FreePress 04-25-14

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LARGE CAREER DAY COMES TO TOWERS HIGH SOUTHWEST DEKALB ATHLETES SIGN

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014 • VOL. 17, NO. 5 • FREE

• A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS •

CLARKSTON UNVEILS NEW CITY BUILDINGS

From left, Diamond Smith, Tyler Webb, Zenia Mason, Christianna Mariano, Kalen Robinson and Lyric Stephen, members of the Krucial dance group, will represent DeKalb School of the Arts at the Woodruff Arts Center. Photo provided

DeKalb students to perform on Woodruff Arts Center stage
by Andrew Cauthen [email protected] Fourteen-year-old Coley Gilchrist wants to become a professional singer. And although she’s not yet a pro, the DeKalb School of the Arts eighthgrader will soon be performing on a big stage: the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta. “It’s a new experience for me,” Coley said about her upcoming performance. “It’s my first time actually performing in an established theater or arts center.” Coley and eight other DeKalb County students will participate in the second annual Voices & Vibes Festival on, May 10, at the Woodruff Arts Center. The Wells Fargo ArtsVibe Teen Program’s showcase is a collaborative effort between the Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, High Museum of Art and Young Audiences and will feature more than 40 participants. Other DeKalb School of the Arts students participating in the showcase include Rachelle Clark, Christianna Mariano, Zenia Mason, Justice Pate, Kalen Robinson, Destiny Smith, Diamond Smith, Lyric Stephen, Tyler Webb and Jada Wilson. Devin Thornton of Arabia Mountain High School will also perform during the festival. The selected teens will demonstrate their skills in spoken word, singing, dance and musical perfor-

See Manuel on page 15A

The last good-bye to two loving souls
by Marta Garcia [email protected] A memorial service was held April 17 at the Avondale Estates First Baptist Church to remember and honor the live of Tami and Jess Willadsen, who died April 12 in a fire at their Avondale Estates home. Tami was 43 and Jess was 10. Hundreds of people gathered to support the family members in ceremony called “a celebration of lives.” The stage was filled with floral arrangements and photographs of Tami with daughter Jess and son Jack, 5, who survived the fire and is in critical condition, suffering burns. Father and husband, Dave Willadsen, who survived the fire with minor injuries, attended the ceremony with his head covered with bandages. Accompanied by family members and wearing dark sunglasses Dave, visibly affected by the tragedy, remembered and prayed for his wife and daughter. The memorial began with music and a eulogy from Pastor R. Mark

See Fire on page 15A

Hundreds of people attended the memorial service for Tami and Jess Willadsen, who tragically died on April 12 in a fire at their Avondale Estates home. At the alter, Tami’s father Joe Eifrid, sister Andrea Avery and brother Joey Eifrid described Tami as a leading advocate for her community with tenacity and wit and Jess as a wise and mature 10-year-old with a shining personality. Photo by Marta Garcia

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THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

PAGE 2A

Lithonia Police receive defibrillators
by Carla Parker [email protected] Lithonia police officers now have the ability to shock someone back to life if need be after receiving automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The Lithonia Police Department received three AEDs from the Eastside Medical Center in Snellville April 15. An AED is a lightweight, portable device that delivers an electric shock through the chest to the heart, according to www. heart.org. The shock can stop an irregular rhythm and allow a normal rhythm to resume in a heart in sudden cardiac arrest. Lithonia Police Chief Eddie Moody said the AEDs will be used in city buildings, the courthouse and police cars. “This will be a big help to us as the police officers go out on their daily assignments throughout the city,” Moody said. “Hopefully, we’ll never have to use them, but if we do, they’re available.” The AEDs have a built-in computer that checks a victim’s heart rhythm through adhesive electrodes, according to www.heart.org. The computer calculates whether defibrillation is needed. If it is, a recorded voice tells the rescuer to press the shock button on the AED. This shock momentarily stuns the heart and stops all activity. It gives the heart the chance to resume beating effectively. Moody said the AEDs will allow officers to quickly respond if a person is in cardiac arrest and potentially save a life. “It takes EMS an average of 10 minutes to respond to a call in Lithonia,” Moody said. Moody said it was officers Michael Oals and David Shusterman who began building a relationship with Eastside Medical Center and convincing the hospital to donate the AEDs to the department. “They took a deep look at

Eastside Medical Center Chief Financial Officer Jason Limbaugh, center, presented three automated external defibrillators to the Lithonia Police Department. Photos by Carla Parker

Lithonia City Administrator L. Philip Howland, left, looks on as officer Michael Oals shows police Chief Eddie Moody how to work the AEDs.

the department, where we’re trying to go, trying to raise the level of professionalism within the department and at the same time provide a deeper level of safety to the citizens,” Moody said. “They’ve been reaching out to all kinds of people and organizations to help us reach that goal.” “This is a part of Chief Moody’s initiative to provide a deeper level of safety for citizens,” Oals said. Oals said a nurse and two paramedics will train police officers and city employees on how to use the AEDs and how to perform CPR.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

PAGE 3A

DeKalb residents work together to keep neighborhoods clean  
by Marta Garcia [email protected] roadway around DeKalb County. Their participation is critical, according Keep DeKalb Beautito Burkette, to keep areas ful, a nonprofit organizaclean, retain the value tion with the mission to of homes and to attract promote sustainability by businesses and people.  focusing on litter prevenAccording to the orgation, waste reduction and nization, the community beautification, is offering response is great. Every an open house and trainweek it hosts different ing session April 24. events and hundreds of The event will be held residents participate to at the county sanitation “uphold DeKalb’s reputaoffices, 3720 Leroy Scott tion as one of the nation’s Drive, from 4 to 8 p.m. best nature friendly placCommunity clean-ups es to live,” Burkette said. and other programs such “It’s great to do as the Adopt-A-Road something that helps program,which gives everybody and keeps the concerned individuals neighborhood vibrant the opportunity to help and healthy,” said Litheir local environment thonia resident Garrett by collecting litter and Powell, who recently beautifying streets in their Volunteers for Keep DeKalb Beautiful, a nonprofit participated with his organization, talked about the importance of neighborhoods, will be wife and two children in preserving and beautifying neighborhoods. Photo a paper-shredding and discussed. “We assist the commu- by John Hewitt styrofoam recycling event Sanitation Department and is nity and help them orgaheld in that city. operated by volunteers who nize. It’s great to get involved. Influencing children when You can meet your neighbors, work to ensure that DeKalb is they are young is very impora nature-friendly county. have fun and do something tant, Burkette said, because In addition to the open good for you community,” they can educate their parhouse, the organization will Gordon Burkette, director of ents, grandparents and older host various Earth Day events siblings about recycling and Keep DeKalb Beautiful, said.  through May 3. Community According to Burkette, keeping the county clean and these programs also are a great groups will host clean-ups and beautiful. beautification projects around way to bring the community “What you do with that the county. Groups that regis- McDonalds bag makes all the together and keep neighborter receive plastic bags, gloves, difference is the world. Is it hoods beautiful and safe. safety vests, pickup sticks and “When people know each going in the trash receptacle other, they know what is going T-shirts to collect trash and lit- or is it going to the street? ter from streets and sidewalks. And why? Understanding how on in the area and they know In past years, community who is supposed to be there important this is is the key to and who is not,” Burkette said. groups have helped remove change the world and make it The organization is funded more than 30,000 pounds a better place for everybody,” of litter from 130 miles of through the DeKalb County Burkette said. 

Judge denies Ellis’ appeal on recent orders
by Daniel Beauregard [email protected] A DeKalb County Superior Court judge has denied suspended CEO Burrell Ellis’ request for an immediate review of the most recent rulings on pre-trial motions in his upcoming corruption trial. Ellis is accused of strong-arming county vendors into donating to his political campaign and was named in a 14-count indictment last year. Recently, Judge Courtney Johnson denied Ellis’ motions to Ellis dismiss the indictment against him and disqualify District Attorney Robert James from trying the case. Johnson also granted defense attorney’s a continuance and the trial is now expected to begin Sept. 8. Ellis’ defense team argued that he was “lured” to testify in front of a special purpose grand jury and that it exceeded its scope, therefore information contained in Ellis’ testimony used in the indictment should be excluded. Johnson stated in her decision that the special purpose grand jury that called Ellis to testify did not exceed the scope of its investigation, therefore it had the power to compel Ellis’ testimony by subpoena. Additionally, Johnson stated that the charges in the indictment were unrelated to Ellis’ testimony for the special purpose grand jury. The court also found that Ellis’ fifth and sixth amendment rights were not violated because he testified in front of a special purpose grand jury that didn’t have the power to indict him. Ellis and his attorneys filed the appeal of Johnson’s rulings April 11. Johnson’s refusal to grant the immediate review could mean that Ellis and his attorneys will take their appeal directly to the Georgia Supreme Court.

THE CHAmPIoN FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

oPINIoN
ONE MAN’S OPINIoN

PAGE 4A

And a full salute to ‘Captain’ Herb Emory
Bill Crane

Columnist
“Good morning and good driving to ya!”–legendary metro Atlanta traffic reporter “Captain” Herb Emory I first met “Captain” Herb Emory in 1974. I was a teenager, fortunate to have the opportunity to be interviewing the ‘faces’ behind the voices of Atlanta radio for a local kids program on WSB-TV 2.  Back in that day there was no morning radio show hotter and no team more celebrated than Gary McKee and Willis the Guard on 94Q FM. This was the heyday of Atlanta’s morning drive-time radio, and McKee helmed an unstoppable and unflappable crew. Herb Emory had joined “McKee in the Mornings” in 1971. In 1991, he made the move to the Cox Radio Group and became a staple and important team member of “Atlanta’s Morning News with Scott Slade,” on News/Talk Radio AM 750 and now 95.5 FM. Then just plain, Herb Emory, the good Captain spent thousands of early mornings and afternoons as our virtual “eyes in the sky,” and if Herb didn’t coin the phrases,

“Spaghetti Junction” or “The Big Chicken” or any of the many other humorous nicknames for Atlanta’s traffic landmarks, it sure seemed like he did. Herb’s brief and lighthearted warnings dotted the drivetime hours with wisdom, the occasional homily and always good humor. I thank God that Captain Herb was on call for both the Snow Jam in 1982 and this year’s Snowmaggedon, and every major winter/weather cluster in between.  Perhaps second only to the love of his wife Karen, and warning Atlanta commuters of the traffic ills of the day, Herb loved being helpful and of service to others. Whether for Toys for Tots, Clark’s Christmas Kids, the FODAC Santa Breakfast, AFLAC Cancer Center Care-a-thon or other charitable golf tournaments and special events too numerous to mention, Captain Herb has been a perpetual presence. Always smiling, patting backs and spreading cheer, he has always been one of those gifted few whose presence can actually turn a frown upside down. And no salute to our Captain would be complete without mentioning his love for NASCAR.  Herb’s father was a volunteer pit crew member for Ralph Earnhardt (Dale Earnhart Sr.’s father) back in the 1960s during the infancy of stock car racing. From his father’s

knee and the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Emory’s love for auto racing spread to his bride Karen and later bled into his broadcast career, as Herb’s NASCAR tailgates and pre-, post- and race broadcasts also became legendary.  Mark Arum, who joined WSB in 1997, learned traffic reporting studying in the Captain Herb School of Broadcasting, “Without him, I wouldn’t have a career. I owe everything to him.”  In 2008, Captain Herb was inducted into the Georgia Radio Hall of Fame. And in 2012, he received the inaugural Excellence in Motor Sports Journalism Award. I think they should name that “The Herbie”—rolling Captain Herb and memories of the Disney Love VW Bug into one. Herb was helping a stranded motorist on a rare day off near his Douglasville home when he suddenly became ill. Following transport to nearby WellStar Douglas Hospital, he succumbed to cardiac arrest. Among those quickly paying tribute was Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal: “He is everything in person that you would expect him to be listening to him over the airways.” To others, Emory was a celebrity, but one who remained humble and always ready with a self-deprecating quip. He was forever wearing a well-worn bomber jacket, similar

to that worn by Colonel Hogan on the old TV program Hogan’s Heroes. The jacket lapels were littered with pins from NASCAR, the Centennial Olympic Games and many of Emory’s pet charitable causes. Often met with a hero’s welcome or introduction, Emory would often retort, “If I was a big-time celebrity, do you think I’d still be wearing this?” referencing that jacket. I don’t know how we will handle rush hours without you, Captain Herb, but I do know this–with that new bird’s eye view you now have from your comfortable seat up there, you ought to be able to send some pretty good traffic tips down to your former teammates and the many you taught to monitor, transmit and broadcast on the Captain Herb frequency on all those scanners.  A crisp salute skyward, Captain. You were one of a kind and will be greatly missed. Bill Crane also serves as a political analyst and commentator for Channel 2’s 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. 

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

OPINION

PAGE 5A

The moral legacy of the founding fathers: Vote!
Gene Walkerk

Columnist
President Barack Obama’s speech at the National Action Network Convention and the upcoming Georgia primary election present perspectives that invite us to examine the distance the nation has traveled and what our citizens and leaders need to do to further perfect the nation’s ideals. “How do we bridge the gap between the ideals of our founding fathers and the realities of our time?” This is one of the key questions the president asked in his speech. Likewise in the May primary we will have an opportunity to vote for new leaders throughout the state. Indeed, given the ongoing crises—at the local, state and national level—in leadership, in confidence in our political institutions and in the standards of public morality to which we have had obvious challenges over the years—it is crucial for the citizens to be more engaged and critical in the electoral process. History teaches us that some 236 years ago, as the colonists commenced the Revolutionary War for freedom from Great Britain, they

were faced with the problem of what to do about the pressing issue of human bondage. The first urgent question was: Should the colonists continue to import slaves? The second was: Should the colonists use Black soldiers in their fight against Britain? Their final consideration: was: As the colonists fought for freedom, what would be the effect of the revolutionary philosophy on their own slaves? Even so, the Declaration of Independence said that “all men are created equal” and every man had an inalienable right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” How then could the colonists make distinctions in their revolutionary philosophy? They either meant that all men were created equal or they did not mean it at all. They either meant that every man was entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness or they did not mean it at all. Though some patriots, like Patrick Henry, who admitted that slavery was “repugnant to humanity,” were troubled by the contradictions, they either would not, or could not, see how ridiculous their position was. Even worse, they believed extending freedom to slaves would have implied equality in the human family that America was unwilling to concede. The important concern here is not so much for the harm that the

founding fathers did to the cause they claimed to serve, but more for the harm their moral legacy has done to every generation of their descendants. Unfortunately, the founding fathers’ legacy set the stage for succeeding generations of Americans to apologize, compromise and be evasive in supporting the principles that undergird our system of government and way of life. Specifically, America’s goal is to create and foster a nation in which every citizen shares all of the opportunities of society and where every person has a chance to advance to the limits of his capacity. Clearly, the nation has come a long way toward that goal as is evidenced by Obama having been elected to office twice. Certainly much has been accomplished, but there is still much to be done. Thus today’s implication for citizens and leaders of both the public and private sector is to shore up their commitment and resources to better address the threat to pressing social and political issues such as education, jobs, job training, healthcare and voter suppression. Fifty years ago, President Lyndon Baines Johnson launched a war on what he described as the most ancient of mankind’s enemies—poverty. This great president was also responsible for a number of epoch happenings in the nation, such as the 1964 Civil Rights Bill for which

we now celebrate the 50-year anniversary. Sadly and regrettably today’s Republican Party is engaged in an aggressive and sustained campaign to turn back the clock on the civil and political gains made to date. Thoughtful and fair-minded Americans must collaborate to reverse this harmful effort. In his speech, President Obama pointed out that the single greatest tool we can use to achieve justice and meaningful social change is the vote. Without question, we should exercise our duty and responsibility to secure the gains of our forbearers by registering and voting for fairminded people. Exercise your power. Early voting begins April 28, and Election Day is May 20.

F REE P RESS
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 writer’s 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 email to [email protected] FAX To: (404) 370-3903 Phone: (404) 373-7779 Deadline for news releases and advertising: Thursday, one week prior to publication date. EDITOR’S 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.

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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 for all community residents on all 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, we make every effort to avoid printing information submitted to us that is known to be false and/or assumptions penned as fact.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Apartment complexes test sites for grease recycling program
by Daniel Beauregard [email protected] DeKalb County’s top grease recycling vendor is partnering with the Atlanta Apartment Association for a pilot program to collect fats, oil and grease from seven apartment complexes throughout the county. The county is currently conducted a $1.35 billion overhaul of its water and sewer system, after pledging to improve its system and reduce sewage spills several years ago. Alicia Pennie, DeKalb County Water and Sewer Division’s public education specialist, said each apartment chosen for the pilot program is located in an area with a high record of sewage spills. Pennie said that before the program began in late March, the sewer lines nearby the apartment complexes were cleaned. In six months, county employees will inspect the lines to see how much impact the pilot program has had. “This program is something that we’ve been working on for a couple of years. We’re heavily regulated on the commercial side of things but not so much on residential properties,” Pennie said. Pennie said each apartment complex taking part in the pilot program will receive a grease receptacle and disposable liners to be used to dispose of household grease. These receptacles and liners then can be emptied into a larger bin adjacent to the trash and recycling areas in the apartment complexes. Additionally, Pennie said, another seven apartment complexes in the county have agreed to serve as a control group so officials could compare the two groups at the end of the program’s sixmonth period. “We have identified that 60 percent of our spills are caused by grease in the system,” Pennie said. “We’re not saying that apartments are a primary cause—this is just one of the many things that we’ve launched.” Several years ago, Pennie said the county solicited grease vendors to put together a proposal for the pilot program. The leading vendor then partnered with the Atlanta Apartment Association to administer the program, so the county has no contractual obligations. According to Pennie, the Atlanta Apartment Association represents for nearly 80 percent of all the apartments in DeKalb County. Under the program, there is no additional cost to customers. The participating apartment complexes are Century Peachtree Creek, 3001 Northwest Expressway, Atlanta; Clarkston Station, 3001 Northeast Expressway, Atlanta; Edgewater Vista, 100 Lumby Court, Decatur; Lakes at Indian Creek, 751 North Indian Creek Drive in Clarkston; Pointe at Lenox Park, 1900 North Druid Hills Road, Atlanta; Post Glen Apartments, 4120 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta; and Sienna Ridge Apartments, 283 Plaster Road, Atlanta.

COMMUNITY

PAGE 6A

Champion of the Week
NANCY MOORE
When Nancy Moore’s two children started school she wanted to make the transition easy for them, so she began volunteering at her daughters’ school. “Volunteering in the school was an excuse to be in the school,” Moore said. Since then, Moore, 50, has been a PTA president and is currently co-chair of the Emory LaVista Parent Council (ELPC). Moore, a resident of unincorporated central DeKalb, has served on the council for six years. She started as vice president of the parent council and has been serving as copresident for the past three years. “I joined the council after serving as the co-president of the Fernbank PTA,” Moore said. “I was asked to serve by the ELPC nominating committee. The ELPC board tends to draw from its constituent school PTAs and school councils, although it is certainly not limited to those members. There has historically been a natural progression from school leadership to council leadership.” Moore has a 15-yearold in the 9th grade at the DeKalb School of the Arts and a 13-year-old in the 7th grade at Druid Hills Middle School. Moore said volunteering in the schools is important to her because she has seen what a positive difference it makes on the students and school staff. “Volunteering in the community is important because it enhances broader relationships, like the ones I’ve developed with my wonderful counterparts in the Lakeside community,” she said. “I was also on the organizing committee for the Druid Hills Charter Cluster, and I must say

Day of Holocaust remembrance in Dunwoody
by Marta Garcia [email protected] The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) will host a day of Holocaust remembrance on April 27 from 4 to 5 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the MJCCA’s Besser Holocaust Memorial Garden, 5342 Tilly Mill Road in Dunwoody, one of the preeminent Holocaust memorials in the southeast. The community is invited to come together and remember the victims of the Holocaust with a special program commemorating Yom HaShoah (or day of Holocaust remembrance). “Shoah” is Hebrew for destruction, and is another name for the Holocaust. During the ceremony, the Six Torches, in memory of the six million people who perished in the Holocaust, will be lighted. Local author Jim Barfield will discuss his historical novel, Boxcars, and his presentation will also include an original musical composition written especially for the occasion. Barfield, born in Atlanta in 1946, is a practicing lawyer and a musician and songwriter. Boxcars, his first published novel, started as a personal project in honor of his grandson’s bar mitzvah but quickly grew into a young adult historical novel. 

Two teens shot during park party
by Carla Parker [email protected] Two teenage girls were shot April 19 during an unauthorized night party at Wade Walker Park near Stone Mountain. According to DeKalb Police Capt. Stephen Fore, officers responded to Wade Walker Park on Rockbridge Road at approximately 7:45 p.m. on a call of a person shot. Both victims were located with a non-life threatening gunshot wounds to the head,” Fore said. “They were grazed.” DeKalb police have identified the victims as Chardonae Meeks and Maya Scott. Both women are 19 years old. Fore said the teens were transported to Grady Hospital for treatment. According to witnesses, a male with the victims got into an argument with a group of people. “The male and two victims got into their vehicle to leave when a suspect produced a handgun and fired multiple times into the vehicle striking the two victims,” Fore said. No suspects have been arrested in the shooting and the investigation is ongoing.

that was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had which resulted in the strengthening of the broad Druid Hills High School community.” Since she began her volunteer work, Moore has become an advocate for not only students but for teachers as well. “Spending time in a school makes you realize how important teachers are to our children,” Moore said. “My desire to volunteer to be near my kids evolved into a desire to help these wonderful people who devote their professional lives to educating our youth. “Being a teacher is not an easy job, especially in DeKalb County these past few years,” Moore added. “But I have seen these teachers and school-house staff continue to provide an excellent education for the students despite the furlough days, pay cuts and central office upheaval. I feel that anything I can do to positively impact the school staff is worth doing.”

If you would like to nominate someone to be considered as a future Champion of the Week, please contact Andrew Cauthen at [email protected] or at (404) 373-7779, ext. 117.

Atlanta

AROUNDDEKALB
and walkers. For more information, visit www.brookhavenbolt.com.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

COMMUNITY

PAGE 7A

Immaculate Heart of Mary School to host fair trade sale

  The public is invited to shop for fairly traded tea, coffee, chocolate, jewelry, scarves and other handcrafted items from farmers and artisans living in developing regions by attending a Work of Human Hands sale on Tuesday, April 29, from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., in the Immaculate Heart of Mary School Library, 2855 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta.  The sale is part of the Work of Human Hands program, a partnership between Catholic Relief Services and SERRV, nonprofit organizations dedicated to fighting poverty. Every purchase made at the Work of Human Hands sale enables an artisan or farmer to better provide for the basic necessities of life, to educate her or his children, and to work in a safe environment. For more information contact Carmen Graciaa at [email protected] or (404) 636-4488.

Chamblee
Yoga for beginners offered at library
The mind-body practice of yoga is frequently touted for its ability to reduce stress and boost well-being, but it also offers wide-ranging physical health benefits that rival other forms of exercise. The classes will be taught by yoga instructor Bonnie G. Gibert and is open to the first eight participants. Loose fitting clothing is recommended also bring a yoga mat, a pillow and bath towel. Classes begin April 26 at the Chamblee library 4115 Clairmont Road from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. To register, visit the branch or call (770) 936-1380.

of stopping by their local energy assistance office to schedule their appointment. The Partnership for Community Action Inc. is located at 815 Park North Boulevard, Clarkston, and 3597 Covington Highway, Decatur.

Oakhurst preschool to host 5K
The Oakhurst Cooperative Preschool is holding its 7th Annual Beat the Street for Little Feet 5K May 3, beginning at the preschool at 8 a.m. The race will be included in Decatur Active Living’s Grand Slam Fitness Challenge and is familyfriendly, with several options including a 5K race with a jogging stroller division, a one-mile race and a “tot trot” for the youngest kids. All pre-registered runners will receive a race T-shirt and “tot-trot” runners each receive a Pete the Cat medal. Registration closes April 30, at 3 p.m. For more information, visit www. ocprace.com or contact Kimberly Head Amos at 5k.oakhurstcoop. com.

Decatur
Pools opening for Memorial Day
Pools in the city of Decatur will be open Memorial Day weekend, May 23-26, through August 1. Starting August 1, McKoy Pool, located at 534 McKoy St. in Oakhurst, will be open from 9 a.m.1 p.m. on weekdays. Glenlake Pool, located at 1121 Church St. in Decatur, will be open from 4-8 p.m. on weekdays. Both Glenlake and McKoy pools will be open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on weekends through Labor Day. For more information call (404) 377-7231 or follow @decaturpools on Twitter for updates.

Dunwoody
Holocaust remembrance in Dunwoody
The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta will hold a Holocaust remembrance on April 27 from 4 to 5 p.m. The program is free of charge, and will take place at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, 5342 Tilly Mill Road in Dunwoody. Some of the highlights of the program are the lighting of the Six Torches in memory of the six million people who perished in the Holocaust and remarks from Jim Barfield, author of the historical novel, Boxcars. His presentation will also include an original musical composition written especially for this occasion. For information, visit www.atlantajcc.org or call (678) 812-4161.

Avondale Estates
Dog adoption day scheduled
On May 10 Second Life consignment store will host dog adoptions with BullsEye Rescue, a nonprofit, organization whose goal is to assist in the rescue and re-homing process of strays, surrendered and sheltered dogs. Second Life hosts adoptions every second Saturday of the month. Organizers ask people to support their rescue efforts with donations too. The event will be held on the parking lot located on 89 N. Clarendon Ave. in Avondale Estates from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.   For more information call (678) 974-5671.

Countywide
The Partnership for Community Action Inc. has available funds from the Georgia Department of Human Services to provide assistance with heating bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.  The funds are available for eligible clients in DeKalb, Gwinnett, Rockdale, Newton and Walton counties. Those who are eligible can apply for this one-time heating assistance payment of either $310 or $350. Eligible clients may only receive a onetime payment per program year. To be eligible, clients must heat their homes with natural gas, electricity, propane, wood, kerosene or coal and meet the income guidelines of 60 percent of the median household income for Georgia. Clients must be able to provide proof of income for all household members 18 years of age and older for the previous 30 days, or 90 days if income is irregular. Those with no income must complete a Zero Income Form. Clients must also present their most recent home heating bill, verification of social security cards for all household members; and proof of U.S. citizenship. The program is currently open and will continue until these heating funds are exhausted. Clients may call (404) 537-4300 to schedule an intake appointment. Eligible clients also have the option

Group offering heating assistance Steinbeck’s Ale House hosts barbecue benefit
Join Steinbeck’s Ale House May 18 at noon for a “BBQ Showdown” between chefs from Decatur’s Farm Burger, Avondale Estates butcher shop Pine Street Market, and restaurants Stem and Seed, Staplehouse and Leon’s Full Service. The event will benefit The Giving Kitchen, a local organization that provides crisis grants to members of Atlanta’s restaurant community facing unanticipated hardships. For more information visit www. thegivingkitchen.org or call Steinbeck’s at (404) 373-1116.

Children’s craft event scheduled
The children’s bookstore The Little Shop of Stories will host an art and crafts event based on the book ProjectKid by Anna Kingloff. The author will guide children and adults through projects to transform everyday objects and materials in unexpected ways; from a juicebox owl to a pirate ship to a curio cabinet plus games, jewelry and more. Supplies and instructions will be provided by the Little Shop of Stories. The event will be held on April 25 at 4:30 p.m. at 133A East Court Square in Decatur. For more information call (404) 373-6300.

Stone Mountain
Volunteers needed for spring cleanup
Volunteers are encouraged to join the newly formed Rockbridge Coalition for a community cleanup, April 26, 9:30 a.m.-noon. The cleanup will focus on Rockbridge Road between Hairston and Hambrick roads. Volunteers will meet in the Pine Lake Village parking lot. To volunteer or for more information, email cleanuprockbridge@ gmail.com.

Brookhaven
City to host 5K race
The 2014 Brookhaven Bolt 5K will take place May 17. All proceeds will be donated to Ashford Park Elementary School. Race packets can be picked up May 16 from 4-8 p.m. at Big Peach Running Company at Town Brookhaven, 705 Town Blvd, Ste. 340. The race starts at 8 a.m. for runners and 8:05 a.m. for stroller

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

LOcAL NEWS
Establishment Name: Starbucks Coffee Company Address: 4441 Ashford Dunwoody Road Current Score/Grade: 96/A Inspection Date: 04/17/2014 Observations and Corrective Actions

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Restaurant Health Inspections

Wiping cloths for espresso machines not submerged in sanitizer solution. PIC advised that wiping cloths must remain completely submerged in sanitizing solution. PIC advised to use deeper containers or to fill current containers to a higher level. New Violation. Boxes of single use items observed stored on the floor. PIC advised that all food and single use items must be stored at least 6 inches off of the floor. COS- boxes relocated. Corrected On-Site. New Violation.

Donations and volunteers are needed to build a playground at Fairington Park as part of the “Raise the Park” project.

Establishment Name: Antojitos Mexican Grill Ii Address: 6806 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard Suite A Current Score/Grade: 98/A Inspection Date: 04/16/2014 Observations and Corrective Actions Kitchen hand sink plumbing in disrepair. New Violation. Establishment Name: Village Burger Address: 1426 Dunwoody Village Parkway Current Score/Grade: 95/A Inspection Date: 04/16/2014 Observations and Corrective Actions Establishment Name: Ashford Cafe Address: 100 Ashford Center North, Suite 150 Current Score/Grade: 91/A Inspection Date: 04/16/2014 Observations and Corrective Actions PIC observed cracking raw eggs, changing gloves, and handling English muffin. PIC advised that when changing tasks, after handling raw animal products, or at any time hands may become contaminated hands must be washed before new gloves are donned. PIC advised to wash hands after touching face, clothes, or anything that may contaminate hands. COS- PIC washed hands. Corrected On-Site. New Violation. Establishment Name: Universal Joint Address: 906 Oakview Road Current Score/Grade: 76/C Inspection Date: 04/17/2014 Observations and Corrective Actions Food employees not washing hands at a frequency to prevent contamination of food and/or equipment. 03(5)(c) Observed cook used gloved hands to turn raw meat at grill then change gloves without washing hands. Advised to wash hands. Cook washed hands. Corrected On-Site. Repeat Violation. Bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods. 04(4)(a) Observed cook flip sandwich on grill with bare hands. Advised to use gloves. Advised to discard sandwich. Cook put on gloves. Corrected On-Site. New Violation. Cold-held potentially hazardous foods not maintained below 41 F; no time controls/documentation in place. Advised to maintain potentially hazardous foods (turkey-47 F, tomatoes-46 F, 47 F & 52 F) at 41 F or below. Advised to discard 3 containers of tomatoes. PIC discarded food. Corrected On-Site. New Violation. Hot-held potentially hazardous foods (cheese-116 F, fried onion rings100F) not maintained above 135 F; no time controls/documentation in place. Advised to maintain potentially hazardous foods at 135 F or above. Advised to discard cheese. Cook discarded cheese. Corrected On-Site. New Violation. Potentially hazardous foods not thawed under an approved method. Observed 2 packages of raw ground turkey thawing under unapproved methods. Advised to thaw raw ground turkey under running water. Raw turkey was stored in walk in cooler. Corrected On-Site. New Violation. Signs notifying staff to wash hands not provided in a visible location at all handwashing sinks used by employees. Observed no handwashing signage posted at hand sink behind bar. New Violation. Establishment Name: The Wing Kingdom Address: 2857 Buford Highway Current Score/Grade: 91/A Inspection Date: 04/17/2014 Observations and Corrective Actions Observed interior of Hot Point Cooling unit and chest freezer not clean to sight and touch. PIC advised to clean thoroughly before storing foods in coolers. Any rusty shelves should be removed and resurfaces/ painted. COS- Facility must clean interior of cooling units before storing foods in cooler. Corrected On-Site. New Violation.

The Fairington Park improvement project will be completed May 14. Photos by Carla Parker

Donations, volunteers needed to complete Fairington Park
by Carla Parker [email protected] After a year and five months of work, the Fairington Park improvement project will be completed May 14 with the building of a playground. The project began in December 2012 with the “Raise the Park,” during which volunteers from Healing Hearts of Families USA Ministries, Home Depot at Wesley Chapel, the Fairington Community Association, Friends of the Park, DeKalb County parks and recreation department, and Park Pride planted, weeded and beautified the entrance to Fairington Park. The ultimate goal was to have a playground installed on the lower level and that goal will be reached May 14. However, volunteers and donations are needed to complete the project. “We need about 15 to 20 volunteers on the pre-build day [May 12],” said Bonita Lacy, executive director of Healing Hearts of Families USA Ministries in Decatur. Lacy said the organization has to raise $4,500 to pay for the playground. Donations are also needed to fund the community celebration, which will be held May 18. Healing Hearts is receiving help from KaBOOM!, a national nonprofit dedicated to building playground for America’s children. Before the project began, Fairington Park was a neglected park with no playground or any activities for children for 15 years, according to residents in the area. The large grassy area was littered with trash and was a place of crime. Lacy wanted to change the look of the park and provide a safe, fun area for children in the Lithonia community. She said that the mission to change the park began in 2008 when she was working with President Barack Obama’s campaign. “He told us to go back into the community and find a worthy cause,” she said. “And this park had been neglected for 15 years. Most people in the neighborhood didn’t know it was a park.” Lacy took on the mission of revitalizing the park and the community. Healing Hearts of Families began working to get DeKalb County officials to invest in the park, but was unsuccessful. This park was here before they built Browns Mill [Park],” she said in December. “And we asked when they built Browns Mill, what about [Fairington] park? And they ignored it. So, we decided to take it upon ourselves to raise funds and start fixing it up ourselves.” Since then, Lacy said they have been getting input and help from the county’s recreation department. Lacy said she is relieved that the project is almost complete. “It feels like I’ve walked 1,000 miles,” she said. “I really feel grateful because I was able to fulfill a promise to President Obama and the community that we were going to make this a viable park. It feels wonderful to know that I can walk over to that park and see children with a smile on their faces.” To donate or volunteer, visit www.urdreamplayground.kaboom.org/projects/6801fairington-park-rais.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

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All comments should be submitted in writing to [email protected] Physical copies of the document can also be reviewed at the following locations: DeKalb County Government Board of Commissioners Office (lobby) 1300 Commerce Drive; 5th Floor Decatur DeKalb County Public Library Scott Candler Branch (reference desk) 1917 Candler Road Decatur
This multimodal plan will identify transportation needs for transit, motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, trucks, trains and airplanes.

DeKalb County seeks input on comprehensive transportation plan
by Marta Garcia [email protected] Jason Martell loves to ride MARTA to work—even when his nine-mile trip from his home in north DeKalb to his work in Chamblee takes about 75 minutes from start to finish. It includes a 1.5 mile walk and train and bus ride. He could drive, but he is a fan of mass transit. “Many people that live in DeKalb rely on transit because they are either too young or too old to drive, or because they simply can’t afford to drive. I believe transit is an option for the people,” he said. Martell has already sent his comments on the DeKalb County Transportation Plan, which is being formulated to develop and sustain a balanced transportation network. Now, until May 9, the public is invited to review the draft of the Comprehensive Transportation Plan to submit comments that will help identify goals, needs and investment priorities for the transportation system. “People need access to other people. People need opportunities to connect,” Martell said. “Better transportation will enhance quality of life and facilitate economic vitality,” he added. After the 30 day comment period has expired, the project team will incorporate comments that were received and bring recommendations to the board of commissioners for consideration for adoption. “The transportation plan will serve as the blueprint for the future of transportation in DeKalb County,” interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May said. “Citizens have played an instrumental role in identifying transportation challenges and opportunities throughout DeKalb. Our task is to find the balance between transportation needs and resources. We look forward to continuing our work with the public and to implementing these important projects.” During the past 18 months, DeKalb has worked with the community to look at the transportation needs of residents who live, work and play in DeKalb. This process—the Comprehensive Transportation Plan update—has been collaboration among many county departments, cities, neighboring jurisdictions and community stakeholders. The plan considers all modes of transportation including major roadways, buses and rail routes in the county and truck routes. It also considers how people walk and ride bicycles in DeKalb and even includes the DeKalb Peachtree Airport. The resulting document is known as the DeKalb County 2014 Transportation Plan. “This updated transportation plan will be a crucial tool in continuing to position DeKalb County strategically as an attractive place to live, work and play within the Atlanta metropolitan area and the greater South-

DeKalb County Public Library Tucker-Reid H. Cofer Branch (Reference Desk) 5234 LaVista Road Tucker DeKalb County Public Library Dunwoody Branch (Reference Desk) 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road Dunwoody DeKalb County Public Library Stonecrest Branch (reference desk) 3123 Klondike Road Lithonia Or by mail to the following address: DeKalb County Transportation Plan c/o Sycamore Consulting Inc. 195 Arizona Avenue, Unit LW-4 Atlanta, GA 30307

east region,” May said. The final transportation plan, when completed, will need to be adopted by county commissioners and the county CEO. The plan will then be implemented by several county departments as well as any participating cities and transit agencies. The process for developing the plan will take into account technical analysis, public input and financial constraints.

DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management Public Advisory Johnson Ferry Sewer System Maintenance
April 10, 2014 Advisory Issue Date May 8, 2014 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 the 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, NonPoint Source Program, Erosion and Sedimentation Control, 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, S.W., Suite 1456, Atlanta, Georgia 30034. Type of Permit Application: Variance to encroach within the 25-foot State 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 Description and Location of Proposed Activity: The proposed project involves buffer encroachments necessary to construct temporary roads along sewer easements to provide access for vehicles required for maintenance inspections and activities. The project will also involve the removal of 12 trees and the installation of temporary BMPs necessary for maintenance activities. The project is located near London Road in the City of Chamblee and will result in 1,180 linear feet of buffer impacts along an unnamed tributary to Nancy Creek. The Public can review site plans at 1580 Roadhaven Drive, Stone Mountain, Georgia 30083. Phone 770-621-7200.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

County lowers spending limit in updated purchasing card policy
by Andrew Cauthen [email protected] DeKalb County’s Purchasing Card (P-Card) Program has gotten a policy update. “Our position is that the P-Card is a privilege, not a right, and people still have full access to their budgets, but for this privilege you have to abide by certain rules,” said interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May. The updated policy puts “some teeth to our purchasing policies and [brings] some clarity,” May said. The updated policy sets the per-transaction limit at $1,000 and the monthly limit at $2,000 for all cardholders. Previously, county staff had a monthly credit limit of $2,000 while elected officials, such as commissioners and constitutional officers, had a $5,000 limit. The program came under fire in March after an investigation by Atlanta Journal-Constitution uncovered a pattern by DeKalb County Commissioner Elaine Boyer and her aide Bob Lundsten of using the P-Cards for personal purchases. Boyer subsequently suspended her use of the card and said she was unaware that she was in violation of any county policy. An ethics complaint has been filed against Boyer and Lundsten. According to the policy, P-Cards are provided to “a select group of employees” and to elected and constitutional officers to give cardholders “the ability to make purchases of supplies, materials, equipment, and services for county business use.” P-cards are Visa charge cards issued by Bank of America. The policy also states that “cardholders are prohibited from using the P-card for the purchase of any goods or services not directly related to job responsibilities or official county business.” Cardholders are liable to the county for all unauthorized charges and improper use of the cards “may result in civil action, criminal prosecution, and/or disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment,” according to the policy. Additionally, cardholders are required to keep receipts and maintain proper documentation for all P-Card transactions. “Exercising good management judgment is paramount when making buying decisions,” the policy states. “The P-Card is to be used only for the purchase of County business-related goods and services. Under no circumstances is a cardholder permitted to use the P-Card for personal purchases.” P-Card holders must successfully complete annual training in person on online; sign off of all expenditures; and reconcile expenses monthly. The policy also states that each cardholder will be audited at least once a year.

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Brookhaven city council defers votes on 911-call charge
by Carla Parker [email protected] The Brookhaven City Council deferred a vote that would charge 911 callers up to $1.50 per month if the call is made inside city limits. The city council voted March 25 to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with Chattahoochee River 911 Authority (ChatComm). All 911 calls made from a cellphone or landline phone in Brookhaven will be answered by a ChatComm emergency operator instead of a DeKalb County dispatcher beginning this fall. At its April 15 meeting, city council members discussed the resolution that would create an “enhanced” 911 charge on cell phones, landline phones, voice over internet protocol (VoIP) connections and prepaid cell phones within Brookhaven city limits. According to the resolution, the Georgia General Assembly passed in 2011 House Bill 256 authorizing local governments to impose a 911 charge at a rate of up to $0.75 upon prepaid wireless service “at the retail point of sale for sales occurring within the jurisdiction of the local government.” Brookhaven Mayor J. Max Davis said during the meeting that the charge is “part of the process” for the city to receive fees that are already being paid to DeKalb County to transfer to Brookhaven. “This is not new,” Davis said. “It’s an existing fee. We got to get our citizens to start having it sent to Brookhaven.” According to the resolution, DeKalb currently imposes an enhanced 911 charge upon each cell phone connection, landline phone and voice over internet protocol connection subscribed to by any subscribers whose billing address or place of primary use is within Brookhaven. According to the resolution, a public hearing was held 10 days after the city announced that it switched to ChatComm. Councilman Jim Eyre questioned whether a hearing was held to discuss the charge or the move to ChatComm. City Manager Marie L. Garrett said the city had a hearing but not an official public hearing. “It was a hearing held in the public council meeting where we heard what the provisions of the [911] service would be [and what] the cost would be,” Garrett said. Davis said the charge was discussed during public hearing on ChattComm. “When you adopt 911, you adopt the charge,” Davis said. “In my mind, when we announced the public hearing we had a couple of considerations on adopting 911. Adopting 911 means you’re going to adopt the charge.” The city council voted to defer the vote of the 911 charge to find out if it is state mandated to have a public hearing in 10 days of adopting the 911 ChatComm, as stated in the resolution. The council will discuss the resolution again on either April 22 or May 13.

Chamblee asks residents to get involved in the future of the city
by Marta Garcia [email protected] Chamblee is planning its future and is asking residents to be part of it. The Chamblee 2040 strategic development initiative is a two-phase process to update Chamblee’s comprehensive plan as well as the city zoning and development regulations. The plan is to give community members more opportunities to provide input and feedback regarding the 2040 strategic development initiative. During the kickoff meeting held April 2 at the Chamblee Civic Center, Chamblee’s Development Director Gary Cornell suggested the key concepts being used to implement the 2040 Strategic Development Initiative are policy, plans, guidelines and vision. “Chamblee’s goals include promoting the public health, safety and general welfare by regulating the development and use of land,” he said. Now through May 7, an online questionnaire is available for residents, business owners and other interested persons to express their opinions on the future direction of the community and influence the preparation of the Chamblee Next Comprehensive Plan Update. “This web-based citizen opinion questionnaire is just one of several opportunities the public has to get involved in the Chamblee 2040 Strategic Development Initiative,” Cornell said. On April 24 a public workshop will be held with the purpose to collect input on the future vision of the city, including the future development map. Also on May 22, an open house is scheduled during which, “the public will have an opportunity to examine key elements for the plan and provide time for informal one-on-one discussions with property owners and other citizens,” Cornell said. Chamblee’s comprehensive plan was completed in 2007, and amended in 2012, but the recent annexation of the Dresden East and Clairmont Terrace communities added a 63 percent increase to the city’s land area, as well as a significant increment to its population. According to government officials, those changes call for a new comprehensive plan. Phase one will be spent updating the comprehensive plan, a 20-year development design required by the state of Georgia. It should be completed June 2014. Phase two will update the city’s zoning ordinance and development regulations to align with the comprehensive plan.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

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Residents and Clarkston officials celebrate the opening of two new city facilities–a new public works building and city hall annex. Attendees were also able to tour the new facilities April 17 and 18. Photos by Travis Hudgons

Clarkston unveils new city hall annex, public works building
nity to recognize them we like to take.” Several years ago, the city acThree years ago, Clarkston emquired a home built in the 1800s ployees were crammed together to serve as the new city hall annex in one small building off Church building. After extensive renovaStreet—the mayor, administrative tion, Clarkston celebrated the openstaff, police department, public ing of the new building April 17, works and code enforcement all offering tours of the new offices. used city hall as a home base. The city held a ribbon cutting for City Manager Keith Barker said the new public works building April with the opening of the new city 18. hall annex and Clarkston’s new pubPublic Works Director Rodney lic works building, employees will Beck said now his employees fibe happier. nally have a home. “They have their own little kitchBarker said the new public works en area. I wish you could just see facility is a big change for the city. the smiles on their faces,” Barker Three years ago, when Barker besaid. “This is the backbone of the gan as city manager, he said public city of Clarkston. The men work works staff operated out of a small tirelessly. And never complain. garage adjacent to the city hall They often work behind the scenes, building on Church Street. Because but whenever we have an opportuof the lack of space, Barker said by Daniel Beauregard [email protected] much of the city’s public works equipment was housed at different locations throughout the city. “We had equipment all over the city. Some of it was left unsecure at different parks and other equipment was stored at a private auto repair place. We started to have things being vandalized and we needed a dedicated space to house things,” Barker said. The new public works building, located off of Montreal Road, was paid for by a $350,000 loan from the Georgia Municipal Association. The city has five-years to pay the loan back with 1.9 percent interest. Rather than hire an architectural company to design the facility and then bid the project out to a construction company, Barker said the city hired a “design/build” company to do both.

Clarkston council member Dianne Leonetti, left, speaks with resident Larry J. Fagin during the open house.

Clarkston Executive Assistant Stephanie Place shows off Mayor Ted Terry, right, speaks at the ribbon cutting for the the new Clarkston branded items. This license plate is available for purchase. public works building.

“It saves you time and money and with this procurement we are under budget,” Barker said. The building of the facility cost approximately $315,000, Barker said, and the city is spending the remainder of the funds to expand the facilities parking lot. Barker also said the city will soon be getting improved public works equipment now that it has a dedicated place to keep it. “Before we would just get DeKalb County’s hand-me-downs,” Barker said. “The public works staff are very pleased now that they’ve got some professional direction— they’re working five times harder but they’re 10 times happier.” Travis Hudgons contributed to this story.

Bill helps fill vacant DeKalb County commission seat
by Daniel Beauregard [email protected] A bill passed in the last days of the 2013-14 legislative session will help fill a seat on the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners (BOC) that was left vacant when Gov. Nathan Deal appointed interim CEO Lee May to lead the county. Deal appointed May to serve as interim CEO after Burrell Ellis was suspended from the position as a result of a 14-count indictment against him. Since then, May has served as both interim CEO and a non-voting commissioner representing District 5. May said the bill was an effort to appoint a voting member to the District 5 commission seat. “I think it’s appropriate to have someone in that seat that can vote on zoning matters or any other matter that comes before the board,” May said. The bill allows for the appointment of a temporary replacement of a commissioner under certain circumstances such as DeKalb County’s. May said the language of the bill allows for the governing authority to make the appointment. However, DeKalb County’s governing powers are shared by both the Board of Commissioners and the CEO. May said the county attorney has advised him to make a nomination, which will then have to be approved by commissioners. He said he hoped the process of reviewing applicants for the position will happen quickly. “It can happen quickly, and I would hope it would happen quickly because I think that the people in District 5 deserve to have a vote,” May said.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

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The different shades of copper from shiny new pennies to old, almost black ones, adds a unique and interesting element to the floor that will have such an artistic twist to it. Photos by Marta Garcia

by Marta Garcia [email protected]   Every penny counts, especially for Dave Shallenberger, co-owner of the Little Shop of Stories in Decatur. The children’s bookstore’s floor needed to be renewed and instead of going the traditional way, Shallenberger wanted to do a unique floor, covered with pennies. The different shades of copper, from shiny new pennies to old–almost black ones, adds a unique and artistic element to the floor. “I proposed it around October 2012 at a staff meet-

ing,” Shallenberger said. “Normally I rely on everyone to shoot down my overly grandiose schemes, but they let me down this time. We began asking for donations immediately.” The idea is to collect as many of the coins from the community as possible in an attempt to get 700,000 pennies–$7,000’s worth–to lay 2,500 square feet of the store, located on Decatur’s historic square. That is half of the price it would cost for a new floor for his store, Shallenberger said.  “The cost isn’t too bad and is being offset in part by

Once upon a penny
folks donating their supplies, but the process is very labor intensive. I try to take 30 to 45 minutes each morning before the shop opens to lay down the pennies. It will take two to three years, if my back holds out,” Shallenberger said. The stores’ employees are asking the community for pennies. A penny donation jar is at the store, close to the register and, according to employee Kimberly Jones, the response is been great. Carla Johnson, a frequent visitor and Decatur resident, thinks the idea is fantastic and adds more uniqueness to

From left, Little Shop of Stories Kimberly Jones and Shelley WunderSmith holding the penny donation jar.

the store. “Little Shop Of Stories is everything you’d want in a neighborhood bookstore,” Johnson said. “Walking into this cheerful and whimsical bookstore immediately puts you in a good mood, and the owners and staff welcome and assist you with genuine enthusiasm. My 6-year-old has been collecting pennies for months, and we will bring them over as soon as the jar is full. We want to contribute as much as possible.” Shallenberger said. He began laying penny tiles down one Sunday morning in March 2013, then grouting,

but it didn’t work. At least 10 percent of the pennies became unstuck, and the grout, at the depth of penny, was too thin and would have cost a lot of money. “I tried numerous other adhesives, but each had problems. I finally found a solution that worked pretty well, and began laying down pennies in late February. Now that I have one area of the shop pretty much complete, I truly love the look.” Shallenberger said book lovers have another reason to visit the store: to see the progress and to contribute more pennies. 

Lithonia city government facing budget cuts
by Carla Parker [email protected] The Lithonia City Council will have to make decisions on budget cuts to create savings and increase revenues. City Administrator L. Phillip Howland informed council members at an April 14 special call meeting that the city overspent in certain areas in 2012 and 2013. The city has an estimated $188,293 in outstanding fines and fees between the years of 2011 and 2014. “The city went over about $168,000 over budget in 2013,” Howland told council members. “We spent at least $170,000 on projected revenue that we didn’t get.” After reviewing the 2014 approved budget, Howland made several suggestions that could institute savings and increase revenue, which included furlough days, increasing the millage rate and installing license plate readers. Howland said a spreadsheet error was found in the administrative department, which represents a reduction in expenses of $72,189. “An additional $14,519 could be saved potentially,” Howland said. “This could equal a total of $86,708 in annual savings by amending the current 2014 budget.” One of the suggestions Howland made to save revenue is furloughs for employees because payroll is the city’s greatest expense. According to Howland, in 2013, 26,246 total man hours were worked, not including five salaried employees/contractors and six salaried elected officials. “A total of $530,463.71 was spent on payroll and payroll expenses for the year,” Howland said. “Salaried income equaled $184,548.16 leaving a balance of $345,915.55 in hourly wages. This equals an average monthly payroll of $15,379 in salaries and $28,826.30 in hourly wages for a total average monthly payroll expenses of $44,205.30.” According to Howland, one furlough day a month equals about 5 percent of the monthly employee payroll expense, while two days would represent about 10 percent. Although the city could save $2,210.27 per furlough day, Howland told council members that he does not recommend furloughing employees. The city is also spending $59,424 in health insurance premiums yearly, according to Howland. Employees are paying 20 percent of the premium and the city contributes 80 percent. Howland said the city’s annual portion is $47,539 and the employees are paying $11,844. “If this split was 50/50 with each party paying $29,712, the city could save an additional $17,827 annually,” Howland said. “An effort is currently underway to get additional quotes from other insurers.” The city’s millage rate was also discussed as an option to generate revenue. The city’s net real estate digest is $19,125,658 with a millage of .017869. Howland said the millage rate generated $341,756 of revenue for the city in 2013, which means that one millage point equals about $19,125.66 in revenue for the city if the current property assessments stay the same. A two-point increase equals $38,251.31, three points equal $57,375 and four points equal $76,500. “There are a total of 773 parcels in Lithonia,” Howland said. “A two-point increase would cost the average property owner less than $50 per year, a three-point increase is less than $75 per year and a four-point increase is less than $100 per year.” The council will meet April 29 to go over the recommendations and make a decision. “It’s a lot,” Mayor Deborah Jackson said. “But it’s not the end of the world.” “We can do it,” Howland told council members. “We can fix this.”

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

WEEK

In

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PICTURES

Crews work to demolish the old Peachcrest Elementary School building. Construction on a replacement building is expected to begin later this year. Photos by Andrew Cauthen.

Clarkston celebrated the opening of its city hall annex with a ribbon cutting April 17. Photo by Travis Hudgons

Residents pick foliage along a Clarkston road. Photo by Travis Hudgons

Ongoing construction on Phase 3 of Decatur Housing Authority’s Allen Wilson community. Photo by John Hewitt

Photos brought to you by DCTV

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For a programming guide, visit www.yourdekalb.com/dctv

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THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

buSINESS

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Beehive owner Malene Davis shows items from Mr. Sogs Creatures, one of the stores within a store at Beehive. Photo by Kathy Mitchell

Beehive keeps local designers busy and prosperous
by Kathy Mitchell [email protected] Often when shoppers think of a boutique that sells handmade, oneof-a-kind designer items, they think of a place where only the well-to-do can afford to shop. Malene Davis has set out to change that. Atlanta’s original Beehive Boutique followed the high-end model and was on the brink of failing when Davis took over the business. She not only moved the store from Buckhead to East Atlanta, but she changed the concept. “I was taking a business risk, because we moved into a retail district with national chains that sell similar items, except ours are handcrafted by designers who are almost all local,” said Davis, who designs jewelry that was sold in the original Beehive. Davis opened the Caroline Street store in 2010 and reports that the business has grown by 30 percent each year. In fact, she’s now looking for locations for new stores. “In our first year in business, we brought in more revenue than the old store did during its peak year,” Davis said. “People seem to love the concept—locally made products, many one-of-a-kind, sold at prices the average shopper can afford.” The boutique is a collaboration between Davis and the designers, with designers renting space and splitting profits—80 percent to the designer and 20 percent to the store. “It’s like a marketplace of little stores within a store,” Davis explained. “A lot of our customers like the fact that clothing at the store is appropriate for the weather,” Davis said. “Department stores usually put spring clothes out when it’s still cold outside and winter clothes when people are still walking around in short sleeves.” Davis said that while Beehive’s average shopper is a working mother between the ages of 25 and 45, there are items that appeal to a broad demographic. “A mother can come in with her mother and daughter, and they’re all likely to find something they want. We have a number of items for men, too,” she said, noting that the store has handmade neckties and products for grooming facial hair. The “bees,” the designers, are all people Davis knows personally and has selected from among the many applicants who would like their products featured at Beehive. “We love these designers and believe in them. They spend time at the shop, and many customers have gotten to meet them face-to-face. They are committed to creating beautifully crafted goods. They are the heart of a vibrant local community; they are the beehive,” she said. On average 100 to 105 designers are featured at Beehive. “Designers know this is a good place to test market their products and build a customer base,” Davis said. The shop features a wide variety of items, including clothing for adults and children, jewelry, accessories, stationery, toys, housewares, grooming and bath products as well as some food products. Those who aspire to become “bees,” even at the hobby level, can find professionally taught classes at Beehive. Sewing, knitting, crocheting, felting and jewelry making are among the skills regularly taught there. “Our instructors are serious about their crafts,” Davis said. “They delight in teaching students to make items they can really get excited about.” Many regulars look forward to Beehive’s twice-a-year–August and June–warehouse sale at which store items are sold at 40 to 90 percent off, according to Davis. “It gives us an opportunity to freshen our inventory in anticipation of the upcoming season and brings in customers who might not have visited before.” While Davis’ prior retail experience is limited to an after-school job during her teen years, her sister, Mari Davis, who manages the store, said she has always had an eye for fashion and a head for business.

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 FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

LocAL NEwS

PAGE 15A

Several students from DeKalb School of the Arts prepare to perform at the Woodruff Arts Center May 10. Photo provided

Woodruff Continued From Page 1A
mances during the showcase. Coley, who will sing “Worth it” by Tori Kelly, said the showcase will be “positively beneficial.” “It will help my resume, and it will boost up my confidence and give me the confidence I need to tell me that I can do even more performances and showcases like this,” Coley said. “It will be very beneficial me as an artist and where I stand in my performance skills. It’s just a great showcase and it’s going to be really good for me and every other performer that’s in it.” “This festival is a fantastic opportunity to see what teens can create when given the challenge and resources to collaboratively express themselves through the arts,” said Wells Fargo ArtsVibe Teen Program Coordinator Kaitlin Gress. The festival will begin at 2 p.m. and will feature an afternoon of workshops and interactive art challenges for teens as the Woodruff Arts Center is transformed into a hub of live music, collaborative art-making and games for attendees. The showcase with featured teen performers will begin at 7 p.m. Of the more than 150 teens that auditioned to participate in the showcase, 40 teens were selected to be featured in 20 performance slots. The finalists span eight counties and represent 12 high schools and one university. “The showcase is really about helping young people find their voice through the arts and expressing that voice to the broader community,” said Mark Kent, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s vice president for education and community engagement. “The entire approach focuses on arts as a means of communication—these teens giving their perspective on issues in the world that are important to them. Many of the performances are original works, with topics ranging from coming of age, to the joy and sadness of first loves. It should be both a beautiful and powerful evening.” In preparation for the showcase, the teens have been working with professional artists, including actor Bryan Mercer. “We’re thrilled at the demand from teens to participate in this event and to put their incredible talent on display for the community,” said Mike Donnelly, Atlanta region president for Wells Fargo. “We are so happy with our partnership with the Woodruff Arts Center for this special endeavor to enrich the lives of the young people throughout metropolitan Atlanta.” Rachelle Clark, a junior at DeKalb School of the Arts, will dance a with an eight-member hip-hop group called Krucial. The group will perform a routine called “Express Yourself.” When Rachelle learned of the showcase she “thought it would be a great way for our hip-hop group to be able to perform and get to dance on a real stage,” she said. “We signed up and we auditioned and we actually got in it, which was great because [during] our audition [there were] only three that were able to make it out of the eight of us. I thought that was really cool that they saw potential in us.” Rachelle said the showcase is a “great opportunity for us to network with an arts group in Atlanta that can help us become better through dancing in a live theater, which is a big stage. And it’s a learning experience; we get to work with professional people and learn how the industry works.” A dance major at DeKalb School of the Arts, Rachelle said she plans to go to New York to major in dance and minor in arts management “so I can have a back-up plan, because dance doesn’t always last, and always be involved with the arts.” “I’m really excited to perform, and I’m just thankful for the opportunity to perform in the live theater,” she added.

Fire Continued From Page 1A
Green, a close family friend who remembered the selfless personalities shared by the mother-daughter pair. “Despite the devotion to her work and community, Tami’s family and friends always came first,” said Green. “She loved her kids and husband so much. She walked into a room and the room lit up. I never heard of her her in a down mood or an unpleasant disposition.” “Tami was an extraordinary person so she deserves an extraordinary effort from her dad to say a few words,” Tami’s dad Joe Eifrid said in tears. “The love she shared with her husband Dave, who she met and married in 1995, was fit for a fairy tale,” Andrea Avery, Tami’s sister said. “They had nothing but happiness. Tami and Jess were the happiest of their lives when they left us,” she added. Last November, Tami became the director of philanthropy for the Nature Conservancy in Georgia, where she had worked for nearly 15 years conserving state land and waters. “Our entire staff is devastated by the loss of our friend and colleague,” Deron Davis, executive director of the Conservancy in Georgia said. “Tami was the heart of our office, and she was deeply committed to conservation. We are keeping her husband and young son in our thoughts and prayers.” In addition to her work, Tami served as chairwoman of the environmental nonprofit EarthShare of Georgia. She was also a founding president of The Museum School Foundation, where she helped raise more than $2 million for the school’s development. “Tami was a leading advocate for her community with a singular tenacity and wit; Jess displayed wisdom and maturity beyond the usual 10-year-old, accompanied by fiery red hair and a shining personality,” Katherine Kelbaugh, principal at The Museum School of Avondale Estates, said. “The relationships she built for us and the money she raised for us are two of her lasting legacies. We are keeping Dave and Jack in our thoughts and prayers.” Tami and Jess were strong supporters of nature. Two years ago Jess, described as a brilliant fourth-grader, alarmed by a growing number of road-killed squirrels in her neighborhood, drafted a petition and brought the issue to the attention of the Avondale Estates mayor’s office, which granted her a “Squirrel Crossing” sign that was proudly displayed in the Willadsens’ front yard. “That’s who she was, a loving soul with a great personality,” Angela Fisher, longtime friend said. “She and Tami will be in our hearts forever.”

This statement is published in accordance with Section 19 (b) of the DeKalb County Organizational Act of 1981, p. 4304. DEKALB COUNTY, GEORGIA STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION BY FUND AS of DECEMBER 31, 2013 (In thousands of dollars / unaudited) Drug Abuse County Jail Fund 204 2 2 939 939 51 51 36 36 223 223 133 133 8,151 73 8,224 2,223 2,223 1,357 1,357 4,934 4,934 1,245 1,245 186 186 930 930 4,364 2,012 6,376 (3,865) 1,987 (1,878) 2,320 3,990 6,310 Foreclosure Registry Fund 205 Recreation Fund 207 Fire Fund 270 Victim Assistance Fund 206 Juvenile Services Fund 208 Treatment & Education Fund 209 Confiscated Monies Fund 210 Street Lights Fund 211 Hump Maintenance Fund 212 Telephone System Fund 215 GrantIn-Aid Fund 250 Grants 2005 JAG #10 Fund 257 Grants 2009 ARRA Fund 260 Designated Services Fund 271 District Unincorporated Fund 272 Law Enforcement Speed Emergency Special Tax Special Tax

Assets: Cash and investments Receivable Inventories and prepaid items Total Assets 1,962 1,962

General Fund 100

Development Fund 201

PEG Support Fund 203

43,594 10,504 18 54,116

2,495 2,495

7

Liabilities: Accounts payable Deferred revenue Payroll liabilities Advance payments and deposits Notes payable Due to others Total Liabilities 3 3 1,959 2 1987 G O Bonds - Parks Fund 311 62 62 62 62 Water & Sewer R&E Fund 513 Sanitation Operating Fund 541 11,525 11,525 298 3,789 4,087 7,438 11,525 (6,444) 7,402 7,914 7,442 16,138 (6,444) 7,402 7,867 7,442 16,140 47 (2) 2,469 2,469 7 40 (2) 695 695 383 1,078 (6,444) (6,444) 7,402 7,402 7,914 7,914 7,442 7,442 16,138 16,138 2,469 2,469 (1,174) 2,252 1,078 Sanitation Construction Fund 542 Airport Operating Fund 551 Airport Construction Fund 552 Stormwater Utility Fund 581 Stormwater Construction Fund 582 Vehicle Maintenance Fund 611 177,662 177,662 21,918 21,918 21,918 21,918 Water & Sewer Sinking Fund 514 Vehicle Replacement Fund 621 24,465 24,465 147 147 24,318 24,465 24,207 36,727 28,303 618 421 4,740 5,773 24,197 36,659 (5,578) 28,233 618 421 4,734 15 10 68 8 70 6 5,758 3,819 3,819 Risk Management Fund 631 11,941 470 12,411 826 826 11,585 12,411 10 68 8 70 6 32 5,726 6,807 6,807 Workers Compensation Fund 632 3,790 3,790 2 2 3,788 3,790 24,207 24,207 36,727 36,727 (5,570) (5,570) 28,303 28,303 618 618 421 421 4,740 4,740 5,773 5,773 3,819 3,819 6,807 6,807 1998 Bonds - Jail Fund 312 1993 2001 G O Bonds - Health Bonds - Parks Fund Fund 313 314 2006 G O Bonds - P,T,L Fund 315 Host Capital Projects Fund 330 COPS Projects Fund 351 Urban Redevelopement Agemcu Fund 356 HUD Section 108 Loan Fund 357 Debt Service Fund 410 939 51 36 223 133 8,224 1,357 186 930 (1,878) 6,310 2 939 51 37 223 133 6,791 2,223 1,357 4,891 1,198 (41) 929 6,304 (2,102) 3,990 (1) 1,140 1,433 43 47 227 1 1 72 224 (245) 2,320 (1) 32 261 25 18 47 227 1 71 224 83 2,482

188 15,065 479 980 16,712

1,619

1,626

Fund Balance

37,404

869

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Total Liabilities And Fund Balance

54,116 Rental Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Fund 280 751 751 751 751 Water & Sewer Bonds Construction Fund 512 408,832 408,832 188 188 408,644 408,832 177,662 176,310

2,495 -

Assets: Cash and investments Receivable Inventories and prepaid items Total Assets 1,548 1,548 1,548

Hospital Fund 273

Police Services Fund 274

1,962 Hotel / Motel Tax Fund 275

2,223 Capital Improvement Projects Fund 350

4,934 Public Safety Judicial Facilities Fund 354

1,245 Building Authority Juvenile Court Fund 355

6,376 ARRA Capital Projects Fund 360

GO Bonds STD Debt Service Fund 411

(6,400) 903 (5,497)

13,510 13,510

5,459 5,459 5,459 5,459 Total All Funds 895,227 11,480 10,128 916,835 9,478 24,807 4,246 2,120 40,651 876,184 916,835 -

Liabilities: Accounts payable Deferred revenue Payroll liabilities Advance payments and deposits Notes payable Due to others Total Liabilities

-

132 -

-

132

Fund Balance

(5,497)

13,378

Total Liabilities And Fund Balance Water & Sewer Operating Fund 511 27,942 7,388 35,330 7,028 138 7,166 28,164 35,330 (5,570) Sanitation ARRA Capital Projects Fund 544

Assets: Cash and investments Receivable Inventories and prepaid items Total Assets (364) (364) (364) (364) -

(5,497) Building Authority Bonds Debt Service Fund 412

13,510 Public Safety Judicial Facilities Debt Service Fund 413

1,548 Urban Redevelopment Debt Service Fund 414

(155) (155)

(3,046) (3,046)

Liabilities: Accounts payable Deferred revenue Payroll liabilities Advance payments and deposits Notes payable Due to others Total Liabilities (339) 1,691 1,352

-

-

-

-

Fund Balance

(155)

(3,046)

LOCAL NEWS

Total Liabilities And Fund Balance

(155) -

(3,046) -

Grant-In-Aid Fund 250 2013 Budget 510 28,994 (411) (892) (1,148) 27,053 4,844 24,320 3,450 27,770 2013 Actual 189 25,057 2,077 2,974 (1,148) 29,149 29 27,925 27,954 3,757 3,757 2013 Actual

General Fund 100 2013 Budget 155,316 63,934 5,770 120 3,373 38,632 10,670 7,449 5,764 5,598 296,626 7,640 Revenues: Investment income Intergovernmental Contributions from private sources Transfers From Other Funds Proceeds from sale of bonds Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Fund Expenditures Unappropriated Total Expenditures

2001 G O Bonds - Parks Fund 314 2013 Budget 1,902 (277) (183) (33) (38) (1,526) 27,925 27,770

Revenues: Investment income Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Debt Service Transfers out Total Expenditures

Urban Redevelopment Agency Bond Debt Service Fund 414 2013 2013 Budget Actual 766 192 210 210 976 402 976 976 Water & Sewer Operating Fund 511 2013 Budget 30 236,916 28,165 265,111 Revenues: Investment income Charges for Services Miscellaneous Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Finance Water and Sewer Fund Expenditures Interfund transfers Unappropriated Total Expenditures 6,300 125,962 132,840 9 265,111 2013 Actual 766 766

2013 Actual 160,517 60,378 5,597 76 2,562 41,342 11,220 89 9,535 2,122 15,730 5,598 314,766

173 245,744 3,466 28,165 277,548 5,824 105,716 35 137,809 249,384

1,895 3,140 3,140 11 1,766 16,461 2,927 3,122 18,749 5,622 4,427 7,029 1,897

1,887 2,598 3,049 1,654 15,687 2,575 2,486 16,183 5,247 4,170 6,727 1,328

2006 G O Bonds - Parks, Transportation, Libraries Fund 315 2013 2013 Revenues: Budget Actual Investment income (6,826) 43 Intergovernmental Revenue 17 82 Transfers From Other Funds (3,285) Contributions from private sources (3,810) Proceeds from sale of bonds (3,285) Fund Balance Carried Forward 43,169 43,169 Total Revenues 25,980 43,294 Expenditures: Parks 33,111 1,294 Library 10,834 3,529 Transportation 4,388 1,812 Fund Expenditures Unappropriated (22,353) 25,980 6,635 2013 Actual

77,496 9,445 8,427 6,197 13,230 5,916 11,273 1,820 1,578 2,272 7,283 2,706 (2) (28,981) 27,053 2013 Actual 1,465 27,951

73,256 8,813 7,860 5,943 12,623 5,588 11,320 1,764 1,525 2,279 6,898 2,592

Revenues: Contributions from private sources Intergovernmental Miscellaneous Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: General Government: Finance Workforce Development Civil and Criminal Court System: Sheriff Juvenile Court Superior Court State Court Solicitor District Attorney Public Defender Magistrate Court Police Services Fire & Rescue Public Works Community Development Parks Extension Service Family & Children Services Sanitation Community Relations Fleet Maint. Animal Control Bd of Health Sr Citizen Services Human Services Keep Dekalb Beautiful Arts, Culture, and Entertainment Registrar/Elections Water & Sewer Non-Departmental Fund Expenditures Miscellaneous Unappropriated Total Expenditures 905 1,567 1,424 161 1,089 280 96 1,220 2,080 114 33,238 747 677 13 1 2,885 1,599 16 248 36 Host Capital Projects Fund 330 2013 Revenues: Budget Investment Income 335 Intergovernmental (9,441) Deferred Revenue Transfers From Other Funds 313 Fund Balance Carried Forward (5,117) Total Revenues (13,910) Expenditures: Capital Projects 16,338 Unappropriated (30,248) (13,910) 621 110 827 113 143 664 92 205 1,045 29 11,152 548 1,396 2,740 1,957 (4) 37 (5,117) (5,084) 494 494

Revenues: Investment Income Proceeds from sale of bonds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Unappropriated

Water & Sewer Bonds Construction Fund 512 2013 Budget (17,477) 435,598 418,121 409,808 8,313 418,121 Water & Sewer R & E Fund 513 2013 Budget 15,858 (46) (15,339) 130,811 131,284

2013 Actual

460 435,598 436,058 27,414 27,414 2013 Actual Revenues: Investment income Miscellaneous Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Unappropriated

3,561 1,379 9,121 1,062

3,227 1,314 8,591 940

76,128 130,811 206,939 1 478 20 78 577 150,314 (19,030) 131,284 618 618 2013 Actual 30,629 30,629 2013 Actual

267 1,161 12,477

332 851 12,064

207 3,956 1,576 1,241 2,012 -

231 3,956 1,576 1,241 1,860 -

Revenues: Investment income Intergovernmental Revenue Transfers From Other Funds Deferred Revenue Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Police Unappropriated Total Expenditures 1,428 (264) 1,164 2009 ARRA Stimulus Fund 260 2013 Budget

Grants/2005 JAG #10 Fund 257 2013 Budget 1 968 117 78 1,164

Revenues: Property Taxes Sales Taxes Other Taxes Licenses and permits Intergovernmental Charges for Services Fines and Forfeitures Investment income Miscellaneous Transfers From Other Funds Proceeds of general long-term liabilities Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: General Government: Chief Executive Officer Board of Commissioners Law Department Ethics Geographic Information Risk Management Facilities Management Purchasing Human Resources & Merit System Information Systems Finance Property Appraisal Tax Commissioner Registrar and Elections Civil and Criminal Court System: Sheriff Juvenile Court Superior Court Clerk Superior Court State Court Solicitor State Court District Attorney Child Advocate Probate Court Medical Examiner Public Defender Magistrate Court Public Safety: Public Safety Admin & Communications Animal Control Police Fire & Rescue Planning & Development Public Works: Directors Office Economic Development Public Services - Library Health and Human Services: Extension Services Public Board of Health Community Service Board Family and Children Services Human and Community Development Citizen Help Center Capital Improvement CIP GO Bonds - Parks Non-Departmental Grants Fund Expenditures Unappropriated Transfers To Other Funds Total Expenditures Revenues: PropertyTaxes Sales Taxes Investment income Intergovernmental Revenue Transfer from Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Workforce Development Non-Departmental Total Expenditures (8,617) 299 261 (8,057) 1,410 (9,467) (8,057) 1,282 261 1,543 614 614

32,099 8,678 296,626

12,587 15,833 8,707 277,362

Revenues: Investment income Miscellaneous Transfers From Other Funds Proceeds from sale of bonds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Debt Service Fund Expenditures CIP Unappropriated Total Expenditures

Water & Sewer Sinking Fund 514 2013 Budget 624 44,789 20,838 66,251 66,249 2 66,251

1 595 61,681 148,928 20,838 232,043 61,129 148,996 210,125

PAGE 16A

Development Fund 201 2013 Budget 2013 Budget 36,016 11,491 1,000 723 3,639 52,869 222 73,813 300 1 74,336 2013 Actual (2,904) (2,904) 204 65,535 65,739 Revenues: Investment income Charges for Services Transfers From Other Funds Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Finance Sanitation Interfund Transfers Fund Expenditures Unappropriated Total Expenditures 5 64,689 300 51 8,132 73,177 2013 Actual 36,976 12,802 1 (4) 647 59 3,639 54,120 2013 Actual 3,348 1,334 5,003 352 6,144 22,790 38,971 2013 Actual

Fire Fund 270

Revenues: Licenses and Permits Investment income Miscellaneous Charges for Services Transfers To Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues 44,761 8,108 52,869 43,185 4,631 47,816

5,757 2 (20) 27 (54) 5,712

2013 Actual

4,912 1 (6) 20 (54) 4,873

Capital Improvement Project Fund 350 2013 Budget 32,464 434 1,196 1,468 148 6,149 22,790 64,649

Sanitation Operating Fund 541 2013 Budget 42 65,860 147 155 8,132 74,336

Expenditures: Planning & Development Public Works- Director's Office Interfund Transfers Unappropriated

4,720 692 300 5,712 Sanitation Construction Fund 542 2013 Budget 26,577 (2,904) 23,673 8,264 15,409 23,673 2013 Actual 345 7,114 3,540 3,540

3,159 545 300

4,004

Revenues: Property Taxes Sales Taxes Other Taxes Investment income Charges for Services Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Public Safety-Police Public Safety-Fire Non-Departmental Interfund Transfers Unappropriated Total Expenditures

Revenues: Investment income Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: PEG Support Unappropriated

PEG Support Fund 203 2013 Budget

10 145 2,101 2,256

2013 Actual

1 86 2,101 2,188

2,256 2,256 40 1,662 64,649 2013 Actual 206 206 2013 Actual 15 5,376 6,432 11,823 2 204 206 2013 Actual 848 848 230 230 2013 Actual 421 421 21,339 (14,499) 6,840 5,745 5,745 2013 Actual Revenues: Investment income Intergovernmental Deferred revenue Interfund Transfers Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Unappropriated 828 1,400 10,959 13,187 2013 Actual 10,052 1,300 11,352 2,556 1,400 3,956 Airport Operating Fund 551 2013 Budget 20 4,900 6,432 11,352 3,056 (7,936) (4,880) 57 57 8,694 9,674 7,019 27,089 Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Unappropriated Total Expenditures (4,880) 7,459 Revenues: Intergovernmental Interfund Transfers Fund Balance Carried Forward Sanitation ARRA Capital Projects Fund 544 2013 Budget 345 (12,339) 7,114

229 229

Revenues: Public Works - Roads and Drainage Parks and Recreation Arts, culture & entertainment Non-Departmental Transfers to Other Funds Unappropriated Total Expenditures 8,530 8,739 9,244 28,493

County Jail Fund 204 2013 Budget

2013 Actual 5,951 1,226 (2) 636 241 16,462 473 24,987

Revenues: Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Interfund Transfers Unappropriated Total Expenditures

2013 Actual

Special Tax - Designated Services Fund 271 2013 Revenues: Budget Property Taxes 5,889 Sales Taxes 1,101 Licenses and Permits Investment income Intergovernmental Charges for Services 757 Miscellaneous 260 Transfers From Other Funds 20,013 Fund Balance Carried Forward 473 Total Revenues 28,493 Expenditures: Public Safety - Police Public Works - Transportation 1,980

Intergovernmental Fines and forfeitures Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Transfers To Other Funds Unappropriated

210 2,022 200 2,432

103 1,121 200 1,424

Revenues: Intergovernmental Investment Income Contributions from private sources Miscellaneous Charges for Services Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Board Commissioners GIS Facilities Management Fleet Maintenance Information System Finance Clerk Superior Court Recorders Court Police Library Transportation Public Works Host Capital Outlay Road & Drainage Parks Planning & Development Community Development Economic Development Extension Service Non-Departmental Fire DFACS Fund Expenditures Unappropriated Total Expenditures 832 1,999 140 4,563 1,100 1,706 13 24,714 42,336 9,597 277 1,333 35 107 7 (24,327) 217 306 7 13 1,799 350 1,473 3,350 6 2,875 (254) 737 76 10,738

2,432 2,432

1,422 1,422

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Revenues: Charges for Services Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Planning & Development Unappropriated Revenues: Investment Income Deferred Revenue Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital projects Unappropriated 674 (1,570) (896) Airport Construction Fund 552 2013 Budget (6,312) 2,193 10,959 6,840 Public Safety - Judicial Facilities Fund 354 2013 Budget (1,744) 848 (896)

Foreclosure Registry Fund 205 2013 Budget 240 1,007 1,247

2013 Actual

313 1,007 1,320

COPS Projects Fund 351 2013 Revenues: Budget Investment Income 1,419 Fund Balance Carried Forward 206 Total Revenues 1,625 Expenditures: Capital Projects 1,078 Unappropriated 547 1,625 Revenues: Investment income Miscellaneous Interfund Transfers Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: DeKalb-Peachtree Airport Interfund Transfers Unappropriated Total Expenditures

1,247 1,247

381 381

Revenues: Intergovernmental Fines and Forfeitures Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Victim Assistance Transfers To Other Funds Unappropriated Total Expenditures Building Authority - Juvenile Court Fund 355 2013 Revenues: Budget Investment income (56) Proceeds of long-term Liabilities 1,261 Fund Balance Carried Forward 421 Total Revenues 1,626 Expenditures: Capital projects 474 Unappropriated 1,152 1,626

Victim Assistance Fund 206 2013 Budget

345 1,000 273 1,618

2013 Actual

449 399 273 1,121

76 1,542 1,618

7 1,063 1,070

Special Tax District - Unincorporated Fund 272 2013 2013 Revenues: Budget Actual Charges for Services Sales Taxes Other Taxes 27,556 30,765 Licenses and Permits 22,854 21,370 Investment income (4) Fines and Forfeitures 24,040 23,639 Miscellaneous (44) (94) Transfers From Other Funds (64,185) (63,405) Fund Balance Forward 1,371 1,371 Total Revenues 11,592 13,642 Expenditures: General Government: Chief Executive Officer 380 348 Finance 721 577 Police Services-Code Enforcement Recorders Court 4,266 3,632 Planning & Development 3,127 2,683 Non-Departmental 3,098 2,408 Transfers From Other Funds Unappropriated 4 Total Expenditures 11,592 9,652

Recreation Fund 207 2013 Budget 2013 Actual 17 6,501 6,518

Revenues: Investment income Charges for Services Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Parks and Recreation Unappropriated 18,307 45,610 63,917 1,784 1,784

(6) 886 (349) 531

2013 Actual

1,112 (7) (349) 756

2013 Actual 11,625 4,319 (8) 45,610 (3,126) 58,420 Urban Redevelopment Agency Fund 356 2013 Revenues: Budget Investment income Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward 6,501 Total Revenues 6,501 Expenditures: Capital projects 6,466 Unappropriated 35 6,501

531 531

719 719

Hospital Fund 273 2013 Revenues: Budget Property Taxes 11,129 Sales Taxes 3,879 Intergovernmental Investment Income Proceeds of general long term liabilities Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward (3,126) Total Revenues 11,882 Expenditures: Health and Welfare-Hospital 11,882 Fund expenditures Unappropriated 11,882 Stormwater Utility Fund 581 2013 Revenues: Budget Investment income 10 Charges for Services 14,816 Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward 12,804 Total Revenues 27,630 Expenditures: Stormwater Utilities 27,520 Interfund Transfers 110 Unappropriated Total Expenditures 27,630

12 15,401 255 12,804 28,472 12,222 110 12,332

LOCAL NEWS

Revenues: Investment income Charges for Services Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Juvenile Court Unappropriated 11,750 (749) 11,001 5,263 5,263 ARRA Capital Projects Fund 360 2013 Budget 1,440 3,561 5,001 585 585 843 3,561 4,404 2013 Actual

Juvenile Services Fund 208 2013 Budget Revenues: Intergovernmental Investment income Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital projects Unappropriated 2013 Actual 5,274 3 1 5,278

25 268 293

2013 Actual

2013 Actual

30 268 298

HUD Section 108 Loan Fund 357 2013 Budget 4,000 7,000 1 11,001

Stormwater Utility Construction Fund 582 2013 Budget 187 1,881 310 2,334 4,712 Revenues: Contributions from private sources Intergovernmental Miscellaneous Interfund Transfers Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Unappropriated 9,569 (4,857) 4,712

460 110 2,334 2,904 435 435

293 293

75 75

Police Services Fund 274 2012 Budget 36,591 10,286 850 215 2,598 46,697 18,312 115,549 2012 Actual 36,300 11,441 1 1,004 410 4 152 49,388 18,312 117,012 209 89,565 13,860 103,634 Revenues: Investment income Intergovernmental Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital projects Unappropriated 622 4,379 5,001 209 94,028 21,312 115,549

Revenues: Investment income Fines and Forfeitures Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Health and Welfare Unappropriated 2013 Actual 4,518 1,074 5,592 1,599 2,445 4,044 2013 Actual 625 1 833 1,459 708 708 2013 Actual 62 62

Drug Abuse Treatment & Education Fund 209 2013 Budget 60 121 181

2013 Actual

142 121 263

Revenues: Property Taxes Sales Taxes Other Taxes Licenses and Permits Charges for Services Investment income Miscellaneous Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Transfers To Other Funds Police Services Unappropriated

135 46 181

130 130

Revenues: Intergovernmental Charges for Services Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Fleet Maintenance Interfund Transfers

Vehicle Maintenance Fund 611 2013 Budget 200 34,250 200 34,650 34,650 34,650 2013 Actual 1,994 4 411 59,237 14,088 75,734 9,690 59,237 68,927 Vehicle Replacement Fund 621 2013 Budget 25 12,476 500 21,858 34,859 Revenues: Investment income Charges for Services Miscellaneous Interfund Transfers Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Vehicles Interfund transfers Unappropriated 32,859 2,000 34,859

2013 Actual

225 32,866 140 33,231 32,848 32,848 2013 Actual

2013 Actual

Law Enforcement Confiscated Monies Fund 210 2013 Revenues: Budget Investment Income Intergovernmental 3,800 Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward 6,184 Total Revenues 9,984 Expenditures: Police 7,340 Sheriff 1,269 District Attorney 283 Transfers To Other Funds Fund Expenditures Unappropriated 1,092 Total Expenditures 9,984 Rental Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Fund 280 2013 Revenues: Budget Other Taxes 552 Investment income Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward 833 Total Revenues 1,385 Expenditures: Development Authority 1,385 Unappropriated 1,385

7 2,987 48 6,184 9,226

Hotel / Motel Tax Fund 275 2013 Revenues: Budget Other Taxes 5,850 Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,074 Total Revenues 6,924 Expenditures: Convention Bureau 2,905 Transfers To Other Funds 4,019 Unappropriated 6,924 GO Bonds Debt Service Fund 410 2013 Revenues: Budget Property Taxes 1,433 Investment income Interfund Transfers Proceeds of general long term liabilities Fund Balance Carried Forward 14,088 Total Revenues 15,521 Expenditures: Debt Service 15,521 Fund Expenditures Unappropriated 15,521

1,751 355 114 2 213 2,435

20 14,651 1,223 21,858 37,752 13,434 13,434

Street Lights Fund 211 2013 Budget

Revenues: Sales Taxes Investment income Charges for Services Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Public Works-Transportation -

4,500 2,122 6,622

2013 Actual

1 4,768 2,122 6,891

6,622

4,668

1987 G O Bonds - Parks Fund 311 2013 Revenues: Budget Investment income (16) Fund Balance Carried Forward 62 Total Revenues 46 Expenditures: Capital Projects 108 Unappropriated (62) Total Expenditures 46

GO Bonds STD Debt Service Fund 411 2013 Revenues: Budget Taxes 26,471 Investment income Transfers From Other Funds Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,120 Total Revenues 27,591 Expenditures: Debt Service 27,591 Transfers out Total Expenditures 27,591

2013 Actual 31,907 3 1,120 33,030 27,571 27,571

Revenues: Charges for Services Miscellaneous Payroll deductions and matches Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Risk Management Interfund Transfers Unappropriated Total Expenditures

Risk Management Fund 631 2013 Budget 9,328 91,941 10,495 111,764 111,764 111,764

2013 Actual 8,287 3 90,438 10,495 109,223 97,638 97,638

Revenues: Charges for Services Investment income Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Public Works-Roads & Drainage Unappropriated 221 221 72 149 221

Speed Humps Maintenance Fund 212 2013 Budget 312 3 1,897 2,212 2013 Actual Revenues: Investment income Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Interfund transfers Unappropriated Total Expenditures

2013 Actual

287 1 1,897 2,185

1998 G O Bonds - Jail Fund 312 2013 Budget

221 221 221 221

2,212 2,212

828 828

Building Authority Revenue Bonds Debt Service Fund 412 2013 2013 Revenues: Budget Actual Investment income 3,712 1 Miscellaneous 3,417 Interfund Transfers 8,855 Fund Balance Carried Forward 140 140 Total Revenues 3,852 12,413 Expenditures: Debt Service 3,852 3,713 Unappropriated 8,855 3,852 12,568

Revenues: Charges for Services Miscellaneous Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Non-Departmental Unappropriated

Workers Compensation Fund 632 2013 Budget 1,277 5,006 6,283 6,283 6,283 2013 Actual ALL TAX FUNDS 127 127 121 9 130 127 127

2013 Actual 3,992 671 5,006 9,669 5,881 5,881

Emergency Telephone System Fund 215 2013 Revenues: Budget Charges for Services Investment income 9 Miscellaneous 9,750 Fund Balance Carried Forward 6,812 Total Revenues 16,571 Expenditures: Emergency Telephone System 16,571 Unappropriated Total Expenditures 16,571 Revenues: Investment income Fund Balance Carried Forward Total Revenues Expenditures: Capital Projects Interfund transfers Unappropriated Total Expenditures

2013 Actual

14 6 9,285 6,812 16,117

1993 G O Bonds - Health Fund 313 2013 Budget 3 127 130

PAGE 17A

11,226 11,226

Public Safety Judicial Facilites Authority Debt Service Fund 413 2013 2013 Revenues: Budget Actual Investment income Miscellaneous 3,075 16 Fund Balance Carried Forward 33 33 Total Revenues 3,108 49 Expenditures: Debt Service 3,107 3,095 Transfers out 1 Total Expenditures 3,108 3,095

Revenues: Taxes, Service Charges, Income & Transfers Fund Balance Carried Forward Fund Balance Carried Forward (for encumbrances) Total Revenues Expenditures: Approved Budget Encumbrances rolled forward from 2011 Total Appropriations

2013 Budget 519,200 42,308 561,508 519,200 42,308 561,508

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

PAGE 18A

Two witnesses in corruption trial placed on leave
by Daniel Beauregard [email protected] Interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May has placed two county employees named in the corruption trial involving suspended CEO Burrell Ellis on paid administrative leave. May said procurement officer Kelvin Walton and Ellis’ former administrative assistant Nina Hall have become distractions to the day-to-day operations of DeKalb County. “With everything that’s been going on with the trial—[Walton] and [Hall] being both key witnesses in the trial—the distractions have become a little too much for us to be able to move forward,” May said. Walton reportedly admitted to lying to a grand jury and not paying a county vendor who removed a tree from his backyard. According to testimony related to a grand jury investigation that ultimately led to the 14-count indictment against Ellis, Hall testified that Walton allegedly funneled money from county vendors. “This is something that I’ve been deliberating on for a while now,” May said. “It’s a tough decision because you’re dealing with people’s livelihood, but you’re also dealing with the public’s perception.” DeKalb County spokesman Burke Brennan said that the allegations against Walton and Hall are troubling. “Because this trial is going on, our ability to look into [the allegations] is impeded. So, it’s more than just a distraction,” Brennan said. As a result of Walton’s suspension, former purchasing director of Gwinnett County, Scott Callan, has been hired as interim purchasing director. Walton reportedly will continue to be paid his annual salary of $153,000 while on leave, and Hall will continue to receive her salary of $75,800.

Danielle Harvey was named the 2014 National Smart911 Telecommunicator. The award is given to an individual who has shown outstanding support, dedication and service at work. Photos by Marta Garcia

DeKalb 911 operator wins national telecommunicator award
by Marta Garcia [email protected] Colleagues, friends and family describe Danielle Harvey as “tireless, dedicated, professional and a very kind human being.” Harvey, DeKalb County E-911 Communications operator, received a national award for her exemplary work as a certified training officer. She was chosen from hundreds of 911 operators nominated nationwide for outstanding leadership, performance, compassion for callers, and the ability to inspire coworkers. “I am excited and honored. It feels really nice to be finally recognized by people other than my coworkers. It’s never anything good that you hear as a 911 operator so just to be recognized nationally it’s great,” Harvey said. “People need to know that we are not automatic machines. We do a lot of good. We are humans, with feelings and emotions that try to help and assist them in a difficult moment of their lives.” Harvey, who has been working at the DeKalb 911 center for more than seven years, trains new dispatchers, teaching them response strategies and critical thinking. Recently, one of Harvey’s newly trained dispatchers, Crystal Morrow, was just four hours into her first day on the job when she answered a 911 call from her aunt requesting medical assistance for Morrow’s father who had gone into diabetic shock. Operator Harvey is also credited with assisting field units in safely locating a missing elderly woman. Since Harvey began work as a telecommunicator in 2007, she has received numerous accolades and recognition for her performance, teamwork and efforts on behalf of local charitable organizations. “Danielle is an invaluable member of our team here at DeKalb and is respected by all of us,” said Marshall Mooneyham, director of 911 Communications. “We Danielle Harvey could not be more pleased see her honored in this “From day one I ask them to way. Her leadership and pro[new dispatchers] if they or fessionalism, coupled with their families live in DeKalb genuine human kindness County, and I tell them that and support of her commuthere’s a possibility that you nity, makes her an obvious can take a call from one of for this year’s award.” your family members. If that choice In addition to the Smart happens, I always tell them, Telecommunicator Award, you have to remain calm all Smart911 will present a dothe way through and make it nation of $1,000 in Harvey’s through the call,” said Harname to the DeKalb County vey. Women’s Resource CenAnd that’s what Morrow ter—her designated charity. did. She walked her aunt “This is my DeKalb (who never recognized her family and my home so I voice) through what to do wanted to give back to an and dispatched an ambuorganization that I know lance to her father. Due to helps the county and its gothe high level of training ing to benefit us all.” provided by Harvey, MorHarvey said she accepted row was able to remain the honor on behalf of felcalm, professional and low operators. steadfast during the call. “We really work very “She took the entire call hard. DeKalb is a big counand then she got up after ty, and we take a lot of calls the call and stepped out[more than 3,000 a day]. side,” Harvey said. “I went to This job requires an indicheck on her and told her to vidual to diffuse emergengo see about her family.” cies and avert tragedy, while According to Harvey maintaining their compothis is a common situation; sure, at any given moment,” it has happened to almost everybody who works at the she concluded. DeKalb 911 center and lives or has family in the county.

DeKalb Farmers Market begins expansion
by Daniel Beauregard [email protected] Your DeKalb Farmers Market, as it’s officially called, could be the largest supermarket in the United States after it finishes construction on a new building, slated to be built in segments over the next 10 years. Currently, the market is 140,000 square-feet—once complete, the expanded building will have 718,367 square-feet in warehouse space and a 518,000 squarefeet of retail area. In 1977, Robert Blazer opened a produce stand in Decatur. Now, the DeKalb Farmers Market serves more than 100,000 people per week and has become a destination for many looking for fresh food and produce. Blazer is still in charge of the market along with his wife Barbara and son Daniel. According to its website, the DeKalb Farmers Market was the first private farmers market of its kind in the state. Instead of using a distributor, the market receives shipments of fresh food directly and has its own warehouse.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

EDucAtION

PAGE 19A

From left, Hank Stewart of the Stewart Foundation, Congressman Hank Johnson, actress Bern Nadette Stanis and DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson participated in Towers High School’s career day.

Students at Towers High School were visited by nearly 200 presenters during its From left, v103 Ramona Debreaux and state Reps. Michele seventh annual career day sponsored by the Stewart Foundation. Henson and Dee Dawkins-Haigler. Photos by Travis Hudgons

KISS 104.1 FM radio host Art Terrell

Large career day comes to Towers High School
by Andrew Cauthen [email protected] Nearly 200 political, community, business and entertainment leaders descended upon Towers High School on April 17 for the school’s seventh annual career day. Career day is “so incredibly important,” said Rep. Michele Henson. It gives youth “the opportunity to learn about different careers that they can look at in the future.” In addition to talking about her political career, Henson discussed community involvement and career opportunities in government with various departments, such as community health, natural resources and agriculture. “There are many, many opportunities within government,” Henson said. “[Students] don’t always think about those opportunities. It’s something I just want to bring to their attention and especially to emphasize working within the community, giving to the community, being a part of it and making it better. “This is absolutely a wonderful event,” Henson added. “It’s wonderful for our youth.” The Towers High career day was sponsored by the Stewart Foundation. “We wanted to attach ourselves to mind helping you.” a school that needed help, and TowArt Terrell, the afternoon drive ers at the time needed significant host on KISS 104.1 FM, told stuhelp,” said Gwen Mason, executive dents about the importance of netdirector of the Stewart Foundation. working, mentioning people who “If we all do something, a massive “put themselves in a situation where amount of work would get done.” they could network and become Mason said Stewart Foundation something else. leaders “really do believe that it “Every job that I ever got was takes a village to raise our children because of a relationship that I had and that’s what we are attempting to with somebody,” Terrell said. do. DeKalb County Sheriff Jeff “Because we are a youth leaderMann said he participated in the ship development program we’re event because of its importance. more about doing as opposed to “I understand the importance talking about it,” Mason said. of staying in school, maintaining a The Stewart Foundation, in focus on a career, particularly makconjunction with Commissioner ing sure you obtain your high school Stan Watson and DeKalb County diploma,” Mann said. “The vast Workforce Development, also spon- majority of the folks we see in our sored a job fair with companies jail facility are…mostly Black males such as McDonalds, Popeye’s, Stone who do not have a high school diMountain Park and Kroger having ploma. approximately 400 jobs to offer to “I’m here to encourage [students] juniors and seniors. to continue with their education and Musician and DJ Eric Smith told make sure they obtain their high a class that “there are two categories school diploma, which will make of people that you have to consider: it less likely that they will come see people who work for you and people me,” Mann said. who work with you. The career day was the largest “People who work for you—they one he has seen, Mann said. are just going to do exactly what you “It’s phenomenal. It shows the say,” Smith said. “But people who amount of interest that our comwork with you…are people who are munity has in making sure that our going to look out for you. They don’t young brothers and sisters get on the right path and stay on the right path. This is phenomenal, and I am very pleased to be a part of it,” Mann said. Towers High School Principal Ralph Simpson said the success of the career day was “due in part to the turnaround of the school.” “It’s reached the community. It’s reached the ears, the eyes and the heart and soul of the community,” Simpson said. “That has garnered some support, and people want to be a part of it.” Simpson said career day provided students with examples of role models. “What I shared…with the professionals this morning is the difference between the glory and the story,” Simpson said. “While all of us represent the glory, a lot of people oftentimes don’t get an opportunity to hear what is the story. So I encouraged them to share the story so that students will be able to make that connection at the end that you just weren’t born this way; you weren’t just thrust into this position that you have. “It’s a realistic example, not a fantasy, of someone they can reach out and touch, ask questions and get some guidance,” Simpson said.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

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PAGE 21A

Darsan DeShazier signs a basketball scholarship to Palm Beach Atlantic University.

Southwest DeKalb athletes sign college scholarships
by Carla Parker [email protected] Southwest DeKalb High School’s athletic department was full of excitement April 16 as two senior athletes signed scholarships. Lauren Jones signed an acrobatics and tumbling scholarship to the University of Oregon in Eugene, Ore., and Darsan DeShazier signed a basketball scholarship to Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Fla. DeShazier, a guard on the Lady Panthers basketball team, averaged 5.8 points this past season, according to MaxPrep.com. Jones is an all-around athletic, participating in cheerleading, gymnastics, lacrosse and swimming. She is also a member of the band. Kathy Walton, Southwest DeKalb’s athletic department chairwoman, said both girls are excellent students and athletes. “Both young ladies are teachers’ and coaches’ dreams,” Walton said. “Whatever you asked of them, they went out there and did it.” DeShazier, who has been on the varsity basketball and gymnastics, another sport she loves. She got happier when she was offered a scholarship to be a member of Oregon’s acrobatics and tumbling team. “It’s absolutely wonderful,” Jones said about signing with Oregon. “I’m so happy.” Jones will be joining Southwest DeKalb alum Sydnee Walton in Oregon, who is also a member of the acrobatics and tumbling team. Jones learned about the team from Sydnee, who is the daughter of Kathy Walton. “I contacted the coaches and told them I know Sydnee,” Jones said. “And that’s how I got there.” Although she received a partial scholarship, Jones was offered the most scholarship money for the growing sport, according to Walton. Jones, who has a 3.2 GPA, plans to major in chemistry. Once she graduates from college, Jones said she wants to return home and start an acrobatics and tumbling program. “[There aren’t] many teams in Georgia so I want to start something like that,” she said.

Lauren Jones signs an acrobatics and tumbling scholarship to the University of Oregon.

Darsan DeShazier averaged 5.8 points per game this past season for the Southwest DeKalb Lady Panthers. Photos by Carla Parker

Lauren Jones is a member of the cheerleading squad, gymnastics, lacrosse and swim teams, and a member of the band.

team since her freshman year, said she is excited to be playing for Palm Beach next school year. “I’m ready to go,” she said. “I’m ready to take it to the next level to see what I can do.” The 5-foot-7 guard received a full scholarship to the school, which is the main reason she selected Palm Beach.

“I really wanted to get a full scholarship because I didn’t want my parents to pay for me to go to school,” she said. “Palm Beach also is a beautiful place, the alumni is very strong and the education is great.” She has a 3.8 GPA and plans to major in business. DeShazier said Palm Beach basketball team will be get-

ting a good jump shooter with good passing ability and defense. “I’m looking forward to enjoying playing basketball and getting a good education,” she said. When Jones was younger, she always knew she wanted to college for competitive cheerleading. She was happy to find out that Oregon go to features cheerleading

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THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

SPORTS

PAGE 22A

Five teams capture regional track championships
by Carla Parker [email protected] DeKalb County dominated in the regional track championships held April 14-17 five teams won region titles. Marist boys and girls, Miller Grove girls, St. Pius boys and Stephenson boys became champions in their respective regions. The Miller Grove Lady Wolverines upset defending region and state champion Dunwoody with a 57-point victory to capture the Region 6-AAAAA girls’ track title at North Atlanta April 17. Miller Grove outscored Dunwoody 141-84 to claim the title. Miller Grove won eight events with three gold medals coming from senior Tiffany Flynn. Flynn captured the 100-meter hurdles (14.30), long jump (1900.00) and triple jump (4001.00) titles. It was the second consecutive year for Flynn to complete the triple gold medal performance. Junior Pauline Arndt won the 200-meter dash (25.27), finished second to Flynn in the long jump (1805.50), third behind Flynn in the 100-meters hurdles (15.61) and was part of the two gold medal winning relay teams for Miller Grove. Miller Grove relay teams finished first and second in the 4x100 meter relay with times of 48.02 and 48.44, respectively, and took the 4x400-meter relay in 3:57.90. Senior Tatiyana Caffey won the 800-meter run (2:19.19), and senior Keyani Mathis (46.32) and senior Imani Calhoun (47.30) finished first and second in the 300-meter hurdles. Dunwoody was led by senior Alex Cameron, who swept the 1,600-meter (5:44.65) and the 3,200-meter (11:52.09) runs for the second consecutive season. Ansley Heavern finished second in the 1,600 (5:52.19) and third in the 3200 (12:17.04). Dunwoody’s Victoria Culver won a gold medal in the pole vault (8-00.00). Other gold medal winners include Joie Royer of Arabia Mountain in the 400-meter dash (57.67), Davion Wingate of Southwest DeKalb in the 10-meter dash (12.78) and Stephenson’s Timberly Molden in the shot put (36-09.50) and discus (103-08-00). The Stephenson Jaguars outscored the Lakeside Vikings 135-104.5 to claim the Region 6-AAAAA boys’ title. Stephenson won five events with two gold medals coming from sophomore Denzel Harper in the long jump (21-10.00) and the 300-meter hurdles (39.29). Senior Cameron Glenn finished second in the 300-meter hurdles with a time of 39.32. Glenn also won the 110-meter hurdles (15.28). The Jaguars also had victories in the triple jump from Myles Hannah (4500.00) and senior Treikell Jones in the discus (14011.00). Lakeside’s six gold medals led them to a secondplace finish. Senior William Johnson won gold in the 100-meter (10.85) and 200-meter (21.74) dashes. Sophomore Davis Stockwell won the 1,600-meter (4:31.76) and 3,200-meter (10:25.83) runs. Senior Jedrek Higgins, who finished second in the 1,600 behind Stockwell, won the 800-meter run with a time of 1:58.69. Lakeside’s other gold medals came in the 4x100meter relay with a time of 42.34. Arabia Mountain picked up gold medals in the 4x400 relay (3:23.41) and in the 400-meter dash as senior Jonathan Jones finished with a time of 49.75. Other winners include Martin Luther King’s Jamel Smith in the shot put (4904.00) and Tucker’s Brelyn Barclay in the high jump (6-02.00). the boys won the title with 120 points. Marist girls won seven events to lead them to the first-place finish. Junior Morgan Ilse won gold medals in the 1,600-meter run (5:23.34) and 3,200-meter run (11:52.28). Junior Caitie Faust won the 800-meter run with a time of 2:17.54. Marist also got gold medals in the discus (Kamrya Brinson), high jump (Bailey Weiland), pole vault (Anne Marie Simoneaux) and triple jump (Rebecca Bryant). Redan won five events, sweeping the hurdles and relay events. Sophomore Shequilla McClain won the 100-meter hurdles (14.92) and was second in the 300 hurdles (46.04) to teammate Miyah Golden (45.42). The relay teams recorded times of 48.71 and 3:57.29 in the 4x100 and 4x400, respectively, to capture the gold medals. Junior Promise Clark won gold in the 400-meter dash with a time of 57.58. Columbia freshman Aseneth Williams rounded out the DeKalb winners with a first-place finish in the 200-meter dash in 25.44. Marist boys won four Region 6-AAAA events to claim the region tiMarist boys’ and girls’ tle. The War Eagles were led track teams swept the Reby senior Daniel Navarro, gion 6-AAAA championship who won gold medals in the at Lakewood Stadium in At- 1,600-meter run (4:26.67) lanta April 17. The girls deand the 3,200 meter-run fended 2013 region title with (9:49.54). a 157.50-138.50 win over the Senior David Gilstrap Redan Lady Raiders, while won the 110-meter hurdles (14.50) and senior Nolan Daniels won the 800-meter run (1:57.58) to round out the gold medals for Marist. Redan finished fourth, just three points behind Grady and Banneker which tied for second with 112 points. Junior Chris McBride was the top performer for the Raiders as he captured three gold medals including the 300-meter hurdles (39.74), long jump (2305.50) and triple jump (4407.25). Senior Donald Daley captured gold in the shot put (51-11.50) and the discus (174-08.00) for the Raiders. Chamblee’s Will West won the pole vault with a height of 11-06.00. Region 6-AAA The St. Pius Golden Lions edged the Cedar Grove Saints 159.50-129 to claim the Region 6-AAA track championships at Woodward Academy April 16. St. Pius was led by senior Fred Dorsey, who won gold in the 100-meter dash (10.92), long jump (2205.00) and the triple jump (45-01.50). Seniors Andrew Anastasiades and Daniel Haugh were also multiple gold medal winners. Anastasiades won the 1,600-meter run (4.25.90) and the 800-meter run (2:01.07). Haugh won gold in the discus (18709.00) and shot put (5304.00).

See Track on page 15A

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Track Continued From Page 8A
The Golden Lions also got first place finishes in the shot put (Jonathan Rust), 3,200-meter run (Austin Sprague) and the 4x800 meter. Cedar Grove’s Chance Baines won the high jump with a jump of 6-06.00. Darius Freeman won the 200-meter dash with a time of 21.70, Joshua Anthony took first in the 300-meter hurdles (40.77) and the 4x400 relay team was first in 3:26.11. Samuel McDade led Cross Keys’ fifth-place finish by winning the 400-meter dash (49.17). The defending champion Cedar Grove Lady Saints dropped to fourth this year but still brought home a pair of gold medals. The 4x100-meter relay team finished first with a time of 49.50, while Daimer Gordon won the discus with a throw of 103-00.00. Region 2-AAAAAA The Druid Hills Lady Red Devils finished fourth overall in the Region 2-AAAAAA meet standings with 75 points. Luella was first with 182 followed by Newton with 106 and Rockdale County with 91. Druid Hills was led by distance runner Paulette Juieng who finished first in the 1,600-meter run (5:41.03) and second in the 3,200-meter run (12:49.67). The Red Devils finished sixth overall in the boys’ team standings with 53 points in the meet won by Rockdale County.

SPORTS

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NEXT LEVEL
Mabini

Each week The Champion spotlights former high school players from the county who are succeeding in athletics on the college level. Andrew Mabini, Maryville (baseball): The senior infielder from St. Pius X scored a run in the 7-6 win over Covenant April 19. Mabini has a .211 batting average, eight hits and three RBIs in 13 games.

Lee Moore, Savannah State (baseball): The sophomore outfielder from Southwest DeKalb had two hits and two RBIs in the 5-3 win over North Carolina Central April 19. Moore has a .283 batting average with 34 hits and 10 RBIs on the season.
Moore

Chelsea Hall, Clafin (softball): The freshman infielder from Decatur was named the SIAC Softball Co-Player of the Week April 8. Hall was 11-of-19 (.579) at the plate while hitting five home runs, nine singles, one double and one triple. She also had 16 RBI’s, scored 11 runs and stole nine bases.
Hall

Get to know the candidates for DeKalb County Sheriff
Mon. April 28 DeKalb History Center 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Candidate Forum
All candidates for the office of sheriff will be invited to participate. Audience members will be allowed to suggest questions to candidates.

Candidates confirmed to participate are Dale Bernard Collins, Ted Golden, R. “Tony” Hughes, Melody Maddox, Jeff Mann, Melvin Mitchell and LaSalle Smith, Sr.
Be an informed voter; know the candidates!

TheChampionNewspaper.com 404.373.7779

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, fRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

LOCAL NEWS

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