FREEPRESS
the DeKalb
Serving East Atlanta, Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Clarkston, Decatur, Doraville, Dunwoody, Lithonia, Pine Lake, Stone Mountain, Stonecrest and Tucker
Invited to Flourish & Thrive
Atlanta band The Threadbare Skivvies releases first album at Avondale Towne Cinema
by R. Scott Belzer
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
W
hat does it mean to
flourish and thrive?
For some, its the
act of reaching personal goals.
For others, its prospering in an
environment filled with friends,
family and a constant source of
inspiration.
For local musicians Chris
Adams, Kate Wright and Ian
Mastrogiacomoalso known
as The Threadbare Skivvies
its all of the above.
Following five years of
touring Georgia and other states
in the southeast, the Threadbare
Skivvies released their first
studio album, Flourish & Thrive,
on July 14 with a celebratory
concert at Avondale Towne
Cinema.
The event captured
the Skivvies raw sense of
celebration and triumph that
fans have come to know and
love since 2012. Whether it
was inviting friends to play on
original folk songs or well-known
hits such as James Browns
I Feel Good, or Hang on
Sloopy, attendees learned that
to capture the Skivvies sense of
nature-inspired jubilation, all it
takes is a lively tune.
It doesnt matter where
we playwe want to get that
vibe, Mastrogiacomo said. Its
something to lose track of time
with. Something, if you listen to
it outside, you look up and its
been four hours.
Its a yearning for something
better, Adams said. Its people
looking to be happier and getting
happier.
Were hanging on by the
seat of our pants and making a
lot of noise with a little amount of
people, Wright said.
Those familiar with the
bands debut albuman
eclectic blend of family, farmers
market regulars and folk music
Visit www.championnewspaper.com for local, real DeKalb County news.
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 VOL. 21, NO. 25 FREE
Atlanta band The Threadbare Skivvies released their first album, Flourish & Thrive
on July 14 at Avondale Towne Cinema. Photos by R. Scott Belzer
enthusiastsalready know.
Over the course of Flourish
& Thrives 10 harmony-filled,
celebratory-campfire anthems,
drummer Adams, lead vocalist
and guitarist Wright and bassist
Mastrogiacomo capture the self-
appointed descriptor vagabond
nature folk.
The melodies of Littlefoot
or Mountain Friends, may
transport listeners to a campfire
in the woods or hike up to the
nearest peak. Through Midnight
Scavenger, Croon, or Cricket
Orchestra, listeners may be
reminded of free spirited and
gypsy-like individuals who may
inhabit such environments.
Yahoo, Jack and Jill,
and Bones, provide raw,
personal glimpses that have
made American folk music a
permanent fixture for many.
Throughout all 10 tracks,
the Threadbare Skivvies remind
listeners that, above all else,
music is self-expression. The
Atlanta-based trio excels in
expressing joy in friendships,
everyday moments, leaves of
trees and the roar of a campfire.
Its the story of a
relationship, almost, Wright
said. Youve got this nice
and comfortable beginning, a
crazy part in the middle and
this hopeful ending filled with
determination.
The Threadbare Skivvies
A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS
communicate through
impressive three-part harmonies
led by Wrights soulful, wide-
ranging vocals that border on
harmonic bellows. Along with
appearances from mandolin
player George Norman and
trumpet player Jonathan
Etheridge, Wright and
Mastrogiacomos combined
musical chemistry combines for
a satisfying, triumphant frolic on
the senses.
Every person brings
something new, a life to the
band, Wright said. Its so much
fun. It adds something for us
and reinvigorates everything.
We play whatever is authentic to
whats going on to us.
Wright said her vocal style
and songwriting are inspired by
Tina Turner, James Taylor and
Ani DiFranco.
Adams said the band hasnt
recorded until now because the
musical blend wasnt quite right.
Adding Mastrogiocomo in 2014
and incorporating instruments
such as mandolin and trumpet,
have allowed the band to be
more cohesive, orchestral and
complete, he said.
Throughout our travels,
weve met such good, nice
people that just want to play with
us and have given us a good
loving feeling and community,
Adams said. Everyone makes it
bigger and better.
Due to their emotional
relatability, country-made
familiarity and impeccable
execution, the songs would
not be out of place in front of
an old cabin, a clearing along
a mountain trail or a sold out
music venue.
The Threadbare Skivvies
said they plan to tour as much
as possible following Flourish &
Thrives release.
For more information on The
Threadbare Skivvies, visit www.
thethreadbareskivvies.com.
@DeKalbChampNews
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 2A
LOCAL
AROUNDDEKALB
ATLANTA
Youth leadership conference offered
DeKalb and metro Atlanta youth ages
14-18 are invited to participate in South
DeKalb Police Precincts 16th annual
NOBLE (National Organization of Black
Law Enforcement Executives) Youth
Leadership Conference
Participants will be instructed on how
to process decisions more effectively,
new technology and its safe utilization.
Workshops will include topics such as
The importance of financial responsibility,
The law and your community, Strategic
planning for youth, Community Service:
How to serve better, What kind of
leader do you want to be?, Strategies to
scholarships, and Understanding your
political landscape.
The conference will be held July 31-Aug.
2, 7:30 a.m. 4 p.m. at Saint Philip AME
Church, 240 Candler Road., SE, Atlanta.
Registration includes a custom
messenger bag, two meals per day and a
t-shirt for each day.
To register and request a permission
slip, email marjorieclay@bellsouth.net with
Registration in the subject line.
AVONDALE
ESTATES
Mens club to hold meeting
The Avondale Estates Mens Club will
hold its monthly meeting July 26 at noon.
The meeting will be held at American
Legion Post 66, located at 30 Covington
Highway. DeKalb Fire and Rescue will
bring a truck to perform a demonstration.
They will also talk about the equipment
used in emergency situations. For more
information, visit www.avondaleestates.org.
BROOKHAVEN
Police to host National Night Out
The Brookhaven Police Department,
along with Sandy Springs, Johns Creek
and Dunwoody officers will host National
Night Out for the community Aug. 1 at
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 3A
Perimeter Mall in Dunwoody. The event
is a chance for public safety agencies to
promote safer communities and strengthen
relationships. The event includes vendors,
a cook-out and demonstrations. The mall is
located at 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road in
Dunwoody.
CHAMBLEE
Onion Man to host comedy show
Onion Man Productionsa nonprofit
theater located at 5522 New Peachtree
Roadwill host a three-day run of The
Onion Heads, a comedy and improvisation
show, from Aug. 3 to Aug. 5.
Described as a mixed-bag of
improvisation and sketch comedy,
The Onion Heads have performed two
10-minute plays at past events. Improv
sessions typically involve engaging with the
audience for ideas and direction.
The Onion Heads will perform beginning
Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m. until Aug. 5 at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $10.
For more information, visit www.
onionmanproductions.com or www.
facebook.com/pg/onionmanproductions.
Employees efforts honored
Chamblee Parks and Recreation
employees Benigno Benny Requena
and Eric Stephens were awarded 2017
Keep Chamblee Beautiful Gold Star
Awards for their efforts to keep Chamblee
beautiful.
The employees efforts were highlighted
in the citys Keep Chamblee Beautiful
campaign, which sought to beautify
Chamblee parks and public spaces.
Requena has worked as a park
employee in Chamblee for almost two
years. In 2017, he volunteered at every
clean-up day the city hosted, which
included supplying tools, water and labor in
pulling weeds, planting flowers and more.
Stephens, a 20-year Chamblee
employee and current parks supervisor,
facilitated the donation of pine straw for
each of the citys cleanup days. Stephens
is the owner and operator of Alexus Lawns,
which donated the straw.
Parks and Recreation Director Jodie
Gilfillan said the awards were a show of
appreciation to the employees.
Eric and Benny have gone above
and beyond this year to make sure Keep
Chamblee Beautiful has everything they
need to beautify our parks and entrance
signs to the city, she said.
CLARKSTON
Library to host free citizenship clinic
The Clarkston Librarylocated at 951
N. Indian Creek Drivewill host a series of
citizenship clinics beginning July 28.
From 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., permanent
residents have the opportunity to become
citizens and exercise all rights promised by
the United States Constitution.
The clinic will show participants how
to complete a N-400 form with supporting
documents, go through a background
check, complete an interview, take a basic
civics test and complete an English test.
Those qualified must be 18 years old;
have no criminal record; be able to read,
speak and write basic English; possess
a green card for five years or be a U.S.
citizen spouse and a green card of three
years.
Interested participants should bring a
permanent resident card; drivers license;
Social Security card; color passport
photos; passports; most recent tax
return; addresses for the past five years;
employer names and addresses for the
past five years; proof of public benefits (if
applicable); dates of visitation outside the
U.S. since becoming a permanent resident
and the countries visited; if married to a
U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident,
bring the spouse, U.S. passport, marriage
certificate or divorce decrees; childrens
green cards, complete names, dates of
birth; and certified final court deposition for
any traffic citations.
Future clinics will also take place Aug.
25, Sept. 22, Oct. 27, Nov. 10 and Dec. 8.
For more information, visit clarkstonga.
gov/community-news/free-citizenship-
clinic-clarkston-library.html or contact Asian
Americans Advancing Justice Atlanta.
STONE
MOUNTAIN
City to host back-to-school event
Stone Mountain will host its annual Back
to School Bash event July 22 from 10 a.m.
to 2 p.m. The event will feature free school
supplies for children. For more information,
contact City Councilman Richard Mailman
at (770) 318-2556.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 4A

DeKalb County police officers in attendance at a July 11 commission meeting. DeKalb County commissioners passed a budget that would address an increase in pay for public safety officials.

DeKalb commissioners pass budget

BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
According to DeKalb
County CEO Michael
Thurmond, it doesnt
matter what you say is your
priority, where your money
is going reveals the real
priority.
Thurmond, who had
his proposed mid-year
budget passed by the
DeKalb County Board of
Commissioners July 11,
said the budget puts its
money where its mouth is.
The proof is in the
pudding, said Thurmond,
Includes raises for public safety personnel
while discussing his budget
with commissioners.
The budget is set to
address some of the
countys issues such as
blight and an increase
in public safety salary,
Thurmond said
The county plans to
address public safety
increases with a three-
year strategy for pay
scale, salary compression,
recruitment and retention.
More than $7.2 million of
existing funding will be
redirected to operational
needs and to fund public
safety pay packages,
county officials said.
Roughly $1.6 million will be
dedicated to the first phase
of addressing public safety
employee compensation.
The first step will
improve the salaries of
nearly 1,000 front-line
public safety employees.
Public safety is paramount
and the CEO recognizes
every employee is important
and we want to continue
to develop compensation
packages, Thurmond said.
The budget also funds
operation clean sweep
and addresses blighted
properties in DeKalb
County. Buildings at
Brannon Hill condominiums
are set to be demolished in
July and local funds will be
used to do so.
This is going to be a
collaborative effort, said
DeKalb County Director
of Beautification Marcus
Kellum. Its very difficult
to understand the impact
of [this propertys] debris,
trash, illegal dumping
and the fleas. Its a little
overwhelming, but with the
support of commissioners
we can begin to tell the
story that were working
on remediating these
conditions.
Though many spoke in
favor of the CEOs budget,
some felt the budget does
not fully address some of
the countys key issues.
DeKalb County resident
Joe Arrington said he
wants commissioners to
vote in the best interests of
residents.
Ive been coming to
these meetings a long, long
time. Longer than youve
been on the commission.
Youre not going to make
any changes [to the budget]
and we know it. Its a
process and we know it,
Arrington said. Just like
the CEO said, the numbers
in your budget reflect your
priorities.

Tucker resident works to save forest near Sears property

BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
While a developer is working
to have a mixed-use development
proposal approved, a Tucker
resident is trying save 44 acres of
forest near the property at Mountain
Industrial Boulevard and Hugh
Howell Road.
Green park advocate Steve
Hagen, who has lived in Tucker
since 2012, wants the city to deny
developer Stephen Macauleys
plans to build single family
homes north of the vacant Sears
Distribution Center property to save
the forest on that land. Macauley
has presented several proposals
to the Tucker City Council to
construct a $300 million mixed-use
development project on 88 acres.
The developers proposal
leaves the minimum amount
[of forest/greenspace] that hes
required to leave20 percent,
Hagan said. But hes going to wipe
A Tucker resident is trying save 44 acres of forest near the vacant Sears Distribution Center property,
which is in a proposal for a mixed-use development.
out half of what this good forest is.
When you wipe out half of it then
youve changed the edge of it and
Hagan said behind the Sears
buildings are pine trees that have
become invasive and grew into the
forest.
If you wipe out [the forest] youll
create a bigger mess down the
road, he said.
In January, the city council voted
to accept Macauleys withdrawal
request of three application
items needed to construct the
development. Macauleys decision
to withdraw came after city
council members made motions
to either defer their vote or deny
the applications due to several
concerns. One of those concerns
was the city not having a downtown
development authority in place yet
to evaluate the project.
Macauley also requested the
citys comprehensive plan be
amended. The city is currently using
DeKalb Countys comprehensive
plan while in the process of
developing its own plan.
then different trees will grow and
Since withdrawing his request,
its very evident thats happened
already.
See Sears on Page 12A
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 5

Diving into history and mystery

Lithonia man takes
students underwater
to document artifacts
by Gale Horton Gay

Chris Searles has had a

A young woman records data underwater.
lifelong love affair with the sea and
underwater environments.
The Lithonia retiree now
shares his passion with the next
generation whom he hopes will
embrace it as much as he has.
Searles said it was a
combination of annual trips to
Panama City Beach led by his
father and watching a show called
Sea Hunt on TV as a child that
gave him an appreciation for Chris Searles A Youth Diving With a Purpose diver uses
the salt life. Certified as a scuba a metal detector searching for shipwreck
driver when he was in his 20s, artifacts.
Searles has dived in waters around
Bermuda, Trinidad, Tobago,
the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico,
Barbados and other locales.
Hes also explored underwater
in Indonesia, Fiji, the Galapagos
Islands and the Seychelles
Its serenity. Its a feeling
of freedom. Its just beautiful
underwater with the fish and the
coral, said Searles. You are
completely weightless. Its almost
like flying.
Searles and a group of 20
young divers and chaperones are
spending 10 days at south Floridas
Biscayne National Park, the largest
marine park in the national park
system, as part of Diving With a
Purposes spinoff program Youth
Diving with a Purpose.
The young diversages 16-
23will be trained to search and
identify artifacts of the suspected
slave ship Guerrero, which
wrecked in the Key Largo area
of Floridas reefs in 1827 with
561 Africans on board. There are
more than 100 wrecks in Biscayne
National Park, some dating to the Young divers preparing to dive at Biscayne National Park. Photos courtesy of Chris Searles
1700s, according to Searles.
This is a suspect slave ship Through July 26, the group We want them to be certified He pointed out that three of last
wreck, connecting itself not only will spend part of the time doing to be instructors when they leave summers young divers were hired
to the divers sense of history, but archaeology work and being the program, he said. as paid interns with the National
to their sensibilities as human involved in coral restoration. He Searles said through the Parks Service this summer.
beings, states a press release said he watches them grasp the program young divers are taught He sees the young divers
about the program. the mere procedures and execute the tasks skills including leadership in an as the future of underwater
experience of the search will with growing enthusiasm every important area and are exposed archaeology.
thrust these young people into a day. to career opportunities. He talked Its important because its our
historic continuum of a trade of Searles, 63, a Diving With a about a young female diver who history, he said
human beings that funded the Purpose instructor and member was planning to be an engineer but This is the fifth Youth Diving
worlds economy for centuries with of Atlanta Underwater Explorers, after participating in Youth Diving With a Purpose program and so
implications that are still being said the young people are asked to With a Purpose, set her sights far 42 young people have been
considered today. make a three-year commitment to on becoming an environmental trained in maritime archaeology.
the program. engineer.
OPINION
Were about a third of the
way through the summer and
for schoolchildren summer fun
is just about halfway done. The
first day of school in DeKalb
County is Aug. 7.
Thats still a way off and
young people have many more
carefree days ahead of them.
Swimming, riding bikes and
skateboards, playing in the
woods, spending time at friends/
neighbors/relatives homes
are how many children will be
spending their time.
When school was about
to let out for the summer, the
Champion Newspaper implored
readers to make child safety a
priority.
Recently in Atlanta, two
childrena 10-year-old and a
12-year-oldwere shot within
days of each other. The 10-year-
old honor student was killed.
No time to drop our guard
Gale Horton Gay
gale@dekalbchamp.com
Exactly what happened
in the apartment where
several children but no adults
were present at the time of
the shooting is still under
investigation, according to
police. The older boy, who
was shot in the stomach and
hospitalized, was apparently
accidentally shot by a family
friend.
WSB-TV reported in
February that Georgia is among
the top states for accidental child
shootings. Too often children
ranging in age from toddlers
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 6
to teens have shot themselves
or others within seconds of
handling a loaded gun.
It is the responsibility of
gun owners to make sure
their weapons are kept out of
the hands of children whose
curiosity to touch what theyve
seen is particularly strong. And
it is the responsibility of parents
to talk to young people about
what they should do if a gun is
present when they are around.
While shootings involving
children lead the headlines, it is
but one of many dangers they
face during the lazy, hazy days
of summer. Injuries and fatalities
from an array of indoor and
outdoor activities persist.
For parents, July is a good
time to re-evaluate how well their
children are being supervised
and make sure they are doing
all they can to ensure a safe
environment for young people
who live in or visit their homes.
Its also a good idea to
reiterate what children should or
should not do to stay safe when
they are home or hanging out
at someone elses home and
any situation arises that could
be perceived as potentially
dangerous. Discuss what to
do if they encounter weapons,
drugs, alcohol or people who
make them feel uncomfortable.
Talk about safety issues around
swimming pools and lakes as
well as when riding bikes or
riding in cars.
The first day of school will be
here before we know it. We want
all children in DeKalb County
to be present for the first day of
roll call with nothing more than
pleasant memories of a fun and
safe summer.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 7

MARTA now much smarta

We dont celebrate by with Centennial Olympic Park ridership, as well as the sales
any means when one part tourism ground zero of our tax revenueswhich both fund
of our network gets knocked One Mans capital cityand handed the MARTA operationsare making
down, saidMARTA General Opinion reigns over to MARTA. many of these enhancements
Manager Keith Parker But Meanwhile several more possible.And a few long-term
what we do is increase our Bill Crane famous and much larger mass MARTA doubters are now
level of responsibility when that bill.csicrane@gmail.com transit systems nationwide are assisting the funding of the
happens. A piece has taken a struggling.New Yorks subways systems first major heavy rail
hit, so we need to step up. are slogging along with over- system expansion in decades,
The bridge collapse and crowded trains, frequent system as well as opening the door
In the after math of a bridge related transportation crisis power and A/C outages, as well for consideration of light rail or
collapse in the middle of might make some of these as rapidly aging and worn out development of additional street
Atlantas downtown connector, ridership changes permanent, rolling stock. D.C.s Metro is car capacity.
all the state and metro areas but thankfully the MARTA system struggling with delays in on-time So, Mr. Parker and company,
other transportation and transit had already been on a multi- performance as well frequently thanks for finally giving our
entities were simultaneously on year upward trajectory under overcrowded trains.The Chicago capital region the kind of transit
notice to step up, step in and the proven leadership of Parker, L-Train and MTA are in the system we deserve. Keep your
take on a greater share of the who similarly turned around and midst of a massive equipment good work rising and trending
load. stabilized systems and transit upgrade and system overhaul even better.
Georgias Department of operations in San Antonio, projected to take 20 years to
Transportation helmed the Charlotte and elsewhere. complete, and costing billions
near-miraculous and record- MARTAs cash flow, in revenue not yet captured nor Bill Crane also serves as a
setting, safe reconstruction reserves, operating revenues, identified in a state on the verge political analyst and commentator
of the north- and southbound ridership, system maintenance, of insolvency. for Channel 2s Action News,
fallen bridge spans.But a on-time performance and Some out of town visitors WSB-AM News/Talk 750 and
wealth of other entities and fleet appearance are all on may already be familiar with now 95.5 FM, as well as a
partners were also onboard the upswing or have already MARTAs rapid and regular rail columnist for The Champion,
lending a helping handranging markedly improved. service from Hartsfield Jackson DeKalb Free Press and Georgia
from the Metro Atlanta Transit Some of Parkers earliest International Airport to the heart Trend. Crane is a DeKalb native
Authority (MARTA) to the choices were smart, but also of downtown, trendy Midtown, and business owner, living in
Georgia Regional Transportation perhaps obvious lower hanging and the entertainment and retail Scottdale. You can reach him
Authority (GRTA), Cobb County fruit. hot spots of Buckhead. or comment on a column at bill.
Transit (CCT), Gwinnett County Parker is replacing aging, System-wide increases in csicrane@gmail.com.
Transit and others. high-energy consumption
Among the standouts during incandescent bulbs with lower
the bridge outage was metro energy smart lights that can
Atlantas long-maligned MARTA turn themselves off.Rail system
passenger rail and bus service, signage, on and off the trains,
which experienced ridership is being modernized and
spikes exceeding 25 percent upgraded.Repeat knucklehead
for the full six weeks that the behavior earns problem riders
bridges were out.MARTA is temporaryor in some cases
the eighth largest mass transit permanentban from the
system in the U.S. Some system. Cleaner and newer
stations in metro Atlantas buses, paired with a crackdown
northern suburbs saw ridership on employee absenteeism
increases of more than 50 and sick ins have allowed
percent, as longtime single- adding bus line capacity and
occupancy vehicle drivers vastly improving on-time route
becamechoice riders. This performance.
is no small feat given that solo The city of Atlanta recently
drivers make up 70-80 percent acknowledged its ongoing
of commuters in the region, challenges operating the Atlanta
according to 2015 data compiled Streetcar, a 2.7 mile, tourism
by theAtlanta Journal and focused loop connecting the
Constitution. King Center Historic District

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
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FAX To: (404) 370-3903; Phone: (404) 373-7779. The DeKalb Free Press is published each Friday report news and opinions to effect
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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
Local NAACP president troubled
by DeKalb police officer video
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
A video showing a
DeKalb County Police
officer beating a woman has
made national headlines
and the president of the
DeKalb County chapter of
the National Association for
the Advancement of Colored
People said the incident is
troubling.
Video surfaced of DeKalb
County Police Officer P.J.
Larscheid striking a woman
several times with his baton
in a convenience store while
telling her to stop resisting
arrest.
Teresa Hardy, president
of the DeKalb County
Branch of NAACP, said she
was troubled by what she
saw on the video.
The incident occurred
on June 4 at a gas station
on Glenwood Road.
According to the incident
report, Larscheid said
he was called to the gas
station because of a woman
soliciting customers for
money inside the store.
When Larscheid arrived, the
woman, 38-year-old Katie
McCrary, attempted to walk
past Larscheid stating, the
girl you looking for is over
there.
Larscheid said McCrary,
who is listed as homeless,
told him that she was a
federal agent and gave
him a random badge
number. When Larscheid
told McCrary she could be
arrested for impersonating
an officer, McCrary began
to grab for his badge,
according to the police
report.
Decatur father indicted in bathtub drowning of son
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
A DeKalb County Grand
Jury has indicted a Decatur
man in connection with
the drowning death of his
adopted son.
Jurors returned a
seven-count indictment
July 11 against 43-year-old
Leon Harvey Williams
on charges of malice
of force incident as well as
Katie McCary was involved in a use of
force incident with a DeKalb County
Police officer.
The female continued to
grab my vest with her hands
and I then deployed my ASP
baton and instructed her to
lay down on the ground,
Larscheid wrote in his
incident report. The suspect
refused my commands and
I then delivered an unknown
amount of baton strikes to
her left leg.
A portion of the incident
was caught on camera
and posted on various
social media platforms and
broadcast on national news
outlets.
In an interview with The
Champion, Hardy said the
NAACP plans to remain
in contact with the DeKalb
County District Attorneys
Office and the DeKalb
County Police Department.
The NAACP was totally
troubled when we saw this
video, said Hardy, who said
the organization received
the video July 10. Our view
is that all citizens should
be treated fairly...thats our
mission. Our focus is to
make sure the female is
represented fairly.
Williams
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 8A
In the video, Larscheid
can be heard saying, Let go
or Im going to shoot you.
According to a statement
from the DeKalb County
Police Department,
an investigation into
Larscheids actions will be
reopened. The department
said the video is new
evidence in the case.
The investigation will
cover all aspects of the use
the original investigation
conducted by the officers
immediate supervisors,
DeKalb County Police
Department said in a
released statement.
Larscheid has been
placed on restricted
administrative duty
pending the outcome of the
investigation.
Hardy said the NAACP
is intently awaiting
the outcome of the
investigation.
The video really startled
me. After reviewing the
video several times, it
bothers me that this officer
continues to beat this
woman with a baton. As a
woman, I didnt take it lightly
and I want to be included in
this process, Hardy said.
McCary was transported
to Grady Memorial Hospital
where she was evaluated
and released. Larscheid
said he noticed a laceration
on McCarys left shin and a
welt on her left forearm.
McCary was also given a
criminal trespassing warning
at the request of the store
owner.
See related story on
page 1A
murder, felony murder, first
degree cruelty to children
(three counts), aggravated
assault-family violence and
aggravated battery-family
violence for the death
of 10-year-old Kentae
Williams.
Kentae died April 28
following a series of alleged
incidents involving the
Williams. According to
investigation, neighbors
witnessed Williams yelling
DeKalb man remembers dog
he found buried alive
Hosts fundraiser to support shelter
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
A DeKalb County man
who gave a helping hand
to a dog in need plans to
help local dogs in similar
situations in a different way.
Eric Purdue, a DeKalb
County resident who found
a dog buried alive on a
walking trail near Rock
Mountain Boulevard and
Lewis Road in Tucker,
hosted a benefit July 8 at
Star Community Bar in Little
Five Points.
All proceeds from the
benefit were donated to
Lifeline Animal Project, an
organization that operates
animal shelters in DeKalb
and Fulton counties.
Karen Hirsch,
spokeswoman for Lifeline
Animal Project, said she
hopes Purdues kindness
will shed light on animal
abuse.
Hes a wonderful
person, Hirsch said. He
wanted to be the one to
help the dog and show the
dog love, but he couldnt.
I think it makes people a
little bit more aware. We are
seeing these type of dogs
at and threatening the
child while dragging him
by his neck into their Glen
Hollow Drive apartment
unit. The child was then
allegedly beaten with a
belt and forced into the
bathtub where hot water
was poured over his feet,
causing second degree
burns.
The childs head
was submerged under
water twice after he
so often and we take [these
cases] very seriously.
The dog Purdue found,
later named Lulu, was
buried up to her head in dirt.
In a video of the incident,
Purdue can be heard saying
Its OK, baby. Were going
to get you out. Well get you
out baby.
Though Purdue and
his family were able to
remove the buried dog,
she eventually died of her
injuries after being brought
to a local animal hospital.
Hirsch said she was
there when Lulu arrived
and witnessed her last
moments. According to
Hirsch, Lulu was in bad
shape and had ant bites
over her body along with
contusions on the top of her
head.
Hirsch said once Lulu
was pronounced dead,
she and a group of people
began crying.
It was really disturbing
because of the level of
thought that went into it.
Someone had gone to some
trouble of trying to bury the
dog and pack the dirt in...
it was disturbing, Hirsch
said. We see all kinds of
terrible abuse. We see dogs
See Dog on Page 12A
complained about the water
temperature, according
to the investigation. After
Kentae lost consciousness,
emergency crews were
called and the child was
rushed to the hospital
where he later died.
Williams was arrested the
following day and remains
in DeKalb County Jail
without bond.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 9A

Developer says Its going to be OK

arbor tree scape. The plan is Ashkouti said. Were trying

In response to include it as a communal

to petition
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
The contracted
owners and developers
of an unused east Atlanta
propertylocated at 770
Shadowridge Drivehave
responded to a recent
petition insisting the space
remain undeveloped
forestry.
Save Ormewood Forest,
a group hoping to preserve
six acres of greenspace
near Ormewood Avenue,
Shadowridge Drive and
Flat Shoals Avenue, started
a Change.org petition in
mid-June calling for the
preservation of the property.
The petition states the
property is better suited just
as it is to maintain the citys
tree canopy and conserve a
significant wildlife habitat.
Manager Joseph
Ashkouti, real estate
development analyst
Brandon Barlow and
attorney David Patton
representatives of Heritage
Capitol Partnersinsisted
on July 13 that its going to
be okay, once the $1 million
Joseph Ashkouti, Brandon Barlow and David Patton say they are proud of their
plans to develop an unused portion of the city of Atlanta. Photo by R. Scott
Belzer
property is developed.
Under Heritage Capitol
Partners housing plan,
the property will feature
20 detached cottage-style
homes and a freestanding
single-family home. In
addition, 2.4 of the six
acres will be dedicated to
greenspace.
Ashkouti said he plans to
take down nine small trees
and plant 53 new trees.
The target demographic
for the development
under contract for seven
months and expected
to close by the end of
Julyis millennials, new
couples and empty-nesters
looking for a new sense of
community, according to
developers.
People want a
maintenance-free lifestyle,
Ashkouti said. Were not
building five-bedroom
homes with 5,000 square
feet to take care of. Theyre
small, 1,300 to 1,900 square
feet spaces that are well-
designed and flow nicely.
A lot of people want to
downsize.
Patton said the portion
of the site dedicated to
housingan old church
site with a parking lot
will not interfere with the
existing stream or mature
greenspace. The property
will also feature a dedicated
garden area.
[The housing] is really
cut off from the rest of
whats going on in terms
of the vegetation, Patton
said. The beauty of the site
is there is a lot of terrain
to it. Its ripe for the kind of
folks who want to be intown
and want an intentional,
communal style of living.
Not only is it going to be
okay, its going to do a
tremendous service to the
amenity.
The developers also
said the petition is incorrect
in stating the property is
under MR1 zoning. Patton
said the property has been
applied for under planned
development housing
(PDH), which calls for a set
housing plan.
If the zoning is accepted,
there will be no townhomes,
retail or other high-density
buildings.
[The community] is
guaranteed to get not only a
single-home development,
but a development that is
laid out exactly the way we
have it laid out, Patton said.
When people talk about this
property at meetings, they
have yet to come inside and
really see whats going on.
Ashkouti said he has
met with future neighbors in
their homes at their kitchen
tables to discuss the site
plan. He said letters have
been sent to more than 40
neighbors detailing the site
plan.
Weve left our personal
cell phone numbers and
email addresses for any
feedback, questions or
requests for a meeting,
HUD.GOV
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Secretary Ben Carson
hard to get the community to
see our vision and buy into
the product. Its going to be
developed no matter what.
Once people figure out they
cannot stop development,
I think thats when people
stop and say, Hey, lets
work with them.
Under Save Ormewood
Forests petition, the
property would be fenced
and remain half-developed.
At meetings, Patton
said those who support the
development often face
backlash from 12 to 15
residents in opposition. He
said they likely represent
Save Ormewood Forest.
Patton said cities need
development to attract
human capital and
leverage for better public
infrastructure, schools and
improvements that have
long been sought in various
corners of Atlanta.
You cant do that with
the status quo, Patton
said. Atlanta has a lot
of [undeveloped space]
all around. Its unusual
to have this in the city,
close to downtown. [The
development] is going to be
extraordinary.

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LOCAL
PUZZLING PIECES
DeKalb artist helps
non-profit organizations
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
Dekalb resident Kyle
Brooks said he loves
creating art that makes
people smile and recently
his contributions helped
put a smile on the faces
of volunteers at metro
nonprofit organizations.
Brooks, also known as
Black Cat Tips, painted a
Puzzling Pointy People
puzzle for a project with
25th Century Gamesa
publishing studio in Atlanta.
The project, named
the Atlanta Community
Piece Project, featured the
artwork of Brooks as part
of a fundraising campaign.
Some of the pieces included
a 1000-piece puzzle, giclee
paper print and a giclee
canvas print.
Net proceeds from the
campaign will go to four
nonprofit organizations in
the metro area, including
Lifeline Animal Project
which operates animal
shelters in DeKalb and
Fulton counties.
You cant ask for more
than that, Brooks said.
Its nice to be accepted
and its nice for people to
appreciate the stuff you
make. Its crazy to think
[of] all these people getting
hands on something you
made. Its an interesting role
in life I found myself in.
Chad Elkins, organizer
of the project, said he
wanted to partner with
Brooks because his artwork
is fun and vibrant.
In a video posted
online, Elkins said Brooks
was the perfect person to
create a new piece for the
community project.
In his own way, he talks
about love, togetherness
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 10A
and support and he created
a piece called the Puzzling
Pointy People and it really
brings together the purpose
of this project. Its different
people from all walks of life
coming together, Elkins
said.
Initially, the goal was
to raise $5,000 for the
nonprofits. As of July
13, 130 people raised
$7,450 in one month. The
organizations fundraising
page was shared nearly 150
times on Facebook. The Puzzling Pointy People created by DeKalb County artist Kyle Brooks, helped raise more than $7,000 for local
nonprofit organizations.
DeKalb resident Kyle Brooks created new artwork for a community project that will help four metro-Atlanta non-profit organizations.
The puzzle was very
unique. Ive never done
something like that before.
At first I was a little worried
we wouldnt make the goal,
then I found out they went
way over. Thats exciting,
said Brooks. Im happy and
this makes people happy.
Other organizations
receiving donations from
the project are Atlanta
Community Food Bank,
48in48 and the Historic
Oakland Foundation.
Lifeline Animal Project is
in the process of relocating
its DeKalb animal shelter
and the organization is
offering free adoptions at all
locations until July 31.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 11A

WEEKinPICTURES

The DeKalb County Police Department was awarded the gold standard from the CALEA at a July 11 Board of Commissioners meeting. Photo provided.

In June, the Rotary Club of Stone Mountain inducted its

2017 - 2018 president and board of directors.

Cheddar, along with owner and DeKalb County Fire Rescue Public Education Specialist Patricia Cagle, teach kids the
importance of fire, pedestrian and bike safety.

Singer and songwriter Wesley Cook was the last perform-

er to play Dunwoody Nature Centers Concern in the Park Oglethorpe University hosted a session of Camp Flixa The Olmsted Chamblee, an apartment complex located at
series on July 15. The series featured local talent playing filmmaking summer camp July 10 to July 14. A second 5193 Peachtree Blvd, recently erected a sign celebrating
in the centers serene setting. Photo submitted. session took place at Emory University July 17 to July 21. the city in which it resides. Photo submitted.
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
SEARS Continued From Page 4A
Macauley has submitted
a revised proposal for the
development, which is
tentatively named The
Rise. The proposal features
192,000 square feet of retail
space, 88,000 square feet
of office space, 705 housing
units, as well as a daycare
and an elementary school.
The city was scheduled
to have a public hearing
and first read on Macauleys
new application during the
July 10 city council meeting,
but Macauley requested
to have the public hearing
and read deferred because
he recently enlisted the
services of Atlanta attorney
Doug Dillard, who asked
the city council for more
time to get up to speed on
the project, according to
city staff.
Macauley is seeking
to have an ordinance
approved to amend the
comprehensive plan for the
property from light industrial
to neighborhood center,
to rezone the property for
a master planned mixed-
use development and to
approve a special land use
permit for a personal care
home.
The first read for the plan
is now scheduled to go on
the agenda for the Aug. 14
city council meeting.
Hagan said a change of
land use would violate the
citys comprehensive plan,
multiple sections of the
zoning ordinance and cause
about 34 acres of forest to
be destroyed.
Tucker residents,
including students and city
leaders, have repeatedly
expressed needs for various
public spaces and natural
areas, Hagan said. About
55 acres of the total 88 in
question are forest. Only
about 33 acres are currently
developed with parking and
buildings.
There are lots of other
things he can do with this
parcel without chewing up
so much of it for residential
and thats what he is doing
in this forest, Hagan
added. Half of the forest
will be chewed up for senior
housing and townhomes.
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 12A
DOG
Continued From Page 8A
coming in with their ears
cut off with scissors or other
issues. Its really upsetting
for all of us.
People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals
(PETA) is offering a $10,000
reward for information
leading to the arrest and
conviction on cruelty
charges of the person
responsible for Lulus death.
The Champion
attempted to contact Purdue
via cell phone, but he was
unavailable for comment by
press time.
Hirsch said Lifeline
Animal Project thanks the
Purdue family for their
donation.
He said he wanted to
make something good come
of this horrible situation and
he wanted to raise money
for other animals that are
suffering..I think he felt
he could make sense of it
and make something good
come out of it, Hirsch said.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 13A

West Nile virus back in Brookhaven

BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
For the second year
in a row, the West Nile
virus has found its way to
Brookhaven.
City officials announced
July 12 that the DeKalb
County Board of Health
notified the city that a
human case of the virus
was found in the city in a
72-year-old man, who is
currently hospitalized. Last
year, a mosquito collection
from a board of health
sampling station in the
Ashford Park area of the
city tested positive for West
Nile virus.
City officials said the
board of health and the
city have been monitoring
and treating for the
prevention of the mosquito
population within the city
for months. The board
of health has also been
monitoring mosquito activity
at Blackburn and Murphey
Candler parks, as well as
The DeKalb County Board of Health notified Brookhaven officials that a human
case of West Nile virus was found in the city in a 72-year-old male, who is
currently hospitalized.
treating storm drains along
roads, according to the city.
No West Nile-positive
mosquitoes have been
captured in Brookhaven.
City Manager Christian
Sigman said the city is
working with the board of
health and redoubling the
efforts to minimize exposure
to the West Nile virus in
Brookhaven.
We are comparing our
stormwater drainage maps
with the board of health
maps, to ensure every
storm drain is treated with
a larvicide which is safe for
humans, but interrupts the
life cycle of mosquitoes,
Sigman said. This includes
all of our parks and ponds
in the city.
The board of health said
that most people infected
with West Nile virus have
no symptoms or experience
mild flu-like symptoms, the
virus potentially can cause
serious and sometimes fatal
illness. The chance of a
person becoming ill from a
single mosquito bite is low,
according to the board of
health. The risk of severe
illness and death is highest
for people older than 50 outdoors when weather
years old, although people permits. They should wear
of all ages can become ill. repellent and protective
While the potential for clothing from dusk to
West Nile virus transmission dawn or consider avoiding
exists throughout the outdoor activities during
metro area, a positive these times.
West Nile virus case Residents should
indicates a higher risk in also get rid of standing
the Brookhaven area at this water in gutters and items
time, city officials said. such as planters, toys,
According to the Centers wheelbarrows and old
for Disease Control and tires. Trim tall grass, weeds
Prevention (CDC), the and vines to discourage
easiest way to avoid West mosquitoes and ensure
Nile virus is to prevent window and door screens fit
mosquito bites by using tightly to keep mosquitoes
insect repellent. out of the home, according
Repellents containing to the CDC.
DEET, picaridin, IR3535, The city said DeKalb
and oil of lemon eucalyptus County Board of Health
and para-menthane-diol program technicians will be
products provide longer- in Brookhaven providing
lasting protection, according additional mosquito control
to the CDC. To improve services, including applying
safety and effectiveness, larvicide and investigating
repellents should be for mosquito breeding sites.
used according to label The larvicide product Altosid
instructions. will keep mosquito larvae
Residents should also from developing into flying
wear long sleeves, long biting insects.
pants and socks when

Spend one minute reading this now. Protect your family for a lifetime.

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gas, call Atlanta Gas Light at 877.427.4321.

If you smell this odor:

Alert others and leave the area immediately.
Leave the door open as you exit.
Avoid touching anything that may cause a spark. This includes starting a car engine or using cell phones, lighters, matches, cigarettes, flashlights,
light switches or landlines.
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LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 14A

Brookhaven alerts Medusa

of alcohol license revocation
Brookhaven gave notice July 11 to Medusa Restaurant
& Lounge on Buford Highway that the businesss alcohol
sales license will be revoked in 15 days.
According to the city, the restaurant has been cited for
several violations of the city code and state and federal
law, including employing unlicensed individuals to provide
security services, allowing unlicensed personnel to carry
firearms, possessing modified firearms and failure to report
criminal activity at the business location.
It is in the interest of the publics safety and well-being
that Medusas alcohol license is revoked, Brookhaven
DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs officials, along with DeKalb County and Tucker elected City Manager Christian Sigman said. Clear violations
officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the new tennis courts at Henderson Park. Photos by Carla Parker of city and state law that pose a danger to the residents
and businesses of Brookhaven have occurred at this
establishment.
DeKalb, Tucker celebrate renovated tennis courts City officials said Medusas owner has the right to
appeal the revocation to the citys alcohol board. That
BY CARLA PARKER renovations at Henderson as the other facilities that appeal must be exercised within 15 days of the notice to
Park, as well as other are in the park. avoid closing the business, and the appeal hearing must
carla@dekalbchamp.com projects at parks across the Commissioner Nancy happen within 30 days of the appeal.
Tennis players, young county. The previous tennis Jester, who is no stranger
and old, got some serves courts were demolished to the park, said the
and swings in on the and four new courts were Friends of Henderson DID YOU KNOW
newly renovated courts at placed. Park contacted her when
Henderson Park. Marvin Billups Jr., she became a county Parents & grandparents
DeKalb County interim director of the commissioner to discuss are often the first to
Department of Recreation, improvements they wanted notice a child has
Department of Recreation,
Parks and Cultural Affairs Parks and Cultural Affairs, to see in the park, which PROJECT CHILD FIND difficulties with learning
said its fitting that the included the tennis courts. and developing like other
officials, along with DeKalb Project Child Find is part of the DeKalb children?
County and Tucker elected courts reopened during This [park] became very County School Districts ongoing efforts
officials held a ribbon- Parks and Recreation near and dear to my heart, to locate and identify children and youth Children with learning
cutting ceremony July 12 Month. Jester said. This park will ages 3 through 21 with disabilities who difficulties benefit most
to celebrate the new tennis Our theme this year continue to develop. The need special education and related from early detection of
is, Get Your Play On, and tennis courts look fantastic. services. problems?
courts at the Tucker park.
The renovation project what better place to have Tucker Mayor Frank
a ribbon-cutting than on Auman said the city is just Do you know a child who resides in More boys than girls are
was funded by the 2006 or attends a private school located
a tennis court, Billups as excited as the county to diagnosed with learning
park bond funds. The in DeKalb County who may have a disabilities?
county allocated $155,800 said. We hope that the see the new courts. developmental delay or other disabilities
to the park bond to community will have a great These [courts] are such as problems with learning,
time getting their play on, beautiful, Auman said. Many people who have
complete tennis court communication, vision, hearing, or other learning disabilities go
on the tennis courts, as well physical or health impairments? Do you on to become extremely
suspect this child may need special successful, and in some
education services? cases, famous?
CITY OF CLARKSTON The DeKalb County School District
NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION offers comprehensive special education SPECIAL EDUCATION
services to eligible students ages three DEPARTMENT
QUALIFYING REQUIREMENTS AND REGISTRATION through 21 years. Contact 678-676-1809 5839 Memorial Drive
for more information or visit our website Stone Mountain, GA
Notice is hereby given that a General Election for the City of Clarkston will at: 30038
be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2017 to elect a Mayor and three (3) Council http://www.dekalbschoolsga.org/special- 678-676-1809
Members to the Clarkston City Council. The term of office is four (4) years and education.
the elected officials will be sworn in at the January 2018 meeting of the City
Council.
Voting will take place at the Clarkston First Baptist Church, 3895 Church
LOCAL NEWS AT ITS BEST!
Street, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Any person who is a resident of the City of
Clarkston and who is registered at least thirty (30) days prior to this election with
the DeKalb County Board of Registrations and Elections as an elector within
the City of Clarkston shall be eligible to vote in this election. Deadline for voter
registration is October 10, 2017.
Persons wishing to qualify for this election may file a Notice of Candidacy
with the Municipal Election Superintendent at Clarkston City Hall Annex, 1055
Rowland Street, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. beginning on Monday, August 21,
2017 to Friday, August 25, 2017. The Qualifying fee for Mayor is $195 and
council is $105.
FOR A LIMITED TIME
Application for absentee ballots may be made by mail or in person to the GET 52 WEEKS OF
Absentee Ballot Clerk, DeKalb County Elections Division, 4380 Memorial Drive,
Decatur, GA 30032, 404-298-4020. HOME OR OFFICE
This notice is given pursuant to Chapter 21 of the Official Code of Georgia, as
DELIVERY FOR ONLY
*New subscribers only
amended, pertaining to municipal elections, this 17th July 2017.
Tracy Ashby, City Clerk and Municipal Election Superintendent CALL 404.373.7779 , FOR DETAILS
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 15A
EDUCATION
DeKalb County School District launched the first portion of a three-phase marketing campaign on July 10 to better the perceptions of the public, costing DeKalb County taxpayers $85,710. Photos courtesy of
DeKalb County School District.
DeKalb schools launch $85,000 media campaign
Dedicates funds to I Love DeKalb Schools campaign
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
DeKalb County School
District (DCSD) announced
the launch of a three-phase
marketing campaign titled
I Love DeKalb Schools
on July 10, costing DeKalb
County taxpayers $85,710.
As part of phase one,
DCSD purchased seven
billboards at strategic
locations throughout
the county. The district
also launched a new
page on its website
featuring I<3DeKalb
Schools merchandise,
advertisements featuring
many racial demographics,
and a portal to share
positive stories about
DCSD.
The billboards
located along I-285,
I-20, Memorial Drive and
Hairston Road, Peachtree
Industrial Boulevard, as
well as Buford Highway
and Clairmont Roadwill
feature I<3DeKalb Schools.
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 16A
Inspire. Achieve. Excel. commercials will cost is to counter mainstream district news magazine, a
The billboards will cost approximately $35,710, perceptions and attitudes flyer management system,
approximately $50,000, officials state, bringing that dont accurately reflect co-branding efforts and
according to district officials. the total to $85,710. The the work of students and social media pushes.
In addition to billboards, funds will be used from staff. DCSD board of
the campaign will include communications budgets DCSD Superintendent education member Stan
print ads, television from fiscal years 2017 and R. Stephen Green said, Jester does not agree with
commercials, a jingle 2018. Now is the time for us the marketing effort. On his
performed by DCSD According to the to make it crystal clear blog, he said the billboards
students, an increase in release, the marketing what were abouta should feature the district
social media presence and effort is the product of community that values logo in addition to Most
other promotional materials. DCSDs communications education, its schools and failing schools in Georgia.
Through media and community relations its stakeholders. This new Worst paid teachers. Deficit
impressions, social department, headed marketing program allows spending. Second Highest
engagement and by chief officer Eileen us to better control our Millage Rate in Georgia.
increased website traffic, Houston-Stewart and narrative and tell our own Instead of actually
the campaign will create director of strategic story. improving academic
a strong presence in marketing Andre Riley. The The first phase of the achievement, DeKalb
the metro Atlanta K-12 pair head a team of seven campaign is designed to Schools is starting a
landscape and will be used other individuals including reestablish the districts marketing campaign to
as a promotional tool to communications specialists, links with its community, counter mainstream
recruit new students and online content coordinators district spokesmen state. perceptions of the problems
families to DCSD, states a and graphic designers. Other efforts will include with the school district,
DCSD release. The release also states an external newsletter, a Jester said.
The print ads and the goal of the campaign
PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF CHAMBLEE, GA
NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL OFFICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING QUALIFYING DATES
The Mayor and City Council of the City of Chamblee, Georgia
will hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 10, 2017 at the
Chamblee Civic Center, 3540 Broad Street, Chamblee, GA
The date of Municipal Election for the office of
30341 at 6:00 p.m. to receive public comments regarding the
Mayor and seats of Councilmember District 1(one)
following matters: and Councilmember At-Large is Tuesday, November
PZ2017-137: Applicant: Steve Henry; Owner: DeKalb 7, 2017. The qualifying fee for office of Mayor -
County and Stein Investment Co., LLC requests approval $540.00; for offices of Councilmember District 1
of an amendment to a previously approved Development (one) and Councilmember At-Large - $360.00, which
of Community Impact in accordance with City of Chamblee is 3% of the total gross salary of the preceding year
Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance, (O.C.G.A. 21-1-131 (a)(1)(A)). Each candidate shall
Section 280-6 for the purpose of constructing a climate- file a notice of candidacy in the office of the City
controlled self-storage facility with commercial office space at Clerk of Chamblee, 5468 Peachtree Road, Georgia
3693 Clairmont Rd., 1959, and 1965 Bragg St., being DeKalb between Tuesday, August 22, 2017 and Thursday,
County Tax Parcels #18-244-04-004, 18-244-04-005, and 18- August 24, 2017, between the hours of 8:30 am
244-04-006 zoned Corridor Commercial and 1971 Bragg Street and 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm (O.C.G.A.
being DeKalb County Tax Parcel #18-244-04-003 and zoned 21-2-132 (d)(3)). Each candidate must meet the
Airport. qualifications of the Charter and Code of the City of
2017TA-004: The City of Chamblee, Georgia proposes Chamblee, as well as applicable State laws.
to amend the Official City Code of Ordinances, Appendix
A, Unified Development Ordinance, Title 2, Land Use and Emmie Niethammer
Zoning, Chapters 270 and 280. City Clerk
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BUSINESS DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 18A

Flying toward the future Airport official explains how Hartsfield-Jackson

is tied to the areas economy
BY KATHY MITCHELL
FREELANCE REPORTER

The future of
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
International Airport was
the focus of the DeKalb
Chamber of Commerces
general membership
meeting July 13 at the
Atlanta Marriott Century
Center.
Why does an airport
outside DeKalb County
make a difference to
businesses in DeKalb?
Ray Gilley, president of
development authority
Decide DeKalbpresenting
sponsor of the event
explained, We would have
a tough time convincing
businesses that DeKalb
County is the right place
for them if we didnt
have as a major selling
point easy access to
Roosevelt Council, general manager of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, tells those attending the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta general membership meeting on July 13 that the worlds busiest airport is to get bigger and busier during the next 20 years as ATLNext
International Airport. unfolds. Photo provided
DeKalb Chamber
President and CEO
ATLNext will involve new selecting retail businesses. seven in the area tied to the will supply the opportunity.
Katerina Taylor echoed
runways and upgrades We want to create an airport. ATLNext, he said, We have a great
the observation. Hartsfield-
throughout the facility as Atlanta culture at the airport, will create many more jobs. opportunity to create jobs
Jackson plays a major
well as construction of a offering visitors a sampling Council said the plan and growth, especially on
role in bringing economic
440-room, four-star onsite of the best the city has to includes a goal of involving the south side of the city,
development to the state
hotel. offer, Council said. 37 percent minority- and where we hope to see a
of Georgia and has a
There are to be two ATLNext also includes female-owned businesses. growth explosion similar to
significant impact on
canopies the length of three expansion of the airports This is part of the legacy of the one that has taken place
business for all of us, she
football fields and the width cargo area even though Mayor Maynard Jackson, on the north side. We dont
said.
of half a football field to cargo is not major revenue one of the people for whom want to just create jobs; we
To underscore the
protect visitors from the source for the airport, said the airport is named. He want to create jobs that can
magnitude of Hartsfield-
elements; we have a lot of Council, who added, But was the father of inclusion elevate a person into the
Jackson, keynote speaker
foot traffic. It will take more it creates jobs and thats and diversity at the airport middle class. We want to
Roosevelt Council,
than 3,500 tons of steel to important to us, too. and throughout the city, create prosperity, Council
the airports general
erect these; thats enough He noted that Hartsfield- said Council, who cautioned continued.
manager, listed facts and
to build nine full-size Jackson is metro Atlantas that the diversity goals do As we grow, you will
figures on the facility. The
airplanes, he said. strongest economic not mean a lowering of have the opportunity to
worlds busiest airport,
Council said upgrading engine with more than quality standards. We dont grow with us, he told the
Hartsfield-Jackson, he
and expanding the airports 65,000 people working at compromise quality, but if gathering of chamber
noted, offers nonstop
30-year-old north and south the airport and one job in you can bring the talent, we members.
service to more than 150
parking decks is part of the
domestic and nearly 70
plan. And well be doing
international destinations,
this without closing down
including commercial
centers in Europe, Asia,
parking at the airport, PUBLIC NOTICE
the Caribbean, Africa, and
which he said is a major The City of Brookhaven, GA has submitted an application for an acquisition
South and Central America.
source of revenue, bringing and demolition project funded by FEMA under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Pro-
Approximately 80
in $140 million a year. gram. The project will affect historic and non-historic properties that are located
percent of the United
The atrium where visitors in the floodplain. The project will be in the following neighborhoods:
States is within two hours of
wait and have access to South Bamby Lane and Dresden Drive NE.
food, drinks and retail
Hartsfield-Jackson, Council
noted.
services is being upgraded Presidential Executive Orders 11988 and 11990 and the National Historic
as well. The area is being Preservation Act required that all federal actions in or affecting the floodplain
He added that the airport
redesigned with forest-like or wetlands and historic properties be reviewed for opportunities to relocate,
in 2015 became the first in
atmosphere and will offer a and evaluated for social, economic, historical, environmental, legal and safety
history to serve more than
larger array of retail options considerations. The public is invited to participate in the process of identifying
100 million passengers in
as well as a variety of alternatives and analyzing their impacts. Any adverse effects to historic proper-
a single year. Were very
entertainment. ties as a result of this undertaking will be mitigated.
proud of that, Council said.
Retail shops in the
Bigger things are ahead, Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific
atrium and throughout the
according to Council, who project by contacting Public Works Director, Hari Karikarin by email at Hazard-
airport provide opportunities
outlined a $6 billion capital Mitigation@BrookhavenGa.Gov or by calling 404-637-0500. Comments should
for businesses throughout
improvement program be received within 30 days of the date of this notice, July 20, 2017.
the metropolitan area.
ATLNextthat will unfold
Were particular about
over the next 20 years.
SPORTS
DeKalb players featured in 247
Sports top 100 state ranking
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Eight DeKalb County senior
football players have made their
way to 247 Sports 2018 Top 100
Georgia Football Recruits list.
Tucker leads the way with three
players in the top 100, including
offensive tackle Dylan Wonnum,
who has the highest ranking of the
DeKalb players at 11th. The four-
star recruit is the 81st overall player
in the nation on 247sports.com,
and ninth overall among offensive
tackles.
Wonnum, who has not
committed to a college yet, was part
of the offensive line that helped the
Tucker Tigers running backs rush
for 242 yards per game last season,
which was best in the county.
Wonnum has received offers
from 17 schools, including South
Carolina, Auburn, Fresno State,
Georgia and Georgia State.
Tucker wide receiver Josh Vann
is the next DeKalb player on the top
100 state list at 21. Vann, another
four-star recruit, is ranked 188th in
the nation and 40th on the receivers
list.
Vann, who is also undecided,
led the county in receiving yards
(1,286) and touchdowns (13)
through 15 games. He has offers
from 14 schools, including South
Carolina, Georgia, Alabama,
Auburn and Kansas State.
Linebacker Michael Harris, who
transferred to Tucker from Lovejoy
High School in Clayton County, is
ranked 27th in the state, according
to 247sports.com.
Recruitgeorgia.com said Harris has
really impressive football speed and
is a quick accelerator, which makes
him terrible hard to block.
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 21, 2017 Page 19A
The four-star recruit is undecided
as well and has offers from 20
schools, including Auburn, Georgia,
Ohio State, Alabama and Colorado
State.
Miller Grove defensive end
Caleb Tannor is the 34th best
player in the state, according
to 247sports.com. Tannor led
the Wolverines defense with 54
tackles, 10 tackles for a loss and
four sacks. The four-star recruit
has received 26 offers and is
undecided. He has offers from
Georgia, Auburn, Florida, LSU and
Tennessee.
Stephenson offensive guard Jalil
Irvin is ranked 45th on 247sports.
coms Georgia list. The three-star
recruit has committed to Auburn.
Marist tight end John
Fitzpatrick is 75th on the list.
The three-star recruit is the 34th
tight end in the nation, according
Photos by Travis Hudgons
to 247sports.com. He committed
to Georgia July 13 after receiving
48 offers, including offers from
Ivy League schools and military
schools.
Stephenson cornerback
Justin Birdsong is 84th on the
list. Birdsong finished fifth overall
on the Jaguars defense with 80
total tackles and had seven pass
breakups in the 2016 season. The
three-star recruit committed to
Appalachian State.
Cedar Groves Israel Spivey
rounds out the top 100 at 100. The
three-star athlete had 221 total
yards of offensive last season for
the Saints. He also had nine tackles
on defense as a defensive back. He
has received six offersGeorgia
State, Michigan, Middle Tennessee
State, Ohio, South Florida and
Virginia Tech.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017 Page 20A

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