Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties Volume 18 Number 20
www.ocgnews.com
january 15, 2013
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Operation LEAD, supporters condemn D.A. raids on DeKalb CEO
S
By Valerie J. Morgan
upporters are rallying around DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis in the wake of the District Attorney’s recent raids on his home and offices. District Attorney Robert James has declined to say what the probe concerns, but investigators have asked for records from the county’s Purchasing Department for the contracts of companies represented by Kevin Ross, Ellis’ close friend and former campaign manager. Authorities also have been investigating allegations of corruption, bid rigging and kickbacks in DeKalb’s Watershed
DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis
Management Department since last year. The Special Grand Jury empanelled to serve is expected to present its findings very soon. Its one-
DeKalb District Attorney Robert James
year term on the case expires Jan. 18. Meanwhile, Ellis’ supporters say the CEO is being treated as if he is guilty of something.
“Operation Lead (Civil, Human and Legal Rights Organization) strongly condemns and stands firmly in opposition to the raid of the home of CEO Burrell Ellis, and calls upon District Attorney Robert James to publicly explain this publicly damning raid on the home of the highest elected official in DeKalb County,” said John Evans, president of the DeKalb organization. Evans said he is especially appalled that the Jan. 7 raid on Ellis’ home in Stone Mountain was conducted while the CEO’s
See Supporters, page 5
Mom, 6-year-old who started fire face intensive road to recovery
Neighbors devastated By Valerie J. Morgan
CONYERS—Reeba Glass has begun the long journey to recovery, undergoing surgery and other medical treatment for the severe burns she received in a house fire that killed four of her five children on Jan. 8. Conyers officials say the tragedy was the first fatality fire of the year and one of the worst in the city’s recent history. Glass, who suffered burns on her arms, legs, stomach, back and forehead, was scheduled to undergo surgery at Grady Memorial Hospital on Jan. 14, friends said. She has been able to get out of bed and sit into a wheelchair. But now the 28-year-old mother is faced not only with her own recovery but that of her surviving 6-year-old son who set the fire. The state Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) is working with the family to provide him with counseling and treatment, those close to the case say. INSIDE
Community News....................... P 3 Business................................. P 8 We Worship............................. P 9 Health & Wellness................. P 10 Classifieds............................ P 11 CONTACT THE NEWSROOM Phone: (678) 526-1910 n Fax: (678) 526-1909 n E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
A makeshift memorial of teddy bears and balloons, along with yellow crime scene tape, mark the site of the burned duplex in Conyers’ Pinedale community.
The 6-year-old son started the blaze around 11 p.m. while playing with a cigarette lighter in the family’s two-story duplex in Conyers, Fire Chief Dan Morgan announced during a Jan. 11 news conference. He would not provide any details about where the child obtained the lighter or what he lit with it, saying that because the case involves a juvenile, there are certain questions that he is not permitted to answer. Sources said, however, the little boy was playing with an “imaginary friend” when he set a laundry basket of clothes on fire. Frightened, the child awoke his mother after the blaze got too big. Neighbors said the 6-year-old was dressed in regular clothes and barefoot, leading them to believe he had never gone to sleep as everyone in the house had done. Glass tried to rescue the four other children, but could not reach
them in the thick smoke and intense heat. She suffered burns on 40 percent of her body as she and firefighters battled the blaze in their rescue attempt, authorities said. Along with Glass and the 6-yearold, the children’s grandmother, Rosetta Mitchell, survived. The grandmother was sleeping downstairs when the fire occurred, authorities said. The 6-year-old suffered a fractured arm and was treated and released from Children’s at Egleston Hospital the day after the fire, authorities said. Neighbors tried desperately to reach trapped kids Neighbors said they could see Glass’ 9-year-old daughter, Ah’Dariya, standing in front of an upstairs window as they stood outside the family’s burning home. They tried to coax her
into jumping from the window. She was screaming for help, they said. Ah’Dariya perished with her three younger brothers: Dar’Shawn Glass, 7 years old; Armoni Roberts, 3 years old; and 8-month-old Deon Glass. Leslie Slater said her family is devastated by the children’s deaths. Her sons, Lamonta Stroud, 18, and Richard Slater, 20, put their own lives on the line. Stroud broke out a window and cut himself as he tried to rescue them. Slater rushed to assist him. “They tried so hard to save them, but they just couldn’t,” Slater said. Slater, said her young daughter is grieving over the 9-year-old girl and will likely need counseling. “They played and rode the bus to school together every day,” Slater said. “She’s still asking about her. They were best friends.”
See Memorial, page 5
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january 15, 2013
Augustine Preparatory gets top honors at Beta competition DECATUR—For Augustine Preparatory Academy eighth-grader Alexanderia Thomas, third place just wasn’t good enough. Last year, the 13-year-old fell just shy of the top honor in the National Beta Club’s Georgia Convention speech competition. This time, Thomas took home first place at the December convention. “It was very important for me to go back and win it all,” said Thomas, a Lithonia resident. “I fell in love with the speech competition when I first came to this school as a fifth grade. Since then, I knew I wanted to be the winner.” The Dec. 6 – 7 convention hosted more than 6,000 students from about 25 schools from around the state at the Macon Civic Center. After winning first place, Thomas delivered her award-winning speech, “The Heart of Beta,” to all the convention attendees. Now, as a first place winner at the Georgia competition, Thomas looks forward to the June National Beta Club Convention competition in Mobile, Alabama. Augustine Preparatory Headmaster
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
The Augustine Preparatory Academy Beta Club team is all smiles after taking home top honors at The National Beta Club’s Georgia Convention competition in Macon.
Vickie B. Turner says the type of hard work and determination that Thomas displayed is seen through so many of her students, but it feels even sweeter when statewide judges recognize them for it. “I can tell the students, their parents can tell them as well, but it means something when others affirm what you have been saying the whole time. This time the convention judges saw what we see everyday, and that
is, the greatness that is evident in our students,” said Turner. “The Bible says: Let other men testify of thee. In this instance, it was the Beta world. The fact that we are doing this as a private school that is small in numbers but great in determination proves that once the agreement of home, school and church are met, there is nothing standing in our way.” The Augustine Preparatory Beta Club team took home third place in the
group talent competition as well. The 27-member team sang their rendition of contemporary gospel recording artist Mandisa’s “Good Morning.” The students had to send in an audition tape before the competition, going up against seven other schools on the stage. Now, with that competition under their belts, the Decatur academy looks to the Feb. 8-9 DeKalb County Science and Energy fair, where Thomas and several of her other classmates will go up against both, private and public, school students from around the County at Clarkston High School in Clarkston. The National Junior Beta Club is open to students in fifth through ninth grades who meet the scholastic, character, service and leadership criteria set forth by the national club and the school. Augustine Preparatory Academy, 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, educates 115 future leaders in grades K-2 through eighth grades. The academy is currently in open enrollment. For more information or to enroll your young scholar, call 404-212-7660 or visit www.augustineprep.info.
Marlin & Ray’s seafood closes LITHONIA—Marlin & Ray’s seafood restaurant has closed its Stonecrest location and its 12 other stores, after one year in business. The restaurants were part of the Ruby Tuesday chain. Ruby Tuesday Inc. reported a net loss of $15.1 million for the fiscal second quarter, which ended on Dec. 4, according to company officials. The Stonecrest Marlin & Ray’s posted a note on its front door instructing customers to use their gift cards at any Ruby Tuesday. Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
january 15, 2013
Community News
january 15, 2013 Volume 18, NO. 20
DeKalb to celebrate John Evans’ birthday with special surprise
EDITOR/Publisher Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com Staff Writer Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com
By Joshua Smith
Advertising Manager Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com About Us
On Common Ground News is published twice a month on the 1st and 15th by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.
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DECATUR—The balloons are ready and the cake has been ordered. On Jan. 25, 7 p.m., politicians, personalities, families and friends will come together at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center to honor civil rights leader John Evans. The head of the DeKalb branch of the NAACP turns 80 on Jan. 29. The community is bringing out the bells and whistles for a prebirthday bash that they’ve tried for weeks to keep a surprise. Evans apparently knows something is up. “They’re going to have something for me on Jan. 25,” Evans told someone recently. “Are you going to be able to make it?” He said he wasn’t planning on dancing, just socializing, having fun likely in a business suit. The only other outfit possible would be his overhauls and yellow NAACP shirt—his civil rights clothes. DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, who is chairing the event, has organized teams to plan the celebration—and the surprise presentation. He says it means a lot to him to honor a person who has dedicated so much time to helping others. “We’ll have some of his old friends from back in the day, as well as leaders in our community like Sen. Vincent Fort and radio talk show host Derrick Boazman to come in, dance, have a good time and honor the works of a great
John Evans
man,” said Johnson. “I wasn’t born here, but hearing from other people the stories about John makes me both proud and excited to be a part of this event. Everyday, John fights for the little person’s voice to be heard.” Evans has headed the DeKalb NAACP for more than 12 years. He also serves as president of his own civil rights organization, Operation Lead. He has received many awards for his community
involvement including the DeKalb County Community Development Service Award; the DeKalb NAACP’s Lifetime Achievement Award; Liberty Bell Award from Decatur-DeKalb Bar Association; the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus Civil Rights Living Legend Award; and the Masked Award from the United Negro College Fund. Evans is a former member of the DeKalb County Board
OPEN HOUS E Jan. 18, 11 a.m .
of Commissioners and former member of the Marta Board of Directors. Evans also has made noted athletic achievements. He was a former player in the Negro Baseball League and a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame at Mississippi Valley State University. A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Evans earned his B.S. degree in business administration from Mississippi Valley State University and Tennessee State University. He completed his master’s degree in business administration from Atlanta University. Evans moved to Atlanta to serve as business manager for the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), a position he held for 13 years. Evans is a member of Ousley United Methodist Church and Omega Psi Phi fraternity. Evans also served as an instructor at Morris Brown College and DeKalb Community College. He is the father of three grown children: Harvey, Darla and Malia. “We’re asking for the community to come out and help make this a grand celebration for a grand man of civil rights,” Johnson said. For more information on how you can contribute or help with the celebration, call Theresa Agee at 404-271-8006 or Malia Evans at 404-626-4214.
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january 15, 2013
Coming up
Girl Scouts’ cookie App will lead you to sweet treats
I
t’s that time of year again. The Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta have kicked off their annual cookie sales with six classics and they’re reminding supporters that they’ve gone high tech. The Girl Scouts have a “Cookie Locator” App for Android and iPhone smartphones to find cookies in specific areas and some of the troops will accept credit cards with mobile credit card devices. This year, the scouts are selling Thin Mints, Tagalongs, Do-Si-Dos, Samoas, Trefoils and their Savannah Smiles, a crisp, zesty lemon wedge cookie dusted with powdered sugar. The cookies are available for purchase at $3.50 a box. Girl Scouts used to carry other varieties of their cookies, but it was decided by the organization to just carry the most popular ones for this year’s campaign. Cookies will be delivered on Feb. 8, which is National Girl Scout Cookie Day. After Feb. 11, keep your eyes open as your local grocery stores and other locations will start hosting Girl Scout cookie booths across Metro Atlanta. For more information, visit www.gsgatl.org.
ATLANTA Gresham Park accepting registration for softball, baseball The Gresham Park Baseball and Softball Association is accepting registrations for the 2013 Spring baseball season. Kids and coaches at all levels are welcomed to register on Jan. 26, Feb. 2, Feb. 9 and Feb. 16. The registration will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2466 Bouldercrest Road, Atlanta. The league is open to boys and girls. Participants will learn hitting, throwing, fielding, and basics in the game of baseball. This Spring season is geared at making practice and games fun and player motivated. Also covered are safety and liability issues, which will allow each coach to receive $2,000,000 of personal liability coverage. The fee for the 2013 baseball season is as follows: Instructional prices are: Age 3-$90, Age 4-$120, Ages 5-6-$130 and Ages 7-14-$140. Softball fees are: Ages 5-16-$130. For more information or to register, contact Byran Smith at 678-776-0228 or visit vicepresident.gp@gmail.com. http://www.gpbsa.org.
GWINNETT
DEKALB
Clarkston to host community feedback session The City of Clarkston will continue to receive feedback from the community with the “Nest Steps Session: The Connected Community,” on Jan. 24, 6 – 8 p.m. at the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf, 890 North Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston. The Clarkston Development Foundation is hosting the Next Steps session. Participants will collaborate in an effort to build a connected community in the Clarkston area. 404-296-6489.
New city of Brookhaven sets Town Hall meeting The new city of Brookhaven will have a town hall meeting on Jan. 24 at the Marist School, 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Road. Mayor J. Max Davis, City Council and department heads will be introduced. Brookhaven, which was officially incorporated on Dec. 17, 2012 has established its temporary offices at 200 Ashford Center North. 404-637-0500.
Scott Candler library presents Google workshop The DeKalb County Library’s Scott Candler branch, 1917 Candler Road, Decatur, will host a free workshop on the internet search engine, Google, on Jan. 28, 2 – 3 p.m. The workshop will show attendees how to find information using Google. Participants will learn how to make use of Google services such as maps, images and news. Mouse and typing skills are required. Registration required. For more information and to register, call 404-286-6986.
Ellis to deliver State of DeKalb address DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis will deliver his 2013 State of DeKalb address on Jan. 29, 7:30- 9:30 a.m., at the Thalia N. Carlos Community Center, 2500 Clairmont Road, N.E., Atlanta. The community is invited to join the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce at the breakfast. Ellis will give an overview of the county’s 2012 accomplishments and present his vision for DeKalb in 2013. The cost to attend the breakfast is $25. Organizers say registering early is suggested, because the breakfast will sell out. For more information or to register, call Jennifer Head at 770-813-3381 or Katerina Taylor at 404-907-0135.
Burrell Ellis
ROCKDALE
Extension Service presents rose workshop
State of the County Address set Jan. 31
The Gwinnett County Cooperative Extension Office will host “Roses for the Home Garden” on Jan. 30, noon- 1 p.m. Attendees will learn about the various types of roses and how to properly care for them. The free workshop will be held in the Cooperative Extension Conference Room, located on the fourth floor of the Gwinnett County Government Annex Building, 750 South Perry Street, Suite 400, Lawrenceville. Pre-registration is required by Jan. 28. To register, contact Timothy Daly at 678-377-4010 or timothy.daly@gwinnettcounty.com.
Rockdale’s State of the County address will be presented Jan. 31, 7 p.m., at the Rockdale Auditorium, 903 Main Street, Conyers. Although plans were still being finalized, Rockdale Commission Chairman Richard Oden said he plans to build on last year’s theme with the addition of four words: “Continue Moving Forward by Reuniting, Rebuilding and Re-energizing.” Oden’s 2012 address focused on several key issues including economic development, public safety and the the county’s Richard Oden Neighborhood Stabilization Program, a federal housing program that buys and rehabilitates foreclosed properties to sell to qualified buyers. The address is expected to highlight goals for the county as well as accomplishments under Oden’s leadership. This year will mark Oden’s fifth State of the County Address. Oden was re-elected to a second four-year term in November. Details regarding the State of the County address will be updated at www. ocgnews.com and on Facebook: On Common Ground News (Official).
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PAGE 5
Memorial service set for children continued from page 1
Rockdale Coroner George Levett said all four children were so badly burned there would be no viewing for a memorial service that is planned for them. The family made the decision to have the children cremated because of the severity of their injuries, relatives said. Authorities said the 6-year-old would not be charged with a crime because of his age. DFCS is now working with the child. Authorities said it was unclear if the youngster would be placed in foster care or remain with relatives under state supervision. He was living with relatives as of Jan.14, family members said.
Photos by Glenn L. Morgan and Joshua Smith
Investigators pieced together information Morgan said investigators interviewed family members including the 6-year-old and “pieced together” information to determine how the fire started, in addition to examining and testing evidence at the scene. “The lab results from the investigation have been thoroughly examined and test results show no accelerants were found in the samples submitted,” Morgan said in a prepared statement at the press conference. “Investigators also have determined there were no electrical malfunctions and all accidental causes have been eliminated. All tips, leads the public provided have been investigated fully and ruled out as the cause of the fire.” Investigators said there were no working smoke detectors in the family’s home. There was one smoke detector on the main floor, but there was no battery in it, they said. Authorities said the landlord would have been responsible for making sure the duplex had a smoke detector. State law, they said, requires that smoke detectors be placed outside of any bedrooms, but the maintenance of those smoke detectors depends on the tenant-lease agreement. Community efforts under way to help Pastor Billie Cox, who heads Macedonia Baptist Church and is the Glass family’s pastor, said several efforts are under way to assist the family. They lost everything— from clothing to appliances and furniture, she said. The grandmother has relocated to an apartment and has received several donations of furniture and other items, friends said. Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson and her staff have promised to donate $1,500 to assist the family. A benefit concert will be held for the Glass family on Jan. 18, 7 p.m., at the Rockdale Auditorium, 903 Main St., Conyers. Saxophonist Jaylen Gilstrap and pianist Xavier Gordon, two local musicians, will perform. Tickets are $10. On Common Ground News is a drop-off site for clothing, giftcards, checks and small household goods
Prayers went up as tears and rain fell softly during a packed community prayer vigil, which was held Jan. 10 for the Glass family at Macedonia Baptist Church in Conyers. The church’s pastor, Billie Cox, led the vigil. See our photo gallery on coverage of the fire tragedy on Facebook.
for the family. The newspaper is located 1240 Sigman Road, Suite 107, Conyers. 678-5261910. A memorial has been set up in the Glass family’s name at Wells Fargo Bank. Any monetary donations made be made at any branch. The memorial service for the four children will be held Saturday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m., at Springfield Baptist Church, 1877 Iris Drive, Conyers.
Supporters say media was alerted raid continued from page 1
83-year-old mother was present. She answered the door the morning police served the search warrants. Ellis was testifying before a special grand jury when the raids took place. Residents said television crews were outside his home as investigators raided the house. Helicopters were flying overhead the community as the drama unfolded. “If the county’s highest elected leader is treated like a drug lord or common street criminal by the district attorney’s office, what kind of treatment can the average citizen expect?” Evans demanded. “His roughshod handling of the county’s highest elected leader was appalling, and he needs to answer for it or face the immediate wrath of the voters and citizens of DeKalb County. You cannot disrespect the image of our county in this manner and get away with it.”
Ellis maintains no wrongdoing, said Burke Brennan, county spokesperson. “He is conducting county business as usual,” said Brennan. Ellis has said that he has no idea what the D.A. is looking for and is cooperating fully with the investigation. “I haven’t done anything that I’m aware of, nor has my staff done anything that’s inappropriate,” Ellis said during a press conference he held after the raids. “I’ve wracked my brain. I can’t imagine anything in my home or my office that would raise any eyebrows…” Several residents in South DeKalb and the Southland community where Ellis lives have put up yard signs bearing his name to show their solidarity. “We believe in him (Ellis) and we are supporting him,” said Tom
Coleman, a resident of the Southland. “I don’t know if the D.A. is right or wrong. We just don’t like the way the raids were conducted with the media in here rolling the cameras the way they did. I’m sure the D.A. does raids all of the time without the media camped out the way they were camped out here. We don’t feel that was right.” Coleman, who served on Ellis’ transition team when he was elected for his first term, said it seemed that the raid at Ellis’ home was “staged.” “How did the media know there was going to be a raid?” Coleman asked. Another Ellis supporter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said he didn’t want to get caught up in the fray between the District Attorney and the CEO, but felt it was important to show his support. “They are very vindictive at the
county. If they treated him (Ellis) that way, there’s no telling what they would do to an ordinary citizen,” the resident said. Evans said he is disturbed the raids have further tarnished DeKalb’s image. DeKalb’s former schools superintendent, Crawford Lewis, is facing corruption and racketeering charges. A similar raid took place at Lewis’ home and offices. He lives in the same community as Ellis and has said he is innocent. His trial is scheduled April 15. “Not even in Gwinnett County, which is knee-deep in corruption, have we seen Gestapo-like tactics such as these conducted by a district attorney,” Evans said. “Accused or not, we expect the citizens of our county to be treated with fairness and dignity. If they are not, we will have to work to see that fairness and dignity happens in our county.
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january 15, 2013
Parades, rallies and service projects to mark King holiday
O
rganizations throughout Metro Atlanta will celebrate more than 40 years of preserving history, heritage and the dream of Martin Luther King, Jr. with several commemorative events during the King Holiday. The slain civil rights leader would have turned 84 this January had he lived. When the National holiday is observed on Jan. 21, it will mark the same day President Barack Obama will be sworn into office for his second term.
ATLANTA
King Center lays out events to mark King’s legacy
Ebenezer Baptist to hold commemorative service
(From the Bonnie-Jackson Ramsey release)
Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King, Jr. was baptized, will host a commemorative service to honor King’s legacy on Jan. 21, 8 p.m. at the Ebenezer Baptist Church Horizon Sanctuary, 407 Auburn Ave., N.E., Atlanta. Limited seating will be available for the worship service, which is open to the public. The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, will be the keynote speaker. The Commemorative Service also will feature a performance by acclaimed recording artist Angella Christie. For more information: 404-331-5190.
On the MLK holiday, The King Center encourages the world to engage in volunteer service in tribute to the work and life of Dr. King. This year’s theme is “Remember! Celebrate! Act! King’s Dream for Our World. On Jan. 20, the King Center’s Freedom Hall Auditorium, 449 Auburn Ave., N.E., Atlanta will host a book signing. The event will feature Dr. Christine King Farris, the oldest remaining sibling of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Dr. Angela Farris Watkins, the niece of the civil rights leader who will discuss and autograph their books about the life and times of King growing up and preaching in Atlanta from a sibling’s perspective, as well as highlights of his conversations and speeches. On Jan. 21, Hands on Atlanta will sponsor the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Project. Get involved in diverse community service projects throughout Atlanta in honor of Dr. King. 404-979-2800. A complete schedule of events can be viewed at the King Center’s web site: www.thekingcenter.org. 404-526-8900.
March Committee ready to honor King The Martin Luther King, Jr. March Committee will host its annual parade on Jan. 21, 2 p.m., starting at Peachtree and Baker streets and ending at the King National Park area on Auburn Avenue. A rally will follow the parade. This year’s theme, “Keeping the Dream Alive: Continuing the Journey—The Next Movement,” encourages the nation to participate in service projects around the metro Atlanta area.
Congratulations
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA ON THE 57TH PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION MUCH CONTINUED SUCCESS!
Judge Berryl Anderson DeKalb County Magistrate Judge
Gail Davenport Georgia State Senate – District 44
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Karla Drenner Georgia State Representative – District 85
Atty. Ronnie Mabra Georgia State Representative – District 63
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Billy Mitchell Georgia State Representative – District 88
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Lee May DeKalb County Commissioner – District 5
Ronald B. Ramsey, Sr. Georgia State Senate – District 43
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january 15, 2013
PAGE 7
GWINNETT
Ebony Society ready for community celebration The United Ebony Society of Gwinnett County, Inc. will host a Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration on Jan. 20 and 21. This year’s theme, “Character and Service,” is a call to the community to answer the passionate words by Dr. King: What are you doing for others? On Jan. 20, 3:30 p.m., the celebration starts at Meadowcreek High School, 4455 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross. There will be essay readings and performances by Gwinnett students. On Jan. 21, a parade honoring the civil rights leader begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, and ends at the Moore Middle School, 1221 Lawrenceville Highway, Lawrenceville. For more information on the celebration, visit www. unitedebonysociety.org or call 678856-7602.
ROCKDALE
Rockdale groups to host King tribute breakfast The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce and the Rockdale NAACP will co-host a Martin Luther King, Jr. tribute breakfast on Jan. 21, 7:30 – 9 a.m., at Longhorn Steakhouse, 1294 Iris Drive, S.W., Conyers. The breakfast is held annually to commemorate the life and achievements of King. Proceeds from the breakfast will be donated to United Way in Rockdale to benefit programs addressing homelessness in the community. The cost to attend the breakfast is $10. Advanced tickets may be purchased from the Chamber of Commerce, located at 1186 Scott Street, Conyers. For more information, call 770-483-7049.
DEKALB
DeKalb NAACP will mark King Holiday with parade, bands and personalities DeKalb NAACP’s will celebrate the holiday with a new parade route this year. The annual event is moving from downtown Stone Mountain to the recently designated Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway (Snapfinger Road in South DeKalb). The parade will be held Jan. 21. Snapfinger Road last year became the first thoroughfare in DeKalb County named for King after State Sen. Ronald Ramsey led the push to honor Atlanta’s native son in DeKalb. The parade will start at Ray of Hope Christian Church, 2778 Snapfinger Road, and end at Martin Luther King Jr. High School, 3991 Snapfinger Road. The lineup begins at 10:30 a.m. and the march begins at 12:30 p.m. The route is roughly three miles, organizers say. For more information, call Sarah Copelin-Wood, who is chairing the parade, at 404-371–1490 or e-mail schoolsandcommunity@yahoo.com.
Repertoire Inc. will celebrate the King holiday with its “Living the Dream” program on Jan. 21, 8 a.m. – noon, at the Lucious Sanders Community Center, 2484 Bruce St., Lithonia. Fun and educational events will be held for children including a speech and an essay contest for elementary to high school students who will compete for a first place prize of $100; second place prize of $50; and third place will get $25. The Presidential Inauguration, which is scheduled to take place on the same day, will be shown on a movie screen at the center. For more information on the event or the contests, call 770-482-7464 or 770-484-7136.
“I HAVE A __________” How you fill in the blank is up to you. Because Dr. King had a dream, our options are infinite. There’s no greater testament to his life and work, than using this holiday to pursue them. Please visit our Facebook page to view pictures of community service projects posted by Georgia Power, or to upload your own.
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Speeches, essays mark Lithonia celebration
PAGE 8
january 15, 2013
Business News
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Ready to start a business? Rockdale Chamber opens registration for entrepreneur classes By Joshua Smith
CONYERS—Michelle Collier has a passion for helping the elderly. Collier and her friend and business partner, Wendy Bumcum, learned how to turn that passion into a business through the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce. They learned the ropes of starting and successfully running a business in the chamber’s six-week Entrepreneurial Academy. “The classes basically teach you everything you need to know to start your business. We were especially pleased with the information on partnerships, as well as what it means to be a LLC or a non-profit,” said Collier. “The class was so great. It’s almost hard to put into words how much it helped me. I also appreciate that the instructors were people who are successful in their fields and really know what starting a business is all about.” The six-week Entrepreneurial Academy is designed to assist those who want to start a business but are unsure where to begin. Each instructor in the program is an experienced entrepreneur in his or her field of business. Instructors cover topics such as: the legalities of
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
L-R: 2013 Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce’s Chairperson Thua Barlay joins Entrepreneurial Academy instructors Diane Adoma, Scott Hartsell, Brian Howe and Julian Harwell in anticipation of the upcoming classes in February.
starting a business; accounting and bookkeeping; legal issues and ethics; managing revenues; marketing your business; retirement planning for small businesses; business liability insurance; and technology resources. “This is the only program like this offered by any Chamber of Commerce in Georgia and unique from other programs offered in the area because the instructors
are local business leaders who make their living doing what they teach,” said Fred Boscarino, president/CEO of the Chamber. Collier and Bumcum, October academy graduates, plan to open an assisted living facility for the elderly by next year. They are currently shopping for a building. “I’ve been in healthcare serving the elderly for about 19 years but I needed to know the business side of things before going into business for myself. This class is exactly what Michelle and I needed,” said Bumcum. “I would recommend that every entrepreneur take this course because from insurance and open policies to medical requirements and making a business plan, the academy has it all.” The academy has drawn participants from Stockbridge, College Park, Stone Mountain, Forest Park, Lithonia, Decatur and even McDonough. “Of the more than 300 academy graduates who have come through the program since it started in 2004, more than 50 percent are now in business for themselves, and many others are making plans to begin,” said Boscarino. The Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is currently enrolling students for its winter semester, which starts Feb. 18 at the Parker Road Government Building. Classes are held Mondays, 6 – 9 p.m., for six weeks. The academy costs $150. The fee includes class materials, a light supper before each class and a graduation dinner. For more information or to register, call 770-483-7049.
Breaking Glass offers how-to for non-profits
Visionary People presents ‘Accelerate Your Business BootCamp’
The Georgia branch of the National Community and Economic Development (NCEDCGA) will host “Breaking Glass U,” a two-day business development training course, on Feb. 9 and 16, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., at the Hampton Inn, 1340 Dogwood Drive, S.E., Conyers. The course is designed for anyone interested in developing a non-profit organization that will generate income rather than relying solely on grants and donations for sustainability. Participants will learn: Starting and Building a Social Enterprise, The Breaking the Glass™ Business Model, How to become a 501(c )3 organization, Board Development and Staffing, Developing Commercial Products and Services to Meet the Needs of Your Clients, How to Turn Your Mission Into a Profit, Becoming a Social Entrepreneur, How to Develop Enterprise Ideas from Activities You are Currently Offering and How to Access the Breaking the Glass Income Tracking Service Cloud©. The cost to attend is $149. Early registration enters your name in a drawing for the chance to win a $300 grant. For more information or to register, visit www.ncedc-edu.com. You can also register by sending your payment in advance to NCEDC, P.O. Box 563, Stone Mountain, GA 30087. 770-255-8603.
Visionary People will continue to host their Business BootCamp to members of the business community every Thursday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at The BizLynks Center, 3665 Club Drive, Duluth. Camps started on Jan.10, but will continually be hosted weekly throughout 2013, featuring proven and trusted techniques on leveraging the New Economy for Sustainability. Every Thursday, certified facilitators and business industry leaders provide boot campers with valuable “Know How” on moving their company forward. The Business Development Bootcamp provides small business owners and independent entrepreneurs hands on and interactive fundamental knowledge through four Comprehensive Modules. The company says the boot camps are being offered in Tennessee and Washington, D.C. as well. The business workshops include lunch, professional photo shoot and a workbook for class. Registration is required. For more information, or to view dates and secure a seat, visit www. BusinessDevelopmentBootcamp.org or call 678-390-2681.
Calendar Conyers-Rockdale Chamber sets annual meeting
MAC: What businesses should know about healthcare reform
The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce will host its 59th Annual Meeting on Jan. 22, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Georgia International Horse Park Carriage Room, 1996 Centennial International Parkway, Conyers. The Chamber will reflect on successes in 2012 and present its leadership and goals for 2013. Tickets for the luncheon meeting are $30 per person. RSVP at 770-483-7049.
DeKalb Chamber welcomes MARTA GM Keith T. Parker The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce will host the first Executive Speaker series of 2013 by welcoming MARTA General Manager Keith T. Parker on Jan. 23, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Atlanta Perimeter location, 4386 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta. Parker will share his strategic plan for MARTA and other initiatives planned for 2013. The cost to attend is $45. For more information, contact Noelle Lloyd at 404-378-8000, ext. 224 or nlloyd@dekalbchamber.org.
The Metro Atlanta Chamber, 235 Andrew Young International Blvd., N.W., Atlanta, will host “The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: What Every Business Should Know about Healthcare Reform,” on Jan. 22, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. Guest speakers will include Rick Elliott, President & CEO, United Healthcare of Georgia, and Tony Roehl, Insurance Regulatory and Corporate Groups, Morris Manning and Martin. Topics to be covered include: the general framework of the law; employer options; and a review of subsidies for employees and penalties on employers. The cost to attend is $50. For more information or to register, call 404-8809000 or visit www.metroatlantachamber.com.
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Week of January 17, 2013 Keith T. Parker
BBA to host Brookhaven Commission Chair Ben Vinson Ben Vinson, who chaired the Governor’s Commission on Brookhaven, will be the guest speaker of the Buckhead Business Association’s breakfast on Jan. 24. The meeting will be held at 7:30 – 9 a.m., at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, N.E., Suite 137, Atlanta. An attorney with McKenna Long & Aldridge, Vinson focuses primarily on state and local issues with a concentration in campaign and election law, economic development, and legislative action. Ben Vinson Prior to joining MLA, Vinson served as Counsel to the Majority Caucus in the Georgia House of Representatives. In that capacity, he assisted the Speaker and other members of House Leadership by researching proposed law, drafting legislation and providing advice on various political issues. Vinson will share his outlook on the upcoming legislation and provide updates on the new City of Brookhaven, which was officially incorporated on Dec. 17, 2012. The cost to attend the BBA breakfast is $20 and includes breakfast and parking. For more information or to register, call 404-467-7607 or visit www. buckheadbusiness.org.
Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, 2nd Floor, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below:
REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.
ITEM
CLOSING DATE
3002627 ITB
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (Inspection, Maintenance and Repair)
January 28, 2013
3002765 ITB
Cab and Chassis with Container Delivery Unit (CNG) Training Bus for Police Services
February 18, 2013
3002769 ITB 3002775 ITB
Diesel Powered Truck Cab and Chassis
February 19, 2013 February 19, 2013
Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030. For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise. By: Kelvin L. Walton, Director/Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
january 15, 2013
PAGE 9
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We Worship
St. Paul AME gets ready for fabulous hat show and luncheon
T
ickets are on sale now for the upcoming Parade of Hats Fashion Show hosted at St. Paul AME Church, 1704 Stone Mountain Lithonia Road, Lithonia. The fashion show includes a delicious luncheon set for March 16, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The fashion show is being held just in time for the latest spring hat fashion. Queens of all ages are invited to sport their best crowns, as the church’s women’s ministry offers fellowship to you and your friends. The fashion show will feature a beautiful array of hats—
Faith-Based News & Inspiration
Calendar Daughters of Excellence offers women ‘spiritual makeover’ Worship Interceding for Excellence Church will host “New Year, New You: A Spiritual Makeover Fashioned by God” on Jan. 19. The event, sponsored by the church’s Daughters of Excellence, will be held from noon to 2 p.m. at the North Decatur Plaza, 3096 North Decatur Road in Scottdale. The fellowship is being held to encourage, equip and empower women with the Word of God. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 404-455-6678.
Exousia Lighthouse International sets free health fair Exousia Lighthouse International Christian Ministries, 2562 Bond St., Lithonia, will host a free health fair for the community on Jan. 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wellness consultations and screenings including blood pressure, diabetes, vision and BMI (Body Mass Index) will be offered. The church also will offer chiropractor consultations and personal fitness trainer consultations. A family counseling coach will be on hand to give a wide range of tips for a healthier you and a healthier family. 770-695-0167. crowns of all shapes and colors. The cost to attend is $10 per person. All tickets must be purchased by Feb.
Elizabeth Baptist presents class on faith Elizabeth Baptist Church, 4245 Cascade Road, S.W., Atlanta, will host the “Fundamentals of the Faith” class on Dec. 18, 7 – 9 p.m., in Room No. 3. Learn the fundamentals of building a solid theological doctrine to grow spiritually. You will study God’s character and attributes, Jesus Christ as a person, his works and salvation. The class is free. The course book is $10. For more information, or to register, call 404691-3146.
8. For more information or to buy tickets, call Jackie Blades at 770-482-4361 or Joyce Reed at 770-4821571.
New Mercies sets Women’s Bible Study New Mercies Christian Church, 4000 5 Forks Trickum Road, S.W., Lilburn, will host a women’s bible study on Jan. 28, 7 – 8:30 p.m. The purpose of the Crowned Jewels of New Mercies bible study is to unite Christian women in fellowship and study of the scriptures in an organized and spiritually rewarding fashion. Participants meet in the church’s Suite A. 770-925-8600.
First Baptist Church of Decatur hosts caregivers’ group First Baptist Church of Decatur, 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur, will host a support group for caregivers on Feb. 5, 11 a.m.
The caregivers support group is open to anyone in a care-giving role who would like to meet with others in the same role. Church member Ann Murphy, a retired registered nurse, facilitates the group. The group meets in the church’s Room S123. For more information or to register, call 404-373-1653.
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january 15, 2013
Health & Wellness Red Cross ‘Reconnections’ program helps vets transition to home life
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T
By Joshua Smith
he American Red Cross is hosting free workshops dedicated to helping military service men and women transition to civilian life. Through the organization’s Reconnections program, licensed and speciallytrained mental health professionals lead the workshops, which cover a number of topics including: Communicating Clearly, Exploring Stress and Trauma, Identifying Depression, Relating to Children and Working Through Anger. “Deployments are a fact of life in the military. Whether a service member’s absence is due to a training exercise, sea duty, combat, or unaccompanied duty in a remote location, separation and reunification pose unique opportunities as well as challenges for all family members,” said Lauren Pearse, coordinator of the Georgia Red Cross’s Service of the Armed Forces and Quality Assurance program. “The American Red Cross’s series of workshops were created to assist all military families in managing the family’s readjustment to the service member’s return.” Georgia has about 770,000 veterans, officials say.
While places such as the Atlanta VA Medical Center are providing more than 450,000 of those veterans with medical health care, the Red Cross is looking to fill the void between veterans and families beyond just medications and prescriptions from doctors. Pearse says the Reconnections program was created at the end of 2011 and officially kicked off in the beginning of 2012. Workshops are free to military members and their families and occur in a supportive
Calendar Winning Ways with Fast Food Georgia’s Cooperative Extension Services will host “Winning Ways with Fast Food” on Jan. 17, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., at DeKalb County’s Salem Panola library, 5137, Salem Road, Lithonia. Learn how to make delicious fast foods for your family. Whether you’re on the go, providing a quick lunch for kids after school or just looking for nutritious, creative and quick ways to feed your family, you can pick up some quick tips from this free workshop. The workshop is open to those 18 years old and up. Registration is not required. 770-987-6900.
Piedmont Healthcare offers grandparents parenting class Piedmont Healthcare, 1968 Peachtree Road, 77 Building, Atlanta, will host a free class for expecting grandparents on Jan. 28, 7 – 8 p.m. This class for grandparents-to-be covers the major changes in maternity care in the last several years, newborn care and information on feeding with emphasis on family support. Participants meet on the hospital’s sixth floor, classroom number seven. For more information or to register, visit www.piedmont.org or call 404-6055000.
Emory Healthcare hosts Angina workshop Emory Healthcare, 1525 Clifton Road, Atlanta, will host a course on the heart condition, Angina, on Jan. 28, 8:30 a.m. Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs if an area of your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. Angina may feel like pressure or squeezing in your chest. The pain also can occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina pain may even feel like indigestion. The free class will provide healthy eating and exercising tips, as well as preventive measures. Attendees meet in the fifth floor conference room. For more information or to register, visit www.emoryhealthcare. org or call 404-778-2850.
Pondering Pregnancy?
DeKalb Medical will host a free workshop, “Pondering Pregnancy,” for partners on Jan. 18, 6 – 8 p.m., in the hospital’s Dr. Bobbie Bailey Tower Auditorium, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur. Do you have questions about becoming or being pregnant? Join a panel of DeKalb physicians and maternity experts to hear tips on what to expect during pregnancy. Following the presentation, you can enjoy light appetizers and wine, and a chance to talk in an informal setting. For more information or to register, call 404-501-WELL (9355).
and confidential environment. Military spouse Amy Creech, who is married to Sgt. First Class Ryan Creech and has two children, Dillon and Mitchell, says the workshops are critical to families because the transition after deployment isn’t always easy. “The reconnection workshops are really here to help you,” said Creech. “They are open to active soldiers, veterans and their families, including spouses, parents, siblings and significant others.” Experts say some of the challenges facing soldiers and their families include: readjusting to partners who assumed new roles during the separation; engaging children who have matured and may resent additional oversight; re-establishing bonds with their spouse and children; and managing long-term health problems that can be present after deployment, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. To register for a workshop, e-mail your name, organization, city and state to reconnection@usa.redcross.org or visit www. redcross.org http://www.redcross.org. 1-800-733-2767 or 404-8763302.
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