhouse was professionally lit for the first time in 2001. Three years later the holiday tree was added. Last year the Dunwoody Crier offered to have the Triangle professionally lit. The result was beautiful. We are thankful to them again for their willingness to do it this year - and of course for their co-sponsorship of the entire Light Up Dunwoody event!

Thanks to our Light Up Dunwoody chairwomen Celeste Webb and Sharon Collins. We appreciate you! As we do our many volunteers and major sponsors MSD Motors, Flag Bank, and Guthrie’s. Of course we can’t forget to thank members of Boy Scout Troop 266, who remain involved as a vital part of Light Up Dunwoody.

ChemoChic, Dunwoody cancer program, is getting national attention

AJC, DeKalb, 11/16/06, by Mae Gentry

BRIEFS: 'Stompin' at the Savoy' to raise funds for children, homeless

From the story:

CNN features local cancer program

A Dunwoody cancer program is getting national attention.

ChemoChic, an affiliate of the Georgia Cancer Foundation, was recently featured on CNN.

ChemoChic is a one-day class for women undergoing chemotherapy. They get life lessons from a nutritionist, a yoga instructor and a social worker.

"This is a program to empower women going through chemotherapy for any type of cancer," said ChemoChic coordinator Rudi Caruthers.

The class featured on CNN Oct. 3 was held at the Wellness Community Atlanta facility on Peachtree Dunwoody Road. Upcoming sessions will be held there and at the Longstreet Clinic in Gainesville and a facility in Warner Robins.

For free reservations, call 770-333-3314.

GPC Soccer finishes 5th in nation at NJCAA tourney

Opening game loss followed by two wins earns GPC Soccer (home field at Dunwoody) 5th in nation for NJCAA Div 1.

2006 NJCAA D1 Men's National Soccer Tournament

Bracket

Results

All Tournament Team member: Chris Brugger - Georgia Perimeter

GPC of Dunwoody at national soccer tournament in Texas

KLTV, Tyler, Texas, 11/16/06

National NJCAA Soccer Tournament Opens In Tyler

From the story:

The Junior College National Soccer Championship tournament opened in Tyler today. TJC is hosting the top eight junior college soccer teams in the country. They will play over the next three days to crown a new national champion Sunday afternoon. The eight teams are College of DuPage of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, Georgia Perimeter College of Dunwoody, Georgia, Illinois Central College of East Peoria, Illinois, Jefferson College of Hillsboro, Missouri, Louisburg College of Louisburg, North Carolina, Mercer County Community College of Trenton, New Jersey, Northern Oklahoma College of Tonkawa, Oklahoma, and Yavapai College of Prescott, Arizona. All of the games will be played at Pat Hartley field on the campus of TJC.

Election results for Dunwoody

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 11/14/06, by Dick Williams

Republicans dominate in local ballots

From the story:

Incumbent state legislators held their seats with relative ease in Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Chamblee and north Brookhaven and a property tax relief measure for DeKalb County sponsored by state Rep. Fran Millar (R-Dunwoody) won 73 percent support across the county.

The measure, freezing for five years the assessed value of a home or until it is sold, was opposed by DeKalb’s chief executive, Vernon Jones, yet won overwhelmingly and in every section of the county.

Analysts called it a repudiation of Jones’ continued tax increases that began when he broke his 2000 campaign pledge to continue the 100 percent homestead option sales tax exemption.

Millar’s measure will result in the county receiving about $8 million less than it did this year. The county budget is in excess of $1 billion.


After the vote November 7, DeKalb County Tax Commissioner Claudia G. Lawson announced that her office would mail property assessment freeze applications to current homeowners receiving homestead exemption. These applications are expected to be in mailboxes by the last week of November and must be completed and returned to the Tax Commissioner’s office by March 1, 2007. Applications received after March 1, 2007 will be applied to the following tax year.

and

Though Democrats mounted challenges this year in heavily Republican districts, state Sen. Dan Weber, Millar and state Reps . Jill Chambers and Harry Geisinger won handily. Gov. Sonny Perdue won re-election with a far larger share of the north DeKalb and Sandy Springs vote than he claimed in 2002.

and

Millar led the area Republicans, winning 72 percent of the vote in his Dunwoody district that includes a piece of north Brookhaven.

Dunwoody, formerly part of U.S. Rep. Cynthia McKinney’s 4th congressional district, becomes part of the U.S. Rep. Tom Price’s 6th District January 1. He won 72 percent of the district’s votes, carrying 65 percent of the Dunwoody area. In the Brookhaven area still part of the 4th District, Hank Johnson, McKinney’s conqueror, washed away Republican Catherine Davis.

Hartwell Sun pre-game analysis of FB playoff with Dunwoody

The Hartwell Sun, Sports, 11/15/06, by Mark Hynds

Bulldogs start playoff run with Dunwoody

From the story:

Fifteen years and counting. The Hart County Bulldogs will continue one of the longest active playoff streaks in the state when they take on the Dunwoody Wildcats, Friday, Nov. 17, at Herndon Stadium.

The Wildcats come to Hartwell as the number three seed out of Region 5-AAA. They finished tied for second in Region 5B-AAA.

The Wildcats finished the regular season 7-3 overall and 5-2 in region play.

Their wins include a 32-27 victory over Apalachee and their three losses were to teams with a combined record of 20-10, including 2-AAAA member Woodward Academy.

They run their offense out of the Wing T. Quarterback Jeron Sykes has thrown for 1,060 yards, completing 61 out of 108 attempts. He's thrown for seven touchdowns and been picked off four times.

His primary receiver is Marcel Bouie, who has caught 30 passes for 430 yards. He has four touchdowns as well.

On the ground, they are led by Karl Evans (769 yards, 112 carries) and Cameron Ford (561 yards, 84 carries).

Defensively, they are led by their free safety Justin Jenkins, who has 69 tackles and an interception. Inside line backer Michael Ervin has recorded 64 tackles and an interception.

Malcolm Mitchell and Kenton Myers lead the team in sacks with four each.

“Our secondary is probably our strongest aspect on defense,” said Wildcats' head coach James Teter. “Hopefully, we can contain Teasley and that offense and limit the big plays.”

and

“They probably haven't seen a team who throws the ball like we do, said Bulldog head coach Joby Scroggs. “We feel like we can throw it on them.”

“They are not real big, but they are quick,” said Scroggs. They may be the fastest team we've played all year. We are stronger so we will try and run right at them.”

Defensively, the Bulldogs will see something similar to what they saw against Winder-Barrow, without all the misdirection.

“They don't do anything fancy, said Scroggs. “But we struggled against Winder so we'll definitely have to play better.

Playing the first round game at home will also be important.

“In the playoffs, you usually have to travel a couple of hours, said Scroggs. “It will be nice for us to stay in our routine. Plus, we'll have a big crowd on hand which is always an advantage.”

DeKalb County Board of Commissioners oppose new cities

AJC, DeKalb, 11/15/06, by D.L. Bennett

DeKalb board opposes cityhood moves

From the story:

Dunwoody residents alone should not get to decide how many police officers patrol their streets or how properties in the community get developed. In fact, no local community in DeKalb should be able to break away from County Commission control and make such decisions.

That's the official position adopted by the Board of Commissioners Tuesday. In a 5-1 vote, the board said it would oppose Dunwoody or any other community in DeKalb creating a new city.

and

The community of about 40,000 has been debating incorporation for much of the year, following the lead of Sandy Springs, Milton and Johns Creek in nearby Fulton County.

Residents of all three communities — tired of complaining about a Fulton County government they say costs too much and delivers too little in return — took control of local services by creating new cities.

Tuesday's vote in DeKalb, though, should have little impact on the incorporation movement in Dunwoody, or Tucker, which has also considered the idea.

State Sen. Dan Weber, R-Dunwoody, said Tuesday the action was expected by a group he contends fears losing power and control through incorporation.

Any new city would take over such issues as planning, police, fire, parks and road work, the critical direct services for most residents. Commissioners would be relegated to issues such as health services, senior centers, libraries and the jail.

Weber said he hopes to have a vote before Dunwoody voters in June.

"DeKalb County is just so large. It's hard for a county commissioner to be responsive to 140,000 residents," Weber said.

and

In DeKalb, only Elaine Boyer voted against Tuesday's measure.

Citizens for Dunwoody presents case for City of Dunwoody

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 11/14/06, by Dick Williams

DeKalb commission condemns city of Dunwoody

From the story:

The Citizens for Dunwoody, led by Ken Wright, a past president of the Dunwoody Homeowners’ Association, made its presentation to about 100 area residents Sunday evening. The detailed presentation - reflecting legislation being drafted for the 2007 General Assembly - showed that under different scenarios, a city of Dunwoody could operate at a surplus of $4.7 million or a deficit of up to $2.29 million.

The proposed city charter would cap the millage rate at one mill above the current rate. That one mill tax increase would generate $2.1 million. Any further tax increase proposals over the first three years of the new city would require a referendum.

“Our research does suggest,” said Wright, “that a tax increase might be necessary.”

He explained that a one-mill tax increase would mean additional $40 for each $100,000 of a home’s appraised value. For a house appraised by DeKalb County at $300,000, the additional tax would be $120.

and

What the commission thinks didn’t seem a great concern to people at the City of Dunwoody meeting Sunday at Dunwoody Baptist Church.

Ken Anderson said his wife’s family moved to Dunwoody in 1829.

“What has taken place in DeKalb County over the last several years has been a travesty,” he said, referring to public corruption and to the stewardship of chief executive Vernon Jones. “More power to your group and hurry every chance you get.”

Wright’s report and a panel discussion by other board members covered the reasons for incorporation, the benefits and risks, the final map that will be submitted to the General Assembly and estimated revenues and expenses (read the full presentation at www.citizensfordunwoody.org).

The citizens’ group proposes that a city of Dunwoody provide building inspections, code enforcement, police, a municipal court, parks and recreation, permits, roads and drainage, traffic enforcement and zoning and land use.

It proposes that DeKalb continue to provide fire and 911 emergency service, garbage and sanitation, health services, the jail and sheriff, libraries and water and sewer.

Since school boards are independent from the county, Dunwoody schools would remain under the DeKalb Board of Education.

The group’s analysis points to a net loss to the county of $4.1 million a year in revenue. County officials have put that amount much higher. Dunwoody residents would continue to be responsible for the bond issues in place, but a future city could decide whether to participate in future county bond programs.

“We are 11 percent to 12 percent of the county budget,” said Robert Wittenstein, the group’s chief information researcher, “and we are but 6 percent to 7 percent of the population.”

Wright pointed out that if the General Assembly and approves a referendum, perhaps as early as June next year, and if the city were approved by voters, it could begin operations as early as late December of next year.

Oliver Porter, the former interim city manager of Sandy Springs and the man credited with the city’s nimble start from scratch, also addressed the gathering.

“I’ve been involved in every new city that’s been created in Georgia in the last three years,” he said, “and this was the best exposition or explanation of any of them.”

Sally Foster (the real person!) returns to Dunwoody

AJC, DeKalb, 11/13/06, by Kristina Torres

Queen of school fund-raising visits Kingsley Charter

and AJC, Metro, 11/14/06, by Kristina Torres

Here's the wrap, or rap, on school sales

From the story:

The Kingsley kids have special reason to be devoted to Sally Foster products because the idea of selling them originated at their school. And they met the genius behind the gift wrap Monday when Sally Foster returned to the school where she was once a PTA mom.

"It seemed to me the children should have the privilege of not being embarrassed" by what they sold, said Foster, who spent the morning at Kingsley handing out top-sale prizes. "I thought, why can't we sell something people want?"

Yes, there really is a Sally Foster, and she hit on a pretty good idea —- or, depending on your point of view, a necessary evil —- while volunteering at Kingsley in the early 1970s: Encouraging kids to sell wrapping paper for gifts.

Foster, who now lives in Duncan, S.C., is the doyenne of gift wrap and the diva of school sales, whose namesake fund-raising empire has made wrapping paper a blessing and, to some parents, the bane of elementary schools the nation over.

and

A PTA mom until her kids grew up, Foster learned about school fund-raising projects at Kingsley.

Think you've had it up to here with shilling rolls of paper? Then you haven't seen Styrofoam door-hanging Santas, which Foster remembers selling to raise a nickel for teachers, along with apples, pumpkins and bags of fertilizer, before she launched the wrapping paper concept shortly after her arrival in Dunwoody in 1970.

That concept, at first, meant corralling other moms into the cafeteria to roll 50-foot strips of black-and-white polka-dot wrapping paper onto cardboard "cores" while stapling tiny samples onto order forms.

The Foster family moved away to Spartanburg, S.C., in 1973, but after an encouraging call from Kingsley's principal she kept the enterprise going, and it blossomed into an ever-expanding business.

Foster sold the company years ago but has stayed on as a consultant. Schools receive 50 percent of the proceeds from Sally Foster products they sell.

and

Whatever the adults think, Kingsley students crowded into their cafeteria and cheered like mad Monday morning, as the real Sally Foster hugged kids and beamed among teachers bedecked in Sally Foster ribbons.

Gift packages were presented, a couple of kids earned Target gift cards. And Lindsey Kirkland collected the school's top sales prize for personally selling $600 worth of Sally Foster gifts: A portable DVD player.

She didn't know she had won until she heard her name. But Lindsey didn't bat an eye.

Looking ahead to a Thanksgiving vacation, the 8-year-old said, "I'm going to take it on my trip to New York."

THE SALLY FOSTER EMPIRE

> First gift wrap sale: In 1970, she suggested that the PTA at Kingsley Charter School in DeKalb County sell gift wrap instead of apples and candles. Proceeds from the sales campaign were reported to be $2,000.

> Starting her own business: In 1973, she started her own business in South Carolina with sales by Kingsley and two other schools.

> Sale of company: In 1989, the company was sold to a friend for what was thought to be several million dollars. It was resold in 1992 for a reported $31 million to $32 million.

Sources: Journal-Constitution archives, Washington Post

Picture credit and caption:

Rich Addicks/AJC
Fund-raising firm chief Sally Foster, a former Kinglsey Charter School PTA board member, stopped by her old stomping grounds Monday to honor the school's top Sally Foster sellers. Third-grader Lucie Calhoun was one of the top 10 sellers.

Norcross humbled by Dunwoody

AJC, High School Sports, 11/21/06, by John Hollis

Norcross 'humbled' by Dunwoody

From the story:

Officially, this game never happened. But try telling that to the raucous Dunwoody faction at the conclusion of Monday night's scrimmage at Norcross.

Chants of "overrated" echoed throughout the gym as the two-time and defending Class AAA champions stunned the Blue Devils, the reigning Class AAAAA champions and the nation's second-ranked team, according to USA Today, with a 73-70 decision.

Norcross, which officially will open its season at Shiloh on Nov. 28, had nobody to blame but itself for the setback.

The Blue Devils misfired on a staggering 27 of their 49 free throw attempts for the evening and clanged 16 of their 18 tries from beyond the 3-point arc to spoil a furious rally from a 16-point fourth-quarter deficit.

and

The Wildcats led by 16 points (60-44) early in the fourth period, but Norcross stormed back into contention.

A pair of Jordan DeMercy free throws with 1:20 left brought the hosts to within one at 67-66.

But the Wildcats slammed the door shut, hitting six of eight free throw attempts the rest of the way to assure the upset.

Dunwoody finished the night 17 of 24 from the stripe.

Georgia signee Zac Swansey totaled 18 points and six assists to pace the winners, while high-flying teammate Delesan Graham added 16 points and 13 boards.

Norcross, which features four starters at least 6-foot-5 or better, struggled early on as the smaller but quicker Wildcats consistently hurt them in transition.

Quick shots and an inability to consistently swing the ball fast against a tough Dunwoody defense denied the Blue Devils many good looks throughout the evening.

and

Georgia Tech signee Gani Lawal added 15 rebounds, six blocked shots and two assists to his game-high 21 points in the losing effort for Norcross.

"I think we're a humble team," he said, "but this humbled us even more."

Picture credit and caption:

JASON GETZ / Staff
Norcross' Gani Lawal (left) gets off a pass past Dunwoody defender Justin Thurman during a scrimmage Monday night. Lawal scored 21 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in a losing effort.

+ Hoop Dawgs Message Board discussion of D'wood-N'cross scrimmage

Best match-ups of HS basketball season

AJC, Northside, 11/16/06

BOYS BASKETBALL: GAMES TO WATCH: Five of the best season matchups

From the story:

Dunwoody vs. Pinecrest (Fla.) in the Primetime Shootout at Georgia Tech, Jan. 20 at 1 p.m.: No strangers to national events, the Wildcats will rely on that experience against nationally regarded teams in an exhibition spread over the season with games in Texas, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Georgia. A sampling of Georgia teams invited: Dunwoody is two-time defending champion in Class AAA. Norcross and Columbia are defending champs in AAAAA and AAAA, respectively; and Wheeler won AAAAA in 2002, '03 and '05.

Dunwoody opponent ranked #2 in nation by USA Today

USA Today, Preps, 11/15/06, compiled by Christopher Lawlor

Super 25 boys basketball rankings

USA Super 25 (pre-season) as of Nov 15, 2006, from the story:

2. Norcross, Ga. (29-4) [2005-2006 record]

Starters returning: 2. Outlook: The reigning Class 5A champions are paced by 6-8 Gani Lawal (18.5 ppg), 6-7 Jordan DeMercy (Florida State) and 6-5 Tony Neysmith (Oklahoma). At 6-8, Al-Farouq Aminu is an elite junior. Opens: Nov. 28 vs. Shiloh (Snellville).

Dunwoody High School's first scrimmage of 2006-2007 is with Norcross High School.

DHS ranked #1 in boys basketball in preseason poll

AJC, Sports, 11/17/06

HIGH SCHOOLS: BASKETBALL POLLS

From the story:

Boys
CLASS AAA

1. Dunwoody (8)

2. Liberty County

3. Glenn Hills

4. Spencer

5. Northside-Columbus

6. Druid Hills

7. Chamblee

8. Shaw

9. East Hall

10. Cartersville

> Others receiving votes: Gainesville, Cedartown, Carver-Columbus, Oconee County, Hart County

Dunwoody High School received all 8 first place votes.

Dunwoody Bistro @ Williamsburg, review

AJC, Northside, 11/17/06, by Jennifer Brett

Taste of the Northside: A cozy place to return to

From the story:

Such is the cuisine at Dunwoody Bistro. Chef Lauren Shaar blends Asian influence from her native Korea with the French and Italian cuisine she mastered in culinary school, and throws in some Mediterranean, Mexican and British touches, all to the delight of her Dunwoody neighbors. Her restaurant is a cozy spot to meet girlfriends for lunch, a date for dinner, or the family for Sunday brunch.

"I don't advertise that much," says Shaar, whom locals may remember from the nearby Farmhouse Tea Shoppe. "Everyone who comes here, we know each other's names."

Shaar, who also catered a while and cooked at the closed, lamented Asher in downtown Roswell, opened Dunwoody Bistro about two years ago. The space, located in the Williamsburg Shopping Center, housed a coffee shop for years, and the restaurant has retained the loving, lived-in feel the well-caffeinated, literary-minded set can impart. Stacks of books in charmingly haphazard piles fill bookshelves along the walls, and the small dining room's prime seating choices are the banquette near the back or a bench seat in the front window. The restroom is wallpapered in pithy quotes such as: "It is not he who has little but he who wants more who is poor."

THE MENU

The signature item on the lunch menu is Chef Lauren's Asian salad, which Shaar has found to be "everyone's favorite." With good reason. It's a bountiful beauty of a dish, featuring chopped Napa and red cabbage with romaine lettuce and carrots. Shaar throws in some toasted Asian noodles and either chicken or beef, and tosses the salad in sesame ginger dressing.

The shrimp and scallop cake melt is a house specialty Shaar created as an alternative to crab cakes, staple of ladies' lunches everywhere. (With a smallish restaurant, Shaar worried the whole place would smell like crabs). The crustacean cake is meaty and mayo-free, with a nice tang. But most exciting are the gorgeous heirloom tomatoes Shaar tucks under the cakes.

and

THE SCENE

This is clearly a place for regulars. The day I went, several of the other tables were occupied by couplets of handsome women discussing urgent matters involving drama-queen friends and stick-in-the-mud husbands. (Like Newland Archer, the protagonist in "The Age of Innocence," I'm too discreet to blab). Each of them addressed our waitress with familiarity and warmth, and said something along the lines of "See you next time," as they took their leave.

But the place isn't stuffy, and newcomers like myself and Ms. Wharton are treated like friends.

If I were to offer one suggestion, I might invite the restaurant to consider tossing the tablecloths, stained with red wine or some such, into the trash. The tables dressed with crisp white butcher's paper looked just as smart as if they were linen-clad. Cleaner, too.

Dunwoody Bistro

> Where: 2482 Jett Ferry Road, Dunwoody

> Info: 770-206-5200

> Cuisine: Eclectic

> Specialties: Chef Lauren's Asian salad, shrimp and scallop cake melt

> Entrees: Lunch $8.25-$12.95; dinner entrees $10.95-$20.95

> Reservations: Accepted, but not required

> Hours: Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; dinner 5-9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; brunch 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

> Noise level: Moderate

Mark Jordan of Dunwoody, children's book author

DeKalb Neighbor, People, 11/15/06, by Talia Mollett

CEO s stories guide moral compass

From the story:

By day, Dunwoody resident Mark Jordan helps buy and sell companies.

The chief executive officer of Vercor, a merger and acquisitions firm with 10 offices nationally, Jordan spends his mornings interacting with clients and managing the other offices.

But after the sun goes down, Jordan practices his other love-writing.

and

His first published children's book, "Courage the Monkey," was printed this year. The story focuses on how children encounter fears in their life, Jordan said.

The story's main character, Jonathan, is an 11-year-old spider monkey. In the story, Jonathan is confronted with a challenge and his younger brother, David, encourages Jonathan to face his fears. Jonathan succeeds and becomes the town hero.


The book also teaches children how to be courageous at appropriate times in their lives and imparts the importance of investing in help from others when they struggle with obstacles, according to Jordan.

The story was among his daughters' favorites.

and

In addition to writing, Jordan enjoys taking walks with his wife of 18 years, Michelle, playing racquetball, snow and water skiing and traveling. He is also the contributing editor to a bi-monthly business magazine, "The Business Owner," and writes for the monthly publication, "The M & A Front."

Jordan said that writing a children's book has brought great meaning to his life. He hopes to release another children's book next year.

Villa Sonoma going condo

AJC, 11/12/06, by Lori Johnston

IN THE MARKET: Homes sprout near Ga. 400

From the story:

Villa Sonoma, off Ashford Dunwoody Road near Perimeter Mall, is being converted from apartments to condominiums by Douglas Wilson Cos. and offers one-, two- and three-bedroom homes from the $140,000s to the $300,000s. The DeKalb County condos, with 646 to 1,520 square feet, have been updated with granite countertops, hardwood floors, tile floors in the bathrooms and stainless-steel appliances. Amenities include concierge service, clubhouse, pool, fitness center, pet walk, media room and billiards room. The developer will pay up to $2,000 in closing costs and up to six months of home- owners association dues. Information: 404-847-1242, www.villa-sonoma.com.

Villa Sonoma is just inside the perimeter, near the Hewlett-Packard building.

County Commission opposes City of Dunwoody

AJC, DeKalb/Rockdale, 11/15/06, by D.L. Bennett

DeKalb board opposes cityhood moves

From the story:

Dunwoody residents alone should not get to decide how many police officers patrol their streets or how properties in the community get developed. In fact, no local community in DeKalb should be able to break away from County Commission control and make such decisions.

That's the official position adopted by the Board of Commissioners Tuesday. In a 5-1 vote, the board said it would oppose Dunwoody or any other community in DeKalb creating a new city.

and

State Sen. Dan Weber, R-Dunwoody, said Tuesday the action was expected by a group he contends fears losing power and control through incorporation.

Any new city would take over such issues as planning, police, fire, parks and road work, the critical direct services for most residents. Commissioners would be relegated to issues such as health services, senior centers, libraries and the jail.

Weber said he hopes to have a vote before Dunwoody voters in June.

"DeKalb County is just so large. It's hard for a county commissioner to be responsive to 140,000 residents," Weber said.

and

In DeKalb, only Elaine Boyer voted against Tuesday's measure.

Pierre Jordan decommits from Clemson

Fayetteville Observer, 11/14/06, by Thad Mumau

Lowe building strong class

From the Story:

Jordan decommits

In more recruiting turmoil involving Clemson, junior Pierre Jordan has backed out of his commitment.

The point guard from Dunwoody (Ga.) High has reopened his recruitment, reportedly because Clemson’s 2007 class includes a pair of guards.

Jordan is now looking at Florida State and Florida, among others.

Jewish Book Festival 2006

AJC, Metro, 11/09/06, by Candice Hannigan

JEWISH BOOK FESTIVAL: Annual event to host prize-winning authors

From the story:

Some of the speakers:

> Journalists Jeffrey Goldberg from The New Yorker, David Lidsky from Fast Company and David Corn, Washington editor of "The Nation" and Fox News Channel contributor

> Travel writers Arthur and Pauline Frommer

> Comics Rita Rudner and Larry Miller

> Television news reporter Lynn Sherr

> South Beach Diet creator Dr. Arthur Agatston

> Prize-winning novelists Orly Casteel-Bloom, Myla Goldberg and Rachel Kadish

> Television writers Phil Rosenthal and Monica Horan of "Everybody Loves Raymond."

...

> "Overcoming Life's Disappointments" by Rabbi Harold Kushner. 8 p.m. Monday. Kushber, also the author of "When Bad Things Happen to Good People," will be featured with Myla Goldberg for one price

Jonathan Sosa finally mentioned by Atlanta paper

AJC, DeKalb/Rockdale, 11/09/06, by Kristina Torres

EDUCATION REPORT: Parents unveil plans for new campus for arts school

From the story:

Dunwoody student on Latino panel

Dunwoody High School's Jonathan Sosa served as a panelist at the recent Latino Youth Leadership Conference.

Jonathan, a junior, was one of four students who answered questions from middle school students about his life as an immigrant, as well as about his academic experiences and how to succeed in school.

The conference, now in its seventh year, was sponsored by the Latino American Association.

High School Basketball Preview

AJC, Sports, 11/08/06, by Derrick Mahone

Hoops preview: Can '05 champs defend?

From the story:

• Dunwoody (Class AAA): Two-time Class AAA player of the year An'Juan Wilderness has graduated, but coach Scott Bracco has two starters returning. The Wildcats will count on point guard Pierre Jordan, a junior who has committed to Clemson, to keep the championship streak alive. Zac Swansey, a 3-point threat, joins Jordan in the backcourt. Delwan Graham and Justin Thurman will be strong inside.

...

Q. How will Westlake do in Class AAAA?

A. The Lions cruised before losing to region nemesis Dunwoody in the AAA final last season. Coach Darron Rogers must replace three Division I signees. Forwards Bryson Barnes (6-5) and Gideon Gamble (6-6) must emerge for Westlake to make another playoff run. Transfer Taylor Foster will be counted on to fill the point guard position.

...

Games you don't want to miss

• Nov. 25: The Jump Ball Jam at Georgia Tech features eight playoff teams from last season. The matchups include Etowah vs. St. Pius, Dunwoody vs. Milton, Whitefield Academy vs. Meadowcreek and Cherokee vs. Wesleyan. Cherokee returns junior Chris Singleton, the state's top junior prospect.

...

THE STATE'S BEST

Rating the top 10 teams in the state, regardless of classification

1. Norcross (Class AAAAA)

2. Columbia (Class AAAA)

3. Wheeler (Class AAAAA)

4. Wilkinson County (Class A)

5. Dunwoody (Class AAA)

6. Beach (Class AAAAA)

7. Meadowcreek (Class AAAAA)

8. Whitefield Academy (Class A)

9. Westlake (Class AAAA)

10. Griffin (Class AAAA)

More Zac Swansey coverage

WXIA-TV, 11/08/06, by Kritsy Rivero

Dogs Sign Three Hoopsters

From the story:

Swansey, at 6-1 and 165 pounds, is beginning his senior year at Dunwoody High School. Last year he helped lead the Wildcats to their second straight Class 3A state title, averaging 19.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game. Swansey transferred to Dunwoody after playing his sophomore season at Flowery Branch High School.

"Zac is a point guard who is a very skilled ballhandler and passer, and who has a good feel for the game and knows how to distribute the ball," Felton said. "I'm also impressed by how Zac transferred into an already successful program, mesh immediately and help them win a second state title. Coach Scott Bracco has done an excellent job of teaching Zach many nuances of the game from the point guard position."

Zac Swansey signs letter to attend UGA, play basketball

SportingNews.com, 11/08/06, by the AP

Tech, Georgia each announce 3 early signees

From the story:

Georgia signed three metro Atlanta players: Chris Barnes of Riverdale High, Jeremy Price of Columbia High and Zac Swansey of Dunwoody High.

Fiona Page tells stories

AJC, Metro, 11/09/06, by H.M. Cauley

Carter Center set to host storytellers

From the story:

Page plans to tell another touching story of her disabled mother's struggle to become a successful businesswoman. But perhaps her most moving story is her own: She lost her sight 19 years ago when she was in her 40s.

"It's meant a lot to me, going from the sighted world to a different one, to stay with storytelling," said the Dunwoody resident. "I was only a storyteller about six years when it happened, and I wasn't a very good one. Being a blind storyteller has made a major difference, because I have to use more imagination. And I've had to draw from within so much that it's made me feel more connected to people. I love encouraging others and making them laugh. That has fed me for 19 years."

DHS 14, Westminster School 3

Dunwoody Crier, Sports, 11/07/06

Battle of 'Cats leads Dunwoody closer to playoffs

From the story:

Dunwoody turned the ball over on its opening possession of the game, setting up great field position for Westminster. However the Dunwoody defense held Westminster to a 23-yard field goal.

Teter said this opening stand set the tone for the whole game.

“The last few years they have jumped on us early,” said Teter. “So to hold them to three points was huge for our overall scheme.”

Rats under Dunwoody jacuzzi make news...

AJC, Business, 11/07/06, By Matt Kempner

Bats in attic? Rats in walls? Time to call critter catchers

From the story:

Brett Whitfield, a technician for a local removal company, recalls one homeowner who was on the verge of tears recently when he pulled rats from under the Jacuzzi of her Dunwoody home.

Whitfield can't relate to the squeamishness he finds in metro Atlanta homes. On a recent call he gathered the tools of his trade —- dirty snap traps, a paste made of acorns, sunflower seeds —- and explained that if he'd been after squirrels instead of rats, the traps wouldn't have worked.

"Rats eat with their face. Squirrels eat with their hands," he said matter of factly.

One person's disgusting image is another person's bread and butter.

Brook Run park renamed

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 11/07/06, by Dick Williams

Levetan celebrates Brook Run naming ceremony

From the story:

A happy crowd of more than 200 people visited Brook Run Saturday, crowding a makeshift podium as DeKalb County chief executive Vernon Jones unveiled a sign re-naming the facility Liane Levetan Park at Brook Run.

DUI bus driver from Dunwoody?

AJC, North Fulton/Forsyth, 11/06/06, by Nancy Badertscher

Fulton school bus driver busted on DUI charge

From the story:

Frank Huggins, spokesman for the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, said Tina Stoy, 40, of Dunwoody was arrested after a complaint from a motorist that a Fulton County school bus had been weaving up Ga. 400 and hit a guard rail about 1 p.m. No children were on board.

Sheriff's deputies stopped the bus on McFarland Road, gave Stoy a field sobriety test and charged her with driving under the influence, Huggins said.

Officers found two small bottles of wine on the bus, as well as some prescription drugs that were not in their original container, he said.

Cameron Ferguson mentioned as defensive star

AJC, Sports, 11/05/06, by Darryl Maxie

HIGH SCHOOL RETROSPECTIVE

Defensive stars

Cameron Ferguson, Dunwoody: He intercepted a Clay Gibson pass in the end zone, cutting off a Westminster drive and helping Dunwoody hold on for a 14-3 victory in a big Region 5-AAA Division B game. Gibson was 13 for 25 for 178 yards and one other interception.

Dunwoody 14, Westminster 3

AJC, Sports, 11/04/06, by Jeff Haws


Dunwoody stifles Westminster 14-3

From the story:

The victory kept Dunwoody (6-3, 4-2 Region 5-AAA) in prime position to make the playoffs for the first time since 1998. Westminster (4-5, 4-2) needs to beat Riverwood next week and have Dunwoody and Chamblee lose in order to qualify for the postseason.

It was a win built on a "bend-but-don't-break" defensive effort. Dunwoody allowed 278 total yards but only three points.

The first two of Dunwoody's stops inside the 20 might have been the biggest of the four. Early in the first quarter, a fumble gave Westminster the ball on the Dunwoody 11, but Westminster managed three yards before making a 25-yard field goal to take an early 3-0 lead.

The next stop came in the second quarter, after Westminster drove the ball from its own 20 to the Dunwoody 5. But on third-and-2, Cameron Ferguson intercepted a Clay Gibson pass in the end zone to end the threat.

"The defensive coaches did a great job preparing for them," Dunwoody coach James Teter said. "They just came up big on defense at key times. That interception right before the half was huge."

Ferguson's interception helped preserve a 7-3 lead, built earlier in the second quarter on a 5-yard touchdown run by Karl Evans, who had 21 carries for a game-high 93 yards.

The final score came on the opening possession of the second half, which Dunwoody took 77 yards on nine plays, highlighted by a 43-yard pass from Jeron Sykes to Malcolm Mitchell.

An'Juan Wilderness signs with Charlotte again

Charlotte Observer, Sports, 11/10/06, by Jim Utter

Charlotte recruits sign letters of intent

From the story:

All three of the Charlotte 49ers' early commitments for the 2007-08 men's college basketball season have signed national letters-of-intent, school officials confirmed Thursday.

For An'Juan Wilderness, a 6-foot-6 wing player from Dunwoody, Ga., this is his second time signing with Charlotte.

Wilderness originally signed last fall, but opted for prep school this season, which re-opened his recruiting. Wilderness, who attends the Patterson School in Lenoir, decided to remain committed to the 49ers.

Liane Levetan's name to be attached to Brook Run Park on Nov 4th

AJC, DeKalb/Rockdale, 11/02/06, by Ty Tagami

Event marks park named for Levetan dedicated

The story:

DeKalb County officials will dedicate a north county park Sunday in the name of former county Chief Executive Officer Liane Levetan.

The current CEO, Vernon Jones, and members of the county Board of Commissioners are expected to attend the event at Brook Run Park, which is being renamed Liane Levetan Park at Brook Run.

Levetan has said she was "flattered" by the recognition.

"When Mr. Jones called me a few weeks ago, I was overwhelmed," she said in a September interview after the commission voted to rename the park after her.

Jones has said Levetan deserves the honor because of her work leading the county for eight years (she was CEO from 1993 through 2000) and because she helped create the park during that time.

Levetan served as a state senator after her maximum two terms as CEO. She no longer holds office but is still active in civic life.

Recently, at the request of Jones, she served on a panel that selected candidates for the vacant county chief of police job.

Sunday's event will include a performance by the Callanwolde Concert Band under the direction of Raymond Handfield. Kosher hotdogs will be served.

The park is at 4770 N. Peachtree Road in Dunwoody. Festivities begin at 4 p.m.

Vernon Jones celebrates birthday at W Hotel in Dunwoody

AJC, DeKalb/Rockdale, 11/02/06, by Charles Yoo

Vernon Jones throws a big ball

From the story:

Last weekend, DeKalb Chief Executive Officer Vernon Jones threw a bash to celebrate his 46th birthday. Jones invited a few — try, 700 — of his closest friends.

The dress code for Jones' party was similar to the black-and-white ball, where guests came decked out in spiffy black and white. "Attire: Black on Black" read the invitation to Jones' affair.

The party was an eclectic gathering, but for one evening they all became ale buddies. Those in attendance included state Rep. Michele Henson (D-Stone Mountain), Atlanta magazine staff writer Chandra Thomas, who recently did a profile of Jones, and former DeKalb CEO Liane Levetan.

and

Jones parties in style. The setting was the swanky W Hotel in Dunwoody where celebrities often stay. That night, a B-list TV comic star, Jamie Kennedy, was spotted in the lobby.

Guests came dressed to impress. Women did "Project Runway" imitations, showing off their funkiest, tightest outfits — think leggings and metallics.

One man stood out. Dressed in baggy jeans and wearing a bandana, the man apparently brought his own bottle of champagne and champagne glass, sipping from it openly. The hip-hopster slouched against a sofa, his eyes on the ladies, who were instead keeping their attention on the men in suits and fine cardigans.

and

Jones is more than a politician. Apparently, he's a gym bunny, too.

"Oh, he's in great shape. He does mostly cardio. He's really physically fit," said Jill Rosenthal, 40, who works at LA Fitness where Jones is an active member. "Look at how tall and skinny he is."

Jones himself, meanwhile, showed up fashionably late — an hour after the party's scheduled 7 p.m. kickoff. He was dressed to code, at least partly: A striped black velvet jacket, a blue shirt and jeans.

Riding stables behind Nesbit Ferry Rd subdivisions causes controversy

AJC, Northside, 10/22/06, by Cynthia Daniels

Riding stables spur neighbors' outrage

From the story:

The 13-acre Sandy Springs parcel, with a green pasture sprinkled with wetlands, geese and a stream filled with fish, was enjoyed by many.

But it was owned by one.

And in January, Spencer Chang decided to transform his property into riding stables for his three daughters, all riding enthusiasts.

Although Fulton County had given Chang permission to build a barn on the land in 2004, the City of Sandy Springs needed to approve Chang's adding a bathroom to the barn and creating a riding ring.

They did.

Chang's neighbors, whose subdivisions sit off of Nesbit Ferry Road and whose backyards run along the strip of land, watched as dirt —- they say there was at least 200 truckloads full—- was brought in, then horses and a portable restroom and, finally, the portable horse jumps.

And all the while, they seethed.

"When I bought my house, they told me that nothing would ever be back there," said Deirdre Graf whose backyard borders the riding stables. "This man is filling in a flood plain. I can't even do anything to my yard because they say it's a flood plain and I'm watching this man bring the dirt in."

National Federation of Independent Businesses endorses Millar

NFIB.com, Issues in the News, 10/30/06, by David Raynor and Jim Brown

Small Business Endorses Fran Millar in House District 79

From the release:

The National Federation of Independent Business, Georgia's leading small-business advocacy group, today announced its endorsement of incumbent Fran Millar (Dunwoody) in House District 79. Millar has been a stalwart supporter of small business, registering a 100 percent NFIB Voting Record.

"Fran Millar is an outstanding advocate in Atlanta for small-business owners," NFIB/Georgia State Director David Raynor said. "His stance on important free-enterprise issues is significantly helping small businesses in District 79 and across the state. NFIB members know Fran Millar can be counted on to promote and protect their right to own, operate and grow their businesses."

"It is very gratifying to receive this endorsement from NFIB, which is the Voice of Small Business in Georgia," Millar said.

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Bank in Publix on Hammond Drive robbed

Dunwoody Crier, News, 10/24/06, by Cathy Cobbs

Police seek Springs, Cobb bank robber

From the story:

A man suspected of robbing several banks in the Atlanta area over the past few weeks struck again Monday, hitting the SunTrust bank branch located inside the Publix grocery store on Hammond Drive.

A little after noon. a white male “entered the Publix at 1100 Hammond Drive, went to the teller line at the Sun Trust Bank and presented a note stating, ‘This is a Robbery,’” according to a press release issued by the Sandy Springs police. “The male was dressed in blue jeans, a thick green jacket, and he was wearing glasses.”

Dunwoody restaurant manager leads push for automatic gratuities

Miami Herald, News, 10/31/06, by Bridget Carey

Servers make pitch for bigger tips

From the story:

Yakup Ulutas, manager of a restaurant in Dunwoody, Ga., sees it differently. He doesn't see tipping improving. As founder of fairtip.org, he has made several television and radio appearences in his grass-roots push for restaurants to require customers pay a 20 percent tip, with the ability to leave more.

I found an earlier AP story from 09/12/06 on Townhall.com:

Yakup Ulutas, general manager of Cafe Intermezzo in Dunwoody, Ga., and the founder of Fairtip.org, shows off some of the signature deserts at the cafe Monday, Sept. 6, 2006. To help level the playing field of compensation for restaurant servers Ulutas, a 36-year-old former waiter, founded a nonprofit organization, Fairtip.org, which is calling for restaurants to add an automatic 20 percent service fee to every check.

Flashback to Dunwoody 30 Blessed Trinity 3, 10/06/06

The AJC had four pieces on this game on Saturday and Sunday after, with not all of them available in all delivery areas. Here are links to them:

Dunwoody hammers Blessed Trinity 30-3
Wildcats tumble Titans
Sunday Quarterback (Jeron Sykes)
HOW THEY FARED

Austin Elementary treehouse update and background

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/12/06, by Cathy Cobbs

Stalled treehouse project back on track?

From the story:

It started with Austin Elementary School's desire to give back to the community. It became stalled for than three years, immersed in county politics amid questions about how to handle private donations designated for construction or repair of structures on publicly owned lands.

It became further entrenched after it was discovered that the land in the proposed location was mainly comprised of silt, which called for the construction of major footings. Now, after years of legal wrangling and behind-the-scenes arm twisting, it looks like Dunwoody Nature Center will finally get its tree house.

Jim Perkins' book of Dunwoody history articles available

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/05/06, no byline

Perkins book now available

From the story:

This just in - Jim Perkin’s book is available for purchase.

Entitled “The Writings of Jim Perkins Dunwoody Historian,” the book can be purchased online at the Dunwoody Preservation Trust's website for $12 - $10 for the book and $2 for shipping and handling. The book is also available for sale at Peachtree Bank, 1725 Mt. Vernon Road, for $10.

New elementary school on Womack Road?

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/12/06, by Cathy Cobbs

Land swap for elementary school is proposed

From the story:

Independent sources have confirmed that DeKalb school administrators have recommended a property exchange with Georgia Perimeter College upon which to build a new elementary school that could house up to 1,000 students - but it’s not the same land that has been under consideration in previous discussions.

The school’s construction will trigger a massive redistricting movement in the Dunwoody cluster, the sources said. The decision was to be announced Tuesday night after The Crier went to press.

According to the sources, the school would be built on about 15 acres on Womack Road adjacent to the DeKalb School of Technology North, land that is now being used for athletic fields. In exchange, DeKalb Schools would give GPC the land upon which the technology school sits.

And

While the negotiations for the land swap are ongoing, the wheels are turning elsewhere to put the school’s construction on the fast track.

The board has already approved architects Richard & Wittschiebe to design the school, at a cost of $750,000, and that process is already underway. School officials estimate the school could be complete within about 18 months of breaking ground.

District 1 board member Chip Franzoni refused to comment about Tuesday’s meeting. Lewis could not be reached for comment prior to The Crier’s press deadline.

Steve Barton says:

Well, that $750k mentioned at the end of the story kind of settled in my mind where the new school was going to go. And, sure enough, the meeting's result was mentioned the next week in a letter to the Crier from Ellen Bowe:

On a rainy Tuesday, to a suprisingly small crowd, Dr. Lewis and his staff presented their plans for the new elementary school. At previous meetings, we had been assured that the community would be given a chance for input, but it was clear from this meeting that the decision has been made. The negatives of the location on Womack, mostly related to traffic from both the college and high school were not mentioned in the presentation. Nor, did system officials emphasize the fact they currently don't own this land -- Georgia Perimeter College does. It will be the middle of October at the earliest before this deal can enter its final stages.

Dunwoody's playground controvery

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/26/06, by Cathy Cobbs

Play set dispute causes heartburn

From the story:

Dr. Jeffery Marcus, a father of three spent about $3,600 for a top-of-the-line wooden play set, complete with a fort and sandbox, which he “tucked carefully into a small area on the side of the yard.”

His children and other neighborhood children enjoyed the play set for several months, until he received a call from the subdivision’s builders, with the following message: take down the play set or face legal action.

Major Dunwoody, part two

Dunwoody Crier, Past Tense, 10/31/06, no byline

Charles Archibald Alexander Dunwody AKA Major Dunwoody

From the story:

Charles Dunwody, was born in 1828, so he would have been about 10 when his parents made the move from south Georgia. He attended Franklin College in Athens. In 1852, he married Ellen Rice.

In 1861, Maj. Charles A. Dunwody and Captain Thomas E. King started the Roswell Guards, a volunteer infantry company. In July of that same year, they were called to battle in Manassas, Virginia. Maj. Dunwody was badly wounded in the hip at Manassas. He then resigned his commission only to return to duty two times, once as a commanding officer at a camp of instruction at Calhoun, and secondly as a private in Roswell Battalion Georgia Cavalry in 1863.

One of his brothers, John Dunwody, served as a surveyor and disbursing agent for the Confederate States. When he died in 1903, he was buried at Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta. Another brother, Henry Macon Dunwody, was in the 51st Regiment, Georgia Infantry. He died at Gettysburg on July 2, 1863. He and Major Charles A. Dunwody are buried at Roswell Presbyterian Cemetery.

When Major Dunwody returned home he settled near the intersection of Spalding Drive and Roberts Drive and did some farming. Then he decided the area needed a post office and went about getting one established.

Vernon Jones and Fran Millar on property tax cap

Dunwoody Crier, Front, 10/24/06, by Aileen Harris

Jones, Millar clash on property tax cap question

From the story:

DeKalb CEO Vernon Jones and state Rep. Fran Millar (R-Dunwoody) debated the merit of a Nov. 7 ballot question that if successful will essentially cap property taxes at current levels on owner-occupied homes for county government services for the next five years.

Under HB 595, which unanimously passed the House of Representatives last year and the senate 47-4 in March, over the next five years homeowners will receive a homestead exemption to offset increases in property values. Property taxes will not coincide with an increased home value until the property sells or the owner no longer uses the home as his or her primary residence. Any improvements or additions would be taxed at the market rate.

Blue Angel DHS grad speaks to Jacksonville area students

(Jacksonville) The Florida Times-Union, Southside, 11/01/06, by Dan Scanlan

Blue Angels pilot tells NJROTC cadets from region to aim high

From the story:

A Blue Angel landed Friday at Bishop Kenny High School to visit with members of three NJROTC programs.

Lt. Cmdr. Anthony Walley, a Dunwoody, Ga., native and 10-year veteran Navy jet fighter pilot, spoke to about 100 NJROTC members from Kenny, Middleburg and Brunswick high schools.

and

Walley admitted to being the class clown at Dunwoody High School, adding he was "intimidated by academics" and didn't realize until later how important that was to his goal. But in 1992 , he entered the Air Force Academy, then was commissioned as an ensign in the Navy. Flight training at Pensacola Naval Air Station led to his wings in 1999.

Finding a way to get a heart valve to replace itself the goal of Dunwoody scientist.

AJC, People in Business, 10/29/06, by Peralte C. Paul

The Holy Grail

From the story:

Girardot is a co-founder and managing partner of a privately held life sciences firm that she and her husband, Jean-Marie, who also is a scientist, run with their children.

Through that first venture, which spawned two other life sciences companies —- BioMed Design here in Dunwoody and PegasusBiologics in San Francisco —- the Girardots created a technology that's helped thousands of heart patients worldwide.

Heart patients who need valves replaced had two choices, either using a mechanical valve, or natural valves derived from pigs or cows. Each has it downside: mechanical valves often lead to blood clots and valves from animal tissues are prone to calcification.

Girardot's research led to a collaboration in the early 1990s with Minneapolis-based Medtronic Inc., one of the world's leading biotechnology firms. The resulting heart valve technology, which received federal approval in 1996, has been used to prevent calcification in soft valves that have been implanted in more than 185,000 patients worldwide.

Dunwoody grad retires from Army as First Sergeant, receives Legion of Merit

From Dunwoody Crier, News, 10/04/06, no byline

Legion of Merit awarded to First Sargeant (sic) Smallwood

From the story:

“When we moved here, Tal was in the sixth grade, and even then he knew he wanted to be a soldier,” said father Bob Smallwood. “We called him ‘Tal’ because that’s short for Talmadge, his middle name. He spent hours running around our neighborhood with his friends, being soldiers.”

Tal Smallwood held on to his dream after graduation from Dunwoody High in 1979, and enrolled at North Georgia College in Dahlonega before leaving in 1982 to join the Army. He immediately selected a career path as an infantryman with special Airborne Ranger training.

Twenty-four years later, at a ceremony at Ft. Bragg, First Sergeant Robert Talmadge Smallwood received the Legion of Merit Award for his years of service as a soldier.

According to the citation, “First Sergeant Smallwood consistently manifested outstanding leadership, professionalism, and devotion to duty. His personal motivation and high standards of excellence ensured mission accomplishment.”

Linear park fence at reservoir still not fixed

From Dunwoody Crier, Front 10/17/06, by Cathy Cobbs

Fence fix far from finished

From the story:

That is until the evening of Mother’s Day, May 14, when a speeding driver in a van heading towards Tilly Mill Road took a winding Peeler Road curve too fast and knocked out a mailbox on the right side of the street, then overcorrected, crossed the road, and knocked out five trees, a lamppost, a brick wall and a large section of the wrought iron fence.

Almost immediately DeKalb County workers came out to install a mesh temporary fence swathed with yellow caution tape, and later repaired the brick wall. Since then, despite the neighbors’ pleas, nothing has been done to fix the once-pristine linear park.

Property on corner of Hammond Dr and Perimeter Center Pkwy sold

From Dunwoody Crier, Front, 10/04/06, by Bill Florence

Prime Perimeter site changes hands

From the story:

A Boston-based company has acquired a prime piece of real estate across from Perimeter Mall, and company officials promise the mixed-use development they plan to build on the site will be a focal point for the area.

Also: Boston company to buy Perimeter site for $83M

Radio antenna on Summerford Drive

From Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/19/06, by Bill Florence

Communication problem between neighbors?

From the story:

The dispute between neighbors has resulted in hurt, angry feelings on both sides, and has focused attention on a little known county ordinance that permits radio towers as tall as 70 feet to be installed in Dunwoody’s neighborhoods.

Dunwoody Crier's 10th anniversary under Dick Williams

From Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/19/06, by Daniel Jacobs and Cathy Cobbs

Crier celebrates 10 years of expansion, involvement

In 1996 the Crier was a small town newspaper, with only about 12 pages and content focusing mostly on wedding and engagement announcements, garden club meetings and elementary school students of the month.

But over the past 10 years, during the time that Dick Williams has served as the editor and owner of the Crier, it has grown to a paper that averages about 40 pages per edition, is filled with color and focused on a wide range of issues.

Still, one thing hasn’t changed. It is still a local newspaper.

Emory Dunwoody Medical Center will close

From Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/05/06, by Bill Florence

Dunwoody hospital to close, move to Johns Creek

From the story:

Emory Dunwoody Medical Center, a Dunwoody institution for almost 30 years, will close its doors by year’s end, in preparation for reopening in February 2007 under another name at a new north Fulton location

Liane Levetan Park at Brook Run

From Dunwoody Crier, Front, 09/12/06, by Cathy Cobbs

Residents puzzled by Jones' park renaming

From the story:

It seemed like a generous idea at the time, but it has Dunwoody residents just a little confused and more than just a little peeved. CEO Vernon Jones is proposing that the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners rename Brook Run Park to Liane Levetan Park at Brook Run.

At the Tuesday board of commission meeting, after The Crier’s deadline, Jones planned to introduce a resolution to dedicate the sprawling, 100-acre park and educational facility in Dunwoody, after Levetan, DeKalb’s former CEO.

The board voted to rename the park.

Martha Dudley of Dunwoody named Ms. Georgia Senior

From Dunwoody Crier, Picket Fence, 10/10/06, by Kathy Florence

Dunwoody's Dudley sports a crown

From the story:

Dunwoody’s Martha Dudley is the new reigning queen for Georgia seniors. She was crowned Ms. Georgia Senior at the annual pageant at the Roswell Cultural Center.

The wife of Sherman Dudley, an officer with the Dunwoody Homeowner’s Association, Martha participated in the competition after visiting the pageant in prior years.

Major Charles A. Dunwoody

From Dunwoody Crier, Past Tense, 10/17/06, no byline

Who was this Dunwoody (I mean Dunwody) guy?

From the story:

As part of the process of answering this question, I decided to take a closer look at the Major Charles A. Dunwoody monument. It is located next to the Ebenezer Baptist Church at the corner of Spalding Drive and Roberts Drive. The monument reads “In Memory of Major Charles A. Dunwoody 1829-1905, Pioneer Citizen, Dunwoody, Georgia.” There is also a CSA marker, since he served with the Confederate Army during the Civil War. His actual burial site is in the Roswell Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

Before I can tell you what I learned about Major Charles Dunwody, I have to start with his father, John Dunwody. To save myself from being totally confused, I am going to refer to them as Dunwody since that is the way the family spelled the name.

It actually started with a man named Roswell King, who was traveling from St. Simons Island, Ga., to Dahlonega to visit the United States Mint of Dahlonega. He was given this assignment by the Bank of Darien. Along the way, he discovered a nice area near the Chattahoochee River, which he thought would be an ideal place for a town.

He returned to the area about five years later, and soon after some other families followed him. James Stephen Bulloch was one and John Dunwody was another. John Dunwody was married to Jane Bulloch, sister of James Bulloch.

Pre-election coverage from the Crier

From Dunwoody Crier, Front, 10/31/06, no byline

Tuesday election features state, Congress and local offices

From the story:

Don’t look for the almost festive atmosphere at area polling places next week. U.S. Rep. Cynthia McKinney (D-4th District) was defeated in the summer primary and will leave office at the end of the year.

Those huge crowds turning out to vote against her became a thing of the past when state Rep. Fran Millar (R-Dunwoody) was able to have Dunwoody and north Brookhaven moved into the 6th Congressional District of Rep. Tom Price.

North Atlanta defeats Dunwoody HS in football

From the Dunwoody Crier, Sports, 10/31/06, no byline

Dunwoody upset - playoff hopes fading

From the story:

The words “North Atlanta” and “upset” were not even in the same conversation for many when talking about Dunwoody football early last week.

This all changed last Friday night after a 38-24 win for the North Atlanta Warriors. Dunwoody, which dropped to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in the sub region, could have been eliminated from all playoff hopes, but Chamblee’s victory over Westminster kept Dunwoody alive. Dunwoody must win its remaining two games against Westminster and Druid Hills to have a chance to advance.

The unusual night that almost ended the season in disaster began with North Atlanta arriving 30 minutes late for a 5:15 kick-off. Also, starting quarterback Jeron Sykes was not in uniform to begin the game as a result of an undisclosed injury.

Previous football articles:

Dunwoody win over Riverwood keeps playoff dreams alive

Dunwoody comes home with upset over Chamblee

Dunwoody wins 3rd - Chamblee up next

Dunwoody drops error-plagued game to Grady

Dunwoody squeaks by Apalachee

Wildcats troubled by costly turnovers

Dunwoody dominates Southside 40-0, Woodward up next

Mother beats Austin Elementary assistant principal

From Dunwoody Crier, Front, 10/31/06, by Bill Florence

Felony assault charge against Austin mother in beating case

From the story:

According to the police report filed by the school system’s public safety department, Austin’s assistant principal Celia McCoy alleges she was attacked and assaulted by one of the school’s parents, Tarlisha Wylia Ascar, on Friday, October 20 at approximately 6:40 p.m., in front of the school building, after a verbal confrontation that occurred when Ascar allegedly was late picking up her child from Austin’s after-school program.

Sources told The Crier the dispute arose when Ascar became agitated over money she allegedly owed the program for childcare.

When McCoy attempted to help calm down Ascar, Ascar allegedly took off her shoes and used them to repeatedly strike McCoy’s lips, knee, and arm, and then allegedly used McCoy’s own shoes to continue striking McCoy.

Ascar, 25, was arrested and charged with one count of felony aggravated assault and one count of misdemeanor battery, and then transported to the DeKalb jail where she spent the weekend.

Creative Loafing endorses Weber, Millar (and Chambers!)

Creative Loafing, Cover Story, 10/25/06, no byline

The Endorsement Issue, State Legislature

From the story:

District 40: A lawyer with a mechanical engineering background running for a second term, Sen. Dan Weber, R-Dunwoody, is an earnest legislator well-schooled in community issues and willing to buck GOP orthodoxy -- although some constituents were put off by his quixotic effort last year to ram through a city of Dunwoody. Martin McConaughy, a green-conscious retired math teacher, has slim hope of victory in this heavily Republican district. Providing he maintains his thoughtful approach toward lawmaking, Weber has earned a return ticket.

District 79: Rep. Fran Millar, R-Dunwoody, has enough maverick in him to buck the power structure. His opponent, Democrat Keith Kaylor, offers common-sense ideas, but Millar has proved that one can still be Republican and independent-minded in the House.

District 81: Republican lawmakers tried to bulldoze stream buffer zones in 2004 and would have gotten away with it if not for House moderates like Rep. Jill Chambers, R-Atlanta. Democrat Bob Roche has some good partisan fervor to help drive his campaign, but Chambers has been effective on transportation and environmental protection issues, and she occasionally provides a breath of pragmatism in the GOP caucus.

From Steve Barton:

Creative Loafing's endorsements are more approving of Republicans than the AJC's? I am aurprised.