the DeKalb FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • VOL.

24, NO 19 • FREE

Serving East Atlanta, Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Clarkston, Decatur, Doraville, Dunwoody, Lithonia, Pine Lake, Stone Mountain, Stonecrest and Tucker • A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS

NAACP JUNETEENTH ABOUT UPLIFTING

BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com

Singing group Just Three performs at the Juneteenth celebration at the
Mall of Stonecrest on June 15.
Vendors were popular at the annual DeKalb County NAACP Juneteenth celebration on June 15. Photos by Horace Holloman
NAACP representatives pose for a photo during the Juneteenth celebration at the
Mall of Stonecrest.
T
he DeKalb County branch of the NAACP
hosted its annual Juneteenth celebration on
June 15 at the Mall of Stonecrest.
Juneteenth is a festival held annually on or
near June 19 to commemorate emancipation from
slavery in Texas.
The event encourages and inspires Black
people to know their history and build wealth
within their communities, according to event
organizers.
The Juneteenth celebration included vendors,
live entertainment and workshops geared toward
improving health, starting businesses, healthcare,
veterans’ affairs, economic development and civic
involvement among Black residents.
Stella Jones, DeKalb NAACP chair of
economic development and Juneteenth event
coordinator, said the 2019 celebration is the
organization’s third time hosting a Juneteenth
event.
“We focus on entrepreneurship and wealth
building,” Jones said. “Our goal is to acknowledge
our Black businesses and help support them.
That’s what Juneteenth is about. We’re celebrating
our freedom and our financial freedom. We just
want everyone to support our own.”
Jones said NAACP also provided HIV testing
and prevention resources during the event. She
said she wanted the vendors and workshops to
focus on issues that matter to Black people.
“We had workshops about insurance,
healthcare and investing,” Jones said. “We want to
leave a legacy behind.”
Teresa Hardy, president of DeKalb NAACP,
said it is important to bring resources to the area
to help uplift the community.
“I believe in resources and empowerment.
Having the Juneteenth celebration goes back to a
historical moment and Black Wall Street. We want
to recreate Black Wall Street. It was significant
for us to come to the city of Stonecrest. It’s 99
percent Black people here and this mall is owned
by Blacks. So why not bring our resources here?”
Hardy said.
Hardy said the DeKalb NAACP will
continue to try to help Black people through
civic engagement and teaching residents about
healthcare and financial literacy.
NAACP officials said they hope the
Juneteenth celebration continues to grow.
“This is a celebration of freedom and it’s
about bringing knowledge. We wanted to bring
service and knowledge for our people. A lot of
our communities lack in service and knowledge,”
Hardy said.

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

LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 2

COUNTYWIDE

Operation clean sweep

now in third year
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN paper shredding event on June
horace@dekalbchamp.com 15.
According to DeKalb
For the third year, DeKalb County Government
County’s Sanitation Division Public Works Department
is holding its Operation spokesperson Pauline
Clean Sweep to address road Andrea, Operation Clean
enhancement and litter issues Sweep has helped address
throughout the county. environmental concerns for
According to county residents.
officials, Operation Clean “All components of
Sweep is a multi-departmental this program have been
initiative focused on instrumental in promoting
roadside enhancement, litter environmental stewardship
collection, illegal dumping, [and] encouraging residents
and removing debris, trash to be good stewards of
and grass from streets, their communities. This
neighborhoods, sidewalks, initiative also emphasizes the
roadway drains and county importance of maintaining
rights of way. this important and necessary
Crews and workers began partnership between our
picking up litter and discarded county government and
items on June 7. The initiative the DeKalb residents we
includes free residential serve,” Andrea said. “Since
curbside collection, paper the Operation Clean Sweep
shredding, litter collection initiative was introduced
and roadside enhancement in 2017, we have received
activities throughout the countless messages from
month of June. county residents, expressing
Bulky items are collected their gratitude and
curbside on Fridays and appreciation for our continued
Saturdays from until focus on maintaining clean
June 29. From June 7-8, and aesthetically pleasing
county workers collected communities throughout
approximately 541 tons of DeKalb.”
items and serviced more than DeKalb workers also
1,200 DeKalb residents. The made roadside enhancements
county also hosted a free along Memorial Drive
NOTICE
The Board of Mayor and Commissioners of the City of Avondale Estates does hereby announce that the millage
rate will be set at a meeting to be held at Avondale Estates City Hall on July 1, 2019 at 6:01 p.m. and pursuant to
O.C.G.A. § 48-5-32 does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with
a history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.
CURRENT 2019 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY
CITY 2014 2015 2016
Real & Personal 148,072,403 178,050,508 191,456,685
Motor Vehicles 7,456,190 5,564,760 4,306,900
Mobile Homes
Timber - 100%
Heavy Duty Equipment
Gross Digest 155,528,593 183,615,268 195,763,585
Less M& O Exemptions
Net M & O Digest
268,311
155,260,282
371,490
183,243,778
466,802
195,296,783
State Forest Land Assistance
Grant Value
Adjusted Net M&O Digest 155,260,282 183,243,778 195,296,783
Gross M&O Millage 10.957 9.957 9.957
Less Rollback (LOST)
Net M&O Millage
Total City Taxes Levied
10.957
$1,701,187
9.957
$1,824,558
9.957
$1,944,570
Net Taxes $ Increase $63,558 $123,371 $120,012
Net Taxes % Increase 3.88%! 7.25% 6.58%
VISIT US ONLINE @
WWW.THECHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.COM
County workers will collect debris from DeKalb residents during the third Operation Clean Sweep initiative.
between Candler Road and
Beach Drive. County crews
completed six miles of
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX
streetscaping and 4.5 miles of
curb bumping.
INCREASE
According to county The Governing Authority of the City of
officials, three illegal dumping Avondale Estates has tentatively adopted
sites were addressed along
a 2019 millage rate which will require an
with collecting 124 bags of
trash and removing 29 illegal increase in property taxes by 5.81 percent.
street signs.
“This program was
All concerned citizens are invited to the
introduced under CEO
[Michael] Thurmond’s public hearing on this tax increase to be
administration to advance the held at City Hall, 21 North Avondale Plaza,
county’s goals for creating
Avondale Estates, Ga. 30002 on Thursday,
a cleaner, safer and more
aesthetically pleasing DeKalb June 13, 2019, at 6:01 p.m.
communities,” Andrea said.
Andrea said the program
Times and places of additional public
has been a “resounding
success” and that she expects hearings on this tax increase are at City
the initiative to continue. Hall, 21 North Avondale Plaza, Avondale
Estates, Ga. 30002 on Thursday, June 20,
2019, at 6:01 p.m. and Monday, July 1,
2019, at 6:01 p.m.
This tentative increase will result in a
millage rate of 9.8 mills, an increase of
2017 2018 2019
202,952,052 221,127,298 240,613,935
0.538 mills. Without this tentative tax
3,998,710 2,436,450 1,802,460 increase, the mill rate will be no more than
9.262 mills. The proposed tax increase for
a home with a fair market value of $375,000
206,950,762 223,563,748 242,416,395 is approximately $81. The proposed tax
512,749
206,438,013
550,270
223,013,478
11,721,333
230,695,062
increase on non-homestead property
with a fair market value of $525,000 is
0
206,438,013 223,013,478 230,695,062
approximately $113.
9.957 9.800 9.800
The reason for the tax increase is
9.957
$2,055,503
9.800
$2,185,532
9.800
$2,260,812
as follows: from 2014 to 2018, City
$110,933 $130,029 $75,280 expenditures have increased by an average
5.70% 6.33% 3.44% of 6.53 percent, so a similar increase in the
dollar amount collected from property tax is
likely necessary to maintain the same level
of service to City residents and businesses
in 2019.
LOCAL
DUNWOODY
Fifth nondiscrimination ordinance passes in DeKalb
BY TAYLOR ROBINS
Taylor@dekalbchamp.com
Dunwoody is the latest city
to adopt a non-discrimination
ordinance (NDO), as the city
passed its version June 10.
NDOs are designed to
protect residents and customers
against discrimination from
businesses. The ordinance
was passed unanimously by
Dunwoody’s city council.
According to the city the
“amendment is to ensure that
all persons have equal access
to employment, housing and
public accommodation no
matter their classification.”
The ordinance details
the process for a resident or
customer to file a complaint
Restaurant staff remembers beloved cook
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
With tears in her eyes,
longtime Noodle employee
Parker Hilley reflected on the
impact of her former coworker
Oscar Mateo.
Mateo worked at Noodle
in Decatur as a cook for
nearly a decade. According
to an incident report, Mateo
was killed in a double murder
June 9. Police responded to
4952 Central Drive in Stone
Mountain and found two men
shot in the chest.  A white
Honda Accord was parked
inside a nearby carport with
the engine running and the
driver’s door open. Several
shell casings and blood were
found around the vehicle.
Mateo leaves behind a wife
and five children.
In the wake of the tragedy,
Hilley said the restaurant and
local community are stepping
up to the plate to help provide
for the Mateo family. Hilley
set up a gofundme page for
Mateo and his family. As of
June 17, the page raised more
than $2,700.
“The servers are the face
of the restaurant, but Oscar
was truly the heart. You didn’t
see him out in the dining room,
but you could taste the love
and care he put into every dish
that he cooked. Seriously, he
made the best fried rice you’ve
ever had. Oscar was always
ready with a smile, a joke, a
delicious meal and a helping
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 3
with the city, if he or she
believes discrimination has
occurred. After a complaint
is filed, Dunwoody will SAVE
investigate the claim.
Dunwoody also includes YOUR HOME
a process that instructs and FROM
trains the police department on
dealing with and identifying
FORECLOSURE
hate crimes. The police and avoid bad credit!
department will report such For free information
crimes to the FBI.
Five cities in Georgia
go to
have now adopted similar
Dunwoody passes the fifth nondiscrimination ordinance in the state. Foreclosurepreventionsolution.com
ordinances against April 2 and Chamblee on April treatment by upholding values or call
discrimination.
Although the city of
16.
During the public
of equality, inclusion and
diversity within the city.
(678) -662-5096
Atlanta passed Georgia’s first Foreclosurepreventionsolution.com
comment session of the
NDO 20 years ago, DeKalb meeting Bona Allen stated
County leads the state among the importance to make sure WE WILL BUY YOUR CAR!
other counties with Doraville,
which passed its NDO
everyone is treated equally.
Joe Seconder stated that
Fair market value.
November 2018, Clarkston on the ordinance fosters equal Hassle free.
No dealing with buyers, auctions, or car dealerships
*Foreign or Domestic vehicles
(404) 491-1243
hand. He was our numero for Noodle, said the restaurant Call today!
uno,” the gofundme page said. doesn’t feel the same since
“While this is a shocking and Mateo’s death. Hilley said Fast, reliable plumbing solutions
heartbreaking loss for the Mateo’s body will be sent to
NEW CONSTURCTION & REPAIRS. RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
restaurant and his coworkers his home in Guatemala to be
who loved him dearly, it is laid to rest in a family plot.
even more devastating for Hilley said she’s happy
Oscar’s family in Guatemala, Mateo’s “Noodle family”
whom he supported.” could step in and help.
Hilley, a general manager “Coming to work and
AC PLUMBING SOLUTIONS, LLC
SEE COOK ON PAGE 14 404.483.1216
ACPlumbingSolution@gmail.com Licensed & Insured
CURRENT PROPOSED 2019 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY
AND NOTICE TO SET MILLAGE RATE
The Mayor and Council of the City of Clarkston announce that all concerned citizens are invited to the Public Hearings on this tax 
increase to be held Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at 10:00am, City Hall Council Rm, 3921 Church Street, Clarkston, GA 30021.  A second Public 
Hearing will be held on June 25, 2019 at 6:30pm at the City Hall Council Rm, 3921 Church Street, Clarkston, GA 30021.
A final Public Hearing will be held on July 2 at 7:00PM at the City Hall Council Rm, 3921 Church Street, Clarkston, GA 30021. The City 
Council will adopt the 2019 Millage rate at the July 2, 2019 meeting following the conclusion of the Public Hearing. 
This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 15.89 mils, an increase of 2.607 mills.  Without this tentative tax increase, the 
millage rate will be no more than 13.283.  The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $ 100,000 is approximately 
$ 104.28.  The proposed increase on non‐homestead property with a fair market value of $ 525,000 is approximately $ 547.47.  
City Tax 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Real & Personal $ 64,881,851.00 $ 107,610,419.00 $ 146,214,537.00 $163,338,661.00 $167,835,046.00 $ 212,634,751.00
Motor Vehicles 5,266,300 3,300,880 2,257,250 1,939,920.00 1,068,940.00 $ 791,010.00
Mobile Homes 0 0 0 0 0 0
Timber - 100% 0 0 0 0 0 0
Heavy Duty Equipment 0 0 0 0 0 0
Gross Digest 70,148,151 110,911,299 148,471,787 $165,278,581.00 $168,903,986.00 $ 213,425,761.00
Less M & O Exemptions 1,798,483 1,945,711 1,991,501 2,067,595.00 1,991,219.00 $ 4,320,465.00
Net M & O Digest 68,349,668 108,965,588 146,480,286 $163,210,986.00 $166,912,767.00 $ 209,105,296.00
Gross M & O Millage 17.950 17.110 17.110 15.89 15.89 15.89
Less Rollbacks 3.200 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.610 0.000
Net M & O Millage 21.150 17.110 17.110 15.89 17.50 15.89
Total County Taxes Levied $1,445,595 $1,864,401 $2,506,278 $2,593,423 $2,920,973 $3,322,683
Net Taxes $ Increase $311,977 $418,806 $641,876 $87,145 $327,551 $401,710
Net Taxes % Increase 27.52% 28.97% 34.43% 3.48% 12.63% 13.75%
OPINION
Who is training the job trainers?
WorkSource Atlanta has recently
been required to pay back more
than $1 million in federal funding
because the funds were not used
as directed by the established
deadlines. The organization is again
facing a similar situation that would
require it to return millions more in
funding if not spent on training by
the end of June.
DeKalb County has also had
administrative problems with
WorkSource DeKalb (WSD) and
in May accepted a settlement
agreement to pay $750,000 back
to the US Department of Labor
because of funds meant to subsidize
job training being routed to county
employees who had not undergone
on-the-job-training (OJT) by
WorkSource DeKalb and in some
cases were not familiar with the
program. Of the $750,000 settlement
amount, $350,632 is restitution.
Foreclosures
Tax Sales/Ads for Bids
Trade Name Registrations
Public Notices/Public meetings
Sheriff Sales/Local Legislation
Notices of Incorporation
To subscribe, visit DeKalbLegalNotices.com
or call 404-373-7779, X 0
#ItsInTheChampion
John Hewitt
johnh@dekalbchamp.com
According to records provided
by the DeKalb County Law
Department in response to an
open records request filed by The
Champion, “The United States
contends that WSD knowingly
disbursed OJT funds to county
agencies, to subsidize the wages of
employees who were not eligible
for the OJT program. Specifically,
the United States contends that
between Jan. 1, 2013, and Dec. 18,
2016, WSD had individuals sign
OJT paperwork after they were
hired on the open job market, when
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 4
those individuals had never heard
of WSD, received no services from
WSD and did not qualify for the
OJT program.”
Sheryl Chapman-Stone was
director of WSD from 2013-2016,
the period during which monies
meant to provide job training
for “dislocated workers, the
unemployed, low-income adults and
youth,” was rerouted to individuals
and county departments that did
not qualify for OJT funding at an
average of $100,000-plus annually.
According to DeKalbcountyga.
gov, the purpose of WSD is
“to provide a collaboration of
service organizations providing
unified education, training and
employment programs for job
seekers, and workforce development
services to businesses. WSD is a
comprehensive one-stop center with
a host of partnering agencies.”
If what has happened in
Fulton and DeKalb counties'
workforce training offices is the
norm for similar subsidized job
training organizations nationally,
it would seem that those federal
dollars meant for training should
first be used to train WorkSource
management in how to properly
manage and distribute those funds.
We will likely never know
the individual DeKalb County
employees and departments that
illegally received these funds, but it
is certainly obvious that whomever
is running these departments needs
to be trained on honesty, integrity,
accountability, funding allocation
and developing job training
programs that benefit those for
whom the funding is intended, rather
than rerouting those funds to other
departments and current county
employees.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS • JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 5

How did we let medicine get so sick?

“By now, corporate medicine require HB1 Visas and U.S. health From 1975 to 2010, the number
has milked about all the efficiency it
can out of the system. With mergers
‘One Man’s care employers to recruit and
import medical professionals from
of health care administrators within
both the for profit and nonprofit
and streamlining, it has pushed the Opinion’ other nations domestic medical and medical sectors, has increased by
productivity numbers about as far nursing school slots remain in tight 3,200 percent. If we considered
as they can go. But one resource Bill Crane supply while a significant number converting less than half that
that seems endless and free is bill.csicrane@gmail.com of baby boomer era providers are personnel hike toward clinical care
the professional ethic of medical fast approaching retirement.  and more direct patient support, we
staff members,” said Dr. Danielle In addition to the higher might be well on our way to closing
but not to the long-term detriment error levels one might associate the provider service gap, as well as
Ofri, an author and physician at
of the practitioners. with long-term fatigue, clinical better recognizing that the priority
Bellevue Hospital and New York
 Patients, particularly in an in- depression and suicide rates among should remain getting and keeping
University, from a New York Times
patient setting, are generally sicker physicians and nurses are now also patients well, versus processing
guest editorial June 9, 2019, “Is
these days. Greater severity and significantly surpassing those of the piles and piles of electronic records
Exploiting Doctors the Business
complexity of chronic conditions, general population they care for.  and yes, still more paperwork. 
Plan?”
more overlapping illnesses or I am no fan of a single-payer, Hospitals, heal thyself.
 
infections to treat, as well as more government-based health care
We are fortunate within my
medications to handle, manage and system. I don’t have to look any
immediate and extended family to
assess for side effects or treating at further than our troubled Veterans
have the benefit of several medical Bill Crane also serves as a
cross purposes add to the workloads Administration system to see
professionals. My sister Tanya is a political analyst and commentator
of these professionals. And yet, what happens when a bureaucracy
nurse practitioner; my goddaughter for Channel 2’s Action News, WSB-
the average length of treatment manages all the keys to the
Dr. Martha Cohen-Slade is an AM News/Talk 750 and now 95.5
time spent with each patient is kingdom, but with all the great
ObGyn; and a close cousin has not FM, as well as a columnist for The
expected to be shrinking, or remain minds and innovations present
only been a career-long operating Champion, DeKalb Free Press and
the same, aided by technology and in American health care—still
room nurse, but also served as Georgia Trend. Crane is a DeKalb
that particularly vexing plus/minus considered the world leader in
chair of its global professional native and business owner, living
of the Electronic Medical Record numerous arenas—there simply has
association, the Association of in Scottdale. You can reach him
(EMR).  to be a better way.  
peri-Operative Registered Nurses or comment on a column at bill.
The EMR is now omni-present  
(AORN). Their career experiences csicrane@gmail.com. 
and “tunneled-in” to nearly every
and insights have helped form
aspect of the medical system, and
my opinions on the status of the
though few would wish a return to
industry. 
the pounds heavy paper charts and
My goddaughter, herself also
copies, the EMR is now remotely
recently a new mother, delivered
accessible 24/7, awaiting updates,
five babies the same day her own
notes and provider input. Many
labor was later induced before
providers are now doing just that—
giving birth to her first son. My
using evening, weekend and sleep-
sister who has worked all over the
hours, off the clock, to update and
country while continuing her own
recheck EMR charts. 
medical studies, as well as serving
The average provider/physician
as an educator and nursing faculty
spends roughly two-hours of
member, routinely works through
EMR maintenance/updates per
holiday weekends and continuous
one hour of actual face-to-face
30-hour shifts in both private and
patient care. Hospitals and provider
hospital-based practices, always
employers also know this, and in
delivering beyond the call and
effect consider this a benefit of
assigned hours of her paycheck.    
employing well-paid and ethically
As I have also often seen these
driven professionals. But all of
behaviors in many of my own
this “no-down time” doesn’t add
medical advisors and professionals,
up to everything remaining just
I can only assume it to be part of the
fine. Health care burnout is an
work ethic and “patient needs first”
increasingly real threat to the
ingrained during years of study and
providers own health as well as
preparation for a career in health
ongoing performance. And despite
care. Hopefully, this aspect of the
doctor and nursing shortages
profession will continue forward,
nationwide, which increasingly

FREEPRESS
the DeKalb Publisher: Staff Reporters:
John Hewitt Carla Parker STATEMENT FROM THE
Horace Holloman PUBLISHER
Chief Financial Officer: Taylor Robins We sincerely appreciate the
Dr. Earl D. Glenn discussion surrounding this and any
Let Us Know What You Think! Social Media Manager: issue of interest to DeKalb County.
THE DEKALB FREE PRESS encourages opinions from SEND LETTERS TO EDITOR, Production Manager: Donna Seay The Champion was founded in 1991
expressly to provide a forum for
The DeKalb Free Press, Kemesha Wadley discourse for all community residents
its readers. Please write to us and express your views. P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; on all sides of an issue. We have no
Letters should be brief, typewritten and contain the Send email to Johnh@dekalbchamp.com desire to make the news only to
FAX To: (404) 370-3903; Phone: (404) 373-7779. The DeKalb Free Press is published each Friday report news and opinions to effect
writer’s name, address and telephone number for verifi- Deadline for news releases and advertising: by ACE III Communications, Inc., a more educated citizenry that will
cation. All letters will be considered for publication. Thursday, one week prior to publication date. 114 New Street, Suite E, Decatur, GA. 30030 ultimately move our community
forward. We are happy to present
Phone (404) 373-7779. ideas for discussion; however,
EDITOR’S NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reflect the opinions www.championnewspaper.com we make every effort to avoid
of the editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The printing information submitted to
us that is known to be false and/or
Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. DISPLAY ADVERTISING (404) 373-7779 x 110 assumptions penned as fact.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 6

Children with
Down syndrome
pose for camera
BY TAYLOR ROBINS
taylor@dekalbchamp.com syndrome.
Down syndrome was
the center of attention as
a photo shoot took place
June 13, in Chamblee, to
include children with Down awesome so I think there’s
syndrome in a national
marketing campaign
for personal care brand
packaging.
The National Down
Syndrome Congress
(NDSC) and Comfees─a
personal care product
line─picked five infants
and young children to
be included in print and
online advertisements. The
children were photographed mother. “He likes selfies. He Samir Hill models for a national ad campaign for disposable diapers. Photos by Taylor Robins.
in Comfees’ disposable
diapers. The campaign will
launch early 2020.
“In our mind this will
help get [people with Down selfies too.”
syndrome] out there so
that they’re recognized
in the community,” said
David Tolleson, executive
director of National Down
Syndrome Commerce.
“If you want a place at
the table, people need to
recognize that you’re part
of the community. We have
determined through laws
that people with disabilities current representation
should be included in
schools and included in the
community and included in
the work force, but society
as in all cases of human
and civil rights, takes a
few years to catch up. So
it’s important to make sure
that people recognize that
everyone has value.”
Comfees manufactures
diapers, training pants and
youth pants for children with educate and let people
special needs up to age 10.
According to Tolleson,
20 percent of United States
residents have a form of
disability and an estimated
300,000 people in the
United States have Down
During the photo shoot,
Tolleson described the
event, “Everyone is very
excited and happy. Having
babies around and young
people to play with is
a lot of excitement in
providing opportunities for
people with Down syndrome
to be seen and recognized
because that’s half the
battle.”
Samir Hill, a 10-year-
old model stole the show
portraying Tom Cruise from
Risky Business.
“He likes cameras,” said
Deanaa Hill, Samir Hill’s
takes a lot of selfies. I have
to go in his iPad and trash at
least 400 selfies every day.
He has a cell phone full of
Samir─a fifth
grader─does not wear
disposable diapers.
However, Deanaa wanted to
help represent other children
his age who may require
a diaper system due to
developmental delays.
“He’s also a cute kid,”
Deanaa said.
When asked about
for children with Down
syndrome, Tolleson said,
“It’s getting better. Media
representation helps
and with social media
more stories get around
about people with Down
syndrome following careers
or doing different things.
It’s important in terms of
normalizing.”
“I think this will
know what [people with
Down syndrome] go
through,” Deanaa Hill said.
[Samir] just has an extra
chromosome, but he’s just Comfees will feature infants and older children with Down syndrome during a national ad campaign to launch in 2020.
like me and you.”

THECHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.COM
LOCAL
COUNTYWIDE
Overdue library fines to be waived during summer. File photo.
Libraries go fine
free for summer
BY TAYLOR ROBINS
Taylor@dekalbchamp.com
Children and teens who
would like to keep library
reading materials longer than
the scheduled return date don’t
have to worry about overdue
fines, according to the DeKalb
County Public Library website.
“We know children lose
ground in academics over
the summer break. We want
to take away any barrier to
children and teens having
books to read and enjoy over
the summer,” said DeKalb
County Public Library Director
Alison Weissinger. “We just
ask that items are returned to
the library in a timely manner,
so others may enjoy them.”
Until Aug. 31, DeKalb
libraries will waive overdue
fines for materials in
the children’s and teen’s
collections during “Fine-Free
Summer.” Materials that are
included in Fine-Free Summer
are books, audiobooks, music
CDs and DVDs.
The second year initiative
is designed to encourage
reading and remove barriers
so children and teens
will read more during the
summer months. According
to the DCPL Board of
Trustees, the same initiative
during summer 2018 was
successful─promoting
approval for the second year.
“The primary purpose
of the library is to get books
in the hands of children,”
Weissinger said. “We want
to provide easy access to
our materials at a time when
children and teens need them
the most. We know families
are busy in the summer and
this is one more way we can
help kids read while school is
out.”
Although fees are waived
for select items during the
summer, children and teens are
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 7
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
The DeKalb County Governing Authority has tentatively
adopted a 2019 millage rate which will require an increase in
property taxes by 4.22 percent.
All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearing on this
tax increase to be held at the Manuel J. Maloof Auditorium,
1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur GA 30030 on Tuesday, June
25, 2019 at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax
increase are at the Manuel J. Maloof Auditorium, 1300
Commerce Drive, Decatur GA 30030 on Tuesday, July 9,
2019, at 10 a.m.
This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 10.495
mills, an increase of 0.425 mills. Without this tentative tax
encouraged to renew items or increase, the millage rate will be no more than 10.070 mills.
return items upon completion. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value
Fees will still be assessed
on lost or damaged items and of $250,000 is approximately $42.50 and the proposed tax
normal checkout periods will increase for non-homestead property with a fair market value
still apply. of $400,000 is approximately $68.00.
Notice of Property NOTICE OF PROPERTY
Tax Increase TAX INCREASE
Notice is hereby given that the Governing
Authority of the City of Clarkston has The City of Chamblee has tentatively ad-
tentatively adopted a 2019 millage rate opted a millage rate of 6.25 mills for the
which will require an increase in the
General Fund which will require an in-
property taxes of 19.63 percent.
crease in property taxes by 7.89% over
All concerned citizens are invited to the the rollback millage rate.
Public Hearings on this tax increase to be
held Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at 10:00am, All concerned citizens are invited to the
City Hall Council Rm, 3921 Church Street, public hearings on this tax increase to
Clarkston, GA 30021. be held at the Chamblee Civic Center
located at 3540 Broad St, Chamblee
A second Public Hearing will be held on Georgia on June 13, 2019 at 6:00 PM.
June 25, 2019 at 6:30pm at the City Hall
Council Rm, 3921 Church Street, Clarkston, Two additional public hearings on this
GA 30021.
tax increase will be held at the Cham-
blee Civic Center on June 27, 2019.
A final Public Hearing will be held on July There will be one hearing at 11:30 AM
2 at 7:00PM at the City Hall Council Rm, and a final hearing at 6:00 PM. After the
3921 Church Street, Clarkston, GA 30021.
final public hearing, the millage rate will
The City Council will adopt the 2019 Millage
rate at the July 2, 2019 meeting following be formally adopted.
the conclusion of the Public Hearing.
This tentative millage rate of 6.25 mills
This tentative increase will result in a will result in an increase of .457 mills.
millage rate of 15.89 mils, an increase Without this tentative tax increase, the
of 2.607 mills. Without this tentative tax millage rate will be 5.793 mills. The
increase, the millage rate will be no more proposed tax increase for a home with
than 13.283. The proposed tax increase a fair market value of $293,965 is ap-
for a home with a fair market value of $ proximately $53.71 and the proposed
100,000 is approximately $ 104.28. The tax increase for non-homestead property
proposed increase on non-homestead
with a fair market value of $923,009 is
property with a fair market value of $ approximately $168.48.
525,000 is approximately $ 547.47.
LOCAL
COUNTYWIDE
‘Respect the penny
that we’ve already paid’
Citizen coalition wants rail
expansion in southeast DeKalb
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Southeast DeKalb County
residents are asking MARTA
to include funding for a rail
line from downtown Atlanta
to Stonecrest in the transit
authority’s budget.
The Coalition of South
DeKalb Residents held a press
conference June 13 outside
of MARTA headquarters to
advocate for accessible and
effective mass transit solutions,
including an extension of
MARTA’s heavy rail line along
the 1-20 corridor. MARTA
will soon vote on its fiscal
year 2020 capital budget,
and representatives from
the coalition said they want
funding for a rail line extension
included in the budget.
The coalition’s request
comes as MARTA is working
with DeKalb County, DeKalb
cities and the Atlanta Regional
Commission on the county’s
transit master plan—a
30-year vision for future
transit investments in the
county, including new transit
investments and enhancements
to exiting transit services.
Included in the transit master
plan is the possibility of a
heavy rail line along I-20 to
Stonecrest.
Coalition member Gina
Mangham said the transit
master plan is a separate issue
and the coalition’s focus is on
having south and east DeKalb
included in MARTA’s budget.
“Once again, for south and
east DeKalb, there is no money
for expansion of rail. So,
before we start talking about
future plans, they need to hold
GOT A NEWS TIP?
We’d love to hear from you.
404.373.7779
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 8
to the promises they’ve already
made,” Mangham said. “We’ve
been paying [MARTA] for 47-
plus years and we still have
seen nothing from MARTA
and the existing penny that MARTA will soon vote on its fiscal year 2020 capital budget.
we’re paying to extend rail out
to southeast DeKalb.”
DeKalb County residents
have paid a one-cent sales
tax to fund MARTA since its
inception. The coalition said
south DeKalb has received
an unfair return on that
investment as residents have
specify MARTA’s commitment
limited access to MARTA rail.
to the extension of rail from
MARTA officials disagree
the Indian Creek MARTA
that south DeKalb has been
station to the Stonecrest Mall
treated unfairly. “There has
area as a priority.
been no expansion of rail
In April 2012, the MARTA
by MARTA in any of the
board of directors approved
jurisdictions in the last 20
a rail extension from the
years because the existing
Indian Creek station to run
MARTA sales tax is enough
parallel along I-285 South,
to cover only operations
continuing east along I-20 to
and maintenance,” MARTA
the Stonecrest Mall area as a
spokeswoman Stephany
locally preferred alternative
Fisher said. “Expansion plans Members of the Coalition of South DeKalb Residents held a press conference outside
(LPA), according to the
require additional sales tax of MARTA headquarters to advocate for heavy rail along I-20 and other transit needs
coalition.
revenue.” in south and east DeKalb County. Photos by Carla Parker
“We really need to deal
Fisher said DeKalb and
with how the current MARTA
Fulton counties are considering
budget is being spent before paid.” many of MARTA’s highest
referenda now for an additional
we even talk about additional Fisher said MARTA’s ridership rail stations and bus
sales tax, “given the authority
dollars,” Mangham said. commitment to DeKalb routes, we remain committed
they were granted in House
“The alternatives are great, residents and its partnership to improving and enhancing
Bill 930, but that requires
but what we need is heavy with the leadership of the service with the existing
the counties to have adopted
rail,” said coalition member county remains strong. MARTA sales tax,” Fisher
comprehensive transit master
Joscelyn O’Neil. “Respect “As DeKalb is home to said.
plans.”
the penny that we’ve already
The coalition is requesting
that MARTA, county leaders
and other parties involved
in the comprehensive transit Amendment to Notice of Proposed Precinct Boundary Changes
planning and funding process
follow through on previous Based upon a change in the law, notice is hereby given to the voters of DeKalb
commitments to provide rail County of proposed precinct boundary changes that will be considered for approval at
service along the I-20 corridor. the regular monthly meeting of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners previously
They claim the 9th and 13th scheduled to be held on June 25, 2019, will now be held on July 23, 2019. The
amendments to the Rapid proposed changes are summarized as follows:
Transit Contract Agreement
•Replace the Renfroe Middle Precinct with the Decatur Precinct located at
Evergreen Baptist Church and adjust those boundary lines as well as the
Oakhurst Precinct boundary lines to evenly distribute the voters.
•Adjust Clarkston Precinct boundary lines and create the new Clarkston
Community Center Precinct to reduce overcrowding.
•Adjust the McNair High, Piney Grove and Burgess Precinct boundary lines to
move Atlanta annexed voters to the Burgess Precinct.
•Adjust the Margaret Harris Ed and Woodward Elem Precinct boundary to
move Brookhaven annexed voters to the Woodward Elem Precinct.
PURSUANT TO OCGA § 21-2-262 (C), ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE PROPOSED CHANGES MUST
BE FILED PRIOR TO THE DATE OF THE MEETING WITH THE DEKALB COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS AT 1300 COMMERCE DRIVE, DECATUR, GEORGIA, 30030.
This 18th day of June, 2019
Erica D. Hamilton
Director, Registration & Elections
 DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 9

WEEK in PICTURES

Lt. D.G. Schoeppner from DeKalb County Police Department Tucker Precinct addresses the crowd at a
community celebration at 13Ten Apartments. Photo from city of Tucker’s Facebook page

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office hosted a community roll call at Gresham Park
Recreation Center.

Mike Glenn, left, and Harlem Globetrotters' Chris “Animal” Hyche chat with campers in sign language. See story on page 15. Photo
by Carla Parker
Seaman Jocelyn Ramey of Decatur stands watch aboard the Arleigh Burke-class
guided-missile destroyer USS Mason. The ship is deployed to the United States
5th Fleet areas of operations in support of naval operations to ensure stability and
security. Photo provided by U.S. Navy Mass Communication.

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

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

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

LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 10

SOUTH DEKALB

More than 100 shoppers lined up outside the new Goodwill store on South Hairston Road before it’s 9 a.m. Shoppers purchased bargain-priced items at the new Goodwill store on South Hairston Road.
grand opening. Photos by Carla Parker

New Goodwill store opens in south DeKalb

BY CARLA PARKER Parker said Goodwill of it and enjoy it.”
carla@dekalbchamp.com North Georgia prides itself Mickens, who has
in repurposing buildings to a grandson on the way,
A shopping plaza on help communities that are purchased a baby rocker
South Hairston Road that struggling environmentally. and a bicycle for her
once housed Publix is now “We know that, granddaughter. She said she
the new home of a Goodwill particularly for came to the grand opening
store. neighborhoods that because she wanted to be a
Goodwill of North sometimes might be part of the grand opening
Georgia held a grand struggling, empty stores experience and she likes the
opening June 13 of its new can set a neighborhood into store’s prices.
store on South Hairston a real downward motion,” “I hope that the prices
Road in Decatur. More Parker said. “So, we try stay the same,” she said.
Goodwill of North Georgia president and CEO Keith Parker chats with shoppers during to come and repurpose “I hope they don’t go up
than 100 shoppers lined up the grand opening of the new Goodwill store on South Hairston Road in Decatur.
outside the store’s doors places and make them look because they are donated
before its 9 a.m. opening the area. Construction for store closed. spectacular. This store looks items and [they should]
hoping to get first dibs on the store began March 8. “But now that the as good as any Marshalls make it affordable for
bargain-priced clothing, Resident Juanita Mickens Goodwill store [is here] I or Stein Mart or any one people with low incomes
cell phone chargers and said she had hoped a new can deal with it,” Mickens of those other retailers that that can afford the items.”
other items. Keith Parker, supermarket would replace said. “It will actually keep we compete against. I think Parker said the store will
president and CEO of the old Publix store because me from going to yard sales. the citizens around this have a massive effect on the
Goodwill of North Georgia, she was not happy when the I’m happy with it.” community will really love community, from the new
compared the grand SEE GOODWILL ON PAGE 14
openings of Goodwill stores
to Black Friday.
“[There is] the energy NOTICE
of a Black Friday but
people know that with a The City of Chamblee City Council does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held at the Chamblee Civic 
fraction of the money that Center located at 3540 Broad Street, Chamblee, Georgia on June 27, 2019 at 6:00 PM and pursuant to the requirements of Ga. Code 
they would typically spend 48‐5‐32 does herby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest
on a Black Friday, they’re and levy for the past five years.
going to leave here with
some incredible finds,” CURRENT 2019 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY
Parker said. “Somebody
has donated a suit that 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
no longer fits them very Real & Personal 991,264,465 1,123,309,202 1,259,585,995 1,370,128,444 1,561,856,033 1,764,893,730
Motor Vehicles & Heavy Equipment 23,809,872 20,050,020 15,799,866 13,893,880 8,355,600 6,635,960
well and that’s going to
Public Utilities 10,289,198 15,151,224 13,476,415 15,092,786 14,634,923 15,637,406
be the interview [suit] for
Gross Digest 1,025,363,535 1,158,510,446 1,288,862,276 1,399,115,110 1,584,846,556 1,787,167,096
someone else. There are just Less Exemptions 136,343,322 147,895,254 152,246,821 154,458,202 165,696,847 171,853,667
thousands of stories that Adjusted Net Digest 889,020,213 1,010,615,192 1,136,615,455 1,244,656,908 1,419,149,709 1,615,313,429
will be created just like that
throughout the rest of the Gross Millage Rage 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.25 6.25
day.”
The South Hairston Net Taxes Levied 5,689,729 6,467,937 7,274,339 7,965,804 8,869,686 10,095,709
store is the 63rd Goodwill
store in north Georgia and Net Taxes $ Increase 1,616,061 778,208 806,402 691,465 903,881 1,226,023
brought 50 new jobs to Net Taxes % increase 39.67% 13.68% 12.47% 9.51% 11.35% 13.82%
EDUCATION THE CHAMPION, THURSDAY, JUNE 20 - 26, 2019 • Page 11

DECATUR LITHONIA

Caiola resignation leaves Seeley awarded journalism scholarship

two BOE vacancies BY TAYLOR ROBINS
Taylor@dekalbchamp.com

BY TAYLOR ROBINS Khara Seely, journalism

Taylor@dekalbchamp.com
City Schools of Decatur
(CSD) announced June 10 that
school board member Annie
Caiola will resign from her
position effective Aug. 1.
“Since my election in 2013
and my re-election in 2017,
my personal and professional
obligations and demands have
increased significantly,” Caiola
said. “Balancing the time and
energy required to manage
the growing demands of my
law firm and the personal
needs of my family, while
simultaneously serving the
school board at the level
it deserves, has become
impossible without making
sacrifices that I simply can no
longer make. For someone who
has only leaned in, leaning
back does not come easily.”
Caiola is a trial attorney
with Slotkin & Caiola, LLC,
on the board of directors for
DeKalb Bar Association,
a member of Leadership
DeKalb Class of 2013 and is a
parishioner at St. Thomas More
Church in Decatur.
Caiola has been a member
of the CSD board since 2014.
She served as chair from 2016
to 2017. Caiola’s term would
have expired in 2021.
“It has been wonderful
working with Annie Caiola,”
CSD Superintendent David
Dude said. “She has devoted
so much time and energy to
this position and has been a
tremendous support to me
as I transitioned to Decatur.
Annie is always focused on
what is best for kids and she
is a tremendous champion for
public education. She will be
missed but I am happy that she
will have more time to focus
on her family and career.”
Caiola’s resignation three
board seats available for the
Berry College announces Dean’s List
Berry College’s Dean’s List honors students who posted an
academic average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale while carrying
a class load of at least 12 hours during the semester were
announced.
Students named to the spring 2019 Dean’s List include: Jack
Boyette of Decatur, Miranda Vega of Decatur, David Driskell
of Decatur, Elizabeth Barnett of Lithonia, Ei Noe of Stone
Mountain, Stahr Stembel of Tucker, Orlin Gomez-Aceituno
of Tucker, Caroline Stiles of Stone Mountain, Will Kenworthy
of Stone Mountain, Rachael Meyer of Brookhaven and Mary
Grace Gaskin of Brookhaven.
Annie Caiola recently resigned from her
CSD position. Photo provided by City
Schools of Decatur.
Nov. 5 election. In addition to
Caiola’s at-large seat, Garrett
Goebel’s District 1 seat and
Vice Chair Tasha White’s
District 2 seat-- will appear on
ballots. Goebel is not seeking
reelection however, White is
seeking reelection.
The board will accept
letters of interest from qualified
individuals seeking to serve
on the board from August until
an election is held to replace
Caiola.
“We are deeply indebted
to Annie for her service
on the board,” CSD Board
Chair Lewis Jones. “She has
been an extremely effective
board member and leader─a
passionate advocate for
teachers and students, a gifted
communicator, a team player
whose judgment commands
respect, and a good friend.
It is no wonder her law
practice is booming. We’ve
all marveled at Annie’s ability
to juggle her personal and
private responsibilities with
the demands of the school
board for as long as she has,
and therefore we understand
and respect her decision to step
down at this time. We wish
Annie continued success and
thank her for giving so much
for so long.”
major at Clayton State
University, was presented
with the first Steen Miles
Journalism and Communication
Scholarship June 8.
The Atlanta Association
of Black Journalist (AABJ) The Champion Newspaper publisher Carolyn Glenn, left, scholarship recipient Khara
facilitated the ceremonial Seeley, and Miles' daughters Heather Bailey and Kellie Walker, right, celebrate the
presentation of the $1,000 first scholarship awarded in Miles’ name June 8. Photo provided by Taylor Robins.
Steen Miles Journalism/
Communication Scholarship,
held at WSB TV headquarters. officer for the Metro Atlanta The scholarship was
The scholarship was Rapid Transit Authority and a sponsored by The Earl and
established in honor of columnist for The Champion Carolyn Glenn Foundation and
Ollisteen “Steen” Miles, Newspaper. The Champion Newspaper.
who died March 29, 2017. Miles’ daughters Heather Earl and Carolyn Glenn were
Miles─resident of DeKalb Bailey and Kellie Walker were in attendance to co-present the
County─ was a journalist and also in attendance. scholarship to Seeley.
public servant; working as
managing editor and reporter-
anchor for WXIA-TV. She was
also the chief media relations
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX
INCREASE
Talwar awarded Dean’s
Graduate Student The Mayor and City Council of the City
Award of Lithonia have tentatively adopted
a millage rate which will require an
Amani Talwar of Decatur
is one of two recipients of
increase in property taxes by 8.15%.
the Dean’s Graduate Student
Award for Commitment to All concerned citizens are invited to the
the Discipline from Georgia
State University’s College
public hearings on this tax increase to
of Education & Human be held at City Hall, 6920 Main Street,
Development. Lithonia 30058.
This $500 award, given
at the college’s spring May
7 graduate commencement, The final public hearing will be held
recognizes the activities at City Hall on July 1, 2019 at 6:00
of graduate students who
demonstrate a commitment to
p.m. The proposed millage rate will be
their academic disciplines. adopted at the July 1, 2019 meeting at
7:00 pm.
UNG cadet honored at This tentative increase results from
awards ceremony maintaining the current millage rate of
11.116, an increase of 0.838 mills over
More than 75 military
awards and scholarships were the millage rollback rate of 10.278.
presented to members of the Without this tentative tax increase, the
University of North Georgia’s millage rate will be no more than 10.278
Corps of Cadets at the annual
Boar’s Head Brigade Military mills.
Awards Review, held March
26 at the convocation center This proposed tax increase for a home
on the UNG Dahlonega
with an assessed value of $32,200 is
campus.
Cadets were presented approximately $27.00. The proposed
with awards and scholarships increase on non-homestead property
for academic achievement,
potential for leadership, and
with an assessed value of $58,800 is
high moral character. approximately $49.00.
Cadet Sgt. 1st Class
Jahfel Jones of Stone
Mountain received the
The proposed tax increase will enable
Frankie Stringer Scholarship. the City to meet anticipated obligations
Jones is studying biology/pre- and to establish a reserve fund.
medicine at UNG.
 AROUNDDeKalb
DUNWOODY
Active shooter course scheduled
The Dunwoody Police Department
will be offer a Civilian Response to
Active Shooter Events (CRASE) course
June 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
This course is designed to provide
preparation and a plan for individuals
and organizations on how to more
proactively handle the threat of an
aggressive intruder or active shooter.
This event is open to the public and
registration is free.
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Healthcare Career Training
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Medical Billing & Coding. Medical
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learn more, call Ultimate Medical
Academy 855-658-3012.
MISCELLANEOUS
1TV 225 Channels w/locals HBO
free 1yr. NFL Sunday Ticket Free.
$58 a month! Call Now! 912-544-
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The Champion is not responsible for any damages resulting from advertisements. All sales final.
RATES: $30 for up to 40 words, each
additional word $0.60. All ads are prepaid. All
major credit cards accepted.
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 12
STONECREST STONE MOUNTAIN TUCKER
Library to host writer’s support City to host music event Group to host information session
group on dementia
Charlie Wooton with Arsene
Writers of any literary form or Delay will perform June 28 at Stone Amanda James of Tucker La Vista
genre may attend a writer’s support Mountain’s Tunes by the Tracks in Stone Lions Club will present a Dementia
group June 25 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Mountain Village. Attendees may bring Friends Information Session at Tucker
Stonecrest Library. Writers may bring lawn chairs. The free two-hour concert Christian Church on June 25 from 6:30 to
their work, whether completed or in- begins at 7 p.m. Beer, wine and soft 7:30 p.m. The church is located at 4291
progress, to read, discuss and receive drinks will be available for purchase. Lynburn Drive. The event is free. To RSVP,
group feedback. The library is located For more information, visit www. email ugamanda@gmail.com.
at 3123 Klondike Road. For more stonemountaincity.org.
information, call (770) 482-3828.
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BUSINESS
Experts offer tips on entrepreneurship
BY KATHY MITCHELL
FREELANCE REPORTER
Within the constantly
changing financial landscape
of the United States and the
world there are pitfalls and
opportunities, according to
Emma Foulkes, a certified
financial planner who was one
of the speakers June 15 at the
third workshop in the Building
Your Economic Legacy series
held at the Scott Candler
Library on Candler Road.
Among the changes
Foulkes cited is what
she called “the gutting of
unions.” A generation ago,
many American workers
who belonged to unions
could depend on an annual
pay increase and a growing
benefits package, she said.
“I’m not particularly a fan
of unions—there are some
negatives there, too—but when
they went away or lost much
of their power many families
lost security.
“At the same time, many
companies shifted from a
pension-based retirement
plan to a 401(k) plan. The
401(k) was never supposed
to be for the average worker.
It was designed for highly
compensated executives.
Many average workers find
themselves unable to manage
a 401(k) so that it meets their
retirement needs.” Foulkes
continued.
“I believe that every good
thing has some bad in it and
every bad thing has some good
in it,” she said. Recession
periods, she added, bring many
negatives, but they also mean
that stock prices drop. The
time to buy stock is when it’s
selling at half price.”
Speaking to a largely
Black audience, Foulkes
noted that there is a great
deal of consumer spending
power within the Black
community. Black hair
products alone represent a
$2.5 billion industry “and
that doesn’t include wigs and
such accoutrements as curling
irons,” she said.
Foulkes said from 2017
to 2018, the number of Black-
owned businesses in the
United States grew by 400
percent and the number is
growing as people realize that
owning a business is a way to
control income. “There are a
lot of misconceptions out there
about business ownership,”
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 13
she observed. “You don’t need grocery delivery services, learn conversational English,” up. “You can buy an existing
a college degree; 32 percent pet walking, ride sharing and she said, adding that such a business,” he said. “Eventually
of business owners have only tutoring, according to Foulkes. business can not only provide every business will be sold. It
a high school diploma or an “Many people are too busy experience in operating a might be sold to an investor;
associate degree. You don’t to go to the grocery store or business, but also can help it might be sold to another
have to have great credit and walk their dogs. They would pay off debt and provide seed business. It might be sold to
you don’t need a lot of start- be happy to pay someone to do money for another business. your children or it might go
up money. Approximately 65 these things. And, if you don’t Sharing the stage with into liquidation and be sold on
percent of businesses start mind being up at 2 o’clock Foulkes was Antonio Barnes, the courthouse steps.”
with an investment of less than in the morning, you can tutor CEO of FMX Logistics, who Buying a business that’s
$50,000.” people in other countries in explained that becoming in default or in bankruptcy can
Examples of 21st century English. You don’t need a a business owner doesn’t be a positive step for both the
businesses that can be started high level of knowledge of necessarily mean building buyer and the seller, Barnes
with little capital include grammar; they just want to a business from the ground said. “The seller will and you
SEE TIPS ON PAGE 14
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Mayor and City Council of the City of Chamblee, Georgia will hold a public hearing on Thursday, July 11, 2019
at the Chamblee Civic Center, 3540 Broad Street, Chamblee, GA 30341 at 6:00 p.m. to receive public comments
regarding the following matters:
• PZ2019-469 Applicant: J. Alexander Brock, Warden Capital and Owners: Bryant K. Trane, Meskerem
Belachew, and Yohannes Belachew, requests approval of a Development of Community Impact with variances for the
construction of a mixed-use building and parking garage, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix
A, Unified Development Ordinance, Sec. 230-1 for the development to have more than 80% of impervious surface;
Sec. 230-27(a)(3) for cementitious fiberboard lap siding to be used on building over 3 stories; Sec. 230-27(g) to allow
accessory mechanical units between the building and street; Sec. 230-27(a)(12)(c) for a building with more than four
residential units at street level to not provide front-facing entrances directly connected to a public sidewalk; Sec. 230-
28 for a building greater than 3 stories to not be constructed with non-combustible materials; Sec. 240-13(b)(3)(b) to
reduce the minimum size of multi-family dwelling units; Sec. 240-13(b)(3)(c) to allow multi-family residential dwelling
units on the ground floor within 100 feet of a public street; Sec. 240-13(b)(40)(b) for an above ground parking deck to
face a public street and not be screened by liner buildings;
Sec. 240-13(b)(40)(c) to not screen external openings of a parking structure; Sec. 240-13(b)(40)(d) for automobiles in
a parking garage to be visible from a public right-of-way; Sec. 240-13(b)(40)(e) to allow facades of a multi-story parking
structure to not have the appearance of a horizontal-storied building; Sec. 240-13(b)(40)(h) for a parking structure to
not have a level base with flat floor plates on above-ground levels; Sec. 240-13(b)(40)(i) for above-ground levels of a
parking structure to not have minimum floor-to-ceiling heights of 15 feet; Sec. 230-6(d) for a retaining wall in the front,
side, or rear yard to exceed the maximum allowed height; Sec. 230-26(a) to reduce the min. width of the required
landscape zone; Sec. 230-26(g) to vary the dimensions and requirements of the supplemental zone; Sec. 250-7(a)
(8) to not provide inter-parcel access to the adjacent property; Sec. 230-26(f)(2) to allow a bus shelter to encroach the
10-foot-wide sidewalk clear zone. The property is located at 3284, 3296, 3300, 3308 Burke Dr, and 3279, 3289, 3295,
3301, and 3307 Hood Ave, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 299 06 014, 015, 016, 017, 018, 010, 011, 012, 013 and
zoned Village Commercial.
• PZ2019-490 Applicant: Vince Riggio, Trinity Development Group, INC and Owner: Decide DeKalb
Development Authority and Trinity Development requests approval of a major modification to a previously approved
Development of Community Impact to modify an existing condition of approval. The property is located at 5544
Peachtree Blvd, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 303 05 008, and zoned Village Commercial.
• PZ2019-492 Applicant and Owner: John D. Revell, The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Georgia requests
approval of a Development of Community Impact and associated variances for interior and exterior renovations to
an existing building and site improvements, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified
Development Ordinance, Sec.230-6(d)(2) to allow an existing timber retaining wall visible from the right-of-way to
remain; Sec. 230-7 for a monument sign to be located within the corner visibility triangle; Sec. 230-9(f) to not achieve
any sustainability measures points; Sec. 230-26(e) to not meet the landscape zone requirements; Sec. 230-26(f) to not
meet the sidewalk zone requirements; Sec. 230-26(g) to not meet the supplemental zone requirements; Sec. 230-27(a)
(6) for the east and south façades to not meet fenestration requirements; Sec. 230-27(a)(7) to not treat each street-
facing façade as a primary façade; Sec. 230-27(a)(10) to not meet the minimum façade height; Sec. 230-27(g) for
roof-mounted mechanical equipment to not be screened from view from right-of-way; Sec. 230-1 to not meet the open
space requirements; Sec. 230-31 to allow non-conforming outdoor lighting; Sec. 250-7(a) to allow parking to be located
between the building and the street; Sec. 250-7(a)(8) to not provide inter-parcel connectivity; Sec. 230-1(a) to exceed
the maximum impervious surface ratio; Sec. 230-27(a)(12) for a primary entrance to not be directly accessible from the
adjacent sidewalk; Sec. 260-9(a) to allow a wall sign to be larger than the maximum allowed sign size. The property is
located at 2050 Chamblee Tucker Rd, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 299 04 003 and zoned Village Commercial.
• PZ2019-493 Applicant and Owner: Taylor Smith, 5370 Eugenia’s LLC requests approval of multiple variances
for the installation of a standalone overhang, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified
Development Ordinance, Sec.230-27(a)(9) to allow a façade that is less than 18 feet in height; Sec. 230-27(a)(5) to
allow a metal building; Sec. 230-27(a)(6) to allow less than 65% fenestration on the front façade; Sec. 230-27(a)(8)
to allow a service entrance door to face a public street. The property is located at 5368 Peachtree Rd, being DeKalb
County tax parcel 18 299 16 011 and zoned Village Commercial.
• PZ2019-498 Applicant: Jeff Hardy, Major League Renovations and Owner: Benjamin Clarke requests approval
of multiple variances for the construction of an addition to an existing single-family structure, from the City of Chamblee
Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance, Sec.230-3(b)(1) to allow a new addition to encroach
into the front yard setback; and Sec. 230-27(b)(2) to allow garage doors to face a feeder street. The property is located
at 3984 Longview Dr, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 324 08 025 and zoned Neighborhood Commercial 1.
• TA2019-003 The City of Chamblee proposes to amend the Official City Code of Ordinances, Appendix
A, Unified Development Ordinance, Title 1 Administration, Chapter 110 to amend the definitions of Development
of Community Impact and Redevelopment Threshold; and Title 2 Land Use and Zoning, Chapter 270 to revise
the applicability of Redevelopment Thresholds, and Chapter 280 to amend the applicability of a Development of
Community Impact.
 DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 14

GOODWILL Continued From Page 10

jobs to the shopping experience.
“We are now stabilizing this retail area because when
Goodwill comes in people know that good things are about
to happen,” he said. “I’m pretty sure that there will be
other stores and vendors that will move in because they
now see us here [and] we’re vibrant, we’re an excellent
tenant wherever we land and just bring a lot of stability to
the area.”

TIPS Continued From Page 13

will acquire a business for trustworthy and share your
less than it’s potentially worth level of commitment. You need
if you have the expertise and a good team. If you open a
resources to turn it into a restaurant, you aren’t going to
thriving concern.” know everything from cooking
Barnes acknowledged that to hosting to food acquisition
any investment carries risk. and bookkeeping. You may be
“Don’t put $10,000 into a an expert in one of those areas,
business unless you can afford but you need team members
to lose $10,000,” he advised. who are experts in the other
Forming relationships with areas.”
the right people is essential to
business success, according
to Barnes. “You may have
heard people say, ‘never go
into business with friends’
well friends are the best people
to go into business with if
they are knowledgeable,

COOK
Continued From Page 3
trying to perform this job
is hard because everything
reminds you of the person you
lost,” Hilley said. “We’re all
feeling it in different ways.
The [monetary donations] are
just like a gift from his work
family to his family back
home.”
Hilley said she’s working
to secure a matching grant
from the Giving Kitchen,
which will match donations up
to $2,500.
“I’ve had people come
in and say they weren’t
there to eat but to offer their
condolences. It’s everyone’s
loss to anyone who has ever
eaten here,” Hilley said. “He
was such a constant presence.
He worked so hard to be able
to provide for his family back
home. It just worries me about
what his family will do now.”
Hilley said anyone
wanting to donate can visit
www.gofundme.com/support-
for-oscars-family and offer
financial support. Police are
still investigating the incident.
DeKalb County Police officers
detained two men near the
scene, but they were later
released. Hilley said she hopes
someone with information
regarding the case will come
forward.
SPORTS
FOOTBALL
Miguel Patrick ready
to lead Cedar Grove’s
football program
BY CARLA PARKER
Carla@dekalbchamp.com
When former Cedar Grove
High School football coach
Jermaine Smith resigned
from his position in March,
defensive coordinator Miguel
Patrick was immediately
named interim coach.
Two months later, the
“interim” title was removed
and Patrick was officially
named head coach of the two-
time state champions Cedar
Grove Saints.
“It’s been a long time
coming,” he said. “It feels
really good. I really never
expected it, to be honest, but
I’m ready for the challenge.”
This is Patrick’s first head
football coaching job. He
began his coaching career 12
years ago at Cedar Grove after
former Cedar Grove coach
Ray Bonner asked him to join
his staff.
“I met coach Bonner
[while] out one time and he
told me to come over and help
him out,” Patrick said. “He
never let me leave after that.”
Patrick started as the
linebacker coach before he
was promoted to defensive
coordinator, helping the
BASKETBALL
Harlem Globetrotters entertain Mike Glenn campers
BY CARLA PARKER
Carla@dekalbchamp.com
Campers at the Mike Glenn
All-Star Basketball Camp for
the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
learned a few tricks from past
and present members of the
Harlem Globetrotters on June
17 at Clairmont Presbyterian
Church.
The Harlem Legends and
Chris “Animal” Hyche of the
Harlem Globetrotters were
special guest speakers at the
camp. The Harlem Legends
DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 15
program win its two state
titles in 2016 and 2018. He
has coached several of the
state’s best defensive players
from Antwuan Jackson to
Rashad Cheney and Jadon
Haselwood.
A graduate of Paul
Laurence Dunbar High School
in Dayton, Ohio, Patrick
played college football at
Alabama State University. He
played in the Arena Football
league and tried out for other
professional football leagues
Cedar Grove defensive coordinator was promoted to head coach of Cedar Grove High School football program. File photo
before beginning his teaching
and coaching career.
for the entire program. “I’m an aggressive not feel any pressure as he tries
Patrick teaches physical
“Because we didn’t have coach,” he said. “The game to continue the winning legacy
education at Cedar Grove. He
any turnover in the coaching management [of basketball] at Cedar Grove.
said he learned many lessons
staff, I retained all of my helped me get prepared for “I think it’s a great
under Bonner and Smith.
coaches from the previous staff [this new position].” opportunity for me and the rest
“The biggest thing
and just added another coach,” Patrick said he isn’t sure of the coaching staff to show
coach Bonner [taught me
he said. “Our student athletes if he will coach basketball that we’re great coaches as
in] my coaching career was
know the expectations that we next season. “I’m focused on well,” he said. “Coach Smith
building relations. Building
set. The biggest thing is when football right now,” he said. was a fantastic head coach, but
relationships with parents,
coach Smith was there, we “I’m trying to make sure we I think we have a lot to offer as
with the community and with
created an atmosphere and a get that organized, but I’m still a coaching staff. It wasn’t just
the student athletes,” he said.
climate for those guys to thrive heavily involved in basketball him, and it won’t be just me.
“Coach Smith is more of an
in. It wasn’t just [Smith]; the at this time. That will be up to “I think we have a great
organized person, so he taught
atmosphere and climate that the new principal.” coaching staff, a great group
me how to be organized as far
we created is still there.” Under Smith, Cedar Grove of guys,” Patrick continued.
as practice schedules, game
Patrick also has been the had a record of 67-14-1 in six “So, I don’t feel any pressure.
planning, things of that nature;
head boys’ basketball coach seasons and won three region I just think it’s a fantastic
and how to maximize the
for the last two seasons and led championships and two state opportunity for our student
potential of every player.”
them to the playoffs. He said championships. The program athletes to continue the legacy
Patrick said the transition
his coaching style in basketball also produced 32 all-state that was built.”
from defense coordinator to
and football is similar. players. Patrick said he does
head coach has been smooth
showed off their ball handling
skills and Hyche put on a small
dunk show for students.
Hyche, whose parents are
deaf, also answered questions
from campers.
The Mike Glenn All-Star
Basketball Camp for the Deaf
and Hard of Hearing, which is
in its 40th year, is the nation’s
first basketball camp for deaf
and hard of hearing athletes
ages 14 to 18. During the week-
long camp, students go through
basketball drills to enhance
their skills.
Chris “Animal” Hyche put on a small A Harlem Legends teaches a camper to spin a ball on his finger. Photos by
dunk show for students. Carla Parker
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS • FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2019 • Page 16
TUCKER
City branding efforts to attract more residents, businesses
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Tucker’s mayor and city council saw
preliminary designs of the city’s branding
project.
The council heard a presentation from
sky design, an Atlanta-based firm that is
directing the city’s first-ever branding process,
during the council’s June 10 regular meeting.
C.J. Wilson, left, Tiffany Chen and Shaina Patel of sky design led a community input The branding project will promote the city’s
meeting on May 7. shared vision for what Tucker is and what it
hopes to become in the future.
Tucker Communications Director Matt
Holmes said the branding project is something
that new cities go through.
“What we see in Tucker—because
it’s such a new city but a long-standing
community—is that everybody has their own
idea of what Tucker is and what makes Tucker
iconic. And everybody is right about those
opinions, whether it’s the people, or the trains
or Main Street,” Holmes said. “But what
we’re looking to do is find a vision or brand to
promote to our residents as a source of civic
Tiffany Chen of sky design presented preliminary designs to the mayor and city council pride, as well as to share to the outside world.
on June 10. “Whether that’s to people considering
moving to Tucker or businesses considering
moving or expanding,” Holmes added. “We
want to make sure that we’re projecting an
image that is in one voice as opposed to all
these other great ideas. It boils down to ‘What
is Tucker?’ That’s what we’re looking to
answer with this.”
Tucker issued a request for proposals to
find a firm to assist with the branding project
and budgeted $25,000 to fund the project. The
city selected sky design in March to lead the
process and put together a stakeholder group
to guide the process and help the firm better
understand Tucker.
Holmes said the city is halfway through
the process and hopes to finish in the fall.
“Sky design updated the city council
and the mayor on what has happened so far,
what steps they’ve taken to get a really good
understanding of what Tucker is all about and
showed them some preliminary draft designs
of logos and tag lines,” Holmes said. “[Sky
design] wanted to walk the mayor and council
through the process of how they’ve gotten
public input and working with the stakeholder
group to get a better idea of what Tucker is
and what Tucker is all about.”