FREEPRESS

the DeKalb FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 VOL. 20, NO. 9 FREE

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

Public piano coming to Brookhaven

by Carla Parker
carla@dekalbchamp.com

Young pianist Nico Brett

loves playing the piano so much
that he practices almost every
day.
Even while on vacation with
his family, Nico wants to practice
the piano, but he couldnt
bring one with him. One year,
Nico, now 11 years old, was in
London with his parentsJason
and Kelly Brettwhen they
discovered a way for Nico to
practice the piano.
We found out about public
piano projects and found a
public piano in London at one of
the big train stations there, and
thats where he [went] every day
to practice, Jason Brett said.
People would gather around,
have conversations and we saw
all these people smiling and
we thought it was fantastic. We
would like to have something like
this in Atlanta.
When they returned home,
they begin strategizing and
calling people to create an
organization that would refurbish
pianos and place them in public
places for people to use for
free. The Bretts formed the non-
profit Play Me Again Pianos in
February 2016. Aragon will be made available to the public June 4 at Ashford Park
Jason Brett said they took an
old piano they owned, worked
with some people in Sandy The Bretts goal is to place 88 need a tuning or minor repairs. chose the artist that they want to
Springs who introduced them to freely accessible public pianos We have a piano technician paint the piano thats going to be
the Chastain Park Conservancy, throughout metro Atlanta. The that works with us and were located there.
had an artist paint the piano and piano in Ashford Park will be the always looking for more The pianos also have unique
placed it at Chastain Park. third located in DeKalb County. technicians to work with us as names. Brett said the pianos are
That was our first one, which There is one at the Chamblee well to keep those pianos tuned, used every day by pianists and
was placed in March 2016 and Rail Trail and at Dunwoody Brett said. We have to pay children.
weve been building since then, Nature Center. for a lot of services and were We know of a lot of adults
Brett said. Street pianos and public always looking for volunteers to and students who do practices
They have placed six pianos inspire people to connect help drive that cost down and and impromptu performances
refurbished pianos in various with each other in ways that donations to help pay for it. on these pianos, he said. It
areas of metro Atlanta and will were once common, but seem Artists also contribute their brings all kinds of accidental
place their seventh piano in increasingly rare, Jason Brett talents to Play Me Again Pianos encounters with music
Ashford Park in Brookhaven on said. By adding our pianos to by creating designs for the throughout the community.
June 4. Brookhaven officials will the landscape throughout the pianos. Brett said they are looking for
hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony city, we hope to nurture that We reach out to our artists donated space that would allow
to celebrate the new piano, connection into an evolution of and ask them to submit design them to store and paint pianos.
which is named Aragon. The Atlantas culture, community and ideas or samples of their work, It will reduce the move of the
piano is painted purple with a the arts. Brett said. Then we go back piano and reduce our expenses,
dragon design. The Bretts collect pianos that to the venue and share those he said.
are in good working order but concepts with them and theyll

Visit www.championnewspaper.com for local, real DeKalb County news. @DeKalbChampNews

LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 Page 2

Avondale police notify residents

of summer crime spike
by Carla Parker
A rendering of the North Decatur Square project located at Church Street and
North Decatur Road. Development officials said the development could be
carla@dekalbchamp.com
complete by the third quarter of next year.
Summer break has begun in
DeKalb County, which means
car is not in useplace all
valuables in the trunk.
Do not leave valuable items
mowers, leaf blowers, chain
saws, laddersunattended
in your yard or visible in a
absence.
Thomas said it also important
to remember the safety of
children.
Front yards will have
children playing in them, and

Development
police departments are preparing carport. the streets will have more
for the annual summer crime Secure and lock gates, garage bicyclists traveling on them
spike. doors, and storage shed doors going to friends houses, the

taking shape after

Avondale Estates Police after each use. pool and just having fun riding
Chief Lynn Thomas released Remember to close and lock their bikes, he said. Motorists
an emailed message to residents doors and windows when you are reminded to observe posted
May 23 to expect an increase are away from your home, speed limits, obey stop and

signing tenants
in crime during the summer regardless how long or short other traffic control signs and
months. the time and if you have an to be highly observant when
As stated in previous alarm activate it. traveling through residential
summer letters, we must always Keep bicycle(s) and sports neighborhoods.
remember that crime does equipment inside a closed The city changed Dartmouth
by Horace Holloman not take a vacation, Thomas garage or house when not in Avenue in front of Willis Park
horace@dekalbchamp.com said. Traditionally, during the use. If bicycles cannot be stored and the Avondale Swim and
summer months there is a rise inside, consider using a cable Tennis Club will to a one-way
A Decatur-based development is beginning to take shape after in criminal activity, especially or chain to securely lock them. road for the pool season and it
S.J. Collins Enterprises, a commercial real estate development thefts from vehicles, carports, When on vacation, only carry will remain a one-way road until
firm, signed its first tenants. and of items left unattended in credit and debit cards that you the end of the pool season.
North Decatur Square, located at Church Street and North the yard. absolutely need; leave all others Please obey the traffic flow
Decatur Road, signed some of its first tenants including Avalon Thomas said those crimes are secured at home or in a bank plan and encourage visitors
Nail Spa, Bad Daddys Burger Bar, Club Pilates, gusto! Wood Fire called crimes of opportunity deposit box. and friends to be alert and
Grill, Hollywood Feed, Regions Bank, Sage Dental and Takorea. and lists measures residents can Before leaving on vacation, obey parking requirements,
Decaturs newest development plans to be selective with its use to prevent being a victim of complete a security check Thomas said. It is our desire
tenants, said S.J. Collins Enterprise Partner Jeff Garrison. So far, those crimes: form requesting the Avondale that everyone has a safe and
the process has been overwhelming, he said. Lock your vehicle doors when Estates Police Department to enjoyable summer.
The interest that were getting has been way more than we check your home during your
can handle. Weve been very happy with the response, Garrison
said. With that being said, were being very selective. Were
trying to create the best center. Its an art, not a science.
Garrison said S.J. Collins Enterprises is looking for unique
tenants that can also offer healthy, affordable food.
Were not going to do the mahogany-wall steak restaurant.
We want to focus on the daily needs of the community. Were
looking for fast-casual places, Garrison said.
North Decatur Square will feature pedestrian-friendly designs
and walk paths along with multi-use trails. The area will also offer L I T H O NI A
green space. The development is roughly 86,000 square feet and
features a four-story apartment building by Terwilliger Pappas.
The apartment community will house an estimated 450 residents.
FARMERS MARKET
Farmers Market

The developments anchor tenant will be a 35,000-square-foot LITHONIA CITY HALL

365 by Whole Foods Market grocery store.
This is a unique and hip area in Atlanta, said Justin Latone, EVERY SUNDAY | 12-4 p.m.
WE
director of leasing for the center, in a statement. With this retail JUNE 4TH THROUGH S EPTEMBER 1 8TH ACC
EPT
(EXCEPT JULY 2ND)
center, we elected to pursue more local and trendy businesses HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LITH ONIA
in the area like Takorea and gusto!, but we also want to attract 6 920 MAIN ST. LITH ONIA, GA 3 0 058
highly respected businesses like 365 by Whole Foods, which will
be the first in Georgia. We think this retail hub will be a regional
asset for the up-and-coming Decatur market.
Construction on the development is scheduled for the fall of
this year and Garrison said it could be complete as early as the
third quarter of 2018.
Most of what we heard is that [North Decatur Square] cant CONTACT:FARMERS.MARKET@LITHONIACITY.ORG
come soon enough. Thats why we spent so much time with the
homeowners associations and their representatives, Garrison
said. We want the atmosphere to be fun, but we want people to
feel comfortable. We want this to be a part of everyday life.
MADE POSSIBLE BY FUNDING FROM THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 3

AROUNDDEKALB
BROOKHAVEN
City to host dog event
Brookhavens third annual Bark in the
Park will be held June 3, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
at Brookhaven Park. The event will feature
DUNWOODY
According to Dunwoody Police
spokesmen, space is limited and reservations
are encouraged. To RSVP and for more
information, contact Katherine Tate at (678)
382-6918 or katherine.tate@dunwoodyga.
Nature center to host summer
concerts gov.
Dunwoody Nature Centerlocated at 5343

STONE
music, dog trick demonstrations, pet-related Roberts Drivewill host four concerts as part
vendors and adoptions. All dogs must be on of its 2017 Summer Concert Series.
a leash. Admission is free. The park is located The series features local bands playing

at 4158 Peachtree Road. For information on
becoming a vendor, email Philip.mitchell@
brookhavenga.gov.
MOUNTAIN
evening sets.
On June 3, funk band Dyn-o-mite will take
the stage at the Nature Centers old fireplace.
On June 27, local rock band High Beams will
play. On July 1, bluegrass band Honeywood City to host yoga in the park event
will showcase their talent. To finish off the

DORAVILLE 2017 series, acoustic songwriter Wesley Cook

City to host Movies Under the Stars
As part of its Movies Under the Stars
event, the city of Doraville will host film
will play.
Concerts are free to Dunwoody Nature
Center members and $5 for adults, $3 for
students and free for children ages 3 and
younger. Each concert begins at 7 p.m. and
ends tentatively at 9 p.m.
Stone Mountain will host Yoga in the Park
at Randolph Medlock Park on June 10 from 9
to 10 a.m. The family-friendly event will occur
monthly on the second Saturday until Sept. 9.
For more information, contact Sara Abrams at
(704) 965-1800.

screenings at Honeysuckle Parklocated at
3037 Pleasant Valley Driveon June 9 and
July 14.
On June 9, beginning at 6:30 p.m., DeKalb
County residents can enjoy The Secret Life of
Pets free of charge. The film follows a terrier
named Max and Duke, a stray who is adopted
by Maxs owner.
On July 14 at 6:30 p.m., attendees can
screen Moana, which follows a Polynesian
princess as she seeks out a demigod to solve
a curse on her island homeland.
Both events are free. Attendees are
encouraged to bring their own chairs or
blankets. Food, beverages, children activities
and games will also be available.
For more information, contact Doravilles
parks and recreation department at (770) 936-
3850.
Residents are encouraged to bring their
own beach chairs, blankets and seating
arrangements. Food and beverages are
available for purchase at each concert but
attendees may to bring picnic baskets.
For more information, visit www.
dunwoodynature.org.
Police department to host free car
seat class
The public is invited to attend a free
car seat class at the Dunwoody Police
Departmentlocated at 41 Perimeter Center
Easton June 3 from 9:30 until 11 a.m.
The class is designed for DeKalb County
residents expecting a child or currently using
a rear-facing car seat. Attendees can expect
to learn car seat law, how to properly install
seats, news on safety recalls and what police
look for when inspecting car seats.
TUCKER
Organization to host car show
Tucker Cruise-In, a non profit, old-
fashioned town meet and greet car show will
be held June 10 on Main Street in Tucker.
There will be a variety of cars, ranging from
antiques to street rods and motorcycles
to imports. The Cruise-Ins are held on the
second Saturday of every month through
September. The event begins at 5 p.m. and
ends with the presentation of awards around
8 p.m. There is a $5 registration fee to enter
a car into judging. The cut off time to have
enter a car into judging is 6:30 p.m. For more
information, call (770) 527-1521.

DEKALB COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION DEKALB COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

REDUSE. 2nd PUBLIC BUDGET HEARING

FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2018

Monday, June 12, 2017

1ST PUBLIC
MILLAGE RATE HEARING

TIME LOCATION Monday, June 12, 2017

5:30 p.m. J. David Williamson Board Room

REUSE.
Robert R. Freeman Administrative Complex
1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd.
TIME LOCATION
Stone Mountain, GA 30083 6:15 p.m. J. David Williamson Board Room
Robert R. Freeman Administrative Complex
The DeKalb County Board of Education will hold a public budget 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd.
hearing to solicit feedback from the public regarding the 2017- Stone Mountain, GA 30083
2018 school systems budget. The proposed FY20172018 General
Fund Tentative Budget contains full funding for the salary

RECYCLE.
Citizens interested in reviewing a detailed copy of the program
increases granted by the Board during mid-year FY2017 (1.5% and
.5%).
based budget may do so by visiting the DeKalb County School
District website at www.dekalbschoolsga.org.
FOR INFORMATION, CALL THE OFFICE OF THE FOR INFORMATION, CALL THE OFFICE OF THE
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AT 678-676-0069. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AT 678-676-0069.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 Page 4

Brookhaven approves Comfort Women of WWII memorial

beautiful statue will bring much comfort women and their
by Carla Parker healing, peace and hope, Kyu suffering, Ernst said in a press
carla@dekalbchamp.com Kim said in a press released. release. Brookhaven is now
According to the city, City the first city in the state of
Councilman John Park first Georgia and the deep South to
Brookhaven is continuing
brought the idea of welcoming publicly commit to the comfort
its efforts to bring awareness to
the memorial to the city. women memorial, and we
human trafficking.
The comfort women encourage other cities to join us
The Brookhaven City
tragedy is one the largest known in a strong, public stand against
Council May 23 unanimously
cases of human and sexual human trafficking.
approved bringing a monument,
trafficking in the 20th century, Brookhaven was the first city
that recognizes the danger and
Park said in a press release. The to join the Were Not Buying It
injustice of human trafficking
city of Brookhaven is deeply campaign, a national initiative
worldwide, to the city. The
honored to be the home for the to create a forum for all 50
memorial, named Young Girls
Young Girls Statue for Peace. states to collaborate and develop
Statue for Peace, was donated
As we remember the history strategies to end sex trafficking.
by the Atlanta Comfort Women
of these victims of human In 2014, the city became first
Memorial Task Force in honor
trafficking and enslavement, we city in Georgia to train its top
of the 200,000 comfort women
bear witness to their suffering managers and all city employees
of World War II.
so that these atrocities never to recognize signs of child sex
Comfort women were
happen again. trafficking.
women and girls forced into
Brookhaven Mayor John The city said the comfort
sexual slavery by the Imperial
Ernst said the memorial will women memorial will be
Japanese Army in occupied
raise awareness of the ongoing placed at an appropriate location
territories before and during
problems of sexual and human for public display within the
World War II.
trafficking taking place in metro next 30 days. The city and
Baik Kyu Kim, chair of the
Atlanta and the world. task force also will organize an
task force, said the organization
The city of Brookhaven is educational event on the history
is grateful for the courage,
proud to join the growing list of the comfort women and the
passion and commitment of
of progressive cities around the connections with other local The Brookhaven City Council unanimously approved to bring a memorial named
Brookhaven city officials. Young Girls Statue for Peace to the city in honor of the comfort women of
world that have already installed and international cases of sex
It is our hope that this World War II. Photo from the Atlanta Comfort Women Memorial Task Force
memorials in recognition of trafficking.

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 Tuesday, June 27, 2017 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 2017 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY

DEKALB COUNTY SCHOOL 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Real & Personal 17,578,034,324 17,512,942,085 18,945,661,424 21,114,929,747 22,708,465,405 24,330,418,024

Motor Vehicles 1,265,293,750 1,359,311,440 1,135,212,830 781,124,040 568,562,240 501,760,240
Mobile Homes 440,056 396,572 355,333 358,733 769,100 1,255,335
Timber - 100% 0 0 0 0 0 0
Heavy Duty Equipment 77,829 34,308 57,864 2,208 76,000 157,886
Gross Digest 18,843,845,959 18,872,684,405 20,081,287,451 21,896,414,728 23,277,872,745 24,833,591,485
Less M& O Exemptions 2,847,239,428 2,826,254,552 2,923,178,437 3,144,309,260 3,295,536,890 3,224,983,327
Net M & O Digest 15,996,606,531 16,046,429,853 17,158,109,014 18,752,105,468 19,982,335,855 21,608,608,158
State Forest Land Assistance
Grant Value 0 0 0 0 0 0
Adjusted Net M&O Digest 15,996,606,531 16,046,429,853 17,158,109,014 18,752,105,468 19,982,335,855 21,608,608,158

Gross M&O Millage 23.98 23.98 23.98 23.98 23.73 23.38

Less Rollbacks 0.00 0.00 0.00 -0.25 -0.35 0.00
Net M&O Millage 23.98 23.98 23.98 23.73 23.38 23.38

Total School Taxes Levied $383,598,625 $384,793,388 $411,451,454 $444,987,463 $467,187,012 $505,209,259

Net Taxes $ Increase ($21,384,338) $1,194,763 $26,658,066 $33,536,009 $22,199,550 $38,022,246

Net Taxes % Increase -5.28% 0.31% 6.93% 8.15% 4.99% 8.14%

NOTES:
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 2017 MILLAGE RATE IS THE PROPOSED RATE. THE PROPOSED SCHOOL OPERATIONS MILLAGE IS 23.38 MILLS.
3. 2017 DIGEST FIGURES ARE AN ESTIMATE.
LOCAL
Decatur was Chuck Klostermans fifth stop on a nine-city tour promoting his new book, Chuck Klosterman X.
Author expounds on modern American culture
by Kathy Mitchell
New York Timesbestselling author
Chuck Klosterman acknowledged at a
recent appearance at the Decatur Library
that the title of his latest book, Chuck
Klosterman X, was probably a mistake.
I am now realizing it was a stupid idea.
Its called Chuck Klosterman X because
its my 10th book; but first of allexcept at
Super Bowl time Americans arent that
into Roman numerals. Theyre more likely to
read it as X, not as 10. Besides, other than
the publisher, who keeps up with how many
previous books an author has? And, I made
this same mistake before. My fourth book
was called Chuck Klosterman IV. People
thought it was about a medical procedure.
With a mixture of such self-deprecating
humor and comments on his area of
expertisepopular American culture
Klosterman entertained a packed house
at the librarys auditorium on May 22. He
announced that he would not spend the time
reading from the book. With all due respect
to other authors, I think adults dont really
need someone to read to them. Reading a
book for yourself and processing it through
your own brain is the experience. Having
an author read to you is a little like a waiter
bringing you a plate of spaghetti and saying,
Wait, let me eat a little of it to show you how
its done, he said.
Klosterman did, however, follow custom
and read brief excerpts from the new book,
which the library describes as a collection
of his most intriguing articles, accompanied
by fresh introductions and new footnotes
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 5
many of the articles in their original form,
featuring previously unpublished passages
and digressions.
An essay he read from describes a court
case involving his favorite soft drink. It has
been brought to my attention that Mountain
Dew can dissolve a mouse, he read.
This information comes not from some
rival beverage critic, but from PepsiCo
itself: In an attempt to get out of a lawsuit,
the manufacturers of Mountain Dew are
suggesting thatif a mouse were somehow
trapped inside a bottle of Dewthe
rodent would be turned into a gelatinous,
unrecognizable blob. If true, such evidence
would contradict the accusation of Ronald
Ball, a Wisconsin man who claims to have
purchased a Mountain Dew at a vending
machine and found a dead mouse inside
the bottle.
As someone whos consumed 16 to
32 ounces of Mountain Dew almost every
single day for the past 21 years, I found this
news unnecessarily salacious. Honestly,
Ive experienced no ill effects from my over-
the-top Mountain Dew consumption, except
that Im kind of fat and pretty crazy and I
can never sleep (even though Im always
tired). Im sipping one right nowWith its
advanced mouse-eroding electrolytes,
Mountain Dew can destroy what your body
cannot. You know what I never get? I never
get food poisoning. Ever. I dont get food
poisoning when I eat poison.
Prompted by questions from the
audience, Klosterman touched on a number
of other subjects.
Ohio (where Klosterman once lived):
Ohio is unique. They call it a battleground
state and it really is. Its the whole country
condensed into one state. There are true
liberals and true conservatives. Thats why
nobody can predict what direction it will go
in during a national election.
Icons of the future: What if any aspect
of modern culturerock n roll music,
for examplein the future is reduced to
single figure. Would it be Elvis Presley?
Would it be Bob Dylan? Weve done that
before. Ask anyone to name a composer of
marching band music. They will either name
John Philip Sousa or nobody. Who will
emerge as the embodiment of rock n roll?
If we go with Elvis, who didnt write his own
music, the focus is on performance. On the
other hand, if the focus is authenticity, its
Dylan. I think the answer is Chuck Berry.
Writing: Its a compliment to be
compared to other writers you admire, but
really, as long as theyre comparing you to
other people, youre not there yet.
Soccer (Klosterman once offered the
opinion that soccer is unlikely to become
a favorite among American sports fans.):
That one made me a lot of enemies. There
are people who hate my books, including
ones they never read, because of what I
said about soccer. Apparently, soccer fans
dont really have a sense of humornot
about soccer, anyway.
The line of readers seeking to have
Klosterman autograph his new book, which
stretched past the entrance to the library
auditorium, seemed to indicate that he still
has plenty of fans.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 6

Letter to the Editor

Congratulations to Decatur attorney for Georgia Legal Food Frenzy success
To the editor:
On behalf of the Young Lawyers Division
(YLD) of the State Bar of Georgia, I would
like to congratulate Decatur attorney Justin
Oliverio for his law firms outstanding
success as the winner of the Sole Proprietor
division in the sixth annual Georgia Legal
Food Frenzy competition.
The Oliverio firm collected 12,733
pounds of food for the Atlanta Community
Food Bank. A total of 215 legal
organizations, representing more than
14,000 members, participated in this years
Legal Food Frenzy, which took place April
17-28 and brought in a record-breaking total
of 1.34 million pounds statewide.
Along with Georgia Attorney General
Chris Carr, the Georgia YLD is honored to
co-sponsor this project to assist the Georgia
Food Bank Association and the Food Banks
across the state. We have now raised a total
of 6.34 million pounds of food in six years.
Thanks again to each attorney and legal
professional who joined us for this important
cause. We are proud to help lead an effort
that has such a significant impact on
communities across Georgia.
Sincerely,
Jennifer C. Mock
President, Young Lawyers Division
State Bar of Georgia

Stay and see Georgia this summer

With summer quickly
approaching, many are planning
vacations with family and friends.
I encourage all to consider
exploring the hundreds of
incredible destinations within our
own state.
From the mountains of North
Georgia with such treasures as
lakes Rabun, Seed and Burton
in the Clayton area to the shores
of Georgias Golden Isles that
include St. Simons, Jekyll and
Sea islands; there are options
that are sure to make everyone
happy.
In addition to the lakes and
seashores, there are countless
rivers, waterfalls, campgrounds,
gorges and small towns waiting
to be discovered at costs far less
than many typical destinations.
Less than two hours
John Hewitt
johnh@dekalbchamp.com
northwest of DeKalb County is
Amicalola Falls State Park and
Lodge, which is home to one
of the states tallest waterfalls
and is the beginning of the
Appalachian Trail. The park
offers camping spaces, cabins
and accommodations in the main
lodge that offer sweeping views
of the surrounding mountains
and valleys of the region.
In Northwest Georgia, visitors
will find Cloudland Canyon State
Park, which also offers primitive,
tent and RV camping, in addition
to yurts and cabins. But the
beauty of Cloudland Canyon is
hiking down into the canyon to
the waterfalls and forests below,
or along the upper rim of the
canyon for a breathtaking look
into the bottom of the canyon
carved by millions of years of
rushing water.
Along the northeast border
of Georgia and South Carolina
is one of Georgias largest
lakesLake Hartwell, offering
swimming, camping, boating and
unlimited options of fun on the
water.
Army Corps of Engineers
lakes in our state include Lake
Hartwell, Lake Sydney Lanier
in the Gainesville area, Lake
Allatoona near Cartersville as
well as several other spectacular
locations.
Every part of our state has
natural beauty waiting to be
discovered that are within easy
driving distance from DeKalb
County. If costs are concerns
for your summer entertainment
plans, stay home and visit a
nearby destination each day.
Youll save money and quickly
understand why the previous
Georgia tourism slogan of
Stay and See Georgia is still
applicable.
For even more travel options
visit www.exploregeorgia.org.
The site offers an abundance of
suggestions on things to do in
every region of the state, where
to stay, trip suggestions and
upcoming events. You can even
order a free travel guide to help
plan your excursions.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 7

Fine examples to follow

I can tell you, this project while accepting the $10 million home of the Atlanta Braves.
wouldnt be here today if it wasnt One Mans check, coincidentally the same Though McMurry was quick to
for you, Georgia Department of amount of assistance initially share credit for the I-85 bridge re-
Transportation Commissioner Opinion offered by President Donald buildincluding good weather
Russel McMurry told members Trump and the U.S. DOT in during peak construction periods,
of the Perimeter Community Bill Crane the immediate aftermath of the any strong team requires a solid
Improvement Districts (PCIDs), bill.csicrane@gmail.com collapse of the I-85 bridge. coach or captain. And among
saying their donation was of McMurry had just returned volunteer entities, such as
national significance in an from a gathering of his peers Georgias CIDs, servant leaders
era of increasing public-private project, and the West End CID across the country, and talk of the and community stakeholders
partnerships on infrastructure recently created in southwest record-breaking reconstruction often put skin in the game to
projects.McMurry was accepting Atlanta. of Atlantas downtown connector assure community buy-in as well
a $10 million contribution toward Creating a CID requires an was the buzz of the conference. as organizational success.
construction of the 285 at 400 act of local legislation as well McMurry shared that U.S. DOT As both of these situations
interchange project at a May as the support of 66 percent leaders and members of the demonstrate, when you have
26th meeting of the Perimeter of the impacted property Trump administration spoke of servant leaders, and a clear and
Business Alliance. owners.Residential and multi- their coming plans for critical executable planas well as the
family developments do not pay infrastructure reinvestment, and willyou can find the way. Or,
Wait, what?Businesses into CIDs. something that Team Trump is you can go find another Russel
voluntarily donating an additional Perimeter Center, the metro calling leverage, which may McMurry or Diane Calloway.
$10 million in property taxes to a regions Fortune 1000 address well match federal dollars with
government entity?Come again? of choice, has the largest office state, local and private sector
Starting something here sub-market, a leading mall and investments to get more bang Bill Crane also serves as a
in Georgia that is on the rise surrounding super centers as well out of each federal tax buck.This political analyst and commentator
elsewhere, two Perimeter as three MARTA stations.The PCIDs gift fits well into that soon for Channel 2s Action News,
Community Improvement Districts first of its now two CIDs, Central to be cast mold. WSB-AM News/Talk 750 and now
(PCIDs) on the metro northside DeKalb was formed in 1999. The Cumberland Community 95.5 FM, as well as a columnist
made good on their promise to But as the market grew Improvement District has also for The Champion, DeKalb Free
contribute $10 million toward the including the major employment pledged a significant multi-million Press and Georgia Trend. Crane
hard construction costs of the center of three hospitals atop investment toward GDOT and is a DeKalb native and business
new I-285 at Ga. 400 interchange. nearby Pill Hill, the Fulton Cobb County improvements to owner, living in Scottdale. You
The investment/gift was split County portion of the market area transit, transportation and can reach him or comment on a
and paid 40/60 by the Central was a bit slower to respond. It pedestrian crossing infrastructure column at bill.csicrane@gmail.
DeKalb Perimeter Improvement is most typically larger property around the new SunTrust Park, com.
District and Fulton Perimeter owners and developers who
Improvement District, both of assemble or serve as catalysts
which are located at Perimeter for the formation of a CID, but not
Center. always.
The two CIDs comprise Prior to the development of
4.2 square miles of developed the massive Cox Enterprises
commercial property, straddling Corporate campus and other
two counties (DeKalb and newer retail centers along
Fulton) and parts of three cities, Peachtree Dunwoody Road
Brookhaven, Dunwoody and and nearby Hammond Drive,
Sandy Springs. much of the area was home
Like Georgias now more to smaller businesses, more
than 20 other CIDs, these are than a few mom and pops
self-taxing business districts and some more mature office
where property owners voluntarily developments.Local real estate
contribute one to seven additional and title attorney Diane Calloway
mils in property tax revenues joined the nascent effort, often
each year toward improvements going door to door to explain the
and enhancements for their benefits of a CID in exchange for
respective communities. that business owners support for
There are three different CIDs a vote to form the CID, as well
in the areas adjacent to Hartsfield as paying higher property taxes.
Airport and two of the states Calloways efforts and shoe
newest CIDs are in Doraville leather paid off, and she is now
surrounding its downtown and chair of the Fulton Perimeter CID.
the under-development Assembly GDOTs McMurry beamed

FREEPRESS
the DeKalb
Publisher: Photographer: STATEMENT FROM THE
John Hewitt Travis Hudgons
PUBLISHER
Chief Financial Officer: Staff Reporters: We sincerely appreciate the
discussion surrounding this and any
Let Us Know What You Think! Dr. Earl D. Glenn Carla Parker issue of interest to DeKalb County.
SEND LETTERS TO EDITOR, R. Scott Belzer The Champion was founded in 1991
THE DEKALB FREE PRESS encourages opinions from Production Manager: Horace Holloman expressly to provide a forum for
The DeKalb Free Press, discourse for all community residents
its readers. Please write to us and express your views. P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; Kemesha Wadley on all sides of an issue. We have no
Letters should be brief, typewritten and contain the Send email to Johnh@dekalbchamp.com desire to make the news only to
FAX To: (404) 370-3903; Phone: (404) 373-7779. The DeKalb Free Press is published each Friday report news and opinions to effect
writers name, address and telephone number for verifi- Deadline for news releases and advertising: by ACE III Communications, Inc., a more educated citizenry that will
cation. All letters will be considered for publication. Thursday, one week prior to publication date. 114 New Street, Suite E, Decatur, GA. 30030 ultimately move our community
forward. We are happy to present
Phone (404) 373-7779. ideas for discussion; however,
EDITORS NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reflect the opinions www.championnewspaper.com we make every effort to avoid
of the editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The printing information submitted to
us that is known to be false and/or
Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. DISPLAY ADVERTISING (404) 373-7779 x 110 assumptions penned as fact.
LOCAL
Violent incident leads to home
investigation in Doraville
Council questions code enforcement
following two arrests
by R. Scott Belzer
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
A violent incident along
Raymond Drive in Doraville
has led to questions involving
code enforcement from city
officials and concern from
residents.
According to a release
from the Doraville Police
Department, officers
responded to a call at a home
on Raymond Drive on May 13
at 7 p.m. Upon arrival, officers
encountered a man with
multiple stab wounds a short
distance from the house.
Two menAfredo
Garcia-Guzman and Manuel
Mendoza-Garciawere
arrested and charged with
assault.
By May 15, at Doraville
City Councils bi-weekly
meeting, residents voiced
enough concern to elicit a
response from city officials
and Doravilles outsourced
code enforcement firm, Clark
Patterson Lee.
Residents voiced
suspicion that the house
could be occupied with illegal
immigrants and the site of
human trafficking.
We ask that you please
take into consideration the
safety of our children and the
residents in the neighborhood,
one resident said. Think about
whether you would want your
family living next to a home
that has residents like this
indentured servants, human-
trafficked people forced to live
like this. It is not the place they
need to be.
Residents said it is up to
code enforcement to make sure
homes are following rules for
occupancy.
Doraville Police Chief John
King spoke about the incident,
stating a full investigation of
the house is underway by the
police and code enforcement.
The situation is very
serious, King said. Our
officers responded in less
than five minutes. We made
two arrests. The victim and
the suspects lived in the same
house. We were able to use
body-worn [cameras] as
probable cause to not only
investigate the crime, but get
into the home legally and get
search warrants.
King said code enforcement
officials from Clark Patterson
Lee met with him on May 15
to conduct a survey of the
property.
It clearly is deplorable,
King said. Building officials
have posted a placard stating
those individuals have to
vacate. We got in touch with
the property owner and were
in the process of building
officials writing citations.
King said slum lords
know the rules of code
enforcement well and will
often bar entry into residences.
He said it often takes a crime
to gain entry into violating
reisdences, a process he said
was frustrating, especially
when it requires a violent
incident to occur.
Once were investigating a
crime, we use all the resources
of our city to pile on, King
said. Not only do we want to
have a successful prosecution
for the person responsible for
this, but we are putting the full
weight of our city resources
code enforcement, building
officials, fire marshals. Were
not going to rest until we deal
with this.
King said the incident
was not a random crime and
that the suspects and victim
knew each other. He said the
violence stemmed from alcohol
use.
City council questioned
Rich Edinger, a representative
from Clark Patterson Lee,
regarding code enforcement
practices in Doraville.
Councilwoman Sharon
Spangler and M.D. Naser
criticized code enforcement
officers working a standard
work week and only being on
call on weekends.
Theres a lot of violations,
Spangler said.
Id like to see someone
[working] on the weekend,
Naser said. Thats when
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 Page 8
The arrest of Alfredo Garcia-Guzman and Manuel Mendoza-Garcia sparked
questions from city officials about code enforcement in Doraville. Photos
people do sneaky stuff. During submitted.
the week they do nothing
because they know were active.
Why dont we decrease hours
during the week and increase
them on the weekends?
Councilwoman Dawn
OConnor said the safety
of residents should be code
enforcements top priority.
We cant go knock on
every single persons door and
say, Who lives here? but when
we see people with eight to 10
cars, running a business out
of their home and walking
around in their underwear, it
seems to me that a case can
be built, OConnor said. Im
anxious to hear what went on
Rich Edinger with Clark Patterson Lee, the code enforcement firm in Doraville,
in that house on Raymond was questioned by Doraville city council, who maintain a violent incident
did anybody make any reports? could have been avoided if code enforcement was properly conducted. Photo
Is this the first time anyone submitted.
got wind of the fact they were
running a boarding house?
Edinger said 13 property
court twice. neighborhood in favor of an
maintenance cases of code
City manager Shawn officer on the weekend.
enforcement were made on
Gillen said the stabbing is Garcia-Guzman and
the Raymond Drive property.
not a code enforcement issue Mendoza-Garcia both remain
He said it is up to the solicitor
and that council previously lodged in DeKalb County jail.
to issue a warrant should a
asked to have officers in every
homeowner fail to appear in
CITY OF DORAVILLE
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
The City of Doraville has tentatively adopted a millage rate of 8.951 which
will require an increase in property taxes by 16.23 percent. The proposed
millage rate is .58 mills more than the prior year millage rate of 8.371
mills.
All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearing on this tax
increase to be held at the Doraville City Hall located at 3725 Park Avenue,
Doraville, GA 30340 on June 12, 2017 at 6:00pm.
Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at
the Doraville City Hall on June 12, 2017 at 11:30am and at the Doraville
Civic Center located at 3770 Central Avenue, Doraville GA 30340 on June
19, 2017 at 6:00pm.
This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 8.951 mills, an
increase of 16.23 percent over the rollback rate. Without this tentative
tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 7.701 mills. The
proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $150,000 is
approximately $43.75 and the tax increase for a non-homestead property
with a fair market value of $675,000 is approximately $337.50.
LOCAL

WEEKinPICTURES
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 Page 9

On May 20-21, DeKalb high school students participated in CodeDay, a 24-hour national code-a-thon. The event,
sponsored by LexisNexis Risk Solutions, drew participants from across metro Atlanta area. Students competed to
developmobile apps, video games or web applications, From left are DeKalb students Elizabeth Oluokun, Rebecca
Oluokun, Monica Garrett (Director of Community Affairs at LexisNexis Risk Solutions), Patience Oluokon and
Christopher Belenger (CodeDay MVP).

Decatur Active Living hosted its first celebration of National Senior Health and
Fitness Day at the Decatur Recreation Center. Photo provided.

Dunwoody City Council honored the Dunwoody Elementary School Wildcat 5e robotics team during its meeting Chamblee Charter High Schools women golf team prepares for the 5-A State
on May 22. Photo submitted. Tournament on May 22. Photo submitted.

Have you created programming youd like to air on TV?

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

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

LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 Page 10

Thousands of DeKalb County seniors graduated from high

school the week of May 22, with DeKalb County School District
graduating all but three high schools at the Georgia World
Congress Center. Photo submitted.

2017 Graduates

Redan High School seniors listen to valedictorian Aiyasia Peoples deliver Chamblee Charter High School principal Norman Sauce III poses with the
her commencement speech. Photo by R. Scott Belzer Class of 2017. Photo submitted.

Destiny Achievers Academy of Excellence principal Kelvin Griffin delivers his DeKalb County School District provided leather diploma holders
commencement speech. Photo submitted. and individualized programs to each senior. Photo submitted.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 11

Imani Toure of Martin Luther King Jr. High School
poses outside the Georgia World Congress Center on
graduation day. Photo by Kemesha Wadley
Chamblee Charter High School seniors await their
diplomas. Photo submitted.
A Miller Grove High School senior
celebrates his selection in Georgia State
Universitys Talent Search Program
outside the Georgia World Congress
Center. Photo submitted.

Decatur High Schools graduation on May 25 sold out the schools gymnasium; valedictorian Patricia Jones delivers her commencement speech. Photo by
R. Scott Belzer
LOCAL
Canby Lane to
receive makeover
School selected for 2017 School
Crashers event
by R. Scott Belzer
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
For the second year in a
row, a DeKalb County School
District (DCSD) school will
be crashed by a Georgia
business.
Canby Lane Elementary
located at 4150 Green Hawk
Trail in Decaturwas named
the winner of Georgia United
Credit Unions 2017 School
Crashers program on May 18.
As a winner, Canby
Lane will receive $75,000 in
improvements including fresh
paint, new carpet, remodeled
classrooms, new library books,
new furniture, fresh pine straw,
signage, murals and a restriped
parking lot.
Originally built in 1967,
Canby Lane Elementary serves
740 students and has not
received building additions
since 1999 when a physical
education facility was built.
Additions were also made in
Brevin (ID# 35003663)
is a big, goofy guy that would
love to lay frog-dog style in the
middle of your floor, entertain you
with his hilarious play, and make
sure you always have a snuggle
partner close by. This one-year-old
boy gets along great with other
dogs here at the shelter. Meet
him at LifeLines DeKalb Animal
Services!
If you would like to expand
your family by 4 furry little feet;
come meet this sweetie at the
DeKalb Animal Shelter and have a
loving friend forever. During June
in preparation of the opening
of the new DeKalb shelter we
are Celebrating our Clear the
Shelter event!! Adoptions are
waived on all dogs over 25
lbs and all cats and includes
spay/neuter, vaccinations and
microchip! Please help us make
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 12
1994, according to the schools
website.
Canby Lane was chosen
among 330 nominations
throughout Georgia following
an essay from assistant
principal Kia Dennis.
Georgia United Credit
Canby Lane Elementary in Decatur was selected by Georgia United Credit Union as the winner for the fourth annual School
Union officials state the Crashers Program on May 18. The school will receive multiple improvements following its selection. Photo submitted.
school needs multiple facility
improvements inside and out.
announcement, community in Doraville based on an essay include Eagle Woods Academy
Canby Lane submitted a
members, educators, parents, from student Chloe Riggins. and Fairington Elementary.
compelling entry with multiple
teachers and students will The looks, the smiles on Eagle Woods will receive
areas for improvement, said
begin organizing volunteers to faces, the tears of parents is all a therapeutic garden and
Shawn Turpin, senior vice
assist Georgia United Credit the thanks youll ever need to Fairington will receive media
president of sales and service
Union employees for the do something like this, Turpin center improvements and
for Georgia United Credit
makeover event on July 21 and said. carpet replacement.
Unon. With a high homeless
22, according to Turpin. Other DeKalb County For more information, visit
population attending, our goal
Last year, Turpin and schools expecting to receive www.gucu.org/schoolcrashers.
this year will be to improve
Georgia United Credit Union partial makeovers from
the overall look and feel of
members crashed DCSDs Georgia United Credit Union
the school to help improve
Oakcliff Elementary School
all students educational
experience and distinguish the
learning environment as a safe
and happy place for students.
Our School Crashers program maria Clark
could make a huge difference
soprano
for students.
Following the June 20, 2017, 8 PM
In Residence at
Clarkston Campus
Georgia State University
Perimeter College
Fyodor cherniavsky
Music Director & conductor
performing arias from
Mozart: Marriage of Figaro
Puccini: Tosca
Verdi: Aido
also on the program
Orchestral operatic favorites by
Berlioz, Tchaikovsky & Verdi
First Baptist Church of Decatur
this a successful event and a
fabulous shelter opening. If you
308 Clairemont Avenue
Decatur, Georgia 30030
would like more information
about Brevin please call (404)
294-2165 or email adoption@ Free Admission
dekalbanimalservices.com.
All potential adopters will be For additional information
please visit us online at
screened to ensure Brevin goes
www.DeKalbSymphony.org
to a good home. Hours: Mon-Fri; or call 678-891-3565
11am-7pm / Sat-Sun; 11am-6pm
 LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 13

Dunwoody police officers efforts rewarded

Officers Michael Cheek,
Jason Lewis promoted
and recognized
by R. Scott Belzer
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
Two Dunwoody police
officers have been recognized
for their efforts in positive
policing and auto theft,
according to a May 18 release
from the Dunwoody Police
Department.
Officer Michael Cheek
was promoted to sergeant
after earning a Positive
Policing Award from ASIS
International, an organization police department spokesman
of Decatur Georgia
of security Ad Valorem
professionals, on
May 8.
Cheek is responsible for
atur -the
Digest
Griffin Project, in which
City of Decatur Georgia Ad Valorem Tax Digest History
essment Ratio
Decatur - Digest
al Property
sonal Property
Assessment Ratio
lic Utilities
or VehicleReal Property
Personal Property
al Digest
Public Utilities
Motor Vehicle
Operations
Total Digest
city police officers visit local
schools to interact with special-
needs children.
Police officers have no
greater responsibility than
protecting the most vulnerable
people in our communities
and building relationships
with them, said Dunwoody Officer Michael Cheek was awarded the Police Policing Award on May 8 for the implementation of the Griffin Project, in
police chief Billy Grogan. The which city police officers visit local schools to interact with special-needs children. Photos submitted
Griffin Project does just that.
Cheek was officially Dunwoody police officer approximately $313,500. believed to be stealing cars and
promoted to sergeant at Jason Lewis is scheduled As an Award of Merit laundering money.
Dunwoody City Councils to receive the 2016-2017 winner, Lewis will be able to The great work by Officer
May 11 meeting. According to Award of Merit by the attend the IAATIs annual Lewis is an example of the
International Association training seminar and receive a great work done by our
TaxStevens,
Mark Digest History
Cheek will be of Auto Theft Investigators plaque of honor. officers each and every day
assigned as a patrol division (IAATI) southeastern chapter According to Stevens, as they serve the citizens of
supervisor upon completion of following his investigation of the investigation led to the Dunwoody, Chief Grogan
a field training program. six stolen vehicles valued at identification of four suspects said.
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 201
50% 50% 50% 50% 50% 50
$ 1,137,427,809
2012 $ 1,168,516,500
2013 $ 1,326,596,200
2014 $ 1,594,612,800
2015 2016$ 1,693,241,200
2017 $ 1,835,2
$ 22,174,136 $ 23,211,680 $ 22,248,300 $ 22,322,600 $ 23,627,600 $ 25,4
$ 50%
14,297,200 $ 50%
14,639,953 $ 50%15,152,700 $ 50% 50%
17,209,600 $ 50%
15,658,700 $ 16,5
$ $49,311,000
1,137,427,809
$$ 1,168,516,500
52,979,900$ 1,326,596,200
$ 47,331,600 $ 35,521,587 $ 26,623,700 $
$ 1,594,612,800 $ 1,693,241,200 $ 1,835,249,100
23,4
$ 22,174,136 $ 23,211,680 $ 22,248,300 $ 22,322,600 $ 23,627,600 $ 25,448,800
$1,223,210,145
$ 14,297,200 $1,259,348,033
$ 14,639,953 $ $1,411,328,800
15,152,700 $ $1,669,666,587
17,209,600 $ $1,759,151,200
15,658,700 $ 16,521,530$1,900,7
$ 49,311,000 $ 52,979,900 $ 47,331,600 $ 35,521,587 $ 26,623,700 $ 23,481,400
$1,223,210,145 $1,259,348,033 $1,411,328,800 $1,669,666,587 $1,759,151,200 $1,900,700,830

neral Fund
City Exemptions
Operations $ 126,914,000 $ 126,332,000 $ 125,393,000 $ 130,639,000 $ 128,646,080 $ 169,8

General Fund
City Operations Exemptions
Digest $ 126,914,000 $1,133,016,033
$1,096,296,145 $ 126,332,000 $ $1,285,935,800
125,393,000 $ 130,639,000 $ 128,646,080
$1,539,027,587 $ 169,825,080$1,730,8
$1,630,505,120
Net City Operations Digest $1,096,296,145 $1,133,016,033 $1,285,935,800 $1,539,027,587 $1,630,505,120 $1,730,875,750
Operations Millage 11.680 11.580 11.580 11.080 10.680
City Operations Millage 11.680 11.580 11.580 11.080 10.680 10.880
Operations Levy $12,804,739 $13,120,326 $14,891,137 $17,052,426 $17,413,795 $18,8
City Operations Levy $12,804,739 $13,120,326 $14,891,137 $17,052,426 $17,413,795 $18,831,928
cent Change -0.60 2.46 13.50 14.51 2.12
Percent Change -0.60 2.46 13.50 14.51 2.12 8.14
ar Amount
DollarChange
Amount Change ($76,947)
($76,947) $315,587
$315,587 $1,770,811 $2,161,289
$1,770,811 $2,161,289$361,369 $361,369
$1,418,133 $1,4

The Decatur City Commission

The Decatur announces
City Commission announces that
thatthe
the 2017 tentative
2017 tentative millage
millage rate rate was adopted
was adopted at theiron
at their meeting meeting
Monday,on Monday, May
May
15, 2017. Hearings on the budget and millage rate
15, 2017. Hearings on the budget and millage rate will be held on: will be held on:
Monday, Monday,
June 12, June 12, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.
2017 at 6:00 p.m.
Monday, June 19, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Monday, AJune 19, 2017
separate hearingaton3:30 p.m. and
the budget only 7:30
will bep.m.
held Monday, June 5, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.
A separate
Thehearing
hearingson willthe budget
be held only will
at Decatur City be
Hall,held
509 Monday,
N. McDonoughJuneStreet,
5, 2017 at 7:30
Decatur, GA. p.m.
Final adoption of the 2017 millage
The hearings willfiscal
rate and be held at Decatur
year 2017-2018 City is
budget Hall, 509 N.forMcDonough
scheduled Street,
consideration at Decatur,
the Decatur GA. Final meeting
City Commission adoption of the 2017 millage
on Monday,
June 19, 2017. The above table is presented pursuant to O.C.G.A. 48-5-32 showing the
rate and fiscal year 2017-2018 budget is scheduled for consideration at the Decatur City Commission meeting estimated current year's digest and
on Monday,
proposed millage rates along with a five-year history of the tax digest and millage rates.
June 19, 2017. The above table is presented pursuant to O.C.G.A. 48-5-32 showing the estimated current year's digest and
proposed millage rates along with a five-year history of the tax digest and millage rates.
LOCAL
Agnes Scotts president to step down in 2018
Eighth college president to finish following 12-year span
Agnes Scott College
president Elizabeth Kiss will
step down in 2018, according
to a May 22 announcement
from the private college located
in Decatur.
Kiss announced she plans
to step down on June 30, 2018
at the conclusion of her 12th
year as the colleges eighth
president, a press release states.
My heart is filled with
gratitude as I look back at the
past 11 years, said Kiss. I am
thankful for my friendships
and colleagues, the generosity
and dedication the Agnes
Scott family has brought to
our shared efforts, the amazing
vision and energy on this
campus and our collective
commitment to changing lives.
Wherever my own journey
leads, I will forever cherish my
time at Agnes Scott.
According to a college
spokesman, Kiss made the
choice to step down after
extending her second contract
twice and far exceeding the
national average of seven years
for a college presidents term.
Under Kisss leadership,
Agnes Scott enrolled its three
largest classes on record in
2010, 2015 and 2016.
Other accomplishments
include launching the colleges
SUMMIT program; earning
the 4th Most Innovative
School distinction from
US News & World Report;
establishing nine new
majors and minors; forging
partnerships with Emory and
Georgia Tech; exceeding a
$100 million comprehensive
campaign for the college;
meeting sustainability goals
on the Agnes Scott campus via
geothermal and solar energy
efforts; and establishing the
Gay Johnson McDougall
Center for Global Diversity
and Inclusion.
The Chronicle for Higher
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 Page 14
Education called SUMMIT Agnes Scott College is a
Agnes Scotts reinvented, 20th better place today because of
century approach to education Elizabeth Kiss extraordinary
through global education leadership and unwavering
and leadership development commitment to our mission of
coursesthe best-known educating women to be strong
signature-experience program leaders in a global society, said
in the country, Agnes Scott Agnes Scott Colleges board of
officials state. trustees chairperson Elizabeth
Kisss leadership also has D. Holder. Elizabeths
brought Agnes Scott students transformative leadership
more than 30 Fulbright will be felt on this campus for Agnes Scott College president
scholarships in addition years to come. She will truly be Elizabeth Kiss will step down in 2018
to Marshall, Truman and missed. following 12 years of service as
president. Photo submitted.
Goldwater scholarships.
CITY OF DORAVILLE
PUBLIC NOTICE
Fiscal Year 2018 Budget
Notice is hereby given that the proposed budget for the City of Doraville shall be
available for public inspection beginning Friday, June 2, 2017, 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 12th day of June at 6:00 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 2018 (July 1, 2017 through
June 30, 2018) budget shall be sounded. All citizens of Doraville are invited to attend.
A Public Hearing shall be held on the 19th day of June at 6:00 p.m. at Doraville Civic
Center, 3770 Central Avenue, Doraville, GA before the Mayor and Council of the City
of Doraville at which time public comment pertaining to the Fiscal Year 2018 (July 1,
2017 through June 30, 2018) budget shall be sounded. All citizens of Doraville are
invited to attend.
A Regular Meeting shall be held on the 19th day of June at 6:30 p.m. at Doraville
Civic Center, 3770 Central Avenue, Doraville, GA before the Mayor and Council of the
City of Doraville at which time the Fiscal Year 2018 (July 1, 2017 through June 30,
2018) 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.
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
The Decatur City Commission has tentatively adopted a combined millage rate
of 10.88 mills for maintenance and operations which will require an increase in
property taxes of 4.06% for fiscal year 2017-2018. This millage rate generates
revenue necessary to fund the City of Decaturs general operations, downtown
development authority and capital improvements.
All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearing on this tax increase
to be held at the City Commission Meeting Room, Decatur City Hall, 509 N.
McDonough Street, Decatur, on Monday, June 12, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. Times
and place of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at Decatur City
Hall on June 19, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m. This tentative increase
will result in a millage rate of 10.88 mills, an increase of 0.424 mills over the
rollback millage rate. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will
be no more than 10.456 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a
fair market value of $425,000 is approximately $37.50 and the proposed tax
increase for a nonhomestead property with a fair market value of $575,000 is
approximately $57.50.
Based on the tax digest that was received from DeKalb County after the
adoption of the tentative millage rate, final adoption of a combined millage
rate of 10.68 mills, which is the same as the current millage rate, will be
recommended.
EDUCATION DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 15

The Lakeside High School Foundation and DeKalb County broke ground on the site for new bleachers on May 18 following years of fundraising. Photo submitted.

Lakeside High breaks ground on new bleachers

$320,000 in seating improvements to be completed before 2017-2018 school year
other community activities. foundation officials state. school staff and so many of our
by R. Scott Belzer grants, student scholarships,
Final construction drawings The Lakeside community neighbors. We also must thank
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com physical improvements and
for the project were completed has been incredibly patient our partners with DeKalb
educational enhancements, the
in March 2017. Site prep work and supportive of the bleacher County and on the DeKalb
nonprofit was able to raise the
School district and DeKalb will begin in June, bleacher program, said Lakeside High County School Board who
funds through donations and
County officials, school components are expected to School Foundation president have worked so hard to make
special events, including 5k
foundation representatives, arrive on site in July and the Lori Cora. The success of this project a reality.
races, a school carnival and a
students as well as community bleachers are scheduled to be this is the result of the hard For more information, visit
Band-A-Palooza event.
members at Lakeside High completed by Aug. 1, 2017, work of parents, students, www.lakesidefoundation.org.
In 2015, the foundation
School broke ground on a vowed to earn $50k in a 50-
site for new bleachers on May day period through online
18 following several years of donations.
fundraising. NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
The Lakeside Foundation
The bleachersestimated to The DeKalb County School District has tentatively adopted a millage rate
has been working for several
cost approximately $320,000 years to fund and build which will require an increase in property taxes by 5.06 percent.
will be funded by $160,000 bleachers on the schools main
raised by the Lakeside High athletic field, reads a statement All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearing on this tax increase to
School Foundation and from the organization. The
matching funds from DeKalb be held at 6:15 p.m. June 12, 2017, DeKalb County School District J. David
new bleachers will create Williamson Board Room, 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone Mountain,
County. The bleachers will seat an opportunity for friends,
around 800 people. families and fans to come and Georgia
According to members watch soccer games, lacrosse
of the Lakeside High School matches, track and field Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at:
Foundation, which works to events, homecoming activities,
provide the school with teacher marching band practices and 11:30 a.m. June 27, 2017, DeKalb County School District J. David
Williamson Board Room, 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone
Mountain, Georgia
CITY OF STONE MOUNTAIN
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
6:15 p.m. June 27, 2017, DeKalb County School District J. David
Williamson Board Room, 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone Mountain,
The City of Stone Mountain hereby gives notice that a Public Hearing will be held
Georgia
to consider Sign Ordinance Variance for 791 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA
30083, and in accordance with Variance regulations as provided for in Appendix A
of the Zoning Ordinance of Stone Mountain. This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 23.38 mills, an increase
of 1.127 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be
The Mayor and City Council will hold a Public Hearing on this matter on Monday,
no more than 22.253 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a
June 19, 2017 at City Hall located at 875 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA at 6:30
fair market value of $225,000 is approximately $87.34 and the proposed tax
P.M. Anyone wishing to attend the public hearing may do so and be heard relative
thereto. increase for non-homestead property with a fair market value of $325,000 is
approximately $146.51.
BUSINESS
Massage franchise rubs customers the right way
by Kathy Mitchell
Kasey Kohtala had long
enjoyed going for a relaxing massage;
and while she found a salon in the area
she liked, she didnt like the prices. I
loved getting my massages there, but
it just was not affordable on a regular
basis for me so I went looking for a
membership-based massage place and
found that they just did not have the
same spa-like setting that I was used
to, she recalled.
Then she discovered
Massage Heights, a Texas-based
therapeuticservicesfranchise company,
and liked it so much she and her
husband Joonas opened their own
franchise in Decatur.
Massage Heights feels like a spa
with the dcor, the upscale linens
and product lines that offer a more
personalized experience than most
others that offer a similar service,
Kohtala said, giving as an example
the practice of matching aromatherapy
to the clients needs on each visit.
Sometimes you might need our
Breathe scent, which is great for
opening up those sinuses, but other
days you might need something a little
different.
We have both been members of
Massage Heights Brookhaven for some
time and as we learned more about
the corporate office and the structure
that they provide to their franchisees,
we knew this was a good fit for us. I
love that it is founded and still run by a
family, Kohtala said.
We both come from families where
our fathers were entrepreneurs and we
have seen both the sacrifice and reward
that come from being your own boss,
Kohtala continued. We want to have a
family one day and we wanted to start a
business that will allow us the time and
flexibility to do that.
The couple, now married a little
more than a year, decided on the
franchise before they married. This
idea of owning a Massage Heights
had been a dream for me, she said. I
tossed it around and talked about it but
never really thought I could do it. After
I had a particularly rough day at work,
I said [to Joonas], I think we should
do it and Joonas agreed to help. So in
the middle of planning our wedding,
buying our house in Medlock Park and
working our regular full-time jobs, we
decided to start this business.
After going to San Antonio and
meeting with the founders, the two
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 16
felt very good about the opportunity,
Kohtala recalled. It just so happened
that Decatur Crossing was being
cleared the same week. Coincidence? I
think not! We watched that construction
every day for almost a year. It was so
exciting.
The two are now both owner/
employees at the Decatur location,
where they employ 16 licensed
massage therapists as well as 10 other
staff members.
The franchise opened in late April
shortly before the couples one-year
anniversary and Kohtala calls the
experience so far amazing.
We have had an overwhelming
response from our community and
neighbors and our appointment line
is always ringing. We have gotten a
lot of positive feedback and a few
suggestions that we have used to
our advantage to make some tweaks
and improvements, she reported.
Everyone told us that the first 30 days
would be tough, but honestly it has
been awesome. It is a lot of hard work,
but we truly enjoy seeing our guests
when they come in for an hour or
90-minute appointment. Its great to see
people taking care of themselves and
we are happy to make it affordable to
them. In hindsight, I wish we had built
more treatment rooms.
Kohtala said some clients come
to address specific health needs and
others just need that relaxing time to
breathe, reset and revive themselves.
Then we have a lot of members who
are athletes, runners, etc. Those guests
take advantage of sports massage, deep
tissue work, etc. We have been seeing
a lot of veterans as well. One comes to
mind who was injured while deployed
oversees. She suffers from chronic
back pain and we see her almost
weekly because she uses massage to
supplement her physical therapy.
Kohtala said while she and her
husband enjoy the convenience of
owning a business near their home
the commute on our bikes is nice
they have found other reasons to be
glad they chose the Blackmon Drive
location. The other business owners as
well as the employees of each business
have been so supportive. Were kind of
like a little family since our employees
are visiting the others restaurants,
banks, [markets] etc., and they have
become friends. Its nice to see familiar
faces when we are out and about.
CLASSIFIED
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SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 18

Dugout Club names all-county baseball teams

by Carla Parker The DeKalb County Dugout Club the 2017 first and second all-county selected to the team:
carla@dekalbchamp.com announced the players selected to baseball team. Below are the players

First Team Second Team

Player Grade School Position Aaron Douglas 11th Arabia Mountain Catcher
Corey King 11th Arabia Mountain Pitcher/Infield Silas Butler 11th Arabia Mountain Outfield
Kameron Marshall 11th Columbia Pitcher Josh Campbell 11th Arabia Mountain Outfield
Elijah Hammonds 11th Columbia Infield Jenard Morris 12th Cedar Grove Infield
Oliver Livingston 11th Decatur Pitcher Van Markiton 12th Chamblee Infield
Jarrett Ford 11th Decatur Infield Adam Dixon 12th Chamblee Outfield
Tim Conway 11th Decatur Infield Tramaine Callaway 11th Columbia Outfield
Joseph Hiley 11th Druid Hills Utility Keenan Howard 11th Decatur Pitcher
Kiernan Acklin 12th Lakeside Outfield Zach Morochnik 12th Dunwoody Pitcher
Daniel Harris 12th Miller Grove Infield Jack Hardin 11th Dunwoody Infield
Orlando Adams 11th Redan Catcher Laquon Bloodsaw 12th Miller Grove Pitcher
Darius Pope 12th Redan Pitcher Trevian Flournoy 11th Miller Grove Outfield
Chayce Bryant 11th Redan Infield Gerald Bess 11th Miller Grove Utility
Taj Bradley 11th Redan Outfield Kelvin Smith 11th Redan Infield
Hunter Todd 11th Redan Utility Channing Walker 12th SWD Pitcher
Javeon Cody 12th Southwest DeKalb Outfield Alex Baldwin 12th Stephenson Catcher
Kennet Sorenson 12th St. Pius X Outfield Kyle Washington 12th Tucker Pitcher
Gavon Wray 10th Stephenson Pitcher Trevon Flowers 11th Tucker Infield
Anthony Johnson 12th Stephenson Infield Emory Willis 12th
Please publish Tucker
the following for the City of Tucker Utility
on the following publish
Christian Webb 10th Tucker Catcher June 1st

Louis Davenport 12th Tucker Pitcher

NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MILLAGE RATE

The City of Tucker has tentatively adopted a millage rate of "zero" mills in the city. All concerned citizens are invited to
the public hearing on the millage rate adoption to be held at the City Hall Annex, 4228 First Avenue Suite 2-4, Tucker, GA
30084 on June 12, 2017 at 6 pm.

The City of Tucker Mayor & City Council does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held
at the City Hall Annex, 4228 First Avenue Suite 2-4, Tucker, GA 30084 on June 12, 2017 at 7 pm and pursuant to the
requirements of O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-32 does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest
and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.

CURRENT 2017 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY

City of Tucker 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Real & Personal 1,679,063,795 1,809,804,379
Motor Vehicles 26,631,760
Mobile Homes
Timber - 100%
Heavy Duty Equipment
Gross Digest 1,679,063,795 1,836,436,139
Less M& O Exemptions 61,277,075 670,730,920
Net M & O Digest 1,617,786,720 1,165,705,219
State Forest Land Assistance
Grant Value
Adjusted Net M&O Digest 1,617,786,720 1,165,705,219

Gross M&O Millage 0.000 0.000

Less Rollback (LOST)
Net M&O Millage 0.000 0.000

Total Taxes Levied $0 $0

Net Taxes $ Increase $0 $0

Net Taxes % Increase 0.00% 0.00%

SPORTS
BASEBALL
LUCKY NUMBER 13
Marist players storm the mound after beating Blessed Trinity in Game 3 of the Class AAAA championship series.
Marist wins 13th state baseball title with comeback
by Carla Parker
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Just as in Game 2, the
Marist War Eagles found
themselves down in Game 3.
And just as Game 2 ended with
a comeback win for Marist, so
did Game 3.
The War Eagles came back
from a 3-0 deficit to defeat
region 7-AAAA rival Blessed
Trinity 4-3 in the final game
of the Class AAAA baseball
championship series on May
27 at State Mutual Stadium in
Rome. The state title win was
the 13th in program history for
Marist and first since 2011.
Marist coach Mike
Strickland said it was
incredible how his team fought
back to knock out the No.
1-ranked team.
I know how good [Blessed
Trinity coach] Andy [Harlin]
and his team are and how they
work and how they prepare,
Strickland said. We have so
much respect for them. For
it to come this way is really
special and our kidswhat grit
and toughness [they showed].
Getting down by three and just
saying, No, Im not going to let
it go.
Blessed Trinity took a 2-0
lead in the top if the second
inning after a 2-run RBI
double by Cole McNamee. In
the third inning, a triple by C.J.
The senior players hold up the championship trophy. Photos by Carla Parker
Abrams put him in scoring
position for Blessed Trinitys
third run of the game. That
third run came after a ground
out, allowing Abrams to score.
In the bottom of the
third inning, Marist gained
momentum after McNamee,
the starting pitcher, gave
up a leadoff walk to Marist.
Two batters later, senior Bill
Rubright loaded the bases on a
base hit to center field.
On the next at-bat, senior
Jamie Taylor was hit by a pitch
from McNamee, which gave
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, June 2, 2017 Page 19
Marist its first run scored.
Marist would tie the game
3-3 on a 2-run RBI double by
senior Patrick Duffy.
In the sixth inning with
two outs on the board, senior
Chris Cathcart got a base hit
and on the following at-bat
stole second base, putting him
in scoring position. Senior
Joseph Mannelly sent Cathcart
home on a double to right field,
giving Marist a 4-3 lead.
Mannelly said he wanted to
do whatever he could during
that at-bat to give his team a
lead.
We had two outs in that
inning, one on second [base]
and I was just trying to do my
job to get him in, he said.
In the seventh and final
inning, starting pitcher Seb
Thomas was sent back to the
mound to finish the game.
However, he gave up a leadoff
double and junior Patrick
Taylor was brought in for the
save. Taylor and the Marist
defense got the three outs to
become state champions.
Mannelly said the way the
championship series went was
a reflection of their season.
We got punched in the
face a little bit to start [the
season] offand thats been
our character all yearto come
back late, fight to every last
second to win the ball game,
he said. Thank God it finally
paid off.
Marist started the season
3-8, including six losses in a
row. They were 0-3 to Blessed
Trinity in the regular season.
Mannelly said his teammates
were also playing for bragging
rights against a team they
know very well.
[Theyre our] region rival,
we all know these kids, know
them so well, he said. Its just
awesome to be a part of [this
rival].
Mannelly and 11 other
seniors closed out their high
school career as champions.
Strickland said the senior class
has done nothing but lift the
program and raised the bar.
Its tough to come into
a program with a standard
of excellence, but they have
absolutely toed the line and
given everything they have to
it, Strickland said.
Mannelly on closing out
his senior year as a champion:
This is all I ever wanted. This
is awesome.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2017 Page 20

City Schools of Decatur to purchase downtown property

School district to pay $4.4 million to
Decatur Housing Authority
by R. Scott Belzer
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
City Schools of Decatur
(CSD) announced its intent to
purchase the property between
Commerce Drive and Electric
Avenue south of Trinity Place
on May 9 at its monthly board
meeting.
The property, made up of
2.88 acres, will be purchased
from Decatur Housing
Authority (DHA) for $4.4
million pending approval
from the United States
Department of Housing and
Urban Development. The
purchase is expected to close
in approximately three to six
months, officials state.
The property is north
of Allen Wilson and Oliver
House apartment properties,
both owned by DHA.
We are excited about the
potential that this property
offers to the community,
reads a statement outlining
the purchase. As student
enrollment continues to grow,
the CSD board of education
and staff continue to seek out
land to proactively plan for
future buildings and additions
to existing buildings.
According to a press
release, the property will be
used for an early childhood
center if CSDs College Heights
property is needed as an
additional elementary school.
This use will assist
CSD in returning to one of
the core purposes of our
early childhood program
preparing economically
disadvantaged students for
a successful experience in
kindergarten and beyond, the
release states.
CSD also plans to work
with city officials in developing
a downtown green space.
Until the property is
needed for a building, CSD will
work with the city to provide
basic park amenities, such
as benches, picnic tables and
trash cans, so the community
can begin using the space
immediately, states the release.
DHA officials state they
plan to use the proceeds from
the sale to invest and support
[the organizations] affordable
housing efforts in Decatur,
which includes investing in the
Swanton Heights community.
City Schools of Decatur (CSD) announced its intent to purchase the property
between Commerce Drive and Electric Avenue south of Trinity Place on May 9.

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