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Serving East Atlanta, Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Clarkston, Decatur, Doraville, Dunwoody, Lithonia, Pine Lake, Tucker and Stone Mountain.

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WWW.CHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013 VOL. 16, NO. 10 FREE

A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS

5,200 graduate from DeKalb County schools


by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com Nina Wilks said May 21 was a very emotional moment for her McNair High School 2013 graduating class. Its hard to believe that our high school years have passed by so quickly, said Wilks, the schools valedictorian, during her graduation speech at the Georgia World Congress Center. But here we are. Its only the beginning of the next step, she said. Across the county 5,243 seniors graduated high school this year, compared to 8,204 last year. City Schools of Decatur graduated 196 seniors from Decatur High. The McNair graduation also marked the first time a sitting governor was the keynote speaker for the schools ceremony. Gov. Nathan Deal first praised the work of the DeKalb County School Districts interim superintendent and new school board. Six members of that board were appointed by Deal after the school district was placed on accreditation probation by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the agency that accredits the school district through its parent company, AdvancED. The probation triggered a state law granting the governor the authority to remove school board members. Superintendent [Mike] Thurmond and the school board have rescued this school district of almost 100,000 students from the brink of what could have been a disaster, which would have undercut the meaning of the diplomas that each of you will receive tonight, Deal said. You should be encouraged by the fact that when the call went out to the citizens of DeKalb County as to who was willing to step up and make sure that bad things did not happen within the school system, we had over 400 very qualified citizens of this county to say Here am I, send me, he said. Deal gave the graduates some practical words of potential wisdom. I know from my own experience that any tidbits of wisdom that I might impart to you will probably be very short-lived in your memory, said Deal adding that he does remember the speakers advice when he graduated from high school, college and law school.

Learn to set your own alarm clock was the advice Gov. Nathan Deal gave the graduates of McNair High School May 21. Photos by Andrew Cauthen

Learn to set your own alarm clock, was the governors first piece of advice. From this point forward you do have to set your own alarm clock, Deal said. You have to decide what your timetable for life is going to be. Youre going to have to decide what youre going to do and youre not necessarily going to have those folks that youve depended on to tell you when to get up, when to go to school and what to do. Youre going to have to decide those things for your own, Deal said. If youre not willing to set your own alarm clock and set your own McNair High Schools 149 graduates were some of the more schedule for your life, then you really dont have than 5,200 that graduated from DeKalb County schools. any grounds that you can claim when someone else hands you a timetable, gives you a schedule the Big Mamas, the Uncle Teds, I come to tell you and expects you to follow it. that this is truly a day that the Lord has made. Deals other advice was good enough is not Thurmond encouraged the graduates to good enough and never stop learning. continue to learn, to continue to grow, to reach Life is a learning process, Deal said. Youre higher heights, to reach the stars as the namesake already ahead of many of those who started out as of this high school reached. And dont you give in, Because she gets her news updates online from the The Champi your classmates years ago. dont you give up and dont you ever give out. Addressing what heher called theupdates hardworking, let anyone try to tell you what you Because she gets news online from theDont The Champion. dedicated, good-looking 2013 class, Thurmond cannot become, because I come this evening to tell Because she gets her news updates online from the The Champion. said the graduates had proved that through hard you that God dont make no junk, Thurmond said. work and faith all things are possible. He deposits www.facebook.com/championnewspaper just as much genius in the inner city Thurmond said, To the mothers and fathers, as he does in the suburb.

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The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 2A

Top left, Atlanta Falcons co-owner Arthur Blank was honored during a golf tournament named after Harry Maziar. Bottom left, The tourney was co-chaired by Ron Brill and Howard Halpern. Right, the team of Chad Burchfield, Adam Burnside, Shaun Camay and Ben Wilson won the tournament. Photos courtesy of eagleshotz.com

Golf tournament honors Arthur Blank, raises $310,000


The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) honored Arthur Blank at its Harry Maziar Classic, an annual golf tournament, which took place May 20 at Hawks Ridge Golf Club. Each year, the tournament honors an outstanding member of the community. This years tournament honored Blank in appreciation of his dedication and leadership in shaping Atlantas Jewish community. Arthur is the owner and chairman of the Atlanta Falcons and is a co-founder of The Home Depot. Blank has given a tremendous amount of support to not only the MJCCA, but countless other organizations in Atlanta, according to a media release. He is an inspirational philanthropist who has made his mark on our city. The MJCCA raised $310,000, exceeding its goal by $60,000. The funds will be used to support the centers programs and services that impact the lives of more than 55,000 people every year, including Alzheimers day care services, programming for people with developmental disabilities, preschools, sports leagues, summer camps, and more. This years Harry Maziar Classic exceeded all expectations in every way, said Gail Luxenberg, CEO of the MJCCA. Not only were we thrilled to honor Arthur Blank, but were so grateful to have Ron Brill and Howard Halpern as such dedicated and involved event chairs. The winning teams in the Harry Maziar Classic include Chad Burchfield, Adam Burnside, Shaun Camay, Ben Wilson (first place); Todd Bomchel, Bert Rosenthal, Jason Smith, Dustin Walsey (second place); Stephen McDonnold, Derek Smith, Tanner Smith, Ron Whited (third place); and Gus Cawley, Casey Hudson, Bob Jacobson, Jim Ziegelbauer (fourth place). The winner of the putting contest was Bert Rosenthal. Tanner Smith and Emily White won the longest drive contest in the male and female divisions, respectively. The Harry Maziar Classic was sponsored by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and PGA TOUR Superstore, the Ron and Lisa Brill Family Charitable Trust, Former Orange Blooded Executives The Home Depot Inc., Douglas J. Hertz Family Foundation, Elaine and Ken Langone, Billi and Bernie Marcus The Marcus Foundation, and Barbara and Ed Mendel.
METROPOLITAN ATLANTA RAPID TRANSIT AUTHORITY

Notice of Public Hearing June 4, 2013


Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) will hold a public hearing for the purpose of considering

Proposed Service Changes for August 24, 2013


Proposed elimination and restructuring for the following bus routes:
Route 521 Q-Express: Elimination. Route 520 Q-Limited: Maintain current 10-minute service frequency and restructure to pro-

vide service to the Goldsmith Park & Ride Lot. The new alignment will operate along Central Drive outbound from Kensington Station only and along Memorial Drive inbound to Kensington Station. The segment along N. Hairston Road between Central Drive and E. Ponce De Leon Avenue, Mountain Industrial Blvd., Lewis Road, McCurdy Drive and E. Ponce De Leon Avenue between McCurdy Drive and N. Hairston Road will be discontinued. Additionally, Route 520 Q-Limited will be renamed as Route 121-Stone Mountain/Memorial Drive Limited.

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For more information, visit www.atlantagastro.com or call 1-866-GO-TO-AGA [468-6242].
AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

Copies of the proposed bus service modifications will also be available at MARTAs Office of External Affairs, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30324 during regular business hours, Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. For formats (FREE of charge) in accordance with the ADA and Limited English Proficiency regulations contact (404) 8484037. For those patrons requiring further accommodations, information can be obtained by calling the Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 404 848-5665. In addition, a sign language interpreter will be available at all hearings. If you cannot attend the hearings and want to provide comments you may: (1) leave a message at

(404) 848-5299; (2) write to MARTAs Office of External Affairs, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30324-3330; (3) complete an online Comment Card at www. itsmarta.com; (4) or fax your comments no later than June 9, 2013 to (404) 8484179. All citizens of the City of Atlanta and the counties of Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton and Gwinnett whose interests are affected by the subjects to be considered at these hearings are hereby notified and invited to appear at said times and places and present such evidence, comment or objection as their interests require. Keith T. Parker, AICP, GM/CEO

Page 3A 

The Champion, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013

Rappers lawyer:
by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Atlanta rapper and reality TV star Lil Scrappy, whose real name is Darryl Richardson, will be placed in an in-patient rehabilitation program after failing a court-ordered drug test a week before his probation revocation hearing. At the May 22 hearing, Richardsons lawyer, Mawuli Mel Davis, said the rapper went to see a drug and alcohol evaluation counselor after testing positive for marijuana. He does have a marijuana addiction and he does suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome, Davis

He has a marijuana addiction


said. He had a difficult childhood where he was exposed to drugs, prostitution and the kind of criminal activity that would traumatize any child. Richardson, 29, was ordered May 15 to provide a urine sample to test for illegal drugs. Prosecutors alleged that he switched his urine during a routine drug screening that is required as a condition of his probation. Richardson is on probation after a 2008 first-offender plea to felony marijuana and gun possession charges. Davis pleaded with DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Daniel Coursey to allow Richardson to enter a drug rehab program instead of going to jail. We could use Mr. Richardson in our community to do a better work rather than incarcerate him and take away his opportunity to give back to the community and address his addiction issue, Davis said. Two witnesses testified on Richardsons behalf about his work in the community. One of those witnesses, former City of Atlanta Council Member Derrick Boazman, said the rapper spoke to students in a mentoring program at Price Middle School in Atlanta. His presence was very powerful, Boazman said. He was able to connect with these young people in a way that was very important. He had an uncanny and authentic way of reaching them. DeKalb County Assistant District Attorney Leslie

Atlanta rapper and reality TV star Lil Scrappy, whose real name is Darryl Richardson, looks back at his family during his probation revocation hearing. Photo by Carla Parker

Miller Terry agreed that Richardson could be a positive influence to children, but said he should face the consequences for his actions. This case started in 2008, Terry said. In his car was a pound of marijuana. So here we are several years later and he still has the same issue, which is marijuana. Coursey listened to both arguments before agreeing that Richardson does need to enter a treatment facility.

He obviously needs some help to get off drugs, Coursey said. And weve given him a chance to do that on his own but we cant trust him anymore as shown by his actions. I think hes tried to cheat the system. Davis offered to enroll Richardson in a program within a week, which the prosecution agreed to. The exact drug program was not revealed. Davis will report back to the judge on June 12 with an updated on Richardsons progress.

The City of Doraville has tentatively adopted a millage rate of 9.00 for the portion of the City annexed on December 31, 2012.

NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE

Stone Mountain actor Henry Louis Adams will portray convicted DeKalb County Sherriffs deputy Derrick Yancey in TV Ones Fatal Attraction series.

All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearing on this tax increase to be held at the Doraville City Hall located at 3725 Park Avenue, Doraville, GA 30340 on June 10, 2013 at 6:30pm. Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at the Doraville City Hall on June 17, 2013 at 6:30pm and on June 20, 2013 at 6:30pm. This tentative millage rate of 9.00 mills will result in an increase of .957 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 8.043 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $75,000 is approximately $29 and the tax increase for a non-homestead property with a fair market value of $500,000 is approximately $191. State of Georgia statutes do not specifically address the setting of the initial millage rate for a newly annexed area by a municipality but the City of Doraville is advertising a Notice of Property Tax Increase, with associated public hearing notification, in order to ensure full disclosure of its intent to levy property taxes in the area annexed December 31, 2012. The millage rate of 9.00 proposed for the annexed area is the same as that proposed for the rest of the City and is below the rollback millage rate and therefore would not constitute a tax increase for the rest of the City. CITY OF DORAVILLE NOTICE OF FIVE YEAR HISTORY Pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-32 does hereby publish the following presentation of the current years tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years. All citizens of Doraville are invited to attend.

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com

Stone Mountain actor to portray convicted DeKalb sheriff deputy in TV series

Stone Mountain actor, minister and author Henry Louis Adams will play the role of convicted DeKalb County Sheriffs deputy Derrick Yancey in TV Ones Fatal Attraction series. Fatal Attraction is a crime series that looks at real-life stories of passion that leads to mayhem and murder, according to its website. Yancey was convicted in 2010 for killing his wife, Linda, and day laborer Marcial Cax-Puluc inside Yanceys Stone Mountain home in 2008. Blood spatter evidence played a major role in the case because Yancey originally said he hired CaxPuluc to work on his home and that the day-laborer robbed and shot his wife, and

he shot Cax-Puluc in selfdefense, according to reports. When police determined Yancey wasnt telling the truth, he was arrested. As he was awaiting trial on bond, Yancey cut off his ankle monitor and fled to Belize, where he was arrested six months later. According to his Facebook page, Adams started in the film industry as a featured extra on various projects such as Lottery Ticket and Joyful Noise. He has also appeared in the international Christian television program Sid Roths Its Supernatural, Playing multiple lead roles reenacting the life of testimonies of ministers and pastors such as Renny Mclean, Eddie James and Tony Kemp. Fatal Attraction will air July 1.

CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR LEVY


2009 Real & Personal Motor Vehicle Mobile Homes Timber 100% Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Tax Digest Exemptions Net Tax Digest Net Millage Net Tax Levy 100% Net Increase/(Decrease) Net Levy % Increase/(Decrease) 420,366,507 16,436,920 200 0 6,506 436,810,133 73,116,589 363,693,544 7.50 2,725,452 -400,591 -12.81% 0 400,893,638 70,854,876 330,038,762 8.00 2,640,310 -85,142 -3.12% 2,494 395,634,393 69,611,752 326,022,641 9.00 2,934,204 293,894 11.13% 2010 384,994,288 15,899,150 200 2011 379,732,939 15,898,760 200 2012 361,679,814 15,848,630 0 0 4,530 377,532,974 35,478,708 342,054,266 9.00 3,078,488 144,285 4.92% 2013 395,990,311 15,906,220 0 0 4,530 411,901,061 35,478,708 376,422,353 9.00 3,387,801 309,313 10.05%

All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearing on this tax increase to be held at the Doraville City Hall located at 3725 Park Avenue, Doraville, GA 30340 on June 10, 2013 at 6:30pm. Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at the Doraville City Hall on June 17, 2013 at 6:30pm and on June 20, 2013 at 6:30pm.

Page 4A

Memorial Day 2013


freedoms. Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May as decreed by Congress in 1971. But the holiday was first observed on May 30, 1868, to honor Union and Confederate soldiers who fought and died in the Civil War. May 30 continues to be traditional Memorial Day. More than 623,000 men died in the Civil War, more than any other U.S. conflict. More than 407,000 lost their lives in World II followed by nearly 117,000 in World War I. Wars and military conflict have resulted in the deaths of more than 1.3 million soldiers and military personnel in the history of the United States and regardless of our political affiliations or feelings about war, we should never forget to remember and honor those men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The cold statistics of our war dead do not take into account another sobering toll, that of the men and women who died from suicides related to military service or those who are permanently disabled from their wounds. Further, there are no inclusive figures that measure the suffering of their families and the millions of civilian lives lost during wars throughout our military history. It is a life-changing experience to speak at length with war veterans who return physically but leave their souls on foreign shores. Many of these men and some women would rather have their names listed among the dead than face a life of confinement to a wheelchair, the loss of limbs, sight and basic dignity. Listening to Vietnam veterans is especially heartwrenching. Many men from that conflict ended up on the streets of our nations cities, lost, abandoned and confused, self-medicating with drugs and alcohol trying to camouflage the pain of rejection. It has been our tradition to observe a moment of silence at 3 p.m. on May 30. Let us pause to remember our fallen heroes this Memorial Day. Let us pause and remember that never has a soldier left a fallen comrade because of the color of his or her skin. We are Americans first and foremost. We would do well to remember that sobering fact in our daily lives. When we respond to tragedies like Katrina, 9-11 Jersey Shores, Newton, Conn., and tornadoravaged Moore, Okla., things like race, ethnicity or sex is never a consideration when holding a dead child or rescuing an elderly person. During the Civil War that pitted brothers against brothers and divided this country north and south, wounds that are sometimes yet to heal, it was General William Sherman who said, War is hell. More than 200 years later truer words have never been spoken. Steen Miles, The Newslady, is a retired journalist and former Georgia state senator. Contact Steen Miles at Steen@dekalbchamp.com.

The Newslady

OPINION

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

We cherish too, the Poppy red That grows on fields where valor led, It seems to signal to the skies That blood of heroes never dies. Moina Michael 1915 Moina Michael wrote that poem in 1915, inspired by the poem In Flanders Fields. She also started the tradition of wearing red poppies to honor soldiers who had died in service to our country. So while we launch the summer season of vacations, outings, and backyard barbecues, it is important to remember the real reason for Memorial Dayto acknowledge and honor the brave men and women who died fighting for our

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

Docking Jekyll with nowhere to hide


well-managed, independent historic property, dutifully overseen by GM Kevin Runner. This hotel and historic district have become the primary magnet for tourism on the island. When J.P. Morgan, the Rockefellers, DuPonts, Pulitzers and other scions of Americas wealthy ruling class owned the island, they primarily wintered here and the islands permanent residents were their servants. For more than a decade the Jekyll Island Authority (JIA) has been struggling to find the right mix of sustainable tourism attractions and development while keeping the island largely green and pristine.State law prohibits more than 35 percent of Jekyll Islands acreage from being developed.Developed in this sense means disturbed, or in effect any type of artificial or man-made construction. This definition obviously includes the homes, hotels, a small airport, demolished commercial strip center, and recently completed convention center, but also includes bike trails, hiking pathways, soccer fields and golf courses.Jekyll has four of those, and a total of 63 holes of golf (three 18- and one nine-hole course)Oleander (opened in 1898), Indian Mound, Pine Lakes and Great Dunes.All four courses are public, and green fees remain a reasonable $45, including cart rental. An aerial view of the seven-mile barrier island clearly demonstrates the largest developed foot-print are the golf courses.These scenic courses also occupy the majority of the islands acreage at its widest point. Jekyll was a forerunner in public golf courses, long before nearby Hilton Head, Amelia Island and other destinations too numerous to mention in Florida offered public golf, Jekyll was the sole public offering along the Georgia coast for decades.Not anymore. Not including private courses on St. Simons and Sea Island, or an hours drive away in Savannah/Chatham or Bryan counties, there are six other public courses in nearby Brunswick, Blackshear and Waycross (http:// www.golfholes.com/ga/jekyll-islandgolf.htm). When not arguing about the JIA providing sufficient protection and stewardship for nesting sea turtles, a steady number of the islands current full-time residents and activists, clamor against most any type of change or new development on the island.Primarily retirees who discovered the state park as quite a bargain a decade or more ago, these converted environmentalists want a Jekyll free of new development and void of most of the typical attractions and offerings of most any resort community or seaside retirement village.A little known fun fact is that island residents often volunteer time to the JIA toward any number of service needs, in exchange for reduced fee or free rounds of golf.Many island residents play daily, and though $45 in green fees is a bargain, free is even better. So I have a practically free solution to the ongoing raging save Jekyll debates.Return one or more of the four golf courses to their native and natural stateor allow one course to go nativeand develop new residences and attractions on the smaller and less commercially viable nine-hole course, leaving two 18hole public courses for tourism and retiree/resident benefit. Twenty-seven holes of golf frees up a lot of real estate.This will also give the islands huge deer population more places to roam, as well as possibly expand the islands marketing as a green tourism destination.Fewer greens could actually mean a few more greenbacks. If those original 18 holes on Oleander were good enough for play for the wealthiest industrial barons of the world in their day, thats good enough for me.Fore!I mean three, or maybe two, anyone? Bill Crane also serves as a political analyst and commentator for Channel 2s Action News, WSB-AM News/Talk 750 and now 95.5 FM, as well as a columnist for The Champion, Champion Free Press and Georgia Trend. Crane is a DeKalb native and business owner, living in Scottdale. You can reach him or comment on a column at billcrane@earthlink.net.

One Mans Opinion

OPINION

Page 5A

Put it before them briefly so they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it, picturesquely so they will remember it and, above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light.Joseph Pulitzer (1847-1911), newspaper magnate, and noted philanthropist who endowed the Pulitzer Prize as well as Columbia School of Journalism, and a near life-long member of the Jekyll Island Millionaires Club. My childhood summers are filled with fond and glowing memories of weeks spent on Jekyll Island, building sandcastles, playing puttputt, biking and hiking Driftwood Beach and the islands many trails, beach walks with family or watching nesting sea turtles, or any of our many visits to the Millionaires Village on the islands river side.And much of Jekyll Island today is largely as it was in those days, with one major missing componentvisitors. During the mid-1980s, the Jekyll Island Club Hotel and surrounding Jekyll Island Historic District were rescued and restored to their previous luster. The Jekyll Island Club Hotel is now a world class, extremely

FREEPRESS
Let Us Know What You Think!
THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS encourages opinions from its readers. Please write to us and express your views. Letters should be brief, typewritten and contain the writers name, address and telephone number for verification. All letters will be considered for publication.
Send Letters To Editor, The Champion Free Press, P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; Send E-Mail to Kathy@dekalbchamp.com FAX To: (404) 370-3903 Phone: (404) 373-7779 Deadline for news releases and advertising: Thursday, one week prior to publication date. EDITORS NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts.

Publisher: Dr. Earl D. Glenn Managing Editor: Kathy Mitchell News Editor: Andrew Cauthen Production Manager: Kemesha Hunt Graphic Designer: Travis Hudgons The Champion Free Press is published each Friday by ACE III Communications, Inc., 114 New Street, Suite E, Decatur, GA. 30030 Phone (404) 373-7779.

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STATEMENT FROM THE PUBLISHER
We sincerely appreciate the discussion surrounding this and any issue of interest to DeKalb County. The Champion was founded in 1991 expressly to provide a forum for discourse forall community residents onall sides of an issue. We have no desire to make the news only to report news and opinions to effect a more educated citizenry that will ultimately move our community forward. We are happy to present ideas for discussion; however, wemake every effort toavoid printing information submitted to usthat is known to be false and/orassumptions penned as fact.

The Champion, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013

COMMUNITY

Page 6A

Champion of the Week

David Holt

DeKalb County Police Chief Cedric Alexander was the keynote speaker at the DeKalb County Chamber of Commerces Hosts Executive Speaker Series Luncheon. Photo by Carla Parker

DeKalb police chief:

Morale in this department is gradually moving up north


by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com DeKalb County Police Chief Cedric Alexander assured the DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce that he and his staff is doing everything they can to improve the police department and make the county safer. Alexander addressed the Chamber May 22 at its Hosts Executive Speaker Series Luncheon and gave his vision of public safety for DeKalb County. His vision included reducing crime, increasing morale within the department, accountability and improving customer service. Alexander said the DeKalb police department is working with its partnersthe police departments of the cities in DeKalbto make sure that they deliver the best public safety service that is humanly possible. Everybody wants to feel safe in their community, in their homes, in their parks and in their schools, he said. We have work to do as every community has work to do in maintaining a level of safety. He acknowledged that police officers have not received a raise in a few years and said that there is some truth that a raise does drive morale. But that is not the only single reason as to why morale within the police department finds itself somewhat lessened, he said. Part of that has to do with us as a community. Part of that has to do with leadership. Alexander said that he and his staff are making themselves more visible to the officers and communicating with them face to face. He
See Chief on Page 11A

Being involved with youth and giving them the benefit of his wisdom is what drives David Holt to volunteer. Holt, owner of daVIDOs $3.75 Pizza, said he is very much involved in the community. I was taught by my momthat you always give, Holt said. Its second nature to me. daVIDOs has been a part of the community for over 19 years, Holt said. We have always been a part of the community, always giving back. We have a special program for kids right now with straight As and A/B honor roll, Holt said. They get a free pizza twice a year until they graduate high school. Weve been doing that for 19 years. From day one, weve always been involved with schools in DeKalb

County. The restaurant also helps schools with fundraising efforts and mentoring, Holt said. We do a lot with kids in general, he said. Any event that involves kids, we get involved, Holt said. We have a back-to school program. We have a program set up with the cancer society. We are thoroughly involved with the community. Its just what weve been doing for years. Holt said his involvement with youth is like being another dad. I teach them about life, Holt said. Its all worth it even though you cant see it right then. Although much of his volunteer work is through his company, Holt also has several speaking engagements each year through the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute during which he talks to Black high school and college students about business ownership. Holt said, Being a part of the community, youre also part of the village that raises a child. He attends Christ Our Hope Catholic Church. Always remain humble, always reach out and build relationships, said Holt, a member of Omega Phi Psi and a past member of 100 Black Men of DeKalb County. Always give back. If you give without expecting anything in return, if eventually come back and overflows you, he said.

If you would like to nominate someone to be considered as a future Champion of the Week, please contact Kathy Mitchell at kathy@dekalbchamp.com or at (404) 373-7779, ext. 104.

The Champion, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013

Callanwolde exhibit to open with public reception

AROUNDDEKALB
ATLANTA
gram and expand it to include commercial and multi-unit property owners. The residential fee, which has been in place since the 1950s, will not change for homeowners. In both 2013 and 2014, they will be billed at the same rate that DeKalb had previously assessed, which varies from 40 to 90 cents per frontage foot. Commercial property owners, who had not been charged previously, will see the fee of 40 cents per frontage foot assessed on their 2014 tax bill. The fee will be used to pay for power, maintenance and oversight of street lights. The city anticipates generating $350,000 from street lights in 2013. The city currently has approximately 2,550 street lights. Complimentary parking will be available in the West Parking Facility. For more information visit www. agnesscott.edu or www.eagleeyebooks. com. Sponsors needed for upcoming festival in south DeKalb Organizers are looking for sponsors for theHeart of South DeKalb, a free, outdoor festival that will celebrate South DeKalb. So far, three companiesChickfil-A (Wesley Chapel location), QT and Brusters Ice Cream (Flat Shoals Parkway locations)have pledged to support the festival, scheduled for Sept. 28 at the Gallery at South DeKalb, 2801 Candler Road, Decatur. The Heart of South DeKalb will be a unique, culturally diverse celebration. There will be something for everyone and this opens the door for companies and other organizations to publicly exhibit their corporate commitment to the community, said DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, who conceived the idea of the festival. The mission of the festival is to promote and celebrate the essence of the South DeKalb area through a collaborative showcase of businesses, faith-based entities, local government and resources that will strengthen the core family unit, he said. Presenting an event of this magnitude is certainly an undertaking that cannot be approached single-handedly, Johnson said. We have the corporate community and the community at-large working together to make this festival a success. We are happy to see the first three sponsors come forward and support us. Sponsorship and vendor opportunities are available. For more information, contact Paula V. Tate, festival director at (404) 683-3599 or at heartofsouthdekalbfestival2013@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY

Page 7A

Mill Road, Dunwoody. For more information, contact Stacie Graff at stacie.graff@atlantajcc.org or (678) 812-3972. Recycling bags now available at library Participants in DeKalb County Sanitations recycling program now have an additional location to purchase recycling bagsDunwoodyLibrary, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road. The 100-count box of blue bags can be picked up every Wednesday 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. They must be pre-paid by calling the Sanitation Department at (404) 294-2900. A customer servicerepresentative will provide step-by-step information on the online payment process; the cost is $15. Those picking up bags at the library must have an ID and a letter from the Sanitation Departmentwith the directive to pick up supplies at the library. To avoid confusion, its best to ask for the sanitation representative when picking up at the library.Bags can also be picked up at the regular location, 3720 Leroy Scott Drive, Decatur. This is a pilot program for DeKalb Recycles, so the county asks for patience while the kinks are worked out. The county anticipates having additional locations throughout the county in the future. For more information, call Sanitation at (404) 294-2900. City holds amnesty program Dunwoody is holding an amnesty program for individuals with past due traffic citations or active bench warrants. The incentive of the program is to promote lawful driving privileges, settle outstanding violations with the court and reduce arrests. Amnesty will run during the months of June and July at the Dunwoody Municipal Court, located at 41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 103. Individuals may walk-in to the municipal court on Mondays and Wednesday-Friday during the hours of 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. only. During that time if individuals pay their fines in full, all contempt fees will be forgiven. If the individuals offense(s) requires a mandatory court appearance, the individual will be granted a future court date to appear before a judge and all warrants will be cleared and warrant fees forgiven. Forms of payments that will be accepted are cash, money order, cashier checks and credit cards (Visa and MasterCard only). For more information contact the City of Dunwoody Municipal Court at (678) 382-6973.

The Callanwolde gallery exhibit Nature: Four ways will open on Friday, June 7, with a reception for the artist, Ronald Nuse, 7-9 p.m., and run through Aug. 30. Admission is free and the public is invited. These images of nature draw from four past and present photographic series by Nuse. The Falling Shadows series explores the hidden mystery of nature. At first glance, the images seem to be traditional landscapes but at second glance they hint at another dimension of nature not usually seen. The Street Art series explores how art displayed in public places interacts with its environment, including urban nature. The Bamboo Pentaptych series shows bamboo images in five related panels. The Four Directions series shows nature using the visual language of surrealism, states an announcement from Callanwolde. The gallery is located on the second floor of the main building in the Callanwolde mansion at 980 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta. Viewing hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and10 a.m. -3 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call (404) 872-5338. Emory exhibition showcases historical books, artifacts Medical Treasures at Emory, an exhibition of intriguing historical medical books and artifacts, is now open at Emory Universitys Woodruff Health Sciences Center Library (WHSCL) a reminder of the days when doctors had a rudimentary understanding of human anatomy, performed surgery without antiseptic, and used primitive forms of anesthesia for operations and dental work. Medical Treasures, on display through October, features materials from the WHSCLs historical collections, which include 18th- and 19th-century works on human anatomy, pathology, surgery, midwifery and alternative medical practices. For more information, visit, http:// news.emory.edu/stories/2013/05/upress_ medical_treasures/campus.html.

CHAMBLEE

Library holds nonprofit class The Chamblee Library, located at 4115 Clairmont Road, is holding a class on how to start a nonprofit organization June 10, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The class, for adults 18 and up, will focus on seeking and securing grants, the challenges grant writers confront and the process of collaborating with outside agencies. Participants will be able to hone their grant writing skills as they critique grant proposals, draft their own grant proposal and learn about the role of program evaluation in grant writing. For more information call (770) 9361380 or visit the Chamblee Library.

CLARKSTON

City to host family movie night The animated movie The Lorax will be screened June 7 for Clarkston Family Movie Night. The event is presented by K. D. Moore Community Development Center and held at the Family Life Center. Popcorn and a drink are $2.50. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the movie starts at 7 p.m. The Family Life Center is at 4007 Church Street. For more information, call Christin Taylor at (404) 292-5686 ext. 248.

DUNWOODY

MJCCA offers babysitter training Summer Safe Sitter Babysitter Training is available to youth 11 to 15 years old at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) Sundays June 2 and 9. The sessions, which are 2-6 p.m. both days, offer the opportunity to learn the skills that every parent looks for in a babysitter, according to the center. Safe Sitter teaches young teen babysitters the essentials of keeping themselves and the children in their care safe. Nationally recognized and pediatrician developed, this program includes child care techniques, basic first aid, rescue techniques such as choking infant and child rescue, babysitting as a business, and online and cellphone safety, the announcement from the center states. The training is $125 for members and $145 for non-members. MJCCA at Zaban Park is located at 5342 Tilly

u

BROOKHAVEN

Businesses to offset street lighting costs Brookhaven businesses will soon begin taking some of the burden off homeowners to help keep the city well-lit. DeKalb County currently only charges residential property owners to pay for street lights, although some commercial properties are included in these residential street light districts. But that will change starting in 2014. On May 14, the Brookhaven City Council voted unanimously to take over DeKalbs street light assessment pro-

DECATUR

Fantasy author visits Agnes Scott Author Neil Gaiman will read and sign books at Agnes Scott College June 22 at 7 p.m. in Gaines Chapel, located in Presser Hall. Gaimans work has been honored with many awards internationally, including the Newbery and Carnegie medals. He has also been honored with the World Fantasy Award and the British Fantasy Award. Tickets to the event are $26.99, which includes a copy of Gaimans new novel The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 8A

Bottom left, Brookhaven Mayor Mike Davis, Perimeter CIDs President Yvonne Williams and Gov. Nathan Deal joined other business and elected officials in announcing a regional partnership to attack traffic at I-285/GA-400 interchange. Top photo by John Hewitt, others by Andrew Cauthen

Business groups put up $10 million for I-285/Ga. 400 interchange


by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com Whenever there are traffic problems at the I-285/Ga. 400 interchange, the cities of Dunwoody, Brookhaven and Sandy Springs become gridlocked, said Dunwoody Mayor Mike Davis. Thats the problem were trying to solve here. Every time there are major problems on 285 and Ga. 400, I get text messages and calls from my friends, my neighbors, people that work in the Perimeter [area], telling me what the problem is, as if I dont know. The problem is 400 and 285 become a parking lot and the citizens and people leaving work or coming to work end up making the decision to try to find another way on the surface streets and creating gridlock, Davis said. We need this to be solved as soon as we can. A Perimeter business group has committed $10.5 million to help improve the congestion problems at the interchange. Gov. Nathan Deal joined members of the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts PCIDs and a multijurisdictional, bipartisan partnership of elected officials and business leaders in making the announcement May 22 at the Capitol. This project will go a long way toward improving some of the problems that currently exist, Deal said. This interchange is crucial to one of the metro regions greatest economic engines. This project provides important economic and quality of life benefits, Deal said. It improves the movement of people and goods across and within the state, expands Georgias role as a major logistics hub for global commerce and assists in creating jobs and growing businesses. Deal said the state does not have all the money that we would like to have for transportation. Thats just the reality of the world we live in, Deal said. But prioritization of the money we do have is something that we continue to emphasize and we are making this project one of the top priorities for our state. It is also nice to know that when you dont have all of the money you like to have that you can partner with local governments and the business community that have a mutual interest in the project, Deal said. In addition to Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, the members of the I-285 and Ga. 400 partnership include the cities of Brookhaven, Chamblee, Doraville, Dunwoody and Sandy Springs; Council for Quality Growth, Dunwoody Chamber of Commerce, and Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce. The partnership has also received letters of support from U.S. Senators Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson; U.S. Representatives Lynn Westmoreland, Tom Price, Phil Gingrey, Hank Johnson and John Lewis; Fulton County Commission Chair John Eaves and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Traffic at the I-285/Ga. 400 interchange is one of the top congested interchanges in the whole United States, said Yvonne Williams, PCIDs president and CEO. National studies say that this segment of Ga. 400 is one of the worst for congestion. We are growing. The area cannot allow congestion to hold us back, Williams said. Improvements to the I-285 and Ga. 400 Interchange are the No. 1 priority for the Perimeter CIDs, Williams said. The Perimeter CIDs have a track record of success in moving transportation projects forward through public-private partnerships, she said, citing the Hammond Half-Diamond Interchange at Ga. 400, Georgias first Diverging Diamond Interchange and the Perimeter Center Parkway Bridge across I-285. Perimeter CIDs board Chairmen John Heagy and Chuck Altimari announced that the boards have approved the issuance of a $10 million bond for measurable project milestones. PCIDs has also approved $500,000 to provide partnership building, research and support for the first phases of the interchange project. Improving the I-285 and Ga. 400 Interchange is important for ensuring the economic vitality of the very desirable Perimeter market, the dominant office market in metro Atlanta and an economic engine for the state, said Altimari, chairman of the Fulton Perimeter CID and corporate real estate manager for UPS, whose global headquarters is located in the Perimeter Area. The Atlanta Regional Commission Board has also voted to include $2 million in Metro Atlantas Transportation Improvement Plan this year to continue engineering project development for the interchange. This will position the project to be considered for advancement during the scheduled update of Metro Atlantas Regional Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Plan next year, Williams said. And, recent legislative changes will provide more flexibility in funding and construction for the project. The Georgia Department of Transportation is currently developing a cost efficient plan for interchange improvements. The GDOT expects a federal environmental decision in 2015 for the entire Revive 285 project.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 9A

No one was injured when a freight train hit a stalled MARTA bus in Decatur May 22. Photos by Andrew Cauthen

A MARTA bus driver and four passengers narrowly escaped harm before their bus was struck by a CSX freight train in Decatur early May 22. The accident occurred at 6:30 a.m. at the intersection of South McDonough and East Howard Avenue in Decatur. MARTA is investigating the acci-

Train wrecks stalled MARTA bus


dent which involved a bus on Route 123. MARTA Operator Donna McMullen was traveling northbound with four passengers aboard when she reported the bus became stuck as it proceeded across the tracks, according to a media statement by MARTA. As a westbound train approached, Operator McMullen followed MARTA emergency protocol and safely evacuated the bus, according to the statement. The ensuing impact caused serious damage to the bus which was later towed from the accident scene. McMullen, 61, has worked for

MARTA since 1994. Following the accident, McMullen underwent a mandatory drug and alcohol test and was placed on leave, with pay, pending the outcome of the investigation. MARTA officials said the bus involved in the accident had no known mechanical problems.

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com Dunwoody widow Andrea Sneiderman, who is accused of conspiring to murder her husband, was arraigned May 21 in front of a DeKalb County judge for the third time since she was arrested in August 2012. Sneiderman was present as DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams read the new indictment, which prosecutors reworked after Adams dismissed several of the charges against her from the previous indictment. Prosecutors allege Sneiderman and her boss Hemy Neuman were having an affair and conspired to kill her husband Rusty Sneiderman in front of a Dunwoody day care in 2010. Neuman later confessed to the murder and is now serving life in prison without the possibility of parole. Sneidermans charges include perjury, malice murder, felony murder and aggravated assault. She has previously pleaded not guilty and denies having an affair with Neuman. At hearings April 4 and 10, defense attorneys spent hours arguing why several counts of Sneidermans pre-

vious indictment should be thrown out. The question for you at this time your honor is, Is the indictment perfect? and clearly it is not, defense attorney John Petrey said. It fails miserably, your honor.

Adams decided to dismiss four of the non-murder charges from the previous indictment May 1. The four charges that Adams dismissed were for giving false statements to law enforcement officers.

However, those charges appear in the new 16-count indictment with more precise language. Adams has set a tentative date of July 29 to begin jury selection for Sneidermans trial.

CALL NOW! 404-220-8610 storageworldinc.com

City of Decatur Georgia Ad Valorem Tax Digest History Decatur - Digest Assessment Ratio Real Property Personal Property Public Utilities Motor Vehicle Total Digest City Operations General Fund Exemptions Net City Operations Digest City Operations Millage City Operations Levy Percent Change Dollar Amount Change $ 157,384,000 $ 118,900,000 $1,130,068,600 13.035 $14,730,444 7.54 $1,032,306 $122,579,000 $1,113,167,200 13.035 $14,510,134 -1.50 ($220,310) $ 125,075,000 $ 126,914,000 $ 126,332,000 2008 50% 2009 50% 2010 50% 2011 50% 2012 50% 2013 50%

$ 1,124,007,000 $ 1,162,026,500 $ $ 18,342,500 $ 20,387,500 $ $ 16,893,389 16,473,600 $ $ 49,014,800 $ 50,081,000 $ $1,208,257,689 $1,248,968,600

1,157,883,900 $ 1,149,844,600 $ 1,168,366,733 $ 1,167,795,980 20,069,600 $ 21,146,700 $ 22,174,136 $ 22,014,242 11,673,700 $ 18,933,750 $ 14,297,200 $ 14,639,953 46,119,000 $ 46,119,000 $ 49,311,000 $ 52,979,900 $1,235,746,200 $1,236,044,050 $1,254,149,069 $1,257,430,075

$1,050,873,689 13.035 $13,698,139 3.57 $472,077

$1,110,969,050 13.000 $14,442,598 -0.47 ($67,537)

$1,127,235,069 13.000 $14,654,056 1.46 $211,458

FOR

Sneiderman arraigned again

MOVE IN

$1,131,098,075 13.000 $14,704,275 0.34 $50,219

The Decatur City Commission announces that the 2013 tentative millage rate was adopted at their meeting on Monday, May 20, 2013. Hearings on the budget and millage rate will be held on: Monday, June 3, 2013 at 7:30 pm Monday, June 17, 2013 at 7:30 pm The hearings will be held at Decatur City Hall, 509 N. McDonough Street, Decatur, GA. Final adoption of the 2013 millage rate and fiscal year 2013-2014 budget is scheduled for consideration at the Decatur City Commission meeting on Monday, June 17, 2013. The above table is presented pursuant to O.C.G.A. 48-5-32 showing the estimated current year's digest and proposed millage rates along with a five-year history of the tax digest and millage rates.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 10A

Top left, Stephenson High School JROTC Honor Guard presented the colors and, bottom left, Brigadier General John King, Doravilles police chief, accepts a small sculpture after speaking at the countys Memorial Day program May 23. Photos by Andrew Cauthen

County pauses to remember veterans


ber Georgianswho fought for us. They laughed and smiled. They even shared, once in a while, a beer with usGeorgians full of life, vigor and hope. They deliberately chose to serve their fellow soldiers even though they knew it might cost them their lives. Knowing this, they still served, King said. Its because of their sacrifice that we are here today, safer than we otherwise would have been. Freedom is our history and our legacy to the world, King said. It is the ultimate purchase of the ultimate price paid by those we remember. During the program, Berryl A. Anderson, chief judge of the DeKalb County Magistrate Court, was recognized for her work with veterans. She established a diversion treatment court for veterans that has saved $95,000 per year. It seems like this is a bit much for what feels to me like doing so little, Anderson said after accepting her award. When I think about all that the men and women who put their lives on the line each and every day to serve our country have done, it seems almost insignificant to think that such a small thing could make a difference. DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis said, Memorial Day is a solemn occasion. It is a spiritual occasion. It is a time of reflection, introspection and appreciation. We honor our fathers, our mothers, our brothers, our sisters, our neighbors, our husbands, our wives, our sons and our daughters with reflection, Ellis said. We try to grasp the depths of their courage, the weight of their devotion and the vastness of their love. Reflection is good for the spirit; it ensures that the people we care about the most never leave our hearts.

by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com When you see everybody at the park burning burgers, having a great time, think of veterans, said John King, Doravilles police chief and a brigadier general in the Georgia National Guard. We can enjoy life in the greatest countrybecause of veterans, and especially those who have given their lives for our nation, he said. King was the guest speaker May 23 at the Veterans Memorial Day Program sponsored by the Veterans Affairs Advisory Board of DeKalb County and DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis. Memorial Day is a time set aside from all the cares of the world and the worries of the future, a time instead to look back in gratefulness to all those fallen heroes of our countrythe men and womenwhose sacrifice made it possible for us to be here, King said. The day is a time of celebrating in freedom and safety the spirit and steadfastness of this great nation, he said. Its a living memory of the sacrifice they gave to us. King said, We remem-

DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management Public Advisory

Interstate 85 & Oakcliff Industrial Court Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation


May 9, 2013 Advisory Issue Date June 9, 2013 Advisory Close Date

This advisory is issued to inform the public of a receipt of an application for a variance submitted pursuant to a State Environmental Law. The Public is invited to comment during a 30 day period on the proposed activity. Since the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has no authority to zone property or determine land use, only those comments addressing environmental issues related to air, water and land protection will be considered in the application review process. Written comments should be submitted to: Program Manager, Non Point Source Program, Erosion and Sedimentation Control, 4220 International Parkway, Suite 101, Atlanta, Georgia 30354. Type of Permit Application: Variance to encroach within the 25-foot Sate Waters Buffer. Applicable Law: Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act O.C.G.A. 12-7-1 ET seq. Applicable Rules: Erosion and Sedimentation Control Chapter 391-3-7. Basis under which variance shall be considered {391-3-7.05(2) (A-K)}: A Project Description & Reason for Initiating: I-85 and Oakcliff Industrial Ct. Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project is a rehabilitation project of an existing sanitary sewer located between the North Fork of Peachtree Creek and just northwest of Oakcliff Industrial Ct. in the City of Doraville, GA. Specifically, the site is located in land lot 314 & 318 of the 18thth district in DeKalb County, GA. The proposed construction will include the rehabilitation of approximately 2,275 linear feet of 10, 12, and 15 sewer pipe. The project is needed due to the numerous sewer spills along the existing sewer outfall. Project Location: This project is located in land lot 314 and 318 of the 18th district of DeKalb County, beginning at terminus of Oak Cliff Industrial Court and running south to Interstate 85 and continuing south to the confluence of the North Fork of Peachtree Creek for a total distance of approximately one mile. The Public can review site plans at 1580 Roadhaven Drive Stone Mountain, Georgia 30083. Phone 770-621-7272.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS
2012 Graduation Rate
High School
Arabia Mountain Cedar Grove High School Chamblee Charter High School Clarkston High School Columbia High School Cross Keys High School DeKalb Alternative Night School DeKalb Alternative School DeKalb Early College Academy DeKalb School of the Arts Destiny Achievers Academy of Excellence Druid Hills High School Dunwoody High School Elizabeth Andrews High School Gateway to College Academy Lakeside High School Lithonia High School Martin Luther King, Jr. High School McNair High School Miller Grove High School Redan High School Southwest DeKalb High School Stephenson High School Stone Mountain High School Towers High School Tucker High School

Page 11A

County graduation rates below state average


The graduation rate for DeKalb County School District (DCSD) is less than the state average. Overall, 57.28 percent of the districts 2012 graduation class of 8,204 students graduated within four years of entering high school as a freshman, according to the 2012 four-year cohort graduation rates released May 21 by the Georgia Department of Education. The rate shows a slight decrease from the 2011 four-year cohort rate of 58.66 percent for DCSD schools. Three DCSD schools have graduation rates above 90 percent. Eight DCSD high schools have a fouryear cohort rate higher than the state average of 69.72 percent. While we are pleased with our successes, we absolutely will do a better job of engaging our students in the classroom, said Interim Superintendent Michael Thurmond. We wont be satisfied until all of our children graduate prepared for that next phase of their lives. This is the second year Georgia has calculated the graduation rate using this cohort formula, which tracks student progress from grade nine through graduation. This formula is a requirement of the U.S. Department of Education. We now have a tool to more accurately track the graduation rate of all children, said Dr. Kathleen Howe, deputy superintendent of curriculum and instruction. With it, we can focus on the specific needs of our students at individual sites. Those schools with graduation rates higher than 90 percent are DeKalb Early College Academy (94.74), DeKalb School of the Arts (91.53) and Arabia Mountain High School (90.22). Chamblee Charter High had the highest rate (81.64) among DCSD high schools graduating more than 300 students, followed by Dunwoody High (76.52) and Stephenson High (70.47). Four Title I schools, DeKalb Early College Academy, Redan High, Stephenson High and Tucker High, had a 2012 four-year cohort graduation rate higher than that of the state. Ten DCSD schools showed year-to-year gains. Six schools gains were higher than that of the state, with four of them being Title I sites: Tucker High, Towers High, Cross Keys High and Cedar Grove High.

Total graduated
249 175 329 117 205 128 1 1 36 54 17 298 339 52 5 371 193 266 109 256 240 305 315 202 142 293

Graduation rate
90.22% 64.10% 81.64% 44.15% 60.29% 51% 0.88% 1.67% 94.74% 91.53% 32.08% 69.14% 76.52% 13.72% 6.76% 64.88% 45.73% 54.96% 46.98% 56.02% 77.67% 67.93% 70.47% 65.37% 47.18% 78.13%

County Total
State Average
little, he said. Were not going to lie to the people of this county. Were going to be forthright and were go-

4,698

57.28%
69.72%

Chief
Continued From Page 6A

said it is important for his staff, as well as for the community, to remind police officers how valuable they are to the community. He added that the morale is getting better within the department and will continue to get better if the community thanks the officers for their service. It is a slow process, he said. It didnt get that way overnight but were beginning to see a slow progression in the improvement of morale in this police department. And were going to continue to work at it and do everything that I and the command staff can to make sure that the men and women know that we support them.

Customer service is something that the police department is constantly working on as well, according to Alexander. When you call a police officer to your home or to your business you want a rapid response and you want a good interaction with that officer, he said. Its something we constantly remind our personnel of and its something we constantly train them on as well. Alexander added that he tells his officers that every call they respond to is an opportunity for them to reshape and rebrand themselves. [I tell them to] be very proud of the work that we do because 99.9 percent of the personnel inside of the police department are truly good officers and do the very best that they can every day even with very

ing to tell people what we know.

Chores.

A perfect moment to talk about alcohol.


An alarming number of pre-teens are drinking alcohol which makes it urgent to find every opportunity to talk to your kids about the dangers of underage drinking. For tips on how and when to begin the conversation, visit:

www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov

Chores_7x4.875_ADV.indd 1

4/23/13 3:20 PM

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 12A

Habit greets his aunt Lynn Horton and his grandmother Rose Horton, who came to the recreation center to see his work.

Franklin Habit III says the artwork he created for a wall in the Lucius Sanders Recreation Center Gym came out just as her envisioned it. Photos by Kathy Mitchell

Where eagles dare


by Kathy Mitchell kathy@dekalbchamp.com ist was a natural way to go, said his father, Franklin Habit II. The younger Habit first thought of placing the mural in Tucker, but when that didnt work out, his mother, a friend of the Lucius Sanders Recreation Center director, arranged to have the art piece done there. Actually, it worked out perfectly. I wanted to do an inspirational piece and a lot of the boys who go to that rec center are struggling with a lot of things in their lives. I wanted to inspire them to keep going and achieve their dreams, Franklin III said. The focus of the 9-by-18foot mural is the quote from sixth century B.C. Chinese philosopher Lao-tuz: A journey of a thousand miles begins with one single step. It also incorporates the logo of the recreation centers basketball team, which coincidentally is the Eagles. The young man designed the wall on a computer and had the lettering done at a specialty shop, then carefully transferred it to the wall. With help from family and troop members he completed the project in approximately 92 hours. He said his biggest challenge was working inside the gym while basketball tournaments were under way. Its not against the rules to have help carrying out the

Student paints mural to inspire others, achieve Eagle Scout rank


project, he explained. In fact, thats expected. Heading a project and directing others shows leadership. The artist said he had never before attempted a mural, but he is pleased with the results. Its just about perfect, he said, noting that he used latex paint, which should stand up to the riggers of a gymnasium atmosphere. It gets humid in here sometimes and balls are going to hit the wall occasionally, but I think it will hold up. Scout regulations require that candidates for Eagle Scout complete their community projects before age 18. Habit III came in just under the wire; his 18th birthday was May 17. I really wanted to do this, Habit explained, Its a family tradition. Both my grandfathers were Eagle Scouts. There still are a few steps to be completed, including an essay and an interview with regional scout officials, but Habit feels hes cleared the major hurdle. I didnt know this was so complicated; its like writing a business plan to get funding for a business enterprise. Im really impressed, said Habits aunt Lynn Horton, who came from Houston, Texas, to spend his birthday with him and see his work of art.
The mural includes the emblem of the recreation centers basketball team The Eagles, as well as the words Go Eagles!

Of the more than 100 million young men who have joined since Boy Scouts of America was founded in 1910, slightly more than 2 percent have reached the organizations highest rank Eagle Scout. Franklin Habit III, a junior at Lakeside High School, is taking the final steps to join that exclusive club. In addition to meeting numerous other requirements, including continuous membership in the organization, amassing sufficient merit badges, holding a troop leadership position and exemplifying that character called for in the Boy Scout code, candidates for Eagle Scout must complete a community project. The project has to be described in detail and approved at the regional level, Habit explained. His was a mural for the gym at the Lucius Sanders Recreation Center in Lithonia. Habit said he had been interested in art since he was a small child and grew up doing illustrations of his favorite cartoon characters. He decided the community has enough benches and birdhouses so he wanted to do a different type of project. Applying his talent as an art-

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 13A

No clear decision on new animal services site yet


by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com Despite impassioned pleas from residents, DeKalb County will have to wait a little longer before a new animal services facility is builtand in the meantime, some say, animals are suffering. Judy Simon of Stopping Pet Overpopulation Together Georgia, an advocacy organization that offers low-cost spay and neutering services, said the animal services facility is operating far below national staffing standards and animal care and field response functions are being compromised. Im not sure how long it will take for the residents of DeKalb County to come before you to get this settled, Simon said. A task force was created in 2011 to survey locations to build the new facility and recommend a site to the commissioners. The task force proposed a list of 12 locations, narrowed down from more than 80 potential sites. The task force completed its study in February 2012 and recommended a site at DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK) in Chamblee. The airport is owned and operated by the county under federal guidance and is funded through the revenue it brings in. However, at a recent county operations and public safety committee meeting, some commissioners expressed concerns that the PDK site isnt in a central location and asked the task force to reevaluate the sites. The facility location is critical and I understand that a number of the current users would be in that area but I would also suggest that accessibility for a larger share of the county is needed, Commissioner Lee May said. A May 24 meeting of the animal services committee yielded few results, turning into a heated debate when Elaine Boyers Chief of Staff Bob Lundsten accused committee members of putting too much weight on location, rather than the actual building of the new facility. As the committee went over the scoring process to evaluate each site, Lundsten said they had placed a disproportionate emphasis on location. When you build an animal shelter, the goal of the animal shelter is to get the cats and the dogs adopted out, Lundsten said. The way its weighted right now, you have flipped the criteria the other way; we seem to be going in with a presupposition that its not going to be built at PDK now. Susan Hood, a member of the evaluation committee and director of the DeKalb County Greenspace Department, accused Lundsten of challenging the unbiased nature of the committee. Im telling you what I think it looks like based on the two criteria of this survey, Lundsten said. CEO Burrell Ellis Chief of Staff Hakim Hilliard said the commissioners also had questions about the original survey, so the committee came together to try to answer those questions as best they could. They said, What are the questions that the commissioners asked and how can we make this a credible process? Hilliard said. They wanted us to consider a central location. Simon, who also spoke during a May 28 DeKalb County Commission regular meeting, said a new animal services facility was promised more than a year ago. Here we are, 12 months later and some commissioners are now questioning the criteria factors that were used, Simon said. Hopefully you will have the necessary information to make an informed decision because there is so much at stake; its time to be wise, humane and get it right, Simon said. Zachary Williams, the countys chief operating officer, said a site recommendation will be made to the board within the next several days. It sounds like were moving closer to making the vote on an actual site, May said.

Searching for Our Sons and Daughters:


Stories of our missing residents offer profound insights and hope for a positive reunion.
For a programming guide, visit www.yourdekalb.com/dctv

Finding DeKalb Countys Missing


Now showing on DCTV!

DCTV Your Emmy Award-winning news source of DeKalb County news. Available on Comcast Cable Channel 23.

The Champion Weather


Seven Day Forecast
Mostly Sunny High: 86 Low: 68 Mostly Sunny High: 86 Low: 67 Mostly Sunny High: 87 Low: 68 Isolated T-storms High: 86 Low: 68 Isolated T-storms High: 85 Low: 65 Isolated T-storms High: 88 Low: 67

May 30, 2013


Todays Regional Map
Dunwoody 84/67 Smyrna 85/68 Doraville 85/68 Atlanta 86/68 College Park 87/68 Union City 87/68

Detailed Local Forecast


Today we will see mostly sunny skies with a high temperature of 86, humidity of 54%. Light winds. The record high temperature for today is 93 set in 1937. Expect partly cloudy skies tonight with an overnight low of 68. The record low for tonight is 44 set in 1984. Date Hi Lo Normals Precip Tuesday 88 64 81/61 0.00" Wednesday 87 65 81/61 0.00" Thursday 84 67 82/62 0.05" Friday 79 57 82/62 0.00" Saturday 79 47 82/62 0.00" Sunday 84 51 82/62 0.00" Monday 87 57 83/63 0.00" Rainfall. . . . . . . . 0.05" Average temp . . 71.1 Normal rainfall. . 0.91" Average normal 71.9 Departure . . . . . .-0.86" Departure . . . . . -0.8 Day Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Sunrise 6:27 a.m. 6:27 a.m. 6:27 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m.

Weather History
May 30, 1879 - A major outbreak of severe weather occurred in Kansas and western Missouri. In Kansas, tornadoes killed 18 people at Delpho and 30 people at Irving. Two tornadoes struck the town of Irving within a few minutes time, virtually wiping it off the map. May 31, 1990 - Afternoon and evening thunderstorms developing along a warm front produced severe weather from northwest Texas to southeastern Louisiana. The thunderstorms spawned 16 tornadoes, including 13 in northwest Texas.

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Lilburn 85/68

Last Week's Local Almanac

Decatur Snellville 86/68 86/68 Lithonia 87/68 Morrow 87/68

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

Hampton 88/69

Local Sun/Moon Chart This Week


Sunset 8:42 p.m. 8:42 p.m. 8:43 p.m. 8:43 p.m. 8:44 p.m. 8:44 p.m. 8:45 p.m.

TUESDAY

Last 5/31 New 6/8

WEDNESDAY
Mostly Cloudy High: 86 Low: 68

Moonrise Moonset 12:51 a.m. 12:25 p.m. 1:29 a.m. 1:28 p.m. 2:05 a.m. 2:28 p.m. 2:39 a.m. 3:27 p.m. 3:12 a.m. 4:24 p.m. 3:47 a.m. 5:21 p.m. 4:23 a.m. 6:16 p.m.

Tonights Planets
First 6/16 Full 6/23 Mercury Venus Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Rise Set 7:41 a.m. 10:19 p.m. 7:32 a.m. 9:59 p.m. 5:54 a.m. 7:52 p.m. 7:29 a.m. 9:46 p.m. 5:48 p.m. 4:56 a.m. 3:36 a.m. 4:00 p.m.

Local UV Index
0 - 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+

National Weather Summary This Week


The Northeast will see mostly clear to partly cloudy skies with a few thunderstorms today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 93 in Nashua, N.H. The Southeast will experience mostly clear to partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 94 in Shannon, Va. In the Northwest, there will be mostly clear to partly cloudy skies with isolated showers today and Friday, mostly clear skies Saturday, with the highest temperature of 79 in Hanford, Wash. The Southwest will see mostly clear skies today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 100 in Imperial, Calif.

Weather Trivia

StarWatch By Gary Becker - Polaris: The Guiding Light


One of the two coordinates that allows you to find your position on the Earths surface is latitude, the angular measure north or south of the equator. Polaris, the North Star, can easily allow you to observe your change in latitude if your summer travel plans take you in a northerly or southerly direction, like the Caribbean or northern Europe. This is because Polaris lies in the same line of sight as the extension of the Earths axis into space. At the North Pole, 90o north latitude, the North Star is essentially overhead, while at the equator, 0o latitude, Polaris lies along the horizon. Its altitude or angular height above the horizon gives an observer a good approximation of his or her latitude position. Follow the Pointer Stars of the Big Dipper downward to Polaris. Presently, they are farthest to the left in the cup and are cresting in the north after darkness. For a good swath of the US, the North Stars elevation is approximately 40o. Thats equivalent to four clenched fists held at arms length (thumb on top), stacked one on top of the other. Lets say that youre traveling to Disney World this summer. Youre out by the pool after dark, and the kids are swimming before bed. Polaris will be about three fists high, 28o above the horizon. Traveling to southern Europe? The change will be negligible. Rome (42o N) and Athens (38o N) are too close to our latitude to note any differences by using your fist. However, London is about 52o N, five fists high for Polaris, and southern Alaska is about 60o N. Thats six fists. In Alaska measurements are impossible to make until later in the summer because you are too far north, and the sun never makes it far enough below the horizon for complete darkness to occur. Finally, if Hawaii or a Caribbean cruise is in the offing, Polaris will hug the horizon at two fists or less. To see the change, make sure that you first take a measurement from where you live. www.astronomy.org

Answer: On average, more than 20 times per year.

UV Index 0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very High, 11+: Extreme Exposure

How many times is the Empire State Building struck by lightning?

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

Six indicted for stealing Dunwoody residents withdraw $1.7 million from artists lawsuit over park trail
by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com Six Atlanta area people have been indicted for stealing $1.68 million in donations from the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA), an international association in Chamblee run by disabled artists. These allegations are both troubling and alarming, said DeKalb County Robert James. A DeKalb County grand jury indicted these six individuals for their alleged role in a five-year plot that siphoned $1.68 million from this international organization. These charges outlined in the indictment are truly reprehensible when you think of people taking advantage of individuals with disabilities to line their own pockets. According to the May 23 indictment, the scheme involved MFPA employee Christina Kelly; her daughters Kiante Smith and Tyleshia Avant, who were seasonal employees of MFPA; Tujuana Ross, a full-time employee of MFPA; Rory Ross, former husband of Tujuanna Ross and Christina Kellys roommate; and Glen Kelly, former husband of Christina Kelly. MFPA is an organization in which disabled members paint with brushes held in their mouths or feet because they have lost the use of their hands. MFPA creates cards, calendars, books and other gifts using the artwork produced by the artists and sends the items to prospective donors who are encouraged to send whatever monetary donations they deem appropriate. As a result, MFPA receives checks in unpredictable amounts from donors across the country. These checks are placed into an MFPA bank account for the benefit of the disabled artists. According to the indictment, Christina Kelly devised a scheme to steal money from the company while she worked as a seasonal employee for MFPA from 20022006. She opened a checking account at Main Street by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Homeowners who live near Brook Run Park have withdrawn their lawsuit against the city of Dunwoody over construction of a multi-use trail in Brook Run Park, according to reports. Last year, more than 20 residents from the Lakeview Oaks subdivision, located west of Brook Run Park, filed a restraining order, saying water runoff from the trail would threaten their properties. On Feb. 4, Superior Court Judge Tangela Barrie lifted an injunction she placed on the project Dec. 13, 2012, a few days before city crews were scheduled to clear trees to make room for the 12-footwide, 3.3 mile concrete trail. The trail is designed as a recreational facility to promote connectivity between city parks, neighborhoods, and area business. Brook Run Park is the largest park in Dunwoody with a total of 102 acres and an estimated 60 acres of wooded park space, including an estimated 12,000 trees. To date, construction crews have poured approximately 1,900 feet of concrete for the 12-foot wide multi-use trail, completing more than 50 percent of the trails Phase I. Crews have poured concrete for the foundations of the bridge crossings constructed on the trail and plan to assemble the three wooden bridges at the crossings over the next several weeks. Throughout the trail construction the city has consistently met all Georgia Environmental Protection Division requirements regarding erosion and sediment control, according to city officials. The city has also surveyed the trail route for Phase II, a one-mile, 12foot wide multi-use cement trail, which will connect with Phase I and complete an approximate two-mile loop within the park. The next step for Phase II of the trail consists of preliminary design work, which will take place throughout the rest of May and into June. Residents will be notified of an open house once a date in June is set.

LOCAL NEWS

Page 14A

See Indicted on Page 24A

TheMayorandCityCounciloftheCityofChamblee,Georgia willholdapublichearingonThursday,June13,2013,atthe ChambleeCivicCenter,3540BroadStreet,Chamblee,GA30341 at6:00p.m.toreceivepubliccommentsregardingthefollowing matters:


1) Thesubjectpropertylocatedat3223ClairwoodTerraceis requestingthefollowingvariances:Section903,Streettype dimensionstovarythefrontyardsetback;Section512, Singlefamilyresidentialdetachedheightmeasurement,to varythethresholdofunits;Section1004,Space dimensions,tovarytheminimumlotsizerequirements;and Section1004,Spacedimensions,tovarytheminimumlot widthrequirements.Theapplicantisalsoaskingfora preliminaryplatinordertojoin3223and3217Clairwood Terrace(currentlydevelopedwithsinglefamilyhomes),lots 12and13oftheD.L.StokesandCompanysubdivision,and resubdividethepropertyinto3newlotsorientedon BozemanDrive. 2) InteractiveLearningSystems,Inc.proposestodevelopasite asanaccessoryparkinglottotheApplicantsprimary business,theInteractiveCollegeofTechnologyChamblee, GA(ICT).Thesiteislocatedat2118ChambleeTuckerRoad, Parcel1829905004.Applicantisrequestingvariancesto: Section1201A,whichprohibitsoffstreetparkingbetweena buildingandthestreetwithoutaninterveningbuilding;anda variancetoSection1202D,whichprohibitscurbcutsonany streetthatfunctionsasanarterialstreetorcollectorstreet whenaccessmaybeprovidedfromasidestreetlocated immediatelyadjacenttoacontiguousproperty. 3) DiscussiononthedesignationofanOpportunityZone.An OpportunityZonetargetsareasforredevelopmentby providingaJobTaxcreditfortwoormorenewjobscreated withintheOpportunityZone.

Notice is hereby given that the Mayor and Council of the City of Brookhaven, Georgia in accordance to O.C.G.A. 36-35-3 (b) (1) is proposing an amendment to the Charter for the City of Brookhaven pursuant to the Municipal Home Rule Act of 1965 (O.C.G.A. 36-35-1, et seq.) Amendment That the Charter of the City of Brookhaven, Georgia shall be amended in accordance with the above so that upon proper passage, Section 2.15 of the City Charter, Ordinance form; procedures shall be revised to read as follows: Sec. 2-15. Ordinance form; procedures (a) (b) Every proposed Ordinance and Resolution shall be introduced in writing and the City Council shall have the authority to approve, disapprove or amend the same. An Ordinance or Resolution may be passed at the time its offered for the first time. The catchlines of sections of this charter or any ordinance printed in boldface type, italics, or otherwise are intended as mere catchwords to indicate the contents of the section, and: (1) Shall not be deemed or taken to be titles of such sections or as any part of the section; and (2) Shall not be so deemed when any of such sections, including the catchlines, are amended or reenacted unless expressly provided to the contrary.

LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BROOKHAVEN NOTICE OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CHARTER

Furthermore, the article and section headings contained in this charter shall not be deemed to govern, limit, or modify or in any manner affect the scope, meaning, or intent of the provisions of any article or section hereof. (d) The city council may, by ordinance or resolution, adopt rules and bylaws to govern the conduct of its business, including procedures and penalties for compelling the attendance of absent councilmembers. Such rules may include punishment for contemptuous behavior conducted in the presence of the city council. The proposed amendment is on file in the office of the Clerk of the City of Brookhaven and in the office of the DeKalb County Clerk of Superior Court for examination and inspection by the public. Anyone may, upon written request submitted to the Clerk of the City of Brookhaven, obtain a copy of the proposed amendment. The Mayor and Council will consider this amendment for adoption by ordinance during their regularly scheduled meeting on May 28, 2013 and if approved at said meeting, again at their regularly scheduled meeting on June 11, 2013. City Council meetings are held at 2 Corporate Square, Suite 125, Brookhaven, Georgia 30329 beginning at 7:00 P.M. All council meetings are open to the public.

(c)

Susan D. Hiott City Clerk

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 15A

Decatur author gets gritty in new book


by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com Young adult author Terra Elan McVoy said her books are centered on human drama and every persons quest to find herself, but her newest book, Criminal, deals with darker themes. McVoy, who lives in Clarkston and works at the Decatur book store Little Shop of Stories, got the idea for her fifth novel, Criminal, from a highly publicized murder trial involving two teens. The case involved a young man, his girlfriend and another woman with whom he was romantically involved who was his accomplice. McVoy said the triangle fascinated her. I just kept thinking about her and who youd really have to be to go along with something like that, McVoy said. While she was getting her masters degree in creative writing at Florida State University, McVoy said her mentor told her instead of writing what you know, write what you most want to understand. I just took off because I really wanted to try to understand this girl and what her life would be like and what all this would mean for her, McVoy said. Criminal is about a young girl named Nikki who is a high school dropout who works at a hair salon. Nikki lives with her best friend, a single mother, because her mother is a drug addict. This is the first novel Ive written thats taking on some darker territory, McVoy said. McVoy said the only thing Nikki really cares about in life is her boyfriend Dee, who picks her up one night to take her out on what she thinks is a special date. It turns out that what hes really going to do is kill someone, so he drags her into this murder, McVoy said. The rest of the novel is about Nikkis struggle to come to grips with her boyfriend, her role in what happened and the truth about their relationship. McVoy said it is a story of redemption. Originally from Tallahassee, Fla., McVoy spent a lot of time in Atlanta visiting friends and family when she was younger. During grad school, McVoy said, she saw the grist mill her friends and colleagues went through trying to get things published and decided she didnt want to become a professional writer. Instead, after graduating, McVoy moved to New York, where she worked in the publishing industry for three years. While in New York, she got the idea for her first novel Pure, a teen-romance. It was just something that I was doing on the side for fun because I liked to, McVoy said. Then Pure got contracted and they just kept on asking me to write more books. After New York, McVoy moved to Atlanta where she managed Little Shop of Stories for five years, became the assistant program director for the AJC Decatur Book Festival and eventually served as the program director of the festival for two years. I just left that this fall, McVoy said. I realized that I was really becoming a serious author and I wasnt able to dedicate enough time to that while I was also working for the festival. McVoy said even though being a serious author happened to her as somewhat of an accident, shes giving it a shot and working on a new book, In Deep about a girl who is a competitive swimmer. Ultimately, a lot of what I want to write about is the things that were able to get through and overcome, McVoy said. Being a teenager to me is a fascinating, rich and wonderful time, but it can also be a very difficult time. Any map that you can have to kind of navigate that territory is probably a good one.

Chores.

A perfect moment to talk about alcohol.


An alarming number of pre-teens are drinking alcohol which makes it urgent to find every opportunity to talk to your kids about the dangers of underage drinking. For tips on how and when to begin the conversation, visit:

www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov

Chores_7x4.875_ADV.indd 1

4/23/13 3:20 PM

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 16A

The Stephenson High School Jazz Band kicked off the 36th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival May 25. Band Director William Oliver said each selection the band played showcased a different member of the band. Photos by Daniel Beauregard

Stephenson jazz band gets big break at Atlanta Jazzfest


by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com Band director William Oliver said playing jazz music is a learning experience for everyone in the Stephenson High School Jazz Band, including himself. Oliver, a classically trained trombone player, said although playing jazz may be new to the 25 members of the band, the fact that they show up for rehearsal7-8 a.m. before school startsshows their dedication. We figured if we could get kids to be there that early they would have the work ethic, Oliver said. In addition to the jazz band, Stephenson High also has a marching band, wind ensemble and concert band, all of which have won numerous awards and have been featured in events such as the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade. This year, the jazz band placed third in the annual Atlanta Youth Jazz Band Competition hosted by Atlantas Office of Cultural Affairs at Georgia State University. In recognition for the award, the band won a $250 scholarship and performed at the Atlanta Jazz Festival May 25. Oliver said this is the first big award for the jazz band, which plays music from the big-band era and jazz standards. One of the things were working toward is making sure that we showcase each student in some form or fashion, Oliver said. We believe all of the students should have the ability to improvise and we selected pieces that can feature all of the students. The goal of each band at Stephenson High, Oliver said, is to get students interested in types of music that they might not know about such as classical, jazz or bossa nova music. Many of the students involved in jazz band also play in one of the other schools bands and Oliver said the more music they can play, the more appealing they are to colleges. As a result of the jazz program it has boosted the kids scholarships, Oliver said. One of our students just received a $1,500 scholarship to attend the Berklee Summer Music Camp. Students in the jazz band also participate in smaller jazz combos consisting of four or five musicians. Oliver said this allows the students to work on improvisationone of the key components of jazz music in a smaller, more involved setting. Oliver said one of the most important parts of playing jazz is of listening. Everything is learning for us and theres no speaking from experienceits uncharted territory, Oliver said. Our goal is to provide assurance for the major jazz artists that the future of jazz is safe in our hands. Next year, Stephenson will form another jazz band to allow some of the schools younger or more inexperienced students to participate and Oliver said every instrument is welcome. Additionally, Oliver said ally recognized competithe jazz band will be consid- tions such as the Essentially ering entering more nation- Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition, held each year at Lincoln Center in New York.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS ON THE 2013-2014 PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF DECATUR, GEORGIA There will be public hearings on the proposed 2013-2014 budget for the City of Decatur at 7:30 p.m. on June 3, 2013, June 10, 2013 (TENTATIVE) and on June 17, 2013 in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 509 N. McDonough Street, Decatur. The proposed budget is summarized below and is available in its entirety for public inspection at Decatur City Hall. All citizens are invited to attend the public hearings, to provide written and oral comments, and ask questions concerning the entire budget. FY 2013-2014 PROPOSED GENERAL FUND REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES REVENUES Taxes Licenses, Permits & Inspections Penalties, Fines & Forfeitures Interest Charges for Current Services Intergovernmental Revenues Miscellaneous Revenue Sale of Fixed Assets Operating Transfers Appropriation From (To) Fund Balance TOTAL REVENUES EXPENDITURES Governmental Control Department General Government Department Community & Economic Development Department Administrative Services Department Police Department Fire & Rescue Department Public Works-Sanitation & Facilities Maintenance Design, Environment & Construction Active Living Division TOTAL EXPENDITURES 15,532,600 920,400 1,360,000 500 1,409,650 423,840 189,000 10,000 (2,846,300) 3,654,100 $20,653,790 152,500 1,397,610 1,733,360 2,972,380 5,047,420 3,516,440 2,773,330 1,544,800 1,515,950 $20,653,790

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

BUSINESS

Page 17A

The Wine Workshop and Brew Center offers ingredients for both crafted wines and beers.

Decatur shop helps customers make craft wines and beers


by Kathy Mitchell kathy@dekalbchamp.com After more than a quarter of a century in the computer business, Marcia Perez decided she was ready to try something a bit more fun. Wine making is a family hobby that she and her husband, Gerald, decided could be parlayed into a business. The result is Wine Workshop and Brew Center, which opened earlier this year in Decatur. Perezs late brother Gene Langford had owned what Perez calls a gentleman farm, in north Florida and thought a vineyard would make an interesting addition. With advice from nearby Florida A&M University, he started the venture that led to experimenting with wine making. Perez said the business in part was started to honor his memory. Were a family that enjoys wine and were a bit adventurous, too. In the Florida vineyard instead of growing the typical Florida grapes, we chose to grow Cynthiana/ Norton grapes, Perez said. Perez said her brother Philip Langford had already distinguished himself as an excellent home brewer and took a key role in the operation. The first harvest produced 30 gallons of wine, but later the small operation yielded more than 150 gallons. Its not necessary for Wine Workshop and Brew Center customers to have their own vineyards or even any knowledge of wine making. We walk them through step-bystep, Perez explained. And, the messy part is done so they dont have to worry about such things as pressing fruit. Customers get to do the fun part. They choose the type of wine theyd like to makered or white, sweet or dry. And they choose flavors they like. We have a peachapricot chardonnay thats a big favorite, she added. She said some customers want to give the wines as holiday gifts or to share year-round with friends and family. Some want to produce something special for a wedding. We even had a company that offered its employees the opportunity to learn something outside their business. They chose wine making, Perez recalled. The shop, Perez said, has the right conditions for the four- to eight-week process. Its a little cool in here, but thats the way the wine likes it, she said. If you try making wine where you have big temperature fluctuations, its likely not to turn out well. The process starts with a juice concentrate to which yeast is added for the fermentation process. Its moved to whats called a carboy where a vacuum is attached to remove the carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of the process by which yeast breaks down the sugar to produce alcohol. Unless you want a sparkling wine, you have to get rid of the carbon dioxide, Perez said. This will happen naturally over time, but then it would take much longer than four to eight weeks to complete the process. The brew part of the company name refers to the fact that those who prefer to whip up a batch of homemade

A jug of wine and thou

Shop owner Marcia Perez demonstrates how carbon dioxide is removed from the wine through a vacuum process.

Perez says a wide variety of wines can be produced using methods customers can learn at her shop. Photos by Kathy Mitchell

beer can find the equipment, expertise and ingredients in the East Decatur Station shop as well. Wine Workshop and Brew Center offers introductory and advance home brewing classes. Perez said she believes its the only business of its type inside the Atlanta perimeter. Im so glad we were able to find a location in Decatur. Its the perfect location for

a business like this. It fits in so well with the lifestyles of people in this area, observed Perez, who said her company seeks to promote the appreciation of craft beer and wine. Education and the availability of quality ingredients is a key way to do this, according to the shops website. Our in-store wine making service is a key part of the educational process.

DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management Public Advisory

SNAPFINGER WOODS SANITARY SEWER ACCESS ROADS


May 9, 2013 Advisory Issue Date June 9, 2013 Advisory Close Date

This advisory is issued to inform the public of a receipt of an application for a variance submitted pursuant to a State Environmental Law. The Public is invited to comment during a 30 day period on the proposed activity. Since the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has no authority to zone property or determine land use, only those comments addressing environmental issues related to air, water and land protection will be considered in the application review process. Written comments should be submitted to: Program Manager, Non Point Source Program, Erosion and Sedimentation Control, 4220 International Parkway, Suite 101, Atlanta, Georgia 30354. Type of Permit Application: Variance to encroach within the 25-foot Sate Waters Buffer. Applicable Law: Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act O.C.G.A. 12-7-1 ET seq. Applicable Rules: Erosion and Sedimentation Control Chapter 391-3-7. Basis under which variance shall be considered {391-3-7.05(2) (A-K)}: A Project Location: This project is located on the section of Snapfinger Woods Drive that is bounded by Rayburn Road to the west and Shell Bark Rd to the east near the city of Lithonia, GA. Specifically, the site is located in land lots 8 & 9 of the 16th district & land lots 128 & 129 of the 15th district, in DeKalb, Georgia. The proposed construction will include the installation of permanent gab surface course sanitary sewer system access roads on both tracts of land. Project Description: The proposed site conditions will include the installation of 16ft heavy duty gravel road inside of a 20 proposed access easement. The surrounding site conditions will not be altered from the existing. All disturbed non-roadway areas and landscaping will be replaced in kind. Abandoned drives will be planted with approved materials and converted to wetland mitigation areas. County and state buffer encroachments will be required for sanitary sewer maintenance road access in order to gain access to different parts of the property that contain the overall sewer main. The Public can review site plans at 1580 Roadhaven Drive Stone Mountain, Georgia 30083. Phone 770-621-7272.

DeKalb Chamber of Commerce

The Voice of Business in DeKalb County

Two Decatur Town Center, 125 Clairemont Ave., Suite 235, Decatur, GA 30030 404.378.8000 www.DeKalbChamber.org

The Champion, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013

EDUCATION

Page 18A

Deja Humphries, a fifth-grader at Dresden Elementary School, is presented her award by Dental Health Director Dwayne Turner.

Dresden Elementary student wins Dental Health Quiz Bowl


New Georgia Perimeter College alumnus Rick Bertaccini waited 41 years to graduate. Photo by Bill Roa

After 41 years, Georgia Perimeter staffer realizes dream with graduation


It took Rick Bertaccini several stops and starts over 41 years, but the Georgia Perimeter College (GPC) student proudly walked across the stage recently to accept his associates degree in business administration. Bertaccini graduated high school in 1972, the same year the GPC Decatur campus campus. He waited a few years and then, once again, enrolled in classes. I focused on my three girls and getting them off to college before I gave higher education another shot, said Bertaccini, a GPC facilities manager. I wanted to enrich myself, but I also knew that I needed a degree if I wanted to get a higher position in management. On May 3with BarIt took more than bara , his wife of 37 years, and three daughters cheering 40 years, but it him onBertaccini flipped the tassel from the left to the was worth every right side of his graduation cap and beamed for the cambit of sweat and eras. Bertaccini joined approxitears. mately 500 of 2,267 eligible graduates for the spring Rick Bertaccini commencement ceremony at the Atlanta Civic Center. Alumnus Jerry Wilson, who retired as a senior vice presiopened. After a couple of se- dent from Coca-Cola and mesters, Bertaccini realized now leads a marketing conhe wasnt ready for college sulting firm, gave the commencement address. and joined the Army. He I am you and prove that served his country for four you can be whoever and years and re-enrolled at the college. However, he dropped whatever you want to be, said Wilson, who graduated out after a few months. from GPC, then DeKalb ColI kept going and stoplege, in 1974. I was the first ping because I wasnt taking it seriously, said Bertaccini, college graduate in my fam58. So, I became a carpenter ily, and it was a profound, life-changing experience. and went to work. Graduating proved that I In 1991, Bertaccini was could succeed in a college hired by Georgia Perimeter for a position at the Clarkston environment, and propelled me to go further. This is not an end, but a beginning for you. It was the hardest thing I have ever done, but also the most rewarding, Bertaccini said. I am so glad that I stuck with it and earned this degree. It took more than 40 years, but it was worth every bit of sweat and tears.

Deja Humphries, a fifthgrader at Dresden Elementary School, is the winner of the DeKalb County Board of Healths 2013 Dental Health Quiz Bowl. The Board of Healths Dental Health Services sponsored the quiz bowl. The competition began in January. All fifth-graders in the DeKalb County School District, Atlanta Public Schools (in DeKalb County) and City Schools of Decatur were invited to participate. Approximately 200 students competed in the initial round

of the bowl, which required learning and recalling dozens of oral health terms and facts. The other finalists were runner-up Brianna Porter, Avondale Elementary; second runner-up Myasia Riddick; Murphey Candler Elementary, third runner-up Sincere Rush; Toomer Elementary and fourth runnerup Najma Noor; Indian Creek Elementary. For information of the DeKalb County Board of Healths dental health services, call (404) 294-3700.

DeKalbCountySchoolBoardissellingtwoofitspropertiesasisthroughacompetitive sealedbidprocess.Thetwopropertiesarelocatedat: FreemanAdmin.BuildingA/B(office) 3770NorthDecaturRd Decatur,Georgia30032 81,000squarefeetofofficespace 9.3acres HooperAlexander(school) 3414MemorialDrive Decatur,Georgia30032 68,900squarefeetofschoolfacility 8.1acres

AdvertisementforSchoolPropertySales

SealedBids,fromBidders,willbereceivedbytheDeKalbCountyBoardofEducation(theOwner) attheSamA.MossServiceCenter,1780MontrealRoad,Tucker,Georgia30084,until12:00Noon localtimeonThursday,August1,2013foralllabor,materialsandservicesnecessaryforboth projects. BiddingDocumentsmaybeobtainedbyBiddersat: http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/solicitations/ AllquestionsaboutthisAdvertisementforBidsmustbedirectedinwritingtoStephenWilkins, ChiefOperationsOfficernotlaterthanTuesday,July23th,2013at12:00Noon.ContactMr. StephenM.Wilkins,ChiefOperationsOfficer,SamMossCenter,1780MontrealRoad,Tucker, Georgia30084.;email:dcsdopsbidquestions@fc.dekalb.k12.ga.us;Fax678.676.1350. Exceptasexpresslyprovidedin,orpermittedby,theBiddingDocuments,fromthedateof issuanceoftheAdvertisementforBidsuntilfinalOwneractionofapprovalofcontractaward,the BiddershallnotinitiateanycommunicationordiscussionconcerningtheProjectortheBidders Bidoranypartthereofwithanyemployee,agent,orrepresentativeoftheOwner.Anyviolation ofthisrestrictionmayresultintherejectionoftheBiddersBid. TheOwnerreservestherighttorejectanyorallBids,andtowaivetechnicalitiesandinformalities. SitevisitsHooperAlexanderSchoolarescheduledforJuly11th,2013andJuly18th,2013at9:00 am.SitevisitsforFreemanAdministrativeBuildingsA&BarescheduledforJuly10th,2013andJuly 17th,2013at9:00am

The Champion, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013

EDUCATION

Page 19A

2012-13 Valedictorians and Salutatorians


Miller Grove High School Willie Moody, valedictorian Deandrea Francis, salutatorian Redan High School Jalissa Shealey, valedictorian Kenyatta Wheeler, salutatorian Southwest DeKalb High School Brittany Williams, valedictorianmagnet Kristen Peagler, salutatorianmagnet Coreyonna Welch, valedictorianresident Chavay Dickerson, salutatorianresident Stephenson High School Brittany Burnett, valedictorian Maiya Smith, salutatorian Stone Mountain High School Cyrianne Keutcha, valedictorian Linh My Tran, salutatorian Towers High School Valencia Johnson, valedictorian Jasmine Carruth, salutatorian Tucker High School Andrew Melissas, valedictorian Aniya Hamilton, salutatorian Arabia Mountain High School Ayomide Akin-David, valedictorianmagnet Asier Isayas, cosalutatorianmagnet Tyrus Wheeler, Jr., cosalutatorianmagnet Yadeni Alemayehu, valedictorianresident Megan Mccall, salutatorian resident Cedar Grove High School Alexis Pointer, valedictorian Joshua Heard, co-salutatorian Lismary Reyes, cosalutatorian Chamblee Charter High School Monica Agrawal, valedictorianmagnet Andrew Chang Hsiang Tsao, salutatorianmagnet Christa Kelly, valedictorian resident Kevin Reagan, salutatorian resident Clarkston High School Tu Minh Khong, valedictorian Hong-Ngoc Thi Nguyen, salutatorian Columbia High School Sarah Kuranga, valedictorianmagnet Temitayo Younge, salutatorianmagnet Shykeena Blanton, covaledictorianresident Aleisha Williams, covaledictorianresident Xavier Howard, salutatorianresident Cross Keys High School Ranulfo Ramos-Santos, valedictorian Najdat Zohbi, salutatorian DeKalb Early College Academy Nathaniel Stowe, valedictorian Khadijah Carter, salutatorian DeKalb School of the Arts Richard Jun Seung Peay, valedictorian Virginia Spinks, salutatorian Druid Hills High School Anna Dowling, valedictorian Jason Terry, salutatorian Dunwoody High School Hardika Dhir, covaledictorian Hayley Hopkins, covaledictorian William Koval, salutatorian Martin L. King, Jr. High School Jonothon Smith, valedictorian Ashley Wrushen, salutatorian Lakeside High School Stephanie Pham, valedictorian Paul Choi, salutatorian Lithonia High School Stephen Bines, valedictorian Ashlee Guthridge, salutatorian Ronald E. McNair High School Nina Wilks, valedictorian Terrence Dixon, salutatorian Decatur High School Clare Lombardo, valedictorian Rosalind Spell, salutatorian

NOTICE
The Mayor and Lithonia City Council do hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held at the Lithonia City Hall, 6980 Main Street, Lithonia 30058 on Monday, June 17, 2013 at 6:00 PM and pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-32 does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.

CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY


COUNTY WIDE Real & Personal
Motor Vehicles Mobile Homes Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Digest Less M& 0 Exemptions Net M & 0 Digest State Forest Land Assistance Grant Value Adjusted Net M&O Digest Gross M&0 Millage Less Rollbacks Net M&O Millage Total County Taxes Levi Net Taxes $ Increase Net Taxes % Increase 11.699 $377,394 $18,512 5.16% 12.321 $375,146 -$2,248 -0.60% 13.178 $367,226 -$7,920 -2.11% 15.205 $334,700 -$32,526 -8.86% 16.552 $341,317 $6,617 1.98% 17.869 $341,454 $137 0.04% 32,894,838 636,190 32,258,648
r

2008
30,651,118 2,052,210 191,510 Timber - 100%

2009
28,642,932 1,979,710 191,805

2010
26,674,180 1,582,040 176.149

2011
20,765,829 1,615,590 176,149

2012
19,375,805 1,690,000 117,094

2013
17,690,700 1,853,380 117,094

31,014,447 566,739 30,447,708

28,432,369 565,746 27,866,623

22,557,568 545,059 22,012,509

21,182,899 562,008 20,620,891

19,661,174 552,462 19,108,712

Chamblee Middle wins technology grant


With the assistance of Chamblee Middle School parent Dr. Sally Wright, Chamblee Middle won a Turner Voices in Technology grant from Turner Broadcasting. Eighteen seventh- and eighth-grade tech-savvy Chamblee Middle students attended a daylong workshop at Turner Broadcasting Studios. The students toured the facility, participated in a panel discussion and were taught the requirements of being a camera operator, technical director, news anchor and audio director.

32,258,648 11.699

30,447,708 12.321

27,866,623 13.178

22,012,509 15.205

20,620,891 16.552

19,108,712 17.869

Page 20A 

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The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

SPORTS

Page 21A

Head baseball coach Marvin Pruitt and the Redan Baseball team won its first state championship after sweeping Marist in the Class AAAA state finals. See more photos on page 22A. Photo by Carla Parker

Redan sweeps Marist to win first baseball state title


by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com

he quote, Its not how you start, its how you finish, sums up the 2013 season for the Redan High School baseball team. After starting the season 0-3, the Redan Raiders went on an incredible run, which ended in a state championship, the first in the programs history. It was something that senior pitcher Brandon Baker did not even imagine. Last year we got knocked out of the first round of the playoffs, he said. I never thought we would make it. We started off the season 0-3 and we came back to be state champs. Im very proud of this team. The Raiders (30-7) completed their Cinderella season with a twogame sweep over region rival Marist (27-9) in the Class AAAA state finals at Marist. Redan dominated Game 1 with an 11-0 win and had to hold off a Marist comeback in the 4-3 win in Game 2. For Baker, beating Marist in the state title game

was sweeter. We played them four times this year and they beat us three out of those four [games], he said. But Im glad to say we beat them two out of the two to win the state championship. For veteran coach Marvin Pruitt, this state title was a long time coming. The Georgia Dugout Hall of Fame coach, who has coached in DeKalb County for 30 years, had to step away from coaching earlier this season because of health problems. But he still attended the games and was the first to receive the championship trophy. Im just so excited and happy for these players, he said. Junior pitcher Corderious Dorsey was the star of Game 1 on both the mound and behind the plate. He pitched the entire game, allowing only two hits and struck out four batters, including two in the seventh inning. He also went 2-for-4 at bat with three RBIs. Senior shortstop Wesley Jones also had a big Game 1. He gave Redan a 1-0 lead in the first inning off of a solo home run.

Dorseys RBI in the second inning extended the lead to 2-0. Redan did not score again until the sixth inning behind Dorseys RBI that sent two runners to home plate to go up 4-0. Sophomore James Nelson also had an RBI in the sixth to give the Raiders a 5-0 lead. Dorsey allowed no hits in the sixth inning, giving the Raiders offense more momentum going into the seventh inning. RBIs by senior Trega Williams and sophomore Bakari Gayle and a two-run home run by junior Miles Fore gave the Raiders a 9-0 lead. Jones RBI sent two runners home to give Redan the win with an 11-0 score. The losing pitcher, Michael Toner, gave up five runs in 5.2 innings. The Raiders came out hot on offense in the second game. Baker had an RBI in the first inning to give Redan a 1-0 lead. Gayle followed that RBI with one of his own to send two runners home. Raiders went up 4-1 in the second inning before Marist pitcher Sean Geunther got hot. Geunther struck out three straight batters in the

third inning. Baker struggled at the plate in the later innings, allowing a combined four hits and one run in the fourth and fifth innings. A home run by Marists Chris McGrath cut Redans lead to 4-3 in sixth inning. Two walks and a hit had the bases loaded for Marist with two outs, but acting Redan coach Chris Hardnett let Baker stay on the mound. He just had to have faith and confidence that he could get the job done, Hardnett said. Redan was able to get the final out without any more runs scoring. With the tying runner at second base in the seventh inning, Redan reliever Darian Osby struck out two batters to seal the win for the Raiders. Hardnett gave all of the credit to the players for winning Redan its first baseball state title. Im so proud of my kids, he said. They did a hell of a job. Everything we worked on in practice all week came back and we executed and we were able to win two games against a tough Marist baseball team.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

SPORTS

Page 22A

Redans Miles Fore hits a two-run home run in the seventh inning of Game 1.

Marist pitcher Michael Toner throws a pitch in Game 1.

Redan pitcher Corderious Dorsey. Photos by Carla Parker

The Redan baseball team celebrates after winning the Class AAAA state championship.

Head baseball coach Marvin Pruitt is presented the championship trophy.

St. Pius X girls soccer team

St. Pius X boy soccer team

Marist girls soccer team

St. Pius X soccer teams sweep AAA State Championships, Marist girls win AAAA title
St. Pius X captured the fifth and sixth state titles of the 201213 school year as both Golden Lion soccer teams took the AAA championship title. It marked the fourth time since 2001 that the squads swept their respective classification. Boys soccer did not yield a goal in the post-season as the Golden Lions (19-0-2) captured the AAA championship with a 2-0 win over Woodward. St. Pius X used a first half goal by Tyler Alexander and a tally by J. D. Manzo with just over 20 minutes in regulation to down its Region 6-AAA rival. Ryan Beck kept Woodward off the board, as the Golden Lions recorded its 16th shutout of the season. St. Pius X advanced to the title game by defeating Oconee County on May 15. After a scoreless first half, Alexander found the back of the net early in the second half. Manzo added a score late in the second half to seal the 2-0 victory. The championship was the eighth in school history and the third in the last five years for the boys soccer squad. The girls team took its fourth title in five years with a 1-0 win over Region 6-AAA foe Blessed Trinity. The Lady Golden Lions (19-1-3) lone score came from junior Amanda Vocelka with just over six minutes to go in regulation. Goalie Hannah Smith kept the clean sheet in net for the ladies. The championship was also the seventh crown in school history, all since 1998. The ladies traveled to Buford May 14 and won 7-3 in the semifinals. After falling behind early, Tiffany Rodriguez and Melissa Pagoaga scored a goal each, while Vocelka scored two goals to give the Lady Golden Lions a 4-1 lead at the break. Buford cut the score to 4-3 with just over 18 minutes remaining before St. Pius X erupted for three goals to provide the final margin. Marist girls won their eighth state soccer title in school history with a 5-0 win over Columbus in the Class AAAA state championship on May 17. It was the Lady War Eagles first state title since 2009. Katie MacGinnitie scored twice to lead the Lady War Eagles. Caroline Strom scored the first goal just 12 minutes into the game to give Marist the early lead. In addition to the MacGinnitie scores, Kelsey Carrier and Meredith Selvey each added goals for Marist. Marist finished the season with a 22-0-1 record.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, May 31, 2013

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Page 23A

Southwest DeKalb produces first lacrosse college signees


by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Seniors Calyn Kelly and Najarri Whitehead made Southwest DeKalb High School history this month when they became the first lacrosse players to sign college scholarships. Kelly, a 5-foot-3 center, signed with Longwood University in Farmville, Va., and Whitehead, a 5-foot-9 midfielder, signed with Point University in West Point, Ga. This was the first season the boys and girls teams played a Georgia High School Association schedule Kelly and although both teams had losing records (boys finished 0-12 and girls finished 5-9), the season ended on a good note with Kelly and Whitehead making history for their respective teams and schools. It feels great making history, Kelly said. I knew it was going to be a long journey. I put in a lot of hard work this season so Im glad this is the outcome of everything. It feels good, Whitehead said about becoming the first boys lacrosse signee. It feels like I took a Whitehead role to start it all off. Lacrosse started as a club sport at the school in 2012. Kelly said she was always interested in the sport and with a little push from her father she decided to join the team. I always wanted to try it and I happened to be good at it after I tried it. With Kelly already being an athlete, playing volleyball and basketball at Southwest DeKalb, it didnt take Kelly long to learn how to play lacrosse. I caught on to it really fast, she said. It wasnt that hard to catch on for me because I was athletic and it was easier. Kelly, 17, led the team with 60 goals and two assists this season. She said a lot of people were shocked when they heard that she was awarded a lacrosse scholarship because she only played for two years. Kelly, who plans to major in exercise science, said she will bring her speed and competitive nature to Longwood to help her new team. Im looking forward to getting along and jelling with my teammates, being a good lacrosse player and making everyone proud, she said. For Whitehead, joining Southwest DeKalbs lacrosse team was a no-brainer. Ive always played nontraditional sports, he said. I wrestled, I played rugby as well and when I saw lacrosse I was going to play with a friend of mine and I grew a passion for it. Whitehead, who did play football in the past, admitted that he probably was not going to be a Division I prospect in football because of his size. So he looked at other options. I weighed my odds and tried to find something that I can still have fun in and enjoy myself, be good at and get a scholarship as well. He found that in lacrosse. He led the team in scoring this season with 12 goals and led the club team in 2012 with 20 goals as they advanced to the state semifinals in club play. Whitehead said he will bring his speed and his playmaking abilities to Point University. Whitehead, 17, was being looked at by both Point and Shorter College. He said he chose to attend Point because it just made me feel at home. Whitehead plans to major in psychology to become a counselor.

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Page 24A 

The Champion, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013

Indicted
Continued From Page 14A

Air Reservist and Technical Sergeant Joshua Albertin popped the question in front of 30,000 people at Stone Mountain Park. Diana Stephens said yes. Photo provided

Airman proposes before crowd at Stone Mountain Park


Some visitors who went to Stone Mountain Park during the Memorial Day weekend got to see an event that wasnt on the parks holiday weekend schedule. Air Reservist and Technical Sergeant Joshua Albertin, who recently returned from Afghanistan, popped the big question to his girlfriend, Diana Stephens, in front of nearly 30,000 fans minutes before The Charlie Daniels Band took the stage. A technical sergeant with the 94th Airlift Wing based at Dobbins Air Force Base in Marietta, Albertin is a flight combat medic trained to take the injured to the next level of care. He has served in the Air Force Reserve for 11 years and most recently returned from deployment in Afghanistan. Albertin and Stephens met on a military dating website called militarycupid.com. When they went on their first date, he was only a month away from deploying to Afghanistan but he said he knew that night that he wanted to marry her. They communicated via letters, care packages and Skype during the six months he was deployed. With park events over the Memorial Day weekend dedicated to honoring American military personnel, the setting seemed perfect for Albertins goal of making the marriageproposal something his future wife would never forgetand she said yes.

Bank in the name of C. Kelly DBA MFPA and began stealing checks from MFPA and depositing them into the fraudulent bank account. The indictment stated that in 2006, Tujuana Ross joined the scheme. Ms. Ross would steal checks from MFPA and deliver those checks to Christina Kelly to be deposited into the fraudulent MFPA bank account, according to the indictment. Christina Kelly would then write checks to Tujuana Ross, Kiante Smith, Tyleshia Avant, Rory Ross and Glen Kelly, the indictment states. Each person would negotiate their respective checks knowing that they had not earned and were not entitled to the money from MFPA, the indictment states. According to the indictment, the suspects used MFPA debit cards for personal purchases. Checks and account drafts from the fraudulent MFPA account were used for personal purchases, including trips to Las Vegas, San Juan and Los Angeles; payments on a timeshare property located in Florida; mortgage payments; rent payments; and cell phone bill payments. The thefts occurred between January 2005 and July 2011.

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