the DeKalb FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 VOL. 22, NO.

39 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

DeKalb schools to extend CEDAR GROVE 48,

STN. MOUNTAIN 6
school day extension
by R. Scott Belzer
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com

DeKalb County
School District (DCSD)
announced its intention
to continue adding 20
minutes to each school
day on Oct. 20 to make
up days lost to inclement
weather caused by DeKalb County School District announced its intention to
Hurricane Irma. continue adding 20 minutes to each school day through Nov. 30
on Oct. 20. Photo by R. Scott Belzer
According to a recent
release, the extension scheduled break relating to form a viable plan.
will last until Nov. 30. In to Thanksgiving, the This month, we
addition, DCSD schools release states. Winter have diligently surveyed
will remain open on Nov. Cedar Groves Alvin Williams sacks Stone Mountain's QB.
Break will also continue a cross section of Photo by Travis Hudgons

7, Election Day, allowing
the district to recover
three of four days lost
to the storm. DCSD has
opted to waive the fourth
day as allowed by state
law.
Schools will be closed
Nov. 20 to 24 for the
as usual.
DCSD superintendent
R. Stephen Green said
the chosen plan was the
least disruptive of those
considered. On Sept. 27,
Green announced the
intention of surveying
community stakeholders
T
parents, teachers,
principals, teacher he Stone Mountain Pirates scored first, but
organizations, parent- the Class 3A No. 1 ranked and undefeated
teacher organizations, Cedar Grove Saints struck back with 48
parent council groups unanswered points to win 48-6 at Godfrey
and school council Stadium on Oct. 21. Cedar Grove has won 18
members. The result was consecutive games including the Class 3A state
championship since their to Sept. 23 loss to
Westminster.
See Schools on page 5 SEE PAGE 18 FOR FULL STORY

Racing to a cure
DeKalb hosts second annual breast cancer run
by Horace Holloman are expected to be diagnosed in women in the
horace@dekalbchamp.com U.S.

DeKalb County, along with Susan G. Komen and
Northlake Mall, hosted its second annual DeKalb
Breast Cancer Awareness 5K run/walk.
F
or Angela Baskerville it was her friend;
for Rodney Simmons, its his sister
and for Hot 107.9 radio personality
Gary with da tea its his family.
Several individuals participating in DeKalb
Countys second annual Breast Cancer
Awareness 5K run/walk Oct. 21 at Northlake
Mall said they joined in support of someone
affected by cancer.
According to U.S. breast cancer statistics,
approximately one in eight U.S. women will
develop invasive breast cancer over the
course of her lifetime. In 2017, an estimated
252,710 new cases of invasive breast cancer
All people in general should really be
aware of breast cancer, said Baskerville, who
participated for her friend who is a survivor of
breast cancer. We lost a lot of people from it,
but hopefully were making a lot of inroads.
DeKalb County partnered with Northlake
Mall and the Susan G. Komen Foundation for
the event.
At one time, it was waiting until youre 50
to get a mammogram but now I tell people
dont wait. Get one every year, Baskerville
said. When youre 30, you just need to go
ahead and get that initial one. Better safe than
See Race on page 5

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

LOCAL
CHAMBLEE
DeKalbs newest fundraiser helping local nonprofits
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
When DeKalb County
Solicitor General Donna
Coleman-Stribling thought
of having a Dancing with
DeKalb Stars fundraising
event, she said she didnt
know what to expect.
Ten months into her term
as solicitor general, Coleman-
Stribling said the response
from the community was
amazing.
Dancing with DeKalb
Stars was held Oct. 14 and
raised more than $10,000
for local nonprofits Womens
resource Center to End
Domestic Violence and the
International Womens House
located in DeKalb County. The
event was held at the Porter
Sanford III Performing Arts
and Community Center.
The fundraiser featured
several DeKalb County
officials such as the CEO
Michael Thurmond,
commissioner Kathie
Gannon, DeKalb County
Fire Capt. Eric Jackson and
DeKalb Elementary School
of the Arts principal Bianca
Hamilton.
This is the first one in
DeKalb and there were so
many moving pieces. It got
to a point where we noticed
people were coming to see
[DeKalb officials] outside
of their normal element,
Coleman-Stribling said. This
is certainly for a good cause
and we just wanted people
to have fun and listen to the
message.
Coleman-Stribling said she
plans to make the event an
annual fundraiser. After the
event, Coleman-Stribling said
shes had several individuals
inquire about being in the
competition next year.
That lets me know that
people really enjoyed it
and that people are looking
forward to it. We know were
going to make a positive
impact and next year is just
going to be bigger, she said.
The event, much like the
popular television show
Dancing with the Stars,
featured 10 teams. Each team
included a dance professional
along with a member of
DeKalb Countys legal, public
safety, business and civic
community.
According to Coleman-
Stribling, approximately 35
percent of the cases seen in
her office involve domestic
abuse incidents.
Former DeKalb County
Sheriff Thomas Brown
competed in the event. At
first, Brown said he was
apprehensive to join due to
his poor dancing skills, but
volunteered to donate his
time regardless.
I was surprised that I was
asked. Ive been out of the
limelight for a few years and
Im not a dancer, Brown said
during dress rehearsal. But
I was up for the challenge,
[Coleman-Stribling] didnt
have to twist my arm.
Brown said he initially
spent two hours twice a week
training for the competition.
Domestic violence is
a very pressing issue and
it plagues our community
equally. There are no racial
boundaries or economic
boundaries. It affects
everyone, Brown said.
Anything that I can do to
bring proper awareness and
support to help those victims
is something we have to do.
Parag Shah of the Shah
Law Firm, along with his
partner Cici Kelly of Dare
Dream Dance took home the
first place bragging rights.
First runner up was Jackson
and his partner Leslie Davis
of True Talent Studios. Second
runner up was Hamilton and
her partner Patrick Smith of
the Stephenson High School
Dance Program.
Commissioner Gannon
said she had fun despite her
nerves.
We tried, Gannon
said, laughing. I was really
nervous, but its a great cause.
Hopefully this becomes
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 2
an annual event. This is special dance routine. to give back to causes such
groundbreaking and such a The whole thing was so as this, Gannon said. Raising
fun thing. I was so impressed professional and done so well. money for this cause made it
with the professional dancers. The womens resource center all worthwhile. As nervous as
Thurmond did not is such an awesome group I was, this is [fundraiser] is a
compete in the fundraising and in every community you good thing.
event, but put together a need people who are going
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Mayor and City Council of the City of Chamblee, Georgia will hold a public
hearing on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at the Chamblee Civic Center, 3540
Broad Street, Chamblee, GA 30341 at 6:00 p.m. to receive public comments
regarding the following matters:
PZ2017-151: Applicant: 30AIP Chamblee, LLC, Travis Meyer; Owner: Lowes
Home Centers, LLC, request approval of multiple variances, to develop a drive-thru
restaurant, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified
Development Ordinance, Sec. 230-30(b)(2) to allow drive-through facilities on a
storefront street; Sec. 250-2(a)(4) to allow an excess of 110% of the minimum required
parking spaces and not install grasscrete; Sec. 250-7(a)(1) to allow parking between
a building and street; Sec. 250-8(c)(1) for a reduction in required stacking spaces;
Sec. 250-8(c)(4) to not provide a drive-through bypass lane; Sec. 260-6(b)(2)(a) to
allow building signs on facades not fronting on a street with a curb cut; Sec. 260-7(a)
(8) to increase menu board size from 8 square feet to 32 square feet. The property is
located at 4950 Peachtree Boulevard, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18-300-02-003
and zoned Corridor Commercial.
PZ2017-167: Applicant: PRO Building Systems, Steven Ellis; Owner: Tuxedo
Real Estate Partners request approval of a Planned Unit Development/ Development
of Community Impact and associated variances, to redevelop an existing automobile
dealership, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified
Development Ordinance, Sec. 230-28(a) to allow the appearance of a metal building;
Sec. 240-13(d)(1)(d) for service and storage areas to be visible from the right-of-way;
Sec. 250-2(a)(4) to exceed 110% of the minimum amount of required parking spaces
and not install grasscrete; Sec. 250-7(b)(8) to not install wheel bumpers; Sec. 310-19
to allow encroachment into the Citys 50 foot and 75 foot stream buffer. The property is
located at 5665 and 5689 Peachtree Boulevard, and 0, 3750, 3764, 3772, 3780, North
Peachtree Rd, being DeKalb County tax parcels 18-323-04-001, 002, 006, 008, 009,
010 and 18 309 02 065; and zoned Corridor Commercial.
PZ2017-185: Applicant: Nowshed Hossain; Owner: Zayen, LLC requests
approval of multiple variances, to allow for the development of a planned center
including a caf and office space, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances,
Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance, Sec. 250-2(a)(3) to reduce the total
number of parking spaces required from 25 spaces to 15 spaces; Sec. 230-30(b)(1)
to allow for a partial reduction in required minimum floor-to-ceiling height from 18 to
10; Sec. 230-14(a)(1) to allow a wall in the front yard to exceed 42 in height; Sec.
250-22(b) to reduce the setback distance from dumpster to property line from 5 to
3; Sec. 260-6 (b)(2)(a) to allow building signs on a faade not facing a street with a
curb cut; Sec. 340-37 (b)(1)(a) to remove the requirement that new development that
involves the creation of 5,000 square feet or more of impervious cover, or that involves
other land development activities of 10,000 square feet or more to install stormwater
management. The property is located at 4004 and 4010 Buford Highway, being
DeKalb County tax parcels 18-236-06-010, 015, and zoned Corridor Commercial.
PZ2017-186: Applicant: Janelle and Michael Foy, Owner: William Sutphin
requests the approval of a variance, to allow a single family home renovation, from the
City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance,
Sec. 230-2(a) to reduce the required side yard setback from 76 to 28. The property
is located at 3586 Cold Spring Lane, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18-307-01-015
and zoned Neighborhood Residential-1.
PZ2017-189: Applicant: Michael Tchouaffe, Owner: Equidem Management,
LLC requests approval of multiple variances to allow for the development of an
office building, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified
Development Ordinance, Sec. 230-12 to allow for a building that does not meet the
transitional height plane regulations; Sec. 230-5 (c) to reduce the width of the required
streetscape clear zones; Sec. 250-2 (a)(3) to allow a reduction in parking from 13
spaces to 10 spaces; Sec. 230-5 (b) to encroach the 15 front yard setback. The
property is located at 2589 Chamblee Tucker Road, being DeKalb County tax parcel
18-281-06-021 and zoned Neighborhood Commercial-2.
TA2017-001, 002, 003, 004, 005 & 006: The City of Chamblee Georgia
proposes to amend the Official City Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified
Development Ordinance, Title I Administration, Title 2 Land U se and Zoning, Title
3 Development and Permitting & Appendix, MF Districts, Infill Development/Reuse
Design Guidelines, 1.0 through 3.5.
LOCAL
AROUNDDEKALB
AVONDALE
ESTATES
Annual tree walk to take place
The fourth annual Avondale Estates tree walk
will be held Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon. at the
Avondale Community Club. The club is located
at 59 Lakeshore Drive. For more information visit
www.avondaleestates.org.
BROOKHAVEN
Clean up planned at Murphey Candler Park
Trees Atlanta, National Wildlife Federation
and Murphey Candler Park Conservancy (MCPC)
join in sponsoring a cleanup day at Murphey
Candler Park Nov. 11, from 1 to 4 p.m. Volunteers
should meet at the caretakers house. Some
tools and gloves will be provided. Cold water
will be provided by the MCPC. The park is
located at 1551 W Nancy Creek Drive NE. For
more information, email stevebp@bellsouth.net
Music department wrapping up citrus sale
Lakeside High Schools music department
made up of the schools band, orchestra and
chorus programsis wrapping up its annual
citrus sale fundraiser on Oct. 31.
The department is selling navel oranges, red
grapefruit, Hamlin orange juice, tangelos and a
mixture of all from Florida Indian River Groves at
a price of $30. Each order is composed of at least
20 pounds, or 25-30 pieces of fruit.
Citrus is scheduled to be delivered on Dec. 2.
Funds raised from the citrus sale help
underwrite the cost of free public concerts
throughout the year as well as the purchase
of new instruments, instrument repair, travel
expenses, guest conductors, group lessons and
competitions.
To place an order online, visit www.
floridianindianrivergroves.com/
orderFundraising_ns11.asp?orgid=340129.
Questions are directed to lakesidecitrus@gmail.
com.
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 3
CLARKSTON
Georgia Piedmont to host Fall Fest &
Fundraiser
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
(GPTC)located at 495 N. Indian Creek Drive
will host its free Fall Fest & Fundraiser event at
Refuge Coffee Co. on Oct. 26 from 6 to 8 p.m.
The GPTC Foundation and GPTC Alumni
Association will host the event in support for
all enrolled and future students. The event will
include games, raffles, food and music.
Funds raised from the event will support
programs at the colleges Clarkston and Newton
County campuses.
Refuge Coffee Co. is located at 4170 E. Ponce
the race. The registration fee includes dri-fit
de Leon Ave. in downtown Clarkston. For more
T-shirt as well as race participation.
information, visit www.gptc.edu.
Race bag pickup, including race numbers
and T-shirts, is on Oct. 26 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Early Learning Academy offering discount and Oct. 27 from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at
Peachtree Charter Middle School.
Clarkston First Baptist Churchlocated at For more information, email questions,
4007 and 3999 Church Streetis offering a comments, concerns to gina.torjak@gmail.
discounted rate to its Early Learning Academy com or vletbett@bellsouth.net.
and After School Program until Nov. 13.
Until Nov. 13, students from Jolly,
Hambrick, Brockett, Indian Creek, Robert
Shaw, Idlewood, Stone Mountain, Stone Mill,
McLendon and Dade Academy elementary
STONE MOUNTAIN
schools as well as Stone Mountain and Tucker
Middle schools, can receive transportation to Tunes by the Track
Clarkston First Baptists afterschool program
Sam Burchfield Trio will perform Oct. 27 at
for $65 per week.
Stone Mountains Tunes By The Tracks event in
The churchs Early Learning Academy is
the Municipal Parking Lot, next to the Gazebo.
described by officials as a quality Christian-
Attendees can bring their lawn chairs. The
based program offering excellence in
two-hour concert begins at 7 p.m. For more
childcare and pre-school education to
information, visit www.stonemountaincity.org.
children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.
Enrollment in the academy guarantees
breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, daily
physical activity, a structured environment,
uniforms, creative play, music arts and crafts.
Until Nov. 13, enrollment for this program is
$100 per child.
For more information, contact Tiffany
Ansong at academy@clarkstonfbc.org or (404)
292-5636 or Angela Moore at (404) 292-5686
or clark1b@clarkstonfbc.org.
DUNWOODY
Run a 5k at Peachtree Middle
Peachtree Charter Middle Schoollocated
at 4664 North Peachtree Roadwill host the
a hairbrush.
eighth Annual CV Classic 5k Road Race on Oct. Recycle me.
28 at 7 a.m.
The race will begin and end at Peachtree
Charter Middle School and tour a nearby
Dunwoody neighborhood.
Registration will be $30 on the morning of
LOCAL
DORAVILLE
DORAVILLE BACKTRACKS ON
CONTRACT TERMINATION
Clark Patterson Lee allowed building permitting duties in city
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
Doraville City Council
backtracked on terminating
a contract for services with
Clark Patterson Lee for
building inspection services
and code enforcement on
Oct. 16.
Council voted 4-3 to retain
building inspection and
permitting services from the
Rochester, N.Y., architecture,
engineering and municipal
services firm. According to
Mayor Donna Pittman
who cast the tie-breaking
votecouncil approval
was necessary to continue
necessary city services.
This is for the building
permitting portion only,
Pittman said. This is very
important; we have a lot
of things coming our way.
We have a timeline and the
timeline is short We want to
keep our city services moving
in a timely manner.
Pittman said an alternative
to not renegotiating Clark
Patterson Lees contract
would be issuing short-term
contracts, which she called
costly.
On Oct. 2less than
one year after renewing its
contractDoraville City
Council terminated Clark
Patterson Lees contract
because of repeated code
enforcement complaints
from residents. The contract
was worth an estimated $4.3
million over the course of five
years.
Interim city manager
Regina Williams-Gates said
complete termination of Clark
Patterson Lees services would
be problematic due to the
number of development
projects in Doraville.
This is not just Assembly
and larger projects, but
smaller ones as well, Williams-
Gates said. Its important to
the project sector to be able
to apply for permits and move
forward with projects. Theres
a concern about a delay if we
go through a transition.
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 4
Williams-Gates said Clark comfortable seeing
Patterson Lee is open to something in writing,
renegotiating the contract, OConnor said.
which states the company is According to Williams-
paid based on city revenue Gates, Doraville recently
generated by permits, fees issued a request for proposal
and other development costs. for code enforcement
She said Clark Patterson Lee is services, which is expected to
open to receiving 58 percent be fulfilled within 90 days.
rather than 60 percent, which The services of Clark
is stipulated by the contract. Patterson Lee, which has
Thats [worth] about offices in Suwanee and
$25,000, Williams-Gates said. Woodstock, were also
Resident Susan Fraysse retained by Chamblee in
said on Oct. 10 she heard January 2017.
Clark Patterson Lee will continue to manage building inspection and permitting
from residents that they hope services for Doraville.
council doesnt throw the
baby out with the bathwater.
Fraysse also spoke in favor of
Clark Patterson Lee on Oct. 2 Request for Proposals
and urged council to retain its Request for Proposals: The DeKalb County Sheriffs Office requests qualified individuals and firms with
services.
experience and certified expertise in food service to submit proposals for Request for Proposal No. 17-03 to provide
Resident Lee Flier called food service for the DeKalb County Jail located at 4425 Memorial Drive; Decatur, Georgia 30032.
code enforcement a thankless
job and said residents will
For a copy of the Request for Proposals: Hard copies of the proposal will be available at the DeKalb County
never be completely satisfied Sheriffs Office, Administrative Lobby, 4415 Memorial Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30032 from October 26, 2017
with relating services
November 3, 2017 until 4:00 P.M. EST. An on-line version of the proposal will be available at
no matter which firm is www.dekalbsheriff.org from October 26, 2017 November 16, 2017.
responsible.
Id really like to see the
Deadline to Submit Response: Responses should be forwarded to the DeKalb County Sheriffs Office,
relationship for the building Sheriffs Administration, Attention: Chief Xernia L. Fortson, 4415 Memorial Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30032
permitting continue, Flier
until 4:00 P.M. EST, Monday, November 27, 2017. Responses received after this date and time will not be
said. accepted.
Another resident said
the citys problems with
Pre-Proposal Conference and Site Visit: A pre-proposal conference and site visit will be held at the DeKalb
Clark Patterson Lee warrant County Sheriffs Office, Sheriffs Administration Lobby, 4415 Memorial Drive at 10:00 A.M. EST on Tuesday,
concern but also deserve
November 7, 2017. It is strongly recommended that all interested responders attend and participate in the pre-
compromise. proposal conference and site visit. For information regarding the pre-proposal conference and site visit, please
Resident Tom Hart said he
contact Chief Xernia L. Fortson at (404) 298-8148.
would prefer new people and
a new standard for services in
Questions: All questions concerning the project shall be addressed to Chief Xernia Fortson, Esq. in writing no
the city. later than 4:00 P.M. EST on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 to the following email address or facsimile number:
Council members Pam
cdbrown11@dekalbcountyga.gov or (404) 298-8101 only. Questions received after this date and time will not
Fleming, Robert Patrick
receive a response.
and Shannon Hillard voted
in favor of proceeding with
Addenda: Request for Proposals and all addenda issued for this project may be found on the DeKalb County
contract renegotiations
Sheriffs Office website: www.dekalbsheriff.org.
while Dawn OConnor, M.D.
Naser and Sharon Spangler
Interviews: Responders may be granted an interview.
opposed.
Flemign said she is in favor
LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE ORDINANCE
of keeping Clark Patterson
Lees services in Doraville
It is the objective of the Chief Executive Officer, Board of Commissioners of DeKalb County and the DeKalb
because not doing so would
County Sheriff to provide maximum practicable opportunity for all businesses to participate in the performance
be detrimental to the city.
of government contracts, including Local Small Business Enterprises (LSBE). The Countys Schedule of
I was not in favor of
Local Small Business Enterprise Participation Opportunity Tacking Form and Letter of Intent to perform
eliminating their complete
as a Subcontractor or Provide Materials or Services are included in the Request for Proposal, along with
services at the last meeting,
sample report forms. The current DeKalb County List of Certified Vendors may be found on the DeKalb County
Fleming said.
website. For details relative to DeKalb Countys Local Small Business Enterprise Ordinance, contact the Contract
OConnor said she did
Compliance Division at (404) 371-4795.
not like voting in favor of a
contract the council cannot
The DeKalb County Sheriffs Office reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive informalities, and to
examine.
re-advertise.
Id be much more
DeKalb County Sheriffs Office
By: Xernia L. Fortson, Esq.
Chief of Administration
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 5

SCHOOLS Continued From Page 1

an arrangement that enables
our schools to regain a major
portion of the lost time needed
for achievement, Green said.
Schools throughout DCSD
have gotten creative with how
to implement the 20-minute
extension. DCSD board
member Stan Jester reported
in September that Dunwoody
High has extended its first and
last period by 10 minutes each,
while Lakeside High extended
its lunch period. Chamblee
Charter High opted to extend
the transitional periods between
classes.
Parents are directed to
dekalbschoolsga.org, the DCSD
mobile app and the district social
media accounts for details about
each schools transportation
schedules, afterschool programs
and athletics.

Several DeKalb County residents participated in the second annual DeKalb Breast Cancer Awareness 5K run/walk at Northlake Mall. All proceeds from the walk/run will help
fund Susan G. Komen programming initiatives in DeKalb County.

RACE Continued From Page 1

sorry.
The DeKalb Breast Cancer Awareness
Run/Walk was an approximate three-mile
course in the surrounding area of the mall.
Simmons said he was racing in support
of his sister who was recently diagnosed
with breast cancer. Simmons said support
in his family is important, especially with 10
sisters and three brothers.
The family came out and showed
support just to help push her through the
process, Simmons said. Weve never
experienced anything like this. Right now
were just trying to get some awareness
about what to do and what this illness is.
Were just trying to pray her through it.
Don Simmons, Rodney Simmons
nephew, said its the first time anyone in his
family has had breast cancer.
We wanted to come to [DeKalb County
Breast Cancer Awareness 5K] to show
our support and keep her in prayer. I most
definitely plan on coming back next year,
Don Simmons said.
After the run, Northlake Mall and DeKalb
County offered a free informational session
called the Pillars of Strength Breast Cancer
Awareness event. The event was hosted by
Hot 107.9s radio personality Gary Hayes,
also known as Gary with da tea.
The event offered health screenings,
educational opportunities and a childrens
play area.
Darius Morse, director of marketing
and administration at Northlake Mall, said
the event helps provide a wide-range of
information for those affected by breast
cancer.
We want to continue to make this a
staple event for the Northlake and Tucker
community, Morse said. We know
somebody somewhere, somehow has been
either directly or indirectly affected by breast
cancer. Both of my grandmothers were
impacted by breast cancer and we want
to make sure we inform people and their
families how this affects people and give
them all the information they need.
All proceeds from the 5K walk/run will
go to fund Susan G. Komen programming
initiatives in DeKalb County.
OPINION
CSD policy on the side of love, history and facts
For the past two months,
City Schools of Decaturand
by proxy, the surrounding
communityhas faced
needless criticism for being
openly welcome and non-
discriminatory of transgender
students.
Public input disparaging
CSDs policy at its September
meeting prompted an official
response from the district and,
on Oct. 10, meeting attendance
reached record highs. One by
one, members of the Decatur
community vocalized their
defense of the school board
as well as CSD superintendent
David Dude.
Few would know CSDs
stance on transgender students
was seen as controversial by
some had it not been for outside
interests showing up to stir the
pot, as attorneys from Norcross
and Atlanta began showing
up in September to opine with
residents.
The policy has been directed
by Dude for more than a year
R. Scott Belzer
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
and in place for more than a
decadeall without issue. The
few parents who have recently
criticized the policy rightly
state they crave transparency
and public process more than
complete repeal.
On Oct. 10, CSDs board
of education heard nothing but
success stories relating to the
policy.
Transgender students
shared stories of triumph,
inclusiveness and welcoming
while inside the City Schools of
Decatur system, and included
no references to instances of
bullying or denigration.
Parents and teachers
spoke of how CSD stands as
an example to be emulated
rather than feared for its ability
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 6
to accommodate the needs of
students.
On average, transgender
students face problems and
social stigmas unseen by
the average student. High
rates of suicide, depression,
alcohol abuse and tobacco use
run rampant. Many of these
stigmas originate from those
who pass judgment based
on little factual information.
Unfortunately, anecdotes of
such psychological challenges
were shared.
In other words, these
students need all the help they
can get. At the very least,
school districts such as CSD
owe all students a resounding,
We will not discriminate against
you.
CSDs policy has been so
successful that, two months
ago, this was not an issue in
the district. Instead, efforts and
public meeting agenda items
were dedicated to reducing
racial disproportionality,
dyslexia and celebrating the
accomplishments of students.
The policy isnt perfect. As
certain parents mentioned, it
errs in transparency and a lack
of public process. Thats a valid
criticism and one that originates
from parents in the community.
However, as many of these
parents said on Oct. 10, they
in no way wish to disparage or
undercut CSDs efforts.
Decatur has a long,
complicated historylike any
other city in Americabut the
school district has shown in
recent years it is ready to face
those challenges head-on.
Im proud to call myself
a member of the Decatur
community and, as these talks,
including support and criticism
continue, I remain confident
my local board of education
will make needed, not coerced
improvements. I look forward
to being pleased in seeing
revisions that, as fellow resident
Robert Stubbs said on Oct.
10, remain on the side of love,
history and facts.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 7

A test students might want to take

We aim to change the and making those hires. share of educator compensation
dialogue in the arenas of One Mans My own daughter took the adjustments tied to test
workforce readiness and student
testing, said tech entrepreneur
Opinion YouScience profile and realized
that she had an empathy
performance results, this test
requires no direct teacher
Philip Hardin, founder of and desire to help others, involvement and is designed
YouScience, an educational
Bill Crane combined with a highly analytic purely with the student in
bill.csicrane@gmail.com
technology firm. aptitude.This has translated into mind.Test results may be shared
her having a very successful pre- with school counselors, as well
Fall is in the air, and Georgia med undergraduate experience as parents.
public schools are back in the called the YouScience profile. at the University of Georgia, and We all know that our children
grind of standardized testing. YouScience is led by a a career path and arena she had will be tested. Lets hope that
The CRCT, Georgia Milestones, Georgia public-schools educated not even previously considered, Georgias high school and
PSAT, SAT, ACT and numerous tech, entrepreneur, Philip shared Hardin, YouSciences college students take advantage
other testing acronyms can Hardin, who got his chops at founder. of this new free tool to get to
cause educators and students WebMd and other tech start-ups. These positive results and better know themselves, as
alike to have their eyes glaze Nashville-based YouScience is a other test pilot data have resulted well as their job and career
over. website, a job skills/life skills test in the Georgia Department opportunities ahead.
Georgia employment is up and virtual employment coach of Education, as well as the At last, a test which students
while wages remain somewhat for high school and college Technical College System of may actually want to take.
stagnant. Demand for certain students still trying to decide Georgia, making the profile test
professions and job applicants, what they might want to be when available for free to all Georgia
particularly in the technical they grow up. public high school students. The Bill Crane also serves
trades, health care and IT still far The online test looks and test was already popular among as a political analyst and
exceed work force supply. feels more like computer private school students and their commentator for Channel 2s
Our public schools of the gaming, engaging each student families, and that pull from the Action News, WSB-AM News/Talk
future may need to become at their convenience and which consumer side in part drove the 750 and now 95.5 FM, as well as
more agile in customizing can be stopped and started at public sector to broaden access a columnist for The Champion,
education efforts to match the willno stop watches or No. to the test. DeKalb Free Press and Georgia
needs of each learner, as well 2 pencils. The end-result of So, while knowing Trend. Crane is a DeKalb native
as area employers, versus our these tests gives each student standardized tests frequently and business owner, living in
current more manufacturing, a personal exploration and bring stress and duress to both Scottdale. You can reach him
one-size-fits-all model and assessment of the talents students and educators each or comment on a column at bill.
approach. and life skills which they have year, and with a disproportionate csicrane@gmail.com.
It helps when students know already acquired (sometimes
sooner which career paths and unknowingly), and offers detail
tracks interest them, or which on potential opportunities
their aptitudes, abilities and and career paths matching
passions are a better match for. those areas of performance
When the labor pool has skills strength and interests of each
that match the demands and student.The job data is updated
needs of area employers, that is quarterly.
called workforce readiness. The Georgia Department
Georgia is becoming an of Education engaged in a
exemplar in this arena, with the statewide pilot of the software
western portion of our state in over the past two years with
many regards leading the way. more than 11,000 high school
Colleges and universities students in multiple counties
use standardized testing as an and 51 schools taking the profile
assessment tool to measure test.These results indicated
I.Q., aptitudes and performance a much higher aptitude for
under pressure of student many jobs in the technology
applicants. There are very few and construction industries
student performance tools that among female and minority
measure for the benefit of the students.This will hopefully
student. A new test that does, translate into employers in those
and that shows great promise is industries opening their minds

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
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LOCAL
LITHONIA
SPREADING SMILES TO THE COMMUNITY
DeKalb Early College Academy senior to represent Boys & Girls Club family
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
For DeKalb Early College
Academy (DECA) senior
Jequilla Boyce, each personal
interaction is a chance to
understand, support and
inspire positivity.
When I can help someone
smile, its great because
Ive made someones day
better, Boyce said. A smile
is contagious. You cant
smile and not have anyone
else smile backthats just
awkward!
Boyce was named East
DeKalb Boys & Girls Clubs
representative for Boys
& Girls Club of Americas
Youth of the Year program,
which celebrates teenagers
making a difference in
their communities through
leadership, academic
excellence and dedication to a
healthy lifestyle.
Boyce said she considers
the East DeKalb Boys & Girls
Club, located at 1839 Phillips
Road in Lithonia, an extended
family. She said being named
the clubs Youth of the Year
representative is a chance to
showcase what the club has
to offer local youth.
This is my family, Boyce
said. If I can let everyone
know what East DeKalb Boys
& Girls Club did for me, then
Ill feel that Ive done my part.
They deserve it.
As part of Youth of the Year,
Boyce submitted three essays
detailing her personal brand,
vision for Americas youth and
life at the East DeKalb Boys &
Girls Club. She will also deliver
a speech detailing what the
club has provided for her
personally.
According to Boyce, her
personal brand revolves
around being genuine.
A lot of times in my
generation we tend to get
lost in the sauce, Boyce
said. All of the publicity,
whos popular, whos not, the
politicsits nice to just be
yourself because it will help
our society more than being a
copy of something else.
Boyces vision for the youth
of America involves self-care
and independence.
Right now, were straying
from a lot of basic skills like
cooking, sewing clothes and
changing a tire, Boyce said.
Jequilla Boyce, a lifelong East DeKalb Boys & Girls Club attendee, was chosen as the clubs 2017 Youth of the Year nominee. Photos by R. Scott Belzer
I have friends who have no
idea.
Boyces essay on her life at
the East DeKalb Boys & Girls
Club is almost a biography, as
she has no frame of reference
for anything else. A product of
the Redan communityshe
attended Redan Elementary
and Redan Middle before
moving on to DECABoyce
started at the club at six years-
old and now, 11 years later,
plans to always be involved in
some way.
This is my home; Ive
been in every club weve had,
Boyce said. Kiwanis Kids,
Culture Challenge, Health
Club, Food Club, the track
team, cheerleading, dance
they offer everything so Ive
been in everything. I cant
really imagine not having the
Boys & Girls Club around in
my life.
Boyce said her culminating
speech will involve the
importance of every life and
writing ones own story.
A lot of time, people
dont want to tell their own
story because theyre scared
that no one will want to
listen, Boyce said. Everyone
deserves to have their story
heard. Every story is different.
You dont have to include
certain paragraphs to have
a story end a certain way. Its
about writing your own story
and choosing your own path.
Thats what growing up is
supposed to be about.
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 8
Boyce attributes the Boys
& Girls Clubs appeal to a
welcoming and supporting
staff. She said each staff
member brings something
new to the club, whether it is
activities for teenagers, field
trip ideas or new club ideas.
She said East DeKalb Boys &
Girls Club staff makes sure
every attending child remains
upbeat, in line with his or her
studies and has something to
celebrate.
Theres always someone
to talk to, Boyce said. I was
just having a conversation
with [two instructors] about
the difference between raising
TODRY
girls and raising guys and support system. She makes
being a father. anyone feel comfortable, even
East DeKalb Boys & Girls when she doesnt know them.
Club executive director Boyce has almost finished
Brandon Riley said Boyce completing enough college
epitomizes the clubs core credit hours for a general
values. He said she will associates degree. She said
accurately convey what Boys she plans to attend Georgia
& Girls Clubs throughout the State Universitys nursing
country can offer local youth. school and eventually go to
Jequilla is a shining star, medical school.
Riley said. She just lights While she is considering
up any conversation and being an anesthesiologist,
makes you feel comfortable. Boyce said she would not
I dont think shes afraid of mind being a psychiatrist to
anythingshes very well continue to engage, welcome,
polished. That comes from a support and inspire others.
good grandmother, a good
background and a good
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his favorite toy, now all he needs is his forever home!
This one-year-old pup has great manners, is eager to
learn, and picks up new tricks quickly. He becomes best
friends with everyone he meets and would love to go
out on the town with you. Meet him at LifeLine's DeKalb
Animal Services!
If you would like to expand your family by 4 furry
little feet; ask to meet this sweet pup and have a loving
friend forever. During the month of October "Fall in
Love With a New Best Friend" the adoption fee is only
$40 for all dogs over 25 lbs. and all cats. It includes
spay/neuter, vaccinations and microchip! If you would
like more information about Todry please call (404) 294-
2165 or email adoption@dekalbanimalservices.com.
All potential adopters will be screened to ensure Todry
goes to a good home. Hours: Mon-Fri; 11am-7pm / Sat-
Sun; 11am-6pm.
LOCAL
AVONDALE ESTATES
Anziano
Laratte
Avondale Estates
commission candidates Q&A
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Eight people, including
incumbent Terry Giager,
are running to claim two
seats on the Board of Mayor
and Commissioners. The
other seven candidates
are Joe Anziano, Paul
Brown, Ben Dostal, Wilmer
Engle, Candace Jones,
Lionel Laratte and Lisa
Shortell. The Champion
sent a questionnaire to each
candidate. Dostal, Giager and
Engle did not respond to the
questionnaire by deadline.
1. Why did you decide to run
for commissioner?
Anziano: Avondale Estates is
on the verge of an explosive
downtown happening
and I want to be a part of
the leadership that helps
project us into a vibrant
future. We have long waited
for something dynamic to
spring us forward and need
someone to help prod us
forward; I can do it.
Brown: I feel my being
elected commissioner will
benefit the future direction
of this city. I have more
than 30 years of experience
Brown
Shortell
working directly with major
development companies
and metro area community
development governments.
Jones: Avondale is at an
important juncture and I am
committed to ensuring we
plan and act responsibly. Our is approved in November,
strategic plans have set the
vision, and now it is time to
act so that we successfully
implement these plans.
Laratte: The primary reason I members of the DeKalb
want to be a commissioner is County Board of
that I believe that I can make Commissioners, and mayors
a positive contribution to life from the 12 cities within
in Avondale drawing on my
consulting experience and a
unique personal perspective. three referendums, including
I grew up in Haiti and have
traveled to and lived in
many places. I have seen a
lot of different communities
and organizations tackle
challenges using a variety of
techniques and strategies.
Shortell: I am excited about
the potential for Avondales
future and want to serve
during this period of growth
and change. Opportunities
and challenges should be
intentionally approached and
strategically managed while
being mindful of the unique
character of the community.
SEE AVONDALE ON PAGE 16A homeowners, SPLOST which
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 9
COUNTYWIDE
DeKalb County commissioners, city mayors and CEO Michael Thurmond announce a SPLOST vote.
Officials urge voters to be
educated on SPLOST
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com
is an additional one-cent sales
tax that would raise money
provisions on what the one-
cent sales tax money can be
to repave more than 318 used for.
miles of roads in the county It took us some time to
Voters could soon approve
and fund other infrastructure get it right, but its better late
repairs and deciding whether than never, Thurmond said.
a Special Purpose Local
to continuing freeze on According to county
Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) in
property tax increases for officials, each city within
DeKalb County. With more
existing homeowners for the DeKalb County will have
than $380 million in funding
six-year period of the SPLOST. a project list of capital
over the next six years on
According to county improvements if SPLOST is
the line if the referendum
officials, SPLOST will not pass approved by voters. Residents
unless voters approve EHOST can go to the citys official
county officials are urging
as well. website to view project lists.
voters to be informed before
Last year before a In DeKalb, $240 million of
heading to the voting booth.
SPLOST option was put on SPLOST funds will be spent
On Oct. 18, DeKalb
a November referendum, on transportation while $84
CEO Michael Thurmond,
DeKalb officials noticed the million will be used for public
word tolled in the language safety.
of House Bill 596. If the bill The collaboration and
was approved, a tax break for partnerships that made this
DeKalb homeowners would possible happened because
DeKalb County announced
be tolled or otherwise we sat at the table, listened
early voting had begun on
would lose their tax break. to each other and looked at
Gov. Nathan Deal signed the vision, DeKalb County
a referendum regarding
two pieces of legislation Commissioner Larry Johnson
SPLOST.
pertaining to DeKalb said. This is about fixing
We worked together
Countys SPLOST. Senate Bill our sidewalks and buildings
since January to develop a
143 amended the tolled with leaky roofs. All of us are
countywide list, Thurmond
language that sidetracked committed to these projects
said. We are convinced that
a SPLOST referendum in and what were trying to do
our voters will go to the polls
DeKalb County last year while to move this county forward.
and cast an informed vote.
Senate Bill 156 makes certain SPLOST is just the beginning.
This is a great day and we will
continue to work together
until Nov. 7. A new day has
dawned in DeKalb County. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Early voting began Oct. 16
and will end Nov. 3. DeKalb Notice is hereby given that the Board of Mayor and
Commissioners for the City of Avondale Estates will
County voters will decide on hold a Public Hearing for the 2018 Proposed Budget on
three ballot items. The items November 13, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 21 North
Avondale Plaza. Final Adoption of the 2018 budget will
include, A new Equalized
Homestead Option Sales Tax occur in conjunction with the Boards regular monthly
meeting on December 11, 2017, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall,
(EHOST), which would replace 21 North Avondale Plaza.
an existing HOST by applying The proposed 2018 budget is available for public
100 percent of the revenue review on the City website and at City Hall during normal
to reduce property taxes for business hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00
p.m.
LOCAL
CLARKSTON
Clarkston Community Center hosted a municipal election forum on Oct. 17, giving eight candidates a platform to explain their opinions before the Nov. 7 election. Photo by R. Scott Belzer
Clarkston candidates debate issues, personalities
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
Eight Clarkston City
Council candidates made
their voices, platforms and
opinions on city government
public on Oct. 17 as part of
a municipal election forum
at the Clarkston Community
Center.
Moderated by WABE
reporter Elle Yu, the forum
consisted of three panels that
also included the candidates
for mayor.
City council candidates
present on Oct. 17 included
Ahmed Hassan, Chris
Busing, Yterenickia YT
Bell, Jamie Carroll, Dean
Moore, Andrea Cervone,
Warren Hadlock and Grant
Hassan Salaam. Candidates
Jennifer Schliestett and
Laura Hopkins did not
attend because of scheduling
conflicts.
All but Cervone and
Hadlock participated in a
six-person forum, as the pair
are vying for a seat vacated
by Beverly Burks. The pair
squared off in a separate
discussion because the race is
considered part of a separate
special election.
The groupof which three
will be electeddiscussed
such topics as public safety,
economic development,
affordable housing,
transportation and local
seniors.
Hassan, the first immigrant
elected to Clarkston City
Council, credited the
Hopefully, we get a
new mayor and we
can move on.
Clarkston Police Department
with doing a satisfactory job
but called for an increase
in public participation for
better public safety. He
also suggested Clarkston
expand its borders for better
economic opportunities;
seek grant funds similar to
Clarkstons Livable Centers
Initiative and develop a
Clarkston senior living center.
Carroll, a council member
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 10
since February 2017, called
for an increase in available
resources for police, the
creation of a citizens review
board and more youth
activities to increase public
safety. He said helping
existing businesses and
encouraging development
safety. Bell would like
will help the city grow
economically and wants to
continue seeking funds for
streetscape projects; and
allowing in-law suites at
single-family residences to
increase housing options for
senior citizens.
Salaam, a youth services
specialist, suggested more
young people see the
negative results of being
involved with crime to
increase public safety. He is
in favor of teaching young
people early how to invest in
the city for better economic
development; wants to
encourage participation
to have a united Clarkston
transportation vision; and
foster community support for
seniors.
Bell, a mental health
and nonprofit professional,
suggested providing
sensitivity training to
officers to help them
better understand
mental health issues and
the implementation of
volunteer patrol for public
to incentivize residents
through entrepreneurial
programs and promote tax-
credited enterprise zones for
development; implement
a bike share program to
better transportation; and
develop more senior-focused
programs.
Moore, a current council
member, said public safety
starts at home and called for
more neighborhood watch
attitudes. He suggested the
city increase property values
to foster economic growth;
seek funds for infrastructure
improvements; and said he is
in favor of aging in place as
well as developing a senior
community.
Busing, a Clarkston
resident since 2000, said
he supports the idea of a
community patrol similar to
those found in Dunwoody
and Avondale Estates for
public safety and suggested
the city purchase key pieces
of land and tweak zoning
ordinances to foster economic
development. Busing also
supports allowing multi-
family senior housing.
The panel was asked how
they intend to work in concert
with the mayor in making
Clarkston a better city.
Salaam, Bell and Hassan
said its important to work
together as a team and arrive
at compromises despite
differences in opinions. Busing
acknowledged a growing
number of personality
conflicts in Clarkston
government and called for
more personal awareness to
complete municipal tasks.
Carroll suggested elected
officials do not indulge in
personal drama.
Thats not what [citizens]
hire us for, thats not what
were elected for. Were here
for the business of the city
SEE FORUM ON PAGE 12A
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 11

WEEKinPICTURES

Marbut Elementary Theme School celebrated its students by hanging artwork on Oct. 20. Photos submitted.
Officer C. Van Allen (left) and Sergeant M. Murray standing at attention.

The Brookhaven Honor Guard escorted and raised a new flag on the newly-
relocated flag pole at Brookhaven Police Headquarters. Officer C. Nino (left), Chamblee Charter High Schools football team named Princeton Byrd, Sam Huston and Brayson Seaborne as its Dogs of
Officer K. Martinez and Corporal C. Rausch escorted the flag. the Week on Oct. 19. Photo courtesy of Chamblee Football

Officer Ronnie and K-9 unit Argo talk with Oakcliff Elementary School students on Oct. 18. Photos by Denise Quintana.

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, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 12

BROOKHAVEN FORUM Continued From Page 10A

and thats what Ill focus on
policy and working for the
people, Carroll said. I know
I can work with the mayor
because Ive done it.
Moore answered the
question by stating, in his
30 years as a construction
professional and all the
people he has worked with,
he has never met anyone
similar to current mayor Ted
Terry.
Ive never met anyone like
[him], so supremely focused
Boone Gebbia Park on himself that he cant work
with city council, Moore said.
disagree with.
Ive worked at the state
capital across party lines,
Cervone said. I know how
to work with people I dont
always agree with. At the end
of the day, I dont care about
personality differences. I care
about getting things done.
Hadlock disparaged
Cervones candidacy because
of her personal relationship
with the mayor as part of
his opening statement. His
comments continued when
answering the question.
[Terry] wants to put his

Incumbents, competitive eater on

Hopefully, we get a new own candidate slate out there
mayor and we can move on. and get them elected to go
Cervone and Hadlock had along with him and rule by

ballot for Brookhaven City Council

BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
There isnt much fanfare in
the Brookhaven elections as
there is only one contested
race among the two city
council races.
District 4 City Councilman
Joe Gebbia is being
challenged by Dale Boone, a
competitive eater and former
member of Brookhaven's
Police Commission Board.
District 2 City Councilman
John Park is running
unopposed.
Gebbia was first elected
to Brookhavens Inaugural
city council in 2012 and was
re-elected to a full four-year
term in 2013. He earned a
certificate of achievement
from the Georgia Municipal
Association for completing
more than 100 hours in
continuing education courses
for elected officials.
Gebbia co-chairs the
Brookhaven Economic
Development Committee,
he led in the creation of
Keep Brookhaven Beautiful
and the development of the
2.8-mile Peachtree Creek
Greenway Park. Gebbia also
led the charge of Brookhaven
becoming the first city in
Georgia to be certified by
the Attorney Generals Office
as part of its Georgias
Not Buying It anti sex-
trafficking campaign, and
the annexation of Childrens
Healthcare of Atlanta and
Executive Park into.
Gebbia said he has been
an advocate for efficient,
sustainable development and
improved communications
between city officials and
residents.
I will continue to provide
a business style approach to
running our city, he said. Ive
worked hard to successfully
address the three Pspolice,
parks and pot holesand to
lower property taxes while
creating and approving
balanced and sound budgets.
Boone, an Army veteran,
has been a resident of
Brookhaven for 20 years.
He was a member of
the Brookhaven Police
Commission Board and
former member of the East
Point Parks and Recreation
Commission and ADA Board
Commission.
On his website, Boone
lists several goals he wants
to accomplish if elected,
including addressing the
lack of parks in District 4,
lowering the crime rate on
Buford Highway and attaining
adequate funding for projects
in the district.
District 4 is a large tax
base for the city, but yet fails
to receive its fair share of
funds, Boone said.
Boone also said he will
advocate legislation with
state representatives for city
schools.
DeKalb County School
Board will spend $85 million
for a new Cross Keys High
School and $30 million on a
new elementary school, he
said. This will cause a hike
in property taxes. The main
concern is to redraw school
district lines.
Park was elected to the
city council in November
2014. On his Facebook page,
Park said that although a lot
was accomplished during his
first term, theres still work to
be done.
similar ideas for council, but a divided council. One of
conflict arose when discussing those people is his domestic
personalities. partner, my opponent, Ms.
Both candidates said Cervone, Hadlock said. I
they support developing dont see how Ms. Cervone
Im running to continue to affordable housing, attracting could possibly be a neutral,
protect parks and greenspace, an anchor business to unbiased individual on this
achieve balanced growth and the city, investing in local council. Its almost laughable
provide efficient city services, entrepreneurs, developing to me. I think the reason shes
Park said. a youth recreation program, running is because she wants
He said he wants to acting as an advocate for to be one of his proxies.
continue to listen to and residents and educating Cervone called Hadlocks
understand lifelong and citizens on law enforcement remarks ironic.
new residents and make as well as immigration. I hope everyone sees
sure they are heard, put Cervone credited her the irony of a man telling a
the city on sound financial time spent as a marketing woman that the man shes
footing in preparation for professional and change- with is somehow going to
major improvements to maker in qualifying her for dictate her opinions, Cervone
infrastructure and parks and office. Hadlock, a former said. I think if we were living
ensure that the new zoning councilman for eight years, in the 1950s or the Mad Men
code reflects the will of the cited his passion for the city era that may be a concern.
people and fosters smart and vision for the future. Its the 21st century and I
growth. Differences arose when am nothing if not my own
the candidates were asked woman.
how they would work with
fellow council members or PUBLIC
the mayor, whom they may
NOTICE
CITY OF STONE MOUNTAIN
THE CITY OF
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
STONE MOUNTAIN
WILL HOLD
The City of Stone Mountain hereby gives notice that
THE REGULAR
a Public Hearing will be held to consider Variance and
COUNCIL MEETING
Conditional Use applications for the properties at 1024 Hill
FOR NOVEMBER
Street and 5459 East Mountain Street, Stone Mountain,
GA 30083. ON WEDNESDAY,
The Mayor and City Council will hold a Public Hearing NOVEMBER 8, 2017
on this matter on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 at City AT 875 MAIN STREET,
Hall located at 875 Main Street, Stone Mountain, GA at STONE MOUNTAIN,
6:30 P.M. GEORGIA
Anyone wishing to attend the public hearing may do so AT 6:30PM
and be heard relative thereto. A copy of the proposed text
DUE TO ELECTION
amendments will be available at City Hall.
DAY.
Notice of availability of Proposed 2018 Budget, Budget Public
Hearing and 2018 Budget Adoption
Clarkston City Council
The City of Clarkston Proposed 2018 Budget will be available to view on the
Clarkston City Website (www.cityofclarkston.com) and copies to view will be
available at the Clarkston City Hall Annex (1055 Rowland St) and the Clarkston
Public Library on November 9, 2017. The Clarkston Council will hold a Public
Hearing on Tuesday, November 28, 2017, starting at 6:30pm, Clarkston City
Hall, 3921 Church Street for the purpose of taking public comment on the 2018
Proposed City of Clarkston Budget. The Council will vote to adopt the Clarkston
2018 Budget at their regular Council Meeting on December 5, 2017 at 7:30pm.
The public is invited to attend.
LOCAL
CLARKSTON
Clarkston Mayoral candidates Ted Terry and Beverly Burks were able to focus on issues such as affordable housing, immigration, economic development and priorities while in office.
Mayoral candidates face off in Clarkston
Forum allows
Terry, Burks to
focus on issues
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
Clarkston Community
Center hosted a municipal
election candidate forum on
Oct. 17 giving city council and
mayoral candidates a chance
to share their vision with the
public.
Moderated by WABE
reporter Elly Yu, the mayoral
forum was one of three
panels on Oct. 17, which also
included council candidates.
Yu asked participants in
each race a set number of
questions before fielding
questions from the audience.
Mayoral candidates
Beverly Burks and Ted Terry
began the night by answering
questions involving
priorities, affordable housing,
economic development and
immigration.
Terry said his priorities in
continuing to serve as mayor
include developing more
programs for senior citizens
and a comprehensive parks
and recreation program
aimed at local youth.
Burks said she plans
to focus on improving
public safety through
technological upgrades such
as surveillance cameras and
other monitoring devices,
Clarkston Community Center hosted a candidate forum on Oct. 17 in which mayoral and city council candidates explained
their platforms to constituents. Photos by R. Scott Belzer
remaining fiscally sound
through an economic plan
and repairing a deteriorated
city infrastructure to foster
growth.
In the area of affordable
housing, Burks said she
will continue to participate
in Clarkstons housing
committee, work with
available experts and
develop an inventory of
affordable housing. She
said one solution lies in
mixed-income housing and
developing a comprehensive
plan to address an influx of
development.
As you know,
unincorporated DeKalb
County, Scottdale and Decatur
are moving up to us, Burks
said. If we dont have a plan
in place in how to address
housing, you will see rent go
up.
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 13
Terry said he plans to
reactivate the Clarkston
housing authority to leverage
state and federal grant
funds and work with the
DeKalb County land bank to
rehabilitate derelict property.
The rent is too damn
high, Terry said.
To foster economic
development, Terry said he
would like to mimic Duluths
purchase of the downtown
area and creation of a
town core with bike paths,
pedestrian trails and other
instances of connectivity.
Burks said she would
like to activate and support
the newly formed Clarkston
Downtown Development
Authority and offer tax
incentives and draw more
to interested businesses to
Clarkston.
Both candidates credited
Clarkstons stance on
immigration and official
implementation of a non-
detainer policy in terms of
interacting with Immigration
and Customs Enforcement.
Terry and Burks were
asked about working
with counterparts in city
government such as council
members and city staff.
Terry credited the
Clarkston committee
systemin which each city
council member chairs a
committee focused on city
improvementsas one that
assures fresh ideas, discussion
and public interaction.
There are no bad ideas,
Terry said. We have to
empower the average person
to be able to say, I have an
idea, we need to talk about
it, and the committee system
has been instrumental in
getting a lot of progressive
reforms weve been seeking
for the past two years.
Burks said the time
between meetings is equally
important as speaking in
meetings and committees.
From a council
perspective, all of the
legislation that went through
in terms of consensus and
actually passing were done
with the council, Burks said.
Im able to take an idea, work
with council members to
make sure its implemented
and passed.
For opening and closing
remarks, Burks touted her
time spent on city council
and proven ability to lead
Clarkston into the future.
Leadership is the ability
to motivate others to do more
for the community, and thats
what I did, Burks said. As
mayor, I will continue those
efforts to make sure we build
a stronger Clarkston through
investment, engagement and
empowerment.
Terry said he will continue
to represent Clarkston at the
regional, state, national and
international level. He said
he wishes to keep positive
momentum going in the city
and complete projects begun
under his leadership.
One of the powers of
telling our story to people
outside of Clarkston is that
people start to notice us,
Terry said. They start to want
to invest, spend time here,
move here and raise a family
here.
EDUCATION DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 14

DECATUR

Deshauna Barber is a former Miss USA, United States Army Reserve Captain and motivational speaker. Photos by R. Scott Belzer

SHARING AND INSPIRING SUCCESS

Miss USA 2016 speaks at McNair High School
about her struggles growing up
BY R. SCOTT BELZER dating, having a false body image and
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com a dwindling self-esteemand the
only opinion about the instance that
mattered was her own.
For Miss USA 2016, motivational
While Im sitting around thinking
speaker and United States Army
about this every single day, struggling
Reserve Captain Deshauna Barber,
with it, he was at home chilling and as
the secret to success is consistent self-
happy as can be, Barber said. I realized
love, being on the grind early and
that forgiveness is not about [the
addressing skeletons in the closet.
person youre forgiving], forgiveness
Barber spoke to McNair High
is for you. If there are skeletons in your
School female students on Oct. 19 as
closet, whether its bullying, whether
part of an empowerment discussion.
its abuse, whether its mental, physical
Students were encouraged to discuss
or emotional abuse by parentsto
topics introduced by Barber with
be successful, you have to pull those
their mentors, parents, friends and
skeletons out and address them.
colleagues.
Barbers sister Brittney Caldwell is
Barber was crowned Miss USA in
a history teacher at McNair High. She
2016 at the age of 26. She said her
said she facilitated Barbers speech
beauty pageant career began at age 19
with the purpose of inspiring students
while folding clothes at a department
to believe in themselves.
store in college and being noticed by a
When I was in high school, which
manager.
was not that long ago, one of the
I had never seen a pageant in my
biggest things I struggled with was my
life, Barber said. She convinced me Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber spoke to female students at McNair High School on Oct. 19 hoping to
inspire future successes. self-esteem and feeling good about
to enter into my very first pageant
myself, Caldwell said. I know a lot of
three months later. First pageant?
girls here deal with the same problems.
Lost. Second pageant? Lost. Third
want everyone else to suffer with I worked my butt off for years so One of the people who helped me the
pageant? Lost. Fourth pageant? Lost.
them. Its not OK. You have absolutely I can chill, come to your high school most with this is my big sister.
Fifth pageant, guess what happened?
no idea whats going on at someones and talk, Barber said. The reality is, as Barber, who has been a
I lostIn December 2015, [at 25] I win
motivational speaker for approximately
Miss District of Columbia, USA. In 2016, house You have no idea what people a double minority like we all are, you
are going through. need to understand youre going to five months, said she was inspired to
I win Miss USA.
Barber told students that those have to work twice as hard to get as far share her stories with others following
Barber said perseverance, tenacity
who were bullied for being nerds, or as everyone elseyou have to realize the death of her mother. She counts
and resilience characterize her life
dorks, are todays millionaires. that. But you also have to realize you speaking at high schools to inspire
and contributed to her success. At an
Barber instructed students to focus can be anything you want to be. If you young Black women as one of her
early age, Barber said she struggled
on themselves and their own successes want to build a rocket ship, be the next finest accomplishments.
with self-esteem because of a bully at
Miss USA, the next Michelle Obama, My joy in life is to tell [students]
school and abuse by a family member. and to be careful of the company they
keep. She related a story about a friend the next Hillary ClintonIf you put the things I wish someone had told
Barber said during her senior
who was pulled over and subsequently your mind to it, you can do it. But you me when I was in high school, Barber
year in high school, she witnessed a
sent to jail because a friend was in have to be ready to grind. said. The reality is, I was bullied, I was
classmate throw herself in front of a
possession of marijuana. Barber described unsubsidized abused as a child, I had a lot of self-
train after falling victim to bullying.
She instructed students to focus loans at collegesdesigned for low- esteem issues and I really, really, wish I
She said current students are even
on education rather than being one income and bad credit familiesas the had someone I could see as a peer but
more prone to bullying because of
of the cool kids. Barber, who holds value of investing in ones self. She said also someone who had gone through
social media.
a masters degree, told students she its worth the risk for an education. a hefty amount of struggle.
Let me be clear, there is not one
thing cool about being a bully, Barber makes more than $100,000 each year Barber finished her speech by
said. The problem with bullies is because she begrudgingly educated relating her tale of abuse. She told
theyre suffering on the inside, so they herself. students her abuser did not care
EDUCATION DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 15

DECATUR
Trading a crown for a lab coat
DeKalb 5th grader wins state STEM competition,
advocates for minorities in science

BY R. SCOTT BELZER research findings including such social

barriers as streotypes, gender bias and
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com the climate of science departments in
higher education.
On any typical weekday or weekend,
According to Lester, her passion for
Wadsworth Magnet School for High
science has led to a passion for making
Achievers fifth-grader Temple Lester
videos. At the end of her STEM Talk
can be found making videos about
submission, she details her website,
science, culinary skills and the fine
www.JustTemple.comwhich serves as a
artsall with the purpose of helping
platform for videos of Lester performing
other people.
experiments, cooking, arts and crafts
It makes me feel like a good person,
and states it is specifically aimed at girls.
Lester said. It makes me feel like Im
I wanted to show kids, especially
helping them to do better than before. If
girls, that theyre allowed in STEM
people do better, they can achieve more
[fields], Lester said. They can have
than they originally thought I hope
thoughts, learn different things and
kids know they can choose whatever
learn science. It helps me help other
they want to be.
people.
Lesters skills in science, public
Lester said the websitelaunched
speaking and videography have been
when she was in third gradehelped
recently rewarded, as she was declared
her develop her skills in public speaking,
one of three winners in the Georgia
learn to hone her message and
Science Teachers Associations STEM Talk
appreciate her own opinions. She said
competition.
she eventually wants to be on a high
The Science, Technology, Engineering
school or college debate team.
and Mathematics (STEM) Talk
Lesters parents, Tommy and
competition was created to provide
Jennifer Lester, said they decided to let
kindergarten through 12th grade
Temple explore her own interests rather
students a platform to share how STEM
than direct her.
is impacting their lives. Students are
We followed her interests, Jennifer
instructed to develop five-minute videos
Lester said. We didnt focus them as
discussing how STEM is shaping the
to what we think they should be. At an
future.
early age, my husband shared his man
When I found out I won, I was
cave and turned it into a science lab
shocked, Lester said. It was K-12 and
for [Temple]. Being able to expose her
the other winners are 12th graders. It
to things that explore her interests and
was from all around the state of Georgia
allow her to decide what shes interested
and Im just one person out of about 900
in is very important.
to 1,000 people! It feels really good. It
According to Wadsworth Magnet
feels like I can do anything.
principal Cornelia Crumb, Temple is a
Lesters video, titled The Time I
cut above the rest.
Traded My Crown for a Lab Jacket,
It was very obvious to us the first day
details her curiosity about how things
she entered the building that she was, in
work, math proficiency and her
addition to being a high achiever, super
discovery of the shortage of women in
intelligent, smart and full of enthusiasm,
STEM fields. She relates an experience of
Crumb said. Temple is going to go
attending science camp where she was
on to become the head of the Centers
the only girl in the session and referred
for Disease Control and Prevention, I
to as a little princess.
guarantee you that. She doesnt look at
I thought to myself, Am I in a castle?
the world in the small setting that we
And if I am, Im in the wrong place,
are in, shes looking globally. She wants
Lester states in the video. I told her, Im
to solve problems.
not a princess, Im a scientist.
Lester said she plans to eventually
In the video, Lester states this
work at NASA as an astronomer. She said
experience prompted her to do
she loves stars, constellations, zodiac,
research. She explains that male and
planets and the universe.
female students do equally well in math
There arent a lot of women in STEM
and science on standardized tests and
and I want to work in STEM when I grow
that men and women make up equal
up, Lester said. It offended me to find
parts of a college-educated workforce,
out there arent a lot of women in STEM,
but only 29 percent of women work in
even though they do equally well as
STEM-related fields.
men. We can do equally wellwe can
Why is there such a big gap? Lester
do better than men.
asks. Just 35.2 percent of chemists
As a contest winner, Lester spoke
are women. Only 11.1 percent of all
in front of more than 1,500 teachers in
astronomers are women and 7.9 percent
Athens as part of the 2017 Georgia STEM
of all mechanical engineers are women.
Forum.
Lester concludes by stating key
Wadsmorth Magnet School for High Achievers fifth-grader Temple Lester was recently
announced as a winner for the Georgia Science Teachers Associations 2017 STEM Talk awards.
LOCAL
AVONDALE Continued From Page 9A
2. What are your top three priorities
you will focus on if youre elected
to the Board of Mayor and
Commissioners?
Anziano: 1. Help propel the
development of our downtown so
that it becomes an attraction to new
businesses and building expansion
for the citizens of Avondale. 2. Fully
connect our residential areas and
downtown by a completed network
of sidewalks wide enough to stroll
and talk with family, neighbors and
friends. 3. Set aside one or more part-
days annually to direct our citizen
energies toward helping the needs
of individuals/families in our own
hometown. Well call it Avondale Cares
Dayit will generate palpable energy,
pride and good will for our city.
Brown: Increase support to
Avondale Elementary School to help
it to become a community school of
choice; protect our citys heritage, our
tree canopy, and lake; and improve
storm water collection system
throughout the city.
Jones: 1. Listen to the needs and
concerns of residents and local
businesses. 2. Work to retain the
historic character and 'small town'
feel of our city. 3. Make decisions
based on collected data and citizen
input, ensuring fiscal integrity/
accountability.
DECATUR
Businessman introduces compact fire extinguisher to U.S. market
BY KATHY MITCHELL
FREELANCE REPORTER
When a fire breaks out, time is
of the essence. Whether the fire
is a minor incident or becomes a
major catastrophe may depend on a
nearby person being able to respond
quickly and effectively. A Decatur
businessman has introduced a
product to the American market that
he said improves the odds that a small
fire doesnt become a major one.
David Sizer explained that the
Mini Fire Fighter was invented in
Spain by a man who had no interest
in marketing it. The inventor
had a background in creating fire
prevention systems. He looked at all
the problems with fire extinguishers
that were available to the timesize,
weight, difficulty in using, expense
and worked at finding an extinguisher
that would be compact, easy to use
and affordable.
My dad discovered the invention
Laratte: 1. Developing Avondale: we
need to fill our acreage with vibrant
productive activities contributing to
our city. 2. Sustaining and adapting: I
want to be sure that as the city grows,
we remain relevant to the area. We
want people to come to our city and
stay. 3. Affirming community: I want
everyone to be able enjoy our city and
bring it closer to being the role model
city for Georgia.
Shortell: 1. Promoting well-
designed, walkable, and sustainable
downtown development that follows
the Downtown Master Plan vision.
2. Maintaining Avondales identity,
character, and quality of life as we
grow. 3. Reaching and informing
residents more fully through
strengthened communication.
3. What qualities do you have
that will help you be a good
commissioner for Avondale
Estates?
Anziano: With a strong background
in marketing and merchandising, plus
leadership skills developed over four
decades in real estate sales, ownership
and management, and having been
state president and leader of Georgias
20,000+ Realtor organization Im
in an excellent position to help our
city stretch its wings and take off to
the future for which we have been
aspiring.
and began marketing it in Europe,
where its now very popular, he said.
October is Fire Prevention Month
and a perfect time to spread the word
about this truly innovative product.
Also, were approaching the holiday
season and there is always a spike in
home fires around the holidays.
Sizer said the number of people
with working fire extinguishers in
their homes is surprisingly low.
Considering that there are more than
400,000 fires a yearmost of them in
the homethis is a serious issue.
Sizer said 80 percent of home fires
start in the kitchen. The Mini Fire
Fighter is so small its easy to keep it in
a drawer or right on the countertop so
no time is lost in an emergency. It will
fit in the glove compartment of the
car. Theyre inexpensive enough to
have one for the office, boat, garage
and for camping or barbecues. If
theres a tangled web of electronics
cords somewhere in your house, you
need to keep one near it, too, he
noted.
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 16
Brown: Working in partnership
with the other communities to
make practical policies to create
a wider, more open public realm;
to expand high-quality affordable
housing options and make long-term
investments in children and families,
specifically in education, health and
economic well-being.
Jones: My interest in city issues is
not new. I have attended numerous
city meetings, hearings and planning
sessions, so am very knowledgeable
of the issues, processes and the
significant time commitment required
to be an effective commissioner.
Laratte: I know that my strengths are
sincerity and a genuine belief in the
success of the city and everyone in it.
In addition, I have a way of working
with other leaders in an inclusive,
process-oriented way toward tangible
results.
Shortell: A long-time resident with
a history of Avondale involvement
and participation including attending
majority of city meetings, serving on
focus groups and committees, and
starting a citizen group advocating for
a revitalized, walkable downtown and
sponsoring community forums.
4. What do you believe are some of
the challenges facing Avondale
Estates and how will you address
them?
Elderly people are most
vulnerable because even when
they have a fire extinguisher it may
have stored it where its not readily
available or they may have difficulty
operating it. The Mini Fire Fighter is as
compact and easy to use as a can of
hairspray; its easy to hold and easy to
use, Sizer said. There are no complex
directions; you just shake and spray.
Spraying releases nontoxic,
biodegradable foam that expands
to up to 40 times its size and can be
used from up to four feet away. The
foam suffocates the fire and cools the
surface so the fire doesnt start up
again, Sizer said. Clean-up is easy.
You just wipe with a damp rag; theres
no residue.
Each Mini Fire Fighter is 8.5 inches
high, two inches in diameter and
weighs less than a pound. Units have
a four-year shelf life and each is date
stamped. The canister is reusable until
its empty, according to information
on the Mini Fire Fighter website.
Sizer emphasized that the Mini
Anziano: Our biggest challenge is
staying on course and pushing to the
objectives outlined in our Downtown
Business Plan (Master Plan), and
working on a financial plan to get us
there. I believe I can help and need
your votes to get us there.
Brown: To understand Avondale
Estates is a growing diverse
community. We all live here together.
Building a community is more than
buildings and planting trees, it is
friendships and relationships that
give it nourishment for growth
and prosperity. Neighbors helping
neighbors makes our city stronger.
Jones: The biggest challenge we face
is balancing the needs of our current
residents and businesses with future
plans. I will prioritize action plans
that maintain our residential areas
while also invigorating our current
businesses and appropriately expand
our downtown area.
Laratte: The challenge is how we
keep those things we value about
Avondale while growing this city to
be sustainable in the future. How
we keep our community secure and
inclusive, adaptable and stable.
Shortell: Revitalizing downtown,
maintaining identity and quality of
life and quality, public schooling for
all Avondale children and continue
support for Avondale Elementary.
Fire Fighter is only for small fires.
Of course, you need to call the fire
department when theres a major
fire, he said. The idea of the Mini Fire
Fighter is to keep a small fire from
becoming a disaster.
According to Sizer, Mini Fire Fighter
is the only compact extinguisher that
works on four major fire types: class
A or solid fires, which involve wood,
fabric, cardboard or plastic; class B or
hydrocarbonsgasoline, diesel or
solvents; class C or electrical fires for
which it has been tested to 35,000
volts; and class K, oil and grease fires.
Sizer said the Mini Fire Fighter has
the endorsement of fire department
professionals around the world, but is
not well known in the United States.
Right now, some major U.S. hardware
stores are carrying it and Im working
on getting it in the big box stores. I
am totally confident that once people
try this product it will sell itself, he
said.

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SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 18

VOLLEYBALL FOOTBALL

Marist, St.
Pius face off
in volleyball
state
semifinals
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Rivals faced each other
for the right to play in the
Class AAAA state volleyball
championship game.
Marist and St. Pius X
battled each other in the
Class AAAA semifinals Oct. 25.
The score was not available
by press time.
No. 2-ranked Marists
last final appearance was in
2014, when it won the Class
AAAA state title. Marist has
won 10 state championships
in the programs history and
finished runner up 11 times.
The last time the Lady War
Eagles finished runner up was
in 2013, when they lost to
St. Pius in the Class AAA title
game.
The 2013 state
championship is the only
state title for the No. 3-ranked
St. Pius Lady Golden Lions.
St. Pius has finished second
in the title games four times.
The Golden Lions last final
appearance was in 2015.

CEDAR GROVE PUMMELS STONE MOUNTAIN

Go to The Champions
website, www.
thechampionnewspaper.com,
for the semifinals results.
BY CARLA PARKER Xavier Dennis connected with
Kortney Cox on the touchdown pass
OTHER SCORES
REDUCE carla@dekalbchamp.com to give the Saints a 7-6 lead in the first
quarter. The Saints went up 14-6 later in Oct. 19

REUSE
The No. 1-ranked Cedar Grove Saints
continued to dominate Region 5-AAA
the quarter on a fumble returned for a Stephenson (6-2) 35, Mt. Zion-Jonesboro (1-7) 2
touchdown by Alvin Williams.
Tucker (7-1) 62, Charles Drew (2-6) 12
Cedar Grove took a 21-6 lead in the

RECYCLE
with a 48-6 win over Stone Mountain
Oct. 21 at Godfrey Stadium.
The Saints remain at the top of the
REDUCE region with a 5-0 region record and
an 8-0 overall record. This is the fifth
time in program history the Saints have
second quarter on a touchdown run by
Darrell Neal. Rashad Cheney scored a
rushing touchdown two minutes later in
the quarter, giving the Saints a 28-6 lead.
The defense had two consecutive
Oct. 20
Decatur (4-4) 23, Lithia Springs (1-7) 7
Marist (8-0) 25, Blessed Trinity (7-2) 24
Miller Grove (4-4, 1-2) 25, Columbia (4-4, 1-2) 20
St. Pius X (3-5) 43, Jefferson (6-2) 29

REUSE
remained undefeated through eight
games. If this team wins its last two
pick-6s by Montre Montfort and Cox SW DeKalb (6-2) 14, Lithonia (2-6) 7
respectively to give the Saints a 42-6
Towers (4-4) 41, Redan (2-6) 26
lead at halftime. The Saints scored the

RECYCLE games, it will join the Cedar Grove teams
of 1976, 1978, 1990 and 1991 as the only
teams in program history to finish the
REDUCE regular season undefeated.
Stone Mountain is currently last in
Centennial (6-3) 45, Dunwoody (2-6) 7
final touchdown of the game in the third Henry Co. (1-7) 38, Druid Hills (1-7) 21
quarter on a touchdown pass to Devon
Lovejoy (5-4) 41, M.L. King Jr. (3-5) 21
Barnes, bringing the final score to 48-6.
Cedar Grove has won 18 consecutive
games, including the Class AAA
Pace Academy (3-4) 33, McNair (3-5) 9

Oct. 21

REUSE
the region with an 0-5 region record,
and a 1-7 overall record. Stone Mountain
scored the first touchdown of the
state championship, since a loss to
Arabia Mountain* (6-2) 42, Chamblee (1-7) 0
Westminster last season. Cedar Grove
will take on McNair Oct. 27 at Avondale

RECYCLE game in the first quarter, going up 6-0. Open: Clarkston (1-7), Lakeside (1-7)
Stadium. Stone Mountain will face Redan
However, Cedar Grove then scored 42 Oct. 28 at Hallford Stadium.
unanswered points before halftime.
SPORTS
FOOTBALL
Tuckers Joshua Vann receives Army All-American game jersey
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Another Tucker High School football player will
display his skills on national television in January.
Two weeks after offensive tackle Dylan
Wonnum received his Under Armour All-American
game jersey, the Tucker football team, coaches
and family of senior wide receiver Joshua Vann
gathered Oct. 19 in the school auditorium to watch
the South Carolina commit receive his game jersey
for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Game.
The U.S. Army All-American Bowl, one of the
premier high school All-American games, features
the best 100 players in an East vs. West match-up
every January in San Antonios Alamodome and is
broadcast live on NBC. The game will take place Jan.
6, 2018.
Vann said its a great feeling to be recognized
as one of the best high school players in the nation
and to play alongside other top players in the
country.
Growing up, I never thought that I was going
to be an Army All-American, or an All-American in
general, he said. Where I came from, its not the
best and still not the best to this day, but to be an
All-American and to play with the best is a great
feeling and a great honor.
Vann grew up on Gresham Road and played for
the Gresham Park youth football program as a child
for two years. When he got to Tucker Middle School,
his family did not have enough money to buy cleats
for him. His coaches gave him a pair of old cleats
that were worn by a former player who left them
behind.
DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 19
Tucker High School senior offensive linemen Dylan
Wonnum was named an Under Armour All-American and
received his game jersey. Photo by Carla Parker
Since then, Vann has worked his way to being
one of the best wide receivers in the nation.
Its really crazy, he said. I came from nothing.
Nobody knew me. I came from [Gresham Park] to
Tucker and I was the new kid on the block, but I
kept working and working and I now Im one of the
best.
The four-star recruit is ranked the 35th best
receiver in the county on ESPNs top 300 list.
On Sept. 22 against M.L. King, Vann had three
receptions for 65 yards, which made him the DeKalb
County all-time leader in career receiving yards
with 2,367, surpassing Kelvin Knight (1997-99) of
Lithonia. Knight held the previous record of 2,303
yards for 18 years.
According to the DeKalb County School District
Athletics Department, from his freshman year until
Oct. 12, Vann has played in 46 games, accumulating
119 receptions (2.6/game) for 2,367 yards (19.9/
reception) for 37 touchdowns. In the 2016 season,
he led the county in receiving with 63 receptions for
1,286 yards and 13 touchdowns, all career highs.
The play-maker also has two punt returns for
touchdowns in his career a 75-yard return this
season and a 55-yard return last season. Coach
Bryan Lamar said Vann has gotten better every
year.
Hes a tremendous athlete, Lamar said. He was
one of those kids that stood out. Even as an eighth
graderas the quarterback of the eighth-grade
team that won the programs first middle school
championshiphe was a tremendous talent then.
And then he came in and was just a real talent.
Sometimes, kids kind of grow into being good
players, but he was a kidthat from the day he
stepped foot at Tucker High Schoolwe knew he
was going to be special.
Vann said he is looking forward to having a good
time in San Antonio.
Im looking forward to meeting new people and
having fun with everybody, he said.
SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 Page 20

Marist advances to softball Elite Eight

BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
The Marist Lady War Eagles
are the lone wolf from DeKalb
County remaining in the state
softball playoffs.
Marist advanced to the
Class AAAA Elite Eight after
sweeping Central-Carroll in
two games in the best-of-three
series Oct. 18. The Lady War
Eagles won the first game 8-7
and closed out the series with
an 8-6 victory in game 2.
Marist (17-11) will face Perry
(16-18) in the next round Oct.
26 at South Commons Softball
Complex in Columbus.
In Class AAAAA, Arabia
Mountains, Chamblees,
Decaturs and Miller Groves
seasons all came to an end in
the Sweet 16. Arabia Mountain
was swept by Loganville (6-5,
4-0), Chamblee was swept by
Carrollton (13-2, 10-2), Decatur
was swept by Walnut Grove (8-
0, 10-3) and Miller Grove was Marist advanced to the Class AAAA Elite Eight after sweeping Central-Carroll. Photo by Melissa White
swept by Buford (13-0, 19-1).