County by county news for Wednesday

Tucker McQueen for the AJC

Museum recreates ‘Gone with the Wind’ scene

Gone With the Wind fans called Windies will dress in costume for a barbecue, a recreation of the movie classic’s Twelve Oaks barbecue scene, from 11 a.m-3 p.m. Saturday May 26 on the Marietta Square. The Marietta Gone with the Wind Museum is sponsoring a weekend of events including a dinner and dance Friday, Windie awards on Saturday and an auction of memorabilia and autograph signing on Sunday with Morgan Brittany, Patrick Curtis and Mickey Kuhn. Information: GWTW museum at 77o-794-5576. Tucker McQueen for the AJC

Wednesday volleyball in Powder Springs

The Ron Anderson Recreation Center has an open gym every Wednesday night for free volleyball.

Adults and teens are invited from 6 to 9 p.m. in Wild Horse Creek Park, 3820 Macedonia Road, Powder Springs.

Information: Call facility manager Lionel Garrett, 770-439-3611. Carolyn Cunningham for the AJC

Meals on Wheels looks for volunteers

Meals on Wheels in Cobb County needs volunteers to deliver hot meals to homebound seniors, especially in Marietta. Kathy Lathem,with Cobb Senior Services, said more than 250 meals are delivered daily in Cobb, and there is a waiting list for service. Information: Volunteer Services at 770-528-5381.

Tucker McQueen for the AJC

Lollipop-sucking bank robber strikes twice

Authorities issued a lookout Tuesday for a man they described as a serial bank robber responsible for two heists earlier this month in Cobb County.

Surveillance videos from the two robberies show the suspect sucking on a big blue lollipop in one, and talking on a cellphone in both.

The suspect robbed a Wells Fargo Bank branch at 5010 Floyd Road, Mableton, about 10:30 a.m. May 11, and a Regions Bank branch at 2048 Macland Crossing, Marietta, shortly before noon May 18, according to the FBI’s Atlanta office and the Cobb County Police Department.

The suspect is described as a slender black man in his late 20s to early 30s, standing 6 feet 2 inches to 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 180 pounds. He has black hair, possibly in twists or dreadlocks, and possibly a mustache.

Anyone with information about the robberies is asked to contact Atlanta Crime Stoppers at 404-577-8477 (TIPS). A reward of up to $2,000 is offered through Crime Stoppers for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.

David Ibata

GWINNETT

Swing into Spring tournament expected to attract 150

An estimated 150 players are expected to compete in the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce’s fifth annual Swing into Spring golf tournament at TPC Sugarloaf in Duluth on May 29. One hundred forty-four executives played last year in the tournament. Business executives will compete in foursomes over 18 holes, with trophies awarded for the first-, second- and third-place teams.

“It’s all in an effort to cultivate the tight, close-knit business community we want in Georgia,” said Lisa Sherman, the chamber’s vice president of communications. Information: Kim Jones at 770-232-8805. Michael Alpert for the AJC

Providence Christian Academy wins award

Providence Christian Academy, a mid-sized independent, parent-sponsored school in Lilburn, has been awarded the 2012 Region 5A Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award. This is the fourth year in a row the school has won the award from the Georgia High School Association. “Good sportsmanship is an essential aspect of school-based athletics,” said Ralph Swearngin, GHSA executive director. The award was introduced in 2006 and is sponsored by GHSA and Georgia’s EMCs. Nancy Badertscher

Labor attorney to

address HR pros

John Koenig, an attorney who represents employers in labor cases, will be guest speaker at a Human Resource Management Association discussion of what non-union employers must know to oppose organized labor. Held at Duluth’s 1818 Club from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, Koenig’s message will address initiatives of the National Labor Relations Board. Cost: free for HRMA members; $35 for non-members. For information, contact Rachel Jeffers, 770-232-3000 or hrma@gwinnettchamber.org.

Michael Alpert for the AJC

Georgia Gwinnett students study abroad

Georgia Gwinnett College students Tiana Farmer and Olivia Mugenga received free eight-week study trips to Berlin, Germany and Strasbourg, France this summer. Valued at about $10,000, the scholarships from Ohio’s Global Institute of Comparative Studies were awarded on the basis of the Lawrenceville college students’ competitive essays and grade point average. Michael Alpert for the AJC

Schools host pro basketball camps

Atlanta Hawks basketball camps are coming to Lilburn’s Berkmar High and Dacula’s Hebron Christian Academy June 4-8. The sites are among 14, each featuring Hawks guests and staff, official team gear and a game ticket for each participant. Camps are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., for participants 7-16 years old and cost $200.

Michael Alpert for the AJC

Assisted living facility hosts opening

Ivy Springs Manor, Buford’s new assisted living facility on Gravel Springs Road near Cross Road, will have its grand opening ribbon cutting at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. The resort-style facility touts state-of-the-art wireless safety monitoring and and a memory care wing. For information, contact Executive Director Courtney Legg, 404-405-8302, courtney.legg@ivyspringsmanor.com. Michael Alpert for the AJC

NORTHSIDE

Project to shut down Kelly Mill Road

A portion of Kelly Mill Road just west of Cumming will be closed to through traffic beginning May 28 as road crews reconstruct the culvert at Cheatham Creek. The road will be closed from Bethelview Road to Post Road for about 10 weeks.

The project includes adding turn lanes, correcting grade deficiencies and installing curb, gutter and sidewalk on both sides of the road. Crews will also add pedestrian signals at Post and Bethelview roads and install a signal at the entrance to West Forsyth High School.

The project is funded by the county-wide SPLOST VI initiative. Patrick Fox

Hospital names nurse of the year

Nurse Sarah Bentley, who won North Fulton Hospital’s DAISY award in November, recently was named the Roswell hospital’s nurse of the year. Bentley, who works in North Fulton’s medical telemetry unit, was overwhelmed at a ceremony before coworkers. “I can’t imagine doing anything else,” the fifth-year nurse said. “Where else can you wear pajamas to work?” Michael Alpert for the AJC

Golf tourney to benefit home for at-risk boys

The 3rd annual Bald Ridge Lodge Golf Tournament is set for Tuesday at the Polo Golf and Country Club in Forsyth County. The annual fundraiser for the non-profit home for at-risk boys will feature celebrity guests, prizes, a raffle, silent and live auctions and a catered reception. Last year’s event raised more than $32,000. More info: 770-887-1220.

Mark Woolsey for the AJC

Reinhardt offers info on new MBA

An informational meeting is set May 29 on a new Reinhardt University graduate degree program to be offered in downtown Woodstock. The school will kick off Reinhardt Advantage Master of Business Administration (MBA) classes in August at The Chambers at City Center, 8534 Main St. Reinhardt faculty and staff will provide info and answer questions during the 6:30 p.m. open house.

Mark Woolsey for the AJC

HOPE Center thrift store needs volunteers

The HOPE Center’s Baby & More Thrift Store in Woodstock is looking for summer volunteers. Whether you have 4 hours to give or 40, the thrift store can use your help. Contact Deborah, volunteer coordinator, Monday-Thursday at 770-924-0864. For information or to download a volunteer packet, visit www.supporthopecenter.com. The store is part of the ministry of The Hope Center.

Kenneth Musisi

Cherokee Republican Women seek volunteers

The Republican Women of Cherokee County at 9910 Highway 92 in Woodstock are in need of volunteers for their headquarters. The headquarters are open Wednesday to Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers will assist with campaign materials, phone banks, and office duties. Information: www.rwccga.com or call 404-747-3353. Kenneth Musisi

ATLANTA

Eucharist opens Friday

The 2012 Eucharistic Congress takes place Friday and Saturday at the Georgia International Convention Center, giving the large and diverse Catholic community an opportunity to gather in prayer and celebration of the mission work of the church. Admission in free, and doors open at 5:30 p.m. Friday, with Mass and a healing service to follow. Saturday events begin with the solemn procession of the Blessed Sacrament at 8:30 a.m. More info: www.archatl.com/congress/index.html. Nancy Badertscher

Atlanta lawyer wins ‘Food Frenzy’ award

Georgia lawyers collected and contributed 612,497 pounds of food to the state’s seven food banks during the inaugural “Georgia Legal Food Frenzy,” a drive to reduce hunger statewide, Attorney General Sam Olens said.

Atlanta lawyer Adrienne Hobbs collected 25,586 pounds of food and won the Attorney General’s Cup. Other winners included: Mercer University Law School;  Atlanta lawyer Alex Susor; the state Attorney General’s Office; Georgia Power’s general counsel; and law firms McRae Brooks Warner, Coleman Talley and Frederick J. Hanna and Associates. Bill Rankin

French exchange students need hosts

A group of 25 French students, visiting Atlanta as part of a cultural exchange program, are searching for host families.

The students, who hail from areas throughout France, will be in Atlanta from July 5 through July 25. LEC, their Paris-based sponsor, is providing the students with medical coverage for their trip to the U.S., and host families would be compensated for room and board.

The students will have spending money, and each has had three to six years of English, depending on their age. Host families do not need to have French language skills.

LEC’s Atlanta coordinator, Linda Farmer, has more information. She can be reached at 770-973-2452 or at lgfarmer@aol.com. Information about the program is available at www.lec-usa.com. Wayne Washington

DEKALB

Property tax appeals canceled today

Property owners scheduled to appeal their assessments today in DeKalb County don’t need to go.

The Clerk of Superior Court has canceled the 250 cases before the board of equalization because the Callaway Building lost air conditioning late Monday. On Tuesday, temperatures reached over 90 degrees in the office, making it impossible to hold hearings.

Crews are working to restore air conditioning service.

Meetings will be rescheduled for those cases canceled. For updates, call 404-687-3876.

April Hunt

Report links attorney, council member to leak

Dunwoody released a 40-page report late Monday which names City Attorney Brian Anderson and City Council member Adrian Bonser as the sources for leaked information from a closed meeting.

The three-month investigation, conducted by former DeKalb County Attorney Bob Wilson, says the two officials leaked information relating to a land sale and swap that had been discussed in a Feb. 3 closed session.

Mayor Mike Davis has called for Anderson’s resignation and has asked the City Council to fire him.

Anderson denies he has done anything wrong. Bonser was not available Monday. Patrick Fox

Group regrets giving award to GPC president

The American Association of University Professors said Tuesday that it regrets giving a national award to Anthony Tricoli, the former president of Georgia Perimeter College.

Tricoli stepped down earlier this month after Chancellor Hank Huckaby disclosed the $16 million shortfall facing the school this fiscal year. College leaders have warned of layoffs and heavier teaching loads because of the deficit.

Last year the group gave Tricoli a shared governance award. Laura Diamond

County signs contract for pool work

The DeKalb County commission recently signed a contract to pay 12 percent less than last year for lifeguards and pool cleaning at Browns Mill Aquatic Facility this summer.

The $225,000 contract with USA Pools of Woodstock will cover services through fall.

The county raised fees at the facility, to make sure it could pay for itself. This year, season passes remain at $160 for non-residents, $80 for residents in unincorporated DeKalb and $85 for residents in DeKalb cities.

Daily admission to the Lithonia park, which opens May 26, ranges from $5 to $12, depending on age and residence. April Hunt

Avondales Estates looks at annexation

Avondale Estates’ planning and zoning board discussed Monday preliminary plans for the recently annexed land on the city’s western boundary. The 13 acres, which includes 13 businesses and nine property owners, is officially incorporated into Avondale Estates on July 1. The first phase, scheduled for completion this month, establishes the highly-flexible CBD-3 zoning for this area. The second phase is a year-long series of public meetings involving visioning and strategic planning. “What we want is high quality development for this area,” said city manager Clai Brown.

Bill Banks for the AJC

SOUTHSIDE

Fulton County schools approve budget

The Fulton County Board of Education recently voted to tentatively approve the $810.5 million general fund budget for fiscal year 2013. The budget does not raise taxes or call for teacher layoffs or furlough days.

The district is facing a $32.7 million budget shortfall that will be filled largely with reserve funds and cost-cutting. A pay freeze is planned for staff.

The total budget is $1.1 billion. It faces a vote for final adoption on June 5. D. Aileen Dodd

Tennets rights workshop offered

Renters can learn about their rights and responsibilities at a workshop in Fairburn on Thursday offered by Fulton County Housing and Community Development. Topics include understanding leases, security deposits, the importance of paying on time, reporting needed repairs, grounds for eviction and the eviction process. The class runs from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the New Beginnings Senior Center, 66 Brooks Drive. For information or special accommodations, call 404-613-7944. Johnny Edwards

Free car seat checks today in Peachtree City

Parents can bring their children and car seats to the Braelinn Village Shopping Center Kmart parking lot today (May 23) from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for a free 45-minute safety check.

Peachtree City Police and the Fayette County Safe Kids Organization will inspect the seats and offer assistance to ensure proper usage of safety equipment. To arrange a car seat check at another time, call 770-487-8866. Jill Howard Church

Safety night set for May 29

Henry County public safety and government officials are hosting a Safety and Protection Night Tuesday, May 29, from 5-8 p.m. at the Home Depot parking lot on Fairview Road in Ellenwood. It is an evening designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and emergency services community partnerships, and let criminals know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. The event is free and open to the public. In addition to various displays by Henry County law enforcement, the Henry County Fire Department and the 911 Command Center, McGruff will make an appearance and there will be food and booths set up by local businesses, along with music and a DJ. Monroe Roark

Fayette seeks school programs input

Fayette County parents are asked to provide input about Title I and Title IIA federal programs today (May 23) from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the LaFayette Education Center in Fayetteville.

The county receives federal grant money to help students meet state content standards and to ensure that students are taught by qualified and effective teachers. Parental input is a necessary and required part of the programs.

The meeting will be in the Building A media center. For information, call Jane Price at 770-460-3990, ext. 186.

Jill Howard Church for the AJC