Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Dunwoody residents hope new Walmart neighborhood market will boost area around Winters Chapel Road - Dunwoody Reporter


Dunwoody Reporter Article.

Dunwoody residents and officials are hopeful a new Walmart store will bring an economic boost to the east side of their city.  A Walmart neighborhood market, which is a smaller, grocery-focused store, is slated to be built on Winters Chapel Road.  The store will be on the Gwinnett County line, with the building sitting in Gwinnett and much of the parking lot in Dunwoody.

Though it won’t technically be in Dunwoody, many believe that the Walmart store will be a great benefit for the eastern portion of the city. Max Lehmann, a commercial real estate agent who lives in the area, said the proposed store “signals new life.”  “I’ve talked to neighbors about it,” Lehmann said. “I’m just delighted to see a name brand store in this center. This center has struggled for 12 years to get a good combination.”  Lehmann said the neighborhood market would address the “food desert” in the area.  “People in that area can’t walk and get food,” Lehmann said.

Michael Tuller, Dunwoody’s community development director, said Dunwoody and Gwinnett County officials have met to discuss the area and what could be done to attract commercial development.
“It’s showing its age and needs something like a Walmart … to really kind of reinvent that area,” Tuller said. “We hope it happens.”  Tuller said the area is underutilized. “There really should be a higher-end kind of establishment in that corridor,” Tuller said.  “We’re hoping it’s really going to incentivize leasing new commercial in that area with its proximity to Walmart.”  Tuller said the two governments were trying to focus on the area that falls between them.  “You had two different jurisdictions vying for control,” Tuller said. “That’s why it didn’t have a lot of definition in the past.”  Officials are also pleased that the store will be filling a vacancy in an existing shopping center.
 
“I’m very happy that this is going in,” said City Councilman John Heneghan. “Commercial development to revitalize commercial areas that are already in place is a huge priority for me.”

On Nov. 15, the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners approved a buffer reduction on the site, said Bryan Lackey, acting director of planning and development for Gwinnett County.  Walmart will now go through a plan review process to make sure they address things like building codes, site consideration and landscaping, Lackey said.  “If they’ve met all their codes and regulations, we’d be glad to issue them a building permit for that project,” Lackey said.  Lackey said Gwinnett and Dunwoody had a positive experience working on this development.  “It’s a good example of how two jurisdictions can come together to benefit a neighborhood,” Lackey said. “It was good to see there weren’t any hang-ups between the jurisdictions on moving that forward.”
–Melissa Weinman

Meet your next Dunwoody Mayor - video introduction


A week from now either Bob Dallas or Mike Davis will be the next Mayor of Dunwoody and I would like to introduce them to you via the 4 minute video clip above taken from the much longer Dunwoody Homeowners Association Candidate Forum.

The candidates know that the turnout for this runoff election will be very low and that it could be decided by a very slim margin, therefore every vote cast is important.  My goal is to inform you of the importance of these run off elections and encourage a larger turnout than just the candidates friends and family. 

Based on what I am reading in the news and the blogs, I am guessing that the rhetoric may be ramping up but please take the time to do your own research on the candidates before you vote.  Take four minutes out of your day to meet the next Mayor of Dunwoody, even if it is just on video.  Thanks.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Peachtree Corners City Council registration starts Monday ends Wednesday.


The Charter for the City of Peachtree Corners was passed by the citizens and as shown in the links below they will only be providing very basic City services of Zoning, Code Enforcement, Building Permits and Solid Waste Disposal.  The City is broken up into three electoral districts whereby at least one council member will be living in the western district (light grey) closest to Dunwoody.   I look forward to working closely with whomever is elected to this position but (for selfish reasons?) my hope is that the person elected lives very close to Winters Chapel Rd and the Dunwoody border. 

If I was President of the Lockridge Forest Civic Association (one of the larger communities in the district) I would be looking for a local candidate to rally the community around.  Registration starts this Monday and ends Wednesday for the March election therefore the window of opportunity is very short.  Looking at the referendum results, this electoral district voted against incorporation but it still needs strong leadership to help guide the city on zoning matters specific to the area.

If anyone has interest in running for elected office and having the pleasure of starting a city from scratch but has questions, please feel free to call or reach out to me.  I may not be the best person on Peachtree Corners specifics but I am willing to assist you in researching the matter further.   Below are a few links and an article which describes the registration process.

City Fact Sheet from Peachtree Corners Yes, City Map with Voting Districts, City Charter

City Facebook Site, Another Facebook Site,



Qualifying Dates Set for Peachtree Corners Candidates (Patch)

Just a week has passed since Peachtree Corners voters have approved the referendum to incorporate as a city. Now it's time to look forward to electing the mayor and six council members who will be charged with running the new city.

Tuesday morning the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners set the rate for candidates to qualify which will be three percent (3%) of the annual salary for the position they are seeking.  Tuesday afternoon the Gwinnett County Election's office announced that qualifying dates are "Monday, Nov. 28 and Tuesday, Nov. 29 and ending on Nov. 30 at 12 noon."

Lynn Ledford, the Elections Office Director said prospective candidates may come by the Elections office at 455 Grayson Highway, Suite 200, Lawrenceville between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to submit their qualification form and payment.

"Qualifying will be at our office and checks or money orders should be made payable to Gwinnett County BOC. We cannot accept credit or debit cards for payment," said Ledford.

For the mayorial race the cost to qualify will be $270 based on a $9,000 salary as stipulated in the city's charter. And it will cost $240 for anyone wishing to throw their hats in the ring for one of the six council members position, $8,000 salary.

Ledford said campaigning will begin shortly after the qualifying period is over as early voting begins Jan. 20, 2012, with March 6 set as Election Day.

For questions contact the Gwinnett County Elections Office at 678-226-7210.

TEDxPeachtree, Washington DC, cancer, shade, shop small business, school board, Elf, Field Trips, Sprawl - Fringe Suburb, Taste of Dunwoody


A few weeks ago I had the pleasure to attend a locally organized TED Conference, the day’s speakers shared their “Breakthrough” in their respective areas of expertise in 18-minute talks. This link shows all of the presentations and I have highlighted a few of the one's I really enjoyed below.

The Transformative Power of Multimedia Storytelling 

Perceptions are Reality. Or Are They? An Immigrant's Journey.

Autism: Disruptions in Early Human Social Adaptation Mechanisms 

Education & Disruptive Innovation


For Thanksgiving break, my family spent four nights in Washington D.C. and it was an absolutely fabulous vacation that was highly educational for my boys.  With my youngest son being six and the oldest being twelve there was something for everyone.  We did the White House tour, Capital Tour, all the monuments, numerous museums, saw the Space Shuttle and money being made, saw famous art works, went ice skating and did lots of walking.  Almost every historical site was free therefore I highly recommend it as a family vacation spot.

I know too many people with Cancer, but allow me to celebrate that my friend Bonnie is in this commercial.


The City of Dunwoody is currently undergoing repairs on the Children's Adventure Playground @ Brook Run.  Shade Structures.

Shop at a Small Business today and get $25 back from American Express

Mary Margaret Oliver Pre-File House Bill 671 Outlines the Process for Reducing the DCSS School Board from 9 to 7 Members  (h/t Dunwoody School Daze) For more information about HB 671, please click here.

101 Elf On The Shelf Ideas

Looking for fun holiday ideas with Kids?  Field Trips with Sue is a good place to check out.

Good reads:  The Death of the Fringe Suburb & To Rethink Sprawl, Start With Offices

Taste of Dunwoody announced for Friday, February 03, 2012. Sponsorship and auction opportunities available.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Light Up Dunwoody this Sunday at 3 pm


A Dunwoody Tradition and Holiday Event
Spruill Farmhouse, at Mt. Vernon Road and Chamblee Dunwoody Road
Sunday at 3 p.m.

An annual community event to welcome the holiday season, Light Up Dunwoody.  Christmas Village opens at 3:00 pm and concludes with the lighting of the tree at 6:00 pm. Vendors will offer wonderful holiday treasures and refreshments!

At the Spruill Farm House, Santa will welcome children to sit on his lap, and a Santa sleigh with reindeer will be available for more photo opportunities. Bring your own camera!

Everyone is invited, and there is no cost to participate in this family friendly event.

Presenting Sponsors:
-Dunwoody Homeowners Association
-Dunwoody Crier Newspaper
-Dunwoody Preservation Trust

Eleves Magic Sponsor:
-Reising Orthodontics

Jingle Bells Sponsors:
-The Piedmont Bank
-Primrose School of Dunwoody

Santa's Helpers Sponsors:
-Mike Davis for Dunwoody Mayor
-Bob Dallas for Dunwoody Mayor

http://www.dunwoodyga.org/calendar_light-up-dunwoody.html

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market received Gwinnett County variance for Winters Chapel and Peeler

 Wal-Mart is still trying to come to Dunwoody's East Side.

The last time I met with the Wal-Mart developers and Gwinnett County staff, this project had a few stumbling blocks in its path to becoming a reality but on Tuesday a few those hurtles were cleared.  It appears that a buffer variance was worked out and therefore this project may be back on track.

This type of development could give a huge economic boost to the east side of Dunwoody that it sorely needs adding not only a strong retail arm but more importantly a grocery store which is also needed.

As the property is just across the border into Gwinnett County (and the new city of Peachtree Corners) the City of Dunwoody has little input into the process though at previous meetings, store facings of brick and landscape standards at the entrance were discussed.   The City Community Development office will be staying  involved as this project comes to reality.
http://www.gwinnettcounty.com/static/departments/boc/pdf/agenda_11_15_11b.pdf
Buffer Reduction
2011-0915 BRD2011-00003, Applicant: Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.,
Owner: Eliot Properties, A Georgia General Partnership, to Reduce Required Buffer from 75 feet to 0 feet for Property Zoned C-2, District 6 Land Lot 280 Parcel 018, 5000 Block of Winters Chapel Road, 7.52 Acres. District 2/Howard
[Planning Department Recommendation: Approve with Conditions]
[Planning Commission Recommendation: Approve withConditions]

Barbed wire industrial looking fence on Peeler to be replaced with orginal wooden fence soon.


Several weeks ago the DeKalb County Water Works installed an industrial looking fence with barbed wire along the top on Peeler Road to close off the water line easement that runs to the Chattahoochee River.  This morning, Councilman Doug Thompson and I attended a meeting with our Public Works Director, Mr. Michael Smith and representatives from the County where an agreement was reached assuring that the original wooden fence with a gate would be reinstalled in place of the industrial chain link fence that is currently there.

The City will see if we add some landscaping along the area to help it blend back in.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Video and recap of the Nov 14th Dunwoody City Council Meeting


Doraville Police Officer killed in wrongway interstate crash.


DORAVILLE, GA -- Authorities said a Doraville police detective was killed in a wrong-way traffic accident on Interstate 20 early Monday morning.

The accident happened on Interstate 20 westbound near Wesley Chapel Road in DeKalb County at about 2:30 a.m. The detective, Robert Shane Wilson, 27, was killed in the wreck.

Police said Wilson was headed westbound in an unmarked police SUV, when, they said, a Jeep headed eastward in the westbound lanes struck Wilson's car head-on.

The driver of the Jeep, Gene Jones of Dunwoody, 39, was taken to Grady hospital in stable condition. Police said charges against Jones are pending. Police believe Jones had been drinking prior to the accident.

Wilson started his career as a dispatcher in Doraville at age 19.  He became a patrol officer, and was promoted to detective in September, said Chief John King.  Wilson was en route from his home in Covington to investigate a home invasion case when the collision occurred.

King said Wilson was well respected in the ethnically diverse city.  He said officers in his department are struggling to handle the death of their young colleague.

Visitation for Detective Wilson is set for Tuesday and Wednesday at Scott Ward Funeral Home in Conyers. Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday afternoon at the First Baptist Church of Conyers.  Wilson leaves a wife and a six-year-old son.  Police say Wilson's mother and stepfather have had careers in law enforcement in DeKalb County.

Funeral procession details will be released once they are finalized.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Agenda for the November 14th Dunwoody City Council Meeting.

Monday, November 14th
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East
Dunwoody, GA 30346
7:00 p.m. - Voting
Watch Live

Work Session Agenda & full city packet
PS: If my schedule allows, I will also be attending the Audit Committee Meeting (Open to the Public)  on Monday afternoon at 3 pm.

Dunwoody Patch creates Interactive Map of Dunwoody Voter Turnout and Results.


Peter Cox of the Dunwoody Patch did a wonderful job of turning the election data I posted yesterday to my blog into an easy to read map of the polling places with statistical information on voter turnout and each races results.

Comparing the two photos below you will note wide differences in voter turnout, Mayor selection and Post 5 selection but little differences on the selection for City Council Post 4.  Each of the city's 13 polling places have varying demographics and voting patterns therefore trying to predict the runoff statistics after the huge turnout on Tuesday, because of the alcohol and bond referendums, would be very difficult indeed.

If there are any political science professors out there, I would enjoy reading your students detailed analysis comparing the November 8th election results to the December 6th.

PS: I was talking to a well educated, very computer literate neighbor regarding this article and he said that he has heard of the Patch but didn't typically follow the blogs.  The Dunwoody Patch is not a blog, it is a well run "daily newspaper" available in only an electronic format, written and edited by professional journalists with great up to the minute articles.  I highly recommend adding it to your online reading for everyday news of all things Dunwoody.




Link to Large Map view of the Data

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Dunwoody Runoff Candidates are reviewing these precinct numbers very closely.


I'm guessing the four runoff candidates, Dallas & Davis for Mayor and Nall & Wittenstein for Council post 4 will be pouring over these numbers and this map to see where to maximize their efforts and resources before the December 6th runoff election. 

On Tuesday there were over 9,300 votes cast (36.18% of the registered voters) but on December 6th there will be a very small portion of those who will go to re-vote, so turnout driven by one side or the other will be the deciding factor.  Every vote for each candidate will be worth it's weight in gold as chances are, the turnout will be very low.

If you want to see the precinct by precinct breakdown for all of the ballot items, I have posted them here.

Veteran's Symposium Today at GPC and City Veterans Ceremony on Friday.


Veterans Day Ceremony

November 11, 2011 2:00 pm

Brook Run  Park

4700 North Peachtree Road

Dunwoody, GA

GPC Educational Symposium Will Highlight Legacy of World War II

Dr. Thomas Graham is on a mission to honor World War II veterans. The Georgia Perimeter College Dunwoody history professor and former U.S. Naval officer has been inspired to organize a week long educational symposium  Nov. 7 to 10,  followed by a USO-style Stage Door Canteen and Dance on November 11.

Graham teaches his students how what happened during World War II still affects their lives today, because of the service and sacrifice of the men and women who served almost 70 years ago.
“We recognize that the number of World War II veterans is rapidly decreasing,” Graham says. “This generation needs to know about them, they need to know how close the world came to being crushed by the Axis powers. Most World War II veterans don’t see themselves as heroes—they say, the ones that died, they were the heroes,” says Graham.

The free symposium will take an interdisciplinary look at World War II presented through a series of talks and panels—from the literature of the time, to the mathematical precision of the codes created to stymie the enemy, to the scientific breakthroughs of the period.

 The talks will feature community members who are World War II veterans themselves, including members of the Tuskegee Airmen, and other World War II “flyboys,” as well as talks by those who grew up in Europe, Germany and China during the war.

Thursday, Nov. 10

10 a.m. to 11:15am                 Labor Problems in Wartime
11:30 a.m. to 12:45pm            Fly Boys of WWII
1 p.m. to 2:15pm                     Great Speeches of WWII
2:30pm to 5 p.m.                     Film, “The King’s Speech”

Dunwoody P.D. is looking for donated gifts for the annual Christmas for Kids event.


Participating CFK Gift-Drop sites:
  1. Dunwoody Baptist Church (1445 Mt. Vernon Rd)
  2. Dunwoody Chamber of Commerce (1711 Mt. Vernon Rd)
  3. Dunwoody Elementary School (1923 Womack Rd)
  4. Dunwoody Police Department (THROUGH 12/9/11)
  5. Jason’s Deli (4705 Ashford Dunwoody Rd)
  6. Light Up Dunwoody Event (11/20/11, 3-6pm, Dunwoody Farmhouse)
  7. New York Butcher Shoppe (2458 Mount Vernon Rd)
  8. North Atlanta Memorial Gardens (5188 Winters Chapel Rd)
  9. North Peachtree Baptist Church (4805 Tilly Mill Rd)
  10. Picayune Toys (2482 Jett Ferry Rd, #660) 
  11. Starbucks (5561 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd)
Volunteer-Sponsor Registration Form 2011 PDF


Dunwoody United Methodist Church - 20th Annual Holiday Festival on Sat Nov 12th


Nice event and if you want photos with Santa - the dude is awesome!

Dunwoody United Methodist Church will celebrate the season and raise money for Habitat for Humanity at the 20h Annual Holiday Festival on Saturday, November 12. The Festival will feature unique holiday gifts from 132 Artisans, delicious casseroles-to-go, a gourmet shop, attic treasures, photos with Santa, the “Book Nook,” a huge Silent Auction, “Kids Zone” activities, including pony rides. For children ages 3 to 7, parents can shop while kids do crafts ($10 for 90 min, register online). Childcare is also available for ages 6 months and up ($8 per hour per child, $10 for 2 or more children, 2 hour min). All of the proceeds will support the building of DUMC’s 20th Habitat House in the spring.

Last year, the Holiday Festival drew 3000 guests and raised enough money to build two Habitat Homes for the first time in church history. The homes were built by volunteers, including the homeowners, and dedicated in April 2011.

WHEN: Saturday, November 12 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Dunwoody United Methodist Church
1548 Mt. Vernon Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338

http://dunwoodyumc.org/missions/holiday-festival.html   and  www.twitter.com/DUMCHolidayFest

Dunwoody write-in votes in the Post 6 election against John Heneghan.


According to the write-in tally for the post 6 seat I see that Anybody Else / Anyone But John came in a strong second place, followed by Tom Reismeyer and Bill McCahan tied for third place with three votes each then followed by Mickey Mouse, Gary Ray Betz, Gil Wood, Phil Davis and Latonya Claytor with two votes each.

A few other members of the community like Mr. Thaddeus Osborne Dabell, Bob Barr, Jim Redovian, Steve Barton, Albert Chambers, Herman Cain, Garbageman and President Barack Obama had one vote each.

I didn't take photos of all the Mayor tallies but I can say with certainty that Mr. Gary Ray Betz had a strong showing, coming in fourth over all.


2011 Dunwoody Election Results


2011 Election Results

The following results are the unofficial results from DeKalb County.    Other articles can be found on the Patch and Crier sites.

Mayor
     Bob Dallas - 3787   43.21%
     Mike Davis - 3389  38.67%
     Gordon Jackson - 1540  17.57%
     Write-in - 48  0.55%

Council Post 4
     Terry Nall -3824  44.73%
     Robert Wittenstein -3564  41.68%
     Rick Callihan -1133  13.25%
     Write-in - 29  0.34%

Council Post 5
     Kerry de Vallette -3694  44.48%
     Lynn Deutsch -4593 55.30%
     Write-in 18 0.22%

Council Post 6
     John Heneghan -7087  98.90%
     Write-in 79 1.10%

Parks Acquisition Bond
     yes - 3080  33.32%
     no -  6163  66.68%

Parks Improvement Bond
     yes - 3715  40.18%
     no -  5531  59.82%

Redevelopment Powers Act
     yes - 4759 54.25%
     no - 4013  45.75%

Sunday Alcohol Sales
     yes -  7395  79.51%
     no -  1906  20.49%

Education SPLOST
     yes - 33114  62.18%
     no - 20141  37.82%

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Dunwoody polling places will be posting results about 7:30


Starting about 7:30 this evening, each of the polling places listed above will be posting the unofficial results to the inside of an outside facing window.  So if a team of 13 people were waiting with a flashlight and a notebook, the unofficial results could be tallied and on the web by about 8 / 8:30 pm.

We have two races (Mayor & District 1) with three candidates therefore if no one candidate receives 50% +1 vote the runoff election will be held on Tuesday December 6th.

Back in September of 2008, only 6,217 people voted in the citywide election for my council seat, therefore it will be interesting to compare the elections and turnout results.
I will be stopping by a number of the polling places myself to check the numbers and then doing the rounds to a few of the after election parties.   If anyone sees results, please feel free to reach out to me, John@JKHeneghan.com or @Dunwooodynorth on Twitter.

Monday, November 7, 2011

The Heneghan's are voting for Lynn Deutsch - Dunwoody City Council

 Lynn Deutsch

When the City of Dunwoody started I was asked to fill a few committee assignments, the most important of which was that of the Planning Commission which is the committee that sees all zoning applications prior to its arrival to the City Council. I nominated Lynn Deutsch as she was the most qualified person I could find in the entire city knowing that she would do a fantastic job representing the citizens. Lynn has worked to improve this city on so many levels that I also nominated her knowing that it could be a stepping stone to the City Council if she were interested in serving in that capacity.

Tomorrow is election day in the City of Dunwoody with Lynn Deutsch's name on the ballot to fill a vacant City Council seat. I wanted to share a letter of support for Lynn written by members of the community as Kristin & I now gladly add our name at the bottom.

Vote Lynn Deutsch on Tuesday, I know that this household will.

John

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

It is not often that we have been moved to give unsolicited endorsements for citywide elections. This year is different.

In the Post 5, City Council at-large race pitting Lynn Deutsch against Kerry de Vallette, we will enthusiastically mark our ballots for Lynn Deutsch . It is no secret to many of you that Lynn is a friend of ours, but let’s be clear: it is not friendship with Lynn that is driving this decision.

Simply put, Lynn Deutsch is, without question, the best qualified candidate for City Council. Hands down.

Lynn’s extensive qualifications clearly separate her from her opponent--a Masters Degree in City planning from GA Tech, Bachelors' Degrees in Government and Journalism, her current position as Planning Commissioner for the City of Dunwoody and her active roles in the local schools. Her experience benefits the city because Dunwoody needs people on city council who are READY, who UNDERSTAND both the depth and breadth of issues that the city will face over the next several years. Lynn Deutsch is just that person.

From zoning to transportation, from sustainability issues to sign ordinances…ask Lynn about ANY issue that would affect Dunwoody, and she can explain the issue to you AND give you a strategy to make it better. For 20 years, Lynn’s passion for and involvement in the city has never wavered, it has never taken a hitaus. She has never stopped speaking out, learning about city concerns, and holding officials accountable--on behalf of all of Dunwoody‘s citizens.

LYNN KNOWS DUNWOODY--ALL OF DUNWOODY.

Dunwoody will become a better, more livable community with Lynn Deutsch on City Council--and even more importantly, its government will be more responsive and more representative of ALL its citizens.

On Tuesday, November 8, join us in voting for LYNN DEUTSCH for Dunwoody City Council, Post 5 at-large--and spread the word to all your friends!

Thanks,

Brian Harper and Susan Davis Harper, Georgetown
Mark and Claire Botsch, Winwood Hollow
Larry and Kathryn Chambless, Chamblee Dunwoody Rd.
Ashley Doolittle, Dunwoody Club Forest
Jack and Stacey Harris, Mill Glen
Brett and Amanda Hensley, Waterford
Bill and Genie Hooper, Fontainebleau
Stephan and Allegra Johnson, Kingsley
Joe and Suzie Martin, Dunwoody North
Brian and Page Olson, Redfield
Dan and Mellie O’Keefe, North Springs
Keith and Pam Tallmadge, Wynterhall
John and Kristin Heneghan, Dunwoody North

PS…See more about why Lynn is the most qualified:
www.lynn4dunwoody.com (Lynn’s website)
http://www.youtube.com/user/DunwoodyHOA#p/a/u/1/QpzMrJKAGhg (DHA Candidate Debate)
http://www4.thevoterguide.org/v/ajc11/race-detail.do?id=221392383&sfr=1320172751490 (League of Women Voters questionnaire)

Rep Mike Jacobs schedules several meetings on Brookhaven and announces DeKalb Legislative Public Hearing at Chamblee Middle School

Rep. Mike Jacobs & Proposed New City Lines

Representative Mike Jacobs publishes a newsletter from time to time and there are a few nuggets of information listed.

Rep. Mike Jacobs has scheduled a pair of town hall meetings to discuss the results of the soon-to-be released feasibility study for a City of Brookhaven.

There is likely to be a high level of interest in these meetings. The presentation at the beginning of each of these meetings will be the same. Two meetings have been scheduled so that, if one of them presents a schedule conflict, hopefully you can attend the other one.

Here are the two meetings:

Tuesday, November 15 7:00 p.m.
Cross Keys High School
1626 North Druid Hills Road

Thursday, November 17 7:00 p.m.
Montgomery Elementary School
3995 Ashford Dunwoody Road

To view the Brookhaven cityhood study area, click here.


The state legislators from DeKalb County will hold a public hearing on Thursday, November 10, at 6:00 p.m. at Chamblee Middle School, 3601 Sexton Woods Drive. This is an opportunity to make your voice heard on the state and local issues that matter to you.

Sunday Sales, But Not in DeKalb
Conspicuously absent from the countywide ballot in DeKalb County is a referendum to allow Sunday sales of alcohol. I supported Senate Bill 10, the legislation that enables local communities to decide this issue via public referendum. Our neighboring cities of Chamblee, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, and Atlanta will be voting on this question next Tuesday. If you are in unincorporated DeKalb, however, the county has yet to do anything regarding Sunday sales.

Alison’s Restaurant buffet dinner and Karaoke to benefit Tim Redovian Memorial Fund on Sunday Night


Sunday night we will be gathering at Alison’s Restaurant to enjoy a lovely buffet dinner and lift our voices in song (with the help of a Karaoke machine)! It’s not too late to call Alison’s and make your reservation so that you won’t miss out on this fun evening. The cost of the evening is just $25.00 and Alison is asking that you pay by check made out to TRMF!

Boy Scout Troop 494 from Dunwoody Baptist Church - BBQ-To-Go Fundraiser - served Sat Nov 12th

Spiced Right BBQ will be my dinner on Sat Nov 12th.
Order Today

Our Boy Scouts Troop 494 is hosting a BBQ-To-Go Fundraiser featuring Spiced Right Barbecue!

Family Packs of Spiced Right BBQ are $27 each (serves 2-4). Includes choice of pork or chicken (1.5 lbs) 4 buns, sauce, & choice of 2 sides – hash brown casserole with cheese, baked beans or cole slaw. Banana pudding is an additional $5 per pint.

Order online by November 9
Pick up at DBC from 5-6 pm Saturday, November 12

Questions? Email bsatroop494events@gmail.com.

Funds raised will go toward providing equipment for the troop, which has grown from 6 to 50 scouts in four years, and assisting boys who would otherwise be unable to participate fully in scouting.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Nava / Breffle Wrestling Club is a youth wrestling program held at Dunwoody High School for kids aged 6-14


The Nava/Breffle Wresling Club was started to honor the memories of Louis Nava and Doug Breffle. These young men were Dunwoody High School students who loved the sport of wrestling!

You can read more about the club in these articles at The Dunwoody Crier and The Dunwoody Patch.


The Nava / Breffle Wrestling Club is proud to announce that we will begin our 2011-2012 season on November 15th. We are looking forward to another strong year with more athletes and more competition than ever before. For those of you who are new to the program, the Nava / Breffle Wrestling Club is a youth wrestling program held at Dunwoody High School for kids aged 6-14. The club is intended to act as a feeder program for Dunwoody High School, but no one is precluded from the program.

For those of you that are new to wrestling, the discipline, self confidence and sense of urgency learned in wrestling translates extremely well into success in other sports and life in general. Your kids will learn balance, coordination, and footwork that will help them in all other sports. Most importantly, your kids will learn to stand in front of and engage an opponent of roughly the same age and weight and learn to give maximum effort.

Beginner Practices:
November 15th through February 15th, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Advanced Practices:
November 15th through March 1st, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 6:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Thursdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.

All practices are held at Dunwoody High School, on the stage behind the gym you can get Google map directions by clicking here
 
Costs: Club dues is $75.00 per wrestler (if paid by cash or check) and $80.00 if you pay online, you will also need to obtain a USA Wrestling Card which costs $35.00 and can be purchased via the Team Georgia website located at: Team Georgia Equipment: Each wrestler will need wrestling shoes and headgear. The club will coordinate getting wrestler singlets, at an additional cost.
For more information or if you have any questions about our club, click on the link above and send us an email. Someone from the club will contact you shortly.

Final AYP Results are Available for Dunwoody Public Schools

Peachtree Charter Middle School

h/t to Dunwoody Mom of the Dunwoody School Daze Blog

The Georgia Dept of Education has released the final AYP results.  After the summer re-test period:

Dunwoody High School made AYP (and is now out of "Needs Improvement" status), as well as Hightower Elementary.

Peachtree Charter Middle School and Kingsley Charter Elementary School did not make AYP.  Click on the school name for the individual school reports.  Please take the time to actually "drill down" into the data and not just AYP "status".

Austin Elementary final AYP results
Chesnut Charter Elementary final AYP results
Dunwoody Elementary final AYP results
Vanderlyn Elementary final AYP results

Keep your fingers crossed that the ESEA Waiver submitted by the State of Georgia DOE is approved by the Federal DOE.   If so, the way AYP is determined will be a thing of the past.  I believe the waiver review is mid-November. I'm not sure how much time will pass before a decision is made to approve or disapprove Georgia's waiver.   From what I am reading, the reauthorization of ESEA is making a slow, slow move through Congress.

DeKalb uses Park Bond money to fund general operations.


Channel 2 Action News has learned Dekalb County's cash shortage was so severe last year that county officials spent $40 million in money designated for green space projects.

Dekalb's chief financial officer told Channel 2's Richard Belcher it was a mistake that won't be repeated, but county commissioners aren't happy.

Nothing was stolen, but there is no disputing that bond money should not have been spent on county operations. One county commissioner even calls it illegal. Either way, it's a clear measure of just how cash-strapped the county had gotten.

Dunwoody Opens 16 Acre Property - Grand Opening Event This Afternoon


Dunwoody Opens 16 Acre Property to the Public
City celebrates land acquisition at 4000 Dunwoody Park

Dunwoody, GA – October 27, 2011At the beginning of this month, the City of Dunwoody closed on 16.18 acres of land located at 4000 Dunwoody Park. The property is one of the main focal points of the City’s Georgetown / North Shallowford area Master Plan adopted earlier this year. This purchase solidified the City’s commitment to the revitalization of the Georgetown/ North Shallowford area.
The property, previously referred to as the “pipe farm,” has undergone cosmetic changes; including capping and sub-grading of the existing PVC pipe, and is ready to be celebrated by the public. Attendees will be treated to a few words from Dunwoody Mayor Ken Wright, Councilwoman Adrian Bonser, and City Manager Warren Hutmacher. Light refreshments will be served.
WHAT:               16 Acre Property Grand Opening Event

WHO:                 The event is open to the public.

WHEN &            Thursday, November 3, 2011
WHERE:             Begins at 2:00 p.m.
                        4000 Dunwoody Park

Dunwoody Patch Article 

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Veterans Day opportunities for those who have served.


Veteran's Day is a day especially dedicated to honor those who have served and in advance of that special day, I wanted to point out a few opportunities to personally thank them for their service.

First, the Federal Government has special hiring priorities in place for those who have protected us.  The best link I can find that explains the various hiring programs is located here at http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/veterans.aspx

Second, there are also many restaurants and companies who want to thank our veterans by providing them with discounts or a free meal. To those companies offering veterans a free meal or discount, the military community gives a collective thanks!  If you know of other programs or opportunities for Vets, please post them in the comments.  Thanks.

2011 Veteran’s Day Free Meals and Discounts

Two notes before jumping in:
  • Proof of Military Service. First, most companies require some form of military ID – including a U.S. Uniform Services ID Card (active/reserve/retired), Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Photograph in uniform, be wearing uniform (if your service permits), Veterans Organization Card (e.g., American Legion and VFW), DD214, discharge paperwork, or other form of identification. Other restaurants and companies may only require a photo of you in uniform, or go by the honor system.
  • Participation. Second, always call ahead to verify locations, times, and participation. Many of the listed companies are franchises and may have different policies. We will do our best to keep this page updated as we find new info.

2011 Free Veterans Day Meals

Please credit this resource: We are frequently updating this list with new deals and offers for the military community. If you use this list, please direct your visitors to this page so they can find the most up to date information: http://themilitarywallet.com/veterans-day-free-meals-and-discounts/ Thanks!

Applebees Veterans Day AppreciationApplebee’s – free meal, Friday, Nov. 11: Last year, Applebee’s served 1,024,000 million free meals to military veterans and active service members. Applebee’s is again offering a free meal to military veterans and active-duty service members on Veteran’s Day, Friday, Nov. 11, 2011. There will be 7 entrées to choose from. Military ID or proof of service required. Find locations at http://applebees.com/.

Chilis RestaurantChili’s – free meal, Friday, Nov. 11. Chili’s is offering all military veterans past and present their choice of one of 6 meals. This offer is available during business hours on November 11, 2011 at participating Chili’s in the U.S. only. Dine-in from limited menu only; beverages and gratuity not included. Veterans and active duty military simply show proof of military service. Visit their website to find locations.

golden corral free veterans day mealGolden Corral – Free meal, Monday Nov. 14: The 10th annual Golden Corral Military Appreciation dinner will be held on Monday, November 14, 2011 from 5 pm to 9 pm in all Golden Corral Restaurants nationwide. The free “thank you” dinner is available to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to participate in Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday dinner. For more information visit http://www.goldencorral.com/military/.
Special thanks to Golden Corral: To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.5 million free meals and contributed over $4.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization.
Famous Daves Veterans DayFamous Dave’s – Friday Nov. 11th. Free or discounted meals on Veterans Day. Offer varies by location, please check the Famous Dave’s Veteran’s Day page or call your local restaurant for more information.

Hooters Veterans DayHooters – Free Meal, Friday, Nov. 11. Hooter’s is serving up a free meal to military veterans all day on Veterans Day. Offer good for all veterans and active duty military personnel. Get 10 Free Wings – Boneless or Regular, drink purchase required. Offer valid at participating Hooters only; open to all active duty and military veterans with valid military ID or proof of military service. For more information, visit, www.HootersVeteransDay.com.

Krispy Kreme – Free doughnut. Available only at participating Krispy Kreme stores. Offer available to all active-duty, retirees & veterans on Friday November 11th. Be sure to call ahead to verify your local Krispy Kreme is participating.

McCormick and Schmicks Veterans Appreciation DayMcCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants – free lunch or dinner, Sunday Nov 13, 2011: McCormick & Schmick’s is celebrating their 13th annual Veteran’s Appreciation Event on Sunday, November 13th. Veterans will be able to choose a complimentary lunch or dinner entrée. Veterans must provide proof of military service. Be sure to contact your local McCormick & Schmick’s as this is valid at participating restaurants only. Also, Space is limited and reservations are highly recommended. For more information visit: M&S Veterans Appreciation Event.

Outback Steakhouse Veterans DayOutback Steakhouse – A week of Free Bloomin’ Onions and Cokes Monday Nov. 7 – Friday Nov. 11. Outback Steakhouse is honoring America’s military veterans by offering active duty military and veterans a free Bloomin’ Onion and a Coca-Cola product during the week leading up to Veteran’s Day. This offer is available to Military Personnel who have one of the following forms of identifications: U.S Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), DD form 214 Veterans Organization Card (i.e., American Legion and VFW), Photograph in Uniform, Wearing Uniform. For more information, visit, http://outback.com/companyinfo/veteransday.aspx.
The Outback understands commitment. For the past two years, The Outback, with the help of their patrons, has donated $2 Million to Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization providing everyday and emergency support for active troops, wounded warriors and their families.
Subway Restaurants LogoSubway – Free Six Inch Sub, November 11, 2011. Select SUBWAY® Restaurants will offer a FREE six inch sub or flatbread to military veterans on Veteran’s Day. This offer is valid only on November 11, 2011 at participating local SUBWAY® restaurants, Military ID or proof of service required. Note: SUBWAY® Restaurants are franchises, so this offer may not be available everywhere. Please call ahead for participation and times.

Texas RoadhouseTexas Roadhouse – free lunch, Friday, Nov. 11 (11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.). Every Texas Roadhouse location across the country will participate in the free lunch event to honor the men and women of our armed forces. Offer good for All  veterans – including all active, retired or former U.S. military. ID Required. See the Texas Roadhouse Veterans Day page for more information.
T.G.I. Friday’s – Buy one get one free Nov 11-14. At participating locations for anyone with an old or current military ID. November 11-14.

Home Depot and Lowes Coupon Updates

Update: Home Depot and Lowes 10% Military Discount Available Everyday.
Home Depot: The Home Depot(R) is offering all active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, veterans and their families a 10 percent discount off their purchases in honor of Veteran’s Day. The offer is valid on purchases of up to $2,000 for a maximum of $200 and is available at The Home Depot stores, The Home Depot Design Center locations, Yardbirds and EXPO Design Center(R) locations. The 10% discount is available everyday for active duty and retirees, but not all veterans. Home Depot makes this offer available to all veterans on most military holidays. You can also find Home Depot discounts online.

Lowes: Lowe’s Companies, Inc. will offer all active, reserve, honorably discharged, retired military personnel and their immediate family members a 10 percent discount on in-store U.S. purchases made during the Veterans Day holiday. The discount is available Nov. 7 – Nov. 11. The discount is available on in-stock and special order purchases up to $5,000. To qualify, individuals must present a valid military ID or other proof of service. Excluded from the discount are sales via Lowes.com, previous sales, and purchases of services or gift cards. Like Home Depot, Lowes offers this discount daily to active duty military members, but not to veterans. However, they extend the offer to military veterans on military holidays. You can also find exclusive discounts at Lowe’s.com.

US National Park Service LogoFee Free Day at National Parks. To honor America’s service men and women, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that areas managed by the National Park Service would not charge entrance fees for Veteran’s Day weekend – November 11-13, 2011. Over 100 national Parks will be participating in this event.

Bed and Breakfast for Vets

B&Bs for VetsIn the third year of the program, B&Bs for Vets has organized over 485 (and counting) participating Bed and Breakfasts and Inns across the US and Canada which will be offering veterans a free night’s stay on November 10th, the night before Veterans Day. This offer is available to both active duty military members and veterans with ID, but space is limited. Each Inn and B&B has at least one room available for this promotion and reservations must be made directly through the participating Inns and B&Bs. For more information visit B&Bs for Vets.

Free Hugo® Canes for Veterans.

Hugo Salutes our VeteransSam’s Club® locations nationwide will distribute 36,000 Hugo® canes free of charge on November 9th, 10th, 11th, 2011 to U.S. military veterans in need of mobility assistance. Limited quantities available, while supplies last. Sam’s Club® Membership is not required, but proof of military service may be required. For more information, visit HugoSalutes.com.

Other Veteran’s Day Discounts

Here are some additional Veteran’s Day Discounts. In all cases, be sure to provide proper ID or proof of service. In addition, some of these stores are franchises, so verify participation before assuming the discount is in place.
  • Veterans Day Honor - Armed Forces BandsAmazon.com – Free MP3 album download “Veterans Day Honor” This free downloadable album includes 12 songs as performed by the military bands and ensembles of the U.S. Armed Forces. Visit Amazon now through Veteran’s Day to download the album for free (album will be full price again starting Nov. 12) .
  • Dollar General. 10% discount on entire purchase on Veteran’s Day. Offer good for all active-duty military, retirees, veterans, Guard/Reserve, & immediate family members. The coupon can be found in the store circular, or by asking an employe. Also good online from Nov 11-13, use Coupon Code VETERANSDAY. More info.
  • Free Car wash. Thousands of car washes around the country are offering vets a free car wash on Veterans Day. Find a list at Grace for Veterans, which helped veterans receive 101,537 FREE Washes on Veterans Day in 2010.
  • Jos. A. Bank Specials: JoS. A. Bank Veterans Day Sale Orders.
  • Netflix: Netflix – One Month Free Trial.
  • Seven-Eleven – Free small Slurpee on Friday, Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Offer good to all current and former military members. ID or proof of service required.
  • Sport Clips – Veterans Day National cut-a-thon and Help A Hero program. Sport Clips is the official haircutter of the VFW and will donate $1 from every haircut during the National Cut-a-Thon to VFW’s Operation Uplink, which provides free phone time to active-duty military personnel and hospitalized veterans. Sports Clips stores also offer a offer a Heroes discount which includes active and retired military. Find a location near you.
  • $100 for opening new Chase Freedom VISA.