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EDUCATION, 18A

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2013 VOL. 16, NO. 39 FREE

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Business ................ 17A Classified .............. 20A Education ......... 18-19A Sports ............... 21-23A

POLICE CHIEF PROMOTED

LOCAL, 14A

Taxes wont increase in proposed budget

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May presented a budget Dec. 15 that avoids a tax increase and focuses on public safety and beautification efforts. The budget also proposed to close gaps by streamlining county operations, reducing May costs, increasing revenue and refinancing debt. According to May, the 2014 budget will cost approximately $562 million in tax revenue and the countys millage rate is anticipated to remain at 21.21 mills. The deadline for the administrations budget proposal was midnight, Dec. 15, and May cut it close to that deadline by sending out his recommendations via a late-evening email. DeKalb County has overcome many financial challenges over the past five years and the impact of the national and state economic downturn is still too fresh to ignore, May said. However, by focusing on streamlining operations, reducing costs, increasing revenue
See Budget on page 15A

Gang violence takes its toll on unintended victims

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com Chamblee resident Deborah Rider said it wasnt long after she woke to what sounded like fire crackers before she knew something wasnt right. I dont know how much longer it was after I sat up in bed. It couldnt have been more than a few seconds at the most that I heard my son Nicholas calling my name, Rider said. Nicholas Sheffey had fallen asleep watching TV with Rider. Several hours after David Sheffey, Nicholas father, woke him and ushered him off to bed. When 11-year-old Nicholas climbed into the top of his bunk bed the night of Feb. 11, 2010, he didnt sleep on the side he normally did each eveningmaybe he was groggy after being awakened when his father came home. The Sheffey family soon realized that the noises Rider heard were actually gunshots and her son Nick had been shot as he lay sleeping. Rider turned on the light and soon realized her son was bleeding. Nick was trying to get up but he couldnt, Rider said. I was going to try and lift him off the bed and thats whenI actually saw some brain matter in my hand. When Rider realized that the marks on the walls in Nicks room were bullet holes and her son had been shot, her head filled with frantic questions: Who would shoot up my house? Why would anybody shoot Nicholas? Several days later she would learn the shooting was a drive-by in retaliation for a crime Nicholas older brother had committedDevon Sheffey was the intended target. Nicholas died Feb. 16 from a traumatic brain injury as a result of the bullet wound in his head. Devon was arrested and charged with home invasion and the Sheffey family was left reeling from a loss for which Rider said they hardly had time to grieve. When the family found out the shooting was done by gang members and Devon was connected to it, Rider said she was scared and angry. She said, she told Devon that she wanted
See Gangs on Page 15A

Eleven-year-old Nicholas Sheffey was sound asleep when he was hit by a bullet intended for his older brother. Nicholas later died and his family is still feeling the effects of gang violence. Photo provided

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The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

LOcaL NEWS

Page 2A

CEO searches for a fire chief

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May said that although most department heads are appointed at the sole discretion of the CEO, he believes that the hiring of a new fire chief should be a process open to the public. This is something that Im excited about, May said. Hopefully youll see this process as being one thats transparent and open. My decision has not been made as of yet. The search for a new fire chief began after Chief Eddie OBrien retired in October. May said the county received approximately 110 applicants, which From left, Fire chief candidates Teresa Everett and Darnell Fullum attended a Dec. 10 forum were organized into three groups discuss fire rescue and safety in DeKalb County. Interim CEO Lee May said he hopes to of candidates: those with minimum to hire one of them to be the new chief before the end of the year. Photo by Daniel Beauregard qualifications, those who were well qualified and highly qualified. joined the fire service in 1989 after serve the department and to serve From the six highly qualified working at Miami-Dade Commuthe [county], Everett said. candidates a panel chose finalists nity College. Everett has served in As fire chief, Everett said she Teresa Everett and Darnell Fuldifferent capacities for fire departwould be accountable, transparent, lum, who were present along with ments in Rochester, N.Y., College fair and flexible. Additionally, she residents and members of the fire Park, Ga. and elsewhere. said, she is looking for a longterm department at the Dec. 10 forum. Im here today not seeking the job and a place to put down her Everett, who currently serves as position of fire chief but seeking to roots. fire chief for the city of Gary, Ind., serveto serve the community, to Fullum, currently chief of Fulton County Fire Rescue, said he has led a life of service that began when he joined the military at age 18. Fullum spent three years in the military where he became a squad leader, That was really my first time being in a leadership position and I discovered that I enjoyed it and that I could do it, Fullum said. After leaving the military with my honorable discharge I decided to pursue another dream of mine and that was to become a firefighter. I became a firefighter in 1987 and I was able to move through the rankshitting all the different areas of the fire department. May said the county is interested in a candidate willing to make a long-term commitment to the department and Everett and Fullum reiterated the importance of that. We want to make sure that we have the leadership in place to lead the organization. We want to make sure that we have stable, long-term leadership, May said. For a detailed transcript of the Q&A session between Everett and Fullum visit www.thechampionnewspaper.com.

Add a side of to every meal.

Savings

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For a list of current Buy One Get One Free deals, weekly specials, and coupons, visit publix.com/save. To view deals on your smartphone, scan the code.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

Page 3A

Car charging stations coming to Chamblee

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Owners of the Nissan LEAF (Leading, Environmentally friendly, Affordable, Family) and other electric cars will soon be able to charge their cars in Chamblee. The city announced Dec. 9 that the Downtown Development Authority has coordinated with Capitol City Nissan and Nissan USA to install three Level 2 Charging Stations in Chamblee. City officials said the first station will be installed by the end of the year in the parking lot on Peachtree Road adjacent to the Chamblee MARTA station. The decision to install the stations comes a month after a man was arrested for charging his electric car with an outdoor outlet at Chamblee Middle School. According to reports, Kaveh Kamooneh drove his Nissan LEAF Nov. 2 to the middle school, where his 11-year-old son was playing tennis. The Decatur man plugged his electric car into an outdoor socket for 20 minutes. Instead of arresting him on the spot, an officer just filed a police report, according to reports. Kamooneh was arrested at his home 11 days later. Chamblee city manager Marc Johnson said Kamooneh was stealing five cents worth of power from the school. The reality was he was stealing power from and Capital City Nissan will evaluate other potential sites to ensure the best possible coverage for the community. Two additional chargers will be installed in the first quarter of 2014. Chamblees Downtown Development Authority chairperson Van Pappas said the 100-milesper-gallon Nissan LEAF would cost about $2.88 to fully charge, which is less than three cents per mile. By comparison that same distance in a gasoline car that averages 25 miles per gallon (the 2008 national average) would cost $0.154 per mile, Pappas said. This is an important investment that Nissan USA and Capitol City is making in our community and were excited that the first charger will be in the historic downtown district. Its good for the environment, Johnson said. You can just stop anywhere and plug in any outlet. Hoban said Chamblee is home to the No. 1 selling electric vehicle dealership in the country. With so many of our customers (more than 700 and counting) needing to recharge or top off their battery packs away from home we feel a responsibility to help create opportunities for them to do so in a safe, comfortable environment. We are happy to partner with Downtown Development Authority in providing these opportunities for all electric vehicle drivers, Hoban added.

Collins

Man indicted for beating, robbing elderly woman

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com A DeKalb County grand jury recently indicted Quiantae Collins for his alleged role in attacking and robbing a 78-year-old Lithonia woman. Collins, 18, was indicted Dec. 10 on counts including robbery, aggravated assault, criminal attempt to commit aggravated sodomy and abuse of an elder person. According to the indictment, Collins took the victims car keys and a check from her, then choked and hit her, and placed a cloth over her face to smother her. He then fled in the victims Chevy Lumina. At one point during the incident, Collins allegedly knocked the victim down and demanded that she perform oral sex on him. DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James said the incident underscores the need for continued outreach to the countys senior population. Protecting seniors has always remained a top priority of my office. I often remind seniors and their loved ones to be mindful at all times that people target them for various violent crimes and financial scams, James said.

the middle school while his son was over there playing tennis when he was told not to be on the tennis courts, Johnson said. Before that incident, Johnson said Chamblees Downtown Development Authority, which formed earlier this year, was looking for simple projects that the authority could do in the downtown area while the organization up and running. Installing charging stations in the city was one of those projects. When the [Kamooneh] incident happened that just made them think about it more, Johnson said. They contacted our Mayor [Eric

Clarkston] to see if he thought it was a good idea and they put him in touch with the Nissan dealership here in Chamblee and they in turn contacted Nissan USA, who is donating the three stations. Clarkston said he is grateful to Capitol City Nissan owner Pat Hoban and Nissan USA for addressing a city need. Their willingness to donate these chargers for public use is a testament to their corporate citizenship and their past history of always looking for opportunities to better serve not just their customers but all residents, Clarkston said. After installation of the first charger, Chamblee

Page 4A

OPINION
One Mans Opinion

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

Santa Drone?
Red Box if you can make tonights DVD come to you?Heres why. Imagine a sky filled with hundreds of crisscrossing aircraft slightly smaller than an oversized Frisbee, but each with four to eight whizzing rotors spinning at incredible speeds.Now imagine your 5-yearold out at play or walking home from school and running into said drone whose batteries are drained It will work, it will happen, and from one trip too many across town its gonna be a lot of fun.Amathat day, or the drone falls into an zon CEO Jeff Bezos on 60 Minutes, open convertible tooling down the Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013. interstate, or your local reservoir and water supplyone household Its Christmas Eve, 2020, while AAA battery contains enough sipping spiked egg nog and awaiting chemical waste to despoil more than the arrival of old Saint Nick, you 10,000 gallons of water for human hear a slight whirring buzz, replacconsumption. ing the tingling sounds of eight tiny There is a reason we use rail reindeer up on your roof.Clambercars, tanker containers and cargo ing down to your den, you note an ships so large that they are exelectronic drone helicopter hovering panding the Panama Canal. Its next to the fireplace, while an even called economies of scale.Moving smaller robot rolls gifts up under the items by the thousand reduces the tree.NOOOOOO!!!!! per-piece cost of transit.Creating Amazon is a great company.Im thousands of warehouses, within a an Amazon Prime member, and a 10-mile drone hop of two-thirds of fan of the sharp mind of Amazon our nations population will cost bilCEO Jeff Bezos, who also saved lions, prior to putting the first drone and purchased The Washington Post in the air. earlier this year.The man stays busy.Some might say in a post-Cyber Monday world, that Amazon is fast out-pacing and soon replacing Santa Claus.AgainNOOOOO!!!! Im not a techno-phobe.Though I still enjoy brick and mortar shopping, and read newspapers, I also bank, book travel and extensively shop online.Amazon and eBay are among my favorite e-tailers and places to shop.That said, I also think that UPS, FedEx and even the beleaguered U. S. Postal Service do a pretty good job of delivering parcels, packages and the like.Watching the 60 Minutes piece and the staged Amazon drone package deliveries, I noted both that the boxes were quite smalland that the drone choppers were landing in front of single family houses in the suburbs. It made for a cute bit of sci-fi, and was an extremely intelligent P. R. move on Cyber-Monday eve by Amazon.But do you really need that pack of Skittles in 30 minutes, versus overnight? Why get in the car and go to the Private hobbyists are already putting drones to use for aerial photography, and high rise residents have already begun to complain about the occasional peeping toy helicopter, hovering right outside their bedroom window, which formerly had an open view as far as the eyes could see. The view is still there only now there is also a view looking in. Im not suggesting that we abandon drone avionic technology.Ive also witnessed trials of driverless cars at Georgia Tech, another pretty neat concept, but once the vehicles were off the controlled test track they more frequently performed like the storied Ramblin Wrecks. Technology and innovation are good things and I have little or no doubt that Jeff Bezos, Amazon and other technology companies will continue to wring out costs, and jobs out of the supply and logistics delivery chain. That said if you take out that entire industry, which happens to be one of Georgias largest, who is actually going to have the money to buy the things that the drones will deliver?And who will stop all those angry truckers from taking a baseball bat to that friendly little neighborhood drone touching down next door?Its not like the little hunk of plastic, wires, batteries and metal is human. And though I am actually betting that the Zombie Apocalypse is more likely than tiny drones delivering tonights dinner or your most recent retail purchase, I do have to ask: If Jeff Bezos is right, and even if it is more fun than dangerous, just who is going to tell Little Virginia that there really is no Santa Claus anymore? Merry Christmas and all the best wishes of the season and New Year to you and your family. Bill Crane also serves as a political analyst and commentator for Channel 2s Action News, WSB-AM News/Talk 750 and now 95.5 FM, as well as a columnist for The Champion, Champion Free Press and Georgia Trend. Crane is a DeKalb native and business owner, living in Scottdale. You can reach him or comment on a column at billcrane@ earthlink.net.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

OPINION

Page 5A

Equality lets the good times roll

Wide income gaps may be the ultimate party pooper.
by Sam Pizzigati World Bank economist Branko Milanovic does serious work. His explorations into global income distribution have won him a wide and appreciative audience in scholarly and policy-making circles the world over. But Milanovic isnt always crunching data and writing insightful articles and books. In fact, he likes to have a good time as much as anyone. The Serbian economist may even rate, in some peoples eyes, as a fun sort of guy. Recently, in a light-hearted moment, Milanovic brought his two passions together and came up with a new yardstick for human progress, a global index for measuring funness. This funness index, Milanovic acknowledges, started as a joke. The world has all kinds of international indexes, as he told an Australian journalist earlier this fall. We should have one, that explores fun. But the joke soon turned intellectually interesting. What does, after all, make one society more fun to live in than another? Milanovic would eventually work up a list of 10 basic factors than encourage good times. Some of his elements would be rather obvious. Fun places, as his yardstick recognizes, have lots of restaurants and good nightlife. Other elements on his list turn out to be far more edgy. Fun places, Milanovic writes, have a slight decadence oating in the air and frequent changes in government. How do changes in government help people have fun? They give people, the economist explains, plenty of topics to talk about. But truly fun societies have more than hot spots and hot topics. They have low inequality and small differences in social status, Milanovic suggests. I think people treat each other better in societies that do not have very rigid social divisions and distinctions, Milanovic says. You have more fun in places where people treat each other well. How specifically does inequality turn savagely unequal societies into party-pooping places? Milanovic doesnt delve too deeply into specifics with his funness index. He does offer one anecdotal example. If you come out of a restaurant after a great meal and have 20 people asking you for money, he explains, thats probably going to spoil your fun. Other chroniclers of our unequal times have actually gone far more deeply into this fun phenomenon, most notably the journalist Michelle Quinn. Back in 1999, at the height of the dot.com bubble, Quinn did a powerful series of articles in the San Jose Mercury News, the hometown paper of Californias Silicon Valley. Her focus: the street-level impact of the high tech industrys incredibly unequal distribution of rewards. Economic disparity, Quinn would note in her reporting, has always made socializing awkward. This awkwardness, her reporting detailed, can spoil even the most casual of encounters. Just going about picking a restaurant to meet friends, Quinn related, can end up sparking considerable social static if some acquaintances in a group can easily afford a hot new dinner spot and others cant. Wealthy people, once singed by such static, tend to take steps to avoid it in the future. They start, sometimes consciously, sometimes not, only making friends with those whose economic profile is similar to theirs. In the process, old social circles shrink and crumble. Daily life becomes ever more stratifiedand stressful. Girls and boys who just want to have fun, as Cyndi Lauper sang, might be wise to keep all these dynamics in mind. The narrower the gaps that divide us, the better the chances that good times are going to be rolling.

OtherWords columnist Sam Pizzigati, an Institute for Policy Studies associate fellow, edits the inequality weekly Too Much. His latest book is The Rich Dont Always Win: The Forgotten Triumph over Plutocracy that Created the American Middle Class. OtherWords.org

FREEPRESS
Let Us Know What You Think!
THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS encourages opinions from its readers. Please write to us and express your views. Letters should be brief, typewritten and contain the writers name, address and telephone number for verication. All letters will be considered for publication.
Send Letters To Editor, The Champion Free Press, P. O. Box 1347, Decatur, GA 30031-1347; Send E-Mail to Kathy@dekalbchamp.com FAX To: (404) 370-3903 Phone: (404) 373-7779 Deadline for news releases and advertising: Thursday, one week prior to publication date. EDITORS NOTE: The opinions written by columnists and contributing editors do not necessarily reect the opinions of the editor or publishers. The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts.

Publisher: John Hewitt Chief Financial Ofcer Dr. Earl D. Glenn Managing Editor: Kathy Mitchell News Editor: Andrew Cauthen Production Manager: Kemesha Hunt Photographer: Travis Hudgons The Champion Free Press is published each Friday by ACE III Communications, Inc., 114 New Street, Suite E, Decatur, GA. 30030 Phone (404) 373-7779.

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We sincerely appreciate the discussion surrounding this and any issue of interest to DeKalb County. The Champion was founded in 1991 expressly to provide a forum for discourse for all community residents on all sides of an issue. We have no desire to make the news only to report news and opinions to effect a more educated citizenry that will ultimately move our community forward. We are happy to present ideas for discussion; however, we make every effort to avoid printing information submitted to us that is known to be false and/or assumptions penned as fact.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

COMMUNITY

Page 6A

Champion of
the Ross Sloop
Ross Sloop, senior director of finance at Piedmont Healthcare and a Decatur resident, grew up in DeKalb County in the 70s and 80s. I have seen the community change a great deal over the years. There always has beenand will continue to bea need for groups and individuals to volunteer their time and talents to make the community a better place to live, he said. I was raised in a family with a strong orientation toward service. Most of my family members are either teachers or Presbyterian ministers. From a young age I was encouraged to pursue work that would enrich the community. In my career as a healthcare administrator, I do feel that I am achieving that goal of providing service to the community; however, it is gratifying to be able to contribute to the community outside of my normal work duties, Sloop added. For close to two decades I have worked in the field of healthcare administration. My work experience has prepared me to contribute in the areas of strategic planning, business development, healthcare finance and operations. I feel that my work skills are transferable to many settings outside of traditional healthcare delivery models. Among Sloops most recent volunteer ventures is service on the board of directors of Odyssey Family Counseling Center, a community mental health facility that serves the metropolitan Atlanta area, especially Clayton, Fulton, Henry and DeKalb counties. I am impressed with

Week

The students behind Towers Principal Ralph Simpson will be wearing school uniforms in January. File photo

Towers High students to start wearing uniforms in January

by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com School uniforms will be the new fashion statement at Towers High School when students return from the winter holiday break in January. Student will be required to wear khaki pants, shorts or skirts, along with golf, polo or button down shirts. The shirts can be of any color or pattern. It gives us an identity, said Towers Principal Ralph Simpson. One of the things that has plagued Towers High School is the negative image that the school had. I believe that the students were more in favor of [the dress code change] because it gives them an identity. The students and parents also said the uniforms would save them money, Simpson said. They dont have to worry about what theyre going to wear. They dont have to worry about impressing their peers, he said. They dont have to worry about being talked about by their peers. Ultimately it cuts down on the level of disruptions and distractions that typically take place as a result of what someone is wearingthe inappropriateness of things that can be worn or how they can be worn, Simpson said. The idea to change the dress come was the result of a whim, Simpson said. It was an effort to get more parents out to the PTSA meeting, he said. Making the announcement on the intercom like I did to the studentstypically you find in a high school that students dont want to wear uniforms because of their individualityI figured that they would run home complaining to their parentsand the parents would come out and support their children. But, interestingly enough, kids were going up to their teachers and administrators with a level of excitement, he said. Students were stopping me in the hall, so I said maybe this is something we should entertain. At a PTSA meeting the parents in attendance favored the change and the idea was approved by the schools parents council. More than 300 of the schools 900 students signed a petition in support of the dress code change. Approximately 100 parents surveyed also consented. At a Dec. 5 PTSA meeting parents voted unanimously to require student uniforms, Simpson said.

Lower bond denied for man accused of shooting baby

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com A DeKalb County Superior Court judge denied the request for a lower bond from a man accused of shooting a toddler outside of a DeKalb County Kroger earlier this year. Chazrel Burton, 21, appeared in court Dec. 13 to request his $500,000 bond be lowered. Superior Court Judge Clarence Seeliger denied that request. Burton is charged with three counts each of criminal attempt to commit murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. He is also being charged with cruelty to children, criminal damage to property and robbery for the June 26 incident that occurred in the parking lot of a Stone Mountain Kroger. According to DeKalb County police, Decatur resident Jermaine Harrison confronted Burton for allegedly robbing someone in front of the Chase Bank at the shopping center and thats when his 2-year-old son Evan was shot. After witnessing the robbery at the bank, police said, Harrison saw Burton inside Kroger while he was shopping and tried to hold him until police arrived. A confrontation then ensued and Burton started firing randomly at Harrisons car. Evan was shot in the abdomen and later rushed to Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. According to the indictment, Burtons robbery charge is for stealing a necklace.

Odysseys long history of providing mental and behavioral health services to those needing care regardless of the individuals ability to pay. Additionally, I am motivated by Odysseys commitment to focusing on family counseling. Our country pours tremendous resources into medical and surgical care; however, there often remains a stigma surrounding mental and behavioral health needs. I am very supportive of Odysseys goals of helping individuals as well as families. He added, In his role as a Presbyterian pastor, my father did a good deal of work in substance abuse and family counseling. I think he would be pleased to know that I am trying to continue to have an impact in that same field. Sloop also sits on the alumni board of his graduate program, the Georgia State University Institute of Healthcare Administration, and for several years served on the board of the Downtown Child Development Center of Central Presbyterian Church, an organization serving lowincome parents working in downtown Atlanta. He also volunteers with the Boy Scouts of America.

If you would like to nominate someone to be considered as a future Champion of the Week, please contact Kathy Mitchell at kathy@dekalbchamp.com or at (404) 373-7779, ext. 104.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

COMMUNITY

Page 7A

ATLANTA

AROUNDDEKALB

couples relationship. It also contains an array of correspondence, artwork, photographs, scrapbooks and other materials Johnnys fans have sent him.

BROOKHAVEN

The series features recently released blockbuster movie. Covington Library is located at 3500 Covington Highway, Decatur. For more information, call (404) 508-7180.

Police arrest powers now extend statewide The Brookhaven Police Departments command, supervisory and investigations staff were sworn in Dec. 6 by DeKalb County Sheriff Thomas Brown. Being sworn in by the county sheriff enables the Brookhaven officers to make arrests statewide, according to city officials. The extension of arrest powers to municipalities is common between county and municipal law enforcement agencies, especially for officers who are likely to travel outside of their jurisdiction while performing law enforcement duties. City names new parks director Ray Holloway Jr., the president of the Mississippi Recreation and Parks Association, will become Brookhavens new parks and recreation director. Holloway brings more than 20 years of parks and recreation management experience. He is scheduled to start on Jan. 13. Holloway will be tasked with implementing a comprehensive master plan, to outline future growth and policies for the parks and oversee operations for maintenance and park activities.

DUNWOODY

Community invited to day of family entertainment The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) announced that it is inviting the entire community to its annual Family Fun Day on Dec. 25, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Highlights include: 11 a.m. - Family sing-a-long with Rabbi G 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Inatables and ride-on toys in the Blank Gym, table tennis, basketball, activities in the Sophie Hirsh Srochi Discovery Center, open swim in the indoor pool, and free play on the Weinstein School playground 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Family-friendly movie in the Morris & Rae Frank Theatre. The event will be held at the MJCCA, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. It is free of charge and open to everyone. The MJCCA building will be open 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Dec. 25, including the fitness center, indoor pool, and open play/pick-up basketball in the gym. Goodfriends Grill will be open for breakfast and lunch from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, contact Lora Sommer at (678) 812-4078, lora.sommer@atlantajcc.org; or Rabbi Brian Glusman at (678) 812-4161, brian. glusman@atlantajcc.org.

IHM Catholic School collects 300 toys Each year the Student Council at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School organizes a toy drive for Catholic Social Services. The yearly goal is 300 toys. This year, the Student Council exceeded that goal and collected 599 toys. These new, unopened toys will be delivered to needy children in time for Christmas. Established in 1958, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School serves 500 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

CLARKSTON

Library hosting moving screening The animated film The Polar Express will be screened Dec. 21 at the Clarkston Library from 2-3:30 p.m. The screening is a part of the Heritage Festival series. The film tells the story of a doubting boy who boards a magical train that heads to the North Pole and Santa Claus home on Christmas Eve. The screen will include hot chocolate for attendees. The Clarkston Library is located at 951 N. Indian Creek Drive.

STONE MOUNTAIN

DECATUR

Food festival raises $10,000 donation for DeKalb Police Alliance The DeKalb County Police Alliance received a $10,000 check Dec. 10 from the proceeds of the third annual DeKalb International Food and Music Festival. DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson, the festivals host, presented the check which will assist in paying the annual life insurance premium policy. During its three years, the festival has raised $30,000 for the DeKalb County Police Alliance. I want to recognize and thank the 2013 festival sponsors and festival committee for all of their contributions toward a successful event, Watson said. I look forward to continuing to work with these partners so that each year our faithful and well deserving men and women in blue who take an oath to take care of us will indeed, should something happen, be taken care of as well. Library to show movie Man of Steel As part of its New Movie Series, the Covington Library is showing Man of Steel Saturday, Dec. 28, at 2 p.m. The movie stars Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Russell Crowe, Diane Lane and Kevin Costner and is rated PG-13. Clothing drive helps women in shelters Three east metro Atlanta chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.Chi Tau Omega Chapter (Newton/Rockdale Counties); Lambda Epsilon Omega Chapter (Decatur); and Tau Pi Omega Chapter (Stone Mountain/Lithonia) recently partnered with The Mall at Stonecrest to hold a professional clothing drive. The organizations accepted clothing donations to help women in battered womens shelters, domestic violence shelters, and homeless shelters get back into the workforce. Supporters of the event donated suits, blouses, skirts, slacks and shoes. Overall, 35 bags of professional clothing were collected from more than 95 individuals and donated to three agencies.

Olympic skater and spouse donate papers to Emory manuscripts collection Three-time U.S. champion, two-time Olympian, and World bronze medalist mens figure skater Johnny Weir-Voronov and husband Victor Weir Voronov, a 2005 graduate of Emory University, have committed to placing their papers in the LGBT collection at Emorys Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library (MARBL). The Weir-Voronov papers will broaden the scope of the collection to include research opportunities on LGBT athletes and marriage equality, said Randy Gue, curator of MARBLs LGBT collection. The collection documents Johnny Weir Voronovs athletic career and achievements, Johnny and Victors professional and public lives, and the

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

College learning labs support learners

by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com world; were also helping them navigate the technology as well, Johnson said. Lab coaches also provide workWhen 54-year-old Calvin Williams shops on various skills such as comof Stone Mountain decided to go back puter basics. to college, he needed a little help acaThe lab is designed, said Deborah demically. Hadaway, a math coach and former When I came hereI scored a lit- DeKalb County school teacher, to tle lower than I wanted to move up in work with skills that these students the advanced courses, said Williams have forgotten or did not have to begin about enrolling at Georgia Piedmont with. After students go into the classroom and learn the skill, they come back into the computer lab to work with the skill, Hadaway said. Weve tried to make this as individualized as possible and allow students to work at their own pace, said Laura Hardy, a reading and English learning support coach for two years. Williams, a Delta retiree who already Willie Armstrong has a degree in aircraft management, is expected graduate in May 2014 with an electronics deTechnical College (GPTC). And I gree from GPTC. In the learning supwas told about the lab. port labs, he received help in algebra. Each semester, approximately The coaches there were really 1,000 students like Williams sign helpful, Williams said. Once I made up for GPTCs learning support labs it through the transition and started where they get extra assistance in getting into the core courses, I just English, reading and mathematics. continued to go there because its a Its the purpose of the learning place where I can sit and focus. Anysupport program to help students that time I have a dilemma I could [ask] have some type of difficulty or maybe the coaches and they could help me barriers in the soft skills, said Dr. out. Larry Johnson, GPTCs general studI love the learning center, said ies and learning support division chair. Willie Armstrong, 54, a second year Johnson said the labs are a require- student, of Stone Mountain. They rement for certain students based on ally helped to upgrade my skills. They their performance on the COMPASS, really take the time, break it down and an untimed, computerized college show good examples. A lot of students placement test. Open Mondays-Thurs- say that helps them to not be afraid of days, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. and on Saturdays, mathematics. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., the labs help particiMy writing has improved so pants develop as a student, he said. much, he added. I learned about We are demystifying the stigma comma splicesI didnt even know of students that are enrolled in learnwhat those things were, independent ing support, Johnson said. In some clauses, dependent clauses, when to regards, maybe years ago, students use a comma, a semicolon. believed that meant that they were Without [the labs], most older stuincompetent [or] that meant they were dentsand young students, toowe unprepared. In many cases our stuwould not be doing well, Armstrong dents that go through our learning sup- said. We really need to give them a port program are better students after whole lot of credita whole lot of evhaving gone through this program erything. than their counterparts that test right Without the [coaches] wed be in into credit bearing courses. trouble, he said. The school has reWere doing more than just ally given us the help that we needed. helping the students in the academic

LOcaL NEWS

Page 8A

A student works at a computer in a learning lab at Georgia Piedmont Technical College as a coach looks on.

Without [the labs], most older studentsand young students, toowe would not be doing well.

Calvin Williams, 54, continues to go to the learning labs even though it isnt required for him.

Learning coach Cat Nguyen assists student Huyen Tran.

Willie Armstrong, 54, studies in the lab. Photos by Andrew Cauthen

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

LOcaL NEWS
by Daniel Beauregard danil@dekalbchamp.com Dunwoody widow Andrea Sneiderman, currently serving a five-year prison sentence after being convicted of multiple charges including lying under oath, was denied bond by a DeKalb County judge Dec. 16. Prosecutors originally accused Sneiderman of having an affair with her boss, Hemy Neuman and conspiring with him to kill her husband, Rusty Sneiderman. However, several days before the trial began the most serious charges against her were dropped. Neuman previously admitted to killing Rusty in front of a Dunwoody day care in 2010 and has since been convicted and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Sneiderman was convicted in August of lying to police and hindering the investigation into her husbands murder. DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams sentenced her to serve five consecutive years in prison on four counts of perjury, three counts of making false statements and one count each of hindering the apprehension of a criminal, and concealing material facts. Shortly after she was sentenced, Sneidermans attorneys filed a motion requesting a new trial and bond hearing, which was held Dec. 12. According to Adams order denying bond based on appeal, the trial court must answer four questions: whether there is a substantial risk the defendant will flee; whether there is a substantial risk the defendant will pose a danger to others in the community; whether there is a substantial risk the defendant will intimidate witnesses or interfere with the administration of justice; and whether it appears the appeal is frivolous or taken

Page 9A

Sneiderman denied bond, agrees to civil suit settlement

only for the purpose of delay. The order also states that Sneiderman failed to meet her burden on two of the four criteria, particularly satisfying the court that she is not a flight risk and that her appeal is not frivolous. Sneiderman also recently reached a settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit involving her inlaws. Details of the settlement were not released but in an order issued by Fulton County Superior Court Judge Doris Downs stated that a mutual settlement between parties had been reached Dec. 9. Downs also ordered that an injunction freezing the assets of Rusty Sneidermans $2 million estate be lifted consistent with the terms provided in the mutual release and settlement agreement. Rustys estate, which was supposed to go to Andrea Sneiderman, was frozen shortly after Rustys death.

Decatur to replace parking meters

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Motorists who park in downtown Decatur will have new options for paying parking fees. Decatur will replace the current outdated parking meters with a new meters that will allow motorist to use a debit or credit card to pay. According to Lyn Menne, Decatur assistant city manager for community and economic development, the city has 315 on-street metered parking spaces. The equipment is old and outdated technology and doesnt allow for payment options other than coins, Menne said. We are updating the equipment to make it easier for customers to pay using credit, debit, loadable smart cards and of course coins. We want to improve our customer experience, Menne added. I know a lot of you are sick of carrying around quarters and we really wanted to provide options for people. The meters will be single space and multi-space meters. Menne said another reason for bringing in new parking meters is the security concerns with handling the money collected from the meters. By providing these alternative payment options the amount of physical money we collect will go down, she said. Menne said she anticipates installation will begin in late February and be completed in March. Metering on-street spaces allows us to manage these very desirable spaces to assure that they are available for short-term parking users like customers and clients of

Parking meters such as these near the Decatur Square will soon be replaced with new meters that will accept credit cards. Photo by Travis Hudgons

our downtown businesses, she said. The new technology allows us to keep track of how parking spaces are used, how often spaces turn over and eventually connect this information to an online app that would alert users to vacant spaces.

CITY OF DECATUR BOARD OF EDUCATION

SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX PROCEEDS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2013

2007 Issue ORIGINAL ESTIMATED COST (1) 15,000,000.00 $ 6,157,000.00 $ 21,157,000.00 $ CURRENT ESTIMATED COSTS (2) 15,000,000.00 $ 6,157,000.00 21,157,000.00 $ AMOUNT EXPENDED IN CURRENT YEAR (3) (4) 212,029.00 $ 1,735,650.00 1,947,679.00 $ AMOUNT EXPENDED IN PRIOR YEARS (3) (4) 12,581,582.00 $ 4,413,494.00 16,995,076.00 $ TOTAL EXCESS COMPLETION PROCEEDS NOT COST EXPENDED 12,793,611.00 $ 6,149,144.00 18,942,755.00 ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE 6/30/2012 6/30/2013

PROJECT Acquisition, construction, renovation and equipping of schools Debt Service on intergovernmental payable to the City of Decatur for general obligation sales tax notes

2012 Issue ORIGINAL ESTIMATED COST (1) 886,000.00 $ CURRENT ESTIMATED COSTS (2) 999,443.00 $ AMOUNT EXPENDED IN CURRENT YEAR (3) (4) 263,667.00 $ AMOUNT EXPENDED IN PRIOR YEARS (3) (4) $ TOTAL COMPLETION COST $ EXCESS PROCEEDS NOT EXPENDED ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE 8/1/2014

PROJECT To demolish existing structures or portions thereof at Renfroe Middle School and to design, acquire, construct, renovate, modify, add to, repair, replace, improve, and equip Renfroe Middle School and the surrounding green space, including the conversion of the area formerly used as a gymnasium for use as classrooms. Acquisition of facilities leased by the City Schools of Decatur, including the College Heights Early Learning Center and the 4-5 Academy at Fifth Avenue, as not existing and as hereafter improved. To acquire, design, construct, renovate, modify, add to, repair, replace, demolish all or a portion of, improve and equip existing school buildings and other buildings and facilities, including green space, useful or desirable in connection there within, including: 4-5 Academy at Fifth Avenue Oakhurst Elementary School Westchester Elementary School School improvement and maintenance projects throughout the City Schools of Decatur, including but not limited to, HVAC renovations, repairs and replacements; roofing repairs and replacements; electrical repairs, renovations and upgrades, including but not limited to cost-saving energy efficiency capital projects; boiler renovations, repairs and upgrades; and other similar capital improvements. To acquire, including, but not limited to, through lease-purchase, design, construct and equip a new Central Office for the City Schools of Decatur, including parking. Debt Service on intergovernmental payable to the City of Decatur for general obligation sales tax notes

4,415,000.00

4,415,000.00

1,105,527.00

2,355,000.00 2,190,000.00 893,000.00 1,775,000.00

2,925,559.00 2,995,183.00 979,109.00 1,935,784.00

1,499,554.00 2,242,960.00 72,572.00 146,751.00

1/6/2014 8/2/2013 8/1/2014 6/30/2017

3,000,000.00

3,000,000.00

1,148.00

5/19/2014

850,000.00

850,000.00

205,516.00

16,364,000.00 $

18,100,078.00 $

5,537,695.00 $

0.00 $

0.00 $

0.00

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

LOcaL NEWS

Page 10A

More than 30 people joined faith leaders from the Christian, Islamic and Jewish faiths to remember the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting at a candlelight vigil on the front lawn of First Baptist Church of Decatur. Photos by Carla Parker

Faith groups remember Sandy Hook victims

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com A small gathering of people honored the victims of the Sandy Hook shooting and all victims of gun violence during an interfaith candlelight vigil at First Baptist Church of Decatur Dec. 14. On Dec. 14, 2012, 20-year-old Adam Lanza entered the Newtown, Conn., elementary school and used a high-powered rifle to kill 20 children and six adults. Law enforcement officials said Lanza, whose mother was one of his victims, committed suicide when he heard first responders coming. As people held candles while standing on the front lawn of the church, faith leaders from the Christian, Islamic and Jewish faiths came together to pray for all victims of gun violence and sing songs of love and the goodness of God. Julie Pennington-Russell, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Decatur, said it was important for everyone from the faith community to come together and remember what happened a year ago. I think that for those families that lost their children they are certainly not over it and we wanted to bear witness to the fact that were not over it either, she said. But beyond that we wanted to bear witness to all of those who lost their lives since Sandy Hook11,420 people as of [Dec. 13]. During the vigil, a bell rang 33 times in honor of the average number of people who are killed daily in America. Members of the church held a banner that read, We Remember.

Members of Good Growth DeKalb rallied Dec. 13 in protest of the Suburban Walmart. File photos

Good Growth DeKalb appeals Suburban Walmart case

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Good Growth DeKalb filed an appeal Dec. 13 against a judges dismissal of the organizations lawsuit against DeKalb County. On Oct. 31, DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Tangela Barrie gave Selig Enterprises the go ahead to proceed with the development of a 150,000-square-foot Walmart store. Barrie also issued an order in Good Growth DeKalbs lawsuit against the county, which they said denies its right and the right of any citizen to challenge the issuance of a building permit through the Technical Board of Appeals, and overall challenge DeKalb Countys failure to follow its own ordinances. The organization filed an appeal against Barries decision and held its second rally of the month at the six-way intersection of Scott Boulevard, North Decatur and Medlock Roads near Suburban Plaza. Good Growth DeKalb Co-chair Louise Runyon said the issue is not only the redevelopment of Suburban Plaza, but also the rights of any affected citizen in DeKalb to ask that the County follow its own laws in issuing building permits. Good Growth DeKalb is committed to continue to protect neighborhood rights and work for smart, sustainable growth, she said. The organization is also working to make sure that DeKalbs new zoning code is more responsive to communities. Runyon said the organization is currently involved in pursuing community-friendly developments at the site of Scott Boulevard Baptist Church, and in improving safety on North Decatur Road, which has had two deaths in the past year-and-a-half. Good Growth DeKalb said the county should follow its ordinances, listen to the vast majority of neighborhood residents who oppose this development, and develop a long-range development plan for the county that promotes sustainable growth as opposed to outdated big box development which worsens traffic, destroys neighborhoods and overtaxes infrastructure.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 11A

From left, current Clarkston Mayor Emanuel Ransom, Robert Brown of the Georgia Department of Transportation and Christopher Tomlinson from State Road and Tollway Authority. Photos by Travis Hudgons

The city of Clarkston held a news conference Dec. 10 to announce the hiring of an engineering and consulting firm that will prepare design plans for its streetscape project.

Those in attendance were able to view and discuss streetscape concept ideas on display boards from engineering and consulting firm AMEC.

Get ready Clarkston, new streetscape on the way

by Travis Hudgons travish@dekalbchamp.com Its taken eight years to get to this point but Clarkston residents will have a new streetscape that will reflect the growth and diversity of their city. Clarkston held a press conference Dec. 11 at the Clarkston Community Center to announce the $5.7 million streetscape project, led by the engineering and consulting firm AMEC. We want this of Barker project to be very inclusive and transparent, Clarkston City Manager Keith Barker said. Were doing this on behalf, and for, the community. Streetscapes have been a catalyst for economic development and growth. Stretching from East Ponce de Leon Avenue between I-285 and Market Street, the streetscape will encompass portions of North Indian Creek, Church Street and Norman Road and will end at the entrance of Milam Park. The project design will include a variety of elements such as gateway monuments, bike lanes, railroad crossing enhancements for pedestrians and motorists, public art, street lighting, on-street parking and new granite curbs. The final design will ultimately be decided based on public input. The Federal Highway Administration first earmarked a $3.6 million grant for the project in 2005. The grant required a local match. Clarkston requested from the state, and was the first city to receive, a loan from the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure bank for $2 million. The loan will be amortized over a 15year period with a 2.4 percent rate. The loan repayment will begin upon completion of the project. Robert Brown, who represents DeKalb County on the Georgia Department of Transportation board, said the department is happy to partner with Clarkston to ensure the process moves along. He said a project such as this improves safety and mobility, which will lead to economic development. Its obvious you are on the right path for the prosperity this community deserves. Brown said. According to project managers, the next 18 to 24 months will be the design planning phase. During this time, residents and merchants will have an opportunity to have express their opinions, needs and concerns regarding the final vision of the streetscape project. City officials stressed that they dont want the design to be taken over by a design team without input from the public. Planners for Environmental Quality (PEQ), consultants for the city, said Clarkston plans to host public information meetings for the streetscape project next spring. Were not just going to have public meeting, said PEQ President Inga Kennedy. We will be on the ground, coming to where you are and getting your ideas and feedback. The plans will move forward as we hear from the public. This is the beginning of a long project with a 2018 projected completion date, but Clarkston Mayor-elect Ted Terry echoed the sentiment expressed by many with a vested interest in Clarkston: This is a huge part of the future of Clarkston.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 12A

From top left, Emory students Grace Lee, Kevin Applegate and Somnath Das enjoy a study break with Henry, the Canine Assistants spokesdog. Photos by Andrew Cauthen

Emory students take a doggie study break

by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com Twenty-year-old Heejae Choi petted a dog for the first time on Dec. 11. This is a very special experience in my life, said Choi, a chemistry major at Emory University. Its good, she said, while petting a Golden Retriever. It really makes me feel comfortable. I can study effectively after this. I cant explain it. Its very good. Choi was one of dozens of students at Emory Universitys Robert W. Woodruff Library who took a break from studying for final exams to play with the dogs. Canine Assistants, a service dog organization in Milton, provided the service dogs in training for twohour shifts. Students could sign up for 10-minute petting sessions. Erin Mooney, outreach and education librarian at the Robert W. Woodruff Library, said she was inspired to provide the petting study break for the first time last year after Emory Law Library had a doggie study break in 2012. Last year, it was a huge success, Mooney said. It was for six hours and we were packed the whole time. Everybody wanted to come pet on the dogs. It was wonderful. The event was expanded to two days this year, she said. We do a lot of activities that are designed to let the undergraduate and graduate students know that the library is here to support them in their studies and their academic success, Mooney said. We want them to succeed. There have been a lot of studies that have shown that petting on a dog can relax you and we see it, she said. [The students] are so excited and a lot of them miss their own dogs back home. This is just an opportunity for them to put the studies and the exams and the papers behind them just for a few minutes and relax and commune with a puppy. Grace Lee, 20, a neuroscience and behavioral biology major, said I love dogs and I wanted to relieve some stress. I especially love Golden Retrievers. I just wanted to take advantage of this opportunity. Its my first semester here at Emory and everyone was telling me how good it was last year. Seokjoo Youn, 21, a biology major, said she has a dog in her hometown in Korea, but hasnt seen him for years. I love dogs, she said while petting Henry, the Canine Assistants spokesdog, who has a Twitter and Instagram account. I miss my dog more than my parents. Kevin Applegate, a volunteer for Canine Assistants and a senior at Emory University, called the event an awesome opportunity. You see people come in and everyone is always stressed and when they leave its almost like theyre comatose afterwards, Applegate said. Theyre just so relaxed. I just think its something really wonderful. A lot of people miss their dogs. A lot of people just love dogs and this is a great opportunity for them to see them during the school year. Somnath Das, 19, a neuroscience and behavioral biology major, misses his energetic small dog, which is a mixture between a Maltese and poodle. I figured coming to pet the dogs would be a pretty relaxing opportunity, Das said. I always like to find opportunities at Emory to take a break from studying and I found this. You rarely get to see dogs and interact with them in college, so I thought this was just really a great chance. Its huge to me because Im a giant dog person, Das said. I absolutely love dogs so much.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

WEEK

In

LOCAL NEWS

Page 13A

PICTURES

The Tucker Tigers take the field Dec. 13 at the Georgia Dome to face Creekside for the AAAAA state championship. See page 22A for the results of the game. Photo by Travis Hudgons

DeKalb firefighters were dispatched to a Stone Mountain home on Dec. 11, according to Battalion Chief Melvin Carter of the DeKalb Fire Rescue Department. Firefighters initially feared other residents were trapped inside the home, but later learned that was not the case. Photo by Travis Hudgons

DeKalb County Police block the road while a Georgia Power crew works on a downed power line Dec. 12 on Chamblee Tucker Road near Mercer University. Photo by Travis Hudgons

Salvation Army volunteer Doris McClendon assists mall visitors with the Northlake Mall Angel Tree. Angel Trees are decorated with numbered paper angel tags with the first name, age and gender of a child in need of presents. Contributors remove one or more tags from the tree and purchase appropriate gifts for the child or children described on the tags. Photo by Kathy Mitchell

Searching for Our Sons and Daughters:

Stories of our missing residents offer profound insights and hope for a positive reunion.
For a programming guide, visit www.yourdekalb.com/dctv

This week in photos brought to you by DCTV

Finding DeKalb Countys Missing
Now showing on DCTV!

DCTV Your Emmy Award-winning news source of DeKalb County news. Available on Comcast Cable Channel 23.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

DeKalb police chief promoted to public safety head

by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com Weeks of rumors that DeKalbs police chief would accept a position in New York ended Dec. 17 with his promotion to deputy chief operating officer for public safety. Interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May announced during a news conference that, in the new role, Chief Cedric Alexander will oversee, supervise and manage the police department, fire and rescue, 911, emergency management and the medical examiners office. He will be the face of public safety for our county, May said. He will be leading our public safety apparatus here and will be guiding us into the future. This is not a position that is intended to micromanage the police chief or fire chief or any of the other directors, May said. It is meant to bring these organizations together and provide leadership. Alexander, whose salary will increase from $162,000 to $170,000, said he welcomed the opportunity. I will continue to ensure this community, as I have in the past, that were going to move forward with public safety, Alexander said. Were going to do everything within our powerand control to ensure that we maintain a safe community in DeKalb. I havent jumped ship yet, he said. May confirmed that the city of Rochester has been courting Alexander. dynamic leadership who is here for a minute, then is gone. Dr. Alexander understands that. He is committed to DeKalb County for the longterm and weve agreed upon that. May said Alexander has the full support of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners. He has come in as a trailblazer and brought some innovation and some stability to our police department, said Commissioner Larry Johnson. Im just elated that he is staying. Our community likes him. Officers love him. As a commissioner, May was critical of the public safety directors position, which had similar responsibilities to Alexanders new deputy COO position. Previously there was division on the Board of Commissioners and in the executive branch about the public safety position, May said. Has this been a shift in terms of my former position? Yes, it has. Do I think that this decision is one that is going to move our county forward in terms of making our county safer? I absolutely believe it will, May said. A lot is in the man, May said. Dr. Alexander has done some great work in the nine months that hes been here. But the important thing is I, along with my colleagues on the Board of Commissioners, are together. Deputy Chief James Conroy, who has been in DeKalb County for more than 20 years, was named acting police chief.

LOCAL NEWS

Page 14A

From left, DeKalbs new acting police chief James Conroy listens while Cedric Alexander, now the countys deputy chief operating officer for public safety, speaks about his new role. Photo by Andrew Cauthen

Theyve been going very aggressively after him to bring him back to what he once knew as home to be their chief of police, May said. That launched me to have very aggressive conversations with our chief of police. The deputy COO position will give him an increase in responsibility and authority, [and] will raise him to a position of executive lead-

ership, said May, adding that he is very satisfied with Alexanders work in DeKalb. He projects leadership, he develops leadership and hes a stabilizing voice here in DeKalb County, May said. Stability and long-term stability is key, May said. Ive long said that I would rather have mediocre leadership for the long-term than

Lewis appeals sentencing, judges rejection of plea agreement

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com After being released on bond, former DeKalb County Superintendent Crawford Lewis has decided to appeal a judges decision to reject a plea agreement he made with prosecutors in return for his testimony. Lewis was recently sentenced to serve 12 months in prison after DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Cynthia Becker rejected an agreement he made with the state. He pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor charge of obstructing a police officer in return for his testimony against defendants Patricia Reid and Tony Pope. Defense attorneys for Lewis also filed several other motions Dec. 17, including a motion requesting a reconsideration of Lewis sentence, a recusal of the court from sentencing if the reconsideration is denied and a motion to withdraw Lewis guilty plea. The only motion granted by Becker was the motion to allow Lewis to withdraw his guilty plea. I have an obligation to him and based on that I will allow him to withdraw his guilty plea, Becker said. If you withdraw your guilty plea it he could face up to 65 years in prison. The other thing that happens is, not only will you be subject to that prosecution, but in fact youve already testified so they can use that testimony against you in further prosecution, Becker said. Defense attorney Mike Brown argued that when Lewis plea agreement was discussed in Beckers chambers, the judge had ample opportunity to challenge it and Becker never did so. Becker said that the agreement was made pending the truthfulness of Lewis testimony and the court was in no way bound to accept the recommendation. Shortly after Lewis was sentenced, Brown made a motion for bond and also a request for the court to recuse itself in regards to sentencing. Becker, who was out of town, said due to the defendants request for recusal, she was legally bound under uniform Superior Court rules that state, When a judge is presented with a motion to recuse or disqualify, accompanied by an affidavit, the judge shall temporarily cease to act. A motion for emergency bond was instead granted by the court of appeals for $5,000.

Lewis

will be as if you never entered one so you will not be looking at a misdemeanor prosecution. Lewis originally faced charges including violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and three counts of theft. Becker said if the state chooses to, it can prosecute him under its original indictment and

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 15A

Budget

Continued From Page 1A

and refinancing debt, we have managed to close potential budget gaps and are presenting a strategically crafted and well-balanced budget. Additionally, May said that the budget also invests in the countys strategic priority areas, such as enhancing public safety, beautifying neighborhoods and creating jobs and economic development. May said the 2014 budget is based on common sense principles and policies. We will live within our means and improve the services that our [residents] expect from their county government and invest in our workforce, May said. Highlights of the budget include enhancing public safety by requesting a promotional pay increase for sworn public safety personnel of up to 5 percent. May has also proposed to hire an additional 160 police officers and 100 firefighters over the next three years. The budget also proposed a tuition reimbursement program for public safety personnel and the option of take home vehicles. In September, May introduced a plan to address the issues facing public safety personnel, primarily to cut down on attrition and boost retention efforts. We are losing front line personnel at rates faster than our rate of hire, May said. We have to get a handle on our attrition rates. May said in the past four years, the county has hired 277 new police officers but lost 400 to attrition. Since 2010, May said, the county has gone from 1,046 police officers to 892 to date. May said there are unfunded positions within the fire department as well. Another budget highlight is Mays Operation Fresh Start 2.0, a countywide beautification plan announced earlier this year. Under this initiative, May has proposed plans to beautify roadways, hire additional code enforcement officers, provide additional funding for pothole repairs and implement a private property maintenance program. Other highlights in the 2014 budget include offering a more competitive compensation for county employees, increasing ethics board funding, and establishing several new offices including youth services and constituent services. The proposed budget also includes a sanitation pilot project that will provide residents with new 65-gallon roll-cart trash receptacles. May said that although the county has been struggling over the past five years, it is important to recognize that the county is seeing the first signs of a fiscal recovery. Our property values are beginning to rebound and we are turning the financial corner with a 2013 digest showing the first uptick in four years, May said.

Nicholas Sheffey, 11, died after being shot in a drive-by shooting after a bullet came into his room. Sheffeys mom Deborah Rider said her son loved playing the violin and his school orchestra played at his funeral. Photos provided

Gangs

Continued From Page 1A

him out of her house and didnt speak to him for months afterward. Four years later, the family still goes to weekly therapy sessions. The loss of Nicholas devastated Riders youngest son Michael, who considered Nicholas his best friend. For months after Nicholas death, Rider said she woke up every night at 12:10 a.m. and walked to her living room window, reliving the scene over and over. Her therapist eventually prescribed medication to help her sleep. If she doesnt take it, she said she still wakes up, even though it has been nearly four years. The one thing that I remember my victims advocate told me probably in our second or third conversationshe told me that when something like this happenssomething very tragicthat the percentage of families that stay together is very low, Rider said. I could have pictured that breaking up my family because you sit and you try to come to terms with it but its like, how can you? The three young men who played a role in Nicholas death aside from her son Devon were Alexander Sidloskas, Cody Bauer and Stedmund Anthony, all whom have since been found guilty and convicted. The three codefendants were indicted on nearly 60 charges, ranging from violating the Street Gang Prevention Act, armed robbery, aggravated assault, tampering with evidence, felony murder, malice murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. During the sentencing hearing, Rider and her family had the

chance to face the three men whom she said tore their family apart. She said the only one who showed any remorse was Sidloskas. This wasnt the first time the Sheffey family had met Sidloskas though. He basically was friends with my oldest son Devon. He had been to my house and spent the night and played basketball with Nick. I fed him and honestly I treated himbecause he and my son Devon were so closeas one of my boys, Rider said. It shocked me even more to know that he had a hand in it. Rider said both Stedmund and Bauer looked like average teenagers but showed few signs of remorse. At the sentencing hearing, Rider said Bauers mother, father and lawyer all cried as he stood watching the proceedings without emotion. I had the opportunity to be in the courtroom when they brought him out and the first thing that was on my mind was that I wanted to hurt him. I was dead set on taking an ink pen and hurting him and that really is sad but understandable, Rider said. I told him he was a cold-blooded, heartless, soulless child murderer. He never apologized to me once. Bauer, the shooter, was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole plus 675 years in prison. Anthony, the driver, and Sidloskas, who orchestrated the shooting, were both sentenced to 50 years in prison with 25 years to serve. The rage the Rider felt eventually subsided and she said her family has been learning to live, one day at a time, with the loss of Nicholas.

When he left a big piece of me went with him, Rider said. Twice a week Rider speaks with Devon, who is serving out his sentence for robbery in a juvenile detention center south of Macon. Devon is due to be released in 2014 on his 21st birthday and Rider said theyve discussed the possibility of his coming home when hes released. She said he hasnt been home since the night of the shooting. Ive had to ask for forgiveness for me feeling the way that I did because at one time, I was through with him, Rider said. Hes accomplished a lot of things since hes been locked up and Im grateful for that because I dont know that he would have accomplished the things that he did if he hadnt been locked up. Currently, Rider said, she is working with prosecutors and legislators to improve legislation to combat gang activity. She also celebrates Nicholas birthday and remembers the day he died each year by releasing balloons into the air and holding a memorial service. Rider said, if and when Devon comes back, theyve agreed he wont be allowed to have contact with any of his old friends thugs she calls them, just like she said Devon used to be. He cant hang out with them and they sure cant come to my house, Rider said. Trust is still not 100 percent between me and Devon and I dont think it ever will be. Hes agreed to my stipulations and if he cant live by them hell have to go somewhere else.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

LOCAL NEWS

Page 16A

Decatur asks for public input on tree ordinance

by Daniel Beauregard daniel@dekalbchamp.com City officials, residents and experts met Dec. 11 to discuss updating Decaturs tree ordinance in an effort to make development throughout the city more sustainable. More than 60 attendees were present for the meeting, which began with a presentation by Decatur Planning Director Amanda Thompson and Connie Head, a tree consultant from the Technical Forestry Services. In October, the Decatur City Commission passed a 90-day moratorium on removing healthy trees on private property to allow time to study the effects of tree removal. There was also a proposed 90-day moratorium on the demolition of single-family homes that did not pass. Decatur City Manager Peggy Merriss said at the end of the moratorium, the city will vote on a finalized tree ordinance but before doing so, it has asked for more input from residents. The moratorium is effective until January 2014. Thompson and Head began with a presentation featuring a timetable outlining the citys tree ordinance, which was first passed in 1989 and amended in 1999. In 2008, a newly drafted tree ordinance are was introduced and amended earlier this year. According to the presentation, the reasons for updating the tree ordinance are to study the citys aging tree population, the urban/human impacts to soil and trees, development and new best practices for tree conservation. Additionally, the presentation also noted concern that the majority of Decaturs tree canopy is on private property. A study, performed by University of Georgias Natural Resource Spatial Analysis Laboratory (NARSAL), stated that Decaturs tree canopy has decreased 4.1 percent in the last 27 years. The study also indicated a trend of approximately 1 percent of canopy loss each six to seven years. The presentation also detailed the urban/human impact on trees that can result in restricted growing space, poor quality soils, improper maintenance, physical wounding (roots, trunk, crown), environmental changes, and stress and insect disease. Officials also recommended that the city set goals to increase its tree canopy, focus on placing trees where their function is maximized and require compliance with standards for soil quality, planting, pruning, mulching and watering. Thompson said there are still a lot of unanswered questions, which is why the city is asking for residents input. A final recommendation on the ordinance will be made to the Decatur City Commission during its Jan. 6 work session and it is expected to vote on it Jan. 21.

At the beginning of the year, the Decatur City Commission will vote on the citys tree ordinance in an effort to improve sustainability and increase its tree canopy. Photo by Travis Hudgons

Former Clarkston councilwoman pleads guilty to embezzlement

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Former Clarkston City Councilwoman Joan Swaney pleaded guilty Dec. 16 to embezzling more than $60,000 from a local community center, according to federal prosecutors. Swaney, 67, resigned from her position in October after she was indicted by a federal grand jury. As a Clarkston councilwoman, Swaneys personal motto was live with purpose, act with integrity, said U.S. Attorney Sally Quillian Yates. Unfortunately, she failed to live up to these ideals when she stole tens of thousands of dollars from the Clarkston Community Center. Swaney was the Clarkston Community Center office manager from November 2003 to December 2012. In 2010, Swaney began to write checks to herself from the centers bank account at BB&T, according to federal prosecutors. Between 2010 and 2012, she made the checks payable directly to herself and forged the signature of the centers director. According to prosecutors, Swaney deposited the forged checks into her personal account and used the centers funds to pay personal expenses and credit card bills. Federal prosecutors said she used the money to help pay for family vacations, medical bills, car repairs, a boat charter and other personal expenses. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. Swaneys sentencing is scheduled for March 6.
Swaney

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

BUSINESS

Page 17A

Books Again in Decatur closing after 13 years

Decaturs only used and rare book store, Books Again, will close its doors permanently at the end of this year, according to Jim Adams, owner and manager. He noted that Books Again on North McDonough Street joins the growing number of independent book dealers to close due to a number of factors, from the economy and the rise of electronic reading devices, to the dominance of the book world by Amazon, which is challenging even big-box retailers such as Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million. After 13 years of selling lots of books and making even more friends, I have decided to make Books Again an online-only shop. The brickand-mortar store will be closed by the end of 2013 or before, depending on how quickly the inventory and fixtures are sold, Adams said, Until closing day, every book in the store will be sold at a discount, with the exception of consignment items. The store will be open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Books Again has been a part of the Decatur community since the store opened, with regular participation in the Decatur Arts Festival and the annual AJC-Decatur Book Festival, the largest independent book festival in the country. Adams also hosted events at Books Again, including a Big Read evening, in partnership with Decatur-based Literacy Volunteers of Atlanta.

Jim Adams says big-box retailers and online shopping have made it impossible for him to keep a bricksand-mortar store in operation. Photo provided

News Briefs
Kirkwood resident wins open house giveaway Hannah Allen of Kirkwood was the winner of a recent Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers Super Sunday $1,000 giveaway. She attended an open house hosted by Sam Fender of the Perimeter office. Allen recently bought a home in the Kirkwood area, but is still looking around to compare homes to her recent purchase. The open house that Fender was hosting was right down the street. When I registered, I didnt think Id win, Allen said. This is great; Ill definitely keep my eyes open for the Super Sunday signs from now on. Allen plans to put the $1,000 winnings toward holiday gifts and maybe a present for herself. Doraville has new fast food restaurant options In recent weeks, Doraville welcomed two restaurants that are part of national chainsKrispy Kreme Donuts and Zaxbys. The Hot Now sign flashed on Buford Highway for the first time at the end of October as the new Krispy Kreme opened. We are extremely excited to bring this newly constructed and updated shop to our loyal Doraville area doughnut and coffee fans, said Cindy Bay, senior vice president of U.S. franchises and company stores for Krispy Kreme. Also on Buford Highway, Doravilles first Zaxbys restaurant opened recently. Weve always wanted to bring a Zaxbys to Doraville, said T. J. McLeroy. Zaxbys has built its reputation and loyal following by providing excellent service and great-tasting food, and we plan to carry on that tradition with this new, convenient location. The new location will be the 10th Zaxbys for DeKalb County, and the 209th for Georgia. Jeff Shockley named Hotel Equities VP DeKalb-based Hotel Equities recently promoted Jeff Shockley to the position of vice president of acquisitions and financial analysis. Shockleys responsibilities at the hotel development Shockley and management company include working as a member of the firms development team with responsibility for the growth of third party management contracts, while he continues to lead the Financial Analysis Department of the organization. Jeff brings over 20 years of leadership experience in hotel operations as well as property, asset, and financial management to his new development role, said Brad Rahinsky, chief operating officer of Hotel Equities.His insights and his expertise will help propel the growth of our company. He is an outstanding asset to our team. Shockley has been with Hotel Equities since 1995, when he was hired as an assistant general manager at the Fairfield Inn in Alpharetta.He had been director of financial analysis and owner relations since 2009. Regency House receives award The Regency House, an independent retirement community, recently was named by SeniorHomes.com as a toprated community in its Best Senior Living Awards in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta metropolitan area. To determine the winners, SeniorHomes.com gathered data, including reviews from residents and their families, ratings from local industry experts, and public state inspection data. Were thrilled to be recognized with such an honor, said Kent Holden, community manager at The Regency House. It means a lot that other people can see that were making a positive difference in the lives of our residents and their families. The SeniorHomes.com Best Senior Living Awards program released its Top-Rated lists in select markets with the goal of identifying the top senior living communities across the United States. SeniorHomes.com, along with a variety of industry experts, has spent the past year defining a comprehensive methodology by which we could rate the best senior communities across the country, said Chris Rodde, CEO of SeniorHomes.com. The entire staff at The Regency House should be commended for their dedication to excellence. The Regency House, along with the other Best Senior Living Awards recipients, is setting the bar for what truly great senior communities should provide to their residents.

DeKalb Chamber of Commerce

The Voice of Business in DeKalb County

Two Decatur Town Center, 125 Clairemont Ave., Suite 235, Decatur, GA 30030 404.378.8000 www.DeKalbChamber.org

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

EdUcatION

Page 18A

From top left, Emperor Searcy of Hot 107.9; Ed Sellers, an associate director of AT&T; Gene Odom; and former NFL player Bobby Harris took time to read to students at Columbia Elementary School. Photos by Andrew Cauthen

Real men read at Columbia Elementary

by Andrew Cauthen andrew@dekalbchamp.com munity to come back and possibly mentor students, and come back for career days and for other events we Approximately 150 men gathered have at the school. at Columbia Elementary School A lot of the students in our Dec. 6 to participate in the schools school and community unfortuReal Men Read program. nately dont get to see a male figure This is where we invite fathers, as much as we would like, Stanley uncles and members of the commu- said. nity to come out and read a book to Ashley Johnson, a first-grade our students and also share the imteacher, said, The students are alportance of reading, said Columbia ways excited about [hearing] people Elementary Principal Raymond other than the teacher reading stoStanley. ries. They are even more excited Some are reading to multiple and attentive when they see outside classes; some just have time to read readers. to just one, he said. A lot of times the students dont In a program started in 2010, have the motivation to read outside Columbia Elementary invites men of school, but when they see that to come to the school in the fall and real men actually read, they are inspring for the reading event. spired, she said. I had a student Its gotten bigger and bigger this morning say, If hes reading, each year, Stanley said. then readings cool. Even if it Another goal of the program, touches only one student, we had a Stanley said, is to build a relationgood day. ship with members of the comJohnson said men are always welcome to volunteer at the school. Even on days when were not having Real Men Read, its always nice for men to come in to read, she said. It doesnt have to be a special day. We will put down our textbooks and have that moment. I really encourage people to come in and read. Classmate Hasani Jackson, 6, said he was glad the men were nice enough to come read. Seven-year-old Chaquina Ogletree, said she enjoyed hearing the man read to them. Its awesome for [men] to read to us, she said. I love to listen to stories. I love for people to read. Its awesome. Second-grade teacher Caroll Boussicaut said the students enjoy having visitors. They love company, Boussicaut said. Its an opportunity for them to converse with someone outside of Ms. Boussicaut because they talk to me every day. It just gives the kids an opportunity to see role models reading, to see that everyone readsits just not a child thing, its an adult thing, she said. Bobby Harris, a Stone Mountain residents and former NFL and CFL player, said, I probably enjoyed it more than they did, honestly. I love giving back, Harris said. Going to the community and reading to our next generation thats going to be the leaders of the future is very important to me. Decatur resident Gene Odom, who retired from the insurance industry after more than 30 years, said he enjoyed the experience. I get excited about reading to children and helping them to open their minds, Odom said. If its just one that goes back and starts reading, then Ive accomplished the mission.

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

EdUcatION

Page 19A

Rowland Elementary Schools Christmas Holiday Spirit

Students at Rowland Elementary School entertained their families and friends at the schools Christmas celebration Dec. 10 during the PTA meeting. Students dressed in holiday garb and sang holiday songs in the packed room as onlookers clapped, cheered and took photos. Photos by Andrew Cauthen

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

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The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

SPORTS
region, selected 25 boys and 25 girls based on previous years performances and expectations for the 2013-14 basketball season. The board will later select the winners of several of the Atlanta Tipoff Clubs season-ending awards, which includes Mr. and Miss Georgia Basketball, the boys and girls metro players of the year, and the boys and girls all-metro teams. All honorees will be recognized at the

Page 21A

Eight DeKalb basketball players named to early season all-metro teams

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com Some of DeKalb Countys talented basketball players were among 50 metro Atlantas top boys and girls high school basketball players named to the Atlanta Tipoff Clubs Early Season All-Metro Teams. The organization announced Dec. 5 that Redan senior Jada Byrd, St. Pius Jasmine Carter and Asia Durr, Tucker senior Erykah Davenport and Southwest DeKalb junior Tynice Martin were named to the 2013-2014 Atlanta Tipoff Club Girls Early Season All-Metro Team. St. Pius senior Nick Harris, Miller Grove senior Keith Pinckney, and Columbia senior Maurice Rivers were named to the boys team. The Atlanta Tipoff Clubs Board of Selectors, which is comprised of coaches within the metro Atlanta season-ending Naismith Awards banquet in Atlanta. Looking back at history, we know that several names on this list will go on to have tremendous success at the next level, and we take great pride in recognizing each and every one of them for their tremendous basketball prowess, Atlanta Tipoff Club executive director Eric Oberman said.

The Champion chooses a male and female high school Athlete of the Week each week throughout the school year. The choices are based on performance and nominations by coaches. Please email nominations to carla@dekalbchamp.com by Monday at noon. MALE ATHLETE Damani Walker, Stone Mountain (basketball): The senior guard led the team in scoring with 28 points and had 12 rebounds in the 68-58 win over Washington Dec. 10. He is averaging 15.8 points per game. FEMALE ATHLETE Erkyah Davenport, Tucker (basketball): The senior forward led the team in scoring with 11 points and had seven rebounds in the 64-17 win over Lakeside Dec. 13. Davenport is averaging 14.9 points and 6.4 rebounds per game.

basketball scores
Dec. 10
Boys Cedar Grove 75, Towers 37 Chamblee 59, Carver 54 Columbia 80, Banneker 54 Decatur 64, McNair 59 Dunwoody 70, Lakeside 64 Grady 68, Marist 52 M.L. King 70, Arabia Mountain 46 Miller Grove 63, Mays 44 Rockdale County 76, Druid Hills 52 South Atlanta 67, Lithonia 63 St. Pius 71, Cross Keys 15 Stone Mountain 68, Washington 58 Therrell 58, Redan 37 Tucker 78, Clarkston 29 Girls Chamblee 73, Carver 27 Marist 56, Grady 51 Mays 48, Miller Grove 40 Redan 78, Therrell 31 Rockdale County 67, Druid Hills 50 St. Pius 63, Cross Keys 12 Stephenson 58, North Atlanta 43 South Atlanta 62, Lithonia 15 Tucker 60, Clarkston 5 Cedar Grove 54, Woodward 44 Columbia 61, Stone Mountain 47 Marist 56, Redan 55 Miller Grove 66, Arabia Mountain 45 St. Pius 54, Decatur 53 Stephenson 61, Dunwoody 39 Girls Blessed Trinity 65, Towers 12 Greenforest 59, Morrow 53 Redan 68, Marist 42 St. Pius 48, Decatur 44 Stephenson 67, Dunwoody 37 Tucker 64, Lakeside 17

Each week The Champion spotlights former high school players from the county who are succeeding in athletics on the college level. Brandon Morris, Georgia (basketball): The sophomore forward from Miller Grove led Georgia in scoring with 17 points in the 85-75 win over Lipscomb Dec. 14. Morris is averaging 10.8 points per game. Chris Horton, Austin Peay (Basketball): The sophomore forward from Columbia had a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds in the 77-71 win over Liberty Dec. 14. Horton is averaging 13.3 points and 10.1 rebounds per game.

Dec. 14
Boys Columbia 67, Kell 46 Decatur 45, Wesleyan 33 Miller Grove 63, St. Francis 62 Norcross 47, Greenforest 43 North Atlanta 79, Clarkston 52 North Springs 52, Dunwoody 43 Stone Mountain 66, Druid Hills 43 Girls Buford 49, Columbia 44 North Atlanta 55, Clarkston 5 Wesleyan 75, Decatur 70

Dec. 13
Boys Blessed Trinity 59, Towers 31

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The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

SpORtS

Page 22A

Tucker defenders tackle Creekside running back Dexter Knox. Photos by Travis Hudgons

Jonathon Mincey

Ukeme Eliqwe

DeKalb alums to face off in national championship

Two former Southwest DeKalb teammates will face each other in the BCS National Championship game in Pasadenas Rose Bowl when Auburn takes on Florida State Jan. 6. Jonathon Mincey, a 2010 graduate of Southwest DeKalb, is a starting cornerback for Auburn, which clinched a spot in the championship game after defeating Missouri in the Southeastern Conference Championship game in Atlanta Dec. 7. Mincey will face his former teammate and 2011 Southwest DeKalb graduate, redshirt sophomore Terrence Smith, who starts at strong side linebacker for Florida State. Mincey (5-foot-10, 200 pounds) had 140 tackles and eight interceptions during his three-year career as Southwest DeKalb. He is currently sixth on the Auburn team with 54 tackles, including one interception, one tackle for a loss and 12 passes broken up. The twoyear starter has career totals of 140 tackles, five tackles for a loss, one sack and 20 pass breakups. Smith (6-foot-4, 215 pounds) finished his career at Southwest DeKalb with 250 tackles (111 as a junior), 23 sacks and 27 tackles for a loss. As a starter on the No. 1 ranked Florida States defense this year he is third on the team with 55 tackles, 2.5 tackles for a loss, two sacks, one interception, three passes broken up and one quarterback hurry. Other DeKalb County alums who will also being playing in Pasadena are Stone Mountain alum Ukeme Eliqwe (2012) and former Tucker linebacker Justin Garrett (2011). Eliqwe (6-foot-2, 240 pounds), a redshirt freshman linebacker at Florida State, has 27 tackles (13th on team), three tackles for a loss and two sacks this season. Eliqwe finished his career at Stone Mountain with 246 tackles (121 as a junior), eight sacks, 32 tackles for a loss, six forced fumbles and six fumbles recovered. Garrett (6-1, 218), a junior, has one start in three seasons and saw limited action this season, appearing in just two games. He was named the A-Game Defensive MVP after returning a fumble for a touchdown on the opening play. He collected 19 tackles, 2.5 tackles for a loss and one forced fumble during his time at Auburn. Garett finished his high school career with 97 tackles (60 as a junior), four sacks, eight tackles for a loss, one fumble caused and one fumble recovery.

Tucker linebacker Elijah Sullivan chases Creekside quarterback Felix Harper.

Tucker Tigers fall to Creekside in title game

by Carla Parker carla@dekalbchamp.com The No. 1 Tucker Tigers quest for an undefeated season and another state title came to a crushing halt as the Tigers fell to the No. 4 Creekside Seminoles 52-28 in the Class AAAAA championship game Dec. 13 at the Georgia Dome. Tucker (14-1) fell short of its third title in six years after winning in 2008 and 2011. It was the first state championship for Creekside (15-0). At halftime, it appeared the game was probably going to come down to the wire as the score was tied at 14-14. However, Creeksides Cameron Jackson returned the second-half kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown and it went downhill for the Tigers as Creekside outscored Tucker 38-14 in the second half. Tucker Head coach Bryan Lamar said his team was not sharp in the second half. We didnt come out focused. We didnt come out hungry and ready to seal the deal, he said. We gave up a huge kickoff return and then gave up a run after that. It was one of those things where we came out flat in the second half. We still had some opportunities to get back in the game but we didnt finish the deal. Tucker was strong on its opening drive of the game as it went 73 yards in 11 plays. The drive ended on a quarterback sneak for a touchdown by Joseph Farrar to give Tucker a 7-0 lead. Creekside responded by going 80 yards in 15 plays for a touchdown. Creekside running back Dexter Knox tied the game at 7-7 on a 1-yard rushing touchdown. Tucker regained the lead late in the first quarter on a Farrar 38-yard touchdown pass to Dominick Sanders. After the two teams traded punts in the second quarter, Creekside scored before halftime on a 3-yard run by Knox to tie the game at 14-14.
See Tucker on Page 23A

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013

SpORtS

Page 23A

From left, Head coach Bryan Lamar and assistant coach Robby Gilbert look on as Tucker loses to Creekside.

Tuckers Dominick Sanders catches a pass in front of Creekside defender Quatrez Sparkman in the first quarter.

Tucker quarterback Joseph Farrar looks dejected as he walks off the field.

Yaquis Shelley brushes off a Creekside defender and scores a touchdown.

Several Creekside players tackle Dominick Sanders. Photos by Travis Hudgons Tucker students cheer on their team.

Tucker Continued From Page 22A

After Jackson returned the second-half kickoff for a touchdown to give Creekside a 21-14 lead, Tucker running back Elijah Sullivan fumbled the football on Tuckers first possession of the second half and Creekside recovered the ball at Tuckers 32-yard line. That turnover led to a Creekside touchdown as Knox scored his third touchdown of the game from 16 yards out to extend the lead to 28-14. Tucker was able to cut Creeksides lead to 28-21 after Yaquis Shelley ran around the edge and slipped through Creekside defenders for a 21-yard touchdown run. After that score, Tuckers defense was unable to stop Creeksides rushing attack. Tucker came into the championship game allowing just 81.8 rushing yards per game, but Creekside rushed for 326 yards. Knox had 166 yards and five touchdowns and Bricen Terry rushed for 141 yards. Tucker, which averaged 232 rushing yards, finished with only 158 yards. After a 33-yard field goal by Francisco Alejandre that extended Creeksides lead to 31-28, Knox got his fourth touchdown of the game from 22 yards out to bring the score to 38-21 in the third quarter. Tucker scored late in the third quarter after Sanders grabbed a short pass from Farrar and ran 65 yards to the end zone to bring Tucker within 10 points. However, Creekside responded with a long touchdown play early in the fourth quarter. Creekside quarterback Felix Harper hit wide receiver Jayson Stanley on a short pass and he ran 77 yards to the end zone, which extended the Seminoles lead to 45-28. A late touchdown from Knox from seven yards out brought the final score to 52-28. The championship game was Tuckers last game in Class AAAAA, as the Tigers move up to Class AAAAAA next season. The teams first game in the new classification will come in the Corky Kell Classic at the Georgia Dome against North Gwinnett, the 2013 Class AAAAAA runner-up. Despite the loss, the 2014 senior class will leave Tucker as the winningest class in school history with a 52-5 overall record. Lamar said this was a great senior class. They got a state championship under their belt, they went to the semifinals three out of the four years they were here and a second trip to the state championship, he said. Its a tough ending for them but its a great group. They did a great job.

Tuckers Maurice Williams tackles Creekside quarterback Felix Harper.

Page 24A 

The Champion Free Press, Friday, December 20, 2013, 2013

O u r F a m i l y. O u r F o o d . Our Celebration.

As part of Kwanzaa tradition, after enjoying family dinner, an elder leads guests in the Harambee (ha-RAM-bee) salute, where everyone says Harambee! seven times in unison. In Swahili, the word Harambee means all pull together. This year, Publix pulls together with your family to celebrate the special holiday.

publix.com