Professional Documents
Culture Documents
FREEPRESS
DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis
DeKalb County DA Robert James reads the 15-count indictment against DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis. Photo by Andrew Cauthen
My lawyers have asked me to tell you to direct all questions to them now that these charges have been filed but I do want to make one statement emphatically to the good people of DeKalb County that Ive done nothing wrong, Ellis stated to reporters outside his home
booked and released. The charges come nearly six months after Ellis home and office were searched by investigators from the DAs Office as part of a special grand jury investigation into
SO
HAPPY ?
IS SHE
he row of American flags waves freely Avondale Estates in the breeze along Avondale Road, Continuing a longtime tradition, children decorate their bicycles and Avondale Estates this year is celebrating the wagons with red, white and blue streamers Fourth of July with a parade and fireworks for Decaturs annual Pied Piper Parade and at the lake.Residents and friends are invited the skies above Stone Mountain Park light up to be part of this years celebration. Heres with colorful fireworksits Independence the schedule: Because she gets her news updates online from the The Champi Day in DeKalb County. Independence of four federal 9:15 a.m. - Parade line-up at Avondale Because she gets herDay, newsone updates online from the The Champion. holidays that are always observed on the High School Because she gets her news updates online from the The Champion. same date, comes on a Thursday this year, 10 a.m. - Parade begins up Clarendon but that hasnt slowed the fun as cities Avenue www.facebook.com/championnewspaper
throughout the county are finding their own ways to celebrate Americas 237th birthday.
LOCAL NEWS
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DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis addressed county employees and residents June 24 and encouraged them to continue to keep their eyes on the ball and not lose focus. Ellis has denied any wrongdoing in regards to a 15-count indictment against him. Photo by Daniel Beauregard
DeKalbCountySchoolBoardissellingtwoofitspropertiesasisthroughacompetitive sealedbidprocess.Thetwopropertiesarelocatedat: FreemanAdmin.BuildingA/B(office) 3770NorthDecaturRd Decatur,Georgia30032 81,000squarefeetofofficespace 9.3acres HooperAlexander(school) 3414MemorialDrive Decatur,Georgia30032 68,900squarefeetofschoolfacility 8.1acres
AdvertisementforSchoolPropertySales
SealedBids,fromBidders,willbereceivedbytheDeKalbCountyBoardofEducation(theOwner) attheSamA.MossServiceCenter,1780MontrealRoad,Tucker,Georgia30084,until12:00Noon localtimeonThursday,August1,2013foralllabor,materialsandservicesnecessaryforboth projects. BiddingDocumentsmaybeobtainedbyBiddersat: http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/solicitations/ AllquestionsaboutthisAdvertisementforBidsmustbedirectedinwritingtoStephenWilkins, ChiefOperationsOfficernotlaterthanTuesday,July23th,2013at12:00Noon.ContactMr. StephenM.Wilkins,ChiefOperationsOfficer,SamMossCenter,1780MontrealRoad,Tucker, Georgia30084.;email:dcsdopsbidquestions@fc.dekalb.k12.ga.us;Fax678.676.1350. Exceptasexpresslyprovidedin,orpermittedby,theBiddingDocuments,fromthedateof issuanceoftheAdvertisementforBidsuntilfinalOwneractionofapprovalofcontractaward,the BiddershallnotinitiateanycommunicationordiscussionconcerningtheProjectortheBidders Bidoranypartthereofwithanyemployee,agent,orrepresentativeoftheOwner.Anyviolation ofthisrestrictionmayresultintherejectionoftheBiddersBid. TheOwnerreservestherighttorejectanyorallBids,andtowaivetechnicalitiesandinformalities. SitevisitsHooperAlexanderSchoolarescheduledforJuly11th,2013andJuly18th,2013at9:00 am.SitevisitsforFreemanAdministrativeBuildingsA&BarescheduledforJuly10th,2013andJuly 17th,2013at9:00am
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We look forward to the DeKalb County school board joining us in putting an end to this regrettable episode.
Chamber Amos Howland
David Rubinger
agreement with law firm King & Spalding, which could have cost the district more than $30 million if the district elected to settle with recreation department diHeery against the law firms rector for Grandview, Mo., recommendation. 2004-2006; and director of This new agreement leisure services and public allows the parents and taxfacilities, Cookeville, Tenn., payers of DeKalb County 1987-2000. to seek justice in the Heery Chambers, who lives in matter without the massive Chesterfield, Mich., has a risks and inherent costs asmasters degree in public sociated with the previous administration from Central agreement, board ChairMichigan University and a man Melvin Johnson said. bachelor of science degree The DeKalb County in recreation administration Board of Education alfrom University of Tennesleges in a Superior Court see. lawsuit that Heery, in its I know a lot about Atrole as manager of school lanta, said Chambers who construction projects, dehas lived in the metro region frauded the school system in the past. My very first and mismanaged tens of place I lived after college millions in taxpayer dollars. was Lithonia. Before renegotiating Chambers, who said he its contract with King & has always wanted to be Spalding, DCSD was bea city administrator, said, ing sued by two residents The Lithonia City Council who claimed that the fee really want to turn [the city] agreement with the law firm around. Thats an environviolated the constitution ment that any city adminisand put DeKalb County trator would want to work residents at risk. in. The case between DCSD Chastain of Marietta was and Heery stems from the city planner for Thomas- 2007, when the district terville, Ga., from 2008-2013. minated its contract with He worked as a project man- the construction firm. Heery ager for Professional Group first filed suit against the Associates from 2007-2008 district, alleging DCSD and as a special projects owed the company outmanager for Powder Springs standing invoices. The disfrom 2004-2007. trict countersued for $100 Chastain has a bachelors degree in sociology from Fort Hays State University. Chastain said he welcomes the opportunity to help Lithonia increase the economic vitality of its downtown area. Lithonia is a great community that presents some interesting challenges and opportunities, he said.
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The Newslady
OPINION
The headlines blared the sad news, DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis indicted, Burrell Ellis Accused of Strong Arm Tactics and on and onon television, on the radio and in the newspaper. The merits of the caseor lack thereofare yet to be proven. In the meantime, people are choosing sides on Ellis guilt or innocence. One is expected to comment on the CEOs guilt or innocence based on the accusations and not being privy to all the facts. The only comment worthy of airing or printing at this juncture is perhaps a reaction to the charges. What happened to that basic tenet of journalism called balance? Also, what happened to the cornerstone of our system of justice, innocent
OPINION
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We mean to have less of government in business, as well as more business in government. President Warren G. Harding (1865-1923, 29th U.S. president), address to before the U.S. Congress, April 1921. Chambers of commerce, large and small, are viewed by some as an anachronismsimilar to the way some of the under-30 set view newspapers.Perhaps no chamber in the country has had a longer track record of success and achievement than the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.Our Georgia Chamber of Commerce is no slouch either, and in recent years has piled up an astonishing track record of legislative victories, but that story will be told on another day. After 17 years at the helm of arguably one of the nations most influential and multi-faceted chambers of commerce, Sam Williams, president of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, will retire at the end of 2013, at a very young 68.When he arrived in the immediate aftermath of the Centennial Olympic Games,
FREEPRESS
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Send Letters To Editor, The Champion Free Press, P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; Send E-Mail to Kathy@dekalbchamp.com FAX To: (404) 370-3903 Phone: (404) 373-7779 Deadline for news releases and advertising: Thursday, one week prior to publication date. EDITORS NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts.
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COMMUNITY
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Tom Rawls is no stranger to public service. Rawls, an entertainment counsel for AT&T, served on the board of directors of the Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta, 2005-2013. He also served as co-chairman of the AT&T Southeast Region Pro Bono Committee, a position he held from 2008-13. Rawls chaired the BellSouth Legal Departments Pro Bono Program in 20052006, when the program was recognized by Corporate Counsel Magazine in May 2006 as a key factor in naming BellSouths Legal Department that year as one of the four best corporate legal departments in the United States. He also served as a volunteer English as a Second Language instructor, teaching English to Hispanic im-
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
ATLANTA
the criminal investigations division. Redding worked as an investigator for the College Park Police and previously served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Vanaman served as the law enforcement academy class coordinator at Georgia Northwestern Technical College, where he also taught courses. He is working on a masters degree at Columbus State University. Im excited to bring such experienced officers to Brookhaven, Chief Gary Yandura said. These sergeants will be the frontline supervisors over the patrol officers and directly responsible for helping to serve and protect neighborhoods. The chief and his command staff are still conducting interviews for patrol officers. Brookhaven officers are scheduled to begin patrols later this summer.
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COMMUNITY
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Church to open bookstore The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church has announced that it will soon open a church bookstore. The bookstore, Kingdom Konnection, will be operated by volunteers on Sundays, Tuesday evenings and during special service times. Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church is located at 1879 Glenwood Avenue, SE, Atlanta. For more information, call the church office Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. 5 p.m. at (404) 377-0561.
CHAMBLEE
Events are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted. The events include: Friday, July 5, 5 - 7 p.m.: Hawaiian Luau The public is invited to Regency Houses annual Hawaiian paradise experience. Saturday, July 6, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.: Outward Bound Event This Outward Bound celebration will also be a fundraiser for the international nonprofit, which fosters personal growth and social skills through challenging outdoor expeditions. Sunday, July 7, 12:30 - 2 p.m.: As part of its Lets Talk Seniors series, Regency House presents a program at which professionals will speak on secrets to get a house sold. The Regency House is located at 341 Winn Way, Decatur. For more information, call (404) 418-6831 or visit www.theregencyhouse.net. Boxer to hold barbecue, book signing Boxer Xavier Fastpads Biggs, who recently appeared on NBCs The Voice, is also the author of Sweet Sucker Punch. He is celebrating the books re-release by hosting a boxing demo, barbecue and book signing on Saturday, June 29, at 10:30 a.m. The event will be at the Decatur Boxing Club, 137 New St., Decatur.
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Library to host beginners yoga class Yoga for Beginners will be offered at the Chamblee Library June 29, noon-1:30 p.m. Bonnie G. Gibert and Art Gibert, certified yoga instructors, will teach participants to safely learn yoga to strengthen, stretch and feel great, according to an announcement from the library. The class is for beginners and participants are to bring a pillow, a bath towel and, if possible, a yoga mat. The class is open to the first 10 participants. To register, call or visit the branch. Chamblee Library is located at 4115 Clairmont Road, Chamblee. The phone number is (770) 936-1380.
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Chinese judges visit Emory As part of a new partnership between Emory Law School and the City University of Hong Kong, 29 Chinese judges visited Emory to learn more about the American justice system during June. During their stay, the judges are studying U.S. constitutional and criminal law, the rules of evidence and the role of courts and judges in shaping the rule of law. Their studies at Emory are part of their work toward a master of laws degree. Members of this first class of judges include presiding and assistant judges from Intermediate Peoples Courts across the country. More than half are women.
LITHONIA
CLARKSTON
Library to host Ramadan story time The Islamic Speakers Bureau of Atlanta will host informational story time about the Ramadan holiday season on June 29. The event is limited to the first 20 participants and registration is required. Clarkston Library is located at 951 N. Indian Creek Drive. For more information or to register, call (404) 508-7175.
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BROOKHAVEN
DECATUR
Commissioner takes office to DeKalb seniors In an effort to connect with senior residents in Super District 7, DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson packed up some essentials and set up a temporary office for a few hours at the Lou Walker Senior Center on June 19. Approximately 200 seniors responded to Watsons meet-and-greet invitation. During the lunch meeting, which had no agenda, attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns. This was really a great opportunity for me to be able to get insight and hear firsthand from our senior community about the past, present and perceived future DeKalb, Watson said. Watson said he plans to set up other temporary office events at various venues around the county to meet, connect and feel the pulse of the community firsthand.
Police department fills supervisory positions The Brookhaven Police Department has completed filling all of its supervisory ranks. Three additional sergeants and a lieutenant have recently joined the force. Lt. Linda Burke and Sgts. Tyrone Oliver, Antoine Redding and Jeffrey Vanaman will be sworn in at the next city council meeting. The new officers have more than 60 years of combined experience in law enforcement. Burke will oversee criminal investigations in Brookhaven. She served as a major for College Park Police, where she managed criminal investigations, support operations and professional standards. She has a masters degree from Columbus State University. Oliver worked for the Newton County Sheriffs Office, where he served as a lieutenant in
Fraternity to sponsor mentoring program The Nu Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha is now accepting applications for its Junior Beaux mentoring program. This program is for young men who will be rising juniors in high school for fall of 2013. During the program, called College Ready, the participants will receive a year of college preparatory training. To apply, go to www. dekalbalphas.org. The application deadline is July 19. Retirement home to hold independencethemed events The Regency House retirement community will be hosting a number of independencethemed events during the weekend of July 5-7.
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From top left, Karen Johnson and David Wilsdon assemble bags of food for the Decatur Emergency Assistance Ministry. From left below, Joel Harris and Joe Renshaw also volunteer at the ministry. Photos by Andrew Cauthen
LOCAL NEWS
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NOTICEOFPROPERTYTAXINCREASE
TheCityofBrookhavenhastentativelyadoptedamillageratewhichwill requireanincreaseinpropertytaxes.Theproposedrateis3.35mills.This tentativemillagerateisinlieuoftheSpecialServiceDistrictmillage previouslyimposedbyDeKalbCounty. The4thandfinalpublichearingonthisproposedtaxincreasewillbeheld atthecitysMunicipalCourtat2CorporateBlvd,Suite125,Brookhaven, Ga.onMonday,July8,2013at12:30p.m.Concernedresidentsare invitedtoattendthisfinalopportunityforpubliccommentregardingthe settingofthemillagerate.TheCityCouncilplanstovoteonthismatter immediatelyfollowingthepublichearingataspecialcalledmeetingon Monday,July8,2013at1:30p.m. Thistentativeincreasewillresultinanincreaseof3.35millsovertheprior yearsrateofzero.Theproposedtaxincreaseforahomewithafair marketvalueof$325,000isapproximately$435andtheproposedtax increasefornonhomesteadpropertywithafairmarketvalueof$625,000 willbe$837.Theproposedtaxincreaseforapropertywiththecitybasic homesteadexemptionis$368.
If interested in adopting Cupcake, send an email to both addresses below for a prompt reply
LOCAL NEWS
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OBGYN
Continued From Page 8A
A PowerPoint presentation about the propose storm water utility rate increase was presented to DeKalb County residents. Photos by Carla Parker
Roads and Drainage Department interim Assistant Director Michael Anderson (right) said the proposed $1 per month increase will provide an additional $4.1 million of revenue to address requests regarding the storm sewer system.
In 2010, the Georgia Department of Community Healths Program Integrity Unit conducted a review of Malloys Old National Gynecology clinic looking for violations of the Hyde Amendment. After its review, the department suspended Medicaid reimbursements to Malloy. However, Malloy later requested an administrative review of the departments findings and an administrative law judge concluded that Malloy had not done anything wrong; the Medicaid funds withheld from him were released. The Georgia attorney general then filed criminal charges against Malloy for the money he had allegedly billed the Medicaid program and the additional funds that he collected after they were released to him. During Malloys appeal to the Supreme Court, his attorneys argued that the state was using its influence to further a political agenda. His attorneys also said that the trial court failed to protect Malloy from double jeopardy because the state was allowed to appeal the administrative law judges ruling, which it chose not to. Three witnesses testified before the administrative law judge that his procedures were proper, attorney Katherine Durant testified. The state also indicted Malloy for accepting the funds that were released to him. Durant also said the statute Malloy was being charged with violating was deliberately vague. The state contends that Malloy illegally applied for payment for procedures that were associated with elective abortions and are therefore not eligible for Medicaid reimbursement. Nowhere in the statute or policy manual is there a distinction made between reimbursement for these diagnostic services for patients who elect to terminate pregnancy and those who do not, state attorneys argued. Supreme Court Justice David Nahmias said that a heavy majority of courts nationwide hold that an administrative ruling is not double jeopardy. Malloy has practiced medicine in Georgia since 1981. He received his medical degree from The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and is medical director of the Atlanta SurgiCenter, where he has provided abortion services for 20 years. Additionally, Malloy is on the faculty of Emory Universitys School of Medicine. His primary practice, Metropolitan Atlanta OBGYN, is located in Decatur. If convicted, Malloy could be sentenced to a $10,000 fine or up to 10 years in prison.
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From left, Hodan Kahin of Somali American Community Center accepts a Community Impact Award on behalf of Omar Shekhey during the World Refugee Day celebration in Clarkston where some refugees took the oath of citizenship. Photos by Joseph McBrayer
World Refugee Day, observed June 20 each year, is dedicated to raising awareness of the millions of refugees worldwide who are forced to flee their homes. For around 70,000 refugees each year, the United States offers a safe haven. Approximately 2,500 of these are resettled in Georgia, where state and local governments, nonprofit agencies, faithbased organizations, and residents embrace these new Americans and help them become productive members of Georgias communities. Georgia has the nations highest early self-sufficiency rate for refugees, said Frances McBrayer, who chairs the Georgia Coalition of Refugee Stakeholders,
which organized the event. The resettlement program in Georgia is a national success. World Refugee Day is not only an opportunity to celebrate that success but also to remember those who still face fear and persecution around the world.
MOVE IN
Self-Storage
FOR
TheCityofChambleeCityCouncildoesherebyannouncethatthemillageratewillbesetatameetingtobeheldatChambleeCityHall locatedat5468PeachtreeRoad,Chamblee,GeorgiaonJuly2,2013at6:30PMandpursuanttotherequirementsofGa.Code48532 doesherbypublishthefollowingpresentationofthecurrentyear'staxdigestandlevy,alongwiththehistoryofthetaxdigestandlevyfor thepastfiveyears. CURRENT 2013 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY 2008 563,992,269 15,601,332 10,783,636 590,377,237 43,657,482 546,719,755 5.00 2,733,599 (23,962) 0.87% 2009 575,089,705 16,118,770 10,769,822 601,978,297 44,074,131 557,904,166 6.31 3,520,375 786,777 28.78% 2010 533,197,959 14,546,770 9,563,181 557,307,910 44,896,783 512,411,127 7.95 4,073,668 553,293 15.72% 2011 797,623,949 14,135,654 11,087,937 822,847,540 88,432,680 734,414,860 7.4 5,434,670 1,361,002 33.41% 2012 737,007,810 22,076,110 9,128,386 768,212,306 83,130,749 685,081,557 7.4 5,069,604 (365,066) 6.72% 2013 726,762,167 27,471,830 9,726,659 763,960,656 85,949,126 678,011,530 7.379 5,003,047 (66,556) 1.31%
Real&Personal MotorVehicles&HeavyEquipment PublicUtilities GrossDigest LessExemptions AdjustedNetDigest GrossMillageRage NetTaxesLevied NetTaxes$Increase NetTaxes%increase
LOCAL NEWS
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Timothy Jones suffers from a rare genetic disorder that has made him blind, but that hasnt stopped him from earning many awards and accolades for his virtuosic piano playing. Photos by Daniel Beauregard
have a teacher then, Nancy said she enrolled him in Kindermusik; when he turned 5 she found him a teacher at a local church. Now, Timothy also plays organ and has won numerous awards and accolades for his music. Timothy also possesses perfect pitch and he is further developing his skills by learning to read music in Braille. Although Timothy focuses much on classical and sacred music, he also appreciates jazz and some modern music. He is a member of several professional music organizations, including the American Guild of Organists, the Pro-Mozart Society and the Chopin Society. We walk by faith, not by sight, is Timothys motto and he believes its important to share the gift he believes God gave him.
LOCAL NEWS
Gibbs said Boyers idea for the JH was nothing more than a dream. She said the PDK site is the one that is supported by thousands of DeKalbs residents. There are huge legal issues with parks bonds that could be tied up in court for many years, Gibbs said. Being there will probably end up with a lawsuit. Wardell Castles, a member of Advocates for DeKalb Animals, said the group is happy with the board of commissioners vote. We look forward to seeing the timeline for a new
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Members of Advocates for DeKalb Animals and Friends of John Homestead Park show their support for the proposed PDK animal shelter site June 25. Photo by Daniel Beauregard
DCTV Your Emmy Award-winning news source of DeKalb County news. Available on Comcast Cable Channel 23.
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Lilburn 87/72
SATURDAY
June 27, 1957 - Hurricane Audrey smashed ashore at Cameron, La., drowning 390 people and causing 150 million dollars in damage to Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Audrey left only a brick courthouse and a cement-block icehouse standing at Cameron. June 28, 1778 - The Battle of Monmouth in central New Jersey was fought in sweltering heat. The temperature was 96 degrees in the shade and there were more casualties from the heat than from bullets.
SUNDAY
MONDAY
Hampton 90/73
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
Isolated T-storms High: 87 Low: 69
Moonrise Moonset No Rise 11:15 a.m. 12:04 a.m. 12:18 p.m. 12:40 a.m. 1:19 p.m. 1:14 a.m. 2:18 p.m. 1:49 a.m. 3:15 p.m. 2:25 a.m. 4:11 p.m. 3:03 a.m. 5:06 p.m.
Tonights Planets
First 7/15 Full 7/22 Mercury Venus Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Rise Set 7:55 a.m. 9:46 p.m. 8:18 a.m. 10:28 p.m. 5:16 a.m. 7:36 p.m. 6:06 a.m. 8:24 p.m. 3:53 p.m. 3:02 a.m. 1:48 a.m. 2:14 p.m.
Local UV Index
0 - 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+
Weather Trivia
What was the deadliest tornado outbreak in the United States?
Answer: The outbreak that hit Missouri, Illinois and Indiana in 1925 claimed 747 lives.
UV Index 0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very High, 11+: Extreme Exposure
LOCAL NEWS
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DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis talks to reporters and is joined by his wife Philippa. Photo by Andrew Cauthen
contributions and then the very next day go into the district attorneys office and negotiate a deal, Gillen said. Im sure it would surprise you, if you look at Robert James campaign contributions to find that most of the people who give to him are lawyers, and many of those lawyers are lawyers who do business with him in his office, Gillen said. Were saying that there is nothing wrong with that, Gillen said.
Were not saying that Mr. James has done anything wrong because we dont think that he has. But just like Mr. James hasnt done anything wrong in seeking and accepting campaign contributions from folks who do business with his office, neither has Mr. Ellis, Gillen said. We are going to fight this case every step of the way in the courtroom, he said. J. Tom Morgan, another of Ellis
See Ellis on Page 16A
1/7/2013
The home and offices of DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis and office of his former campaign manager Kevin Ross are searched by DAs Office while Ellis testifies before grand jury
1/14/2013
Judge Mark Anthony Scott rules in favor of a motion to quash a subpoena to compel Ross testimony before the grand jury
1/17/2013
Ellis hires outside counsel Gillen Withers & Lake to represent him Grand jury releases findings related to its investigation of the watershed departments actions between Jan. 1, 2002 and Dec. 31, 2010
1/28/2013
Attorneys for Ellis and Ross file a motion to have grand jury findings sealed until they can be reviewed and any information beyond the jurys scope can be redacted
2/5/2013
Attorneys for Ellis and Ross file a motion to prevent the use of the grand jurys findings in any criminal case, accusing the DAs Office of overstepping its boundaries in the watershed investigation
2/5/2013
Attorneys for Ellis and Ross file a subsequent motion to have grand jurys findings released to them for review, to allow redactions of anything beyond scope of grand jurys duties
2/6/2013
Judge Scott issues order to seal the grand jury report, allowing the attorneys of Ellis and Ross 10 days to review the report
2/6/2013
DeKalb DAs Office files instant motion to stay Judge Scotts order to release the grand jury findings to Ellis and Ross attorneys and asks Scott to dissolve the grand jury
2/7/2013
DAs Office files notice of appeal in response to Scotts ruling to release the grand jurys report to Ellis and Ross attorneys
2/20/2013
DAs Office files a motion of contempt against Ellis and Ross attorneys, alleging they intentionally misrepresented factual information to obtain access to the grand jurys findings
5/17/2013
DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Daniel Coursey dismisses the lawsuit on behalf of the special grand jury against Judge Scott, then shortly thereafter reverses his decision and recuses himself stating that Judicial Qualifications Commission rules require the case be referred to a judge outside of DeKalb County.
LOCAL NEWS
co-conspirator. Ellis and Walton allegedly conspired in unreasonable restraint of trade in a transaction between the county and Powers and Energy Services, according to the indictment. Ellis allegedly instructed Walton to prevent Power and Energy from receiving additional work from the county, the indictment stated. The company provided diesel engines, generators and accessory services to the county. This conspiracy was the result of companys lack of response to Ellis campaign contribution solicitations, the indictment stated. The indictment alleges that Ellis did attempt to commit the crime of false statements and writings when he instructed Walton to place
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1976 as a celebration of the nations bicentennial. The Dunwoody Homeowners Association and the Dunwoody Crier Newspaper are hosting this years annual Fourth of July Parade featuring marching bands, floats, clowns, animal units and local celebrities. Last year the parade attracted more than 2,500 participants and 32,000 spectators. The parade starts at All Saints Catholic Church and marches down Mt. Vernon Road to Dunwoody Village. The founding mothers of the Dunwoody Nature Center will be this years grand marshals. More information at: http://www. dunwoodyga.org/Dunwoody-4th-of-July-Parade. Stone Mountain USA Today declared Stone Mountain Parks Fantastic Fourth Celebration a must-see fireworks show. It was among Readers Digests picks for Americas Most Spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks and readers of the Atlanta Journal Constitution voted Stone Mountain Park the best place to see Fourth of July fireworks. The popular patriotically themed laser show returns this year for the 46th annual
Independence Day Celebration. The show ends with several minutes of fireworks lighting up the sky above Stone Mountains Confederate heroes carving. Before the sun goes down, theres lots to do in the park. Visitors can bring a picnic or sample the offerings at a wide variety of restaurants and stands. They also may want to check out some of the parks newest attractions, including Journey 2: The Mysterious Island The 4-D Experience. Geyser Towers is a two-story tall climbing attraction with periodic water eruptions. With a mixture of geysers, misters and sprayers, kids and parents never know what waits around the corner as they are challenged to play in the spray or stay high and dry. Multiple levels of suspended rope bridges and net tunnels connect a trio of towering platforms that overlook a 40-foot gushing geyser. The million-dollar attraction is the first of its kind in North America. To learn about special family deals, visit www. Stonemountainpark.com. Stone Mountain Park typically experiences large crowds on the Fourth of July so visitors are urged to come early. Gates may close early if parking capacity is reached.
LOCAL NEWS
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NEWS Briefs
DeKalb Workforce Development held a June 12 ribbon cutting for its new facility at 774 Jordan Lane in Decatur, followed by a jobs fair that attracted more than 700 job seekers. The jobs fair gave job seekers the opportunity to meet with representatives from county departments and companies including CVS Caremark, Georgia Public Broadcasting and MARTA. Available positions were in the areas of customer service, construction, engineering and sales. This is a great day for all of DeKalbs residents, and this celebration only reinforces our commitment to helping those who want to work, CEO Burrell Ellis said. We are a resource-rich county that is open for business, and we are ready to help our citizens get jobs. Participants also were able to meet with industry professionals and gain advice about rsum writing and interviewing. In addition, participants could attend work readiness workshops in personal branding, networking and basic computer.
opportunity to work together to improve the quality of life of residents across DeKalb, CEO Burrell Ellis said. GAC continues to provide an opportunity for volunteers to work alongside friends and fellow county residents to enhance the appearance of DeKalbs public places. Event sponsors included Glad Bags, Home Depot, Keep America Beautiful, Keep Georgia Beautiful, and Nestle Pure Life. Citizens are encouraged to contact KDB at (404) 371-2654 or kdb@dekalbcountyga.gov throughout the year to request resources to help them complete community projects.
rooms, providing 24-hour-a-day support for injury care. The clinics have built a reputation for occupational health and safety expertise, rapid outcomes and well-coordinated injury case management, according to the media release. Physicians and practice managers are Medical Provider Workers Compensation Professional certified by Georgia State Board of Workers Compensation. Building on a strong occupational medicine foundation, our interdisciplinary team of specialists is dedicated to delivering to employers a cohesive, comprehensive portfolio of services to meet their ever-changing employee health needs, Buck said.
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A map is on display at a news conference where Mary Kay Woodworth and Kevin Levitas announced the progress of the Lakeside cityhood movement. Photos by Andrew Cauthen
HEALTH
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EDUCATION
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Kendra Holloway, a student at Hawthorne Elementary School, won first place in a national Braille competition. Photos provided
Kendra and her mother Stephanie Keiszak-Holloway traveled to California where Kendra competed against 59 students. Photo provided
on audiotapes are sufficient for the blind, KieszakHolloway said. Braille is still important. Its still necessary. According to the Braille Institute of America, the purpose of the competition is to promote Braille literacy for blind children, because a
blind child that cannot read Braille is just as illiterate as a sighted person who cannot read print. The competition has been likened to a blind version of the National Spelling Bee. In the competition, 60 of the top blind and visually impaired students from the
United States and Canada test their Braille skills using special adaptive devices such as a Perkins Brailler to type, analyze and decode the Braille. Kendra is an inspirational kid who is not letting blindness get in the way of her success,
BUSINESS
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Beth Ann Schroeder says she and Jacques Duplantier, left, share the belief that the pet food industry is moving away from commercially prepared products from large corporations. Photos by Kathy Mitchell
Two Decatur Town Center, 125 Clairemont Ave., Suite 235, Decatur, GA 30030 404.378.8000 www.DeKalbChamber.org
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Classifieds
HEALTH/BEAUTY
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RATES: $30.00 for up to 40 words, each additional word $0.60. All ads are prepaid! All Major credit cards accepted!
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HELP WANTED
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Hands on training for career opportunities in aviation, automotive, manufacturing and more. Financial aid for qualified students Housing available. Job placement assistance. CALL AIM
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SPORTS
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A Mike Glenn Hearing Impaired Basketball Camp volunteer does the National Anthem in sign language before the camp all-star game on June 21.
I was looking for a deaf camp for the girls where they can improve their [basketball] skills. I felt a responsibility to find something and I found Mike Glenns camp....
Nicole Laszczyaski
The Mike Glenn Hearing Impaired Basketball Camp girls all-star team. Photo by Greg White
by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Hearing impaired students from across the nation traveled to Decatur recently for the 34th Annual Mike Glenn Hearing Impaired Basketball Camp. The camp, which was held June 16-21 at Clairmont Presbyterian Church and Decatur Recreation Center, is the nations first basketball camp for deaf and hearing impaired athletes ages 14 to 18 who are attending junior high or high school. During the six-day camp students went through basketball drills to enhance their skills. They also learned about communication, leadership, nutrition and life lessons. The camp concluded with an all-star game at Southwest DeKalb High School gym. Former NBA player Mike Glenn said the idea originated from his father, Charles Glenn, who started the sports program at the Georgia School for the Deaf. Having grown up around deaf kids I learned sign language and how to play basketball and I said in high school that one day I wanted to start a camp for deaf kids because there was no camp they could go to, he said. So I started this one 34 years ago and we get deaf kids from all across the country. A group of girls from the Delaware School for the Deaf traveled in a van from Delaware to Georgia to attend the camp. The groups leader, Nicole Laszczyaski, who spoke in sign language, said she found the camp on the internet.
I was looking for a deaf camp for the girls where they can improve their [basketball] skills, she said. I felt a responsibility to find something and I found Mike Glenns camp and one in Maryland and I decided to come down here to Georgia. Laszczyaski said the camp taught her five students how to communicate better on the court and they improved their shooting skills. The drills helped them a lot, she said. They learned to practice hard and what it takes to be successful. The camp also brings in speakers to talk to the students and give them words of encouragement. This year, Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Kevin Cone addressed the campers. They loved him, Glenn said. He gave a good talk to them and it was very inspirational. A lot of smiles and encouragement from him. NCAA basketball referee Tony Green also addressed the students and talked to them about deaf people becoming referees. The camp has become a movie called Spirit of Love the Mike Glenn Story, which was released this past spring. The movie is about a group of misfit teens attending annual basketball camp, which includes girls for the first time, and the life lessons through the game of basketball. The movie was voted best inspirational film at the Texas Christian Film Festival. It will be screened at the Gwinnett Cultural Arts Center International film festival on July 26.
The Mike Glenn Hearing Impaired Basketball Camp boys all-star team. Photos by Carla Parker
The girls all-star team played against the Southwest DeKalb High School girls basketball team.
SPORTS
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The American Association of Kickballers (AAOK) is a new kickball league in metro Atlanta. The regular season concluded June 23 with four games played at Johnson Park in Conyers. One the games included the matchup between Quiet Storm and Rockstars (above). Photos by Carla Parker
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