VOLUME 21 NUMBER 31
FREE
OCTOBER 31, 2015
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Earn up to $150 with “clean commuting”
G
eorgia Commute Options wants more people to use “clean commuting.” Beginning Nov. 1, Georgia Commute Options is offering a $5-a-day incentive to metro Atlanta residents who switch from driving alone to taking an alternative commute—“clean commute”—such as carpooling, vanpooling, transit, teleworking, walking or biking to work. New commuters who enter the “Gimme Five” program can earn up to $150 within a 90-day participation period. The Gimme Five promotion is a temporary increase of the existing Georgia Commute Options daily incentive, which has been $3 a day, up to $100, since 2009. The boost is targeted at enticing more commuters to try clean commuting on a regular basis. “Commuters from all over metro Atlanta are taking advantage of our incentive programs, but many people are just on the verge of giving clean commuting a try,” says Phil Peevy, Georgia DOT’s Air Quality and Resource Branch Chief. “A slight bump in the incentive amount for this already-successful program could be just what many commuters need to finally discover the many benefits of choosing an alternative to driving alone to work.” Officials for the clean commuting programs say statistics show that commuters, once enrolled, commit to alternative commuting in the long term: • 85% of commuters continue their use of alternative modes 6-24 months after completing their incentive program • Program graduates average 3.38 alternative commute days a week • The number-one factor cited for using alternative modes was saving money • More than 23,000 commuters have participated in these commute incentives programs since 2000 In order to qualify for the Gimme Five promotion, commuters must be new to clean commuting and apply on or after Nov. 1 at GaCommuteOptions. com.
Shaneku McCurty
Shooting victim’s mother says she’s living a nightmare By Valerie J. Morgan
Supporters express their grief over the death of Shaneku McCurty, who was gunned down on Oct.23. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan.
Community Unites
Car jacking victim’s death brings Atlantans together By Valerie J. Morgan
T
he fatal attempted carjacking of 25-year-old Shaneku “Lucy” McCurty has galvanized residents across metro Atlanta who are calling her death by three teens a senseless act of violence. “I’m just tired of the senseless craziness. This has got to stop. We can’t continue this way,” said Ronda Webb, one of dozens who attended a Sunday evening vigil outside the Chevron Food Mart in South DeKalb County where McCurty was gunned down. The Oct. 25 vigil was the second held that day to remember McCurty, a barber and former college athlete. Another vigil had been held that morning. As supporters stopped by the gas station at Redan Road and South Indian Creek Drive in Decatur, a makeshift memorial grew with people placing stuffed animals and other tokens near the parking space where the shooting took place. Many expressed anger and sadness for
all involved in the shooting. “These are boys who did this. Now, basically, their lives are over as well as the life they took. We’ve got to do something to stop the violence,” said Joyce Mosley, who came from Southwest Atlanta to pay her respects. DeKalb County police arrested and charged all three suspects with felony murder. Police said Cameron Williams, 16, is the accused shooter, but brothers Demonte Grant, 16, and Jermaine Grant, 15, were also involved. The teens were arrested with 24 hours after police released surveillance video to the media showing the attack. McCurty was fatally shot after she stopped at the Chevron to buy a lottery ticket around 1:30 a.m. on Oct. 23, according to police. As McCurty returned to her car, she was approached by the suspects. She fought back as the young men tried to carjack her and was shot multiple times, police said. The suspects ran after the shooting. McCurty staggered into the gas station and collapsed. Police said she later died at a hospital. DeKalb’s Public Safety Director Cedric Alexander said he didn’t know if the group planned the attack or made the decision at the spur of the moment. See Community unites page 7
S
hirley Bolton-Swanson is numb over the death of her daughter, Shaneku “Lucy” McCurty. She can’t eat. She can’t sleep. She’s living a nightmare, she says, that sometimes doesn’t feel real. “I leave the hall light on at home. I keep thinking that she’s going to come home. I know she’s never coming back, but I keep thinking that she will,” said Bolton-Swanson, who lives in Stone Mountain. “I always leave the light on for her, waiting for her to come home from work.” Along with her feelings of confusion, Bolton-Swanson said she feels angry—angry that her daughter was violently taken away from her family. “I’m angry at the teens who did this to her and their families. They should never have been out there trying to rob somebody. She worked hard for her car. Their parents should have been teaching them they need to work for the things they want—not going around stealing and killing,” Bolton-Swanson said. Her husband, Rundy Swanson, is angry, too. Said Rundy Swanson: “I’m not doing too good at all. I am pissed off. The parents See Shooting victim page 6
Grand jury: further investigation in Anthony Hill case
A
By Valerie J. Morgan
DeKalb County grand jury has recommended prosecutors conduct further investigation into the officer-involved shooting death of Anthony Hill. The bipolar Air Force veteran was unarmed and naked when he was killed by a DeKalb police officer at his Chamblee apartment complex. The grand jury suggested a follow-up interview be conducted with the police officer who was first to arrive after the shooting and recommended that prosecutors conduct a second, more thorough interview to clarify what the DeKalb police officer who shot Hill told the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “We were unable to reach a consensus on recommending indictment, because there were contradictions and inconsistencies in the testimonies presented. Therefore, we recommend that further investi-
gation be conducted to aid in the decision to pursue this case by the DA,” the grand jury said in its Oct. 29 presentment. DeKalb Police Officer Robert Olsen shot Hill, 27, on March 9 after responding to a 911 call concerning a man acting erratically. Police have said Hill ran toward him and refused to stop when he was ordered to do so. Witnesses have said Hill’s hands were raised when he moved toward the officer. Reacting to the grand jury’s recommendations, DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James said he had some serious concerns about the Hill case and plans to pursue an investigation. “Obviously, the grand jurors were not unanimous in their recommendation pertaining to the Anthony Hill case. However, our office will continue to investigate this officer-involved shooting case and will make a determination to pursue criminal charges or not,” said James.
Hearing the news of the grand jury’s recommendation, Carolyn Giummo, Anthony Hill’s mother, expressed relief. “I think they (the grand jury) realized there was more to it than what the officer said. It’s like a second chance,” said Giummo, who lives in South Carolina. She said she hopes that Olsen is indicted. The grand jury also conducted a civil review of four other officer-involved shootings and recommended that prosecutors not pursue indictments against any of the officers in those cases. The family of Kevin Davis promised to continue fighting for justice. Davis was fatally shot by DeKalb Police Officer Joseph Pitts, who was responding to a 911 call on Dec. 29. Davis had called because his girlfriend was stabbed by a roommate. When Pitts arrived, however, he said he was met by a pitbull, which he shot. He See Grand jury, page 6
PAGE 2 •OCTOBER 31, 2015
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Stress or Physical Pain?
At Full Body Rejuvenation Center our staff offers the most effective quality health care to satisfy every individual's personal needs. Our combination of chiropractic therapy and physiotherapy allow us to focus on the physiological, as well as the biomechanical aspects of the body. Dr. Smith encourages you to come in and begin your healthy approach to pain management, weight loss or stress relief!
Chiropractic Treatment Physiotherapy Your path to Natural Health Bring in this ad and receive a
complementary chiropractic consultation
FULL BODY REJUVENATION CENTER 3636 Panola Rd, Ste B
Lithonia, GA 30038
MOST MAJOR INSURANCES AND OBAMA CARE ACCEPTED!
Cosmetic & General Dentistry Recline in Comfort & Watch TV During Your Treatment !!
Mon- Thurs 8am-5pm Every other Friday 8am-5pm
New Patients Welcome! Power Bleaching- Zoom Invisible Braces (Invisalign) Dental Implants Tooth-Colored Fillings Crown & Bridges Porcelain Veneers Low- Radiation X-Rays Amber Jenkins Dabney ,DDS
www.beautifulsmiledds.com
!
Se Habla Espanol!
8200 Mall Parkway , Suite #155 Lithonia, GA 30038 • (770) 484-4051 Shops at Turner Hill Plaza (Across from Panera Bread Company)
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com On Common Ground News is published weekly 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. On Common Ground News
P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com
OCTOBER 31,2015 • PAGE 3
Historic Lithonia welcomes Georgia’s black mayors By Valerie J. Morgan
L
ithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson welcomed colleagues from throughout the state to the Georgia Conference of Black Mayors’ Fall Business Meeting. The two-day conference was held at the Stonecrest Hilton Garden Inn on Oct. 23-24. The conference’s theme, “Education Equals A Skilled Work Force,” shined the spotlight on guest speakers Otha Thornton, immediate past president of the National Parent Teacher Association; Verdaillia Turner, president of the Georgia Federation of Teachers; and Valarie Wilson, executive director of the Georgia School Boards Association. The conference also included presentations on several other topics including how to do business with the federal government from Paula Watts, president/CEO of the Government Procurement Institute; Stacey Mollison,
Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson (seated) poses for a snapshot with some of the mayors and dignitaries including Congressman Hank Johnson (far left), who attended the Georgia Conference of Black Mayors’ welcome reception on Main Street.
president/owner of Libra Management Group; and Carlis V. Williams, Region IV administrator for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children & Families. While the mayors were in town, Jackson made sure they had a chance to set foot in Lithonia, which means “place of stone” and is home to DeKalb County’s first library
and DeKalb’s first public school for African American children. She hosted an evening reception for the delegation at one of the city’s downtown establishments, the Luxor Lounge & Bistro. Several other businesses have opened along Main Street as part of the revitalization under way in the 159-yearold city. At the reception, Congressman Hank Johnson
and his wife, newly-elected DeKalb Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, brought greetings. Both encouraged the mayors to push for voting and to continue fighting to make a difference in their communities. Georgia, which has 538 cities, currently has 65 black mayors. Jackson is the only black mayor in DeKalb County.
DeKalb health officials look to make men “Strong 4 Family”
P
By Joshua Smith
hysicians at the DeKalb County Board of Health say it is common for men to put health on the back burner because they are more concerned about providing for their families and loved ones than caring for themselves. “All of our lives, we’ve been taught you have to be the man, you have to be tough. So we go to work to provide and on the weekends, we cut the yard, wash the car and watch the games and then back to work on Monday,” said Dr. Gregory Bolden, who works as a public health educator for the DeKalb Board of Health. “Especially if a man works hourly, they don’t want to miss money waiting in a doctor’s room.” Bolden is helping to change that. He is working to help the health department host a Men’s Health and Wellness Fair: Strong 4 Family” event on Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. Bolden says it’s time to “bring the doctor to the man,” hoping the event will inspire men to go to their physicians for regular check-ups. Organizers want to put an end to men suffering silently with debilitating diseases and mental health issues because they never go to the doctor. David Manuel, executive director of the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in South DeKalb, is a prime example of a man who is always on the go. Whether it’s welcoming award-wining artists, hosting fundraisers, planning 5ks or just handling the day-to-day operation of the Decatur center, his schedule is rarely slow. However, this time last year, things came to a screeching halt for him. “All of a sudden, out of the blue, my wife noticed that my eyes were starting
Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center Executive Director David Manuel, and Dr. Gregory Bolden discuss the importance of men’s health in Decatur. Photo by Joshua Smith
to get a little jaundice. I caught a high fever and I was in the hospital for the next 40 days. My kidneys were failing. A year ago, they only gave me five days to live,” said Manuel. “Through someone blessing me with a liver transplant, prayer, strong faith and the support of others, I’m here. Now, I’m determined to use my life experience as a platform to educate others.” Manuel is just one of the people who will be sharing his story and offering help to the community at the health fair. Manuel says the event will also promote organ donations, especially within the African-American community. He says Lithonia and Decatur have the lowest organ donating communities, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles, which registers donors through
driver’s licenses. “We have 21 people dying everyday waiting on an organ. Out of those 21 people, 60 percent are African Americans. We are not registering as organ donors because we have these myths that move us away from doing it and while we don’t do it, our people are dying everyday,” said Manuel. “We will have partners here registering people to become organ donors. “We have to get church parishioners and youths signed up to be organ donors and educated from these myths like believing that if there is a 50/50 chance to live, doctors will let them die so their organs can be donated to some rich or powerful guy who needs it. Those things are false.” While the fair takes a special focus on men, the DeKalb Board of Health
says everyone can benefit from attending because the fair will host a kids’ zone, free health screenings, food vendors, entertainment from DeKalb County high school marching bands, cooking demonstrations and a screening of the movie, “The Wish.” tells the story of a community helping a teacher who needs a kidney transplant. prostate and HIV/ AIDS, giveaways and food vendors. The health fair includes a panel discussion on keeping the community safe that will include DeKalb Recorders Court Judge Roderick Bridges; County Police Major K.D. Johnson; DeKalb Sheriff Jeff Mann, Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice Assessment and Classification Specialist Will Clark; and Freedom is a Choice founder Omar Howard. Managing Partner of All People Up Roland Washington, will moderate the discussion. The event will also include a job fair with employers such as O’Reilly Auto Parts, UPS, and representatives looking to hire for upkeep of the new Falcons’ stadium. Attendees can also go to breakout sessions with radiation oncologist, Dr. Eric Randolph, and alcohol and drug counselor, Dr. Clarence Massie. While the health fair promotes wellness for all, DeKalb County Board of Health District Health Director S. Elizabeth Ford says they are taking a special focus on men because healthy men will lead to a healthy community for all. “I am excited about the spotlight on men’s health in DeKalb County. It shows our commitment to the health of every resident of DeKalb County,” said Ford. “We want the men of our county to be both community leaders and examples for their families and friends around the state and nation.” For more information about the Strong 4 Family event or the DeKalb County Board of Health’s Initiative, call 404-294-3746.
PAGE 4• OCTOBER 31, 2015
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Habitat for Humanity to open new Re-Store
Coming Up
A new Habitat for Humanity ReStore is opening in DeKalb County. A ribbon cutting ceremony and open house for the new store will be held on Fridyay, Nov. 6, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3740 DeKalb Technology Parkway, Doraville. A Habitat ReStore is a non-profit home improvement and donation center that sells new and gently—used furniture, appliances, home décor and building materials to the public at a fraction of their retail price. The funds raised through the sale of these item help fund Habitat’s work of building homes and hope in the community and around the world. The Grand Opening of the ReStore will be the next day, Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There will be games, food, prizes, great bargains and fun for the whole family.
Community invited to economic development forum Ballethnic Dance Company
Celebrity lineup to pay tribute to late Yolanda King
T
he King Center will present a special entertainment tribute to honor the late Yolanda King’s contributions to the arts close to her 60th birthday. The tribute takes place Nov. 14, 7 to 9 p.m., at The King Center, in the Freedom Hall Auditorium, 449 Auburn Ave., Atlanta. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit this bidpal link. The evening will be filled with sentimental selections performed by some of Ms. King’s favorite entertainers and friends. In her memory, the tribute will allow some to reminiscence while exposing others to a taste of TKC’s Cultural Affairs Program that she developed and nurtured during her lifetime. Invited artists not only represent the many facets of the Cultural Affairs Program, they were also some of Ms. King’s personal favorites. Scheduled to perform and pay tribute are: Milkshake Mayfield, Theresa Hightower, Ballethnic Dance Company and Ted Lange. Jonathan Slocumb and Dawnn lewis will emcee the event. Ms. King’s siblings, Dr. Bernice A. King, Dexter King and Martin Luther King, III will speak; and Juandalyn Abernathy, daughter of Civil Rights activist Ralph David Abernathy, will sing. Her young niece Yolanda Renee King will also be a part of the program. At a reception following the program, attendees will enjoy some of Ms. King’s favorite foods. The evening will conclude with a special announcement. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit this link: https://portal11.bidpal.net/Portal/ bpe297012/main/home.html
ATLANTA
Veterans Day Parade set in Atlanta The Georgia Veterans Day Parade Association of Atlanta, Inc. will host the 34th Annual Atlanta Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 7, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The parade, which honors military veterans, current service members and their families, will start at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta.
DEKALB
Friends of Stonecrest to host book sale and flu shots The Friends of Stonecrest will host a community book sale and flu shots on Nov. 7, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., for the book sale and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. for the flu shots. The “Super Book Sale” will have fiction, non-fiction, textbooks, encyclopedias, children books, romance series and other books. Most will be sold for a $1 or less. The free flu shots will be for those ages 14 and older. The shots are provided by Walgreen’s. The event will be at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. 770482-3828.
Mobile market looking for host locations The DeKalb County Extension Office is looking for organizations and businesses with large parking lots to sign up to be a host site for the county’s mobile market in 2016. Launched in May of 2015, the mobile market provides fresh, affordable produce and food to county residents who live in food desserts where fresh produce may not be readily available. Site applications for the 2016 season will be accepted until Nov. 16. The DeKalb Mobile Farmers Market is a program of DeKalb County Extension with support from the DeKalb County Board of Health. The program is made possible with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For information regarding the application process, contact DeKalb County Extension Office at 404-298-4080, mobilemarket@dekalbcountyga.gov or visit www. dekalbcountyga.gov/mobilemarket.
DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson will host “Renaissance 2.0: Breaking Through How We See Our Community” on Friday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. Developers will be on site to discuss how to attract new businesses, employers will be interviewing prospects and there will be information available for aspiring entrepreneurs. There also will be opportunities for residents and civic leaders to discuss desired commercial businesses in their communities and pitch ideas to developers.
GWINNETT
Volunteers needed for Recycles Day Gwinnett County’s Solid Waste and Recovered Materials Division is registering volunteers for the county’s Recycles Day on Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. – noon, at Coolray Field, 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville. Volunteers will be assigned to serve throughout the event, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. The event is being held to collect recyclables: old electronics, tires, paint, toner/ink cartridges and gently-used clothing and sneakers. There will be several activities for kids and family games. To sign up as a volunteer, visit www.volunteergwinnett.net. For more information, call the Gwinnett Solid Waste and Recovered Materials Division at 770-8227141.
ROCKDALE
RCCA to host mobile food drive for the needy The Resource Center for Community Action will have a mobile food pantry distribution on Nov. 19, noon until the free food runs out. The program assists residents from Rockdale and surrounding communities. The drive-up distribution will be held in the parking lot of the Rockdale government annex at 3940 Highway 20 S.E., Conyers. For more information, call 770-760-1346 or 678-288-5433, ext. 101.
Ice skating to return to Olde Town Youngsters and adults are invited to bundle up and head for some winter fun in Olde Town Conyers. Ice Days will host ice skating from Nov. 14 to Feb. 9, 2016 at the Olde Town Pavilion, 949 S. Main St., Conyers. Hours and days of operation vary. For more information, visit http://icedaysconyers.com. The cost to skate is $8 for children age 7 and under and $10 for all others.
NEWTON
GPTC to host law enforcement career fair Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) will host a career fair for aspiring deputies and officers fon Nov. 2, 9 a.m. until noon, at its Law Enforcement Academy in Covington. “A career in law enforcement is a rewarding, life-long career,” said Major Harry McCann, director of GPTC’s Law Enforcement Academy. “It is an indescribable feeling for somebody who you have arrested to come back later and say, ‘Thank you---you saved my life,’” he said. “I cannot imagine doing anything else with my life. Nothing else compares to the service that law enforcement officers provide,” McCann stated. Approximately 17 agencies will be present at the career fair, including representatives from the Conyers Police Department, Lawrenceville Police Department, Athens-Clarke County Police Department and Social Circle Police Department. Representatives from the FBI and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources are also planning to attend. Applications are being accepted now for classes beginning Jan. 4, 2016. Early applications are encouraged: www.gptc.edu/lea The career fair will be held at GPTC’s Covington campus, 8100 Bob Williams Parkway. For more information, contact Cory Thompson at 404-297-9522, ext. 1118 or thompsonc@gptc.edu.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
OCTOBER 31, 2015 • PAGE 5
DeKalb Community Cabinet’s November breakfast set for Tucker High School
Commissioner Stan Watson
DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson is taking his monthly Community Cabinet Breakfast to Tucker High School, 5036 Lavista Road, Tucker. The free breakfast forum will be held in the school’s cafeteria on Nov. 7, 9 to 11 a.m. The Tysinger Breakfast Forum, named for the late Sen. Jim Tysinger, is joining the DeKalb Community Cabinet to present this event. This partnership between these two groups represent more than 85 years of service by providing information and resources that impact the community. The breakfast also officially launches the countdown to the annual Tucker community cleanup on Saturday, Nov. 14. Guest speakers at the Community Cabinet breakfast include DeKalb County State Court Chief Judge Wayne Purdom and Judge Johnny Panos, who will provide updates on the new changes
with the merge of Recorders Court as well as introducing the newly-appointed judges. Ann Rosenthal, president of the Tucker-Northlake CID, Gordon Burkette, director of Keep DeKalb Beautiful, and Kimberly King, Department of Transportation, will discuss 2015/2016 initiatives. Tucker High School’s drum line also will be performing. Since 1974, the Tysinger Breakfast Forum has met every Saturday to discuss current local, state and national political events. Envisioned by the former senator, the forum was intended to bring DeKalb residents together to debate the issues of the day. Tysinger continued moderating the forum a year before his death in 2013. He knew that talking through the more difficult issues brought people and solutions together. He was respected by both, Republicans and Democrats, because he placed the interests of citizens first and tirelessly worked for good government. The Tysinger Breakfast Forum is now moderated by Bob Dallas, past director of the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. Since 1997, Watson has used this platform to connect corporate leaders, elected and appointed officials, with DeKalb services and resources and the community. His objective is to educate, inform, and inspire community-wide opportunities to work together. For more information, call 404-3713681.
Watson to host 5th annual Deacons In Devotion DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson will present his 5th Annual Deacons in Devotion event on Sunday, Nov. 8, 4 p.m., at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. Watson will honor legendary “African American Men in Gospel Music.” The honorees include Ace Alexander, K.D. Bowe, Kevin Buchannon, Donald Cochran, Reggie Gay, Bob Grissom, Rhodell Lewis, Eli Smith, and Larry Tinsley for their contributions to “spreading the word through uplifting music. This year’s churches that have been invited to participate in the event include: 1st Baptist Church of Gresham, Clarkston First Baptist Church, Fairfield Baptist Church, Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, Greater Travelers Rest Missionary Baptist Church/House of Hope Atlanta, New Piney Gove Missionary Baptist Church, Popular Springs Baptist Church and Salem Bible Church. The program is free and open to the community. For more information, call 404-371-3681.
Rockdale Parks announces winter hours for two parks
Rockdale County’s Parks & Recreation Division has announced new hours for two of its parks due to the change in season. Beginning Nov. 1, the winter hours for Black Shoals Park, which includes Randy Poynter Lake, and Veterans Memorial Park will be from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and closed on Wednesdays. These hours
will be in effect through April. For more information or questions, please call Johnson Park at 770-2787529. For timely updates, news and other helpful information, follow Rockdale Parks & Recreation on its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RockdaleParks
Braces for Children & Adults • Free Consultation
• Low Monthly Payments Starting at $89 • Metal and Clear Braces for Children & Adults • Invisalign Certified • Saturday Appointments Available Upon Request
770-482-7400 8200 Mall Parkway, Suite B 200, Lithonia, GA 30038 M-F 8:30am to 5:30 • www.Lithoniabraces.com
Dr. Jamal A. Duval, DDS, MS
Advertise in the Marketplace. Call On Common Ground News 678-526-1910
Faith Tabernacle East marks one-year anniversary
DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson(r) presents proclamations on behalf of DeKalb County government to Pastor Ross Heath.
P
astor Ross Heath, who founded Faith Tabernacle East in Stone Mountain, celebrated his first anniversary and the church’s one-year milestone with a banquet that included a host of special guests. More than 200 people attended the Oct. 25 celebration at the Stonecrest Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott hotel including Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson and DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson among other dignitaries. Representatives from Beulah Heights University also attended the banquet. Faith Tabernacle East and Pastor Heath received letters of recognition from Gov. Nathan Deal and Congressman John Lewis, just to name a few, as well as proclamations from Interim DeKalb CEO Lee May,
DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson and Stone Mountain Mayor Pat Wheeler for the special occasion. Pastor Heath has been a servant of God for more than 40 years. He was ordained as minister in 1991. He founded Faith Tabernacle East Sept. 7, 2014, and was installed as the pastor on Oct. 19, 2014. This year, Pastor Heath was spotlighted on TBN on July 21 and Sept. 15. The church has served the community through several initiatives including providing Thanksgiving turkeys to needy families and toys for Christmas. Faith Tabernacle East is located at 5300 Memorial Drive, Suite 101, Stone Mountain. --Submitted by V. Price Littleton, Faith Tabernacle East
PAGE 6 •OCTOBER 31, 2015
v o t e
N o V. 3
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM Shooting victim continued from page 1
are trying to justify that their kids didn’t do anything and the father said he didn’t know his sons had left the house. I don’t buy that. What were they doing out that late? Why were they hanging out at the gas station? Shaneku worked seven days a week to earn a living. To kill her like that. It was senseless.” Shaneku, a barber, had worked late the day she was killed. Her mother said Shaneku sometimes hustled side jobs when she left the Five Dollar Barbershop on Candler Road in Decatur, where she had worked for two years. “She would go to some of her clients’ homes to cut their hair, you know if they had a lot of children, she would just go to them,” said Bolton-Swanson. Bolton-Swanson said she hasn’t been able to go into her daughter’s room since she was killed. Shaneku lived at home with her mother, stepfather and 23-year-old brother, Dennis. Her mother often put Shaneku’s favorite boxes of cereal in her closet so her playful brother wouldn’t sneak and eat her stash. Bolton-Swanson said her son is devastated by his sister’s death and has stayed away from the family home. She said Shaneku’s death has taken its toll on the whole family. “It’s been very hard on us. I’m trying to stay strong for him,” Bolton-Swanson said. Bolton-Swanson said her two sisters helped her to pick out clothes for her daughter’s funeral. They decided to have Shaneku dressed in a gold Polo T shirt, red and blue
sweater and white pants, purchased with donations raised at the vigils that were held in her daughter’s memory. Bolton-Swanson said she hoped to find a matching cap for her Shaneku, who had hoped to play some day for the WNBA. “She loved Polo. Lucy ‘Polo’ McCurty was the name on her Facebook page,” Bolton-Swanson said. “We wanted her to look nice.” Bishop Quincy Carswell of the Covenant Church in Decatur, is presiding over the funeral at his church. He said he plans to talk about the community coming together during his eulogy. “I’m going to address violence when I speak. This whole thing is wreaking havoc over our community. Our county has gone to the dogs with all of these robberies, breakins, home invasions,” Carswell said. “We’ve got to have a parent-law enforcement-religious summit where we look at all of this stuff and try to get to the bottom of it.” Bishop Carswell said the family needs about $4,000 to pay for burial expenses and is encouraging people to make donations through the Covenant Church, Sun Trust Bank at the Gallery at South DeKalb Mall, or Willie Watkins Funeral Home. The funeral for Shaneku McCurty will be held Oct. 31, 11 a.m., at the Covenant Church, 1700 Corey Blvd., Decatur. Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
Grand jury continued from page 1
said he then shot Davis because he refused to put down a gun. “The family of Kevin Davis is devastated by the news and they have vowed to continue fighting for justice for Kevin. The need for a legislative mandate for body cameras is underscored by this decision. The grand jurors were left to rely on the word of the officer,”
said Attorney Mawuli Davis of the Davis-Bozeman Law Firm. The district attorney said he would review the case. “In the matter of Kevin Davis, we will take the recommendation under consideration, review the facts and make a final determination how we will proceed,” James said
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
OCTOBER 31, 2015 • PAGE 7
Community unites continued from page 1
“What their initial intent was or whether that was already planned by them or that was the decision that made in the moment, I think much of that is still left to be determined,” Alexander said. The father of the two brothers, Jermaine Grant, Sr., told WSB-TV his sons slipped out of the house while he was at work. Sitting with his attorney, Morris Fair, Grant apologized to the victim’s family, saying his sons didn’t have a gun, didn’t shoot McCurty and didn’t know the shooter was going to open fire. Attorney Mawuli Davis said situations like the one involving Grant’s sons are exactly what he is working to prevent. Just the day before McCurty was killed, the Davis-Bozeman Law Firm presented a forum, “The Consequences of Thug Life,” to discourage youths from “getting caught up with the wrong crowd,” said Davis. “We’ve been putting on these forums for the last six years. We explain to the kids and their parents that you can end up doing some serious time for being with the wrong people. Kids need to choose their friends carefully. If you’re a teen who has a friend who has a gun, you need to get a new friend. We have to go back to what our mothers used to tell us: ‘Watch who you hang with.’ If they get in trouble and you’re with them, you’re going to get in trouble, too.” Mitchell Alston, Mc-
Curty’s barber instructor, said he’s still grappling with the fact that McCurty life was snuffed out. He said he attended the vigil, seeking some healing. “I’m trying to get some closure and it’s hard,” said Alston. “She did not deserve this. She was a good person, a hard worker. I’m hoping that people will come together and we can become a community where we care about one another again, where we look out for one another, not kill each other.” Alston’s sentiments were shared by many who attended a forum sponsored by the East Metro Black Lives Matter Coalition. Although the forum was held on the heels of the McCurty shooting, representatives of the coalition said they had already planned to present their panel discussion, “Black Lives Matter: A Quest for Solutions…Black on Black Violence,” to address the growing violence in black communities nationwide. The Oct. 27 forum, which was held at the Stonecrest Library, was the first in a series planned to bring the community together to look for solutions, organizers said. The first panel discussion examined a broad spectrum of issues related to black-on-black violence including lack of education, mental illness, poor parenting and domestic violence. “When we organized the coalition, we were looking at the data and seeing a trend in black-on-black violence and
Supporters gather for a Sunday evening vigil at the gas station to pay their repects for Shaneku McCurty. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan
how it is destroying our communities,” said Gwen-Dolyn Cutter, who chaired the committee to create the coalition’s series. “We knew we couldn’t address all of our concerns in one or two hours, so we decided to develop a series that we would use to not only discuss the problems but find solutions and make those resources available to the community.” Betty Stuckey, president of the Lambda Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., said addressing such issues are a critical part of her chapter’s community work. “Our chapter is very concerned about community service,” Stuckey said. “We
address a number of issues— from providing voter registration drives to providing clothing to battered women’s shelters. Dealing with the issue of violence is another opportunity for us to be involved with community service.” The coalition’s discussion included six panelists: Rockdale Magistrate Court Judge Phinia Aten, State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, DeKalb Sheriff Jeff Mann, the Rev. Eric Wendel Lee, Sr. of Springfield Baptist Church, Mikell Rosier, counselor and owner of TELLMIKELL.COM, and Michael McNeely, assistant deputy commissioner for the Georgia Department of Juve-
nile Justice. The East Metro Black Lives Matter Coalition plans to host its second forum on Jan. 18 at a time and place that will be announced. The Davis-Bozeman Law Firm is sponsoring “How to Start An Effective Mentoring Program” for community organizers, social workers, pastors, lay people and others who desire to reach and motivate youths. The forum, which will be hosted by Derrick Boazman of WAOK Radio and the Brothers of Let Us Make Man, will be held on Nov. 7, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at New Morning Light Baptist Church, 1392 Conley Road, near Atlanta. 404-363-8700.
DeKalb seeking 2016 Art Calendar contest entries The DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management is looking for artistic elementary students from across the county to enter the 2016 Art Calendar Contest. This annual contest awards 12 kindergarten through fifth grade winners during a special ceremony to be held at the Dec. 8 Board of Commissioners’ meeting. Entries are due by Nov. 6. 2016 Theme: “Water and our Future” Artwork ideas could include: •Conserving Water •Using Water Wisely •Water/Wastewater Treatment •Making Our Water Resources Cleaner •Reducing Water Pollution Submitted artwork must be drawn horizontally (landscape) on 8 ½ inch x 11 inch white paper. Clearly print the artwork title, student’s name, school name, address, grade level, age, teacher’s name, teacher’s contact number and teacher’s e-mail address on the back of each entry. For a complete set of rules for the contest or for more information, be sure to visit http://dekalbwatershed.com/education.html. Or, contact Michael O’Shield, Environmental Education Coordinator, at 770.724.1456 or by email at msoshield@ dekalbcountyga.gov.
6007- B Memorial Drive Stone Mountain, GA • 404-549-3428 _____________ _____________ SIDE ITEMS Baked Beans Broccoli Casserole Coleslaw Collard Green Okra
Open 7 Days 6 A.M. - 10 P.M
Green Beans Crinkle Cut Fries Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Mac & Cheese Potato Wedges
Weekdays Breakfast 6 A.M. - 12 NOON
Weekend Breakfast 7 A.M. - 12 NOON
PAGE 8 •OCTOBER 31, 2015
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Lithonia hosts
“The Original Collard Greens Cultural Festival”
E
•
Photos by Glenn L. Morgan
ver tried collard green ice cream? What about collard green lemonade or collards and dumplings? They were among the many yummy treats offered at The Original Collard Green Festival held at the Lithonia Amphitheater on Oct. 24. The festival, in its third year, drew those not only seeking fresh vegetables—collards, of course, along with green beans, okra and tomatoes—but live entertainment and vendors offering an African marketplace with clothes, handmade jewelry, arts and crafts and natural body scrubs. Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson got in on the fun, playing one of the African drums, which welcomed festival-goers.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
OCTOBER 31,2015 • PAGE 9
PAGE 10• OCTOBER 31, 2015
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Gwinnett’s oldest gym will get renovation The oldest gymnasium in the Gwinnett County park system, built in Norcross at Best Friend Park in the mid-1970s, will look like new again, thanks to a $1.68 million contract with low bidder Kevin Price General Contractors Inc. The 2014 SPLOST program will pay to replace the roof, wood flooring and ceilings, renovate office space, locker rooms, restrooms and entry, and improve drainage, landscaping and handicapped parking. “Best Friend Park has provided recreational opportunities to the Norcross area for decades, said District 2 Commissioner Lynette Howard. “This is the second major renovation project there recently, and I look forward to the improved programs and services that will be possible after these upgrades.
I’m also really excited that the gym is getting a new, welcoming entrance.” “We promised to use these SPLOST funds to maintain and improve existing County park facilities,” added Board of Commissioners Chairman Nash. “We thank Gwinnett voters for their support that enables us to make needed capital improvements to our older recreation centers.” The 43-acre Best Friend Park, at 6224 Jimmy Carter Boulevard, also has outdoor pools, 17 lighted tennis courts, indoor badminton courts, outdoor basketball courts, baseball/softball fields, a pavilion and grill, a playground, and a three-quarter mile paved, multi-purpose trail. Gwinnett recreation staff offers summer day camps, year-round basketball play, general recreation and facility rentals at the park.
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Thursday, November 5, 2015 Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR SOLICITATION NO. 15-100626
ITEM
CLOSING DATE
Filters: Automotive, Air, Fuel, Oil, Transmission, Hydraulic, Small Engine & Misc. (Annual Contract with Two (2) Options to Renew)
November 30, 2015
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 readvertise. By: Scott M. Callan, CPSM, Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
Gwinnett’s Mill Creek High band invited to perform in London in 2018
G
winnett County’s Mill Creek High School’s marching band has been invited to perform in the 2018 London New Year’s Day Parade. The invitation marks the school’s third time being invited to participate in the parade. The band performed in the London parade in 2010 and 2014. In September, the band performed in the school’s gym before Robert Bone, CEO of the London New Year’s Day Parade, and Robert Davis, deputy lord mayor of the city of Westminster in the United Kingdom. The visit from Bone and Davis is designed to inspire and reconfirm the importance of the invitation to groups already invited. “We are thrilled to be invited to perform for the third time in London’s New Year’s Day Parade,” said High School Band Director Eric Mason. “It is rare for a group to be invited to perform. once,but to be thought of highly enough to be invited for a second and third time is truly remarkable.” The parade, which started in 1987 with 2,000 mostly local performers, now involves up to 10,000 performers from around the world and a live TV audience of several hundred million. The parade is
nearly double the size of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Each year in the fall, the Lord Mayor picks a select number of groups that he or she wishes to visit in the United States in connection with London’s New Year’s Day Parade and Festival. “I have seen a lot of band shows and I have to say I don’t think I’ve seen one as good as yours before, and that’s quite something in 30 years,” said Bone, who presented Millcreek’s band with a hand-painted and guilded plate from Buckingham Palace and an official framed invitation proclamation. The historic 2.2-mile parade route in the London New Year’s Day Parade features a backdrop of iconic buildings, streets and squares. Mill Creek took 165 band members to the parade. Senior and band drum major Imani Matos made the trip before and said it is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “It was the first time I went out of the country and it was like nothing I ever experienced before,” said Matos. “You get housing and food even outside the parade that is amazing while you stay there. To me, it’s like the Macy’s Day Parade times 10.”
Like Us On Facebook: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
OCTOBER 31, 2015 • PAGE 11
CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE
7173 Covington Hwy, Lithonia, GA 30058
Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs. A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404-281-6503. Goat Lawn Service. Need your yard cut, raked, or aerated. Call 678953-0063. Help Wanted
MINI MALL ALL EVENT FACILITY
• Parties
• Church Meetings
• Seminars • Business Meetings • Wedding • Graduation Parties
Free Banquet Hall! Monday-Thursday only Community Events, Non-Profit, For Profit Events.
A$20 -$125 per hourA MINI MALL
ADVIR HOME CARE Now Interviewing CNA’s, for private duty home care. Visit our website @ ADVIRHOMECARE.ORG to apply only sincere caring individuals are needed.
Booth Rental $50 1st Month
A $500 MOVES YOU IN A 678-755-5955
PURCHASE YOUR CLASSIFIED 4 WEEKS $75
CALL TODAY!
J U S T W E AV E S
$
NEW LOCATION!!
40
1 & 15TH ONLY ST
PURCHASE ME FOR
$
75
CALL 678-526-1910
Formally The Weave Stop 2091 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA
404-284-8833
Contact Bianca @ 470-299-9416
On Common Ground News Marketplace DEKALB COUNTY
INTERIOR DESIGN
RESTAURANTS
770-484-3355 2910 EVANS MILL ROAD, LITHONIA, GA
WEEKLY LUNCH SPECIAL
DECORATING DEN INTERIORS
FULTON COUNTY
GWINNETT COUNTY
CATERING
BEAUTY SUPPLIES
INSURANCE
ROCKDALE COUNTY
®
BARBARA ELLIOTT & JENNIFER WARD WOODS 917 Main Street, Stone Mountain GA
(770) 498-7780 • www.decdens.com/belliott
PHOTOGRAPHY
BEAUTY SALONS
ACCOUNTING
REAL ESTATE
Visit these advertisers @ OCGNEWS.COM Want to spotlight your business? 678-526-1910
PAGE 12 •OCTOBER 31, 2015
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Law Enforcement CAREER FAIR MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2015 9:AM - NOON Georgia Piedmont Technical College LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY 8100 Bob Williams Parkway Covington, GA 30014 GPTC LEA Graduates
Now Enrolling for January 4th Class
www.gptc.edu/lea | 404-297-9522 x 5046 Equal Opportunity Institution