Dunwoody Zoning Rewrite Meeting Tonight.

Tonight - 7 p.m.
Dunwoody Baptist Church
1445 Mount Vernon Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338

The City of Dunwoody Community Development Department would like to invite you to a public meeting that will take place on Thursday, April 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of Dunwoody Baptist Church, located at 1445 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody, GA 30338.  The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the development of Zoning and Land Development Codes for the City.

Link to Zoning Code Rewrite Webpage

For more information, please visit the City’s website at www.dunwoodyga.gov or contact Steve Dush at steve.dush@dunwoodyga.gov or 678-382-6802.

Atlanta Colt Youth Association registration is open.

http://www.atlantacolts.com

Football teams and Cheerleading squads fill up every year therefore if you are interested in joining the AYCA, I recommend that you do so now.

In park registration and fittings for tackle football equipment and cheer uniforms will be Sunday, May 20th. Regular registration ends May 31, 2012.  Don't miss out.

Jim Redovian: The DeKalb school system is too large

The Dunwoody Reporter recently published an editorial by former District 1 board member, Jim Redovian.  He makes a very interesting point, that the DeKalb County School System is much too large to efficiently deliver a quality education.

The new DeKalb County School Watch Blog highlighted the article and as usual some of the comments are as worthwhile as the article itself.  Please check it out if you are interested in the future of the DeKalb County School System

DeKalb County Schools: A view from the inside out

The very-much-maligned DeKalb County School System seems to find itself in the news almost weekly with a new crisis or shortfall.

It is easy to put the blame for all the problems squarely on those charged with running the system or those working in the system.

In the bigger perspective, however, I believe there is a much bigger factor that drives the weaknesses in the system. It is my opinion that the most profound deterrent to good operation is the overall size of the district itself.

More at the link above.

For your added educational enjoyment - a little history.

Video

DeKalb Police looking to move out of Dunwoody

Video

Dunwoody Residential Tree Care Clinic & Tree Survey

City of Dunwoody Arborist, Howard Koontz

In keeping with its annual tradition of Arbor Day festivities, the City plans to hold a special Residential Tree Care Clinic and Arbor Day Event. City of Dunwoody Arborist, Howard Koontz, will lead this instructional clinic and residents and attendees will have the opportunity to learn about proper tree care and take home seeds for cultivation. The Residential Tree Care Clinic and Arbor Day Event will take place at Dunwoody City Hall, 41 Perimeter Center East, Dunwoody, Ga. 30346 on April 27, 2012 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Tree survey to aid planning - Crier

Video of the April 23rd Dunwoody City Council Meeting

Video

Recap: Everything presented on the agenda was passed without any real substantive changes except the last item which was a possible stop gap item to pull out of the option to purchase the 19 acre hospital site, was defeated.  This non-vote signified that we are moving forward with the development.

It was announced that the internal review committee (Staff & Council) reviewing the Georgetown Renaissance Project bids believed that there was a viable redevelopment project on the table (there were only two submissions) therefore we are moving into the negotiation phase of the Public Private development.

We have a long way to go before this is final but this was a first step.

PDK Airshow - Saturday May 12th from Noon till 5 pm

Map

Remembering the Holocaust in Dunwoody

Abe Besser, Benefactor of the Besser Holocaust Memorial Garden, at the MJCCA

Dunwoody Mayor Mike Davis, Dunwoody Councilwoman Adrian Bonser, Steven Cadranel, President of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA); Dunwoody Councilman John Heneghan

On April 22, more than 350 people came to the Yom Hashoah Commemoration to remember the victims of the Holocaust, at the MJCCA’s Besser Holocaust Memorial Garden. The program was sponsored by the Atlanta Rabbinical Association and the MJCCA, and included: Greetings from Abe Besser, Benefactor of the Besser Holocaust Memorial Garden; and Opher Aviran, Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States; the lighting of the Memorial Flames; a special musical presentation featuring Cantor Daniel Gale from Temple Beth-El, Birmingham, AL.;  and Keynote Address by Caroline Stoessinger, Author, A Century of Wisdom: Lessons from the Life of Alice Herz-Sommer, the World’s Oldest Living Holocaust Survivor.  Photo Credit: Heidi Morton

Doraville Mayor Donna Pittman visits Lemonade Days

Mayor Donna Pittman of Doraville

This evening I had the distinct pleasure of running into Doraville Mayor, Donna Pittman and her husband Winston as they strolled the promenade of Lemonade Days. We had a lovely chat on various topics and I could tell that she is really excited for the future of the City of Doraville as she danced around the future of the GM Plant and the recent annexation which expanded the city's borders. We discussed more joint ventures and partnerships between our two cities as with the annexation there are no longer any "Unincorporated Islands" between us.

Finally we also discussed the proposed crosswalk at Stonington which has been discussed at three City Council Meetings and she was very upbeat that this would come to fruition. The financial details and the the formal IGA (inter-governmental agreement) has yet to be hammered out but when that is finally complete it would then need to be ratified by both councils.

Look at the wonderful smile on the Mayor of Doraville, as she knows that great things are in store.

City of Dunwoody is making plans for Memorial Day

Video

On Monday, May 28th the City of Dunwoody will be holding a Memorial Day Ceremony at Brook Run Park.  Exact times and details are still being firmed up but I wanted to announce now it so that calenders could be blocked out.  In preparation, I have posted a video that is a reminder to all of us the debt we owe and below are a few of the many benefits that our service members deserve. 

GI “Aid in Attendance,”

An assisted-living facility in Dunwoody will host an informational session on a veterans' benefit that's often overlooked.

Plantation South Dunwoody, a senior-living, assisted-care facility, has scheduled the session for the senior benefit at 9:30 a.m. April 28 at 4954 Barclay Dr. The session is open to veterans who may qualify for the benefit and their caregivers.

GI Bill - Georgia Perimeter College makes it easy to return to school.

Education subsidized through the GI Bill has always been an incentive for many soldiers who serve the armed forces. Soldiers and sailors returning from active and reserve duty want to return to the work force and often need to update their skills to gain productive employment. The best source for skills and certifications is higher education, either through accredited schools online or on campus.

The returning veteran has several options to continue their education. The financial benefits of the GI Bill determine how much copay the veteran is expected to share, and the post 911 benefits are different from the pre-911 GI Bill benefits. If a soldier is eligible for both the Montgomery GI Bill and the post-911 GI Bill, he or she will at some point have to choose a program. The amounts reimbursed differ some but here are the reimbursements in a nutshell:

The GI Bill reimburses fees and tuition to the school directly and pays housing and book payments directly to you. If the student attends a public or state university, all tuition and fees are paid for full time students. If the student attends a private university, there is a cap of $17,500 annually. Housing allowance is paid for E-5 or better, payable directly to the student. If the student is enrolled in distance learning only, they will only receive one half of the housing allowance. All of the reimbursements and fees are based on length of service.

The GI Bill also pays for trade school and vocational school through a BAH payment during the months of training. The expectation from the GI Bill is that the student is being paid for apprenticeship by the local union or trade school and the GI Bill pays a stipend in the form of a percentage of the BAH. The GI Bill will also pay for books and supplies, depending on the program.

Over 1800 school and universities, (including Georgia Perimeter College who has an active military student population) are working together to assure that veterans will not lose college credit from multiple transfers and duty stations. Other eligible education facilities for the GI Bill funding include flight schools, graduate and undergraduate degrees, licensing, vocational training, on-the-job training, correspondence schools, distance learning schools through the internet, entrepreneurship training and national testing programs. The Service members Opportunity Colleges program (SOC) coordinates the on-duty education credits with the after service attendance so the student can receive all of the educational credits earned, instead of losing credits earned because of military transfers and relocations.

Umbrellas Needed for Peachtree Middle School "Umbrella Project"

"Sustainable Pattie" Baker recently worked with Peachtree Charter Middle School students to establish "water barrels" fashioned from umbrellas.  Click here to read about the project.  Unfortunately, the umbrellas have been broken.  The call has gone out to help replace these umbrellas.  If you have any umbrellas, preferably ones with color, that can hold water when turned upside down and would like to donate to the "Umbrella Project" please leave them in the Community Garden on the row by the bamboo.

http://theumbrellaproject.blogspot.com

Dunwoody seeks Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager

We are currently seeking a Purchasing Manager for our Dunwoody, GA office (City of Dunwoody).

Under the general guidance of the Finance Director, will serve as the City's Purchasing Manager. Plans, organizes, implements and supervises the purchasing operations of the City. Responsible for building a centralized purchasing division. Work involves planning and overseeing all City procurement and inventory control functions in a centralized environment; establishing City purchasing policies and procedures; engaging in the procurement of goods and services in accordance with City, State and Federal regulations.

Processes purchase orders for materials, equipment and services. Evaluates requests, discusses product or service requirements with requesting department, and determines most appropriate method of procurement. Researches technical information and assists with developing specifications. Provides guidance and assistance to City departments on purchasing related issues.

Administers all aspects of sealed bid process, prepares invitation for bids (IFBs) or requests for proposals (RFPs) as appropriate, develops notices and advertisements and places same with newspapers and other sources of information. Analyzes, evaluates and tabulates bids. Checks references on potential contractors and makes recommendations for vendor/contractor/consultant. Administers contracts and agreements. Researches supply sources, secures price quotes and places orders with vendors for purchases that do not require formal bids. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF POSITION:
Associate’s degree in business administration or a related field; supplemented by 3 years of progressively responsible experience procuring goods and services in a government services environment, including contract negotiation and administration; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Certification as a Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) is preferred but not required. 

JAT Consulting Services, Inc. is proud to offer our employees benefits such as:  401(k), PTO plan, 10 paid holidays, medical/dental/vision benefits (employee fully paid by JAT, dependent coverage offered at employee’s expense).  For further information, please visit our website at www.jatconsulting.net.

To apply, please send resume as a Word or PDF document to lauracook@jatconsulting.net. 

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Mon April 23rd

Monday, April 23rd
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East

Dunwoody, GA 30346

6:00 p.m. - Exec Session
7:00 p.m. - Voting Agenda
Watch Live at 7 pm

Agenda

Recognition of Sgt. William "Rusty" Furman for Earning his Bachelor of Science Degree with a
Major in Criminal Justice from Troy University.

Proclamation Honoring the 2011 Sustainable Hero.

Proclamation Commemorating Arbor Day.

Approval of Subdivision Renaming Policy.

Approval of 2011 Sidewalk Construction Contract Amendment.

Approval of Sole Source Vendor.

Approval of the Film and Video Policy - Permit Fees.

Resolution Authorizing a Merit Increase for the City Clerk

Presentation of Convention and Visitors Bureau 1st Quarter Financial Report.

Presentation on 2012 Georgia Legislative Session and Outlook for 2013 Georgia Legislative Session.

Public Hearing & Resolution: Urban Redevelopment Plan for a 35 acre Redevelopment Area.

Resolution Activating the Urban Redevelopment Agency and Appointing Members.

Public Hearing & Second Read: Amendment to Chapter 10, Business and Occupation Taxes, Licenses and Regulations re: Secondhand Dealers.

Authorize and Direct the City Manager to Terminate the Sales Contract for the 19 Acre Former Emory Dunwoody Hospital Site.

Explanation on last item: $100,000 of earnest money which the City has already paid to the seller of the hospital property will become non-refundable at Midnight of April 23rd and this item is on the agenda in case council wants to pull completely out of the project at no cost. The Georgetown Renaissance bids come in today (Friday) at 2 pm and an internal team of Council & Staff will be reviewing to see if a good proposal is in the mix which will likely meet published goals and also has a reasonable chance of an agreement between the parties being reached.  If the team believes that there is at least one viable development plan (there may be 6) then this last item on the agenda will not be used and the City will forgo the option of getting a refund on the $100,000 of earnest money.  No announcements of a Georgetown Renaissance finalist will be announced as further extensive review, due diligence and negotiation will need to take place.

Saturday's Bike Ride Around Dunwoody has extended early registration thru this evening.

As part of Lemonade Days, the Dunwoody Preservation Trust is proud to sponsor the third annual Bike Ride Around Dunwoody, a recreational bike ride for individual riders and families who would like to support Dunwoody becoming a more bicycle-friendly community. Proceeds from this low-cost event will be used to purchase & install bike racks throughout our community, and help preserve the Chestnut Farm. Three different distances covering all abilities with staggered start times means everyone finishes around the same time. Join us after the ride at the starting location in Brook Run for post-ride festivities of food, music and raffles!

Ride Options

	Family Route on the Jim Benson Bike Trail: 8 Miles This police-supported route is the same we took last year and follows the green painted markers. No TRAINING WHEELS, please. Download Route Map here:
	Comfort Route: 3.5 Miles A great route for those younger riders who are just becoming comfortable riding, as well as those who would just like to “give it a try” and sample a short route. Police-supported. Download Route Map here:
	“Challenge” Route: 29 or 37 Miles This unescorted route is for experienced bike riders who are comfortable riding on the road and are able to ride at an average pace on flats of 17+ mph. There will be “A” (20+ MPH) and “B” paced groups riding together. Download Route Map here: Rest Stop at mile 19 at Roswell River Park on Riverside Drive. 29 mile option turnaround here.

Event Schedule
Start at rear of Brook Run Park, past the Community Garden

7:30 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 9:15 a.m. 9:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m.

Late Registration Challenge Route Riders Depart Bicycle Safety Class Family Route Riders Depart Comfort Route Riders Depart Post-Ride Festivities to include: Food courtesy of Spiced Right BBQ & Mellow Mushroom Refreshments, Fruit & Snacks Great raffles & free giveaways!

Pre-Ride mechanical support provided by Free-Flite Bicycles (http://www.freeflite.com)

 

Registration Fee

Early Registration Discount Extended!

Now through 8:00 PM Friday, April 20th

Individual: $20 per rider until 8:00 pm on April 20th; Same Day: $25.
Family of 3: $50, Family of 4: $55, add’l members $10

Registration Includes:

• Commemorative Lemonade Days / BRAD T-shirt
• Commemorative BRAD 2012 Water Bottle (to first 300 entrants)
• Contribution to help purchase & install bike racks in Dunwoody and preserve the Chestnut Farm
• A $1 contribution to Georgia Bikes , to improve bicycling conditions throughout the state
• Post-Ride Raffle Entry for Hotel packages & other giveaways
• Pre & Post-Ride festivities to include a DJ, Spiced Right BBQ and Mellow Mushroom Pizza, Fruit & Snacks, prizes and raffles from local merchants, including Village Burger, Dunwoody Convention & Visitors Bureau and Free-Flite Bicycles.

Questions? e-mail BRAD.LemonadeDays@gmail.com or call 404-545-3711


Register Here

City of Dunwoody Police Department is currently accepting applications for one (1) open Police Officer position.

Police Officer Wanted

This is the first rank of the Dunwoody Police force that includes certified officers.  Certified officers are expected to demonstrate competency in law enforcement procedures.  Police Officers work under the general supervision of an assigned Sergeant.  They perform a wide range of law enforcement functions including making arrests, issuing traffic tickets, crowd control and investigative work to promote public safety and security, crime prevention and general enforcement of the law.

Minimum Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must be a current Georgia certified police officer through P.O.S.T.
• Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
• Must possess a valid Georgia Class C driver’s license
• Must be 21 years of age
• No felony convictions during your lifetime
• No discharge from any military organization less than an honorable discharge
• No termination for cause from a local, state or federal civil service or merit system job
• The above requirements are not all-inclusive.

Salary:  DPD Police Officer Pay Scales 

Benefits:

• Vacation Leave
• Holidays
• Sick Leave
• 100% City-Paid Employee Medical Insurance
• 100% City-Paid Employee Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 100% City-Paid Employee Life/AD&D Insurance
• 100% City-Paid Employee Short-Term Disability Insurance
• 100% City-Paid Employee Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Retirement Savings Plans
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education Assistance
• Housing Reimbursement
• Fitness Center Memberships
• Take Home Car Program

For consideration, please send your completed application to jobs@dunwoodyga.gov or mail it to:

Dunwoody Police Department Application

City of Dunwoody
Human Resources Department
41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 250
Dunwoody, GA 30346

Dunwoody Asst. City Clerk position available

Wanted: Assistant to the City Clerk

Dunwoody, Georgia
Begin Date: Tuesday, April 17, 2012
End Date: Friday, May 11, 2012
Assistant to the City Clerk

DEFINITION
Provide professional and confidential administrative support to the City Clerk and other members of management as required. Prepares records such as agendas, notices, minutes, and resolutions for meetings, and distributes materials in advance. Other responsibilities may include screening and returning calls, relieving the main switchboard, making meeting arrangements, preparing reports , and customer relations. Requires strong computer skills, to include Adobe Professional and Microsoft Office, as well as internet research skills. Also calls for excellent interpersonal, organizational, and project coordination skills. Requires the ability to work well with all levels of internal management and staff, as well as outside clients, vendors and the public.

This position requires a high degree of adaptability. Incumbent will be faced with a variety of duties and responsibilities on a day to day basis and will be expected to manage these appropriately. Demonstrates good judgment and professional behavior at all times. Normally receives little instruction on daily work and general instructions on newly introduced assignments.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Detail oriented, highly organized with natural aptitude to thrive in fast paced environment with ability to manage multiple priorities in constantly changing environment.
• Conducts him/herself in a professional manner at all times; acts as a representative for the City.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication.
• Proactive in communication to executives, teammates, and employees, as well as individuals and professionals outside the City.
• Ability to accurately transcribe from written notes as well as audio recordings.
• Advanced knowledge in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook as well as Adobe Professional.
• Effective in stressful, ambiguous situations.
• Extreme tact and excellent customer service ability.
• Project coordination with ability to plan, lead and drive projects to completion.

JAT Consulting Services, Inc. is proud to offer our employees benefits such as: 401(k), PTO plan, 10 paid holidays, medical/dental/vision benefits (employee fully paid by JAT, dependent coverage offered at employee’s expense). For further information, please visit our website at www.jatconsulting.net.

To apply, please send resume as a Word or PDF document to lauracook@jatconsulting.net.

Dunk Tank challenge - knock me down three times in a row at Dunwoody Lemonade Days and win $50.00 cash

Sunday afternoon I am once again slated to be sitting in the dunk tank at Lemonade Days for about 30 minutes as are a few of the other suckers local politicians and men about town. The money raised will be going to the Dunwoody Preservation Trust to help repair the Donaldson Bannister House so hopefully there are a few people who would want to have the opportunity to "put us in our place".

To sweeten the deal, I am offering $50.00 to the first person who can hit the target and dunk me three consecutive times.  I've done this several times with no one taking my money but Police Chief Billy Grogan came close on the 4th of July with my son Gavin coming back for more on Sunday.

$50 bucks says you throw like wild thing.

SATURDAY
Name                                Time
Elvis                                 Noon - 12:30
Police Chief Grogan        12:30 - 1:00
Bob Freeman                   1:00 - 1:30
Brent Morris                    1:30 - 2:00
Jim Showety                    2:00 - 2:30
Steve Fortenberry            2:30 - 3:00
Tom Bass                         3:00 - 3:30
Bob Mullen                      3:30 - 4:00
Dave Lupoli                     4:00 - 4:30
Rich Dolder                     4:30 - 5:00

SUNDAY
Name                                Time
Jeff Black                         Noon - 12:30
Bob Fiscella                     12:30 - 1:00
Brent Walker                    1:00 - 1:30
John Heneghan                1:30 - 2:00
Denny Shortal                  2:00 - 2:30
Tom Lapena                     2:30 - 3:00
Warren Hutmacher          3:00 - 3:30
???? Volunteer Needed    3:30 - 4:00
???? Volunteer Needed    4:00 - 4:30
???? Volunteer Needed    4:30 - 5:00

Lemonade Days Festival in Dunwoody starts today and runs thru Sunday

Lemonade Days Website

Brook Run Park in Dunwoody

4770 North Peachtree Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338

“Lemonade Days has always been a family type event, so the communities you typically see around our schools and organizations with big participation from children get quite excited about it … and that, of course, gets the parents involved,” said festival co-coordinator Tom McGurk.  Those partaking in the Lemonade Days experience will discover an itinerary packed with classic carnival attractions — rides, games and concessions — in addition to live music, a petting zoo and a dunking tank.  The weekend will also see the Dunwoody Arts and Crafts Guild presenting the works of a number of Southeastern artisans. That way the children get a carnival and the adults get something, too.

Free Parking:

If you're coming from the South (I-285 or Peachtree Road) the Peachtree Middle School lot is large and convenient to the park. It will be on your left shortly before reaching the park and will be well-marked.
Kingswood United Methodist Church is very convenient for attendees coming from Tilly Mill Road, or the "heart of Dunwoody".
There will be signs to direct you to these parking locations. We are thankful for Peachtree Middle and Kingswood Church for allowing FREE parking!

Great Rides
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: $20 for unlimited ride day pass or $30 for all three days.
Saturday: $25 for unlimited ride day pass.
Sunday: $20 for unlimited ride day pass.
Individual Ride Tickets are $1 each; most rides require 3-5 tickets.

Great Food

Usually there is a wide selection of local establishments.
I saw that our local Hail Caesar Food Truck will be in attendance on Wednesday with Pressed for Time Paninis scheduled for Friday and Sunday.

THURSDAY APRIL 19th
Weped 6:00pm – 7:30 pm
Weped is a classic rock styled band that boasts many influences. They play around Atlanta at benefits, open mics and several venues around the Gainesville area. Weped entertains audiences with both an acoustic show as well as a full band show each bringing its own style and attitude.

Tin River 7:45pm – 9:00pm
Tin River is a two piece band that will entertain audiences with a mix of storyteller infused covers and originals that blends Outlaw Country, Classic Rock and Alternative styles. Humor and stand up musicianship make Tin River an audience favorite all around Atlanta. Comprised of Andy Liechty (Lead Guitar, Banjo, Harmonica and Vocals) and John Hirt (Guitar and Vocals) Tin River has a full sound as a duo and can provide a full band experience adding a drummer and violin player.

FRIDAY APRIL 20th
Jeannie Caryn 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Jeannie Caryn found her way to her guitar as a means of escape. Raised in “Sin City,” Las Vegas, Nevada, she longed for something other than gambling, neon, or plastic to which she could surrender her soul: “Something that would not implode like old buildings on the Strip,” she says. The guitar entered Jeannie’s life as a gift from her grandmother and she learned early that music was a catharsis for handling and understanding emotions like love, loss, and angst.

The Mix 8:00pm – 10:00pm
The Mix came together with a history of lifelong passion for music and people. The Mix is comprised of Jerry Brady - Drums, Steve Mammen - Bass, David Tennant – Guitar , Ronald Alvin Kidd – Keys and Renee Gable this band’s charismatic Lead Singer. The Mix is heavily influenced by the classics, classic rock, pop and blues. The combination of these music genres became their trademark sound.

SATURDAY APRIL 21st
Blu Skies 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Comprised of Paul Douglas Sanner - acoustic guitar and vocals John Tyndall - keyboard, vocals and miscellaneous and Russ Rainwater – percussion, the member of Blu Skies have been entertaining around Atlanta separately for years and have recently come together to form this fantastic band. Their laid back music style includes covers of the greats you have come to know and love including James Taylor, The Eagles, Tom Petty and many others. Add in their fantastic originals and you have the perfect blend of music that the whole family can enjoy.

Allatoona 8:00pm – 10:00pm
Allatoona has been working the music scene in Atlanta since 2006. Initially comprised of co-workers, it was clear that this group had a unique sound and direction with a strong focus on making country songs rock, and it is clear that the fans are happy with their new sound. Allatoona has received many acolades in recent times due to their great sound, energized songs and audience entertainment including the 2011 Georgia-Country Band of the Year . Kimberly James of CBM Records called Allatoona [an] “Awesome band…!” after seeing them perform at a recent Toys for Tots Benefit.

Five local juveniles arrested for vandalizing community garden.

Via the Dunwoody Patch: Five juveniles have been charged with a felony in connection with vandalizing the community garden in Brook Run Park, according to Dunwoody Police.

Those arrested were all 16 years old, police said. Their names are being withheld by police as is the normal procedure for those accused of crimes who are underage.

Four of those charged are students at Dunwoody High School, police said. A teenager from Roswell charged in the incident used to live in the city.

The garden was vanadalized late on March 30 or early March 31 causing damage, including the destruction of 60 pounds of food that was going to be given to a local food pantry.

An anonymous source stepped forward with information during the last week, Sgt. Mike Carlson said.  The documents formally charging the five juveniles was dropped off at the county's juvenile court on Tuesday. The youths were charged and then released to their parents, according to police.

The five juveniles have been charged with criminal damage to property, a 2nd degree felony, police said.  The community garden was estimated to have been damaged up to $4,000. The threshold from misdememeanor to felonies in such cases is $500, Carlson said.

Dunwoody Police Chief Billy Grogan said in a statement, "A group of teenagers decided to go to Brook Run Park after hours. One thing led to another and now all five of them are charged with ... a felony. I can’t stress enough about how important it is for teenagers to think about the consequences of their actions before they do something like this."

Actions have consequences and as you get older the consequences become more severe. This is a great opportunity for parents to engage their teenager in a conversation about decision making that may help them make better decisions in the future."

Dunwoody Garden looks to you for simple help to plant an orchard.

 Enter the contest to win an orchard.

A few months ago, the Dunwoody Community Garden applied for a grant to plant an orchard at our Brook Run site. It is a grant sponsored by Edie's Fruits.

They, along with about 100 other gardens were selected to take part in a nationwide vote to determine winners. The website for voting is: http://www.communitiestakeroot.com

One must register with a password to vote, but then can vote once per day per e-mail address. It takes a little navigation on the site to find our garden, which is listed under Georgia.

Brookhaven Bill signed by Gov Deal

Citizens to vote July 31 on whether they are to become a city.

Atlanta Colt Cheerleaders are the National Champions

Atlanta Colts

Congratulations to the ACYA Competition Squad for their first place win at the US Finals in Orlando this morning! The Colts were in a very competitive division with a lot of talented squads. This is a huge achievement and the park is so proud of these girls and their families! Go Colts!

Awesome job Ariana Cohen, Caroline Henderson, Jenna Hogan, Olivia Milam, Christy Holloway, Anna Kemmerly, Jenah Clarkson, Jessica Gibson, Ashton Harbin, Lauren Callihan, Taylor Pressnall, Meaghan Pressnall, Katie Henderson, Hannah Wise, Carson Harran, Ashley Brown, Issy Regas, Lexie Clarkson, Kendall Evans, Olivia Harbin, Anna Edwards and their coaches - Lindsay Fowler, Holly Trizzino, Laura Hogan and Kelley Gibson.

Dunwoody Homeowners Association to get first look at proposed new facility on Womack near college.

Come Sunday to hear about the proposed new facility on Womack.

Dunwoody Homeowners Association Board of Directors Meeting
Sunday, April 15, 2012 @ 7:30 P.M.

DeKalb Cultural Arts Center (Room 4)
5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338

AGENDA

Announcements and introduction of distinguished visitors
1. Approval of minutes for March 2012
2. Berman Commons assisted living facility on Womack road presentation
3. recap of the Glaze Drive dirt dump issue
4. Adopt-A-Spot initiative for 2012
5. Proposed changes to City of Dunwoody stream buffer regulations
6. Project Renaissance - A New Georgetown
7. Board only discussion (discussion of 2012 DHA budget)
Votes as needed on any motions Adjourn

City of Peachtree Corners seats a Council on Sunday - Open to the Public

Peachtree Corners' newly elected mayor and six council members will be sworn-in in a special ceremony on Sunday, April 15 at 2 p.m. at the Peachtree Corners Hilton in the Hunnicutt Ballroom. All in the community are invited to attend.

Peachtree Corners' new city council:

Mike Mason, Mayor
Phil Sadd, Post 1 Council Member
Jay Lowe, Post 2 Council Member
Alex Wright, Post 3 Council Member
Jeanne Aulbach, Post 4 Council Member
Lorri Christopher, Post 5 Council Member
Weare Gratwick, Post 6 Council Member

“The swearing-in ceremony is really pivotal, representing the end of the campaign phase, which started several years ago, and the beginning of the city governance, which goes into the future," said mayor-elect Mike Mason.

"Everyone feels excited but also humbled to be given the responsibility of starting up the city. This is truly a historical day and I am grateful to be part of it.”

Beware - Dogs off Leash at Book Run may cost you.

FYI - no leash out side of the Dog Park at Brook Run and you may be receiving a Police Ticket (fine) if you are caught.  I have seen a few complaints this week therefore wanted to remind you.

Chesnut to sing at Turner for Braves Game

Chesnut Charter Students to Sing National Anthem at Turner Field

Chesnut Charter Elementary invites the Dunwoody community to join us at Turner Field on Sunday June 17 for a 1:30 game.  A group of Chesnut students will sing The National Anthem before the Braves take on the Baltimore Orioles.  It's a great way to spend Father's Day.  Bring family and friends to enjoy the game, see the kids sing and support a Chesnut fundraiser.  Tickets are $20 per person in the Upper Box section and parking passes are available for $10.  To purchase tickets, please go to www.chesnutcharter.com and click on the baseball field on the top left of the screen.  We hope to have a loud and friendly group supporting Chesnut.  Please purchase by April 27.  For further information, please contact braves@chesnutcharter.com.

Dunwoody Community Garden - Plant Sale starts Friday at Brook Run

 

 

Ms. Diana Wood preps an entire green house of plants for sale.

4th Annual Bicycle Ride Around Dunwoody - Save Money with early registration today.

http://www.dunwoodylemonadedays.org/BRAD

Registration is now open for the 4th Annual BRAD - Bicycle Ride Around Dunwoody, on Saturday, April 21st during Lemonade Days festival at Brook Run Park.  Once again we'll have  some fun-filled post-ride festivities, to include a DJ, Spiced Right BBQ and Mellow Mushroom Pizza, prizes and raffles from local merchants, including Village Burger, Dunwoody Convention & Visitors Bureau and FreeFlite Bicycles.  We had a great time last year, so come out and invite your friends and neighbors, too! 

Proceeds go towards: a) Restoring the Donaldson Chestnut Farm House; b) Additional Bike Racks in our community; and c) Supporting Georgia Bikes, our statewide bicycle advocacy organization. As with last year, we're offering three ride options:

1: Family Route on the Jim Benson Bike Trail: 8 Miles – This police-supported route is the same we took last year and follows the green painted markers. No TRAINING WHEELS, please.

2: Comfort Route: 3.5 Miles - A great choice for those younger riders who are just becoming comfortable riding, as well as those who would just like to "give it a try" and sample a short route. Police-supported. 

3: "Challenge" Route: 29 or 37 Miles - Unescorted route for experienced road cyclists and are able to ride at an average pace on flats of 17+ mph.  There will be "A" (20+ MPH) and "B" paced groups riding together. Rest Stop at mile 19 at Roswell River Park on Riverside Drive. 

Early registration discount ends on April 16th.

Individual: $20 per rider until April 16th; Late Registration & Same Day: $30.
Family of 3: $50, Family of 4: $55, add'l members $10.  

To register and for more information, please go here:http://www.dunwoodylemonadedays.org/BRAD
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/249165701803890/  

See you on the 21st!!

Dunwoody Green Market Opens Today in Dunwoody Village near Post Office

http://www.dunwoodygreenmarket.com

1551 Dunwoody Village Parkway
Dunwoody, GA 30338

Open: April thru December - Every Wednesday 8am to 12pm

Our current 2012 listing of Dunwoody Green Market Vendors

Annie Okra's Barn
Garmon Family Farm
Heirloom Gardens
Heritage Farm
Fry Farm
H&F Bread Company
Hardwright Bakery (bakes wheat / gluten free products also)
Kents Country Cookies
Red Queen Tarts
Best Bread Company
Indigo Bath and Body
Organikah
Emily G's Jam of Love  Just featured in the Wall Street Food section
Atlanta Fresh Artisan Creamery
Caly Road Creamery
Hidden Springs Farm
Alta Cucina Italia
Goodness Gracious Granola
Hidden Springs Farm (Honey & Eggs)
M.E. Amore Pastificio e Vino
Zocalo's Fresh Mexican Salsas & Dips
S & J's Woodfired Pizza
King of Pops
Heritage Farm
Pine Street Market
Cali Girl
Buckhedge Scarves

Video and recap of April 9th Dunwoody City Council Meeting

Video of Full Meeting

Below are the items discussed this evening and a recap of the votes and/or my interpretation of what I heard marked in red.  Future speculation as to future council votes are just that, speculation.

Public Hearing & Second Read: Ordinance Amending Chapter 16, Section 16-86 of the Land Development Code Related to Grading. (PASSED as Presented)

Discussion of Film and Video Policy and Related Fees.  (Expect this to PASS at future meeting, little Council opposition in discussion though discussion stemmed around signage and possible revisions.)

Second Read: Ordinance Amending to Chapter 4 of the City of Dunwoody Code of Ordinances by Authorizing an Exception to the Full-Service Kitchen Requirements for Retail Consumption Licensees. (Growler Proposal) (PASSED as Presented)

ACTION ITEM: Resolution Declaring a Legislative Finding Regarding the Need for Redevelopment (Project Renaissance).  (PASSED as Presented)

ACTION ITEM: Resolution Naming a 35 Acre Redevelopment Area Pursuant to the Legislative Finding of the Need for Redevelopment (Project Renaissance).  (PASSED as Presented)

FIRST READ: Amendments to Chapter 16 Related to Streams and Stream Buffers.  (Slowed way down to a three month process with full vetting of Dunwoody civic boards prior to change.  Looking to change definition of what is a Stream only.)

Discussion of Subdivision Renaming Policy.  (Expect this to PASS at future meeting, little Council opposition in discussion.  Maybe tweeking details based on council questions?)

ACTION ITEM: Approval of Lemonade Days Signage Request. (PASSED as Presented)

Discussion of 2011 Sidewalk Construction Contract Amendment.  (Expect this to PASS at future meeting, little Council opposition in discussion.)

Public Hearing & First Read - Amendment to Chapter 10, Business and Occupation Taxes, Licenses and Regulations re: Secondhand Dealers.  (Expect this to PASS at next meeting, little Council opposition in discussion.)

Discussion of Sole Source Vendor Approval.  (Expect this to PASS at future meeting, little Council opposition in discussion.)

Discussion of Pedestrian Crossing.  (Stonington / Tilly Mill - Heneghan Request, City Reply, Traffic Count and Recommendation.) City recommends placement of this crosswalk on City of Doraville property on Tilly Mill near Stonington but several council members have questioned doing capital projects outside city boundaries (by just feet) even when the infrastructure will only be serving Dunwoody residents / tax payers. (Good discussion, Council agrees with the need for crosswalk but funding aspect questioned.  Mayor to meet with Doraville & DeKalb. Should be able to be worked out with swapping services with Doraville for the infrastructure improvement within Doraville.)

Video

Proposed DeKalb School Schedule & Dr. Atkinson's visit to Peachtree Charter Middle School on Wednesday

Review the proposed DeKalb School Schedules

Per Dr. Atkinson's request, the Division of Curriculum and Instruction convened a group of stakeholders to explore school calendar options for next year. The Calendar Committee includes parents, teachers, principals, district office staff, and community partners. Below is a link to the DCSD website that contains the three (3) proposed 2012-2013 school calendars for review and a link to the survey.  The survey allows respondents to identify their stakeholder role, select their preferred calendar choice, and provide comments through Thursday, April 12, 2012.

Visit http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/calendar/proposed.html to obtain more information regarding the calendar options and to access the survey.

Dunwoody Chamblee Parents Council

Final Meeting of the School Year

Date:  Wednesday, April 11, 2012 

Time:   9:15 am, refreshments at 8:45 am
Meeting Location: Peachtree Charter Middle School
Topic: "Update on DeKalb County School District"
Speaker: Dr. Cheryl Atkinson, DCSS Superintendent  

Artistic Le Méridien hotel to open in Dunwoody

Le Méridien brand to open across from Perimeter Mall

The 275-room Atlanta Perimeter Hotel & Suites on Ashford Dunwoody Rd which was recently a W Hotel will be rebranded as a Le Méridien.

The Parisian-inspired brand was acquired by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. about six years ago and is now expected to grow significantly.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to work with this new brand,” said Katie Brenckle, Executive Director of the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Dunwoody. “I think it’s going to be a good thing for that property, for the location and the market.”

Video

Mixing contemporary culture with its European heritage, Le Méridien creates a culturally refined, meaningful and stimulating atmosphere which inspires participants to celebrate the beauty of a moment and the possibilities for insight that live within common occurrences.