4-09-2010-Sandy Springs Reporter

inSiDe park with a view

A new park overlooking the chattahoochee River is to open in July – community 3

Market delayed

opening of Sandy Springs Farmers market has been delayed until may 1 – community 3

R

SANDY SPRINGS

eporter

Vol. 4, No. 8 • April 9 – April 22, 2010 w w w. r e p o r t e r n e w s p a p e r s . n e t

Digging a ‘half-diamond’

Sandy Springs Gun club and Range hopes to attract women, police

By Amy Wenk [email protected]

– community 7

wii will rock you Bowling on a video game strikes it bigs with some senior citizens

– community 15

Unusual school

Pierian Springs school attracts students ‘motivated to do something special’ – eDucAtion 16

Standout student north Springs senior masters graphics, shows she has designs on her future

PHiL moSieR

Read our other editions online @

reporternewspapers.net INSIDE Riled residents

Residents raise ruckus over changes in enforcement of city tree ordinance – COmmUnITy 2

No new taxes

City Council president says despite ‘tough’ budget, city won’t raise taxes – COmmUnITy 3

Reporter BUCKHEAD

Wii will rock you

Buckhead counts

Atlanta’s participation in the Census lags other Georgia communities

Replies count

how you responded to the 2010 Census seems to depend on where you live – CoMMUNITY 2

Reporting bullies Rep. Mike Jacobs wants parents to hear about school bullies

– CoMMUNITY 3

Reporter Buckhead seniors entertain babies and toddlers once each month

BROOKHAVEN – COmm COmmU Un nIT ITyy 8

Unusual school

Pierian Springs school attracts students ‘motivated to do something special’

– eDUCATIO eDUCATIOn DUCATIOn 16

Vol. 2, No. 8 • April 9 – April 22, 2010 w w w. r e p o r t e r n e w s p a p e r s . n e t

– COmmUnITy 28

Read our other editions online @

reporternewspapers.net

– CoMMENTARY 6

Unusual school

Pierian Springs school attracts students ‘motivated to do something special’ – EDUCATIoN 16

Infrastructure another victim of economy

Building a gem

–Brookhaven Reporter

Construction under way on ‘half-diamond’ exit at hammond Drive and Ga. 400

Story Head

–Sandy Springs Reporter

– CoMMUNITY 28

– page 8

Infrastructure another victim of economy

– CoMMUNITY 38

DeKalb County might funds to improve aging infraVirtual bowling itAt $565 million, the infra have its eye onstrikes progress, but structure. right now, the focus is on 2010 preservation, acitizens top county of- ccounty ounty budget is already big with senior ficial says. down $70 million from just

Deep probably drops instill property twohair, years ago, and Rhinehart By Amy Wenk fixing his they values – said. which could plunge predicts it will actually drop as [email protected] even lower after current low asFulton $540 million. Petite but hom lively- Jerry Without Three elderly men waitedeowner calm calm-- appeals joined are thedecided scene –wearing plaid funding, a fivelowered property infrastruc ly on the striped sofas andalready chairs have pants, a string of plasticyear, Marti$1.7 Grasbillion infrastrucrevenues least 15her perneck - ture plan will in the activity room of Atriatax BuckBuck - beadsat around andimprovement a red Rhinehart, remainReady on the shelf, as will up head, the senior communitycent, whereTeddaisy pinnedDeputy to her lapel. Infrastructure, toldFools, to $100 million dollars in fedfed they live on Lenox Road. COO of with gags for April she start startChamber Com- eral and state Their bowling league, theDeKalb Buck- ed Buck teasing of79-year-old John Da-- matching funds, Da 25. turning becausepink. the county cannot fifi head Kingpins, was about tomerce com-members com vis thatonhisMarch hair was sales taxensued. revenues nance its share of the projects. pete for a spot in the playoffs. With But Chuckles sinking lower everylong month, they didn’t need an alley, bowling Before Medore Calling appearedinfrastructure the County - “stepchild” gov bals or pins. They required DeKalb only a with his Commis hair slicked, and the of county govsioners voted to use ernment, Rhinehart warned television, Nintendo Wii gaming four senior men99.9 and Fulton, their percent of Homestead Op- that deferring improvements system and their fourth teammate, 80-something-year-old cheerleader, tionand Sales Tax income to hold and essential maintenance has Al Medore, who was late again senIOr, s see sen enIO IOr r,, page 30 r down property taxes. costly repercussions. Budgets Until 2008, $10 million to will not rebound to previous $15 million from the HOST levels any time soon, but exfunded infrastructure proj- isting infrastructure cannot ects, including roads, side- sustain growth and be newalks, bridges, water, storm glected indefinitely. drain and sewage systems, “We need a financial plan each year. Federal stimulus for infrastructure,” Rhinedollars filled that gap in 2009. hart said. “By not being preSandysee Springs to Whole Foods and Canton Cooks Now5982 thatRoswell well has Rd., run dry, deKaLNext b, page 32

Diamond Graders of America

WE BUY GOLD

Read our other editions online @

reporternewspapers.net

Amy Wenk

Harry Hower (in foreground) takes a swing at virtual bowling at Atria Buckhead, the senior community where the 79-year-old lives on Lenox Road. Hower, Phillip Stroud (at left), Davisnew, (on couch and below) and Al medore By Jody Steinberg andJohn DeKalb’s bare bones play in a Wii bowling league called the Buckhead kingpins. ingpins. Jerry Fulton (at right) eliminates cheers for the team. budget practically

DGA

Showing finesse Fred Strickland teaches bridge fans how he plays the game

PhIL MoSIER

Three-year-old Jessica Sobel finds a delightful prize while hunting Easter eggs at Ashburn Park during a Brookhaven community egg hunt. For more Easter photos, see page 36.

City disaster emergency plan may not be up to date

Play date

Building a gem

Construction under way on ‘half-diamond’ exit at HamHammond Drive and Ga. 400

Easter excitement

Mighty oaks

In Brookhaven, large oaks grow from small community actions

– page 14

City disaster emergency plan may not be up to date By John Schaffner [email protected]

– COmmUnITy 7

Purposeful play

INSIDE

Indian settlement

Vol. 4, No. 8 • April 9 – April 22, 2010 w w w. r e p o r t e r n e w s p a p e r s . n e t

Construction program buildling

It seems clear that Atlanta has an emergency evacuation plan, but it’s unclear how up to date it is, according to recent interviews with top public safety officials. Both Atlanta interim Fire Chief Joel G. Baker and interim Police Chief George N. Turner said recently that the city had a plan, but they could not say when it last was reworked. “I almost want to say, ‘yes,’ ” Baker said when asked recently if the city has an emergency evacuation plan. “I can recall working on one years ago in conjunction with the Fulton County Emergency Management Agency.” But Baker said he was then transferred from the terrorism task force to another job in the department. “I am not sure it (the plan) was ever produced,” he said. Later that day, Baker called to say his staff had found a copy of an emersee CIty’s, page 32

Obsession deals player a hand of life

404-438-9842 . www.dgausa.com

Library site decision will wait another year brary location is a proposed transit-oriented development near MARTA’s Brookhaven A decision on the location station. But MARTA officials of a new Brookhaven library say that project is stalled due remains a year or so away, the to the transit agency’s finanlibrary system’s director said cial troubles and the current recently. economy. “We should be coming to “Right now, because of our a decision about which direc- budget situation, we’re not tion to go by early next year,” moving it forward. And belibrary system Director Darro cause of the economy,” said Willey said. Cheryl King, MARTA assisThe problem: The library tant general manager for plansystem’s first choice for a li- see MaRta, page 32 By Joe Earle [email protected]

Construction DGA program building –Buckhead Reporter

Story Head

–Sandy Springs Reporter

By Jody Steinberg puses, it seemed like a win-win for everyone. When DeKalb County’s public school But there was a victim. High School system and Georgia Perimeter College Technology North – north DeKalb’s caswapped parcels of prime real estate on reer education center -–lost its campus in Womack Road two years ago so each the swap. could develop closer to their existing cam- see StudentS, page 33

Diamond Graders of America

WE BUY GOLD

See our ad on page 9

404-438-9842 . www.dgausa.com 5982 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs Next to Whole Foods and Canton Cooks

–Brookhaven Reporter

Obsession deals player a hand of life

construction of the “half-diamond” interchange, named for its appearance from above, is under way to connect Ga. 400 to Hammond Drive, as can be seen in this photograph taken from the top of a high-rise at concourse. the interchange will allow drivers to enter and exit Ga. 400 without using crowded i-285. construction is to continue through August 2011. For more photos and information, turn to page 28.

Sandy Springs lags in returning census By Joe Earle [email protected]

By Joe Earle [email protected] Fred Strickland’s obsession started in college. Other Florida State University students spent their time studying. Not Strickland. He spent hours in the dorms playing bridge. He fell in love with the game. He played all the time. He was captivated. “When I became obsessed with see BrIdge, page 38

See our ad on page 9

–Buckhead Reporter

– page 4

City plans to rebid services contract

new firing range

– eDucAtion 18

ribbons & bows

Sandy Springs residents lag behind other Georgians and residents of other north Fulton cities in the rate they are taking part in the U.S. Census. Sandy Springs’ census participation rate also is lower than the national rate, according to a census Web site that tracks the rate of census form returns. On April 5, Sandy Springs Mayor Eva Galambos called for residents to reply promptly to the census in order to make sure the city receives its proper share of sales taxes, which are allocated by a formula that takes population into account. The census office Web page reported on April 6 that about 51 percent of the residents of Sandy Springs were

DGA

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WE BUY GOLD

participating in the census. That rate of return lagged both Georgia’s 57 percent rate and the national rate of 60 percent. “It is vital to the fiscal health of our city that everyone in Sandy Springs promptly responds to the 2010 Census,” Galambos said in a prepared statement issued by the city. “You only have a few short weeks to complete and return your census form, so please take 10 minutes and fill it out. “The population count determines how much sales tax comes to Sandy Springs. If you do not answer the census, we could lose sales tax dollars. That would mean having to increase other taxes.” Roswell Mayor Jere Wood has challenged mayors of other north Fulton County cities to a dinner out over see CITY, page 13

See our ad on page 9

404-438-9842 . www.dgausa.com 5982 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs Next to Whole Foods and Canton Cooks

The city of Sandy Springs is collecting information and setting timelines for the rebidding of its government services contract. Since Jan. 1, 2006, the city of Sandy Springs has contracted the firm CH2M HILL to staff city departments such as community development, finance, parks and recreation, public works and communications. Contracting some services was the best choice when the city incorporated in 2005, city officials say. The city only staffs the police and fire departments and a handful of high-level positions including the finance director and city manager. “When the contract was put out for bid, nobody had any idea what they were doing,” Dist. 5 Sandy Springs City Councilman Tibby DeJulio said during a council retreat in March. “We didn’t know what the heck was supposed to be in a city … We went into see SEEKING, page 32

Renovations begin on Fulton center By Amy Wenk [email protected] Sandy Springs residents should find more government services in one place this summer. Renovations began April 5 on the North Fulton Service Center at 7741 Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. When complete in early July, the service center will be more accessible and offer more services to about 30,000 see SERVICE, page 30

2

community

Riverside Drive bridge reopens After six months, motorists can cross the release. “This roadway is a very well-traveled arRiverside Drive bridge over Marsh Creek. tery in this area, and I know the local residents The bridge reopened will be pleased that it’s April 6. The bridge open as well.” City Briefs failed in late September The $900,000 projwhen floodwaters unect was completed usdermined the structure. ing emergency funds “We are so glad to get this bridge reopened,” from the Federal Highway Administration, Mickey McGee, an engineer with the state Sandy Springs Director of Public Works Tom transportation department, said in an April 5 Black has said.

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Volunteers needed for citywide service day Leadership Sandy Springs is asking community members to lend a hand April 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers are needed at a variety of locations including Allen Road Park, Big Trees Forest Preserve, Community Action Center, Heritage Sandy Springs, Link Counseling Center, Ronald McDon-

ald House, Keep Sandy Springs Beautiful Recycling Center, Sandy Springs Library and local schools in Sandy Springs. To register, visit www.leadershipsandysprings.org/volunteer.html or Hands on Atlanta, www.handsonatlanta.org. For more information, e-mail [email protected].

911 center to hold open house The city of Sandy Springs’ new 911 call center, also known as ChatComm, will hold an open house April 14 from 10 a.m. to noon and 7 to 9 p.m. Citizens are invited to tour the 911 center at the corner of Barfield Road and Mount Vernon Highway for a behind-the-scenes look at the

city’s emergency response services. ChatComm dispatches ambulances, police and firefighters for the cities of Sandy Springs and Johns Creek. Since the center opened last September, dispatchers have answered about 68,000 calls, with an average of 600 calls per day.

City to pave, improve roads The city of Sandy Springs will begin Phase Two of its 2010 paving program in midApril, according to city’s April newsletter. The following streets are scheduled to be paved: • Ison Road (Roswell to Grogan’s Ferry roads) • Hammond Drive (Mt. Vernon Highway to Sandy Springs Circle) • Roberts Drive (Spalding Drive to the city limits) • Windsor Parkway (Peachtree-Dunwoody Road to the city limits) • Powers Ferry Road (Northside Drive to the city limits) • Northland Drive (Windsor Parkway to Ga. 400) • Spalding Stables subdivision

• Long Island Way The city’s Department of Public Works also will be improving the following roads through the state’s Local Assistance Roads Program: • Mabry Road (Spalding to Glenridge drives) • Hightower Trail (Roswell Road to Dunwoody Place) • Kenbrook Drive (from London Drive to the road’s northwest end) • Wing Street • Auden Trail • Rivertrail Court • Towergate Place • Scott Valley Road • West Northway Lane

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Morgan Falls park set to open in July By Amy Wenk [email protected] Sandy Springs’ newest recreation area is scheduled to open in early July, according to a city spokeswoman. Morgan Falls Overlook Park features a boat dock, playground and historic chimney. City leaders are considering adding hiking trails and improving Morgan Falls Road. At a March 16 Sandy Springs City Council meeting, Linda Bain, executive director of the Sandy Springs Conservancy, presented a plan to add hiking trails along the bluff at Overlook Park. “It’s quite spectacular,” Bain said of the view of the Chattahoochee River from the bluff. The conservancy has offered to hire a trail design firm to research, design and construct the paths. Bain said funding would come from grant money. The path has not been laid, but Bain said the trails would encircle the steep area between

Overlook Park and the Georgia Power Co. hydroelectric plant at the end of Morgan Falls Road. Hikers, she said, could look north for beautiful views of Bull Sluice Lake. The path would follow the remnants of a camp road used when the Morgan Falls Dam was built between 1902 and 1904. Bain said trails would be established by clearing and packing the soil, giving park visitors a rustic, natural experience. She hopes to have a trail finished by July, when the park opens. “I’m delighted that we are going to have trails going up the hill,” Mayor Eva Galambos said in an interview later. Galambos said she would like the trails to be expanded to connect to the Laurels at Morgan Falls apartment complex on Morgan Falls Road, which has existing trails to the river. City Council members discussed improving Morgan Falls Road at a March 2 meeting. The road provides access to the Overlook Park, Morgan Falls Athletic Fields and the temporary dog park. It is too narrow for two large cars to

pass. In addition, water and sewer installation at Overlook Park has damaged the road, and heavy rains have eroded steep slopes along the shoulder. The city’s Department of Public Amy Wenk Works staff offered short and long- construction continues on morgan Falls overlook Park, Sandy Springs’ term road fixes. A newest recreation area that should open in July. short-term option Public Works staff will continue to explore is to correct the road damage caused by construction. A long- options for Morgan Falls Road and will bring term project would be to widen the road and cost estimates to council in the coming weeks. “What we want is a showplace,” Dist. 5 include sidewalks and bike paths. But since the road meanders through steep Councilman Tibby DeJulio said. Morgan Falls, terrain, a widening project could become very he said, should become a “first-class park and recreational facility.” costly.

Debut of Sandy Springs Farmers Market delayed until May 1 By Amy Wenk [email protected] The Sandy Springs Farmers Market now is scheduled to open May 1. The market was scheduled to open April 3, but organizer Andrew Bauman said in an April 1 e-mail that the opening was delayed because

local farmers needed more time to prepare. “This is to allow maximum participation at our opening by growers who have been hard hit by the cold and wet weather,” said Bauman, who is organizing the market with Jeffrey Langfelder. The long-time residents of Sandy Springs were awarded an operating agreement by the Sandy Springs City Coun-

cil on March 2. The market is scheduled to be held every Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, in the parking lot of the former Target store at the corner of Sandy Springs Circle and Johnson Ferry Road. The city of Sandy Springs purchased the property in 2008 for a future City Hall. Bauman said the demand for vendor participa-

tion at the farmers market has been tremendous. “We are receiving as many as five unsolicited inquiries every day, and we’re working hard to create a great mix of offerings at the market,” Bauman said in an e-mail. For more information about the Sandy Springs Farmers Market, visit www.sandyspringsfarmersmarket.com.

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Your participation in a study could help osteoporosis Your participationresearch. in

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called osteoporosis. Osteoporosis After menopause, many women lose bone strength, a condition called osteoporosis. can increase the risk for fractures. Osteoporosis can increase the risk for Some women who are being fractures. Some women who are being treated treated have difficulty following the have difficulty following the medication medication plan prescribed by their plan prescribed by their doctor, and may doctor, and may not receive the not receive the full benefit of their medication. You full benefit of their medication. could participate in research that will examine an investigational medication for osteoporosis. You could participate in research that will receive study-related bone density measurements, Qualified volunteers laboratory tests, and will examine an a study medication at no cost. Study medication is taken once a month or once every 6 months. investigational medication for osteoporosis.

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Spring takes a bow First, the ribbons and bows springing up around downtown Sandy Springs aren’t pink, they’re fuchsia. the bows are signs of the season and of support for Art Sandy Springs, a 3-year-old nonprofit that supports the arts. in the past, the bows have been green, but changed to fuchsia this year and likely will change color again in future years.

Council defers redevelopment plan that upsets residents By Amy Wenk [email protected] Some residents are uneasy about a redevelopment plan the city of Sandy Springs is proposing. At a public hearing April 6, six homeowners spoke against the plan that might bring tax credits to developers who revamp distressed areas of the city. The Sandy Springs City Council, by a vote of 4 to 1, postponed a decision on the redevelopment plan until April 20 due to the response from residents. “It is being rushed,” resident Robin Beechey said. “I don’t think enough people know about what it’s all about.” Beechey said in an April 7 email that the city will hold an informational meeting on the plan April 12 at 6 p.m. at City Hall. Vann McNeill, the city’s Community Development Block Grant manager, asked council to approve the plan so staff can apply to the Opportunity Zone Job Tax Credit program from the state Department of Community Affairs. The program offers new and existing businesses that create at least two new jobs a tax credit of up to $3,500 per job. The program seeks to improve areas that display “pervasive poverty, underdevelopment, general distress and blight” and is offered to areas with a poverty rate of 15 percent or more, McNeill said. The city’s staff mapped out areas of Sandy Springs that would qualify to be labeled an Opportunity Zone. Eligible spots are located along Roswell Road, as far north as Mount Vernon Highway and as far south as Belle Isle Road. Significant portions include land just south of I-285 on both sides of Roswell Road, like along Northwood and Lake Placid drives. Another area is in the city center on Sandy Springs Place and Sandy Springs Circle. Mayor Eva Galambos said the program

would not impact the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan, which guides future development in the city. But residents took offense to the labels staff was offering. “I believe I live in Mr. McNeill’s slum,” said resident Elizabeth Jayes who lives off Osner Drive, which backs up to property that would qualify as an Opportunity Zone. “I live in a 1954 brick ranch which I don’t believe is obsolete or a slum. We have a beautiful little street.” Mark Sampl with the Sandy Springs Council of Neighborhoods said he was shocked at how the city described Sandy Springs. “We don’t feel that we fit the adjectives of pervasive poverty, blight, distress or dilapidation,” Sampl said. Residents asked that council defer a decision. “We want time to investigate and understand what is going on,” said resident Janet Wells, who represents a group called Homeowners Adjacent to the Roswell Road Corridor (HARC). The city is in a rush to approve the redevelopment plan because the state will modify the rules and regulations of the Opportunity Zone program May 5. “That’s one reason that I was hoping that we could move quickly on this,” Galambos said. “I think that [state] will be reducing the scope of this program, and I want to get in before it’s reduced.” Dist. 2 Councilwoman Dianne Fries cast the dissenting vote to defer approval of the redevelopment plan. Dist. 4 Councilwoman Ashley Jenkins was absent. “I think this is a wonderful thing for the city,” Fries said. “I understand you not feeling like you are getting enough information, but there has got to be some trust here that we are doing the right thing to better some of these empty areas that really are blighted. There are some.” More information on the Opportunity Zone program is at www.dca.state.ga.us. SS

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April 9–April 22, 2010

5

commentARy

Thinking big is fine, thinking efficiently is better eDitoR’S noteS JOHn F. ScHAFFner

It is not a bad idea to think big. But it is not always a good idea. Sometimes thinking big can lead to costly inefficiencies. I wonder if that might not be the case here in Sandy Springs. It was after attending two recent meetings that I really started thinking about this—about ways maybe Sandy Springs could operate more effectively and efficiently, especially in terms of marketing. First, I decided to drop in for a meeting at the new offices of Sandy Springs Hospitality &Tourism in the Parkside Shopping Center on Roswell Road. Although we have covered some of the group’s meetings in the past, I personally had not sat in on one of the monthly meetings. Besides, I wanted to see the organization’s new digs. I must say the new Hospitality & Tourism offices at Parkside are much more accessible for the public than its previous sec-

ond-floor office at 6065 Roswell Road, the tallest building on Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. I find myself questioning, however, how much walk-in traffic the Hospitality & Tourism office really will get—even after a big sign is erected on I-285 to shoo traffic off and onto Roswell Road to the office. The new Hospitality & Tourism office is placed directly below the new Anne Frank Museum at Parkside, which might increase traffic flow somewhat for tourism. Weeks later, I attended a meeting sponsored by Mayor Eva Galambos and the Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce which included local international consuls and businesses that work closely with international firms. The SS/PC also recently moved into new offices in a real office building at 7000 Central Parkway NE—on the second floor. At that meeting, there was a discussion of possibly setting up an international incubator facility, perhaps in the same building with the chamber’s new offices and the Sandy Springs Arts Alliance. Reflecting on these two meetings caused me to question why, in a relatively small city like Sandy Springs, these marketing

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oriented functions should not co-locate and work together to promote the city. It seems to me many of their separate functions actually support each other. For instance, I would guess at least 75 percent of the hotel stays in the area are business-related, not typical tourists. So, it seems the promotion of hotel stays by Hospitality & Tourism is very compatible with the marketing to businesses—domestic and international—functions of the SS/PC. Another way in which these various agencies might find efficiencies in working together -- and even cohabitating -- deals with available funds. Hospitality &Tourism has a healthy budget of more than $1 million to work with, which is generated through taxes generated through room stays, etc. The SS/PC has a bare-bones budget in comparison to spend on its efforts. It simply seems to me that there could be greater efficiencies from these groups working and residing closely together, rather than operating totally independently. At the very least, I think it is worthy of discussion among the parties and city leaders.

Digging dirt is progress It has been quite a while in the planning, but the trees have been cut, dirt (or should I say clay) is being moved and the long-awaited half-diamond interchange for Ga. 400 at Hammond Drive is on its way. To some, it may not look like much right now. To others, they are already counting the minutes it will shave off of their commutes to work and home each day. One commuter has estimated he will save 20 minutes each way each day. That estimate seems a little high to me, but then I don’t commute that way. If you haven’t seen the work that is going on there, you really should take a ride over—maybe on the weekend—and take a look. It is impressive. Digging dirt is progress. Now, how long before Hammond Drive is addressed between Ga. 400 and Roswell Road?

April 9–April 22, 2010

Published biweekly by Springs Publishing LLC 6065 Roswell Road, Suite 225 Sandy Springs, GA 30328 Phone: 404-917-2200 Fax: 404-917-2201 PUBLISHER

Steve Levene [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

Joe Earle [email protected]

EDITOR AT LARGE

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DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE AND INTERACTIVE MEDIA

CONTRIBUTORS

Should the state impose sales taxes on groceries to generate revenue? Asked at Hammond Park

Carla Caldwell, Michael Jacobs, Louis Mayeux, Derek McKinney, Herb Meyer, Phil Mosier, Martha Nodar, Jody Steinberg

INTERNS

MaryLiz Cronk, Amanda Wolkin

No. [Food is] something that everyone needs. I think that [tax] would make it more difficult for some people to exist and maintain. So Maria Haight many people are going under … We need to find a way to make it easier for people.

6

SANDY SPRINGS REPORTER BUCKHEAD REPORTER BROOKHAVEN REPORTER

Christopher North [email protected]

Street Talk

Q

www.ReporterNewspapers.net

Yes. Some people say it is a regressive tax, but I balk at that. I say it is an equally shared tax. Many folks don’t participate at all in contributing state revenue. They Dob Waites only consume state revenue. … I’d put a sundown on that [sales tax] of five years or so. And [it should be imposed] only if there is a desperate need for state funding. Belt-tightening would be the first step. Raising taxes would be the last step.

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No. I’m a big advocate for nutrition. Buying and having nutritious food available is already difficult enough. If you’re going Kricket to tax people on top of Ichwantoro it, I think it would make it even more prohibitive. If they want to get rid of the income tax, I’d be more open to a sales tax.

© 2010 with all rights reserved

DELIVERY INFORMATION 52,000 copies of Reporter Newspapers are delivered by carriers to homes in ZIP codes 30305, 30318, 30319, 30326, 30327, 30328, 30342 and 30350 and also to more than 350 businesses. For locations, check “Where To Find Us” at www.ReporterNewspapers.net Please call 404-917-2200, ext.18 for delivery requests or e-mail [email protected] SS

community

Cordially Invites You To Our Luncheon At the Cherokee Club, 155 W. Paces Ferry Road at Noon, April 27th, 2010

Work is under way to convert a former flooring and rental company building on Roswell Road into a state-of-the-art firing range.

Gun club wants to attract women By Joe Earle [email protected] Ronn Brown and Ken Kelmer say the new gun club they’re developing on Roswell Road will be a bit different from other firing ranges. To hear them talk, it’ll be, well, nicer. The Sandy Springs Gun Club and Range at 8040 Roswell Road will offer lockers and WiFi. People working at the club will wear uniforms. They say that when the club opens July 1, it won’t be like other places scattered around metro Atlanta that people usually must use for target practice. “I’m trying to cater to women,” said Brown, who’s vice president of the club. “There are a lot of women in this area trying to learn how to shoot. … You soften it down a bit. You have women [working] in the facility, not just rough-looking guys. You have to have a nice appearance for them to come in. They want it super clean.” Kelmer, a former weapons instructor in Iraq who is general manager of the Sandy Springs club, Brown and their investors think Sandy Springs is just the place for such a club. They’re spending more than $3.2 million to convert a building that has housed a flooring company and a rental business into what they describe as a state-of-the-art firing range with pelletized rubber to capture bullets, baffles and sound-absorbing blankets to muffle sound and systems to clean the air of smoke. “Why here [in Sandy Springs]? Population and location,” Brown said. “People here can’t shoot out the back door.” “They have to drive an hour and a half to shoot,” Kelmer said. “And you’d be surprised who comes in to

SS

shoot. It’s not rednecks,” Brown said. He believes his customers will include doctors, lawyers, even priests, he said. “There’s no type. It really has to do with their background, with what’s happened in their lives. One group of customers it seems he’s likely to be able to count on is Sandy Springs police officers. The range, which will offer 15 firing lanes, will include one designed for “tactical shooting,” which means people may fire at moving targets and move down the range, rather than stand at the entrance, as they shoot. “That was one of the things we requested and they graciously provided it,” Sandy Springs Police Chief Terry Sults said. “We’ll be able to handle 60 percent of our training there.” Having a facility in town that will allow officers a place to practice and to take the tests necessary to qualify to carry weapons will save the department time and money, Sults said. Officers now must drive 45 to 60 miles to ranges in Paulding or Douglas counties, he said. Sandy Springs police also will be able to teach gun safety classes at the range, he said. How does the chief feel about having a gun range in his city? “I don’t think it’s a problem at all,” he said. “I think it’s actually an advantage. Those facilities are typically very secure facilities. … My guess is not too many people are going to mess with folks going into and out of that place.” Brown said that constructing the range requires, in effect, that he build secure buildings within the existing building. Everything must be secure. “I cannot let anything get out [of the building],” Brown said. “Nothing can get out. That would be a disaster.”

Representative David Ralston Speaker of the House Will speak on this year’s legislative session and the challenges facing Georgians due to budget cuts Will property taxes increase?? Transportation?? Education??

*Confirmed guests include 15 State Legislators, the Chief Operating Officer of Georgia and the Chief Financial Officer of Georgia. Join us on the April 27th! Ticket Price: $50.00. Admission price includes 3-course lunch and valet parking. Space is limited! Order tickets online http://fctf.org or via phone 404-869-6066 or send a check payable to Fulton County Taxpayers Foundation, 309 E. Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 Proceeds benefit Fulton County Taxpayers Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization

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April 9–April 22, 2010

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community

Buckhead Indian settlement gave Atlanta its most famous street name By Wright Mitchell There are at least 71 streets in Atlanta containing the name Peachtree. That befuddles most visitors. Although Georgia is known as the “Peach State.” this does not account for the proliferation of streets bearing the name of that fruit. Rather, the explanation lies just off Ridgewood Road on the Chattahoochee River. Long before Atlanta became a city, there was a Creek Indian Village located in the vicinity of the Atlanta Waterworks Pumping Station on the east bank of the Chattahoochee River called “Standing Peachtree.” The village, which was the most significant of its kind in this part of Georgia, was a vital trading post for white traders doing business with the Cherokee Indians on the west side of the Chattahoochee and the Creek Indians, also known as the Muscogee, on the east side of the river. Located just north of the mouth of Peachtree Creek on a high point, Standing Peachtree was ideally suited to serve the Creeks’ dual needs of a ready food source, fish, and a defensible position.

April 9–April 22, 2010

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The origin of the name Standing Peachtree is the subject of some historical debate. One story passed down through generations of early Buckhead settlers attributed the name to the existence of a large pine tree on the grounds of Standing Peachtree that the Indians burned to obtain rosin or pitch, thus resulting in the tree being referred to as a “pitch tree” and Peachtree being a corruption of that name. Another version of the story, supported by the firsthand accounts of George Washington Collier, a large landowner in Buckhead who carried mail to the Standing Peachtree Post A Office, ties the name to a large peach tree that a grew on the site. “There was a great huge mound of earth m heaped up there -- big as this house, maybe bigger -- and right on top of it grew a big peach tree,” Collier said in an 1897 interview. “It bore fruit and was a useful and beautiful tree”. Regardless of the true origins of the name, it is undisputed that “Peachtree” and not “Pitchtree” is the name that has survived and flourished in Atlanta history. And Atlanta, a city with an already uncomfortable relationship with fire, is no doubt fine with this version of the story. It is difficult to say how long Standing Peachtree thrived as an Indian settlement. But the first written reference to the settlement can be found in a May 1782 letter authored by the last of Georgia’s Revolutionary Governors, John Martin. In his letter, Martin noted that “the standing Peach Tree” was a popular meeting spot for Indians in the area. An intricate web of trails emanated from Standing Peachtree including the Peachtree Trail, which traveled along present day Moore’s Mill Road to West Pace’s Ferry Road and into the heart of Buckhead where it split, with one trail heading south toward downtown and the other north toward Toccoa. Many of Buckhead’s current streets, like Moore’s Mill and West Pace’s Ferry, are simply paved versions of what were once frontier paths. During the War of 1812, the state of Georgia erected a fort just north of Standing Peachtree called Fort Peachtree. The fort was intended to serve as a buffer between the Creeks, who had sided with the British in the war, and nearby white settlements. Despite being enemy combatants, the soldiers stationed at the fort often came in contact with the local Indian populace. The young lieutenant in charge of the fort, George R. Gilmer, later Governor of Georgia, wrote in his book “Georgians” that “A few days after my arrival at the standing peach-tree a ruffian Indian fellow came into the camp with some fine catfish for sale.” Of course, the Indians were eventually unceremoniously evicted from the land along the banks of the Chattahoochee by the Treaty of Indian Springs in 1821 and the military abandoned the fort, which fell into disrepair. In 1837, the Georgia Assembly granted SS

community the replica housed display cases containing numerous Indian artifacts and a large diorama depicting the old Standing Peachtree grounds. There were also several cannons in front of the fort and a couple of historical markers. Unfortunately, prior to the Atlanta Summer Olympics in 1996 the city terminated public access to the fort over concerns about the security of the city’s water supply. Now the fort can be visited only through special permission of the city. Sadly, on a recent tour arranged by the Paces Civic Association, the display cases were found to be smashed and the contents missing. The cannons also were nowhere to be found. So much of Atlanta’s history is tied to this particular spot that it is a shame it cannot be visited. City officials may one day figure out a way to make it available to the public again. Until then, the former location of Standing Peachtree can only be glimpsed by looking north along the Chattahoochee River as one drives over the bridge on South Atlanta Road. GooGLe mAPS

Aerial map above shows the location of the creek indian “Standing Peachtree” village, just above the R.m. clayton sewage plant on the chattahoochee River, and the location of the marker for Fort Peachtree, to the upper right.

Let ’s G oF lyi

ng !

James M.C. Montgomery - - who had incidentally been stationed at Fort Peachtree during the war - - the right to operate a ferry at Standing Peachtree, which became known as Montgomery’s Ferry. Mr. Montgomery built a home not far from the site of his ferry at the intersection of present day Moore’s Mill and

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Bolton Roads. The Montgomery family operated the ferry until 1853, when it was taken over by the DeFoor family. In 1976, the city of Atlanta constructed a replica of Fort Peachtree on the Waterworks’ property. A popular field trip destination for Atlanta school children for many decades,

Wright Mitchell is the President of the Buckhead Heritage Society and a labor and employment attorney with the law firm of Constangy, Brooks & Smith, LLP. In writing this article, Mr. Mitchell relied heavily on Eugene M. Mitchell’s (no relation) definitive work on Standing Peachtree entitled “The Story of Standing Peachtree”, which originally appeared in the Atlanta Historical Bulletin in January of 1928. Mr. Mitchell also referenced Franklin Garrett’s book, Atlanta & Environs, Volume I

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Summer Supervised play starting in June.

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I-285

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April 9–April 22, 2010

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April 9–April 22, 2010

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community

Blue Heron marks 10th birthday

formerly worked at Sarah Smith Elementary in Buckhead and now teaches part time at St. On a cool, crisp morning at the Blue Her- Anne’s, Jones has matched her artistic sension Nature Preserve, turtles sun themselves on bility with savvy business sense. logs along the pond’s edge. Geese glide across The latest jewel of the preserve’s natuthe water, which reflects the sky and fleecy ral necklace is the office building purchased clouds. from the architectural firm THW Design A short walk away, Blue Heron founder two years ago, along with the pond off RoNancy Jones stands before a stone and glass swell Road, across from Pike Nurseries. building that sits beside the pond. As a soft Along with nature preserve headquarters, the breeze rises, she smiles softly in wonder at na- building houses the Audubon Society’s Atture’s power, showing no distress that Sep- lanta chapter and the Little DaVinci Intertember’s floods washed away the preserve’s national School for preschool children. The developed trail along Nancy Creek . building also offers quarterly art exhibits. “It’s really interesting,” Jones says about The nature preserve acquired the land the layers of sand now for a community garcovering the creek’s den when a developer’s banks. “We’ll kind plans fell through for of watch it and work property surrounding with it; you can’t realthe R.M. Clayton Sewly fight it. The land is er plant. Jones continues to flood plain…the sand plan for the future, inis beautiful in its own cluding the possibility way.” of a boardwalk system Such reverence for along Nancy Creek nature has guided the or of redeveloping the growth of the Blue trail on higher ground Heron Nature Preadjacent to the creek serve, which celebrates bank. Another plan is its 10th birthday with to receive a trail easeits annual EcoFair from ment behind the Lake1 to 5 p.m. May 1. The moore condominiums EcoFair will include bird walks, displays of nancy Jones, director of the Blue Heron to connect the pond/ green businesses and nature Preserve, pauses on a wooden Nancy Creek area to the nonprofits, wildlife ex- bridge to watch turtles in the lake. Emma Lane wetlands. hibits and entertainLast fall, she launched ment. the nature preserve’s first Despite the loss of the trail, the Nancy fund-raising campaign. Despite the recesCreek land remains open. From a parking lot sion, contributions have remained steady. off Roswell Road, a visitor “can go through She works with a regular corps of volunteers, the woods and the community garden and including Eagle Scout Troop 370 of St. James make a whole loop around,” Jones said. Methodist Church and Oglethorpe UniversiBegun with 7 acres donated by Chas- ty students. tain Reserve developer Steven Delonga, the The city of Atlanta owns the land, but the nature preserve now comprises 25 acres. A Nature Preserve has full control of it. “The longtime resident of the neighborhood, Jones city does not help us in any way, shape or grew concerned that Delonga’s plans would form,” she said. make the creek inaccessible to residents. In “Under a restrictive deed, the land is clascooperation with the North Buckhead Civ- sified as green space. It can never be develic Association, she persuaded Delonga to do- oped,” she says. “We have ongoing care for nate the flood plain land along Nancy Creek, the land.” and received grants to develop the site. “It just kind of came together as a realization of the sense of place here,” Jones said. Geese, ducks, egrets, fish, deer, turtles, bluebirds, muskrats, foxes, woodpeckers and beavers thrive in the preserve near where 250,000 cars pass each day, according to preserve literature. Along with its primary site between Roswell Road and Rickenbacker Drive, the preserve includes 9 acres of wetlands at the end of Emma Joe eARLe Lane, off Lakemoore Geese, ducks, egrets, fish, deer, turtles, bluebirds, muskrats, foxes, Drive. woodpeckers and beavers thrive in the preserve near where cars An art teacher who pass each day on Roswell Road, according to the preserve. By Louis Mayeux

SS

e

Residents of Buckhead and Sandy Springs are Encouraged to Apply

Census jobs offer flexible hours, good pay, and work that is close to home. Available Positions: Crew Leader Crew Leader Assistant Enumerator

Hourly pay $18.75 to $21.75 www.reporternewspapers.net

April 9–April 22, 2010

11

New ARC head says metro region must fix traffic, water, education

2010 “A Taste of Buckhead Business” Expo May 20, 2010 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead

$10 admission fee • must be 18 or older to enter Join us for complimentary tastes offered by 18 Buckhead restaurants, exhibits by 40 Buckhead businesses, music from 97.1 FM The River, three cash bars and valuable give-aways throughout the evening.

participating restaurants to date: City Club of Buckhead

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For more information contact Executive Director, Sharon Silva (404) 467-7607 or by email at [email protected]

April 9–April 22, 2010

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www . buckheadbusiness . org

12

community

The new chairman of the Atlanta Regional Commission says residents of the metro area must work together to address the region’s traffic, water and education problems. “We simply cannot tolerate what we have allowed this city to become in terms of traffic,” ARC Chairman Tad Leithead told members of the Buckhead Business Association on April 1. “We also cannot tolerate what we’ve allowed this city to become in terms of water – water resources, water quality, water availability, our right to the water that falls from the sky -- and we can no longer, I believe, accept being somewhere in the 49th or 48th position with regards to the education we offer our young people.” The single biggest problem facing the metro Atlanta community, he said, is the availability of water. “In the morning what we think about is traffic. That’s right in front of our minds because we’re trying to get to work,” he said. “But I submit to you that while you’re listening to the traffic report, if you step in the shower and turn the handle and the water doesn’t come out, you’re going to forget about traffic. … At the end of the day, you can survive traffic, but you cannot survive without water.” Leithead, who has worked for more than 20 years in commercial real estate in metro Atlanta, was elected head of the 10-county regional planning agency in December. He is the first citizen representative chosen to head the ARC. He was held a seat on the ARC board since 2000 representing an area that takes in portions of Cobb, Fulton and DeKalb counties and the city of Atlanta. During his talk to the Buckhead business group, Leithead said metro Atlantans need to work to fix legal problems threatening metro Atlanta’s access to water from Lake Lanier, to capture and hold more rainfall and to conserve water. “We are the largest metropolitan area in the country served by the smallest reservoir,” he said. “The basin serving Lake Lanier is only 1,000 square miles. It’s not a very big place. Only the rainfall falling in that 1,000-square-mile area lands in Lake Lanier.” So the metro area needs to capture more of the rain that falls in the area and to improve water conservation, he said. Leithead called education “a huge challenge for us,” pointing to multi-million-dollar budget gaps facing several metro school systems “at the same time we’re ranked number 49 in the country as far as education.” He said ARC was working to develop stronger candidates for school boards. “We’re got to elevate the way we go about educating our children,” he said. Candidates for school board should be better qualified for the job, he said. “We can work to try to establish minimum standards for who is allowed to run for school board,” he said. “You wouldn’t want your attorney general to not be an attorney. You’d like people who run for the school board to have some modicum of understanding about curriculum, and about administration, about costs, and about

“We simply cannot tolerate what we have allowed this city to become in terms of traffic.” – Tad Leithead ARC Chairman students and about teachers and about what goes on in a school. “I guess we’ve all been in school at one time or another, but back then our perception was distorted. We were kids.” Finally, he said, the metro area must address its traffic problems. “We are being choked to death by traffic,” he said. “Transportation, and transportation which is not uniquely dependent on singleoccupancy vehicles, is one of the highest priorities in this region,” Leithead said. A legislative proposal to allow regions of the state to impose a special sales tax to raise money for transportation projects could generate $8 billion over 10 years in metro Atlanta, he said. Coupled with federal funds, that could mean about $13 billion in projects, he said. Still, he said, that would amount to only 10 to 11 percent of the money needed. “Even if that legislation passes, we will have somewhere in the neighborhood of a $90 billion shortfall,” he said. “But we would be able to build some very high priority projects.” Leithead said he considered the chairman of the ARC to be the “de facto mayor of the region,” and said communities within the region need to work together to address common problems. “We won’t solve these problems by focusing on Buckhead or focusing on Cobb of Henry (counties),” he said. Metro Atlanta’s problems are no longer parochial ones, he said. “[Former U.S. Sen.] Zell Miller said if you see a turtle on top of a fence post, you can pretty much tell he didn’t get there by himself,” Leithead said. “Well, I’m sitting on top of that fence post and it’s lonely. “I’m asking for your help.”

SSPC to honor local businesses and CEO of Leadership Strategies, Michael Wilkinson, who will discuss “What Every Business Leader Should Know About Strategy.” The chamber has instituted a charge for Bagels & Business meetings. For members who register online by 2:00 p.m. the Friday prior to the meeting (April 16), it’s $7, a $3 savings over the pay-at-the-door charge of $10. RSVP by going to the Chamber website: www.sandyspringsperimeterchamber.org. The Westin Atlanta North hotel is located at 7 Concourse Parkway in Sandy Springs. –John Schaffner

City lags in returning census continued from page 1

which city would have the highest rate of participation, Sandy Springs officials said. As of April 6, 60 percent of Roswell’s residents had sent in forms, as had 56 percent of Alpharetta’s residents, 63 percent of Johns Creek’s residents and 60 percent of Milton’s residents. The Census Web site reported the city of Atlanta’s participation rate to be 50 percent. “Right now it looks like Mayor Galambos will have to pay up,” Sandy Springs officials said in a prepared statement. The census participation rate is computed to show the percentage of the census forms mailed out to addresses in and area that have been filled out and returned, the census Web site said. The Census Bureau developed the figure this year to reflect participation in the census during a time when many areas have vacant housing because of the poor economy. The participating rate does not include forms returned to the Census Bureau as “undeliverable” by the U.S. Post Office, the Web site said. Residents have until April 21 to mail in their census forms, said 2010 Census spokesman Derick Moore. On May 1, census “enumerators” will begin going to addresses from which census forms have not been returned. The enumer-

Chastain pool opens in May The Chastain Park Pool will be opening for the summer on May 15, the ninth season under the management of the Chastain Park Athletic Club, the club announced. This year CPAC is offering secure online registration and credit card payment for pool membership, swim team and swim lessons, all available through the web site www.ChastainParkAC.org. Pool memberships are available at $350 for a household, $175 for an individual or $75 for seniors age 65 and older. Swim team and pool sponsorships also are available at various levels, including T-shirt and banner recognition. The local Tidal Waves swim team won the 2009 Atlanta Swim Association Championship with 400 swimmers representing the team. The volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit has operated the pool each summer since 2002 after saving the 1940’s era pool from demolition. It has overseen more than $1 million in upgrades over the last few years. SS

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ators will interview residents at the addresses and fill out forms, so the residents can be counted. The enumerators are scheduled to collect information from residents through the middle of June, census partnership coordinator Edward Davis said. Residents who mail in forms after April 21 may be visited by enumerators also. The final report on the 2010 U.S. population is due in December, a census spokesman said. Census officials are encouraging residents to return the forms by mail in order to save money. It costs the census 44 cents when a form is returned in the mail, but $57 to send an enumerator to a home to fill out the form, Davis said.

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April 9–April 22, 2010

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Playgroup finds purpose in regular meetings with seniors citizens By Amy Wenk [email protected] Pearl Hacker, a 97-year-old resident of The William Breman Jewish Home on Howell Mill Road in Buckhead, made sure on April 2 to wear her knit sweater with the cute cats. “I always dress for the occasion,” said Hacker, who was born in 1914 and raised on a 100-acre farm in New Jersey. The occasion she was referring to is the once-a-month Playgroup with a Purpose, held that day at 11:30 a.m. in the fourth floor garden room at the Breman Jewish Home. The afternoon activity invites senior residents to sing and play with mothers and their babies. “It’s wonderful to see the little children,” Hacker said. “They are precious. The mothers are very nice, too.” Play groups are a social pastime for many mothers with young children. But adding another generation is a twist. “Everyone needs their baby fix,” said Shauna Horvath, volunteer director for the Breman Jewish Home and songmaster for the Playgroup with a Purpose. During the play group, mothers and children sit on a large blue rug sprinkled with toys. Seniors, many in wheelchairs, sit in a circle around them. Horvath leads a sing-a-long of familiar tunes like “Twinkle, twinkle little star” as well as traditional Jewish songs. “I get paid to do this,” said Horvath, a former teacher at The Epstein School in Sandy Springs. “I love it.”

14

Amy Wenk

Above, Rebecca Halusic kisses her 14-month-old son Gavin while Cara Hanin and her 9-month-old son Drew interact with seniors at The William Breman Jewish Home in Buckhead. At right, Harley Tabak, the Breman Home’s ‘Singing CEO,’ catches the attention of two-year-old Marion Kogon, daughter of Playgroup with a Purpose organizer Sara Kogon. Harley Tabak, the chief executive officer of the Breman Jewish Home, sits beside Horvath, strumming the melodies on his guitar. “We call him the singing CEO,” Horvath said. “Women swoon over him. We’re all his groupies.” After the songs, mothers walk around and

encourage interaction between the children and the senior citizens. “I enjoy getting to see Drew interact with the older people,” said Cara Hanin at the April 2 play group. Her son Drew is nine months old. “His grandparents don’t live here.”

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Playgroup with a Purpose was started by Sandy Springs resident Sara Kogon, who has served on the board of directors for the Breman Jewish Home since about 2004. When she had her daughter Marion twoand-a-half years ago, she said she wanted more activities to do with her child. She talked with Horvath about a play group at the Breman Jewish Home and soon it became a regular event. “It kind of came together on its own,” Horvath said. “It keeps growing and growing. I never know what to expect.” Kogon and other parents stay in touch via e-mail, and mothers involved with the group often “pick up” new participants at places like the park. Kogon said the group has a special place in her heart. Her husband Ross’s grandfather Gerald was a resident of the Breman Jewish Home before he died in February 2009. “One of the last … memories I have of [Gerald] is this play group,” Kogon said. “Shortly after that he went to hospice.” When her son was born in December 2009, she named him Gerald. Now baby Gerald plays on the blue rug in the place that his great-grandfather used to watch and smile at youngsters like him. The senior residents “say we are doing something for them, but we’re really thinking they are doing so much more for us,” Kogon said. Another parent Melanie Levs shared that sentiment. “It’s such a wonderful idea to bring the generations together,” said Levs, who brought her two sons Ryan, 3 ½, and Jordan, almost five months old, to the April 2 play group. “I like them to be exposed more to older people … I want them to know how much fun it is to interact with people who have all that life experience.” For more information about the Playgroup with Purpose, email Shauna Horvath at [email protected]. The next playgroup will be held Sunday, May 2. SS

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Three elderly men waited calmly on the striped sofas and chairs in the activity room of Atria Buckhead, the senior community where they live on Lenox Road. Their bowling league, the Buckhead Kingpins, was about to compete for a spot in the playoffs. But they didn’t need an alley, bowling balls or pins. They required only a television, Nintendo Wii gaming system and their fourth teammate, Al Medore, who was late again and probably still fixing his hair, they said. Petite but lively Jerry Fulton joined the scene wearing plaid pants, a string of plastic Marti Gras beads around her neck and a red daisy pinned to her lapel. Ready with gags for April Fools, she started teasing 79-year-old John Davis that his hair was turning pink. Chuckles ensued. Before long Medore appeared with his hair slicked, and the four senior men and Fulton, their 80-something-year-old cheerleader, began their final game of the Buckhead-based National Senior League (NSL). The four-member Atria team is one of 144 Nintendo Wii bowling leagues to participate in the senior league, an Internet-based, conference-style tournament for virtual bowlers at senior centers and assisted living facilities. Wii is a video game with wireless controllers that respond to a player’s movements. Wii bowlers swing their arms to send a virtual ball down the virtual alley. “It’s so simple to do,” said Buckhead resident Dennis Berkholtz, who was inspired to launch NSL last July after he was uninspired by the activities available at the Cape Coral, Fla. senior facility where his parents once resided. “I was always amazed at the lack of creativity in providing residents fun things to do,” said the former Olympian, who played handball in the 1972 Munich games. Berkholtz said Wii bowling can be played by peopled aged 3 to 100. Berkholtz wants to offer more Wii bowling leagues that would take in all age groups. “There are 67.5 million Wii bowling alleys out there,” said Berkholtz, quoting a statistic from Nintendo. “We are trying to create Wii leagues for everyone. We believe Wii bowling is something everyone can do.” Just nine months old, the NSL now is finishing up its second tournament. The Atria Buckhead league’s 3-5 record did SS

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Virtual bowling strikes it big not get them into the playoffs, but they have no plans of giving up on the activity. “I love the competition,” said Medore, an 81-year-old New Jersey native whose daughter lives in Buckhead. His teammate Davis joined the team to improve his Wii skills. He wants to give his five grandchildren some competition the next time they visit, he said. The appeal of Nintendo Wii is catching on at other senior facilities around the areas of Sandy Springs, Buckhead and Brookhaven. “It gives senior residents something new and exciting to do,” Berkholtz said. The Dorothy C. Benson Senior Multipurpose Complex in Sandy Springs has a Wii game system for its elderly visitors. “We have some people that come in and play independently,” said Pat King, activities director for the county-run senior facility. PARC at Buckhead, a retirement community on Phipps Boulevard, also offers Wii gaming to its residents. Although the Buckhead facility does not have a NSL league, two of PARC’s four Atlanta locations do and those leagues have made it to the NSL playoffs, said Becci Johnson with PARC. No league in Buckhead only means more time for residents Jean Kaufman and Helen Miller to improve their Wii bowling skills. The two women played the game at about 4 p.m. on April 6 in PARC at Buckhead’s sunlit gym. “I feel like I am really bowling,” said Kaufman, a New York native that enjoys virtual bowling once a week with Miller. “She’s my partner in crime.” The two petite, golden-haired ladies met just three months ago when Kaufman relocated from Florida to PARC at Buckhead. But when they play Wii bowling, they act like old friends. They laugh and tease each other during the game, which entices spectators. Berkholtz said Wii bowling leagues help recreate for seniors the energy of high school sporting events. “The cheerleaders are just as important as the bowlers,” Berkholtz said. “They enjoy the atmosphere.” That seemed the case for Fulton, the Atria Buckhead league’s biggest fan. During the April 1 games, Fulton was full of encouraging words. “John, do it. John,” Fulton said as Davis drew back the Wii console. When Davis hit eight pins from his sofa seat, Fulton exclaimed, “You did it John! You get better every time we bowl.”

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dents are actors due to the school’s background, and many have theatrical agents, Since 2006, Pierian Springs school in Howes said. The flexible curriculum also Sandy Springs has grown from eight home works well for students who are heavily inschooled students meeting in a basement to volved in sports, or in the corporate world. Two students are world-ranked athletes 82 students in 9,000 square feet of a shopping center on Sandy Springs Place. an inline skater and a fencer - who often must And with enrollment continuing to grow, be away to train and compete. Another stuschool leaders already have an eye toward dent has started a company and is working to larger locations. grow the business. The Georgia-accreditLectures are often made ed private, college preparatoavailable online, and teachers ry school serving students in communicate with students grades six to 12, was started by through text messages and Sandy Springs resident Karen phone conversations. Class Howes, an actor who in 1993 sizes are small, most averagfounded The Young Actors ing no more than 10 students, Ensemble which produces and so students and professors detours professional plays. velop close working relationHowes explained recently ships, Howes said. Some 85 that the idea to provide classes percent of teachers have an advanced degree, and many also came after she noticed some of teach at area universities and the young actors, all of them colleges. bright, home schooled stuStudents who enroll at the dents, sitting offstage during school usually come from a practice breaks. They often Karen Howes home school or private school were surrounded by textbooks, Pierian Springs director setting, although some transfrustrated that they could not quite master this or that school material. At fer from public schools. Essays are used more first she brought in tutors to help the stu- than test scores for admission. Tuition is held to $6,500 a year, not indents. They not only caught up, they aced cluding books and lab fees, to provide access their class work. It wasn’t long before more students and to more families. Students come from numerous academic, cultural, religious and rafamilies wanted to participate. Howes responded by adding more teach- cial backgrounds. ers and subject matter. Within a year, enrollThe common thread is that students are ment had reached 17 students, so she relocat- self-motivated to achieve both academically ed the group to rented space at Sandy Springs and outside of school, Howes said. United Methodist Church. To graduate, students must complete The name Pierian Springs comes from a core classes required by the state of Georquote by English Poet Alexander Pope - “A gia and pass the Georgia High School Aplittle learning is a dangerous thing; drink titude Test. Pierian Springs also requires 50 deep, or taste not the hours of communiPierian spring.....” ty service, three addiSince the begintional writing classes ning, she has insisted and an additional forthat students be higheign language class. ly motivated and exThe school is recel academically. She quired to administer adopted a universiat least one national ty model to provide standardized test and students more flexichose the Iowa Test of bility in class schedulBasic Skills (ITBS). ing and to help create “A lot of people an environment that are trying to find somost traditional midlutions for educationdle and high schools al malfunctions,” said don’t offer. Sofas are Howes. “This works placed in hallways for some students. – Karen Howes Not all. Students who and classrooms to encourage students to are motivated to do gather to discuss their something special, be work or numerous outside projects. that to start college early or to start a compaStudents can choose to take a light load of ny or to move into pursuing their career - or core and elective classes if their outside sched- who are already doing many of those things ule is hectic at the time, or they can double - thrive here.” up on courses to get ahead. Some Pierian Students Vonte Simon, 17, of Dunwoody Springs students also take courses at metro said he transferred to the school from Northarea colleges. view High School so that he could work on One Pierian Springs student, an actor, both completing his education and growing opted for a light semester to allow an extend- his company. He started a business to proed stay in New York to perform in an inde- vide large youth conferences with speakers pendent film. Another chose a schedule that and music to churches. The business is exwould accommodate a regular role on the panding and he credits the support of teachNickelodeon channel. ers and fellow students. A large number of Pierian Springs stuThat camaraderie and the emphasis on By Carla Caldwell

“Students who are motivated to do something special, be that to start college early or to start a company or to move into pursuing their career ... thrive here.”

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Pierian Springs school founding director Karen Howes, of Sandy Springs, (second from right) talks about an upcoming field trip with, left to right, students Elijah Feldman, 16, Kathleen Howes, 15, and Natalie Vivori, 13. flexibility are working well for student Abby O’Callaghan, who transferred from North Atlanta High School. The sophomore is now excited about school, says her mother Jennifer O’Callaghan, who is quick to add that the family has three other children who thrived at area public and private schools, including the one Abby left. Abby, however, is specifically interested in writing and creative work and found that at Pierian Springs she could focus on those areas while completing core classes. Since enrolling at Pierian Springs, she has taken several language arts classes and an acting class that led to a role in a school play performed to five sold-out performances in the school’s professional quality black box theater. “I am just so fortunate that we were able to find an educational environment where all of our children could thrive,” said O’Callaghan. “All children are very different when it comes

to what they need. If you listen carefully and often enough, you will learn what your child needs and you can find it. For Abby, it was Pierian Springs.” Simon said he’s fortunate that he and many of his classmates have also found the right fit. “Students love this school so much that when it snowed, we didn’t want the school to close,” he said. “We contacted the school and asked them to stay open.” School founder Howes confirms that students did ask her to open the school although most schools were shutting down. “I received texts messages saying please open the doors, we’re coming anyway,” said Howes, smiling. “That means a lot to me.” For more information about Pierian Springs school, call 404-943-0827, or go to the school’s Web site at www.pieriansprings.org.

11 chosen for Governor’s Honors Eleven students from Riverwood International Charter School were chosen to attend the Georgia Governor’s Honors Program this summer, the school announced recently. The seven juniors and four sophomores will take part in programs this summer at Valdosta State University, the school said. Jessica Bernstein, Alayna Feng, Laurissa Papillion, Alyssa Rogut, and Ivey Welton will study visual arts. Wesley Nichols and Nicola Salle will pursue theater. William Nichols will student music. Aaron Bhole and Emil D’Mello will pursue executive management and Front: Wes Nichols; Middle: Emil D’Mello, Oliver Paprin, Oliver Paprin social studies, the Will Nichols; back row: Jessica Bernstein, Alayna Feng, school said. The Governor’s Honors Pro- Aaron Bhole, Alyssa Rogut, Nicola Salle and Rissa Papillion gram is a six-week summer program designed to provide enriching and challenging educational opportunities for intellectually gifted and artistically talented high school students. SS

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 Eden Weingart, senior  North Springs Charter High School Sure, Eden Weingart won the Fulton County Technology Fair in graphic design her junior year. And, yes, she has the eighth highest grade point average of the 350 seniors in her graduating class at North Springs Charter High School. But those accomplishments pale in comparison to what she considers her greatest feat: earning the privilege to eat in the North Springs graphics communications lab. “It’s quite the honor,” said Weingart, laughing. “Virtually no one else is allowed to. You know you’ve really done something right when you get to consume edibles in the sacred graphics lab.” Indeed, Weingart has done more than a few things right in that very graphics lab. Beginning in fifth grade, Weingart began pursuing digital arts after receiving her first drawing tablet. In sixth grade, she photoshopped her first logo for a friend’s Web site and began designing newsletters for her middle school, The Epstein School. Noticing Weingart’s talent, administrators at the Epstein School bought her Adobe Illustrator, a computer program that allowed her to further her skills throughout middle school. Weingart, who lives in Roswell, was supposed to attend Centennial High School, but she chose to attend North Springs because of its Visual Arts magnet program. “I have no doubt I made the right choice,” said Weingart. “North Springs really has given me opportunities I otherwise would not have received at any other school.” Among these opportunities is the graphics design program, in which Weingart immersed herself beginning with her sophomore year. Teacher Cam Lupiani allowed her to skip the introductory course and take on more difficult projects previously reserved for

older students, such as designing the posters for school productions and helping out with the school Web site. “It’s rare to find someone with both great talent and a great work ethic,” Lupiani said. “Eden certainly has both.” The summer before her senior year, Weingart worked at a small marketing firm as a designer. Throughout her senior year, she has taken her graphics skills beyond the walls of North Springs, designing the logo for The Thirsty Dog Tavern, a Buckhead restaurant, and a cookie label design for Alon’s Bakery. Weingart also excels in arts that don’t involve a computer, particularly painting and drawing. She won the Silver Key Award in oil painting at the Scholastic Art Competition (second place in Georgia) and attended the prestigious Governor’s Honors Program in Visual Arts after her sophomore year. In addition, Weingart has taken five AP courses, earned straight A’s through high school and is a member of the National Art Honor Society and the National Honor Society. “She’s an all-around incredible student,” Lupiani said. “She’s going to succeed—no, excel—in college and in her future. She has so much promise.”

What’s Next:

Weingart was accepted to all four schools she applied to, including Washington University in St. Louis’ Sam Fox School of Design, University of Georgia’s Honors Program, University of Maryland and Carnegie Mellon University School of Design. She plans to major in graphics communication, with her top choice being the Carnegie Mellon University School of Design. She has not yet committed, though. After completing college, Weingart’s dream job would be to work in a design firm. “I’m really glad that I’ve been able to find something that I love to do and that can also serve as my career,” Weingart said. –Amanda Wolkin

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Unitarian coffee house feeds hungry ears and mouths With fast-picking fingers, Leinweber entertained the audience with songs from genres like rock, blues, folk and gospel. “They are all songs you have never heard On a recent Saturday night, Cindy and Ron White of Norcross came early to the before,” said Sandy Springs resident and Hungry Ear Coffee House in Sandy Springs. church member Clarence Rosa. “You won’t They toted a wicker picnic basket packed hear them anywhere else.” Rosa said Hungry Ear draws intellectuals with white wine, fruit and other snacks. The couple wanted a spot at one of the tables cov- who like music to have meaning. “I call contemporary folk music poetry set ered in red-and-white checkered cloth. “We enjoy it,” said Cindy as she opened to music,” he said. Rosa began the Hungry Ear Coffee House a Tupperware container of almonds for the April 3 performance. “This is a very cozy in 1989 as a means to raise money for the church. At the time, the Unitarian Universalsetting.” ist congregation wanted Each month for 20 to encourage Africanyears or more, the sancAmerican members and tuary of the Northlooked to build a church west Unitarian Univerin south Atlanta. salist Congregation on “I was scared to Mount Vernon Highdeath,” said Rosa, a way has transformed tenor banjo and maninto the Hungry Ear dolin player who plays Coffee House, a venin a band called the ue for folk singer-songDixie Kings. “I wasn’t writers. sure I was going to pull “It’s sort of eclectic,” it off.” Cindy said. “You never Although the south know who or what you Amy Wenk Atlanta church never will see.” The coffee house for Don Sechelski performs at the Hungry ear. panned out, the coffee house was a hit. decades has fed the At“We succeeded in lanta music community. But recently a new organizer has encouraged raising more money than anybody else on Hungry Ear regulars to donate food for the that effort, but the effort finally failed,” Community Action Center in Sandy Springs. said Rosa, who added the church had held Center spokeswoman Kristen Ristino said a similar coffee house in the 1970s. He the nonprofit organization that assists people said it was Atlanta’s first coffee house. “We decided after a year of doing [the coffee in need appreciates the help. “Food donations on a regular basis are house], it was so fun we’d keep doing it.” Rosa named it Hungry Ear after a cofso important because we have about 60 families a day coming to us for food,” Ris- fee house in San Francisco, Calif., called tino said in an April 5 e-mail. “The month- “Hungry i.” He got into his role as coordinator and bely Hungry Ear Coffee House donations are coming at a good time because while we re- came known for wearing a Dr. Seuss-inspired ceive many donations during the holidays, hat. Patrons called him the “Cat in the Hat,” this time of year our shelves tend to emp- said Sechelski who has played at the coffee house since its early days. ty quickly.” The coffee house was a regular event for the The Whites said an evening at Hungry Ear in the dimly-lit space with wood-paneled next 20 years until Rosa retired from the duty. “Hungry Ear was on a hiatus for about walls takes them back to another time. Ron was playing folk music in the 1960s half a year or so,” said Decatur resident Tom when he met his wife Cindy, a nursing stu- Godfrey, a church member. Godfrey soon agreed to coordinate the dent at the time. “Even though I play guitar and sing, I coffeehouse, because as a guitarist, singer and don’t measure up to the people that do per- songwriter himself, he missed the venue. “It started with me talking to peoform here,” Ron said. That night the couple heard the original ple like, ‘Oh man, too bad Hungary Ear is gone,’” said Godfrey, who earned a musongs of two musicians. “A venue like this supports people who sic education degree from University of Ilwrite their own music,” said the evening’s linois and played trombone in the U.S. Air Force. He switched to jazz guitar after an first act, Don Sechelski of Norcross. Sechelski performed acoustic songs like the injury to his lip and now plays with two politically-themed “Welcome to America” in bands, On the Cool Side and Allen, Vinfront of the sanctuary’s picture windows when ton, and Godfrey. Next thing Godfrey knew he volunteered the setting sun cast a blue hue on the small forto run the coffee house and began the food est of pines and hardwoods outside. It is believed that during the Civil War drive in February. “So in addition to starting up the HunGeneral William Sherman’s troops, before the Battle of Atlanta, camped on the ridge gry Ear again, we decided to make it a food where the Unitarian church sits, according to drive too,” he said. “The Hungry Ear feeds the hungry.” the church’s Web site. Godfrey said he hopes the food drive and The second performer April 3 was David Leinweber, also known as Dr. Blues. The better marketing will bring more people to musician is the assistant professor of histo- the coffee house. “I want to make this a go-to venue, a place ry at Oxford College of Emory University where performers feel they should play,” he said. in Oxford, Ga. By Amy Wenk [email protected]

SHOP TIL YOU DROP SISTERS SHOPAPALOOZA

MAY 7, ATLANTA, GA. The Villa Christina @ Perimeter Summit from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. This will be the ULTIMATE ladies night out for the spring. A fashionistas dream! Bring your girl friends, co-workers and neighbors for a let your hair down, send the kids to grandma’s, Friday night out of a good time with lots of shopping just in time for Mother’s Day. SOUTHEAST GOLD BUYERS will be on hand for you to cash in your old gold in exchange for cash money to do all the shopping you want! Tickets can be purchased online prices starting at $5

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Oglethorpe University Will Set You on the Right Course!

Oglethorpe offers several degree programs that will fit your goals: • Classic education on our beautiful Brookhaven campus • Traditional undergraduate, liberal arts degrees • Evening Degree Program offers classes at night: 6 Majors and 11 Minors • Financial Planner Program – Atlanta’s oldest: 11 to 18-month program • Master of Arts in Teaching: Early Childhood Education

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April 9–April 22, 2010

19

Out About Sandy Springs • Buckhead • Brookhaven

Submit listings to [email protected] clASSeS

Arthritis Foundation, Southeast Region, Inc. - Georgia Area Invites you to a SPRING educational series! Come hear the latest ways to manage pain and symptoms of arthritis at a free health forum. Attend one or both! Kennestone Hospital, Building 310 Auditorium 677 Church St. / Marietta, GA 30060 *Park in the blue parking deck* *Light dinner served*

20

Rheumatoid Arthritis & You Featuring Kelly Weselman, MD

Take Control of Osteoarthritis

Sponsored by Stryker Orthopaedics

Registration is required Email [email protected] or call 1.800.933.7023, ext. 454

Wondering Where everyone is at?

The Party is At

Mudcatz

. p.m m. 0 p. 0 4: :00 6 to

.25¢ Oysters & Drink Specials Bands - Tuesday -

Her with Heaven

- Wednesday Jam Barry Richmond & the Altenators

- Mike Veal Thursdays - weekend party -

Join the Party with a full house w/ GLOW

- Sundays Beach Club Blast shag lessons and dancing 7-11

Mudcatz | 770-828-0335 5510 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, GA 30338

www.mudcatz.com April 9–April 22, 2010

over 55 Games

Spartan Golf classic

Everyday. Different Times. Free. Get out of the house and participate in Canasta, Open Bridge, Mahjong, Bingo, and chess for the over -55 crowd different days and times. Location: Dorothy C. Benson Senior Multipurpose Complex, 6500 Vernon Woods Drive, 30328. Contact: 404-705-4900 or www.bensoncenter.org.

April 21. 11 a.m. check in. $500 for a foursome. North Springs Charter High School is holding its annual golf classic to raise money for the athletic department. Location: Indian Hills Country Club, 4001 Clubland Drive, Marietta, 30068. Contact: 770-551-2490 or http://sites.google.com/ site/spartanclassic/home.

Flowers in Pastel

Bargainata

April 17. 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $70 members, $85 non members. Sharon Weiss, Sandy Springs artist, will be teaching “Flowers in Pastel and Watercolor Pencil.” Location: Spruill Arts Center, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Center, 30338. Contact: 770-394-3447 or www.spruillarts.org.

April 22. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sun., April 25, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free. This semi-annual two-day sale offers gently worn designer and better women’s wear and much much more to raise money for the National Council of Jewish Women. Location: Hilderbrand Court Shopping Center, 6125 Roswell Rd, 30328. Contact: 404-843-9600 or [email protected].

Featuring O. Scott Swayze, MD MAY 19, 2010 at 6:30PM

APRIL 22, 2010 at 6:00PM Sponsored by Centocor Ortho Biotech

www.reporternewspapers.net

FUnDrAiSerS

eArtH DAY

kids Fest April 17. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. $5 - $8. Meet Captain Planet and visit interactive booths of 25 local groups and environmental organizations to celebrate Earth Day. Paddle a canoe on Beaver Pond and see live animal presentations, too. Location: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, 30075. Contact: 770- 992-2055 or www.chattnaturecenter.org.

earth Day Fair April 24. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free. Enjoy a day of earth education, food and music at the Druid Hills United Methodist Church. At 1 p.m. there will be a “Blessing of the Animals,” for pets of all kinds. Location: 1200 Ponce de Leon , 30306. Contact: 404-377-6481 or www.druidhillsumc.org.

eventS

Sheep to Shawl Festival April 17. 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Included in admission cost. See live demonstrations of sheep shearing, open-hearth cooking, blacksmithing, candlemaking and much more on the Tullie Smith Farm. Location: Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., 30305. Contact: 404-814-4000 or www.atlantahistorycenter.com.

Garden Faire 2010 April 24. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free. This is a family event for gardeners, plant collectors and bargain hunters presented by the North Fulton Master Gardeners on the beautiful grounds of Bulloch Hall. Location: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Avenue, 30075. Contact: 770-992-1731 or www.bullochhall.org.

Stampede 5k Run/Walk April 23. 6 p.m. $20 registration. Come to the first annual Spring Stampede 5k Rn/Walk and Tot Trot to benefit the outreach programs at Our Lady of the Assumption. Location: 1350 Hearst Drive, 30319. Contact: 404-606-2215 or [email protected].

chefs extravaganza April 24. 7 – 10 p.m. Tickets $95 each or $175 couple. Taste offerings from restaurants in the North Fulton area, hear guitar music of Rouzbeh Hoshmandy, and honor Major Jere Wood to raise money for Senior Services of North Fulton. Location: Kimberly-Clark campus, 1400 Holcomb Bridge rd, 30076. Contact: 770-993-1906 or [email protected].

“Songs of the World” April 24. 7 p.m. Tickets $50. Act 3 Productions, Sandy Springs’ newest theater, is using the great performance, “Songs of the World,” featuring Tony Award winning performer Jayne Atkinson to raise funds for the production company. Location: Act 3 Productions, 6285-R Roswell Rd, 30328. Contact: 770-241-1905 or www.act3productions.org.

tHeAter

“Who killed Lulu” April 20. 7 – 8 p.m. Free. The Atlanta TheatreTo-Go presents “Who Killed Lulu?” at the Unitarian Universalist Church. Location: 1025 Mt. Vernon Highway, NW, 30329. Contact: 404 – 634- 5134 or www.uuca.org

“Beauty and Beast” April 22. 7:30 p.m. Free. The Holy Spirit Preparatory School 6th grade students are producing “Beauty and the Beast,” with favorite characters for everyone. Location: 4465 Northside Drive, 30327. Contact: 404 – 252-8008 or www.holyspiritprep.org.

Fine Art

African American celebration

April 24- 25. 3 – 8 p.m. Free. Experience Afrikan Djeli Cultural drummers, wine, appetizers and hors d’ouvres and view eight featured African artists with very different, yet complimentary styles of art. Location: Alan Avery Art Company, 315 East Paces Ferry Rd, Atlanta, 30305. Contact: 404-237-0370 or www.trinitygallery.com.

then and now

Until April 28. During library hours. Free. Resident artist, Beth Stoke Clinton has a new juried, solo show, “Now and Then,” to show her nationally shown paintings. Location: Buckhead Library, 269 Buckhead Avenue, 30305. Contact: 404-275-3353.

HeAltH/wellneSS

neck and Shoulder Relief

April 14. 6 – 8 p.m. Free. Cancer survivors will find relief for that neck and shoulder tension through Svaroopa Yoga at this free class. Location: Wellness community, 5775 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Suite C-225, 30342. Contact: 404-8431880 or www.thewellnesscommunity-atlanta.org.

cancer and careers

April 14. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Free. Hear how to address the challenges of cancer in the workplace, and the value of working through treatment as well as the patients’ rights in the workplace from Dr. Bassel El-Rayes of the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, sponsored by Cancer and Careers. Location: Westin Buckhead Atlanta, 3391 Peachtree Rd, 30326. Contact: 212-445-8089 or [email protected].

Health Wellness expo

April 24. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free. Make sure you stay healthy with free screenings for prostate cancer, diabetes, cholesterol and more at this annual event sponsored by Piedmont Hospital. Location: Lenox Square Mall. Contact: 404-605-5000 or www.piedmonthospital.org.

Study Volunteers needed

Continuous. Free. Volunteers are needed for new clinical studies to investigate the following: COPD, Gout, high blood pressure, hot flushes, d-IBS, type 2 diabetes and birth control product. Location: Mount Vernon Clinical Research, 755 Mount Vernon Highway, Suite 300, 30328. To find out if you qualify, contact Mount Vernon Clinical Research at 404-843-4400.

MeetinGS

W.i.S.e. Luncheon April 13. 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. $40 - $50. Women in Sports & Events is holding a luncheon with guest speaker Kathy Carter, EVP Soccer United Marketing, which oversees the marketing of Major League Soccer. Location: 103 West, 103 West Paces Ferry Rd, 30305. Contact: 404-581-7112 or http://bit.Iy/aEe3J9.

n.A.R.F.e. Luncheon April 14. 11 a.m. Free. The Dunwoody Chapter 2104 of the National Active & Retired Federal Employees Association will hold a lunch meeting to hear Sandy Springs Police Department Senior Officer Larry Jacobs speak on Crime Prevention. Location: Atrium at Georgetown Park, 4355 Georgetown Square, 30338. Contact: 770-396-3598.

MUSic

composer’s concert

Catering to your every need… food is our passion

April 16. 7 p.m. $5 - $10. North Springs Charter High School hosts a performance of outstanding student scores and songs on the main stage Location: 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, 30328. Contact: 404-851-9111 or www.heritagesandysprings.org

American music Panorama April 16. 8 p.m. Free. The Oglethorpe University Singers and Chorale chamber choirs in celebration of the 175th anniversary of the founding of Oglethorpe University, are performing a panorama of American music sponsored by the music department. Location: Concant Performing Arts Center, 4484 Peachtree Rd, 30319. Contact: 404-504-1074 or www.oglethorpe.edu.

Franklin Pond Quartet April 18. 2:30 p.m. Free. Come here the Franklin Pond Quartet perform for the dedication of the Reading Garden at the Sandy Springs Library. Location: 395 Mt. Vernon Rd, 30328. Contact: 404-303-6130.

music on the Hill April 18. 3 p.m. Free. Come hear Music on the Hill with Beethoven’s Piano Violin Sonatas No. 5 (Spring Sonata) in F-major, and No. 10 in G-major played by violinist Olga Shpitko and pianist Tim Whitehead. Location: Northside Baptist Church Chapel, 3100 Northside Drive, 30305. Contact: 404-2378621 or www.northsidedrive.org.

Pro-mozart Society

April 18. 3 p.m. Free. Hear Kristin Center, winner of the 2009 Pro-Mozart Scholarship Competition play a selection of music. Location: St. Martin in the fields Episcopal Church, 3110 Ashford-Dunwoody Rd, 30319. Contact: 770-736-5594 or www.mozartatlanta.com.

Hear the Future

April 25. 3 p.m. $10. The Michael O’Neal Singers present their 2nd annual high school music festival featuring outstanding ensembles from Alpharetta, Riverwood and Roswell High Schools. Location: Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Blvd, 30075. Contact: 770-594-7974 or www.mosingers.com.

petS

Announcing Full Service Catering – Bar & Bat Mitzvah Kiddush – Private dinner parties – Friday night dinners

– Holiday gatherings

– Sunday Brunches

– Bridal showers

– Luncheons

– Christenings

Linda Baron, Manager • 1272 West Paces Ferry Rd. NE., 404-273-4447 www.goldbergbagel.com • [email protected]

JOHNNY’S HIDEAWAY “Atlanta’s most unique nightclub where no one is a stranger”

All your favorite hits from the 50’s to today. Book all your parties, all your occasions with us. Mon - Sat 11 am - 3 am • Sun Noon - 2 am 3771 Roswell Rd., N.E. Atlanta • 404-233-8026 www.johnnyshideaway.com

Aladdin’s M e d i t e r r a nean Grill & Deli

emergency Pet care

 Best Shawarma in town  Best Falafel in town  Best Hummus in town  And The List Goes On

April 11. 4 p.m. Free. Learn how to check an animal’s vital signs and diagnose shock; muzzle a dog in need of emergency care and how to safely restrain an animal at this presentation by Pet first Aid instructor, Mailey McLaughlin, presented by the Pet Ministry at the Fields Episcopal Church in Brookhaven. Location: 3110 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., 30319. Contact: 404-228-0753 or [email protected].

770-518-9288 8725 Roswell Road Atlanta, GA 30350

Pet Health April 25. 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Free. Dr. Cathy Franklin will be speaking about the principles of pet-centered care, based on Cesar Millan’s popular and useful techniques of being the “pack leader.” Location: Fido Fido Dog Daycare & Boarding, 275 Mount Vernon Highway, 30328. Contact: 404-405-3157 or [email protected].

Kosher Catering Under Supervision

www.aladdinmediterraneanrestaurant.com

Free Baklava with meal purchase expires 5/31/10

Photo by: Blake Warenik

www.reporternewspapers.net

April 9–April 22, 2010

21

Summer Camps for Kids C E L E B R AT I N G A D E C A D E o f E x C E L L E N C E

SUMMER CAMPS 2010

and our NEW Tech program for non-musicians! OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY Overnight: 6/ 6-6/11, 6/20-6/25, 6/27-7/2 Day/Kidz: 6/7-6/11, 6/21-6/25, 6/28-7/2 MT PISGAH Day/Kidz: 7/12-7/16

5-STAR SPoRTS CAMP (Ages 5-12)

GYMNASTICS & CHEER CAMP

THE GALLOWAY SCHOOL Kidz: 6/14-6/18

(Ages 4-12)

TINY TUMBLERS CAMP (Ages 3-6)

SPoRTS 101 CAMP

(Ages 3-6)

fUN & GAMES CAMP (Ages 3-6)

INDooR SoCCER CAMP

CAMP THUNDERBIRD

(Ages 5-9)

Co-Ed Resident Camp - 1 & 2 Week Sessions

INLINE RoLLER HoCKEY CAMP (Ages 5-16)

Since 1936 there have been opportunities for adventure, fun, friendship at Camp Thunderbird! It is one of the finest Camping programs anywhere. n

BASKETBALL CAMP (Ages 5-12)

JR. GoLf CAMP (Ages 4-11) DANCE CAMPS (Ages 3-12)

Wakeboaring and Water Skiing

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CAMP DISCovERy FoR CHIlDREN 3-12 yEARS

June 7– July 30

Before-care and After-care available

3434 Roswell Road NW | Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 842-5852 | www.thegymatpeachtree.org

Football: 7/12 - 15 (rising 1st-6th; rising 7th-9th)

Boys Basketball: 5/26-28 (rising 7th-9th) 6/28-7/2 & 7/19-23 (rising 3rd-9th) Girls Basketball: 6/1-4 & 7/12-15 (rising 3rd -9th)

ENRICHING MINDS AND INSPIRING DREAMS Midtown 404-873-6985 | www.thechildrensschool.com

Join us for summer fun! Sports, theater, science, computer, arts and more! Open to children 4 years old through rising 8th graders

July 5-9, July 18-23 and July 26-30 St. Martin’s Episcopal School 3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, GA (404) 237-4260, ext. 380

22

April 9–April 22, 2010

Monday – Friday, 9 am to 1 p.m. Early morning care: 8 – 9 am Visit us online for more information! www.stmartinschool.org

www.reporternewspapers.net

Boys & Girls Soccer: 6/7-11 (rising 6th-9th) & 6/14-18 (rising 2nd-5th)

2010 St. Pius X Summer Sports Camps

Volleyball: Jr. Lion Camp 6/21-24 (rising 5th-9th)

Golden Lion Camp: 6/21-25 (rising 9th-12th)

1 2 3

For more information email: [email protected] Or log onto www.spx.org/athletics/summercamp_brochures.html

Summer Camps for Kids Art &

10% OFF

SOUL

A Pottery Studio & More!

Art & Soul Summer Day Camp offers fun crafts including mosaic art, homemade soap and candles, decorating tote bags and of course painting pottery! Ages 5-11 Mon - Fri 10am to 2pm Pack a lunch and we will provide a snack.

www.ArtandSoulPotteryStudio.com | 404-303-9959

S

Call 404-252-6310 for more info!

1-888-709-TECH (8324)

North America’s #1 Tech Camp for ages 7-18 held at:

Emory University UNC-Chapel Hill MIT Vanderbilt Princeton Stanford Columbia NYU & more!

Day Camp, Super Summer Sports Day Camp and Camp Olympia Preschool Gymnastics, Mighty Mites and 31 Stories Discover Me Camps

,

h and Tee ns !

ething for om E

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t ou Y

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Recreation and Parks Summer Camps and Residencies

2010 2010 Summer Summer Camps Camps

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Soccer, Tennis, Basketball, Wrestling, Gymnastics and Artsy Smartsy Camps

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Registration begins March 15, 2010

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Mime Theatre, Mask Making, Dance, Storeography and Playmaking Residencies

Day Camp

$85

Week

Super Summer Sports Day Camp 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Join the best Tennis Academy in the UNIVERSE for a summer of fun! UTA offers half-day camps at five different locations, as well as full day golf & tennis camps at Bitsy Grant T. C. Camp dates are;

June 1-4 June 14-17 June 28-July 1 July 12-15 July 26-29 June 7-10 June 21-24 July 5-8 July 19-22 August 2-5 Camps are for kids ages 7-13. Space is limited. Camp Times & Locations

Chattahoochee Plantation Tennis Club (9 AM - 12)) 770-953-9090 Chastain Park Tennis Center (9 AM - 12) 404-255-3210 Bitsy Grant Tennis Center (9 AM - 12 half day or 4 full day) 404-609-7193 Piedmont Park Tennis Center (9 AM - 12) 404-853-3461 McGhee Tennis Center (9 AM - 12) 404-756-1869

Game Design 3D Modeling Web Design

Filmmaking Programming Robotics & more!

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1

1/27/10

11:46 AM

GET A JUMP ON SUMMER… Register today for

MJCCA

SUMMER

NEW THIS SUMMER:

DAY CAMPS More Than 100 Day Camp Options for Campers of all Ages and Interests!

FREE BUS TRANSPORTATiON

2010

d No membership require or our Discounts available for MJCCA S* east cobb synagogue partner meMBER

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From Memorial Day to Labor Day, enjoy every amenity the MJCCA has to offer -including the Fitness Center, gyms, tennis courts, outdoor pools, the Barbara & Ed Mendel Splash Park, and more.

Dunwoody: 678.812.4004 East Cobb: 678.812.3727 [email protected]

*Certain restrictions apply; please visit atlantajcc.org for details.

atlantajcc.org

Join by May 1, 2010 – for the summer or for the year – and get a FREE WEEK OF DAY CAMP*!

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April 9–April 22, 2010

23

Summer Camps for Kids R

GET AHEAD OF THE CLASS! ENROLL YOUR CHILD IN GOLDEN RULE’S MATH Summer Camp 2010 Now Registering RISING 4th thru 8th graders 1 st Session: May 31 – June 11; 4 th thru 5 th grade 2 nd Session: June 21 – July 2; 6 th thru 8 th grade 3 rd Session: July 12 – July 23; 4 th thru 5 th grade Sessions Include: *Hands On Learning *Personalized Instruction * Group Learning *Math Manipulatives *Math Competition *Awards Ceremony Topics Covered: *Geometry *Measurement *Process Skills *Number & Operations *Data Analysis *Probability *Study Skills For More Information and to Enroll Your Child GO TO www.goldenruletutorialservices.com -----CLICK on EVENTS Or call us at 678.758.9059 Register By May 15th to Receive 10% Off Your Child’s Session

Summer Day Camps (for ages 7-12)

227 Sandy Springs Pl., Ste. 422 Atlanta, GA 30328

Summer School Classes (for ages 12-18)

• Science • Art • Drama We also offer theater and dance camp for middle and high school, Music classes, accredited academic classes, and tutoring. Call for more information 404-943-0827 • pieriansprings.org

SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP is back for our 3rd year in Atlanta

July 19-23, 2010

Boys and Girls 10-18 will have an opportunity to learn from the Pros

Nationʼs #1 Sports Broadcasting Camp Make Sports Anchor Tapes Meet Sports Celebrities

Make Play-By-Play Tapes of the Super Bowl & NBA Finals Make Reporting Tapes from a Pro Stadium Participate in Sports Talk Radio and Pardon The Interruption (PTI) shows and much more

Day/Overnight options available.

24 For Aprilmore 9–Aprilinfo: 22, 2010 www.reporternewspapers.net 800.319.0884 or www.playbyplaycamps.com

Young explorers, ages 5-7 & Junior Adventurers, ages 8-10 DATES

ViSuAl & PErforming ArTS CAmPS - AgES 5 -10

MeMber

NoNMeMber

5/24 - 5/28 IndIa: From the Taj Mahal to Bollywood.

$180

$200

6/1 - 6/4

JaMaIca: Steel drums, colored beads, & woven fabrics.

$145

$165

6/7 - 6/11

Greece: Sculpture, architectural ruins, and mythology.

$180

$200

6/14 - 6/18 coSTa rIca: Birds of paradise, rainforest, & black sand.

$180

$200

6/21 - 6/25 Japan: Fabrics, kites, kimonos, masks, and origami.

$180

$200

6/28 - 7/2

UnITed STaTeS: celebrate the wonders of our homeland.

$180

$200

7/6 - 7/9

Morocco: Jewelry, carpets, calligraphy, & carvings.

$145

$165

7/12 - 7/16 aUSTralIa: Kangaroos, boomerangs, & aboriginal art.

$180

$200

7/19 - 7/23 BrazIl: Jewelry, gems, and native crafts

$180

$200

7/26 - 7/30 ITaly: architecture, drawing, painting, and sculpture.

$180

$200

Summer Camps for Kids 2010 Sandy Springs Junior Summer Tennis Camps

SUMMER DAY CAMPS 13 weeks of camps Ages 3-16: May 24 - August 20

Ivo Barbic - Director of Tennis

Ages:

Cowart Family Ashford Dunwoody YMCA 3692 Ashford Dunwoody Road Atlanta, GA 30319 770-451-9622

7-16

Cost:

$165/week 9 - 12 $210/week 9 - 1:30

Dates: May 24th - August 13th (12 weeks)

Get more information online

*20th year helping kids discover tennis and improve their game*

ymcadaycamping.com

Sandy Springs Tennis Center 404-303-6182 • www.SandySpringsTennis.com

Financial assistance available.

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SUMMER CAMP July 12th - July 30th (one session only) Ages 8-18 Register today! www.KidsNTechnology.net or 901-576-6984

JuneJune 7 – 18, 2010 at Pace Academy 8-19 or July 13-24 at Pace Academy www.paceacademy.org/page.cfm?p=1898#debate www.paceacademy.org/page.cfm?p=1898#debate 404-727-6189 404-727-6189

Summer Horse Camps 2010 Ages 4 and Up, Riding TWICE Daily Chastain Horse Park, Atlanta’s Premier Equestrian Facility

OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY, 4484 Peachtree Rd., NE

Chart Your Course for Summer Adventure and Academics at Riverside Military Academy! High Adventure Camp June 14 - 18, 2010

4371 Powers Ferry Road, Atlanta, GA 30327 www.chastainhorsepark.org – a 501c3 nonprofit 404-252-4244, ext. 27

Oglethorpe University, one of the nation’s premier liberal arts universities, is located on 100 wooded acres in the heart of Brookhaven. OUR Summer Program offers day and overnight sports camps staffed by NCAA head coaches and scholar athletes. Programs for Boys and Girls, ages 8-18

Baseball Basketball Golf

Lacrosse

10% Discount for 2nd Child in Immediate family

Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Junior Elite

Tennis Volleyball Soccer

Register today at www.oglethorpe.edu/camps

Questions? Call 404-364-8480 or e-mail [email protected]

Riverside’s High Adventure Camp is an overnight camp designed for boys 12-15 years old who are ready for excitement! High Adventure Camp provides the opportunity for boys to experience outdoor adventure and test their physical endurance. Campers will explore beautiful area rivers, hike and camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains, canoe down the Chattahoochee and learn valuable character and leadership skills along the way.

S.O.A.R. June 20 - July 23, 2010 Riverside’s five-week Summer Opportunity and Academic Review is designed to help boys in grades 7 - 11 prepare for the upcoming school year and strengthen their academic skills. Cadets may choose challenging elective courses or repeat courses needed for credit. Because Riverside believes that there is a strong connection between physical and mental development, extra-curricular activities,& field trips play an important role in SOAR. Our summer recreational program takes full advantage of our campus athletic facilities and our proximity to Lake Lanier. Summer cadets have the opportunity to learn basic marksmanship and rappelling and to experience rock climbing, swimming, canoeing & more.

www.riversidemilitary.com

800.GO.CADET

2001 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501

www.reporternewspapers.net

April 9–April 22, 2010

25

Summer Camps for Kids The Bush Centre for Ballet

REGISTER NOW!

Summer Camp And Fall Classes 2010 Camp Session 1 – June 21st-25th Ballerina Princesses Ages 5-7 (9:30 am-12:30 pm) Camp Session 2 – July 12th-16th Ballerina Fairies/Swans Ages 8-11/12-16 (9:30 am-12:30 pm / 1:30-4:30 pm)

Fall Classes

Pre-Ballet I/II for Children Beginning Ballet for Adults Ballet I/II for Children Ballet for Health for Adults **Pointe Lessons and Private Lessons Also Available** For Class Information call: Studio: (404) 256-5542 or Mobile: (404) 295-6542 Visit our website: www.bushballetcentre.com

Do YOU Want to be Part of the Ultimate Team Sport? LEARN TO ROW! St. Andrew Rowing Club Summer Camps Boys and Girls 12-18 on the Chattahoochee in Roswell

Choose: Mornings 8am – 11am or Afternoons 4pm – 7pm Any week (M-F) June 14th through July 16th Camp fees are $125 per session Register at http://tinyurl.com/SARC-LTR-LTR

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 

    

         



   

April 9–April 22, 2010

www.reporternewspapers.net

Cranium Camp H

Help prevent the dreaded “summer slide”

2 Sessions: July 13-17 July 20-24 Call Today! 404-25-BRAIN LearningRx Atlanta-Buckhead 5252 Roswell Road, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30342

Camp Directory Advertiser Listing Apostles Learning Center - 404-256-3091 Art & Soul Pottery Studio - 404-303-9959 Atlanta Girl’s School www.atlantagirlsschool.org Atlanta Rocks - 404-351-3009 Camp Jam - 800-513-0930 Camp Thundrbird - 800-732-3855 Camp Timberlake & Merri Mac 828-669-8766 Chastain Horse Park - 404-252-4244, x 27 Chattahoochee Nature Center 770-992-2055 x 222 City of Sandy Springs - 404-252-6310 Cliff Valley School www.campredhawk.org Club Scientific - 678-880-6460 Concourse Athletic Club - 770-698-2017 Cowart-Ashford YMCA - 770-451-9622 Emory Debate Camp - 404-727-6189 Golden Rule Tutorial Service ID Tech Camps - 888-709-8324 Jazz Orchestra Atlanta www.orchestraatlanta.org Kids-N-Technology - 901-576-6984 Learning RX - 404-25-BRAIN Marcus JCC of Atlanta - 678-812-4004 Museum of Design-Camp MODA 404-979-6455 Oglethorpe University - 404-364-8480 Pierian Springs - 404-943-0827 Riverside Military Academy 800-GO-CADET St. Andrews Rowing Camp tinyurl.com/SARC-LTR St. Martins Episcopal School 404-237-4260 x 380 St. Pius X Catholic High School [email protected] Sandy Spring United Methodist Church 404-255-1181 x 211 Sandy Springs CC-The Day School 404-252-3950 Sandy Springs Tennis Center - 404-303-6182

Specialized care can mean quicker recoveries.

Sandy Springs United Methodist Church and Preschool – www.ssumc.org Sandy Springs Youth Sports www.sandyspringsbaseball.com Sophia Academy - 404-303-8722 Sports Broadcasting Camps - 800-319-0884 Spruill Center for the Arts - 770-394-3447 Swish Basketball - 770-820-9085 The Bush Centre for Ballet - 404-256-5542 The Children’s School - 404-873-6985

Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget that kids’ bodies are different from ours. For example, their

The Davis Academy - 770-671-0085

bones are still growing and need to be set properly after a break. If not, it could lead to

The Day School of Sandy Springs Christian Church 404-252-3950

additional complications and longer recovery times. So the next time your doctor recommends a specialist, ask to see a pediatric specialist. For more information, visit us at www.choa.org

The Epstein School - 404-250-5606 The Gym at Peachtree Presbyterian 404-842-5852 Timber Ridge Camp - 800-258-2267

©2010 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Some physicians and affiliated healthcare professionals who perform services at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta are independent providers and are not our employees.

Universal Tennis Camp - 770-953-9090

www.reporternewspapers.net

April 9–April 22, 2010

27

community

Construction crews work to build a half-diamond in the rough By Amy Wenk [email protected] In about 18 months, drivers will be able to get on and off Ga. 400 between exits 4 and 5. Georgia Department of Transportation crews are working on the half-diamond interchange at Hammond Drive and Ga. 400. The $18.2 million project began in February 2009 and should be completed by August 31, 2011, according to transportation department spokesman Mark McKinnon. The half-diamond interchange, named for how it looks from above as it connects the two roads, will provide a new exit off of Ga. 400 in hopes of reducing traffic congestion. The project, which has been in the works for 15 years, will build entrance and exit ramps from Hammond Drive to Ga. 400 and widen the bridge over the highway on Hammond Drive from four lanes to nine lanes. McKinnon said clearing for the interchange project was complete. Utility relocation will continue so crews can build retaining walls and begin a portion of the new bridge on the north side of Hammond Drive. Workers soon will begin setting the new bridge supports and will have to remove a north portion of the existing bridge. To do this, northbound and southbound traffic

Willy's Ad-BRep-p:wmg

28

3/5/10

lanes must be shifted to the right to accommodate the construction. Northbound traffic lanes will temporary close the weekend of April 9 through 11, said McKinnon, and residents can expect heavy delays. If weather permits, McKinnon said southbound lanes

12:23 PM

Page 1

Great food and friendly service at a price that keeps kids and parents happy!

banquets graduation parties team dinners we deliver! “I wanted to thank you for helping us throw such a great 18th birthday party for my son. He and his friends had a great time and ate a ton of food! You guided me very well with the taco bar—they really loved it.” —Judy 18th Birthday Party

19 Atlanta/Athens Locations For Catering call 404-422-7107 or order online at www.willys.com Voted Best Burrito—Creative Loafing, Insite and Sunday Paper

FREE cheese dip for 10 with $150 catering order Must place order by 5/2/10

One coupon per customer per order per offer. Not valid if sold, transferred or duplicated. Not valid in-store or on any other menu items. Cash value 1/100 of 1¢. © 2007 Willy’s Mexicana Grill. COUPON CODE Buckhead Reporter 2010

April 9–April 22, 2010

www.reporternewspapers.net

have contributed money, according to information published in February on the city of Sandy Springs’ Web site. The community improvement district contributed $5.5 million for the entrance ramps onto Ga. 400. It raised the money by imposing additional property taxes on Perimeter-arphotos by Phil Mosier ea commercial land owners. The city of Sandy Springs saved the community improvement will be closed April 16 through 18. The state is funding the project. The Pe- district about $500,000 by financing the disrimeter Community Improvement District trict’s contribution through the city’s develop(PCID) and the city of Sandy Springs also ment authority, the city said on its Web site.

MORE THAN 31,000,000 AMERICANS SUFFER FROM HEARING LOSS. ARE YOU ONE OF THEM? 90% OF HEARING LOSSES CAN BE HELPED WITH THE USE OF HEARING INSTRUMENTS. Beltone is conducting a field test of our newest product. It took years of lab research and a team of dedicated engineers to create such a small and high-performing instrument. It’s like experiencing High-Definition hearing. Beltone’s open-fit instruments provide: • A truly natural hearing experience • A sophisticated design that is lightweight, comfortable to wear, and nearly invisible • High performance in noisy situations

Call now for a free hearing exam to determine your candidacy for the Field Test. There is absolutely no cost to you. The hearing exam and field test are FREE. Call now, spaces are limited

Field Test available 5 DAYS ONLY Beltone is also offering rebates towards ALL digital hearing aids. Now is the time to get busy hearing, and get busy living.

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April 9–April 22, 2010

29

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New Spring Arrivals! Smock and Easter wear Communion & Formal attire Infant through TWEENS! New Equipment arriving daily! Also Nursery Furniture! 204 Johnson Ferry Road

Across from the former Target and in The Springs Shopping Center

404-459-0307 • www.cckconsignment.com

Amy Wenk

We provide exceptional value and outstanding service www.FischerFuneralCare.com 678.514.1000

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FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED Lose Weight with Fresh, Healthy Meals! Good Measure Meals™ does the planning, shopping and cooking. You eat, enjoy and lose weight. And, 100% of the profits from the sale of our meal plans go directly to Atlanta nonprofit Open Hand. Order now and get $20 Off* your first order! Promo Code RN20

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Get the Reporter delivered to your mailbox! One year subscriptions (26 issues) - $50 for each edition Call 404-917-2200, ext. 10 or email [email protected] Please specify which edition(s) you want to receive

R

SANDY SPRINGS

eporter

April 9–April 22, 2010

R

BUCKHEAD

eporter

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Reporter

BROOK H AV E N

Above, blue signs announce the renovations that began April 5 inside the north Fulton Service center on Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. For the next 90 days, county services are being provided in trailers in the parking lot (below), except for services provided from the tax commissioner’s and the tax Assessor’s offices.

Service continues during re-do continued from page 1

residents, county officials say. In the meantime, county services will be provided in four trailers in the parking lot. The exception is that citizens will have to use the Fulton County Tax Commissioner and Tax Assessor offices on Royal Drive in Alpharetta or Pryor Street in Atlanta. “We are not looking to interrupt services,” said Deputy Fulton County Manager Gwendolyn Warren. “We are going to have some signs up so people can easily get where they need to go.” The approximately 40,000-square-foot North Fulton Service Center was built in the 1970s and currently houses the probate and magistrate courts, as well as the clerk of Superior Court. The facility includes offices for the county marshal, tax assessor, tax commissioner, solicitor general, voter registration and election personnel, and cooperative extension staff. The $1.9 million renovation will upgrade the center and ensure it is energy efficient and accessible. It also will reconfigure 20,000 square feet for new offerings including a regional health clinic. “That’s one of the jewels that we are hopefully bringing to the community of Sandy Springs,” Warren said. “We have two health clinics in the area, but we have sort of outgrown our space.” The Sandy Springs Health Clinic on Johnson Ferry Road and Grady Hospital’s North Fulton Health Center on Alpharetta Street in Roswell will merge and relocate to the service center. Grady will provide primary care health services. The county will offer additional services, such as dental care and a clinic providing shots needed by travelers, Warren said. The health clinic will be located on the service center’s bottom floor where the tag agency and tax commissioner now are housed. Given the economy and the high rate of unemployment, Warren said, “folks in these times need an opportunity to make sure that they can have excellent health care, but at a reasonable cost.”

In addition, renovations will make room for workforce development personnel to assist job seekers; housing staff to counsel citizens on foreclosures, loans and predatory lending; and human services workers to advise residents about elderly care. County officials also plan to offer weekend and evening classes on topics like nutrition and disease management. “We respect the fact that a lot of our residents in that area have been affected by the economy, and what we are trying to do is bring good government, get them good medical services and be able to teach classes that will assist them in these economic hard times,” Warren said. A community garden will be constructed on the grounds for citizens to learn growing techniques. “It will be a teaching lab, as well as we will have some families using it for their own,” said Warren, adding there are plans to hold a farmers market in the parking lot of the service center, beginning in July or August. “We will have a lot of good surprises for the community’s children at this facility,” Warren said. That includes a reading and literacy center as well as child care services. During the renovation, residents can contact Dist. 4 Fulton County Commissioner Tom Lowe’s office at 404-613-0468 for assistance. SS

community

INTRODUCES

Saltimbocca & Sinatra

New Act 3 Playhouse opens Act 3 Productions, the youth theater based in Sandy Springs, will officially open its new home, the Act 3 Playhouse, April 24 and 25. The new facility opens with a musical, Songs for a New World. Performances are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. and will be offered as part of ArtSSpring, Sandy Springs’ annual celebration of the arts. The Saturday performance includes a reception with wine, light

Dancing and Live Dinner Music Every Saturday Night

fare and door prizes. Tony Award nominee Jayne Atkinson, who appears on the TV show “24,” will attend the Saturday night performance and reception, and will meet with the cast before the curtain goes up. Act 3 Playhouse is located in Sandy Springs Plaza at the intersection of Roswell Road and Johnson Ferry Road. The address is 6285-R Roswell Road.

Come enjoy the view from our newly renovated dining room

Featuring EARLY Dinner Hour- Mon-Thur 5:30-6:45 Includes appetizer, entree and glass of wine $21.95 FRIDAY FANTASTICO: Special 3-Course Menu Available all evening $24.95 Not valid with any other offer and at Dunwoody location only

4355 Ashford Dunwoody Road

in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, across from Perimeter Mall

Mid-week outdoor concerts start in May “Wind down Wednesdays,” a mid-week concert series, opens May 19. The concert series, in its third year, offers performances by Guilty Pleasures on May 19; The REMakes on June 16; Funktioning Funkaholics on July 14; and Gringo Star on August 11. The concerts are presented by Heritage Sandy Springs and Kelley, Boshell, Toole & Ellison, LLP. The Sandy Springs Society Entertainment Lawn is located on the corner of San-

dy Springs Place and Bluestone Road, next to CityWalk. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults (21 and over) and includes one free beverage; $2 children (1320) and free for ages 12 and under. For more information call 404-851-9111, ext. 203 or email [email protected].

Reservation Suggested • 770-395-9925 • Free Valet Parking www.lagrottatlanta.com

ink, GEt twis r D , tE D Eat .

10%off FooD wit

Hammond Park hosts state gymnastics meet More than 150 gymnasts will compete April 17 and 18 in the Rhythmic Gymnastics State Championships at the Hammond Park Gymnastics Center, 705 Hammond Drive. Events include rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. Athletes from Florida, South Carolina and North

Carolina also will participate but not compete. Competitions will begin at 5 p.m. on April 17 and at 9 a.m. on April 18. Admission is $5 for those 12 and older. For more information, contact Marina Davidovich at marina.davidovich@ sandyspringsga.org or call (404) 705-9742.

Library to dedicate reading garden A new reading garden at the Sandy Springs Library, located at 395 Mount Vernon Highway, will be dedicated on April 18 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. The public is invited to the peace-themed dedication. Fulton County Commissioner Tom Lowe will be a guest, and the Franklin Pond Bach and Roll String Quartet as well as the Ridgeview Middle School Chorus will provide music for the event. An International peace pole and a labyrinth

will be unveiled, and 16 Riverwood International Charter High School students will recite prayers for peace in their native languages. The reading garden is housed on land donated by the Sandy Springs Woman’s Club. Under the leadership of Laura Jones, Art Sandy Springs and other community efforts raised funds for the improvements to the parcel. For more information, contact Jones at (770) 951-0021.

PAPER AFFAIR FINE STATIONERY & GIFTS

4505 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. Dunwoody, GA 30346 (770) 399-0991 Located in rear of Plaza by Mckendrick’s

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Coupon

Get Your Twist on:

Mon-Wed: 11am-12 am Thurs-Sat: 11am-2am Sun: 12pm-12am

www.twistedtacoperimeter.com Don’t miss the

Opening Celebration April 24 S P O R T S B A R

Grand Opening

Food & Drink Specials Every Day Monday - Thursday: Poker Friday - Saturday: Live DJ Sunday: Karaoke Full Bar

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770-674-1115 7285 ROSWELL RD. ATLANTA, GA.30328

(across from Big Lots) Sun - Thu: 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Fri - Sat: 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. Everyday Late Night Open - 2 a.m.

Make john’s your party headquarters

20% OFF Any Purchase

$5 OFF

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excluding alcohol excluding alcohol John’s Sports Bar & Grill 7285 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs 770-674-1115 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires 5-31-2010

MARETTA & SANDY SPRINGS ONLY-EXP 4/30/10 MUST BE PRESENTED AT TIME OF PURCHASE

SANDY SPRINGS · CITY WALK

EAST COBB · PINESTRAW PLACE

(404)303-3252

(678)560-2032

230 Hammond Drive Kroger Shopping Center

SS

4250 Roswell Road Trader Joes Center in East Cobb

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April 9–April 22, 2010

31

32

Teela I taliano Bring your friends and join us... Monday & Thursday nights ~ .25¢ Oysters! Two Dollar Tuesdays ~ $2 Domestics, $5 Pizza Wine Down Wednesdays ~ 1/2 price bottles of Wine Sundays ~ $5 Sangria

Handmade Pasta and Fresh Seafood Nik and Arte present you their Fishmonger Specials

Teela I taliano

404-497-9997

227 Sandy Springs Place in City Walk

Ride the Ride... Watch the Race...

Sandy Springs is the Place! www.sandys p r i n g s c h a l l e n g e.org

Date: May 2, 2010 Time: 7:30 A.M. Registration – Ride Begins At 9:00 A.M. Location: Heritage Sandy Springs At City Walk 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs, GA Pre-Registration (by April 19th) To register online: www.sandyspringschallenge.org Join us for a full day of family fun at the 3rd Annual Global BMW Sandy Springs Cycling Challenge. Riders will receive a T-Shirt for participating. All proceeds will go to support our POLICE and FIRE departments in Sandy Springs. After the ride, please enjoy the Track Side Dining, with a variety of Sandy Springs eateries as well as a first class Art Show and a Concert at the finale. We have the exciting finals of the SE Crits Series – “Speed Week” with some of the best Pro-Cycling that the Region will see in 2010. These great professional cyclists will fight for a purse worth tens of thousands of dollars after a week of racing around the Southeast. w w w. s a n d y s p r i n g s c h a l l e n g e . o r g

April 9–April 22, 2010

www.reporternewspapers.net

community

Seeking bids ‘staggering’ job Only two people spoke at the last pubthis thing strictly on faith.” lic hearing in March. One was Oliver Porter, Despite the inexperience, the city’s first who championed the idea to outsource serviccontract turned out better than expected, De- es when the city was forming. Julio said. “The city staff has turned out to be But more than 250 comments have been wonderful.” collected from a survey on the city’s Web site. But by the time the city’s contract with Mayor Eva Galambos in March said 95 perCH2M HILL terminates Dec. 11, 2011, the cent of the online comments were positive and city must re-evaluate the scope of services, re- 80 percent of the respondents found the serwrite the contract, seek bids and evaluate sub- vice to be excellent. missions. CH2M HILL “I think the compais expected to submit a ny has been fair to us,” proposal along with othGalambos said. She gave er companies. CH2M HILL favorable “It is going to be a comments at the retreat. Galambos also said staggering job,” DeJulio she expects the city will said. receive lower bids from Although DeJucompetitors. lio said the board is go– Tibby DeJulio “It is an issue,” ing into the process with “eyes wide open,” many Dist. 5 Sandy Springs City Galambos said. “Qualishould be considered, questions linger about Councilman ty not just money.” developing the new conCity officials are ortract. “We are getting a good product but are ganizing the bidding timeline. “There is an unbelievable amount of uncerwe paying the right amount?” DeJulio said. “There are a lot of things in the contract that tainty in City Hall,” City Manager John Mcare not specified or spelled out” like work Donough said at the retreat. “We know we change orders and procedures about how to need to move forward in this process.” The city is considering terminating CH2M transition staff if CH2M HILL is not the winHILL’s current contract six months early to ning bid. “CH2M HILL knows more about the city align the new contract with the fiscal year that than we do,” Dist. 3 Councilman Chip Col- begins July 1, 2011. lins said at the retreat. That recommendation came from a conCH2M HILL staff cannot give the city in- tract committee consisting of DeJulio, Mcformation as how to craft the request for pro- Donough, Dist. 1 Councilman John Paulposal. It would make it illegal for the company son, Dist. 4 Councilwoman Ashley Jenkins, to bid on the contract. City Attorney Wendell Willard and Assistant “Right now, we are in the process of collect- City Attorney Cecil McClendon that has been ing information,” DeJulio said. That includes meeting for about four months. gathering public input and interviewing counThe committee suggested the city have a recil members. quest for proposal to send out by Nov. 1. ProCitizens can comment on the city’s public- posals would be due back Jan. 1, 2011 and private structure on April 20. The hearing is at two months would be spent selecting the best 6 p.m. at City Hall, 7840 Roswell Road. contractor. continued from page 1

“ We are getting a good product but are we paying the right amount?”

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City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month at 6:00 p.m. April 13: Design Review Board Meeting – City Hall, 9:00 a.m. April 13: HOA/Neighborhood Presidents Meeting – City Hall, 5:00 p.m. April 15: Planning Commission Meeting – City Hall, 7:00 p.m. April 20: Volunteer Appreciation Reception – City Hall, 5:00 p.m. April 20: City Council Regular Meeting and Work Session – City Hall, 6:00 p.m.

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CH2M HILL to present proposal for 2011 city services contract By Amy Wenk [email protected] The city of Sandy Springs is getting ready to rebid its city services contract, but it still has at least one more year with private contractor CH2M HILL. The six-year contract between the city and CH2M HILL began in January 2006 but is renewed annually, with the final termination date set for December, 2011. However, the city is discussing ending the contract early to align it with the start of the fiscal year in July. The firm should present next year’s contract numbers at the April 20 Sandy Springs City Council meeting. City officials hope the contract is less expensive than previous years. At a City Council retreat in March, Mayor Eva Galambos gave council members and staff a breakdown of recent contract costs. From the beginning of 2007 to the start of 2009, the cost of services from CH2M HILL has increased 7 percent or $1.7 million. That number factors in the cost of new services offered in that period of time. The total increase is almost $2.2 million. CH2M HILL’s 2010 contract of $26.1 million saw a cost reduction from 2009. But, according to budget projections Director of Finance Amy Davis gave council at the retreat, the city foresees the contract amount increasing two to three percent in 2011 to $26.6 million. Davis also said the city will collect less revenue and have more expenses in 2011. Revenue is estimated to be about $78 million in 2011, Davis said, $5.5 million less than anticipated revenues for the current SS

2010 budget. Expenditures are anticipated to increase at least $1.25 million due to factors like a 33 percent increase in gasoline prices and a 12 to 15 percent increase in the cost of benefits like health insurance, Davis said. Budget planning begins this month for the fiscal year that starts July 1. “Be sensitive to the fact we have a revenue problem here,” Dist. 1 Councilman John Paulson said to staff of CH2M HILL at the retreat. CH2M HILL Vice President Paul Demit assured the city next year’s contract would provide a better value at a lower cost. “We realize you are in a financial and political box,” Demit said. “We’ve got to step up to the plate and help.” Demit and other CH2M HILL executives at the retreat presented ideas for the city’s future in a report called “Innovation Recommendations.” The report proposes initiatives like a virtual City Hall that facilitates online payments for city fees and licenses. Another idea is to designate a liaison between the city of Atlanta Department of Watershed and Sandy Springs residents who have complaints about water bills. CH2M HILL also discussed changing the contract to a performance-based model. That kind of contract, the report said, would provide the city with a predetermined set of criteria to measure CH2M HILL’s performance. The current contract sets out full-time hourly requirements to fulfill. City officials were weary of the change to the contract model. “There are too many unknowns,” Galambos said.

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Here’s a sample of the more than 260 proved services than our single source concomments posted online as the city of San- tract.” dy Springs’ surveyed public opinion on the “I think this is a wonderful model and CH2M Hill contact with the city. have been very pleased with how well it has worked. CH2MHill and their employees “I could not be more pleased with the are very responsive and professional to deal outsourced model. Even though CH2M with.” Hill is a Colorado company, they are hiring “You’ve broken new ground. It’s worklocal people to staff their business model. ing. Don’t change direction and go back The service is exceptional, especially when to government-run services, other than our compared to other local government agen- police, fire and ambulance.” cies or entities. Don’t mess with success. If it “In general, I support the model. I am ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” concerned that over time should disagree“Get rid of the private partnership! Quit ments arise between the city and its service sending the jobs to a company in Colora- providers, if not handled with the best indo! We need to support our local people and terests of the citizens in mind, could result keep the money in the area.” in service failures, added expenses, and an “The city is doing a good job overall. overall negative image to both this type of I base this on the fact that I have not ob- governmental administrative model and the served any problems. When a city is run- community.” ning smoothly, we as residents should be “CH2M Hill went out on a limb for this able to just go about our lives.” city and delivered beautifully. We need to “I feel that our city leaders have the expe- stay with CH2M Hill.” rience now to run the city. We are spending “We are extremely pleased with what has a lot of money paying for a company to do happened in Sandy Springs since we became what the city can do for itself.” a city. I am inclined to believe that the man“Dunwoody could not afford [CH2M agement and ethics are superior to neighHill] and had 6 or more qualified applicants boring counties because of the public/prifor each of 3 contracts: community develop- vate partnership.” ment, public works, and finance. A year into it they are running leaner cost wise with imSource: City of Sandy Springs

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By Lt. Steve Rose, SSPD [email protected]

Police Blotter reports dated through april 2.

home. It appeared that at least one television was taken. 500 block of Windsor Parkway 30342 – The residents reported that someone forced entry to the home through a window March 31. Taken were a television, a video game system and jewelry. It looks like someone tried to force the sliding door open but failed, then broke the adjacent window.. 1200 block of Huntcliff Village Court 30350 – Someone entered an apartment early April 1 and took a video game system from the living room and $150 in cash from a wallet in the bedroom.

theft

6300 block of Roswell Road 30328 – A The following information was provided to the store manager reported that during business Reporter by the Sandy Springs Police Department from its records and is presumed to be ac- hours March 28 someone accessed the backoffice area and stole more than $400. curate. 7700 block of Colquitt Road 30350 – A woman reported that her now-ex-boyfriend moved out March 29 and took the apartment keys with him. Sandy 600 block Springs vice offiof Bridgewater Read more of the cers conducted a Drive 30328 – joint undercover Police Blotter online at Someone stole Internet prostia pressure washwww.reporternewspapers.net tution operation er from a garage with the AtlanMarch 31. ta FBI MATCH Task Force at a hotel April 1. The detectives made four arrests of women for solicitation for illicit sexual acts, inItems were stolen from vehicles broken cluding one repeat Sandy Springs arrestee. Three men were arrested for solicitation for into at the following locations: • 5600 block of Roswell Road 30342, illicit sexual acts and one person was arrested March 28. for possession of marijuana. • Unit block of Allen Road 30328, two veThe effort was among ongoing prostituhicles, March 28. tion sting operations in Sandy Springs • 700 block of Dalrymple Road 30328, March 28. • 6000 block of Roswell Road 30328, April 1. Unit block of Northwood Drive 30342 – A woman reported that just before 1 a.m. March 28 she was standing outside her apartment, smoking A woman reported that her boya cigarette, when three young men friend took a punch at her at their came up to her, pushed her into a apartment but missed and punched wall, threatened her and took her cell a hole in the drywall phone. 1000 block of Hammond Drive

Prostitution sting catches 8

theft from vehicle

Robbery

Assault

30328 – A woman reported March 31 that while she and her boyfriend returned to the Homestead Suites from 900 block of Cimarron Parkway Cafe 290, the man hit her several 30350 – Someone entered an aparttimes in the face for unknown reament through the patio door and sons. He then fled. stole a computer March 29. Cedar Run 30350 – A wom2700 block of Spring Creek Lane an reported March 31 that her boy30350 – An apartment was broken into friend pushed her down, causing her to March 29, and several items were stolen. The hit her head on the wall. She was slightly invictim thinks the thieves scaled the balcony jured. and forced open a window to gain entry. 200 block of Trowbridge Road 30350 – A resident reported seeing a white Dodge In5800 block of Roswell Road 30328 – trepid, occupied by two men, parked in the An officer passed by the parking lot of a bar driveway of a vacant home March 30. One March 28 and reported hearing a loud arguof the men hurriedly left the garage area after seeing the resident, and the car fled the ment. He said he spoke to a couple and the area. Police found evidence of forced entry in woman seemed to be venting loudly. He let her talk awhile but realized she was drunk the garage. Grantley Court 30328 – Someone forced and becoming more belligerent. She said she entry to a residence and stole several items was mad at the man because he was arrested for DUI the night before and couldn’t drive March 30. Monterrey Parkway 30350 – Someone her home. The officer called a cab for her and forced open the front door of an apartment told her to go home. She referred to the officer as, well, (^$*$^&), which of course and took several items March 31. Angel’s Walk 30328 – While respond- means “Please take me to jail.” The man was ing to an alarm March 31, officers found that released, and she was taken to the Doraville someone forced a door open and entered the Jail. 1400 block of Windridge Drive 30350

Burglary

Arrests

SS

PuBLic SAFety – Officers were called to a domestic dispute March 28. The wife, inside the apartment, didn’t want her husband to come inside. While an officer was mediating the argument, he noticed marijuana on the kitchen table. Because the man was outside and the woman was inside, she was charged with a misdemeanor marijuana charge. 7800 block of Roswell Road 30350 – After a traffic stop March 28, a patrol officer found that the driver was wanted on a warrant in New York. He was arrested. 5900 block of Roswell Road 30328 – A man was arrested with a quarter pound of marijuana in his car March 29. 100 block of Sentinel Close 30350 – Officers went to a house March 29 looking for the owner, who was wanted on a Gwinnett County warrant. The owner wasn’t home, but his son was and had possession of several bags of marijuana. He was arrested. The father, who was in Florida, was contacted and advised of the arrest and the need to take care of the Gwinnett warrant. Harbor Pointe 30350 – A woman reported being punched in the mouth by her boyfriend March 29. His car was spotted by an officer, and the man was arrested on a domestic-violence charge. 300 block of Northridge Road 30350 – Police arrested a man March 29 for smoking crack. Someone had called 911 to report seeing the man hanging around in a suspicious manner. 100 block of Northwood Drive 30342 – A woman reported March 30 that her husband took the TV from their apartment to sell it for crack cocaine. She intervened, and he punched her in front of their 4-year-old child. The man was later found and arrested on charges of domestic violence and cruelty to children. Northridge Road 30350 – A man reported that another man was sitting in a car in front of his house. He said the man in the car had a gun — probably because the resident owed him $40. Police located and arrested the man, whose weapon was a BB gun. A patrol unit received several calls reporting a white Ford driving up and down a street, screeching tires and being reckless. An officer found a parked car matching the description with two men inside. The officer noticed one of the men attempting to conceal a bottle of Admiral Nelson’s Spiced Rum. One of the men, in a failed attempt at humor or an exercise in dementia, asked the officer to bring him a beer. The driver was arrested for DUI. I-285 near Riverside Drive 30328 – Police were called about a man walking along the Interstate. The caller said the man fell against the guardrail, then got up and kept walking. An officer found the man and tried to speak with him. The man was holding a large stick and ignored the officer’s request that he leave the area of the Interstate. The officer asked for a backup car. When the car arrived, the officers more or less herded the man toward the ramp to get him away from the Interstate traffic. The man became defiant and aggressive. The officers used a Taser on the man, but during the scuffle the man charged the officers and hit one of them on the head with the stick. The officer was slightly injured but will be OK. The man was arrested and was taken to a hospital to be examined. 5900 block of Roswell Road 30328 – Officers received a call to a restaurant regardSS

ing a theft of services April 1. On arrival, officers saw a man running across the road, followed by several restaurant employees. The man ran behind Whole Foods, where police cornered him and took him into custody. He was drunk. He said he ate the food but ran out so he wouldn’t have to pay. He said his girlfriend had the money and wanted to spend it on crack cocaine. The employees said the man tried to pay with a debit card that was declined. He then punched one employee in the chest and another in the face before running. He was arrested.

People with issues A man reported that an exgirlfriend showed up at his home while he was there with a date. The ex was disruptive, and he called the cops, who showed up and told her to leave. She demanded to make a domestic-violence report concerning an incident two years ago. 500 block of Northridge Road 30350 – A man called the police March 30 after he refused to let his girlfriend into the apartment. He said she was doing drugs. She kicked in the front door, so he locked himself in the bedroom because he was afraid she would hurt him. Police arrested the woman .

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By Senior Officer Larry Jacobs Crime Prevention Division, SSPD [email protected]

Watch out for fake Census forms Fake Census forms have begun popping up around the country, as if you needed another Census-related thing to worry about! The legitimate 2010 Census form asks for the name, age, sex and race of every person living in your household. That’s about it. Pretty clean. Many people, however, are afraid to fill it out the real one, but this is a constitutional obligation. There’s nothing intrusive or abusive about it. Now The Chicago Tribune reports fake Census forms are coming from criminals looking to steal your identity. The bogus forms, which look completely legit, will typically ask for your Social Security number and your mother’s maiden name. Nothing but trouble can come from you putting your Social Security number on a form. To paraphrase the Tribune, if a Census form asks you for your Social Security number, throw it away. Courtesy of Clark Howard.

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April 9–April 22, 2010

35

Here's LookiNG at You

To view more photos click on the Photo Galleries button at www.reporternewspapers.net.

PHIL MOSIER

Easter plenty Three-year-old Jessica Sobel found plenty to get excited about during the Brookhaven Egg Hunt on April 3. Among the eggs she gathered at Ashford Park was one containing a special prize. That egg won her a stuffed pink bunny. “Jessica loves her new bunny and will not put it down!” said her mother, Sara Sobel.

36

HERB MEYER

Eggs everywhere Easter eggs cropped up all over in recent weeks and were gathered by children everywhere from Hammond Park in Sandy Springs, at left, to the lawn of the Governor’s Mansion in Buckhead, above. At right, twins Camille and Brigetted Lueder found something interesting in their basket. At far left, Weber and Frankie Whelan and dad Tim Whelan check their Easter egg supply at Hammond Park. Then, at left, Weber reaps the rewards of a successful egg hunt. April 9–April 22, 2010

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Here’s LookiNG at You

To view more photos click on the Photo Galleries button at www.reporternewspapers.net.

PHIL MOSIER

A Saturday at ChastainPark Chastain Park is a busy place. One recent Saturday, workers building the new tennis facilities at the park ignored passing joggers and walkers (above) as they set concrete walls. Meanwhile, the new Chastain Green Market, below, opened nearby that day, April 3. There, Pat Jarvis, at right, the former Atlanta Braves pitcher and DeKalb County sheriff, sold tomato plants and flowers at one booth while Susan Butler, at left in photo at left, demonstrated spinning at another. Butler, who lives in Pickens County, chatted with customer Nancy Smith about raising chickens, harvesting eggs and spinning cotton.

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April 9–April 22, 2010

37

community

Bridge teacher Strickland finds card game ‘fun, fast ... so exciting’ By Joe Earle [email protected] Fred Strickland’s obsession started in college. Other Florida State University students spent their time studying. Not Strickland. He spent hours in the dorms playing bridge. He fell in love with the game. He played all the time. He was captivated. “When I became obsessed with this greatest of games, it was fun, it was fast, it was so exciting,” he wrote years later when trying to explain his attraction to bridge. “We didn’t know much, but we played a lot of hands. …. We weren’t playing just to be playing. We were playing to win.” Strickland grew so smitten with the game of bridge that he started cutting classes to play. He read books on bridge. He’d sneak newspapers out of the boxes to read the bridge columns. He started playing duplicate bridge in tournaments as a way to meet girls. Eventually, Strickland flunked out of FSU, he said, and ended up in the Navy. He kept playing bridge, even finding the occasional bridge tournament at a port of call. After he completed his tour of duty, he returned to FSU and, this time, he graduated. And he kept on playing bridge. That was in the 1960s. Strickland moved to Atlanta in 1969. For a while, he tried to make his living from cards. He found places he could play bridge for money. He also found there wasn’t a lot of money to be made playing bridge. “Looking back, I don’t see how I survived,” he said. Now 65 years old, Strickland still plays the card game he learned to love in college. He’s ranked among the top players in Georgia. And he’s made his living since 1975 by teaching others to play bridge in group classes at Peachtree Presbyterian Church in Buckhead. “I lucked into the program over here,” Strickland said one recent Monday as he lunched on a sandwich between classes in the church recre-

Fred Strickland teaches some of the finer points of bridge during one of his classes. ation building. “It’s always been a pretty good living for a single guy.” During his classes, he shares the secrets of the game: counting points, employing bidding conventions, taking tricks, finessing, reaching for big slams and little slams, pushing to win. During one recent class, he wandered among the card tables set up in a church classroom as 40 or so of his students puzzled over the riddles of bidding no-trump. Strickland, a large soft-spoken man who dressed for class in a colored T-shirt and khaki cargo pants, towered above his seated students as he tried to show them how to think through how to bid and play their cards. Strickland had arranged the cards so each foursome of students played the same hands. Each hand seemed arranged to teach a particular point – how to bid, how to size up the game, how to “smother” an opponent’s cards with

your own. Some lessons were aimed at the declarer, the person playing the hand. Others were for players on defense. “By the way, when you’re declarer and you’re in a bind, should you look like you’re in a bind?” Strickland asked his class. No, several students responded. “No,” Strickland repeated, eyes closed tight, his concentration apparent. “You should exude confidence, like you have no care in the world.” Strickland has developed a following among metro Atlanta bridge students, said Gilda Morris, fitness and programs director for the church. People want to be in his class, she said. Some take his classes again and again to try to master the intricacies of bridge. In his intermediate classes, she said, Strickland teaches from a textbook he wrote himself. “He’s got a computer for a brain,” Morris said. “I’m a people person. He’s an intellectual.”

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And he takes his classes, like he takes the game of bridge, seriously. “He’s exactly what you want in a bridge teacher,” Morris said. “Don’t think you’re going to chit-chat in his class. This isn’t social bridge.” He told one recent class that he sometimes wishes he’d gotten a degree in psychology. “I’d be so much better a bridge teacher if I could get inside your mind,” he said. Occasionally, Strickland the bridge teacher merges with Strickland the bridge player. “He is very patient,” said Gabriel Fadel, his regular partner. “He never gets angry if I make a mistake. He never says a word. He might send me an e-mail after the fact teaching how I could have better played the hand.” Strickland plays “duplicate” or competitive bridge most Friday nights at a club near Norcross. He’s one of the state’s highest-ranked players Fadel said. “He’s an excellent player,” Fadel said “He knows the cards. He understands where the cards are. He can read the players when they play. You have to have ‘card sense’ in bridge. In the last five or six cards, he can tell you what each person has in his hand. … “He is very methodical in his bidding. I take more chances. I’m more a gambler. He’s a machine. He plays the hand correctly.” And he teaches his students to play to win. “Bear down,” he told his students one recent morning. “You can relax later this afternoon. Now bear down. …. If you develop a reputation as a person who doesn’t try to make the bid, that phone will stop ringing. People don’t like partners who don’t try to make their bids.” After all, Strickland believes in playing to win. “If you’re not going to be a bridge player who tries to [win], don’t tell your teacher,” Strickland said. “And don’t tell who you teacher is. That’ll embarrass me.” To find out more, contact The Gym at Peachtree Presbyterian at 404-842-5852 or online at www. peachtreepres.org/thegym

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50% Less Expensive vs. Sanding

Mitered Corners 404-254-3986

404-731-0070

www.miteredcornersllc.com

www.HTNConstruction.com

1st Class Limousine, Inc

Terry Tile

& PainTers

$55 to Airport

25 Years of Custom Bathroom Remodeling and Repair

We beat all competitors prices - Call us first! •

Riegel’s Roofing

Roofing • Gutters • Siding COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

$300 OFF ANY JOB We Will Beat Any Reasonable Estimate & Pay Your Deductible!

Not valid with any other offer. Expires 4/23/10.

Serving Atlanta • 404-381-1086

Trash, Junk Hauled For Less

$35 - $150 per load

We will pick up appliances, furniture, tree limbs, construction debris, basement and foreclosure clean outs.

Call James

Sprinklers Lighting Drainage Landscape Installation & Repair Now offering LED fixtures, Never change a bulb Call for a Sprinkler Check-up www.GeorgiaLighting.net 770-410-9356 RATS SQUIRRELS BATS MICE OPOSSUMS RACCOONS SNAKES, ETC.

• Humane Animal Removal • Repair & Preventative • Licensed & Insured • Owner-Operated since 1989 • 10% OFF WITH THIS AD

Cell (404) 784 5142 Home (770) 455-6237

Bermuda / Zoysia Specialist

404-200-6569

404-642-3595

STORM DAMAGE?

Residential Landscape Design and Installation. Professional Lawn and Landscape Maintenance.

●Bathroom Remodeling● ●Interior/Exterior Painting● ●All Types of Tile/Marble Installations● ●Home Repair Services●

CALL THE PROFESSIONALS

Latest Model Sedans, Stretch Limos, Hummers & SUVs

HADDAD LANDSCAPING

404-966-0124

www.1stclasslimoatl.com [email protected]

404-622-2211

ALL ABOUT POOLS AND SPAS

HAROLD E. BAILEY LANDSCAPE & NURSERY 404-237-0606

Total Pool & Spa Service & Restoration Licensed, Insured, CPO Certified -pool openings, vinyl liners installedrepair or replacement of motors, pumps, heaters, filters and pipes References available

678-294-2670

Bob Haddad, owner

COMPLETE LANDSCAPE SERVICE Landscape Architect on Site Family Owned Serving the Northside Area For Over 56 Years [email protected]

Use us so you can brag about us!

Spring Cleaning Time

$60 OFF THE FIRST TWO CLEANINGS* *expires 4/23/10 | insured/bonded

Green Cleaning – Party Cleanup Weekend Availability – Seniors Discount www.BragaboutMaids.com • 404-207-7108

WindoW Replacement Reduce Your Energy Bills

Our large selection windows & doors qualify for $1,500 Tax Credit Call today for a free estimate.

www.horizonwindowsatlanta.com

770-391-0711

Your home. Our help.

Are you in need of a plumber, painter, handyman, pool service or driveway repair? Look no further! Reporter Newspapers Service Directory has all the help you need. www.reporternewspapers.net

April 9–April 22, 2010

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Are you making the right choice for your child’s future? At Darlington, our boarding program does more than prepare students for college. We prepare them for life by providing a rigorous, collegepreparatory program that’s global in focus and personal in delivery. With specialized soccer and tennis academies directed by world-class coaching staffs, a full orchestral program and more than 80 leadership opportunities within the student body, Darlington School offers you more.

Our 2009 graduates earned over $5.5 million in college scholarships, not including the HOPE Grant. In 2008, Darlington had 36 AP Scholars, 3 National Merit Scholars, 1National Achievement Scholar and 1National Hispanic Scholar. AP and Honors classes in every subject Foreign language instruction begins in pre-K Student body from 26 states and 27 countries 13:1 student/teacher ratio Opportunities for academic support include a pre-K to 12 Learning Center, reading specialist and student-led mentoring program Instrumental Conservatory and awardwinning fine arts groups that compete regionally and nationally Competitive athletic program with 24 varsity teams, two specialized sports academies and rowing team

Darlington School is an independent, college-preparatory school serving pre-K through grade 12, with boarding students in grades 9-12

darlingtonschool.org | Rome, Georgia | 80 0 -36 -T IGER April 9–April 22, 2010

www.reporternewspapers.net