the DeKalb FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • VOL.

23, NO 21 • 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

Instagram-celebrity dog celebrates

birthday with fundraiser
BY CARLA PARKER silent auction and raffles.
carla@dekalbchamp.com Sparkles’ guests of honor
were Prissy and Pop, the
Shih Tzus, pugs, pigs country’s most famous mini
and other small dogs pigs with more than 690,000
gathered June 23 to celebrate followers on Instagram.
Instagram celebrity Sparkles Proceeds from the
the Diva’s birthday at an fundraiser benefited
event designed to raise Mister Migs’ nonprofit
funds for a good cause. “Your Career Unleashed,” a
Sparkles, known as scholarship-based program
Atlanta’s most well-followed that helps young adults
and fashionable dog on with autism and other
Instagram, hosted her learning disabilities become
“PINKtastic Birthday PIGnic independent, productive
FUNdraiser” at Mister Migs citizens through gainful and
in Tucker in honor of her fulfilling employment.
eighth birthday. The party Sparkles has more than
featured a fashion contest, a 50,000 Instagram followers.
Sparkles, known as Atlanta’s most well-followed and fashionable dog on Instagram, Sparkles has more than 50,000 Instagram
SEE SPARKLES ON PAGE 5 followers. Photo by Studio Primetime.

FROM BLIGHT TO BEAUTY

BY HORACE HOLLOMAN Keep DeKalb Beautiful partnered
Brannon Hill community cleans
neighborhood, celebrates
“This is how we come to a resolution Tatro said he agreed without hesitation.
horace@dekalbchamp.com with residents of Brannon Hill to host and deal with the issue. For us, we “We have all sorts of people coming
the second Brannon Hill Community wanted to bring the community out together and doing their thing. It’s a
Cleanup Day. in a way that we could appreciate each beautiful thing, isn’t it?” Tatro said.
To reduce blight at a condominium Samia Abdullah, one of the event’s other,” Abdullah said. Lithonia resident Bill Leavell
complex in Clarkston, community organizers, said the community cleanup Memorial Presbyterian Church helped partner DeKalb County and
members and DeKalb County officials day is a step in the right direction. Pastor George Tatro said the cleanup the Brannon Hill Community for the
partnered June 23 for a Community “This is an important step,” and celebration are examples of how celebration art showcase.
Cleanup Day. Abdullah said. “We are in this people can pull resources together to Leavell said art is one of the many
Brannon Hill Condominium, together...we need to find our common help one another. ways people can find common ground.
located at 1000 Old Hampton Drive ground and it’s beauty that brings us “There’s [are] plenty of resources “This is something I’ve done for a
in Clarkston, has several dilapidated together.” in the community for everybody to while when I was with DeKalb County.
properties. During the event, volunteers picked flourish. Sometimes all we need is a It’s good for the community because it’s
Community organizers said they up trash and other discarded items for little bit of a spark to come along and going to bring us together and it gives
want to change the negative perception approximately two hours. After the build on all the new things happening you a chance to see art you wouldn’t
of the area and partner to make a cleanup, Memorial Presbyterian Church in this neighborhood,” Tatro said. otherwise see unless you were a part of
change. hosted a celebration of art featuring Tatro said Abdullah asked if he this community,” Leavell said.
local artists, live music and food. could provide space for the celebration.

Visit www.championnewspaper.com for local, real DeKalb County news.

LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 2

NORTHLAKE

‘Christmas
in the Grove’
creator dies
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
The man known as “The
Christmas Light Guy,” who
lights up Oak Grove Drive in
Decatur every Christmas, has
died.
Anthony Michael
Paradowski, also known as
Tony, died unexpectedly June
15. His family announced
his passing on Christmas in Tony Paradowski and his wife Katie turned their home into a holiday attraction, known as Christmas in the Grove, for five weeks
the Grove’s Facebook page. with its animated light show choreographed to popular Christmas songs
A memorial service for
Paradowski was held June 23. Paradowski
“In lieu of flowers please Previously, Paradowski music the first year—I just of nearly 150,000 lights and honored Paradowski by
make donations to the ALS talked about his seasonal wanted to see if I liked it and about 350 decorations gained decorating the outside of their
Association in Tony’s name,” hobby, saying he has always what the reception was from national attention after it homes with Christmas lights
the family announced. put up a lot of Christmas lights the neighborhood,” the quote was featured on “The Great and turned them on June 23
The Paradowskis have before his display became continues. “All of it went well, I Christmas Light Fight” on and 24.
collected donations every year famous. enjoyed doing it, the neighbors ABC in 2013. The Paradowskis “Let’s show Tony’s family
from visitors of Christmas “I’ve [put up lights] all of loved it and that’s when I was won the $50,000 prize, beating how much we love him and
in the Grove and have given my adult life—anywhere I’ve bitten by the bug.” out three other contestants. how much we appreciate all he
the money to their favorite ever lived I’ve always been Over the years, the display Since his death, more has done for Leafmore through
charity, the ALS Association able to put up some sort of has grown bigger as have the than $1,500 has been donated his love of Christmas,” a
of Georgia. Last December, Christmas lights, but not to the crowds. to The ALS Association in neighborhood flyer stated. “He
Paradowski spoke to The extent that we do now,” he said. The Paradowski display Paradowski’s name. Neighbors will be deeply missed by many.”
Champion about the large Paradowski, who grew up
Christmas lights display he and in Niagara Falls, N.Y., said a
his wife Katie first put up in neighbor from his hometown
2010. inspired him to fully decorate IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
The Paradowskis turned his home. Forty years later,
their home into a holiday Paradowski said he saw DeKalb County Community Development Department will submit
attraction for five weeks YouTube videos of people with HUD SECTION 108 LOAN GUARNTEE APPLICATION to
with an animated light show light displays synchronized to The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development
choreographed to popular music. After further research, For the Construction of the New District #4 Senior Center
Christmas songs. From he found the company that
Thanksgiving night to New makes the equipment which Beginning June 28th until July 27th, 2018 the DeKalb County Community
Year’s Day, thousands of people Development Department will accept public comments on the submission of a HUD
most people use to synchronize Section 108 Loan Guarantee application in the amount of $7,835,375 to construct the
visit the home at 1428 Oak lights with music.
Grove Drive in Decatur each New District #4 Senior Center with pool.
“I bought the one
year to see the magical display. controller—we didn’t use The proposed center will be located on County owned land at 4875 Elam Road, Stone
Mountain, GA. The area was selected for a center based on a 2016 Comprehensive
Feasibility Study that identified the area as a high priority for senior services. The
proposed 21,000 sq. ft. center will include a modern and functional facility to include:
multipurpose dining room, classrooms, fitness room, and a therapeutic pool with lap
lanes and many other exciting amenities.

REDUCE Community Meeting

A Community Meeting will be held to discuss the application and proposed New
District #4 Senior Center amenities and programming on:

REUSE
Date: Wednesday, July 18th
Location: The Sue Kellogg Library Community Room
952 Leon Street
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm

RECYCLE A copy of the application can be viewed on the DeKalb County website; www.dekalbcountyga.us. For more
information, please join us at the Community meeting or call the Community Development Department at
(404) 371-2727.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 3

AROUNDDEKALB
BROOKHAVEN based account, send messages and
attachments July 3 at Clarkston Library
Atlanta.
The event will be held from noon to 1
from 11 a.m. to noon. Mouse, typing skills p.m. at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse at
Young children invited to try yoga and some internet experience required. 101 W. Court Square in downtown Decatur.
The class is open to first three participants. Hobson is an associate professor of
Children ages 4-10 are invited to the The library is located at 951 N. Indian Creek African American Studies and historian
Brookhaven Library June 30 from 10:30- Drive. For more information, call (404) 508- at Georgia State University. He wrote The
11:30 a.m. for Yoga Adventures for 7175. Legend of the Black Mecca: Politics and
Young Children. Yoga instructor Brenda Class in the Making of Modern Atlanta
Barr will lead children in the practice published with the University of North
of gentle movement and breathing
exercises. Participants must bring their
DECATUR Carolina Press.
He also engages in social sciences
own towel or mat. Call the Brookhaven School supplies to be given away and has created a new paradigm called
Library at (404) 848-7140 to register. the Black New South which explores
Kingdom Fellowship Christian Church the experiences of Black people in the
American South since WWII.  
CHAMBLEE will host a Back to School Jamboree Aug. 4,
at 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Hobson will discuss his new book
The church will be giving away school detailing his view that Atlanta’s political
City to celebrate Fourth of July supplies. The jamboree will be located at leadership, from the election of Atlanta’s
2697 Tilson Road, Decatur. first Black mayor through the city’s
Chamblee will host a Fourth of July hosting of the 1996 Olympic Games, has
celebration at Keswick Park on July 4. consistently mishandled the Black poor. 
This family-friendly event will begin
at 5 p.m. with activities including a bike
LITHONIA
parade from Chamblee Middle School,
bounce houses and more. Food also will Library to host ‘Movie Monday’
be available from local vendors such as The

GOT A
Mad Italian and Frosty Caboose, as well as The film Annie will be screened July 9 at
from King of Pops and the nonprofit group Lithonia-Davidson Library from noon to 2
Cop-N-Stuff. p.m. The screening is open to the first 25
participants. The library is located at 6821

NEWS TIP?
Live music will start with KingStreet
and KRP Band at 5:30 p.m. and will end Church Street. For more information, call
with Bogey and the Viceroy taking the (770) 482-3820.
stage. The group will be playing soul,
retro rock and pop and some of today’s
hits. The band will play until the fireworks
display begins around 9:30 p.m. Parking
TUCKER We’d love to hear from you.
is available throughout Keswick Park, Hike to start and end at library
Chamblee middle and high school.
The 20 to 25 minute fireworks show
will feature a variety of displays. Keswick
Take a one-mile hike from the
Stonecrest Library entrance on the paved
HORACE HOLLOMAN
Park is located at 3496 Keswick Drive. Visit
Horace@DeKalbChamp.com
Arabia Mountain PATH and return to
Local news editor: covers county government/
chambleega.gov for more information. the library for a light snack June 29 from
10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Hikers must wear crime/courts plus Decatur and Avondale Estates.
Libraries Rock series to focus on Elvis closed-toe shoes and bring a bottle of
water. Hikers will meet in the lobby of the

CARLA PARKER
As part of the Libraries Rock series, library. Children must be accompanied
Chamblee Library will hold Elvis: The King by an adult. The library is located at 3123
of Rock and Roll June 29 from 2-3 p.m. Klondike Road. For more information, call Carla@DeKalbChamp.com
Children from age 6 to 10 can attend and (770) 482-3928. Sports editor: covers sports plus Stonecrest,
the event is open to the first 10 registrants. Clarkston, Lithonia, Stone Mountain and Tucker.
Participants will play games and have
crafts all about Elvis. Call the Chamblee COUNTY WIDE
DEREK SMITH
Library at (770) 936-1380 to register.
Professor to discuss America’s ‘Black
mecca’ Derek@DeKalbChamp.com
CLARKSTON Education editor: covers all things education-
The DeKalb History Center’s July 17 related plus Brookhaven, Doraville, Chamblee,
Class to focus on email basics Lunch and Learn will be presented by Dunwoody and Pine Lake.
Dr. Maurice J. Hobson, who will discuss
Visitors can learn how to set up a web- politics and class in the making of modern
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 4

COUNTYWIDE

How will DeKalb handle

backlog of unpaid water bills?
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN board of commissioners and know why it was like that and
there will be an open, public that she would forward it to
horace@dekalbchamp.com discussion before any final her supervisor. She also said
decision is made.” I should pay a small amount
In March, DeKalb County County officials said they’ve each month.”
officials announced that the improved resolving customer’s Antrameka Knight, deputy
final batch of approximately disputes from year to year. director of utility customers
37,000 held water bills was In December 2016, there operations for DeKalb County
being released. were approximately 4,300 Watershed Management, said
Releasing the held bills was disputed water bills. As reasons for customers not
a process that took more than of May 30, the number of being billed for an extended
a year, starting in December disputed water bills was 410—a period could be returned mail
2016. reduction of 91 percent, or a faulty meter.
But there are still unpaid according to statistics provided Knight said she urges
balances for some of the by DeKalb County. The county residents to call billing
previously held bills, and the also stated the average wait customer service with any
county is unsure what the next time for calls to the water issues.
step will be. In an interview customer service center is An investigation by The
with The Champion, DeKalb three seconds. Champion determined that
officials said no decision has Some residents say they’re DeKalb County officials had
been made on what to do still experiencing issues with not started a “water meter DeKalb County residents at a water billing town hall meeting. File photo.
with the remaining balances the county’s billing process. replacement” program.
for water billing and sewer One DeKalb County resident Though county workers
customers. said she has not received a bill replace meters when customers anyone who feels as though initial dispute process.
“A final decision has at her address in more than a call regarding defects, someone has not accurately According to Knight, the
not been made regarding year. approximately 102,000 water billed them can dispute their county “does not see return
repayment on any potential Liz Settle, a member of the meters are still at risk of failure. bill. It doesn’t have to be a held disputes often.”
unpaid balances as a result Facebook group Unbelievable The potentially defective bill,” Knight said. “There’s no “Once we have the type
of the 37,000 previously DeKalb Water Bills, said, “I’m meters may have contributed limit to the number of bills you of issue identified, we correct
held water bills,” said county wondering if anyone out there to inaccurate water bills can dispute. You can dispute any other bills that could be
officials in a statement. still isn’t getting billed? We for years. The water meter anything whether it was a held impacted. No DeKalb County
“DeKalb County CEO Michael bought our home over a year replacement program was bill or not.” resident will be adversely
Thurmond will share his ago and still haven’t received initially slated to begin at the Knight said the county impacted by a DeKalb County
proposal for resolving the a bill. The customer service end of 2017. keeps “an eye” on bills which error,” Knight said.
unpaid bills issue with the representative said she didn’t “The important thing is, were resolved through the

COUNTYWIDE

Conviction upheld for man who killed 18-month-old

BY HORACE HOLLOMAN The court’s opinion bruising on Keon’s head and and other criminal charges.
states that because the jury healing burns on his toes. Wade was sentenced to life
horace@dekalbchamp.com concluded that Wade acted Examiners also noted the without parole.
with “malicious intent” in the child’s ribcage and spine had While in jail, Wade told an
In a unanimous decision, beating of 18-month-old Keon been compressed and his liver acquaintance Danny Cooper
Supreme Court of Georgia Belk, the jury would have had lacerations from “blunt that he had been trying to
justices upheld a murder rejected any defense on the force trauma” to the abdomen. make the youngster “tough.”
conviction and life prison basis of an accident. On the day of his arrest, He admitted he had put the
sentence of Nicholas Wade, The incident occurred in Wade locked himself in a car baby’s foot in a space heater,
who is accused of beating an 2014 when Wade was dating with a “sawed-off ” shotgun struck him with a remote
18-month-old to death. the child’s mother Jillian. and threatened to shoot control, and kicked him in the
Supreme Court of Georgia Wade and Jillian lived together himself. DeKalb County chest, according to testimony.
officials released their with her son and, according Investigator Victor Jones asked On the day of the child’s
opinion June 18. Justice Carol to reports, she began to notice Wade to lower his weapon and death, Wade allegedly told
Hunstein wrote that the court bruises and scratches on the Wade fired at Jones, according Cooper that “he wasn’t raising
rejected Wade’s argument in boy’s body. to reports. Wade was injured, a punk,” and he kicked and
the murder, stating evidence Wade On Feb. 3, 2014, emergency given aid and arrested. punched the baby in the chest
at trial “was sufficient to medical personnel responded In 2015 a jury found Wade before putting him back to
authorize a rational trier of that the trial court made a to a 911 call from the house guilty of the malice murder on sleep on the couch. Shortly
fact to conclude beyond a number of errors, including the reporting a medical emergency. two counts of felony murder, after, he noticed the baby’s face
reasonable doubt that [Wade] judge’s failure to instruct the Responders found the child cruelty to children in the first was blue and called police.
was guilty of the crimes of jury prior to its deliberations unconscious and unresponsive. degree, aggravated assault and
which he was convicted.” that it could consider the According to reports, aggravated battery, aggravated
Defense for Wade argued child’s death an accident. medical examiners noticed assault of Investigator Jones,
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 5

SPARKLES Continued From Page 1

Her owner, Diane Murray, said with autism and other learning
she has been dressing dogs in disabilities.
fashionable clothing for years. “What [Lynn] discovered is
“I had Shih Tzus growing up that there is a big gap in help,
and loved fashion, so when I got support for young adults that
[Sparkles] I started dressing her are coming out of high school,” Sparkles and her pig friends hang out at her birthday party. Photo by Studio Primetime
up,” Murray said. “When she said Mary Justman, vice
was 3 years old, I started putting president of Mister Migs. “Once
her on Instagram. I had no idea school is out [for the summer],
it would turn into this. It was there is no path and often no
fun, it turned into an outlet for plan. What Mister Migs is
her fashion.” here for is to help them move
Sparkles has nearly 3,000 on to the next phase of their
Instagram posts of her in doggie lives so that they can become
clothes from sweaters to keep productive citizens.”
her warm during the winter Sparkles and Murray have
months to bathing suits for volunteered with Mister Migs
poolside lounging. Murray said for years to raise awareness
Sparkles has never objected to for their cause. Murray and
wearing outfits. Sparkles have hosted previous
“When we got Sparkles, we events at Mister Migs to raise
took her to the vet and the next funds for their nonprofit “Your
trip was to stores and starting Career Unleashed.” Murray said
her wardrobe,” Murray said. she wanted to do something
“She’s very laidback, she’s very special for Sparkles’ birthday
happy, she’s always been easy and raise awareness as well.
going and she never seems “Sparkles’ birthday was
to mind anything. She’s not coming around, so I googled to
dressed up all the time, but see if there were any dog events
when she is she has always taken going on and National Pick Day
to everything.” [was scheduled for June 23],”
One of the stores where Murray said. “And I said, ‘That
Murray and Sparkles shop is would be fun for her birthday,
Mister Migs, which creates let’s have it at Mister Migs.’
fashionable dog clothes and They have a great indoor space,
accessories. However, Mister we love to support them and
Migs is more than a dog their cause, and it evolved from
clothing store. The business, there.”
which was founded by Karen “[Murray] and Sparkles
Lynn, also focuses on giving became ambassadors for us,”
back to the community. Lynn Justman said. “We need the
made it her mission to provide support. It’s not much funding
work experiences through for what we do. We depend on
Mister Migs to young adults the community.” Mister Migs Vice President Mary Justman speaks at the “PINKtastic Birthday PIGnic FUNdraiser.”
Photo by Studio Primetime
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 6

Land of the free?

At least to me, one of America’s Medicaid? shun. In a zero tolerance, lock the
greatest strengths is the melting ‘One Man’s As a father with still one young doors, build the wall environment,
pot of humanity which forms
our nation. My own family, on
Opinion’ child, I cannot envision approaching
the border of another nation with
costs escalate quickly, labor shortages
become real overnight, and we end
the paternal side, is of Scotch/ all but our lives immediately on the up quickly in a place of want and
Irish/Welsh descent—heavy on
Bill Crane line, and likely virtually all of our need, perhaps with fewer resources
bill.csicrane@gmail.com
the Irish. My paternal great, great remaining and worldly possessions even available to share.
grandfathers, on both side of that on our backs. If we are unwilling President Trump has not yet
branch of the family tree, entered Africa, thousands of families—with to accept willing immigrants into changed out the sign at the base of
America as stowaways, fleeing hundreds employed nearby at our our nation with only the most our Statue of Liberty. But it seems,
poverty and one of the many potato DeKalb Farmer’s Market—are here extenuating of circumstances, then I at least for the remainder of his
famines which blighted the Irish working hard to learn English, put suspect in the matter of a generation, administration, the more appropriate
economy at the dawn of the 20th their skills or trade to work and we will be much less a people message might be, “No applicants
century. assimilate into our neighborhoods because of that. need apply.”
I am also proud of my Southern and communities. Our infrastructure could use
heritage, but dad’s family did not My immediate neighbors hail significant reinvestment. What about Bill Crane also serves as a political
arrive here in Decatur and Atlanta from a Latin American country, work requirements or public service analyst and commentator for Channel
until 1946. In our family, I am the also in turmoil. Their children for entry?  What about restoring low 2’s Action News, WSB-AM News/Talk
first generation ‘born’ Southerner. are among my daughter’s closest wage apprenticeships to train and 750 and now 95.5 FM, as well as a
My point being, although I am one friends; this family of modest learn a trade?  Many industries still columnist for The Champion, DeKalb
of those increasingly rare Atlanta means would give someone else need low wage and unskilled labor Free Press and Georgia Trend. Crane
natives born at Crawford Long in need food from their table as to perform a wide array of tasks is a DeKalb native and business owner,
Hospital (now Emory Midtown), well as the clothes off their own ranging from pulling crops out of living in Scottdale. You can reach
most everyone I know here and backs. They work hard, pay taxes fields, to outdoor construction to him or comment on a column at bill.
around this nation came here from and participate actively in our cleaning America’s restaurants and csicrane@gmail.com.
somewhere else. economy. Their presence here only hotels, that most other Americans
It was America—our Statue of strengthens our community.
Liberty and Ellis Island—which As a country we have largely
began welcoming the world’s poor, not revisited or amended federal
weak and huddled masses, in part immigration laws since 1986. The
to provide the labor to fuel the Immigration Reform Act of
Industrial Revolution, as well as to 1986 contained some challenged
build out our nation’s infrastructure policy decisions, still in force in a
as well as the skylines of many cities nation radically different 32 years
such as New York, Chicago, Boston later. That law could not anticipate
and Detroit. the several hundred thousand
I do believe that we need control young DACA recipients, brought
of our borders and that dozens here as young children by their
of laws already on the books for parents, with no real say at the time
decades should be enforced. But as to where they would live or later
just as America is a nation of laws, stay. For many of these so-called
we are known for being a kind and ‘dreamer,’ America is the only home
humane people. With plenty here they know.
for most, and yes, less for some, we Aren’t we still the people who
have long been the world leader in welcome, assist and support
doing charitable good, in policing our neighbors? Aren’t we still a
or rebuilding other countries who growing, yet aging population
we have vanquished, or assisting that needs younger families and a
our long-term allies facing times of growing population base to fund
trouble. the expensive social safety net
I live near Clarkston, an which looms yet ahead of us, as well
officially designated federal refugee as providing able-bodied worker
community. Fleeing oppressive and income producing revenue to help
murderous regimes across west fund Social Security, Medicare and

FREEPRESS
the DeKalb Publisher: Staff Reporters:
John Hewitt Carla Parker STATEMENT FROM THE
Horace Holloman PUBLISHER
Chief Financial Officer: Derek Smith We sincerely appreciate the
Dr. Earl D. Glenn discussion surrounding this and any
Let Us Know What You Think! Social Media Manager: issue of interest to DeKalb County.
THE DEKALB FREE PRESS encourages opinions from SEND LETTERS TO EDITOR, Production Manager: Donna Seay The Champion was founded in 1991
expressly to provide a forum for
The DeKalb Free Press, Kemesha Wadley discourse for all community residents
its readers. Please write to us and express your views. P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; on all sides of an issue. We have no
Letters should be brief, typewritten and contain the Send email to Johnh@dekalbchamp.com desire to make the news only to
FAX To: (404) 370-3903; Phone: (404) 373-7779. The DeKalb Free Press is published each Friday report news and opinions to effect
writer’s name, address and telephone number for verifi- Deadline for news releases and advertising: by ACE III Communications, Inc., a more educated citizenry that will
cation. All letters will be considered for publication. Thursday, one week prior to publication date. 114 New Street, Suite E, Decatur, GA. 30030 ultimately move our community
forward. We are happy to present
Phone (404) 373-7779. ideas for discussion; however,
EDITOR’S NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reflect the opinions www.championnewspaper.com we make every effort to avoid
of the editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The printing information submitted to
us that is known to be false and/or
Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. DISPLAY ADVERTISING (404) 373-7779 x 110 assumptions penned as fact.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 7

Rising suicide rates need our attention Congratulations to DeKalb Bar

Association on successful Law
Day event
The first week of June was a rough battling depression and going though
one for the general public with the tough times, offering support, love and To the Editor:
shocking deaths of designer and retail compassion as well as attempting to steer
tycoon Kate Spade and celebrity chef/ people who are hurting to services that On behalf of the State Bar
author/storyteller Anthony Bourdain, may help them. of Georgia, I wish to express
both by suicide. Gale Horton Gay congratulations and thanks to
Every day, however, individuals fastgale@hotmail.com National Suicide Prevention shares members of the DeKalb Bar
Association who spearheaded the
who aren’t well known commit suicide, the following warning signs: recent observance of Law Day 2018.
leaving family members and loved ones • Talking about wanting to die or to kill
devastated in unimaginable ways. We people with mental health conditions, themselves Congratulations also go to DeKalb
rarely hear about the circumstances there are many additional opportunities • Looking for a way to kill themselves, NAACP President Teresa Hardy
surrounding these deaths as suicide still for prevention,” states the CDC. such as online search or buying a gun on receiving the Liberty Bell
carries a stigma and many families and “Researchers found that more than • Talking about feeling hopeless or Award, which is presented annually
friends prefer not to reveal the painful half of people who died by suicide did having no reason to live to a non-lawyer who has made
not have a known diagnosed mental significant contributions to the court
detail. • Talking about feeling trapped or in system and the community. DeKalb
The Centers for Disease Control and health condition at the time of death. unbearable pain County State Court Judge Dax E.
Prevention (CDC) recently released Relationship problems or loss, substance • Talking about being a burden to others Lopez made the presentation.
its finding that suicide rates are rising misuse; physical health problems; and • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
across the country. In 2016, nearly job, money, legal or housing stress often • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving The national theme for this year’s
45,000 Americans age 10 and older died contributed to risk for suicide.” recklessly celebration of Law Day, “Separation
by suicide, states a CDC press release. Stemming the tide of suicide requires • Sleeping too little or too much of Powers: Framework for Freedom,”
states to take a comprehensive public acknowledges the system of checks
“Suicide is the 10th leading cause of • Withdrawing or isolating themselves and balances among the three
death and is one of just three leading health approach to its prevention as • Showing rage or talking about seeking branches of U.S. government—
causes that are on the rise.” well as addressing the range of factors revenge legislative, executive and judicial.
It may come as a surprise that contributing to suicide, the CDC • Extreme mood swings
suicides outnumber homicides in the advises. “This requires coordination and There are several resources available to We commend all members of the
United States, by more than a two-to- cooperation from every sector of society: seek help for others and gain knowledge DeKalb Bar Association for a most
one margin. Murder makes the news government, public health, healthcare, such as: successful observance of Law Day,
employers, education, media and which helps make the public aware
daily, but suicide, increasing in nearly all • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, of the importance and value of our
states, doesn’t and should be considered community organizations.” 1-800-273-TALK (8255), https://sui- justice system.
a silent epidemic. We call can help in the fight against cidepreventionlifeline.org
The cause of suicide is often complex suicide by heightening our awareness, • DeKalb Regional Crisis Center, (404)
and rarely the result of a single factor, learning the risk factors and warning 294-0499 available 24 hours a day, daily Kenneth B. Hodges III
according to experts. “Although suicide signs as well as reducing access to lethal • DeKalb Community Service Board, President, State Bar of Georgia
prevention efforts largely focus on means if we fear someone is suicidal. https://dekcsb.org/crisis/
identifying and providing treatment for We all can reach out more to those
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 8

COUNTY WIDE

DOG GONE GOOD

DeKalb Sheriff’s Office celebrates its first K9 retirement
247 suspects without biting. knows it’s time for him to retire.
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN In addition to the sheriff ’s “He’s been an awesome,
horace@dekalbchamp.com office, he has worked with awesome dog,” McRae said.
the U.S. marshals, local police K9 officers and partners
According to some of his departments, DeKalb County from local law enforcement
peers, DeKalb County Sheriff ’s schools, and the DEA. During agencies attended the event.
Office K9 Deputy Viper is one his career, he also was awarded Viper was served a “doggie
of the best but as the adage first place in tracking and patrol donut” as part of his retirement
goes, “all good things must at the 2013 South Georgia K9 package.
come to an end.” Seminar and Certification,” “Viper is very well trained
Viper, a Belgian Malinois Mann said. and has done very well,” said
who has worked with the While Viper lives out his Major Roscoe, field division
sheriff ’s office for more than retirement, he will become the commander for DKSO. “I’m
eight years, officially retired “family protector” for the family fortunate that we’re able to
of his partner, Deputy Sheriff DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office K9 Deputy Viper retired June 20 at a ceremony at Mason
June 20. retire him to the McRae family
Michael McRae. Mill Recreation Center.
The 11-year-old drug- and I’m happy he is retiring in
sniffing dog was surrounded by During the retirement good health.”
colleagues and friends during ceremony, McRae said Viper is Viper will turn 12 in
his retirement ceremony at “always willing to work and is August. Roscoe said it’s
Mason Mill Recreation Center. an amazing dog.” important Viper enjoys his life
During his career, Viper had “He’s more than a [dog],” away from chasing criminals.
860 deployments, worked 200 McRae said. “I always tell “We’re lucky that we don’t
tracking assignments, located everyone I have one daughter have to retire Viper because
eight firearms and assisted in and one son [Viper]. He’s of health issues. I suspect that
the confiscation of multiple awesome and he follows me he will live a long life at home
pounds of illegal narcotics, everywhere. I even take this dog protecting the McRae family,”
according to DeKalb County on vacation with me.” Roscoe said. “It’s time and he’s
Sheriff Jeffrey Mann. McRae said he would love to paid his dues.”
“He has apprehended see Viper stay on the force but

DeKalb County Board of Health

Provides Back-to-School Services
CLARKSTON
We are Here for Your Health!
Clarkston, partners sponsor Friendly, affordable health services including:

after-dark basketball league •

•
Childhood Immunizations (Form 3231)
Hearing, Vision, Nutrition, and
Dental Screenings (Form 3300)
BY CARLA PARKER [Police Athletic League] PAL, variety of topics, including • Birth Certificates for Children Born in Georgia
carla@dekalbchamp.com
a national organization that anti-gang awareness, drugs • Sports Physicals
already has the infrastructure, and violence causes and
experience and abilities to consequences.
A summer basketball league implement and manage this “The opportunities, Extended Hours for ALL Services at ALL Centers
has begun in Clarkston. program and league,” Barker information and discussions 8:15 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Clarkston, DeKalb said. “The city gets to provide that occur in these workshops
Police Athletics League and additional recreational are so important, that
Clarkston First Baptist Church offerings and lastly, but more attendance and participation Monday, July 30, through Thursday, August 2
formed a partnership to importantly, the city continues is mandatory,” Ricketts said.
bring a “Summer After Dark its efforts to prevent youth “It’s simple, if they don’t attend,
Monday, August 6, through Wednesday, August 8
Basketball League” to the city. violence.” they don’t play.”
Games are held Tuesdays and The league is open to teens Participants will also be Normal Business Hours
Thursdays at Clarkston First ages 14 to 19. Programs begin told of local employment
Baptist Church until Aug. 2. at 9 p.m. with mandatory opportunities. Registration is Monday - Friday, 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Clarkston City Manager “life skills workshops” and free, and the league is open to
Keith Barker said in a basketball games following the public. Participants can
statement that the summer at 10 p.m. There will be show up on any Tuesday or Clifton Springs Health Center (404) 244-2200
league program allows the championship rounds to Thursday to play in the games East DeKalb Health Center (770) 484-2600
city to check off several boxes determine which team will be that start after workshops.
of its civic and community awarded the winners’ trophy. To register and for more
North DeKalb Health Center (770) 454-1144
engagement goals and DeKalb County Police PAL information, contact Ricketts T. O. Vinson Health Center (404) 294-3762
objectives. Plus program manager and at kkricketts@dekalbcountyga.
“The city gets to expand coordinator Khary Ricketts gov or call (404) 664-1225; or For more information
our partnership with Clarkston said in a statement that during Terry Sanders at tsanders@
First Baptist Church and to (404) 294-3700
the workshops, participants cityofclarkston.com, or call
partner, for the first time, with will hear from experts on a (470) 244-5355 www.dekalbhealth.net
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 9

WEEK in PICTURES

DeKalb Master Gardeners, Friends of Tucker Rec and others held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the improved
Butterfly Garden at Tucker Recreation Center. Photo from city of Tucker’s Facebook page

Lifeline Animal Project dog Saucer participated in an offsite adoption event at Ponce City Farmer’s
County workers participate in the residential bulky item curbside collection project. Market June 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

404.373.7779 x 110
DeKalb25.com
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 10

DORAVILLE BROOKHAVEN
City passes millage rate, budget City delays townhome
despite council disagreement development, angers residents
BY DEREK SMITH the millage rate and the budget, the city never actually invests the April 24 city council meet-
agreed that the resolution shows in itself, we’re going to be in BY DEREK SMITH
derek@dekalbchamp.com ing, attorney Carl Westmore-
the public that the council this constant cycle of treading derek@dekalbchamp.com land requested a 30-day defer-
is “serious” about exploring water.” ral on behalf of the applicant,
Doraville City Council was options for cost savings. Councilmember MD Naser, Ardent Companies, saying
The resolution passed who joined Fleming in voting A group of Brookhaven
nearly split June 18 when it residents were angered June 12 Ardent needed more time to
approved the passage of the unanimously. against the millage rate and the address some issues. 
Koontz opened discussion budget, said raising the millage when Brookhaven City Council
city’s millage at 10 mills, up delayed a vote on a rezoning The latest vote defers the de-
from 8.951 mills in 2017, a 29.6 of the millage rate by saying it’s rate won’t help the city. cision for 90 days, with the next
time to change how the council “We’re spending money request along Bramblewood
percent increase in property Drive.  vote scheduled for Sept. 12. A
taxes. views funding the city. we don’t have, but we’re not group of residents living in the
“Rather than looking at looking at cutting budgets, we’re Bramblewood Drive is cur-
Councilmember Joseph rently zoned mostly for single- area gathered at the meeting
Geiermann opened the the economic development not looking at cutting services and were visibly angered by the
and planning departments as we don’t need,” Naser said. family residential development
meeting by making a motion with a few lots for multifam- decision to defer. Twenty-nine
to approve a resolution for a necessary evil to be trimmed Fleming agreed with Naser’s homes in the area have been
as tightly as we can, I see these assertion that the city was ily residential and offices.
the council to work with staff The ordinance would rezone under contract to sell, and, as
to find opportunities for cost all as something we should be spending money it doesn’t resident Crew Heimer put it
investing in for the city’s future have, equating the millage the whole area for multifam-
savings and greater service ily residential, so Ardent Com- during public comment, their
delivery efficiency. growth,” she said. rate increase to using a credit “lives are in limbo.” 
Koontz said many people card, saying the residents and panies could build 205 town-
“I do think this budget and homes in the area of just more “I wanted to remind you
the attendant millage rate are have asked her why Doraville business owners were the that your month-by-month
has “stagnated” the past 10 creditors. than 15 acres. 
necessary given where we are as Rezoning the area—a cul- procrastination on this is im-
a city,” Geiermann said. “That years while surrounding cities “It’s a credit card or raising posing severe hardships on
have developed. She said the the millage, putting it on the de-sac between Curtis Drive
said, I do feel like we can do a and Cliff Valley Way off Buford the residents of Bramblewood
better job collectively of getting city has been “pennywise and backs of our residents and Drive,” Heimer said. 
pound foolish” by not investing putting it on the backs of the Highway—has been in discus-
together and looking at [ways to sion for months. The rezoning He told the council many
save money]…If I know we’re more in economic development business owners of this city,” she residents have delayed major
and planning. said. ordinance was originally in-
looking for savings throughout troduced to the planning com- repairs to their homes, such as
the year, it’ll help me vote for Geiermann agreed, saying Councilmembers Robert fixing air conditioners, because
it’s time Doraville started Patrick and Shannon Hillard mission in January and recom-
this budget.” mended for deferral. It came they don’t want to invest in a
Councilmember Stephe “investing in itself.” declined to comment, but voted home that could be torn down. 
“I had a job, I knew I wanted for the increase, allowing it to back to the planning com-
Koontz, who helped mission April 4, where it was Heimer said the city is put-
Geiermann draft the resolution, a better job, I went to school, pass 4 to 2. The budget also ting a “de facto” moratorium
I paid money and I was able passed 4 to 2. recommended favorably. At
and councilmember Pam
Fleming, who voted against to get a better job,” he said. “If
SEE TOWNHOMES ON PAGE 16

LITHONIA

Traffic signal upgrades coming to Covington Highway

BY CARLA PARKER Covington Highway. The Rockdale County, worth $4.7 to the Newton County Line. Information on schedules,
project has an estimated million, will address almost The project has an estimated lane closures and detours will
carla@dekalbchamp.com
completion date of September 10 miles of resurfacing on SR completion date of March 31, be made available on GDOT’s
The Georgia Department 30, 2019. The project in 20 north of Milstead Avenue 2019. website prior to construction.
of Transportation (GDOT)
will upgrade traffic signals
at various locations along NOTICE
Covington Highway.
Senator Tonya Anderson The City of Chamblee City Council does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held at the Chamblee Civic 
(D–Lithonia) announced Center located at 3540 Broad Street, Chamblee, Georgia on July 2, 2018 at 6:00 PM and pursuant to the requirements of Ga. Code 
June that a contract has been 48‐5‐32 does herby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest
awarded to her district— and levy for the past five years.
District 43— from GDOT.
The amount of the project is CURRENT 2018 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY
$695,526 and is expected to be
completed September 2019. 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
“I’m thankful to GDOT Real & Personal 723,574,965 991,264,465 1,123,309,202 1,259,585,995 1,370,128,444 1,542,256,423
for awarding these projects to Motor Vehicles & Heavy Equipment 27,471,830 23,809,872 20,050,020 15,799,866 13,893,880 8,355,600
our district,” Anderson said. Public Utilities 9,726,659 10,289,198 15,151,224 13,476,415 15,092,786 14,634,923
“Ensuring that our roads and Gross Digest 760,773,454 1,025,363,535 1,158,510,446 1,288,862,276 1,399,115,110 1,565,246,946
traffic signals are up to code is Less Exemptions 86,685,769 136,343,322 147,895,254 152,246,821 154,458,202 165,718,780
so important for the safety of Adjusted Net Digest 674,087,685 889,020,213 1,010,615,192 1,136,615,455 1,244,656,908 1,399,528,166
motorists and pedestrians. I
look forward to the completion Gross Millage Rage 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4
of this project and others over
the next few years.” Net Taxes Levied 4,314,161 5,689,729 6,467,937 7,274,339 7,965,804 8,956,980
The project in DeKalb
County, worth over $695,000, Net Taxes $ Increase 240,493 1,375,568 778,208 806,402 691,465 991,176
will address the upgrades at Net Taxes % increase 5.90% 31.88% 13.68% 12.47% 9.51% 12.44%
various traffic signals along
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 11

BROOKHAVEN

Mobile app allows

Brookhaven residents
to report issues
BY DEREK SMITH user doesn’t have cell service,
reports can still be entered
derek@dekalbchamp.com into the app, but won’t be
submitted until the phone
If Brookhaven residents regains service. 
see an issue that needs Reports also can be
attention from the city’s public made anonymously, though
works, code enforcement or providing a name and
parks departments, there’s an email address allows city
app for that.  workers to follow up with
Brookhaven Connect is the reporting party in case
a smartphone app available there are any questions. Users
on iPhone, Android and can select to make the
Windows phones that allows report anonymously on the
the city government “to app’s home screen or users
engage with residents for can adjust the app settings The app allows residents to track the progress of service Users can make service requests by tapping the “Create a
nonemergency, action- to report anonymously requests they’ve made from within the app.  Request” button at the bottom of the home screen after opening
the app. Photos courtesy city of Brookhaven. 
oriented issues,” Brookhaven by default. Brennan said
Communications anonymous reports are
Director Burke Brennan said.  common and users who
The app has been available report anonymously are not
trees across roads, NOTICE OF PUBLIC
malfunctioning traffic
for two years, but city officials counted among the 1,100
registered users.  signals or downed stop signs, HEARING AND NOTICE OF
want more engagement.
According to Brennan, the Common issues reported individuals should call the
Public Works main number at
TAX INCREASE
app has about 1,100 registered through the app are potholes
(404) 637-0540 and press “1”
users for a city of around
52,000 residents.  
or tall
according
grass
to
at a residence,
Brennan. to connect to the on-call staff. Notice is hereby given that the
The app uses GPS Issues within the city’s parks Individuals should call 911 for
all public safety emergencies
Governing Authority of the City of
technology to pinpoint the
user’s location, so users don’t
are rarer,
report is
he said. Once
made, users can
a
that require police, fire or Clarkston has tentatively adopted
even need to know where they track the progress of the
EMS. 
All water and sewer
a 2018 millage rate which
are to make a report. 
“The neat thing about it
report through the app and
see when the issue has been issues are handled by DeKalb will require an increase in the
is it’s a phone app, and the fixed, even if they report County. Water and sewer
emergencies should be
property taxes of 13.09 percent.
phone knows exactly where it anonymously. 
is,” Brennan said.  The app helps the city keep reported to DeKalb County All concerned citizens are
If the app is used in an track of things too, Brennan Department of Watershed
Management at (770) 270-
invited to the Public Hearings
area where GPS is unreliable
or unavailable, users can
said. 
“We know exactly how 6243, a 24-hour emergency on this tax increase to be held
still enter their location many issues we get in a number. 
Anything else can and
on July 5 at 7:00PM at the City
manually. The app allows
users to include a photo of
certain time
how many we
period and
close in a should be reported using Hall Council Rm, 3921 Church
the problem as well. Brennan certain time period,” he Brookhaven Connect,
Brennan said. 
Street, Clarkston, GA 30021. The
said reports can be made
without a photo, but photos
said. “It gives us a basis
measuring our performance.” 
for
“We are a young city City Council will adopt the 2018
are recommended because Brookhaven Connect that was founded on many
precepts, not the least of
Millage rate at the July 5, 2018
they often allow for faster
processing of the request by
is not
issues
intended for reporting
that need to be which was a responsive meeting following the conclusion
giving city workers a visual addressed immediately, government,” Brennan
said. “This enables us to be
of the Public Hearing.
description of the issue. If a Brennan said. For downed
responsive.”  This tentative increase will
result in a millage rate of 17.50
Coming to Chamblee and mils, an increase of 2.026
Decatur in September mills. Without this tentative tax
(more locations and dates available) increase, the millage rate will
Register now to check the health of your arteries
be no more than 15.474. The
proposed tax increase for a
5 important screenings for only $149
Carotid artery screening (plaque)
home with a fair market value of
Heart Rhythm Screening (A Fib) $ 100,000 is approximately
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening
$ 64.40. The proposed increase
Osteoporosis risk assessment on non-homestead property with
a fair market value of $ 400,000
Sept. 15: Chamblee First United Methodist Church, Atlanta
Sept. 18: First Christian Church of Decatur, Decatur is approximately $ 257.60.
More dates and locations available. Pre-registration is required call 1-888-653-6441 to receive a $10 discount
EDUCATION DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 12

CHAMBLEE STONE MOUNTAIN

Redan High graduates win national

stock market competition
Four recent Redan High School (RHS) graduates were met
with congratulations from Congressmen Hank Johnson June 14
at Johnson’s Washington, D.C. office. The graduates represented
the winning team in the 2018 National Securities Industry and
Financial Market Association (SIFMA) Capitol Hill Challenge
Stock Market Game.
“These young minds deserve to be recognized and celebrated,”
Johnson said in a press release. “We must continue to foster all of
our students’ interests in the financial market and support their

Chamblee Charter High teacher

efforts to become self-sufficient with their finances and their
understanding of the global markets.”

reassigned
The RHS graduates competed against thousands of other
students from across the nation in a 14-week challenge, according
to the release. The game organized hundreds of teams of middle
and high school students by congressional district and state
with emphasis on the importance of saving and investing while
promoting a better understanding of government.
BY DEREK SMITH “Finance is big part of business, and since I’m striving to
derek@dekalbchamp.com run my own business in the near future, this competition was
awesome for that,” RHS team member Alexis Goings said in
the release. Goings is currently developing a business model to
A Chamblee Charter High operate a catering business.
School (CCHS) teacher whose According to the release, the competition uses the SIFMA
discipline by the school’s Foundation’s curriculum-based stock market game to help
principal helped ignite the fury students develop a better understanding of the global economy,
of parents has been reassigned become college and career ready, and improve their knowledge of
following a suspension, math, economics, and business.
according to DeKalb County Neuhaus Braaten
RHS stock market game coach William Roth said this is
School District (DCSD) officials. the first year RHS students have competed in the Capitol Hill
Uwe Neuhaus, a German Challenge.
teacher at CCHS, has been of Education Community Input “These outstanding young people dominated the country,”
reassigned to the district’s home language is other than
Session, with many speaking English must register with the Roth said in the release. “Their future growth and possibilities are
International Welcome Center, against CCHS principal Rebecca limitless.”
district officials told The welcome center, according to the
Braaten. A recently graduated district website.
Champion. Officials did not CCHS student said Braaten
comment on the reason for Efforts by The Champion
creates “a hostile environment” to contact Neuhaus have been
the reassignment, saying it is a for teachers.
personnel matter. unsuccessful.
“I worry that when teachers
The Champion obtained an do not feel appreciated
internal DCSD email which and supported, but instead
describes an assignment threatened, they will be less able
Neuhaus reportedly gave to to do the excellent work they’ve
students of his German class this done in the past,” the student
semester. The assignment was said.
a series of 11 skits meant to be Braaten had been principal at
acted out by specific students CCHS for one year. The school
in German. One skit is a scene received gold medal recognition
between a baseball batter and from U.S. News and World DeKalb County Continuum of Care for Homeless Programs
an umpire. In the skit, the batter Report in May and was ranked
lets go of a bat, which knocks the
umpire unconscious. When the
as the 14th best high school in FY 2018 Continuum of Care (CoC) Program Competition
Georgia and 457th best out of
umpire wakes, he first threatens more than 6,500 high schools
the batter with the bat, then after DeKalb Local Application Process will open July 9, 2018
nationwide. The school also has
the batter begs for forgiveness, scored above the national, state
the umpire “hugs the batter, On Tuesday July 9, 2018 the DeKalb County Continuum of Care (CoC) will distribute
and district average on national the local application guidelines and applications for new and renewal funding to
strokes his hair, rubs his back on tests in recent years, according agencies and other entities interested in applying for the 2018 HUD Homeless
the belly of the batter and gives to the Georgia Government Assistance Grant. Applications will be posted July 9, 2018 on the DeKalb County
him back the bat,” the email Office of Student Achievement. website at https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/community-development/grant-
reads. application.
DCSD officials said in
According to the email, a statement June 20 that
when a student asked Neuhaus On June 20, 2018 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
the district is “aware of the released the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for the Fiscal Year 2018 Continuum
to explain what was meant by concerns of members of the of Care Program Competition, FH-6200-N-25. Agencies and interested entities are
“rubs his back on the belly of Chamblee Charter High encouraged to attend the Application Information Meeting on July 9, 2018, 1:00 -
the batter.” Neuhaus said “when School community” but would 3:00 p.m. at the Decatur Library – 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur, GA. Hard copies
we stand in front of each other, not comment on whether of the Application Guidelines and Applications for new and renewal funding will be
I turn around and put my back available. Please register to attend at mcolbert@dekalbcounty.gov
the concerns were related to
against your belly and then Neuhaus’ reassignment to the
move up and down (like many Interested agencies and entities are strongly encouraged to review the HUD COC
International Welcome Center. NOFA announcement and applicant threshold requirements in advance. New project
pop stars like Beyonce do when According to district officials, applicants and Victim Service providers are encouraged to apply.
they are erotically dancing on the International Welcome The funding announcement and additional CoC resources can be found on the HUD
stage), then I rub my back on Center is an office within the Exchange at https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/SPM/documents/FY18-CoC-NOFA.
your belly.” district that assists immigrant pdf and http://www.hudexchange.info/programs/coc
On June 11, dozens of families in their transition to
parents and CCHS supporters General requests for information may be made to (404) 371-2727 or by email at
DCSD. Students whose primary adpope@dekalbcountyga.gov.
turned out for the DCSD Board
BUSINESS DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 13

COUNTY WIDE

Local grocery baggers sack competition;

scholarship money in the bag
BY KATHY MITCHELL cards by answering questions
about the 135-year old grocery
FREELANCE REPORTER chain. Moran, the only female
selected as a contestant (one
Two DeKalb County students, contestant dropped out because
who also are baggers at local of illness and was replaced by a
Kroger stores, were awarded young woman bagger), won a gift
scholarship money in the 22nd card for knowing that Kroger was
annual Kroger Georgia Bag-Off founded in 1883.
June 13 after they successfully Just before the bagging began,
competed against top grocery organizers revealed the identical Levante McClure of Lithonia took home third place and a Cara Moran of Dunwoody was the second-place winner and was
baggers from across Georgia. groupings of grocery selections $250 scholarship. awarded a $500 scholarship.
Cara Moran of Dunwoody and that included a can of coffee,
Levante McClure of Lithonia chips, cookies, paper towels and
came in second and third, other items. They were reminded
respectively, bested only by that while speed matters, it’s just
Devin Ferrell of McDonough, one of several criteria contestants
who took first place, receiving are judged on, including weight
$750 and the opportunity to distribution, technique, overall
represent Kroger at the Georgia style, appearance and attitude.
Food Industry Association’s Bag “Winners are almost never the
Off in July. Moran, a 16-year-old fastest contestants,” a company
homeschooled student, received a representative reminded them.
$500 scholarship and 22-year-old “No customer wants to go home
McClure, a student at Kennesaw and find his bread crushed or
State, was awarded a $250 broken glass in the bag.”
scholarship. Baggers prepared diligently
The atmosphere at a Kroger for the event, according to Felix
store on Glenwood Avenue Turner, corporate affairs manager
was reminiscent of a carnival of Kroger’s Atlanta Division.
or a sports event with balloons, “There are no losers here. These
banners, signs and coworker are young men and women who
groups cheering for their have a strong work ethic and will
favorites. Between bagging succeed wherever life takes them.
“heats,” there was line dancing Each year, the enthusiasm for the
and trivia games in which competition grows, making this a
contestants competed for gift must-see event,” he said. Each contestant was given an identical collection of Moran waits for the signal to start bagging.
grocery items to bag.

DECATUR

Nonprofit names new president of business development

BY KATHY MITCHELL this. When we read about be a great fit for them fundamentals of operating
his background, we were because I already was a business. Through ACE,
FREELANCE REPORTER encouraged that he was passionate about serving the owners of startup and
the person we needed, and communities ACE focuses existing businesses are
Access to Capital for when we met him and saw on. I was a banker for almost exposed to industry experts
Entrepreneurs Inc. (ACE) how sharp he is and what 30 years and have seen the who can familiarize them
made what it characterized as a commanding presence stress tough times put on with best practices and other
a “big hire” when it recently he has, we knew he was people, particularly people concepts that can make
named Decatur resident perfect,” she said. of color, women and others the businesses sustainable.
Ray Pennie as president of “Ray has a proven record who might have difficulty Sustainability is the key—
business development. In of facilitating long-term accessing capital.” creating a business that will
his new position, Pennie, business relationships with Pennie said he is last,” Pennie said.
according to ACE, will both customers and industry particularly impressed  ACE recently announced
“lead the organization’s leaders. His leadership in that ACE does more than that since 2000, it has loaned
entrepreneurial education working with underserved make money available. The more than $53 million to
teams, developing new Pennie markets and developing company says its hallmark more than 840 entrepreneurs,
business opportunities and high-performing teams is service is its “combination which the organization says
driving greater market the perfect mix of expertise of capital, coaching and has created or saved more
to small-business financing that will be beneficial to connections.” than 7,100 jobs in Georgia.
presence.” ACE describes across metro Atlanta and
itself as “a nonprofit the growth and success of “ACE provides training  Pennie said, “It’s exciting
rural North Georgia.” ACE. Ray understands our and one-on-one mentoring. to join a company with
community development “We are reorganizing
financial institution, mission to help grow small Often people without such a great track record
to put functions that deal businesses with capital, previous experience in the and so much opportunity to
dedicated to serving directly with clients under
Georgia’s underserved coaching and connections,” business world fail not grow. I’m looking forward
one executive,” explained Fricks added. because that don’t work hard to getting started and being
small-business owners of Grace Fricks, ACE’s
color, women, low-income “I was already familiar or have an excellent product a valuable addition to the
president and CEO. “Ray with ACE and its work, or service, but because team.”
entrepreneurs and others is an ideal choice to do
who lack equitable access Pennie said. “I felt I would they need help with the
 DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 14

ATLANTA

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SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 15

SOFTBALL

Former Druid Hills

softball player
excels in college
finished the season leading
BY CARLA PARKER the conference and Panthers
carla@dekalbchamp.com with 55 runs, including 13
doubles, four triples and 14
Kayla Cato earned home runs.
many accolades in softball Cato led Claflin to a
at Druid Hills High School second-place regular season
and is continuing to do so in finish in the SIAC with a .389
college. batting average.
Cato, an infielder at At Druid Hills, Cato
Claflin University, was finished her senior season
named the 2018 Division II third on the DeKalb County
Historically Black Colleges batting leaders list with a .645
and Universities (HBCU) batting average in 2014. She Druid Hills High School graduate and Claflin University infielder Kayla Cato was named the 2018 Division II HBCU Player of the Year
Player of the Year and 2018 had 40 hits with 62 at bats, 55 and 2018 SIAC Player of the Year. Photo provided
Southern Intercollegiate RBIs and 45 runs. She won
Athletic Conference (SIAC) the county’s homerun title
Player of the Year. Cato was a member of the that won the 2013 RBI World Houston 4-3 to claim the
with 16 homeruns on the
Cato appeared in all Atlanta Reviving Baseball Series title in Minneapolis, title.
season, and she won county
51 games for Claflin and in Inner Cities (RBI) team Minn. The team defeated
player of the year.

BASEBALL

Brookhaven Bucks
off to hot start
by Jay Kapp, Brookhaven Bucks University), Austin Hunter (a
freshman from Belmont Abbey
The Sunbelt Baseball League College) and Harrison Fant (a
(SBL) season is underway and the sophomore from Central Alabama
Brookhaven Bucks are 5-4 as of Community College), has the best
June 25. ERA in the SBL.
The Bucks’ offense has been “We’ve really started the season
the best in the collegiate summer well,” coach Corey Patterson said.
wooden-bat league, leading the “I’m impressed with how the guys
SBL in several offensive categories, have come together so quickly.”
including hits, doubles and The roster includes players
batting average. Zach Williams, from more than 20 colleges from
a sophomore from College of around the southeast. Most of
Charleston, leads the team with a the players come from NCAA
.400 average. Division I schools.
The Bucks have also seen big Home games are played
offensive contributions from at Oglethorpe University and
Connor Stutts, (a junior from admission is $5 for adults and $3
The University of Alabama), for children. Players are available
Austin Zeitler (a sophomore from for autographs and pictures 30
Chattahoochee Valley Community minutes before every home game.
College), Brenton Sanders (a The 30-game regular season
sophomore from Georgia Tech) runs through July 26, with playoffs
and Brett Olson (a senior from for the top four teams scheduled
Auburn University). from July 27 through Aug. 3.
Bucks pitchers have been For the complete Bucks
leading the league as well. The schedule, visit brookhavenbucks.
pitching staff, led by Jordan Ward com/schedule.
(a sophomore from Jacksonville
Austin Hunter pitching during a recent Brookhaven Bucks game. Photo by Jay Kapp
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018 • Page 16

TOWNHOMES Continued From Page 10A NOTICE

THE DEKALB COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, DOES HEREBY ANNOUNCE THAT THE MILLAGE RATE WILL BE SET AT A
on the area and that the actions High School. 
MEETING TO BE HELD AT THE MANUEL J. MALOOF CENTER AUDITORIUM, 1300 COMMERCE DRIVE, DECATUR, GEORGIA ON JULY
of the city are harming trust Councilmember Joe Geb-
with voters.  bia, who represents the area 10, 2018 AT 10:00 A.M. AND PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF O.C.G.A. 48-5-32 DOES HEREBY PUBLISH THE FOLLOWING
City officials said they want and who recommended the PRESENTATION OF THE CURRENT YEAR'S TAX DIGEST AND PROPOSED MILLAGE RATES ALONG WITH THE HISTORY OF THE TAX
to see more of a mixed-use deferral, said he did so because DIGEST AND LEVY OF THE PAST FIVE YEARS.
development in the area, with there were a lot of questions
some retail and different hous- that remained unanswered. 
ing price points.  “My objective in doing this
The city considered the area deferral is to make sure this CURRENT 2018 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY
on Bramblewood Drive as a project does not die,” Gebbia
possible site for its new public said. “I want to see a viable
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
safety building before settling project come out of this, and
on a lot along the future site of this is the best way to do it at Real & Personal 19,617,573,453 21,313,728,413 23,851,153,020 25,746,789,099 27,739,842,154 31,008,688,974
the Peachtree Creek Greenway. this point. So, that is my ratio- Motor Vehicles 1,468,928,740 1,231,387,800 851,329,130 621,157,010 547,942,620 314,894,410
The Bramblewood area was nale.”  Mobile Homes 396,572 355,333 358,733 769,100 486,235 476,807
also considered by DeKalb Timber - 100% 0 0 0 0 0 0
County School District as a Heavy Duty Equipment 34,308 57,864 2,208 76,000 81,886 38,569
possible site for a new Cross Notice of Gross Digest 21,086,933,073 22,545,529,410 24,702,843,091 26,368,791,209 28,288,352,895 31,324,098,760
Keys High School before the
Board of Education voted
Nondiscriminatory Less M&O Exemptions 2,061,365,888 2,345,016,850 2,883,683,825 3,275,538,351 3,556,053,450 4,002,048,734

to build the school outside Policy as to Students Net M&O Digest 19,025,567,185 20,200,512,560 21,819,159,266 23,093,252,858 24,732,299,445 27,322,050,026

Brookhaven city limits at the Heartwood ALC, Inc.

3893 Church Street, Forest Land Assistance 0 0 0 0 0 0
site of the former Briarcliff Clarkston, GA 30021 admits
students of any race, color, Grant Value 0 0 0 0 0 0
national origin and ethnic origin Adjusted Net M&O Digest 19,025,567,185 20,200,512,560 21,819,159,266 23,093,252,858 24,732,299,445 27,322,050,026
to all the rights, privileges,
programs, and activities
generally accorded or made Gross M&O Millage Rate (1) 11.510 9.020 11.280 9.500 9.433 10.873
available to students at the
school. It does not discriminate Less millage Rate Rollbacks 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
on the basis of race, color, Net M&O Millage Rate 11.510 9.020 11.280 9.500 9.433 10.873
national origin and ethnic
origin in administration of its
educational policies, admission Net Taxes Levy Levied (2) $218,984,278 $182,208,623 $246,120,117 $219,385,902 $233,299,781 $297,072,650
policies, scholarship and loan
programs, and athletic and
other school-administered Net Tax Increase ($) $3,785,481 -$36,775,655 $63,911,493 -$26,734,214 $13,913,879 $63,772,869
programs. Net Tax Increase (%) 1.76% -16.79% 35.08% -10.86% 6.34% 27.34%

The only hard part: deciding what to get.

publix.com/order