A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE OF DUNWOODY DUNWOODY digest JANUARY - MARCH 2020

Moments on the Big Screen Dunwoody takes share of ’s movie boon Inside: Tracing Dunwoody back 200 years | What’s in store for the next 10? Brook Run almost done| Being a better father | SPLOST at work The 2020 MLK Day of Service will include tree and daffodil planting projects in Brook Run Park, as well as lend-a-hand projects at Dunwoody Place Personal Care Home, Dunwoody Nature Center, the Spruill Center for the Arts and Children’s Healthcare of . All volunteers are welcome. 24 28 January “The Glass Menagerie” Census 2020 Opening Night Community Forum Stage Door Players Q&A with census leaders 4 Dunwoody Library FREE First Saturday­—Fire 6:30 p.m. Dunwoody Nature Center 1 p.m. 30 Opening Reception: 11 Questionable Origins Dunwoody Community Sculptural work by Eileen Braun Garden Master Gardener Spruill Gallery Session — Companion 6-9 p.m. Planting Brook Run Park Barn 11 a.m.-noon A drama written by Tennessee Williams, “The Glass Menagerie” February premiered in 1944 and won the 17 New York Drama Critic’s Circle Chattahoochee Award the following year. 1 Handweavers Guild Free Coaches’ Clinic Speaker: Inge Dam presented by Major League N. DeKalb Cultural Arts Center Baseball Players Alumni Assoc. 7 p.m. 26 Brook Run Park Baseball Fields Sesquicentennial Kickoff 9 a.m.-noon Celebration of 150 years of 20 Donaldson-Bannister Farm MLK Jr. Day of Service FREE First Saturday—Birds 1-4 p.m. Dunwoody Nature Center Brook Run Park 1 p.m. 8:30 a.m.-noon History Alive-Dunwoody Preservation Trust “Children of the Holocaust” Donaldson-Bannister Farm Upcoming Events Upcoming 9:30-11 a.m.

The Dunwoody Police Department will host free CPR classes open to the community on February 6 and February 20. Class is limited to 20 participants. (Note: Course is not for employment certification.)

2 Dunwoody Digest JAN-MARCH 2020 The Donaldson-Bannister Farmhouse was built circa 1870 — making it 150 years old in 2020. A city park managed by the Dunwoody Preservation Trust, the property will celebrate its sesquicentennial with a year-long celebration commencing in January and including a Sesquicentennial Tea on March 1.

6 March 20 Community CPR Class “The Outsider” with Dunwoody Police Opening Night Department 1 Stage Door Players N. Shallowford Annex Sesquicentennial Tea 5:30-8:30 p.m. Donaldson-Bannister Farm Friday Night Hike 15 1-4 p.m. Dunwoody Nature Center Great Backyard 8 p.m. 8 Bird Count Walk With A Doc Dunwoody Nature Center 7 Brook Run Park FREE First Saturday— 21 9 a.m. Chattahoochee Five Senses History Alive-Dunwoody Handweavers Guild Dunwoody Nature Center Preservation Trust Dunwoody Community “Natural Dyes” 10 a.m. “Traditional Skills of the Garden Master Gardener North DeKalb North Georgia Cherokee” Session — Composting Cultural Arts Center Donaldson-Bannister Farm Brook Run Park Barn 10 a.m. 14 9:30-11 a.m. 11 a.m.-noon Walk With A Doc Brook Run Park Chattahoochee 20 9 a.m. Handweavers Guild 9 Community CPR Class Speaker: Pat Williams Student-Instructor with Dunwoody Police Dunwoody Community North DeKalb Jewelry Market Department Garden Master Gardener Cultural Arts Center Spruill Arts Center North Shallowford Annex Session — 10 a.m. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Lawn and Turf Brook Run Park Barn 34th Artistic Affair 11 a.m.-noon Annual fundraiser for Spruill Center for the Arts Day of Unplugging 6:30 p.m. Brook Run Event Field 9 a.m.-noon

UNPLUG | Relax | March 14 DUNWOODY COUNTS! April 1 is Census Day! Online surveys will be available mid-March Join us for an informational Census Community Forum 6:30 p.m., Jan. 28 at the Dunwoody Library. Start your day tech-free and outdoors! Join Dunwoody Parks and Recreation for a 60-minute breath-focused yoga flow class, presented by The Elite Peasant on the Brook Run Park Event Field, followed by real-life socializing and light bites from Goldberg’s Dunwoody. #unplug census.gov

dunwoodyga.gov 3 Hollywood in D-wood Georgia is second only to California in movie production, and Dunwoody continues to have a seat at the table, serving as locations for films including Richard Jewell, Baby Driver, Trouble With The Curve, Mothers Day, Spider-Man Homecoming and more.

When Hollywood comes to Dunwoody, friendliness and openness of the people our production offices, support spaces, City Hall is one of the first stops. Movie who live in this lovely city,” said Rosenfelt, and sound stages,” he explained. “I and television producers have to file who is married with two children. “It has a communicate with all of the major studios plans with the community development warm, hometown vibe.” (Netflix, Disney, Universal, etc.) on a department and secure a film permit. If weekly basis and help to bring their shows they use directional signs for cast and crew, Dunwoody is also close to Doraville, where to Georgia.” they also need a city sign permit. he opened Third Rail Studios three years ago on the grounds of the old General The new Netflix series, “Dolly Parton’s In 2019 alone, Dunwoody was the site for Motors plant. Third Rail is a full-service Heartstrings” and the new productions of “The Outsider” (HBO, film studio with three 20,000 square-foot film “Richard Jewell” used sound stages at starring Jason Bateman), “Ghost Draft” sound stages, production suites and a Third Rail in 2019. Past productions also (starring Chris Pratt), “Richard Jewell” backlot. include Dwayne Johnson’s “Rampage.” (directed by Clint Eastwood), “Brockmire” “More content is being produced now (IFC) and “Lodge 49” (AMC). Filmed in “My focus is providing the best than in any other time in the film industry’s the former Goldkist Foods headquarters possible experience for our film and TV history,” Rosenfelt said. “More cast and on Perimeter Center Parkway, permit production clients as they set up camp in crew members have moved to Georgia over applications show that the productions the past several years due to the viability of involved a total of 36 cast members, 214 maintaining a solid career and enjoying a extras and 610 crew members. high quality of life.”

Georgia is now considered the world’s Rosenfelt grew up in Pennsylvania and said second most popular location for shooting, he enjoys having discernible seasons again, and the industry is well-represented in and living in such a forested city. He’s also Dunwoody. finding new Dunwoody favorites for food, including Village Burger, Cafe Sababa, The Studio Exec Carbonara Trattoria and Nai Thai.

After living in Los Angeles for 15 years, As a father, he’s focused on the future. Dan Rosenfelt was ready for something Third Rail has developed a robust more “low-key.” He also wanted a great internship program, and Rosenfelt was family environment. recently appointed to Governor Brian Kemp’s Georgia Film, Music and Digital Dan Rosenfelt, founder of Third Rail Studios, “Dunwoody fit the bill perfectly. My moved to Dunwoody from Los Angeles for a more Entertainment Advisory Board. favorite thing about Dunwoody is the low-key lifestyle.

4 Dunwoody Digest JAN-MARCH 2020 “I want to work with lawmakers to ensure DC Comics show called “Black Lightning.” The Perfect Setting that the Georgia film and TV industry “It’s a tremendously fun production, and remains a vibrant and positive force in the it allows me to flex my creativity,” Warren For the Veazey family, it started with a state for many years to come,” he added. said. He’s now working on season 3. Other knock on the door. recent credits include The Passage and Star The Creative Crew member Girl, which will debut on the DC Universe “A location scout who worked for a streaming app this year. production company told me he was in Justin Warren fell in love with film as a kid. the area trying to find the right house for “I was a product of Steven Spielberg Warren moved to Dunwoody with his wife a pretty big movie with big stars,” Sonya movies,” Warren said. “I taught myself how and two young children about six months ago. Veazey said. to shoot home movies, and I edited using two VCRs. By the time I got to film school, I “We came for the great schools and really Eight weeks later, the Veazeys’ home on already knew what I was doing.” like it here,” Warren said. “We’ve enjoyed Vermack Court was chosen as the setting seeing how active the community is.” for “Parental Guidance,” starring Billy As a digital imaging technician, he works with Crystal and Bette Midler. Production the cinematographer and director to create Family is everything to Warren, who met started in late 2011. the look of a show. his wife when they were growing up. He works long hours but loves it. “We negotiated a price, and they moved “It sounds technical, but it’s a very creative us out for two months,” Veazey explained. job,” Warren explained. “I have a bank of “I have a reputation for really dramatic “They used the entire house, which really cameras coming live to me, and I can do live visuals, over-the-top stuff, action, sci-fi, was a character in the film as a ‘smart color manipulation.” horror,” he added. “It’s what I’ve wanted to house.’ Set designers changed every light do since I was a kid.” fixture, every wall of paint and brought in He was drawn to Georgia by the Marvel movies their own furniture.” being made here, but one of his first jobs was a The cast and crew used the Donaldson- Bannister Farm for parking and a dining hall. Dunwoody Police were hired for security and traffic control.

“It took Dunwoody’s blessing and the patience of our wonderful neighbors to make it happen,” Veazey added. “Filming involved big trucks and a lot of commotion.”

The Veazey children, neighbors and “carpool” friends were invited to be extras in the movie. They also invited one of the young actors in the film, Bailee Madison, to speak at their church, Dunwoody Baptist. The following year, the Veazeys’ house was featured in the Dunwoody Woman’s Club Tour of Homes. The Veazeys have since moved but will remember fondly their brush with fame.

“It was a great experience for us and great timing,” Sonya Veazey said.

Top: The Dunwoody High School baseball field was the location for scenes of “Trouble With the Curve” starring Clint Eastwood and . The school’s scoreboard was adapted to fit the film. Below: Justin Warren is creative on the screen and at home. He’s pictured above with his family dressed up for last Halloween. At right, the former Dunwoody home of Sonya Veazey was used for interior and exterior filming for “Parental Guidance.”

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What’s in store? Dunwoody subject matter experts contemplate the new decade

No doubt, changes in our childcare. The pace of acceptance into our robots will be augmented to perform tasks mainstream habits, however, may be the related to farming, agriculture, production world over the next decade interesting factor. and manufacturing by 2025. Still, there are will be brisk and impactful. new employment opportunities that will “We are seeing more rapid adoption grow from these developments. The future After all, it was just ten years ago that we whereby proficiency of technology is is exciting for technology and mankind.” were wrapping our heads around 3-D maturing in shorter cycles of time,” printers, network streaming, Uber and apps. explained Shirley Borghi, executive director Rick Higgins, owner of TeamLogicIt What now seems like old hat—Amazon, of a Dunwoody non-profit, and a member in Dunwoody, predicts a reduction search engines, smart phones, do-it- of the Dunwoody Perimeter Chamber of of malware over the next decade. yourself checkouts—have­ settled into our Commerce. “Where it once took months “Cybersecurity has been a huge threat daily lives with hazy recollection of how we or years for adoption, we are now seeing to businesses in recent years,” he said. did it before. expedited end-user proficiency paving the “Diligence will always be critical, but way for ‘go-to-market’ deployment.” increases in bandwidth will lead to better What will 2020-2029 bring? Perhaps it’s encryption technology available across anyone’s guess, but we asked subject matter She cites artificial intelligence as the the world.” experts from Dunwoody to share their backbone of software and technology in thoughts on their own industries. They the next decade, but points out that there Manufacturers will continue to find provide some thought-provoking ideas: is still a place for a human element in that ways to compact our devices, and that’s space. “Statistics show that 70 percent of good news for Trey Lyda of Lyda Video TECHNOLOGY businesses will use a combination of high- & Photo in Dunwoody. “Expensive, tech augmented reality, mixed reality, and heavy video and photo cameras will be No question why we start here, as virtual reality by 2022 in some aspect,” she a thing of the past. I’ll bet we’ll be able technology is now a force for every said. “More, according to findings by The to capture super-fast, 5K-quality video industry, whether it’s farming, fashion or Millennium Project, a quarter of a million directly from our phones,” he said.

6 Dunwoody Digest JAN-MARCH 2020 TRANSPORTATION FINANCE new set of emerging markets, including tiny houses, healthcare development and social Widespread change in technology and Personal finance and money management assistance programs. perhaps more significantly, mindset, is have likewise seen an industry sea change, transforming the transportation industry. particularly due to the abundance of FOOD available information. Electric vehicles will take a greater place in Technology and transportation feed right the market, according to Eli Veith of Lowe “Free trades and self-directed investment into predictions for food and dining Engineers and traffic engineer for the city accounts mean individuals and corporations too. According to Mike DiPaolo, co- of Dunwoody. “It seems every major auto are less willing to pay for expertise,” said owner of Novo Cucina, faster shipping manufacturer is working on a self-driving Jonathan Rosen, a Dunwoody entrepreneur options and relaxed import regulations are or electric model,” he said. “More, I think who sold his specialty finance company, opening opportunities for a wider range we are going to see ride-sharing options Entaire Global, to Synovus in 2016. “But of authentic ingredients—great news for continue to expand, particularly toward the sheer abundance of information can ethnic-based cuisine like the Dunwoody public transit, paratransit and less-busy bus be difficult to navigate. The winners will be restaurant’s classic Italian fare. routes.” those that can cut through the noise and properly curate this information.” “We’re importing a fabulous variety of Veith also predicts an increase in computer artisan Italian salamis, prosciutto, olives and data going into vehicles from the roadway “As we’ve seen, each positive change can even salts,” DiPaolo said. “The relative ease network, such as traffic signals that alert create disruption to ancillary industries,” of accessing these ingredients is allowing a driver of upcoming signal changes, or he added citing the collapse of the long- us to be even more creative with our menu. speed signs that warn drivers when they standing medallion permit program for “From a business standpoint, cloud- enter a school zone. New York City’s taxi system at the hands based technology is changing the way we of ride-sharing innovations. The fallout schedule employees, order supplies and pay “A lot of municipalities, including affects not only the taxi drivers, but also expenses.” Dunwoody, have invested heavily in the banks that wrote the loans for the improving non-automobile transportation medallions, the city’s own coffers and Dietary changes have put more focus on options, such as bike lanes and pedestrian countless others down the line. options such as gluten-free, vegan and paths,” he said. “Throughout Atlanta, dairy-free menus, but expanded taste buds I think there will be a general focus Rosen pulls much of his insight from also open opportunity for creativity in the on improving efficiency at individual studying the changing demographics kitchen. intersections and less effort toward from around the world. While the value widening roadways. So much of land of technology brands now exceeds “As the world gets smaller, people are more around our roadways has been developed, $700 billion, seemingly contradictory open to new tastes,” DiPaolo added. it has become too expensive to expand the trends toward simplicity, minimalism and network.” geopolitical change are creating a whole FASHION

The last decade was grim to traditional retail, but change always brings about new opportunities. While online shopping trends soar and some are actually shopping with virtual reality devices, others are finding a new appreciation for personalized service.

“That’s why I believe boutiques will be around forever,” said Jill Clow, whose Jilli Boutique in Orchard Park serves Dunwoody customers in search of unique and stylish clothing and accessories.

What does she see for styles in the upcoming fashion seasons? “Flare-leg pants —often shorter and paired with strappy sandals, neon colors, camouflage, faux animal and snake skins, higher-rise pants and button fly vs. zippers,” she said. “In addition, more twin sets of matching pants and tops, and great textiles including 100 percent cottons and linens and fabrics that breathe and travel well.”

Fresh olives and artisan salamis direct from Italy are more accessible than ever as technology and transportation options expand. Meanwhile, the merging of cultures means people are open to new Out, she predicts, will be low-rise denim flavors. According to Mike DiPaolo of Dunwoody’s Novo Cucina, this is setting the stage for more and skinny jeans. creative options in food than ever. dunwoodyga.gov 7 Dunwoody THEN & NOW 35M sf At right, Dunwoody Elementary school children 30M sf and their teacher in 1921. The school was located on 25M sf the land now occupied by the Dunwoody Library. 20M sf

Dunwoody’s early development included 15M sf a few working farms and permanent Dunwoody pioneer Joberry Cheek built the beloved home now known homesteads, but most early homes were as the Cheek-Spruill House at the corner of Mt. Vernon and Chamblee built as summer cottages or hunting lodges Dunwoody Roads in 1906 for his son Bunyan. The house was originally for wealthy Atlanta families. At left, the 10M sf built as a one-story home. A second floor was added by raising the original summer home, also known as roof and adding a lower floor. The original property was 2.5 acres and “Little” House, for Arthur Leland Norris, included a pasture, cornfield, barn, smokehouse and chicken house. president of the Norris Candy Company, The home was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Carey Spruill in 1945 and burned to the ground in the 1930s. The 5M sf remained in the family until Mrs. Spruill’s death in 1994. The property property’s guest house remains today as a was deeded to the Dunwoody Preservation Trust in 1998. privately owned home on Sirron Court.

0 Commercial Development North Perimeter area (in square feet)

1820-1840 1840-1880 1880-1895 1895-1920 1920-1940 1940-1970

1821 Earliest 1847 Stephen Martin 1881 The Roswell 1901 Arthur Leland 1920 A massive 1941 Dunwoody inhabitants of the Cemetery established. Railroad made twice- Norris, founder explosion at the United Methodist area later known More than 120 years daily trips from Roswell of Norris Candy Dunwoody mill and Chapel is built. • as Dunwoody were later, the location to Chamblee with Company, builds cotton gin belonging 1945 T.K. and Grace Creek Indians who forced a rerouting of “The Dinkey,” also summer home at to Joberry Cheek Peters built their home settled along the I-285. • 1859 New called “Old Buck.” A 5068 Sirron Court. kills three men. • at 5343 Roberts Drive . Hope Cemetery stop at Mt. Vernon (Note: Sirron is Norris 1930 The Eidson along Wildcat Creek. • 1829 Ebenezer established on and Chamblee spelled backwards.) Home Place, at DeKalb Parks and Baptist Church Chamblee Dunwoody Dunwoody established • 1906 Joberry Cheek 5171 Chamblee Recreation purchased established at Spalding Road. • 1865 Major the location as the builds what is now Dunwoody Road, was the property in 1975; Drive and Roberts Charles Dunwody center of Dunwoody. known as the Cheek- the first brick home today it is the home of Drive. • 1830s (one “o”) returns Three section houses Spruill house at the built in Dunwoody. • the Dunwoody Nature from the Civil War were built to house corner of Mt. Vernon 1938 Mills B. Lane, Center. • 1950s Big of Dunwoody; referred and builds a home railroad workers. • Road and Chamblee then-president of landowners, including to as “Providence” on near intersection of 1881 The Winters Dunwoody. • 1911 C&S Bank, builds Mr. Calhoun Spruill, pre-Civil War maps. Chamblee Dunwoody Chapel Methodist Dunwoody Elementary, summer home at 115 began breaking • 1840 The Larkin and Spalding Drive. Church Cemetery was the area’s first public Spalding Mill. • 1939 up and selling Martin House built by The community is established. • 1889 school, opens in a The Cassidy House their acreage. First Larkin Martin on 300 named after him. Dunwoody United building near current off Happy Hollow subdivision was built acres at 5661Glenrich Later, a post office Methodist Church was Dunwoody Library. • Road was built as at Manget Way and Drive. Just one year error added an established. • 1889 1913 The Warnock a summer cottage Nerine Circle. • 1960s later, Larkin fell on hard “o” to the name. • Swancy Farmhouse Cottage was built and hunting lodge by Subdivisions begin times and the home 1869 Stephen Spruill was built at 5308 at 2081 Mt. Vernon Clara B. Cassidy. She sprouting throughout was sold for $180 on homeplace is built. Roberts Drive. • Road. purchased 40 acres Dunwoody. • 1968 the DeKalb Today, the home 1894 Isaac Roberts for $10 per acre in Peachtree High School courthouse steps. serves as the gallery House is built at 9725 1933. opens doors. • 1968 Today, it is the oldest for the Spruill Center Roberts Road. Chesnut Elementary surviving home in for the Arts. • 1870 opens. • 1969 I-285 Dunwoody. The Donaldson- is completed. Bannister Farm built at Chamblee Dunwoody and Vermack Roads. • 1876 The W.N. Ware House was built. Today, the home sits on the property of Life The Roswell Railroad made twice-daily runs between Roswell and Chamblee in the early Center Family Church. 1880s. The train started making stops along Chamblee Dunwoody Road just north of Mt. Vernon, leading the way to the development of the new community of Dunwoody.

8 Dunwoody Digest JAN-MARCH 2020 200 years ago > today Members of Dunwoody’s first 35M sf police force —40 officers and eight civilian employees—took their oaths of office on April 1, 2009. 30M sf

The first library in Dunwoody opened in 1981 and was housed in a rented space. 25M sf When the current building opened in 1989, 300 Dunwoody citizens formed a half-mile MARTA rail expansion to the Medical Center, Book Brigade to pass the collection of books Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and North Springs to its new home. stations began in the 1990s and precipitated 20M sf much of the north perimeter’s rapid growth. Portions of GA 400, north of I-285, opened in the late 15M sf 1960s and 1970s.

The Olympic Torch 10M sf was carried through Dunwoody by Sandy Springs’ resident Commercial development in the north perimeter corridor now totals 35 million Walter Sessoms on 5M sf July 18, 1996, in Encompassing less than 14 square miles, square feet. The new High Street mixed-use preparation for the Dunwoody now has approximately 158 development is expected to break ground Summer Games in acres of beautiful parks, including the in 2020 near the Dunwooody MARTA station. Atlanta. signature Brook Run Park pictured above. 0

1970-1980 1980-1990 1990-2000 2000-2010 2010-2015 2015-2020

1972 Perimeter 1980s The Terraces, 1996 Olympic torch 2000s North Springs 2010 Parks acquisition 2015 Denis Shortal Mall opens with Palisades, Concourse, comes through and Sandy Springs from DeKalb County elected third mayor of anchors Rich’s and One and Two Ravinia Dunwoody. • 1998 MARTA stations open. complete. • 2011 Dunwoody. • 2016 JCPenney, soon developed. • 1982 Cheek-Spruill • 2005 Donaldson- Mike Davis elected Tenth mile of sidewalk followed by Dunwoody House is saved from Bannister Farm is second mayor of completion.• 2016 Village anchored by expands new wing demolition; deed purchased by DeKalb Dunwoody. • 2012 Grand opening of Ogletree’s Groceries adding Davison’s given to Dunwoody County. • 2008 Ashford Dunwoody’s Pernoshal Park. • and Fine Foods. • anchor (later becomes Preservation Trust Dunwoody Yes! Diverging Diamond 2017 Purchase of 1971 Dunwoody High Macy’s). • 1988 by Guardian Bank. is formed to seek intersection opens. Austin Elementary School opens. • 1972 Dunwoody High • 1990s Dunwoody cityhood. • 2008 • 2012 State Farm School. • 2017 Tilly Kingsley Elementary School and Peachtree and Medical Center Dunwoody becomes begins construction Mill/N. Peachtree opens. • 1973 High School merge; MARTA stations open; a city on December in Dunwoody. • 2012 intersection redesign Vanderlyn Elementary Peachtree opens as a Perimeter Pointe 1. • 2008 Ken Wright Public Works installs opens to public. • opens. • 1975 Austin junior high for grades developed.• 1998 elected as first mayor first mile of sidewalk 2018 Grand opening Elementary opens. • 7, 8 and 9. Tornado ravages much of Dunwoody. • 2009 as a new city. • 2013 of Brook Run Park 1976 First Dunwoody of Dunwoody’s eastern Dunwoody launches First section of Brook Baseball Field. • 2018 July 4 parade held subdivisions on April police force with 40 Run Trail completed. Opening of new City with route from 8; community rallies. • officers. • 2008 Isaac • 2014 Dunwoody Hall at 4800 Ashford Georgetown Shopping 2000 First Dunwoody Roberts House named Village Parkway Dunwoody Road. • Center to Dunwoody Lemonade Days. • to National Register streetscape completed. 2019 Lynn Deutsch Village. • Late 1970s 2000 Cheek-Spruill of Historic Places. • 2014 Grand opening elected fourth mayor Wall Street Journal House named to • 2009 Donaldson- of Georgetown Park. of Dunwoody. • spotlights Dunwoody National Register of Bannister Farm named 2020 Grand Opening as a great place to live Historic Places. to National Register of of Brook Run Park in front page feature Historic Places. Great Lawn and story. Amphitheater. 50,000

45,000

Population

When Perimeter Mall opened in 1971, it was the first mall in metro Atlanta to be 40,000 developed outside of I-285. The mall was originally anchored by Rich’s (in location currently occupied by Macy’s, at left in photo) and JCPenney. Dillard’s later reconstructed and expanded the JCPenney store to add another level. 35,000 dunwoodyga.gov 9 Corners Academy: Enriching lives for students and volunteers

very day after school, 9-year-old Leah heads to Corners Academy to join her friends at the Homework Club.

“I look forward to coming here. I think this whole place is wonderful,” Leah said. “I’ve worked to improve my reading and made lots of new friends.”

Corners Academy is a program of Corners Outreach, a nonprofit that serves about 700 children from nine elementary schools in DeKalb and Gwinnett Counties. Many of the children live in one of three Dunwoody apartment complexes that are within walking distance of Corners Academy, located off the Peachtree Industrial Boulevard southbound access road.

“All of our students are very bright, and they love learning,” said Executive Director Larry Campbell. “We provide personalized tutoring and skill-building.”

Staff and volunteers work with students to try to get them on grade level for reading by third grade and on grade level for math by eighth grade. The goal is 100 percent high school graduation for all students.

“I’m hooked,” said volunteer Jody Borer. “I really enjoy the one-on-one time. You can see the improvement over the school year and the delight they show in learning. It’s Corners Outreach uses a multi-generational motivating.” focus to help families thrive. Its Corners Academy program provides tutoring for elementary students, Parents sign release forms to allow mentoring for teens, and currently serves about Corners staff to monitor students’ grades 700 children from Gwinnett and DeKalb counties. and test scores. Bilingual staff often Its programs to support parents include the recently launched Corners Industries Lawn Services, provide transportation and translation providing jobs with attractive wages and work hours during parent-teacher conferences to help that offer more opportunity for family time. eliminate barriers that might otherwise keep parents from attending. Corners Outreach also offers parent workshops and and allow for more time with their children. ESOL classes. Corners Industries Lawn Services provides higher wages, job security, paid holidays “We advocate for the children and stress and vacation, while giving back 15 percent the importance of their education,” of earnings to support Corners Academy explained Campbell. “We focus on the tutoring. Volunteers provide help a few hours a whole family.” month, or several hours each week, and “It lets our families know we care, and are sought for tutoring, baking, translation, In 2018, Corners launched a landscaping we’re listening,” Campbell added. “We’re transportation and much more. Learn more company under Corner Industries to changing their horizons.” at cornersoutreach.org. improve career opportunities for parents

10 Dunwoody Digest JAN-MARCH 2020 PAVING | SIDEWALKS | INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS | BIKE LANES T ax @WorkWhen you drive down a freshly paved road or new • Mount Vernon Road at North Peachtree Road sidewalk in Dunwoody, you’re experiencing SPLOST crosswalk improvement for $100,000 at work. The DeKalb County Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax is a one-cent sales tax that The following SPLOST projects are planned for provides funding exclusively for capital projects and construction in 2020: other long-lasting improvements, with a focus on • transportation and public safety projects. 17 lane miles of paving • New sidewalk and bike lanes on Peeler Road • Chamblee Dunwoody Road at Spalding Drive The current SPLOST was adopted by voters intersection improvement in November 2017 and will run until 2024. Dunwoody and other in DeKalb adopted SPLOST dollars have also been used to make an intergovernmental agreement which created a Dunwoody safer with the purchase of new vehicles distribution formula for the funds based on the and in-car cameras for the Dunwoody Police population of each city. Department.

SPLOST In 2018 and 2019, Dunwoody Public Works To improve fire safety and emergency response completed the following transportation projects times, DeKalb County used SPLOST to purchase using SPLOST: 10 rapid response vehicles. One of those vehicles is assigned to Station 21 in Dunwoody. • 39 lane miles of paving for $6 million • More than a mile of new sidewalks, including At the end of the six years of this SPLOST, voters Dunwoody Club Drive and the Peachtree Industrial S pecial P urpose L ocal O ption ales Boulevard access road for $500,000 will decide whether to renew the SPLOST for an • Roberts Drive improvements for the new Austin additional five or six years. THROUGH 2024 THROUGH Elementary School for $500,000

OPEN JANUARY 2020 Road and safety improvements complement new Austin Elementary campus tudents, staff and families will notice road and pedestrian safety improvements around the campus of Austin Elementary on Roberts Drive. The improvements include turn lanes into and out of the main entrance to the school, a new sidewalk on the west side of Roberts Drive, a widened sidewalk on the east side of Roberts and a new traffic signal and pedestrian crossing at the entrance. “This falls right in line with our ‘See And Be Seen’ campaign,” said Dunwoody Public Works Director Michael Smith. “Pedestrian safety, especially in school zones, is a priority for the City Council. The new and wider sidewalks will improve the experience of students and families walking to school.” The total construction cost is $1.35 million. The Georgia The new traffic signal is located at the school’s north driveway, Department of Transportation supported the project with a which is the main public entrance to the school. It is also the $300,000 grant for school safety improvements. entrance to the Dunwoody Nature Center. The south driveway, which was used for school construction, is now the bus lane Current Austin students will spend the rest of the school year in for Austin. the new building. Additional students will start in August 2020 as part of DeKalb County’s redistricting plan for elementary schools Due to the onset of colder temperatures, final paving for the in the Dunwoody cluster. project will occur in the spring. Some additional sidewalk work is also expected.

dunwoodyga.gov 11 supporting

Building strongerFathers families: Fathers Incorporated makes home in Dunwoody Three snowstorms in one week drove Kenneth Braswell out of We asked Braswell for advice New York five years ago. Great about becoming a better father in schools and a strong community 2020. Here are his suggestions: drew his family to Dunwoody. • Savor life After settling into his new home, the CEO of Fathers Incorporated “Sometimes we make life more difficult than it found the right office space nearby really is. Lighten up. Don’t miss a minute with and opened the new headquarters your family or you might miss a moment.” of the national nonprofit on Mt. Vernon Road. • Be present “Availability, access and your presence are more “This is perfect,” Braswell said. “We Fathers Incorporated’s “Real Dads Read” program helps to fill schools and barbershops with books. valuable than anything you can give your family. have the joy of living five minutes Being there is more important than anything from the office.” else.” Established in 2004, Fathers Incorporated has a mission to build stronger families and communities by promoting responsible fatherhood. Mr. Braswell said he sees fathers • Model behavior as a father facing a variety of parenting issues. “Our children learn how to parent by how they see the closest people in their lives parenting. “For families in Dunwoody, time management is a big They’re watching.” issue. Many dads are running their own businesses. That gives them flexibility, but they also tend to put in • Model behavior as a husband more work hours,” Braswell explained. Furthermore, when mom and dad are running two businesses in the “Your children see the way you treat your wife or same household, it can be difficult to raise children in significant other. You model how they will love, that same space.” share compassion and handle conflict when they grow up.” Through advocacy, seminars, social media messaging and direct services, Fathers Incorporated advocates •Know you’re significant for the role fathers play in stabilizing families. One “Sometimes society diminishes the role of fathers. of the most popular programs is called “Real Dads You need to know you are important to your Read,” which fills barbershops and schools with family and to each other. You have a profound Kenneth and Tracy Braswell with books. The annual Million Fathers March encourages impact, whether you’re there all the time or not their son KJ in front of their dads to walk to school with their children. at all. Choose to be present!” Dunwoody home.

around dunwoody HUNDREDS OF VOLUNTEERS SHOWED UP TO PARTICIPATE IN DUNWOODY’S 2019 VOLUNTEER DAY IN OCTOBER. CITIZENS JOINED GROUPS FROM TREES ATLANTA, THE AND MORE TO PLANT TREES ALONG THE DUNWOODY TRAILWAY, PAINT ROCKS FOR AN ART INSTALLATION AT BROOK RUN AND CLEAN SIGNAGE THROUGHOUT THE PARK.

12 Dunwoody Digest JAN-MARCH 2020 It’s a new day at Brook Run Dunwoody’s flagship park

Students from the new robotics team at Chesnut gets its largest facelift to date Elementary School spoke during the public comment portion of the Dunwoody City Council’s November he year meeting. The group is 2020 will be designing a scissor-lift—a an important type of device that might one for Brook be used by their friends Run Park as who use wheelchairs—for transformational accessing heights, such as a changes move from stage. They wanted to know concept to reality. what the City of Dunwoody Residents and visitors can do to ensure accessibility will be able to enjoy the of the outdoor stage at new amphitheater, great Dunwoody’s new Brook Run lawn, multi-sport fields, Park amphitheater. concessions, restrooms, covered picnic pavilion and “The amphitheater will disc golf course. be completely accessible to people with disabilities The City of Dunwoody Parks and Recreation team for both the stage and is planning special programming to highlight these the audience seating,” new amenities. Staff is grateful for your patience said Dunwoody Parks and with the progress during construction, which started Recreation Director Brent in April 2019. The official grand opening celebration Walker. “Ramps, handrails will take place in early spring, and everyone is invited. and ADA-compliant features More details will be released early in the new year. will make it user-friendly and fun for all.” Drone photos taken during construction in November 2019.

around dunwoody THE WEATHER WAS PERFECT FOR DUNWOODY’S THIRD ANNUAL WINE STROLL THROUGH PERNOSHAL PARK. PARTICIPANTS ENJOYED LIVE MUSIC, FOOD TASTINGS AND, OF COURSE, SAMPLED WINES FROM DUNWOODY AREA RESTAURANTS AND VENDORS.

dunwoodyga.gov 13 Dunwoody Police Department: Its solid foundation just went literal An idea sparked from a group employees through the of seven citizens a little less acceptance and management than a year ago has turned of tax deductible gifts and into a community-supported contributions.” foundation designed to support the Dunwoody Police “A key ingredient to a safe city is Department, its personnel and having a supportive community the community. that works closely with their police department,” said Chief Dunwoody welcomed its own Grogan. “We are fortunate to police force with open arms have that positive relationship in 2009. Led by Chief Billy with the Dunwoody community. Grogan, the force has earned With the formation of the the community’s respect every Dunwoody Police Foundation, day since. The new foundation I am confident the department is set to place a steady bulwark and citizens working together can under that already-stable base. Members of the foundation’s board joined members of city council, Dunwoody accomplish even more to keep Police and the restaurant’s owner for a presentation of $1000 from E. 48th Dunwoody safe.” Founded in July of 2019, the Street Market’s “Pizza For Police” kickoff fundraiser in November. Pictured (l-r): mission of the Dunwoody Sgt. Sean Lenahan, Rick Holland, Charlie Augello, Chief Billy Grogan, Mayor- A debut fundraising effort, Police Department Foundation elect Lynn Deutsch, Larry Domenico, Heyward Wescott, Councilman Terry Nall Pizza For Police, raised $1,000 is to improve public safety for and Officer Justin Hensal. for the foundation last October. the city’s officers and citizens. For one month, Dunwoody’s E. The project outlines a wide Founder’s Campaign 2020 in January with 48th Street Market offered the variety of goals including the establishment appeals toward corporate and individual purchase of a 16-inch-square “Momma’s of an emergency aid program to benefit sponsorships. Pizza” with $3 from each purchase officers and their families, provision for benefiting the foundation. specialized training for staff and officers, “We salute all those who have served with the support and purchase of special distinction in our city’s first decade, and, To learn more, visit the foundation’s equipment, as well as sponsorship of we seek to support continued excellence website at dunwoodypolicefoundation.org, educational programming and community in public safety as a defining characteristic contact a board member at 678-249-9559 events designed to enhance public safety of the Dunwoody community,” said or via info.dunwoodypolicefoundation@ and quality of life in Dunwoody. The Board President Rick Holland. “We will gmail.com. foundation is on track to launch its support the Dunwoody Police Department

around dunwoody THE CITY OF DUNWOODY’S ANNUAL TRUNK OR TREAT HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION DREW HUGE CROWDS FOR THE SOUNDS OF YACHT ROCK SCHOONER, FOOD TRUCKS AND, OF COURSE, THE COSTUME CONTESTS. THE EVENING EVENT WAS HELD IN BROOK RUN PARK ON OCTOBER 24.

14 Dunwoody Digest JAN-MARCH 2020 Nice Add Dunwoody opens annex facility with room for police training, community meetings, more 2020 (Permitting goes) PAPERLESS FROM BACKYARD CHICKENS TO CONSTRUCTION: Starting in January 2020, the City of Dunwoody is going paperless for all permitting. The process is designed to save time, money and reams of paper.

“We started moving our systems online last year to make the permit and inspections process more convenient for everyone,” said Community Development Director Richard McLeod. “By going paperless, we’re supporting our sustainability efforts and streamlining the process.”

Instead of making a special trip to City Hall to file forms, applicants can go online for submittals and resubmittals of building, land disturbance, and n old building with a new purpose, Dunwoody’s new North Shallowford Annex is already filling needs and sign permits via www.dunwoodyga.gov/permits. expanding opportunities for Dunwoody organizations and For other permits, like commercial roofing, nonprofit partners. solar panel installations and backyard chickens, As an example, when the Atlanta Knitting Guild was gifted with more applications can be emailed to permits@ than 4,000 skeins of yarn, the bottom floor of the 12,000-square-foot- building gave members a place to process and organize the textiles. dunwoodyga.gov. Better yet, the donated yarn is now being spun into blankets for shelters and babies, caps for preemies and chemo patients, and countless other The new system allows for online fee payments, uses in and around Dunwoody. including a convenience fee, after the permit Located at 4470 N. Shallowford Road near Peachford Road, the is processed. Inspections are also scheduled building sits on five acres of land. It was purchased by the city in 2011 through the system. Community development and the renovation of the two-story building that once housed several doctors’ offices, is now creating meeting space for community groups. staff will still be available to answer questions There is also space for yoga, dance classes and chess games. and help with the permit process weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dunwoody City Hall, located The upper level is being used as a training center for the Dunwoody Police Department, as well as a facility for hosting safety and wellness at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road, or by phone at classes for the community. Classes include CPR, Mental Health First 678-382-6800. Aid, and Citizens Police Academy presentations.

dunwoodyga.gov 15 PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID ATLANTA, GA PERMIT NO. 3259 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road Dunwoody, Georgia 30338

CITY MEETING SCHEDULE JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH

Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Feb. 6: Zoning Board Mar. 5: Zoning Board City Hall closed of Appeals Meeting of Appeals Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm Jan. 2: City Council Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm City Hall, 6-8 pm Feb. 10: City Council Meeting Mar. 9: City Council Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm Jan. 9: Zoning Board City Hall, 6-8 pm of Appeals Meeting Feb. 11: Planning Commission Mar. 10: Planning Commission City Hall, 6-8 pm Meeting Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm Jan. 13: City Council Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm City Hall, 6-8 pm Feb. 17: Presidents Day Mar. 23: City Council Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm Jan 14: Planning Commission City Hall closed Meeting Feb. 24: City Council Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm City Hall, 6-8 pm Jan. 20: MLK, Jr. National Holiday City Hall Closed Jan 27: City Council Meeting City Hall, 6-8 pm INSIDE: Events Calendar 1 Stay informed Download our about what’s mobile app 2 City of Dunwoody Sign up for our weekly 3 happening in online newsletter Follow us! Email request to your city [email protected]

678.382.6700 Mayor Lynn Deutsch Post 1 Pam Tallmadge Post 4 Stacey Harris dunwoodyga.gov [email protected] City Manager Eric Linton, ICMA-CM Post 2 Jim Riticher Post 5 Joe Seconder Feedback/story ideas: City Clerk Sharon Lowery, CMC Post 3 Tom Lambert Post 6 John Heneghan 678.382.6712 [email protected]