???? Help William

I might be in a gang

Wednesday, April 22 — It’s Cathy from Rough Draft with my weekly newsletter on Dunwoody. 

Every Tuesday, about a dozen other participants and I have been attending Dunwoody’s Citizen Police Academy, a 13-week program where we learn about various functions of police work through classroom lectures, training scenarios, and off-site tours of partner locations.

Last night, we learned about gangs, an association of three or more people who share interests, often wear the same clothing, and threaten violence to achieve their nefarious goals – which sounds a lot like my Tuesday Mahjong group. And my Wednesday night cornhole team. Getting worried.

Seriously, though, the CPA is an eye-opening experience that provides a deep dive into police operations and the people who protect the city. There’s another one coming up in August. Think about signing up (or else). 

Before we get to this week’s stories, here are a few newsy things coming up. 

While Lemonade Days is the top story for Dunwoody, a lot is going on in and around the Metro area. Collin Kelly, our intrepid executive editor, has compiled a comprehensive list here. 

 Just a reminder, because of Lemonade Days, the Dunwoody Homeowners Association will not hold its weekly farmers market on Saturday.

Speaking of DNC, Earth Week Community Jam Circle is tomorrow from 6:30-8 p.m. Join in and “share music connected to … personal journeys, growth, and mental health.” No musical experience necessary. Register here.

Have a great Wednesday,
Cathy 

Join the Dunwoody Nature Center for our 20th annual Monarchs & Margaritas, a fundraising evening under the stars with dinner, cocktails, live music, and nature-inspired fun. Support environmental education while exploring our new Wildcat Creek Learning Lab and boardwalk. SPONSOR MESSAGE

‘We are just over it’ say residents about apartment complex proposal

Here’s a development that will have a significant impact on Dunwoody residents, especially those who live or travel in the Perimeter area.

Developers at Perimeter Summit, just inside I-285 off Ashford Dunwoody Road, are proposing to build a 280-unit, seven-story apartment complex, and the residents at the Villa Sonoma condominiums are not jazzed about it. 

A meeting held on April 20 drew about 30 people, most of whom said they oppose the development, citing other recent and upcoming apartment construction in and near the area. Developers contend it will revitalize the area with connecting trails, refreshed landscaping, and reworked ingress and egress.

While the catch phrase at the meeting was “it’s not a done deal,” the rezoning request has already cleared Brookhaven’s Planning Commission and will be considered at the April 28 city council meeting. 

 Read more about the contentious meeting here.

A Night of Nature, Fun & Margaritas

SPONSORED BY DUNWOODY NATURE CENTER

Celebrate 20 years of Monarchs & Margaritas at the Dunwoody Nature Center on May 2, 6-9 p.m.

Enjoy dinner, an open bar, live music, and interactive nature experiences. Guests will explore the new Wildcat Creek Learning Lab and boardwalk while supporting environmental education and conservation. This signature event brings the community together for an unforgettable evening with a meaningful impact.

→ Tickets are available now.

He’s a treat and a treasure

Over the years, William Blackshear has been a familiar face and a source of comfort for countless shoppers at the Dunwoody Hall Publix.

Blackshear is a clerk, but is so much more. People often stand in “his” line so they can exchange a word with him, ask him for a quick prayer, or inquire about his health. Despite having sickle cell disease, a painful and debilitating condition, he always has a smile on his face that never fades.

A few weeks ago, he was involved in a multi-car accident on his way to work, which totaled his vehicle. Though he was not injured, it’s just another setback on a journey that has seen many challenges. 

His friends and customers are raising money to help Blackshear purchase a reliable replacement car and pay some of the medical expenses incurred during his ongoing sickle cell treatment.

They are nearing their goal, but if you feel moved to help, here’s the GoFundMe link.

Lemonade Days at Brook Run Park

One of Dunwoody’s most cherished events, Lemonade Days, opens today at 4 p.m. and runs through Sunday. Begun in 1999, the first Lemonade Days was held as a relief effort for those families affected by the 1998 tornado that tragically destroyed entire Dunwoody neighborhoods.

In much-anticipated news, Melanie Williams has been named the 2026 honorary queen. Williams has worn many hats in her more than 20 years volunteering with the Dunwoody Preservation Trust.

You can pay homage to her by visiting her throne located in the kids’ section on Thursday from 5-7 p.m., Friday from 6-8 p.m., Saturday from 2-6 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 2:30 p.m.

 Read more about Williams and the festival here. 

Picture this: Dunwoody’s latest art installation

✄ Dunwoody officials cut the ribbon on the city’s newest public art installation, “Common Ground” at Georgetown Park, an interactive sculpture of three benches inside a circular garden.

“The design weaves climbing plants with a sense of community,” an announcement by the city said. “Designed by Metal Artist Huelani Mei, the charming installation is a great location for photos and can be found near the bocce courts at the back of the park.”

Ѻ Watch a video about the ribbon-cutting ceremony and the sculpture’s creation here.

Join the Dunwoody Nature Center for our 20th annual Monarchs & Margaritas, a fundraising evening under the stars with dinner, cocktails, live music, and nature-inspired fun. Support environmental education while exploring our new Wildcat Creek Learning Lab and boardwalk. SPONSOR MESSAGE

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