FreePress: 6-14-2013

Serving East Atlanta, Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Clarkston, Decatur, Doraville, Dunwoody, Lithonia, Pine Lake, Tucker
and Stone Mountain.
FREEPRESS
For the fifth consecutive year The Champion in its division won first place in General Excellence, the highest award in Georgia Press Associations Better Newspaper Contest. The Champion also garnered eight first-place awards in this years press association competition. They are: News Editor Andrew Cauthen for Hard News Writing and for Serious Column, Chief Operating Officer John Hewitt for Feature Writing, Sports Editor Carla Parker for Sports Writing, Graphic Designer Travis Hudgons for Best Photo Gallery on a Newspaper Website and Photo Essay and Managing Editor Kathy Mitchell for Business Coverage. The Champion also won first place for Lifestyle Coverage; Gale Horton Gay is the lifestyle editor.
WWW.CHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.COM FRIDAY, JUNE 14 , 2013 VOL. 16, NO. 12 FREE
A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS
Champion takes top press association award for fifth consecutive year
Celebrating The Champions awards at the Georgia Press Associations awards dinner are, from left, Chief Operating Officer John Hewitt; News Editor Andrew Cauthen; Sports Editor Carla Parker; Managing Editor Kathy Mitchell, and columnist Bill Crane.
See Awards on Page 15A
Its a place where we can further our bond with nature but also strengthen the bond of family and friendships.
by John Hewitt johnhewitt@dekalbchamp.com
Arabia Mountain: 400 million years of history and nature await
Park Ranger Robby Astrove
n often-used slogan for the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve area is See 400 million years from here. All it takes is a little imagination and an open mind. As we began our ascent to the top of Arabia Mountain in Lithonia, it wasnt difficult to imagine dinosaurs roaming the area or hunters and gatherers looking on the fertile land to spot their next meal. And eons later, Native Americans holding ceremonies and later still, the thriving granite industry that once was prevalent in the area. According to the Arabia Alliances website, archaeological studies show that humans have inhabited the area for an estimated 12,000 years. Technically older than the more popular Stone Mountain, Arabia is classified as a monadock, literally a large rock outcropping or a lone mountain that has risen above the surrounding area. Park Ranger Robby Astrove refers to Arabia Mountain as DeKalbs hidden jewel. An
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Approaching the summit of Arabia Mountain pools of diamorpha offer stark contrasts to the granite surface. Photos by John Hewitt
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Because she gets her news updates online from the The Champi
Because she gets her news updates online from the TheAnd Champion. you can too! Follow us. Because she gets her news updates online from the The Champion.
Evidence of earlier mining in the area still remains.
See Arabia on Page 15A
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The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013
LOCAL NEWS
Page 2A
Scott Parrish, co-founder of Square Care, said his passion is providing for the needy. Photos by Andrew Cauthen
Dunwoody ministry boxes care for the needy

throughout the years and reconnected in Atlanta after college. Square Care started Scott Parrish saw a need as an idea over coffee and and he is trying to address it after lots of prayer. with Square Care Ministries Packaged in its signaInc., a nonprofit organization ture brown boxes with an he founded in 2012. open box logo, Square His familywife Trisha, Care provides different kits 17-year-old son Walton for males, females, families and 15-year-old daughter and cleaning. The boxes are Emmaassembles boxes of distributed through partner detergent, feminine products, food banks and ministries, deodorant, shampoo, shaving churches, shelters or anykits, soap and a brush. These where they are needed. kits are designed to fill a gap There are people that in products not readily avail- do some of this but I enviable through food banks and sion a 100,000-square foot government aid programs warehouse with nothing but to impoverished and lowboxes put together, Parrish income families. said. Currently, Square Care Millions of people need has two donated store units these products, said Parrish, that are being used to store a member of Dunwoody and assemble its boxes. Baptist Church. They need Approximately 1,200 foodthese people that are boxes have been distributed down and out in poverty through the Atlanta Recovbut they need these products ery Center. too. I cannot thank Square Parrish and co-founder Care Ministries enough for Greg Fletcher, the groups partnering with us to serve chief financial officer, grew the homeless in Atlanta. up together at First BapScott is an outstanding sertist Church in Fort Walton vant and has truly found Beach, Fla. his niche in providing these We were in the nursery care packages, said Derek together at church, Parrish Boyd, director of the Atlanta said. Recovery Center, on Square The pair remained friends Cares website. by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com So many people come to [Boyds] door and he cant help them, but he said, I love being able to hand them something, Parrish said. So he hands these [kits] out to people who come off the streets. Rob Johnson, vice president for community services at Atlanta Community Food Bank, said, Square Care Ministries is more efficiently filling a charitable need in our community: non-food household necessities. Hygiene and cleaning products are in short supply to frontline agencies serving people in need. Square Care very nicely helps to round out the temporary or emergency household/food supply that typical food pantries havent been able to supply, Johnson said in a statement on the Square Care website. Currently the organization is working on getting more corporate, in-kind donations and monetary donations from individuals, Parrish said. Our seed money has run out, Parrish said. Youve got to have money to buy this stuff. Parrish said his focus is to distribute the kits locally, but will distribute elsewhere when someone contacts you and says, Hey wed like those kits. We need some of them. Parrish said, My passion and my vision is to get into disaster relief, too. It was killing me trying to figure out how to get to Oklahoma when that tornado hit. Square Care recently sent 300 kits to Philadelphia to an organization involved with homeless teens. Can you believe I am sending them up there? God is just opening doors, Parrish said. Id love to be able to do this fulltime.
CITY OF DORAVILLE PUBLIC NOTICE Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Notice is hereby given that the proposed budget for the City of Doraville shall be available for public inspection beginning May 21, 2013, in the City Clerks office from 8:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at City Hall, 3725 Park Avenue, Doraville, GA. A public hearing shall be held on the 17th day of June at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 3725 Park Avenue, Doraville, GA before the Mayor and Council of the City of Doraville at which time public comment pertaining to the Fiscal Year 2014 (July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014) budget shall be sounded. All citizens of Doraville are invited to attend. A regular meeting shall be held on the 17th day of June at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 3725 Park Avenue, Doraville, GA before the Mayor and Council of the City of Doraville at which time the Fiscal Year 2014 (July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014) budget shall be approved and the budget ordinance adopted in accordance with O.C.G.A. 36-81-5. All citizens of Doraville are invited to attend.
Page 3A
New law clinic serves those who have served the nation
by Nigel Roberts More than a decade of military conflict in the war on terrorism has resulted in huge numbers of psychologically and physically wounded veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has completed more than 4.1 million disability claims since 2009 and paid more than $58 billion in compensation to veterans and their survivors in 2012 alone, reported Allison Hickey, the departments under secretary for benefits. Many of these war veterans have returned home to Georgia and must navigate a VA system thats backlogged, by its own admission. And they often face the challenge of proving a duty-related psychological injury. A new Emory University Law School clinic, established in February, helps veterans tackle the challenges of petitioning the VA and appealing decisions through the legal system. It provides these services pro bono. Charles Shanor, Emory law professor and clinic codirector, said about 25 law students and the same number of lawyers volunteer their time at the clinic, which is more accurately described as a virtual office. Much of the work is done between classes and after work, though team members meet once a week at a space in the law school. The team currently has 16 ongoing cases. Two types of cases are most prevalent: injury (both physical and psychological) compensation and discharge upgrades. Injury compensation cases often involve proving that the veteran has a compensable duty-related injury, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disters: best practices and rules for the court. The plan is to have a bill ready by January when lawmakers meet for the legislative session, and have backers and supporters in place. Law students are an integral part of the clinic. Two students, J. Martin Bunt and Rachel Erdman, advocated for the establishment of the program. Shanor and Co-director H. Lane Dennard are building a network of attorneys for the clinic. Few of them, Shanor said, have experience working on VA cases, so they go through an extensive certification program. The clinic is growing despite the obstacles. One of the major challenges is funding. For the past few months, the clinic has operated on a minimal budget but needs more funds to expand its services. Shanor said the clinic has applied for grants that would allow it to hire a fulltime administrator and staff attorney. Shanor views the clinic as a work in progress that is off to a great start. In my wildest dreams, I didnt think we would be as far along as we are. he admitted.
Emory Law Volunteer Clinic for Veterans founders Rachel Erdman, law professor Charles Shanor, adjunct law professor H. Lane Dennard and law student Martin Bunt. Photo provided by Emory University
order, or deserves a higher disability rating than the military awarded at discharge. Upgrade cases involve petitioning a military branch to upgrade the type of discharge it gave to the veteran. In many cases, the service discharged the veteran with something other than an honorable dischargeoften because of behavior related to trauma he or she experienced on active duty, Shanor explained. The clinic is also working on a range of other types of cases: two cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, a pension case for the widow and four children of a veteran and a case involving access to records, among its caseload. These cases, Shanor said, are often complicated and can take one to three years to
resolve. The VA is a large bureaucracy and has a huge backlog of cases, he stated. We have to wait for it to respond and make decisions before we could act. A special project on the clinics agenda is to spearhead the creation of a veterans court that would exclusively handle veterans cases. Shanor said it would be similar to the drug courts in the state and throughout
the nation. It would save the state money by handling misdemeanor criminal cases, as needed, through drug rehabilitation, mental health counseling and oversight. These courts have a proven record of reducing recidivism. Other states have advanced systems, Shanor said. Its our hope that Georgia could catch up. So far, the team has been working on foundational mat-
Notice of Public Hearing for Clarkston Millage Rate Notice is hereby given that prior to setting the tax millage rate for 2013, the Clarkston Mayor and Council will hold a Public Hearing at City Hall, 3921 Church Street, Clarkston Georgia, on Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 6:30pm on the proposed millage rate. The City Council is proposing to adopt a millage rate for 2013 that does not exceed the rollback rate. All concerned citizens are invited to attend.
CITY OF CLARKSTON CURRENT PROPOSED 2013 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY
City Tax
Real & Personal Motor Vehicles Mobile Homes Timber - 100% Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Digest Less M & O Exemptions Net M & O Digest Gross M & O Millage Less Rollbacks Net M & O Millage Total County Taxes Levied Net Taxes $ Increase Net Taxes % Increase
Printed on 100% postconsumer recycled paper
2008
93,427,911 5,820,820 0 0 0 99,248,731 1,403,454 97,845,277 11.00 0.000 11.00 $1,076,298 -$15,582 -1.43%
2009
91,445,833 6,178,880 0 0 0 97,624,713 1,424,977 96,199,736 11.000 0.000 11.000 $1,058,197 -$18,101 -1.68%
2010
87,540,369 5,223,890 0 0 0 92,764,259 1,629,182 91,135,077 11.313 0.000 11.313 $1,031,011 -$27,186 -2.57%
2011
72,710,992 5,088,980 0 0 0 77,799,972 1,595,543 76,204,429 11.313 2.687 14.000 $1,066,862 $35,851 3.48%
2012
64,816,123 5,462,080 0 0 0 70,278,203 1,618,667 68,659,536 14.000 3.950 17.950 $1,232,439 $165,577 15.52%
2013
58,592,799 6,244,650 0 0 0 64,837,449 1,683,228 63,154,221 17.950 0.000 17.950 $1,133,618 -$98,820 -8.02%
Page 4A
Circle of sisters
gone through a rough patch lately. Her sisters of the airwaves understand her better than anyone other than God almighty and have rallied alongside her. May I call the roll? The retired Queen of Atlanta television, Monica Pearson, reigning Queen Brenda Wood, anchors Lisa Rayam, Karen Greer and Deidre Dukes, It has been said often that reporter/anchors Aungelique being in the highly competitive Proctor and Deidre Dukes, reworld of television news is like porters Donna Lowry, Tacoma being in a shark fight in a row Perry and Chanya Chavis to boatand you had better make name a few. Yours truly was asked sure your knife is sharp. Such is not always the case as to bring a message of inspiration. State Representative Pam Dickerdemonstrated by a group of curson attended in a show of support rent and retired Atlanta sisters of the airwaves this past Sunday. Fox to her longtime good friend. The gathering was a sym5 anchor Lisa Rayam coordinated phony of beauty and brains mixed a stellar event at Canoe restauwith genuine respect and love. rant on the Chattahoochee River Despite the cloudy skies and in Buckhead for retiring Fox 5 sprinkling rain, one needed sunanchor Amanda Davis, who has glasses to shield ones eyes from such brilliant star power. Others in attendance included former Fox 5 news producer Sidmel Estes and former Fox 5 community affairs director Linda Torrence, Evelyn Mims from 11 Alive was on hand along with Fox 5 assignment editor Inez Harper. The backside of Canoe restaurant is an idyllic place on the bank of the Chattahoochee River. It is beautifully landscaped covered with colorful flora and lush green shrubbery. In that pristine setting of Gods handiwork we formed a circle and joined hands for the benediction during which in an impromptu stroke of remembrance I was able to recite this Irish blessing. May the road rise up to meet you May the wind always be at your back May the sun shine brightly on your face And the rain fall softly on your fields And until we meet again, May God keep you in his loving care. With hugs all around, we sisters departed that place, which was oh so like Holy Ground as His disciples left to go and tell the stories while pledging anew that the circle of sisters is unbroken.
The Newslady
OPINION
Steen Miles, The Newslady, is a retired journalist and former Georgia state senator. Contact Steen Miles at Steen@dekalbchamp.com.
One Mans Opinion
OPINION
Page 5A
I spy
I was a pilot flying an airplane, and it just so happened that where I was flying made what I was doing spying. American Air Force Pilot Francis Gary Powers, who was shot down over the Soviet Union in 1960 while flying a C.I.A. U-2 surveillance plane. We all like a good spy yarn. James Bond is perhaps one of the best known and most beloved fictional characters of all time. And yet, with the exception of the occasional exhibitionist, no one I know likes to be spied on. For all of the recent glitches, potential cover-ups and brew of scandals encircling the Obama administration, I think none is more threatening than the recently revealed practice of massive data gathering, phone call and email monitoring of literally millions of American citizens. Im an advocate for a strong national defense and keeping America safe, and Im not so naive to believe that doing that does not require occasionally trampling on rights to privacy and the edges of the rule of law as it
relates to gathering evidence for further investigation or prosecution. Ive understood for years not to write emails on an employers system that I wasnt ready to share at the dinner table with my children, or perhaps more likely, with my boss. Im aware that any website visit, no matter how brief, leaves an electronic footprint, and that any phone conversation or text message is at least in part traceable. I had no idea that as a matter of course all that data was being shared and reviewed. Some are debating charges of treason against 29-year old Edward Snowden, a former CIA security analyst and more recently a contract employee of Booz Allen, reportedly avoiding potential extradition by traveling to Hong Kong. Snowden, whether viewed as a hero or villain, has ended his life as he once knew it. Any analyst at any time can target anyone. Any selector, anywhereI, sitting at my desk, certainly had the authorities to wiretap anyone, from you or your accountant, to a federal judge, to even the president, from Snowdens public statement and interviews with The Guardian, a United Kingdom-based publication. Assuming that Mr. Snowden would not forgo his life as he knew it, and also lie about why, these are reasonably significant charges. If you dont think they concerned the White House, I point no further
than the president holding a press briefing within days of the news breaking to state, No one is listening to your phone calls, said President Barack Obama. Without being argumentative, the F.B.I., CIA, Justice Department and local law enforcement are admittedly and with appropriate warrants and court orders, wiretapping and monitoring phone conversations daily of thousands of Americans under suspicion of criminal conduct, facing indictment or previously convicted. The president was aiming his assurance at the millions of Americans who have been charged with no crime or wrongdoing, who suddenly find themselves, or at least potentially feel swept into the same dragnet. There is no point in only monitoring which phone line connects to which, or who emails whom, without further data mining the content of the call or the email. If only phone numbers are captured, what is to prevent Al Quaida from simply calling the White House, as interior staff numbers are available from many published sources, to implant the appearance of impropriety? Or if even a wrong number brings someone briefly under suspicion, what happens when the NSA, CIA or FBI wrongly track an innocent party, only to accidentally stumble on unrelated suspicious or criminal activity?
I could spend the rest of this column writing a chain of what ifs on the scenarios that could arise from having open access to all landline and mobile phone communication and the mapping/ tracking of internet travel from all major internet providers. The promise of this president was an America where our government works for us, not for itself, and improvements in transparency and decision-making were promised repeatedly. As many criticized Bush-era policies have only been expanded on this watch, where do voters and Americans go to express their concerns? President Harry Truman added a sign to his desk top that read, The Buck Stops Here. Mr. President, what do you say to the increasing number of Americans seeking a refund, or perhaps a re-vote? Or perhaps you can just have the NSA conduct a snap poll by monitoring phone traffic overnight for the next couple of weeks. Lets listen in. Bill Crane also serves as a political analyst and commentator for Channel 2s Action News, WSB-AM News/Talk 750 and now 95.5 FM, as well as a columnist for The Champion, Champion Free Press and Georgia Trend. Crane is a DeKalb native and business owner, living in Scottdale. You can reach him or comment on a column at billcrane@earthlink.net.
FREEPRESS
Let Us Know What You Think!
THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS encourages opinions from its readers. Please write to us and express your views. Letters should be brief, typewritten and contain the writers name, address and telephone number for verication. All letters will be considered for publication.
Send Letters To Editor, The Champion Free Press, P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; Send E-Mail to Kathy@dekalbchamp.com FAX To: (404) 370-3903 Phone: (404) 373-7779 Deadline for news releases and advertising: Thursday, one week prior to publication date. EDITORS NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reect the opinions of the editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts.
Publisher: Dr. Earl D. Glenn Managing Editor: Kathy Mitchell News Editor: Andrew Cauthen Production Manager: Kemesha Hunt Graphic Designer: Travis Hudgons The Champion Free Press is published each Friday by ACE III Communications, Inc., 114 New Street, Suite E, Decatur, GA. 30030 Phone (404) 373-7779.
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STATEMENT FROM THE PUBLISHER
We sincerely appreciate the discussion surrounding this and any issue of interest to DeKalb County. The Champion was founded in 1991 expressly to provide a forum for discourse 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.
COMMUNITY
Page 6A
Junior League of DeKalb announces 2013-14 executive board

The Junior League of DeKalb County Inc. (JLD) has announced its 2013-14 executive board, led by President Susannah Scott. Scotts one-year term began June 1. I am excited about the upcoming year with Junior League of DeKalb County Inc. as we continue to focus on improving nutrition and combating obesity within DeKalb County, Scott said. We have a very strong group of women leading us in our efforts this year, and I am thrilled to be working with them and our community partners to build on the programs we provide to our community. Scott joined JLD in 2009 and has served as technology assistant chairwoman, arrangements and training chairwoman, secretary and president-elect. Scott has also served on the board of the League of Women Voters of DeKalb County in the capacities of director, president-elect and president. During her tenure as director, she focused on producing voter guides for DeKalb County residents. In addition to her work with JLD, Scott is a contracts specialist with Iron Mountain Intellectual Property Management Inc., a division of Iron Mountain Inc. The other members of JLDs executive board are: Angela Turk, president-elect; Natalie Wilkes-Shaw, vice president of community; Suzanne Osborne, vice president of membership; Mindy Kaplan, vice president of finance; Andrea Franklin, secretary; and Amy Morelli, nominating chair. The leadership team also includes: Shara Sanders, treasurer; Rebecca Dugger, public policy chairwoman; Beth Wright, arrangements chairwoman; Krista Paseur Wilhite, fund development chairwoman; Renee Bazemore, community impact chairwoman; Sidnee Young, volunteer service coordinator; Jocelyn Mills, communications committee chairwoman; Michele NeSmith, Membership Development chairwoman; Jessica Orlando and Kelli Gress, fundraising cochairwomen; Karen Wilson, membership advisory chairwoman; and Lindsay Culp, Mary Gay House Endowment Fund board chairwoman. JLD is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers, according to a statement from the group. JLD members direct their volunteer efforts to the current community impact focus area, improving nutrition and combating obesity in DeKalb County, through hands-on volunteer activities, as well as collaborative efforts with other community organizations. Additionally, JLD provides a supportive environment for training tomorrows female community leaders while enabling our members to forge lasting friendships. For more information about JLD, visit www. jldekalb.org.
Champion of the Week Maria Rossoto

health policy. Ive always been someone who has enjoyed turning people on to healthy ways of life, Rossoto said. When I found out there was an organization that does exactly that I thought, There couldnt be a better match for me. After a year of volunteering, Rossoto was asked to take over PAHL. The nonprofit transitioned from providing small grants to directly conducting programs, including community gardening, spring and fall festivals, hosting community forums and offering free classes to south DeKalb County that promoted living a healthy lifestyle. Instead of just working in one neighborhood we decided to bring the program to the whole of south DeKalb because there are less resources here and there are more cases of diabetes and obesity, Rossoto said. Currently, the nonprofit is housed at Peace Lutheran Church off Columbia Road. Behind the church is the PAHL garden, which contains 50 plots, a tire garden and a watermelon track. In addition to the program PAHL offers the entire community, it also hosts a six-week hands-on summer gardening camp for youth in the area. Some kids havent had much fruit that hasnt come in a wrapper and when they see fresh fruit growing in a garden, they get really excited we see their thinking expand, Rossoto said. Rossoto said PAHL also offers free yoga classes and has built a walking trail adjacent to the garden. Since joining PAHL, Rossoto said she has seen her community become empowered. Slowly weve seen people kind of wake up, Rossoto said.
Since she was a little girl, Maria Rossoto has been interested in living a healthy lifestyle. Growing up in San Antonia, Texas, Rossoto said even when she was 10 years old she would borrow books about nutrition from her mother. In 2011, she began volunteering for the nonprofit Partners in Action for Healthy Living (PAHL), an offshoot of the Healthy Belvedere Initiative, while studying for a masters degree in
If you would like to nominate someone to be considered as a future Champion of the Week, please contact Kathy Mitchell at kathy@dekalbchamp.com or at (404) 373-7779, ext. 104.
AROUNDDEKALB
BROOKHAVEN
576-3341.
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COMMUNITY
Page 7A
Brookhaven announces millage rate hearings Brookhaven residents will have three opportunities to provide input on the citys proposed millage rate. The city has scheduled public hearings for: June 17 at 7 p.m. June 20 at 10:30 a.m. June 20 at 6:30 p.m. The hearings will be held at the Brookhaven Municipal Court, 2 Corporate Blvd., Suite 125 in Brookhaven. The city council is scheduled to vote on the final millage rate on July 8 at 1:30 p.m. at the Brookhaven Municipal Court. The city is currently operating under a 3.35 millage rate for fiscal year 2013 until the council and the mayor set the formal rate. Brookhavens city charter prohibits the council from raising the millage rate above 3.35 mills. We value the publics input and want to hear from both residential and commercial property owners, Mayor J. Max Davis said. State law considers the millage rate a tax increase because as a new city, Brookhaven previously had a zero millage rate. In March, the council approved a $16.465 million annual budget. The budget includes operating expenses for the city, including administration, police, community development, parks and recreation, public works, legal and other city services. The budget is contingent on DeKalb County setting the HOST sales tax credit, the tax digest and property assessments, as well as the city receiving franchise fees. The citys revenue for its first years budget will be less than in future years because the city is not drawing from a full year of revenue. For more information on the citys budget, visit http:// brookhavenga.gov/finance.html.
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DECATUR
cated at 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. For more information, call (404) 373-1653.
The Big Pop Up! returns to East Decatur Station After a successful premiere in 2012, The Big Pop Up! Decatur returns to East Decatur Station on Thursday, June 20, 6-9 p.m. Co-sponsored by The Decatur Arts Alliance and East Decatur Station, this is an all-ages, free event with ample parking. Site location is one block from the Avondale MARTA Station. A selection of arts, crafts and jewelry by local artists and artisans will be available for purchase. Acoustic music will be featured in the courtyard and live jazz will be featured at New Street Studio. Foodies may enjoy the tastes of Ducks Cosmic Kitchen, The Corner Pub and The Mobile Marlay Food Truck, and beer lovers will have an opportunity to sample products from Decaturs two newest craft breweriesThree Taverns and Blue Tarp. The Big Pop Up! was conceived by Decatur art dealer Shawn Vinson in 2012 and co-organized by the staff of East Decatur Station, a mixed-use complex of dining, retail and studios between Agnes Scott College and Avondale Estates. For a complete and up-to-date listing of details and participants, visit facebook.com/PopUpDecatur. Library to show movie Cape Fear As part of its Golden Classic Films series, the Decatur Library on Tuesday, June 18, at 2 p.m., is screening the 1962 movie Cape Fear, starring Robert Mitchum, Gregory Peck, and Polly Bergen. The movie runs 105 minutes. The series is especially designed for those 55 and older. The Decatur Library is located at 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur. For more information (404) 370-3070. Best-selling author to speak at local church Temple Grandin, known for successfully coping with autism, will speak at First Baptist Church in Decatur, Wednesday, June 19, 7-9 p.m.With a Ph.D. in animal science, six bestselling books to her credit and a selection by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people of the year, she is an accomplished figure who is in demand for lectures around the country. Her work has been noted in major newspapers and magazines, and the HBO movie about her life received seven Emmy Awards, according to an announcement of the event. First Baptist Church Decatur is lo-
History Center announces summer story series DeKalb History Centers (DHC) youth summer storytelling series is under way Wednesdays through July 31 (no session July 3). Sessions are for ages 6-12 and are $4 per child for DHC members and $6 per child for non-members. They are held 10 -11 a.m. at the Biffle Cabin, 720 W.TrinityPlace, Decatur. Coming up June 19 is Tales of the Gullah with LaDoris Davis. Travel from Africas Rice Coast to the Sea Islands of South Carolina and hear the rhythm of the drums, the sass of the calabash and experience the spirit of the stories of Brer Snake, Brer Fox, Brer Rabbit and more, an announcement from the history center states. Davis an international storyteller who has been telling tales for more than 20 years. She includes props, singing and a lot of audience participation for interactive learning. The DHC website, www. dekalbhistory.org, has a complete listing of its summer storytellers. For registration or more information, email forgey@dekalbhistory.org or call (404) 373-1088, extension 22.
The millage rate of 9.00 proposed for the annexed area is the same as that proposed for the rest of the city and is below the rollback millage rate and therefore would not constitute a tax increase for the rest of the city, according to the release.
DUNWOODY
Dave Brubeck tribute to come to Jewish Center A special tribute to jazz legend Dave Brubeck, whose work bridged the jazz and classical worlds, reaching a worldwide audience for more than half a century, will be performed at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlantas (MJCCA) Morris & Rae Frank Theatre, June 19, at 7:30 p.m. Four Atlanta musicians Alan Dynin (piano), Marshall (Mac) Isseks (saxophones), Scott Glazer (bass), and Adrian Ash (drums) team up to honor the late, great jazz ambassador in what MJCCA promises will be an evening of top-notch jazz. Tickets are $15 or $10 for MJCCA members. Senior and student discounts are available. MJCCAs Morris & Rae Frank Theatre is located at 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. For more information, call (678) 8124002 or visit www.atlantajcc.org/ boxoffice.
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DORAVILLE
City planning tax increase The city of Doraville has tentatively adopted a millage rate of 9.00. Residents are invited to a public hearing on this tax increase to be held at the City Hall, 3725 Park Avenue, Doraville, on June 17 at 6:30 p.m. An additional public hearing on this tax increase is set for 6:30 p.m. June 20 at the Doraville City Hall. This tentative millage rate will result in a tax increase of .957 mills, according to a media release by the city. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 8.043 mills.The proposed tax increase for homes with a fair market value of $75,000 is approximately $29 and the tax increase for a non-homestead property with a fair market value of $500,000 is approximately $191, according to the release. State of Georgia statutes do not specifically address the setting of the initial millage rate for a newly annexed area by a municipality, but the city is advertising a Notice of Property Tax Increase, with the associated public hearing notification, to ensure full disclosure of its intent to levy property taxes in the area annexed Dec. 31, 2012.
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LITHONIA
Career guidance expo announced An expo for job seekers is planned for June 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Big Miller Grove Baptist Church, 3800 Big Miller Grove Way in Lithonia. The event is sponsored by Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist Church, the Legacy Harvest Foundation, Beverly Cunningham Outreach Program, AARP Foundation and the Georgia Department of Labor. Featured workshops include resume writing, social media for job seekers, interviewing skills and entrepreneurship. For additional information about the career guidance expo, contact Kenneth Dinkins of the Georgia Department of Labor, DeKalb Career at (404) 298-3990 or kenneth.dinkins@ gdol.ga.gov or Cynthia Robinson at (404) 298-4821 or cynthia.robinson@ gdol.ga.gov. To register for the event, visit http://www.eventbrite.com/ event/6718317669/BCOP. To volunteer visit www.SignUpGenius.com/ go/30E0B4EA4AF22A57-volunteer1/8628720.
CLARKSTON
Clarkston park to host junior tennis session Milam Park in Clarkston will host junior tennis sessions this summer. The first session will be held June 17-27, Monday through Thursday. The session times are from 9 to 10 a.m. and from 10 to 11 a.m. The cost for the session is $10 per student. Milam Park is located at 3867 Norman Road. For more information, call Tim Palmer at (678)
LOCAL NEWS
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In May, Marla Lawson retired from the GBI after 16 years of working as Georgias premier forensic artist. Now, her daughter Kelly is following in her footsteps.
Mother and daughter give voice to the voiceless

Marla and Kelly Lawson keep forensic art in the family
by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com Marla Lawson said that a lot of her friends continue to work after retirement by maintaining websites, teaching forensic art classes and staying involved in the departments they once worked for, but she wont. I just want to be a bum, said Lawson, who retired May 31 after 16 years as the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) forensic artist. Throughout her career, Lawson has drawn hundreds, if not thousands, of sketches. In her office, sketches of suspects and pictures of the reconstructed skulls of victims cover the walls. Im not going to do a thingif I havent got it done yet, Im just not going to get it done. Theres more to life than working. Ive been working since I was 15 and I dont want to work no more, Lawson said. Lawson began her career sketching tourists in Underground Atlanta and worked as a sketch artist for the Atlanta Police Department for 15 years. Before joining the GBI, she had a brief stint as a sandwich artisan at Subwayshe speaks fondly of those days. One day, while she was working at the shop, Lawson said, a man came in with a gun stuffed into his pants and tried to rob the store. Customers rushed the man and nobody was hurt, but the suspect escaped. I went home that night and drew his face and when the deputies came to get the sketches they offered me a job, Lawson said. She was hired by the GBI soon after. Several years ago, Lawson began wondering who would take her place. I would just hate to leave the victims that need help just hanging with nowhere to turn, Lawson said. As she neared retirement, Lawson began to worry that she wouldnt be able to find someone to take her place. She said she had lots of people looking for a job, but none of them were up to her standards. Thats when her daughter Kelly Lawson came into the picture. Honest to goodness it was a last minute spur of the moment thing. I was desperate because I knew I was at the worn-out state63 years oldI found it difficult to drive from Atlanta to Savannah and be able to walk, much less draw a face, Marla said. Kelly, who studied art in college, said one day her mother walked up to her and asked, Can you draw a face? Marla said if her daughter hadnt shown some talent she would have dropped it right then, but she said Kellys drawing was good enough for her to learn. Shes so much better now and shes only been doing it for six months, Marla said. Im shocked its Kelly taking my place actually. Kelly, who was working in an office job, said her new job at the GBI is an exciting life change and a big career step up. Although she has only been working as a forensic artist for six months, she said her job is teaching her much more than how to draw. Its teaching me so many wonderful things about how to love people, Kelly said. I know that sounds like a strange thing but Im a very shy person and I dont go out of my way to be sociableI didnt before this job. You find yourself really connecting with people on a different level after working in this job for a while. Both Marla and Kelly said that being a forensic artist means theyre part artist and part grief counselor. They are one of the first people victims tells their stories to, stories that force them to relive a sometimes horrific experience. Marla said, even if nobody gets arrested and a sketch doesnt lead anywhere, just telling their stories to someone can help victims cope. Its the hardest part, Marla said. And, everybody is so different and has a different way of communicating, Kelly said. Looking back on her career, Marla said some of the high points include her 1996 sketch that helped police catch Eric Rudolph, who was later arrested for the Centennial Olympic Park bombing that killed two and injured 111 people. Marla has also made a significant dent in reconstructing the hundreds of unidentified remains at the GBI, one of her passions she said. Now, she is teaching Kelly everything she has learned and has stopped worrying about who will take her place. If Kelly has any questions, Marla said, She knows where I live. She doesnt have a sketch every day so she could swing by my house and bring a bone with her, because we didnt have a lot of time to work on that, she could bring one over and work on that at my breakfast table, Marla said.
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Student sues University System of Georgia, alleging Open Records violations

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com Former Georgia Perimeter College (GPC) student journalist David Schick filed a lawsuit June 10 against the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) for failing to produce public records. The suit, filed in Fulton County Superior Court, is seeking an injunction directing the USG to comply with the Georgia Open Records Act. It also requests all fees associated with the requested records be waived. Schick requested records in 2012 concerning a $25 million budget shortfall that occurred at Georgia Perimeter College that year. Mr. Schicks request for records have at every turn, been met with obstruction, delay, and at times outright misrepresentations, the suit alleges. The budget shortfall, disclosed May 7, 2012, resulted in the layoff of ing from the budget and how it could go undetected for such a long period in time, Schick said. The buck stops with the Board of Regents and the records I requested could go a long way toward revealing what officials knew and when they knew it. These are open records and the public has a right to know. In July 2012, Schick filed two separate requests, one with GPC officials and one with the Board of Regents, requesting emails, memos and other correspondence regarding the budget shortfall. Neither the college nor the Board of Regents has promptly responded to Schicks request as required by law, the suit alleges. Officials also asked for $2,963 to retrieve the documents, a sum the suit claims is exorbitant. The Student Press Law Center, a nonprofit press-rights group based in Virginia, helped Schick obtain a pro-bono lawyer who eventually talked the USG into lowering its initial $2,963 request for the documents to $291. The lawsuit further charges that the USG claimed it is entitled to withhold key documents because of an ongoing investigation, but Schicks lawyer Daniel Levitas asserts that no such exemption is applicable in this case and the records should have been promptly provided. Unfortunately, officials at both the Board of Regents and [GPC] have used all manner of tactics to discourage my client and delay his receipt of these requested records, said Levitas, GPC is asking for $927 for the documents Schick requested, a fee which both he and Levitas said is too much, and to date has not produced any of them. I continue to pursue these records because I do not want to be just another journalist who reports on a major story without any meaningful follow up. The special audit review produced by the Board of Regents never fully explained what happened and how the college could amass an initial $16 million, later turned into $25 million, deficit, Schick said. Officials from both the USG and GPC were contacted for this story but it was their policy not to comment on pending litigation.
Schick
282 GPC employees and the dismissal of President Anthony Tricolli. Shortly thereafter Schick, then editor-in-chief of the GPC student newspaper, The Collegian, filed Open Records Act requests with GPC and the Board of Regents concerning the budget shortfall and the layoffs. According to the lawsuit, the USG has not produced all the records Schick requested and has engaged in numerous delaying tactics. The public deserves to know how so much money could have gone miss-
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Cross Keys teacher considering U.S. Senate bid

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Dr. Aubury Webb, a student support specialist at Cross Keys High School, is considering a U.S. Senate bid in 2014. Webb, who lives in Rockdale County, said June 5 that he is meeting with members of the Democratic Party to garner support. Im putting my pieces together and Im definitely looking at it, he said. Webb, 64, is a 1975 graduate of Morehouse College. He spent 40 years serving in the military and 22 years with AT&T. He returned to school in 2006 to pursue a doctorate degree. During that time he was a substitute teacher in the DeKalb County School District and became a fulltime teacher at Cross Keys in 2011. Webb said his NOTICEOFPUBLICHEARING consideration of the senate bid stems from his passion to help people of all races and political parties. Weve got to stop this Im a Democrat, Republican, Libertarian or whatever, he said. Once youre elected into office you become a servant leader for the people of the United States. Thats one of the points I want to drive home to the people, he added.
Pet of the Week

Name: Cupcake Female Adult Spayed
Cupcake is a Labrador Retriever/Beagle mix. She is about 5 years old. She is medium sized; weighing about 30 pounds. Cupcake is very sweet and will pose for the camera if you hold treats in your hand; as you can tell by her great pose in this picture. She is very happy to be with people and will try to give you kisses. She loves to go for walks and to be scratched behind her ear. She enjoys being outside and going for a walk but you dont have to take her jogging to burn off her excess energy. Cupcake is looking for a home with a nice, loving person she can call her own. If you would like to make a home for Cupcake; please come by the shelter to visit her; she loves company.
If interested in adopting Cupcake, send an email to both addresses below for a prompt reply
TheCityofDoravilleisofferingasecondUrbanRedevelopmentPlanforCounciladoption.The planaddressescommercialareasinCouncilDistrictOne.Apublichearingtosolicitpublic inputwillbeheldat6:30pmonMonday,June17,2013atDoravilleCityHalllocatedat3725 ParkAvenue,Doraville,Ga.30340.ThedraftplanisavailableforpublicreviewintheCity ClerksOfficeatDoravilleCityHall.
Jamie Martinez Jsmartinez@dekalbcountyga.gov Christine Kaczynski Ckaczynski@dekalbcountyga.gov
DeKalb County Animal Shelter

404.294.2165
REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE
FOR
Former state court judge New report finds racial bias in marijuana arrests in DeKalb County dies of throat cancer
by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com A former DeKalb County State Court judged died in his home June 2 of complications from throat cancer. Edward Etienne Carriere Jr., of Decatur, served as a DeKalb County state court judge from 1998, when he was appointed to the bench by then-Gov. Zell Miller, until his retirement in 2010. He was 71. Judge Carriere was a well-respected jurist whose sage counsel will be sorely missed in the legal community. He will be remembered by public officials and residents across DeKalb for his unwavering 45 years of service as a judge. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, said DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis, who ordered all flags on county property to be lowered to honor the former judge. Born Dec. 7, 1941, in Brooklyn, N.Y., Carriere grew up in Dallas, Texas. He graduated from Loyola University College of Law in 1967, and served in the U.S. Army from 1967-1969. Carriere began his legal career with the U. S. Department of Health and Urban Development, then worked as an assistant district attorney in DeKalb County before entering into private law practice in Decatur. While in private practice, Carriere served as an associate county recorders court judge for nine years and as a Decatur municipal judge for 24 years. Carriere was a member of the state bars of Louisiana and Georgia. He served on the Board of Governors for 20 years and was a member of the Council of State Court Judges, serving as president in 2003 and 2004. Among his many passions were his volunteer work with the State Bar of Georgia High School Mock Trial competition, where he served as an evaluator and judge at regional, state and national competitions, and teaching seminars with the Institute of Continuing Judicial Education. I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Judge Carriere, wrote Jay Eisner, of Loganville, on an online guestbook. He was such a wonderful man. He could lift spirits in any room he entered and [was] truly the first person in my minds eye when I hear the word gentleman. As a police officer in his courtroom, I might not have always agreed with a decision he made, but I never doubted for a moment it was based on compassion, caring, and an unswerving commitment to fairness. Connie Reamey-Elder, of Decatur, wrote, Carriere was the first judge I worked for and the best....he was like having your father hold your hand in the court room kind, caring and patience. We all loved him and will miss him dearly. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Jane Rohrabaugh Carriere, daughter Elizabeth Carriere; son Edward III (Beau) and daughter-in-law Kelly Steele Carriere. The funeral was June 6 at Decatur First United Methodist Church. by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Blacks are almost six times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than Whites in DeKalb County, according to the American Civil Liberties Union report. In a report titled The War on Marijuana in Black and White, released on June 3, ACLU said Blacks in DeKalb are 5.8 times more likely to be arrested than Whites, which is fourth behind Gordon County (14.1 times), Fulton County (7.5 times) and Oconee County (7.3 times). Among counties with the largest populations, DeKalb is ranked third behind Fulton and Gwinnett (2.4 times). The report also finds that, on average, a Black person is 3.73 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than a White person, even though Blacks and Whites use marijuana at similar rates. ACLUs report is the first to examine marijuana possession arrest rates by race for all 50 states, and the District of Columbia, and their respective counties from 2001 to 2010. The report relied on the Federal Bureau of Investigations Uniform Crime Reporting Program and the United States Census annual county population estimates to document arrest rates by race per 100,000 for marijuana possession. Nationwide, there were more than 8 million marijuana arrests in the United States between 2001 and 2010, 88 percent of which were for possession, according to the report. Marijuana arrests have increased between 2001 and 2010 and now account for 52 percent of all drug arrests in the United States, and marijuana possession arrests account for 46 percent of all drug arrests. According to the report, DeKalb is ranked sixth among all counties in America with the largest percent increases in marijuana possession arrests. In 2001, DeKalb had an arrest rate of 41.2. That rate increased to 230.0 in 2010, which is a 459.5 percent increase. The 459.5 percentage increase is second among the largest counties in America with the largest percent increase in marijuana possession arrest rates. Georgia was in the top five of states that made the highest numbers of arrests of Blacks for marijuana possession in 2010 with 20,765 arrests. Georgia is behind
LOCAL NEWS
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New York (40,326), Illinois (29,083) and Florida (26,711) on that list. In that same year, 65.1 percent of drug arrests in Georgia were for marijuana possession, more than the 34.9 percent of other drug offenses. Georgia also had a 33.1 percent difference in the Black percentage of population and marijuana possession arrests, which was fifth in the country. In 2010, Georgia had a Black population of 30.9 percent and 63.9 percent of Blacks were arrested for marijuana possession. The report also includes a breakdown of the best estimate of the fiscal cost of marijuana possession enforcement by state in terms of police expenditures, judicial and legal expenditures, and correction expenditures. In Georgia, the police expenditures in 2010 were $58.3 million, judicial and legal expenditures were $44.4 million, and correction were $19.2 million. In total, money spent on enforcing marijuana possession laws were $121.9 million. Nationwide, there was one marijuana arrest every 37 seconds, and states spent combined more than $3.6 billion enforcing marijuana possession laws.
NOTICE
The Mayor and Council of the City of Pine Lake hereby announces that the millage rate will set at a meeting to be held at the Pine Lake Clubhouse located at 300 Clubhouse Drive, Pine Lake, GA 30072 on June 25, 2013 beginning at 7:30 PM Pursuant to O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-32 the City hereby publishes the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.
INCORPORATED
Real & Personal Motor Vehicles Mobile Homes Timber - 100% Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Digest Less M& O Exemptions
CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
24,593,428 1,155,430 23,763,315 1,246,900 23,212,367 1,182,020 19,484,475 1,119,240 15,898,594 1,141,400
2013
12,792,852 1,177,580
25,748,858 1,087,370 $24,661,488
25,010,215 1,063,817 $23,946,398 0
24,394,387 1,069,933 $23,324,454
20,603,715 1,059,679 $19,544,036
17,039,994 1,003,602 $16,036,392
13,970,412 968,437 $13,001,975
Net M & O Digest State Forest Land Assistance Grant Value Adjusted Net M&O Digest Gross M&O Millage Less Rollbacks Net M&O Millage Net Taxes Levied
Net Taxes $ Increase/Decrease Net Taxes % Increase/Decrease
24,661,488 14.300 14.300 $352,659 $12,732 1.03%
23,946,398 14.300 14.300 $342,433 -$10,226 -2.90%
23,324,454 17.100 17.100 $398,849 $56,416 14.00%
19,544,036 20.604 19.600 $383,063 $15,786 -3.90%
16,036,392 24.190 24.190 $387,210 $3,489 -0.79%
13,001,975 29.824 29.824 $387,770 $560 0.00%
LOCAL NEWS
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DeKalb school board considers dual accreditation

by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com The DeKalb County school board is considering an extra layer of accreditation for its high schools. Dual accreditation would provide an opportunity for more accountability in the system, said school board member John Coleman. Currently the school district is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) through its parent organization AdvancED. Describing the DeKalb County School District as a system in chaos and conflict AdvancED placed the district on accreditation probation Dec. 31. The yearlong probation would give the district time to complete a list of actions to retain its accreditation. The probation triggered a state law giving the governor the authority to replace school board members of a district facing a loss of ac creditation. Gov. Nathan Deal replaced six DeKalb school board members in February after suspending them pending reinstatement hearings. Since the accreditation problems, some county stakeholders have pushed for dual enrollment. What were not trying to do here in any way is replace SACS, Coleman said. Nor are we trying to send a message that were not 100 percent confident that we will maintain SACS accreditation. Were confident in the superintendent and his staff. SACS remains our primary priority right now, Coleman said. Its importantthat we not only meet but exceed all of their standards. Dual accreditation, Coleman said, would for a minimal cost provide a second set of eyes on at least the high schools in the system that would give us high school level evaluation of whether each of those schools meet accrediting criteria. Currently, SACS accredits the school district, not individual schools, Coleman said. This will allow us to gauge whether those high schools were performing where we want them toand allow us tointervene where we feel thats not the case and focus attention, Coleman said. School board member Joyce Morley said this was not the time to add more work to district and school personnel already addressing SACSs concerns. When youre in the middle of a river you dont start taking on more stuff, she said. Were in the middle of a crisis here. I would like to see us deal with that crisis. Morley said the dual accreditation movement is motivated by fear. As Ive talked with people in the communitymost of the parents [believe] that this was a way outin order to be able to keep accreditation for their students to go to college, Morley said. To make sure they are not stifled academically, theyre looking for an alternative way of making sure their children get through school. Morley said the school board needed more time to study the benefits of dual accreditation. Do we have to have this in order for our children to be successful? she asked. I think we are moving too fast. Im really concerned about us sort of jumping on a bandwagon. Robert Boyd, a consultant with Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC), said there are benefits to having dual accreditation. GAC was initially organized to improve high schools. Now it accredits all school levels, he said. GAC, an 110-year-old agency, focuses primarily on the local school, not the school board or district staff, Boyd said. GAC is not in competition at all with SACS, Boyd said. GAC is recognized by the state Board of Regents. We are recognized even by Ivy League schools. I dont feel you can go wrong with a dual accreditation situation. The accreditation process is not costly or time-consuming, Boyd said. It would take a staff member in each school approximately four to five days to gather the documents for the accreditation. GAC could visit all of the countys 22 high schools in 12 days, he said. Schools are re-accredited every five years. The cost is $50 per year per school to be a member of GAC. The accreditation review costs $250 per consultant per day. Since the DeKalb school district was one time a member of GAC, the high schools could be reviewed and accredited by GAC as early as September, when the GAC commissioner meet next, Boyd said. During the site visits at the schools, GAC consultants tour the entire building. We want to see everything you have, Boyd said. We check everything from restrooms to locker rooms to storage rooms [and] classrooms. We get lots of our questions answered as we tour the facility. Then we sit down with the administrator and go over the documentation. Boyd said the documentation review entailed just pulling together some things you have in your office already, including a certificate of occupancy, teacher certifications and proof of the right kind of personnel for the numbers of students you
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE The Governing Authority of the City of Avondale Estates has tentatively adopted a millage rate which will require an increase in the property taxes by 16.84 percent. All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at City Hall, 21 North Avondale Plaza, Avondale Estates, GA 30002 on Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at 5:30 p.m. and Monday, June 24, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 12.165 mills, an increase of 1.75 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 10.412 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $200,000.00 is approximately $97.00. The proposed increase on non-homestead property with a fair market value of $200,000 is approximately $97.00. The proposed tax increase for a property with the county basic homestead exemption is $97.00. CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY CITY Real & Personal Motor Vehicles Mobile Homes Timber - 100% Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Digest Less M& O Exemptions Net M & O Digest State Forest Land Assistance Grant Value Adjusted Net M&O Digest Gross M&O Millage Less Rollbacks Net M&O Millage Net Taxes Levied Net Taxes $ Increase Net Taxes % Increase 11.000 $1,820,775 $123,755 7.29% 11.000 $1,835,502 $14,727 0.81% 11.000 $1,816,036 -$19,466 -1.06% 10.957 $1,821,315 $5,279 0.29% 10.957 $1,542,807 -$278,508 -15.29% 12.165 $1,818,586 $275,779 17.88% 165,729,484 204,451 165,525,033 167,032,705 168,873 166,863,832 165,213,345 119,131 165,094,214 166,326,326 102,456 166,223,870 141,036,725 231,089 140,805,636 149,631,362 138,061 149,493,301 2008 156,800,494 8,928,990 2009 157,621,535 9,411,170 2010 157,295,925 7,917,420 2011 158,471,976 7,854,350 2012 133,021,745 8,014,980 2013 141,179,902 8,451,460
Still dealing with accreditation probation from one agency, the DeKalb County Board of Education is considering dual accreditation for its high schools. Photos by Andrew Cauthen
have in the building. You being a state school, all of that for the most part has already been taken care of, Boyd said. Its just a matter of pulling it together. Ramona Tyson, the districts chief strategy officer, said, Dual accreditation is not an uncommon thing. It is actually encouraged. Tyson said some school district staff members were concerned about the resources needed to pursue GAC accreditation while still working through the process of getting off SACS probation. The school board decided to table the consideration of GAC accreditation until the July meeting. Boyd said a site visit of the high schools in January or February would still allow enough time to receive GAC accreditation, which would be retroactive to the beginning of the 2013-14 academic year.
165,525,033 11.000
166,863,832 11.000
165,094,214 11.000
166,223,870 10.957
140,805,636 10.957
149,493,301 12.165
LOCAL NEWS
Page 12A
HEALTH & WELLNESS SUMMIT

Empowering the Community for Change
Sponsored by DeKalb County Board of Health
THURSDAY, JUNE 13
8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
DeKalb County Board of Education

Robert R. Freeman Center, Administration and Instructional Complex (AIC) 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Lunch will be served!
Go to www.dekalbhealth.net/healthsummit
Register TODAY!
AFTER THE SUMMIT...

Live Healthy DeKalb Community Coalition Meeting 1st Wednesday of Every Month
DeKalb County Board of Health 445 Winn Way, Decatur, GA 30031 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. For more information, call (404) 508-7847 or email livehealthydekalb@gmail.com
JOIN US!
REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE
LOCAL NEWS
Page 13A
Exhibits detail the histories of such diseases as AIDS, which was first identified during the latter half of the 20th century. (Photos by Bob Kelley)
CDC museum chronicles agencys role in solving global medical mysteries

Part I: Science meets art by Bob Kelley Many people have fond memories of a wise parent or grandparent who was always there to offer first aid for childhood scrapes or ailments, often with the promise to make it all better. For the past 67 years, scientists and researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), based in Atlanta, have played a similar role on a much grander scale as health guardians and disease detectives to the nation and the world. Their painstaking work has helped cure some of humanitys most scurrilous diseases, not to mention putting safeguards into place to protect current and future generations. Many of the CDCs biggest victories are chronicled at the David J. Sencer CDC Museum where visitors can see firsthand how efforts by CDC scientists have rid the world of smallpox and explored preventative measures against villainous health issues such as malaria, Legionnaires disease, polio, AIDS, secondhand smoke and tainted water supplies, to name a few. The CDC is the ultimate vanguard for public health efforts to prevent and control infectious and chronic diseases, injuries, workplace hazards, disabilities and environmental health threats. As part of an organization dedicated to using science, cutting-edge innovation and collaboration to protect and improve lives around the world, said Judy M. Gantt, museum director, we are delighted to feature permanent and temporary exhibits that educate visitors about the value of public health, while exploring our history and accomplishments. While reference to the CDC is often used in movies and television shows to lend credibility to a fictional plot, many people are actually unaware of the federal agencys real global scientific scope. A major component of the U.S.
The museum includes exhibits of Welcoming visitors to the CDC Museum is The Messengers, a equipment used to diagnosis and sculpture by Lameck Bonjisi of Zimbabwe. The work symbolizes the museums mission to educate all who visit about the intertreat diseases over the years. twined common bond of public health, culture and community.
Department of Health and Human Services, the CDC is considered the nations preSee CDC on Page 24A
Searching for Our Sons and Daughters:

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

Now showing on DCTV!
DCTV Your Emmy Award-winning news source of DeKalb County news. Available on Comcast Cable Channel 23.
The Champion Weather

Seven Day Forecast
Scat'd T-storms High: 90 Low: 69 Isolated T-storms High: 87 Low: 65 Sunny High: 88 Low: 68 Mostly Sunny High: 88 Low: 70 Isolated T-storms High: 89 Low: 75 Sunny High: 91 Low: 75
June 13, 2013

Todays Regional Map
Dunwoody 88/68 Smyrna 89/69 Doraville 89/69 Atlanta 90/69 College Park 91/69 Union City 91/69
Detailed Local Forecast

Today we will see mostly sunny skies with a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, high of 90, humidity of 43%. West wind 10 to 20 mph. The record high for today is 98 set in 1958. Expect mostly cloudy skies tonight with a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, overnight low of 69.
Weather History
June 13, 1984 - Severe thunderstorms struck Denver, deluging the city with five inches of rain and leaving up to six feet of water in some places. Softball size hail smashed windshields and ripped through metal cars. Snowplows had to be called out. June 14, 1903 - The Heppner Disaster occurred in Oregon. A cloudburst in the hills sent a flood down Willow Creek and a 20-foot wall of water swept away a third of the town in minutes, killing 236 and causing 100 million dollars in damage.
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Lilburn 89/69
Last Week's Local Almanac

Date Hi Lo Normals Precip Tuesday 88 66 84/65 0.00" Wednesday 85 69 85/65 3.54" Thursday 78 68 85/65 0.02" Friday 85 67 85/66 0.16" Saturday 83 65 85/66 0.00" Sunday 82 68 85/66 0.42" Monday 78 65 86/66 0.18" Rainfall. . . . . . . . 4.32" Average temp . . 74.8 Normal rainfall. . 0.78" Average normal 75.3 Departure . . . . . +3.54" Departure . . . . . -0.5 Day Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Sunrise 6:25 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m. 6:26 a.m.
Decatur Snellville 90/69 90/69 Lithonia 91/69 Morrow 91/69
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
Hampton 92/70
Local Sun/Moon Chart This Week

Sunset 8:49 p.m. 8:49 p.m. 8:49 p.m. 8:50 p.m. 8:50 p.m. 8:50 p.m. 8:50 p.m.
TUESDAY
First 6/16 Full 6/23
WEDNESDAY
Sunny High: 90 Low: 72
Moonrise Moonset 10:51 a.m. Next Day 11:47 a.m. 12:07 a.m. 12:43 p.m. 12:40 a.m. 1:41 p.m. 1:13 a.m. 2:41 p.m. 1:46 a.m. 3:43 p.m. 2:22 a.m. 4:49 p.m. 3:01 a.m.
Tonights Planets
Last 6/29 New 7/8 Mercury Venus Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Rise Set 8:13 a.m. 10:33 p.m. 7:52 a.m. 10:18 p.m. 5:34 a.m. 7:45 p.m. 6:47 a.m. 9:05 p.m. 4:50 p.m. 3:59 a.m. 2:42 a.m. 3:07 p.m.
Local UV Index
0 - 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+
National Weather Summary This Week

The Northeast will see scattered showers and thunderstorms today, mostly clear to partly cloudy skies with a few showers Friday and Saturday, with the highest temperature of 87 in East St. Louis, Ill. The Southeast will experience mostly clear to partly cloudy skies and a few thunderstorms today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 99 in Hoffman, N.C. In the Northwest, there will be scattered showers and thunderstorms today, mostly clear to partly cloudy Friday and Saturday, with the highest temperature of 94 in Torrington, Wyo. The Southwest will see mostly clear to partly cloudy skies today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 109 in Bullhead City, Ariz.
Weather Trivia
Who first rainbows? explained
StarWatch By Gary Becker - Planetary Dance Continues

The astronomical story of this week still focuses on the WNW as Mercury and Venus play in the bright twilight of late spring evenings. Mercury remains in the lead all week, but if you watch it from night to night, it will begin to slow in its motion as it shortly begins its trek towards the sun. It is farthest from the sun on June 24 when it is at its greatest angular distance east of the sun, but its altitude and brightness will have decreased substantially by that time. Even during the week of June 9, binoculars are strongly recommended to see Mercury clearly. Go outdoors about 45 minutes after sundown and look towards the WNW in the same area of the sky as sunset. The most important consideration will be an unhindered western horizon. Venus should be easily seen with just the eye, even during hazy conditions. During the first few days of the week, view Venus using binoculars. Then scan less than one full field of view to the left and above Venus to spot much fainter Mercury. Monday and Tuesday, June 10/11, bring a thin waxing crescent moon with plenty of earthshine to add luster to the dimming twilight hour. The moon will be to the left of Mercury and Venus. As the week unfolds, Venus and Mercury will be closing on each other. Mercury will appear to be circling counterclockwise around Venus by the end of the week. The week of June 16 positions Venus and Mercury less than three degrees apart, and this close twirl continues through the summer solstice, June 21, as Mercury dips below Venus and heads towards the horizon. On June 19, both planets are nearly horizonal to the horizon. Mercury will be to the left of Venus and less than two degrees apart, an easy view through binoculars, especially because of Venus brightness. By the onset of the week of June 23, Mercury exits the scene leaving only Venus as the sole guardian of the west after sundown. www.astronomy.org
Answer: Theodoric, a monk, explained the reflection and refraction process in 1304.
UV Index 0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very High, 11+: Extreme Exposure
LOCAL NEWS
Page 14A
NEWS Briefs
From left, Central (DeKalb) Perimeter CID Chair John Heagy; Lt. James W. Berg; Sgt. Donald B. Barden; MPO Tracy Redding and Perimeter CIDs President and CEO Yvonne Williams.
Perimeter CIDs present Traffic Hero awards

When the Central (DeKalb) Perimeter Community Improvement District (CID) was formed 13 years ago, the first item on its agenda was to partner with off-duty police officers to prevent gridlock at key intersections along some of the districts busiest corridors. Since that time, the DeKalb and Fulton Perimeter CIDs have spent $6.6 million to hire the off-duty officers from DeKalb and Fulton counties and the cities of Dunwoody and Sandy Springs. In addition to rush hours, the officers also are used during holidays to accommodate the increase in car and pedestrian traffic in the Perimeter area. In recognition of their service, Perimeter CID President and CEO Yvonne Williams recently presented the first Traffic Hero awards for exemplary service to keep Perimeter moving to 10-year veterans of Perimeter CIDs traffic detail program: Sgt. Donald B. Barden, Lt. James W. Berg and MPO Tracy Redding. Each officer received the PCIDs eagle award and a gift certificate. We are proud of our partnership with these dedicated law enforcement officers and are pleased with their continued commitment to the well-being of Perimeters commuters, Williams said. Thanks to the work of these officers, commuters can get around the Perimeter area more easily at peak driving times, Williams said. Each weekday, approximately 20 officers are placed throughout the Perimeter district to help prevent congestion at key locations such as Ashford Dunwoody Road and Hammond Drive, Peachtree Dunwoody Road and Hammond Drive and Abernathy Road at Glenlake Parkway. The officers make a noticeable difference in preventing the blockage of intersections during Perimeters busiest hours, Williams said.In addition to allowing traffic to flow early against signals when possible, meaning less time spent waiting for a light, the officers are also available to assist in the event of an accident.As they are already in the area, they are able to immediately respond and address any problems as they occur.
It is essential we ask our residents what they want to do about new cities in DeKalb, Oliver said. The more people who participate and engage in the discussion, the better the result might be. More than 250 people attended the meeting and 107 attendees returned surveys. According to the survey results, one-third of participants are interested in being part of a new city, one-third do not have any interest in being a part of a new city, and another one-third of those surveyed were undecided. When asked what proposed city they would like to be a part of, the city of Briarcliff was the most popular choice, with 57 percent of respondents stating that they would like to be a part of that city. When asked why they want to be a part of a new city, the top response was local control of zoning. More taxes was the top response when participants were asked why they may not want to be a part of a new city. The May 6 town hall meeting was hosted by members of the DeKalb legislative delegation who had sponsored bills pertaining to new cities. Sponsored by Oliver, the meeting also had participation from among DeKalb County commissioners, leaders of neighborhood associations, and representatives of community groups involved in cityhood efforts. During the Georgia General Assemblys 2014 legislative session, several cityhood or annexations bills may be considered that could lead to new areas being annexed into Chamblee and Decatur, as well as create new DeKalb cities of Druid Hills, LaVista Hills, Lakeside, Stonecrest, City of DeKalb and Tucker.
Sheriff, delegates travel to Istanbul for conference

DeKalb County Sheriff Thomas Brown is part of a group of elected officials, individuals and other sheriffs on an 11-day conference in Istanbul, Turkey. Sponsors of the conference and accompanying excursion have a goal of fostering cooperative economic, educational and cultural relationships between Turkish and U. S. officials. The trip, which runs through June 17, includes visits to various sites such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Turkish Grand National Assembly to increase the understanding of government affairs, economic development and the religious and cultural diversity of the Turkish people. In a media release before the trip, Brown said that he is honored to be a delegate and will be very interested in the Turkish judicial system and their political perspective, considering their unique positioning in the Middle East. Brown also expressed an interest in their renewed relationship with Israel. Past participants have included State Sen. Michele Henson, Congressman Hank Johnson, GBI Director Vernon Keenan and executives from the Georgia Department of Economic Development. This years invitees were nominated by past participants. This will be Browns third trip to the Middle East having previously traveled to Israel twice to study the countrys law enforcement and military efforts. The cost of the trip is being shared by Brown and the Istanbul Center.
Dunwoodys millage wont rise as property values increase

The city of Dunwoody will consider setting the millage rate for real estate at a maximum of 2.74 mills following the recent revaluation of real property tax assessments, preserving the same millage rate since incorporation in 2009. The city received notice of its first ever increase in the real and personal tax digest for 2013 as a result of the revaluation of real property tax assessments, according to a Dunwoody media release. Notwithstanding this small yearly increase in the overall tax digest for real property, the digest has dropped by more than 10 percent since the citys incorporation in 2009, according to the release. This decline in citywide tax digest values amounts to more than $400 million over the past five years. Dunwoody property owners may see an increase or a decrease in their real estate taxes in 2013, depending on whether individual property gained or lost value this year, according to the release.The city of Dunwoody does not have direct control or influence over the valuations of the tax assessors office. The city of Dunwoody will hold three public hearings to receive comment from taxpayers on aspects of the recent revaluation of real property tax assessments. The public is invited to attend information meetings June 25 at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Dunwoody City Hall, 41 Perimeter Center East. The city council will vote on a final tax rate for fiscal year 2013 7 p.m. June 25.
Body found on campus of local college

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com The body discovered on the Georgia Perimeter College (GPC) Clarkston Campus June 10 has been identified as Alpha Oumar Diallo, 23, of Stone Mountain. An autopsy performed on Diallo June 11 revealed he died as a result of strangulation and blunt force injuries to the head. He was last seen June 9 at 4 p.m. at his home in Stone Mountain. Officials at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) said a passerby found Diallos body at approximately 7 a.m. June 10 while walking on North Indian Creek Road at the Georgia Perimeter College (GPC) campus in Clarkston. According to GBI spokeswoman Sherry Lang, the passerby noticed a male body lying in a grassy area approximately 30 feet from the sidewalk. Lang said the person who found the body called 911 and GPC campus police were notified. EMTs responded to the scene where they determined the person to be deceased, Lang said. Officials said Diallo was not enrolled at GPC. He is a citizen of French Guinea in West Africa and has been a resident in the United States since 2008. Anyone in the area of 662 North Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston, June 9 who may have seen Diallo or has information regarding this investigation is asked to call the GBI Tipline 1 (800) 547-8477.
State representative releases cityhood survey results

State Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver (D-Decatur) May 31 released the results of a survey given to DeKalb County residents at a recent town hall meeting. DeKalb residents who attended the May 6 town hall meeting were asked to give feedback regarding the creation of new cities in DeKalb County.
LOCAL NEWS
Page 15A
Awards Continued From Page 1A

Second Place in Sports Writing, went to former News Editor Robert Naddra, who died a few days after last years convention. The presenter paused at the announcement of his award to pay tribute to Naddras career as a journalist. Other awards won by The Champion at this years Georgia Press Association convention, held June 6-8 at the Jekyll Island Club, are: Religion Coverage, Third Place Business Coverage, Kathy Mitchell, Second Place Education Coverage, Daniel Beauregard, Second Place Photo Essay, Daniel Beauregard, Third Place Spot News Photo, Andrew Cauthen, Third Place Sports Photo, Travis Hudgons, Second Place Sports Photo, Travis Hudgons, Third Place Editorial Page, Second Place Editorial Writing, Kathy Mitchell, Second Place Serious Column, Kathy Mitchell, Second Place Investigative Reporting, Andrew Cauthen, Second Place Page One, Kemesha Hunt, Third Place Layout & Design, Kemesha Hunt, Third Place Local News Coverage, Third Place
Arabia Continued From Page 1A

informal poll of my coworkers proved Astroves assertion to be correct. Many people are unaware that Arabia Mountain is located within the boundaries of DeKalb County or that it is part of a federally designated National Heritage Area. The Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve encompasses approximately 2,500 acres just south of Interstate 20 and west of the Stonecrest Mall area. It is actually owned by DeKalb County and operated by the county parks and recreation department. The nature preserve is part of the larger Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area that is administered by the National Park Service and includes the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Rockdale County, Panola Mountain State Park, Flat Rock Archives and Atlanta Wild Animal Rescue Effort (AWARE). The nature preserve is home to five endangered plant species, including the bright red diamorpha that flourish in the many pools of water found on the crest of Arabia Mountain. Adding to the natural beauty of the granite and the few trees that grow on the mountain, the diamorphas vibrant red provides a striking contrast to the seemingly endless gray of the rock. Also within the preserve are 20-plus miles of Americans with Disabilities (ADA)-compliant paved hike and bike trails that link to Panola Mountain, Stonecrest Mall, downtown Lithonia and portions of the South River. Bicycles are only allowed on paved trails; hiking is permitted on all marked trails and on the rock outcrop surface except where vegetation and/or water are found. Free ranger-led trail hikes are offered twice weekly at the preserve. Each hike is different and tailored to the dynamics of the group, according to Astrove. While leading the hike that showcases the features of the preserve, Astrove said he enjoys allowing visitors to discover the wonders of the preserve on their own while he shares tidbits of information about the natural, historic and cultural features of the property. They are amazed to experience the grandeur of this special place that includes 360-degree mountaintop views, wildlife, historic homes and quarry ruins, and off-the-beaten-path rewards like secret waterfalls and vast prairies tucked away in the forest only for the adventurous to see. People leave inspired. Its a mind, body and spirit experience out here, Astrove said. Quarterly environmental education programs also are offered free to interested groups. Content can be tailored specifically to the needs of group participants. My recent visit was only the second in eight years and though I have been aware of the existence of the preserve, I never realized the vastness and varieties of species until our threehour hike. Starting at the Nature Center, Astrove and I were in what seemed to be wilderness within five minutes. Up a winding trail and through a relatively flat area, the horizon changed dramatically. A beautiful arched mountain ridge with sparse evergreens dotting the landscape is before us and there are pools of red diamorpha with sunlight bouncing off puddles on the rock. As we approached the summit, my eyes were flitting from one amazing view to another. Astrove suggested that I stand and turn in a complete circle and describe what I saw. What I saw was a totally unspoiled vista, save one unrecognizable road in the distance. Everything else was nature in all her beauty. We then began our descent toward Mountain Lake and saw the reflection of sunlight on the crystal clear water. Fed by rain and water that is naturally filtered as it makes its way down from the highest peaks of the mountain, the lake is amazingly clean and clear. From the lake, there are trails leading in several directions. We choose to see the intact, granite remains of what appears to be the foundation of a bridge and the remains of a former rock-cutting plant that was powered by high pressure steam. After three hours, we had only seen the highpoints. I look forward to a return visit soon and encourage all who have an interest in history, nature and preservation to spread the word about this magical place. It is evident while hiking and talking with Astrove that he is emotionally attached to his job
Remains of a former steam-powered rock cutting operation. Photo by John Hewitt
and that it is truly a labor of love that he happens to be paid to do. Astrove, a couple of full-time staffers and a small, yet dedicated, group of volunteers basically do all of the maintenance on the preserve. A typical day may include several hours of clearing trails with a sling blade, the occasional rescue of a hiker who may have become disoriented or conducting one of the customized educational programs offered. And as is generally the case with any labor of love, Astrove would like to have input from the community and would like to share his special place with more people. For additional information on the preserve and the national heritage area, or to request an interpretive program for an organization or group, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/natural_ resources or www.arabiaalliance.org.
LOCAL NEWS
Page 16A
Surrounded by family and friends, Pate says, This is the biggest birthday party I ever had.
On his 100th birthday, Jerry Pate is congratulated by his great-great niece Michelle Spencer.
100-year-old Decatur resident looks back on his life

by Kathy Mitchell kathy@dekalbchamp.com Gerald Brady PateJerry to many of his current friends and Jed to some who knew him earlier in his lifecame into the world the year the constitutional amendment authorizing the federal income tax was ratified, the first packaged cigarettes were sold and Woodrow Wilson was sworn in as president of the United States. Born in Newnan, Ga., on Memorial Day 1913, Pate touched history several times over his 100 years. He was only 5 when the influenza pandemic of 1918, which wiped out 3 to 5 percent of the worlds population, took the lives of both his parents, landing him, a brother and two sisters in a Decatur orphanage. In time, his maternal grandparents were able to provide a home for Pate until he joined the Army. As a soldier in World War II, he again brushed with history, I was part of the group that landed in Europe on D-Day, he recalled. I was lucky I didnt get shot. Pate served in Europe and in Africa during the great war, and said he thought it was better being overseas during the war than staying in the United States. However, during the portion of his Army career that he spent in New York he met his wife Wilma, affectionately referred to as Willie by the family. She was bubbly and outgoing, recalled great nephew Jerry Hassler, who said his uncle by contrast was always rather reserved. Hassler drove down from Nashville, Tenn., for the May 30 birthday celebration at Pates current home, Medlock Gardens retirement home in Decatur. He said Pate and his wife met when she was a nurse in an Army hospital. He was one of several soldiers who were allowed to earn a little extra cash doing odd jobs around the hospital. He used to joke that she only started seeing him because she thought he was a doctor, said Tim Johnson, who befriended Pate after he moved back to Georgia from Florida following his wifes death. He, too, was a guest at the birthday party. The couple had no children, but nieces, nephews and other relatives from both sides of the family came for Pates centennial birthday party. This is the biggest birthday party I ever had, Pate declared looking about at the gathering of friends and family. After 25 years in the Army, Pate took a civil service job, doing office work for the Army as a civilian. I used to hit a typewriter, he said, and I hit it hard. Johnson said he comes by every Tuesday and takes Pate for haircuts and lunch. He still enjoys a glass of wine, so I see that he gets it, Johnson said. At the birthday celebration one greeting among the many was on display. President Barack Obama sent greetings from The White House. Along with an autographed photo, Obama sent a letter that reads in part: I send my warmest wishes as you celebrate the special occasion of your 100th birthday. The men and women of your generation are part of an unbroken line of heroes who have preserved our way of life at home and abroad with unwavering patriotism and courage. Our nation is forever thankful for the service and sacrifice of all who have worn the uniform of the United States. I hope you take pride in the contributions you have made over the past extraordinary century, the letter states. Asked if he had any regrets about anything his life, Pate, who wore shorts to the party, pointed to a small tattoo on his leg that he said he got in Hawaii while he was in the Army. I wish Id never gotten this thing, he said.
Among the old photos on display at the party is one of Pate, at right, with his siblings and the grandfather who took them in after the deaths of their parents.
Other old photos show Pate and his wife Willie as newlyweds and Pates father, Charles Pate.
A letter from President Barack Obama along with an autographed photo of the president were on display at the party.
DeKalb schools approves $1 billion tentative budget

Before voting to approve the tentative proposed budget, some school board memThe DeKalb County bers questioned some of the Board of Education approved expenses and said more monon June 10 a tentative proey should go to employees. posed fiscal year 2014 budget Board member John of $1.01 billion and disColeman questioned a $1.5 cussed giving more money to million line item for technolemployees later in the year. ogy enhancements to the disOverall, the budgets have tricts financial systems. been reduced by $89 million Bell admitted that though from last year to what were the system is in need of enlooking at for 2014, said hancements, this money Michael Bell, the districts probably could be deferred. chief financial officer. Another expense quesThe consolidated budget tioned was $1 million for the total for 2013 was $1.099 meritorious attendance probillion. gram that would give a monThe budget, which is etary incentive to employees balanced, anticipates $759 with good attendance. million in revenue, with a The last time the school beginning fund balance of district implemented the pro$9.2 million. According to gram was in 2008, according the budget, fiscal year 2014 to Dr. Tekshia Ward-Smith, DCSDs chief human rewould end with the district sources officer. $12.7 million in the black, Over the course of three $5.8 million of which is reyears, the school district served for after school prohas spent approximately grams. by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com $800,000-$900,000 on bus drivers alone for [substitutes], Ward-Smith said. Keep in mind, the cost of a sub is just $80. However, when you look at the actual cost to the district in terms of resources, individuals who are having to cover double and triple routes, the true cost of employee absence is not just the $80 a day that we pay for a sub, but the actual amount of disruption to instruction. The districts budget was also impacted by permanent bus drivers who were compensated when they helped to cover routes for absent drivers. Another $700,000 has been spent for food service substitutes since 2011. Approximately $3 million was spent in three years for substitutes in just four categories of employees, WardSmith said. Were anticipating that the program will pay for itself by employees coming to work, she said. The full $1 million in the budget may not be used, she added. Board member Dr. Joyce Morley said she does not want the meritorious attendance enhancements removed from the budget. We have to begin to look at the morale. What are we doing in order to maintain, retain and to actually motivate people to come to work? Board member Karen Carter suggested that the school board consider decreasing and eventually eliminating furlough days. The board should commit to coming back at midyear and revisiting this, she said. Interim school Superintendent Mike Thurmond said other opportunities and additional revenue may present themselves as the district continues to work through its finances.
LOCAL NEWS
Page 17A
is for Daddy
from The Champion Newspaper
Happy Fathers Day
EDUCATION
Page 18A
Gabriel Gillott said he hated school so much that he dropped out twice. Now he is one of six students that graduated in May from Gateway to College Academy at Georgia Perimeter College. Photo provided
Repeated truancy and a high school prank threatened Christina Ross academic success. Photo provided
Gateway to College Academy at Georgia Perimeter College allows at-risks students to simultaneously earn high school and college credits. Photo provided
Gateway to College grads go from dropouts to success stories

Gabriel Gillott hated high school so much that he dropped out twice. Christina Ross was expelled for a year after pulling a prank. Neither thought they would ever receive a high school diploma, and college was out of the question. Gillott and Ross along with four others graduated in May from Gateway to College Academy at Georgia Perimeter College (GPC). The six students not only earned high school diplomas, but also graduated with an average of 20 college credits and the confidence to continue. Gateway is a national program that partners local colleges and school districts to help high school dropouts and those who are disengaged. The program enrolls disengaged students ages 16 to 20 and allows them to simultaneously earn high school and college credits. Housed at GPC Clarkston Campus, Gateway to College provides intensive advising, counseling and mentoring. This is the best time of year for the Gateway staff and students because we come together to celebrate all of our hard work and persistence, said Gateway Director Robert Wigfall. You graduates are proof that the intensive, individualized tutoring and mentoring make a huge difference in your ability to succeed. And we have to thank the parentswho were probably very frustrated at timesfor hanging in there and being such a big part of your childrens success. For Gillott and Ross, the program meant the difference between being high school dropouts and becoming college students. They both admit to rocky starts at Gateway. I hated every bit of high schoolthe huge class sizes, never being challenged and feeling like no one cared if I showed up or not, Gillott said. After dropping out a second time, Gillotts mother mentioned Gateway and encouraged her son to enroll. Gateway saved my life and helped me dream again. I love the small classes, the level of devotion of the teachers and resource specialists and the ability to take college classes that really challenge me, Gillott said. I wouldnt have met these goals if I had stayed in high school. Now, the sky is the limit. Gillott plans to earn an associates degree from GPC in English, transfer to Columbia University and, one day, attend law school. For Ross, a poor decision and a history of truancy led to dire consequences. It took just a second for Ross to pull the fire alarm in her Gwinnett County public high school, but the consequences would last much longer. The then 10th-grader was expelled for a full year for the thoughtless prank. Her options limited, the family moved back to DeKalb County and enrolled Ross in an alternative school. After a year, Ross dreaded re-enrolling in a traditional high school where any small infraction could find her back at the alternative school. I was nervous because I never did well in a traditional high school and I wasnt looking forward to returning to that environment, said Ross, who had missed more than 100 days at her old high school. A teacher at the alternative school told Ross about Gateway to College Academy. I was interested because it was a second chance to continue my high school education and earn college credits at the same time, Ross said. It was a chance for me to do things differently and actually get an education. In August 2011, Ross enrolled in Gateway to College. She enjoyed the small classes and professors who were passionate about teaching. The supportive staff and regular tutoring made a big difference, she said. I met a lot of caring people who pushed me to strive for the best. I made friends who were in the same position, who didnt like regular high school, so I didnt feel like I was different or less than anyone, said Ross, who will major in prenursing at GPC. Ive grown and become more mature, more disciplined. Ive developed better study habits and have much better attendance. I have grown tremendously since I first entered the program, and it would not have happened at a traditional high school.
EDUCATION
Page 19A
Stephenson High student wins Comcast scholarship
EDUCATION Briefs
Chamblee Middle wins $10,000 grant for student garden

Chamblee Middle Schools outdoor learning garden is one of 15 recipients of a $10,000 Share the Good grant from Seeds of Change, the maker of organically grown seeds and foods. Chamblee Middle was selected from more than 700 applications received as part of the grant program to enhance the environmental, economic and social wellbeing of gardens, farms, farmers and communities. The school plans to use the grant to create an outdoor education garden as a teaching aid for their 900 students and the community. Chamblee Middle plans to develop vegetable, potted herb and pollinator gardens that will be installed and maintained by students, parents and community volunteers. The Share the Good grants are funded by the Seeds of Changes 1% Fund, the companys commitment to donate one percent of net sales to community-based nutrition, gardening and farming programs. The grant program, which is in its second year, has distributed nearly $300,000 nationwide. It was inspiring, yet again, to see the incredible work being done to promote the seed-toplate story and we applaud all of our applicants on what theyre working to achieve, said Tim Snyder for Seeds of Change. These types of organizations are sometimes our childrens first introduction to nutrition, which is why we want to support as many of them as we can through Share the Good.
TCS alum graduates with honors from Emory University

The Cottage School (TCS) alumni Alex Viguerie graduated in May from Emory University summa cum laude with a bachelors of science in mathematics. Viguerie came to The Cottage School in 2005 with issues in social anxiety and depression. I feel like The Cottage School provided me with a low-stress environment in which I could improve my social skills while at the same time challenging me academically, Viguerie said. Viguerie Viguerie has received a full academic scholarship to study biostatistics at the Emory University School of Public Health and will be receiving a $3,000 per semester research stipend. In a letter to his former TCS teachers, Viguerie said, Words cannot express how deeply indebted I feel to the Cottage School. The values, life skills, and confidence that the school gave me were instrumental to my success. It is a credit to the institution and your philosophy of nurturing every student in the ways they need most. Founded in 1985, TCS is a private school in Roswell that provides an innovative program for middle and high school students with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders and mild learning disabilities, combining academic achievement, life skills management, and career preparation. For more information about The Cottage School, go to www.cottageschool.org.
The Comcast Foundation, founded in 1999 to provide charitable support to its local communities and to empower and enrich lives, has awarded Stephenson High graduate Evan Daniels as the Stone Mountain recipient of its annual Leaders and Achievers 2013 Scholarship Program. Daniels will attend the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in the fall. Through Leaders and Achievers, Comcast takes great pride in awarding scholarship dollars to Georgias best and brightest high school seniors, said Andy Macke, Comcasts Big South region vice president of government and community affairs. This student has proven to be a leader in both the classroom and the community through their ongoing commitment to service and academic excellence, Macke said. Comcast wants to not only award these young leaders, but also further encourage them to cultivate their skills, talents and work ethic with higher education to achieve their full potential. The Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program provides one-time $1000 scholarships to students who strive to achieve their potential, who are catalysts for positive change in their communities, who are involved in their schools, and who serve as models for their fellow students. The philosophy behind the program is to give young people every opportunity to be prepared for the future, to engage youth in their communities, and to demonstrate the importance of civic involvement, and the value placed on civic involvement by the business community. Since the scholarship programs inception, there have been more than 19,000 scholarship winners totaling in excess of $19 million.
DeKalbCountySchoolBoardissellingtwoofitspropertiesasisthroughacompetitive sealedbidprocess.Thetwopropertiesarelocatedat: FreemanAdmin.BuildingA/B(office) 3770NorthDecaturRd Decatur,Georgia30032 81,000squarefeetofofficespace 9.3acres HooperAlexander(school) 3414MemorialDrive Decatur,Georgia30032 68,900squarefeetofschoolfacility 8.1acres
AdvertisementforSchoolPropertySales
Saturday errands.
A perfect moment to talk about alcohol.

An alarming number of pre-teens are drinking alcohol which makes it urgent to find every opportunity to talk to your kids about the dangers of underage drinking. For tips on how and when to begin the conversation, visit:
www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov
SealedBids,fromBidders,willbereceivedbytheDeKalbCountyBoardofEducation(theOwner) attheSamA.MossServiceCenter,1780MontrealRoad,Tucker,Georgia30084,until12:00Noon localtimeonThursday,August1,2013foralllabor,materialsandservicesnecessaryforboth projects. BiddingDocumentsmaybeobtainedbyBiddersat: http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/solicitations/ AllquestionsaboutthisAdvertisementforBidsmustbedirectedinwritingtoStephenWilkins, ChiefOperationsOfficernotlaterthanTuesday,July23th,2013at12:00Noon.ContactMr. StephenM.Wilkins,ChiefOperationsOfficer,SamMossCenter,1780MontrealRoad,Tucker, Georgia30084.;email:dcsdopsbidquestions@fc.dekalb.k12.ga.us;Fax678.676.1350. Exceptasexpresslyprovidedin,orpermittedby,theBiddingDocuments,fromthedateof issuanceoftheAdvertisementforBidsuntilfinalOwneractionofapprovalofcontractaward,the BiddershallnotinitiateanycommunicationordiscussionconcerningtheProjectortheBidders Bidoranypartthereofwithanyemployee,agent,orrepresentativeoftheOwner.Anyviolation ofthisrestrictionmayresultintherejectionoftheBiddersBid. TheOwnerreservestherighttorejectanyorallBids,andtowaivetechnicalitiesandinformalities. SitevisitsHooperAlexanderSchoolarescheduledforJuly11th,2013andJuly18th,2013at9:00 am.SitevisitsforFreemanAdministrativeBuildingsA&BarescheduledforJuly10th,2013andJuly 17th,2013at9:00am
BUSINESS
Page 20A
Hawkins worked as an account director with Ogilvy Public Relations in Atlanta. While with Ogilvy, he developed and executed award-winning public relations campaigns for a variety of companies including DeKalb County Public Library, in the American Automobile Association, partnership with The Leadership Academy, is offering a four-part series of classes, titled Communities In Schools of Georgia, Global The Entrepreneur Endeavor, on starting and Franchise Group and Wayne Farms LLC. Hawkins graduated from UWG in 2006 running a successful and profitable LLC with a bachelor of arts degree in mass comor corporation. The classes are designed to munications. provide support to individuals interested The Top 30 Under 30 list showcases in starting their own businesses as well promising and already successful UWG as current entrepreneurs seeking ways to alumni. Nominees must have made a docuenhance their businesses. The June session mentable impact in business, education, is Increase Revenue, Decrease Expense = leadership, government, research, service or Profit. It will be offered Wednesday, June other area, while also demonstrating dedi19, noon-1 p.m. at Northlake-Barbara Loar cation to the University of West Georgia, Library, 3772 LaVista Road, Tucker and its mission of teaching, research and phone (404) 679-4408and Saturday, June service. 22, 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia phone (770) 482-3828. Call or visit the branch at which the session is being Decatur resident honored by offered to register. The program continues building materials company in July with a session titled Staffing and Leadership. Reinhardt University professor of religion and philosophy the Rev. Dr. Insurance agency owner Curt Lindquist is a recent recipient the Vulcan Materials recognized for customer Company Teaching service Excellence Award. A resident of Decatur Allstate agency owner Glen Decatur, Lindquist Brown of The Glen Brown Agency has has taught at the been designated an Allstate Premier Agency University for more for 2013, recognizing his leadership in than 18 years. business and community involvement. I am honored to The Allstate Premier Agency be the recipient of designation is bestowed upon less than 38 the Vulcan Teaching percent of Allstates nearly 10,000 agency Award. Reinhardt owners across the country. has many gifted The Premier Agency designation is teachers, said awarded to Allstate agency owners who Lindquist. Like have demonstrated excellence in delivering any craft, teaching Lindquist an accessible, knowledgeable and personal well is a result of customer experience, and in achieving constant attention outstanding business results. and work. Some faculty are publicly honored; many faculty are more privately honored by comments from fellow faculty, Georgia Power manager from staff colleagues, and from individual honored among UWG alumni students. I am grateful to be part of a university which has so many wonderful Decatur resident Jacob Hawkins was exemplars of teaching. among those recognized when the UniverVulcans Southeast Division, which sity of West Georgia includes facilities in Lithonia and Tucker, Alumni Association anhas sponsored the Teaching Excellence nounced its Top 30 Un- Award since the early 1990s through der 30 list for 2013. the Georgia Foundation for Independent Hawkins, originally Colleges, Inc. The award is presented to from Douglasville, is the a faculty member at each of the GFICs media relations manager 25-member institutions, in recognition of for Georgia Power Com- outstanding contributions to undergraduate pany. He oversees media education, student learning, and campus strategy, planning and life. external messaging for Hawkins the company, including all media relations and social media. Prior to joining Georgia Power,
BUSINESS Briefs
Classes for entrepreneurs offered at library
Military families getting once-foreclosed homes

STONE MOUNTAIN (AP) Nearly three months after an injury forced him into an early retirement from the military, former Army Spc. Chris White thought he was coming to Georgia to speak about the challenges of transitioning into civilian life. Instead he and four other military families also in transition received a surprise June 1: a chance to own homes in metro Atlanta with no monthly mortgage to pay. The military veterans charity Operation Homefront, along with Wells Fargo bank and equipment rental company United Rentals, announced the home donations to the five families during an event at Stone Mountain Park. White, 31, said he has been applying for a home through the charity for months. He didnt expect to find out he was getting one during his trip to Georgia. White was told he was being flown from his familys current home in San Antonio, Texas, to speak at a job seminar in metro Atlanta. It definitely was a surprise, he said. Its immeasurable the way that this helps you. If you think about it, the most important thing for a family is a home. My daughter is 5 years old and shes never really been able to settle down anywhere. Since March 2012, Operation Homefront has worked in partnership with Wells Fargo, Chase Bank and Bank of America to find mortgage-free homes for families of military vets who otherwise wouldnt be able to afford them. Some homes that are in foreclosure or otherwise owned by the banks get donated to the charity rather than put up for auction. Amy Palmer, Operation Homefronts chief development officer, says her organization has placed 110 military families into donated homes in the past year. The families have no mortgage to pay, though they must cover property taxes and other expenses. They live in their homes for one to two years while working with a social worker and financial planner before the houses are deeded to them. The program is aimed at wounded or injured service members who have to leave the military because of their medical conditions. White, who deployed twice to Iraq as an infantryman, suffered a badly broken leg when he was hit by a car back in the U.S. After 12 years in the Army, hes still trying to decide on a civilian career. Theyve got to live on an amount theyre not used to living on, Palmer said. Some are employable and some arent, so it really is an adjustment. Its harder to buy homes now. Most of these families would never have qualified for a home loan. Families of the four Army veterans and one Marine who are getting the donated homes in metro Atlanta all have family ties to Georgia. Whites family and three others will be returning from far-flung parts of the country where they live now: Texas, California and Alaska. Palmer said the five home donations in metro Atlanta are the most the charity has done at once. Wells Fargo donated the properties, which had been in foreclosure and have a combined estimated value of $845,000. Each of the Atlanta area homes is also getting as much as $30,000 worth of new paint, new carpet and other maintenance, paid for by United Rentals, before the new occupants move in, Palmer said.
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
Page 21A
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probably going to get the opportunity to start certain games and play in certain situations. The Saints finished last season with a 6-5 record and were knocked out of the first round of the playoffs. Smith said his goal for the upcoming season is for the team to improve and to play up to its abilities. I want to get the best out of every kid, every coach and everybody thats involved with the team, he said. And like every coach, Smith wants to win a state championship. His wife, Quanisha Smith, coached the Cedar Grove girls track team to the Class
Page 22A
Cedar Grove promotes offensive coordinator Jermaine Smith to head coach

giving expectations and consequences and holding everyone accountable and making sure the team [members] hold each other accountable, he said. Were one team and if one person steps out of line it hurts everybody. Along with finding a new coach, the Saints will also have to find a new starting quarterback. Former starting quarterback Johnathon McCrary, who graduated in December 2012, is the DeKalb County all-time career passing yardage leader. He finished his career at Cedar Grove with 9,025 passing yards and 78 touchdowns. Smith said he does not know if the quarterbacks on the current roster will be able to fill McCrarys shoes but he does have players in other positions who can help the team win. We have wide receiver Brandon Norwood, who will help us out. We have a great running back in Deion Sellers and our defense is going to be a lot better, he said. Smith and his coaching staff have not named a starting quarterback. Were trying to prepare and work them out, he said. We have three of them that are AAAA state championship last month. When asked if he feels any pressure to win a state championship of his own he answered, yes and no. Yes, because Ive always wanted one, but no because her state championship is also my state championship, he said.
by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com
n 2005, former Cedar Grove High School football coach Ray Bonner hired one of his former players from Tennessee State University as wide receiver coach. That player is now the new head coach of the Cedar Grove Saints football team. Former offensive coordinator Jermaine Smith was promoted to head coach. Smith is succeeding Bonner, who retired at the end of the school year after 35 years of coaching. Smith said he is thankful for the opportunity to be the new leader of the football team. I know I have the support from the school and the community, he said. Im excited about the upcoming season and ready to get started. Smith, who has been coaching football for nine years, played quarterback and wide receiver at Tennessee State from 1997 to 2001. He spent two years in the Arena Football League before beginning his coaching career at Darlington High School in Darlington, S.C. He spent three years at Darlington before Bonner added him to his coaching staff. Smith said the one thing he learned from Bonner is that coaching football is not all about the Xs and Os. Its about organization and doing what you can to help kids be successful, he said. When it comes to the play book, Smith said he doesnt plan to change much offensively, but there will be some changes to the defensive scheme. Were going to be more aggressive, he said. He also plans to change the culture of the team by making members more disciplined on and off the field. Its all about
NOTICEOFPROPERTYTAXINCREASE
TheCityofBrookhavenhastentativelyadoptedamillageratewhichwill requireanincreaseinpropertytaxes.Theproposedrateis3.35mills.This tentativemillagerateisinlieuoftheSpecialServiceDistrictmillage previouslyimposedbyDeKalbCounty. Publichearingsonthisproposedtaxincreasewillbeheldatthecitys MunicipalCourtat2CorporateBlvd,Suite125onThursday,June20,2013. Therewillbetwosessions;oneat10:30a.m.andoneat6:30p.m. Concernedresidentsareinvitedtoattendoneorbothsessions.These sessionswillbethefinaltwoopportunitiesforpubliccommentregarding thesettingofthemillagerate.TheCityCouncilplanstovoteonthismatter ataspecialcalledmeetingonMonday,July8,2013at1:30p.m.This meetingwillalsobeheldatthecitysMunicipalCourtlocation. Thistentativeincreasewillresultinanincreaseof3.35millsovertheprior yearsrateofzero.Theproposedtaxincreaseforahomewithafair marketvalueof$325,000isapproximately$435andtheproposedtax increasefornonhomesteadpropertywithafairmarketvalueof$625,000 willbe$837.Theproposedtaxincreaseforapropertywiththecitybasic homesteadexemptionis$368.
NOTICE
The Stone Mountain City Council does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held at the City Hall, 875 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA on Tuesday, July 2, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. and pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-32 does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.
CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY

COUNTY WIDE
Real & Personal Motor Vehicles Mobile Homes Timber - 100% Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Digest Less M& O Exemptions Net M & O Digest State Forest Land Assistance Grant Value Adjusted Net M&O Digest Gross M&O Millage Less Rollbacks Net M&O Millage Total County Taxes Levied Net Taxes $ Increase Net Taxes % Increase 10.000 $1,212,073 -$14,954 -1.20% 10.000 $1,075,438 -$136,634 -11.27% 10.000 $1,006,596 -$68,842 -6.40% 14.300 $1,037,648 $31,052 3.08% 18.800 $1,346,097 $308,449 29.73% 28.030 $1,713,635 $367,538 27.30% 122,652,027 1,444,754 121,207,273 0 121,207,273 10.000 2,545 109,402,986 1,859,151 107,543,835 0 107,543,835 10.000 102,720,172 2,060,566 100,659,606 0 100,659,606 10.000 74,140,967 1,578,133 72,562,834 0 72,562,834 14.300 73,414,220 1,813,313 71,600,907 0 71,600,907 18.800 62,788,206 1,652,449 61,135,757 0 61,135,757 28.030
2008
116,141,917 6,510,110
2009
102,732,611 6,667,830
2010
97,052,662 5,667,510
2011
68,582,587 5,558,380
2012
67,583,220 5,831,000
2013
56,816,226 5,971,380 600
SPORTS
body for mens and womens basketball in the United States. As the recognized governing body for basketball in the United States by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and the United States Olympic Committee (USOC), USA Basketball is responsible for the selection, training and fielding of USA teams that compete in FIBA sponsored international competitions, as well as for some national competitions. Between 2009 and 2012, USA Basketball mens and womens teams compiled a 264-35 win-loss record in FIBA and FIBA Americas competitions, the Pan American Games, the World University Games, the Nike Hoop
Page 23A
St. Pius Xs Asia Durr selected to USA U16 Womens basketball team
St. Pius X rising junior Asia Durr has been selected to the 2013 USA Basketball Womens U16 National Team. Durr was among 124 players to take to the court at the United States Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 23-27 for the team trials. She was one of 12 players to make the squad. Recalling when she heard her name called as one of the team members Durr said, When I heard my name the first thing I did was thank God because none of this is possible without him. It was a great feeling because I was very stressed. Durr will return to Colorado Springs this month to begin practicing for the 2013 Federal International Basketball Association (FIBA) Americas U16 Championship, which will be held June 19-23 in Cancun, Mexico. The United States will open play versus Brazil. USA Basketball womens teams have participated in two prior FIBA Americas U16 Championships, compiling a 10-0 event record and capturing both gold medals. Durr was the Georgia Sportswriters Association, Georgia Athletic Coaches Association and Atlanta Journal-Constitution AAA girls basketball state player of the year. She was also Region 6-AAA player of the year. Durr led the Golden Lions to the Class AAA state championship and a 30-3 record. USA Basketball is a nonprofit organization and the national governing Summit and in exhibition games. USA teams are the current mens and womens champions in the Olympics; mens and womens FIBA World Championships; womens FIBAU19 World Champions; mens and womens FIBA U17 World Champions; and the mens and womens U18 and U16 FIBA Americas Championships.
Notice of Property Tax Increase

The City of Stone Mountain has tentatively adopted a millage rate which will require an increase in property taxes by 28.47 percent. All concerned citizens are invited to a public hearing on this tax increase to be held at City Hall, 875 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA 30083 on Monday, June 24, 2013 at 6:30 p.m. Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at City Hall, 875 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA 30083 on Tuesday, July 2, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. The tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 28.03 mils, an increase of 6.211 mils. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 21.819 mils. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $50,000 is approximately $124.22 and the proposed tax increase for nonhomestead property with a fair market value of $75,000 is approximately $186.33.
Lakeside basketball team to host basketball clinic

The Lakeside High School boys basketball team will be hosting a clinic on June 14, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Lakeside gym. Boys and girls in grades second through eighth are invited to attend. The day will include instructions through a variety of activities and scrimmages from the Lakeside coaches and players. Participants are asked to bring a snack and a water bottle. A pizza lunch will be served. The registration cost is $50 and registration begins at 8:30. Lakeside High School is located at 3801 Briarcliff Road, N.E., Atlanta. For more information, call Susie Adams at (404) 754-3676.
The DeKalb County Board of Education does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held at the DeKalb County School District Administrative & Instructional Complex, 1701 Mountain Industrial Boulevard, Stone Mountain, Georgia on Monday, July 1, 2013 at 7:00 p.m., and pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. 48-5-32, does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.
CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY

M & O DIGEST REAL & PERSONAL MOTOR VEHICLES MOBILE HOMES TIMBER - 100% HEAVY DUTY EQUIPMENT GROSS DIGEST LESS M&O EXEMPTIONS NET M&O DIGEST GROSS M&O MILLAGE LESS ROLLBACKS NET M&O MILLAGE NET TAXES LEVIED NET TAXES $ INCREASE NET TAXES % INCREASE 2008 23,682,799,490 1,357,307,770 779,464 0 581,681 25,041,468,405 3,038,896,350 22,002,572,055 22.98 0.00 22.98 $505,619,106 $22,231,841 4.60% 2009 22,818,176,952 1,385,428,820 740,987 91,018 163,106 24,204,600,883 3,017,884,570 21,186,716,313 22.98 0.00 22.98 $486,870,741 ($18,748,365) -3.71% 2010 22,184,019,392 1,254,986,790 656,584 0 65,347 23,439,728,113 3,039,974,697 20,399,753,416 22.98 0.00 22.98 $468,786,333 ($18,084,407) -3.71% 2011 19,310,211,337 1,225,978,410 510,171 0 82,712 20,536,782,630 2,913,503,127 17,623,279,503 22.98 0.00 22.98 $404,982,963 ($63,803,371) -13.61% 2012 17,578,034,324 1,265,293,750 440,056
PROPOSED 2013 17,668,141,517 1,359,311,440 396,572
77,829 18,843,845,959 2,847,239,428 15,996,606,531 23.98 0.00 23.98 $383,598,625 ($21,384,338) -5.28%
34,308 19,027,883,837 2,725,375,381 16,302,508,456 23.98 0.00 23.98 $390,934,153 $7,335,528 1.91%
1. THE NET LEVY DOES NOT REFLECT ACTUAL REVENUE RECEIVED OR AVAILABLE DUE TO VALUE ADJUSTMENTS RESULTING FROM APPEALS, DELINQUENT TAXES, COLLECTIONS FROM PRIOR YEARS, AND A FEE OF 1.25% PAID TO THE COUNTY FOR BILLING AND COLLECTIONS. 2. THE 2013 MILLAGE RATE IS THE PROPOSED RATE. THE PROPOSED SCHOOL OPERATIONS MILLAGE IS 23.98 MILLS. 3. 2013 DIGEST FIGURES ARE AN ESTIMATE.
NOTES:
Page 24A
CDC Continued From Page 12A

mier health promotion, prevention and preparedness agency. Beyond being called upon in public health emergencies and disasters worldwide, the CDC is also a frontrunner in ongoing battles against more common dayto-day health issues such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity and smoking. Educational permanent displays throughout the 19,000-square-foot CDC museum not only capture moments in time of historic public health issues, but also show steps being taken to protect against biological, chemical, nuclear and radiological threats at home and abroad and to thwart emerging diseases. In addition, specially themed exhibits are rotated three times throughout the year to supplement the award-winning permanent installations. The latest temporary exhibit, opening June 17, is Cancer: Survivors in Focusa three-part photography display that offers a look into the lives of people living with, through and beyond a cancer diagnosis. These photographs and the stories that inspired them highlight the experiences of cancer survivors around the globe and provoke insights on how the public health community can help empower individuals to live longer, healthier lives after cancer. The exhibit will run until Sept. 10. Next in line after that is Health is a Human Right running from Sept. equity for all American citizens and root causes of health inequities along the lines of race, ethnicity, income and educational levels. In addition to viewing historic photographs and documents, visitors will be able to check on the health of their communities through interactive atlases. The CDC Museum was never meant to be a medical museum, added Shaw. It was always intended to be a public health museum. The museum opened in 1996 in time for the Centennial Olympic Games and to mark the 50th anniversary of the CDC. The original building was torn down and replaced with the current, more modern structure in 2005. We are affiliated with the Smithsonian in WashD.C., and that opens the Louise Shaw ington, door to securing touring exhibits and borrowing artifacts relevant to the museum. As a tribute to the global scope of the CDC, a dramatic 28 to Jan, 3, 2014, said Louise work of art, The Messengers, stands Shaw, museum curator. Working at the museum entrance. The stone in tandem with the Office of Minorsculpture is by artist Lameck Bonjisi ity Health and Health Equity, this of Zimbabwe, who died of AIDS in thought-provoking exhibit will ex2003, and is an example of Shona amine some historic challenges of sculpture that reflects traditional and the past 120 years in achieving health contemporary Zimbabwean culture. Entering the museum, visitors are greeted with a 100-foot-long multimedia display incorporating eight large video screens. Titled Global Symphony, the display offers visual insight into the world of CDC and public health. Public health messages are presented with narratives alternating with a video montage that offers a brief glimpse of the CDCs efforts to eradicate polio, solve the mystery of Legionnaires disease, stem the rise of obesity in the United States, and its ongoing research of how humans, animals and the environment interact in the spread of Ebola. Scattered throughout the presentation are media clips on public health topics ranging from HIV/AIDS to worker safety. To better appreciate what the museum has to offer, it is best to be familiar with the CDC and some of its vast accomplishments. Public health crises and disasters occur sporadically in history so it is difficult to grasp the impressive scope of their work unless it is seen collectively in a museum-like venue. This is Part I of a two-part series. See the June 20 issue of The Champion Newspaper for Part II of CDC museum chronicles agencys role in solving global medical mysteries.
The CDC Museum was never meant to be a medical museum. It was always intended to be a public health museum.

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Junior League of DeKalb announces 2013-14 executive board

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CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY

25,748,858 1,087,370 $24,661,488

25,010,215 1,063,817 $23,946,398 0

24,394,387 1,069,933 $23,324,454

20,603,715 1,059,679 $19,544,036

17,039,994 1,003,602 $16,036,392

13,970,412 968,437 $13,001,975

24,661,488 14.300 14.300 $352,659 $12,732 1.03%

23,946,398 14.300 14.300 $342,433 -$10,226 -2.90%

23,324,454 17.100 17.100 $398,849 $56,416 14.00%

19,544,036 20.604 19.600 $383,063 $15,786 -3.90%

16,036,392 24.190 24.190 $387,210 $3,489 -0.79%

13,001,975 29.824 29.824 $387,770 $560 0.00%

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DeKalb school board considers dual accreditation

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HEALTH & WELLNESS SUMMIT

DeKalb County Board of Education

Lunch will be served!

AFTER THE SUMMIT...

REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

CDC museum chronicles agencys role in solving global medical mysteries

Searching for Our Sons and Daughters:

Finding DeKalb Countys Missing

The Champion Weather

June 13, 2013

Detailed Local Forecast

Last Week's Local Almanac

Decatur Snellville 90/69 90/69 Lithonia 91/69 Morrow 91/69

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013

The Champion Free Press, Friday, June 14, 2013