The Feb.1 Issue

Page 1

Celebrating

BlackHistory

Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties

Volume 18 Number 21

www.ocgnews.com

february 1, 2013 FREE

Changes to car tag tax to take effect March 1

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By Valerie J. Morgan

here are changes in store for those who purchase a vehicle in Georgia. Buying a vehicle here means you’ll no longer pay sales tax or the annual so-called “birthday tax.” Instead, car buyers will pay a one-time title tax. This year, the new title tax fee will be 6.5 percent of the value of your vehicle. Next year, that fee rises to 6.75 percent and then in 2015, to 7 percent. House Bill 386, which goes into effect March 1, replaces the state’s sales tax and the annual “birthday tax” on vehicles purchased and titled in Georgia. Brent Bennett, director of vehicle registration in the DeKalb County Tax Commissioner’s Office, said the new law is generating a lot of questions from consumers and DeKalb is covering its bases to get the word out. DeKalb Tax Commissioner Claudia G. Lawson is including an insert with March tag renewal notices that spell out how the new tax will work and staff members are providing information to those who call or visit the office, Bennett said. The county also is advertising the changes in local newspapers. “It’s a very complex law with many aspects,” said Bennett. “Typically, people don’t really pay

Men Do Read

Narvie J. Harris Elementary School dads set example By Joshua Smith

DECATUR—Charles White took off time from work as a store supplier with Schwan’s Food Service to read books to students at Narvie J. Harris Traditional Theme School. For White, reading to the students, especially his three children—Naijzee, Mikya and Josiah—was just another way to show that he, too, cares. “It’s time for men to step up to the 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

attention to things, unless it directly affects them. We’re trying to make sure people know how the new law will work. ” Officials say it is important to note that some vehicle owners will not be impacted by the new tax fee. For example, those who haven’t purchased a car will continue to pay the “birthday tax” on vehicles they currently own. Exemptions also will remain in tact for veterans such as those who have earned Purple Hearts or were Prisoners of War. These veterans currently don’t and won’t pay any tag taxes. In Rockdale, residents were invited recently to attend a “Tax Talk” to learn more about HB 386. Rockdale Tax Commissioner Rockdale Tax RJ Hadley said that he is planning to host Commissioner RJ Hadley a series of talks on the subject. “It’s important that people know the different options they have under the new law,” said Hadley, adding that he is especially concerned about buyers making “casual sales” transactions with non-dealers. Casual sales work like this: Someone buys a $5,000 car from an individual on March 2. The Georgia Department of Revenue, however,

Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

DeKalb County Tax Commissioner Claudia G. Lawson and Brent Bennett , director of vehicle registrations, discuss the new tax bill.

determines the car is actually valued at $7,000. The buyer would be required to pay a title tax fee of 6.5 percent on $7,000—not $5,000—in order to get the car registered and titled in Georgia. The title tax fee would be paid to the county tax commissioner’s office—not the individual selling the car. However, if the vehicle is purchased from a dealer, the dealer charges the new title tax instead of sales tax and makes the

payment to the county, Hadley said. “The dealers will file the information and payment electronically. Those private individuals may think they only have to pay the title tax on what they actually paid for the car, but the value is determined by the Georgia Department of Revenue and some of

See More, page 5

Narvie J. Harris Principal Dr. Sean R. Tartt stands alongside fathers participating in the school’s fifth annual “Men Do Read Day” in Decatur.

plate and it starts here,” said White, who read books such as “Just Like Gibson” and “The Little Dog with Bad Breath,” to three classes. “Being in this society, women have held it down so long. It’s our turn now. Children, especially young males, need to see us in the schools so they can gain knowledge from us and grow.” Dads’ participation in schools has become a critical issue across America as schools and mentoring programs look to get more men involved in ways that women have traditionally been involved in raising children. Witness: One in three fathers set a poor example to his children by never picking up a book to read to them, according to the National Literacy Trust, an independent charity that works to improve reading, writing and listening skills. In a survey of 21,000 children ages 8 to 16, one in seven children told researchers they had never been shopping for a book, the

National Literacy Trust said. Narvie J. Harris started working on the problem five years ago when it first launched its “Men Do Read Day” with about 80 reading to children. Keeping men involved with their students has been a challenge, officials say. In October, Narvie Harris’ principal, Dr. Sean R. Tartt, and the school’s F.B.I. group (Fathers Being Involved) hosted a kick-off breakfast where 180 men dedicated themselves to helping students succeed. About half that number returned to the Decatur theme school for the Men Do Read Day, which was held Jan. 25. The 90 dads who read books stressed the importance of reading, why they enjoy reading and what reading can do for the students. Tartt said he was pleased with the turnout, though last year’s event drew more men— about 120. “It’s usually the aunts, mothers and

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

grandmothers you see at the school, but it’s truly something special when you can see our fathers, our uncles, our grandfathers and godfathers, coming out to read to our children,” said Principal Tartt. Mae Sorell, the school’s reading specialist, says she is pleased to have dads like White come to school and read to students. “I have to thank our fathers and their bosses or supervisors for letting them get away from their jobs to be with us,” Sorell said. Narvie J. Harris is not the only DeKalb school working to keep dads active at. On Aug. 13, the first day of school, Chapel Hill Middle School hosted the “Million Father March” for dads to check in their students, help them locate their homerooms and direct traffic along the busy hallways.

See Online, page 5


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february 1, 2013


february 1, 2013

Community News

february 1, 2013  Volume 18, NO. 21 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 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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Rockdale DeKalb schools’ superintendent Democrats elect could be headed out new officers By Valerie J. Morgan

CONYERS—The Rockdale Democratic Party has elected a slate of new officers who were sworn in Feb. 1 by Rocdkale’s newlyelected Chief Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten and Probate Court Judge Charles Mays. The Party’s new chair is Doreen Williams. She served as treasurer of the Party from 2006 to 2012, when she vacated the position to run for the new House District 92 seat, which was won by Tonya Peterson Anderson last July. RJ Hadley is the Party’s 1st vice chair and Michael Minkoff is 2nd vice chair. Carole Copeland will serve as secretary and Timothy Williams will serve as treasure. Williams said the Party plans to focus on three initiatives this year: continuing to get out the vote efforts; fundraising and community service and outreach. Williams said the Party plans to have guest speakers at its general membership meetings, which will be held on the fourth Saturdays of each month. Post holder meetings will be held on the second Mondays of each month, Williams said.

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By Valerie J. Morgan

here is high speculation that DeKalb County Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson may soon be resigning from her post. The embattled Atkinson has come under fire as questions have arisen over her use of consultants. Just days ago, a school administrator Atkinson hired resigned after he was accused of plagiarizing several parts of a 15-page audit addressing the district’s school safety and alternative programs. Ralph Taylor received a $10,000 contract to conduct the audit and then was given a $117,000-a-year job as associate superintendent for support services in December 2011. Atkinson and Taylor knew one another from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools district, where they both previously held jobs before coming to DeKalb. Taylor resigned from the DeKalb district on Jan. 28 after it was discovered that he had copied several parts of the report from other people’s work off of the internet. Atkinson also is at the center of a lawsuit alleging the district violated state law in the way it conducted layoffs and her text messages are said to be a critical point in the suit. “All signs are pointing to her leaving soon,” said David Schutten, president of the Organization of DeKalb Educators. “I asked her if she was resigning and she said she couldn’t discuss it.” Meanwhile, the School Board headquarters have been a hive of activity with board members holding a series of executive session meetings and lawyers in and out of district offices. Sources speculate negotiations are under way to end Atkinson’s contract. Atkinson started the job in September 2011 with a $275,000 yearly contract.

Dr. Cheryl Atkinson

“The timing for all of this could not be worse,” said Schutten, acknowledging that Atkinson lost her father recently and the fact that the nine-member school board is fighting to keep their jobs. All of the board members had to testify before the state Board of Education in January after the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) placed the district on probation. The accrediting agency cited the school district with ineffective government, decline in student performance and potentially millions in missing money. SACS said the school board has been ineffective for more than a decade. School board members are scheduled to return before the Board of Education on Feb. 21 to tell the board what corrective actions have been taken to put the district on track. Board member Eugene Walker said he didn’t feel positive about the January meeting with state board members. “We asked them to monitor our behavior in good faith as we develop actions to put the system on track. They basically said they want to see immediate results,” Walker said.


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february 1, 2013

Calendar

DEKALB

DeKalb to host ‘Go Green’ The DeKalb County Board of Health will host the “Go Green Initiative” on Feb. 5, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m., in the Bohan Auditorium, 445 Winn Way, Decatur. The community is invited to learn ways to save money by “going green.” Residents may sign up for free county recycling services, learn about the benefits of “Green Living,” and visit “green” booths to learn about energy saving techniques. The DeKalb Community Service Board and the Housing Authority of DeKalb County will also be on hand at the event. 404-508-7985.

Decatur legislators host Town Hall State Reps Mary Margaret Oliver (D-Decatur), Howard Mosby (D-Atlanta), and Rahn Mayo (D-Decatur) and State Sen. Jason Carter (D-Decatur), will host a town hall meeting on Feb. 13, 6:30 – 8 p.m., at Decatur City Hall, 509 S. McDonough St. Legislators will hear comments and concerns from constituents. All Decatur residents are encouraged to attend.

GWINNETT

Valentine’s father-daughter dance set The Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Department will host a FatherDaughter Dance on Feb. 9, 5 – 8 p.m., at the Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center, 4651 Britt Road, Norcross. Enjoy light refreshments and spend an unforgettable night with someone you cherish. She’ll be your little princess on a gentlemen’s arm as you celebrate a memorable evening together. The dance is open to 3-year-olds and older. All ages are $5 per person. Call 678277-0860 or e-mail Danny Everett at danny.everett@gwinnettcounty.com to register.

Gwinnett is taking orders for annual fruit trees and plant sale The Cooperative Extension Office in Gwinnett County is accepting pre-paid orders through March 12 for its annual fruit trees and plant sale. Place your order for delicious blueberries, apples, figs, azaleas, gardenias or other plants. Orders will be delivered for pickup at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, March 21. For more information, call 678-377-4010 or visit www.gwinnettcounty.org (type 2013 Plant Sale in the search finder box).

NCEDC-GA offers how-to for non-profits The Georgia branch of the National Community and Economic Development (NCEDC-GA) will host “Breaking Glass U,” a two-day business development training course, on Feb. 16 and 23, 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. Registration is due Feb. 9. 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.

ATLANTA Lupus patients to rally at Georgia Capitol

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ore than 100 Lupus patients and their families will rally at the Georgia State Capitol on Feb. 13. The Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter and the families plan to assemble on the steps of the Capitol at 9 a.m. for the Georgia Lupus Awareness Day. Several activities with state lawmakers will be held throughout the day to draw attention to the plight of Lupus patients. More than 60,000 Georgians are affected by the lupus disease. Advocates say 1 in 3 patients with Lupus are misdiagnosed due to a lack of education. One in 5 patients are permanently disabled, unable to work, as a result of the disease. The disease affects primarily young women in their child-bearing years, but also men, women and children of all ages. Virginia Adams, a DeKalb resident for over 40 years, said she plans to march at te Capitol. Adams was diagnosed with Lupus in the 1970s when little information was available on the debilitating disease. Prevalent in Adams’ family medical history, lupus-related complications claimed the lives of Adams’ mother and three of her sisters. “In those days, not much was known in the medical community about lupus and how to treat it,” said Adams. Seeking support and resources, Adams joined a DeKalb lupus support group that provides members with hope and resources to mitigate the daily struggles associated with having lupus. Adams said that is why it is so important today to educate the community about Lupus. “Lupus can be such an isolating disease. I knew that it was important to connect with others that understand the daily challenges of living with lupus,” Adams said. The Lupus Foundation provides patient support as well as educational and advocacy programs and is committed to national

research efforts to find a cure.

A.D. King Youth Empowerment Parade set The A.D. King Foundation will host the Fourth Annual A.D. King Youth Empowerment Parade on Feb. 16, 12 – 4 p.m., at Booker T. Washington High School, 45 White House Drive, S.W., Atlanta. The parade will honor the life work of A.D. King. The parade route starts at the high school and will end at the Georgia State Capitol. There will be about 10 floats in the parade from several community groups such as the Boys Scout of America. This year, the parade features local entertainment, a voter registration drive, free medical check-ups, and an information fair with mentoring programs and healthy living programs. Named after his grandfather, Rev. Alfred Daniel Williams King was born on July 30, 1930 and died on July 21, 1969, one year after the assassination of his older brother, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A.D. King led the Poor People’s Campaign, the Birmingham Civil Rights Campaign, co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Coalition, and built congregations at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church (Newnan, Georgia), First Baptist Church of Ensley (Birmingham, Alabama), Zion Baptist Church (Louisville, Kentucky), and Ebenezer Baptist Church (Atlanta), where he served as co-pastor after the death of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Morehouse, Urban League to host leadership training The Morehouse School of Medicine and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta will in hosting the free Community Leaders Institute on Feb. 8 – 9 at the Morehouse National Center for Primary Care Auditorium, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta. Workshop topics include The Role of Federal, State and Local Governments; Youth Issues and Challenges; Economic and Community Development; Transportation and Health Disparities. Some guest speakers include Brian P. McGowan, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, and Dr. John Maupin, president of Morehouse School of Medicine. The institute concludes with an information fair featuring state and local agencies such as City of Refuge and Atlanta Union Mission, which assists the community. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 404909-3249 or 843-792-5546.

ROCKDALE

Library to host mobile career lab The Conyers-Rockdale Library, 864 Green St., will host a free mobile career lab on Feb. 6, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The lab features free assistance in career planning, job readiness coaching, access to computer stations, photocopying and printing for those who are 16 and older. For more information, call 404-463-3327 or visit www.atlantaregional.com/ workforcesolutions.

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february 1, 2013

PAGE 5

More male recruits needed to help mentor kids continued from page 1

Augustine Preparatory Professor Charlisa Dixon stands proudly with students in her science class.

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Charles White, father of three Narvie J. Harris students, said he was excited to participate in “Men Do Read” and he plans to return next year.

“I was so proud of these guys I could have cried,” said Chapel Hill Middle School Principal Debra H. Phillips. “We have dedicated dads getting right in the mix, helping any way they can. Just having helpful men in the building makes a difference.” Chapel Hill has set up a “Father/ Son” program where dads participate in monthly workshops and other activities with male students. “My goal is to get the men of the community and the fathers back in the school. We desperately need their influence and support for our young men,” said Phillips, who served as principal at Pine Ridge Elementary in Stone Mountain before coming to Chapel Hill. “As a woman, I can do many things, but I can’t show a young man how to become a man. I am not discounting the influence of women because they hold it together every day in single parent homes. I just want my young men to be exposed to positive role models in their community.” Mae Jones, executive director of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc., echoes Daniels’ beliefs. The mentoring organization, through its

Leadership Academy program, offers students selected for its program a number of enrichment and cultural activities throughout the school year. The emphasis early on was on male students, but now females are accepted into the mentoring program as well. Many of the students are disadvantaged and come from single-family homes. “We realize that having men as mentors is more important than ever to our students,” Jones said. “Black males from kindergarten through the 12th grade are turning off education in epidemic numbers.” Tartt said that Narvie J. Harris is trying to combat those numbers with innovative programs like the one he plans to launch in March: “Men Do Math,” where men will come to the school and help teachers in the classroom with math-related subjects. Math continues to be a struggling factor for Georgia students. A 2011 report shows that 45 percent of Georgia high school students who took End-ofCourse math tests failed. “I am working with school committees to make sure the math day is a success,” Tartt said.

Online help is available continued from page 1

those buyers are going to get bitten,” Hadley said. Gwinnett Tax Commissioner Richard Steele has used the internet to try and get the word out. The commissioner has a summary of the new tax and other information on the county’s web site. Those who bought a vehicle in Georgia between January 1, 2012, and March 1, 2013, (when the new program begins) have the option of paying the new title tax instead of the annual birthday tax. Car buyers have from March 1, 2013 until December 31, 2013 to opt into the new program. Fees will be adjusted for those who already paid the birthday tax this year, but decided to opt into the new program before the end of the year. All other existing annual vehicle registration requirements, including annual tag renewal fees, decals, and emission tests (if applicable), remain in effect for all vehicle owners whether they pay the new tag tax fee or the birthday tax.

Know Before You Go The Georgia Department of Revenue has developed an ad valorem tax calculator to help people determine the amount of taxes they owe. The calculator is available at: http://onlinemvd.dor.ga.gov/Tap/welcome.aspx.

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Augustine Preparatory ready to take young scientists to the next level DECATUR—Students at Augustine Preparatory Academy of Atlanta are anxiously waiting to learn if they will be accepted to compete in the 2012-2013 DeKalb County Schools February Regional Science & Engineering Fair at Clarkston High School. With science projects such as “Orange Juice Titration,” the “Windmill Generator” and “How Air Affects Hydraulics!,” Augustine Prep Headmaster Vickie B. Turner says her students are ready to show off their skills to the masses. “It’s one thing to toot your own horn around here, but our students love to compete with other students from other schools, ” said Turner, who established the Decatur school in 2006. “We can’t keep all this talent and skill hidden under one location. We are preparing global leaders and we have to put ourselves out there for others to witness the great things we are doing here at Augustine Preparatory.” The school’s science teacher, Professor Charlisa Dixon, says students and staff are excited about the possibility of competing on a regional level. She says that opportunity would not be possible without the school family working together as a unified body. “These are extracurricular projects in addition to the students’ regular class assignments, so for them to produce such great work is a testament to the academic excellence we espouse here at Augustine,” said Dixon, who coordinated a science fair students held on Jan. 18. “It’s not just the project and writing down results. Students have to exemplify a complete package with presentation and communication skills intact as well.” Augustine Preparatory doesn’t just stop at science fairs. The school also offers great programs such as chess, robotics, piano, drama and dance. Students participate in community service projects as well. The Decatur school recently took home top honors at the National Beta Club’s Georgia Convention competition, which was held in December in Macon. Turner says students will also compete again this year in the annual ACCES Spelling Bee that will be held in March. Augustine Preparatory Academy, 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, educates 115 future leaders in grades Preschool through Eighth. The academy is currently in open enrollment and has scheduled an Open House for Sunday, February 24, from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. For more information or to enroll your young scholar, call 404-326-5132 or visit www.augustineprep.info. PAID ADVERTISEMENT


Celebrating BlackHistory DeKalb NAACP’s John Evans honored at state capitol PAGE 6

february 1, 2013

By Joshua Smith and Valerie J. Morgan

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Photo provided

he name of John H. Evans is now an official Georgia record. The civil rights trailblazer—president of the DeKalb NAACP—was honored at the state Capitol on Jan. 30 for his 80th birthday, which was Jan. 29. Atlanta Sen. Donzella James, District 35, introduced the resolution honoring Evans. “Mr. Evans has played a vital role in the community. His leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia deserves to be commended,” James said. The Senate proclamation was somewhat the “icing on the cake” for Evans, who fought and marched with civil rights leaders such as Jesse Jackson and Hosea Williams. About 350 people attended Evans’ birthday dinner, which was hosted on Jan. 25 by DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center. “It was truly a beautiful occasion,” said Evans. “I kept trying to find out what was going on for Jan. 25, but they kept me out of the loop. That’s probably why it went so well.” Vivian Moore, who serves as a state coordinator with the NAACP and helped Johnson plan the party, said it was tough keeping Evans out of the mix.

“We marked not only his 80th birthday, but also his 50 years of work as a civil rights leader,” Moore said. At his birthday dinner, Evans was presented an “Outstanding Citizen of Georgia” proclamation by state lawmakers: Sen. Gloria Butler; former DeKalb School Board member Zepora Roberts; State Reps. Howard Mosby, Dee DawkingsHaigler and Pam Stephenson; Senators Ronald Ramsey and Donzella James. Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson presented Evans with a proclamation honoring his 80th birthday as well. The dinner program included Steen “News Lady” Miles, Tuskegee Airman Val Archer and jazz violinist Delores Majors. Members of Evans’ fraternity, Kappa Alpha Alpha Omega Psi Phi, also came out to celebrate with him. The celebration didn’t stop there. On Jan. 27, Pastor William E. Flippin held a breakfast for Evans just before The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church’s 9:30 a.m. worship service. Church staff ushered Evans to his reserved seat and Pastor Flippin recognized him for his work in the community. Moore said the host committee is raising money to send Evans and his two grandsons, Joshua and Jalon, to Disney World in Orlando, FL.

Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

Congressman Johnson named to 100 Most Influential Georgians list Congressman Hank Johnson was honored by Georgia Trend magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians for 2013. Johnson is serving his fourth term as U.S. Representative from the Fourth Congressional District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Newton counties. Johnson sits on the House Judiciary and Armed Services committees, and is known as a champion of consumers, workers and the middle class. “I’m humbled to be mentioned in the same breath as my fellow awardees,” said Johnson. “Serving the people of the Fourth District is a singular honor. As long as I’m in office, I will give citizens of the Fourth everything I’ve got.” Congressman Gov. Nathan Deal was named “Georgian of the Year” for Hank Johnson 2013. Other recipients include Congressman John Lewis; Sen. Johnny Isakson; philanthropist Arthur Blank; Chief Justice Carol Hunstein; Coca-Cola CEO Muhtar Kent; Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed; and U.S. Poet Laureate and Emory Professor Natasha Trethewey. Aaron’s Inc. founder Charles Loudermilk and broadcast legend Monica Pearson were inducted into Georgia Trend’s 2013 Hall of Fame. For more on Georgia’s Power List, visit www.georgiatrend.com/January-2013/.

Sen. Ramsey elected to chair DeKalb Senate Delegation EXPIRES 2-28-2013

Sen. Ronald Ramsey (D-Lithonia) has been elected Chairman of the DeKalb County Senate Delegation. The Senate delegation will play an integral role in the decision-making process when determining what local legislation goes forward for a vote in the Senate Chamber. “I look forward to working more collaboratively with the members of the Senate delegation as well as House Chairman Howard Mosby and the members of the House delegation,” said Ramsey. “I remain devoted to serving each and every Sen. Ronald Ramsey constituent of DeKalb County and addressing their needs and concerns through our delegation.” Sen. Jason Carter (D-Decatur) was elected vice chair and Sen. Gloria Butler (D-Stone Mountain) was elected secretary. Ramsey has appointed Sen. Carter to serve as the special chair of all education-related issues and concerns in DeKalb. The Senate delegation is made up of seven members. The House delegation is made of 16 members of the Georgia General Assembly. DeKalb delegation members will meet monthly to discuss local and statewide legislation that directly affects the residents of DeKalb County.


february 1, 2013

Celebrating

BlackHistory

PAGE 7

Community Activist Josie Dean

‘There’s always something to fight for’ By Joshua Smith

CONYERS—Speaking out at forums, conducting voter registration drives and serving as a community watchdog on a host of issues are just a few things that keep Josie Dean on the go. “There’s always something to fight for,” said Dean, who serves on Rockdale’s Fire and Rescue Board of Directors, 9-1-1 Board of Directors and the Rockdale Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) committee. Dean, 53, devotes time not only to serving on various county boards, but growing her own nonpartisan, grassroots organization, Think Tank, Inc., to keep residents informed on important local issues. This month, Think Tank is celebrating its one-year anniversary in Rockdale. The organization grew from a handful of people to one that now has about 50 members who meet monthly. Dean says she first formed Think Tank as a nonpartisan group to introduce local candidates who were running for offices in Rockdale. The county was a hotbed of activity during last year’s elections, which ended with the historic victories of eight African American Democrats taking the county’s top offices. Through Think Tank, Dean pushed for voters to decide based on candidates’ qualifications—not race or party. “I started Think Tank because I wanted to find a way to unite blacks and whites, Democrats and Republicans, to discuss mutual concerns and work on those issues together,” Dean said. “I wanted to make sure that voters would no longer make uneducated choices about their candidates. You don’t have to vote Democrat or Republican just because that’s what your parents did.” Dean moved from DeKalb County to Rockdale in 2007. She was among Rockdale’s burgeoning African American population, which mushroomed from 19,006 to 50,389. As more African Americans flocked

Josie Dean is always letting her voice be heard.

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

to Rockdale for more affordable housing and better schools, the white population shrank from 51,105 to 34,826, according to the U.S. Census, and the county turned from red to blue. Dean says the shifting demographics have forced organizations like hers to work harder to be more inclusive and for her to personally lead by example. Recently, during a meeting, Dean gave inauguration souvenirs to each member of the Board of Commissioners to show goodwill. “I gave the two Democrats on the board (Oden and Commissioner Oz Nesbitt) keychains with the White House on them because they helped President Obama get there by voting for him,” said Dean. “I gave Republican Commissioner JaNice Van Ness a keychain with the Capitol on it because everyone in politics respects and has admiration for our nation’s Capitol.” Despite displaying diplomacy, Dean has never

been one to bite her tongue on issues that impact the community. At a Jan. 17 Rockdale County Board of Elections meeting, she blasted GOP board member Jonny Brown for a blog he posted entitled “The Little White Plane.” Brown used a metaphor to criticize Rockdale’s historic recent election of eight black Democrats, describing the little white plane that eventually was covered with so much black paint that it became “slow and sluggish.” The blog drew a barrage of criticism from blacks and whites, despite the GOP standing by Brown to say that he had a right to express his opinion. Brown wrote in part: “The other planes were having their white paint slowly removed, a little at the time, and being replaced with shiny black paint. The shiny black paint seemed to be the new trend but once it covered the majority of the plane, the plane became slow and sluggish. They were rarely on time and were never under budget, the black paint didn’t do a good job of protecting the plane. It was like it almost encouraged rust.” “Mr. Brown can’t say that all black people are sorry and lazy and when black people get power, everything goes to hell. I have a problem with that,” Dean said. “We don’t need this kind of stuff coming up. It’s a distraction.” Dean says now that the elections are over, Think Tank will focus on relevant community issues such as the county’s expected water rate hikes. This month, Dean plans to host newly-elected Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett, who will share his vision and his new procedures for county law enforcement. That meeting is set for Feb. 16, 2 to 4 p.m., at Johnson Park, 1781 Ebenezer Road, Conyers. Dean says the meeting will also serve as a forum to celebrate Black History Month and African American elected officials, including Rockdale County CEO Richard Oden. Think Tank memberships are $20 per person. For more information about the organization, Dean can be reached at 770-369-1507.


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february 1, 2013

Conyers-Rockdale Chamber one step closer to a new home By Joshua Smith

CONYERS—With an opening scheduled in late March or early April, the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is one step closer to moving into its new location, a two-story, 8,000-square-foot building at 936 Green St. “The building was originally priced at more than $500,000, so for us to get the building at $300,000 was a really good deal,” said Conyers-Rockdale Chamber President Fred Boscarino, who is excited about the purchase from a California-based investment firm. “We had been eyeing this building for awhile because we really wanted to get closer to Olde Town. The curb appeal is great, too.” The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber was founded in 1954. The Chamber’s current building at 1186 Scott St., next to Conyers City Hall, has no lease or move-out day. When the Chamber does move out, the Conyers Police Department will move in a branch of its department into the Scott Street space. “We are very thankful to the City of Conyers. They let the Chamber stay in the current 2,000-square-foot space for a below market price of $500 a month for decades. They were a part of this process and supported it all the way through,” said Chamber Chairman Thua

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce Chairman Thua G. Barlay and Chamber President Fred Boscarino survey the blueprint for their new location on Green Street, in Conyers.

Barlay. “Our employees and Chamber members are all excited to get into our new building, and I consider it an honor to be a part of the process.” Barlay, an attorney in Conyers, said the new space has several advantages besides visibility, including the building’s more modern appearance, more parking spaces, larger meeting

spaces and bigger offices for staff. Beecause of the new location, the Chamber will be an asset to the Olde Town business district. “I believe this building will enhance the business community and the Rockdale community as a whole,” Barlay said. “This location will serve as a great place to bring together Chamber

members and community stakeholders as they strive to make sure our community stays vibrant and united.” The Green Street building already has one tenant, Phuzion Salon & Spa. The Chamber is leasing space to two others: the Conyers Rockdale Economic Development Council and the local United Way, which is moving from 1174 Scott Street in Conyers. Additional space on the lower floor of the new building will be leased to other entities. The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce plans to have an open house in the spring to show off its new digs.

Calendar

DeKalb Chamber sets 75th Annual Meeting

Chamber ready for Day at the Capitol

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce will host its 75th Annual Meeting & Reception on Feb. 21, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., at the Courtyard by Marriot, 130 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. Member companies and individuals will be honored for exemplary standards in business development, employee programs, business innovation, contribution to DeKalb County, and overall involvement and support of the Chamber. Newly-appointed Chamber Board members and officers will be presented at the event as well. This year’s annual meeting celebrates the Chamber’s 75th anniversary. The meeting will also serve as a platform to feature the Chamber’s new programs and initiatives to grow and enhance membership. “One program that we’re really excited about is our young professionals program,” said Leonardo McClarty, Chamber president. “This is a brand new program. It’s geared particularly for business professionals from ages 21 to 35.” The program is designed for networking and professional development and will be held quarterly, McClarty added. Young professionals will get to hear from and interact with leaders in different fields. The Chamber is also revamping a program formerly known as the First Monday Lunch. “We’re changing the date and the name of that program to the Executive Speaker Series,” McClarty said. “As opposed to being held the first Monday, it’s now going to be the third Wednesday, and we’re going to have that program every other month.” The cost to attend the 75th Annual Meeting is $100, which includes dinner. For more information or to buy a ticket, call Katerina Taylor at 404-378-8000, ext.224.

The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will host the 2013 Gwinnett Day at the Capitol on Feb. 13, 5 – 7 p.m., at the Georgia Railroad Freight Depot, 65 Martin Luther King Jr., Drive, S.E., Atlanta. Events include a luncheon and photo opportunity in the Governor’s office, proclamations in both, the Senate and House, declaring Gwinnett Day and concludes with a reception at the Freight Room at the Georgia Depot, located across the street from the Capitol. Complimentary shuttles will leave the Chamber’s offices, 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, at 4 p.m. The cost to attend is $60. For more information or to register, call 770-232-3000 or visit www.gwinnettchamber.org.

Learn how to write a mini business plan The Cobb Chamber of Commerce, 240 Interstate North Parkway, Atlanta, will host a free workshop, “Writing a Mini Business Plan,” on Feb. 8, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. The workshop will teach you how to prepare a concise, three- to eightpage mini business plan, a condensed version of a more traditional business plan, which provides more details. A mini plan includes most of the same vital information as the longer plan with items including the description of the business; its products and services; marketing and sales plans; management and operations; and financial plan. You can use the mini business plan format to introduce your company to prospective investors, lenders, and potential business partners. It also gives you, the owner, a quick view of the strengths and weaknesses of your business and its overall feasibility. The workshop emphasizes key financial aspects of starting and running a business with a particular focus on estimating capital requirements and understanding the difference between cash flow and profitability. Register at http://atlanta.score.org/localworkshops or call 770-980-2000.

NFP to hosts networking at ‘Shakers and Stirrers’ Networking For Professionals will host “Shakers and Stirrers” on Feb. 12, 6 – 8 p.m., at Tantra Restaurant and Bar, 2285 Peachtree Road, Suite 100, Atlanta. Attendees can enjoy complimentary nibbles and $5 drink specials. If you register in advance, NFP will e-mail you a list of confirmed guests, to assist you in making connections with your new leads. The cost to attend is $15 in advance and $20 at the door (cash only at the door). For more information or to register, visit www.networkingforprofessionals.com. 1-732-800-1637 or 404-228-7963.

BBA welcomes radio personality, strategist Wes Moss The Buckhead Business Association will welcome investment strategist and radio personality Wes Moss to its business networking breakfast on Feb. 14, 7:30 – 9 a.m., at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, N.E., Suite 137, Atlanta. Moss will discuss his career, the economy and making sound investments in 2013. Moss is the host of “Money Matters” on Atlanta’s 750 AM and 95.5 FM News Talk WSB. He frequently Wes Moss makes guest appearances on CNN, NBC, ABC, and the Fox Business Network. Moss is the chief investment strategist for Capital Investment Advisors, an Atlanta financial firm. The cost to attend is $20, which includes breakfast and parking. For more information or to register, visit www.buckheadbusiness.org or call 404-467-7607.


february 1, 2013 To Contact Us

By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com

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. First Lady Charley The fashion Hercules 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— crowns of all shapes and colors. The cost to attend is $10 per person. All tickets must be purchased by Feb. 8. For more information or to buy tickets, call Jackie Blades at 770482-4361 or Joyce Reed at 770-482-1571.

We Worship

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Faith-Based News & Inspiration

GSU panel to discuss ‘Moving Atlanta to Higher Ground’ Kingdom Fellowship honors legends with black history program Georgia State University’s Joanna Adams, Imam Plemon El-Amin,

Department of Religious Studies will host a panel discussion, “Moving Atlanta to Higher Ground,” on Feb. 6, 5 – 7:30 p.m., at the school’s Rialto Center for the Arts, 80 Forsyth St., N.W., Atlanta. The talk, which is free and open to the public, will focus on how religion inspires positive change in the community and the ways that interfaith efforts can contribute to a better Atlanta. The GSU Department, in cooperation with the Community Foundation and the Higher Ground Group, will bring four long-time Atlanta faith leaders—the Rev.

the Rev. Joseph Roberts, and Rabbi Alvin Sugarman—to the Rialto stage for a moderated panel discussion on religion and key issues impacting metropolitan Atlanta. WXIA anchor Ted Hall will moderate the conversation. Audience members will be invited to present their own questions to the panel. A reception will be held from 5 – 6 p.m. For more information or to register, contact Alicia Clay at aclay6@student. gsu.edu. 404-413-9849.

Elizabeth Baptist to stage ‘Hotel Dunbar’

Elizabeth Baptist Church, 4245 Cascade Road, S.W., Atlanta, will present a free production, “Hotel Dunbar,” on Feb. 13, 7 p.m. With the theme, “Two Are Better Than One,” this production focuses on love and new beginnings as seen through the eyes of couples working to find better relationships between themselves and the Lord. The play reflects the biblical scripture Ecclesiastes 4:9: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor”(NIV). The church’s Worship and Arts Division is staging the production. 404-691-3146.

Kingdom Fellowship Christian Church, 3363 Midway Road, Decatur, will portray the life and times of African American legends with a black history program on Feb. 17, 5 – 7 p.m. The program will pay tribute to “Lost Black Legends: 2009 – 2012” and will feature several members of the church, joined by members of the Girl’s Can’t Help It Organization to act out the life and times of African American leaders such as: President Barack Obama; First Lady Michelle Obama; Sojourner Truth; Harriett Tubman; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Rosa Parks; and Lena Baker, the first African American Georgia woman executed. Baker was arrested after fighting off and killing in self-defense her white employer, who was trying to rape her. The program, which organizers say is an educational, community effort for all to come and enjoy, will portray life as an African American, from the Underground Railroad to electing the 44th president, Barack Obama. Dinner will be served. 404-289-1311.


PAGE 10 To Contact Us

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Health & Wellness

february 1, 2013

Oakhurst expands, opens one-stop clinic in Conyers for low-income

By Joshua Smith

CONYERS—Low-income residents in Rockdale and neighboring counties now have a new health clinic to serve them. The clinic offers a variety of healthcare services for men, women, and children, as well as mental healthcare and even a pharmacy all under one roof. Soon, dental services also will be provided at the facility, officials say. The clinic, located at 977 Taylor St. in Conyers, is a joint venture between Oakhurst Medical Centers and View Point Health. Medical staff and county officials recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the 5300-square-foot clinic. Officials used $441,667 in federal funding to renovate existing space and open the clinic. “This is a one-stop shop to better healthcare,” said Rockdale’s Board of Commission’s Chairman Richard Oden, who will serve on the center’s Board of Directors. “This is a dream come true for our community. Starting with today, Oakhurst, View Point and Rockdale will be able to provide services all the way down the line. The sick and disabled can come here and get everything they need to be both physically and mentally healthy.” Oakhurst is one of 171 community health centers that received federal funding for expansion projects through the Affordable Care Act in May 2012. The act provided $728 million for 398 projects around the country. Nationally, the grants are helping provide access to an additional 860,000 patients. Oakhurst Medical Centers,

After a ribbon cutting ceremony attendees enjoyed tours of the new facility, which features its own pharmacy and staff of nurses and physicians.

Inc. was awarded $441,667 in federal funding to establish and renovate the Conyers location, as well as purchase equipment. Oakhurst CEO Jeffrey Taylor said bringing together the two health centers is a plus for patients and the community. “This center has the opportunity to be a model for the state,” Taylor said. “For many Americans, community health centers are the major source of care that ranges from prevention to treatment of chronic diseases. This investment will expand our ability to provide high-quality care to more people each year.” Oakhurst also operates health centers in Decatur, Atlanta and Stone Mountain. With the newly-constructed Stone Mountain facility and the opening of the Conyers health center, Taylor projects Oakhurst will be serving 20,000 clients annually by 2015. He says the staff of 15 full- and part-time doctors and nurses is expected to double by that time. View Point Health is one of 27 agencies created by

the state of Georgia to provide a safety net for behavioral health and developmental disabilities. The facility provides individual and group counseling, medication management, recovery and crisis stabilization services. View Point has helped 196 Rockdale residents since opening in 2000. “Mental healthcare, addictions and complete physicals will now be available for us to reach more people and give them a total health experience,” said Viewpoint Health CEO David Crews. “We are excited to partner with Oakhurst and look forward to our work together in the future.” Beyond healthcare services, the Conyers location will provide Path to Wellness Education classes and other programs including Hypertension Management, Diabetes Management and Prescription Assistance. Walk-in visits are welcome. The center is open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Oakhurst accepts virtually all major insurance plans. 678-210-2700. www. oakhurstmedical.org.

Calendar A.D. King Foundation offers Youth Empowerment Health Fair Piedmont Hospital to host baby class for siblings Piedmont Hospital, 77 Building, 1968 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, will host a free class for siblings, “Our New Baby,” on Feb. 14, 4 – 5p.m. Big brothers and sisters prepare for the new baby’s arrival in this class. Designed for children ages 3 and above, parents and children attend together. Attendance is especially encouraged near delivery due date. Participants meet on the sixth floor, Classroom 8. For more information: 404-605-5000.

Gwinnett Medical registering for first trimester workshop Gwinnett Medical Center is currently registering for its free workshop for expecting mothers and their partners, “Healthy Beginnings: 1st Trimester,” on Feb. 19, 7 p.m., at the Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion, 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville. The class is designed to help you get off to a healthy start with your pregnancy, topics include: fetal development, prenatal care, healthy lifestyle choices, nutrition and current body changes. Organizers suggest registering in advance, as seats are expected to fill quickly. 678-312-1000.

The A.D. King Foundation will host its first Youth Empowerment Health Fair Summit on Feb. 10, 1 – 6 p.m., at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Recreational Center, 90 Boulevard N.E., Atlanta. The “Keeping Our Youth Healthy” health fair will feature free health services for youths. Free screenings and tests will include mental health, obesity, HIV/AIDS, cholesterol, vision and dental. Youths can also learn about depression, suicide and substance abuse at the fair. There will be a dialogue and conversation on music, violent video games, the dropout rate and guns as well. Parents can receive free screenings including Prostate (PSA) and breast cancer; as well as join discussions on intervention, mentoring, referrals, counseling, Medicare and Medicaid. For more information: 404-658-1149 or 678-651-0914.

DeKalb Medical sets American Red Cross blood drive DeKalb Medical and the American Red Cross will team up to host a community blood drive on Feb. 13, 12 – 6 p.m., in the Bobbie Bailey Tower Auditorium, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur. Help others by giving blood at DeKalb Medical’s blood drive and receive a free lunch, free parking and a chance to win one of five $25 gasoline gift cards. Although you are not required to pre-register, you can register by going to www.givelife. org and enter DeKalb Medical’s sponsor code: demece. To register by telephone or for more information, call 404-501-WELL.

Emory gives healthy heart advice in time for Valentine’s Day Have a healthy heart this Valentine’s Day with Emory Healthcare’ free “Taking Control of Heart Failure” workshop on Feb. 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., in the hospital’s Glenn Auditorium, 550 Peachtree St., Atlanta. The workshop will cover managing heart failure and related conditions. The topics provide helpful information about self-care and healthy habits. For more information: 404778-7777 or 1-800-75-EMORY.


february 1, 2013

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Secrets to Healing and Self Renewal for Women Roxanne Padmore, ND, Doctor of Natural Health will host a FREE class “Secrets to Healing and Self Renewal” on Saturday, February 16, 2:00-4:00pm at DeKalb Library/Stonecrest-3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia, GA 30038. You’ll discover how to rid your body of environmental pollutants, industrial chemicals, additives and molds; so you’ll be able to experience the full potential of your physical, mental and spiritual energies. If you’re battling with weight gain, tiredness, sleeplessness, headaches, sinus/ allergies, constipation, body odor, brain fog, thyroid and hormonal imbalances, then this class is right for you. Seats are limited—To register, call 770-760-7190 or 770-906-2004

Roxanne Padmore, ND “Secrets to Healing and Self Renewal” February 16, 2:00-4:00pm DeKalb Library 3123 Klondike Road Lithonia, GA 30038.

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february 1, 2013


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