the DeKalb
1 • 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
Members of the DeKalb County Library Foundation Board celebrate receiving the top endowment in the New York Life Community Impact Grant program. Photo provided
$25,000 grant puts more library
patrons on the internet
BY KATHY MITCHELL
FREELANCE REPORTER
The word “library” has long been associated
with books available for in-house use or
borrowing. Library patrons today, however, may
think of libraries not only in terms of books, but
movies, enrichment programs—and access to the
internet.
One longtime user of DeKalb County’s
library system said he is well aware of how
libraries enrich communities and their residents.
“I’ve been going to the DeKalb Library my
entire life. I grew up in south DeKalb County
in a large family. We relied on the library for
schoolwork, entertainment, social interaction and
much more,” said Tim Martin, who is now a
member of the DeKalb Library Foundation Board.
“My main reason for joining the board is so I
can give back to the library that has given me so
much,” he said.
Visit www.TheChampionNewspaper.com for local, real DeKalb County news.
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • VOL. 25, NO.
Martin, who is in his second year as
a foundation board member, serves on the
committee entrusted with securing grants to
fund programs beyond what the county is able to
support.
Most recently, a grant request Martin
submitted resulted in a $25,000 Community
Impact Grant from New York Life. “This is
huge,” Martin said. “It’s a very competitive grant.
Nationwide approximately 15,000 organizations
are eligible to apply. We received the top
grant. The $25,000 grant is their number one
endowment.”
The New York Life Community Impact
Grants provide charitable contributions for
specific projects of nonprofit organizations that
improve New York Life’s local communities,
according to the insurance company. Since the
program’s inception in 2008, more than 600
grants totaling nearly $8 million have been
awarded to nonprofits across the country.  Library Foundation. “It’s not unusual to have
Martin said he believes what impressed the
grant committee most was the main program
the grant will fund, DeKalb Library’s Take the
Internet Home With You initiative. For decades,
those needing to access the internet have been
able to do so through public libraries. More
recently technology has evolved that allows
internet access through hotspot devices that can
be borrowed just as books are. The hotspots
have become one of the DeKalb County Public
Library’s most widely used offerings, according
to library officials.
“Hotspots are very popular with our
patrons. We currently have 200 hotspots available
systemwide, and they are continuously checked
out. We are thankful to New York Life for helping
to fund this important program,” said Library
Director Alison Weissinger.  
“We frequently have no hotspots available
because they’re all checked out,” added Cathy
McGovern, engagement manager of the DeKalb
people waiting when they know one is due to be
SEE GRANT ON PAGE 6
LOCAL
DUNWOODY
Map of Dunwoody’s proposed entertainment district. Photo provided by
the city of Dunwoody.
City postpones alcohol votes
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
The city of Dunwoody
is considering ordinances to
allow breweries and open
container laws to exist in
Dunwoody’s entertainment
district, located around
Dunwoody Village. Both
ordinances had their second
read in front of Dunwoody’s
city council Feb. 24, and
both were deferred until the
March 9 meeting.
According to documents
provided to city council,
Dunwoody staff has been
approached by multiple
councilmembers about
requests to develop an
entertainment district similar
to those adopted by the cities
of Roswell, Alpharetta and
Woodstock.
The open container
laws, as defined at
Dunwoody’s Feb. 24
meeting, would only apply
to businesses licensed
to sell alcohol in the
entertainment district and
participation would be up to
the individual businesses.
Patrons would be allowed
to take one drink out of
restaurants and bars located
within the entertainment
district if Dunwoody’s
open container laws go into
effect. Businesses that do
not participate can deny
entry to patrons with open
containers.
“ … To encourage a
more business-friendly
environment in the city’s
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 2
entertainment district and
foster a more pedestrian
friendly atmosphere, the
[mayor] and [city] council
desire to relax the city’s
restrictions on outdoor
consumption of alcohol
purchased from a licensed
consumption-on-the-
premises dealer in the
entertainment district,” reads
the prospective ordinance.
The ordinances
also defined the city’s
entertainment district for
the purpose of Dunwoody’s
revisions of alcohol
ordinances. They specify
“The area generally bounded
by the store frontage of
Dunwoody Hall shopping
center and The Shops at
Dunwoody to the west,
Dunwoody Village Parkway
to the north and east, and
Mount Vernon Road to the
south. The district shall
also include the parking
lots to the east and west
of Chamblee Dunwoody
Road and any and all public
plazas and sidewalks within
the boundary. Also, for
purposes of this definition,
any licensed establishment
fronting a street within the
described entertainment
containment district shall
be considered within the
defined area.”
Dunwoody could also
allow breweries, distilleries
and specialty shops into the
entertainment district if the
ordinances pass.
Community
Development Director
Richard McLeod said
SEE VOTES ON PAGE 7
LOCAL
ATLANTA IN DEKALB
Students and teachers from Barack Obama Elementary School raise a first in the air and pose for a picture with John Carlos.
John Carlos greets Jeremiah Green with a hug.
Photos by Jay Phillips
Olympian speaks to students at
Barack Obama Elementary School
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
F
ormer Olympic
medalist and human
rights activist John
Carlos visited Barack Obama
Elementary School Feb. 26 to
address students in the Spanish
immersion program and help
with a student’s presentation on
Afro-Latinos who have impacted
the world.
The student doing a
presentation on Carlos,
Jeremiah Green, put everything
in motion for Carlos to visit
his school. Green’s grandfather
grew up with Carlos and the two
recently reconnected. According
to Carlos, he and Green have
built a relationship since then.
When Green began work on a
project about Carlos to present
to his classmates, his family got
in touch with Carlos and Carlos
John Carlos signing copies of the American Legacy magazine that he
appeared on the front cover of.
agreed to visit the school and
help with the presentation.
Carlos has become a role
model for people such as Green
not only because the Olympic
medals he won, and the world-
class times he put up in various
races, but also because of the
ways he stood up to injustice,
according to a documentary
about Carlos that was shown.
Carlos became a founding
member of the Olympic Project
for Human Rights following
the Olympic Trials in 1968
and tried to organize a boycott
of the Olympics. Carlos said
he realized asking athletes to
boycott the Olympics was unfair
with how much work athletes
put into making the Olympics
and how many promises they
make to their families and
communities.
Instead, Carlos and Tommie
Smith staged a boycott on the
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 3
medal podium by approaching
the stand with no shoes and
raising one black-gloved fist
into the air after receiving their
medals. The picture of Carlos
and Smith on the podium has
since become an iconic imagine
for the Olympics and human
rights.
Carlos’ actions had
consequences—including
eventual expulsion from the
Olympic Games. Carlos used
that example while talking
to students at Barack Obama
Elementary School.
Green’s presentation
focused on Carlos’ life and
included a picture of Green
doing Carlos’ hand gesture,
but Carlos’ speech to students
focused on the importance of
education and family.
“Education is just as
important as food for life,”
Carlos said. “There are two types
SEE OLYMPIAN ON PAGE 14
STONECREST
Senate reviews bill
addressing Stonecrest
council member absences
BY ASIA ASHLEY
Asia@dekalbchamp.com
Following the latest dispute in the city
of Stonecrest on whether a council person
should surrender their seat for missing
meetings, Georgia Senator Emmanuel
Jones has drafted a bill intended to clarify
the process.
The proposed change comes after
Stonecrest Councilwoman Jazzmin Cobble
missed council meetings Sept. 23, 2019 and
Oct. 14, 2019 due to what she said were
work obligations. She notified the city clerk
Megan Reid by email on both days of her
absences, according to city staff in a press
release.
During a Feb. 10 special called
meeting, Mayor Jason Lary opined that a
council member notifying the city clerk of
an absence does not constitute an excused
absence. Two other council members appear
to have agreed as they voted at that meeting
to not excuse Cobble’s absences.
Due to the council’s indecisiveness,
the city filed a motion in DeKalb County
Superior Court to seek a judge’s ruling on
whether Cobble could keep her seat. The
city filed a motion Feb. 18 to dismiss the
case.
In its current state, section 2.03 (a)(3) of
the Stonecrest charter simply states that one
of the ways a council member forfeits his or
her seat is by “failing to attend one-third of
the regular meetings of the council in three-
month period without being excused by the
council.” It does not address the notification
excusal process or timeframe.
Jones’ Senate Bill 422 proposes that the
charter be clarified to automatically excuse
council member absences that are due to:
-a personal accident, emergency, illness
or injury
-an accident, emergency, illness or
injury of an immediate family member
-obligations arising from the elected
official’s outside full-time employment
SB 422 also adds that a council person
must notify the city clerk either via written,
electronic or telephonic communication
before the beginning of the meeting that
they will be absent, then the city clerk
should notify the remaining council
members.
The bill was read in the Senate Feb. 24,
but has yet to be voted on in the Senate or
House.
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 4

Americans and healthcare; a difficult struggle for many

It is a safe assumption that for private employment wages increased less for retirement simply to afford
most Americans, health insurance by 1.5 percent.  insurance.
is one of the costliest items in a Large employers predict With rapidly increasing costs
household budget. Many struggle to the total cost of covering health for health care and medications
pay ever-increasing health insurance insurance for workers and their combined, many Americans are
costs that are in many cases not John Hewitt families will hit an average in a predicament of choosing
offset by cost-of-living wage johnh@dekalbchamp.com increase of 5 percent in 2020, between sacrificing other family
increases from employers. according to a survey by the budget items for health insurance
According to eHealthInsurance. National Business Group on Health. or being uninsured and thus placing
com, premiums for subsidized Many employers will pass these themselves and their families in
Additional findings by the
policies under the umbrella of increased costs along to the situations that could be financially
Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation
the Affordable Care Act policies employees. devastating if a catastrophic injury
reported that the average annual
averaged $393 a month in 2017 for With an average projected or illness occurred.
premium for employer-sponsored
individuals—a 99 percent increase health insurance premium increase Until wage increases offset the
health insurance for a single worker
since 2013. The website states that of 5 percent and an average wage costs of health care and insurance,
was $6,690 in 2017 and $18,786 for
premium costs for family policies increase of 1.45 percent, many are the struggle will continue for most
family coverage.
rose by an alarming 140 percent faced with the prospect of taking Americans. The grim reality is that
The U.S. Bureau of Labor
during the same period, with an on additional work to supplement for many, we are one major health
Statistics, reports for the year ending
average monthly premium of $1,021 household incomes, eliminating crises away from financial ruin.
January 2020, average employment
in 2018 and annual deductibles nonessential expenses such as cable
wages increased by 1.4 percent and
topping $8,350. or satellite television, or saving

FORECLOSURES
Tax SaleS/adS for Bid
TRADE NAME REGISTRATION
PUBliC NoTiCe/PUBliC MeeTiNGS
SHERIFF SALES/LOCAL LEGISLATION
NoTiCe of iNCorPoraTioN
To SUBSCriBe, ViSiT deKalBleGalNoTiCeS.CoM
or Call 404.373.7779, exT. 0

The CHAMPION
OPINION DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 5

“Not a single case of the severe
acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)
has been reported this year, or in late
2004. It is the first winter without
a case since the initial outbreak in
late 2002.  In addition, the epidemic
strain of SARS that caused at least
774 deaths worldwide by June
2003 has not been seen outside of
a laboratory since then,” from a
2005 report by Jim Yardley, foreign
correspondent and now European
editor for The New York Times.
Not long ago in a galaxy not so
far away, I was awaiting my flight
out of a small coastal airport, having
a long phone call with an anxious
and agitated client—a talented
and skilled hospitality executive
in Manhattan. She was wrestling
with an evolving situation at one of
New York City and Times Square’s
then largest hotels, at near sold-out
capacity.
The hotel in question
was hosting a global health
conference. The timing of the
conference was not long after the
initial outbreak in China of a virulent
and deadly respiratory illness, then
known as severe acute respiratory
syndrome, and later known as the
SARS virus.  with SARS, the elderly and those
A prominent researcher,
epidemiologist and physician who
had treated early SARS’ patients
back home in China, gave a guest
lecture at the conference on the
illness. Overnight he felt a fever and
difficulty breathing, checked out of
the hotel early and headed for an
international flight home, stopping
for a layover in Germany. By the
time the doctor reached Europe,
his fever had sky-rocketed, and
he had to be assisted to travel to a
German hospital for treatment. There
in Germany, he was diagnosed as
having SARS.   viral transference.
Initial concerns were for the
housekeeping crew who had already
cleaned and removed linens in the
doctor’s room, as viral experts had
SARS wars
fighting off the illness, but who restrooms. None of the hospitality
‘One Man’s often were also heavy travelers staff, nor other conference attendees
who exposed multiple population contracted SARS. 
Opinion’ segments to the infection. Not Hopefully our experience
surprisingly, expert physicians, will be repeated this go round, but
Bill Crane researchers and epidemiologists the responsibility for taking these
bill.csicrane@gmail.com
exposed to SARS in its early days common sense steps and protections
of diagnosis were among those who fall on each of us, not just on the
also unknowingly carried and spread CDC, the White House or any
already indicated that transmission the disease. Since then the smart of the many other global health
predominantly occurred via the folks have gotten smarter about experts, who in some cases may be
transmission of or exposure to bodily how and when to travel during an among the first to fall ill. Health and
fluids of someone carrying the infectious disease outbreak. wellness and public health belong to
virus. The hotel was placed briefly And health experts have also all of us. As you hear a sneeze and
under quarantine.  shared that wearing face masks can say, “Bless you,” remember it’s OK
Between November 2002 and prevent those infected from coughing to keep a safe distance and to suggest
July 2003, an outbreak of SARS, or sneezing their germs or the to the sneezer the upsides of washing
initially in southern China, brought virus across a room, or the six-foot those hands. Just like mama always
later diagnosis of eventually 8,098 suggested human contact barrier, but used to say.
cases, resulting in 774 deaths no mask is secure or effective enough
reported by 17 countries. This to prevent germs from getting in. Bill Crane also serves as a political
resulted in an extremely high fatality  Back at the hotel, and across analyst and commentator for Channel 2’s
rate of 9.5 percent, with the bulk of the several thousand properties Action News, WSB-AM News/Talk 750
deaths occurring in Hong Kong and owned or franchised by this hotelier, and now 95.5 FM, as well as a columnist
mainland China. the company took additional for The Champion, DeKalb Free Press
 No new cases of SARS preventative hygiene measures such and Georgia Trend. Crane is a DeKalb
have been diagnosed or reported as wiping all public surfaces with native and business owner, living in
since 2004, and there is still no a bleach/water solution and more Scottdale. You can reach him or comment
vaccine. The Corona virus, COVID extensively cleaning all public on a column at bill.csicrane@gmail.com. 
19, is a viral “cousin” of SARS,
though its fatality rate today is
significantly lower, currently
estimated at 2 to 3 percent. As
with compromised immune and
respiratory systems are at greatest
risk. The virus is transmitted via
human bodily fluids, most commonly
via a sneeze, human contact or a
contaminated surface containing
bodily fluids.  
By 2017, scientists in China
had determined that the virus
likely crossed over to humans
via the droppings of horseshoe
bats in the Yunnan province of
China. Among the theories for the
initial transmission of COVID 19 is
another potential animal to human
 In the SARS case, it was
determined that there were also
occasionally “super carriers” whose
immune systems were effectively

FREEPRESS
the DeKalb
Publisher: Staff Reporters:
STATEMENT FROM THE
John Hewitt Asia Ashley PUBLISHER
Jay Phillips We sincerely appreciate the
LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK! Chief Financial Officer: discussion surrounding this and any
issue of interest to DeKalb County.
Dr. Earl D. Glenn Social Media Manager: The Champion was founded in
SEND LETTERS TO EDITOR, Donna Seay 1991 expressly to provide a forum
THE DEKALB FREE PRESS encourages opinions from Production Manager: for discourse for all community
The DeKalb Free Press, residents on all sides of an issue. We
its readers. Please write to us and express your views. P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; Kemesha Wadley have no desire to make the news
Letters should be brief, typewritten and contain the only to report news and opinions to
Send email to Johnh@dekalbchamp.com effect a more educated citizenry that
writer’s name, address and telephone number for Phone: (404) 373-7779; Fax: (404) 370-3903 The DeKalb Free Press is published each Friday will ultimately move our community
Deadline for news releases and advertising: forward. We are happy to present
verification. All letters will be considered for publication.
Thursday, one week prior to publication date. by ACE III Communications, Inc., ideas for discussion; however,
114 New Street, Suite E, Decatur, GA. 30030 we make every effort to avoid
EDITOR’S NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Phone (404) 373-7779. • www.championnewspaper.com printing information submitted to
us that is known to be false and/or
editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The Publisher is not assumptions penned as fact.
responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. DISPLAY ADVERTISING (404) 373-7779 x 110
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 6

GRANT Continued From Page 1

checked back in.” The grant greatly increases the
number of hotspots available for check-out to
patrons who may not have access to the internet in
their home.
Hotspot devices are portable, rechargeable
apparatuses that allow patrons to connect to the
internet via their laptops, smartphones or tablets,
at no charge to them.
Take the Internet Home is an example of
the programs Alexandria, an online resource for
libraries, says libraries should adopt for “users
whose needs and habits are different
from those of library patrons a generation ago.”
On its website, Alexandria states that its mission
is “to make libraries as important today as they
were 100 years ago.”
“Libraries are not dead, and never will be,”
the Alexandria website states. “The library we
grew up with 30 years ago does not look the
same as today’s libraries. It can be nostalgic to
think about card catalogs and quiet library stacks.
Most kids under the age of 9 probably wouldn’t
know how to use an encyclopedia since the rise
of the internet. But at its core, the library is still
the same—with some extra oomph thanks to
technology.”
Alexandria further reports that new
technological trends in libraries have changed the
way librarians and users access information. It
cited a recent survey that indicates 77 percent of
Americans 16 and older believe that the library
should have free access to computers and the
internet, rating it as a “very important” service,
just below “borrowing books.”

COUNTYWIDE BROOKHAVEN

Photo from DeKalb Democrats website

DeKalb voters to see several

seats on 2020 ballot
BY ASIA ASHLEY
Asia@dekalbchamp.com
Those wishing to represent DeKalb County in an
elected position began qualifying for various seats March 2
for 2020 elections. Qualifying is scheduled to end at noon
March 6.
Below are seats representing DeKalb County that will
appear on voter ballots, depending on residency, and the
qualifying fees candidates are required to pay to qualify.
Party-affiliated county-level seats:
• Chief Executive Officer: $4,994.35
• Board of Commissioners- Districts 1, 4, 5 and Super
District 6: $1,942.25
• Chief Magistrate, $3,282.78
• Clerk of Superior Court, $3,282.78
• Sheriff, $3,421.21
• Tax Commissioner, $3,282.78
• Solicitor, $5,028.44
Nonpartisan county-level seats:
•Probate Judge, $3,282.78
• Judge, State Court of DeKalb County, $5,028.44
• Associate Judge, State Court of DeKalb (Traffic Division),
$4,469.73
• Board of Education-Districts 1, 3, 5 and 7: $540
Federal party-affiliated seats representing parts of
DeKalb County:
• U.S Representatives- Districts 4, 5 and 6: $5,220
State party-affiliated seats representing DeKalb County:
• Senate- Districts 10, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44 and 55: $400
• House or Representatives- Districts 79-94: $400
• District Attorney: $3,674.20
• Superior Court Judge, Stone Mountain Judicial Circuit
(seven open seats): $3,863.70
The general primary election, nonpartisan general
election and special elections (if necessary) will be held
May 19. The general election is Nov. 3.
High waters at the intersection of Inman Drive and Saybrook Drive in Brookhaven have prompted city staff to
expedite pipe replacements in the area. Photo provided by city of Brookhaven
Emergency stormwater repair
ahead for Brookhaven
Multiple pipe failures within the city
of Brookhaven have prompted city staff
to expedite repairs to the water system,
according to a press release from the city.
“This problem has been dozens of
years in the making, and now it is a critical
emergency,” said Brookhaven Public Works
Director Hari Karikaran as he stood at the
intersection of Inman Drive and Saybrook
Drive. Nearby, a torrent of brackish water
crossed the road, which made driving
treacherous and walking almost impossible.
“There are very old pipes running under
these roads and at least two of the larger
ones are completely out of commission,”
said Karikaran. “There is not a quick fix for
this. These must be replaced.”
Karikaran is planning to submit an
emergency purchase order for consideration
at the Brookhaven City Council meeting on
March 10, said the release.
“Now we are looking at a complete
overhaul of the stormwater system at
this location as soon as possible,” said
Councilmember Linley Jones.
The repairs will include excavating
the existing 24-inch and 12-inch pipes and
replacing them with a single 36-inch pipe
and headwalls on both sides of Inman Drive,
according to the press release. Additional
drainage inlets will be installed to capture
surface flow from all three directions.
“This is one of the several aging
drainage structures identified in our annual
stormwater assessment and inspection
program,” said Mayor John Ernst. “In
addition to identifying the problems with our
stormwater infrastructure and prioritizing
to capital improvements, our public works
department makes annual improvement
recommendations to keep our drainage
system functioning.”
During this time, Inman Drive and/or
Saybrook Drive will be closed and detour
signs will be posted, said the press release.
The repairs are expected to begin on March
16 and last for three weeks.
“We appreciate the patience and
understanding from residents in the
immediate area as we get to the root of this
problem. This area has transitioned from
an annoyance to a safety issue and we need
to take care of it once and for all,” added
Karikaran.
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 7

LITHONIA
Customers, neighbors of Lithonia store remember slain owner
Suspects remain unidentified
BY ASIA ASHLEY of gold.”
Asia@dekalbchamp.com “He would give people
whatever and he would let
some people credit things if
Neighbors and
they didn’t have the money,”
customers of Tic Toc Food
said Speedy. “It just messed
Mart in Lithonia said they
up the whole neighborhood.
are still in disbelief of the
Nobody’s the same here.
Feb. 19 shooting death of the
Nobody’s the same.”
store’s beloved owner, while
Another neighbor
police have yet to release
expressed her concern with
information regarding
the act of violence as she
potential suspects.
referenced another deadly
Flowers, teddy bears,
shooting that occurred 11
candles and handwritten
miles away at a Citgo gas
notes and cards sat in front
station in Stone Mountain,
of the Evans Mill Road store
just hours before Birru’s
in memoriam of 57-year-
death.
old Tesfaye Birru, who
“I just can’t believe
was gunned down after
people do senseless killings.
closing the store for the
I just can’t understand,” said
night, according to a DeKalb
Leomi P., a 17-year resident
County Police Department
of the area. “Him and his
(DCPD) report. The store
wife are nice people.”
remained closed March 3.
DCPD detectives are
“Someone robbed the
still investigating Birru’s
world of a good and decent
death, which occurred
man,” read one note in front
around 10 p.m. Feb. 19.
of the store.
Birru had locked the interior
One customer left a
gate of the store but had
note packaged around an
not yet locked the exterior
unknown item that was
gate, according to the police
purchased from Birru.
report. He was found face
“Thank you!! These were
down in the parking lot of Flowers, teddy bears, candles and handwritten
the last things you sold
the building close to the notes and cards sat in front of the Tic Toc
me…will miss seeing your
entrance. Food Mart on Evans Mill Road in memoriam
smiling face,” it read.
Police say a handgun, of 57-year-old Tesfaye Birru, who was gunned
Birru moved to the
believed to be Birru’s, down after closing the store Feb. 19.
Atlanta area from Ethiopia
was on the ground near
in 1996 and later married
his body and had not been
and had three children,
fired. Shell casings from
according to his obituary.
a different gun were found
Neighbors and
at the scene; However, its
passersby the following
corresponding weapon was
week were still in shock that
not located at the scene.
the slaying occurred in what
Police are reviewing
they say is a seemingly quiet
video from surveillance
area of Lithonia.
cameras around the store.
A neighbor who goes by
No suspects have been
“Speedy” and did not want
arrested, but police believe
to disclose his name said he
the suspects are two Black A neighbor of Tic Toc Food Mart holds an obituary of the Tic Toc Food Mart on Evans Mill Road in Lithonia
heard the gunshots and went
males, according DCPD store’s owner, Tesfaye Birru, who murdered at the store remained closed March 3.
to the store where he found
Spokesperson Michaela Feb. 19. Photos by Asia Ashley
Birru dead in the parking lot.
Vincent.
He was holding a program
No motive has been
from Birru’s Feb. 23 funeral
determined.
VOTES Continued From Page 2
as he discussed the tragedy
“He’s a nice guy,” said
with a friend when The
Speedy. “I hope they catch
Champion spoke to him Feb.
[the killers]. I hope they do.” Dunwoody Village shopping district according to the proposed ordinance.
25.
Anyone with representatives have been working with the Specialty shops the prospective
Speedy —who
information regarding writers of the brewery ordinance, to make ordinance refers to are defined by
considered himself the
Birru’s murder is asked to new breweries and shops architecturally Dunwoody as retail establishments
store’s “mascot”—said he
call DCPD’s Homicide/ compatible with Dunwoody Village. with package sales of wine and limited
would hang out at the store
Assault unit at (7700 -724- Breweries would be restricted to consumption on the premises of wine and
daily. He described Birru as
7850. producing 15,000 barrels of beer or less draft beer.
a friendly man with a “heart
and would be 15,000 square feet or less,
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 8

STONECREST

Stonecrest moves forward with plans for new city hall

BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Stonecrest’s mayor and city
council approved a tax anticipation
note for $3.06 million Feb. 26,
during a special called city council
meeting, for the purchase of the
former Sam’s Club property off
Turner Hill Road that is expected to
be used as the city’s new city hall.
According to city officials,
the meeting was held to finalize
financing before the real estate
closing scheduled for March 3.
City officials plan to pay off
the note with proceeds from an
upcoming bond to be authorized
by the city’s newly formed Urban
Redevelopment Agency, according
to a press release.
The cost of the tax
anticipation note and closing costs,
approximately $75,000, must be paid
by the city from the general fund.
The council approved financing the
purchase by a 4-2 vote. The press
release states that councilwomen
Jazzmin Cobble and Tammy
Grimes opposed the tax anticipation
note.
Grimes said she had a different
priority in mind when she voted
against the motion.
“If I could, I would take every
dollar the city has and pave our
streets first, followed by efficient
street lighting,” Grimes stated in
a release. “My priority is just the
safety of our city first. If you are [a]
believer, you will believe that other
deals will come.”
Mayor Jason Lary voted
in favor of the city’s upcoming
purchase.
“This is an outstanding
opportunity for our city to move
forward with a new city center,
providing space for our staff as we
have outgrown our current space.
The city center also will provide
space for a much-needed post office
and other amenities that will greatly
benefit Stonecrest for generations
to come. History will record that
this was the best financial deal ever
made by the city. Paying less than
$3.1 million for 140,000 square feet
of commercial space on 17 acres is a
steal,” Lary said in a press release.

Enrollment for City Schools of Decatur begins March 9
Parents or guardians
within the city limits of
Decatur may begin enrolling
new children March 9 for the
2020-21 school year for City
Schools of Decatur (CSD)
schools.
Students currently
attending a CSD school are
automatically enrolled for
the next school year and
do not need to go through
the registration process.
However, parents and
guardians of current CSD
students will be asked to
verify residency when their
student enters kindergarten,
third grade, sixth grade, and
ninth grade.
New students may be
registered by visiting the
70-year-old killed in hit-and-run, suspect surrenders
BY ASIA ASHLEY
Asia@dekalbchamp.com
An Atlanta man is
facing a vehicular homicide
charge after a fatal hit-and-
run on Moreland Avenue
March 1.
According to a DeKalb
County Police Department
press release, 34-year-old
Kenzie Flagg of Atlanta was
heading north on Moreland
Avenue around 11 p.m.
when he struck the victim’s
southbound vehicle as it was
turning left onto Eastland
Road.
Police say Flagg
immediately fled the scene
CSD website and clicking
on the online registration
link: www.csdecatur.net/
Page/4210.
After registering online,
parents/guardians will need
to schedule a registration
appointment online using the
link for registration.
Documents needed at
the registration appointment
include parent/guardian
identification; student
birth certificate; residency
documents; prior school
records; Immunization Form
3231; Vision, Hearing, Dental
Form 3300; Social Security
card; custody agreements (if
applicable); and a Special
Education (IEP)/ 504 plan (if
applicable).
and a police K9, Indi,
located Flagg hiding in a
drainage pipe nearby. Flagg
surrendered to police at 4
a.m.
The 70-year-old victim,
a Black man, later died at
a local hospital, according
to DCPD. A passenger in
Flagg’s vehicle, a Black
male in his early 40s, was
transported from the scene to
a nearby hospital.
Though investigation
is ongoing, police believe
alcohol to be a factor in the
crash.
Flagg is facing several
charges, including vehicular
homicide.
CITY OF DORAVILLE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR
Right of Way Maintenance and
Park Maintenance Services
RFP 20-002
The City of Doraville seeks qualified bidders to respond to RFP 20-002,
Right of Way Maintenance and Park Maintenance Services. To see the
full bid, please visit www.doravillega.us and Doraville City Hall (3725 Park
Avenue, Doraville, GA 30340). The bid documents can also be found on
the Georgia Procurement Registry.
The City must receive proposal packages no later than 2:00 PM EST,
March 23, 2020. Proposal packages must be sent in a sealed package,
clearly marked “Doraville City Clerk – CONFIDENTIAL RFP 20-002,” to
City of Doraville, Office of the City Clerk, 3725 Park Avenue, Doraville, GA
30340.
The City of Doraville reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids
or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise.
Pet of the Week
FRASIER
Meet Frasier (ID# 43363675), a two-year-old boy who
is friendly, sweet and happy! Frasier wants to be your
lucky charm and with all his wonderful attributes, we’re
sure he can make that happen! Some of the great things
about this guy are that he already knows how to sit, he
is easy to walk and looks up periodically to make sure
you’re happy with the pace, he is super social and loves
meeting new people and he is happy entertaining himself
with toys. Additionally, Frasier loves affection and wants
to sit in your lap, and according to a staff member he is
“a pile of love!” Come and let Frasier make your March a
fortuitous one!
If you would like to expand your family by 4 furry
little feet; ask to meet Frasier and have a loving friend
forever. All adoptions include your new pet’s spay or
neuter, vaccinations, microchip and more! For more
information about Frasier please call (404) 294-2165 or
email adoption@dekalbanimalservices.com. All potential
adopters will be screened to ensure Frasier goes to a
good home. Hours: Mon-Fri; 11am-7pm / Sat-Sun;
11am-6pm
 LOCAL
Park Pride matches grants for DeKalb parks
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Parks in unincorporated
DeKalb County, Atlanta,
Brookhaven and Tucker
have received matching
funds from Park Pride for
grants to enhance their
parks as a part of Park Pride
awarding nearly $1.4 million
to Friends of the Park groups
in Atlanta and DeKalb
County.
Matching funds
received for DeKalb
County parks were given to
Henderson Park, McKinley
Peters Park and Kelley Cofer
Park in Tucker; LaVista
Park and Murphey Candler
Park in Brookhaven; and
Rehoboth Park and Sugar
Creek golf and tennis center
in unincorporated DeKalb
County.
Park Pride works
with individual Friends
of the Park groups, which
make improvements in
their parks and work with
local governments to have
improvements and additions
approved.
“We can’t just give
the money to everybody,”
said Park Pride Program
Manager Elizabeth Bogue.
Mammograms
Instead, Park Pride pays
the vendors who supply the
material and reimburses the
ave lives
individual Friends of the
Park groups.
Park Pride’s donations
are funded privately, and
they only give grants to
Friends of the Park groups.
Friends of the Park
groups also accept some
funding from county
commissioners.
“Those grants require
matching funds to try to
leverage new and additional
investments,” Bogue said.
“Matches can be from
private sources, local
fundraising, grants and they
can also come from public
sources. A lot of the county
commissioners allocate
some of their bond-funds
to parks, and a lot of the
Friends of the Park groups
then use those funds to apply
for matching grants from
Park Pride.”
All Friends of the
Park groups handle
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 9
grants and donations
differently. According to
Bogue, governments from
Brookhaven and Tucker are
more hands off than other
Friends of the Park groups
but have their own processes
and criteria, like other
groups.
Park Pride also has
different contracts with each
group to better the serve the
different groups, according
to Bogue.
Parks operated
by Friends of the Park
groups in Tucker and
Brookhaven receive small
change grants, and some
parks in unincorporated
DeKalb County are on the
community building grant
level or the legacy building
grant level.
Park Pride provides
different levels of grants
in different phases of Briarlake Forest Park after recent upgrades were completed, including a vision plan with Park Pride, added
development. These levels trails, parking, signage, and amenities. Photo provided by Park Pride
also determine the amount
of funding the different
parks can receive from Park from Park Pride. In addition to providing According to Bogue,
Pride. The legacy grant is only funding and grants, Park providing financial
“First time applicants available to parks in the Pride instructs Friends of the counseling makes Park Pride
can only apply for grants of city of Atlanta and matches Park groups on how to apply different from many other
up to $10,000,” Bogue said. funds between $50,000 and for funding and grants on park funding groups.
“The reason we do that is … $100,000. their own.
the processes can be difficult
Mammograms
to navigate … we really
like the groups to learn the
process with smaller grants
and smaller stakes. We only
save
pay out as groups spend
their grants. Based on the
rules for non-profits … we
lives
can’t just give the money to
anybody.”
The difference in grant
levels has to do with the
amount of funds that will
be matched, location of the
park and the work the park
has done with Park Pride in
the past.
First time applicants
usually fall into the small
change grants category. This
category matches funds up
to $2,500 and only requires
that parks have finished
former Park Pride projects to
stay eligible.
Community building
3D Mammography Breast Ultrasound
grants will match funds Abdominal Ultrasound Thyroid Ultrasound
between $2,500 and
$50,000. In addition to Digital Mammography Specialists
having completed former 3242 Avalon Boulevard
Park Pride projects, this Conyers, Ga. 30013
level requires the applying 678-904-6823
Friend of the Parks group to
finish a webinar or seminar
www.dmsradiology.com
LOCAL
DECATUR
Emmanuel Crawford, Elijah McClammy, Waissa Lawson, Jaylen Milburn, Marcia Scott, Khayla Nolton and Joanne Paul in front of their mural. Photo by Jay Phillips
Cedar Grove Middle School students honor
Kobe Bryant, Black history with mural
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Cedar Grove Middle School
students recently added a Kobe
Bryant theme to its Black History
Month mural on display in one of
the school’s hallways. Bryant was
added to the mural to recognize his
impact on lives across the country.
First-year art teacher Waissa
Lawson said the mural’s original
scope was to be focused on Black
History Month but realized the class
needed to adjust the project’s subject
following Bryant’s death.
“I had to do something; I
couldn’t ignore it. The number of
scholars that kept coming in and
talking about [Bryant] … I knew
I had to find a way to include it,”
Lawson said.
In addition to Bryant, the mural
consists of squares decorated by
students in Lawson’s art classes.
Each square depicts a person who
Lawson believes is important to
study for Black History Month but
who might not be as well known as
Martin Luther King Jr. and other
figures more commonly studied
during Black History Month.
Lawson said students in
her class and club decided to
include Bryant by making him the
centerpiece of their mural.
“Everyone in art class made
their own individual [sections],
it was a lot of people, it was like
six classes,” said Cedar Grove
Middle School student Emmanuel
Crawford. “[Bryant] was a great
person, a great player and a great
father.”
The mural has brought Cedar
Grove a lot of attention and has
made an impact at the faculty level
and in the community, according
to Cedar Grove Middle School
principal Marcia Scott.
“I’m excited and proud. I’m
proud of our scholars and proud of
Mrs. Lawson, and I’m glad that this
has put us on the map,” Scott said.
According to Lawson, the mural
took close to 200 students working
for three months to complete. She
challenged them to compete, and
said the class responded in ways she
hadn’t seen before.
“At first they couldn’t see the
vision, even though I sketched it
out,” Lawson said. “Being able to
watch it grow and watch them put all
of the pieces together … and them
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 10
seeing it come together … it got a
lot of them really engaged. I’m not
sure if I’ve ever seen them be as
proud of one of their projects as they
were of this.”
The time spent on the mural
made Cedar Grove students proud
of their work and glad that it’s in a
place where so many people can see
it, Lawson said.
“We spent a lot of time on this
and it turned out good,” said Cedar
Grove Middle School student Elijah
McClammy. “It took a good minute
to make it, and we came up with a
good accomplishment. It tells [other
students who walk by] that we can
do stuff like this.”
According to Cedar Grove
Middle School student Jaylen
Milburn, Lawson gave the students
a great deal of creative freedom
and the students responded with
creativity.
“I think the project took a lot of
time, but it was fun and creative,”
Milburn said. “Mrs. Lawson wasn’t
really telling us we had to do
anything specific; she just wanted us
to express ourselves.”
The creative freedom students
received from Lawson allowed the
them to choose subject matter they
felt strongly about.
“It’s important to me because it
shows the amount of Black people
… during Black History Month …
that make differences in the world,”
said Cedar Grove Middle School
student Khayla Nolton.
While Bryant is the focal point
of the mural, other aspects of the
mural address the impacts of Black
history.
“This piece shows how we had
a lot of Black people fight for us
… and for us to be here now and
represent them, it lets kids walk by
and see what people did for us,” said
Cedar Grove Middle School student
Joanne Paul.
Response from students, the
community and the school have
made everyone involved hopeful that
they can do more in school murals in
the future, according to Lawson and
Scott.
“I would like to do more of
this,” Lawson said. “It was a little
stressful at times, but it was a good
stress. Especially being able to
watch them every day and watch
them be proud of what they were
doing.”
 DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 11

WEEK in PICTURES... As seen on DCTV

Commissioner Steve Bradshaw hosted his second Annual Pastors’ Roundtable Breakfast. He highlighted the
important things happening in his district and allowed attendees to ask questions and voice their concerns.

Commissioner Larry Johnson and How Big Is Your Dream hosted

“Renaissance: Our Soundtrack in American Music”. This event showed In recognition of Black History Month, Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson wanted to honor Arthur Queen,
how music has the power the bring us all together, and how African- founder of Engineering Glass Management Services which is located in DeKalb County and has delivered quality
American music has supported the fight for equality and inclusion. service in the metro Atlanta area for more than three decades.

DCTV’s Director Diamond Lewis, is in our control room filming a new During a DeKalb County Board of Commissioners meeting, Mind Bubble, a non-profit that offers free tutoring
episode of News Update, stay tuned to DCTV 23 for the premiere. and workshops for students in the metro Atlanta area was recognized for their efforts in DeKalb County.

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
DECATUR
Peachcrest Elementary
School demonstrates
interactive playground
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Peachcrest Elementary
School in Decatur
demonstrated its new Lü
interactive playground
technology Feb. 28.
Nisewonger Audio Visual
Center, a company in
metro Atlanta that works
specifically with K-12
schools, partnered with Lü
interactive playgrounds to
bring projectors that display
a game board or interactive
game on a wall to schools in
the area.
Students interact with
the projection in ways such
as throwing soft rubber balls
at the wall to hit game pieces
or by mimicking the dance
moves of a character on the
screen.
“It really makes it a full-
immersive experience,” said
Nisewonger Audio Visual
Vice President Adam Yates.
“You’ve got lighting, audio,
projection and interactivity
all in one. So, it’s an indoor
recess space area that gives
you full access. The great
thing is the content is always
changing and upgrading. We
have additional content being
poured into it, so it’s not only
meant for the gym space, but
we have other classrooms
coming into the gym and
using it for instructional
time.”
Games demonstrated
included puzzles, which
require students to flip puzzle
pieces until the picture was is
unscrambled by hitting them
with a ball, trivia games that
THIS COULD BE YOUR AD
CALL 404.373.7779 EXT 110
FOR MORE INFORMATION
required students to answer
questions by hitting the
correct answers with the ball,
and games with mazes, math
and spelling.
After students
demonstrated the interactive
playground, school staff
encouraged parents to give it
a try. Parents played the math
game which required them
to choose the right answer to
math equations.
The demonstrations
concluded with students and
staff showing off their dance
moves with an interactive
dance.
“I’m working in between
meetings and moved some
stuff around just so I could be
here,” said Interim DeKalb
County School District
Superintendent Ramona
Tyson. “I’m so glad I came.
This is awesome.”
Tyson complimented
Peachcrest and the interactive
playground technology
throughout her speech.
“This is incredible, I
love it. This needs to be in
every school,” Tyson said.
“This is an instrumental
way to address [obesity and
learning].”
Peachcrest is the first
school in DeKalb County
with a Lü interactive
playground. Cobb, Hall and
private schools in Atlanta
have at least one school with
an interactive playground.
Yates said Nisewonger
Audio Visual plans to
bring the technology and
equipment to more schools,
including public schools in
Fulton County. However,
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 12
Peachcrest Elementary School students test one of the Lü interactive playground’s math games. Photo by Jay
Phillips.
the costs associated with very niche space that needs space … we see the gym as
the technology can be an this technology. We are a new classroom space that
obstacle. transforming the gymnasium needs technology.”
“Although it’s a
wonderful system, it still
came with a cost,” said
Peachcrest Elementary
School Principal Sheila
Nelloms.
Nelloms said her school
had to work with the county
and Georgia Department of
Education to secure funding
for the technology and
remote controlled blinds
for the gym, because the
projector requires a dark
space, but Nelloms said
the time and money spent
appeared to be worth it.
“Things have changed
in the way that we educate
our children,” Nelloms said.
“If we have to trick them and
teach them during PE class,
then that’s what we need to
do.”
Yates also spoke about
how gyms can be classrooms
but are usually without the
necessary technology.
“[The projector is] an
all in one integrated system”
said Yates. “That all works
seamlessly, it’s meant for
the gym space, which is
kind of cool because it’s a
BUSINESS
DECATUR
South DeKalb Macy’s
closing reflects
nationwide trend
BY KATHY MITCHELL
FREELANCE REPORTER
As part of what Macy’s
calls a three-year “strategy
to stabilize profitability and
position the company for
growth,” the New York-
based department store chain
has announced plans to close
approximately 125 of its
“least productive” stores.
Among the stores scheduled
to close soon is the Macy’s
that anchors the Galley at
South DeKalb.
“The company
completed a rigorous
evaluation of Macy’s store
portfolio. This included a
store-level assessment of
each store’s overall value
to the fleet, including
predicted profitability based
on consumer trends and
demographics,” a Macy’s
press release states. “As
a result, Macy’s plans to
close 125 stores over the
next three years, including
approximately 30 stores that
are in the process of closure
now. These approximately
125 stores currently account
for approximately $1.4
billion in annual sales.”
Jeff Gennette,
chairman and chief
executive officer of Macy’s
Inc. states in the release,
“We will focus our resources
on the healthy parts of our
business, directly address
the unhealthy parts of the
business and explore new
revenue streams.”
The Gallery at South
DeKalb Macy’s opened
as Rich’s Department
Store when the mall, then
called South DeKalb Mall,
opened in 1968. When the
Atlanta-based Rich’s brand
was absorbed into that of
its former rival Macy’s in
2005, the South DeKalb
store along with other Rich’s
stores throughout the South
became Macy’s stores. The
mall’s other original anchor
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 13
store, JC Penney, closed in
2005.
The closing of Macy’s
stores and the decline
of shopping malls both
reflect what retail research
company Coresight
identifies as a national
trend, predicting that more
than 1,000 department
stores nationally will close
between now and 2023,
“reducing the total footprint
by one fifth, which will hit
lower-traffic, lower-sales
regional malls more than
higher-traffic premium
The Macy’s store at the Gallery at South DeKalb is in the final stages of preparing to shutter its doors. Photo
ones,” according to a report
by Kathy Mitchell
issued by the research
company. “Meanwhile brick-
and-mortar apparel sales stores will be closing.” its top floor and the bottom is in line with what the
will remain flat, as shoppers The South DeKalb level is devoted primarily to Coresight report says is
spend some $73 billion more Macy’s, scheduled to close fixture sales. happening nationally. “The
online for clothes in 2023, or this month, is in the final “Rather than spending paradigm of specialty
a third of the total, up from stages of preparing to too much time dwelling apparel stores anchored by
20 percent today,” the report shutter its doors. Several on what we’re losing,” department stores is giving
continues. departments have closed Woodson said, “this would way to a more diverse mix
Coresight cites “a already, and remaining be a good time to look for of non-apparel retailers,
correction of a decades-long merchandise is being offered opportunities to support leisure and entertainment
overbuilding of malls in at discounted prices along local businesses that may businesses, event and
the U.S.,” as one cause of with the store fixtures. want to move into that pop-up spaces and service
the decline of department Originally a three-level space.” providers,” according to
stores along with shifts in store, Macy’s has closed  Woodson’s suggestion Coresight’s report.
spending channels, habits
and priorities, noting
CITY OF TUCKER NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE CITY CHARTER
that these are “spurring a
dramatic makeover of the
A proposed Amendment to the Charter of the City of Tucker pursuant to the rec-
retail format.” Department
ommendations of the Charter Review Committee; amend Section 2.07 regarding
store consolidation, a shift
council installment payments; amending Section 3.01(a)(2) requiring two council
to services, growing online
members to place an item on the agenda; amending section 3.01(a)(11) allowing,
apparel sales, the aging of
in addition to City Officers designated by ordinance, the Mayor would have the
millennials and growth in
authority to administer the oath of office; amending Section 3.11 by deleting the
nontraditional channels such
entire section; and amending Section 3.12 to require annual internal audits; and
as rental and subscriptions
for other purposes.
are major forces reshaping
The City Council shall meet at the following regular meetings to consider the
malls, according to
adoption of the proposed Charter Amendment:
Coresight Research.
“I’m sure Macy’s
has legitimate business MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 AT 7:00 P.M.
reasons for the decision,” CITY HALL ANNEX
said Lu Woodson of the ADDRESS: 4228 1st AVENUE, SUITE 2-4, TUCKER, GA 30084
South DeKalb Business and
Association, commenting on
MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2020 AT 7:00 P.M.
the closing of the Gallery at
CITY HALL ANNEX
South DeKalb Mall Macy’s.
ADDRESS: 4228 1st AVENUE, SUITE 2-4, TUCKER, GA 30084
“Of course, it will affect
the local economy. We’ll
A copy of the proposed amendment is on file at the office of the City Clerk and
suffer along with the other
in the office of the Clerk of the Superior Court of DeKalb County for purposes of
125 communities across
examination by the public.
the nation in which Macy’s
LOCAL DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 14

CHAMBLEE
Owners of blighted property could pay higher taxes
BY ASIA ASHLEY
Asia@dekalbchamp.com
Chamblee officials are
considering imposing higher
taxes on properties that are
neglected and in dilapidated
conditions through the
creation of a “blight tax”
ordinance.
The proposal comes
after the 2002 adoption of
a Georgia law creating the
Community Redevelopment
Tax Incentive Program, which
allows local governments to
increase property taxes on
blighted properties within
their community.
Chamblee’s proposed
ordinance recommends
increasing millage rates on
those properties by seven to
10 times more than the current
tax rate. The tax rate would be
reduced by 50 for a period of
three years after the property
owners brings the property to
into compliance, according to
the proposal.
“We do have a couple
of residential properties that
have been abandoned that
we would potentially look
to use the tool on,” Planning
and Zoning Director Matt
Dickison said. “But for the
most part it would be used
for commercial properties or
on abandoned multifamily
properties.”
Properties eligible for this
additional tax include blighted
commercial or industrial
structures along with vacant or
renter-occupied single-family
residential buildings. The tax
cannot be placed on a single-
family residential structure
used as the owner’s primary
residence, according to the
Georgia law.
Currently the city’s code
enforcement department
issues a warning to property
owners who are in violation
of the code and issues steps
the property owner should
take to bring the property
to compliance. Should the
changes not be made, the
property owner goes before
the city’s municipal judge
where a fine up to $1,000 can
be issued or an appeal can be
issued.
“The way I see this
program is more for habitual
offenders where the fines do
not seem to be a deterrent
and where they keep failing
to respond to the request of
the judge,” said Dickison.
“This will definitely not be the
first approach to bringing a
property into compliance.”
Should the ordinance—
currently scheduled for a vote
at the March 17 city council
meeting — be adopted,
Dickison said the city will
still use the code enforcement
process as the initial process
to mitigate blighted properties.
“Our effort is to bring
people into compliance, not to
be heavy handed or try to fine
people. This [ordinance] is
just a tool we have if we can’t
bring them into compliance,”
Dickison said.
Since the creation of the
Community Redevelopment
Tax Incentive Program,
several municipalities
including Albany, Kennesaw,
Macon, Sandy Springs and
Savannah, have enacted blight
tax ordinances, according to
reports.
OLYMPIAN Continued From Page 3
of food. Food for your body and food for your soul
… So, you have to put food in your brain … If I don’t
have anything up there, life is going to be dull…”
Carlos gave an example of how school is
important, even when students don’t think it is, by
revisiting his grade school geography class. Carlos said
he would be called on but never knew the answers,
because he didn’t think the lessons were important.
However, today he realizes he has traveled to all the
countries he once didn’t care to learn about and now
knows how important those lessons were.
The importance of family was another one of
Carlos’ themes, and he said he goes by the motto of
“each one, teach one.”
“When you learn something in school, your job is
to say, ‘let me teach my little brother or sister about this
math problem I learned,’” Carlos said.
Carlos also gave words of encouragement about
finding one’s own talent.
“Sometimes we don’t pay attention to ourselves
and see what [talents] God gave us,” Carlos said.
He recalled a brief run-in with law enforcement
that set him on the path which led him to become an
Olympian after a police officer told him he should run
track.
“They don’t know who you are today, but they’re
going to know who you are tomorrow,” Carlos said.
“You just have to be ready for tomorrow.”
Carlos said he hopes students had been inspired
to teach others, comparing the process to a baton-
handoff, just as standing up to injustice inspired him to
encourage others.
“Just remember, I’m a part of your life and you’re
a part of my life,” Carlos said.

CLASSIFIEDSECTION
Medical Billing and Coding Train- and more. 5184 Beechwood Forest today! Our service is FREE/no obli-
EDUCATION/ ing. New Students Only. Call and Drive, Lithonia 30038. gation.1-855-508-8043.
CAREER TRAINING Press 1. 100% Online courses. Fi-

AIRLINE Career. AVIATION Grads

work with Delta, United, Boeing,
and others. Get hands on training for
FAA certification. Financial aid if
qualified. Call Aviation Institute of
Maintenance (866) 564-9634 www.
FixJets.com
Online Pharmacy Technician Train-
ing New Students Only. Call & Press
1. Financial Aid Available for those
who qualify. 100% online Courses.
Call 855-212-7763.
nancial Aid Available for those who
qualify. Call 833-628-2698.
ESTATE SALES
ESTATE SALE at 4451 Vineyard
Place, Stone Mountain. March 5, 6,
and 7 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Contact
(770) 846-8173.
ESTATE MOVING Sale, Saturday,
3/7, 9am – 4pm – Upscale Art, furni-
ture, patio sets, beautiful mirrors and
wall décor, high boy tables & bar
stools, pool table, yard equipment,
fitness equipment, household items
FARM EQUIPMENT HELP WANTED
GOT Land? Our Hunters will Pay
Top $$$. To hunt your land. Call for
Production Manager: (Tucker, GA
opening) Supervise inspection &
a FREE info packet & Quote. 1-866-
testing activities to ensure quality &
309-1507. www.BaseCampLeasing. integrity. Email resume referencing
com. job code# PM12132019AAF
to All About Furniture LLC at
bryanwardlow@aafllc.com.
HEALTHCARE
A Place For Mom. The nation’s
largest senior living referral service.
Contact our trusted, local experts

The Champion is not responsible for any damages resulting from advertisements. All sales final.
RATES: $30 for up to 40 words, each Ads due by Friday at noon for next publication DISCLAIMER: We do not knowingly accept advertisements that discriminate,
or intend to discriminate, on any illegal basis. Nor do we knowingly accept
additional word $0.60. All ads are prepaid. All date. For more information visit www. employment advertisements that are not bona-fide job offers. All real estate
advertisements are subject to the fair housing act and we do not accept
major credit cards accepted. championclassifieds.com advertising that is in violation of the law. The law prohibits discrimination
based on color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap or familial status.

AROUNDDEKALB
STONE MOUNTAIN
AVONDALE
ESTATES
Avondale Garden Club to host
community cleanup day
The Avon Garden Club will host
a community workday March 7 to
clean out weeds, litter and debris
under the abelia hedge that runs
between North Avondale Road and
South Avondale Road.
Volunteers of all ages and
abilities are needed and should meet
at the clock tower between North
Avondale Road and South Avondale
Road at 8 a.m. Teams will work until
noon. Bring shovels, rakes, hoes,
gloves, trowels, and other items that
may be needed.
City leaders to host Commissioner
Chat
Mayor Jonathan Elmore
and Commissioner Lisa Shortell
will host Commissioner Chat at
Edwin Jarvis, 88 North Avondale
Road, on March 7 from 11 a.m. to
12:30 p.m. At Commissioner Chat,
residents can hear about projects,
share concerns and ask questions.
Information about the Town Green
design process will also be on
display.
BROOKHAVEN
City to host annual community
yard sale
The Brookhaven Parks and
Recreation Department’s annual
community yard sale will be held
March 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at the
Briarwood Community Center, 2235
Briarwood Way.
The event is free to attend.
Tables to sell items will be available
for $20 for an 8-foot table and $30
for two tables. Call (404) 637-0512
or email Philip Mitchell at Philip.
Mitchell@BrookhavenGA.gov to
secure a table.
For advertising rates call 404.373.7779 ext. 110
CHAMBLEE
Residents needed for Census
Count Committee
Chamblee will host a Complete
Count Committee meeting on
March 5 at 4 p.m. at Chamblee City
Hall, 5468 Peachtree Road. The
purpose of the meeting is increase
awareness, educate and motivate
Chamblee residents to respond to the
2020 Census. Chamblee residents
interested in serving as a Census
Ambassador and playing a part in
ensuring a complete and accurate
count for the Census are encouraged
to attend the meeting.
CLARKSTON
Students to perform book
adaptations
Students from DeKalb
School of Arts will perform short
adaptations of children’s books
and fairy tales at the Clarkston
public library March 5. For more
information, visit: https://events.
dekalblibrary.org/event/4099387
DECATUR
Carnival to ‘Make DeKalb Count’
On March 7, DeKalb County
will host a carnival to inform
residents of the importance of the
2020 Census and being counted.
There will be bounce houses for
children and free food available. The
carnival will be held at The Gallery
at South DeKalb, 2801 Candler
Road, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
DeKalb commissioner to host
Black History Business Showcase
DeKalb County Commissioner
Larry Johnson will host the Black
History Business Showcase March
10 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The event
will be held at Porter Sanford III
Performing Arts Center, 3181
Rainbow Drive.
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 15
County residents can discard
hazardous waste at event
The DeKalb County Sanitation
Division will host a household
hazardous waste recycling event
March 21, from 8 a.m. to noon at
the Sanitation Division’s Central
Transfer Station, 3720 Leroy Scott
Drive.
During the event, county
residents will have an opportunity
to properly dispose of dangerous
household items that are no longer
in use such as aerosols, batteries,
adhesives, flammables, lawn care
products, fluorescent light bulbs,
photo chemicals, paint, paint-related
products and artist supplies. Paint
will be limited to 10 gallons per
vehicle.
Participation is free and open
only to DeKalb County residents.
Proof of residency may be
requested.
DUNWOODY
Nature center offers sensory hike
Guests will be led through
sensory activities while hiking
through the forested trails of the
Dunwoody Nature Center. Guests
interested in participating are to
meet by the historic fireplace at 11
a.m. March 7. The event is open
to all ages, but Dunwoody Nature
Center asks that guests not bring
dogs and be cautious of bringing
strollers because of the wooded
trails. For more information, visit:
https://dunwoodynature.org/free-
first-saturdays/
STONECREST
Arabia Mountain Alliance kicks
off Monadnock Madness
March 7 marks the first of
Arabia Mountain Alliance’s triple
mountain hikes—the landmark event
of Monadnock Madness. Guided
triple mountain hikes are sold out,
but hikers can still accomplish the
feat on their own time. The hike
encompasses the peaks of Stone,
Arabia, and Panola mountains.
Sights include endangered plants,
mountaintop views and local
heritage. Hikers can earn a special
souvenir to wear as a badge of honor
if they complete all three hikes
and get a “passport” stamp at each
location. For more information,
visit: https://monadnockmadness.
com/the-event/
COUNTYWIDE
Volunteers needed for child
advocacy group
DeKalb County Juvenile Court
Judicial Citizen Panel Review is
seeking volunteers to advocate
for children of the community.
Participation in the panel program
benefits children and families, and
volunteers gain experience and take
pride in knowing they have helped
improve the life of a child, according
to DeKalb County Juvenile Court
representatives.
Those interested in becoming
volunteers should contact Olivia
Rudder-Wilson at (404) 294-2738
or oawilson@dekalbcountyga.gov or
contact Panya Dixon at (404) 294-
2251 or pmdixon@dekalbcountyga.
gov.
Potential volunteers are required
to complete an application and
undergo background and reference
checks prior to attending the
training.
Training and orientation for
new volunteers will be held March
19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at
DeKalb County Juvenile Court,
4309 Memorial Drive in Decatur.
Attendance is required both days.
DeKalb libraries accepting Seniors
Got Talent applications
Seniors with talents such as
singing, dancing and reciting have a
chance to put their talent to the test
at DeKalb County libraries in April.
All libraries are currently accepting
applications. Applicants must be 55
years of age or older to perform, and
registration is required. Applications
can only be found at DeKalb County
public libraries, and registration
forms are due by April 15.
 This statement is published in accordance with
Section 19 (b) of the DeKalb County Organizational Act of 1981, p. 4304.
DEKALB COUNTY, GEORGIA STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION BY FUND
This statement is published in accordance with Section 19 (b) of the DeKalb County Organizational Act of 1981, p. 4304.
As of December 31, 2019
DEKALB COUNTY, GEORGIA
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION BY FUND
(In thousands of dollars / unaudited)
As of December 31, 2019
(In thousands of dollars / unaudited)

Drug Abuse Law Enforcement Speed Emergency Special Tax Special Tax
PEG Foreclosure Victim Juvenile Treatment Confiscated Street Hump Telephone Grant- Grants Grants Designated District
General Development Support County Jail Registry Assistance Recreation Services & Education Monies Lights Maintenance System In-Aid 2005 JAG #10 2009 ARRA Fire Services Unincorporated
Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund
100 201 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 215 250 257 260 270 271 272
Assets:
Cash and investments 77,365 14,056 671 155 258 93 66 67 27 6,053 1,241 1,463 (1,569) 2,442 491 (1) 7,538 5,751 8,826
Receivable 11,799 - - - - - - - - 345 15 1,310 4,639 - - 3,402 1,966 1,675
Inventories and prepaid items 5,538
Non-Current Assets - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Total Assets 94,702 14,056 671 155 258 93 66 67 27 6,053 1,586 1,478 (259) 7,081 491 (1) 10,940 7,717 10,501

Liabilities:
Accounts payable 15,505 213 27 - - - 44 1 9 38 50 7 720 1,370 13 2,238 1,251 1,362
Deferred revenue 5,292 - - - - - - - - - - - - 3,124 - - 1,574 940 (331)
Payroll liabilities - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Advance payments and deposits 108 631 - - - - - - - (11) - - - - - - - - 1,882
Notes payable -
Due to others 149 - - - - - - - - 1,304 - - - - - - - - 1,369
Other Accrued Liabilities -
Total Liabilities 21,054 844 27 - - - 44 1 9 1,331 50 7 720 4,494 13 - 3,812 2,191 4,282

Fund Balance 73,648 13,212 644 155 258 93 22 66 18 4,722 1,536 1,471 (979) 2,587 478 (1) 7,128 5,526 6,219

Total Liabilities And Fund Balance 94,702 14,056 671 155 258 93 66 67 27 6,053 1,586 1,478 (259) 7,081 491 (1) 10,940 7,717 10,501
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Hotel / Rental Motor Capital Public Building Urban ARRA GO Bonds
Motel Vehicle Excise 1987 G O 2001 G O 2006 G O 2018 2018 Other Host Capital Improvement COPS Safety Authority Redevelopement HUD Section Capital Debt STD
Hospital Police Services Tax Tax Bonds - Parks Bonds - Parks Bonds - P,T,L Splost Splost Projects Projects Projects Projects Judicial Facilities Juvenile Court Agency 108 Loan Projects Service Debt Service
Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund
273 274 275 280 311 314 315 320 321 330 350 351 354 355 356 357 360 410 411
Assets:
Cash and investments 91 22,012 2,904 43 - 10,054 9,630 54,157 (1,468) (1,418) 44,258 14,164 - 2 699 1,239 - 571 724
Receivable 922 31,521 363 79 - - - 5,815 - - 4,724 - - - - - - 475 643
Inventories and prepaid items - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Total Assets 1,013 53,533 3,267 122 - 10,054 9,630 59,972 (1,468) (1,418) 48,982 14,164 - 2 699 1,239 - 1,046 1,367

Liabilities:
Accounts payable 1 2,909 130 - - 15 68 794 - - 1,083 - - - - - - - -
Deferred revenue 451 29,310 - - - - - - 3,704 - - - - - - 238 398
Payroll liabilities - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Advance payments and deposits - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Notes payable - -
Due to others - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Other Accrued Liabilities
Total Liabilities 452 32,219 130 - - 15 68 794 - - 4,787 - - - - - - 238 398

Fund Balance 561 21,314 3,137 122 - 10,039 9,562 59,178 (1,468) (1,418) 44,195 14,164 - 2 699 1,239 - 808 969

Total Liabilities And Fund Balance 1,013 53,533 3,267 122 - 10,054 9,630 59,972 (1,468) (1,418) 48,982 14,164 - 2 699 1,239 - 1,046 1,367
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Building Public Safety Urban Water & Water & Water & Water & Sanitation
Authority Bonds Judicial Facilities Redevelopment Sewer Sewer Bonds Sewer Sewer Sanitation Sanitation ARRA Capital Airport Airport Stormwater Stormwater Vehicle Vehicle Risk Workers Total
Debt Service Debt Service Debt Service Operating Construction R&E Sinking Operating Construction Projects Operating Construction Utility Construction Maintenance Replacement Management Compensation All
Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Funds
412 413 414 511 512 513 514 541 542 544 551 552 581 582 611 621 631 632
Assets:
Cash and investments 68 (209) 443 44,310 76,344 297,102 97,788 12,883 (141) 7,402 7,731 23,576 7,962 11,020 537 55,437 9,564 14,717 949,189
Receivable - - - 48,827 - - - 4,051 - - 303 1,710 2,028 - - - - 126,612
Inventories and prepaid items - - - 9,851 - 429 - - - - - - - - 1,849 - 2,117 - 19,784
Non-Current Assets - - - - -
Total Assets 68 (209) 443 102,988 76,344 297,531 97,788 16,934 - (141) - 7,402 - 8,034 - 25,286 - 9,990 - 11,020 - 2,386 - 55,437 - 11,681 - 14,717 - 1,095,585

Liabilities:
Accounts payable - - - 7,807 2,298 7,549 3 1,716 2,320 - 76 341 668 16 2,102 261 1,161 28 54,194
Deferred revenue - - - - - - - - - - - 42 - - - - - 44,742
Payroll liabilities - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Advance payments and deposits - - - 305 - 21,646 - - - - 60 - - - - - - - 24,621
Notes payable - 1,521 1,521
Due to others - - - 8,627 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11,449
Other Accrued Liabilities 3,674 9,346 1,981 106 383 610 4,732 128 14,912 35,872
Total Liabilities - - - 20,413 2,298 29,195 9,349 3,697 3,841 - 242 341 1,093 16 2,712 4,993 1,289 14,940 172,399

Fund Balance 68 (209) 443 82,575 74,046 268,336 88,439 13,237 (3,982) 7,402 7,792 24,945 8,897 11,004 (326) 50,444 10,392 (223) 923,186

Total Liabilities And Fund Balance 68 (209) 443 102,988 76,344 297,531 97,788 16,934 (141) 7,402 8,034 25,286 9,990 11,020 2,386 55,437 11,681 14,717 1,095,585
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
General Fund 100 Grant-In-Aid Fund 250 2006 G O Bonds - Parks, Transportation, Libraries Fund 315 Urban Redevelopment Agency Bond Debt Service Fund 414
2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019
Revenues: Budget Actual Revenues: Budget Actual Revenues: Budget Actual Revenues: Budget Actual
Property Taxes 170,861 165,746 Contributions from private sources 2,060 327 Investment income (6,909) 243 Interfund Transfers 556 703
Sales Taxes 111,962 107,515 Intergovernmental 20,599 27,928 Intergovernmental Revenue (65) - Miscellaneous - 136
Other Taxes 3,803 4,234 Miscellaneous (4,441) 1,151 Transfers From Other Funds (3,285) - Fund Balance Carried Forward 309 309
Licenses and permits 238 259 Transfers From Other Funds (3,410) 5,640 Contributions from private sources (4,255) - Total Revenues 865 1,148
Intergovernmental 1,467 1,723 Proceeds of general long-term obligations (25) - Proceeds from sale of bonds (3,285) - Expenditures:
Charges for Services 49,413 47,899 Fund Balance Carried Forward 510 510 Fund Balance Carried Forward 10,920 10,920 Debt Service 705 705
Fines and Forfeitures 9,145 9,322 Total Revenues 15,293 35,556 Total Revenues (6,879) 11,163 Transfers out - -
Investment income 760 879 Expenditures: Expenditures: Unappropriated 160 -
Miscellaneous 5,374 5,111 General Government: Parks 13,843 966 Total Expenditures 865 705
Transfers From Other Funds 4,646 3,964 Finance - - Library (2,298) 510
Proceeds of general long-term liabilities Workforce Development 13,661 6,197 Transportation (4,927) 125 Water & Sewer Operating Fund 511
Fund Balance Carried Forward 68,092 68,092 Civil and Criminal Court System: Fund Expenditures - 2019 2019
Total Revenues 425,761 414,744 Sheriff 544 79 Unappropriated (13,497) Revenues: Budget Actual
Expenditures: Juvenile Court 4,412 979 (6,879) 1,601 Investment income 1,214 1,822
General Government: Superior Court 6,742 831 Charges for Services 252,491 258,948
Chief Executive Officer 3,318 3,105 State Court (45) 186 Fines and Forfeitures -
Board of Commissioners 3,881 3,004 Solicitor 1,867 473 2018 Splost Fund 320 Miscellaneous 635 295
Executive Assistant - - District Attorney 2,455 2,020 2019 2019 Transfers From Other Funds - 1,812
Budget 998 674 Public Defender - - Revenues: Budget Actual Fund Balance Carried Forward Continued on next
Continued page
on page 64,262
17 64,262
Internal Audit 3,881 3,004 Magistrate Court 2,816 607 Sales Tax 348,781 61,914 Total Revenues 318,602 327,139
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 16

Law Department 4,665 3,977 Police Services 4,696 661 Investment Income (214) 1,101 Expenditures:
Ethics 581 439 Fire & Rescue 4,703 2,642 Transfers From Other Funds - - Finance 10,321 8,538
Geographic Information 2,497 2,249 Public Works - - Contributions from private sources - - Water and Sewer 146,192 141,193
Risk Management - - Community Development 1,007 9,409 Proceeds from sale of bonds - - Fund Expenditures 2
Facilities Management 19,580 17,441 Parks 3,249 501 Fund Balance Carried Forward 39,121 39,121 Interfund transfers 95,348 94,831
Purchasing 2,829 2,698 Extension Service - - Total Revenues 387,688 102,136 Unappropriated 66,741
 Fines and Forfeitures 9,145 9,322 Total Revenues 15,293 35,556 Total Revenues (6,879) 11,163 Transfers out - -
Investment income 760 879 Expenditures: Expenditures: Unappropriated 160 -
Miscellaneous 5,374 5,111 General Government: Parks 13,843 966 Total Expenditures 865 705
Transfers From Other Funds 4,646 3,964 Finance - - Library (2,298) 510
Proceeds of general long-term liabilities Workforce Development 13,661 6,197 Transportation (4,927) 125 Water & Sewer Operating Fund 511
Fund Balance Carried Forward 68,092 68,092 Civil and Criminal Court System: Fund Expenditures - 2019 2019
Total Revenues
Continued from
Continued frompage
page16 425,761 414,744 Sheriff 544 79 Unappropriated (13,497) Revenues: Budget Actual
Expenditures: Juvenile Court 4,412 979 (6,879) 1,601 Investment income 1,214 1,822
General Government: Superior Court 6,742 831 Charges for Services 252,491 258,948
Chief Executive Officer 3,318 3,105 State Court (45) 186 Fines and Forfeitures -
Board of Commissioners 3,881 3,004 Solicitor 1,867 473 2018 Splost Fund 320 Miscellaneous 635 295
Executive Assistant - - District Attorney 2,455 2,020 2019 2019 Transfers From Other Funds - 1,812
Budget 998 674 Public Defender - - Revenues: Budget Actual Fund Balance Carried Forward 64,262 64,262
Internal Audit 3,881 3,004 Magistrate Court 2,816 607 Sales Tax 348,781 61,914 Total Revenues 318,602 327,139
Law Department 4,665 3,977 Police Services 4,696 661 Investment Income (214) 1,101 Expenditures:
Ethics 581 439 Fire & Rescue 4,703 2,642 Transfers From Other Funds - - Finance 10,321 8,538
Geographic Information 2,497 2,249 Public Works - - Contributions from private sources - - Water and Sewer 146,192 141,193
Risk Management - - Community Development 1,007 9,409 Proceeds from sale of bonds - - Fund Expenditures 2
Facilities Management 19,580 17,441 Parks 3,249 501 Fund Balance Carried Forward 39,121 39,121 Interfund transfers 95,348 94,831
Purchasing 2,829 2,698 Extension Service - - Total Revenues 387,688 102,136 Unappropriated 66,741
Human Resources & Merit System 4,336 3,666 Family & Children Services (101) - Expenditures: Total Expenditures 318,602 244,564
Information Systems 22,802 23,301 Sanitation 26 - CIP 378,150 42,958
Finance 5,986 5,833 Economic Development 200 - - - -
Property Appraisal 5,235 5,006 Fleet Maint. - - - - - Water & Sewer Bonds Construction Fund 512
Tax Commissioner 8,227 7,870 Animal Control - - Fund Expenditures - 2019 2019
Registrar and Elections 2,808 2,182 Bd of Health 2 - Unappropriated 9,538 Revenues: Budget Actual
Civil and Criminal Court System: Sr Citizen Services 8,398 4,003 387,688 42,958 Investment Income - 2,125
Sheriff 77,277 78,165 Human Services 1,221 1,555 Proceeds from sale of bonds (17,477) -
Juvenile Court 7,460 7,450 Keep Dekalb Beautiful 33 - 2018 Other Splost Project Fund 321 Fund Balance Carried Forward 127,515 127,515
Superior Court 10,235 10,039 Arts, Culture, and Entertainment - - 2019 2019 Total Revenues 110,038 129,640
Clerk Superior Court 7,357 7,157 Registrar/Elections - - Revenues: Budget Actual Expenditures:
State Court 15,541 15,082 Water & Sewer 546 Intergovernmental 4,117 4,117 Capital Projects 145,710 55,594
Solicitor State Court 7,626 7,291 Non-Departmental 208 95 Intergovernmental - - Unappropriated (35,672)
District Attorney 15,943 15,408 Fund Expenditures - Deferred Revenue - - 110,038 55,594
Child Advocate 2,889 2,509 Miscellaneous (4) - Transfers From Other Funds 3,346 -
Probate Court 2,052 2,012 Unappropriated (41,343) 2,731 Fund Balance Carried Forward (2,246) (2,246) Water & Sewer R & E Fund 513
Medical Examiner 2,879 2,781 Total Expenditures 15,293 32,969 Total Revenues 5,217 1,871 2019 2019
Public Defender 9,345 9,083 Expenditures: Revenues: Budget Actual
Magistrate Court 3,516 3,627 Grants/2005 JAG #10 Fund 257 Capital Projects (CIP) 8,241 3,339 Investment income 15,858 -
Public Safety: 2019 2019 Unappropriated (3,024) Miscellaneous (46) -
Public Safety Admin & Communications - - Revenues: Budget Actual 5,217 3,339 Transfers From Other Funds (164,358) 32,183
Animal Control 28 32 Investment income 10 - Fund Balance Carried Forward 365,930 365,930
Police 7,334 6,634 Intergovernmental Revenue 1,044 561 Total Revenues 217,384 398,113
Fire & Rescue 660 204 Transfers From Other Funds 458 35 Expenditures:
Planning & Development 2,506 1,388 Deferred Revenue - - Capital Projects 194,539 129,777
Public Works: Fund Balance Carried Forward 101 101 Unappropriated 22,845 -
Directors Office 554 454 Total Revenues 1,613 697 217,384 129,777
Economic Development 1,635 1,271 Expenditures: Host Capital Projects Fund 330
Public Services - Library 19,691 19,301 Police 1,157 219 2019 2019 Water & Sewer Sinking Fund 514
Health and Human Services: Unappropriated 456 - Revenues: Budget Actual 2019 2019
Extension Services 1,105 870 Total Expenditures 1,613 219 Investment Income 335 - Revenues: Budget Actual
Public Board of Health 4,740 4,740 Intergovernmental (9,793) - Investment income - 488
Community Service Board 2,134 2,134 2009 ARRA Stimulus Fund 260 Deferred Revenue - - Miscellaneous - 340
Family and Children Services 1,278 1,278 2019 2019 Transfers From Other Funds 313 - Transfers From Other Funds 62,441 62,220
Human and Community Development 4,416 4,306 Revenues: Budget Actual Fund Balance Carried Forward (667) (667) Proceeds from sale of bonds - -
Citizen Help Center 472 402 PropertyTaxes - - Total Revenues (9,812) (667) Fund Balance Carried Forward 90,980 90,980
Contributions 360 360 Sales Taxes - - Expenditures: Total Revenues 153,421 154,028
Capital Improvement Investment income - - Capital Projects 36,870 751 Expenditures:
CIP - - Intergovernmental Revenue (9,938) - Unappropriated (46,682) Debt Service - -
GO Bonds - Parks - - Transfer from Other Funds 299 - (9,812) 751 Fund Expenditures 65,941 65,589
Non-Departmental 4,689 3,268 Fund Balance Carried Forward (1) (1) CIP - -
Debt Service 4,175 3,330 Total Revenues (9,640) (1) Unappropriated 87,480
Fund Expenditures - 2 Expenditures: Total Expenditures 153,421 65,589
Unappropriated 100,767 31,647 Workforce Development 1,136 -
Transfers To Other Funds 15,473 14,422 Non-Departmental (10,776)
Total Expenditures 425,761 341,096 Total Expenditures (9,640) -

Fire Fund 270 Capital Improvement Project Fund 350 Sanitation Operating Fund 541
Development Fund 201 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019
2019 2019 Revenues: Budget Actual Revenues: Budget Actual Revenues: Budget Actual
Budget Actual Property Taxes 71,891 71,306 Intergovernmental 23,920 9,063 Investment income - -
Revenues: Sales Taxes - Investment Income 434 - Charges for Services 68,742 70,973
Licenses and Permits 8,586 8,019 Other Taxes - 8 Contributions from private sources (68) 212 Transfers From Other Funds 25 6
Investment income 467 16 Fines and forfeitures - - Miscellaneous 3,555 776 Miscellaneous - -
Miscellaneous - - Investment income - Charges for Services (1,718) 567 Fund Balance Carried Forward 13,106 13,106
Charges for Services - - Transfers To Other Funds 1,084 1,084 Transfers From Other Funds 15,327 6,825 Total Revenues 81,873 84,085
Transfers To Other Funds 11,177 11,177 Charges for Services 1,740 1,736 Fund Balance Carried Forward 41,699 41,699 Finance - -
Total Revenues 20,230 19,212 Miscellaneous 7 5 Total Revenues 83,149 59,142 Sanitation 70,079 69,248
Fund Balance Carried Forward 5,859 5,859 Expenditures: Interfund Transfers 1,600 1,600
Expenditures: Total Revenues 80,581 79,998 Board Commissioners - - Fund Expenditures - -
Planning & Development 7,153 5,976 Expenditures: GIS (399) - Unappropriated 10,194 -
Public Works- Director's Office - 24 Public Safety-Police - - Facilities Management 15,305 2,154 Total Expenditures 81,873 70,848
Interfund Transfers - - Public Safety-Fire 60,553 59,343 Fleet Maintenance 788 -
Unappropriated 13,077 - Non-Departmental 5,316 5,103 Information System 3,571 528 Sanitation Construction Fund 542
20,230 6,000 Debt Service - - Finance 616 267 2019 2019
Interfund Transfers 1,460 1,476 Clerk Superior Court (133) 537 Revenues: Budget Actual
PEG Support Fund 203 Unappropriated 13,252 6,948 Sheriff 1,359 949 Intergovernmental 615 -
2019 2019 Total Expenditures 80,581 72,870 Police 369 - Contributions from private sources 1,200
Revenues: Budget Actual Library (306) - Transfers From Other Funds 33,823 1,494
Investment income - - Special Tax - Designated Services Fund 271 Transportation 31,010 1,057 Fund Balance Carried Forward (1,711) (1,711)
Miscellaneous 65 71 2019 2019 Property Appraisal (1,651) 847 Total Revenues 33,927 (217)
Fund Balance Carried Forward 822 822 Revenues: Budget Actual Host Capital Outlay 16,926 5,295 Expenditures:
Total Revenues 887 893 Property Taxes 34,721 35,408 Road & Drainage 17,614 1,266 Capital Projects 10,938 4,972
Expenditures: Sales Taxes - - Parks 7,320 1,137 Interfund Transfers - -
PEG Support 542 245 Other Taxes 3 5 Planning & Development 80 911 Unappropriated 22,989 (1,207)
Unappropriated 345 4 Intergovernmental - - Community Development (43) (1) Total Expenditures 33,927 3,765
887 249 Investment income - - Economic Development 214 -
Contributions from private sources - - Extension Service - - Sanitation ARRA Capital Projects Fund 544
County Jail Fund 204 Charges for Services 1,616 1,018 Non-Departmental 26,003 - 2019 2019
2019 2019 Miscellaneous 141 160 Fire 944 - Revenues: Budget Actual
Revenues: Budget Actual Transfers From Other Funds 7,606 7,528 DFACS - Intergovernmental - -
Fund Balance Carried Forward 3,672 3,672 Fund Expenditures - Interfund Transfers (12,339) -
Intergovernmental 110 120 Total Revenues 47,759 47,791 Unappropriated (36,438) Fund Balance Carried Forward - 7,402
Fines and forfeitures 1,116 1,097 Expenditures: Total Expenditures 83,149 14,947
Fund Balance Carried Forward 24 24 Public Safety - Police - - Total Revenues (12,339) 7,402
Total Revenues 1,250 1,241 Public Works - Transportation 2,340 2,199 COPS Projects Fund 351 Expenditures:
Expenditures: Public Works - Roads and Drainage 16,366 15,743 2019 2019 Capital Projects 3,061 -
Transfers To Other Funds 1,250 1,086 Parks and Recreation 15,515 15,716 Revenues: Budget Actual Unappropriated (15,400) -
Unappropriated - - Debt Service - - Investment Income 18,739 208 Total Expenditures (12,339) -
1,250 1,086 Non-Departmental 5,207 4,632 Miscellaneous
Transfers to Other Funds 2,004 1,567 Proceeds from sale of bonds (4,830) - Airport Operating Fund 551
Foreclosure Registry Fund 205 Unappropriated 6,327 2,408 Fund Balance Carried Forward 13,967 13,967 2019 2019
2019 2019 Total Expenditures 47,759 42,265 Total Revenues 13,611 14,175 Revenues: Budget Actual
Revenues: Budget Actual Expenditures: Investment income - -
Charges for Services 42 40 Special Tax District - Unincorporated Fund 272 Capital Projects 2,894 11 Miscellaneous 4,612 6,411
Miscellaneous - - 2019 2019 Unappropriated 10,717 - Interfund Transfers - -
Fund Balance Carried Forward 265 265 Revenues: Budget Actual 13,611 11 Fund Balance Carried Forward 5,587 5,587
Total Revenues 307 305 Charges for Services - Total Revenues 10,199 11,998
Expenditures: Other Taxes 4,209 4,555 Public Safety - Judicial Facilities Fund 354 Expenditures:
Interfund Transfers 100 1 Licenses and Permits 12,309 12,427 2019 2019 DeKalb-Peachtree Airport 2,971 2,424
Unappropriated 207 46 Investment income - - Revenues: Budget Actual Interfund Transfers 1,782 1,782
307 47 Fines and Forfeitures 9,319 9,024 Investment Income (1,744) - Unappropriated 5,446
Miscellaneous 443 81 Deferred Revenue - - Total Expenditures 10,199 4,206
Transfers From Other Funds (5,091) (4,889) Fund Balance Carried Forward - -
Victim Assistance Fund 206 Fund Balance Forward 5,529 5,529 Total Revenues (1,744) - Airport Construction Fund 552
2019 2019 Total Revenues 26,718 26,727 Expenditures: Continued 2019 2019
Revenues: Budget Actual Expenditures: Capital projects (368) - Revenues: Continuedon Budget
onnext
page page
18 Actual
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 17

Intergovernmental 410 427 General Government: Unappropriated (1,376) - Investment income - 16

Fines and Forfeitures 460 449 Economic development - - (1,744) - Intergovernmental (5,099) 2,668
Fund Balance Carried Forward 190 190 Finance - - Miscellaneous (5,699) -
Total Revenues 1,060 1,066 State Court 4,632 4,492 Building Authority - Juvenile Court Fund 355 Interfund Transfers (1,587) 1,750
Expenditures: Recorders Court - - 2019 2019 Fund Balance Carried Forward 24,104 24,104
 Revenues: Budget Actual Expenditures: Investment income - -
Charges for Services 42 40 Special Tax District - Unincorporated Fund 272 Capital Projects 2,894 11 Miscellaneous 4,612 6,411
Miscellaneous - - 2019 2019 Unappropriated 10,717 - Interfund Transfers - -
Fund Balance Carried Forward 265 265 Revenues: Budget Actual 13,611 11 Fund Balance Carried Forward 5,587 5,587
Total Revenues 307 305 Charges for Services - Total Revenues 10,199 11,998
Expenditures: Other Taxes 4,209 4,555 Public Safety - Judicial Facilities Fund 354 Expenditures:
Interfund Transfers 100 1 Licenses and Permits 12,309 12,427 2019 2019 DeKalb-Peachtree Airport 2,971 2,424
Unappropriated 207 46 Investment income - - Revenues: Budget Actual Interfund Transfers 1,782 1,782
Continued from 17 307 47 Fines and Forfeitures 9,319 9,024 Investment Income (1,744) - Unappropriated 5,446
Continued frompage
page Miscellaneous 443 81 Deferred Revenue - - Total Expenditures 10,199 4,206
Transfers From Other Funds (5,091) (4,889) Fund Balance Carried Forward - -
Victim Assistance Fund 206 Fund Balance Forward 5,529 5,529 Total Revenues (1,744) - Airport Construction Fund 552
2019 2019 Total Revenues 26,718 26,727 Expenditures: 2019 2019
Revenues: Budget Actual Expenditures: Capital projects (368) - Revenues: Budget Actual
Intergovernmental 410 427 General Government: Unappropriated (1,376) - Investment income - 16
Fines and Forfeitures 460 449 Economic development - - (1,744) - Intergovernmental (5,099) 2,668
Fund Balance Carried Forward 190 190 Finance - - Miscellaneous (5,699) -
Total Revenues 1,060 1,066 State Court 4,632 4,492 Building Authority - Juvenile Court Fund 355 Interfund Transfers (1,587) 1,750
Expenditures: Recorders Court - - 2019 2019 Fund Balance Carried Forward 24,104 24,104
Victim Assistance 99 14 Planning & Development 1,605 1,530 Revenues: Budget Actual Total Revenues 11,719 28,538
Transfers To Other Funds 959 959 Non-Departmental 1,688 1,662 Investment income (56) - Expenditures:
Unappropriated 2 - Fund Expenditures 6 Proceeds of long-term Liabilities 1,261 - Capital Projects 31,531 3,593
Total Expenditures 1,060 973 Transfers From Other Funds 125 125 Fund Balance Carried Forward 2 2 Unappropriated (19,812) -
Unappropriated 18,668 12,693 Total Revenues 1,207 2 11,719 3,593
Total Expenditures 26,718 20,508 Expenditures:
Recreation Fund 207 Capital projects 682 - Stormwater Utility Fund 581
2019 2019 Hospital Fund 273 Unappropriated 525 - 2019 2019
Revenues: Budget Actual 2019 2019 1,207 - Revenues: Budget Actual
Investment income - - Revenues: Budget Actual Investment income - -
Charges for Services 901 901 Property Taxes 12,493 11,800 Charges for Services 14,667 14,448
Miscellaneous - 4 Sales Taxes 7,798 7,572 Urban Redevelopment Agency Fund 356 Interfund Transfers - 1,968
Fund Balance Carried Forward 7 7 Other Taxes - 3 2019 2019 Fund Balance Carried Forward 11,153 11,153
Total Revenues 908 912 Charges for Services - 33 Revenues: Budget Actual Total Revenues 25,820 27,569
Expenditures: Investment income 139 70 Investment income - 2 Expenditures:
Parks and Recreation 908 890 Proceeds of general long term liabilities - Miscellaneous - - Stormwater Utilities 20,392 14,498
Unappropriated - - Transfers From Other Funds - - Fund Balance Carried Forward 697 697 Interfund Transfers 4,970 4,174
908 890 Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,478 1,478 Total Revenues 697 699 Unappropriated 458
Total Revenues 21,908 20,956 Expenditures: Total Expenditures 25,820 18,672
Expenditures: Capital projects 862 -
Health and Welfare-Hospital 20,410 20,395 Unappropriated (165)
Fund expenditures - 697 -
Unappropriated 1,498 -
21,908 20,395

Police Services Fund 274 HUD Section 108 Loan Fund 357 Stormwater Utility Construction Fund 582
Juvenile Services Fund 208 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019
2019 2019 Revenues: Budget Actual Revenues: Budget Actual Revenues: Budget Actual
Revenues: Budget Actual Property Taxes 77,773 77,389 Intergovernmental 23 - Contributions from private sources 187 -
Sales Taxes - - Investment income - - Intergovernmental (747) -
Investment income - - Other Taxes 29,311 27,533 Miscellaneous 9,100 - Charge for Services 187 -
Charges for Services 58 44 Licenses and Permits 380 356 Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,242 1,242 Interfund Transfers 3,170 2,970
Fund Balance Carried Forward 67 67 Charges for Services 664 623 Total Revenues 10,365 1,242 Fund Balance Carried Forward 8,311 8,311
Total Revenues 125 111 Investment income - 11,108 11,281
Expenditures: Miscellaneous 82 136 Capital projects 11,062 3 Expenditures:
Juvenile Court 114 35 Transfers From Other Funds - 188 Unappropriated (697) - Capital Projects 18,845 277
Interfund Transfers 10 10 Fund Balance Carried Forward 22,475 22,475 10,365 3 Unappropriated (7,737)
Unappropriated 1 Total Revenues 130,685 128,700 11,108 277
125 45 Expenditures: ARRA Capital Projects Fund 360
Non-departmental 9,735 9,488 2019 2019 Vehicle Maintenance Fund 611
Police Services 85,917 85,332 Revenues: Budget Actual 2019 2019
Drug Abuse Treatment & Education Fund 209 Debt Service - - Investment income - - Revenues: Budget Actual
2019 2019 Interfund Transfers 3,322 3,338 Intergovernmental (315) - Intergovernmental 160 165
Revenues: Budget Actual Unappropriated 31,711 9,228 Fund Balance Carried Forward - - Charges for Services 30,880 33,127
Fines and Forfeitures 195 169 130,685 107,386 Total Revenues (315) - Miscellaneous - 220
Fund Balance Carried Forward 60 60 Expenditures: Fund Balance Carried Forward (607) (607)
Total Revenues 255 229 Hotel / Motel Tax Fund 275 Capital projects 33 - Total Revenues 30,433 32,905
Expenditures: 2019 2019 Unappropriated (348) - Expenditures:
Health and Welfare 255 211 Revenues: Budget Actual (315) - Fleet Maintenance 30,103 32,901
Unappropriated - Other Taxes 2,750 3,011 Interfund Transfers 330 330
255 211 Fund Balance Carried Forward 2,686 2,686 GO Bonds Debt Service Fund 410 30,433 33,231
Total Revenues 5,436 5,697 2019 2019
Law Enforcement Confiscated Monies Fund 210 Expenditures: Revenues: Budget Actual Vehicle Replacement Fund 621
2019 2019 Convention Bureau 1,100 936 Property Taxes 11,860 11,591 2019 2019
Revenues: Budget Actual Transfers To Other Funds 1,650 1,624 Charges for Services - 18 Revenues: Budget Actual
Investment Income - 34 Unappropriated 2,686 - Interfund Transfers - - Investment income - -
Intergovernmental 5,330 566 5,436 2,560 Proceeds of general long term liabilities - - Charges for Services 25,352 25,871
Miscellaneous - - Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,010 1,010 Miscellaneous 1,000 1,079
Fund Balance Carried Forward 5,246 5,246 Rental Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Fund 280 Total Revenues 12,870 12,619 Interfund Transfers - -
Total Revenues 10,576 5,846 2019 2019 Expenditures: Fund Balance Carried Forward 58,038 58,038
Expenditures: Revenues: Budget Actual Debt Service 11,834 11,811 Total Revenues 84,390 84,988
Police - (1) Other Taxes 540 627 Fund Expenditures - - Expenditures:
Sheriff - - Investment income - Unappropriated 1,036 - Vehicles 75,321 30,765
District Attorney - - Miscellaneous - - 12,870 11,811 Interfund transfers 3,780 3,779
Grants 2,729 1,123 Fund Balance Carried Forward 92 92 Unappropriated 5,289
Fund Expenditures - 2 Total Revenues 632 719 GO Bonds STD Debt Service Fund 411 84,390 34,544
Unappropriated 7,847 - Expenditures: 2019 2019
Total Expenditures 10,576 1,124 Development Authority 598 597 Revenues: Budget Actual Risk Management Fund 631
Unappropriated 34 - Taxes 15,373 15,186 2019 2019
Street Lights Fund 211 632 597 Charges for Services - 11 Revenues: Budget Actual
2019 2019 Proceeds of general long term liabilities - - Charges for Services 10,373 10,464
Revenues: Budget Actual 1987 G O Bonds - Parks Fund 311 Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,124 1,124 Miscellaneous - -
Property Taxes - - 2019 2019 Total Revenues 16,497 16,321 Interfund Transfers - -
Investment income - - Revenues: Budget Actual Expenditures: Payroll deductions and matches 86,850 88,232
Miscellaneous - Investment income (19) - Debt Service 15,361 15,352 Fund Balance Carried Forward 17,026 17,026
Charges for Services 4,604 4,701 Fund Balance Carried Forward - - Transfers out 1,136 - Total Revenues 114,249 115,722
Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,257 1,257 Total Revenues (19) - Total Expenditures 16,497 15,352 Expenditures:
Total Revenues 5,861 5,958 Expenditures: Risk Management 107,792 104,261
Expenditures: Capital Projects - - Building Authority Revenue Bonds Debt Service Fund 412 Interfund Transfers 1,070 1,069
Public Works-Transportation 4,740 4,422 Unappropriated (19) - 2019 2019 Unappropriated 5,387 -
Unappropriated 1,121 - Total Expenditures (19) - Revenues: Budget Actual Total Expenditures 114,249 105,330
5,861 4,422 Investment income - -
2001 G O Bonds - Parks Fund 314 Miscellaneous - - Workers Compensation Fund 632
Speed Humps Maintenance Fund 212 2019 2019 Interfund Transfers 3,725 3,712 2019 2019
2019 2019 Revenues: Budget Actual Fund Balance Carried Forward 70 70 Revenues: Budget Actual
Revenues: Budget Actual Investment income 8,655 236 Total Revenues 3,795 3,782 Charges for Services 6,500 7,505
Charges for Services 290 328 Intergovernmental (277) - Expenditures: Miscellaneous - 58
Investment income - - Contributions from private sources (183) - Debt Service 3,725 3,714 Interfund Transfers 1,069 1,069
Fund Balance Carried Forward 1,443 1,443 Transfers From Other Funds (34) - Unappropriated 70 - Fund Balance Carried Forward (1,483) (1,483)
Total Revenues 1,733 1,771 Proceeds from sale of bonds (38) - 3,795 3,714 Total Revenues 6,086 7,149
Expenditures: Miscellaneous (1,525) - Expenditures:
Public Works-Roads & Drainage 340 300 Fund Balance Carried Forward 10,779 10,779 Public Safety Judicial Facilites Authority Debt Service Fund 413 Non-Departmental 6,086 7,372
Unappropriated 1,393 - Total Revenues 17,377 11,015 2019 2019 Unappropriated - -
1,733 300 Expenditures: Revenues: Budget Actual 6,086 7,372
Capital Projects 36,308 976 Miscellaneous - -
Emergency Telephone System Fund 215 Fund Expenditures (200) - Interfund Transfers 3,106 2,859 ALL TAX FUNDS
2019 2019 Unappropriated (18,931) - Fund Balance Carried Forward 24 24 2019
Revenues: Budget Actual Total Expenditures 17,177 976 Total Revenues 3,130 2,883 Revenues: Budget
Charges for Services 1,200 1,132 Expenditures: Taxes, Service Charges, Income & Transfers 654,080
Investment income - - Debt Service 3,106 3,092 Fund Balance Carried Forward -
Miscellaneous 12,010 11,301 Transfers out 24 - Fund Balance Carried Forward (for encumbrances) 109,331
Fund Balance Carried Forward (739) (739) Total Expenditures 3,130 3,092 Total Revenues 763,411
Total Revenues 12,471 11,694 Expenditures:
Expenditures: Approved Budget 654,080
Emergency Telephone System 12,031 12,317 Encumbrances rolled forward from 2016 109,331
Unappropriated 440 356 Total Appropriations 763,411
DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 18

Total Expenditures 12,471 12,673

SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 19

BASKETBALL
Lithonia star guard commits to LSU
BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Lithonia senior guard Eric
Gaines committed to Louisiana
State University March 1.
Gaines’ stock soared during his
senior season, taking him from an
unranked recruit to being ranked
No. 81 in the country by 247Sports.
College coaches took notice
and Gaines became a priority for
schools such as LSU and Alabama,
which regularly sent coaches to
watch Gaines play.
Gaines released his top five
list, consisting of Washington State,
Alabama, Memphis, TCU and LSU
before committing to LSU.
Gaines led Lithonia to a 26-4
record with a 12-1 record in region
play during his senior year, and
he could have a chance to make
an immediate impact during his
freshman season at LSU.
LSU will be losing Skylar
Mays to graduation this offseason.
Mays does a lot of the Tigers’ ball
handling and manages many of
their point guard responsibilities.
Ja’Vonte Smart could return
for his junior season and start at
point guard for LSU. Minutes
will open either way with Mays’
Eric Gaines driving against Ian Schieffelin of Grayson in the Tournament of Champions. Gaines
had his breakout game against Grayson—which is now ranked No. 2 in the country—when
he scored 34 points. Photo by Jay Phillips
departure, as the senior guard leads
LSU with more than 34 minutes per
game.
Gaines will play for Will
Wade at LSU. Wade is in his third
season as LSU’s head coach and
has led the Tigers to a winning
record every season. Wade is
working on earning LSU’s second
NCAA tournament berth in the last
two seasons, after LSU only went
to one tournament in the eight years
prior to Wade’s arrival.
Wade has sent two players to
the NBA since starting at LSU,
with Tremont Waters and Naz
Reid playing for the Celtics and
Timberwolves, and could send
more this year as Mays, Smart,
Trendon Watford and others are
all considered NBA prospects.
Following Gaines’
commitment, LSU now has the No.
6 recruiting class in the country.
Gaines’ is LSU’s second-
highest ranked recruit in 2020,
behind five-star shooting guard
Cameron Thomas out of Oak Hill.
Gaines is also the No. 8 player
in Georgia and the No. 16 point
guard in the country, according to
247Sports.

BASKETBALL

Playoff update: one DeKalb school left standing

BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Greenforest McCalep’s boys’
basketball team is the only team
from DeKalb County to advance
to the 2020 state championship
for the GHSA basketball playoffs.
Greenforest McCalep played St.
Francis for the 1A Private state
championship 4 p.m. on March 4
at the Macon Centreplex, results
were unknown at press time.
DeKalb County had 22
teams—from both private and
public schools—in the first round
of the high school basketball
state playoffs. Twelve of those
teams advanced to the Sweet 16,
eight of those 12 teams advanced
to the Georgia High School
Association’s Elite 8 and two of
Greenforest McCalep’s Christian Fussell dunks during
a regular season game. Photo by Valerie White
those teams advanced to the Final
Four.
The two teams to advance to
the Final Four were Greenforest
McCalep’s boys’ team in Private
1A and Southwest DeKalb’s boys’
team in 5A.
Southwest DeKalb lost 73-72
in the Final Four—in a game that
went to four overtime periods—
against Cedar Shoals.
Eugene Brown III had a
game high 27 points against
Cedar Shoals Feb. 29, but
Southwest DeKalb still came up
short of the win in one of this
season’s most exciting games.
Greenforest McCalep beat
Trinity Christian Academy 52-
47 at Georgia College and State
University Feb. 28 and will
advance to play St. Francis March
4 in Macon.
Greenforest McCalep is
led by Middle Tennessee signee
Christian Fussell and Drexel
signee Lamar Oden Jr.
Oden is averaging 18.4
points per game to go along with
8.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists per
game. Fussell is averaging 14.3
points per game, 14.1 rebounds
per game and 3.5 blocks per
game.
St. Francis is led by
Dwon Odom. Odom has had a
breakout senior season, rising
from 247Sports’ No. 113 ranked
prospect before the season to No.
43 now.
Odom is averaging 20.4
points per game and 6.4 assists
per game.
Greenforest McCalep entered
the state championship at 20-9
while St. Francis stood at 28-3.
SPORTS DEKALB FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 • PAGE 20

BASKETBALL

Panthers lose Final Four

heartbreaker in four overtimes
BY MARK BROCK
Southwest DeKalb
Panthers’ boys’ basketball
team lost a heartbreaking
73-72 game to Cedar Shoals
on Feb. 29 in the Class 5A
Final Four State Basketball
Playoffs at Fort Valley State
University.
The Panthers (19-13) hit
four consecutive free throws
in the fourth overtime, two
by Eugene Brown III to
tie the game at 70-70 and
then with 12 seconds left
Michael Wright sank two
more giving Southwest
DeKalb a 72-70 lead.
Following a timeout, the
Cedar Shoals Jaguars (28-
3) got the ball up the court
and with about four seconds
left, a shot came off the rim
and into the hands of Brown
before getting knocked away
and saved by Cedar Shoals’
Tyler Johnson. Johnson
managed to get a three-
pointer in the air with 0.3
seconds to play and ended
the Panthers’ season as it
went in.
The loss was the sixth
of the season by three points
or less for the Panthers, who
started the season ranked in
the Top 10.
Cedar Shoals rallied
from a 45-35 deficit early
in the fourth quarter and
pulled within two points
with 26 seconds left, thanks
to an offensive put back by
Jentarian Colbert. The
Jaguars then had to foul the
Panthers three times before
the bonus took effect.
Brown went to the
line for the one-plus-one
and missed the front end
with 10.4 seconds left in
regulation. Colbert drew a
foul call on the other end
and sank two free throws to
knot the game at 54-54 with
3.7 seconds to play.
A long three by
Southwest DeKalb was Jacorry Gist racing past Cedar Shoals on a fast break. Photo by Mark Brock
off the mark and the teams
went into their first overtime
period.
Two free throws and passing to Brown for the led 68-66 with 48.4 seconds high of 27 points and nine
a layup by Kashik Brown layup that sent the game into to play. rebounds. Gist added 20
put the Jaguars up 59-56 the second overtime tied at Colbert drew another for the Panthers and Walton
with 1:34 to play in the first 61. foul in the lane with 13.2 added 12. Mohamed Diallo
overtime. Brown answered Trailing 63-61 with seconds left and knotted the grabbed 10 rebounds for the
for the Panthers with a three 34 seconds to play in the game once again at 68. The Panthers.
to knot the game at 59-59 second overtime Jarrett Panthers got the ball up the Quincy Canty had 27
with 1:08 to play. Walton found Gist open for court, but a long three was points to lead Cedar Shoals
After another Cedar a short shot to knot the game short and set up the fourth and Tyler Johnson hit for
Shoals basket, Jacorry and send it into the third overtime. 13 points and grabbed nine
Gist made a big play overtime. Brown finished his rebounds. Colbert chipped in
for Southwest DeKalb The Panthers missed Southwest DeKalb career 13 points for the game.
by getting a steal on an four of five free throws in with more than 1,100 points
inbounds pass and then the third overtime, but still after going for a game-tying

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

BY JAY PHILLIPS
Jay@dekalbchamp.com
Janae Profit of Dunwoody
High School launched a discus Feb.
22 at the Big Mouth Signs/Shuma
Sports Archer Invitational which
landed her atop the High School
Outdoor Rankings in the United
States at No. 1. This mark will also
move Profit up to #2 on the Georgia
High School All-Time Top lists in
the discus. – Bruce Taylor, Milepslit
DeKalb County public schools’
baseball teams only played 26 of
the 54 games on the schedule for
opening week due to weather, and
Druid Hills was the only team to
come out of that stretch with a
perfect record. – Mark Brock
Druid Hills (now 3-1) beat
Miller Grove 20-5 Feb. 26 in
baseball.
Decatur High School beat
Chamblee High School 11-1 Feb. 27
in baseball.
Lakeside High School beat
Tucker High School 7-3 Feb. 27 in
baseball.
Cedar Grove High School beat
Columbia High School 11-1 Feb. 26
in baseball.
Towers High School beat
Clarkston High School 12-3 Feb. 27
in baseball.
Druid Hills Track and Field had
the opportunity to run in the 4x1
mile relay at the marathon Olympic
trials March 1. “The boys and girls
teams did an outstanding job,” Druid
Hills Sports posted on Twitter.

VISIT US ONLINE
@THECHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.COM