A2 ♦ Sunday, auguSt 16, 2020 ♦ gwinnettdailypoSt.com
Norcross City Manager Rudolph Smith preparing to retire after 40 years in municipal government By Curt Yeomans curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost.com
After four decades in municipal government, including more than two decades with the city of Norcross, City Manager Rudolph Smith is preparing to retire. Smith, who has served Norcross in several different positions over the last 22 years, will stay with the city until Sept. 2, officials said. During his tenure with the city, he has worked with three different mayors. “It is time,” Smith said in a
message to staff and the City Council. “I have been with the city for 22 years, and now it is time to take advantage of the opportunity to retire and enjoy traveling, gardening and spending time with my son. I also have plans to use my years of experience to consult part-time with other municipalities.” The International City/County Management Association recently presented a 30-year service award to Smith for his long career in city government, including work that predated his time with Norcross.
Suspect in death of 70-year-old man near Norcross has been arrested
Sanchez-Vazquez was arrested Thursday, police said. curt.yeomans@ Jail records listed an address on gwinnettdailypost.com Phil Niekro Parkway, A man accused of near Brittney Way, murdering a 70-yearfor Sanchez-Vazquez. old man in the NorPolice previously cross area in May said they were called has been arrested, to Brittney Way on a Gwinnett County 9-1-1 report of a man police said. being shot. Officers Norcross resident arrived to find St. Jose Aldo Jose Aldo Sanchez- Sanchez- John suffering from Vazquez, 25, faces Vazquez a gunshot wound. felony murder, agSt. John was taken gravated assault and pos- to the hospital, where he session of a firearm during died form his injuries. the commission of a feloPolice believe the shootny charges in connection ing may have been gang-rewith the death of Richard lated. Sanchez-Vazquez was St. John on Brittney Way, identified as a suspect, and near Phil Niekro Parkway, charges were filed against on May 24. him, in early June. By Curt Yeomans
In all, Norcross officials said, Smith has worked in municipal government for about 40 years, including his time with Norcross as well as 18 years with the Rudolph city of Alapah, where Smith he was a grant administrator, city clerk and city manager. Smith is a native of Alapaha, which is located in Berrien County. He earned his degree in accounting and business administration
Voters also settle races for Superior Court judge, party nominees for sheriff, state senator, District 3 commissioner and tax commissioner By Curt Yeomans curt.yeomans@ gwinnettdailypost.com
Former Gwinnett County community outreach director Nicole Love Hendrickson is one step closer to potentially making county history. Hendrickson took a commanding lead over attorney Nicole Love Lee Thompson Hendrickson in the Democratic runoff for commission chairman Tuesday and cleared the nomination hurdle. With all of precincts “fully reported,” according to the county’s elections results website, Hendrick had
LET’S SLOW THE SPREAD, GWINNETT. The global pandemic continues to impact communities across our state, the U.S., and the world. We’re calling on Gwinnett residents to combat the virus by following the “Four Things for Four Weeks” instructions outlined by Governor Kemp and the Georgia Department of Public Health.
Wear a mask when out in public or when you
Wash your hands for 20 seconds several
can’t keep distance inside. times each day with soap and warm water. Practice physical distancing (six feet) from those you don’t live with. Follow Governor Kemp’s latest Executive Order and the guidance of public health officials.
Learn more at
dph.ga.gov
sociation in 2007 and a Men of Influence award from the Atlanta Business League in 2009. He has also received the Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association, according to Norcross officials. “I appreciate all the employees — I have enjoyed the many experiences I have had working with our team, and I am proud of our accomplishments during my years here,” Smith said. “The city is blessed with an awesome team of professionals.”
Democrat Hendrickson advances in bid for commission chair seat
FOUR THINGS. FOUR WEEKS.
from Abraham Baldwin College in Tifton in 1980 before returning to his hometown to begin his career as a public servant. He came to Norcross in 1998 and served as the city’s general government administrative director and tax and business license manager before he was named city manager in 2008. He received the District II Leadership Award from the Georgia Municipal Association in 1992, the Finance Officer of the Year Award from the Georgia Municipal Clerk/Finance Officers As-
received 79.83% of the votes counted while Thompson had received 20.17%. “Our campaign has always focused on serving with compassion and building a healthy future for Gwinnett County,” Hendrickson said. “Voters last night said they agree.” The runoff for the Democratic nomination for county commission chairman was one of seven races — including two party runoffs for the same commission District 3 seat — that appeared on Gwinnett ballots on Tuesday. But, if Hendrickson wins the chairman’s race in the general election, she will be the first African-American to serve as chairman — or in her case chairwoman — of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners in the county’s more than 200-year history. Hendrickson came close to securing the Democratic nomination outright in the June 9 primary, where she got 49% of the vote in a five-way race. Georgia law requires a candidate receive more than 50% of the votes cast to avoid a runoff. Thompson had suspended his campaign immediately after earning a spot in the runoff, however, and told his supporters to vote for Hendrickson. As the Democratic nominee, Hendrickson will now face Republican nominee David Post in November for the open chairman’s seat. Most of the races that were contested in Tuesday’s runoff were held to determine party nominees for open seats. In addition to the chairman’s race, other open seats where at least one party had a contested runoff were sheriff and county commission District 3. But one of the biggest eyecatching results may have been in the nonpartisan runoff for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge Kathryn Schrader’s seat.
Schrader’s bid for re-election was defeated by Magistrate Judge Deborah Fluker. Fluker outperformed the incumbent by a margin of 59.22% to 40.78%. Since it is a nonpartisan race, the Deborah winner of the runoff takes the Fluker seat. Schrader had been running while awaiting a re-trial in a computer trespassing case. A new trial had originally been scheduled for April, after the initial trial in February ended in a mistrial, but the court system has been shut down since March because of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus disease pandemic. Meanwhile, Democrats now know who their party’s nominee will be in this fall’s sheriff’s race. Keybo Taylor defeated Curtis Clemons in the Democratic runoff for the sheriff’s seat on Tuesday, by a margin of 54.66% to 45.34%. Taylor will now face the Republican Party’s nominee, Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Lou Solis in the general election. Keybo Over in comTaylor mission District 3, there were two runoffs held Tuesday as Republicans and Democrats had to determine who their respective party’s nominees to replace embattled outgoing Commissioner Tommy Hunter will be. In the Republican primary for the open seat, Ben Archer defeated Matt DeReimer by a margin of 53.22% to 46.78%. Meanwhile, Jasper Watkins III will once again be the Democratic Party’s nominee for the seat after he defeated Der-
rick Wilson in the Democratic primary by a margin of 52.03% to 47.97%. Watkins was the DemocratBen Archer ic nominee for the seat in 2016, when he nearly defeated Hunter in the general election. Hunter did not run for re-election this year. Jasper Watkins Watkins III and Archer will now face each other in the general election in November. Voters in state Senate District 9 also now know who will challenge Republican state Sen. P.K. Martin this fall. Nikki Merritt defeated former Gwinnett County Democratic Party Chairman Gabe Okoye in the Democratic runoff for the seat by a margin of 65.64% to 34.36% on Tuesday. Nikki And DemoMerritt crats also know who their nominee for tax commissioner will be this fall as well. Tiffany Porter defeated Regina Carden in the Democratic runoff for the seat on Tuesday by a margin of 56.79% to 43.21%. Porter will now face ReTiffany publican inPorter cumbent Tax Commissioner Richard Steele this fall. All results are unofficial until certified by elections officials.
Chicken Salad Chick to open new restaurant in Johns Creek Town Center near Suwanee From staff reports Chicken salad lovers are in for a treat as Chicken Salad Chick is set to open a new restaurant next week that will serve the Johns Creek and Suwanee areas. The chain’s newest restaurant, located at 3630 Peachtree Parkway in the Johns Creek Town Center shopping center, will host a ribbon cutting on Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. followed by the store’s official opening at 10 a.m. The restaurant introduced itself to the area on Friday and Saturday, hosting a pair of friends and families events that benefitted the food pantry at North Fulton Community Charities. To celebrate its grand opening, Chicken Salad Chick is hosting give-aways all next week: ♦ Tuesday – Free chicken salad for a year. The first 100 guests of the new Johns Creek location who purchase The Chick will receive one free large Quick Chick per month for 12 months. From this group, one lucky guest will also be randomly selected to receive one free large Quick Chick per week for a year. The company said all other opening day guests will have the opportunity to enter a raffle to win free chicken salad for a year with an in-store purchase (10 lucky guests will be randomly chosen at the end of the day). ♦ Wednesday — Free Chick tote bag: The first 50 guests at 10 a.m. and at 6 p.m. who
purchase the Chick Trio will receive a free Chicken Salad Chick tote bag. ♦ Thursday — Free Chick tumbler: The first 50 guests at 10 a.m. and at 6 p.m. who purchase the Chick Trio will receive a free 24 oz. Chicken Salad Chick tumbler. (Does not include drink or unlimited refills on initial or future visits.) ♦ Friday — Free Chick wooden cutting board: The first 50 guests at 10 a.m. and at 6 p.m. who purchase the Chick Trio will receive a free Chicken Salad Chick wooden cutting board. ♦ Saturday — Free large Chick cooler: The first 50 guests to purchase two large Quick Chicks will receive a free Chicken Salad Chick cooler! (For all giveaways guests must be age 16 or older and have downloaded the Cravings Credits app; one item per guest present.) To adhere to social distancing guidelines, Chicken Salad Chick has implemented a safe procedure for guests to claim their giveaways. Beginning at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, the first 100 guests to arrive and check in will be assigned a number and a designated return time between 9:45 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. At their designated time, guests will assume their spot in line to make a qualifying purchase. Large Quick Chick prizes will be uploaded to the winners’ Chicken Salad Chick App the following Monday. Late or missed spots will be awarded to the next person in line.
gwinnettdailypost.com ♦ sunday, august 16, 2020 ♦ A3
WORLD & NATION
WORLD
British tourists rush back from France to avoid mandatory quarantine Thousands of British holidaymakers have been trying to return home from France in an attempt to avoid new quarantine restrictions imposed by the UK government. The rush came after the government announced late on Thursday that all people arriving in the UK from France, where COVID-19 infections rates are high, would need to self-isolate for 14 days from Saturday onwards. The rule change, which came into force at 4 a.m. BST Saturday, also applies to those traveling to the UK from the Netherlands, Monaco, Malta, Turks and Caicos Islands and Aruba. Transport operators noted a steep surge in demand as people booked last-minute tickets in a race to beat the Saturday morning deadline. The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle train service, which transports vehicles between France and the UK, was fully booked on Friday as a result of the increased demand, according to PA Media. A spokesperson for the service told the news agency that 12,000 people attempted to buy tickets in the hour after the government’s announcement on Thursday, compared to the hundreds of requests it usually receives over the same time period.
New Zealand imposes 12-day lockdown in its biggest city as country battles fresh outbreak New Zealand has extended a lockdown in its most populous city as the country battles a fresh community coronavirus outbreak that comes after months without any locally transmitted cases. Only five days ago, New Zealand was marking an enviable milestone — 100 days without any community transmission. But this week has demonstrated how fast that can change. On Friday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced that Auckland — the city of around 1.5 million people at the center of the new outbreak — will remain under a level three lockdown for another 12 days, while the rest of the country stays under level two restrictions, meaning gatherings are limited to no more than 100 people.
Belarus leader calls Putin to reaffirm support, rejects foreign mediation offers Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Saturday rejected foreign mediation offers to help stabilize the volatile situation in his country. But reached out to Russian President Vladimir Putin with a call, and both men expressed confidence that the situation would “be resolved soon,” according to a read out of the call published by the Kremlin. Lukashenko, who has been in power for 26 years, is facing mounting calls by protesters to step down following a highly contested presidential election. Belarusian authorities say Lukashenko won 80.1% of the vote, in a poll many consider to be rigged. Protests flared up across Belarus this week, sometimes erupting into violence. —From wire reports
New CDC guidance says COVID-19 rates in children ‘steadily increasing’ By Christina Maxouris and Jay Croft CNN
Health experts say children make up more than 7% of all coronavirus cases in the U.S. — while comprising about 22% of the country’s population — and the number and rate of child cases have been “steadily increasing” from March to July. The data was posted alongside updated guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for pediatricians that also includes what is known about the virus in children. “Recent evidence suggests that children likely have the same or higher viral loads in their nasopharynx compared with adults and that children can spread the virus effectively in households and camp settings,” the guidance states. Transmission of the virus to and among children may have been reduced in spring and early summer due to mitigation measures like stay-athome orders and school closures, the CDC says. But now, schools and universities across the country are reopening and in some cases have had to readjust their approach following positive tests among students and staff. How to safely welcome students back has been an ongoing debate between local and state leaders as some
Robyn Beck/aFp/getty images
High school senior Jocelyn Hernandez follows a remote Advanced Placement Calculus class while sitting in a community garden near her home in Los Angeles on Saturday. push for a return to normalcy and others fear returning to class could prove deadly for some. In some cases, teachers have opted to resign rather than risk contracting the virus. “So if I’m put into a classroom of 30 or more kids, it’s a small room, there’s one exit, the ventilation isn’t all that great for schools,” Arizona teacher Matt Chicci, who quit his job, told CNN. “It’s not a good situation.” In Georgia, where several districts reopened in recent weeks, more than 1,000 students and staff were asked to quarantine following cases of coronavirus or exposures to someone infected.
A 15-year-old boy from the Atlanta area became the second-youngest person to die from COVID-19 in the state, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. Earlier this month, a 7-yearold boy from Savannah died. Officials released no further details on how the teen contracted coronavirus or whether he may have exposed others. North Paulding High School, which came under scrutiny when a student shared a photo of a crowded hallway days after school reopened, reported 12 cases in school and 21 total cases during the week of Aug. 8 to 14. In Illinois, health officials
are looking for people who attended an unofficial “miniprom.” At least five cases were linked to the event and 40 close contacts were identified. While some U.S. officials — including President Trump — have downplayed the risk coronavirus positions on children, the new CDC guidance notes children can develop severe illness and complications, even if that risk is lower compared to adults. The rate of hospitalizations among children is increasing, the guidance says, and among those hospitalized, one in three children is admitted to intensive care — the same as adults.
Kevin c. cox/getty images north america/getty images
want to vote get the chance to vote, and that’s more important even than the outcome of the vote. We have got to preserve the principle of democracy,” he said. Utah is one of nine states, as well as Washington, D.C., that will be conducting a primarily vote-by-mail election in November. One of the most Republican states, Utah has used its universal mail-in voting system since 2012.
NATION
CDC’s chief of staff, deputy chief of staff depart from agency Two senior Trump political appointees departed the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a senior official at the agency confirmed to CNN. Kyle McGowan, the chief of staff, and Amanda Campbell, the deputy chief of staff, resigned effective Friday, leaving to start a consulting firm, the official said. Both left voluntarily, the official added. CNN has reached out to McGowan and Campbell for comment. Politico first reported the news of their departures. The pair had been criticized by Trump administration officials for not being loyal enough. McGowan started working in Health and Human Services under then-Secretary Tom Price. He first served as director of external affairs for HHS before moving to the CDC. CNN has reached out to HHS for comment about the departures. McGowan was the first-ever CDC chief of staff who was a political appointee, the official said.
Pelosi: Stimulus talks are complicated by ‘complete disarray on the Republican side’ House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Saturday continued her blame of Republicans for the stalemate in negotiations over another round of coronavirus relief funding for Americans. In a letter to her Democratic colleagues on Saturday, the Democratic leader said that progress on the negotiations is “complicated by the complete disarray on the Republican
Two senior Trump political appointees departed the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a senior official at the agency confirmed to CNN. side — as President Donald Trump contradicts his own negotiators and his own position.” She criticized Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Republicans for refusing to provide further funding for states and local governments, which she called a “significant obstacle” inside negotiations. Pelosi’s letter marked the three-month anniversary of the House’s passage of Democrats’ $3.4 trillion stimulus package, the HEROES Act. Both the House and the Senate are now in recess until September without passing a stimulus bill after weekslong negotiations between the Trump administration and Democrats broke down. If there is a deal on the stimulus, however, members will have 24-hour notice to return for votes.
Former Illinois Gov. James Thompson dies
PEOPLE
Dolly Parton makes her feelings known on Black Lives Matter Country singer Dolly Parton is making it clear that she supports Black Lives Matter. In a wide ranging interview with Billboard magazine, the singer addressed various topics, including the protests against racism and police brutality that have swept the United States following the death of George Floyd. While she has not attended the protests, she voiced her support. “I understand people having to make themselves known and felt and seen,” she said. “And of course Black lives matter. Do we think our little White a**es are the only ones that matter? No!”
Dennis Quaid, the actor, adopts Dennis Quaid, the cat Hollywood actor Dennis Quaid has a new furry friend — a cute black rescue cat. Its name? Dennis Quaid. The tale of two Dennises began when the actor heard from a local news report that a black rescue cat, also named Dennis Quaid, was resident in an animal shelter in Virginia and in need of a loving home. Quaid (the man), who also happens to be a co-host of pet-themed podcast “The Pet Show,” told 10 News that he couldn’t resist adopting the 6-year-old cat from the Lynchburg Humane Society. “It was really off the wall but we couldn’t resist,” he said, adding: “I’m out to save all the Dennis Quaids of the world.” Quaid and his team contacted the shelter to ask about adopting the cat — but at first the shelter couldn’t quite believe what was happening. “We reached out to the shelter. It took us a while for them to actually believe us,” Jimmy Jellinek, co-host of “The Pet Show,” told 10 News. “I was like there is no way this is real, like, someone is pranking us,” Danielle Ulmer, adoption center manager for the shelter, told the news station. Once the actor had convinced shelter staff he was serious about the adoption, he “met” cat Dennis over Zoom. Jellinek plans to fly to Virginia over the weekend to collect the new member of the Quaid household.
Republican Sen. Mitt Romney on Friday cast doubt on President Donald Trump’s claim that universal vote by mail would lead to widespread voter fraud.
“I don’t know of any evidence that voting by mail would increase voter fraud,” the Utah Republican said during an online interview with the conservative think tank Sutherland Institute. Romney’s comments on vote by mail is the senator’s latest dissent with the President’s views, as he is often the lone GOP voice critical of Trump’s actions. The senator said that his “biggest concern” with voter fraud is potential hacking of U.S. voting machines and systems, because fraudulent attempts using vote-by-mail can be prevented with physical ballots. “I’ve heard some people say they think that the reason the president doesn’t want people to vote by mail is that polls show that people who want to vote by mail tend to vote for Vice President Biden. People who tend to want to vote inperson tend to want to vote for President Trump,” Romney said. “So this is a political calculation. But my own view is we want people to vote.” Romney argued that it’s “essential” for the United States to “show that elections can be held in a free and fair manner.” “We should make every effort to assure that people who
“Someone had apparently taken a cue from ‘Treasure Island’ and stashed their booty behind the shelving,” city officials wrote on Facebook. With some packaging clues, such as a missing warning label required on beer after the late ’80s, library staff calculated that the hidden stash had to have been there for at least 30 years. “It looked like somebody had just stashed it there and maybe thought they could get it later ... but there was no
way to get it out,” Wells said. “There were probably six beers that they bought and there was only five that we found so they might not have been thinking straight when they did it.” The Library Director found the discovery of the aging contraband to be “a bit of levity during a difficult time.” This year marks the building’s 50th anniversary, Wells special photo: courtesy erin wells said. And the unexpected find certainly made an in- A stash of beer and gum dating back to the 1980s was found teresting time capsule. behind the shelves of a Washington library.
Mitt Romney says he sees no evidence mail-in voting would increase voter fraud
Former Illinois Gov. James R. Thompson died Friday night at the age of 84, CNN affiliate WLS reported. Citing the family, WLS reported that Thompson was receiving treatment and recovering at a rehabilitation center in downtown Chicago when “he suddenly was stricken and passed Friday evening.” The Republican governor was the longest-serving governor in the state of Illinois. Thompson was first elected governor of Illinois in 1976 and was reelected to four consecutive terms, ending his time in office in January 1991. Current Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a statement, saying: “On behalf of the entire state of Illinois, MK and I offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Governor Jim Thompson. As the longest-serving governor in Illinois history, ‘Big Jim’ was known to treat people he encountered with kindness and decency. He dedicated himself to building positive change for Illinois, and he set an example for public service of which Illinoisans should be proud. He will be remembered and revered as one of the titans in the history of state government.” —From wire reports
Kelly Clarkson takes on Twitter troll, saying ‘aim higher’ Kelly Clarkson took on a social media follower who trolled her about her divorce from ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. The tweet read: “No wonder her marriage didn’t work... surprise she has time for her kids...not the good old country girl we fell in love with... it’s all about Kelly being on tv...and no one else...no tears for her...but for her kids.” Clarkson replied: “Wow. Shaming a woman who has a great work ethic, is a great mom, and who steps up and fills in when a friends asks for a favor because that’s actually what ‘good old country girls’ do.... this can’t be who you are deep down. I have more faith in your heart. Aim higher please.” — From wire reports
Stash of beer, gum dating back to 1980s discovered hidden in Washington library By Kelsie Smith CNN
It was a real whodunit when a stash of beer and gum from the 1980s was discovered behind the walls of the Mystery section at a Washington library. Due to the outbreak of COVID-19, the Walla Walla Public Library has been closed to the public since March and has since taken the time to do some renovations, library director Erin
MUST READ Wells told CNN. During the demolition three weeks ago, five full cans of Hamm’s beer and an opened pack of Godzilla Heads gum were found in a disintegrated paper bag, Wells said. Facilities Maintenance Specialist, Luis Cuellar found the odd treasure when he removed a 7-foot-tall corner panel on some open top shelving believed to be original to the 1970s building.
A4 ♦ Sunday, auguSt 16, 2020 ♦ gwinnettdailypoSt.com COLUMNIST I KEITH ROACH
Slow heart rate and sinus node trouble
D
EAR DR. ROACH: I am an 84-year-old female in relatively good health. My doctor is concerned that my heart rate is too slow, consistently in the 50s. I have worn a Holter monitor and had an echocardiogram test. Both came back negative for any problems. What could be causing my sinus Roach bradycardia? — PS ANSWER: The “sinus” in sinus bradycardia has nothing to do with your nose. It refers to a cavity that exists embryologically that becomes part of the wall of the right atrium. The natural pacemaker of the heart is contained there, and is called the “sinus node” or “sinoatrial node.” “Bradycardia” is from the Greek words meaning “slow heart” and is a common condition that only occasionally becomes a problem. Bradycardia is having less than 60 beats per minute, and sinus rhythm means the impulse is coming from the usual place. Trained athletes often have slow heart rates; occasionally, some diseases — especially Lyme disease, hypothyroidism and sleep apnea — can cause sinus bradycardia. Many medications, especially beta blockers, can cause a slow heart rate. However, in the elderly, slow heart rates can be an early sign that the cells in the sinus node aren’t working as well as they used to. One cardiologist where I trained called them “gray hairs in the heart.” Sinus bradycardia needs to be treated when it is causing symptoms, and a cardiologist with special training in rhythm disorders, called an electrophysiologist, is the best referral when the slow heart is not due to other causes. Patients with extreme bradycardia (below 40) would also rate a referral, even if they don’t report symptoms, as many will note improvement with treatment. The most common treatment is a permanent pacemaker. DEAR DR. ROACH: I was recently diagnosed with low grade prostate cancer. For now, my urologist recommends simply monitoring the situation closely through PSA testing and another biopsy in a year; no surgery, radiation or chemo at this time. I’m not on any medication. I recently asked my doctor at my HMO if I could donate blood and he did not see a reason I could not. However, when I tried to set up an appointment at the blood bank, I was turned down due to my cancer diagnosis. When asked, the blood bank representative could offer no other reason nor could he explain the risk. — M.R. ANSWER: There has never been a confirmed case of cancer transmitted by blood transfusion. Blood banks are understandably very conservative when accepting blood. They want for the blood not only to be safe, but also to appear safe. That can lead them to make decisions that seem illogical. However, taking blood donations from a person with active cancer may also be unwise from the standpoint of the donor: You may need your blood to best deal with your own cancer, even though it sounds like in your case, your prostate cancer is very low risk. Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu or send mail to 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803.
WEATHER WATCH TODAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
40%
20%
60%
50%
50%
60%
87 67
87 66
10%
91 68
83 66
the solunar tables for lakes are based on studies that show fish and game are more active at certain times during the lunar period. MAJOR 10:32 a.m.-12:32 p.m. MINOR 3:36-4:36 a.m............. 6:25-7:25 p.m.
POLLEN COUNTS trees: none weeds: low grass: low
LOTTERY
82 66
82 66
82 66
LAKE LEVELS
SOLUNAR TABLES the gwinnett daily post (upSp 921-980, iSSn 1086-0096) is published wednesday, Friday and Sunday by Scni, 725 old norcross Road, lawrenceville, ga 30045. periodical postage paid at lawrenceville, ga 30044. poStmaSteR: Send address changes to gwinnett daily post, p.o. Box 603, lawrenceville, ga 30046-0603.
HOROSCOPES
Lake Full Yesterday allatoona ............(840.0) .... 840.02 Blackshear ......... (237.0) .... 236.92 Blue Ridge........(1690.0) .. 1683.69 Burton..............(1865.0) .. 1865.08 carters.............(1072.0) ...1072.65 chatuge ........... (1927.0) .. 1923.77 Harding .............. (521.0) .... 520.42 Hartwell .............(660.0) .....660.12 Jackson..............(530.0) .... 528.86
Lake Full Yesterday lanier............... (1071.0) ...1071.33 nottely..............(1779.0) .. 1772.79 oconee ..............(435.0) .... 434.70 Seminole...............(77.5) .......76.89 Sinclair ...............(339.8) .... 338.78 thurmond ..........(330.0) .... 329.58 tugalo ................ (891.5) .... 889.92 walter F. george.(188.0) .....187.95 west point..........(635.0) .... 635.37
TODAY IN HISTORY
Saturday cash 3 midday: 5-0-1 cash 4 midday: 5-2-2-1 ga. 5 midday: 7-9-0-2-0 Friday cash 3 midday: 5-8-9 cash 3 evening: 4-2-1 cash 3 night: 0-9-4 cash 4 midday: 1-9-3-5 cash 4 evening: 2-6-1-5 cash 4 night: 5-2-3-3 ga. 5 midday: 7-4-2-7-5 ga. 5 evening: 5-8-9-2-2 Fantasy 5: 2-4-6-18-40 mega millions: 3-24-29-42-47, mega Ball: 13 cash For life: 12-24-35-42-54, cash Ball: 2
TODAY’S HISTORY: in 1861, president abraham lincoln prohibited union states from trading with states that had seceded. in 1896, gold was discovered near the Klondike River in canada’s yukon territory, sparking a gold rush. in 1977, elvis presley died at age 42. in 2007, u.S. citizen Jose padilla was convicted of conspiracy in a “dirty bomb” terrorism case and sentenced to more than 17 years in prison, increased on appeal to 21. TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS: t.e. lawrence (of arabia) (1888-1935), soldier/ archaeologist/writer; Hal Foster (18921982), author/illustrator; george meany (1894-1980), union leader; charles Bukowski (1920-1994), poet/writer; ann Blyth (1928- ), actress; eydie gorme
(1928-2013), singer/actress; James cameron (1954- ), filmmaker; angela Bassett (1958- ), actress; madonna (1958- ), singer/actress; Steve carell (1962- ), actor/comedian; taika waititi (1975- ), actor/filmmaker; yu darvish (1986- ), baseball player. TODAY’S FACT: an 18-year-old elvis presley paid a private recording studio $4 in 1953 to record “my Happiness” and “that’s when your Heartache Begins” on a two-sided record as a belated birthday gift to his mother. TODAY’S SPORTS: in 1954, the first issue of Sports illustrated was published. TODAY’S QUOTE: “Shooting a movie should be fun! it’s not a real job. it can be hard, but at the end of the day, we’re dressing up and playing pretend.” — taika waititi
READER’S GUIDE
Gwinnett Daily Post editor – todd cline main office – 770-963-9205
Who To Call
the gwinnett daily post invites your input. Here are some guidelines to help you communicate with us. Subscription Rates: Subscription rate is $99 plus sales tax for one year, limited delivery areas. call 770-3395845 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
monday through Friday to start your subscription. Classified Ads: classifieds can be placed at the main office 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; phone lines open 24 hours, seven days a week by calling 770236-9988. email: classified@ gwinnettdailypost.com Legal Notices: Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., mon.-Fri. the fax number is 770-339-8082. Reach the legal resource center at 770963-9205, ext. 1161 or 1162.
To Report a News Item: Hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., mon.-Sat. call 770-339-5850. editor todd cline is at 770-9639205, ext. 1300; Sports editor will Hammock is at 770-9639205, ext. 1310. to request a photo, call 770-963-9205, ext. 1327. Administration/Finance: Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., mon.-Fri. call 770-963-9205. Delivery Problems: your satisfaction is our no. 1 priority. if we miss delivery, call our circulation department customer service line, 770-339-5845, or email the circulation department at circulation@gwinnettdailypost.
com between 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. wednesday through Friday and between 8 a.m. and noon Sunday. if your paper delivery is missed, we no longer redeliver on each delivery day. we only redeliver on Sunday. all other delivery days that are missed, we will have this paper delivered with the next day paper delivery at the request of the customer. Honored as a newspaper of General Excellence
2018
COLUMNIST I AMY DICKINSON
Wondering widower won’t wait by phone
D
EAR AMY: After 31 years with my spouse, I’m now dating (I’m a widower). Dating is a new thing for me. There is a guy with whom I thought I had a good rapport. He reached out to me last week expressing an interest in getting together over the weekend. I responded that I’d like that, and gave him my availability. I never heard back from him. I thought maybe he had an emergency, and I texted him Sunday night just to confirm that he was OK. He replied, apologizing for the weekend getting away from him, and said that he had a work project due the next day. I respect the fact that he takes his work seriously, but I am bothered that he did not let me know his weekend plans were changed. I may be old-fashioned, but this situation just makes me think we are not as aligned as I thought. To me, a quick text letting me know he needed to cancel would have been common courtesy. I think he was telling me he is not that interested. Is this how things work now, where you don’t really need to let someone know if you are opting out of previously stated plans? Maybe I am out of touch. — Dating Newbie
D E A R N E W B I E: Welcome to the dating world, where — no matter what era — someone is alDickinson ways waiting by the phone. Even though modern technology has made it possible for us to be in touch — frequently and instantly — basic human behavior and dynamics have stayed fairly constant over time. If someone wants to be with you, he will leap over boundaries and deadlines to see you. And if an emergency keeps him away, you will be the first to know, because — yes! — you are just a text or a quick call away. Dating is actually great practice at reading social cues. For instance, you and he did not actually have “previously stated” plans. There was a vague and nonspecific plan-balloon floating over your weekend. (Not locking down plans is a cue.) When this guy decided he didn’t want to see you, he didn’t bother letting you know. (Rudeness is a cue.) Common courtesy is still common, and when someone is truly interested in seeing you, he will demonstrate this by being kind, polite, and eager to see you.
Never supply a rationale or excuse for someone else’s rudeness. Move on. When the guy is right for you, you will know it. DEAR AMY: Every summer a group (10 to 15) of us high school classmates get together for a casual picnic. Our 50th high school reunion was canceled until next year. Silly me, with this pandemic, I assumed that the picnic would automatically be canceled. Instead, I was notified to bring a dish to pass and meet at the usual picnic tables. I was shocked that these people (almost 70 years old, and many with careers in the medical field, would be so oblivious to the pandemic. Many of these classmates live out of town. I refused to go. I pointed out that group gatherings and sharing food main dishes/ serving utensils, public grills — during a pandemic — was a very bad idea. The person planning it was quite mystified and miffed at my decision not to attend. Why are people so oblivious during a pandemic? Did I overreact? — What Pandemic?! DEAR WHAT: Although this virus doesn’t seem to be transmitted the way some other illnesses are — on shared utensils, for instance — the very act of sharing food and
utensils brings people in close proximity, which gives this virus a chance to spread. I don’t know why some people are so oblivious, but you cannot control them. Your duty is to do your very best to take care of yourself. If you don’t contract the virus, you won’t spread it, and this is how you will help to take care of others. I hope your group gets lucky and that everybody stays safe and well. DEAR AMY: I had to laugh when I read the letter from “Screw Loose in Lucedale.” Although I don’t live alone, I do work from home and am solitary with my pets most of the day. My son has always made fun of my “narrating my own life.” Pointing it out brought humor to the situation, but did not change it. — Still Narrating DEAR NARRATING: Judging from the huge response to this question, a lot of us have a lot to say ... to ourselves. You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: ASKAMY@amydickinson. com. Readers may send postal mail to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @ askingamy or “like” her on Facebook.
Pay attention to detail. Focus on what’s important to you, and don’t be distracted by the actions of others. Look for positive ways to use your energy, intelligence and skills. Take care of medical, financial and legal matters quickly and efficiently. leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Take a moment to consider how best to get ahead. A plan of attack should include a well-thought-out plan and an energetic display of enthusiasm. Once you inspire others to help, the rest will be easy. ViRgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Reach out to people who put a smile on your face. A conversation will encourage you to make changes that ease stress and simplify your lifestyle. Romance is favored. liBRa (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Spend more time doing and less time arguing. If someone pressures you or puts demands on you, walk away. Your words matter, so choose them wisely. Honor your promises. ScoRpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — A unique environment will encourage you to make a positive change. Reach out to people who share your ideas, beliefs and pursuits. Romance will lead to a lifechanging commitment. SagittaRiuS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) — Live and learn. Use common sense when sharing information. Home improvements are favored, as long as you don’t let someone talk you into doing something you cannot afford. capRicoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — An opportunity will lead to a positive change that affects your home environment and a special relationship. Romance will bring you closer to your objective. aQuaRiuS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Get back to basics. Let the past inform your life as you move forward. Remember the high points, and use the negatives you endured to help you make better decisions. A partnership looks promising. piSceS (Feb. 20-March 20) — A positive change is heading your way. Update your look, and prepare for what’s to come. Don’t let the past hold you back. Let go of influences that are bad for you. aRieS (March 21-April 19) — When in doubt, sit tight and wait to see what transpires. Don’t let outside pressure or your emotions force a decision you aren’t ready to make. tauRuS (April 20-May 20) — A window of opportunity is heading in your direction. Hone your skills, gather information and be prepared to take advantage of whatever comes your way. Romance is featured. gemini (May 21-June 20) — Focus on home and family. A good idea can be put into play if you take the initiative and do the work yourself. A joint venture will benefit someone other than you. canceR (June 21-July 22) — A personal change will boost your morale. Sharing ideas and plans with a loved one will encourage a positive lifestyle change. Doing something kind for someone will benefit you as well.
Sign up to get Gwinnett Daily Post breaking news alerts and daily newsletters at www.gwinnettdailypost.com/newsletters.
gwinnettdailypost.com ♦ sunday, august 16, 2020 ♦ A5
Early mail-in vote counting, online request portal OK’d for Nov. 3 election By Beau Evans Staff Writer Capitol Beat News Service
Absentee ballots can be opened a week earlier than usual ahead of elections in Georgia following emergency steps the State Election Board took Monday to help ease a vote-tally bottleneck amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the upcoming Nov. 3 general election. The board also gave Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger’s office the green light to create an online portal
for voters to request absentee ballots via the internet rather than by mail or with a county elections office. The rule changes come as state and local election officials hustle to improve the voting process in Georgia during the pandemic, which drove voters to cast ballots by mail in historic volumes and spurred hours-long lines at polling places during the primary elections in June. Instead of two weeks before an election, local ballot-counting officials will be able to start tallying mail-
in votes three weeks prior, number submitted via the according to an emergency online portal will have to rule change the state board match exactly with that same approved Monday. info as logged in the The online portal, state voter registrawhich the state will tion system. A sigrun as a centralized nature match would system rather than not be needed. counties running their Combined, the two own portals, is currentmeasures approved at ly in a testing phase a state board meeting and should be ready Monday aim to curb Brad to roll out before the Raffensperger problems seen during fall election, Raffensthe June 9 primary in perger’s office said. several counties including To get a ballot, a voter’s Fulton County, where local name, birth date and state officials struggled to process driver’s license or ID card mail-in ballot requests and
handle long lines spurred by distancing due to the virus. Some counties like Fulton were overwhelmed by the huge number of absentee ballot requests that poured in ahead of the primary, causing delays in the turnaround time for voters to receive ballots. Many Atlanta-area voters never received a mail-in ballot at all due to the processing logjam. Shortly after, Raffensperger’s office announced it would not send out absentee ballot request forms to all of Georgia’s roughly
7 million registered voters, as was done for the primary. Several counties have elected to send out request forms on their own. More than 1 million Georgia voters cast absentee ballots during the primary, marking a quantum leap in the number of votes submitted by mail rather than in-person at the polls. State and local officials are anticipating even more mail-in votes for the November election with a presidential contest and two U.S. Senate seats on the Georgia ballot.
Four-vehicle wreck on I-85 in Braselton area temporarily shut down interstate By Curt Yeomans curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost.com
An accident on Interstate 85 northbound at the exit ramp to State Route 211 in Braselton backed up traffic to the Hamilton Mill area and sent two people to the hospital on Tuesday, according to a Georgia State Patrol spokesperson. GSP Public Information Officer
Franka Young said there were four vehicles involved in the accident. One vehicle was following another vehicle too closely and hit its rear bumper. That collision caused the second vehicle to move across two lanes on the interstate before hitting a third vehicle. The third vehicle then, in turn, hit the fourth vehicle. Young said information about
the makes and models of the four cars was not available because the traffic report was not complete. The drivers of the second and third vehicles were taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center so they could be treated for minor injuries, Young said. The accident temporarily blocked all northbound lanes on the interstate.
TEEN From A1 The county’s death rate is 29.1 deaths for every 100,000 residents. The 15-year-old is the youngest death from the disease reported in Gwinnett, and the only person under 30 in the county. The next youngest fatality in Gwinnett was a 30-year-old male who had no underlying conditions and no simultaneous diseases. The Georgia Department of Public Health has reported about a half dozen Gwinnettians under the age of 40
have died from COVID-19. It is unclear when the deaths occurred. Officials with the Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale Health Departments have previously said there is a delay in when a person dies from COVID-19, and when their death is reported because testing must be done to confirm they had the disease. Gwinnett has had the third highest total number of COVID-19 deaths in the state, and it leads the state in hospitalizations. The county is second in the state in total cases. Statewide, Georgia has seen a total of 231,895 cases and 4,573 deaths from
COVID-19. There have been a total of 21,818 hospitalizations and 3,999 ICU admissions because of the disease as well, according to the Department of Public Health. “During (the week of Aug. 3 to Aug. 9), Georgia’s weekly statewide case numbers decreased by 7%,” the Department of Public Health said in its report. “The (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) report indicates that Georgia has experienced a 22% decrease in case numbers over the past two weeks relative to the two weeks prior to that, and that we have seen a downward trajectory of cases for two weeks now.”
staff photo: curt yeomans
Buford Elementary School Principal Mark Graves helps kindergartner Brody Monk out of his parents car as he arrives at the school for the first day of classes Wednesday.
BUFORD
From A1 in 2019, Northside has undertaken a plan of expanding medical services in Gwinnett County, including the opening of the Northside Grayson Health Center last October, as well bringing in several new medical providers and working on plans for a medical office facility near the Mall of Georgia. The expansion of the emergency department at Northside Hospital Gwinnett is expected to take just over a year to complete, with Northside officials pegging a fall 2021 completion date.
From A1 Officials in the district of nearly 5,100 students had said before the school year began they put a lot of time into planning how they would have students in the classroom safely. That included looking at everything from how they handle lunch to how they social distance in the classroom, to how they sanitize and disinfect buildings, to how long students are on their school bus between their bus stop and schools and to how they limit the chances of someone bringing COVID-19 in to the schools. That’s why parents, for example, were not allowed to enter the school buildings with their kids. “I am incredibly proud of the preparation our staff put in to make this first day of school successful, both for face-to-face and digital learners,” Buford City Schools Superintendent Robert Downs said. “The students and staff were excited to return today. They have embraced the changes that are necessary for this to be possible. “Our Facilities Management team, along with the custodial staff, has constructed an environment that is safe while maintaining the educational environment our students are accustomed to. The Buford community has been extremely supportive and flexible, making today outstanding all around.” But, while schools system officials heralded their first day back in class as a success, they were also aware of the paradox of simultaneously having familiarity and a lot of new and different procedures for school on Wednesday. Perhaps there was nowhere that the change from a traditional first day of school could be felt more than Buford Elementary School. The school only houses kindergarten class-
EXPANSION
A Buford Elementary School employee directs a kindergartner where to go as she gets off her school bus on the first day of classes in Buford City Schools on Wednesday.
moRe online ♦ Visit us online at www.gwinnettdailypost.com for additional photos. es while older elementaryage children attend either Buford Academy or Buford Senior Academy. “Typically, a lot of parents are coming in (to the building), dropping their kids off and taking a lot of pictures and stuff like that,” Buford Elementary School Principal Mark Graves said. “We just had to make a few adjustments for that.” Students had not been in the classroom since March because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, welcoming them back to school on Wednesday brought familiarity to educators, parents and students. But, it was also very different because of all of the new rules Buford City Schools put in place — such as not allowing parents to walk their kids to their classrooms, and asking them to drop their kids off outside the school building — to protect the health of students, teachers and staff. Students, for example, could not get up out of their seats to exit their school bus en mass. They instead had to wait to be called, one by one, to exit the bus so social distancing could be
observed during the unloading process. Students, teachers and staff were also all wearing face masks. Some wore face shields instead, but everyone had their face covered in one way or another. Another sign of how different Wednesday was is the fact that, after parents finished dropping off their children at Buford Elementary School in the morning, Graves didn’t just tell the teachers who helped with unloading they did a good job. He also told them to go wash their hands right away. And, although parents could not escort their kindergartners to their classrooms on the first day of school, Buford Elementary School officials did indulge the parents who wanted to celebrate their kids first day of school from the drop-off lane, whether it was taking pictures from their vehicles or letting them stop to tell their kids to “kill it” scholastically this year. “It does change the feel somewhat, but it’s OK because we still get to love on our kids all throughout the day,” Graves said. “It’s just a different mode of transportation. Instead of them walking in, they were dropping off and that’s OK. They were still able to take pictures and do a lot of the same things that they normally would do.”
GCPS From A1 school community’s commitment to its students.” The big story out of the first day of school was the trouble several students faced while trying to log onto the eClass portal. That came two days after parents complained of similar issues during a “tech check” on Monday that led to the portal crashing. After the “tech check,” district officials pledged to have the system fixed by the first day of school. When the issues happened on Wednesday, the district again pledged to fix it. The problem on Wednesday, district officials said, was that more than 90,000 users were trying to log in the system that morning. The district informed students, via social media, to “wait a few minutes and attempt to
The project is expected to include a renovation of the existing emergency department as well as the adjacent imaging services area. In addition to that renovation work, there will also be a two-story addition to the hospital next to the south tower. That addition will have space for 27 exam rooms and 30 observation beds. Once completed, the emergency department at the hospital will occupy more than 75,000 square feet of space. “While this year has presented significant challenges to the health care industry, Northside has not wavered from its commitment for quality health care in Gwinnett,” Mitcham said. “This project is transformative and will be a huge asset for our community.”
log in again.” Students and parents were later told in a letter form the district to log in as early as possible from now on to bring more balance to the number of people logging in at one time. “Although the district ran tests on its systems, we could not replicate having tens of thousands of students actually logging on at the same time,” district officials said in the letter. “Throughout the morning, our technology team worked diligently to identify the problems, take corrective action, and get more students online and into their digital classes faster. “Ultimately, we succeeded in having approximately 150,000 users online and learning at 11 a.m.” Virtual learning is being done in a different format from the one used when the school system had to abruptly shut down in March because of the COVID-19 novel
coronavirus disease pandemic. This semester, students are to follow a schedule designed to more closely follow a traditional school day. The district does plan to begin phasing in in-person instruction starting Aug. 26, with all students whose parents opted for in-person instruction to be back in the classroom by Sept. 9. “While we know this has not been a typical school opening for GCPS, we know that everyone has made the best of it,” Roach said. “We had some technical challenges early on that were addressed and students and teachers were able to connect in their virtual classrooms and jump into teaching and learning. “Our teachers have done a really good job preparing for and delivering digital instruction. Overall, we are hearing very positive comments about the lessons students are receiving and the level of student engagement.”
File photo
gwinnettdailypost.com ♦ sunday, august 16, 2020 ♦ A7
PERSPECTIVES
Gwinnett Daily Post www.gwinnettdailypost.com
Todd Cline,
Editor and SCNI Vice President of Content todd.cline@gwinnettdailypost.com
GUEST COLUMNIST|WILLIE WILLIAMS
‘Support Our Troops’ should come before the culture war
T
hose of us who have served are dress that problem. The NDAA would used to mostly empty gestures of also enable basic safety measures on gratitude. We hear “thank you for bases, like fire resistance and cleanup your service” countless times a day. We for environmental hazards. These are used to see yellow “support our troops” the day-to-day items that troops realribbons. Every once in a while, ly need to keep themselves and someone will buy us a beer. their families safe. Ostentatious flag ceremonies Speaking of which, the NDAA at football games are just irrialso provides funds to protect tating. At the end of the day, we soldiers, sailors, airmen, masimply want our needs taken care rines and their families from of while we serve our country. COVID-19. Specifically, it proWe want sanitary military housvides funds for the military to ing at military bases and stations Williams buy things like personal protecaround the country. We’d like the tive equipment (PPE) and other planes we fly and the ships we sail to critical materials. receive routine maintenance. We’d like As the NDAA supports the troops, it the resources to catch up with our com- is not — and has never been — a partipetitors in the burgeoning cyber war. san issue. The Republican-led Senate In short, we want sustained fidelity. passed the NDAA by an 86-14 vote. We don’t want to be props or pawns in The fact that the NDAA has passed evPresident Donald Trump’s effort to in- ery year for 60 years — in this modern flame a culture. Yet in threatening to gridlocked Congress era — really says veto passage of the National Defense something. Authorization Act (NDAA) over a proI do not mean to minimize the issue posal to rename bases named after Con- of bases named in honor of Confederate federate generals, President Trump has generals. As an African American man made his position clear: the needs of our who devoted nearly a 40-year career to troops and their families and the safety God, country, and the United States Maof our nation are less important than rine Corps, the idea of training at bases pitting Americans against one another. named after men who enslaved my anWhile the NDAA might sound like cestors causes me to pause and, in fact, something that matters to Washing- makes my skin crawl. Yet, regardless ton politicians and no one else, it is of where you stand on renaming bases — more than free beers and ovations named after Confederates, there should — how we “support our troops.” The be no question that this culture war isversion of the NDAA that President sue is far less important than keeping Trump has threatened to veto would, American troops safe. Base names are for instance, provide a three percent not forever. Lost lives are. pay raise. That will hardly lead to our So President Trump, if you really troops living large, but at a time when “support the troops,” as you so often military families regularly struggle to say, prove it. Drop your opposition to make ends meet, and when the aver- the NDAA and give our troops what age E1 earns just over $20,000 a year, they need to stay safe, and muster the that money means the world. courage to protect our troops from asTrump’s NDAA veto threat puts a bestos and squalor — as expected of our lot that our troops need at risk. For Commander in Chief. all the talk of base names, many of the actual buildings on those bases Willie Williams is a retired lieutenant are falling apart. Reuters recently ran general in the United States Marine Corps. He served for four years (2005-2009) as a series called “Ambushed at Home,” the commanding general, Marine Corps detailing the “squalid” conditions of Logistics Command, Albany, Ga. military housing. The NDAA would ad-
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS: EmAil: letters@gwinnettdailypost.com mAil: 725 Old Norcross Road Lawrenceville, Georgia, 30046
COLUMNIST|DICK YARBROUGH
Long-shot candidate trying to hack through political jungle
I
t’s a jungle out there and Kandiss Tay- has visited 75% of Georgia’s 159 counties lor is trying to hack her way through and put 25,000 miles on her car doing so. it. We are talking about Georgia’s School is now back in session in Ap“jungle primary,” a euphemism for a pling County so her efforts are confined special election on Nov. 3 to fill the re- to social media and phone calls in the maining two years of U.S. Sen. Johnny evenings and visits to campaign rallies Isakson’s term. Isakson, a Great Ameri- on the weekends. Ironically, she says she can of the first rank, chose to rehas yet to see Kelly Loeffler any tire before his term ended due to place she has been, although she declining health. has crossed paths with Doug ColThis election is not to be conlins on several occasions. fused with a regularly scheduled My sanguine opinion is that KanU.S. Senate election to be held diss Taylor’s chances of winning the same day between incumbent a seat to represent Georgia in the Republican senator David Perdue United States Senate are — to be and his main challenger, Democrat Yarbrough kind — very slim. In politics, as Jon Ossoff. in a lot of other endeavors, money talks. The jungle primary or more officially a “nonpartisan blanket At this point the educator says primary,” is an election without a she has raised “a little less than primary as opposed to the other $100,000,” which pales in comSenate race where in June, Perparison to Loeffler’s stated intendue ran without opposition in the tion to spend $20 million of her Republican primary and Ossoff own money in the campaign. That, defeated six competitors in the by the way, is a couple of million Kandiss Democratic primary. more than the fund balance of the Taylor In this one, Democrats and ReAppling County Board of Educapublicans, Libertarians, independents tion’s current budget. and assorted others are running against But political reality aside, there is a each other. To win a jungle primary, a part of me that roots for somebody who candidate must secure the majority, not takes on the establishment and believes a plurality, of votes. With so many can- that politics should not be the personal didates — 21 to be precise — a runoff is playground of fat cats and special interlikely between the two top candidates est groups. She says, “I think our Foundnext January. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. ing Fathers wanted us governed by comAmong the 21 aspirants are zillionaire mon people, not career politicians,” and Kelly Loeffler, the Republican who was adds, “If you’ve never lived on a budget appointed to Isakson’s seat by Gov. Bri- or cleaned a toilet, you don’t represent an Kemp in January; Republican Con- me or most of Georgia.” gressman Doug Collins, who thought he Taylor is finding out the hard way that should have been; the Rev. Raphael War- outsiders are not welcomed in the game nock, pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church of politics. “I have experienced what my in Atlanta and a Democrat; Matt Liber- papa called ‘black balling’ by a couple man, a Democratic businessman and son of GOP party leaders not allowing me of former Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieber- to speak or attend a meeting,” Taylor man; and Democrat Ed Tarver, former says. “ It is quite unfortunate we cannot United States Attorney for the Southern be one party and unified like the DemoDistrict of Georgia. crats. They outwork us and defend their Most political observers seem to think party to a fault.” it will be a two-way race between Loeffler Undaunted, Kandiss Taylor carries on and Collins or one of the above against full of confidence in herself and in her Warnock, Liberman or possibly Tarver. ability to win over voters tired of poliKandiss Taylor does not agree. A stu- tics-as-usual. Whether she succeeds or dent services coordinator for the Appling not, it warms this old jaundiced heart to County Board of Education and a former see ordinary citizens try to conquer the third grade teacher, she says she is in the dark and sinister jungle we call politics. race to win. I believe her. Maybe she will inspire others to make I had written about her Quixotic ef- the effort. I hope so. fort (my term, not hers) last March to replace Sen. Isakson. I decided to check You can reach Dick Yarbrough at dick@ in with her to see how her campaign is dickyarbrough.com; at P.O. Box 725373, Atlanta, Georgia 31139; online at progressing. It is the underdog in me. Taylor told me she is as determined as dickyarbrough.com or on Facebook at www. facebook.com/dickyarb ever and that in the past four months, she
COLUMNIST|KATHLEEN PARKER
Election is a choice between Donald Trump — and Kamala Harris
A
fter months of carefully-choreographed suspense-building that produced more ennui than curiosity, Joe Biden finally made a decision: In November, voters will choose between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee, all but handed the presidency to his significantly younger and battleready running mate, at one time even saying the California senator is ready to lead the country. Never mind that his own party found her insufficiently nominate-able when she was running against Biden and a throng of other candidates during the Democratic primary. Biden is painfully familiar with her courage — or at least her audacity — having served as her target during a debate last year when she came close to accusing him of once being a racist. Like millions of Americans in the 1970s, Biden had opposed government-mandated busing as a young senator from Delaware. Harris, one of those children who was bused to school, took a big chance in attacking Biden, who throughout his public-service career has worked alongside African Americans, as well as women, in securing equal rights. It was a low blow that Biden has clearly forgiven. Or, perhaps, one that he has embraced in a ges-
ture of restitution, if partly in the service chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. of political advantage. But, of course, age matters a great deal Or maybe it was just smart politics on when the presidency is at stake. Even if both their parts. How, after all, can two old Biden serves out his full term, it is unlikely white guys, a.k.a. Republicans, compete that he will run again, which means Harris with a stentorian senator holding will run for president in 2024 and, hands with a tough, smart, telegethough it is impossible to know for nic woman who represents a fullsure, likely emerge in that circumhouse of firsts? Not only is Harris stance as the frontrunner for the the first woman of Indian and JaDemocrats. maican descent to take her place at That prospect tees up a second, the top of the ballot, but she’s also even more-interesting prospect — the first Black woman to be tapped the first Black and Indian-American for vice president. vice-president would be running Parker And, therefore, president, or at against another Indian-American least a better-than-even shot at the big woman, Nikki Haley. job. If he wins, Biden, at 78, would be Two women running against each other older than Ronald Reagan was when he for president? Can’t you just feel the exleft the presidency. You can do the math. citement from the National Organization If 78 seems old for a grueling job known for Women? to turn younger men gray, imagine what Although some have speculated that it will feel like at the end of the first term, Trump would ditch Mike Pence and grab when he will be 82. Haley’s comet if things become desperThis is not a welcome exercise. Need- ate enough, the clock is winding down less to say, no one wishes Biden ill. Nor is for that drama. Haley’s too smart to risk it satisfying to examine a candidate’s age her own presidential ambitions by involvwhen being sensitive to age seems kinder. ing herself any further with the Trump Besides, Biden deserves respect for his long brand. Instead, she’ll continue making service, whatever his missteps along the speeches — and money — and cast her way, including his abysmal handling of own lot in 2024. the Clarence Thomas Supreme Court conIt’s almost worth electing Biden to ensure firmation hearings in 1991, when he was that we get the Kamala-Nikki showdown.
But not quite. Biden tapped Harris because she was the least risky choice. In doing so, he may have written the script for his party for the next decade, though nothing is assured. Polls indicating that Trump trails Biden, er, Harris may not be telling us much. Fence-sitters who watched the primary debates and came away disliking Harris’ attack on Biden — and recalling her attacks on now-Justice Brett Kavanaugh during his confirmation hearing — may be more comfortable with a known quantity than with Harris, whose policies would offend anyone to the right of Bernie Sanders. Biden, though he has made some adjustments to accommodate the more-progressive wing of his party, isn’t a natural radical in the way Harris appears to be. If he wants to win with Harris by his side, he’ll need to bring her with him toward a less-radical, more-centrist position. And, if Harris wants to secure her presidential future, she would do well to pick her battles carefully going forward. Like or dislike Mike Pence as vice-president, he’s a decent man who won’t enjoy fighting a woman. And even these days, most Americans won’t like watching it. Kathleen Parker is a columnist for the Washington Post.
A8 ♦ Sunday, auguSt 16, 2020 ♦ gwinnettdailypoSt.com
DBLN IE
gwinnettdailypoSt.com ♦ Sunday, auguSt 16, 2020 ♦ A9
STARTS NOW!
LABOR DAY
SALE
FROM
24
$
A MONTH*
6O MONTHS INTEREST FREE
*
CHOICE OF CONFIGURATIONS! CALVIN HEIGHTS SECTIONAL
2-Pc Sectional OR XL 2-Pc Sectional. Includes 2 matching pillows. Choose from 3 Microfiber or 1 textured weave colors. CHOICE OF 4 COLORS
2-PCS
SALE PRICE
1395 TO $1595
$
GREAT SAVINGS ON BEDROOMS & DINING THROUGHOUT THE STORE.
BED INCLUDES 6 STORAGE DRAWERS
ONLY
17 A MONTH*
$
SALE PRICE FINLAY STORAGE BEDROOM Dresser, Mirror, Complete Queen Bed: Headboard, Storage Footboard & Storage Rails. Espresso finish.
5-PCS
999
99
ONLY
SALE PRICE MIDTOWN LOFT BEDROOM Dresser, Mirror, Complete Queen Bed: Headboard, Footboard & Wood Rails. Matching pieces available. Multi-brushed palette in washed or dark brown finish.
ONLY COLONIA HILLS DINING SET Table & 4-Side Chairs. 42 x 78 Trestle table with glass top. Cappuccino finish. Choice of chair color.
SALE PRICE
5-PCS
544
$
15 A MONTH*
$
40 x 80 Trestle Table & 4-Side Chairs. Upholstered side chairs with nailhead accents. Distressed driftwood finish.
899
688
$
1288
$
ALEXI BEDROOM Dresser, Mirror, Complete Queen Bed: Upholstered Headboard, Footboard & Wood Rails. Cherry or silver finish.
12 A MONTH*
5-PCS
22 A MONTH*
$
SALE PRICE
$
SALE PRICE
SIERRA VISTA DINING ROOM
5-PCS
99
ONLY
ONLY SAN FRANCISCO DINING ROOM 41 x 72 Table & 4-Side Chairs. Choice of chair color. Matching server and bench available. Gray finish.
13 A MONTH*
$
SALE PRICE
5-PCS
777
$
5-PCS
ONLY SAVONA DINING ROOM 42 x 72 Table & 4-Side Chairs. Table extends to 86” with 14” leaf. Two-tone cherry/ivory or chocolate cherry/brown finish.
15 A MONTH*
$
SALE PRICE
5-PCS
888
$
6O MONTHS INTEREST FREE
*
On purchases priced at $599.99 and up made with your Rooms To Go credit card through 9/7/20. Equal Monthly Payments Required for 60 Months.* Monthly payments shown are only applicable with this special financing offer. Rooms To Go requires No Down Payment except amount equal to sales tax and delivery. *Promotional Offer applies only to single-receipt qualifying purchases. No interest will be charged on promo purchase (including related optional credit insurance/debt cancellation charges) and equal monthly payments are required equal to initial promo purchase amount divided equally by the number of months in promo period until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Any monthly payments shown in connection with this promotional offer exclude taxes and delivery and should allow you to pay off the promotional purchase within the promo period if (1) you make your payments by the due date each month and (2) this is the only balance on your account during the promo period. If you have other balances on your account, this monthly payment will be added to the minimum payment applicable to those balances. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 29.99%. Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval.
NO CREDIT NO CREDIT PAY OPTIONS PAY OPTIONS
SHOP SAFELY! Rooms To Go is frequently cleaning our showrooms, practicing social distancing and asking our employees to wear face coverings. We are committed to providing a safe environment for our employees and customers. To locate a store near you, visit us online at roomstogo.com
15371_SE_2020_8_16_AsstDT
NEXT DAY DELIVERY available at select ROOMS TO GO KIDS stores. NEXT DAY DELIVERY not available at Rooms To Go Outlet Centers. Purchase must be made before 2pm. Limited availability on peak days. Applies to in-stock merchandise only. Some merchandise is not on display at all stores. See store for details. DELIVERY CHARGE ADDITIONAL. REGIONAL PICKUP AVAILABLE. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS.
Shop in store or online at roomstogo.com
gwinnettdailypost.com ♦ sunday, august 16, 2020 ♦ A11
Premiums for state health plan to rise roughly 5 percent By Andy Miller Georgia Health News
Teachers and state employees will face an average hike of 5 percent in health insurance premiums for 2021 coverage. That would be the first premium increase in the past three years for non-Medicare members in the State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP), which covers 673,000 state employees, teachers, other school personnel, dependents and retirees. The monthly rate will depend on the health plan option that’s chosen. The increase would translate to an average premium hike of $11.33 per month, the head of SHBP, Jeff Rickman,
told the board of the state Department of Community Health, which approved the increase Thursday. Co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles will remain the same, as will the health insurers providing coverage: UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and Kaiser Permanente. For retirees in Medicare, the monthly rate for Advantage plans will range from zero to $146 for the standard option, and $148 to $312 for premium plans. The state agency’s goals included a “focus on continuity and stability,’’ as well as maintaining financial health, Rickman said. State agencies and school systems will
have the same contribution rates as the previous year. New benefits will be offered. They include a case management program for rare diseases such as ALS, cystic fibrosis and Parkinson’s disease; a cut in outof-pocket costs for insulin to treat diabetes; and a new wellness program that will help members lower stress and anxiety. The stress reduction program, Rickman said, “is coming at a very good time,’’ alluding to the general anxiety created by the COVID-19 pandemic. John Palmer, a Cobb County high school band director who’s a leader of an activist group on health benefits,
said Thursday that a slight increase in premiums ‘’was not unexpected, considering the pandemic and its effect on state revenue, and we are pleased with the consistency of plans and providers.’’ Palmer is spokesman for a group called Teachers Rally to Advocate for Georgia Insurance Choices (TRAGIC), which formed in 2014 to protest changes to the SHBP. That grassroots campaign led to a quick fix for that year’s plan and to more revisions in the 2015 plan. Palmer “We do feel it is very important to protect the SHBP reserves,’’ Palmer said Thursday. “In the last recession, those reserves were used to
help balance the state budget, and Governor [Brian] Kemp has already granted a payment ‘holiday’ into the plan to help state agencies meet their budgets. “With teachers returning to the classrooms and hospitals closing in rural areas, we must protect that reserve fund for the inevitable high medical cost of the pandemic on our teachers, state employees, and retirees.’’ The executive director of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) noted that affordable health care is “of critical importance” to school employees. “While educators understand that insurance costs
will inevitably rise, and appreciate no cost increases for several years, today’s announcement regarding increased premiums during a public health and economic crisis is painful and sobering,” said Craig Harper, PAGE executive director. “Last year’s employer contribution holiday undermined efforts to build and maintain a healthy SHBP reserve. PAGE encourages the Department of Community Health to maintain a healthy reserve fund to ensure that insurance cost increases are not borne by school employees.” The Open Enrollment period for members will begin Oct. 19 and conclude Nov. 6.
Agencies can apply for second round of CARES Act assistance By Curt Yeomans curt.yeomans@ gwinnettdailypost.com
Agencies which are providing assistance to people hurt by the COVID-19 novel coronavirus disease pandemic can apply for help from Gwinnett County government. The county announced it is accepting applications for a second round of grants from the COVID-19 COVID-19 Grant Funding Opportunity program. It is funded by federal CARES Act money which Gwinnett received to help nonprofits and faithbased agencies. “The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners has currently set aside $31.5 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)
funding for local nonprofit and faith-based agencies to be distributed in at least three phases,” county officials said. “The first phase, awarded in July, saw $13.3 million distributed to 104 agencies, and grants officials anticipate another $10.4 million to be shared in the second round.” The deadline to apply for the second round of grant funding is Aug. 28. The money is intended to help nonprofits and faith-based agencies which are helping with the response to immediate needs created in the community by the pandemic. Agencies interested in applying for a grant can do so at GwinnettCountyGrants. smapply.io/prog/crf-round2. A full list of first round recipi-
ents can be found at http:// gcga.us/gwinnettgrants. There are two categories in which grants will be distributed. One is for assistance to address community needs, such as emergency food assistance as well as help with housing, utilities, health care services, child care, education and transportation. The other category is assistance for nonprofits, which covers increased needs for staffing, as well as facility and technology enhancements and medical and personal protective equipment and supplies. photo: gwinnett county police Community members who Gwinnett County police are seeking information on a fatal shooting which occurred at a need assistance or other ser- Norcross area InTown Suites on Thursday. vices can get information on available help by calling the Gwinnett Coalition Helpline at 770-995-3339.
GBI investigating Gwinnett officerinvolved shooting in Norcross area By Curt Yeomans curt.yeomans@ gwinnettdailypost.com
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is looking into an officer-involved shooting that occurred during a domestic incident at an apartment complex in the Norcross area early Saturday morning. Gwinnett police said there was a domestic-related incident at the Elevate at Jackson Creek apartment complex and that an officer-involved shooting occurred in relation to that incident. The GBI said police were called to the apartment complex, located at 3229 Quails Lake Village Lane at 10:55 p.m. Friday. “A 911 caller reported hearing a woman screaming inside an apartment,” the GBI said. “A GCPD officer located the residence where he encountered the woman in the doorway. The officer also encountered a male, identified as Ramon Guillen, 47, of Norcross,
photo: gwinnett county police department
Gwinnett police said there was a domestic-related incident at the Elevate at Jackson Creek apartment complex and that an officer-involved shooting occurred in relation to that incident. with a firearm.” Guillen was shot by the officer during the encounter and the officer pulled the woman away from the apartment, according to the GBI. As the woman was being pulled away, Guillen reportedly shut the door as additional officers arrived. A Gwinnett County police SWAT team was then called in, but when they entered the apartment, they discovered Guillen was no longer there. “GCPD was informed that
at approximately 2:40 a.m., Guillen was admitted to Emory St. Joseph’s Hospital in Sandy Springs with gunshot wounds,” the GBI said. “Guillen was later transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he is in critical condition. “No officers were injured during the incident.” Once the GBI completes its investigation into the shooting, it will turn its findings over to the Gwinnett County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Lethal force, chokeholds by police set to face scrutiny in Ga. Senate review group By Beau Evans Staff Writer Capitol Beat News Service
Police training and tactics like chokeholds, no-knock warrants and rubber bullets for crowd control in Georgia will face scrutiny from a group of state lawmakers tasked with making reform recommendations for law enforcement agencies before year’s end. The Georgia Senate study committee looking at policing techniques and oversight comes after the General Assembly passed legislation outlawing hate crimes following testy debate in the 2020 legislative session between Republican and Democratic state senators. The study committee will assess the use of lethal force, training procedures, de-escalation techniques and “practices which may need to be prohibited or more strictly regulated” such as chokeholds, noknock warrants, tear gas and rubber bullets, according to legislation creating the committee. “Law enforcement officers across our state put their lives on the line for us every
day, and are generally underpaid and oftentimes not provided with tools for success,” said Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan. “This committee will engage in a comprehensive study of our law enforcement practices in order to examine whether we are adequately equipping officers with the necessary training to protect our communities.” The study committee has to draft recommendations by Dec. 15. Several of the same senators who butted heads during negotiations over last-minute changes to the hate-crimes bill have been tapped as members of the study committee, who were announced by Duncan’s office on Thursday. Included among them are Sen. Bill Cowsert, R-Athens, who led Republican efforts in the Senate to add police officers and other first responders as protected classes under the hate-crimes bill. That move sparked stiff opposition from Democratic senators including Sen. Harold Jones II, D-Augusta, who led negotiations on the Democratic side. He is also a member of the study committee.
Gwinnett Police seek information on fatal shooting at Norcross area extended stay
By Curt Yeomans curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost.com
Gwinnett County Police are seeking information about the death of a man who was found shot in the parking lot of a Norcross area extended stay motel on Thursday. Police were called to the InTown Suites located at 1950 Willow Trail Parkway shortly after 3:30 p.m. Officers found the victim laying in the parking lot. He was taken to a local hospital where he died. “At this time the investigation has not identified any motives for this shooting,” Cpl. Collin Flynn said. “The name of the
victim is being withheld until the next of kin is notified. Investigators are asking anyone with information to come forward.” Anyone who has information about the shooting is asked to call detectives at 770513-5300 or Crime Stoppers, which allows tipsters to remain anonymous, at 404577-8477. They can also visit www.stopcrimeATL.com. There is a cash reward from Crime Stoppers for information that leads to an arrest and indictment. Tipsters are asked to reference case No. 20-060148 Return to www.gwinnettdailypost.com for updates.
State Rep. Harrell among Republicans calling for abolition of death penalty By Curt Yeomans curt.yeomans@gwinnettdailypost. com
To state Rep. Brett Harrell, R-Snellville, there are several issues with Georgia keeping the death penalty, but the biggest one he raised in a video chat with reporters this past week was cost. The Gwinnett legislator and Georgia House Ways and Means Committee chairman was one of three state legislators, each from a different state, who participated in a virtual press conference hosted by Conservatives Concerned About the Death Penalty. The legislators highlighted issues with the death penalty and reasons why it should be abolished. “The death penalty is an incredibly expansive proposition and evidence suggests, study after study, that it is not in fact a deterrent to crime, and we have alternatives such as life without parole,” Harrell said. “So, as someone who is a fiscal conservative and prefers a smaller government that is consistent with the efficient implementation of government, the death penalty fails on all of those measures.” Conservatives Concerned About the Death Penalty National Manager Hannah Cox said the death penalty is the most expensive part of the criminal justice system on a per offender basis. “Contrary to what many people believe, the reason for those costs is not because it takes too long,” Cox said. “In fact, we see that the trial is where the majority of the cost
special photo
State Rep. Brett Harrell, R-Snellville, talks about issues with the costs associated with pursuing the death penalty during a virtual press conference hosted by Conservatives Concerned About the Death Penalty this past week. stems from. Over 70% of the costs come from the trial alone, and we also see that the trial is about four times more expansive than the appellate process. “And so, really even if you were to hasten the speed at which we carry out executions, we would not be addressing the extra ordinary amount of money that we spend on this system.” Harrell pointed to a case in Lincoln County from several years ago where a district attorney pursued the death penalty in a case, but could not get a conviction. The Board of Commissioners opposed a retrial because of the cost and ended up being sued by the district attorney — and ended up jailed — over the matter when they refused to pay for another trial. The prosecutor did get to bring the case to trial again, but lost. “The Board of Commissioners had no choice but to raise property taxes to pay for that failed litigation,” Harrell said.
The legislator advocated for study of the cost of having the death penalty in place in Georgia. “One of the things Georgia has never done is to have a Georgia-specific study on the cost of the death penalty, so I would like to see us move in that direction as well, and really document the specific costs on this particular program,” Harrell said. The legislator also pointed to other, non-monetary issues with the death penalty, such as the fact that about six people on death row have been exonerated since the death penalty was re-instated in the 1970s. “For those of us that prefer a smaller, efficient government, this program is not a small or efficient government program, and the likelihood is great that government has executed innocent people,” Harrell said. “So, someone who is also a social conservative and someone who is pro-life should also see that the death penalty as very problematic.”
GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM ♦ SUNDAY, AUGUST 16, 2020 ♦ A13
C6 ♦ Sunday, auguSt 16, 2020 ♦ gwinnettdailypoSt.com CLOSE TO HOME
John McPherson
FAMILY CIRCUS
Bill Keane
Today’s Solution
BEETLE BAILEY Mort & Greg Walker
BLONDIE Dean Young & John Marshall
DILBERT®
Scott Adams
HAGAR THE HORRIBLE Chris Browne
Zits Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman
PEANUTS
GARFIELD Jim Davis
POOCH CAFE Paul Gilligan
Charles M. Schulz
PICKLES Brian Crane
Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same numSolution to today's Sudoku ber only once.
WHATZIT SOLUTION:
Today’s Answer: Burger King
gwinnettdailypost.com ♦ sunday, august 16, 2020 ♦ C7
Red Cross of Georgia honors local volunteers From staff reports The American Red Cross of Georgia recently honored volunteers from across the state with a virtual recognition event on July 30. The annual event, which is usually held in person and hosted by the eight Red Cross chapters in Georgia, was held virtually this year and five volunteers from Gwinnett County area were honored. “Our volunteers are crucial to our mission,” said Terri Badour, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Atlanta. “It’s so important that we thank
a little different this year.” According to the Red Cross, there are 4,229 registered Red Cross volunteers in Georgia, and they put in 374,102 hours in fiscal year 2020. The following volunteers from Gwinnett, who were nominated by their peers, were honored for their contributions to the Red Cross: ♦ Jim Shoults, who owns Bruster’s Ice Cream in Lilburn was honored as Blood Drive Coordinator of the Year. “Everybody loves ice cream! It’s them and recognize their contri- a pint for a pint,” Shoults said. butions to our organization and “It makes a difference and we’re those we serve, even if that looks happy to do it.”
♦ Lucinda Smith of AGCO in Duluth was honored with the Board Leadership Award, which recognizes a board member who has provided significant and outstanding service on the Red Cross Board of Directors, contributing to the success of the local chapter. ♦ Lynn Setliff of Buford was honored with the Disaster Recovery Award. This award is presented to a two-plus year volunteer who shows exceptional initiative in identifying and/or meeting the Disaster Cycle Service Recovery mission. ♦ Suzanne Anderson of Dacula was given the Volunteer Services
Award, which goes to a volunteer with exceptional skills in recruiting, motivating, and/or coordinating employees, volunteers or groups in sufficient numbers to support Red Cross readiness while helping to ensure that the organization’s workforce is growing more reflective of the communities it serves. ♦ Navya Bingi of Duluth was given the Youth Award, which is presented to a volunteer between the ages of 14-24 who has volunteered with the Red Cross for at least two years and has a strong track record of leading and inspiring fellow volunteers.
Gwinnett Animal Shelter receives $10K grant from Petco From staff reports The Gwinnett County Animal Shelter was recently given a $10,000 grant from the Petco Foundation to help reduce shelter intake and help place animals in their forever homes. To reduce the number of pets surrendered, the grant funds will support vaccinations, spay/neuter services, microchipping, and educational assistance that encourages owners to keep their pets, county officials said. The division will begin offering these services at public events once they can be performed safely. According to the county, Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement plans to use the funds to decrease intake numbers by 20 percent in 2020 and 2021. According to the county, Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement received 7,384 animals in 2019. Alan Davis, Animal Welfare and
Enforcement Division director, said the grant money will provide a significant boost to their Animal Welfare Targeted Intake Prevention and Pets for Life outreach programs in Snellville, Lawrenceville and Norcross. “We’re grateful for the Petco Foundation’s support, which will enable us to help families get the resources they need to keep their pet,” Davis said. “We anticipate that providing these basic veterinary resources and services to those who might not otherwise have access will create a healthier environment for pets and families and reduce the number of calls and intakes.” The shelter is currently open with limited visitors during regular business hours. For more information about Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement, including File photo available pets, adoption specials and events, go to Gwin- The Petco Foundation has awarded the Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement Division a $10,000 grant to help nettAnimalWelfare.com. reduce shelter intake and keep animals in loving homes.
PCOM’s School of Pharmacy accreditation extended until 2028 From staff reports The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) recently granted the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Doctor of Pharmacy program, located in Suwanee, eight years of continued accreditation. The accreditation term was extended through June 30, 2028, which represents a customary eight-year cycle, according to ACPE. The accreditation decision was made at the ACPE board of directors
meeting held July 29 — August 1, 2020. “ACPE safeguards quality in pharmacy education by verifying acShawn creditation Spencer standards are met within the Doctor of Pharmacy degree program,” Shawn Spencer, RPh, PhD, dean and chief academic officer of the PCOM School of Pharmacy, said. “The faculty, staff, students,
Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office to host Virtual Career Expo From staff reports The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office is hosting its first Virtual Career Expo on Aug. 29. Job candidates are asked to pre-register for the event, which will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at www.gwinnettsheriffjobs.com. According to the Sheriff’s Office, attendees will have the opportunity to speak to our recruiters via video conferencing to discuss their qualifications, learn about our hiring process, and hear about current job opportunities. Preregistered attendees can also participate in a virtual hiring orientation, interview, facility tour and being introduced to staff at the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office said in-
terested candidates should do the following: ♦ Complete a job application before the event by visiting www.gwinnettsheriffjobs.com ♦ Ensure their electronic device features a camera and audio capabilities ♦ Prepare a resume ♦ Research the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office ♦ Practice interview skills ♦ Dress professionally ♦ Choose a distraction-free environment to attend the virtual event ♦ Make a great first impression Interested candidates can contact the Professional Standards Unit with any questions at 770-822-3825 or by email at gcsorecruiter@gwinnettcounty.com.
preceptors and administrators within the School of Pharmacy have all worked together to ensure programmatic excellence which helped us achieve continued accreditation status in light of more rigorous ACPE standards.” According to ACPE, the decision was made based on an onsite evaluation held March 10 – 12, 2020, the School of Pharmacy’s self-study, along with additional communications with the school. ACPE is not scheduled to conduct another site visit at PCOM
until the 2027-28 academic year, however monitoring of the School of Pharmacy’s accreditation status will occur regularly. “We are extremely proud of the tremendous effort put forth by the PCOM School of Pharmacy community to maintain a quality program and to earn continuing accreditation from ACPE,” PCOM Provost Kenneth Veit, DO, MBA, said. “I congratulate Dean Spencer and all involved for meeting each of ACPE’s accreditation standards and thereby gar-
nering continuing accreditation status for the next eight years.” Founded in 2010, the PCOM School of Pharmacy is a fouryear Doctor of Pharmacy program consisting of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Department of Pharmacy Practice. Students enrolled in the PharmD program have the option of enhancing their credentials by pursuing a concentration or a dual degree program. Concentration areas include acute care pharmacy, ambu-
latory care pharmacy and managed care pharmacy. PharmD students also may pursue one of three online graduate business programs offered in partnership with Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. The SOP achieves its mission through “advancement of contemporary pharmacy practice, interprofessional education, patient-centered care, innovative research, a commitment to service, and lifelong personal and professional development.”
NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN! DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 10
Not for the faint of heart, being a small business owner is a bold feat. Now, more than ever, it is critical that we celebrate those who are up to the challenge. The Small Business Awards does just that, by showcasing those that dare to start, sustain and succeed and the community that supports them.
November 20 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Infinite Energy Forum
GwinnettChamber.org/small-business-awards