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More with less
Cedar Grove graduate making international impact
by Horace Holloman
horace@dekalbchamp.com
Staff Sgt. Jennifer Singh, a United
States soldier and graduate of Cedar
Grove High School, is getting a crash
course on how to do more with less.
Singh, who works in the operating
room as a technician and is currently
on a mission in Gabon, is experiencing
Africa for the first time though the
U.S. Army Africa Medical Readiness
Training Exercise (MEDRETES).
The mission provides a team of
American medical professionals an
opportunity to partner with Gabonese
military medical personnel to share
practices and improve treatment
processes.
Singh, who has been in service for
roughly 17 years, said the experience
in Africa has been rewarding. This is
the first time Singh has been in direct
support of a humanitarian mission, she
said, and shes making the best of it.
Its been a great experience so
far, Singh said. Weve had a lot of
interaction with the local Gabonese
and they welcomed us with open arms.
Coming to Africa was something Ive
never done before and [U.S. Army
Africa] allowed me to experience this. I
wasnt sure what to expect, but I came
over hoping to learn from them.
Singh said shes learning quite a
bit, including how to do more with less.
During her time in Gabon, Singh
said she assisted doctors with a neck
surgery. In the United States, Singh
said, during that type of surgery
doctors would have more than 30
different instruments available. In
Gabon, she had 13. Singh said despite
the number of instruments available,
the surgery was a success.
Ive learned to make do with
less, Singh said. Ive learned whats
important and whats not. Theres
a lot of instruments we have in [the
United States] that you think would be
necessary for surgery, but thats not
the case here. Thats not an issue for
them. They perform the surgeries well
and its not a problem.
Her time in Gabon has taught
Visit www.championnewspaper.com for local, real DeKalb County news.
FRIDAY, JULY 7, 2017 VOL. 21, NO. 23 FREE
A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS
Singh to be more innovative, she said.
In the United States, Singh said during
a gallbladder removal surgery doctors
would use an instrument to hold the
contents from the surgery. Here,
Gaboneese doctors got creative by
using what Singh called a makeshift
bag.
The surgeon used a glove and cut
into a makeshift bag...watching them
do that helped me put my innovative
cap on and in another surgery, I came
up with a way to make my own, Singh
said.
Each year the U.S. Army
Africa facilitates five MEDRETES
programs in various countries in
Africa. In a statement, U.S. Army
Africa officials said they hope that
the missions are mutually beneficial
and will allow medical professionals
from both militaries to share best Cedar Grove High School graduate Jennifer Singh participated
in the U.S. Army Africa Medical Readiness Training Exercise in
practices, strengthen medical Gabon.
treatment processes, and promote
partnerships. MEDRETE allows U.S.
forces to train in an alternatively
resourced environment, share
medical procedures, and build lasting
relationships with Gabonese medical
professionals.
Singh said she wont just come
home with a different medical
prospective but a different perspective
on life as well. During her time in Africa
Singh said she noticed a difference in
American and African culture.
The philosophy of more with
less trickles into the everyday life
of Gabonese, she said. Singh said Staff Sgt. Jennifer Singh works in the medical room during her
in America the culture is engulfed in Medical Readiness Training Exercise in Gabon, Africa.
entertainment like social media and
smart phones, but in Africa children are
more prone to sit outside and talk or
play soccer than to play video games.
The kids are usually back there
playing in a soccer tournament or
outside talking. Youre not watching
people look down at their phones,
Singh said. The country itself is
beautiful and the people are beautiful,
but the houses are very simple. Its an
extreme level of simple living. They
dont have everything we have, but
they make do. Thats why we came
here. We came here to learn.
@DeKalbChampNews
LOCAL
DeKalb judge appointed to
judicial qualifications commission
BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
DeKalb County State
Court Judge Stacey
Hydrick has been
appointed to the judicial
qualifications commission.
Georgia Supreme Court
Chief Justice P. Harris
Hines announced June
27 that Hydrick was one
of three appointed by the
court to the reconstituted
commission, effective July
1. Judge Louisa Abbot of
the Superior court of the
Eastern Circuit (Chatham
County); Judge Robert C.I.
McBurney of the Superior
Court of the Atlanta Circuit
and Atlanta attorney
Jamala S. McFadden
were also appointed to the
commission.
The commission is
the constitutional body
that educates Georgia
judges about their ethical
duties and conducts
investigations and
hearings regarding judges
misconduct, according
to the state supreme
court. In November 2016,
Georgia voters approved
an amendment to abolish
the existing judicial
qualifications commission
and to authorize the general
assembly to replace it.
In April, House Bill 126
was passed to reform
and reconstitute the
commission.
Hydrick will serve a
four-year term as a judge
member of the investigative
panel of the commission.
Under the legislation, the
new commission will have
two separate panelsa
seven-member investigative
panel that will handle the
investigative, prosecutorial
and administrative
functions of the commission
and a three-member
hearing panel that will be
responsible for arbitrating
formal charges filed against
judges by the investigative
panel and making
recommendations to the
Georgia Supreme Court
regarding disciplinary and
incapacity orders.
Each panel has judge,
attorney, and citizen
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 2A
Decatur Commission candidate focused
on affordability, investments
Were a product of our
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN own success and when
horace@dekalbchamp.com you have a successful
development like Decatur
has become, it brings issues
Tim Martin, who like housing affordability,
has been president of Martin said. The school
the Decatur Business system has driven prices
Association for the past up and I want to make sure
two years, officially we have a wide variety of
became the third person housing options.
to run for the open District In the coming years,
1 commissioner seat to Decatur commissioners will
replace Fred Boykin, who decide what to do with the
is retiring. 77-acres recently acquired
In an interview with The from the United Methodist
DeKalb County State Court Judge Tim Martin formally announced June
Stacey Hydrick was appointed to
Champion Martin said hes 26 that he will be running for city of Childrens Home. The
serve a four-year term on the judicial committed to improving the Decatur District 1 commissioner seat. purchase was approved for
qualifications commission. citys housing affordability $40 million in April.
and making sure Decatur Were all paying taxes
members. The Supreme makes wise decisions with Martin said he has met to live in the city and we
Court appointed four its green space and newly with key stakeholders want to make sure the new
members to the new acquired assets. in Decatur to gauge their property and is developed
commission, and the Decatur is a wonderful concerns and thoughts. One properly, Martin said.
governor, the lieutenant place and its a home for of the issues Martin plans to Martin said he also
governor and the speaker of people in all stages in life. focus on if elected is making wants to focus on making
the house each appointed On the commission, we sure houses and property in Scott Boulevard safer. The
two members. need to make sure were Decatur are affordable. street has been cited by
The Georgia Supreme doing it smart while moving According to Martin, many in the area as a safety
Court strongly supports forward. [Decatur] is like a people tend to move to concern, Martin said.
the important work of 30-year overnight success, Decatur for the downtown Martin will join Melissa
the judicial qualifications Martin said, laughing. Now livability and school system. Manrow and Kelly Walsh
commission, Hines that were a success, we Martin said he would like to as they compete for the
said in a statement. We need to make sure were expand the housing options District 1 seat.
believe the reconstituted smart moving forward. in the city.
[commission] will provide
more effective regulation of
judicial ethics with a higher
level of due process, and
we are grateful to these
extraordinary appointees
for their willingness to serve
our state in such a crucial
role.
In April 2011, Hydrick
was appointed by Gov.
Nathan Deal to the DeKalb
State Court and she has
been elected to two full
terms since. She began her
legal career as an assistant
district attorney in Augusta,
then worked as an assistant
attorney general in the
Georgia Attorney Generals
Special Prosecution
Division.
She then became a chief
senior assistant district
attorney for the Fulton
County District Attorneys
Office. For nine years, she
worked at a Dunwoody law
firm where she specialized
in insurance defense
litigation.
LOCAL
AROUNDDEKALB
AVONDALE
ESTATES
Farmers market opens for summer
The Avondale Estates Farmers Market
will be held July 9, from 10 a.m. to 2
p.m. in the parking lot of My Parents
Basement. The market will take place
every Sunday until October and will feature
local produce and goods. My Parents
Basement is located at 22 North Avondale
Road. For more information, visit www.
avondaleestates.org.
BROOKHAVEN
Movie night announced
Brookhaven will host a dive-in movie
night July 14 at Briarwood Park at 8
p.m. Secret Life of Pets will be played at
the event. The park is located at 2235
Briarwood Way NE. For more information,
visit www.brookhavenga.gov.
DECATUR
Growing the arts in Decatur
Spirit and Truth Sanctuarylocated at
2915 Midway Road in Decaturwill host
Its Showtime on July 9 at 6 p.m.
Its Showtime is a concert tribute of Atlanta (MJCCA)located at 5342 Tilly
to George Gershwin and movie music
by other composers, according to event
officials. Gershwin was an American
musician and composer best-known for
the compositions Rhapsody in Blue, An
American in Paris and the opera Porgy and
Bess.
The concert will feature the talents of
Bishop Carlton Pearson, Tony Thompson
& New Creation Chorale and Band, Joyful
Sound Chorale and Clariece Miller Paulk.
Admission is $8 for adults and $3 for
children ages 12 and under.
For more information, contact Virgie
Seltzer at vmseltzer@gmail.com or Spirit
Truth Sanctuary at (404) 243-5020.
History center to teach science
through art, literature
The DeKalb History Centerlocated
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 3A
at 101 E. Court Square in Decaturwill
host Welcome Wednesdays, programs
emphasizing learning through the arts,
sciences and literature, for six months
beginning in July.
Welcome Wednesdays will feature a
central theme used to rediscover or learn
about the surrounding world, state event
officials. Each program will require children
to listen to a story and work on an art
project based on its theme.
On July 12, Welcome Wednesday will
showcase Nature!, which will teach through
leaves, flowers and rocks. Children will
walk in Decatur Square using magnifying
glasses to learn more about the sense of
touch.
Other dates include Aug. 16, Sept.
13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8 and Dec. 13. Other
themes will include shapes, community, the
courthouse, leaf colors and winter.
Admission is $3 for members and $6
for non-members. Admission is free for
children ages 12 months and under with
accompanying adults.
Reservations are encouraged and
recommended. To RSVP, visit www.
dekalbhistory.org. For more information,
contact Marissa Howard at howard@
dekalbhistory.org or (404) 373-1088 ext.
20.
DUNWOODY
Jewish community center to host
bestselling author
The Marcus Jewish Community Center
placed in good homes.
Mill Road in Dunwoodywill host New York
Times bestselling author Ben Mezrich on
July 9.
Mezrich is best-known for his work The
Accidental Billionaires and Bringing Down
the House, which were made into the films
The Social Network and 21, respectively.
On July 9, Mezrich will discuss his latest
work, Woolly: The True Story of the De-
Extinction of One of Historys Most Iconic
Creatures, a nonfiction story involving
the genetic resurrection of the woolly
mammoth.
Mezrichs visit is part of MJCCAs A
Page from the Book Festival author talks
and signings, which has also featured actor
and author Alan Alda.
Admission to the July 9 event is $10
for members and $15 for non-members.
For more information, contact the MJCCA
Box Office at (678) 812-4005 or visit www.
atlantajcc.org/bookfestival.
TUCKER
Organization to host car show
Tucker Cruise-In, a nonprofit, old-
fashioned meet and greet car show will
be held July 8 on Main Street in Tucker.
There will be a variety of cars ranging from
antiques to street rods and motorcycles
to imports. The Cruise-Ins are held on the
second Saturday of every month now until
September. The event begins at 5 p.m.
and ends with the presentation of awards
around 8 p.m. There is a $5 registration fee
to enter a car into judging. The cut off time
to have a car to be entered into judging is
6:30 p.m. on the day of the event. For more
information, call (770) 527-1521.
COUNTYWIDE
Free pet adoptions in DeKalb, Fulton
Adoption fees for Lifeline Animal Project
shelters will be waived until July 31. This
promotion applies to all pets at all LifeLine
shelter locations, including DeKalb County
Animal Services (DCAS), Fulton County
Animal Services (FCAS), the LifeLine Dog
House and Kitty Motel, and the LifeLine Cat
Adoption Center.
Adopters will receive a dog or catwho
has been spayed or neutered, has had all
vaccines and is microchipped, an estimated
value of $250. Adoption counselors will be
on hand to ensure the animals are being
DeKalb courts looking for volunteers
The public is invited to attend a volunteer
informational session hosted by DeKalb
County Court Appointed Special Advocates
Aug. 31 from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. at the
Gregory A. Adams Juvenile Justice Center
on 4309 Memorial Drive in Decatur.
This session will provide an overview
of the program for those interested in
becoming a CASA volunteer. Volunteers
must attend an information session and
complete a screening interview with
staff before beginning training. The next
Traditional Training Session will begin
in September; details regarding meeting
dates and times will be provided upon
acceptance into the program.
For more information regarding the
volunteer informational session visit www.
dekalbcasa.org or call (404) 378-0038.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 4A

Avondale Estates adopts millage rate, property taxes to increase

BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Avondale Estates
millage rate will remain the
same at 9.957 mills, but
residents will see property
taxes increase.
The Avondale Estates
Board of Mayor and
Commissioners voted June
26 to keep the millage
rate the same with a 4-1
vote. Commissioner Terry
Giager voted against.
Property taxes in the
city will increase by 4.84
percent under the millage
rate. The tax increase
for a home with a fair
market value of $305,056
is approximately $56
and the increase on non-
homestead property with
a fair market value of
$244,929 is approximately
$45, according to the city.
Giager said he could not
vote for a tax increase.
A comment was made
earlier that we had three
years at this millage rate,
but three years ago, that
was suggested to be the
rollback millage rate,
Giager said. In six years,
I have never voted for
a tax increase for our
citizens and Im not going
to this time either. There
are several things I think
have worked well for the
previous six years when
we didnt have an increase
and we always seemed to
make things happen.
Last year, Giager
voted against setting the
millage rate at 9.957 mills,
preferring to have it at
9.487 mills. Giager said the
tax increase could affect
those, who are on a fixed
income specially seniors.
Social Security, last
year, had a zero increase.
Nobody got an increase
on Social Security, but we
had a five-point-something
increase in tax, he said.
Thats a locked income,
thats a frozen income for
those folks, those retirees.
of the millage rate because
elected officials had done
a good job of managing the
financial resources of the
city without a tax increase.
I think todays [millage
rate public hearing] was a
good eye-opener for me in
the amount of investment
that needs to be made in
the city on a consistent
basiswhether it be roads,
whether it be sidewalks,
whether it be downtown
development, whether it be
with trucks, police vehicles
and so forth, Fisher said.
Were going to need that
in order to make those
commitments to the city
and see that progress.
Thats the reason why Im
voting in favor for keeping
This year, Social Security Fisher said he initially the rate where it is.
went up .91 percent struggled to vote in favor
maybe, but insuranceif
youre on Medicare B
went up 3.5 percent, so
they actually lost money.
So now, theyve even lost
more of their income.
Maybe Im speaking for
that small segment, but Im
also [saying] that I think
the city can do a better job
of how theyre spending
money, Giager added.
Im disappointed in what
we voted forI voted no
and I voiced my opinion on
itbut I just think we need
to get back to the old ways
and deal with what we got.
Commissioner Brian

Tonya (ID# 35132548) is ready to relax -

whether it be on your couch, your lap, or
even a comfy dog bed that she hopes to
have in her forever home. This calm gal
prides herself in being a couch potato.
She enjoys walking around slowly, surveying her
surroundings, and nudging you for pets. Meet
Tonya at LifeLine's DeKalb Animal Services!

If you would like to expand your family by 4

furry little feet; come meet this sweet pup at
the DeKalb Animal Shelter and have a loving
friend forever. Through July in preparation for
the opening of the new DeKalb shelter we
are Celebrating our Clear the Shelter event!!
Adoptions fees are waived on all dogs and all
cats and includes spay/neuter, vaccinations
and microchip! Please help us make this a
successful event and a fabulous shelter opening.
If you would like more information about Tonya
please call (404) 294-2165 or email adoption@
dekalbanimalservices.com. All potential adopters
will be screened to ensure Tonya goes to a good
home. Hours: Mon-Fri; 11am-7pm / Sat-Sun;
11am-6pm
LOCAL
Charis on campus
Oldest independent feminist bookstore to move to Agnes Scott College
by Kathy Mitchell
A
fter years of exploring and planning,
42-year-old Charis Books and
More, which bills itself as the
nations oldest independent feminist
bookstore, has announced it will be moving
to its new home on the campus of Agnes
Scott College in January 2018. Charis
held an open house June 17 to give new
neighbors and old friends a look at the
building that in six months will be its home.
Staff-guided tours of the largely vacant
building included explanations of how the
rooms will be used along with renovation
plans. As with the current space, the new
one will house both the bookstore and its
nonprofit programing arm, Charis Circle,
founded in 1996.
For more than four decades, Charis
has been a fixture in Little Five Points on
the DeKalb side of a community straddling
the DeKalb-Fulton county line. In an online
personal history, Charis founder Linda
Bryant recalls, Little Five Points was very
different back thenno trendy little stores,
no place to eat.In fact, it was full of gun
shops, pawn shops, liquor stores, and seedy
bars, except for one old appliance store.We
thought it was the perfect place to be of
service to a community and we never looked
at another place besides the place where
we opened the store on Moreland Avenue.
Charis Circle Executive Director Elizabeth
Anderson explained the decision to leave Little
Five Points for a building on the campus of Agnes
Scott College. Bookstores and nonprofits are
always looking for ways to lower our bottom line
and increase our margins so even though we
owned our building we were looking for a new
location that would allow us to do our work as
a mission-driven bookstore and nonprofit and
worry less about day-to-day survival. We explored
many possibilities over the last four years with
other nonprofits and other Atlanta colleges and
universities before choosing this partnership with
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 5
Agnes Scott College.
Anderson said Chariss long relationship
with Agnes Scott led naturally to
consideration of the128-year-old womens
college in Decatur as a partner. Several
of our current and former Charis Circle
board members are Agnes Scott alums and
we often have student interns from Agnes
Scott. Dr. [Elizabeth] Hackett, the head of
the womens studies department, was the
first to approach us about the possibility
of partnering with the college to become a
school store, she said.
When we began talks in earnest about
where they might have space for us on their
campus this building was an ideal fit. Its
a house, so its warm and inviting like our
current location, and it is right next to the
Candler parking lot so we would not need to
do much to make it suitable for institutional
and commercial use, Anderson said of the
facility on South Candler Drive. By situating
us next to an existing parking lot that is
underused we would not add any parking
burden to the neighborhood, which we knew
would be important.
In anticipation of opening the building
as a retail space, Charis is working with
the college to reinforce its structural
integrity and make the building functional
and accessible for people with disabilities,
Anderson said, adding that the renovation
will open up the space to create more sight
lines for retail.
She said the Charis staff is thrilled for the
opportunity to serve the entire Agnes Scott
community but also the Decatur community, which
is one of the most book-friendly communities in
Georgia. We are also proud to share our nonprofit
programming with a new community as well.
Patrons can expect the same thoughtfully curated
mix of items we have always carried, including a
large childrens section focused on diverse and
marginalized voices, with the addition of Agnes
Scott College school store items throughout.
Anderson said she believes Charis
has continued to operate at a time when
many bookstores have been forced to
close because we have always remained
true to our vision and values. As a
feminist bookstore and nonprofit with a
commitment to the expression of diverse
and marginalized voices, we know what
kinds of books we will carry and what kinds
of programs we want to host. We have also
been very fortunate to be in Atlanta and
adjacent to Decaturalways in DeKalb
Countywhere people care deeply about
books and about their communities and
know that it means a lot to support local
businesses and nonprofits.
The wonderful thing about Agnes Scott
College is that they are true partners in
this plan. They recognized the value of
having an independent bookstore as their
school store and they recognized the value
specifically that Charis as a unique 42-year-
old feminist bookstore would bring to the
college. So they have really worked with us
to adjust plans as we go and make it work.
We start construction very soon so Im sure
there will be hiccups, but our relationship
with the college is so positive that I have
no doubt we will be able to figure it out,
Anderson continued.
Obviously the partnership with the
college means we will be much busier all
the time, which is exciting. We thrive on
being busy and love getting to share our
favorite books with readers. It will also allow
us to host many more daytime meetings
for parenting groups and book clubs, she
said. In our current location we are only
able to host meetings and events before
and after the stores retail hours. In our new
space we will be able to have discussions
throughout the day. We also will have the
benefit of the amazing intellect and energy
of the students, faculty, and staff of Agnes
Scott right on our front door and that energy
is priceless.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 6

Fighting for what we believe is the American way

For those of us weary from
the spectacle that was the 6th
Congressional District political
race, the upcoming Fourth of
July holiday should be welcome
relief.
It is a day to celebrate the
birth of our nation with patriotic
events such as parades, road
races, concerts, cookouts and,
of course, fireworks. The nation
will be awash in Americas
colors of red, white and blue,
giving us a momentary feeling
of truly being united. It will be
a fleeting feeling though and
by July 5, our countrys deep
divisions will be apparent once
more.
For weeks all eyes were on
Gale Horton Gay
gale@dekalbchamp.com
Georgia in the tough and, at
times, ugly runoff that resulted
in Republican Karen Handel
winning more votes than
Democrat Jon Ossoff in a
contest thats been declared
the most expensive House
race ever. They held radically
different views on healthcare,
the economy, national security
and foreign affairs.
Over the last decade, weve
witnessed our electorate being
responsible for unprecedented
changes that few could have
predicted in our nations political
scenean African-American
elected to Americas highest
office followed by a billionaire
with no political experience.
Both men were supported by
different factions of Americans
who passionately wanted to see
the country taken in decidedly
different directions.
However, fighting for what
we believe in is the cornerstone
of our nation. America, after all,
formed after colonists became
disgruntled with British policies
over taxes and voting rights.
As divided as we are in
2017, it is our continued
determination to fightthrough
protests, discourse and backing
candidates who support our
idealsthat keeps shaping and
reshaping our nation. Whether
its fighting city hall, the county
commission or the school
board, we share an obligation to
let our voices be heard and fight
for what we believe and against
bad policies.
So do not despair when the
last firework explodes brilliantly
lighting the night sky on July 4
and we return to disagreeing
and fighting over the direction
of our country. Its the American
way.

Subscribe to The Champion Newspaper

To subscribe, visit TheChampionNewspaper.com or call 404.373.7779
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 7

Well worthy of your support

We can no longer simply during a one-month pre- are well worth your support.
afford to allow the gang- Christmas break. I won by a Hudson will continue to
bangers and neighborhood One Mans healthy margin and my grand try to put teens considering
thugs to offer the only game Opinion prize was a beginner chess set. gangsters and thugs wearing
in town for our youth. We I knew nothing of the game, their trouserswell below their
have an opportunity for you Bill Crane but by Christmas that year, I waistsas exemplars in check
to be part of the solution, and bill.csicrane@gmail.com was occasionally beating my with a much better model.
we already have the funding father, who taught me the game. While Thurmond continues
to pay for it,DeKalb County Never a world-champion to lead our entire county, he will
government CEO Michael commissioner, DeKalb schools player, I eventually won a few always have at least one eye,
Thurmond,announcing the superintendent and now CEO. minor tournaments and many a and a hand up, for our youth of
DeKalb Works Summer Youth He has not forgotten what its wager through high school and challenged circumstances, not
Employment Program. like to have a lot of potential, college.Im a bit rusty now, but of their own creation.
and few opportunities. the majority of chess lessons Neither Thurmond or
As we enter the dog days While one DeKalb leader is learned were more about Hudson is simply providing a
of summer, up to 300 DeKalb paying it forward on this grand foresight, the importance of hand out, and they both deserve
County youth between ages of scale, another is moving one planning ahead, having a plan a round of applause.
14 and 24 are learning about piece and player at a time to B and often playing the long-
the working world during a six- build minds, spirits and the game to win.
week program of 20 hours a countys brain trust with lessons Graduates of DeKalb Works, Bill Crane also serves
week at $9 an hour (well above learned from the age-old game as well as Hudsons chess/life as a political analyst and
Georgias current minimum of chess. strategies workshops, will leave commentator for Channel 2s
wage).While schools out Since 2000, Air Force better equipped for our ever Action News, WSB-AM News/
typically brings smiles and veteran and former more challenging world. Talk 750 and now 95.5 FM,
summer vacation for many Alabama state trooperOrrin We are now mid- as well as a columnist for The
DeKalb high school and college- Checkmate Hudsonand his summer, with both programs Champion, DeKalb Free Press
age residents, it can also often nonprofit, Be Someone Inc. underway.Providing a and Georgia Trend. Crane is
mean weeks of idle hours, has been sharing life-affirming scholarship for Hudsons nine- a DeKalb native and business
with time in abundance and messages of peace, positivity week program is only $200. For owner, living in Scottdale. You
opportunities for employment and purpose to more than employers, being a host site can reach him or comment on a
and good works all too few. 55,000 students.Hudson uses next year forDeKalb Worksis column at bill.csicrane@gmail.
Among his first acts as the game of chess to ask, and providing invaluable payback to com.
DeKalbs new CEO, Thurmond then answer, the contemplative our community.Both initiatives
joined withWorkSource questions of what is your next
DeKalbto launchDeKalb move, and how can you learn to
Works,a paid summer out-think your competition.
internship program placing Hudson said graduates of
young adult DeKalb residents his nine-week program learn
with nearly 60 private and to think before making choices
public-sector employers, and to respect authority as well
and included funding to pay as others.While Hudson travels
them.For many of these youth, the Southeast as the Johnny
facing a shrinking job market Appleseed of the 8-by-8 chess/
for first-time employment, this checker board, a smile is never
experience may be life-altering. far from his face, nor a friendly
Thurmond was born near arm, listening ear or warm
Athens. He is the son of a embrace for the thousands he
sharecropper and often shares has helped to make the right
that indoor plumbing was a late choices and turns in what might
addition to his childhood and otherwise become a troubled
family life. Born and raised in life.
humble circumstances long A gifted educator inspired
prior to becoming Athens first me to become an avid reader
state representative of African- in the first grade with a reading
American descent. Thurmond competition, based upon the
later became Georgia Labor total number of books read

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
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LOCAL
Boarding house discussion continues in Doraville
Ongoing complaints blamed on transients
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
Littered streets and
sidewalks, smells,
unleashed dogs, damaged
lawns, crowded driveways
and lack of street
parking remain ongoing
complaints in one Doraville
neighborhood.
Historic Northwoods
residents Bonnie Grey
Flynt and Bernadette
Pannier spoke against
multi-family homes in their
neighborhoodreferring to
them as boarding houses
at Doraville City Councils
June 19 meeting.
Issues involving code
enforcement and multi-
tenant homes in Doraville
have been discussed
at three consecutive
council meetings as well
as planning and zoning
meetings following a
stabbing incident along
Raymond Drive on May 13.
The house in which the
stabbing took place was
found to be in violation of
city ordinances and deemed
uninhabitable by both
Doraville Police Department
and Clark Patterson Lee,
Doravilles outsourced code
enforcement authority.
On May 15, Pannier
implored council to consider
the safety of children
and said such homes
often contain indentured
servants and victims of
human trafficking.
On June 5, Pannier
returned with suggestions
that include reducing
driveway width, capping the
number of cars allowed in
neighborhood driveways,
registering rental properties
and renters, checking
renters citizenship status,
limiting occupancy and
limiting parking to one side
of the street.
On June 19, Pannier
expressed disappointment
that her suggestions were
not formally adopted.
She said council tells
anyone who complains to
www.TheChampionNewspaper.com
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 8A
monitor street conditions
themselves.
We dont [apply these
laws] to our rental homes
here in Doraville, and
because of that [renters]
can rent to whoever they
want and as many as they
want because [council]
chooses not to change the
codes, Pannier said. We
have requested this time
and time again and yet time
and time again [council]
choose not to stand up for
us. I dont work for the city;
its not my job to police the
streets.
Flynt specifically named
renterswhom she called
transientsas the source
of problems in Northwoods.
She said she takes pictures
of trash as evidence while
on jogs each morning.
We have an
overcrowding problem in
Northwoods and we all
know it, Flynt said. Single Doraville neighborhoods are on alert to issues such as curbside garbage, following a stabbing incident on Mothers Day
family homes could not weekend. Photo by R. Scott Belzer
generate that much trash
These irresponsible, single-
family home residents
could not care less about
broken glass in the street
in front of their single-family
home. Why? Because
they are transients. They
are [not] invested in their
community.
Flynt said a single-family
home should have no more
than two adults, 2.2 children
and a white picket fence.
Instead there are
probably five to six adults,
four to five children and a
broken, rotted picket fence,
living in a two-bedroom,
one bathroom home,
Flynt said. It is absolutely
unacceptable and we Residents in Dorvaille spoke out against renters within the city because of recent issues involving trash, street parking
as a community should and a stabbing. Photo submitted.
be more concerned with
the human condition of
these individuals and not a mobile camper or a third You want to talk about fire code inspectors to
encourage it. car. volunteerism? Fleming better enforce violators.
Other residents said Resident Tom Hart said said. Ill tell you about On June 19, a staff
such suggestions are non- code enforcement officers volunteerism since 1979, for member presented a
enforceable, stating non- are not doing their job. 29 years. Dont look at me written resolution to make
traditional arrangements are Its a problem with city and complain about what boarding houses a priority
becoming more common. hall, Hart said. I havent done for this city. in Doraville.
They said mandating such Councilwoman Pam Im sorry, but you dont have Doraville City Council
standards may create more Fleming took issue with a clue about how this city is expected to discuss and
hardships than solutions Pannier stating council does runs. redevelop a written policy
for law-abiding citizens not volunteer to clean up Mayor Donna Pittman within the next two months.
who own hot-rod projects, city streets. said city staff worked with
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 9A

WEEKinPICTURES

DeKalb County School District certified Innovative Educator Trainers completed training on June 21. Photo courtesy of Monika Davis.

Officer Jeffrey Leach of the Dunwoody Police Department helped a The DeKalb County Fire Rescue Explorers receive a guided tour of county facilities located along Memorial Drive in Decatur.
driver purchase and install a car seat after a routine traffic stop in Photo submitted.
lieu of a ticket. Photo submitted.

Have you created programming youd like to air on TV?

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

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

LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 10A

Decades in the making

DeKalb County addressing sewer capacity issues
BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com

DeKalb Countys CEO to thank the board of

Michael Thurmond said commissioners for their
its been years since the support. Our quality of life
county addressed cleaning is depending on cleaning
its sewers linesmore these sewer lines.
than 50 years to be exact. According to county
With county officials, more than 80 tons
commissioners, Thurmond of sediment and debris
held a press conference from clogged sewer lines
June 28 at Marist High were removed to reduce
School to discuss the sewer overflows. More
countys efforts at than 800 miles of sewer
remedying its sewer lines were documented
issues. as needing immediate
We are here to share maintenance due to age
with the citizens and and repeat overflows. DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond held a press conference June 28 to address the countys efforts on cleaning its
the public some of the The county was fined sewer lines.
outstanding work thats $294,000 June 20 by the
being done in the county Environmental Protection
over the last 12 months, Agency for multiple
Thurmond said during the overflows and, in some
press conference. I want instances, not reporting
our citizens and some of overflows.
our business leaders to The county released a
know that we are working statement regarding the
to address some of these fine.
critical issues. The letter from EPA,
During the press dated June 20, 2017,
conference, Thurmond represents an amicable
said he believes the county resolution of spill events
will be able to restore its reported in 2015 and 2016,
sewer capacity. According as well as unreported
to county records, the and under-reported
countys sewer system spill events from 2012
has not received a to 2016. The DeKalb
comprehensive cleaning in County government has
more than half a century. undertaken an aggressive
In April, the county sewer cleaning program
announced that the aimed at the most
Department of Watershed congested lines based
Management submitted on age, repeat overflows
two contracts totaling and known maintenance
$35.4 million that were problems, Thurmond said.
approved by the board of According to the county,
commissioners. roughly 73 percent of the
A $28.25 million countys priority large
contract will be used for sewer lines with diameters
sewer replacement, pipe greater than 18 inches
bursting, sewer lining, have been inspected and
point repairs, manhole 38 percent have been
interior coating, manhole assigned for cleaning.
height adjustments, The countys cleaned
manhole frame and cover sewersheds include Indian
adjustments and manhole Creek, Shoal Creek,
replacements. Cobb-Fowler Creek, North
Nearly one-half of Fork Peachtree Creek,
the large lines contain Nancy Creek and Peavine
blockage which [increases] Creek. Those six areas are
sewer overflow, Thurmond attributed with 27 percent
said. We have an of the sewer overflows
aggressive cleaning during the past three
program and I want years.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 11A

A recent YouTube video details how students at Cedar Grove High School were able to raise $1,000 by selling Saints United T-shirts. The money will be donated to United Way of Greater Atlanta with a
matching donation of $1,000, making a $2,000 impact. Photos courtesy of the Regional Commission on Homelessness.

THE SAINTS GO MARCHING IN

Cedar Grove student organization raises $1,000 for United Way
BY R. SCOTT BELZER we just help out, Williams Atlanta was able to locate
said. We can help people a matching donor to the
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com get off the street. We can $1,000 raised by Cedar
show people we care about Grove, making students
On June 23, a two- the community. efforts worth $2,000 total.
minute video surfaced on United Way of Greater United Way is a
the Regional Commission Atlanta regional director nationwide nonprofit
on Homelessnesss Denise Townsend said organization benefitting
(RCOH) YouTube page the Cedar Grove students societal health, education
detailing compassion, lived up to their mascots and financial stability.
fundraising and youthful namesakethe Saint. According to RCOH
initiative. Saints United because , United Way of Greater
the saint is their mascot Williams Young Atlanta has placed more
The video details Cedar
Grove High Schools but its not just a mascot. than 2,280 individuals into
Saints United initiative, Its people who care, reach in their community, permanent housing since
According to Townsend,
a schoolwide program out and make a difference Townsend said. its creation.
United Way of Greater
designed to combat
homelessness in metro
Atlanta. NOTICE
Through selling black
T-shirts with the slogan The Board of Education of the City of Decatur does hereby announce that the millage rate will be set at a meeting to be held at the
Saints United printed in Board Room of the Central Office at 125 Electric Avenue, Decatur, Georgia on Tuesday, July 18, 2017 at 6:30 PM
and pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. 48-5-32, does hereby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest
white, students at Cedar and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.
Grove High School
located at 2360 River Road CURRENT 2017 TAX DIGEST AND FIVE YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY
in Decaturwere able to PROPOSED
Fiscal Year 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
donate $1,000 to United
Way of Greater Atlanta. Assessment Ratio 50% 50% 50% 50% 50% 50%
According to Cedar
Grove student Kyra Young, REAL PROPERTY 1,168,366,733 1,168,516,565 1,326,224,078 1,593,567,251 1,693,241,224 1,835,432,425
who appears in the video, PERSONAL PROPERTY 22,174,136 23,211,680 22,086,973 23,124,213 23,627,668 25,528,165
the mission was born out of PUBLIC UTILITIES 14,297,200 14,639,953 15,152,714 15,236,377 15,658,734 16,521,530
compassion for others. MOTOR VEHICLE 49,311,000 52,979,900 47,331,663 35,521,587 26,623,700 23,481,413
GROSS DIGEST 1,236,044,050 1,259,348,098 1,410,795,428 1,667,449,428 1,759,151,326 1,900,963,533
In our community and in
LESS M&O EXEMPTIONS 65,244,138 66,558,918 65,251,923 65,148,453 84,745,047 230,801,050
our school, you never know NET M&O DIGEST 1,170,615,415 1,192,789,180 1,345,543,505 1,602,300,975 1,674,406,279 1,670,162,483
what someone is going
through, Young said. GROSS M&O MILLAGE 20.90 20.90 20.50 18.66 18.66 18.66
Cedar Grove student LESS ROLLBACKS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Lauren Williams, also NET M&O MILLAGE 20.90 20.90 20.50 18.66 18.66 18.66
featured in the video,
said there are not enough NET TAXES LEVIED $24,848,113 $24,929,294 $27,583,642 $29,898,936 $31,244,421 $31,165,232
youth giving back to their
NET TAXES $ INCREASE $382,251 $81,181 $2,654,348 $2,315,294 $1,345,485 ($79,189)
respective communities.
NET TAXES % INCREASE 1.56% 0.33% 10.65% 8.39% 4.50% -0.25%
We can make it better if
BUSINESS
Behind artist Phillip Parker is his portrait of his daughter, one of many pieces offered at Brush and Pen, which he and partner Charles Bennafield recently opened in Stone
Mountain.
Longtime friends and neighbors, now business partners
BY KATHY MITCHELL
FREELANCE REPORTER
A multidimensional
relationship that has
lasted more than a quarter
of a century has taken
on a new dimension as
Charles Bennafield and
Phillip Parker become
business partners as well
as neighbors, friends and
pastor-parishioner. The
two recently opened Brush
and Pen, a shop featuring
original art and other items,
in Stone Mountain Village.
The partners have
been close since meeting
26 years ago, according
to Parker. We met as
neighbors and really liked
each other right away. Our
wives are like sisters. Weve
been on vacation together.
Anytime one of us needs
something, the other one is
there for himand hes also
my pastor, he said. else dear to the friends and
You have to be careful
who you partner with,
Parker said. You can be
great friendseven members
of the same familyand
not work well as business
partners. Were both frugal,
hard-working and share the
same values. I think that
makes our relationship work
as a business partnership.
Parker is an artist and
Bennafield is a writer as
well as a dozen others
things, according to
his partner. Its largely
Bennafields writing
skills that come into play
at the business. Their
complementary talentsart
and writingare reflected
in the shops name and its
logo.
The brush symbolizes
my painting and the pen
symbolizes his writing,
but the initial lettersB
and Palso suggest our
names, Bennafield and
Parker, Parker noted. In
the logo, the instruments
intersect to form a cross,
which symbolizes something
partnerstheir Christian
faith.
Faith also is a frequent
theme in items for sale at
Brush and Pen, including
depictions of the crucifixion
of Jesus, T-shirts with
scripture quotes and
a wall with numerous
interpretations of the 23rd
Psalm.
Another recurrent theme
is African American culture.
My Black community is
dear to me, Parker said. I
want to express that through
my art.
Parker, who is self-
taught, offers artwork in a
variety of media, including
pen and ink, oils and
pastels. There are nature
scenes, images of friends
and family members
along with those of such
celebrities as the late
boxing great Muhammad
Ali and former President
Barack Obama. Along with
the artwork, the shop sells
T-shirts and mugs designed
by Parker, personalized
plaques with poetry or prose
by Bennafield and jewelry
designed by Bennafields
wife.
Many pieces in the shop
combine Parkers art with
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 12A
Bennafields writing. The
poems I write often express
in words ideas reflected
in his art, Bennafield
explained.
Parker said he has been
an artist essentially all his
life. If you go to my old high
school in Kentucky, youll
find some of my murals
on the walls from my days
as a student, he said. His
interest in creating murals
continued when his children
were at Stephenson High.
Visitors today can find his
artwork on the schools
walls.
Thinking he could not
make a living as an artist,
Parker for most of his
life earned a living as an
architectural engineer.
But even that requires
a certain artistic flair; its
not all hard science, he
explained. operation, I would be happy,
Parker said he and his
partner chose the Stone
Mountain Village location
because of a longtime
fondness for the area. We
used to bring our children
here for various events
when they were little. Ive
always liked it. We looked
for an affordable location
here. At first, we thought it
might be too expensive. We
kept checking and finally
found this building within our
price range. The building
has a downstairs that serves
as the retail area. Upstairs
is Parkers studio and also
will be the location when
he begins conducting art
classes.
Classes in which
participants complete an
art piece while they sip a
beverage are popular right
now, Parker said. We plan
to offer those soon.
Parker admits that
paperwork is his least
favorite part of operating
a business. If I could just
paint and let someone else
run the business part of the
but I know it has to be done,
so a set aside a day every
week and take care of the
more mundane details of
operating a business.
EDUCATION
A new era for
school health
School districts late on update to
wellness standards mandated by USDA
BY R. SCOTT BELZER
sbelzer@dekalbchamp.com
Beginning the 2017-
2018 school year, DeKalb
County School District
(DCSD) and City Schools
of Decatur (CSD) will begin
the process to develop
healthier, more health-
conscious children as
mandated by the federal
government.
By July 2017, in
accordance with the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
Act of 2010an update
to the Child Nutrition and
Special Supplemental
Nutrition Program for
Women, Infants and
Children (WIC) Act in 2004
with a final ruling in 2016
school districts throughout
the country will be required
to make changes to existing
health policies.
The changes were
developed over a six-
year period by engaging
input from citizens, school
districts, associations,
state and local agencies,
advocacy groups and non-
profits.
The updates
proposed by the United
States Department of
Agricultures (USDA) Food
Nutrition Services (FNS)
require written wellness
policies that address
food and beverages
allowed throughout the
school day, food served
during celebrations and
fundraisers, as well as
marketing messages in
school hallways.
School districts must
also document public
involvement, including
engaging with physical
education teachers, health
professionals, nonprofits
and others in developing a
new policy.
School districts are
required to be in the
implementation process by
July 2017. Local wellness
advocates say school
districts will not likely be
ready by the beginning of
the 2017-2018 school year.
The CSD board of
education discussed a draft
wellness policy on June
13 at its monthly meeting.
CSD originally announced
its intention to update its
wellness policy in August
2016 following the final
federal ruling.
We have developed
a policy that honors the
requirements of the Hunger
Free Kids Act while also
guiding the continued
review and development
of administrative rules that
promote health and well-
Local wellness advocate Tom Keating states local school districts are behind
in implementing updates to their wellness policies, lamenting a lack of public
process. Photo by R. Scott Belzer
being inside and out of the
classroom, states a memo
from district staff.
Under the proposed draft
policy, CSD will assemble a
team of students, parents,
community members,
physical education
teachers, nutrition teachers,
a district health professional
DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 13A
School districts throughout the country are required to have updated wellness
policies by July 2017 as mandated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Photo
courtesy of WikiMedia Commons.
kick-off event, where new and beverages; provide
members will be welcomed rules and guidance for food
and leadership will be and beverages sold on
decided. campus; and provide rules
The majority of CSDs and guidance on food and
draft policy includes beverage marketing.
goals of engagement Implementation of the
with stakeholders to goals will fall upon CSD
promote wellness and Superintendent David
physical activity; providing Dude, the draft policy
opportunities, support states.
and encouragement for According to district
physical activity; provide records, no policy has
a safe, clean and hygienic been discussed publicly
restroom; serving U.S. by DeKalb County School
Dietary Guidelines for District (DCSD).
Americans-approved food
CITY OF STONE MOUNTAIN
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
(such as a nurse) and
administrators to review the The City of Stone Mountain hereby gives notice
districts current wellness
policy and develop rules
that a Public Hearing will be held to receive public
to better implement the comment on a Council initiated Amendment to
policy and measure its Appendix A, Zoning for the Establishment of Article
effectiveness. XVI, Vacation Home Facilities, of the City of Stone
On June 13, it was Mountain Code of Ordinances.
proposed that the team
The Mayor and City Council will hold a Public
meet in August 2017 at a
Hearing on this matter on Tuesday, July 17, 2017
at City Hall located at 875 Main Street, Stone
Mountain, GA at 6:30 P.M. Anyone wishing to attend
the public hearing may do so and be heard relative
thereto.
CLASSIFIED
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SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 15A

Vince Byams has resigned as head coach of the Tucker

baseball to be the athletic director and assistant principal
at Newton High School. Byams led Tucker to a 73-41 record
during his four-year tenure. Photos by Travis Hudgons

Vince Byams leaves Tucker for Newton

BY CARLA PARKER
carla@dekalbchamp.com
Former Tucker High School
baseball coach Vince Byams has
left the program after receiving a
promotion.
Byams is now the athletic
director and assistant principal at
Newton High School in Newton
County. Byams, who taught social
studies at Tucker, spent four
seasons as the varsity baseball
coach and accumulated a 73-41
record. He also led the Tigers to
the playoffs each year during his
tenure.
Byams said it was hard to leave
Tucker.
I had a lot of great relationships
with, not only my players, but
with the parents, the people in
the community and my students I
taughtmy [Advance Placement]
and [International Baccalaureate]
students, he said. Its hard
[to leave] when you build those
relationships. [But] when you
move on to the position that Im at
now. I can truly affect and have a
positive influence on 2,300 kids as
oppose to 130, at best, that I had
at Tucker. Its not easy, but its also
time for growth.
Before Byams took over the
program in 2014, Tucker had not
made the playoffs since 2007.
Tucker finished the 2013 season
with a 9-15 record, but the team
went 17-9 in Byams first season
and advanced to the playoffs.
Byams said getting Tucker to the
playoffs for the first time in seven
years was his most memorable
moment at Tucker.
To get in the playoffs we had
to beat Lakeside in a best-of-three
series, he said. We beat them
once in the regular season and
we had to beat them two times
[at home] to get into the state
playoffs. We had a huge crowd.
It was probably one of the best
momentsto see the growth of the
program within one year and it kind
of took off from there.
Tucker junior varsity coach and
varsity assistant coach Matthew
Masce will replace Byams as the
head coach. Masce has been with
the baseball program for five years.
Byams said he is confident Masce
will continue the winning tradition at
Tucker.
Im pretty confident because
hes been ready; hes been a really
good assistant, he said. Whatever
was needed for the program he
would do it, whether its been an
assistant varsity coach or stepping
in to help with our ninth-grade team
or being the JV coach. Even in
my transition of becoming a head
coach, he was already there doing
field work and helping me out. It
was only a matter of time where
he would get the opportunity to be
the head coach. Im glad he was
able to come into Tucker and stay
there.
Byams said he will miss the
entire Tucker community,
Tucker is a special place, he
said. It definitely has a place in my
heart. Although Im going to be a
Newton Ram, Ill always be a Tiger
at heart. Ive met some really good
people and had a lot of growth
there.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS Friday, July 7, 2017 Page 16A

CAN CREEKSIDE REBUILD? New owner has plans

BY HORACE HOLLOMAN
horace@dekalbchamp.com

Creekside Forest Apartments, a

complex that has become known
in DeKalb County for its blight and
poor living conditions, has a new
owner according to county officials.
The new owner, Falcon Ga
Investments, LLC, has submitted
a plan to the county that includes
Creekside Forest Apartments has a new owner according to county officials. Falcon Ga Investments, LLC submitted plans in May to renovate and rebuild
rebuilding and repairing all units the property.
and rebuilding nine structurally
damaged units.
the new owner has secured all the community and for us and for because of damage. The company
Prior to being purchased by
the buildings and no one currently the folks that will take residence also plans to demolish two buildings
Falcon Ga Investments, [Creekside
resides at the property. at that property. Theres a building which were compromised by fire
Forest Apartments] sat vacant for
In September 2016, squatters manager on site to make sure damage.
many months in a state of disrepair.
were asked to leave the property the property is safe and secure, This shows that there are
Many of the units have been greatly
and a warrant was issued to Kellum said. people that are committed to
neglected and all have experienced
Chester Meisel, former owner of In Falcon Ga Investments investing in DeKalb County. They
significant damage and vandalism,
the apartment complex, for failing concept plan, the company will are promising to make a change.
according to county documents. A
to appear in a DeKalb County renovate the propertys clubhouse Theyve submitted a full renovation
small number of units have become
courtroom. Judge Matthew and pool area to a common plan and a concept plan for the
structurally unsound due to either
McCoyd issued a bench warrant of amenities area. The company also entire property, Kellum said. Any
fire damage or rot and decay.
$338,000. plans to convert a building that was company that wants to relocate
Buildings at the development,
Marcus Kellum, beautification formerly used for a day care area here [to DeKalb County] we have to
which sits on roughly 21 acres
director for DeKalb County, said into a fitness room. be a part of the conversation. If the
at the end of Ember Drive near
Creekside having new owners is As it makes development plans, place looks bad, people wont be
Decatur, could be demolished in
beneficial for the community and the company said its unsure what interested in coming here.
early July.
the county. to do with building 3022 of the
According to county officials,
Its a win-win for everybody. For property, which is no longer usable