April 15 Issue by On Common Ground News

Celebrating 16 Years In The Community

Serving DeKalb & Metro Atlanta Volume 17 Number 2

www.ocgnews.com

APRIL 15, 2011

FREE

Former DeKalb clerk of Superior Court sues long-time friend over job By Valerie J. Morgan

Former Superior Court Clerk Linda Carter

n a bizarre turn of events, DeKalb County’s former clerk of Superior Court Linda Carter has hired Atlanta attorney A. Lee Parks, who specializes in unemployment discrimination, to fight for her return to office. Carter is battling early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and Parks says she was duped into signing a letter of resignation in March giving

Debra DeBerry stands in a storage room at the DeKalb Superior Court, where she has taken helm as the top clerk. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OGC News

Aloha, Hawaii!

See Lawyers, page 6

Long distance field trips open a world of learning for Bouie ‘Discovery’ students

Bouie Principal, Dr. Audrey Brooks, and Assistant Principals Penny Mosley and Mark Bryant pose for the camera after their return home. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OGC News

By Valerie J. Morgan How many kids from Atlanta can say they’ve traveled to the birth state of President Obama? How many have visited the ruins of a volcano? How many know that in some places, the alphabet contains INSIDE

Community News...............P 3 Class Notes.......................P 9 Business News.................P 10 Health & Wellness.............P 12 We Worship......................P 14 Home & Garden...............P 17 Classifieds.......................P 18 CONTACT THE NEWSROOM Phone: (678) 526-1910 n Fax: (678) 526-1909 E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com

only 12 letters? Students at Bouie Theme School can proudly say they have been there, done that, know that. Twenty-seven students in the Lithonia school’s Discovery Program visited Hawaii during a pre-Spring Break trip in March that exposed them to Hawaii’s culture, food, history and people. The highlight of the trip was a visit to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located on an island 30 miles from Hilo. Discovery program teachers Rozalyn M. Todd and Tamara Burdette plan many of their long distance trips around national parks to expose students to awesome wonders of the world. “We want them to witness

up her elected office. Carter, 58, filed a lawsuit in DeKalb Superior Court on April 14 against her successor, Debra DeBerry, a woman who has been her long-time friend and who formerly held the No. 2 spot in her office as chief deputy clerk. Attorney James Radford, Jr., who is working with Parks on Carter’s case, said DeBerry took advantage of Carter’s disability by fraudulently writing a letter of resignation on her behalf and naming herself as Carter’s replacement. “Ms. Carter did not know what she was signing,” Radford told On Common Ground News. With the resignation, Carter forfeited the chance to become vested and collect her full compensation and benefits, which she needs to

firsthand the places that they’ve learned about through books and the internet,” Todd said. “It’s living history. I wish that all of our students could experience such field trips.” “We are creating lifetime experiences. This was a trip they will never forget,” Burdette said. “When they read about Pearl Harbor, they will be able to say ‘I’ve been to Hawaii, where the attack happened.” The group drove past President Obama’s grandmother’s apartment and the school he attended in Honolulu’s island of Oahu. Todd said she was inspired to write television’s Oprah Winfrey about her students’ experience after a park ranger

Students who went on the trip 1. Trinity D. Colbert 2. Brendan Reid 3. Justus Demery 4. Jameer Alves 5. Miles Lee 6. Kamora Reynolds 7. Valerie Quarshie 8. Bryston Lee 9. Amelia Davis 10. Jairus Gilbert 11. Ariel Haughton 12. Sekaye Goodings 13. Marquis Carter 14. Onyekachukwu Obeki

on her show mentioned that few African Americans visit them. Todd and Burdette are making sure students in Bouie’s Discovery program not only visit but become junior rangers with the National Parks. Through junior ranger activities, games and puzzles, participants ages 6-14 learn all about a specific national park and earn badges, patches, pins, and stickers. Todd said Discovery program students have traveled near and far. “We have gone skiing in Magee Valley, North Carolina; toured the majestic Hoover Dam in Nevada; the Petrified Forest, the Painted Desert and the Grand Canyon, all in Arizona; and Yosemite National

15. Aniyah Vassall 16. Shawn Windom 17. G’Kai Allen 18. Caleb Cummings 19. Idris Abdur Rahman 20. Jordan Holmes 21. Kennedy Segars 22. Jazmine Callaway 23. Mikayla Alves 24. Nadia Bent 25. Ahjadin Grigg 26. Kelis Johnson 27. Endure McTier

Park in California,” Todd said. Dr. Audrey Brooks, Bouie’s principal, commended Todd and Burdette for their hard work. “I was very proud of the way our students conducted themselves and I was very impressed with the research and planning that our teachers did for the trip,” said Brooks, who also went on the trip. Along with the 27 students and three schools’ officials, 18 parents went on the trip to Hawaii. Each student raised $1,750 to go on the seven-day excursion, which was planned with the help of The Travel Store. “I am very grateful that my family and others helped to pay See Trip, page 6

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APRIL 15, 2011 Volume 17, NO. 2 Publishers Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com Valerie J. Morgan editor@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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Community News Veterans Expo to offer on-site help for families

ongressman Hank Johnson is sponsoring a Veterans and Armed Forces Expo on April 29, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., at DeKalb Technical College’s Conference Center, 495 N. Indian Creek, Dr., Clarkston. Veterans, military personnel and their families will receive free information about available services and on-site assistance with benefits, including employment opportunities, housing, health care, education and filing Veterans Rep. Hank Johnson Administration claims. “We owe our service members, their families and all our veterans an immeasurable debt,” said Johnson, a member of the House Armed Services Committee. “I’m holding this expo to ensure veterans and their families receive their full benefits.” The event is being held in conjunction with DeKalb County government. All veterans, military personnel and their families from throughout the Fourth District are welcome to attend. “We have more than 45,000 veterans who call DeKalb County home, and we are pleased to partner with Congressman Johnson to ensure our veterans have access to the services they need,” said DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis. Some of the expo participants are: The Georgia Department of Veterans Service, the Georgia Department of Defense, the Veterans Benefits Administration and the Veterans Health Administration. For onsite assistance, bring a government-issued photo ID and a copy of your DD214. If you want to speak with a representative about your claim for VA compensation benefits, bring copies of recent VA correspondence or decisions and any evidence that supports your claim. Copying facilities are not available onsite, so please do not bring your original documents for submission. If you need assistance with a home loan, please bring your mortgage documents and recent correspondence. Participating veterans can register, receive more information and view a map at http://hankjohnson.house.gov/veteran-index. shtml. Pre-registration is encouraged. 770-987-2291.

Free recycled paint to highlight Atlanta cleanup ATLANTA– The City of Atlanta wants intown residents to clean up graffiti, neighborhood eyesores and perhaps even help an elderly or disabled neighbor with a home improvement project during its Earth Day event on Saturday, April 23. Neighborhood associations and community groups in the city of Atlanta can obtain free 5-gallon recycled containers of paint, while supplies last, for beautification projects by registering at http://livethrive. org/carla-smith-registration/. The paint will be available at Turner Field’s Gold Lot, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The lot will also serve as a drop-off site for old latex paint and old electronics to be recycled. District 1 City Councilmember Carla Smith,

who is hosting the event, says that now is a good time for city residents to clean out their garages and attics of unwanted electronics. She is partnering with Live Thrive, Atlanta Recycling Solutions, Keep Atlanta Beautiful and Turner Field to collect and recycle computers and other household electronics. Atlanta Paint Disposal will collect discarded latex paint at the event. The first 100 cars to drop off electronic items at the collection site will receive a free one-gallon can of Legacy Recycled Paint and will have the opportunity to win for a free rain barrel. Electronic items and paints can have a harmful effect on the eco-system, emitting various chemicals into the soil See Recycle, page 6

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Free Food, Free Clothes, Free Health Screening Games, Gifts and Prizes, Gospel Rappers, Gospel Concerts, Gospel Bands, Dancing, Mimes, Step Show, Car-Rim Show, Motorcycle Show, Skate Board Contest, Video Games Contest, 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament and Jumpers for Kids *****

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On how you or your ministry or your business can become a Rock the City sponsor please call the number below. To register to participate in the Car Show, Motorcycle Show, Hair Show or Skate Board Contest at Rock the City Event on April 30th, please call:

“Rock the City In The Park” April 30, 2011 @ 12 Noon - 6:00 PM Southeast Athletic Complex Park If you want to be a part of this Prophetic Movement in April, then meet us in the Park and let’s Rock the City together.

Shekinah Glory Tabernacle 6087 Covington Hwy, Decatur, GA 770-808-4647

Let’s Rock The City Together!

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APRIL 15, 2011

Coming up

DEKALB Get ready for the “Super 7 Sweep” DeKalb County Commissioners Stan Watson and Larry Johnson will join forces to host the “Super 7 Sweep” on April 23, 8:30 a.m., at the Wesley Chapel William C. Brown Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur. The community cleanup will be conducted on Wesley Chapel Road between Rainbow Drive and Flat Shoals Parkway. This event is hosted as a result Commissioner Commissioner of Commissioner Watson’s commitment Stan Watson Larry Johnson to support Keep DeKalb Beautiful, the Great American Clean Up and Dump It Right for Earth Day and his continuous effort to improve the lives for those who call DeKalb County home. With your help, the project can achieve the goal of having 100 participants help clean up our community. For more information, contact Kelly LaJoie at 404-371-3681 or klajoie@ dekalbcountyga.gov.

Seniors get set for Olympic Games Senior citizens have until April 18 to register for the DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games to be held on May 9 – 20 at venues across DeKalb. DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will host the Olympic-style sports festival, which is in its 25th year. The event provides senior adults ages 50 and older an opportunity to participate in their favorite sports and meet other residents from across the county. Participants will compete in a variety of sports, including free-throw basketball, bowling, golf, horseshoes, track and field, billiards, swimming, tennis and water volleyball. Other sports and activities available include dominoes, a line dancing competition, talent show, Wii bowling and a health expo. Participants are encouraged to compete as a team or enter individual events for friendly competition. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each event. The DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games is open to DeKalb residents, as well residents from surrounding counties. Applications are available online at www. dekalbcountyga.gov/park or at all DeKalb County recreation centers, libraries and select senior centers. For more information about the DeKalb Senior Olympic Games, call Jackie Swain at 404-371-2990.

Decatur library offers interview help The DeKalb County Public Library Decatur branch, 215 Sycamore St., Decatur, will offer “WOW Them with Savvy Interview Skills” on April 27, 1 – 2:30 p.m. The interview is a critical step toward a goal of employment. Interviews can be stressful, but when you are well-prepared, there is no reason to panic. In this session, facilitators will talk about fundamental preparation for a polished professional image, proper dialog for the interview, answering tough interview questions, successfully closing the interview and professional follow-up after the interview. Tabitha McGowan, program facilitator for career services at Goodwill of North Georgia, presents this free course. Space is limited. Please register in advance by calling 404-370-8450, ext. 2259.

Bruce Street seniors to host fish fry The members of the Bruce St./East DeKalb Senior Center, 2484 Bruce St., Lithonia, will host a fish fry fundraiser on April 30, 10 a.m. The center’s fundraising committee are selling tilapia and whiting sandwiches for $4 and dinners for $6. Along with the fish fry, attendees can enjoy a jewelry sale featuring the work of several local artists and center members and a flea market that will include handmade leathers, gourmet coffees, homemade baskets and other treasures. Money raised will benefit the Bruce St. Center’s classes, activities, guess entertainment and supply needs. Vending tables are available for rent at $25 each. For more information and to pre-order for the fish fry, call 770-482-0402.

Stephenson High dance troupe sets benefit event The Stephenson High School Repertory Dance Ensemble (RDE) will host a benefit performance on April 29, 7 p.m., and April 30, 3 p.m. at the school, 701 Stephenson Road, Stone Mountain. The theme is Dance Connection—connecting to community one step at a time. The purpose of the performance is to bring the community closer through the art form of dance. The group hopes to raise money to install a new dance floor for the program. The existing floor in the dance department is concrete, which is hard and damaging to student’s muscle and bone development. The dancers will perform to several forms of music, including ballet, modern hip-hop, African dance and jazz. Other dance troops from in and around Atlanta also will perform. Tickets are $10 and will be on sale in advance and at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, call Kimberly Washington at 770-484-8585 or 678-851-5335.

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Recycle your old electronics at Smoke Rise event The Great American Clean Up electronics recycling event will be held on May 7, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at Smoke Rise Charter School, 1991 Silver Hill Road, Stone Mountain. Please dispose of old electronic equipment in an environmentally responsible way. The collection will accept old computers, machines, cables, radios, cameras, toner cartridges, etc. Televisions will be accepted for a $10 charge. The community also is invited to help clean up the school’s adjoining outdoor classroom. All are welcome. For more information, call Michelle Wiseman at 404384-3339.

ATLANTA Girl Scouts host free event for young girls The Girl Scouts’ Girls Excelling in Middle School (GEM) program will host a day of activities for DeKalb County middle school girls on April 16, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Gresham Park Recreation Center, 3113 Gresham Road, S.E., Atlanta. Attendees can enjoy interactive breakout sessions, special guest dance and sports performances, workshops, raffles for gift cards and MP3 players, other giveaways, a live DJ and food. At the completion of the day’s activities, each non-Girl Scout member has the opportunity to sign up and become a member of the GEM program. For more information, call 770-702-9133 or email healthylivinggirls@gmail.com.

New baby items needed for homeless families HomeAid Atlanta will host the 10th annual charity drive for homeless mothers and their babies April 25 – May 2 in honor of Mother’s Day. The drive is a community-wide effort to collect essential baby items. New items being collected include diapers, baby wipes, baby food, formula and baby hygiene products. Everything collected through the drive will be distributed to local nonprofit organizations serving homeless families and children in the metro Atlanta area. Donations are tax-deductible. A list of drop-off sites is available online at www.homeaidatlanta.org/dropoff. Donations can also be made through HomeAid Atlanta’s baby registries at Babies “R” Us and Target. To access the registries, enter “HomeAid” for the registrant’s first name and “Atlanta” for the last name. Founded in 2001, HomeAid Atlanta is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working in partnership with the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, and is a local chapter of HomeAid America, a leading national provider of transitional housing for the temporarily homeless. 678-775-1401.

GWINNETT Hygiene cosmetics needed for troops overseas The Gwinnett County Justice and Administration Center is collecting items for troops over seas until April 26. Show your support by donating the following items to help fill Christmas stockings for Georgia troops overseas: toothbrushes (must be individually wrapped), lip balm and travel-sized hygiene items including deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, toothpaste, dental floss, lotion, hand sanitizer, mouthwash and facial cleanser. Drop off your donations through April 26 at the following locations: Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville; Department of Water Resources Headquarters, 684 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville; or any Gwinnett County Fire Station. 770-822-8000.

Taste of Shiloh festival set Shiloh High School students will host a “Taste of Shiloh” on April 16, 11a.m. – 4 p.m., at the school, 4210 Shiloh Road, Snellville. The event includes an arts festival and food tasting, so come for the art and stay for the taste. You can enjoy the works of student artists from the Shiloh school cluster, along with local entertainment, a silent auction, children’s play area, community partners fair and an antique car show. To purchase food and entertainment tickets, contact the Shiloh Community Foundation at tasteofshiloh@hotmail.com. 770-972-8471.

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Outback Steakhouse charity lunch to benefit seniors Outback Steakhouse has teamed up the Friends of Gwinnett Senior Services to offer the “Outback at Work” Charity Lunch to benefit Gwinnett County senior programs on April 27. Those who order lunches to be delivered on April 27 will be helping local seniors. The special lunch includes a wood-fired grilled steak sirloin, grilled shrimp, seasoned green beans, and Aussie fries for $15. At least 10 meals per work site in Gwinnett County must be ordered to participate. To place an order, call Melanie Miller at 770-822-8842 or e-mail melanie.miller@gwinnettcounty.com by April 20.

ROCKDALE Youths give back on Youth Service Day Keep Conyers-Rockdale Beautiful will host the Global Youth Service Day in Rockdale County on April 16. Global Youth Service Day is an annual campaign that celebrates and mobilizes the millions of children and youths who improve their communities each day of the year through service and service learning. Established in 1988 as National Youth Service Day in the United States, and expanded globally in 2000, Global Youth Service Day is the largest service event in the world, and the only day of service dedicated to children and youths. The Rockdale County Global Youth Service Day will be held across the county on April 16, 8 to 11 a.m. Youths can volunteer at county parks and other facilities in Rockdale. A celebration will be held at Wheeler Park, 12-1:30 p.m., following the event. Food will be served to all participants. Register your children, organization, church, or school as soon as possible to ensure location availability and to reserve your spot at the celebration. For more information, email Kristin Byars at kristin.byars@rockdalecounty.org call 770-278-7053. You may also email Carl Morgan at carlmorgan@cause-4-change.org.

Financial literacy, beautification on tap for AKAs

The Chi Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is conducting two community service projects this month. On April 28, 6 p.m., the AKAs will partner with Lowe’s Home Improvement Store for an Arbor Day beautification project. The sorority will plant trees and flowers donated by Lowes at the campus of Rockdale High. On April 30, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., the sorority will present “Is your Financial House in Order?” The financial literacy workshop, which will be held at Rockdale High School, will feature discussions on estate planning, retirement strategies, budgeting and cost-saving tips. This event is open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Rockdale High is located at 1174 Bulldog Circle, N.E., Conyers. For more information, call Joyce Walden at 770-701-2182 or Keisha Lewis-Brown at 770-842-5158.

Unity rally set at Georgia Horse Park The Unity Rally for Cultural Awareness and Racial Harmony will host a free community rally on April 30, 12 – 10 p.m., at The Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway N.E., Conyers. Enjoy culturally diverse activities, food, and entertainment to promote peace, harmony, and understanding between the different races and nationalities of people. For more information, call Deborah Anderson at 770-648-8023 or email info@ unitrally.org.

Girl Scouts present carnival bash The Rockdale Service Unit of the Girl Scouts will host its year-end carnival bash on April 30, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at Ebenezer United Methodist Church, 2553 Station Road, Conyers. Activities include a car wash, silent auction, and community yard sale. There also will be a carnival with face painting, two inflatable playpens, cakewalk, games and favorite carnival foods including hot dogs, cotton candy and popcorn. For more information, call Patti Bryson at 770-712-1688.

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Lawyers: Carter was duped into signing letter

Trip to Hawaii makes lasting impression

continued from page 1

cover her illness, Radford said. Carter, who had been in office for 10 years and was serving her third term as clerk, was first elected in 2000, and again in 2004 and 2008. DeBerry worked on all three of Carter’s campaigns. Carter hired her to work in the clerk’s office about a year after her first election, and DeBerry has been there every since. DeBerry denies any wrongdoing. She was sworn into office March 25, the day after Carter’s resignation letter was accepted by Gov. Nathan Deal. “The County Attorney has said I cannot discuss it. I’ve done nothing but been a friend to her. I tried to protect her,” DeBerry said. “This is nuts.” In a letter sent to DeKalb’s Superior Court judges, DeBerry said she is looking forward to a time when she can clear her name. She wrote the letter to assure the judges that work was being conducted in an orderly fashion in the wake of allegations made against her. County spokesman Burke Brennan said the county would not comment on the case because of pending litigation. According to the lawsuit, Deputy Clerk Lisa Oakley presented the letter to Carter on March 24 as a routine business document requiring Carter’s signature. The contents of the letter were concealed. Oakley, under DeBerry’s instructions, did not inform Carter what she was signing. Oakley indicated some urgency in getting her to sign the letter. When Carter’s husband, John, arrived at the courthouse to pick up his wife from work that day, Oakley escorted Carter to the car and told him that Carter had resigned. That evening, John Carter called Deputy Clerk Rick Setser to find out what happened surrounding the signature on the resignation letter. Setser said he and DeBerry created the letter jointly and had Carter to sign it in order to avoid media inquiries into Carter’s medical condition, the suit says. Carter’s attorney sent a letter dated March 30 to DeBerry demanding that Carter’s job be returned. A letter also was sent to County Attorney Lisa Chang. The letter to DeBerry stated that she was aware that Carter was recently diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and experiences periods of dementia, for which she is being treated. “You took advantage of Ms. Carter’s fragile mental state to induce her to sign a letter she did not understand,” Attorney Parks wrote. “Certainly, she did not know that you, by coercing her to sign the letter, were promoting yourself to her elected position.” Parks said Carter is committed to finding the right treatment and completing her term in office. “We think she can do the job. There is enough support staff for her to continue working,” Radford said. “She should be treated as anyone else with a disability who holds a job. That person may need treatment and have to take medical leave, but they are allowed to keep their jobs.” The clerk of Superior Court office files and maintains all court records— from divorces and adoptions to trade name registrations and criminal cases, as well as land and real documents.

for me to go,” said Jordan Holmes, who is in fifth grade. Her mother, Iris Hannah, who teaches third grade at Bouie, helped her to write letters to family, friends and others. Kennedy Spears, another fifth grader, said she enjoyed the beaches in Hawaii, while her classmate, Endure McTier, said she enjoyed sampling the various foods. Todd recalled a food favorite they saw everywhere. “Everywhere we went, there was spam. It was even cooked in the eggs,” Todd said.

Discovery program teachers Rozalyn M. Todd and Tamara Burdette

Recycle your stuff continued from page 3

and watershed, if not property recycled. The following electronic items (regardless of working condition) will be accepted at Turner Field: • COMPUTER •

• • • • • • • • •

MONITORS TELEVISIONS ($10 fee required) MICROWAVE OVENS COMPUTER CPU’s TELEPHONES LAPTOPS COPIERS CB RADIOS PRINTERS VIDEO MACHINES CD PLAYERS

• • • • • • • • • • • •

DISK DRIVES VCRs and DVD Players PORTABLE RADIOS FLOPPY DRIVES CAMCORDERS CELL PHONES NETWORKING EQUIPMENT CAMERAS KEYBOARDS MODEMS RECORD PLAYERS SCANNERS

• • • • • • • • • • •

CURCUIT BOARDS SPEAKERS ELECTRICAL PANELS TYPEWRITERS UPS / BATTERY BACKUP FAX MACHINES CD ROMS PROJECTORS CABLES COMPUTER MOUSES STEREOS

The following items will not be accepted: consoles, projection televisions, vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, washers, dryers, freezers, de-humidifiers or humidifiers, gas-powered equipment, tires, household trash and non-electronic equipment. For more information, call Councilmember Smith’s office at (404) 330-6039 or visit www.livethrive.org.

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Easter Egg Hunts Abound DEKALB Easter Bunny, eggs beckon families to Decatur Square The City of Decatur will host its Easter egg hunt on the Square April 16, 10:30 a.m. Bring your basket and welcome the Easter Bunny arriving on Decatur’s mini fire truck. Be sure to put on your bunny ears and then line up and get ready for the hunt, which begins promptly at 11 a.m. Kids are organized by age groups, infants through grade 5. For more information, visit www.visitdecaturgeorgia.com or call 1-866-6335252, ext. 3346.

Avondale hosts annual hunt, dog parade The City of Avondale will host its annual Easter egg hunt on April 23, 10 a.m. at Lake Avondale, 21 North Avondale Plaza, Avondale Estates. Children up to age 10 are welcome to participate. Several prizes and ,of course, candy will be given to the children. The hunt is part of the city’s Spring Extravaganza and will be followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Lake Avondale and a spring dog parade featuring dogs that will compete for awards such best costume and best Dog Duo with their owners. Attendees can also enjoy music, face painting, a bake sale and a BBQ fundraiser. For more information, or to register, visit http://avondaleestates.org/events. html or call 404-294-5400.

Games, prizes, eggs at Clarkston First Baptist’s hunt Clarkston First Baptist Church will host its community Easter egg hunt on April 23, 11 a.m. -2 p.m. , at Milam Park, 3867 Norman Road, Clarkston. Children of all ages are invited to enjoy refreshments, an assortment of colorful eggs, games and prizes. Clarkston First Baptist Church is located at 3999 Church St., Clarkston and is under the leadership of Pastor Karl D. Moore. 404-292-5686.

Visual arts, tea highlight Tupac center’s egg hunt The Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation (TASF), 5616 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain, will host Easter at TASCA on April 23, 1 – 3 p.m. The Easter event includes an egg hunt and face painting for children ages 1 – 8. Children ages 9 – 11 can participate in visual arts paintings and youths ages 12 – 18 can help volunteer with the event and learn more about the programs offered at the center. Parents can enjoy a tea and cookies and book signing session with author Gloria Jean Cox. Children should bring their own Easter basket. Adults should bring their favorite tea cup. The event is free. 404-298-4222.

Super District 7’s Watson to host “Easter Egg-travaganza” DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson, who represents DeKalb County’s Super District 7, will host the 7th Annual “Easter Egg-travaganza” on April 24, 3 – 7 p.m., at Wade Walker Park, 5584 Rockbridge Road, Stone Mountain. In addition to an Easter egg hunt, attendees can enjoy face painting, inflatables, snacks, games, prizes and other Easter treats. The Egg-travaganza also includes DeKalb County’s Police and Fire, departments, Police Athletic League, Fraternal Order of Police, Parks and Recreations, Georgia Egg Commission, local McDonald’s franchises, motorcycle groups, Covington Highway horseback riding club, Wal-Mart, Coca Cola Company. For more information, call 404-371-3681.

ATLANTA Get hopping with the Easter bunny at Callanwolde The Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, 980 Briarcliff Road, NE, Atlanta, will welcome the community to its Easter Eggstravaganza on April 23, 10 a.m. – noon. The Eggstravaganza features the Easter Bunny, a live performance by Enzo the Clown, Atlanta Braves prizes and thousands of eggs for the hunt. Egg hunts will be set up for three age groups: 11:15 a.m.—babies to age 2; 11:30 a.m.—ages 3-5; and at 11:45 a.m., ages 6 and up will hunt. In case of rain, the event will be cancelled. Arrive early for free parking and shuttle bus service to Callanwolde beginning at 9:30 am at the Emory University Briarcliff Campus, 1256 Briarcliff Road. There will be no onsite parking. Bring your Easter basket and your camera for a fun, family day set on Callanwolde’s gardens and grounds. Adults admitted free. Admission for children 12 and under is $10 with advance purchase online at www.callanwolde.org and $12 at the door. 404-872-5338.

Join Peachtree Road UMC for hunts, pony rides Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, is hosting its Easter Eggstravaganza on April 23, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join a fun celebration featuring egg hunts, pony rides, astro jumps and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny. The hunt is organized as follows: At 10:30 a.m., 1-2 year olds will hunt; at 11a.m., ages 3-5 and 6-8-year olds will hunt; and at 11:15 a.m., ages 9 and older will hunt. The church is located at 3180 Peachtree Road, N.W., Atlanta. 404-266-2373.

GWINNETT Take an underwater dive for eggs in Lawrenceville A fun twist to this year’s egg hunt: Go underwater. Join Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation for an underwater egg hunt on April 16, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., at the Bethesda Park Aquatic Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville. Kids can enjoy the underwater egg hunt until noon, then welcome a visit from the Easter Bunny at 1 p.m. There also will be spring crafts, swimming and other fun activities. Bring your basket, swimsuit and towel. Admission for non-Gwinnett residents 11 through adults is $10; ages 4 to 10, $8; 3 and under, $4. Gwinnett residents pay half the cost. 678-924-6334.

Voices of Faith to host bible trivia hunt The Youth Ministry at Voices of Faith Ministries in Stone Mountain will host “Easter Egg Bible Trivia Hunt” on April 17, 11:30 a.m. Youths will also be selling hot dogs and a drink for $2. All proceeds raised will go toward the renovation of the church’s youth building and upcoming youth conferences. Voices of Faith Ministries is located at 2500 Rockbridge Road, Stone Mountain. For more formation, call Youth Ministry Director Princess Rouche’ at 770-498-5850, ext. 162.

Snellville to offer family fun at hunt The City of Snellville will host the Easter Eggstravaganza on April 22, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Centerville Community Center, 3025 Bethany Church Road, Snellville. Bring your children and enjoy inflatable equipment, face painting, and egg hunts as follows: Ages 0 – 3 at 10:30 a.m.; 4 – 6 at 11:20 a.m.; 7 – 10 at noon. Snacks will be available at a cost, so bring your basket and plan to enjoy a funfilled morning with your loved ones. 770-985-4713.

Centerville gets set for ‘Eggstravaganza’ Gwinnett County will host the free Easter Eggstravaganza on April 23, 10 a.m. – noon, at the Centerville Community Center, 3025 Bethany Church Road, Snellville. Bring your children and Easter basket and enjoy inflatables, face painting, and egg hunts as follows: Babies and toddlers up to age 3 at 10:30 a.m.; ages 4 - 6 at 11:20 a.m.; ages 7 - 10 at noon. Concession snacks and drinks will be available. For more information, call 770-985-4713 or visit www.centervillecommunitycenter.com.

ROCKDALE Join Olde Town for Louis the Clown, eggs and music Rockdale County will host a Community Easter egg hunt on April 16, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Conyers First United Methodist Church, 921 North Main St., Olde Town Conyers. Children ages 1 through the 5th grade are invited to the hunt. There also will be music, games, prizes and entertainment by Louis the Clown to be held in the Student Center of the church. Parents are required to stay with their children throughout the festivities. For more information, call Stanley Davidson at 770-483-4236.

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APRIL 15, 2011

SPEAK OUT:

Young people invited to YouTube video contest on ‘racial justice’

ampus Progress and Colorlines. com are seeking young people ages 18 to 30 to compete in its 2011 National Keynote Contest. The contest is a call for young people to speak their minds about racial justice. The top three winners will address over 1,000 attendees at the Campus Progress National Conference on July 6 in Washington, DC. To enter, contestants are asked to submit a 1-3 minute video addressing the question: “In your own life, how are you changing the rules of our race conversation, and creating real solutions for racial and social justice?” Videos submitted will be featured on a YouTube page where the public will vote for their favorite videos for the next month. Campus Progress and Colorlines.com staff will pick the three grand prize winners from among the top five most popular video submissions. Campus Progress is the youth division of the Center for American Progress, a nonpartisan, nonprofit progressive organization. Colorlines.com is a daily news site produced by a multiracial team of writers reporting on racial justice issues. “It’s our hope that the contest will serve as a way to leverage the voices of the passionate, motivated young people across the country who are making a difference on important issues, and inspire those around them to get involved as well,” said Campus Progress Events Associate Vincent Villano. “Colorlines.com is an incredible platform for discussion of racial and social justice issues, and Campus Progress could not be more excited to partner with them for this year’s contest.” Colorlines.com Editorial Director Kai Wright said it’s important that young people’s voices be heard. “We’re thrilled to partner with Campus Progress on this unique project and look forward to hearing from our nation’s future leaders on how they are creating solutions for racial and social justice,” Wright said. This is the second year Campus Progress has run a keynote contest in support of the National Conference. Last year’s winners included an undocumented student activist on immigration, a young man once caught up in gang violence who now advocates for peace, and a first-generation college student working to bring young people to the table in discussions about policies that impact their lives. The 2011 Campus Progress National Conference will center on the theme “Turning Truth to Power,” emphasizing ways in which young people are turning their vision of a better world into a positive change. For more information about the conference, please visit: http://campusprogress.org/ national_conference/. For more information on the contest, visit: www.campusprogress.org/ keynote or contact Katie Andriulli at kandriulli@americanprogress.org (202) 481-8238 or Rebekah Spicuglia at rspicuglia@arc.org 415- 290-2970.

Rockdale offers online service for traffic tickets Rockdale County has launched a new service allowing motorists to pay their traffic citations online via the Clerk of Courts’ website, www.rockdaleclerk.com. Rockdale County Superior and State Court Clerk Ruth A. Wilson says the new service improves efficiency for operations. “By providing this remote access to the courts, we make ourselves available to serve the public any day or time at their own convenience and without requiring a trip to the courthouse,” Wilson said. Credit card payments will be accepted via the web and also at the credit card kiosks installed on the third floor of the Courthouse. Credit card payments will no longer be accepted at the service counter.

Lee May to host ‘Coffee and Conversation’ Join DeKalb County Commissioner Lee May for “Coffee and Conversation” on April 23 at Borders Bookstore, 8000 Mall Parkway, at the mall at Stonecrest in Lithonia .“Whether it be pot holes, the county budget or anything you have on your mind, this is the chance to share those concerns with me and the fellow residents of DeKalb County,” said May, who represents District 5. For more information, contact May’s office at 404-371-4745.

Kingdomwood to present short films, improv contest The Kingdomwood Christian Film Festival has teamed up with the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County to host a night of fun featuring short films, a dramatic improve contest and ballroom dancing presentation on April 23, 6 – 10 p.m., at the Hampton Inn, 1737 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone Mountain. The community is invited to attend. Attendees will participate in a dramatic improv session and compete for cash prizes. The night also includes a special presentation from the Grace Dance Group, which will get everyone going with some ballroom dancing moves. A donation of $10 per person is requested. Appetizers will be served. For more information and to RSVP, call 404-915-6117.

Expressions of Sympathy

On Common Ground News offers its condolences to Kenley and Myra Waller, owners of Kenley’s Catering in Atlanta. The long-time DeKalb County residents laid to rest Myra’s mother, Dorothy Mae Goolsby, on April 12. Mrs. Goolsby died on April 8 after a long illness. She was 83. Last year, Myra took leave from the catering business to move her mother to Stone Mountain from Oglethorpe County, where one of her two sisters had cared for her for years. Myra painted a bedroom lavender for her mother and took on caring for her full time, leaving the catering and restaurant operations to her husband. Myra and her sisters, Sandra Thornton and Mearian Burgess, decided when their mother fell ill, she would never go to a nursing home. They shared in caring for her until she died. The newspaper also expresses its sympathy to Erik and Joye Burton for the loss of their baby, Erik Jackson Burton. Erik is director of communications for DeKalb District Attorney Robert James. Joye is C o r n emanager r s t o n for e L dership media relations thee a Georgia “Creating Ambassadors for the World” Department of Health. The couple, who “Creating Ambassadors for the World have two young daughters, Ava and Laila, Chappily ome S e e Wthe h a arrival t T h of e their Buzz Is All were awaiting son when Joye was suddenly hospitalized. Erik Jackson was laid to rest on April 13 during a graveside memorial service attended by the couple’s family and colleagues.

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PAGE 9

Class Notes

To Contact Us

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

Our Schools, Students & Partners

Rowland Elementary brings lessons to life through storytelling By Joshua Smith

STONE MOUNTAIN—Talking spiders? Crabs with floating eyes? Life with turnips? Land or sea— all three story tales were part of a unique lesson for students in second and third grades at Rowland Elementary. The Stone Mountain school welcomed storyteller and author, Kathy Culmer, to celebrate the art of storytelling. During her April 1 visit, she told the stories of “Anansi,” the talking spider, which went on a quest for common sense, and “The Little Crab,” which could take his eyes out and let them float across the water to view the sea. “I love storytelling and will do it anywhere and everywhere I get the chance,” said Culmer, who lives in Houston. “A true storyteller knows it’s up to them to paint the images in the minds of the listener. ” After telling stories that taught the importance of common sense and thinking before you act, Culmer finished off her session with a little African American history, showing students how slaves communicated to one another through songs and drum patterns. Once the children learned new songs and made their legs and the carpeted floor their drums,

Author Kathy Culmer captivated students at Rowland Elementary with her animated storytelling. David Schutten, president of the Organization of DeKalb Educators, invited Culmer to the school. Schutten and the students got in on the act by sharing their own story, “The Turnip Family.” Photos by Joshua Smith/OGC News

they shared a story of their own called “The Turnip Family.” David Schutten, president of the Organization of DeKalb Educators, led the children in telling “The Turnip Family” story, which follows the lives of the Turnip family as they persevere through a rough

Fulton sets spring registration for new students

The Fulton County School System will hold registration for students entering kindergarten and new elementary students on Wednesday, May 4, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Thursday, May 5, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. During these two days, parents of incoming kindergarten students, as well as other new elementary students who will enter school in August, can register their children for the 2011-12 school year. Registration will occur at all Fulton County elementary schools. A notarized affidavit of residence is mandatory for all students. A complete list of documents needed for registration, including immunization requirements for kindergartners and pre-kindergarten students, is posted on the school system’s web site: www.fultonschools.org.

GCPS sets redistricting timeline The Gwinnett County Public School System has adjusted its timeline for the Duluth-Peachtree Ridge redistricting process currently underway. Rather than holding the public meeting at 5 p.m. on April 21, prior to the regular monthly Board of Education meeting, the meeting will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 20. Parents, students and other members of the public affected by the redistricting can state their comments to the board at this meeting. Officials hope the change in time will allow more citizens to participate and the change in date will provide Board members additional time to consider the feedback prior to their vote. The School Board is expected to vote on the redistricting proposal on Thursday, April 21, 7 p.m. Meetings are held in Gwinnett County’s Instructional Support Center, 437 Old Peachtree Road, N.W., Suwanee. 678-301-6000.

B’Yon Standards, LLC Invites You To The:

1st Annual Mother Son Dance Saturday May 7, 2011 6pm -10pm

Stronghold Christian Church Banquet Hall 724 Rock Chapel Road Lithonia, GA 30058

Tickets $50 Per Mother & Son Contact B’Yon Standards at byonstandards@yahoo.com or call 678-499-5874.

winter to grow turnips for the family and keep Grandpa Turnip happy because turnips are his favorite. Schutten says events like this are important because they teach students things they may not learn in the classroom. “Storytelling helps our children

become better public speakers and gives them the confidence to go up before their peers and share their talents and memory skills,” Schutten said. “It’s a fun activity and you can learn a lot from the messages within the stories.”

PAGE 10 To Contact Us

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

APRIL 15, 2011

Business News

Development, News Makers & Events

Stone Mountain Golden Krust marks 5th anniversary

Steel band drummers offer a little Caribbean flavor during the festivities marking the celebration at the Hairston Road store. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OGC News

ree food, prizes and music marked the 5th anniversary celebration for the Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill at 1267 S. Hairston Road in Stone Mountain. Several dignitaries and county officials attended the store’s Customer Appreciation Day on April 2. The franchise’s President/ CEO Lowell Hawthorne attended as well. Hawthorne said the chain will continue to grow and expand in the U.S, “We’re looking to put more stores in the Atlanta area and in Florida,” Hawthorne said. “This is about Golden Krust CEO/Founder Lowell Hawthorne creating jobs ITEM and opportunities.” CLOSING DATE Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill began in the U.S. in 1989 when President/CEO Lowell Hawthorne, his wife, Lorna, along with his siblings and their spouses decided to continue the family tradition started by their parents, Ephraim and Mavis Hawthorne, who foundedinHawthorne & Sons Bakery in St. Andrew, Jamaica. e available The family pooled its resources to open the first Golden Krust retail location tment,inThe Bronx, NY. Lowell Hawthorne left the police department to grow the business. By 1996, the Hawthornes owned 17 restaurants throughout New York City. The erce Drive, business became so successful that they were encouraged to create franchises al information, and in that same year, Golden Krust became the first Caribbean-owned business ite at: in http:// the U.S. to be granted a franchise license. The pivotal year of 1996 also signified Golden Krust´s relocation to its plant in the South Bronx, eventually tml purchasing the entire block from 172nd Street to Claremont Parkway on Park Avenue. ccept or Today, rejectGolden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill operates a chain of over 100 restaurants in nine states (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, waive any Georgia, Florida, Maryland, North Carolina and Massachusetts).

DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Week of April 14, 2011 Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, 2nd Floor, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.

3001974 ITB 3001977 ITB

Lending sources for small businesses

he Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce’s monthly meeting will focus on lending opportunities available to small businesses. The April 20 luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the community meeting room at DeKalb Medical at Hillandale in Lithonia. The guest speakers will be George Hoag, lender with the Small Business Administration (SBA). Hoag is a 20year banking veteran who has worked extensively to secure SBA loans for clients. The Chamber also will present Farrand Logan, senior vice president and Commercial Banking Division Manager at Citizens Trust Bank. Logan will discuss opportunities available for small businesses through Citizens Trust Bank.

Logan is responsible for a $200 million portfolio of commercial customers with various interests. He has worked with some of the largest players in the industry to include Bank of America and most recently SunTrust Bank, where he was vice president of business banking with an assigned territory of 10 SunTrust Branches. The luncheon is open to anyone who would like to attend. For members, lunch is included in the annual membership fee of $200.The cost is $15 for visitors. To RSVP, call 770-482-1808 and leave your name, contact information, and number of people attending or e-mail the information to angelagarrett57@aol.com. You can also pay online at www. lithoniachamber.com.

CLOSING DATE

Fire Extinguisher Service, Inspection and Recharge Disposal of Solid or Construction and Demolition Waste

May 3, 2011 May 4, 2011

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Manhole Rehabilitation Services

May 10, 2011

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Copper Tubing and Fittings

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Procurement

Lithonia Chamber luncheon: asing and

ITEM

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: Kelvin L. Walton, Director/Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting

Please come and join the Clarkston Business Association, DeKalb County Branch of the NAACP & DeKalb County Board of Health

Clarkston International Bible Church Christian Life Center GYM 3895 Church St Clarkston, GA 30021

FREE Rapid HIV Testing on Saturday, April 23, 2011 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

For more information call: Cherry Willis, Health Committee Chair John Evans, President DeKalb NAACP

(404) 626-8505

APRIL 15, 2011

Reggie Gay launches AM radio station in Decatur

PAGE 11

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Royal Style Pharmacy offers royal service to customers

Reggie Gay

eteran radio personality Reggie Gay is the new owner and general manager of 1310 WPBC-AM, a gospel radio station based in Decatur. The station formerly offered Progressive Talk Monday through Friday and a jazz format on Saturdays. Gay, who has been in the radio business for 30 years, says Reggie AM 1310 WPBC will offer music 24 hours a day and will cater to the local market through its 3,000 watts. In conjunction with his weekly TV Show on Atlanta’s 57 WATC-TV, Gay will promote local church choirs, pastors and good singers. “I’m very excited about the new station. Local church choirs, pastors and good singers have been horribly ignored,” Gay said. “We intend to support them. This is going to be a station that is musically driven.” Gay said he he’s also looking for advertisers who may not be able to afford larger FM markets such as KISS 104.1, PRAISE 102.5 and V-103 that have 50,000 watts or more. Gay says the station has already signed on notable businesses as advertisers including Donald Trimble Mortuary, Capitol City Bank and K&G Fashion Superstore. Gay held his launch and live morning broadcast on April 15 in the lobby of Capitol City Bank, 562 Lee Street, Atlanta.

McDonald’s launches nationwide hiring effort In honor of McDonald’s National Hiring Day, DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson will join the McDonald’s staff at the 2020 Candler Road, Decatur, 9 – 10 a.m. to celebrate the mass hiring initiative. McDonald’s and its franchises are looking to hire more than 1,000 new crew and restaurant management positions – an average of four per restaurant – at 277 Atlanta-area restaurants on April 19. The staffing push is part of National Hiring Day, a nationwide initiative that seeks to hire up to 50,000 restaurant managers and crewmembers in one day. The positions will include a combination of seasonal, full-time and part-time positions based on the needs of each restaurant in the Atlanta area. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit their participating local McDonald’s or apply online at McGeorgia.com. “One of the most remarkable things I’ve learned while working with McDonald’s is the amazing opportunity for growth and advancement for bright and talented staff members,” said Donavon Groen, president of the Greater Atlanta McDonald’s Operators Association. “We’re thrilled to participate in National Hiring Day this year and look forward to getting the right people in the right positions to help our business grow.” McDonald’s East Division President Karen King will join Commissioner Johnson at the event.

After running her own pharmacy in Nigeria for 10 years and working at pharmacies here for 16 years, Royal Pharmacy Owner Shola Adeyemo, Rph. is out on her own looking to bring personality and “royal” service to customers in DeKalb. Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News By Joshua Smith

LITHONIA—From her African homeland of Nigeria to Lithonia, pharmacist Shola Adeyemo has kept one thing foremost in mind: Be friendly to customers and provide them with excellent service. In other words, treat them royally. Adeyemo and her husband, Adewale, are putting that work ethic to work at Royal Style Pharmacy, an independent drugstore they opened a little over a month ago near DeKalb Medical at

Hillandale in Lithonia. Adeyemo’s face is a familiar one in the community. She was previously a pharmacist for Eckerd, Walgreens and Kroger. Before coming to the U.S. to embark upon a career here, she operated her own pharmacy in Nigeria for 10 years. “I always wanted to do something in medicine and help people since I was a little girl. I decided I would help people by being a pharmacist. That was a decision I have never regretted,” Adeyemo said. Adeyemo’s “royal” treatment to customers doesn’t just come from the store name. Her husband is actually considered a prince and she is an honorary princess in his native land of Ibadon, located near Nigeria. Adewale Adeyemo helps his wife in the business by managing the dayto-day operations. The store offers a copying and notary center, travel agency and convenience store items along with pharmacy medicines. “I am an engineer by trade. I love meeting new people here and helping my wife build up this business,” Adewale Adeyemo said. “We know that with God and my wife’s help, there is always the assurance that you can be healed.” The Adeyemos pride themselves

on building relationships with their customers. “It’s amazing to me when new customers come in saying they left somewhere like Kroger or another store because I’m not there anymore,” Shola Adeyemo said. “I know that customers are not just buying a product; they come to me because they trust me with their health. I honor that and love when they stop by to talk or just show us their grandchildren and other little things like that. It means a lot to us.” Royal Style Pharmacy invites the community to drop in as it promotes prices that Adeyemo said, “You can’t beat.” “We have the lowest generic prices, most of which are $3 for blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol medicines,” Adeyemo said. The couple is also working to figure out a delivery option for nearby residential, group and personal care homes and assisted living facilities as well. Royal Style Pharmacy is located at 2415 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia. Hours are Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., and on Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. For more information, call 770-837-9034 or visit royalstyle.rx@gmail.com.

Calendar Gwinnett Chamber sets seminar with Ryan Gravel

BBA to host lunch with Gov. Deal

Shakers and Stirrers prepare for networking mixer

The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, will host a seminar and networking event with the mastermind behind the Atlanta Belt Line project, Ryan Gravel Ryan Gravel, on April 20, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Gravel will discuss the BeltLine, urban design techniques, and strategic investments needed in the metro-Atlanta region. Networking and complimentary beverages will conclude the seminar. The cost to attend is $15. 770-232-3000.

The Buckhead Business Association will host a business mixer luncheon on April 21 with keynote speaker Gov. Nathan Deal, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the 103 West Gov. Nathan Deal Restaurant, 103 W. Paces Ferry Road, N.W., Atlanta. The luncheon will feature a keynote address from the governor and will conclude with the BBA Public Safety Awards. The awards will be presented to officers with the Buckhead Police, Fire Department and Fulton County Sheriff’s Department. Gov. Deal’s career includes 23 years in private law practice. His public service includes his work as a criminal prosecutor, a juvenile court judge, 12 years in the state Senate and nine terms in the U.S. Congress. Gov. Deal’s colleagues in the Senate elected him president pro tem, the highest-ranking senator. In Congress, he served as chairman and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Health. The cost to attend is $75. For more information, call 404-467-7607 or visit www.buckheadbusiness.org.

Shakers and Stirrers of Atlanta will host a business-networking mixer on April 26, 6 – 8 p.m., at Tantra, 2285 Peachtree Road, Suite 100, Atlanta. Make business connections and mingle with top professionals. Attendees may enjoy complimentary light nibbles and drink specials at a cash bar. The next day, Shakers and Stirrers will e-mail you the list of confirmed attendees to help you follow up with your new contacts. Only those who sign up in advance online will receive the list of attendees. The cost to attend is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information, call 404-228-7693 or visit http://www.networkingforprofessionals. com/eventlistings.php?event=SSAT.

DeKalb Chamber welcomes Spa Sydell founder The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce will welcome Sydell Harris, co-chairman and founder of Spa Sydell, to its First Monday Lunch Series on May 2, Sydell Harris 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia, 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. The family-owned spa business was founded in 1982 in Buckhead. In the spa industry, Sydell is considered one of the leading experts, having trained a majority of Atlanta’s skin cares technicians. Over the past two decades, she has turned her original skin care spa concept into what many consider the most successful day spa in Atlanta, with seven locations across the city and services ranging from massages and the latest in body treatments to signature facials and manicures. The cost to attend is $45. For more information, call 404-378-8000 or visit http://dcocmay2011.eventbrite.com.

Polish and Irish Chambers offer free networking event The Polish American Chamber of Commerce Atlanta will host a business mixer on April 28, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m., at the RiRa Irish Pub, 1080 Peachtree St., N.E., Atlanta. The event will be sponsored by Sobieski Vodka & Vayu Media. The Polish Chamber will be joined by the Irish Chamber for a great night of business networking and socializing. The Polish American Chamber of Commerce Atlanta (PACC Atlanta) has set a goal of building social, cultural, and business bridges between Poland and the State of Georgia. The mixer is free to attend. 678-977-7350.

Young professionals: Mingle with Networking 101 Networking 101 will host a networking event for young business professionals on April 27, 6 – 9 p.m., at East Andrews Café & Bar, 56 East Andrews Dr., N.W., Atlanta. Networking 101 is a high energynetworking event designed for young professionals looking to connect and create opportunities with other professionals in the Atlanta area. United Distributors will be sponsoring this event. Admission covers one free drink compliments of Absolut Vodka & Rev3 energy drink. Drink specials will be available all evening. The cost to attend is $10. Complimentary valet parking is included. For more information, e-mail Networking101inc@gmail.com or call 404-869-1132.

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APRIL 15, 2011

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Health & Wellness

Resources & Lifestyle Tips

City of Lithonia to tackle diabetes prevention initiative

he city of Lithonia is preparing to welcome the crowds to its amphitheater this summer, but music won’t be the only attraction. The city is teaming up with the DeKalb County Board of Health to educate the public about the impact of diabetes. Vickie Elisa, marketing director for the DeKalb Board of Health, says that county data shows that the disease is one of the top 10 leading causes of morbidity in DeKalb County. There were 4,963 hospitalizations and 534 deaths due to diabetes between 2002 and 2007, county statistics show. “It’s not just the disease itself. It’s also the correlating effects from diabetes that is the most damaging such as heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and foot and leg amputation,” Elisa said. Jason Lary, who has led health initiatives county-wide since 2004, says it is important to reach people where they will come. “We must use conventional and unconventional ways to educate people and stop this health enemy. Large events such as concerts are magnets for drawing people,” said Lary,

marketing and promotions manager. “Delivering the message of prevention methods is the key to our community health initiatives. We are able to capture the attention of thousands of individuals in one setting who fit the high-risk demographics.” In the past, Lary has promoted health initiatives focusing on obesity, breast cancer, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. In July, the focus will be diabetes. “This hits home for me,” said Lithonia Mayor Tonya Peterson-Anderson. “I have close relatives and friends who are inflicted with this disease.” This year, the American Diabetes Association (ADA), American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE), and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation are expected to participate in the city’s initiative, Lary said. The initiative will include vendor presentations, workshops, educational modules, and a limited supply of testing devices to be given away. For more information, including volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, contact jasonlary@ bellsouth.net or the City of Lithonia.

Jason Lary demonstrates Diabetes glucose monitoring meters for the Executive Committee of the health initiative. From L-R: Lithonia Contractor Llicia Villanueva, Lithonia Mayor Tonya Peterson-Anderson, Jason Lary and Vickie Elisa, marketing director for

the DeKalb Board of Health.

Calendar Dr. Nancy J. Williams is CEO and visionary of First Fruit Natural Healing Home in Lithonia. Dr. Nancy specializes in holistic healing, holistic ministry, and is an accomplished holistic detox and weight loss expert. Dr. Nancy enjoys traveling throughout the country and abroad teaching God’s word on health and wellness, empowering others to reach their highest potential. First Fruit Natural Healing Home opened in DeKalb County four years ago. An oasis that sits on five beautiful acres along the Arabian Trail, the center was founded to help others to heal mind, body, and soul. The center houses several practitioners with services ranging from nutrition, massage therapy, colon hydrotherapy, chiropractic care, trans personal/ spiritual counseling, natural healing, and more. On May 7, the center is hosting a FREE OPEN HOUSE from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The community is invited to come out for free food, prizes, live music, and plenty of healthful information. It’s an event you don’t want to miss. The center is located at 3084 Woodrow Drive, Lithonia, 30038. For more information, call 770 484 4745 or visit: www. FirstFruitNaturalHealingHome.com.

Gwinnett Medical offers birthplace tours Gwinnett Medical Center will host tours of its birthplace facilities in both English and Spanish. Expecting parents who speak English are invited to take a tour on April 19, 6:30 p.m. Those who speak Spanish may take the tour at 7 p.m. The tour will familiarize visitors what to expect when on delivery day. In addition to touring the facility, the hospital will provide information on admissions paperwork, visitation policies, family waiting areas and services provided. An additional tour in Spanish will be on April 26, 7 p.m. Tours take place in the hospital’s Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion, 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville. 678-312-4321.

Rockdale Medical Center sets blood drive Rockdale Medical Center will host an American Red Cross blood drive on April 26, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., in the hospital’s East Tower Classrooms, 1412 Milstead Ave., Conyers. The American Red Cross supplies blood and blood products to the patients in the Rockdale community. Donors can enjoy movies or vintage TV shows while donating, as well as cookies, crackers and other snacks. Participants will also be entered into drawings for prizes from the American Red Cross. For more information or to register, go to www.givelife.org and enter the sponsor code “rockmed.” To contact the American Red Cross, call 1-800-GIVELIFE (448-3543).

Weight loss health fair features Khaliah Ali

Learn more about vascular disease

The Center for Surgical Weight Management (CSWM) at Gwinnett Medical Center—Duluth will host the free Weight Loss Surgery Health Fair on April 30, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at the Gwinnett Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. Organizers say the fair will be a special treat to individuals considering weight loss surgery. The event will feature the daughter of legendary heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, Khaliah Ali, who is a LAPBAND® weight loss surgery patient. Hear Ali’s lifeKhaliah Ali long struggle with obesity and her decision to have weight loss surgery. Attendees can enjoy the health fair, featuring risk assessments, nutritional information and physical fitness instructions, as well as a fashion show highlighting the success and transformation of current CSWM patients. Breakfast will be provided. Registration is limited. Attendees will be entered into a raffle to win one of several prizes, including a Wii console with Wii Fit, gym memberships, gift certificates for yoga, pilates, cardio dance mix, nutritional counseling and personal training, a Belk gift basket and a Smoothie King gift card. Register by calling 678-312-5000.

DeKalb Medical Center will host a free discussion on the latest vascular disease treatments on April 27, 6 – 7 p.m., in the hospital’s theater, 2701 N. Decatur Road, Decatur. Join Mirza W. Ahmed, M.D., a DeKalb Medical cardiologist, as he discusses treatment options for peripheral vascular disease and peripheral artery disease. Learn about the latest medical advances to combat these conditions. Each person attending will receive a coupon for a free vascular screening that is valued at $129. There is no cost to attend. Register at www.dekalbmedical.org or call 404-501-1000.

Ancient meditation for cancer survivors Cancer survivors are invited to attend free Qi Gong classes on April 22 and 29, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the Mind and Body Room of the Piedmont Hospital Cancer Center, 1800 Howell Mill Road, Suite 700, Atlanta. Qi Gong (pronounced “chee gung”) is a gentle movement meditation that has been developed and practiced in China for thousands of years. It is a practice that uses movement, breathing and mind focus for gathering, cleansing, circulating and storing vital life energy. Qi Gong has been proven to have many positive physiological and emotional effects, including lowered blood pressure, better circulation, decreased stress and more. In this class, learn theory and principles of Qi Gong, as well as a simple and effective set of practices to support health and healing. The classes are facilitated by Amy Allen, CPT. For more information, call 404-425-7925 or visit www. piedmontcancer.org.

he Gospel Assembly Church is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be provided at all sites listed on the attached Site Listing at the specified start and end times, Attachment C-3.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write or call immediately to: USDA Director, Office of Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20250-9410 800-795-3272 or 202-720-6382 USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

SITE, SITE STREET ADDRESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1ST MEAL . . . . . . . .2ND MEAL . . . . . . . . . . START . . . . . . . . . END DEKALB COUNTY Child First 24 HR . Daycare Center 3990 Glennwood Drive Decatur GA 30032 . . . . . . . . . 8am -9am . . . . . . . .11:15am-1:15pm . . . . . 06/01/2011 Child First 24 HR . Daycare Center 1283 Columbia Drive Decatur GA 30032 . . . . . . . . . . 8am -9am . . . . . . . .11:15am -1:15pm . . . . . 06/01/2011 KES INC 6615 Tribble Street Lithonia, GA 30058 . . . . . . . . . . . 8am-9am . . . . . . . . .11:30am-1:30pm . . . . . 06/01/2011 Camp of Champions Inc . 3261 3261 Panola Rd Lithonia, GA 30058 . . . . . . . . . 8am -9am . . . . . . . .12pm-2pm . . . . . . . . . . 06/01/2011 Miller Preparatory Academy 1833 South Stone Mountain RD ., GA 30058 . . . . . . . 7:30am-8:30am . . . .12:30pm-2:30pm . . . . . 06/01/2011 Black Top Circus 4522 Flat Shoal Parkway Decatur, GA 30034 . . . . . . . 7am-8am . . . . . . . . .12pm-2pm . . . . . . . . . . 06/01/2011 Black Top Circus 4522 Rainbow Dr . Decatur, GA 30034 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7am-8am . . . . . . . . .12pm-2pm . . . . . . . . . . 06/01/2011 MLK High School 3991 Snapfinger Road, Lithonia,GA 30038 . . . . . . . . . 8am-9am . . . . . . . . .11:30am-1:30pm . . . . . 06/01/2011 Gospel Assembly 7771 Pleasant Hill Road, Lithonia,GA 30058 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12:00pm-2:00pm . . . . . 06/01/2011

. . . . . . 08/06/2011 . . . . . . 08/06/2011 . . . . . . 08/06/2011 . . . . . . 08/06/2011 . . . . . . 08/06/2011 . . . . . . 08/06/2011 . . . . . . 08/06/2011 . . . . . . 07/30/2010 . . . . . . 07/30/2010

ROCKDALE COUNTY Faith Covenant Church 1581 A4 Lester Road Conyers, GA 30012 . . . . . . . . . 7:30am-8:30am . . . .11:30 am-1:30pm . . . . . 06/01/2011 . . . . . . 08/06/2011 Fun Time Summer Camp 1825 Hwy . 138 Conyers, GA 30013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8am-9am . . . . . . . . .12pm- 2pm . . . . . . . . . 06/01/2010 . . . . . . 08/06/2011

If you have any questions please call, Annmarie Daley Program Director at 404-579-0616 or 770-482-8250.

APRILâ&#x20AC;Ż15, 2011

PAGE 13

Emory professor honored for AIDS/STD research among blacks ATLANTA - James W. Curran, MD, MPH, dean of Emoryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rollins School of Public Health, has been selected as the 2011 recipient of the Ryan White Distinguished Leadership Award. Â Established in 2009 by the Rural Center for AIDS/STD Prevention (RCAP), the award recognizes significant national contributions to AIDS/STD prevention. RCAP is a joint project of Indiana University, University of Colorado and the University of Kentucky with funding from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop received the honor in 2010. Â Curran was honored at a luncheon on April 9 during RCAPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seventh national conference held at Indiana University Bloomington and focusing on the urgent need to address AIDS/HIVrelated issues among African Americans.

He also gave the keynote address. Â Curran, a professor of epidemiology at Emory and co-director of the Emory Center for AIDS Research, led the HIV research and prevention efforts of the CDC during the early days of the AIDS epidemic. He played a key role in the interactions between the CDC and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in their attempts to investigate and understand the cause and epidemiology of AIDS and was a leader in the efforts of the two agencies to develop an understanding of the international context of the AIDS epidemic. Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;James Curran has had a long history of being a national leader in AIDS prevention. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re recognizing him for that, but particularly for his superb leadership at the beginning of the AIDS epidemic,â&#x20AC;? says RCAP senior director William L. Yarber. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He faced enormous barriers -- lack

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of recognition by the federal government of the importance of this epidemic and the lack of resources available to combat AIDS,â&#x20AC;? said Yarber. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He was very effective at navigating through all those barriers and leading the CDCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts to try to control HIV/AIDS.â&#x20AC;? Â Curran has held his current position since 1995 and holds joint appointments in the Emory School of Medicine, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. He has written more than 260 scientific publications and serves on numerous non-profit boards and committees locally, nationally and internationally. Â In 2009, he received unique recognition by becoming Emoryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first endowed chair in honor of a sitting dean. Â Â Curran is and his successors will be known as the James W. Curran Dean of Public Health. Â

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PAGE 14

APRIL 15, 2011

To Contact Us

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

We Worship

Faith-Based News & Inspiration

Passion plays, dramas, outreach highlight Holy Week

“The Last Seven Words From the Cross” on April 22, 7 p.m., in the main sanctuary. Organizers say this is a one-of-a-kind presentation that can’t be explained, only experienced. The play is presented by the Twelve Wells and will highlight the persecution and the seven “words” Jesus Christ said to his Father and witnesses at the crucifixion. Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church is located at 182 Hunter St., Norcross and is under the leadership of Bishop William L. Sheals. 770-448-5475.

By Joshua Smith

his month, houses of worship are preparing for resurrection Sunday, April 24. From passion plays to ecumenical observances such as Stone Mountain’s 67th annual Easter sunrise service at 7 a.m. on top of the mountain, local celebrations of Jesus Christ’s resurrection run the gamut. Some churches have also decided to celebrate the holy day through service to the community. One example is New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The mega church will host its annual “Resurrection of Faith” community outreach initiative on April 23, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., on its campus at 6400 Woodrow Road, Lithonia. The church will offer health screenings, employment assistance and a host of fun activities for children on that day. Here’s a sampling of some others celebrating this occasion: Light of the World will present a musical dramatization, “Via Dolorosa,” depicting the route that Jesus traveled on his way to die on the cross and the suffering he endured. The musical, which is free and open to the public, will be held April 22, Good Friday. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. The show starts at 7 p.m. Light of the World Christian Tabernacle is located at 5883 Highway 155 North, Stockbridge and is under the leadership of Bishop Ruth W. Smith Holmes. 678565-7001. The Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church will join the Auburn Avenue Church Collaborative for Good Friday Service at Wheat Street Baptist Church, 24 WM Holmes Borders Drive, Atlanta, 12 p.m. Five ministries will collaborate to honor this day, which commemorates a pivotal day in Holy Week. On Easter Sunday, Ebenezer’s Children ministry will present a play at 9:45 a.m. highlighting the life of Jesus Christ and his resurrection. Ebenezer Baptist Church is located at 407 Auburn Ave., N.E., Atlanta and is under the leadership of Pastor Raphael Warnock. New Mercies Christian Church will present the play, “Open Our Eyes,” on April 20, 7 – 9:30 p.m. in the church’s Family Life Center, 4000 Five Forks Trickum Road, S.W., Lilburn.

The resurrection play will highlight the walk Jesus Christ took and the process in which he gave his life for the sins of the people, and his then resurrection after being laid to rest. 770-925-8600. The Buckhead Church will celebrate Good Friday, April 22, at 6 or8 p.m. with a journey back in time led by different ministers at the church, 3336 Peachtree Road, Atlanta. On Good Friday, the church will take a journey through the stories that led up to the events of that night and see how God has faithfully kept his promises to his people throughout history. Childcare for preschool children will only be available at the 6 p.m. service. Also, parents are advised that the content of this night might not be appropriate for children. 404-814-7000. Memorial Drive Presbyterian School’s students will present an Easter play n April 20, 6:30 p.m., 5140 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain. The 2- and 3-year-olds will join kindergartners in the performance. Students will perform songs like “Hosana,” “Always Alive,” and “The Easter Parade.” The play, entitled “At the Cross,” follows the life of a tree that wants to stay in the forest pointed toward heaven, but must be cut down to be used as a cross. 404-296-1783. Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church will present

At Ousley United Methodist Church, Holy Week takes on special meaning during the Maundy Thursday Service. The church will feed the homeless on church grounds at 6 p.m. The service will begin at 7 p.m. The evening of fellowship will consist of an energetic, praise-filled worship service, ending with Holy Communion. For the third year in a row, the church invites the community to come out on Good Friday at 7 p.m. for the popular “Service of the Nails” featuring Liturgists and special music from the Ousley Mass Choir. “The theme for this year’s celebration is “Have You Seen the Lord?” Over 2,000 years ago, Mary Magdalene provided the impetus for this theological inquiry when she saw the Lord for herself. Today, it continues to be an imperative that every human being recognizes the Lord for himself or herself. We see the Lord when we believe in Him, and in His life, crucifixion and resurrection,” said Pastor McCallister Hollins. Ousley United Methodist Church is located at 3261 Panola Road, Lithonia. 770-981-0180. New Covenant Christian Ministries, 1760 Phillips Road, Lithonia, will present an Easter production entitled, “No Greater Love,” on April 22, 8 p.m. The dramatic Easter play chronicles the later life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The presentation is a part of the church’s Good Friday celebration. 770-484-9300. White Oak Hills Baptist Church, 5171 Redan Road, Stone Mountain, will celebrate Good Friday on April 22, 7 p.m. Come worship with church members for “Walking In the Word of God” Good Friday service. Communion will be observed. The event’s dress code is black to commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. 770-469-4145.

Calendar Good News Community CME celebrates 17 years

Beulah Baptist takes on diabetes

Good News Community CME, 2547 Parkway Drive, Lithonia, will celebrate 17 years of ministry with its Spring Fling Festival, April 15 – 17. The spring fling activities will begin on Friday, April 15, 7 p.m., with a spaghetti dinner and family games and other activities. On April 16, festival hours are from10 a.m. - 4 p.m. with free parking, free admission and free food. In addition to the fun activities, blood pressure checks will be administered at the festival. The weekend will culminate on Sunday, April 17, 11 a.m., for the Church Anniversary program where Pastor Roger Walker will deliver a special message addressing the anniversary and recognize dynamic church members. For more information, contact Karen Searcy at krnsearcy@yahoo.com or call 770-713-2075

Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, 2340 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur, will host a free educational seminar addressing diabetes on April 21, 11 a.m. Join the church’s Health Resource Ministry for the diabetes course where participants will learn how to test themselves, practice a healthier diet and learn the impact of diabetes. Participants who complete the seminar will receive a certificate from the Georgia Medical Care Foundation stating certificate of completion and knowledge of diabetes. 404-241-3307.

Saint Philip A.M.E. breaks down the Gospel of John for youths Saint Philip AME Church will host “The Gospel of John” for youths in the community on April 20, 7:30 p.m., in the church’s Education Building, Room 128, 240 Candler Road, Atlanta. The program will be facilitated by the Rev. Suzette Adams and will feature Passion for Christ Ministries, a group of young ministers, poets and actors who encourage youths to come to know God through the theater and other forms of ministry. For more information, email revspearadams@hotmail.com or call 404-3710749.

Rain Outreach to host weekend celebration Rain Outreach Ministries, Inc. will host its first Community Connection Weekend on April 15 – 17 at the church, 671 Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, Stone Mountain. Events kick off with a prayer service at 7 p.m. On April 16, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., the church will host a community fun day with a fish fry, yard sale and games. The weekend concludes on April 17, 11 a.m. , with worship service and a word from Pastor Dwayne M. Fraser. 770-329-5575 or www.rainoutreach.org.

FPC of Atlanta plans visit to state Capitol First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta will take a trip to the State Capitol on April 21, 11:15 a.m. , after meeting at Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church, 2715 Peachtree Rd., N.E., Atlanta. Join the church and other members of the community for what organizers say is sure to be a fascinating afternoon as they enjoy a catered lunch by the Oakwood Café and tour the Capitol. The visit will conclude with a discussion with District 54 State Rep. Edward Lindsey. The cost to attend is $15. For more information, call Pat Kimbrell at 404228-7719.

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PAGE 15

Peace youths to host family prayer breakfast The youths of Peace Lutheran Church, 1679 Columbia Drive, Decatur will sponsor a Family Prayer Breakfast on April 23 (Holy Saturday), 9 a.m. The youth ministry will present a skit themed around the disciples and their life with Christ, and there will be games and other activities for families. The breakfast is $5 per person. For more information, call 404-289-1474.

Learn to drive out your enemies Elizabeth Baptist Church, 4245 Cascade Rd., S.W., Atlanta, will begin the course, “Judges: Driving Out Your Enemies” on April 21, 7 p.m. Nothing has changed from the days of the Judges—people still do what is right in their own eyes. Absolutes are shoved aside and the result is bondage to sin. Only God’s truths and moral principles bring peace and freedom from bondage. The cost of the book needed for the course is $13. 404-699-5522.

Interfaith pilgrimage set for Good Friday Join the Catholic Charities and Social Ministries Department for the Good Friday Pilgrimage on April 22, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., in downtown Atlanta. Good Friday is a day to remember the life and death of Jesus—a day of fasting, prayer and mourning. Catholic Charities’ Parish and Social Ministries Department invites everyone to participate in the 31st Annual Good Friday Pilgrimage on the steps of the state Capitol with a prayer led by local bishops in the ministry. The pilgrimage will end at approximately 1 p.m. at the MLK Jr. Memorial Crypt. This multicultural, interfaith event journeys to 14 locations around downtown Atlanta. It includes prayer, song and reflections to help participants see the suffering of Jesus present in the world today. For more information about the event, call 404-885-7208 or email htauscher@archatl.com.

Ray of Hope sets workshop for step-parents and kids Ray of Hope Christian Church, 2778 Snapfinger Road, Decatur, will launch a free workshop series for stepparents and stepchildren on Saturdays from April 30 – May 28, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Facilitated by certified family trainers ,James and Carletta Youngs, Junious McLean, Jr. and Joyce Auld, the sessions are open to adults and children in relationships where one or both partners have a child or children from a previous relationship. Session topics include myths about stepfamilies, changing roles and expectations, family strengths, co-parenting strategies, stress management, effective communication, managing conflict lies and stepparent/stepchild(ren) relationships. For more information or to register, visit http://www.rayofhope.org or call 678457-1751.

Resurrection Sunday at GVM April 24, 2011 Will you hunt for Easter eggs or Jesus Christ this Easter? All guest children will receive a free Easter Gift Bag at GVM Church.(while supplies last)

Two-Services: 8 am & 11 am Youth Easter Program 10 am

God’s Vision Ministries Church 1475 Klondike Rd. Conyers, GA 30094 www.gvmchurch.org 678-896-9078

Pastor E. Nixon First Lady Cynthia Nixon

“Helping You See Christ”

The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church 1879 Glenwood Ave Atlanta, GA 30316 Dr. William E. Flippin, Senior Pastor

PAGE 16

APRIL 15, 2011

APRIL 15, 2011 To Contact Us

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

PAGE 17

Home & Garden

Resources, Trends & Events

Spice up your kitchen—inexpensively

By Valerie J. Morgan

emodeling your kitchen, interior designers say, still provides one of the best returns when it comes to investing in your home. Real estate agents estimate that homeowners can recoup 91 to 99 percent of their kitchen renovation for projects ranging from $14,000 (mid-range) to $43,000 (major overhaul) when the home is sold. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to enhance the look of your kitchen, if you’d like to do something to spruce it up right now. You can decorate and give it a fresh look for just a few dollars. That new look might be inspired by a piece of art, new cooking utensils or appliances, or even objects you enjoy collecting as a hobby. The trick is to make the space both attractive and functional. As an example, I have a friend who collects bottles of hot sauce. She decided to display her collection on a kitchen countertop, creating a conversation piece about all of the places that she had traveled to collect them. The collection displayed in the kitchen brought new life to an area where the usual and mundane were the norm. Another friend of mine bought all-white, small appliances secondhand: white toaster, white canisters, white coffeemaker, etc. She created a clean, uniform look that was

Cookbooks were the inspiration for creating a pretty and functional use of countertop space in the Morgans’ kitchen.

simple yet very pretty. For a splash of color, she often buys fresh flowers from the supermarket to display in a vase on her kitchen table. My cookbook collection was my inspiration for giving my kitchen a makeover. I purchased some attractive bookends to display my favorites in my kitchen “book nook.” Some of these cookbooks have been handed down in my family. Others are new, coffee table quality. Along with some attractive cooking and decorative oils and a beautiful serving tile gifted

to me by a friend, I spiced up my kitchen. Investment: under $100. You might buy some new dish towels, coordinating rug slices for the sink and fridge, and curtain toppers or new blinds, if you have a window in your kitchen. When Glenn and I lived in Florida, we had a small kitchen with a garden window over our kitchen sink in what was our first home. With the window as the focal point, we displayed various potted plants, painted by our two young children

Calendar Atlanta rolls out welcome mat with spring home tours With April here, it’s time to enjoy the riot of spring flowers and trees that are in bloom—and beautiful homes in Atlanta. Put on your walking shoes and explore three historic Atlanta communities that will showcase homes and beautiful gardens this month. From modern renovations and additions to classic and chic designs, get inspired as homeowners on the tours open their doors. This year’s Druid Hills Home and Garden Tour and Artist Market features six homes ranging from bungalows to mansions. The tours will be held Friday, April 29, and Saturday, April 30 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. The tour homes include “The Quaker House,” built in 1928; Cartor Woolford Gardens; and a Colonial Revival home on East Clifton Road. The Druid Hills Artist Market will feature 45 artists from around the region and entertainment. Lunch and trolley transportation will be available between the tour points of interest. Tour tickets are $20 in advance, $25 day of tour. For tour tickets, call 404-524-TOUR (8687) or visit www.druidhillstour.org The Inman Park Tour of Homes and Spring Festival features homes ranging from Victorian-era Painted Ladies to loft conversions. The tour, in its 40th year, includes four homes that were in the very first tour in 1971, including the home now known as The Wrecking Bar on Moreland Avenue. The tours will be held Friday, April 29, noon to 4 p.m.; Saturday, April 30, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday, May 1, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the weekend of the tour. Tickets can be purchased online at inmanparkfestival.org. Midtown Tour of Homes, in its 40th year, returns April 16 and 17. The 2011 Tour features both single-family homes and condominiums, showcasing old to historic homes. Tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased at www. MidtownTourOfHomes.com, and www.CelebrateMidtownAtlanta.com. All sales are final. The Tour will take place rain or shine.

Workshop: ‘Plant Propagation from A to Z’ “Plant Propagation from A to Z” will be presented April 21, 7 to 8 p.m., at the DeKalb Cooperative Extension Service, 438 Memorial Drive, Decatur. Dr. Bodie Pennisi, a University of Georgia floriculture and horticulture specialist, will discuss how to propagate house plants, as well as other woody and herbaceous plants. This hands-on workshop is part of the 2011 Extension Sservice’s Homeowner Gardening Series. The class is $10 per person (at the door). For more information, visit www. ugaextension.com/dekalb or call 404-298-4080.

Gardening with annuals and perennials A workshop on gardening with annuals and perennials will presented on Tuesday, April 19, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Rockdale County Cooperative Extension 1400 Parker Road, Lobby A, Conyers 30094. The topics that will be discussed include: bed preparation, planting, care and maintenance, and recommended varieties for our area with lots of live blooming specimens. Pre-registration is required by calling 770-278-7373. The cost is $6 per person or $10 per couple (one set of materials).

who were budding artists at the time. I bought a pretty window topper, had glass installed in two of the kitchen cabinet doors to show off our first set up dishes. Depending on your budget, you may replace or reface your kitchen cabinets, buy a new granite countertop, or add a stylish sink and faucet. By spending more money, you can dramatically change the look of your kitchen. But again, if you don’t have that kind of dough, start where you can.

Learn to can your own veggies

Join Ines Beltran and learn how to can vegetables from your own garden. Beltran will teach a class on April 20, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Centerville Community Center. Registration is required by April 18 by calling 770-985-4713. Beltran will also teach a class on April 27, noon to 2 p.m., at the Gwinnett County Annex Building - 2nd Floor Learning Center. You may bring your lunch and sit back and enjoy the program. Registration is required by April 25 by calling Tricia Smith at 678-377-4010.

Decatur Garden Tour, festival set Explore unique garden and outdoor spaces in the Decatur Garden Tour, May 14 and May 15. This year, the tour, under the theme, “Outdoor Spaces. Entertaining Places,” celebrates its 23rd anniversary with 13 lovely gardens located throughout Decatur. Your ticket is good all weekend and includes a Saturday twilight tour and entertainment. All proceeds are shared by the Oakhurst Community Garden Project and the Decatur Preservation Alliance and are used to support their operations and programs. Advance tickets are $20. Day of event tickets are $25. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Advance tickets may be purchased online at decaturgardentour.com and beginning April 18 at: Intown ACE Hardware, 1404 Scott Blvd., Decatur 404-378-6006 Smith ACE Hardware, 601 East College Ave., Decatur 404-373-3335 The Seventeen Steps, 235 Ponce de Leon Place, Suite M Decatur, 404-3777564 During the tour weekend, tickets will also be available at: Oakhurst Community Garden, 435 Oakview Road, Decatur (404) 371-1920 Rose Hill Garden, 620 Pinetree Drive, Decatur.

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Services

Income Opportunity

Get a Limo for the prom. Call for Low prices at 404-755-0079.

Start your beauty consulting business now with all the tools you need for only $50. Free training, free car. Call Lucienne at 678-698-4269.

Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs.Â A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404-281-6503. Music lessons available. Voice, keyboard, music theory and choir directing.Tutoring for reading also offered. Call 404-284-3935. Gwen Carpenter Cleaning Service and Lawn. Very reasonable rates. Lawn care, tree trimming, pruning, flowers, trash removal. Weekly, bi-weekly or monthly. Excellence, honest, reliable. 770323-3567 or 678-789-6466.

School Home School, Summer Camp,Â Tutoring, GED Classes. Call for more Information 478-357-3749 Location DeKalb County.

For Rent Room to rent $125 wk. Mature adult. Utilities included. Gwinnett and Stone Mountain area. Located at Westheimer Estates and upscale community. Call 770380-4334.

Name-brand Kidswear for sell, at dirt cheapÂ prices. 50-70% off store prices Gap Kids, Reebok, Adidas, OshKosh, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Polo and many others. dndkidsclothing.com Â

Rooms for rent. Males only. 1 furnished, 1 unfurnished, shared bathroom. Utilities included. $375 to $450 monthly. Located in Decatur. Background check. Call 404289-5529.

Housing Counseling

For Sale

Help people save there home under new Obama modification program now in effect. Has there been a loss of income? Are you behind in mortgage payment? Got turn by your lender? For help, call Sandra Bynoe at the NARRI non-profit agency: 678-923-9124.

2 BR,2.5 BA, Condo, 6016 Regent Manor, off Hillandale, Lithonia, $22,500. Call 770-482-6122 or 404-483-2526.

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APRIL 15, 2011

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APRIL 15, 2011