COBB
School board to set millage rate today
Cobb County's school board will vote to set its millage rate at 18.90 today. The district is reducing its millage rate by 1.00 mills because the district made excess proceeds of more than $20 million last year from SPLOST II funds. Funds generated from the millage rate, which sets local property taxes, will be used to meet the district's maintenance and operation budget. The board will meet at 6 p.m. at Cobb County's administration building located at 514 Glover Street in Marietta. Daarel Burnette II
Arrest made in Oct. 13 fatal shooting
Cobb County police made an arrest Tuesday in connection with a nine-month-old fatal shooting at an apartment complex near Marietta. Desmond Brookins, 21, was arrested during a traffic stop in Powder Springs and charged with malice murder, Cobb police Sgt. Dana Pierce said Wednesday.
Brookins is charged with the Oct. 13, 2011, death of Adrian Thomas Coleman, 25, of Marietta. Mike Morris
Park Street school changes its theme
Marietta City's school board recently approved Park Street Elementary changing its academic theme. The school, which has been a "Community Collaborative School" will now be a S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely) Goals Academy. Under the new model, parents, students, teachers and administrators will work toward creating specific academic goals for students. Daarel Burnette II
'Smoke on the Mountain' returns
The musical "Smoke on the Mountain," a staple at the shuttered Theatre in the Square since 1991, moves to the Earl Smith Strand Theatre on the Marietta Square from July 27-Aug. 5. The Atlanta Lyric Theatre production features many of the original cast members in the show about a gospel singing Baptist family in the 1930's rural south. Information: www.AtlantaLyricTheatre.com. Tucker McQueen for the AJC
YWCA official joins on anti-violence panel
Elisa Covarrubias, the director of sexual assault and advocacy programs at YWCA of Northwest Georgia, has joined the executive committee of the Georgia Latinos Against Domestic Violence (GLADV). Covarrubias has been working with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault for seven years and is earning a degree in social work. As a native Spanish-speaker, she has worked extensively with the Latino population and knows the special challenges immigrant victims encounter. Nancy Badertscher
Fall soccer registration open in Marietta
Registration is open for fall soccer at Marietta's renovated Custer Park near Fairground Street and Cobb Parkway. The two soccer fields, that are part of a recent $1.8 million park rehab, should be ready for play in mid to late September. Metro Atlanta YMCA's east Cobb branch signed an agreement with the city of Marietta last month to run the soccer program and maintain the city park. City residents will get a discount. Registration::www.ymcapass.com/mcy.shtml. Tucker McQueen for the AJC
GWINNETT
County needs poll workers for elections
Gwinnett County needs several thousand people to staff more than 150 polling locations for the 2012 elections.
Workers earn $110 to $250 per day, depending on their position. They will work about 14 hours on Election Day, beginning at 6 a.m. They must have transportation to and from the polling location and have access to a computer to complete online training.
Applicant must be a U.S. citizen, must be a Gwinnett resident or county government employee and must be at least 16 years old. They cannot hold or run for public office. For information, visit www.gwinnettelections.com. David Wickert
'Dog Day in the Park' to be Saturday
Gwinnett County and the American Cancer Society will sponsor a "dog day at the park" at 9 a.m. Saturday at Pinckneyville Park Medlock Pavilion, 4758 S. Old Peachtree Road, Norcross. The event will feature a dog walk, games, and a doggie fashion show. Information: www.gwinnettparks.com. David Wickert
Norcross concert series continues Friday
Satisfaction, a Rolling Stones tribute band, will continue Norcross' Summer Concert Series 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday in Thrasher Park. Chairs, blankets and coolers are welcome and "adult beverages" may be consumed during the concerts. No glass cups or containers and visitors are asked to bring trash bags to dispose of debris properly. www.norcrossga.net. Karen Huppertz for the AJC
Dog day at the park this weekend
Celebrate National Park and Recreation month and National Hot Dog Day 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Pinckneyville Park, 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd. in Norcross. Fun includes inflatables, crazy hair, face painting, hot dogs and other concessions plus a doggie fashion show, pet portrait, and Bark for Life in partnership with the American Cancer Society. Information: 770-822-8870. Karen Huppertz for the AJC
Pool event raising money this weekend
Mountain Park Aquatic Center will host a tri-AQUA-thon competitive triathlon event this weekend with all events happening in the water including 10 minutes each of aqua running, aqua cycling and swimming. Light snacks and prizes provided.
Proceeds to benefit Susan G Komen for the Cure, Alzheimer Association, and American Heart Association. Age 15+. 1063 Rockbridge Rd. in Stone Mtn. Call for registration info: 770-564-4650. Karen Huppertz for the AJC
Humane Society to hold wine tasting
The Gwinnett Humane Society will hold its third annual Surf & Tails Wine Tasting 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. today at Purple Rain Restaurant, 3550 Mall Blvd. N.W., Duluth. The event, hosted by Sweetwater Package Store, will feature a variety of wine, appetizers, door prizes, silent auction and a book signing by Julie Chapman, author of "Titan's Tales." Admission is $20 with a reservation and $25 at the door. Registration: www.firstgiving.com/gwinnetthumane. Information: 770-798-7711, ext. 7.
Mea Watkins
NORTHSIDE
Driver killed in head-on collision identified
The Forsyth County Sheriff's Office has identified the driver killed in a head-on collision Monday. Authorities say Clara Garmon, 58, of Gainesville lost control of her vehicle on Ga. 53 and hydroplaned into a car driven by a 25-year-old California man. Garmon's seatbelt broke and she was ejected.
She was pronounced dead at the scene. Drugs and alcohol are not suspected in the crash. Mark Woolsey for the AJC
Back to school health clinic July 31
The Cherokee County Health Department will conduct a back to school health clinic at its public health centers in Canton and Woodstock.
The clinic will be offered from 1-6 p.m. July 31 and will offer dental, hearing and vision screenings, as well as required immunizations for school-aged children.
The Woodstock center is located at 7545 N. Main St. and the Canton office is at 1219 Univeter Road. Info: 770-345-7371 in Canton, 770-928-0133 in Woodstock. Mark Woolsey for the AJC
Charity golf tourney on Monday
North Fulton Community Charities' fourth annual Swing into Action golf tournament is Monday at Johns Creek's Country Club of the South at 4100 Old Alabama Road.
Tournament proceeds are used to prevent homelessness by supporting families during short-term emergencies with food, clothing, rent, utilities and other basic needs. Registration and a pre-tournament breakfast begin at 7, followed by the tournament's shotgun start at 9 and a post-tournament reception at 2 p.m.
Information: Vonda Malbrough at 678-387-4459, vmalbrough@nfcchelp.org.
Michael Alpert for the AJC
Registration for fall baseball to start
Registration opens Monday in Forsyth County for the fall recreational baseball and softball league for boys and girls. Youngsters ages 4 through 17 can take part in Fall Ball, sponsored by the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department.
Registrations will be taken at the county's three recreation centers, as well as via fax, mail and online. Games begin the week of Sept. 10. Info: www.forsythco.com Mark woolsey for the AJC
Parks department to hold volleyball camp
Alpharetta Recreation and Parks Department is sponsoring a volleyball camp for students in grades 3-8 this fall. Campers will focus on techniques, coordination development activities and team concepts.
The camp will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., July 23-27 at Alpharetta Community Center, 175 Roswell Street. Cost is $150 for Alpharetta residents and $225 for all others. Kathryn Houghton Ely, varsity volleyball coach for Alpharetta High School, will be the instructor.
Register online at www.alpharetta.ga.us/recreation or at the Community Center.
Information: 678-297-6100 or cyoung@alpharetta.ga.us.
Patrick Fox
ATLANTA
Man shot dead at mall identified
The man shot and killed outside a restaurant at The Mall West End on Tuesday has been identified as Asiel Parker, 21, of College Park.
Witnesses told Channel 2 Action News the incident happened near the Subway restaurant in the mall's parking lot. One witness reported seeing men arguing in the parking lot before the shooting, Channel 2 reported.
The suspected shooter ran and got into a gray or silver Pontiac, witnesses told Channel 2.
Investigators were searching for the suspect Wednesday and reviewing surveillance camera footage for possible clues. Mike Morris and Alexis Stevens
Council approves $23,000 in claims
Atlanta's City Council voted Monday to approve more than $23,000 in claims against the city for bodily injuries from walking into uncovered water meters and property damage from auto accidents and other mishaps.
The eight claims included two separate $6,000 settlements related to sewer backups.
More than a dozen claims were given "unfavorable" recommendations and rejected, including claims related to burglaries, potholes, a vehicular accident and water service. Jeremiah McWilliams
Tech student guilty of changing grade
Shayan Panjwani, a former student at Georgia Tech, pled guilty Wednesday to illegally logging into the college's grading system and increasing his marks in two classes, according to the state Attorney General's Office.
He was sentenced to two years probation and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine.
Panjwani inflated his grades in July 2011. A graduate student noticed the change and reported it to college officials. Panjwani confessed after being confronted.
Georgia Tech spokesman Matt Nagel confirmed Panjwani is no longer a student at the college and declined to comment further. Laura Diamond
DEKALB
DeKalb expanding animal adoption hours
DeKalb County will soon add Sunday hours at its animal shelter as part of an ongoing effort find homes for the 5,000 animals it euthanizes each year.
Starting Sunday, the shelter on Memorial Drive and Camp Circle will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.
The facility also is open from 10 .m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays and on Fridays.
The shelter has extended evening hours, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., on Thursdays, and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
Information: www.dekalbcountyanimalservices.com.
April Hunt
Clarkston preparing for National Night Out
Free food from around the globe and special entertainment will be part of Clarkston's annual National Night Out block party early next month.
The city also plans to host various community and police groups during the crime/drug prevention event on Aug. 7.
For details, visit www.cityofclarkston.com.
April Hunt
Candidate forum today at school
The Arabia Mountain High School PTSA will hold an election forum today , and all 12 school board candidates have confirmed attendance, said the group's president, Tanya Graham.
Doors open at 6:15 p.m., and the forum is from 6:45 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the school auditorium, 6610 Browns Mill Road, Lithonia. RSVP at ptsa@arabiaptsa.org or 770-875-0213.
The election for four open seats is July 31. Ty Tagami
Nonprofits can apply for DeKalb grants
DeKalb County is taking applications from nonprofit groups that help needy families, youth and seniors in the county.
Only groups with two years of service qualify for 2013 funding from the Human Services Grant program.
Applications are available at the William T. White Building, 39 Rogers St., Atlanta or online at www.dekalbcountyga.gov/humanserv. April Hunt
Free big-band music at Northlake Mall
The chance to dance and sway to big-band music returns later this month at Northlake Mall.
The Atlanta-New York Connection provides the music at the free event held in the mall's food court. The next dance will be 6-8 p.m. July 31 at the mall, 4800 Briarcliff Road, Tucker.
April Hunt
Clergy invited to learn about justice system
County District Attorney Robert James and Sheriff Thomas Brown are inviting clergy to tour the jail, the juvenile court and the medical examiner's facility as part of a program to teach them about the criminal justice system.
The 4th Annual Faith Leaders Day is planned for Aug. 2, beginning at 8 a.m. at the DeKalb County Courthouse. The program will include a light breakfast and lunch and transportation to the various locations they will visit.
Reservations for the free day of "criminal justice 101" can be made by calling 404-687-7179.
Rhonda Cook
SOUTHSIDE
Judge rules candidate doesn't live in district
An administrative law judge ruled Monday that Ronald Mabra is not qualified to run for state House District 63 because he does not live in the district.
Judge Stephanie Howells ordered Mabra removed from the July 31 ballot, although Secretary of State Brian Kemp can overruleHowells' decision.
Mabra was to face Linda Pritchett and T.J. Copeland in the July 31 Democratic primary. Pritchett filed the residency challenge with Kemp's office. Aaron Gould Sheinin
Henry wins award for health and wellness
Henry County has been selected by the Association County Commissioners of Georgia to receive a $5,000 Health Promotion and Wellness Grant, one of 50 awarded throughout the state. Awards are made to members of ACCG and based on a county's commitment to employee health. As part of the grant process, the county has designated a health promotion leader to develop a workplace health promotion plan and to attend a training class to help put together a game plan to move forward in improving employee wellness and morale. Monroe Roark for the AJC
Police: Man tried to abduct jogger
The Fayetteville police are seeking a man who they said tried to abduct a female jogger at gunpoint.
The woman was jogging in her Fayetteville neighborhood about 12:50 p.m. Thursday when a man driving a small, red, four-door passenger car — possibly an older model with peeling paint on its hood — approached her in his vehicle, police said.
Police described the suspect as being in his early to mid-20s and having Middle Eastern or Hispanic features with curly unkempt hair and a full beard. They said he may speak broken English. Anyone with information was asked to call Detective Melissa Peacock at the Fayetteville Police Department, 770 719-4227. David Ibata
Shredding event in McDonough Aug. 18
City officials in McDonough are giving local residents an opportunity to get rid of old paperwork free of charge. The City of McDonough Paper Shred is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 18, at 305 Racetrack Road. SafeShred will be on hand with mobile shredding trucks to shred materials on-site, and 100 percent of material collected is recycled. There is no limit to the amount of paper that can be shredded, but those with large quantities will be asked to unload. Otherwise, it will be a "drive-thru" process. Information: bcopeland@mcdonough-ga.gov or 770-957-3915. Monroe Roark for the AJC
Recipe contest under way in Peachtree City
The Peachtree City Farmers Market is hoping its seasonal bounty will inspire local cooks. The market, along with Fayette Woman magazine and the Peachtree City Library, is sponsoring a "Fresh from the Garden" recipe contest between now and Aug. 1. Contestants receive a free T-shirt just for entering; judging will take place Aug. 11. For details and registration, see www.ptcfarmersmarket.org/contest-application.html.
Jill Howard Church for the AJC
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