-- HAPPY NEW YEAR 2020 -- FROM THE CHAMPION NEWSPAPER

the DeKalb FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • VOL. 24, NO. 45 • 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

Photos sought of Vietnam War

soldier located in Decatur; To be
added to Wall of Faces project
BY ASIA ASHLEY
Asia@dekalbchamp.com

B
efore Albert Dewell White headed to the
airport in 1968 ahead of his assignment in
the Vietnam War, he said his goodbyes to
his family in tears inside their home on Edgewood
Avenue.
“He cried the morning he was leaving. He was
about to head to the airport to head to California,”
recalled his sister Emily White, 80, as she sorted
through old photos in her Decatur home.
Albert was drafted in the Army for approximately
six months when he was killed in action at the age of
20.
“The military came to the house and told us. It was
the middle of the night,” Emily said.
The young soldier’s remains were flown back
to the States and buried in Sand Hill, Ga., after a
memorial service.
Albert’s photo was one of more than 300 photos
that were still being hunted for the Vietnam Veterans
Memorial Fund’s Wall of Faces project. The Wall of
Faces is a collection of photos uploaded to an online
database used to remember the more than 58,000
Americans killed in action or missing in action during
the Vietnam War as inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans
Memorial in Washington, D.C.
California native Janna Hoehn has volunteered
to collect photos for the project since 2011. She was
able to track down Albert’s remaining family members
after more than a year of searching. His family’s home
of record in 1968 was in Fulton County. She learned
that Albert’s remaining siblings still live in the metro
Atlanta area and was able to get in touch with Albert’s
older brother Charles White, who lives in DeKalb
County. Charles put Hoehn in touch with Emily who
held on to all the photos over the years at her home in
Decatur.
“I was thrilled to get a hold of her,” said Hoehn. “I
had been working on Georgia for a little over a year
now.”

SEE SOLIDER ON PAGE 6

A photo of fallen Vietnam War solider Albert White rests in the living room of his sister’s Decatur home.

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

LOCAL
BROOKHAVEN
Brookhaven legislator proposes ‘clean’ fix to DeKalb ethics laws
BY ASIA ASHLEY
Asia@dekalbchamp.com
Ga. Rep. Matthew
Wilson, D-Brookhaven,
announced Dec. 16 his
plan to file a bill that will
reconstitute the appointment
process for the DeKalb
County Board of Ethics.
Wilson’s drafted bill
follows the defeat of a
November countywide
referendum, enacting Senate
Bill 7, which proposed
changes that would have
altered the make-up,
jurisdiction and authority of
the board. The referendum
was defeated by 61 percent
of DeKalb voters.
“When DeKalb voters
WilD^
Alaskan
Salmon in season now!
Rep Matthew Wilson
voted down SB 7 by 61
percent, they sent us a clear
mandate: give us a clean
bill to fix the constitutional
issues first,” stated Wilson.
“That is exactly what my
bill does.”
The ethics board has
been dormant since an
August 2018 ruling by the
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 2
Georgia Supreme Court
that determined that a
majority of the board’s
appointed positions were
unconstitutional since they
were not all appointed by
elected entities.
Wilson said he has been
working with the DeKalb
Citizens Advocacy Council
to draft his proposed bill.
His bill only proposes
a change to the board’s
appointment process, he
said.
Both DeKalb
delegations serving in
the state house and state
senate would each get one
appointment, in addition
to single appointments by
the chief judge of DeKalb’s
10" x 6.5"
Superior Court, DeKalb’s
probate judge and DeKalb’s
chief magistrate judge,
Wilson said of his draft bill.
The remaining two positions
would be appointed by a
consensus of the mayors
and city council members
of the cities wholly within
DeKalb County: Avondale
Estates, Brookhaven,
Chamblee, Clarkston,
Decatur, Doraville,
Dunwoody, Lithonia, Pine
Lake, Stonecrest, Stone
Mountain and Tucker,
according to the press
release.
“I hope the DeKalb
legislative delegation will
move swiftly in January to
pass this bill so we can get
the Board of Ethics back
up and running without
any further delay,” Wilson
said. “We owe it to the
voters of DeKalb County
to respect their will, and I
believe a stand-alone bill to
fix the appointment process
separate from any other
proposed changes is the best
way to do that.”
Wilson said he plans to
introduce the bill on the first
day of the 2020 legislative
session, which starts Jan.
13. Ga. Sen. Emanuel
Jones, D–Decatur, on Nov.
7 also announced his plans
to appoint a legislative task
force to create a different
bill for DeKalb’s ethics
laws.
image courtesy of Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 3

COUNTYWIDE DUNWOODY

Armed robbery suspects sought

in Dunwoody incidents
BY ASIA ASHLEY when he was approached
Asia@dekalbchamp.com by two Hispanic males
who demanded his wallet,
according to Dunwoody
Dunwoody police
police. The victim ran
are looking for suspects
back toward his apartment
involved in two separate
when one of the men began
incidents Dec. 13 and Dec.
shooting at him. Police say
14.
Dollar store chains are plentiful in south DeKalb along Candler Road. File photo the victim was shot twice
Police say a Black male,
and was later transported
either late teens to early
to a local hospital where he

County leaders put a halt 20s, entered the Exxon gas

station on Perimeter Center
East just after 3 a.m. Dec.
was treated and released.
The only description
provided of the suspects is
to new dollar stores 13. Store associates told
police the man approached
the register with a pistol Dunwoody police are looking for a young
that there were two Hispanic
males, approximately 5 feet
5 inches and in their early
male they say robbed an Exxon gas
under his jacket, demanding station on Perimeter Center East just 20s.
BY ASIA ASHLEY need to educate people on cash from the register. After after 3 a.m., Dec. 13. Police are also Anyone with
the consequences of their associates complied, the looking for suspects in an armed robbery
Asia@dekalbchamp.com information on either of
presence. Dollar stores have suspect fled from the store. and shooting on Dec. 14 in the parking
lot of Peachtree North Apartments on the incidents is asked to
a huge impact on healthy He was wearing a beige
Requests to build Peachtree Place Parkway. contact Detective Robert
communities and economic hoodie during the robbery,
new dollar stores in Barrett at 678-382-6934 or
development.” according to video footage
DeKalb County are on via email at robert.barrett@
The CBS report featured of the incident. according to Dunwoody
hold after DeKalb County duwnoodyga.gov.
business owners and On Dec. 14, a man was police.
commissioners approved a Anonymous tips can
case studies from across shot in the parking lot of The victim said he
45-day moratorium on the also be submitted online at
the United States while Peachtree North Apartments was standing outside of
establishments of small box www.crimereports.com or
discussing the impact on Peachtree Place Parkway an apartment building
discount stores Dec. 17. The www.dunwoodypolice.com.
of dollar stores on local just before midnight, talking on his cell phone
moratorium does not affect

DORAVILLE
grocers and community
existing dollar stores.
health.
During the moratorium
According to the
period, commissioners plan
Georgia Department of
to “study the effects of
Public Health, 25 percent
the discount stores on the
of DeKalb County residents
health, safety and welfare
live in a “food desert” or
of the county’s residents

ASSEMBLY
area with limited access to
and businesses” before
health food options such as
considering a change to
fresh fruits and vegetables.
county ordinances as it
“Dollar stores tend
relates to those businesses.
to highly saturate areas,”
DeKalb County District
Cochran-Johnson stated
7 Commissioner Lorraine
during the segment. “When
Cochran-Johnson was
you look at the pattern of
featured on CBS Sunday
growth of the dollar store, as
Morning discussing the
well as the areas that have
effects of the growth of
dollars stores. An estimated
the highest levels of obesity, Lung Cancer • Other Cancers
hypertension and high blood
50 of 70 dollar stores in
the county are within her
pressure, there is a direct Special trusts have been set up by vendors and suppliers of
correlation between their the Doraville Assembly plant to pay asbestos victims.
district.
presence and poor health. If you ever worked at the Doraville Assembly plant before 1982 you may have been exposed
“With 68 percent of all
We see it in the data.” to asbestos - and not even know it. You could be entitled to multiple cash settlements without going to
dollar stores located in my
The moratorium will court, filing a lawsuit, or even leaving your house.
district, I have an obligation
expire Jan. 31, 2020 unless If you ever worked at the Doraville Assembly plant, and have been diagnosed with Lung
to take every action possible

1-800-478-9578
shortened or extended Cancer (even if you are a smoker) - or Esophageal, Laryngeal, Pharyngeal, Stomach, Colon, or
to ensure these stores do Rectal Cancer or know someone who died from one of these cancers, call
by commissioners. To
not adversely impact our
extend the moratorium
community,” said Cochran-
beyond the 45-day period,
Johnson. “I have no problem
a public hearing would
with dollar stores in my
be required, according to
district. I am against their
County Attorney Viviane H. Free www.getnorris.com/asb
proliferation of underserved
Ernstes. Claims Analysis Nationwide Service
communities and I feel the
Birmingham, Alabama attorney Robert Norris helps injured claimants, nationwide, collect cash benefits from Asbestos Trusts. “No representa-
tion is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
OPINION
Office of president has lost respect
In years past, politicians were often
seen as role models for youngsters,
particularly the person holding the
office of President of the United States.
Being president is likely not a
common response from today’s youth
when asked what they want to be when
they grow up. Our Republican and
Democratic leaders regularly exhibit
childlike, bullish behavior and are
far from being admirable role models
worthy of respect.
We have a president who routinely
calls others not-so-flattering names,
whose honesty and integrity are called
into question almost daily in newscasts
at home and abroad and is now being
subjected to impeachment proceedings
based on accusations of bribery and
obstruction.
We also have other national-level
politicians from both major parties who
seem to have one set of standards of
appropriate behavior for those within
their own political party and another
set of standards for those who are
members of the opposing political
party.
When accusations such as sexual
and/or moral misconduct are raised
against those of the opposing party,
many politicians are quick to express
Foreclosures
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Notices of Incorporation
To subscribe, visit DeKalbLegalNotices.com
or call 404-373-7779, X 0
#ItsInTheChampion
John Hewitt
johnh@dekalbchamp.com
their disdain in every media outlet or
online platform available. However,
when similar accusations are made
against members of their own party, the
silence of some speaks volumes about
their character and their morals.
I distinctly recall wanting to be
like John F. Kennedy when I was
a child. Kennedy presented himself
with dignity, spoke eloquently, had an
attractive wife and family, and seemed
to be genuinely interested in the
wellbeing of our nation and the world.
Much of the mystique surrounding
the Kennedy administration and the
subsequent admiration by much of the
world was crafted by first lady Jackie
Kennedy when four days following
the president’s burial, she invited a
journalist from Life magazine to the
Kennedy family compound for an
exclusive interview. According to
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 4
many, it was during that interview that
the first lady crafted the comparison
of the Kennedy administration to the
mythical kingdom of Camelot—a
concept that is still held by many
almost 60 years later.
Kennedy was followed in office by
presidents Lyndon Johnson, Richard
Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter,
Ronald Reagan, George Bush, Bill
Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack
Obama and Donald Trump.
Nixon faced impeachment for his
involvement in the Watergate scandal.
Carter was often criticized for being
weak on foreign policy and is referred
to by some as being one of the worst
presidents in the history of our nation.
Clinton faced numerous
accusations of sexual and moral
misconduct and was also subjected to
impeachment proceedings, but was
later acquitted. Clinton’s wife Hillary
was often maligned for her alleged ill
treatment of staff and security, as well
as her involvement in smear campaigns
against the women who accused the
president of sexual misconduct.
George W. Bush was also widely
criticized for his foreign policies
including torture of war prisoners, but
according the Bush, the worst moments
of his presidency were the days
immediately following the devastation
caused by Hurricane Katrina and the
unacceptably slow response by the
Federal Emergency Management
System under his direction.
Likely the closest to Camelot
we have seen since the Kennedy
administration were the Reagan and
Obama administrations. I don’t recall
either of these presidents or first ladies
ever being accused of unbecoming
public behavior, but–as is the case with
any president–were also maligned by
many for perceived wrongdoings and
differences in opinions.
And now we have Donald Trump
who has successfully renegotiated trade
agreements that have certainly helped
the American economy but leaves
much to be desired in the areas of
diplomacy, decorum and honor.
Our country and the world could
use another chapter of Camelot. A
chapter that portrays our nation and
our commander in chief as admirable,
powerful and respectable.
Perhaps we will one day return
respect and honor to politics, but
with the current cast of characters in
Washington, I fear it will be a long time
coming.
OPINION
Georgia, there is a Santa Claus
“For every dollar donated,
FODAC provides $10 in medical
items. Since 1986, FODAC has
collected, repaired and distributed
more than 50,000 wheelchairs,”
from brochure of Friends of
Disabled Adults & Children
(FODAC).
Whether you are a believer or
not, the spirit of Christmas and the
holiday season is quite real, and
thankfully it continues to manifest
itself in many ways, discernible
to the senses and as real as you or
me. Father Christmas, Kris Kringle,
Santa Claus and other names and
legends are based in the history
and tradition of giving and doing
for others, selflessly and in honor
of Christ and others whom we
worship.
 In 1986, an aging Vietnam era
veteran began repairing wheelchairs
in his garage. First as a hobby and
then as a calling, as he realized
more and more veterans were
surviving the variously defined
engagements and wars—some
minus a limb, some with serious
head trauma, but many returning
home with immediate needs—
and not always finding a V.A.
and medical network ready to
help them. Ed Butchart and his
wife Annie humbly began the
organization, Friends of Disabled
Adults and Children (FODAC) by
giving away repaired wheelchairs
and used mobility assistance
equipment. FODAC is now a
nonprofit serving 20 states, 94
Georgia counties and filling nearly
9,000 equipment requests last year,
with an annual budget approaching
$9 million.  WSB-Radio and Traffic Reporting
Ed supplemented his income
in retirement, as well as his giving
mission, by being Santa Claus
during the holiday season, at Stone
Mountain Park and other venues
and holiday gatherings. Friends of
FODAC helped launch a modest
thrift store to support this work and
FREEPRESS
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DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 5
he often had to leave a bit early to clients, sponsors, families and
head on to a Toys for Tots event guests, and I think he is part of
‘One Man’s often scheduled on that same mid- the draw which made this year’s
Opinion’ December Saturday.  breakfast a sellout. As this was
But unlike applying for our family’s 25th FODAC Santa
Bill Crane disability benefits from the V.A. breakfast, and it is the season
bill.csicrane@gmail.com or Social Security, FODAC’s of giving, also know that those
application process is one page and interested can still contribute online
it’s lifetime membership fee is $25. as well at FODAC.org. 
Ed launched a holiday fundraiser— After paying the membership fee, Merry Christmas, Happy
with supporters at the Stone if the member, a family member or Hanukkah and Kwanza and all the
Mountain Memorial Association close friend is impaired or in need best wishes for this holiday season
(SMMA) and Herschend Family of mobility equipment, one simply and New Year to you and yours.
Entertainment—to hold a Santa goes to FODAC’s headquarters
breakfast at the park focused on in Tucker or arranges for the
their pediatric clients. Disabled durable medical equipment to be Bill Crane also serves as a
children who might have felt left delivered, often at no cost. There political analyst and commentator
out of some of the joys of the is no charge for the use of the for Channel 2’s Action News, WSB-
holiday season had their own day equipment. FODAC only asks that AM News/Talk 750 and now 95.5
with Santa, Mrs. Claus and the when there is no longer any need FM, as well as a columnist for The
elves; a bountiful breakfast buffet for the equipment, it is returned to Champion, DeKalb Free Press and
and day at Stone Mountain Park, them for repair and reuse.  Georgia Trend. Crane is a DeKalb
donated by the SMMA; as well as After Kavanaugh and Captain native and business owner, living
area retailers providing toys and Herb also left us all too early, in Scottdale. You can reach him
gifts for each child. our friend and colleague Glenn or comment on a column at bill.
 We began our connection with Burns, chief meteorologist for csicrane@gmail.com. 
FODAC this way in 1994, with WSB-TV’s Action News, took over
our then two-year old daughter as emcee. Burns has a warm and
Barclay, at the invitation of then engaging manner with FODAC’s
WSB Radio Money Editor, Mike
Kavanaugh. Mike would interview
Santa (Butchart) each fall around
Thanksgiving on WSB, and the pair
would plug the modestly priced
Santa breakfast—still FODAC’s
largest annual event fundraiser. This
year at the Stone Mountain
Evergreen Marriott Conference
Center, the Summit Ballroom was
filled to overflow, and FODAC’s
first Santa sell-out. Next year we
move to the bigger ballroom.
 Kavanaugh left the stage early
with his spirit of Christmas and
Hanukkah, but not before recruiting
legend, Captain Herb Emory to co-
emcee. Emory brought good humor
and cutting up with the kids to the
event and began a tradition of the
children singing Christmas carols
to wrap up the celebration. At this
stage, I moved from an attendee
to playing elf to Captain Herb, as
Publisher: Staff Reporters:
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LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 6

Volunteers for “The Wall of Faces” have been trying to locate photos of fallen Vietnam War soldier Albert White. A family member and photos were located in Decatur.

SOLIDER Continued From Page 1

The White family is sharing
copies of photos of Albert for
the Wall of Faces project. Hoehn
said photos of 16 Georgia
Vietnam War Americans, 327
nationwide, are now needed to
complete the project.
The project has obtained
photos of all 67 DeKalb County
natives who died in the war.
Hoehn said several
volunteers nationwide,
including some Vietnam
veterans and their families, are
working to locate the remaining
327 photos—a hobby she said is
often an emotional process.
“Sometimes the veterans
are scared to make phone calls
because sometimes people cry.
Sometimes it’s such a shock
for someone to hear their loved
one’s names after this many
years being gone,” said Hoehn.
“The families are so grateful
that there’s someone out there
that wants to remember their
loved one. I’m so proud to be a
part of it.”
The online project memorial
can be viewed on the Vietnam
Veterans Memorial Fund
website at www.vvmf.org/
thewall. Emily White pictured with her brother Albert White in 1967 shortly after White Albert White served in the Army for approximately six months before he was
enlisted in the Army. killed in action at the age of 20.

VISIT US ONLINE @
THECHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.COM

STONECREST
City's first Christmas tree lighting
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Stonecrest had its first Christmas
tree lighting Dec. 19 at City Hall.
The city planned to have its first
tree lighting two years ago, but it
had to wait a year after the city hall’s
landlord slowed down the process,
according to Stonecrest Director of
Communication Adrion Bell.
“She just wanted to make sure no
one was offended,” Bell said. “This
year we pulled all of the tenants in the
building together to make sure no one
was offended.”
However, Bell said this year’s
Christmas tree lighting was still a
landmark event for the city.
“We were able to start a tradition
this year,” Bell said.
Stonecrest’s tree lighting came a
little more than a week before the city’s
Christmas dinner which featured live
music, food and more and marks the
first of many traditions the city plans to
start and continued on in 2020.
H A
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 7
The Christmas dinner was dubbed
“The Ultimate Holiday Experience,”
by the city and was held at AEI StartUp
Factory in the Stonecrest Concourse.
The city sold tickets to the dinner
party and all ticket contributions
went to support “philanthropic efforts
for family crisis initiatives through
Stonecrest Fest Inc.,” according to the
fliers the city put out.
“We’ll host the Caribbean Fest on
Memorial Day weekend,” Bell said
“We’ll have at least one Stonecrest
Festival, kind of like a music fest.
Since last summer we have acquired
nine parks, and the one at Southeast
Athletic Complex has almost enough
room to hold a festival without
impeding traffic.”
Bells said a mayor’s golf
tournament, a MLK Day Parade, and
other events are also on Stonecrest’s
horizon for 2020.
“Next year could be even bigger
and better,” Bell said.
Stonecrest’s Christmas tree is located in the Stonecrest’s smaller Christmas tree located
lobby of the city hall building inside of city hall. Photos by Jay Phillips
P P Y
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 8

AVONDALE ESTATES

All photos provided by city of Avondale Estates.

Winners announced in Avondale

Estates’ Christmas decorating contest
Several homes and businesses participated in the city of Avondale Estates’
Christmas Spirit Awards decorating contest.
A group of three adults and one child from outside Avondale Estates were
driven around for 90 minutes Dec. 16 to select winners based on attractive use
of light and color; overall effect; originality and creativity; creative display of
theme; animation; use of non-lighting decorations; yard decoration; and entry
and window decor.
There were four judging categories: Avondale Elegance, Business,
Children’s Appeal, and Sparkle and Pizzaz.
Below are the winners:
Avondale Elegance - Stephen and Natalie Schneider, 67 Dartmouth Ave.
Avondale Elegance - Dave and Pat Frontier Maddox, 34 Kensington Rd.
Business - P’s in the Pod, 120 N. Avondale Rd.
Children’s Appeal - Matt Delicata and Katrina Helz, 8 Clarendon Ave.
Children’s Appeal - Steve and Mary Ellen Moore, 45 Wiltshire Dr.
Sparkle and Pizzaz - Mark and Katie Abel, 3087 Majestic Cir.
Sparkle and Pizzaz - Kevin and Carrie Galpin, 74 Lakeshore Dr.
Sparkle and Pizzaz - Tim Oliver and Terry Skinner 867 Nottingham Dr.

City of Decatur, Georgia
2019 Annual Report‐Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST)
( as required by O.C.G.A 48‐8‐122)

AMOUNTS EXPENDED

ORIGINAL  CURRENT  TOTAL  PROJECT BEHIND 

ESTIMATED  ESTIMATED  PRIOR  AMOUNT  ESTIMATED/ACTUAL  SCHEDULE OR 
PROJECTS COST COST YEARS  2019 EXPENDED COMPLETION UNDERFUNDED

Repayment of 2010 Series 
Urban Redevelopment Bonds $4,600,000 $4,600,000 0 $750,240 $750,240 12/31/2024 N

Repayment of 2013 Series 
Urban Redevelopment Bonds $8,900,000 $8,900,000 0 $1,479,180 $1,479,180 12/31/2024 N
Street intersection 
improvements $5,920,000 $5,920,000 0 $1,020,799 $1,020,799 12/31/2024 N
Bicycle, pedestrian and traffic 
improvements $1,109,218 $1,109,218 0 0 $0 12/31/2024 N
 DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 9

WEEK in PICTURES... As seen on DCTV

Melody M. Maddox DeKalb County’s new sheriff recently held her inauguration at Saint Philip AME Church. She is the county’s 50th sheriff and the first woman to hold the position.

The DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management was awarded the 2019 Collection Systems Gold Award at the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP) Fall Conference for outstanding wastewater
collection system operations. They were recognized with a proclamation at the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, December 17.

DCTV partnered with the DeKalb County Voter Registration and Elections Department to create a video to educate the citizens of DeKalb about the new election equipment that will be used in future elections.

23
DCTV CHANNEL 23
Get your front row seat to all
@DCTVCHANNEL23 things DeKalb County through your
DEKALB COUNTY GOV EMMY Award-winning station.
U USTREAM.TV/CHANNEL/DCTV-CHANNEL-23
WWW.DCTVCHANNEL23.TV
EDUCATION
Participants in ULC's 10th Annual International Mission Trip to Hopewell, Jamaica
Community leaders provide educational support on 10th
annual mission trip to Hopewell, Jamaica
Carolyn Glenn and Dr.
Earl Glenn, along with 31
other educators and pro-
fessionals from the metro
Atlanta area recently partici-
pated in the 10th Annual In-
ternational Mission Trip to
Hopewell, Jamaica to sup-
port students, parents and
staff of Watford Hill Prima-
ry School. The mission trip
was organized and hosted
by Unconditional Love for
Children (ULC), Inc., a non-
profit organization based in
DeKalb County.
ULC and volunteers
have provided educational
support programs to the
students at Watford Hill Pri-
mary School (WHPS) and
other schools throughout Ja-
maica for the past 10 years.
Due to efforts and contribu-
tions by ULC, partner or-
ganizations and volunteers,
students are provided with
breakfast and lunch; shoes
and uniforms; literacy and
math coaches; a variety of
academic and recreational
experiences, summer arts
camp, chess and music in-
struction. Parental involve-
ment, professional develop-
ment workshops and train-
ing are also integral parts of
ULC programming.
Carolyn Glenn, part-
nership organizer and
co-founder of ULC, said,
“Since 2014, ULC has part-
nered with WHPS to create
and deliver transformational
programming, and we con-
tinue to be excited and up-
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 10
lifted about the progress of according to WHPS princi- a pre-school program. organization with a mission
the students. The targeted pal Fania Davis. To address Those interested in of providing educational
programs, activities and re- anticipated expansion needs supporting or volunteering enrichment programs
sources delivered by ULC based on WHPS’s suc- to help ULC in its mission designed to empower
and our team of skilled and cesses, donors have pledged are encouraged to visit children to achieve
committed volunteers have more than $50,000 to be ulcinc.org for additional academic success, build
propelled the school to new used for capital improve- information. self-esteem and confidence
heights.” ments to build two addi- Unconditional Love for to live a holistic life.
In 2019, sixth-grade tional classrooms and create Children, Inc. is a non profit
students increased their na-
tional test scores by 20 per-
cent from 2018; the chess
CITY OF DECATUR BOARD OF EDUCATION
team has been Hanover
Parish’s high school dis- SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF
SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX PROCEEDS
trict champions since 2017. FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019
WHPS has also been recog-
nized as having the nation’s 2017 Issue
most outstanding parental ORIGINAL CURRENT
AMOUNT
EXPENDED
AMOUNT
EXPENDED
TOTAL
AMOUNT
involvement program in the PROJECT
ESTIMATED
COST
ESTIMATED
COSTS
IN CURRENT
YEAR
IN PRIOR
YEARS
EXPENDED
TO DATE
PROJECT
STATUS
Montego Bay education dis- Acquisition of facilities leased by the City Schools of Decatur, $ 9,655,813 $ 9,655,813 $ 1,941,843 $ 1,945,568 $ 3,887,411 6/30/2022
trict, according to Area IV
including the College Heights Early Learning Center, the 4-5
Academy at Fifth Avenue, Clairemont Elementary School,
Director of the Ministry of Glennwood Elementary School, and Oakhurst Elementary
School as now existing and as hereafter improved.
Education Dr. Michele Pin- To acquire, design, construct, renovate, modify, add to, 2,750,000 2,750,000 234,040 36,517 270,557 6/30/2022
nock. Pinnock recently rec- repair, replace, demolish all or a portion of, improve and equip
existing and new school buildings and sites and other existing
ognized the Watford-ULC and new buildings and facilities, including greenspace, useful or
partnership as the school desirable in connection including therewith, including, but not
limited to, Clairemont Elementary School, College Heights Early
partnerships model for the Childhood Learning Center, Decatur High School, the 4-5 Academy
at Fifth Avenue, Glennwood Elementary School, Oakhurst
entire Montego Bay area, Elementary School, Renfroe Middle School, Westchester
Elementary School, Winnona Park Elementary School and a
according to Carolyn Glenn. Central Office.
This year, ULC and To acquire, including but not limited to, through lease-purchase, 1,250,000 1,250,000 516,540 516,540 6/30/2022
partner Bradenton/Sarasota construct and equip new school buildings, early learning center
buildings and other buildings or facilities useful or desirable in
(FL) Chapter of The Links, connection therewith, including acquiring real estate for new
school buildings.
Inc., initiated a Junior Chap-
ter of the Society of Black
To acquire and install system-wide technology and information 1,550,000 1,550,000 109,712 117,026 226,738 6/30/2022
systems, hardware, and infrastructure at all schools and other
Engineers to provide more school system facilities.
opportunities for students to To acquire computers or similar technology for the use of
students and staff in and outside of the classroom.
3,200,000 3,200,000 646,406 411,917 1,058,323 6/30/2022
participate in STEM educa- To acquire school buses, school-related vehicles and other 562,500 562,500 45,013 87,400 132,413 6/30/2022
tion activities and achieve transportation equipment.
academic success. Since School improvement and maintenance projects throughout 2,500,000 2,500,000 143,465 143,465 6/30/2022
partnering with Uncondi- the City Schools of Decatur, including but not limited to,
HVAC renovations, repairs and replacements; roofing repairs
tional Love for Children, and replacements; electrical repairs, renovations and
upgrades, including but not limited to cost-saving energy
Watford student enrollment efficiency capital projects; boiler renovations, repairs and
has increased from 38 to
upgrades; and other similar capital improvements.
73 students and community To acquire, including, but not limited to, through lease-purchase,
design, construct and equip a new Central Office for the City
1,996,550 1,996,550 398,125 400,400 798,525 6/30/2022
interest and parent involve- Schools of Decatur, including parking.
ment are at all-time highs, $ 23,464,863 $ 23,464,863 $ 4,035,144 $ 2,998,828 $ 7,033,972
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 11

CLARKSTON COUNTYWIDE

Clarkston’s Historical
Preservation Committee
ready for action
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com

Clarkston city officials nominated and elected members

to the Clarkston Historical Preservation Committee (CHPC)
during a special meeting at Clarkston City Hall Dec. 17.
The committee is tasked with identifying and assisting
with the preservation of historical properties such as old
houses. The committee will also determine whether sections
of Clarkston should be included in the historic areas.
Areas that will be designated as historical districts under
the CHPC will follow historic themes and preservation
guidelines pertaining to age, style, condition and other
factors of the structures.
Deborah Johnson was originally selected to be a part
Children get early Christmas gifts
from sheriff’s office employees
of the committee but
became ineligible
'These are the after she became
a member of

properties that Clarkston’s City BY ASIA ASHLEY and we separate it among pleased with,” said Simms.
Council, which Asia@dekalbchamp.com the kids and that’s how “It’s been a really good
forced her to forfeit we shop for them,” said experience. I loved to see
we are suggesting her CHPC seat.
Dean Moore
Smiles filled the staff
dining room of the DeKalb
Carolina Mincey, DCSO’s
administrative specialist
the smile on her face.”
Ibryanah planned to
was elected as the County Sheriff’s Office Dec. for field operations, who open one of her gifts that
that we focus on Vice Chair of the
committee. Graham
19 as more than 20 foster
children received gifts ahead
oversees the program. “We
ask the kids to send in their
day and the rest at 1 a.m. on
Christmas Day.

first.' Ashton Walker of the Christmas holiday as wish lists and we make sure More than $3,000 was
was elected as the part of DCSO’s Adopt-A- they have all their necessity raised and collected by
secretary of the Family program. items… T-shirts, socks, sheriff’s office employees
- Graham Ashton Walker
committee and The day afforded 22 underwear their favorite this year for the Adopt-A-
Patricia Davis- children, many of whom toys, anything school Family program, according
Morris was elected as the committee’s chairwoman. have an incarcerated parent, related.” to Mincey. Securus
Future meetings held by the CHPC will be open to the a time to enjoy lunch and Foster parent Pamela Technologies donated tablets
public, but the CHPC’s chairman will decide when, or if, gifts with their foster parent Simms and her 6-year-old and Trinity Food Services
public comments can be made during meetings. or grandparent. daughter Ibryanah were donated Walmart gift card
Those selected to the CHPC are residents of Clarkston Earlier this year, one several families chosen and cookies.
who have demonstrated interest in the city and its history, sheriff’s office employees to be “adopted” this year. Families were selected
according to the committee. held an annual chili cook- “[Ibryanah] had a by Bethany Christian
The CHPC’s bylaws were then adopted by Clarkson and off to raise money for Christmas list and they Services and the Division
officers were officially elected. the program and some called and told me they of Family and Children
The committee has not approved the designated historic employees donated money were going to make her Services’ Kinship program
area yet, but blueprints have been drawn highlighting of their own to the cause. dreams come true. They by Division of Family and
the areas that could be under the CHPC’s jurisdiction. “Majority of our asked what was on her list Children Services.
Blue areas on the map designate areas that will fall into divisions participate. They and I told them whatever
the CHPC district while red areas will be excluded. One give a collective donation they could do, we would be
version of the proposed map includes the areas around
Poplar Drive and East Avenue while the other does not.
“These are the properties that we are suggesting that we FY19 ANNUAL REPORT ON PROJECTS FUNDED THROUGH SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX
focus on first,” Walker said. City of Lithonia
Walker said the agreed upon areas could expand Amount Expended
Amount 
or shrink depending on other historical themes that are Project
Year 
Approved
Original Estimated  Current 
Cost Estimated Cost Year 1 (2018) Year 2 (2019)
Expended Current  Total Amount 
Year Expended to date
identified and work that must be done to areas already Transportation 
Improvements
selected. Infrastructure 
$             1,076,000 $           1,076,000 $           47,697.66 $           47,697.66 $           47,697.66

A public comment was made out of concern that the Improvements

Public Safety 
$  352,004 $              352,004 $  ‐ 0

historic area would “gentrify” the area and could prevent (Includes Public 
Works) $  137,000 $              137,000 $           13,054.00 $           13,054.00 $           13,054.00
people from moving into that area. Facility 
Improvement
Walker responded on behalf of the committee asking for
$  130,000 $              130,000 $           12,449.97 $           12,449.97 $           12,449.97
 Maintenance, 

research or studies that had already been done so they could Operations & 
Related Project 

study them and eliminate that concern. Cost $  89,211 $  89,211 $ 15.00
  $  ‐ $  ‐ $  15.00
Total $             1,784,215 $           1,784,215 $ 15.00
  $           73,201.63 $           73,201.63 $           73,216.63
 DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 12

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
628-2698. The Mayor and City Council of the City of Chamblee, Georgia will hold a public hearing on Thursday, January 16,
2020 at the Chamblee Civic Center, 3540 Broad Street, Chamblee, GA 30341 at 6:00 p.m. to receive public comments
FINANCIAL regarding the following matters:
PZ2020-581: Applicant: Chris Nardone, CNNA Architects; and Owner: Vinh Nguyen, The V Development
PROBLEM CREDIT REPORT? Company, Inc. request multiple variances for the renovation of a commercial building to a restaurant and catering
Lexington Law helps to kitchen, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance, to exceed the
challenge inaccurate negative maximum impervious surface area; to reduce open space; to not meet the landscape zone requirements; to not meet
items including: Identity theft, the supplemental zone requirements; to reduce the required minimum building height; to reduce minimum floor-to-
collections, late payments, liens ceiling height; to reduce the number of required parking spaces; to maintain the existing parking between the building
and more from your credit report. and street; to allow the dumpster to be located within five feet of lot lines; to maintain two prohibited existing pole signs;
and to allow more than two facades to contain wall signage. The property is located at 4978 Buford Highway, being
Call for a free credit repair DeKalb County tax parcel 18 297 02 015 and zoned Corridor Commercial.
consultation: 877-250-3937. PZ2020-582: Applicant and Owner: Daybreak Hospitality, LLC, requests a Development of Community Impact
John C. Heath, Attorney at Law, and related variances for the construction of a 6-story hotel, from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix
PLLC, dba Lexington Law Firm. A, Unified Development Ordinance, to reduce open space; to increase the height of retaining walls; to increase the
height of retaining walls and fences combined; to not provide a supplemental zone immediately adjacent to the building
Need IRS Relief $10K - $125K+ façade; to reduce the sidewalk width; to reduce the number of required parking spaces; and to not provide street trees
Get Fresh Start or Forgiveness and lights as required. The property is located at 3051, 3063, 3071, 3081 Clairmont Road, being DeKalb County tax
Call 1-855-558-2664. Monday parcel 18 203 05 052, 033, 034, 031 and is zoned Mixed-Use – Business Center.
through Friday 7AM-5PM PST. PZ2020-579: Applicant: Theresa Wilson, Chick-fil-A and Owner: Chad Baker, Chick-fil-A Inc., request a rezoning
from Village Commercial to Corridor Commercial for a drive-through restaurant. The property is located at 5450
HEALTHCARE Peachtree Boulevard, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 308 05 038.
PZ2020-580: Applicant: Theresa Wilson, Chick-fil-A and Owner: Chad Baker, Chick-fil-A Inc., request variances
from the City of Chamblee Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Unified Development Ordinance, to allow a drive-through
A Place For Mom. The facility on a storefront street; and to increase the number of allowable wall signs. The property is located at 5450
nation’s largest senior living Peachtree Boulevard, being DeKalb County tax parcel 18 308 05 038 and zoned Village Commercial.
referral service. Contact our PZ2019-560: Applicant: Kenneth Wood, Planners and Engineers Collaborative, Inc. and Owner: Copperleaf
trusted, local experts today! Partners, LLC, request a Development of Community Impact and related variances for the construction of a residential
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STOP STRUGGLING ON size to a minimum of 1,200 sq. ft.; and to exceed the retaining wall height maximum in the rear and side yards. The
THE STAIRS. Give your life a properties are located at 4147 and 4011 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., being DeKalb County tax parcels 18 332 03 020
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purchase & Free DVD brochure. Infill for a residential townhome subdivision. The properties are located at 4147 and 4011 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd.,
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BUSINESS DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 13

COUNTYWIDE

Expert advises starting new year with 2020 financial vision

Part One – Why many struggle with personal finances
by Kathy Mitchell
Those who have not
made financial planning a
priority and would like to
change that are not alone,
according to financial
literacy instructor Michelle
Alexander, who said it’s
quite common for people
to fail to make a sound
financial plan.
“This important life skill
was probably not taught
during their early years,”
she said. “Many of us never
received personal finance
training when we were
young, nor did we receive
how-to instructions with
our first paycheck. Money
is very seductive when you
start earning your own and
it feels powerful to buy
whatever you like, until you
cannot.”
She commented that
schools focus on skills need-
ed for employment, “but
what about this important
life skill?” she asked. “When
and how does it get shared?
Unfortunately, it is usually
later in life when we hit a
rock wall or rock bottom
with our finances, that we
seek help in this area of our
lives.”
Those without finan-
cial planning skills tend to
develop such bad habits
as abusing credit or debit
cards, according to Alex-
ander. “Overspending can
have negative side effects
especially if overdraft fees
are incurred which further
depletes funds.” Credit card
debt is easy to get into since
it’s “buy now, pay later,” she
said. “Debit cards just re-
quire a swipe, so you never
see the money actually being
older. The 30-something
person is more likely to be
thinking about settling down
in life and career. This may
be the time these individuals
start seeking personal finan-
cial advice to plan for mar-
riage, family, or furthering
their education. As they age,
they are likely to continue
planning, but the focus may
turn more to retirement sav-
ings particularly after their
children are off to college or
have gained full-time em-
Michelle Alexander ployment,” she continued.
“If individuals have nev-
overspend process starts all er prepared for their finan-
over again. If the account
cial future and are now seri-
was already overdrawn, ously close to retirement—
the payday funds are now
between 60 and 65—they
reduced because of the over- may decide it is too late and
draft fees and no bills have
not bother to start a plan at
been paid yet.” all. As long as you are above
Having an overall fi-
ground, it is never too late to
nancial plan and monthly start some kind of savings.
budget, she said, can be the
Do not let your age fool you
constant reminder of where into thinking it is too early
income should go so the
or too late,” she advised.
earner doesn’t “get lured “I’d rather have $500 saved,
into the emotional here and
than zero dollars any day.”
now and forget about to- Alexander noted that
morrow’s plans. Once you
Social Security is a source
begin to abuse credit or debit of steady income but is
cards, whether you feel it is
not enough to meet most
justified or not, the slippery people’s needs. “A retiree
slope has already begun and shared with me that their
can take years to recover,” income basically dropped
she warned.
to half in retirement. If you
Alexander said young were already struggling with
adults just starting careers
your earned income, imag-
often give little thought to ine what your life will be
financial planning, reasoning like with retirement income
that they have their whole that has now decreased by
life ahead of them and there 50 percent and is only paid
is time, while older adults
out monthly.”
who have not planned prob- People often fail to make
ably think it’s too late.
financial plans because they
“The list of priorities for lack knowledge, fear restric-
someone in their 20s more
tions or feel they do not have
than likely differs from those enough income to manage,
of someone in their 30s and
PUBLIC NOTICE
Alexander said. “Whatever that?” she asked. “There are
the earnings are, the funds so many resources available
still need to be planned for today to help individuals get
and managed. High earn- on the right financial track;
ers get into financial trouble but because money is still
just like everyone else. We such a personal and emotion-
live in a society where just al issue, some fail to seek
about anything can be had help for fear of judgment.”
and many feel that they
should not have to deprive This is Part One of a
themselves, so ‘planning’ two-part series featuring
and ‘budgeting’ become advice from Michelle
bad words. I have heard the Alexander, a financial
phrase ‘treat yourself, don’t literacy instructor who
cheat yourself’ many times said her mission is to help
and wonder what these peo- individuals change their
ple are really treating them- financial lives for the better.
selves to with this short-term She has conducted financial
high. literacy seminars at DeKalb
“You should be treating County libraries and at
yourself to a financial future business association and
that does not require you to community meetings. Among
work in retirement unless the organizations she has
you want to do so. Even volunteered with are Project
then, you probably won’t Take Charge, a resource for
want to work a 40-hour DeKalb County residents
week. If budgeting and plan- needing financial assistance
ning feels restrictive during during challenging financial
earning years, just think how times. Part Two – Steps to a
restricted retirement will solid financial future—will
feel. If Social Security ends appear in the Jan. 2, 2020,
up being the only source of issue of The Champion.
income, where is the treat in
PUBLIC NOTICE
The City of Stone Mountain is currently accepting
letters and/or resumes to fill vacancies on the
Historic Preservation Commission. Please refer
to the following link of the City ordinance; https://
library.municode.com/ga/stone_mountain/
codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_
CH5BUPRRE_ARTIIHIPRCO for more information
on the commission. All appointments to the Historic
Preservation Commission shall require a review by
the governing authority, a nomination by the mayor
and confirmation by the city council.
All interested parties should forward letters or
resumes, by January 15, 2020 to: Mayor Patricia
Wheeler, Stone Mountain City Hall, 875 Main Street,
Stone Mountain, GA 30083

THIS COULD BE YOUR

used.”
Alexander said people The City of Stone Mountain is currently accepting
who mishandle their fi- letters and/or resumes to fill vacancies on the

nances may tend to try a
quick fix that ultimately can
make the situation worse.
AD CALL
Planning and Zoning Committee. Please refer to
the following link of the City website; http://www.
stonemountaincity.org/departments/planning_
and_zoning/index.php for more information on

404.373.7779 EXT 110

She describes it as “putting the committee. All appointments to the Planning
a band-aid on the situation & Zoning Committee shall require a review by the
that eventually turns into a governing authority, a nomination by the mayor and

FOR MORE INFORMATION

visit to the financial emer-
gency room. The sad part is
that when payday does come
and there’s still no plan, the
confirmation by the city council.
All interested parties should forward letters or
resumes, by January 15, 2020 to: Mayor Patricia
Wheeler, Stone Mountain City Hall, 875 Main Street,
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 14

FOOTBALL

Cedar Grove football

standouts sign LOIs
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com

Cedar Grove senior safety Tee Denson signed his letter

of intent with Kansas State Dec. 18, and Cedar Grove senior
defensive lineman Alvin Williams signed his letter of intent
with Colorado Dec. 18.
Denson, who had 35 offers, decided from among schools
such as Miami, Virginia Tech, Kansas State and Purdue, with
the Purdue and Kansas State being his final two choices.
Denson made his choice after visiting Kansas State Dec. 13, the
Friday before he won his second straight state championship
with the Cedar Grove football team.
Kansas State went 8-4 under first-year head coach Chris
Klieman this season and will play in the Liberty Bowl against
No. 21 Navy Dec. 31.
Kansas State has played in a bowl game in nine of the last
10 seasons and have had four seasons with nine or more wins.
The Kansas State Wildcats were ranked in the AP Poll in
five of those 10 seasons, reaching an AP high of No. 2 in 2011
and achieving a top-10 ranking in three of those 10 seasons.
Klieman has made stops throughout the Midwest during his
coaching career, with stints at Kansas, Missouri State, North
Dakota State and now Kansas State highlighting the way.
Kansas State’s first-year head coach was a defensive back
coach or a defensive coordinator at six of his past stops.
Kansas State has 15 former football players on NFL Alvin Williams gets ready to make contact after reading the play.
rosters. Deante Burton (Dallas Cowboys), DJ Reed Jr. (San
Francisco 49ers) and Duke Shelley (Chicago Bears) are all
former Kansas State defensive backs who are now on NFL
rosters, and Shelley went to Tucker High School.
Kansas State has seven players from Georgia on their
roster, including Daron Bowles from Stone Mountain High
School and Justin Hughes and Elijah Sullivan from Tucker
High School.
Denson joins McEachern’s Tajiri Smith as defensive backs
from the Atlanta area committed to Kansas State as a part of
the Wildcat’s 2020 recruiting class.
Williams choose Colorado after receiving more than 20 D1
offers, including offers from Michigan State, Kentucky, Baylor,
Kansas State and others.
Colorado went 5-7 this season under first-year head coach
Mel Tucker.
Colorado has been ranked in seven different seasons since
2000. Colorado was ranked in the top-10 eight times between
1989 and 1997, including multiple stints at No. 1.
However, the Buffalos have only played in one bowl game
in the last 12 seasons.
Tucker, despite being in his first year as a head coach,
brings experience from the NFL, where he was a defensive
backs coach and a defensive coordinator, Alabama, where
he was a defensive backs coach and associate head coach, in
addition to stops at Ohio State, LSU and Georgia.
Tucker was the defensive coordinator at Georgia before
taking the head coaching job at Colorado.
Stone Mountain’s Javier Morton is also considering
Colorado in the class of 2020, according to 247 sports.
Cedar Grove’s Isaiah Ratcliff, Brandon Hall, Chris
Stinson and Travis Rivers have yet to decide where they will
play college football.
Tee Denson celebrates a fourth down stop during the State Championship.
SPORTS
BASKETBALL
Terrance Edwards and Jermontae Hill talking before a free throw.
Caleb Murphy and Sharife Cooper waiting on a foul shot.
Jermontae Hill calling for the ball
Stars shine at Hawks-Naismith Holiday Classic
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Schools from around the state traveled to
Norcross High School for the Dec. 13-14 Hawks-
Naismith Holiday Classic, including DeKalb
County’s Southwest DeKalb High School and
Tucker High School.
The event started Dec. 13, but both DeKalb
County schools played Dec. 14 with Southwest
DeKalb (4-5) beating Discovery (7-7) and
Tucker (12-1) losing their first game of the
season to star-studded Norcross (10-0).
Norcross took down Tucker, handing
the Tigers their first loss of the season. That
PLEASE RECYCLE
THIS PAPER
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 • PAGE 15
Jermontae Hill prepares to drive on JT Thor.
Sharife Cooper being guarded by Deivon Smith. Photos by Jay Phillips
nightcap included a matchup between Tucker’s
Jermontae Hill and Norcross’ JT Thor, a top-50
player in 2020, but it was Tucker guard Terrance
Edwards and Norcross forward Quincy
Ademokoya who stole the show.
Ademokoya, a three-star Temple signee,
made seven three pointers on his way to scoring
27 points while Edwards scored 36 points and
had three steals and two assists.
Hill was held in check with 14 points and five
rebounds while Thor had a 15-point, 12-rebound
double-double.
Some of the top teams in DeKalb will be in
action again after Christmas during Atlanta’s
Tournament of Champions.
Tucker will play Dutchtown (10-2) at 10:30
a.m. at Wheeler High School’s Wildcat Arena
on Dec. 27, while Lithonia (12-0) will take on
Grayson in the same gym at 6 p.m.
Dec. 28 will feature bracket play with
matchups depending on who wins and loses
games on Dec. 27.
Towers, Cedar Grove and Greenforest will be
in action in the American Schedule bracket, held
at Lipscomb Gym on Dec. 27 with bracket play
beginning Dec. 28.
Towers will play Savannah County Day
school at 11:30 a.m., Cedar Grove will play
Discovery at 1 p.m. and Greenforest will play
Peachtree Ridge at 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 27.
LOCAL THE CHAMPION, THURSDAY, DEC. 26, 2019 - JAN. 1, 2020 • PAGE 16