We Took the Polar Plunge—Here’s What Happened Next...

Welcome to the Brookhaven Community Pulse. Your weekly guide to staying informed, safe and connected with our community.

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In this week's issue:

• Welcome Message

• Community Heroes

• Traffic Safety Tips

• Community Events

• Crime Prevention

• Brookhaven Strong

• Engage with Us

North Metro SWAT Brings Home the Trophy

We are thrilled to kick off this week’s Brookhaven Community Pulse with some incredible news—a huge congratulations to our very own North Metro SWAT team for earning The Best SWAT Team Trophy at the prestigious 2025 South Carolina SWAT Challenge: The Ragnarök!

Hosted by Valkyrie Tactical Solutions and The Sawmill, this intense three-day competition pushed teams from across the state to their limits, testing tactical skills, technical proficiency, mental focus, and physical endurance through seven grueling events.

The North Metro SWAT team, representing Brookhaven PD, Dunwoody PD, and Chamblee PD, demonstrated unmatched determination, expertise, and teamwork—proving exactly what it takes to be the best.

We are incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication. Their success is a testament to the level of excellence and commitment that serves our communities every day.

Let’s continue to celebrate the teams and individuals who work hard, stay focused, and make Brookhaven safer, stronger, and better—together.

Congratulations, North Metro SWAT—you’ve made us all proud!

Community Heroes: Polar Plunge Superheroes and Cross Keys Future Leaders

This week has been so incredible that we couldn’t pick just one group to spotlight—so we’re celebrating two amazing groups as our community heroes!

Braving the Cold for a Cause

A huge round of applause goes to the Brookhaven team for their incredible participation in the Special Olympics Polar Plunge event this past weekend!

While the weather was cold and the water was even colder, our community heroes took the plunge for a great cause, supporting Special Olympics Georgia and raising awareness for this incredible organization.

We want to extend a special thank you to: Big Blue Swim, Councilman Diaz, Chief Gurley, Deputy Chief Lewis, Major Napier, Lt. Ritch, Sgt. Moore, Officer Hawkins, Officer Dunn, Officer McCoy, Executive Assistant Romero-Morales, Mental Health Clinician Williams, and Property & Evidence Personnel Green for braving the chilly waters.

Thank you also to everyone who donated and supported the cause—your generosity makes a difference.

Together, we proved that Brookhaven’s heart is warmer than any cold plunge when it comes to supporting our community.

Cross Keys High School Skills Team: Future Leaders in Public Safety

This week, we are incredibly proud to recognize the Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security Class of 2025 students from Cross Keys High School—Parker Deems, Mahtabeen Hossain, and Hazima Isqua—for their outstanding achievements in the field of criminal justice.

This remarkable three-member team made history by taking 1st Place in Region 4 at the DeKalb County competition for the 2024-2025 season. Their success didn’t stop there—they advanced to the state level in Crime Scene Investigations and recently earned the Bronze Medal as 3rd Place finalists at the state competition!

But these driven students aren’t just making waves in competitions:

Hazima Isqua is actively participating in the DeKalb Juvenile Teen Court program, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

Parker Deems, as Student President of SkillsUSA, showcases exceptional leadership both inside and outside the classroom.

Mahtabeen Hossain is deeply involved in multiple student organizations, balancing community service and academic excellence.

Balancing rigorous coursework, community involvement, and leadership roles, these students exemplify what it means to be future leaders in public safety.

Congratulations to Parker, Mahtabeen, and Hazima—you are truly an inspiration, and Brookhaven is proud of all you’ve accomplished!

Traffic Safety Tips: Move It for Safety—It’s the Law!

Did you know that #GeorgiaLaw REQUIRES drivers to remove vehicles from the roadway after an accident if there are no apparent serious injuries or deaths?

(O.C.G.A. 40-6-275) states:

✅ Move your vehicle to the shoulder, emergency lane, median, or off the roadway (such as a parking lot).

Why This Matters:

Leaving your vehicle in the roadway:

• Creates dangerous traffic backups.

• Dramatically increases the risk of additional crashes.

• Puts you at risk of being struck by passing vehicles.

What to Do After a Minor Crash:

1️⃣ Check for injuries. If none are serious, move your car.

2️⃣ Turn on your hazard lights while moving.

3️⃣ Exchange information safely away from traffic.

4️⃣ Call 911 if assistance is needed.

Staying in the road is dangerous—move it to keep everyone safe.

Community Events

If you are interested in volunteering or would like Brookhaven Police to join one of your events or engagements, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]

Brookhaven Police Citizens Police Academy - Now Enrolling
📆 Wednesday, March 5th - May 7th | Every Wednesday at 7:00 PM
📍 Brookhaven Police Department

Ever wanted to see what it’s like to be a Brookhaven Police Officer? The Citizens Police Academy is your opportunity to learn firsthand about law enforcement operations, training, and community policing. Engage with officers, participate in hands-on activities, and gain a deeper understanding of how the Brookhaven Police Department serves the community.

🔹 Who can join? Brookhaven residents, business owners, and community members.
🔹 How to sign up? Spaces are limited—secure yours today!

👉 Learn More & Register Here

Join Us at the 2025 Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival!

📅 Dates:

• Festival: Saturday, March 29 & Sunday, March 30, 2025

• 5K Run: Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 8 a.m.

📍 Location:
Blackburn Park, 3493 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Brookhaven, GA

🎶 Headlining Performers:

• Saturday, March 29: O.A.R. with opener Gavin DeGraw

• Sunday, March 30: Boyz II Men with the Pop 2000 Tour

🎟️ Admission:
FREE for all attendees!

🏃 Cherry Blossom Festival 5K:
Kick off the festivities with the Cherry Blossom Festival 5K on March 22. This USATF-certified race is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier and benefits Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Registration is $25 through February 14 and $30 thereafter. Sign up by March 13 to guarantee your 2025 t-shirt. Register here:

Race Registration

🎨 Festival Highlights:

• Splash Artists’ Market: Explore over 100 fine art vendors.

• Kidz Zone: Fun activities for children of all ages.

• Pet World: A pet-friendly area with exciting shows.

• Classic Car Show: Admire vintage vehicles on display.

• Food Trucks: Savor a variety of delicious cuisines.

🚗 Parking & Shuttles, Hotels:
Limited parking is available at Blackburn Park. Free shuttles will run from nearby locations. Check the festival website for shuttle routes and schedules.

How to get to Festival

📱 Stay Updated:
Follow us on social media for the latest news and updates:

• Facebook: @BrookCherryFest

• Twitter: @BrookCherryFest

• Instagram: @BrookCherryFest

For more information, visit the official festival website:

Cherry Blossom Festival

We look forward to celebrating with you at the 2025 Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival!

Resources and Programs

Download our Brookhaven Police App to stay in the know while you are on the go.

Crime Prevention

Protecting Your Children Online—What Parents Need to Know

In today’s digital world, mobile devices, computers, and gaming systems offer endless opportunities for learning and fun. However, some apps and platforms can expose children and teens to unsafe situations.

Parents, it’s essential to monitor your child’s activities on all digital platforms. While many apps are harmless, others can be dangerous if misused.

Apps Parents Should Monitor or Remove:

1️⃣ Social media apps (e.g., Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok)

2️⃣ Live-streaming and video chat apps

3️⃣ Chat apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Kik)

4️⃣ Multiplayer games with built-in chat

5️⃣ Dating apps

6️⃣ Explicit content apps

7️⃣ Interactive story or simulation apps

Did You Know? Kids Can Hide or Rename Apps:

• Apps can be renamed and have their icons changed using shortcuts.

• Apps can be hidden from the home screen using the App Library or by re-downloading them without appearing as new.

How to Spot Hidden Apps:

✅ Open every app—look for unusual or unfamiliar icons.

✅ Check the App Library—on iOS, swipe right to access the App Library and search for original app names.

✅ Review App Store history—previously downloaded apps show a cloud icon instead of “GET.”

Why This Matters:

While kids may be more “tech-savvy,” parents play a critical role in keeping them safe. Regularly reviewing devices, having open conversations about online safety, and staying informed about popular apps can help prevent dangerous situations.

For more details and a complete list of apps to watch for, visit:

👉 SafeWise: Dangerous Apps for Kids

Your attention today can prevent problems tomorrow—stay involved, stay informed, and keep your children safe online.

Brookhaven Strong

Here’s your reminder to drink some water—because you can’t pour from an empty cup. 💙

Water fuels your body, sharpens your mind, and keeps you energized to tackle whatever the day throws your way. Every sip is an investment in your health, focus, and strength.

💧 Feeling tired? Drink water.

💧 Feeling stressed? Drink water.

💧 Chasing big goals? Stay hydrated—you’ll go further.

Small habits lead to big results, and staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to feel and perform at your best. So grab that bottle, take a sip, and keep pushing forward—because you’ve got things to conquer.

Engage with Us

Have a Question? We’ve Got Answers!
This section answers questions submitted by our community. Here’s one we received recently:

Q: What is a VIN verification, and how can I get one in Georgia?

A: A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification is a process used to confirm that a vehicle’s identification number matches its registration documents and has not been altered or tampered with. This verification is often required when:

🚗 Registering an out-of-state vehicle in Georgia

🚗 Registering a rebuilt or salvaged vehicle

🚗 Correcting errors on a vehicle title

✅ How to Get a VIN Verification in Georgia:

1️⃣ Contact Your Local Law Enforcement Agency – Some police departments, including Brookhaven PD, may assist with VIN verifications. Call ahead to confirm availability.

2️⃣ Visit a Certified Inspection Location – The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) may have a list of approved inspection stations.

3️⃣ Schedule an Appointment (If Required) – Some locations may require advance appointments for VIN checks.

4️⃣ Bring Necessary Documents – Typically, you’ll need:

• The vehicle’s title or out-of-state registration

• A valid driver’s license or ID

• Proof of ownership (if applicable)

⚠️ Important Notes:

• The vehicle must be present for inspection.

• VIN verification checks help prevent theft, fraud, and ensure accurate records.

• If your vehicle is salvaged or rebuilt, additional inspections may be required by the Georgia Department of Revenue.

👉 For more details, visit the Georgia Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicles website.

💡 VIN verification is a quick process that plays a big role in keeping Georgia roads safe and vehicle records accurate.

Got a question? Submit it here, and we might feature it in the next issue!