the DeKalb FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • VOL. 24, NO.
36• FREE
Serving East Atlanta, Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Clarkston, Decatur, Doraville, Dunwoody, Lithonia, Pine Lake, Stone Mountain, Stonecrest and Tucker • A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS
Approximately 240 bands performed at this year’s Porchfest.
Oakhurst Porchfest
largest ever
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
S
ince 2015, residents of
Oakhurst and Decatur
have looked forward to
the annual outdoor music festival
known as Porchfest. What started
A Oakhurst resident prepares for the annual Porchfest. as an idea from a friend, quickly
turned into one of Decatur’s largest
free-range music festivals. This
year, music lovers lined up to hear a
variety of performers on Oct. 12 in
Oakhurst.
With more than 240 hosts and a
performer on each porch, this year’s
Porchfest was the largest Porchfest
in the country, according to Scott
Doyon, founder of Porchfest in
Oakhurst. More than 100 block
captains and volunteers helped
keep the community safe and clean,
Doyon said.  marketing without us having to do
Attendees listen to music from live bands at Oakhurst Porchfest.
Visit www.TheChampionNewspaper.com for local, real DeKalb County news.
“It blows my mind a little bit
every year. We’ve been blessed with
great weather for the last few years
and we’ve had a great turnout,”
Doyon said. “It was another great
year.”
Porchfest is an annual music
festival held in various locations
throughout the United States where
musicians perform on front lawns
and porches free of charge. Some
residents decorate their lawns in
themes and offer drinks and light
refreshments.
“The amazing thing is, each
year we do less and less from a
promotional standpoint,” Doyon
said. “When you have 240 bands
and each one of them wants you
to bring a crowd and 240 hosts
who are essentially throwing a
party in their front lawn, that is
See PORCHFEST on page 6
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 2

TUCKER

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required

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walking lunches

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BY CARLA PARKER
• Fitness program
carla@dekalbchamp.com
• Dental allowance and go to the dentist
Tucker residents and visitors are no longer allowed to of your choice
ride shareable electric scooters or bikes within city limits.
Tucker City Council voted 5-1 at its Oct. 14 regular • Hearing and vision services
meeting to amend the city code to prohibit shareable
e-scooters and e-bikes. The vote comes four months
after city council approved a 120-day moratorium ban on Get your free Medicare Advantage Guide.
e-scooters to give city officials time to study the issue. In There’s no obligation. Visit GetCignaMedicare.com
a memo to city council, community development director
John McHenry said the moratorium centered on the or call 1-855-308-2406 (TTY 711).
belief that state officials could enact legislature to regulate
electronic scooters statewide.
“Legislation was introduced but it did not pass,” Henry
said. “Staff then researched how these shared devices
are being regulated by similar sized and located regional
cities.”
Tucker studied other cities such as Alpharetta, Marietta
and Norcross that have prohibited e-scooters. All Cigna products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna
“A primary concern for the city of Tucker is that of Corporation. The Cigna name, logos, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc.
public safety for our residents, the riders and the driving Cigna complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
national origin, age, disability or sex. Cigna cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables
public, which has been highlighted by the unfortunately y no dicrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. English: ATTENTION: If
large number of accidents, including fatalities related to you speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-888-284-0268
these devices,” Henry said. “The nature of the very busy (TTY 711). Spanish: ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia
and extensive commercial corridors that traverse the city, as lingüística. Llame al 1-888-284-0268 (TTY 711). Chinese: 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲
well as the increasing safety concerns for the riders, as well 得語言援助服務。請致電 1-888-284-0268 (TTY 711). You must reside in the plan service area. Cigna is
as the vehicles that are left on public [rights-of-way] leads contracted with Medicare for PDP plans, HMO and PPO plans in select states, and with select State Medicaid
programs. Enrollment in Cigna depends on contract renewal. Free guide without the obligation to enroll.
the staff to recommend a prohibition at this time for these © 2019 Cigna 935981 Y0036_20_78172_M
vehicles.”

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LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 3

COUNTYWIDE

STD rates shock

Photo by Amornthep Srina from Pexels

local health expert

BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
Horace@dekalbchamp.com
According to a recent
study conducted by the
DeKalb County-based
Center for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC),
combined cases of syphilis,
to me,” Ford said. “It’s
disappointing because we
think we’re increasing
public awareness but we’re
still seeing these numbers
spiking. Georgia is above
the national average for a lot
of these diseases.”
Ford said more clinics
should test for syphilis.
“We’re not really testing
need to ensure their children Board of Health offers also not required to have a
feel comfortable talking HIV screenings and does parent present to receive a
openly with them about sex.  not charge adolescents for screening.
“Parents have to STD screenings. Teens are
make it a safe place to
have uncomfortable
conversations. You have to
SEEKING LEGAL
make sure you keep a poker

gonorrhea and chlamydia
reached an all-time high in
the United States in 2018.
On Oct. 8, the CDC
released its annual Sexually
Transmitted Disease
Surveillance Report.
According to the report,
some of the most common
sexually transmitted
diseases such as syphilis,
gonorrhea and chlamydia
continue to rise.  HOMESTEAD EXEMPTIONS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS
In the United States
from 2017 to 2018, there
were more than 35,000
cases of primary and
secondary syphilis, the
highest rate reported
since 1991. Gonorrhea
increased 5 percent to
more than 580,000 cases
and chlamydia increased
3 percent to more than 1.7
million cases, the most ever
reported.  “(b)(1) Each resident of the City of Brookhaven who is disabled or is a senior citizen is granted an exemp-
“STDs can come at
a high cost for babies
and other vulnerable
populations,” said Jonathan
Mermin, director of CDC’s
National Center for HIV/
AIDS, Viral Hepatitis,
STD, and TB Prevention.
“Curbing STDs will
improve the overall health
of the nation and prevent
infertility, HIV, and infant
deaths.”
Deaths from congenital
syphilis–contracted by
babies at birth–in the
U.S. also increased by 22
percent from 2017 to 2018.
DeKalb County ranks 10th
nationwide for congenital
syphilis, according to
DeKalb County Board of
Health Director Sandra
Elizabeth Ford.  2020.
“Some of these
numbers are just shocking
ASSISTANCE
for it like we should. We face and help your children
thought we were done with understand there’s nothing
this disease,” Ford said.  that they can’t tell you,” This issue may include $500 million
Ford said STD rates Ford said. “Your home has
to be a safe space. That I am a Community Activist in DeKalb. I am looking for a
continue to grow because lawyer, law firm, legal team or persons to help me with a
there is still a social stigma includes conversations of 1983 Civil Rights action.
regarding talking about drugs and sex and other
high-risk behaviors.”
Call Joe at (678)-754-2424
sexual behavior with young
adults. Ford said parents Ford said DeKalb P. O. Box 1647, Pine Lake, GA 30072
CITY OF BROOKHAVEN - CALL OF SPECIAL ELECTION
AND DISABLED PERSONS
PER HB 647 – ACT #167
HEREBY TAKE NOTICE OF THE CALL OF A SPECIAL ELECTION: THE CITY OF BROOKHAVEN
has requested the DeKalb Board of Elections to call a Special Election to be held at the time of the general
election of the City on November 5, 2019, for the purpose of placing before the qualified electors residing
within the limits of the City of Brookhaven, a referendum increasing the existing homestead exemption
for senior citizens and disabled persons to $160,000.00 through five annual increases. This Call for a
Special Election is made pursuant to the Georgia Constitution, Art. 7, Sec. 2, Paragraph II; Ga. L. 2012,
p.5527 as amended by House Bill 647, passed by the Georgia House of Representatives on March 26,
2019 and the Georgia Senate on April, 2, 2019; and Brookhaven Resolution 2019-05-02. House Bill 647
amended the Act incorporating the City of Brookhaven by revising subsection (b) of Section 5.09 of Ga. L.
2012, p. 5527 to read as follows:
tion on that person’s homestead from City of Brookhaven ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes in the
following amounts for the following tax years:
(A) For tax year 2020 – $43,200.00 of the assessed value of that homestead;
(B) For tax year 2021 – $72,400.00 of the assessed value of that homestead;
(C) For tax year 2022 – $101,600.00 of the assessed value of that homestead;
(D) For tax year 2023 – $130,800.00 of the assessed value of that homestead; and
(E) For tax year 2024 and all subsequent tax years – $160,000.00 of the assessed value of that
homestead.
(b)(2) The exemption granted by this subsection shall only be granted if that person’s income, together
with the income of the spouse who also occupies and resides at such homestead, does not exceed
$15,000.00 for the immediately preceding year. The value of that property in excess of such exempt
amount shall remain subject to taxation.”
This amendment is conditioned on the approval of the majority of qualified electors residing within the
limits of the City of Brookhaven by referendum presented as part of the Special Election to be held on No-
vember 5, 2019. Georgia Constitution, Art. 7, Sec. 2, Paragraph II(a)(1). The ballot for the Special Elec-
tion on November 5, 2019 shall have written or printed thereon the words:
“Shall the Act to incorporate the City of Brookhaven be amended so as to increase the current
homestead exemption for senior citizens and disabled persons from $14,000.00 to $160,000.00
through five equal annual increases?”
“( ) YES
( ) NO”
All persons desiring to vote for approval of the amendment to the Act shall vote “Yes,” and all persons
desiring to vote for rejection of the amendment shall vote “No.” If more than one-half of the votes cast on
the referendum are for approval, the amendment shall become of full force and effect on January 1, 2020.
If the Act is not so approved or if the election is not conducted as provided in this section, the amendment
shall not become effective, and the amendment shall be automatically repealed on the first day of January,
The polls will be open on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2019 from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 4

Too much Southern hospitality

Hours prior to Game 5 of the
Atlanta Braves National League
playoff series against the St. Louis
Cardinals, the Braves organization
announced they would not hand out
the familiar red foam tomahawks
that have been part of the Braves
experience for decades because
Cardinals pitcher Ryan Helsley
complained about the familiar tribal
chant that is played at Braves games
to entice fans to show their support
of the home team.
This is taking the concept of
Southern hospitality a bit too far, in
my opinion.
Helsley, who claims to be
a member of the Cherokee
Nation, told The St. Louis Post-
Dispatch that the chant is “a
misrepresentation of the Cherokee
people or Native Americans in
general.”
JOHN HEWITT
johnh@dekalbchamp.com
My DNA profile shows that
I am a combination of European
and Native American ancestry. I
am proud of my heritage and can’t
begin to imagine how anyone with
Native ancestry would feel offended
by actions that have no evil intent
and cause no harm to anyone unless
they choose to allow themselves to
be offended.
I’m not offended by the Kansas
City Chiefs, the Cleveland Indians
or Florida State’s Seminoles, but
rather see the naming of powerful
sports teams as a compliment to
native cultures.
My DNA is, however,
overwhelmingly British/Irish. It
doesn’t bother me in the least that
Notre Dame’s football team is
referred to as the Fighting Irish.
And, if I were offended by it, what
right do I have to attempt to curtail
the actions of others just because I
don’t agree?
Helsley also said the familiar
chant depicts Native Americans “in
this kind of caveman-type people
way who aren’t intellectual. They
are a lot more than that.” Say what?
Note that Helsley did not say “'We’
are a lot more than that”, but,
referred to Native Americans as
“they.”
I can’t understand what is
“caveman” about a chant? Chants
are used in Catholic, Hindu and
Jewish religious ceremonies and
have been for hundreds of years.
Chants are also used by many sports
teams as means of encouraging
crowd and teammate support as
well as by many fraternities and
sororities.
It angers me to know that one
individual’s opinion can have such
a tremendous impact on others. It
is safe to assume that most of us
would not want to intentionally
offend or hurt another human, but in
the world of sports there will always
be a winner and a loser. To the
victor, go the spoils.
Not only did the Cardinals take
away our tomahawks and chant,
they spanked the Braves. That is
offensive!

Foreclosures
If you want ethics in DeKalb, vote no in November
Tax Sales/Ads for Bids
As I consider the Board of Ethics referendum
on the November 5th ballot, I am reminded
of a lesson my father, a self-taught mechanic,
taught me: Beware the car mechanic with more
the impact will essentially gut the independence
and authority of the Board of Ethics, leaving it a
mere shell of its current form.
During my 2018 campaign for the State
But you need not take only my word for it.
Dr. Paul Wolpe, director of Emory University’s
Center for Ethics, agrees that the proposed
changes would be both substantial and harsh.

Trade Name Registrations

solutions than your car has problems. House, I knocked on many thousands of doors “The bottom line is that this bill is clearly meant
In 2018, the Supreme Court of Georgia made throughout Brookhaven and Chamblee and one to weaken and dilute the excellent policy passed
mechanics out of the state representatives and consistent worry I heard from talking with voters in 2015, without any convincing reasons to
senators representing DeKalb County. The Court was corruption in county leadership. There have weaken the bill,” he wrote in a recently published

Public Notices/Public meetings

ruled unconstitutional the legislative provision
allowing for non-elected bodies in DeKalb––the
DeKalb Bar Association, DeKalb Chamber,
Leadership DeKalb, and DeKalb colleges and
universities––to appoint members to the county’s
certainly been enough high-profile investigations
and prosecutions to warrant the concern.
To say the ethics law in its current version
is popular is a huge understatement. When
presented to DeKalb voters in 2015, it passed by
letter. “DeKalb is slipping back to a former
posture that got it in trouble in the first place.”
Early voting is already underway for the
November 5th election. With turnout projected
to be very low, every vote matters as we work to

Sheriff Sales/Local Legislation

Board of Ethics. By doing so, our legislative an overwhelming 92 percent. And national ethics defeat this incredibly harmful proposal. I implore
delegation was presented with a single problem experts hailed it an “excellent policy,” that would you to take a closer look at this particular ballot
to fix during the 2019 legislative session: the hold county elected officials accountable when question and then get to the polls.
appointment process. they strayed outside the bounds of the law and Beware the politicians offering you more

Notices of Incorporation
But I am sad to report, with the passage of
Senate Bill 7 that led to November’s referendum,
we have presented you, the voter, with more
solutions than your ethics law has problems. And
these so-called “fixes” are actually designed to
weaken the power of the Board. In fact, if the
voters approve the changes from Senate Bill 7,
their statutory duties.
If a majority passes November’s referendum,
that “excellent policy” will be eviscerated. I have
described in much greater detail on my campaign
website how the proposed changes will have a
drastic impact on the current ethics law. I hope
you will take a moment to read it.
solutions than your ethics law has problems.
If you value an independent board that can
actually hold DeKalb County elected officials
accountable, I urge you to vote “no.” I already
have.
Rep. Matthew Wilson

To subscribe, visit DeKalbLegalNotices.com

or call 404-373-7779, X 0

#ItsInTheChampion
OPINION
“I thought I was doing
something very good for our
country by using Trump National
Doral, in Miami, for hosting the
G-7 leaders. It is big and grand,
on hundreds of acres next to
Miami International Airport, has
tremendous ballrooms & meeting
rooms and each delegation
would have its own 50 to 70 unit
building. Would set up better than
other alternatives. I announced that
I would be willing to do it at NO
PROFIT or, if legally permissible,
at ZERO COST to the USA. But
as usual the Hostile Media &
their Democratic Partners went
CRAZY!” Tweeted by President
Donald Trump in a rare back-
tracking to withdraw plans to host
the 2020 G-7 Summit at his Trump-
owned Doral Golf Resort in Miami,
Florida.
Reversing course and stopping
a problematic no-bid contract
worth several million to any hotel
or property, as well as a major
reputation enhancement, is a good
idea. Making the selection in the
first place on many fronts, and
particularly given his timing, was a
very bad one.
I will give the president credit
however again, in that he is often a
master of distraction. All this chatter
and absorption of the 24-hour news
cycle for a few days did shift to this
story and away from the Ukraine,
Kurds in North Syria and the
impeachment inquiry.
Though as the original G-7 site
announcement came from at least
still now acting White House Chief
of Staff Mick Mulvaney (as of this
writing), it was also Mulvaney who
let slip a boo-boo regarding the
president’s earlier phone call with
the president of the Ukraine in the
same briefing. I would not be taking
bets on Mr. Mulvaney’s job security.
 The Doral is a beautiful hotel,
as are Mar-a-Lago, the Trump
FREEPRESS
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DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 5
Good call, bad idea
by his two sons, many acknowledge state. 
‘One Man’s the president remains apprised of,
if not directly engaged in, the day-
If the Doral’s selection had
become reality, Congressional
Opinion’ to-day affairs of various Trump Democrats were all but stating
enterprises. that this action would have
Bill Crane  As candidate Trump, the created its own separate Article of
bill.csicrane@gmail.com entrepreneur often Tweeted and Impeachment, and even many of
stated at campaign rallies that he the president’s typical allies and
might become the first president defenders on Capitol Hill were
National Hotel in Washington, D.C.
to actually make money on his more than lightly critical of both the
and many other Trump resorts, both
campaign, as well as while in timing and the choice. 
foreign and domestic; but even
office. The Trump 2020 re-election Some supporters of this
if offered at cost, with no public
campaign theme is “Promises Made, president suggest his likeness
bidding or public contracts from
Promises Kept.” It appears we may should later be added to the carvings
a private company, the revenue to
have two more of those to add to on Mount Rushmore. Though his re-
the host property would be in the
that list. election may still well be possible,
millions of dollars. 
 At G-8 Summit 30 on Sea driven largely by the hard rush left
The last then G-8 Summit on
Island, an additional wrinkle was by the most likely nominees still
American soil was in June, 2004 at
the death of former President standing in the Democratic field, it
The Cloister on Sea Island, hosted
Ronald Reagan, and his funeral, would seem right now that he may
by Pres. George W. Bush. That
which occurred on June 9—the be more strongly remembered for
visit by eight heads of state was
second day of the summit—and having too many thumbs instead.
deemed important enough to custom
caused several heads of state to
order a hand-made conference table
extend their stays stateside. Bill Crane also serves as a
made from old growth hardwoods
The Doral would pass muster political analyst and commentator
and repurposed timber at a reported
on similar access to military for Channel 2’s Action News, WSB-
cost of nearly $100,000. If the table
installations, but so, for that AM News/Talk 750 and now 95.5
was that pricey, imagine the costs
matter, would the Eden Roc or FM, as well as a columnist for The
for security, catering and lodging. 
Fontainebleu resorts in Miami Champion, DeKalb Free Press and
And presidents, prime ministers and
Beach. And closer to D.C., both Georgia Trend. Crane is a DeKalb
the like typically travel with rather
the Greenbrier in West Virginia, or native and business owner, living
large posses, not to mention the
the Homestead in Virginia, would in Scottdale. You can reach him
several hundred news media outlets
also easily fit the bill, and have or comment on a column at bill.
and reporters staged and present
previously hosted foreign heads of csicrane@gmail.com. 
nearby. 
This president should be, and
likely has already been, made
well aware of the downsides of
his hotels doing business with
foreign governments. His private
lawyers have been litigating
multiple lawsuits citing the
Domestic Emoluments Clause,
which prohibits U.S. presidents
from directly or indirectly receiving
income from foreign governments
while in office. 
Trump chose not to place his
various enterprises in a blind-trust
or to completely separate himself
from his many business holdings.
While his corporate and real estate
holdings remain privately owned
and generally managed at present
Publisher: Staff Reporters:
John Hewitt Carla Parker STATEMENT FROM THE
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Dr. Earl D. Glenn discussion surrounding this and any
Social Media Manager: issue of interest to DeKalb County.
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LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 6

PORCHFEST
Continued From Page 1

anything. We get a broader audience of

Teen receives local honor
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN dance, drama and media arts clear voices who are positively
people because the band does a lot of the
horace@dekalbchamp.com at her school. She also dances impacting not only their own
recruiting. The event kind of runs itself.”
with Atlanta Ballet. Watlington lives, but the lives of their peers,
  Doyon said the first year of Porchfest Hannah Watlington, 15, said she enjoys participating and the community around
in 2015 attracted 130 performers and the said when she joined her local in workshops and programs them.”
event has continued to grow.  Boys and Girls Club, she was offered by at the club. She is To prepare for the final
Decatur resident Robert Soens, who shy and a little apprehensive. But president of the club’s tech competition, teens will receive
also performed during Porchfest, said he’s after being part of the club for program, Keystone—a volunteer mentor coaching on their
lived in the area for more than two decades more than six years, Watlington community service program— interviewing, networking, writing
and enjoys the annual music festival. was named the Youth of the Year and attended Camp Kiwanis, a and public speaking skills.  
Soens said the event is a great way to meet for Samuel L. Jones Boys and year-round residence camp for Watlington said she would
neighbors.   Girls Club.  youth hosted by Boys and Girls like to attend University of South
“This is a great event because it brings Watlington, who is a Club members.  Carolina, University of Georgia,
the community together and everybody sophomore at DeKalb School of Watlington will join youth of Georgia Tech or Emory and that
has a good time,” Soens said. “We also the Arts, said being named youth the year winners from 20 other she may pursue a career as a
enjoy sharing our wonderful neighborhood of the year for the Samuel L. Boys and Girls Club locations veterinarian or physical therapist. 
with people who come to visit and hear the Jones Boys and Girls Club is a at the annual Youth of the Year “I really gained leadership
music. It gives people a sense of what life great honor.  Fundraising Gala Nov. 8 at and confidence. I used to sit in
is like in Oakhurst.” “When I first started at the the Delta Flight Museum. The the corner and stay isolated, but
Soens said anyone who has not Boys and Girls Club, I was winners will compete for the title now I’m much more confident.
attended Porchfest in Oakhurst should nervous because I had to meet of Metro Atlanta Youth of the I became really close with the
come next year and experience what the new people and be in a new Year.  staff and they encouraged me to
event has to offer.  environment that I’m not used “We’re so excited about these get active and join some of the
“This is a fun neighborhood event with to,” Watlington said. “It’s great to teens’ accomplishments,” said clubs,” Watlington said. 
a great variety of music. It’s a fun social see my growth and improvement John Strong, executive director
gathering and a way to relax and meet new from when I was younger to of the Jones Club. “Despite the
friends,” Soens said.  where I am now. I’m more hurdles many of these youth
confident and a more confident face, they continue to develop
speaker.” into strong young leaders with
Watlington participates in
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 7

STONE MOUNTAIN

K9 officer shot in
the line of duty
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN area with significant damage
to his right rear femur.
horace@dekalbchamp.com
No major organs were
damaged,” DeKalb County
DeKalb County Police
Police officials said in a
K9 officer D’Jango is still
statement Oct. 16.
recovering from his injuries
D’Jango was taken
after being shot while
to Blue Pearl Veterinary
looking for a suspicious
Hospital in Sandy Springs.
person in Stone Mountain.
The K9 officer underwent
The incident happened
two surgeries and was
Oct. 15 at approximately 1
released Oct. 19.
p.m., according to DeKalb
According to DKPD
County Police officials.
officials, D’Jango was
According to officers,
released to the care of
DeKalb police noticed
his handler, Sgt. Frank
a man, Akinyia Malik
Cusimano. DeKalb County Police Officer K9 D’Jango was shot and critically wounded Oct.
Jerome Gray, 26, walking 15 in Stone Mountain, according to DeKalb police officials.
“The DeKalb County
toward a convenience store
Police Department and the
at North Hairston Road
Cusimano family sincerely
and Central Drive. Gray
thank everyone from
was wanted for multiple
around the country for your
felony warrants, including
support. A special thank
possession of a firearm,
you to the wonderful staff
obstruction of justice and hit
at Blue Pearl Hospital,”
and run charges.
DeKalb Police officials said
As officers approached
in a statement.
Gray, he shot at officers,
Georgia Bureau of
hitting and critically injuring
Investigations (GBI) is
D’Jango. Officers shot at
currently reviewing the
Gray, who later died as a
incident. This is the GBI’s
result of his wounds. 
69th officer-involved
“D’Jango was injured
shooting investigation this
when he was shot yesterday
year. 
near his pelvic/abdomen

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LOCAL
DUNWOODY
Public safety and infrastructure
prioritized in city budget
BY TAYLOR ROBINS
Taylor@dekalbchamp.com
Dunwoody’s proposed
budget for the upcoming
2020 fiscal year, includes
plans that prioritize
public safety, quality-
of-life initiatives and
infrastructure.
Dunwoody officials
predict revenues will
increase slightly. The
proposed budget maintains
the tax rate at 2.740
mills overall─1.740
mills for qualified
homeowners─along
with maintaining the tax
assessment freeze for
residents who qualify.
The proposed budget
has approximately $39.5
million in direct revenue
across all funds.
The overall proposed
general fund budget, the
largest part of the overall
budget, is $25.6 million, a
1.2 percent increase of the
amended 2019 fiscal year
budget.
City officials are
proposing 3.1 percent pay
increases for the city’s 98
full-time employees totaling
$185,000. Contracted
employees will not be
included in the pay raise.
The proposed budget also
includes $109,000 to fund
two police officers. Police
officer positions have
previously been funded
through the city’s savings
account, according to
Dunwoody officials.
“Given the limited
revenue growth of the city,
we had to stay within our
means,” said Dunwoody
Mayor Denis Shortal.
“Public safety represents
PLEASE RECYCLE
THIS PAPER
more than a third of our
general fund budget, with
parks and public works
almost a quarter combined.
This shows the city’s
emphasis on keeping our
community strong.”
For quality-of-
life initiatives and
infrastructure, the city has
proposed $3.7 million for
citywide repaving using a
combination of sales tax
and state funding; $1.4
million to improve the
Chamblee-Dunwoody
and Spalding Drive
intersection; $1 million to
install sidewalks on Peeler
Road from Equestrian
Way to Brook Run Park;
$494,000 to replace various
public safety computer
equipment and vehicles;
$413,000 for enhancing
service levels for new park
facilities and expansions;
and $142,000 for contracted
positions within the parks
department, including one
park operations coordinator
and one part-time recreation
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 8
programs leader.
“Given the planning
that has occurred during our
first decade of existence,
Dunwoody is in an excellent
position going forward,”
said Dunwoody City
Manager Eric Linton.
Final approval for the
budget is scheduled for the
Oct. 28 Dunwoody city
council meeting.
DeKalb County Solicitor General
Donna Coleman-Stribling presents:
DANCINGWITHDEKALBSTARS2019.EVENTBRITE.COM
STONE MOUNTAIN
Reality star arrested in
connection to sex trafficking
BY TAYLOR ROBINS
Taylor@dekalbchamp.com
DeKalb County police arrested two
men, including a television reality star,
for allegedly trying to traffic underage
girls for prostitution.
The men, 27-year-old James Lyndon Smith
Ruffin and 26-year-old Lyndon
Smith, allegedly planned to travel out
of the state with two teenagers with
intentions to traffic them for sex.
Ruffin was arrested and charged
with pimping a person under 18 years
of age, trafficking of persons for
labor servitude, keeping a place of
prostitution, two counts of interference James Ruffin. Photos
with custody and violation of the provided by DeKalb
Computer Pornography and Child County Sheriff’s Office.
Exploitation Prevention Act Oct. 10,
according to DeKalb County Jail records.
Smith was arrested and charged with two counts of
criminal attempt to commit a felony Oct. 17, according to
DeKalb County Jail records.
Smith, who goes by “Sas,” has been a guest star on
VH1’s reality show “Love & Hip Hop.” Smith most
recently appeared in this year’s season eight of the series.
He is also in seasons five and seven.
The identity and ages of the teenagers have not
been released. According to DeKalb County police, the
teenagers are safe and unharmed.
dancing
with the
dekalb stars
Sat. Oct. 26 Porter Sanford III
Doors & Expo Performing Arts &
open at 5 p.m. Community Center
Dancing begins 3181 Rainbow Drive
at 6 p.m. Decatur
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT
Official Media Sponsor
Light refreshments provided by
Proceeds benefit
 THE CHAMPION, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24 - 30, 2019 • Page 9

WEEK in PICTURES

Beverly Burks, community engagement director of Fulton-DeKalb Hospital

Authority (FDHA), gave Clarkston employees “all things pink” gifts to
Tucker High School boys’ basketball players introduce themselves at DeKalb County School District’s annual basketball media day on Oct. commemorate October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Photo
17 at Tucker High school. Tucker was the only DeKalb basketball team to make the state finals last season. Photo by Carla Parker from city of Clarkston’s Facebook page

Decatur Fire and Rescue Department hosted a junior firefighter challenge

at Station No. 2. during Oakhurst Porchfest

Atlanta officials and family members of fallen DeKalb County Polioce Officer Edgar I. Flores celebrate a garden Atlanta city officials dedicated a garden to fallen DeKalb County Police Officer Edgar I. Flores Oct. 9.
dedicated to him at the Sara J. Gonzalez Park Oct. 9. Photo provided by Atlanta Police Department Twitter. Flores was shot and killed while on duty December 2018. Photo provided by Atlanta Police Department
Twitter.

“Zombie Librarians” from DeKalb County Public Library prepare for the annual Little Five Points Halloween DeKalb County K9 police officer D’Jango recovers after being shot in the femur while on duty.
Parade which was held Oct. 19.

Have you created programming you’d like to air on TV?

Do you have an interest in Public Access TV in DeKalb County?
Submit your show to DeKalb County’s Public Access channel, DeKalb 25.
Drop off DVD or USB copies to the Manuel J. Maloof Center at
1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, GA 30030, or upload your content via the internet.

(404) 371-2325 DeKalb25@outlook.com DeKalb25.com

EDUCATION DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 10

DECATUR

Local school celebrates Pre-K Week

BY TAYLOR ROBINS
Taylor@dekalbchamp.com
Early Start Learning
Center─2186 Snapfinger
Road in Decatur─welcomed
community members to read
to pupils during the ninth
annual Georgia Pre-K Week.
Pre-K Week took place
Oct. 7-11 this year and
raises awareness about
the importance of early
childhood education.
In Georgia, community
members are invited to visit
early learning centers to see
pupils in action. Community
members also are able to
read children’s books to
Pre-K students.
According to Rebecca
Amadi, Early Start
Learning Center teacher,
2019 marks the 27th year of
students learning at a Pre-K
level.
Jamal Dix, who is
Houses R Us contractor Jamal Dix reads to students Oct. 9. Photo by Taylor Robins.
co-owner and contractor
for the Decatur-based real
estate company Houses
R Us, was one of the
community members who
visited the Decatur school
during Pre-K Week. He
read a book about tools and
taught the students about
tools and tool safety, while
showing tools he uses for
his everyday job, such as a
leveler and a screwdriver.
Students were able
to ask Dix and other
community members
questions as well.
“Children come here
willing to learn and they’re
eager so we try to get on
their level,” said Amadi.
“They also learn more
when they feel safe so we
as teachers the wear many
different hats.”
According to Amadi,
during the school day, the
center starts the day with a
class group meeting. Then,
the class is taught numbers,
letter and shapes throughout
the day. “They love that,”
said Amadi.
“Pre-K was established
to help with socialization
skills and early learning
helps with dropout rates
in Georgia,” said Amadi.
Amadi has been a teacher
for 32 years.

School to hold annual concert

BY TAYLOR ROBINS
Taylor@dekalbchamp.com
As is tradition, Lakeside High
School’s band program will present a
free concert in the school’s auditorium perform at the Pearl Harbor National
Nov. 7 at 7 p.m.
“The students, music faculty,
parents and community all look
forward to this annual concert,” said
Band Director David Fairchild. “This High School parent Julie Herron
is our first formal concert of the school Carson, Lakeside High School
year.”
The school’s band performed in
September’s Dragon Con Parade for
the third year in a row, where they
Lakeside High School students perform during a previous concert. were the only high school band to
perform. The band also performs
during halftime at Lakeside football
games.
For the upcoming concert, all
high school grade levels will present
an assortment of music spanning
time periods and cultures under the
direction of Fairchild and assisted by
Daniel MacNamara.
While the concert is free, the
band accepts donations. Funds raised
will go toward the purchase and
repair of instruments, payments to
guest instructors and conductors,
competition fees, travel expenses and
Lakeside High School students ready to perform their annual free concert. Photos provided by Lynn music costs. In the spring of 2020,
Kessler.
members of Lakeside’s band, orchestra
and chorus will have the opportunity
to travel together to Hawaii to
Memorial.
The 2019-2020 school year marks
the 53rd year of Lakeside’s musical
instruction. According to Lakeside
graduates who participated in the band
and music program are now watching
their own children study and perform
music at Lakeside.
“This is a special year for
[Fairchild],” said Carson. “His mother
was a long-time DeKalb County music
educator, he is a graduate of Lakeside
High School and this year his oldest
daughter, Katy, entered Lakeside and
became part of the band… They really
are the nicest family.”
“I invite the community to come
enjoy a wonderful evening of music,”
Fairchild said. “I am sure everyone
will be impressed by how much the
students have accomplished just in the
first semester of the school year.”
Lakeside High School is located at
3801 Briarcliff Road in Atlanta.
EDUCATION
EDUCATION BRIEFS
Kennesaw State
students named to
president’s list
Kennesaw State University
recently named students to
the university’s president’s
list, in recognition of their
academic excellence for
the 2019 summer semester.
Local Kennesaw State
students include Collin
Wilcox of Brookhaven;
Pierre Coiron, Taliyah
Henderson, Rachel
Diamond and Danielle
Klekot of Decatur;
Stephen Wylie, Iren
Igbere, Timothy Callaway
and Leonard Knitter of
Lithonia; Kristty Lam,
Kelsey Daoust, Mary
Thomas and Sparkle
Morton of Stone Mountain;
and Sanja Jakupovic and
Phanha Meas of Tucker.
To achieve this honor,
each student must have
completed at least nine
semester hours with a term
grade point average of 4.0.
Kennesaw State
University
graduates summer
class
Local Kennesaw State
University summer
graduates are:
Vasiliki-Lia Andros,
Curtis Foye, Amanda
Guest, Spencer Horridge
and Maureen Lamm
of Brookhaven; Kyara
Brown, Madyson Casey,
Emily Corder, Javier
Fernandez, Erica Glover,
Candyce Heath, Mary
Jowaisas, A’na Knoll,
Francisco Martinez,
Kelley McAlhany,
Gilbert Tchoffo, Riho
Tokito, Oluwasegun
Olorunyolemi and Megan
Williams of Decatur;
Angelia Banjoko, Shane
Brown, Brianna Burleson-
Williams, Claudine
Cunningham, Horace
Hall, Jose Landa, Edward
Ndem, Uzochukwu Obeki,
and Travondia Robinson-
Perry of Lithonia; Martin
Asante, Raquel Burks,
Anthony Franklin,
Raymone Jennings Maiah
Morris, Mustafa Nour
and Xavier Standley
of Stone Mountain; and
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 11
by Taylor Robins • Taylor@dekalbchamp.com CITY OF STONE MOUNTAIN
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Peter Alexander, Sanja with 10 points, netting four The City of Stone Mountain hereby gives notice that
Jakupovic, Naomi goals with two assists. He a Public Hearing will be held to receive public comment
Lebsekal and Rachel has 22 shots, including nine on a Conditional Use Application for 729 Pepperwood
Petrucelli of Tucker. on goal, with two game- Trail, Stone Mountain, GA 30083, Parcel #18 074 21
More than 1,300 students winning markers. 018. Conditional Use is requested for a special use
earned bachelor’s, master’s With at least a point permit – Vacation Home Facility- within the Single Family
or doctoral degrees in three straight games, he Residential (R1) district.
during the summer 2019 averages 43.9 minutes per The Mayor and City Council will hold a Public Hearing
on this matter on Thursday, November 7, 2019 at City
commencement ceremonies match. He has six shots Hall located at 875 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA at
in July. (five on goal) with a game- 6:30 P.M. Anyone wishing to attend the public hearing
winning goal. may do so and be heard relative thereto.
Duncan earns
soccer award
CITY OF BROOKHAVEN FY 2020 BUDGET REVIEW,
Liberty League PUBLIC HEARINGS, AND ADOPTION
announced its men’s soccer
weekly award winners and The proposed FY 2020 City of Brookhaven Budget will be presented to Mayor and
Council by the City Manager on October 22, 2019 at the regularly scheduled Council
Rensselaer Polytechnic Meeting beginning at 7:00 p.m. The City of Brookhaven will hold a public hearing on
Institute (RPI) student- the proposed FY 2020 Budget at the regularly scheduled Council Meeting on Tuesday,
athlete Arik Duncan of November 12, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. Another public hearing will be held during the City
Decatur and Woodward Council meeting on Tuesday, November 26, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. Following the public
Academy is among them. hearing on November 26, 2019, the City Council will vote to adopt the FY 2020 Budget.
A freshman who was The FY 2020 Budget will be available for public inspection at City Hall, 4362 Peachtree
named the Rookie of the Road, and on the website www.brookhavenga.gov October 22, 2020.
Week, Duncan scored a goal
Notice of availability of Proposed 2020 Budget, Budget Public Hearing
and assisted on another for
three points in two games and 2020 Budget Adoption
last week. He recorded three Clarkston City Council
shots (all on goal), while
averaging 56.5 minutes per The City of Clarkston Proposed 2020 Budget will be available to view on the Clarkston
City Website (www.cityofclarkston.com) and copies to view will be available at the
match. Clarkston City Hall Annex (1055 Rowland St). The Clarkston Council will hold a Public
Duncan has played in Hearing on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, starting at 6:30pm, Clarkston City Hall,
eight games this season, 3921 Church Street for the purpose of taking public comment on the 2020 Proposed
including three as a starter. City of Clarkston Budget. The Council will vote to adopt the Clarkston 2020 Budget at
their regular Council Meeting on December 3, 2019 at 7:00pm. The public is invited to
He is second on the team
attend.
CITY OF BROOKHAVEN CALL OF SPECIAL ELECTION
HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION – PER HB 645 – ACT #165
HEREBY TAKE NOTICE OF THE CALL OF A SPECIAL ELECTION: THE CITY OF BROOKHAVEN has
requested the DeKalb Board of Elections to call a Special Election to be held at the time of the general
election of the City on November 5, 2019, for the purpose of placing before the qualified electors residing
within the limits of the City of Brookhaven, a referendum increasing the existing general homestead
exemption to $40,000.00 through five annual increases. This Call for a Special Election is made
pursuant to the Georgia Constitution, Art. 7, Sec. 2, Paragraph II; Ga. L. 2012, p.5527 as amended by
House Bill 645, passed by the Georgia House of Representatives on March 26, 2019 and the Georgia
Senate on April, 2, 2019; and Brookhaven Resolution 2019-05-02. House Bill 645 amended the Act
incorporating the City of Brookhaven by revising subsection (b) of Section 5.10 of Ga. L. 2012, p. 5527 to
read as follows:
“(b)(1) Each resident of the City of Brookhaven is granted an exemption on that person’s
homestead from City of Brookhaven ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes in the
following amounts for the following tax years:
(A) For tax year 2020 – $24,000.00 of the assessed value of that homestead;
(B) For tax year 2021 – $28,000.00 of the assessed value of that homestead;
(C) For tax year 2022 – $32,000.00 of the assessed value of that homestead;
(D) For tax year 2023 – $36,000.00 of the assessed value of that homestead; and
(E) For tax year 2024 and all subsequent tax years – $40,000.00 of the assessed value of that
homestead.
(b)(2) The value of that property in excess of such exempt amount shall remain subject to taxation.”
This amendment is conditioned on the approval of the majority of qualified electors residing within the
limits of the City of Brookhaven by referendum presented as part of the Special Election to be held on
November 5, 2019. Georgia Constitution, Art. 7, Sec. 2, Paragraph II(a)(1). The ballot for the Special
Election on November 5, 2019 shall have written or printed thereon the words:
“Shall the Act to incorporate the City of Brookhaven be amended so as to increase the current
general homestead exemption from $20,000.00 to $40,000.00 through five equal annual
increases?”
“( ) YES
( ) NO”
All persons desiring to vote for approval of the amendment to the Act shall vote “Yes,” and all persons
desiring to vote for rejection of the amendment shall vote “No.” If more than one-half of the votes cast on
the referendum are for approval, the amendment shall become of full force and effect on January 1, 2020.
If the Act is not so approved or if the election is not conducted as provided in this section, the amendment
shall not become effective, and the amendment shall be automatically repealed on the first day of January,
2020.
The polls will be open on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2019 from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.
 DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 12

DORAVILLE
AROUND DeKalb TUCKER
Subdivision yard sale announced

Sierra Highlands subdivision, located off

Library group to host annual book sale
A wide range of books, CDs and DVDs for
children and adults will be available at the annual
Friends of the Doraville Library Book Sale.
The event will be held 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Oct. 26, at the library─3748 Central Avenue in
Doraville.
For more information about the sale call
(770) 936-3852 or email sfra@bellsouth.net.
DUNWOODY
City collecting unused prescriptions
Dunwoody Police Department is inviting
residents to drop off expired, unused or
unwanted prescription drugs, or over-the-counter
medications at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road
Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The following items will not be accepted
needles/sharps, syringes with needles,
thermometers, IV bags, bloody or infectious
waste, personal care products, empty containers,
inhalers, medical equipment and hydrogen
peroxide.
City to host truck or treat
Tucker Farmers Market and DeKalb County
Police Department’s Tucker Precint will host its
trunk or treat event Oct. 31 on Main Street from
4 to 8 p.m. The event will feature a safe and fun
night of trick or treating, “trunk” or treating,
and other activities. For more information, visit
www.tuckerga.gov.
LITHONIA
School to host fall festival
Marbut Traditional Theme School will host its
fall festival Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The
festival will feature a student 3-on-3 basketball
tournament, video game truck, inflatables, fish
fry, entertainment and live DJ. Wristbands can
be purchased at www.mkt.com/ptaofmarbut. The
school is located at 5776 Marbut Road.
Pleasant Hill Road in Lithonia is having a
community-wide sale Saturday, Oct. 26, 8 a.m.
until 2 p.m.
Senior center to host resource fair
Bruce Street Senior Center, in partnership with
Lithonia AmeriCorps Project, will host the 2019
Resource Fair Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The fair will include resources for housing,
legal assistance, financial education and more.
Volunteers will be available for assistance with
resources. Bruce Street Senior Center is located
at 2484 Bruce Street. For more information,
email Sylvia.okoma@lithoniacity.org.
STONE MOUNTAIN
City to host government session
Stone Mountain will host its seventh
“Government 101” session Oct. 30 at city hall
from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The topic of the session is
planning and zoning. City hall is located at 875
Main Street. For more information, call Micah
Richards at (770) 498-8984.

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BUSINESS
Family makes Your Pie their choice
BY KATHY MITCHELL
FREELANCE REPORTER
A small family mishap
led to a new business
pursuit for the Griffin
family, according to
Terrence Griffin, who
owns Your Pie Tucker with
his wife Kimberly and
his brother Cory. “Our
daughter brought home a
pizza, but the dog ate it,”
he explained. “I went to the
Your Pie near our home in
Snellville for a replacement
and I immediately thought
‘I like this place; I want to
own one of these.’”
Coincidentally,
Kimberly Griffin had visited
the same Your Pie earlier
that week and was equally
impressed. “We had talked
about buying a food-related
business and when I first
entered a Your Pie, I loved
the clean, modern décor, the
family-friendly atmosphere
and the food,” she recalled.
“When my husband
mentioned it, I was already
on board.”
Cory, whose business
experience is in the food
industry, said he agreed that
the food was excellent. “On
a scale of one to 10, I’d give
it a 9.99,” he said. “There
are pizza restaurants all over
the Atlanta area. I wouldn’t
think of opening one unless
we offered a superior dining
experience.”
My Pie Tucker, in the
Embry Hills Shopping
Center on Chamblee Tucker
Road, celebrated its first
anniversary on Oct. 5 with
live music, special prices
and other features. “This
has turned out to be a great
place to open our business,”
commented Kimberly, who
added, “The Embry Hills
area is really growing and
thriving. Many people who
work in the businesses here
like to come in for lunch
and in the evenings, we get
lots of families. We’re really
proud that in one year,
we’ve really become part of
the community.”
Kimberly added that
she likes the fact that the
national chain had Georgia
roots as well as a charming
family story. Drew and
Natalie French, the couple
who founded Your Pie,
honeymooned in 2006 on
the island of Ischia, off
the coast of Naples, Italy,
Family members, from left, Cory, Kimberly and Terrence Griffin celebrate one-year anniversary as owners of Your Pie Tucker.
where Natalie had family.
While there Drew tasted
pizza superior to any he had
ever had, according to the
couple’s story posted online
and within each store.
Two years later, the couple
opened the first Your Pie in
Athens, Ga. Your Pie now
has 70 locations in 19 states.
“I realized that cooking
on an open flame in a brick
oven was the way to serve
the best tasting pizza in the
world, and speed was an
awesome byproduct,” the
posting written by Drew
states. “In Italy, I also
learned the importance of
great dough, sauce, cheese
and ingredients. Italians use
smaller portions of simple
ingredients that are both
high-quality and fresh.”
The Griffins say they not
only follow the founders’
lead in terms of food
preparation but in customer
service as well. “Their
policy is to never serve a
guest an improperly cooked
pizza and that’s our policy
as well,” said Kimberly,
adding that Your Pie
Tucker also embraces their
philosophy of making each
store a community fixture.
“In Italy, neighborhood
restaurants are community
gathering places; that’s
the ambiance we work to
establish every day.”
The name Your Pie
reflects the menu which
allows customers to
customize their orders
from the base up. They
may choose from a base
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 13
with a name inspired by
the chain’s origins. Ischia
is an olive oil, mozzarella,
tomato, basil and garlic
combination and the
Nat features basil pesto,
mozzarella, feta, sun-dried
tomatoes, spinach and
chicken.
For first timers, Terrence
recommends Linage,
which has marinara,
mozzarella, mushrooms,
reunion, green peppers,
black olives, pepperoni and
Italian sausage. In addition
to pizza, Your Pie offers
salads, baked pasta and
panini.
Terrence said they
especially like Tucker’s
Embry Hills area's strong
sense of community. “It’s
perfect for a business like
ours,” he noted, adding
that like other restaurants
in the Your Pie Chain,
from white dough, wheat alfredo. There are seven Your Pie Tucker strives to
dough, gluten-free dough, cheeses, including a vegan make a difference in their
bread bowl, panini bread cheese. More than 25 meats community by hosting
salad green and penne and vegetables can be added fundraising nights for local
pasta. To that the customer as topping. charities, donating food to
may add any of seven For the customer who’s local events, and other such
sauces, including a classic unsure, Your Pie has a few activities.
marinara, basil pesto and favorites to suggest—each
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
CITY OF CHAMBLEE
The Mayor and City Council of the City of Chamblee, Georgia will hold a public
hearing on Thursday, November 14, 2019 at the Chamblee Civic Center, 3540 Broad
Street, Chamblee, GA 30341 at 6:00 p.m. to receive public comments regarding the
following matters:
•TA2019-005: The City of Chamblee Georgia proposes to amend the Official
City Code of Ordinances, Chapter 18, Buildings and Building Regulations and
Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance, Title I Administration, Title 2 Land Use
and Zoning, Title 3 Development and Permitting, to clarify and update provisions
throughout.
•PZ2019-545: Applicant and Owner: Greg Power, requests a variance for
temporary signage for a multifamily apartment building, from the City of Chamblee
Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance, to allow two
temporary banners which exceeds the number of banners allowed; to exceed the
maximum square feet allowed; and to exceed the maximum days allowed. The
property is located at 5126 Peachtree Boulevard, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18
300 10 016 and zoned Village Commercial District.
•PZ2019-546: Applicant: Sandford Epstein, SEA Studios, PC and Owner:
Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal, requests a Development of Community Impact for the
construction of a new building and related variances, from the City of Chamblee Code
of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance. Variances include a
variance to not install the streetscape along Watkins Avenue; to allow metal panels
to be used as more than architectural accents; to allow each street-facing façade to
not be treated architecturally as a primary façade; to not meet sustainability measures
required; to not add the required loading space; to maintain the prohibited existing
pole sign; to maintain the existing parking between the building and Watkins Avenue;
and to not install wheel bumpers in the existing parking lot. The property is located
at 5295 New Peachtree, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 299 05 016 and zoned
Village Commercial District.
•PZ2019-548: Applicant: James Whitehurst, and Owner: Bruce Cusmano,
requests a variance to allow for a total of 49 parking spaces instead of the required 95
parking spaces; to increase the amount of impervious surfaces on the property to 88%
from 78%, which exceeds the 80% impervious surface maximum; to reduce the width
of the landscape strip in certain areas to be less than the required 10 feet; to allow
certain landscaping and streetscape elements to be placed on the building side of the
sidewalk; and to reduce the sidewalk width to 6 feet instead of the required 10 feet in a
limited area to traverse around an existing fire hydrant. The property is located at 4783
Peachtree Road, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 277 02 004 and zoned Village
Commercial District.
•PZ2019-543: Applicant and owner: Sammy Jaraysi, requests a variance
from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development
Ordinance, to reduce the minimum number of required parking spaces. The property
is located at 3711 Clairmont Rd 4783, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 244 03 013
and zoned Neighborhood Commercial-2 district.
•A formal presentation and public hearing for the adoption of a major update to
the City’s Comprehensive Plan.
SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 14

The Champion’s game of the week:

M.L. King vs tucker

by Carla Parker • carla@dekalbchamp.com

A matchup that is usually one-sided
will have huge region-standing implications
when played Oct. 25.
The region 4-AAAAAA showdown
between the M.L. King Lions (4-1, 6-1)
and Tucker Tigers (4-1, 4-3) will kick off
at Hallford Stadium at 8 p.m. This will be
the eighth meeting of the two teams, dating
back to their first meeting 2012, which
MLK won 24-17.
Since then, Tucker has won the next six
matchups, outscoring MLK 284-60. Three
of those games have been shutouts, but last
season, Tucker beat MLK by only 10 points
(30-20). This year’s game could be close
as the Tigers are facing an improved Lions’
team.
The Tigers are averaging 343.8 yards
per game on offense and MLK is averaging
314.0 yards. While both offenses run the
ball well—MLK (223.2), Tucker (203.8)—
Tucker has a slight edge over MLK in the
passing game (140.0 to 90.8 yards per
game).
Tucker quarterback Myles Crawley
has a 61 percent completion rate and has
thrown for 835 yards with nine touchdowns
and one interception this season. Wide
receiver Isaiah Dunson has been Crawley’s
number one target, catching 25 passes for
435 yards and seven touchdowns. Running
back Quarius Smith has also scored seven
touchdowns this season.
Because he suffered an injury against
Stephenson on Oct. 4, quarterback Jacobi
Haynes’ status for this game will be a game-
time decision, according to coach Deante
Lamar. If he can play, the Lions’ offense
will get its best playmaker back. If he is
ruled out for the game, expect senior running
back Michael Fern Jr. to run the ball a lot in
this game.
This game will more than likely be
decided by whichever defense gets the most
stops. If Tucker can contain MLK’s rushing
attack, they could win. If MLK’s defensive
put enough pressure on Crawley and force
turnover, the Lions could finally end their
losing streak against Tucker.

GHSA overturns ruling on Wilcoxson’s eligibility

BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com

S
tephenson High School junior Kamar
Wilcoxson is back on the football field for the
Jaguars.
Georgia High School Association (GHSA) said
Wilcoxson is eligible to play the rest of season after
the organization approved Stephenson’s appeal of
a previous suspension. A DeKalb County School
District’s athletics department spokesman told The
Champion Oct. 7 that Wilcoxson was declared
ineligible by GHSA earlier this month after he was
ruled a migrant student.
GHSA Director of Media Relations Steve Figueroa
said Stephenson on Oct. 8 appealed Wilcoxson’s status
to a GHSA Appeal Board at a meeting in Thomaston
and the appeal was approved.
“So, he is eligible,” Figueroa said.
The school district’s athletic department said
Wilcoxson transferred to Cedar Grove High School
from Stephenson near the end of, or after, last
school year; then he transferred back to Stephenson
before the start of this school year. According to a
family spokesperson, Wilcoxson moved back to the
Stephenson cluster due to a “family issue.”
GHSA originally ruled him eligible before the
season but reversed its decision a couple of weeks into
the season following further investigation and ruled
Wilcoxson a migrant student. According to GHSA by-
law 1.63, a migrant student is one who transfers into a
GHSA school without a “bona fide move”—meaning
the student, along with his or her parent or guardian—
moved to another school service area.
Wilcoxson played in Stephenson’s 42-0 win over
Forest Park on Oct. 11. Kamar Wilcoxson
SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 15

FOOTBALL

Broderick Jones receives Under

Armour All-American jersey
BY CARLA PARKER
Carla@dekalbchamp.com
Lithonia High School offensive tackle
Broderick Jones will play with and against
some of the most talented high school football
players in the Under Armour All-American
game in January.
Jones received his Under Armour All-
American game jersey Oct. 18 during a school
pep rally. He is one of 100 players in the nation
who will compete in the game, which will be
held Jan. 2, 2020 in Orlando, Fla. He said being
selected as an Under Armour All-American is a
big accomplishment.
“It’s a well-known accomplishment because
not everybody is able to be in the position that
I’m in today,” Jones said. “I want to thank my
coaches for pushing me every day for me to be a
better player, a better person and a better man.”
Lithonia offensive line coach Robert
Hamler said it has been an “honor and privilege
to coach a player like Broderick.” Jones is the Lithonia High School football coach Marcus Jelks, right, presents offensive tackle Broderick Jones his Under Armour All-American jersey.
first player coached by Lithonia head coach
Marcus Jelks to play in the Under Armour All-
American.
“[Jones] has definitely earned it,” Jelks said.
“It’s good for the school, community and the
program.”
The annual Under Armour All-American
game has been played since 2008 and has
featured players such as current NFL stars Julio
Jones, A.J. Green, Amari Cooper, Jameis
Winston and Leonard Fournette. The game
will be held at Camping World Stadium and will
be broadcast on ESPN2.
Jones, who is committed to the University of
Georgia, is a five-star recruit, the No. 2-ranked
offensive tackle recruit in the nation and top-
three overall recruit in the state, according to
ESPN, Rivals and 247 Sports. Jones said he is
looking forward to playing and practicing with
other great players.
“It’s going to be a crazy experience that I get
to go up against some of the top players in the
nation,” he said. “It’s going to be a wonderful
experience.”
Jelks said he hopes Jones’ accomplishments
will encourage younger players in the football
program to work hard and strive for their
dreams.
“Broderick has been a leader and a great
example of what they should be striving toward
when they get to their senior year,” Jelks said.
Lithonia offensive tackle Broderick Jones, left, will play in the Under Armour All-American Jan. 2, 2020 in Orlando, Fla. Photos by Carla Parker

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LOCAL
COUNTYWIDE
Research expert:
DeKalb must prepare for population surge and demographic shifts
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
According to research
from the Atlanta Regional
Commission (ARC),
DeKalb County will add
approximately 277,100
residents in the next three
decades.
Using data from
population and employment
forecasts, DeKalb’s
population will grow by
38 percent and reach the 1
million mark by 2050.
Mike Carnathan,
manager of research and
analytics for ARC, said
DeKalb must prepare
its infrastructure to
accommodate an increase in
residents.  are expected to decrease
“We’re talking about
long-range planning
responsibilities. We’re telling
the region to get ready—and
that means at all levels,”
Carnathan said. “If we don’t
invest in infrastructure,
transportation and water, then
we won’t grow. We’re telling
the region and our long-range
planners that we need to get
prepared.”
According to ARC’s data,
DeKalb is projected to have
the fourth highest population
increase in the 21-county
Atlanta region from 2015
to 2050, behind Gwinnett,
Fulton and Cobb counties.  countries.”
Carnathan said the
county’s Hispanic population
is expected to increase to 19
percent, up from 9 percent in
2015. However, the county’s
Black and White residents
from 53 percent to 43 percent
and 30 percent to 24 percent,
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 • Page 16
respectively. 
“You have multiple
generations of diverse
populations in DeKalb
County and those rates for
Black and White residents
have been declining,”
Carnathan said. “The Black
and White populations are
getting older and that’s
why you’re seeing stagnant
growth. But in areas like
Clarkston and around
Buford Highway, you’re Experts say a significant portion of DeKalb’s population will be 75 and older by 2050.
going to see an explosion of
people of color from foreign
said some of the largest job as a society,” Carnathan
DeKalb is also expected gains will occur in the health said. “We need to get ready
to have a significant increase care and social assistance for a significantly sized
in its senior population. industries.  population who will be 75
Research shows 10 percent “If you think about 35 and older. You have to begin
of DeKalb’s population will years into the future, that’s to worry about mobility,
reach 75 years of age or going to be about 12-13 affordable housing issues
older in 2050, compared to 4 percent of residents who and self-health issues. That’s
percent in 2015. Because of are 75 and older. We’ve something that we have to be
the increase, ARC officials never had to deal with that ready for.”