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A PUBLICATION OF ACE III COMMUNICATIONS • AVAILABLE ONLINE 24/7 AT WWW.CHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.COM • FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009 • VOL. 11, NO. 48 • FREE

Bolton dismissed as DeKalb chief of police DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis issued a pre-termination letter to DeKalb Police Chief Terrell Bolton Feb. 20, giving Bolton a chance answer to charges brought against him. Despite a 19-page response from Bolton’s attorney, William McKenney, Ellis issued a statement Feb. 23 saying that as of Feb. 24, Bolton would no longer be employed by DeKalb County. In his response, McKenney accused the CEO of developing a pattern of obstruction that prevented Bolton from performing his job. McKenney also cited in the response letter that Bolton’s secretary was interrogated for six hours by sheriffs’ deputies. Ellis claimed that Bolton was insubordinate by interfering with the firing of an employee under Bolton’s supervision. McKenney questioned Ellis’ authority to bypass the police chain of command and remove a person McKenney said was “an essential staff person.” Ellis told reporters on Feb. 20 that he conducted the investigation with the help of DeKalb police, the DeKalb sheriff’s office and other DeKalb County personnel. The investigation, according to Ellis, revealed that Bolton had seven county vehicles. Five were set aside for his use and two other vehicles, a Mercedes and Range Rover, were seized drug vehicles that Bolton kept in his garage, according to Ellis’ investigation. McKenney defended Bolton’s use of the automobiles as normal procedure in the department. He also said that Bolton’s taking the two luxury vehicles home was part of an informal practice in the police department that allowed officers working as investigators to take cars home from the seized

fleet and use them as unmarked vehicles. The attorney stated this practice was not a secret and that the vehicles could be used by Bolton for his own surveillance. He suggested that former DeKalb County CEO Vernon Jones knew the whereabouts of the Mercedes and the Range Rover. McKenney noted in his letter to Ellis that the CEO was “hereby placed on notice” that Bolton was on medical leave and protected by the Family Medical Leave Act of 1993. At press time, McKenney could not be reached for comment. Bolton was hired as DeKalb County chief of police in December 2006 soon after being dismissed as chief of police in Dallas, Texas, for alleged scandals and increased crime rates. Bolton left the Dallas job promising to sue. The lawsuit was dismissed after a judge ruled that Bolton served at the will of the city manager and was not entitled to civil service protections. Six different people have headed the DeKalb County Police Department in the past five years. Six months before Bolton was named police chief by Jones, the CEO named Nick Marinelli as interim chief. Maninelli served until Bolton was hired. In August 2004 Louis Graham was appointed to the position by Jones after former chief Eddie Moody abruptly announced his pending retirement. Moody had replaced long term Chief Bobby Burgess. Assistant Chief Karen A. Anderson briefly held the position of acting chief while Bolton was on sick leave. The current acting chief and sixth person to occupy the chair during the five-year period is William O’Brien.

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Ellis claimed that Bolton was insubordinate by interfering with the firing of an employee under Bolton’s supervision. McKenney questioned Ellis’ authority to bypass the police chain of command and remove a person McKenney said was ‘an essential staff person.’ VISIT US ONLINE @ www.CHAMPIONNEWSPAPER.com

Business......................... 18

Health.............................. 19

Opinion ......................... 5-6

Around DeKalb .............. 12

Local .....................1-3, 7-13

Sports ........................ 22-23

Education .................. 16-17

Life .................................. 15

News

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009, PAGE 2A

Networking in Pine Lake by Margie Fishman [email protected]

CeCe Garrison knows firsthand how a troubled economy can derail a labor of love. Forced to put her master of theology degree on hold after her funding dried up, she now divides her time among bookkeeping, pet sitting and organizing spiritual retreats for women. “The worse things get, the longer I stay at my prayer and meditation,” she said. “Now, it’s up to 1 ½ hours.” Shy when it comes to networking, Garrison needed an easy way to break the ice. She found it at her neighborhood Pine Lake Local, a collective of self-employed people who have established a referral and resource network within their community. The group is the brainchild of local residents Kris Casariego, a marketing professional, and Melanie Hammet, a performance artist, writer and city council member, who wanted a gathering place for Pine Lake’s independent businesspeople to exchange ideas and business cards. “Each meeting is led and organized by someone else,” said Casariego, adding that monthly speakers address topics of particular interest to the self-employed, such as how to obtain health coverage or navigate the tax maze. After a strong start in October, the 20-member group is busy working on a print business directory and Web site so that residents and the larger community can easily locate See Pine Lake on Page 8A

Pine Lake Local members Paula Clancy, left, and Ellen Mintzmyer review materials passed out by Kim Davis Mitchell, right.

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THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009



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International school gets corporate benefit by Brian Egeston [email protected] On President’s Day while some where enjoying a day off, more than 200 employees from Orange Business Services were running around a schoolyard, painting by numbers and playing in the dirt. It was more work than they had anticipated. Employees from across North America, including many from the company’s Atlanta headquarters, volunteered their time to help upgrade facilities at the International Community School in Decatur. Projects included reengineering the computer lab, painting classrooms, building bookcases, painting murals and creating a learning garden and mini soccer field.   The combined student and faculty population of the International Community School comes from more than 35 countries, representing 20 different language groups, with nearly half of the students hailing from countries such as Bosnia, Myanmar Burundi, Iraq and Cuba. The school serves kindergarten through sixth grade students.

Orange Business Services is the key brand of France Telecom, a telecommunications operator that serves five continents.  Orange Business Services has a history of embracing philanthropy and has largely focused on three global themes: disability, education and culture. One specific area the company supports is the education of children from developing countries.   “With privilege comes responsibility, and we are indeed privileged,” said Diana Leonard, senior vice president, Americas, Orange Business Services, who has worked on various initiatives related to Africa, including a hospital in Cameroon and an AIDS/HIV treatment center in Kenya. “During lean economic times, it’s more important than ever to give back to the community. We were eager to help, not only because this project will enhance the educational experience of the students, but because the diverse spirit of the International Community School echoes the global nature of our company: one that encourages a respectful environment and global per-

spective.”  “One way to ensure that our students thrive is to place them in an environment that promotes creativity and camaraderie,” said Dr. Laurent Ditmann, the principal of International Community School. “With this in mind, we’re thrilled to welcome Orange Business Services as they take time out of their busy schedule to help us improve some of the facilities at the International Community School.”  The International Community School is a charter school located on Covington Highway in DeKalb and was strategically designed to bring together refugee, immigrant and native-born children in an academically challenging and nurturing environment.  In the last 10 years, thousands of refugee children have come to DeKalb County, home to the highest percentage of refugees in the southeastern United States.  The school began operation during the 2002-2003 school year and has grown to and an enrolment of approximately 400 students.

Editorial

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009, Page 4A

Guest Editorial

Pleasantness characterizes state of county address by Steen Miles CEO Burrell Ellis in his State of the County address Feb. 18, deftly laid out his administration’s goals and objectives. It was “pleasant” to use the words of Rabbi Moshe Hiller, who brought the inspirational invocation before a packed audience at the Manuel Maloof Building. Rabbi Hiller referenced scripture to remind the CEO, commissioners and the other electeds of their lofty purpose to create a better DeKalb and to be “pleasant.” All of the county commissioners, Larry Johnson, Connie Stokes, Sharon Sut- Miles ton, Lee May, Jeff Rader and Kathie Gannon were there save for Elaine Boyer, who was celebrating her anniversary. While tornado warning sirens blared on the outside, CEO Ellis attemped to calm a brewing storm over his proposal for a new position of public safety director to oversee police, fire and the medical examiner’s office. Ellis exemplified his lawyer training, nearly flawlessly delivering a sober and direct, but encouraging 45-minute speech on the need for unity, openness, transpar-

ency and accountability. He pointed no fingers nor assigned blame for the current state of the county. He was “pleasant,” noting the accomplishments of the 7,500 county employees, including police and fire personnel. He asked the audience to stand and join him in a round of applause for their dedication. And, extending an olive branch, Ellis complimented each and every one of the commissioners – Stokes for her work on the foreclosure problem; Radar for protecting neighborhoods; Johnson for affordable housing, for example. Ellis stayed on message with familiar themes – shrinking tax revenues, unprecedented foreclosure rates and the county’s dramatic increase in crime. But make no mistake, public safety is this administration’s number one priority. Violent crime and property crimes are up in DeKalb while trending down nationally. The new CEO made it clear that there would be no compromise on fighting crime. “Crime is a problem from which we must not retreat. It cannot be business as usual and it will not be marginalized or

politicized. Too many seniors, business owners, students and average citizens are feeling the effects of the increase in crime. He cited examples of skyrocketing home invasions. Then personalizing the problem, he said not only does crime prevent our seniors like Mother Stella Sanford from living out her golden years in relative peace, it keeps new small business owners like Patricia Setzer from staying in business. Along with the problems, Ellis offered solutions. His $601-million spending plan is balanced as required by law and is 5 percent smaller than the $635-million budget last year. This was accomplished by consolidating some county services, without raising taxes, and with no reduction in county services. The new administration’s budget tackles head on the county’s problems. It is extremely well thought out and is not a measure for political cherry picking or to be a pawn of power grabbers. With this in mind, we might need a refresher in the duties and responsibilities of our legislative and executive branches of government. I was happy as a senator from District 43 to participate in the study committee led by Sen. Emanuel Jones (D-10) that

led to the creation of the recently enacted law allowing the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners to run its own meetings. Simply put, it just makes sense. My motivation also was that correcting the imbalance of power would mitigate some of the rancor that too often characterized past commission meetings. Commissioners set policy. They listen to constituents and create ordinances to address their needs. In a perfect world that might consult with the CEO on new ordinances. It is the role, the duty and responsibility of the executive branch, the CEO, to carry out those ordinances and administer the day-to-day operation of county government. This all requires, as Ellis so aptly stated that we have doers not critics. In keeping with Rabbi Hiller’s “pleasant” invocation, can we dare to be different in DeKalb? Can we turn the page from the scathing quote or the six o’clock soundbite? It would be so refreshing to see the new CEO’s budget approved in a new spirit of consultation, cooperation and “pleasantness.” The Newslady Steen Miles is a retired journalist and former Georgia State Senator.

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New York Times misleads on drug abuse costs by Jason Salzman No one likes drug abuse, but this shouldn’t stop reporters from offering skeptical views of reports alleging to quantify the societal costs of drug use in America. TheNewYorkTimes reported Feb. 4 on a study claiming to quantify the “societal cost of meth use,” as the headline put it. Funny thing was, the article contained not a whisper of criticism of the study by the RAND Drug Policy Research Center, which tallied the expense of methamphetamine to be about $23 billion. That’s a lot of money, but far less than the latest-available cost of alcohol abuse in America. That’s $148 billion, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse. No mention of this, in the Times piece. But the truth is it’s Salzman meaningless to throw out estimates about the cost of drug abuse, without comparing them to the cost of policies designed to solve the problem. Jeffrey Miron, a senior lecturer at in the Department of Economics at Harvard University, says the $23 billion figure has no economic meaning. He explains that a useful economic analysis by RAND would focus on a “prohibition regime in which there are very heavy penalties versus a prohibition regime in which there were lighter penalties, including more treatment.” A study like this would compare the current costs of methampheta-

mine with the costs of a specific policy that aims to reduce its use or the negative side effects, he says. “Otherwise, what are you studying?” he told me. “How much less expenditure would there be on methamphetamine if we could magically make it disappear from the planet? That’s clearly not an option.” “If we waved a wand and made meth disappear, then people would do something else with the money they were spending on meth,” Miron told me. “Now, you hope they’d spend it on peanut butter cookies, but they’re probably going to spend it on something that has similar properties to methamphetamine, because that’s why they chose to spend it on meth in the first place.” Nancy Nicosia, one of the authors of the RAND report, agrees that her study doesn’t help policymakers decide what to do about the meth problem, but she argues that her figure is nonetheless valid and useful in understanding the scope of the problem. But even if you accept Nicosia’s view, there’s a broader issue here, which also wasn’t aired in The New York Times piece. That is, the study correlates social problems with meth use, but the problems could be driven by underlying social problems, not the drug. “Drug misuse is a symptom of many things, not the cause,” said Bill Piper, director of national affairs for the Drug Policy Alliance. In fact, you don’t have to be much of a social scientist to get a

laugh out of the RAND press release about its meth study. It states, “The RAND analysis found that nearly two-thirds of the economic costs caused by methamphetamine use resulted from the burden of addiction and an estimated 900 premature deaths among users in 2005. The burden of addiction was measured by quantifying the impact of the lower quality of life experienced by those addicted to the drug.” You might need to read that last paragraph twice to appreciate its full meaning, but in case you don’t get it, let me translate. According to RAND, if you’re addicted to meth, and you have a lower quality of life as a result, then you should blame the drug. Not yourself. Not your parents. Not the cycle of poverty. Not your crumbling public schools or the fact you have no health insurance. None of it matters. Just the meth you’ve been doing lately. That is, since you quit smoking crack cocaine. You get my point, but I know it’s not original or surprising. What’s surprising is that The New York Times, in reporting on the RAND meth study, decided to ignore all the huge issues that raise red flags about the legitimacy of the report’s findings. JasonSalzmanistheauthorofMaking the News: A Guide for Nonprofits and Activists,’and boardchairofRockyMountainMediaWatch,a Denver-basedmediawatchdogorganization.DistributedbyMinutemanMedia.org.

Yes, Virginia, it’s now time for justice

by William A. Collins

It would have been illuminating to hear the dialogue within the Bush administration about issuing preemptive pardons for war crimes. But whatever the victorious line of reasoning, Mr. Bush didn’t do it. Good. That should make prosecution a little easier. The bad news is that Barack Obama doesn’t seem much interested. Like many transformative political figures, he wants to “move forward.” Who can blame him? He’s got more than enough booby traps awaiting him. Why volunteer for ones he can safely avoid? Why? Well, how about the honor of our nation? Is that good enough? No? OK, how about the safety of our nation? That used to justify virtually any horrid act. Would it also justify a good act? Maybe not. The problem is, if we unleash the special prosecutors and they decide that there are grave criminal offenses needing to be punished, what does this say about us as voters? We did re-elect those guys in 2004, by which time their actions were not exactly secrets. So now that we have a seemingly competent new president, why not simply leave those morbid days to historians and spend our limited emotional resources climbing out of the pit? Sorry, that’s not quite good enough. As a nation anchored in freedom, liberty and justice, we can’t simply slough off the unpleasant parts of keeping the faith. Justice is justice, and merely because we may not admire the people we killed, maimed, raped, widowed, detained, eavesdropped on, refugeed, poisoned, or otherwise abused doesn’t mean we can ignore our own crimes. Clearly the rest of the world is not ignoring them. It’s watching to see what we do. Especially the Muslim world, which we have so tragically demeaned. Where do you think all those terrorist recruits come from, central casting? Sure they get stirred up in dusty madrassas by fervent zealots, but fortunately there is a limit to how much influence such zealotry can exert. Luckily for them, the United States blithely supports their evil work with endless invasions, bombs, rockets and drones. These soon begin to make martyrdom and the Taliban look appealing. We’ve created a nightmare that’s sort of the inverse of the Peace Corps. But it shouldn’t take still more fear of terrorists to nudge us toward justice. We don’t back off from prosecuting bank robbers, drug dealers, rapists, bribetakers, or Ponzi schemers. Why then offer amnesty to

war criminals? We prize Lady Justice with her magic scales and accord great honor to all judges. Why then ignore torturers, eavesdroppers and invaders? The answer of some apologists is to look at Spain and South Africa with their seemingly successful truth commissions. These offered amnesty from prosecution in order to get everything out on the table. Well, that was fine for Spain and South Africa, where massive hostile social forces needed to be reconciled. That’s not the case here. We just have a bunch of autocratic imperialists who think they’re above the law. If they turn out to be right, it will be a great boon to the next round of domestic despots. These schemers may even now be wondering just what the limits are on their own delusions of world conquest and national domination. Can you imagine if Newt

Gingrich were in charge with no fear of eventual prosecution? Or Richard Nixon? With luck we’re better than that, but at the moment our resolve doesn’t look sufficiently strong. President Obama seems to have appointed a straight shooter to the watchdog slot at the Justice Department, but that is only to head off future acts in his own administration. As a constitutional law professor himself the president must appreciate the value of precedent. Letting suspected war criminals off the hook without even a glance is a truly ominous precedent for him and for the nation. ColumnistWilliamA.Collinsisaformerstate representativeandaformermayorofNorwalk, Conn.DistributedbyMinutemanMedia.org.

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THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009

They just don’t make role models like they used to You know the year has gotten off to a rotten start when it’s February and the best news we’ve had is that an airline pilot landed his plane in the Hudson River and nobody died. Let’s see…our greatest Olympic athlete was photographed smoking pot, our greatest baseball player confessed to using steroids then lying about it to Katie Couric, our new Treasury secretary was caught cheating on his taxes and our

by Donald Kaul Columnist

most listened-to talk-radio personality says he’s hoping Barack Obama fails. Fortunately, none of these things is as depressing as it first seems. For example: Michael Phelps, pot smoker–Phelps spends hours of his day swimming, an activity that makes watching paint dry seem electric. Little wonder that in his off hours he seeks the escape of a drug-induced haze. To do so in a crowd that bristles with cell-phone cameras, however, is like sticking your finger in the light-socket to see if the electricity is on. Mr. Phelps is obviously dumb as a box of rocks. If you have him as a role model, I suggest you raise your standards. Alex Rodriguez, steroiduser–The reigning World’s Greatest Ballplayer copped a plea after a magazine revealed that he’d tested positive for the drugs in 2003, a test he took after being assured that no one would ever publish the results. (A promise that ranks up there with “I’ll respect you in the morning.”) Mr. Rodriguez, teary and apologetic, suggested it had been a “loose time” for major league baseball and that he’d been caught up in the permissive spirit of the age. Sports writers were quick to jump on him, doing their best Mary Poppins imitations: “Just because everybody is doing it is no excuse for you to do it” they wrote, again and again. Actually, it’s a better excuse than most. If you’re in a highly competitive business and your competitors are cheating and not getting caught, you have to be a plaster saint not to be tempted to cheat too. (If those sportswriters could take a pill

that would make them write like Rodriquez hits, they’d take it in a blink.) There are two reasons for not taking steroids: They are bad for your health. They are illegal. In any case, someone should tell Alex that there’s no crying in baseball. But if you were thinking of Alex Rodriguez as a role model, think again. Tim Geithner, Treasury secretary-tax cheat–He said that not paying his housekeeper’s payroll tax was an oversight, understandable for a busy man involved in matters of great moment. And besides that, the dog ate his tax return. The fact that a high flier like Geithner was doing his own taxes would indicate that he might have something he wanted to keep from an independent accountant. We can only hope that the 30 grand he owed for the housekeeper was all he was hiding. I favored his confirmation as Treasury Secretary because he seemed to be the only person on earth who understood the proposed bailout of the financial system. Then he rolled out his plan and proved that a guy who looks like a pencil-necked geek can be just as terrifying as Hank Paulson. Seeking a role model? Seek elsewhere. Rush Limbaugh, talk-showbuffoon–This bag of wind makes Don Imus look like Winston Churchill. The fact that the leaders of the Republican Party line up to kiss his ring every time he raises an eyebrow tells you all you need to know about the Republican Party. Obama is trying to put out a raging forest fire that threatens us all and they’re complaining he’s using too much water. House Republicans actually congratulated themselves on opposing the stimulus package unanimously. Thus the soldiers of the GOP line up behind General Limbaugh, who’s beginning to resemble a Macy’s Thanksgiving Day balloon by the way. Perhaps it’s not his ring they’re kissing after all. If Rush Limbaugh is your role model…try wearing a corrective hat. Sometimes it works. Don Kaul is a two-time Pulitzer Prize-losing Washington correspondent who, by his own account, is right more than he’s wrong. Email: [email protected].

Betsy Goss –Champion of the Week Habitat for Humanity – DeKalb Executive Director Joe Stoner says Betsy Goss is an invaluable volunteer at the organization. “Betsy has volunteered here for four years,” he said. “She puts in at least two full eight-hour days in the office every week. She is a part of our staff. It is hard to imagine our organization without Betsy.” Prior to her two-daya-week commitment at Habitat for Humanity – DeKalb, Goss worked for 20 years at Sun Trust Bank, in the factoring division. Her experience there gave her the skills she uses at the DeKalb Habitat office as she works with the 7 homeowners’ taxes and insurance. She has saved homeowners many thousands of dollars by

reminding them to file for homestead exemption, protesting when their taxes seem out of line with the neighborhood, and by securing the best insurance rates available. Stoner recalls that when Goss came to the Habitat office in March of 2005, she found the files in need of organization. Her first task was to set up files for each homeowner, get the office files organized, and set up closing procedures as homeowners purchased their houses. Through the years she has added many tasks to her list. She does the statistical reports and sends them to Habitat for Humanity, International, keeps records and files required reports for grants such as

the Capacity Building grant and the Softwood Lumber grant. Currently she is helping with the qualification process as DeKalb Habitat accepts applications from folks who want to be Family Partners. Goss explained that she simply wanted to give back to the community after she retired from Sun Trust, “I wanted to do something meaningful,” she said, adding that she sought out a smaller Habitat affiliate so she could be sure she was doing something useful. “I love the people I work with,” she said. Added Stoner, “They love her, too, and value her contribution, her wonderful smile and generous personality.”

If you would like to nominate someone to be considered as a future Champion of the Week, please contact Kathy Mitchell at [email protected] or at 404-373-7779, ext. 104.

Home Depot exec blows a gasket Time for another Gooberhead Award –presented periodically to those in the news who’ve got their tongues running 100 miles per hour, but forgot to put

by Jim Hightower Columnist

their brains in gear. Today I’ve got a real goober for you –a corporate chieftain who’s hot under the collar about a piece of legislation that would allow workers in a company to form a union if a majority of them sign written cards declaring they want to unionize. This simple step toward a bit of workplace democracy is necessary, because the corporate powers have rigged our labor laws so company executives can intimidate, shut-out, and even fire employees who attempt to join with coworkers in a union. Some 60 percent of working people say they’d join a union tomorrow if they could, and the proposed Employee Free Choice Act would help make that possible.

That’s what fired up today’s Gooberhead, Bernie Marcus, the co-founder of Home Depot. He profits from lowwage, non-union workers, and he doesn’t want any democratic changes that would dilute his autocratic control over working folks. So, in a conference call with several other corporate executives, Marcus blew a gasket: “This is the demise of a civilization,” he screeched, adding, “This is how a civilization disappears.” Whew, Bernie, get a grip. Allowing Home Depot workers to organize democratically and gain a say over their livelihoods is actually quite civilized–an advance, not a demise. Of course, Marcus was talking about his own little exclusive civilization–corporate fiefdoms controlled by self-serving, petty autocrats like him. Indeed, he is so threatened by this reform that he lashed out at CEOs of other retail chains, declaring that if they’re not putting up money to defeat the Free Choice Act, “they should be shot.” I think he meant it. For more information on Jim Hightower’s work – and to subscribe to his award-winning monthly newsletter, The Hightower Lowdown, visit www.jimhightower.com

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009



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‘Air taxi’ service announces PDK expansion plans by Matt Amato A low-cost, round-trip ticket from Atlanta to Los Angeles on a budget airline costs less than $495. But it’s the time it takes to reach the airport, clear security and wait to taxi for take off that’s of greater cost to many of the area’s business elite–who pay the same price for an hour of SATS Air flight-time from DeKalb Peachtree Airport (PDK). The South Carolinabased company announced last week that it will expand its “air taxi” services from PDK, citing the “economic benefit” for its travelers. “We think this kind of travel is appropriate in this kind of economy,” said SATS Air President/CEO Steve Hanvey. “Imagine this: an eight-hour trip costing in the ballpark of $2,000, you can do two business meetings – say to Jacksonville, then Alabama, and back to Atlanta.” With “the time is money” concept clearly the marketing tool, SATS says its service is six times more efficient than driving and four times more than commercial air travel. Though that’s not cheap, Hanvey said it’s a bargain compared to chartering a plane. Statistics show that many agree. In 2008, SATS planes touched down in 500 air-

ports within nine states of its target area–mostly the Southeast–and clocked more than 11 million passenger miles in the last three years. Despite PDK’s proximity of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the world’s busiest airport, SATS research maintains that the metro area is an “underserved market of business professionals that are looking for an alternative means of travel that will maximize their productivity…” Of 73 airports used by SATS in Georgia, the majority of its flights were out of PDK–totaling 875 for 2008. “We’ve seen the biggest growth here,” said Hanvey, who announced that all the company’s 26 airplanes will now cover the airport. At $500,000 each (all planes are four-seater Cirrus SR-22’s), that’s a considerable investment. They’re also equipped with satellite radio for passengers and even a special parachute. The total passenger weight capacity–including luggage –is 600 pounds. The company says that roughly one third of its pilots are retired from the commercial airline industry. SATS frequently refers to its service as an “air taxi,” equating the ease of securing flight time akin to ordering a cab. However,

Hanvey admitted it wasn’t quite as straightforward. “Sometimes it can be ordered two hours ahead of time or two to three days ahead. It depends on the scheduling and availability,” he said. There’s also a catch to the prices. The cheapest

hourly rates are only available for those who buy large blocks of time, with a sliding scale reflecting higher prices for smaller blocks of time. Furthermore, there’s also a fuel-price clause, meaning these prices can jump due to an unexpected rise in fuel 420-220985 2/26 NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER

costs. Although the company has yet to invoke this clause, Hanvey gave an example of extreme fuelprice fluctuation in Miami last year, where the price of a gallon jumped from $3 to $11 a gallon.

GEORGIA, DEKALB COUNTY Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in a Security Deed given by Artie M. Leech and Jimmy H. Wilcox to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., dated August 3, 2004, recorded in Deed Book 16474, Page 403, DeKalb County, Georgia Records, as last transferred to Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment to be recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court of DeKalb County, Georgia Records, conveying the after-described property to secure a Note in the original principal amount of ONE HUNDRED SIX THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED FIFTY-SEVEN AND 0/100 DOLLARS ($106,657.00), with interest thereon as set forth therein, there will be sold at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the courthouse door of DeKalb County, Georgia within the legal hours of sale on the first Tuesday in May, 2009, the following described property: EXHIBIT “A” All that tract or parcel of land lying and being in Land Lot 59 of the 16th District of DeKalb County, Georgia, being Lot 104, Marbut Forest, Phase one, as per plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 77, Page 81, DeKalb County, Georgia Records, which plat is hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof, being improved property known as 5535 Marbut Road, according to the present system of numbering in DeKalb County, Georgia. The debt secured by said Security Deed has been and is hereby declared due because of, among other possible events of default, failure to pay the indebtedness as and when due and in the manner provided in the Note and Security Deed. The debt remaining in default, this sale will be made for the purpose of paying the same and all expenses of this sale, as provided in Security Deed and by law, including attorney’s fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees having been given). Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and matters of record superior to the Security Deed first set out above. The entity that has full authority to negotiate, amend, and modify all terms of the mortgage with the debtor is: Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., PO Box 10335, Des Moines, IA 50306, 1-800-416-1472. Please understand that the secured creditor is not required by law to negotiate, amend, or modify the terms of the mortgage instrument. To the best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the party in possession of the property is Artie M. Leech and Jimmy H. Wilcox or a tenant or tenants and said property is more commonly known as 5535 Marbut Road, Lithonia, GA 30058. The sale will be conducted subject (1) to confirmation that the sale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the holder of the security deed. Wells Fargo Bank, NA as Attorney in Fact for Artie M. Leech and Jimmy H. Wilcox McCalla Raymer, LLC 1544 Old Alabama Road Roswell, Georgia 30076 www.foreclosurehotline.net THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

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Pine Lake

Continued From Page 2A

and support small-business owners. Future projects may include setting up group office space or a business fair tied to the city’s annual LakeFest arts festival held in October. Pine Lake, a small, quirky city off Rockbridge Road, has a preponderance of self-employed people (about one in every 10 residents is an artist, writer or musician), according to its Web site. The concept of relying on who you know among independent business people is taking place in communities throughout the county. About a dozen small-business associations belong to the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, including the Chamblee Area Business & Professional Coalition, the Stone Mountain Village Merchants Association and the Tucker Business Association, said Kim Davis Mitchell, the chamber’s vice president of programs and operations. The Tucker-based chamber has a total of 600 active members. “In order to grow your business, you have to find time to network,” she said, noting that small business is a major driver of the U.S. economy and is a popular option among the recently laid-off. Davis Mitchell was on hand during a recent meeting of Pine Lake Local to explain the benefits of a $300 annual chamber membership, including monthly networking luncheons, an online membership directory and discounts on business development programs. Nine attendees, including two massage therapists, a doula, and a handyman, listened intently as they sipped tea by an electric heater in the city’s clubhouse. Among them was Liz Beneski, a restauranteur and hotel consulting firm operator who has been unemployed for the past two months. Rather than bemoan her lot, Beneski is focused on “getting organized” and harnessing Pine Lake’s entrepreneurial spirit. “It’s time for us to pool our resources,” she said.

Tips for Small Business Owners in a Turbulent Economy Source: Kim Davis Mitchell, vice president of programs and operations for the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce • Frequent local business events: “Just showing up at events is great, but you’re just a face in the crowd. Ask to be on one of the committees.” • Join your local professional association, chamber of commerce, or network with other entrepreneurs in similar industries. • Start a professional Website: “If someone recommends your service, you can almost guarantee that they will go online to look for you. Your Web site design should be updated at least every two years to stay current.” • Blog it: “Blogs help your business if you provide valuable content on a consistent basis. People are looking for experts, not apprentices.” • Develop a business plan: “It can be a helpful tool for developing a marketing plan, expanding your current business or obtaining capital for the future.” • Talk and listen to your employees: “You might actually learn something.” • Read industry or trade publications • Invest in training • Focus on the fundamentals: “Relearn and re-visit fundamental principles of business, such as conducting regular financial checks, training and managing customer relationships.” • Expand your marketing focus: “In hard times, looking beyond the regular boundaries of your business is good business.”

NEWS BRIEFS Rushdie: Slumdog laden with impossible scenes

Reward offered in case of dead businessman

ATLANTA (AP) Famed novelist Salman Rushdie apparently wasn’t too impressed with the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire, telling an audience in the United States it “piles impossibility on impossibility.” Rushdie, who spent years in hiding after Iran’s Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini called for the author’s death in 1989, made the remarks Sunday during a speech to more than 1,000 people at Atlanta’s Emory University. The author criticized other Oscar winners adapted from books, including The Reader and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. reports the 61-year-old author of The Satanic Verses complained about several scenes, including one in which characters wind up at the Taj Mahal—1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) from the previous scene. Slumdog Millionaire won eight Oscars on Sunday, including best picture.

LITHONIA, Ga. (AP) New Birth Missionary Baptist Church is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of suspects in the shooting death of a Stone Mountain businessman in Duluth last week. Police discovered Marc Stewart’s body Feb. 14 inside a Ford Explorer. Stewart suffered a gunshot wound to the head. The 38-year-old businessman hadn’t been seen since the morning of Feb. 11, when he left for work. Stewart was president and chief executive officer of Island Coast Entertainment, an Atlanta-based event planning company. He also was a member of New Birth. Friday, Bishop Eddie L. Long offered the family sympathy and urged the public to come forward on a morning radio show.

420-220984 2/26 NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER

GEORGIA, DEKALB COUNTY Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in a Security Deed given by Jonathan Ciliberto to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., dated August 26, 2002, recorded in Deed Book 13609, Page 109, DeKalb County, Georgia Records and as modified by that certain Loan Modification Agreement recorded in Deed Book 13609, Page 109, DeKalb County, Georgia Records, as last transferred to The Bank of New York Mellon as Successor in Interest to JP Morgan Chase Bank, as Trustee for Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2004-RP1 by assignment to be recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court of DeKalb County, Georgia Records, conveying the after-described property to secure a Note in the original principal amount of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-NINE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SIXTY-FIVE AND 0/100 DOLLARS ($139,765.00), with interest thereon as set forth therein, there will be sold at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the courthouse door of DeKalb County, Georgia within the legal hours of sale on the first Tuesday in May, 2009, the following described property: EXHIBIT “A” All that tract or parcel of land lying and being in Land Lot 205 of the 15th District, Dekalb County, Georgia, being part of Lot 14, Block D, East Lake Park, as per plat recorded in Plat Book 1, Page 94, Dekalb County Records and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at an iron pin on the northeasterly side of Rocky Ford Road, 162.3 feet southeasterly from the intersection formed by the northeasterly side of Rocky Ford Road with the south side of Delano Drive (formerly Hardee St.); running thence southeasterly along the northeasterly side of Rocky Ford Road 44 feet to an iron pin and Lot 15, said block and subdivision; running thence northeasterly along the northwesterly line of said Lot 15, 228 feet to an iron pin and a 10 foot alley (not open); running thence northwesterly along the southwesterly side of said alley 39 feet to an iron pin; running thence southwesterly 231.9 feet to the northeasterly side of Rocky Ford Road and the point of beginning; being improved property and having a located thereon known as No. 101 Rocky Road, N.E., according to the present system of numbering houses in the City of Atlanta, Georgia. The debt secured by said Security Deed has been and is hereby declared due because of, among other possible events of default, failure to pay the indebtedness as and when due and in the manner provided in the Note and Security Deed. The debt remaining in default, this sale will be made for the purpose of paying the same and all expenses of this sale, as provided in Security Deed and by law, including attorney’s fees (notice of intent to collect attorney’s fees having been given). Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and matters of record superior to the Security Deed first set out above. The entity that has full authority to negotiate, amend, and modify all terms of the mortgage with the debtor is: Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., PO Box 10335, Des Moines, IA 50306, 1-800-416-1472. Please understand that the secured creditor is not required by law to negotiate, amend, or modify the terms of the mortgage instrument. To the best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the party in possession of the property is Jonathan Ciliberto or a tenant or tenants and said property is more commonly known as 101 Rocky Ford Road, Atlanta, GA 30317. The sale will be conducted subject (1) to confirmation that the sale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the holder of the security deed. The Bank of New York Mellon as Successor in Interest to JP Morgan Chase Bank, as Trustee for Washington Mutual Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2004-RP1 as Attorney in Fact for Jonathan Ciliberto McCalla Raymer, LLC 1544 Old Alabama Road Roswell, Georgia 30076 www.foreclosurehotline.net MR/car 5/5/09 Our file no. 51346008-FT5 THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

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DeKalb History book released

Glenn Burns gives DeKalb officials the bad news. Photo by John Hewitt

‘Nasty’ spring weather coming by John Hewitt [email protected] WSB TV meteorologist Glenn Burns told the audience at DeKalb Fire Rescue’s severe weather seminar last week in Tucker that spring weather will be nasty. The discussion was the first in a series of seminars offered by Fire Rescue’s Business Council Organized for Response, Planning, and Security (B-CORPS) and was specifically targeted to DeKalb’s business community. Burns explained that the area’s weather is currently in what is considered a neutral year; that its typical weather patterns are affected by either El Nino or La Nina influences and that 2009 has neither influence. “Get ready” he said. The seminar was held to educate business owners and operators on how to prepare for severe weather activity and how to best prevent long-term loss of business. Tornado season generally refers to the period of March, April and early May; yet last week many areas of metro Atlanta and other parts of Georgia experienced early evidence of what may be yet to come, according to Burns. Also addressing the group was Mark Ihenacho of the Small Business Administration (SBA). Ihenacho stressed the importance of businesses having an emergency procedure plan so that in a weather-related emergency there is as little damage to people and property as possible and interruption of services provided is kept at a minimum. “Create an all-inclusive disaster plan, update it regularly, have practice drills and keep a copy of the disaster plan at an off-site location,” Ihenacho said. According to Ihenacho severe weather preparedness should include the following: • An evacuation plan that includes escape routes, designated meeting areas, and a designated person to perform a “head count” of employees. • A communication plan that shows who communicates to the various departments of a company and a comprehensive phone list of employees, employees’ emergency contacts, vendors, suppliers and customers. Business owners and managers in attendance were encouraged to solicit input from employees as to emergency plan implementation and effectiveness and to develop a list of alternative service providers of functions that are vital to the successful ongoing operation of the business. Ihenacho also discussed the various financial assistance programs offered by the SBA to individuals and businesses that have experienced losses due to disasters. For additional information on disaster assistance offered by the SBA visit www.sba.gov.

The DeKalb History Center unveiled its highly anticipated book, Historic DeKalb County, at its book release reception held Feb. 12 in downtown Decatur. One of he authors, Vivan Price,, describes it as a “coffee style book utilizing wonderful photographs from the DeKalb History Center collection.” The book is an illustrated view of the history of DeKalb County highlighting local industries, colleges, churches and persons. The cover of Historic DeKalb County is a reproduction of a painting done by Maceo Rogers, deputy director of DeKalb County Office of Economic Development. When Rogers was asked to paint the cover for this project, he jumped to the opportunity. He began working by traveling around the county taking pictures and talking with fellow DeKalbites about what they thought best described DeKalb. Once

he gathered all that he felt highlighted the county visually, he began working on the painting. The beginning of the book, written by Price, outlines the history of DeKalb County. Price takes readers through the creation of Georgia’s 54th county starting from 1822, pinpointing the historic moments of DeKalb’s past that set the foundation for its continued historic future. The back section of the book shares with readers “historic profiles of businesses, organizations, and families that have contributed to the development and economic base of DeKalb County.” Britt Fayssoux, author of this section, met with businesses, organizations and families around the county to profile their history and contribution to DeKalb. Fayssoux profiles roughly 40-plus of these major contributors to the history of DeKalb County who symbolize the growth and achievements of the county throughout the years. Historic DeKalb County, An Illustrated History, retails for $49.95 and can be purchased at the DeKalb History Center.

Doraville collects school supplies for Afghan children Doraville’s police department will have two fewer employees soon. Police Chief John King and officer Daniel Nichols, both members of the Georgia National Guard, will be deployed this spring to Kabul, Afghanistan, to assist in police force training. As a show of support of the officers involvement, Doraville Mayor Ray Jenkins is asking the community to donate school supplies to be sent with King to be given to Afghan street children. Jenkins said, “John (King) works good with children and we’re supporting him however we can.”

The collection efforts will continue for the 12month duration of King’s deployment and are being coordinated by Aschiana Foundation, a Kabul-based nonprofit that works to bring working children off the Afghan streets and into classrooms. Quarterly shipments of donated items are scheduled. In a letter from The Aschiana Foundation’s Patricia Silberman to Jenkins, Silberman stated “Educating the working street children serves a humanitarian purpose as well as a strategic interest because of the contribution it makes to future

stability.” Items requested include pencils and pens, pencil sharpeners, notebooks and notebook paper, art supplies and backpacks. In addition to school supplies, there is also a need for hygiene supplies such as toothpaste, soap and shampoo. Donations may be dropped off at Doraville City Hall, Doraville Public Library or the Doraville Police Department all located on Park Avenue in Doraville. For additional information call (770) 4518745 or visit www.aschianafoundation.org.

Notice is hereby given that an Ordinance has been introduced to amend the Charter of the City of Chamblee, Georgia (Ga.. Laws 1935, p. 976, et seq. approved March 28, 1935) so as to amend Article 5, Officers, Section 2 of the Charter and related laws of the City so as to delete paragraph (f) thereof which established the position of director of permits and inspections. A copy of the proposed Ordinance to amend the Charter is on file in the Office of the City Clerk of the City of Chamblee, Georgia and the Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court of DeKalb County, Georgia for the purpose of examination and inspection by the public. Kathy Brannon City Clerk

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Around DeKalb

Atlanta

Emory nursing lecture to shine spotlight on humanitarian aid

Emory’s 2009 Hugh P. Davis Lecture series presents “The Future of Humanitarian and Disaster Aid: A Practitioner’s Perspective” Tuesday, March 1, at 4 p.m. in the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Auditorium, Emory University, 1520 Clifton Road., NE, Atlanta. The event is sponsored by Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing and the friends and family of Hugh P. Davis. Gerald Martone, RN, MSN, director of Humanitarian Affairs for the International Rescue Committee, will present. The lecture is free and open to the public. To RSVP, call Abigail Joslin at (404) 727-0722 or e-mail [email protected].

Avondale Estates

Charter school committees schedule meetings For the next several weeks, the Avondale Estates Charter School Initiative (AECSI) Executive and Steering Committees will meet to discuss a series of topics relating to the charter petition requirements. Meetings will involve a presentation by members of the appropriate committee followed by discussion and an Executive Committee vote, when appropriate. The public is always invited and welcome to attend

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009

committee meetings. Unless otherwise noted, meetings take place at Avondale Estates City Hall beginning at 6:0 p.m. Here are the topics for upcoming meetings: Feb. 26: Curriculum; grade levels to be served March 5: Human resources; school name/logo March 12: Governance and waivers March 19: Finance March 26: Transportation; school lunches For more information, contact Laura Leckband or Sasha Webb via [email protected].

D ecatur

Little League baseball registration wraps up The final day for Belvedere Little League baseball registration is Saturday, Feb. 28, noon - 4 p.m. at Shoal Creek Park, 60 Glenwood Road, Decatur. For more information call (404) 289-07. AIDS exhibit to come to Decatur Greenforest Community Baptist Church in Decatur is hosting the “World Vision Experience: AIDS” exhibit, which is slated to visit 40 cities during its national tour in 2009. The exhibit has already visited 75 cities during 2007/2008. The public is invited to go through the free, multimedia, interactive exhibit and become one of the over 150,000 people who have been through the exhibit. More than 150,000 additional people are expected to visit the exhibit during the 2009 tour.

The “World Vision Experience: AIDS” exhibit will be in Decatur March 1-8, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily. Visitors walk through a replica of an African village and experience the effects of the pandemic in a real way as they listen to a personal audio track relating the story of one of four children – Kombo, Babirye, Emmanuel and Mathabo. Greenforest Community Baptist Church is located at 250 Rainbow Drive, Decatur.

D unwoody

Nature center offers squarefoot gardening class Lyn and Bob Bernstein will provide hands-on instruction in choosing the best plants and seeds for Dunwoody gardens, plant spacing, watering techniques, and trellising in their presentation Planting Your Early Spring Garden Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m. – noon, at the Dunwoody Nature Center. The class is based on Mel Bartholomew’s book All New Square Foot Gardening. Class space is limited. The Dunwoody Nature Center is located at 54 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody. To register, visit www.dunwoodynature.org or call (770) 94-22. The cost is $20 for members; $25 for the general public.

Lithonia

Bishop Long, Dr. Karanja to be honored by president of Kenya The president of the Republic of Kenya, Mwai Kibaki, will honor Bishop Eddie L. Long, senior pastor, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, and Dr. Benson M. Karanja of Beulah Heights

University with the Head of State Commendation in distinction of their commitment to service. The ceremony will take place at New Birth on Sunday, March 1, beginning at 10:0 a.m. Bishop Long and Dr. Karanja are two of only five individuals to receive the Head of State Commendation, the highest civilian honor given by the president of Kenya. The ceremony will include a color guard honor, Kenyan flag display, and a salute to Kenya with the singing of the country’s national anthem. New Birth Missionary Baptist Church is located at 6400 Woodrow Road, Lithonia.

Tucker

Jack Sartain to perform at Tucker church Jack Sartain will perform vocals and on trumpet at the communitywide NTO meeting at First Baptist Church in Tucker at 11:0 a.m. on March 10. He will present a potpourri of music, including Irish melodies to begin the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. His performance will also include renditions of sacred, popular and classical tenor solos. In addition, he will offer trumpet selections, including “Trumpeter’s Lullaby” and the Dixieland favorite “When the Saints Go Marching In.” Sartain is the founder of the DeKalb Council for the Arts Inc., a performer in opera, recital and chorus presentations and the producer of the 10-year series “Music for Missions” at the Lawrenceville Road United Methodist Church in Tucker. He will be accompanied by virtuoso pianist Billye Faubian. For further information, contact Phill Nall at (770) 98-1688, ext. 22.

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There are two legal crosswalks at Northeast Plaza on Buford Highway. Photo by M. Lee

Amid Buford Highway dangers, improvement plans languish by Maggie Lee On a chilly winter afternoon, a young woman stands at one edge of Buford Highway at the entrance to an apartment complex. Both of her arms are wrapped tightly around a baby hidden in a mass of blankets. She carefully looks left and right as she prepares to sprint across seven lanes of traffic on one of the most dangerous streets for pedestrians in Atlanta – at a spot very near where a vehicle hit and killed a pedestrian in January. “We’re afraid for our clients to take the bus here because we don’t want them to cross the street,” said Jeffrey Tapia, chief operating officer of the Latin American Association, from her office on Buford Highway. It’s hard to know exactly how deadly the seven-lane road is for pedestrians because the Georgia Department of Transportation has yet to compile its data on pedestrian injuries and deaths on Buford Highway for the last few years. The latest data is for the combined years 2002-2004, when there were six pedestrian fatalities and 28 injuries, according to GDOT spokesman Mark McKinnon. One death was at an intersection with a traffic light. And, McKinnon’s stats only cover Lenox Road to Shallowford Terrace, roughly the lower two-thirds of Buford Highway in DeKalb. But anecdotal evidence suggests the road is

among the most dangerous in the country. It’s nationally known for being dangerous and inconvenient for pedestrians. Scholars from Georgia Tech, the University of Southern California and other schools took turns studying the road in the mid-2000s for its remarkable concentration of pedestrians, strip malls, apartments and households that don’t own cars (about 12 percent in 2005). The Latin American Association sits in the middle of a mile-long block on Buford Highway. People getting off the northbound bus across the road would have to walk half a mile to get to a crosswalk. Jaywaking, then, is obviously a temptation many places on Buford Highway; several blocks are between a half-mile and mile long. Tapia is especially concerned about elderly visitors to her center’s English classes, career counseling and other programs. The DeKalb County police are concerned about the danger, too. They’ve deployed special operations for traffic enforcemen–motorcycles, helicopters and a drunk-driver task force–along with greater visibility in general.     But “it appears in some cultures, crosswalks are not used, thus jaywalking has contributed to the number of fatalities on Buford Highway,” said police spokeswoman Bettina Durant.  For that reason, the department has also engaged a public education specialist to encourage people to use the crosswalks, even when it’s a long

trudge.  GDOT published a plan for upgrades last year – following at least one earlier plan that never materialized – but tight money may keep this $13 million project of sidewalks and medians on the shelf. Buford Highway cuts through DeKalb from the western county line near Lenox Road until about eight miles later it crosses Doraville and enters Gwinnett County. For much of that distance, State Road 13 is seven lanes wide and lacks sidewalks. A 2007 study by the Atlanta Regional Commission summarizes many longstanding pedestrian problems. Footpaths run right beside rushing traffic on the highway. There are almost no islands where pedestrians can wait to finish crossing the street; instead some stand in the turning lane, completely exposed to traffic. Strip malls and businesses don’t often share driveways, meaning a lot more interruptions in the spotty sidewalks or (more commonly) roadside footpaths. There are few streetlights. And the speed limit – 45 mph – is too high, said DeKalb County Commissioner Kathie Gannon. Gannon has taken the lead in advocating for pedestrian improvements on Buford Highway, most of which is in her District 6 constituency. The slow pace of change is making her “actively See Buford Highway on Page 13A

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Buford Highway Continued From Page 12A

frustrated,” she said. Gannon pushes for making parts of Buford Highway a pedestrianfriendly boulevard with eight-foot wide sidewalks, trees along the road, mixed-use developments, mid-block crossings and bus lanes. Instead of an unpleasant slog on the shoulder of a noisy road, a walk on Buford Highway could become something pleasant, she explained. Once financial markets free up, developers will share her vision of higher-density living on the roadway, she said. And GDOT’s policies are “backward” for focusing too much on cars, she added. Indeed, GDOT’s plan wouldn’t turn any part of Buford Highway into any sort of boulevard. Buford Highway stakeholders are as interested in pedestrian improvements as in making sure SR13 remains a speedy conduit for vehicles, according to the ARC report. Instead, GDOT proposes a raised median from Lenox Road for about 2.5 miles. In that same stretch, the GDOT would add two traffic lights, five-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides of the road and some mid-block crosswalks. That would make the highway more like it is within the city limits of Chamblee and Doraville. In both cities, new sidewalks line both sides of the road; inside the Perimeter, there are a handful of marked mid-block crossings to break up the longest stretches. In any case, no part of the GDOT’s plan would be “shovelready” for at least three to four years. The cash-strapped state agency is trying to sort its statewide plans in a new prioritization process. If Buford Highway pedestrians pass that hurdle, the next step is obtaining rights of way before work can start. The Buford Highway plan may have a good shot at priority because there’s already about $4 million - $5 million in combined federal, state and local funds earmarked for the $13 million plan, McKinnon said. But it’s not on the list of projects for which the GDOT requested funding under the new federal stimulus program signed by President Barack Obama on Feb. 16. Groups like the LAA or the ARC support pedestrian improvements, yet none seem to be pushing the Buford Highway project as a priority. Activists are relatively fewer in apartment complexes like the ones on Buford Highway and fear of trouble with immigration authorities means anyone without documents – or whose friends or neighbors are undocumented – has a reason to keep a low profile. Buford Highway residents can’t look for relief for quite a while. “People aren’t suing the GDOT,” said commissioner Gannon. “Maybe that’s the problem.”

DeKalb CEO:

‘We are not safe’ Champion Staff

D

eKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis devoted nearly 16 minutes of his 57-minute speech to talk about public safety during his stateof-the-county address. He stopped short of saying arm yourselves to the hilt, but instead detailed a plan to decrease crime. “When it comes to public safety, the current state of DeKalb County is unacceptable,” Ellis said to a capacity crowd in the Maloof Auditorium the evening of Feb. 18. Ellis said senior citizens are not safe and DeKalb residents are concerned about home invasions. “Students who have chosen to pursue education at our institutions cannot walk to and from their cars without the fear of being approached by someone who tells them to ‘give it up’. This is unacceptable,” Ellis added. The CEO said he was not concerned with blame or fault for the crime, rather he was concerned with action and results. Ellis also took a moment out of his speech to recognize uniformed officers. “We know all too well that our officers are the ones who are running toward the problem when others are running in

the opposite direction.” The crowd offered a standing ovation in recognition of police officers. “If we lose the fight to make our county safer, we will not be able to attract new economic development and we will struggle to maintain the business we already have,” Ellis said. One facet of Ellis’ plan for decreasing crime is to commission a study about police retention after noting that the DeKalb Police

Ellis noted that his transition team recommended the reinstatement of the position of public safety director. The city of Dunwoody’s annexation will free up 50 officers for unincorporated DeKalb Ellis noted. The criticism of crime comes at a time when DeKalb’s Police Chief Terrell Bolton has received a pretermination letter and has been accused of insubordination. Ellis also had sharp criticisms for the Recorder’s Court, stating that potentially millions of dollars in revenue are being lost. An independent auditor will conduct a study of Recorder’s Court said Ellis who promised the court will receive intense scrutiny. The message was not all doom and gloom. Ellis noted that new construc- Burrell Ellis tion projects are under way and libraries are being built and older libraries are being upgraded. A Stonecrest Department often loses officers to library is slated to open in 2010. other departments. He said the study Ellis talked about a united will begin before his first 100 days DeKalb where all viewpoints would in office have passed. “We must un- be welcomed. He cited the transition derstand the root cause of our police team of 40 diverse individuals who attrition. We must implement sound worked together taking a candid recommendations to reverse the assessment of the county. “We will steady stream of officers leaving the never be perfect,” said Ellis. “But DeKalb police department. It is not we must never stop trying to immy intent to run the police departprove.” ment from the CEO’s office.”

‘When it comes to public safety, the current state of DeKalb County is unacceptable.’

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THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009

Wal-Mart rolls back money cards According to the FDIC, an estimated 28 million people in the United States don’t have bank accounts. Reasons range from mistrust to cultural and language barriers. In total, 44 million Americans are “unbanked,” which includes those who have a bank account but rely on nonbank service providers such as check cashers and pay-day lenders. Wal-Mart, in an effort to help the unbanked and other Americans looking to manage finances, has reduced the cost of their money card. Wal-Mart officials and finance experts gathered at the Wal-Mart on Memorial Drive to announce the campaign. “Customers who use the Wal-Mart MoneyCard tell us that we’re making a difference in their lives and helping them get their finances under control. The reduced fees on the Wal-Mart MoneyCard will save our customers millions of dollars,” said Jane Thompson, president of Wal-Mart Financial Services. “We will continue to lower prices on the money services that we know our customers need.” Thompson told the story of her daughter who went away to college and was given a bank check card for spending allowances. Thompson checked her daughter’s monthly statement and saw numerous overdraft charges. “I said honey, congratulations, you are now a member of the unbanked,” Thompson explained to the crowd of associates and customers. Wal-Mart is offering the Wal-Mart MoneyCard, which is a reloadable pre-paid Visa debit card, for $3. The previous price was $9. The card has no overdraft fees and is available for Wal-Mart customers without requiring a credit check or previous bank account. Customers who replace their basic checking account with a Wal-Mart MoneyCard would avoid overdraft and insufficient funds fees, which reached more than $24 billion in the United States in 2008. Customers will pay a one-time cost of $3 to purchase and activate the Wal-Mart MoneyCard, a $3 charge for reloads at WalMart, and a $3 monthly fee. Customers reloading with direct deposit or after cashing their paychecks at Wal-Mart,

do not pay a reload fee. No monthly fee is assessed for customers who load at least $1000 per month and customers accessing cash back at the register instead of ATMs, pay no withdrawal fee. In addition, the Wal-Mart MoneyCard system sends free daily cell phone or email balance alerts and free balance inquiries at Wal-Mart stores. For more information visit: www.Wal-Martmoneycard. com.

Jane Thompson of Wal-Mart talks to associates and customers about the Wal-Mart money card. Photo provided

Stay entertained and informed on what’s going on in your county, tune to the Emmy Award Winning

“Inside DeKalb” For a programming guide visit www.co.dekalb.ga.us/dctv DCTV 23 - Your guide to what’s going on in our county

The Champion Weather Seven Day Forecast THURSDAY Mostly Cloudy High: 65 Low: 51

FRIDAY Few Showers High: 64 Low: 46

SATURDAY Mostly Cloudy High: 62 Low: 43

SUNDAY Partly Cloudy High: 62 Low: 41

MONDAY Mostly Sunny High: 61 Low: 44

In-Depth Local Forecast

*Last Week’s Almanac Hi Lo Normals Precip Date Tuesday 51 27 57/37 0.00" Wednesday 66 43 58/37 1.22" Thursday 56 33 58/37 0.00" Friday 44 25 58/38 0.00" Saturday 56 25 58/38 0.00" Sunday 48 31 59/38 0.00" Monday 47 27 59/38 0.00" Rainfall . . . . . . .1.22" Average temp . .41.4 Normal rainfall . .1.19" Average normal 47.9 Departure . . . . .+0.03" Departure . . . . .-6.5

Local UV Index

0 - 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+

UV Index 0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very High 11+: Extreme Exposure

Dunwoody 63/50 Lilburn Smyrna Doraville 64/51 64/51 64/51 Snellville Decatur 65/51 Atlanta 65/51 65/51 Lithonia College Park 66/51 66/51 Morrow 66/51 Union City 66/51 Hampton 67/52

*Data as reported from De Kalb-Peachtree Airport

Local Sun/Moon Chart This Week First 3/4

WEDNESDAY Partly Cloudy High: 56 Low: 41

Weather History

Today's Regional Map

Today we will see mostly cloudy skies with a high temperature of 65º, humidity of 55% and an overnight low of 51º. The record high temperature for today is 80º set in 1996. Friday, skies will remain mostly cloudy with a 50% chance of showers.

TUESDAY Mostly Sunny High: 58 Low: 43

Feb. 26, 2009

Full 3/10

Day Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday

Sunrise 7:09 a.m. 7:08 a.m. 7:06 a.m. 7:05 a.m. 7:04 a.m. 7:03 a.m. 7:01 a.m.

Sunset 6:32 p.m. 6:33 p.m. 6:33 p.m. 6:34 p.m. 6:35 p.m. 6:36 p.m. 6:37 p.m.

Moonrise 7:44 a.m. 8:12 a.m. 8:42 a.m. 9:16 a.m. 9:55 a.m. 10:43 a.m. 11:39 a.m.

Moonset 8:23 p.m. 9:25 p.m. 10:30 p.m. 11:37 p.m. No Set 12:45 a.m. 1:52 a.m.

Feb. 26, 1988 - Eight cities in the central and western U.S. reported new record high temperatures for the date, including Lamoni, Iowa with a reading of 67 degrees. Temperatures in North Dakota were as warm as those in Florida. Feb. 27, 1969 - A record snowstorm in Maine came to an end. Two to four feet of snow buried southern and central Maine, with a state record of 57 inches reported at West Forks. Drifts covered many single story homes and the weight of the snow collapsed many roofs.

Tonight's Planets Last 3/18

New 3/26

National Weather Summary This Week The Northeast will see partly cloudy to cloudy skies with scattered rain today and Friday, mostly clear to partly cloudy skies Saturday, with the highest temperature of 59º in Belleville, Ill. The Southeast will see mostly clear to partly cloudy skies with a few showers and thunderstorms today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 78º in Ft. Myers, Fla. The Northwest will see partly cloudy to cloudy skies with scattered rain today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 56º in Torrington, Wyo. The Southwest will see mostly clear to partly cloudy skies today through Saturday, with the highest temperature of 84º in Carlsbad, N.M.

Mercury Venus Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus

Rise 6:08 a.m. 8:22 a.m. 6:14 a.m. 5:57 a.m. 7:13 p.m. 7:50 a.m.

Set 4:36 p.m. 9:25 p.m. 4:47 p.m. 4:23 p.m. 7:55 a.m. 7:33 p.m.

Weather Trivia How can crickets be used to determine the temperature?

?

Answer: Count the number of chirps in 14 seconds and add 40.

© 2009. Accessweather.com, Inc.

StarWatch By Gary Becker - The Big Dog and the "Hotdog" In recent StarWatch articles I have written about Taurus the Bull and Orion the Hunter. It’s time for this column to go to the dogs, that is, Canis Major the Big Dog, and Canis Minor the “Hotdog.” At 9:00 p.m. this week, looking due south, you’ll find Orion slightly to the right, already headed towards his setting position in the west. Use the three belt stars of the Hunter as a sliding board and simply follow them down to that extraordinarily bright star towards the lower left. You have just found Sirius the Dog Star, the brightest luminary of the night. At only 8.6 light years distant from the sun (about 50 trillion miles), Sirius is not only bright because of its closeness to us, but also because it is a significantly brighter star, about 26 times more luminous than our sun. It has a white dwarf companion, about the size of the Earth, but with a mass comparable to the sun. Originally, this star possessed about six to seven solar masses, converting hydrogen into helium for perhaps 100 million years. Then it flowered into a red supergiant star near the end of the Jurassic period when dinosaurs were the dominant life form on Earth. In the end, this star shed about 80 percent of its mass before becoming a white dwarf, destined to cool forever until absolute zero is reached. Sirius represents the nose of the Great Dog with its body below in a position similar to a canine begging for food. See the map posted “in this week’s StarWatch” at the URL below. Use binoculars to bring out the faint eyes of the dog. His lower legs and tail are near the horizon and often dimmed by light pollution and haze. To the NE of Sirius is another bright luminary, Procyon, the alpha star of Canis Minor the Little Dog. Procyon means rising “before the Dog,” (Sirius). Four degrees NW of Procyon is a fainter luminary which completes the constellation, and for me, makes this pattern simply the “Hotdog.” www.astronomy.org.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009

PAgE 13A

Once considered a fad, yoga is now a lifestyle for many

A

By Nigel Roberts pathway to spiritual enlightenment that began in India more than 5,000 years ago has become a lifestyle for a growing number of Americans. At yoga studios across the country, stretching, deep breathing and meditation have become a way of life. Nearly 16 million American adults practice yoga, according to a 2008 study published in Yoga Journal, the leading yoga publication.While it attracts a wide range of practitioners, the study revealed a distinctive profile of yoga’s devotees: Women have embraced it more than men. While people of every age group flock to yoga studios, it’s mainly an activity of the welleducated and the middle-class, who spend almost $6 billion a year on yoga classes, clothing and retreats. Debbie Kelley, the owner of Decatur Yoga & Pilates, said she has a database of more than 4,700 people on her active e-mail list, comprising current and former students, as well as those who visited her studio and expressed an interest in practicing yoga. Between 80 to 100 students attend classes each day at her downtown studio, which consists of two exercise rooms—one of which is heated up to a steamy 103 degrees for hot yoga classes. Nationally, about threequarters of yoga practitioKelley ners are women, but men are now discovering the yoga’s other benefits that discipline. Decatur Yoga, in its sixth year, has drawn an increas- are less obvious. “Some ing number of men recently. Kelley of those aspects are what happens internally, as you said that men now comprise about 30 percent of her clientele. They no take deeper breaths and longer see yoga as an exercise regi- oxygen gets into your tissues and your mind men for women, as many pro athletes have led the way by turning to and thoughts become yoga to improve their flexibility and clearer,” said Kelley, who calls the discipline to heal from injuries. the love of her life. Improved physical health is a Its purported health benefits prime reason that many seek yoga are one of the main reasons that instruction. In fact, many people people are bending and stretchwho start yoga want primarily to ing, as they master yoga’s many lose weight. “You’ll probably lose postures. According to the study, weight,” she tells beginners, “but as your overall health improves and you more than 6 percent of practitioners said that a doctor or medical get into a physical training routine, you start making other choices about therapist recommended yoga to them. What’s more, nearly half what you eat and losing weight can of all yoga practitioners and will happen.” believe that it’s benBut Kelley doesn’t promote eficial to those under yoga as a weight-loss method. “To treatment for a medical me weight loss is superficial,” she condition. declared. “Yoga helps people on a Much of the health benefits much deeper level.” derive from deep breathing, accordKelley and her instructors also ing to Kelley. She began practicemphasize to students some of

Marty Erwin and Cheryl Crawford demonstrate a yoga pose

ing yoga breathing techniques and postures in 1995, and speaks from experience when she talks about the benefits of taking a deep breath. “We only use about 20 percent of our breathing capacity, so we walk around like zombies most of the time,” she said. “Deep breathing brings much-needed oxygen to cells of the body, and

that has a healing effect and gives us more energy.” According to the National Institute of Health, there is no conclusive scientific evidence on whether yoga causes changes in the body that influence health. “There is, however, growing evidence to suggest that yoga works to enhance stress-coping mechanisms and mind-body awareness,” the agency states on its Web site. There’s also evidence that yoga could have a positive effect on physical conditions like hypertension, as well as psychological conditions like anxiety and depression. Kelley has firsthand experience of yoga’s stress-relieving capabilities. Almost 15 years ago she made her first trip to the West Coast to study yoga. She discovered a way of life that helped her to cope with her high-pressure corporate job, which she ultimately left to open Decatur Yoga. After a moment of reflection, she said, “Yoga gives me a special connection in life, something deeper than myself.” Decatur Yoga & Pilates 431 West Ponce de Leon Ave. www.DecaturHotYoga.com www.DecaturHotYoga.co (404) 377-4899

Education

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009, PAGE 16A

NASA astronaut comes home to DeKalb schools Eric Boe, a NASA asdents. “Find something tronaut who has toured the that makes you bigger outer realms of the Earth, than yourself; whatever recently touched down on makes you excited, go the DeKalb County School for that.” System to share his experiBoe presented each ences and encourage chilof the schools he visited dren whose dreams may be with a framed collage out of this world. of photos of the STSFor Air Force Lt. Col. 126 mission as well as Boe, a former Evansdale a Georgia flag that was Elementary School student taken aboard STS-126 and a 1983 graduate of then in acknowledgement of Henderson High School, DeKalb County School visiting DeKalb County System. In return, he School System was a bit like was honored with proccoming home. During Boe’s lamations from both Evansdale students interview Eric Boe for the school’s student-run television show. three-day tour of DCSS, he Gov. Sonny Perdue’s stopped by Evansdale Eland Sen. Saxby Chamementary, Henderson Midbliss’ offices in addition he received in the DeKalb County School Sysdle, Lakeside High and Arabia Mountain high to plaques and mementos from the schools. tem. schools as well as visiting McNair Discovery With two NASA astronauts from the same On Nov. 14, 2008, Boe, who admitted he Learning Academy and Fernbank Science Center. school, (the second being Thomas Marshburn Described as a student who “certainly reached always wanted to be an astronaut but wasn’t a 1978 Henderson High School grad), Henderson certain he’d get the opportunity, piloted the STS- is believed to be the only school anywhere with for the stars,” Boe was a standout high school student actively involved in the school’s National 126 Endeavour mission that delivered equipment two astronaut alumni. to the International Space Station. On that misHonor Society, wrestling team and yearbook “He may be our first graduate in space, but sion, Boe’s crew members included Christopher he’s certainly not the last; we know that,” Henstaff. He then went on to complete a bachelor of science degree in astronautical engineering from J. Ferguson, commander; Sandra H. Magnus, derson’s Head Counselor Connie Buckelew told Stephen G. Bowen, Donald R. Pettit, Robert S. the school’s student body. “Each of you can take the United States Air Force Academy in 1987; (Shane) Kimbrough and Heidemarie M. Stefa- the same educational opportunities Eric Boe did and later completed a master of science in elecnyshyn-Piper, all mission specialists. trical engineering from the Georgia Institute of in this same building.” Through a multimedia presentation, Boe Technology in 1997. Boe’s visit ended with a presentation and reshared with Henderson, Evansdale, Lakeside As a NASA astronaut, Boe has logged more ception at Fernbank Science Center, where the and McNair DLA students details of the 15-hour school system’s students could participate in the than 4,000 hours on 45 different aircraft. From prep time involved before a launch as well as 2005 to 2006, he served as NASA’s director of center’s very popular program for young stupictures and videos from the actual launch and operations at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training dents, Science Night Out, an evening hosted by space flight. “Turn your dreams into goals and Center in Star City, Russia. All of these accomvisiting scientists and engineers and filled with your goals into reality,” Boe encouraged stuplishments, Boe said, he owes to the education hands-on activities for youth.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009



Page 17A

Lakeside student wins Georgia German Student of Year Award Not only is Tiffany Diebold an exemplar student and an active volunteer in her community, the Lakeside High School senior speaks German—and quite well. Diebold recently won the most coveted award for students of German. Earlier this month, she received the German Student of the Year for the state of Georgia at the annual State German Convention held at Camp Jackson in Covington the first weekend in February. To be considered for the award, students must submit an application listing all of their awards and related activities in German; submit an essay in German as well as a high school transcript and a recommendation from a German teacher. Students must also attend an interview and essay writing session where they are interviewed by professors in German for 20 minutes and required to write an on-the-spot essay in German about a topic unknown to them. Diebold had numerous awards and outside activities to list on her application, because for three years in a row, she has attended and won a record number of prizes at the annual State German Convention. In addition to her individual awards, she competed in the German state-level quiz

bowl and skit competitions—helping Lakeside win first-, second- and third-place trophies. Her individual awards at the 2009 state convention are:

German I 1st Vocabulary Bee, 1st Story Narration German II 1st Vocabulary Bee, 1st Extemporaneous Speaking, 1st Story Narration, 2nd Role-play German III 1st Vocabulary Bee, 2nd Extemporaneous Speaking, 1st Story Narrations, 1st Role-play

Diebold, a member of Delta Epsilon Phi, the National German Honor Society, has studied German for three years at Lakeside High. Because of her success in German I and German II classes, her instructor Jennifer Schultz nominated her for the Governor’s Honors Program (GHP). Diebold was chosen as one of 15 students in the state for the program. As a result of the experience she received at GHP, she was able to skip German III and enroll in AP German this school year. Additionally, Diebold hosted a German exchange student through Lakeside’s German American Partnership Program (GAPP) exchange for three weeks in October and November of 2008.

DeKalb Schools Today announces season lineup DeKalb families can learn about the DeKalb County School System by tuning in to DeKalb Schools Today on Comcast Cable Channel 24 and on the school system’s Web page www.pdstv24.com (click on live streaming). A number of outstanding educators will be featured on DeKalb Schools Today. The educators will highlight measurable gains that have recently taken place in the DeKalb County School System. The producer and host of DeKalb Schools Today, Philandrea Guillory, said, “Please tune in to DeKalb Schools Today during this new season. We have a new and exciting season lineup that will inform viewers about great events taking place in the school system.” March schedule for DeKalb Schools Today Air times noon, 3 p.m., and 7 p.m. Air Date Topic March 2 Chapel Hill Elementary and Fernbank Elementary - Special Guest: Kellie L. Ryan, teacher Charles Bowman, teacher Dr. Jonell Henry, counselor Kristina LaGuardia, teacher March 9 DeKalb Schools of the Arts - Special Guest: Susan McCauley, principal March 16 Tucker Football, DeKalb’s Annual Turkey Bowl, and Fernbank Science Museum’s 40th - Special Guest: Franklin Stephens, teacher Douglas J. Hrabe, Fernbank Science Center director Beverly Jackson, principal Andrea Russell, parent community liaison specialist March 23 Toney Elementary School - Special Guest: Oliver Dean, principal March 30 Flat Shoals Elementary - Special Guest: Keith Reynolds, principal

Diebold

Community building, social change provide focus for new fellows Emory University last week announced its seventh class of undergraduates for the competitive Emory Community Building and Social Change Fellowship. A successful centerpiece of Emory’s Office of UniversityCommunity Partnerships (OUCP), the fellowship is a national model for engaged learning programs. The fellowship provides undergraduates with a comprehensive year of training, research and experience, culminating in an intensive summer-long practicum working on community initiatives in metro Atlanta. The program also helps Emory continue to foster long-term, dedicated initiatives with various Atlanta neighborhoods and community groups. Results of past fellows’ work include the completion of 25 projects that have produced policy change, new programs and entities, and funding for projects. Fellows also have expanded the capacity of existing community initiatives to effectively address issues such as HIV/ AIDS, affordable housing, public education quality, urban sprawl, citizen engagement and more. The fellows are chosen by an advisory committee of 11 faculty members from nine departments and programs. Students selected for the competitive program receive a stipend of $3,500 for their summer community work, a summer housing allowance, 12 hours of academic credit and a summer tuition scholarship. For more information about the fellowship and recruitment, contact OUCP at (404) 712-9893 or [email protected].

Business

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009, PAGE 18A

Must love dogs–snakes, newts, elephants, etc. Avondale vet has storied career by Brian Egeston [email protected] On occasion, in the streets of Avondale, a 1964 Ford Fairlane whizzes through traffic. A demure woman wearing a unique pair of spectacles mans the wheel as a tenacious-looking boxer watches the journey from the backseat. Introducing: The driver–Dr. Gail Powell Johnson. The pooch–Hattie. The car–Gramps. The characters in this moving scene are part of the staff that make up the Atlanta Veterinary Eye Clinic (AVEC).

Act I

Getting Gramps Johnson, a Miami native, found herself on the receiving end of an heirloom after it had traveled through various family members. The Fairline, originally owned by her grandfather–hence the car’s moniker–was handed down to cousin Odell, who befriended a lady of the night. Cousin Odell awoke one morning and his company was gone–so was Gramps. Johnson’s mother and a friend went on a reconnaissance mission and found Gramps. Johnson went down to Tallahassee, rescued the car she’d ridden in as a young girl and had it fully restored. Johnson has received several offers for the car, including one for her hand in marriage. Turns out the classic car owner has a thing for rescuing and rehabbing unique specimens.

Act II

Falling in love with animals “I had every animal known to mankind pretty much,” said Johnson. “I’m one of these corny people who wanted to be a vet since

I was little.” The would-be vet was mentored by the family vet and by junior high was working at a wellknown Florida veterinary clinic. The sunshine state served as a breeding ground for Johnson’s love of all things outdoors. The exotic plants and animals were paradise she said. With two parents who were educated at Florida A & M University, Johnson committed academic treason when she enrolled at Tuskegee University in Alabama, but Tuskegee was the only HBCU that offered a veterinary program. She later returned to Florida for postgraduate work in Gainesville. Johnson’s father is partly to blame for Hattie’s role in the story. “My dad was a head football coach in South Florida and of course he had to have a manly Johnson’s dog,” Johnson Shakespe first dog was a b are. oxer nam said. “So I’ve had ed a boxer at my side since I was an infant. a consultant at Shakespeare, Kathy, Lottie Zoo Atlanta for more than Princess, Kattie, Roxie and Hattie. I’ve had seven boxers 20 years. When she’s not working on deadly snakes, in my life.” she’s doing rounds at Emory as part of her comparative ophthalmology practice. Seeing patients and people Johnson began her specialty practice in the AvonJohnson studied comdale Veterinary Hospital in parative ophthalmology in Gainesville. A field that com- 1981 and in 1988 AVEC moved to its present locapares the visual systems in tion. At AVEC, the staff sees humans and animals so that both species can benefit from out-patients three days a the biological make up of the week and performs surgery other. During her career she’s twice a week. The clinic will see approximately 10 new worked on dogs, cats, elpatients each week, accordephants, pandas and gaboon ing to Johnson. In the waitvipers, a snake with the longest fangs of any reptile and ing area at AVEC, thankconsidered by many to be the you notes from pet owners most poisonous snake in the compete for space on a world. Johnson has also been wall. Two assistants work

Gail Powell Johnson with her dog Hattie.

oon

A gab

gets viper

ent.

treatm

Act III

Gramps parked outside AVEC. Photos by Brian Egeston

in tandem at the front desk. On a floor near the operating room, Hattie lies waiting for a treat, a command or a trip outside to see Gramps

parked, keeping an eye out for a driver and a dog. For more information visit: www.atlantaveteyeclinic. com

Join the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce

100 Crescent Centre Parkway, Suite 680, Tucker, GA 30084 - 404-378-8000 - Website - www.dekalbchamber.org.

Health

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009, PAGE 19A

Food poisoning strikes 1 in 4 Americans each year ions in 2003. The recent peanut-related salmonella outbreak has ATLANTA (AP) Next time you have a case of diar- caused more than 640 conrhea that lasts a day or more, firmed illnesses in 44 states and been linked to nine chances are better than one in three that it was food poi- deaths. It was traced to a Virginia-based company, Peanut soning. Corp. of America, which As many as a quarmakes minor-label peanut ter of Americans suffer a butter, peanut paste and other food-borne illness each year—though only a fraction products. Those numbers just of those cases get linked to scratch the surface: A case high-profile outbreaks like the recent salmonella-peanut is confirmed only after a lab test is sent to the CDC. scare, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control Many sick people just soldier on without even seeing a and Prevention. doctor. “Outbreaks are dramatic Health officials assume instances,” said Dr. Robert Tauxe, a CDC expert on the that for every salmonella case, there are three dozen subject. But they highlight unreported cases. By that a health threat that many calculation, the latest peanutpeople exaggerate and misrelated outbreak actually has understand, according to sickened closer to 20,000 some experts. people. Scientists have counted Food poisoning affects But the problem could be more than 250 food-related an estimated 25 percent of a lot worse. types of illness—from viThe number of confirmed Americans every year. That ruses to bacteria to parasites. compares with roughly 30 Most common are Norwalk- food poisonings has basipercent of people in industrically held steady in recent like viruses—famous for sickening cruise-ship passen- years. It may seem worse be- alized countries, according to gers. They account for about cause more advanced testing the World Health Organizaallows investigators to better tion. The toll, of course, is two-thirds of known foodmuch higher in developing poisoning cases, according to link cases and identify outcountries, where diarrheal breaks, CDC officials said. the CDC. diseases are a major cause of Also, despite sometimes Two types of bacteria, death for children. dramatic problems in food campylobacter and salmoBut not all of America’s production and inspections, nella, are the next most food comes from within the the U.S. food supply is still common. Campylobacter is country’s borders, as demonblamed for about 14 percent considered one of the safest strated by last summer’s vegin the world, several experts of food poisonings, salmoetable-caused outbreak. nella for roughly 10 percent. said. The exact toll of these and other bugs is not really known. Ten years ago, a team of CDC scientists put together the best enduring estimate of how many Americans get March 6, 7:30-11p.m. food poisoning each year: Callanwolde Fine Arts Center 76 million illnesses, which 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE resulted in 325,000 hospitalEnjoy an elegant evening for the adult in us, izations and 5,000 deaths. in a circus-lik e atmosphere for the kid in us! circus-like No more recent figures are available. But the current There will also be great auction items, food numbers must be close to 87 and entertainment. million cases, 371,000 hospi- Circus Passes are $60 in advance/$75 at the talizations and 5,700 deaths, door. For more information and to purchase according to an Associated tickets, visit www.jldekalb.org. Press calculation that used the CDC formula and current The Junior League of DeKalb County ’s Giving Gala auction County’s population estimates. proceeds benefit its The statistics seem even more alarming in the context community programs and projects. of a parade of high-profile food-poisoning outbreaks in recent years: salmonella poisoning linked to hot peppers and tomatoes from Mexico that sickened more 1,400 last year; an E. coli outbreak from bagged spinach in 2006; and even deadly cases of hepatitis A from green onby Mike Stobbe

“I usually say it is one of the safest in the world,” said Tauxe, when asked about the U.S. food supply. “But increasingly, our food supply is the world.” Patients suffering gastric distress sometimes assume food poisoning, partly because of all the outbreak news and partly because it’s human nature, some doctors said. “I think a lot of people in general say, ‘I have symptoms. I must have eaten something that’s caused

Join us under the Big Top!

Junior League of DeKalb County’s Second Annual Giving Gala

this,’” said Dr. Andi Shane, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Emory University. Patients may not consider an infection came from some other means, like handling a contaminated tissue, she said. Some may also find the latest outbreak unsettling because it involved a prepackaged food like peanut butter, said Dr. Akiko Kimura, an epidemiologist with the California Department of Public Health. “It’s ready-to-eat, and so there wasn’t anything the consumer could do,” she said. Food disease investigators say their experience has made them careful to wash their hands, review restaurant inspection reports and think carefully about the foods they eat. “`I am fond of many foods, but I draw the line at eating raw meat and raw poultry, raw oysters and raw unpasteurized eggs,” said the CDC’s Tauxe. “I run the cutting boards through our dishwasher,” he added.

Calendar Special Events

March 1 through the six Sundays of Lent. Lenten Services at Clarkston UMC. The services will be held in the sanctuary of the Clarkston United Methodist Church and will begin at 6 p.m. The services will consist of singing, pastoral and altar prayers, and a 6-week study of the Prayers of Jesus. The church is located at 919 Church Street, Clarkston. For additional information, please call the church office at (404) 2965678 or visit our website at www.angelfire.com/ga/clarkstonumc. March 12. PRISM Meeting. The upcoming Pride Rings in Stone Mountain (PRISM) meeting will concern two topics: Keep DeKalb Beautiful and Marta. Presenters Amber Greer Weaver, director of Keep DeKalb Beautiful, and Laurene Hall, coordinator of Keep DeKalb Beautiful, will discuss water conservation, including rain barrels and rain gauges, The Great American Clean-up, bus stop adoption and recycling. Dean L. Neblett, community outreach planner, Office of Communications and External Affairs from MARTA will provide an informational overview on MARTA. The meeting will take place at St. Timothy United Methodist Church/Fellowship Hall, 565 Memorial Drive (one block east of Rays Rd.), Stone Mountain at 7 p.m. The public is welcome. For additional information, contact PRISM Program Chair, State Representative Michele Henson at (404) 296-1442 or [email protected]. March 13. Soil and Water meeting. The DeKalb County Soil and Water Conservation District monthly meeting will be held at 10 a.m. at 0 W. Ponce de Leon Building, rd Floor Conference Room, in Decatur. Tuesday evening lectures. “Looking at the Current

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009, PAGE 20A

Middle East Geopolitical Scene through the Lens of Scripture” is presented in biblically illuminating lectures by a world-traveled Jewish believer. Learn how end times and messianic prophesies from the Hebrew scriptures are fulfilled. Informal and free lectures are on Tuesday evenings at 7:0 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of the First Alliance Church, 2512 N. Druid Hills Road, Atlanta. For information, call Gary at (770) 54-1501. Free family fun night. The Gallery at South DeKalb will host family fun night to encourage traditional family values. The event is one hour of songs, storytelling, arts and crafts, music, karaoke, face painting, dancing, character appearances and other activities, every third Thursday from 6 - 7 p.m. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to bring their children to this free, fun-filled event. The mall is located at Interstate 20 and Candler Road in Decatur. For more information, call (404) 241-241 or visit www. GalleryatSouthDekalb.com. Fitness Classes with JoAnna Ward. The Gallery at South DeKalb is having fitness classes every Tuesday in the Mini Mall Common Area from 7 – 8 p.m. Get fit and be healthy. Join fitness trainer JoAnna Ward from TV’s show, Survivor Amazon. Register at the customer service center within the mall or visit www.galleryatsouthdekalb.com and sign-up for classes online.

Regular

Meetings March 17. The DeKalb Community Service Board bi-monthly meeting. The DeKalb Community Service Board, a public, nonprofit, behavioral health-care agency, will conduct its bi-monthly meetings in the Bohan Auditorium of the Richardson Health Center, 445 Winn Way in Decatur. The public is invited to attend.

Those with disabilities in need of assistance or accommodations to participate in the meeting should notify the Office of Community Relations. For more information about the mental health, developmental disabilities or addictive diseases services offered through the DeKalb CSB, contact the Office of Community Relations at (404) 508-7875. April 4. Wedding Planning Workshops –A wedding should be memorable and enjoyable. DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau will walk attendees through each step of the wedding process. A wedding specialist will assist local brides in planning for the big day. The best way to start planning is attending a free DCVB Bridal Workshop. Hyatt Place Stonecrest will host the workshop on Saturday, April 4, from 9 a.m. until noon. Registration is required. For more information, call (770) 492-5050, ext. 109. May 6. Keep Them Coming Back – Customer Service Class - Bob Beeland teaches attendees the values of true customer service. Beeland emphasizes that customer service is mediocre at its best in today’s society. This customer service class originates from the desire for guests in DeKalb to have such a welcoming visit that they will want to return. One of the best ways to ensure this is by providing quality customer service. Beeland teaches participants how easily this can be achieved. All workshops are held at DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1957 Lakeside Parkway, Suite 510, Tucker, 8:45 - noon. Registration is required. For more information, call (770) 492-5020 or visit www. dcvb.org for online registration. Tuesdays PowerCore meetings. PowerCore is a closecontact networking association. There are three defining characteristics of close-contact networks: Regular meetings with an attendance requirement, one person per profession and a sole purpose of passing referrals. The Decatur PowerCore Team meets every Tuesday, 7- 8:0 a.m. at Scott Boulevard Baptist Church located at 252 North Decatur Road, Decatur. The Emory PowerCore Team meets every Wednesday from 7 - 8:0 a.m. at The Bagel Palace

in the Toco Hills Shopping Center at the intersection of North Druid Hills and LaVista roads. The cost is $.75. The Tucker PowerCore Team meets every Tuesday, 7 - 8:0 a.m. at Lakeside Café, 1979 Northlake Parkway, Suite 104. The Northlake Gwinnett PowerCore Team meets every Wednesday from 7 - 8:0 a.m. at the Doubletree Hotel, 4156 Lavista Road, Tucker. The meetings are free. PowerCore is a business referral network. For more information or to see if a specific classification is available, and to get an invitation to visit, e-mail [email protected] or call (404) 572-1278. Northlake Toastmasters Club. Practice public speaking and leadership in a supportive environment. Become a better communicator and leader so that in 2009 you can be the change you want to see. For more information, call (404) 484-5 or stop in any Wednesday 6 p.m. at Metro Brokers/GMAC Real Estate Northlake Shopping Center, 407 Lavista Rd., Tucker. Northlaketoastmasters. org Survivors Network for those abused by priests and other clergy (SNAP) support group meets the fourth Thursday of each month from 7 until 8:0 p.m. If you or someone you know has been sexually abused by clergy, this group is for you. For more information, contact Denise Weaver, Atlanta SNAP leader, at (678) 665-761 or Mona Brewer, coleader, (404) 805-7575 [email protected]. Visit www. survivorsnetwork.org. Decatur Communicators Toastmasters meeting. Do you want to improve your public speaking skills or leadership abilities? Decatur Communicators Toastmasters meets every first, third and fifth Saturday 10 – 11 a.m. at Avondale Pattillo UMC at 260 Covington Hwy, Decatur. For more information, contact Richard Nagode at (404) 294-8082 or by e-mail [email protected].

Items for the calendar may be e-mailed to [email protected] or faxed to (404) 370-3903. Include a contact name and phone number. Note that items in this free listing should concern community and non-profit events. Events are placed on a space-available basis and priority is given to DeKalb County events. Items for the community calendar should reach The Champion no later than one week before the date they are to be published.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009



Page 21A

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Sports

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009, PAGE 22A

DeKalb schools advance to basketball state playoffs DeKalb County rivals Redan and Stephenson went head-to-head in the boys’ and girls’ Region 2-AAAAA championship games, and it was Redan coming out on top in both contests at Newton County last Saturday night. The No. 2 ranked and undefeated Redan Lady Raiders (22-0) made it three in a row over the No. 10 ranked and defending Class AAAAA state champions Stephenson Lady Jaguars (20-7) since the state finals loss last season. Redan hosts in the first round of the Class AAAAA as a No. 1 seed and Stephenson also earned a host role as the No. 2 seed. The Redan Raiders (187) gained some revenge on the Jaguars (20-7) in the boys’ final with a 73-63 victory after dropping both regular season games. Redan goes into the Class AAAAA playoffs as the No. 1 seed from Region 2 and Stephenson is the No. 2 seed. The No. 1 ranked Miller Grove Wolverines (25-3) claimed the Region 6AAAA boys’ title with a 55-49 victory over No. 4 ranked Marist (23-3) to earn the No. 1 seed heading into the Class AAAA state playoffs. Mfon Udofia hit for 17 points and Malcolm Frank added 12 to lead Miller Grove in the championship victory. “Our boys are battle tested,” said Miller Grove head coach Eddie Johnson after the game. “A lot of our players have been playing in games like this all their lives. I’m proud about this team. This team handles pressure like adults.” The No. 10 Tucker Tigers (19-8) defeated DeKalb rival Stone Mountain (1315) to earn the No. 3 seed out of Region 6-AAAA.

Miller Grove won the 6AAAA championship game against Marist. Photos by Brian Egeston

Manny Atkins hit for a game-high 35 points to lead Tucker in the consolation game victory. Stone Mountain advances to state as a No. 4 seed. Both teams go on the road in the first round of the Class AAAA state playoffs. No. 6 ranked and defending Class AAAA girls’ state champion Southwest DeKalb (24-4) lost its bid to repeat as the Region 6AAAA champions with a 64-46 loss to No. 4 ranked Marist (26-2). Miller Grove (13-9) is headed to its first-ever state playoff appearance as the No. 3 seed out of Region 6 after defeating Tucker 6254 in the consolation game at Miller Grove.  Conisha Hicks hit for 29 in the win

Marist girls celebrate their victory over Southwest DeKalb.

while Tucker’s Serena Clark led the Lady Tigers (13-14) with 20. The No. 2 ranked Columbia Eagles (26-2) ran past Druid Hills (21-8) 7331 in the boys’ championship game at Columbia on Saturday. The Eagles will

be the region’s No. 1 seed, and Druid Hills takes the No. 2 seed into the Class AAA state playoffs. Dunwoody (19-7) upended the host Columbia (20-7) 39-36 to prevent a Columbia sweep of the Region 5-AAA championships.

Kristin Nash hit for 15 points to lead Dunwoody to the No. 1 seed heading into the state playoffs. Destinee Smith hit for 13 points and Mecca Frost added 10 for the Lady Eagles, who earn a No. 2 seed.

420-220986 2/26 NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER GEORGIA, DEKALB COUNTY Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in a Security Deed given by Bertham H. Catwell and Marie J. Philogene to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., dated May 24, 2001, recorded in Deed Book 13707, Page 188, DeKalb County, Georgia Records, as last transferred to Midfirst Bank by assignment to be recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court of DeKalb County, Georgia Records, conveying the after-described property to secure a Note in the original principal amount of ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-TWO THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED THREE AND 0/100 DOLLARS ($162,603.00), with interest thereon as set forth therein, there will be sold at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the courthouse door of DeKalb County, Georgia, within the legal hours of sale on the first Tuesday in April, 2009, the following described property: EXHIBIT A All that tract or parcel of land lying and being in Land Lot 51 of the 16th District of DeKalb County, Georgia, being Lot 34, Block A of Winchester Subdivision, as per plat recorded in Plat Book 109, Pages 36-39 DeKalb County, GA Records, which plat is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The debt secured by said Security Deed has been and is hereby declared due because of, among other possible events of default, failure to pay the indebtedness as and when due and in the manner provided in the Note and Security Deed. The debt remaining in default, this sale will be made for the purpose of paying the same and all expenses of this sale, as provided in Security Deed and by law, including attorneys fees (notice of intent to collect attorneys fees having been given). Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and matters of record superior to the Security Deed first set out above. The entity that has full authority to negotiate, amend, and modify all terms of the mortgage with the debtor is: Midland Mortgage Corporation, 999 N.W. Grand Boulevard Suite 100, Oklahoma City, OK 73118-6116, 800-654-4566. Please understand that the secured creditor is not required by law to negotiate, amend, or modify the terms of the mortgage instrument. To the best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the party in possession of the property is Bertham H. Catwell and Marie J. Philogene or a tenant or tenants and said property is more commonly known as 5652 Winchester Place, Lithonia, Georgia 30038. The sale will be conducted subject (1) to confirmation that the sale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the holder of the security deed. Midfirst Bank as Attorney in Fact for Bertham H. Catwell and Marie J. Philogene McCalla Raymer, LLC 1544 Old Alabama Road Roswell, Georgia 30076 www.foreclosurehotline.net MR/pxs 4/7/09 Our file no. 5794502-FT8 THIS LAW FIRM IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009

Page 2A

2009 DeKalb State Wrestling Results CLASS AAAAA 152 Division 3. Cornelius Sutton, Redan (54-5) CLASS AAAA 103 Division 5. Semere Tesfamariam, Tucker (54-3) 112 Division 6. Pawlloes Belete, Tucker (55-7) 125 Division 2. Dequan Warner, SWD (35-2) 135 Division 2. Melchisdeac Lavergne, Tucker (53-3)

ON THE WEB

Visit www.championnewspaper.com to view more pictures from this event.

Two time state champion Terrance Gaddy (green) controls his opponent en route to a victory. Photos by Brian Egeston

140 Division 2. Stephen Starks, Tucker (34-4) 4. Jerry Edmond, Stone Mountain (3417) 145 Division 2. Carey Cloud, Tucker (49-5) CLASS AAA 112 Division 6. Jamarcus Hayes, Columbia (22-8) 130 Division 2. Riley Keen, Dunwoody (63-6) 171 Division 1. Terrance Gaddy, Clarkston (41-0) 189 Division 6. Johannes West, Druid Hills (47-13) 215 Division 6. Nolan Johnson, Towers (47-20)

Semere Tesfamariam (left) begins his match.

Marist coaches shout moves to Ducote.

Stephen Starks mentally prepared for his gold medal match.

Jeff Ducote (yellow) works his way out of the circle.

Carey Cloud (bottom) finds himself in a jam during a bout.

A wreslter struggles with defeat.

Page 24A

THE CHAMPION FREE PRESS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2009

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