Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties
Volume 19 Number 7
www.ocgnews.com
july 1, 2013
FREE
Good Samaritans buy championship rings for Miller Grove High
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By Joshua Smith
iller Grove High School’s boys’ basketball team is finally sporting its State Championship rings— rings the team has been waiting for since March when they made history by winning the state championship five years in a row. Head Coach Sharman White presented the rings to the team on June 21, after two businessmen stepped in to cover the expense. White credits On Common Ground News with “waking up the community.” Even after school let out for summer, the champions remained without their rings because they didn’t have enough sponsorships—until their story was told in On Common Ground News. “I appreciate the story from the bottom of my heart. As soon as it came out, I started getting calls,” said White. “The next day, two local business owners, who want to go unnamed, cut the checks for us right in front
The Miller Grove basketball team’s fifth state championship ring shines brightly at a June 21 ring presentation in Lithonia.
of the school. They didn’t want anything from us, no shirts or nothing. It was an amazing day.” White surprised the team with the rings by telling the team they needed to come to the school to congratulate teammate Kyre Hamer for signing with Campbell University, located in Buies Creek, N.C. But when the team showed up, all were surprised when Coach Sharman rolled out a draped cart carrying the rings. See Miller Grove, page 5
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Miller Grove teammates, coaches and managers show off their new “bling.” See their reaction to the surprise presentation at www.ocgnews.com or facebook.com/ocgnews.
Skyview Atlanta Ferris wheel expected to open in late July By Joshua Smith
ATLANTA—It’s not exactly Asia’s Singapore Flyer, but the new Skyview Atlanta Ferris Wheel is being touted as a way to see Atlanta’s skyline like never before. The big wheel, at nearly 200 feet, is set to open in downtown Atlanta sometime in July. The Atlanta City Council approved the installation of the Ferris wheel on May 20. Councilman Kwanza Hall said the city is not spending any money on the project because it is a private project on private land. Two St. Louis businessmen are behind the project. Skyview Atlanta spokesman Jason Evans says the Ferris wheel is something the whole family can enjoy, with views of the city they probably haven’t seen before. The Ferris wheel was initially in Paris, later moved to Pensacola, Florida and is now being dismantled in Pennsylvania, to come to Atlanta. The wheel has “42 gondolas” or passenger cars. Each gondola can hold up to six people in it. Evans originally expected the Ferris wheel to open for rides by the Fourth of July weekend, but the opening has been pushed back due to the discovery of a Georgia Power duct below the parking lot where the wheel will stand. Almost a half a million pounds of rock and cement must be added to level off the pavement in the parking lot. “We expect SkyView Atlanta to open the second or perhaps the third week of July. We are not committing to an exact date at this time because we want to be more certain about the completion of the construction,” Evans said. “We had originally hoped to be open July 2, in time for the exciting Fourth of July weekend in Centennial Olympic Park. Sadly, we are not going to make it quite that soon.” Evans said, however, the takedown of the structure in Pennsylvania is “progressing rapidly.” “We expect all of the containers to hit the road at the same time and arrive in Atlanta in a long caravan,” said Evans. The Ferris wheel ride will cost $13.50 for adults; $12.50 for senior citizens; $12.15 for members of the military; and $8.50 for children. Admission will be free for children under 3 years old. Each ride lasts about 15 minutes. The Ferris wheel will be located at 168 Luckie Street, N.W., Atlanta. See Ferris Wheel, page 5 INSIDE: p Community
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Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
DeKalb County officials are reviewing preliminary plans to revive the former Hardee’s restaurant as a doughnut haven.
Krispy Kreme eyes Wesley Chapel Road in South DeKalb DECATUR—Plans are under way to bring Krispy Kreme Doughnuts to Wesley Chapel Road in South DeKalb. The space under consideration is the former Hardee’s restaurant, which is located at 2269 Wesley Chapel Road in the Kroger shopping plaza. Attorney Kathy Zickert, who handles zoning matters, is requesting a special land use permit to allow the Krispy Kreme to build a drive-through as required by county ordinances. It wasn’t clear at On Common Ground News’ deadline, however, the owner or entity Zickert is representing in the transaction. The DeKalb County Commission is scheduled to vote on the application on July 16. DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson, whose District 3 includes Wesley Chapel Road, said the doughnut store would be a welcome addition to the area. The restaurant has been closed and boarded up for years. Johnson said plans call for an attractive, allbrick building. Krispy Kreme is known for its famous glazed, yeast-raised doughnut called the “Krispy Kreme Original Glazed®. There are 19 Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in Georgia. The Wesley Chapel store would be the only Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in DeKalb County. Investment to begin operations ranges from $928,000 to $1.8 million, according to the company’s web site. – Valerie J. Morgan
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july 1, 2013
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Community News
july 1, 2013 Volume 19, NO. 7 EDITOR/Publisher Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com Staff Writer Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com Advertising Manager Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com
About Us
On Common Ground News is published twice a month on the 1st and 15th by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.
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Run for Congress on horizon for DeKalb Sheriff Tom Brown By Valerie J. Morgan
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eKalb County Sheriff Thomas Brown says he plans to hold a press conference in July to formally announce the members of the exploratory committee who are helping him decide whether to run for Congress. Brown said the committee will officially
roll out its web site during the upcoming press conference. Brown said he wants to see strong support before he makes up his mind about running. “The web site will serve as a link for fundraising for the exploratory committee,” said Brown. “If we continue to grow and the community demonstrates a financial investment, then I’m going to jump in the race.”
Supporters of Brown have set up the “Thomas Brown for Congress” Facebook page and are inviting people to “like” the Democrat. They say they want him to represent the Fourth Congressional District, which includes parts of DeKalb, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Newton counties. Hank See Brown, page 6
Thomas Brown
King James bible exhibit wraps up tour in Conyers with film series By Joshua Smith
CONYERS—Visitors still have a few more days to check out the exhibit of the first printing of the King James bible, published in 1611. The national traveling exhibit, “Manifold Greatness: The Creation and Afterlife of the King James Bible,” will be at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library in Conyers until July 12. The exhibit opened in Conyers in May and has added a film series that begins July 8 to wrap up the tour. “The exposure has been great. The exhibit has definitely received good reception,” said Ben Carter, interim library director. “We have had travelers drive from across the South to come to the library to see this. Visitors have come from as far as California, New York and even Jamaica.” The story behind the 400-year-old King James Bible remains little known, despite the book’s enormous fame. Translated over several years by six committees of England’s top scholars, the King James Bible became the most
influential English translation of the Bible and one of the most widely read books in the world. The exhibit features seven doublesided panels offering interesting facts such as the influence the King James bible has had on famed reggae singer Bob Marley; cartoon character “Charlie Brown;” and the Apollo 8 astronauts. Carter says he expects people to revisit the display and new visitors alike to come by the library now that a film series has been added to the exhibit. “The film series features two documentaries for adults and an animated film for kids. It should be pretty fun for the whole family. These films should have
something for everybody,” said Carter. The films will all be shown in the library’s lower level meeting room and are open to the public at no charge. The movie series begins on July 8, 2 p.m., with the showing of “KJB: The Making of the King James Bible.” The movie series will continue on July 9, 2 p.m., with the showing of “ KJB: The Book That Changed The World.” The movie series will conclude on July 10, 11 a.m., and July 11, 2 p.m., with the sowing of “The William Tyndale Story,” an animated feature for families. The traveling exhibition was made possible by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The film screenings are made possible, in part, by the Office of Sen. Ronald B. Ramsey, Sr., whose state district includes Rockdale. The Nancy Guinn Memorial Library is located at 864 Green St., S.W., Conyers. For more information on the display, free classes and movie series associated with it, call 770-388-5040 or visit www. conyersrockdalelibrary.org.
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PAGE 4
july 1, 2013
COMING UP
DEKALB
ROCKDALE
South DeKalb Stadium offers free family-friendly movies The South DeKalb Stadium 12 movie theater, 2801 Candler Road, Decatur, will host a free movie series every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in July, at 10 a.m. The movie series will feature family favorites including: The Tale of Despereaux and Madagascar 3 on July 2 – 4; The Rugrats Movie and Rise of the Guardians on July 9 – 11; Rugrats in Paris The Movie and How to Train your Dragon on July 16 – 18; Doogal and Puss in Boots from July 23 – 25; and The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything and Hotel Transylvania from July 30 – Aug. 1. Free admission for all ages and groups. Doors will open at 9 a.m. Seating limited to theatre capacity. All movies begin at 10 a.m. 404243-3605.
Chamblee residents can get to know police department at library The DeKalb County Public Library’s Chamblee branch, 4115 Clairemont Road, Chamblee, will host a one-on-one session with officers from the Chamblee Police Department on Wednesday, July 17, 2 – 3 p.m. Ever wonder what a police officer does every day at work? Ever wanted to know what the inside of a police car looks like? You and your family are invited to join Officer Cushenan of the Chamblee Police Department and find out. Neighborhood Watch groups and other forms of safety for your community will be discussed with officers as well. For more information or to register for this event, call 770-936-1380.
ATLANTA Centennial Olympic Park to host fireworks show The Fourth of July celebration at Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Avenue, N.W., Atlanta, will be Thursday, July 4, starying at 6 p.m. Relax on the “Great Lawn” or let the children splash around the “Fountain of Rings,” enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, inflatables and vendors. Free musical performances featuring local bands will precede the fireworks show. The 4th of July celebration concludes with Centennnial Olympic Park’s “Fireworks Spectacular,” accompanied by a synchronized special selection of patriotic and popular music. Each year, thousands of people come to Centennial Olympic Park to celebrate Independence Day. MARTA is strongly encouraged for transportation. Admission is free. Fireworks will start approximately at 9:40 p.m. 404-223-4412 or www.centennialpark.com.
Get up and close with a reptile wrangler The Nancy Guinn Memorial Library will welcome The Reptile Wrangler on Thursday, July 11, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. Reptile wranglers Ken Panse, and son, Zack, will provide fun and exciting experiences with a variety of reptiles and giant bugs. Children and adults can enjoy this unique, up-close and personal encounter with cool critters. Ken Panse has been handling exotic animals for more than 20 years. Panse says it’s his personal mission is to educate children about exciting exotic animals in the world and entertain families with a fun show. For more information, call the library’s Youth Services Department at 770388-5040, ext 113.
Horsepark to host ‘Stars and Stripes’ thoroughbred competition The Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, will mark the Nation’s independence with a celebration of thoroughbreds at the Friday, July 5, 8 p.m., “Stars and Stripes” competition. Horses and their owners will compete for up to $100,000 in cash and prizes. The competition is a day of learning and fun as well with the chance to participate in trail patterns, warm-ups and horse clinics with Tim “The Trail Man” Kimura. Admission to the Charles Walker arena is free. For more information, contact Robin Barrow at 770-464-0890 or barrowvets@monroeaccess.net.
Piedmont Park hosts Atlanta Street Food Festival Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive, N.E., Atlanta, will host the Atlanta Street Food Festival on Saturday, July 13, 8:30 p.m. There will be more than 40 food trucks and vendors selling food and other products. Check out the sounds of national recording artist “Mishon” and acts such as “Secondhand Swagger” and “Gritz & Jelly Butter.” Admission is $10.50 for adults and free for children ages 12 and under. Adult admission comes with one free cocktail from Bobmbay Sapphire. Proceeds benefit the Atlanta Community Food Bank and park preservation. For more information or to buy your tickets, call 678-687-6424 or visit www. atlantastreetfoodfestival.com.
GWINNETT Celebrate summer with salsa concert Gwinnett County will host a free summer concert featuring the upbeat salsa music of Havana Son on Friday, July 5, 11 a.m., at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville. Cuban native Rene Herrera, an award winning composer and arranger, creates Havana Son’s music. The band uses piano, vocals, guitar and a TRES (Traditional Cuban Stringed Instrument). Admission is free. You can bring a picnic lunch and a blanket to enjoy the historic park or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants on the square. Kids will have the chance to enjoy free arts and crafts and face painting as well. Vendors will be on hand to showcase their businesses and goods at what organizers are calling a fun, familyoriented event. 770-822-5450.
Free retrofit kits available for older homes Gwinnett County is giving away free low-flow home retrofit kits to residents in need. Does your home have outdated, inefficient fixtures? Free low-flow home retrofit kits are available at Gwinnett’s Department of Water Resources central facility, 684 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville. Inside the kit are several water saving products including a low-flow showerhead, two 1.0 gallon per minute bathroom faucet aerators, a 1.5 gallon per minute kitchen faucet aerator and toilet leak detection dye tablets. The kit is also packaged inside a flow meter bag that you can use to measure the flow rate of your old fixtures. The kits are available by request during normal operating hours, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. There is a limit of one kit per Gwinnett household. 678-3766800.
Kingdom Fellowship Christian Church
5th Church Anniversary
Theme:
When God is in it, there is no Limit! “ for in Him we live and move and have our being,…” Acts 17:28 New King James Version (NKJV)
Anniversary Celebration Week: Sunday, July 14th – Sunday, July 21st
Anniversary “Kick-off”
Sunday, July 14, 2013, 11 a.m. Morning Service, Pastor Malcolm Jefferson
Revival
Wednesday, July 17, 2013, 7 p.m. Pastor Kerwin B. Lee, Berean Christian Church, Lithonia, GA.
Revival
Friday, July 19, 2013, 7 p.m. Pastor Eric W. Lee, Springfield Baptist Church, Conyers, GA.
Anniversary
Pastor Malcolm Jefferson
Pastor Kerwin B. Lee
Pastor Eric W. Lee
All services are held at
Sunday, July 21, 2013 2:30 p.m.
Kingdom Fellowship Christian Church
Celebration Service
3363 Midway Road, Decatur, GA 30032
404-289-1311
www.kingdomfellowship.net
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ ocgnews
july 1., 2013 PAGE 5
Rockdale deputies arrest trio of teens in rash of car break-ins CONYERS—The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Department has arrested three teens believed to be responsible for a rash of car break-ins in South Rockdale. Deputies made the arrests after spotting the young men riding bicycles at 4 a.m. on June 26 in an area where several break-ins have been reported. Trevious Troutman, 17, of 2556 Oak Creek Lane, Conyers was charged with misdemeanor possession of marijuana, theft by receiving stolen property and two counts of entering an automobile. Reginald William Gregg, 18, of 643 Honey Creek Road, Conyers was charged with two counts of entering an automobile. A 16-year-old juvenile male was charged with two counts of entering an automobile. The teens were riding bicycles in the area of Stanton Road, where a number of car break-ins have occurred recently. After stopping the teenagers,
Reginald William Gregg
Trevious Troutman
the deputies questioned them about why they were out in the area at such a late hour. During the encounter, deputies discovered the teens had several GPS units, other miscellaneous items, and one was in possession of a bag of marijuana. One of the teens was arrested at that time of the stop. He was charged with possession of marijuana and for being in possession of a GPS unit that had just been reported stolen from a subdivision off Highway 20. The other two teens were released while all of the
property was taken into custody so that investigators could determine if any of the property was stolen. Once deputies and investigators began looking into the recovered items, new reports of car break-ins were made just hours later. The teens who had been released have since been charged in relation to the thefts. Additional charges and arrests are expected. The arrests are expected to clear a number of auto break-in cases, as well as burglary cases in the area. “This is a great example of the effectiveness of CompStat,” said Sheriff Eric Levett. “Since our first CompStat meeting in early June, the deputies and supervisors have targeted the areas that we’ve identified as our crime hot spots. Hopefully, these apprehensions are just the first of many as we deploy deputies to where the current crime trends are occurring. I want to commend our deputies and investigators for working together and
detecting the trend of entered autos and burglaries that allowed us to develop a coordinated response to the area.” CompStat, which is short for Computer Statistics or Comparative Statistics, is a management process started in 1994 by the New York City Police Department. The focus of CompStat is the analysis of current crime trends, strategic problem solving, and accountability. Once a crime trend or problem area has been identified, the command staff strategizes and develops specific deployment tactics to address the identified problems. CompStat goes beyond “extra patrols” for an area. Each problem or crime trend that is detected looks at finding the root causes of the problem, and then the command staff determines a response, which often involves the community members of the area. Sheriff Levett began implementing CompStat into the operations of the Sheriff’s Office on June 12, 2013.
Miller Grove celebrates receiving championship rings
Ferris Wheels
continued from page 1
continued from page 1
The World’s Five Top Ferris Wheels In the summer of 1893, the first Ferris Wheel was unveiled at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago in commemoration of 400 years since the European discovery of the Americas. The legendary structure was designed by George Washington Gale Ferris, Jr., a Pittsburgh steel engineer. Mr. Ferris’s wheel was over 260 feet (80 m) tall, capable of carrying about 2,000 people at one time, and its main axel alone weighed more than 71 tons. A 20-minute ride cost 50 cents. Here’s a list of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world, according to Listverse.com: of the North Bank towards Westminster Palace and other landmarks, ensuring a full 360-degree panoramic view from the top. One full rotation takes about 30 minutes.
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Assistant Coach Rasul Chester (left) humors members of the Miller Grove basketball team after officially receiving their state championship rings.
Singapore Flyer, Singapore, Asia The Singapore Flyer at 541 feet tall currently stands as the largest Ferris Wheel in the world. The Singapore Flyer, constructed between 2005 and 2008, opened to the public on march 1, 2008. Described by its operators as an “observation wheel,” it reaches 42 stories high, 16 feet taller than the Star of Nanchang and 98 feet taller than the London Eye. Each of the 28 airconditioned capsules on the Ferris wheel is capable of holding 28 passengers, and a complete rotation of the wheel takes about 30 minutes. Star of Nanchang, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China, The Star of Nanchang is 525 feet tall and has 60 enclosed air-conditioned gondolas, each carrying up to eight passengers, for a maximum capacity of 480 passengers. A single rotation takes approximately 30 minutes; the slow rotation allows passengers to embark and disembark without the wheel having to stop turning. London Eye of Thames, London, England The London Eye of Thames at 443 feet is the largest Ferris Wheel in the western hemisphere. It is supported on only one of its two sides. This provides passengers with a continuously unobstructed view
“This is truly a blessing. For me to celebrate the fact that I will be able to continue to compete, playing D-1 basketball on a full ride scholarship and then for me to share this moment with my team, and for us to get our rings today. It’s overwhelming,” said Hamer, who left for Campbell University two days after the ring presentation. “We thought we wouldn’t get the rings until the beginning of next season. That’s what happened last year. Feels great to get our rings today. It shows Tianjin Eye, Tianjin, China you all the hard work paid off.” The Miller Grove Wolverines made history on March 8 at the state tournament The Tianjin Eye is 390 feet tall, built in Macon when the team became the first in Georgia to win five consecutive on a bridge that crosses the Hai River in basketball state titles. Miller Grove defeated Gainesville 61-57 in the Class AAAAA Tianjin, China. Constructed in 2007, the State Championship game. Tianjin Eye is the only Ferris Wheel in the “All the hard work, all the practices is what led to our fifth straight world and in history to stand on a bridge. championship,” White said. “Now the guys get a chance to represent that everyday Six of the 10 tallest Ferris Wheels in the world are in China, including three equally with their new rings.” towering wheels in Changsha, Suzhou and White said despite the team’s consistent wins, it’s been difficult to raise the Zhengzhou, plus the even more gigantic money every year to pay for the championship rings. This year, the team was again Star of Nanchang, which is second only to in need, $5,000 short of being able to buy rings for the winning squad. the Singapore Flyer. In addition to thanking the two businesses that made the donation, White also thanked Stonecrest Firehouse Subs store manager Julius Williams for helping to Cosmo Clock 21, Yokohama, Japan raise awareness about the team’s plight, and for being a school partner during the Cosmo Clock 21 is an enormous Ferris basketball season. Wheel clock in Yokohama, Japan, that, “It’s a beautiful thing to see these guys get what they deserved. I know Coach on at 353 feet, was the world’s tallest Ferris Wheel for eight years. It was built in 1989 a personal level and he really cares about these kids,” said Williams, who provided (for the ‘89 Yokohama Exposition) and sandwiches to the team before games. “Coach uses basketball as a tool for the boys has remained the world’s largest clock. to learnsoon: the importance of education. Year after year, you see his guys getting full The wheel, or clock, is the crowning jewel Coming scholarships to great colleges and universities.” of Minato Mirai 21 (literally, “Future April Harbor 21”), the downtown seaside district of Yokohama. In 1999, the wheel was disassembled and then raised again onto a taller base, increasing its height by 16 feet. It contains 60 passenger boxes and requires about 15 minutes for one rotation.
1, 2013
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july 1, 2013
Goodbye Piggly Wiggly, hello DeKalb Supervalu
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Store owner Ken Hong stands in one of the aisles that is being transformed at the former Piggly Wiggly.
South DeKalb County Market to replace former Kroger
T
By Valerie J. Morgan
he Candler Road Piggly Wiggly has a new look, a new name and a renewed commitment to the South DeKalb community. The changes follow a month-long picket by Operation Lead, the DeKalb SCLC and other community leaders who complained the 40-year-old store’s conditions and customer service were substandard. Renamed DeKalb Supervalu Foods, the store will have a grand opening celebration for the community on July 20, said store owner Ken Hong. Hong said he also has inked a deal to take over the space where Kroger operated in the Rainbow Village shopping plaza, located near Candler Road and I-20. The store closed on May 3 after Kroger and the property owner couldn’t reach an agreement on requested building improvements and lease modifications. Kroger had been in the community 38 years. “The Kroger will become the South DeKalb County Market,” said Hong. “It will be similar to Kroger, but it will be improved. We want to give people the level of shopping they received at Kroger—but better.” Hong said he is planning for the South DeKalb County Market grand opening to coincide with the heart of South DeKalb Festival that DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson is hosting on Sept. 28 to showcase South DeKalb’s history and accomplishments. Meanwhile, Operation Lead President John Evans and DeKalb SCLC President Nathan Knight said their organizations are planning a march as part of the festivities that will be held July 20 grand opening of the DeKalb Supervalu Foods store. Evans and Knight met with Hong in late May to negotiate changes at the store. “We are looking forward to July 20. We want to not only see the renovations, but more community involvement such as hiring high schoolers at the store and starting a scholarship fund,” Evans said. Commissioner Johnson, who helped facilitate negotiations with the store, civil rights groups and the community, praised the remodeling efforts. “We’re excited about all of the changes. Quality is what we want in South DeKalb. This is what we continue to strive for,” Johnson said. Hong said he has spent about $98,000 so far on renovations and he expects the complete remodeling of the former Piggly Wiggly store to exceed $120,000. The out-ofpocket costs and his investment in the former Kroger store, he said, demonstrate his commitment to the South DeKalb community. “I grew up in this area. My dad owned businesses here and I’ve worked here all my life,” Hong said. “We’re going to be here.” Hong said he signed on with DeKalb Supervalu Foods on June 12 and immediately began upgrading equipment and reconfiguring store shelves and displays. The renovations include replacing the store’s meat coolers and freezers, installing an 8-foot salad case and 60-foot produce case, buying a new 50-foot dairy cooler and refurbishing the store’s checkout areas. He said had to close the store for two days because some of the work took longer than expected, but he wants customers to come on in before the official grand opening. “This is a win-win for us and the community,” said Hong. “We’re very pleased with the remodeling that has taken place so far and everything that Supervalu Foods has to offer. It is very community-oriented. They’ve worked with us on the remodeling and the customer training.” The new SuperValue DeKalb is located at 2112 Candler Road, Decatur. Staff writer Joshua Smith contributed to this report.
L to R: Kay Dallas and Helen Livsey show off a replenished pantry and fresh hen eggs.
Photo by Mackenzie N. Morgan/OCG News
Rockdale community responds to distressed food pantry By Mackenzie N. Morgan
CONYERS—The Rockdale Emergency Relief is feeling a sense of relief after community members responded to its plea for food donations, which assists families facing economic hardship. Down to its bare bones just three weeks ago, the pantry is now stocked with string beans, breakfast cereals, pasta, peanut butter and a plethora of kitchen staple goods. “A lot of the people said they didn’t realize we needed donations year-round and thought donating at Christmas time was sufficient. People were really happy to help.” Local residents brought in canned goods and dry items, but the pantry also received some special treats. A local farmer brought in fresh turnips, while another donated organic eggs from a hen farm. “We hardly ever get fresh produce and when we do, it goes instantly. Most of our donated goods are canned goods and dry, boxed goods. So any time we get fresh produce it is a treat,” said Meredith Young, program director for Rockdale Emergency Relief. Young said the summer season receives an increase in traffic due to children being out of school for summer break. Many of the pantry’s visitors are one-person families such as senior citizens on fixed incomes and parents with children who would normally eat two of their meals at school. “We’ve been really busy filling orders, which is a good thing. Lines can get long, but we are happy to be able to provide services to people in need,” said Helene Livsey, who has been a Rockdale Emergency Relief volunteer for nine years. A military veteran who was visiting the food pantry said she is relieved the food pantry is still in operation. She said she counts on the help she gets once a month to supplement the food stamps she receives to feed her and her granddaughter. “The food stamps benefits I qualified for are not enough to support me and my granddaughter,” she said. Citizens needing financial respite can contact the food pantry to find out how to supplement their food needs. For more information, call 770-922-0165 or visit www. rockdalecountyemergencyrelief.org.
Brown travels near and far from home continued from page 1
Johnson, another Democrat, has held the seat since 2007 and is currently in his fourth term as Congressman. “The people in DeKalb know Sheriff Brown because of his long track record there. We’re planning meet and greets, specifically targeting Rockdale and Newton counties so that residents there can get to know him,” said Rhonda Taylor, who lives in Rockdale and is chairing the exploratory committee. Taylor, who has known Brown for 23 years, said the committee so far is comprised of about 24 people and includes a cross-section of residents from all four counties that make up District 4. Former Georgia Sen. Steen Miles, DeKalb businessman C.D. Moody and Charles Green of Newton are among the committee members. Sherri Washington, a Rockdale attorney who is on the exploratory committee, said the group is gathering information to help Brown. “Right now, we are trying to establish a focus group to figure out the needs of the people in the Fourth District,” Washington said. Brown, who has served as sheriff since 2000 and is in his fourth term in office, has been traveling throughout District 4 to community events, and nationally and internationally to learn about issues impacting the community. Brown recently returned from Istanbul, Turkey where he attended an 11-day excursion and conference with a group of sheriffs, elected officials, and other dignitaries from the U.S. The conference focused on fostering long-lasting, cooperative, economic, educational and cultural relationships between Turkish and U.S. officials. The trip included visits to various sites such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Turkish Grand National Assembly (Parliament) to increase the understanding of government affairs, economic development and the religious and cultural diversity of the Turkish people. This was the Sheriff’s third trip to the Middle East. He traveled to Israel in 1995 and 2011 to study its law enforcement and military efforts. Brown said he was honored to be a delegate this year and is very interested in the Turkish judicial system and its political perspective, considering its unique positioning in the Middle East and renewed relationship with Israel. Past participants have included State Sen. Michele Henson; GBI Director Vernon Keenan; and executives from the Georgia Department of Economic Development. This year’s invitees were nominated by these and other past participants. Brown and the Istanbul Center shared the cost of the trip.
july 1., 2013 PAGE 7
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Movers & Shakers in the Community
Georgia Federation of Democratic Women honor Rockdale, Newton luminaries
T
By Mackenzie N. Morgan
he Rockdale and Newton Chapter of the Georgia Federation of Democratic Women (GFDW) rolled out the blue carpet for its 3rd Annual Luminary Luncheon. The June 15 event honored several community leaders for their hard work and dedication to the community. “We were really excited about this year’s awardees because they truly embody what the GFDW is all about,” said Elaine Davis-Nickens, president of the Rockdale/ Newton County chapter. The distinguished guests were honored for their commitment to the community in their respective fields: Faye Williams, a veteran educator with 40 years as a teacher, received the Education Award. Williams currently teaches at Peek’s Chapel Elementary in Rockdale County. Judge Nancy Bills was awarded the Community Service Award for her efforts to eradicate domestic violence. The civic engagement award was presented to Pastor Billie Cox of Macedonia Baptist Church in Conyers. Cox was praised for her outreach efforts to assist Reeba Glass and her family. Glass lost four children in a Conyers house fire earlier this year. On Common Ground News Editor Valerie J. Morgan was the recipient of the Business Award. The newspaper was honored for its commitment to providing balanced and accurate news coverage in and outside of Rockdale County. “People have to know what’s
going on in their community and who’s making a contribution. We hope publicly recognizing local leadership will give others ideas on how they can put their talents to use to improve our community’s quality of life,” said DavisNickens. Two high school students were also recognized for their civic and academic achievements. This was the first time the chapter included youths as part of its annual award program. Adrienne Williams, who will attend North Carolina State University on a full scholarship to study biomedical engineering, was presented with the “Rising Star Award.” L to R: Student Jeremy Bryant, Pastor Billy Cox, Judge Nancy Bills, Mackenzie Morgan representing On Jeremy Bryant won a $500 Common Ground editor Valerie Morgan, Faye Williams, and student Adrienne Williams pose for picture. scholarship from GFDW. Bryant will be attending Georgia Southern “Georgia ranks sixth in the University as a finance major this nation with 2 million people fall. living below the poverty level. “It is important to encourage Over 600,000 people still don’t young people to be involved in their have health insurance and high communities and start grooming them school graduation rates are to do bigger things,” said Davisat 67.4%,” Dawkins-Haigler Nickens. “These kids are very well said. “We’ve got to open our groomed, articulate, and engaged in mouths and speak up about the their communities. We know these are two students who are going to make it.” injustices that are happening.” “People don’t understand State Rep. Dee Dawkins Haigler what political parties do. And and State Rep. Hank Johnson were this is one way to showcase among the elected officials who spoke the work we do along with at the event. others who display the same Keynote speaker Dawkins-Haigler, attributes we hope to exhibit in who represents District 91, which includes parts of Rockdale and DeKalb, the community,” said DavisNickens. encouraged Democrats to fight for a GFDW Rockdale/Newton Chapter president Elaine Davisbetter quality of life. Nickens (right) presents scholarship to high school senior Jeremy Bryant (center).
Rockdale librarians make moves CONYERS—Ben Carter has been named interim director of the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library in Conyers. Carter replaced Director Darryl Fletcher, who has accepted a new position in Lithonia at Luther Rice University & Seminary’s library. Fletcher, who was hired in Conyers in December 2011 as Director of Nancy Guinn, will start his new position the first week in July. Carter previously served as the head of Youth Services at the Conyers-Rockdale Library’s Nancy Guinn Memorial Library from 2006 to 2007 and then worked for the Gwinnett Ben Carter Public Library System for five years, most recently as Assistant Branch Manager. He was appointed Assistant Director of the Conyers library on Sept. 4. “I realize that we have something special here—for example, our youth programs, basic computer classes, a great genealogy collection, and a wide variety of eBooks,” said Carter. “I look forward to working with rest of the Nancy Guinn staff to support our community.” As Interim Director, Carter will supervise the library’s four public service departments: Adult Services, Circulation, Computer Center and Youth Services. A native of Walton County, Carter has degrees from the University of Georgia and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Carter’s interests include studying languages, reading and hiking in state parks. – Joshua Smith
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PAGE 8
july 1, 2013
Business News
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Conyers-Rockdale Chamber celebrates grand opening of new offices By Joshua Smith
CONYERS--The community got a tour of the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber’s new offices during the June 19 ribbon cutting celebration. “We love our new digs. This building was originally priced at more than $500,000, so for us to get the building at $300,000 was a really good deal,” said Conyers-Rockdale Chamber President Fred Boscarino, who is excited about the purchase from a Californiabased investment firm. “We had been eyeing this building for awhile because we really wanted to get closer to Olde Town. The curb appeal is great, too.” The Chamber served grilled hot dogs and an array of desserts, including red velvet, pina colada, Oreo and key lime cakes courtesy of the “Chamber Grill Team” and the Cakes and Desserts Café in Olde Town. The lunchtime event marked the official grand opening of the Chamber’s two-story, 8,000-square-foot building. The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber was founded in 1954. The Chamber’s previous 2,000-square-foot office building at 1186 Scott Street, next to Conyers City Hall, is now being housed by the Conyers Police Department. “We are very thankful to the City of Conyers.
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce members and leadership of past and present cut the ribbon on their new 2,000-square-foot facility.
They let the Chamber stay in the previous space for a below market price of $500 a month for decades. They were a part of this process and supported it all the way through,” said Chamber Chairman Attorney Thua Barlay. “Our employees and Chamber members are all excited to get into our new building, and I consider it an honor to be a part of the process.” Barlay said the Chamber’s new space offers larger meeting and office spaces, greater visibility, a more modern appearance, and more parking spaces.
“I believe this building will enhance the business community and the Rockdale community as a whole,” Barlay said. “This location will serve as a great place to bring together Chamber members and community stakeholders as they strive to make sure our community stays vibrant and united.” The new Green Street building where the Chamber is located has three other tenants: Phuzion Salon & Spa, the Conyers Rockdale Economic Development Council and the local United Way, which moved from 1174 Scott Street in Conyers. Additional space on the lower floor of the new building will be leased to other entities. At the celebration, The city of Conyers and the Rockdale County Board of Commissioners issued proclamations designating June 19, 2013 as ConyersRockdale Chamber of Commerce Day. “I believe the Chamber will continue to thrive, serving as the catalyst for business and economic growth in the community at this new location,” said Rockdale County CEO Richard Oden. “I want to congratulate our Chamber, the No. 1 Chamber in the region, the No. 1 Chamber in the state.” The Chamber, located at 936 Green Street, Conyers, is open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 770 483-7049.
Calendar BBA welcomes National Center for Civil and Human Rights CEO The Buckhead Business Association will welcome Doug Shipman, CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights as its guest speaker on July 11. The breakfast meeting will be held at 7:30 a.m. at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, N.E., Atlanta. Shipman has led projects dealing with marketing, sales force organization and incentives, sales distribution strategy, pricing, and operations. Shipman also has extensive experience in strategy and overall management issues. His educational background covers issues such as race, ethnicity and gender, as well as studies in topics including the relationship between economics and poverty, the history of American minority groups and religion as applied in social movements, including the American Civil Rights movement, the Indian independence movement and the Buddhist environmental movement in Southeast Asia. Networking will begin at 7:30 a.m., with a call to order promptly at 7:55 a.m. The cost to attend is $20. Parking will be validated. For more information or to register, contact Jenn Thomas at 404-467-7607 or jthomas@buckheadbusiness.org.
SBA registering for free business loan workshop The Small Business Administration, SBA, 233 Peachtree St., Suite 1900, Atlanta, will host a free workshop, “SBA Business Loan Requirements,” on Thursday, July 25, 10 a.m. One of the keys to a successful business start-up and expansion is the ability to obtain and secure appropriate financing. This class will provide pertinent information on the types of SBA loans including 7(a) and 504 loans, how to write the loan proposal, documentation requirements, and the loan review process. An overview will be provided on sources and uses of funds, terms and conditions, fees associated with loans, credit reports and “shopping your loan,” as well. Workshop attendees meet at SBA’s Harris Tower, 19th floor. For more information or to register, visit www.sba.gov or call Mary Phillips at 404-413-7830.
Metro Atlanta Chamber talks health care opportunities in China The Metro Atlanta Chamber, 235 Andrew Young International Blvd., N.W., Atlanta, will host an “Executive Roundtable on Health Care Opportunities in China,” on Monday, July 15, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. Marco Chan, co-founder and CEO of the AmAsia3 Corporation, will discuss active opportunities for health care organizations to expand their business into China. Chan has extensive experience building businesses in China where health care is one of the major areas of growth for the next 20 years. arbershop Joining Marco from China will be Kai Wang, vice president of RTKL and senior advisor for the Ministry of Health China. He discuss the current health care opportunities he is working on and provide an overview of the upcoming 2013 China (Shenzhen) International Health Industry Expo to be held Dec. 11 - 13, 2013. The third presenter will be A Full Service Barbershop Metro Atlanta Chamber member, Warren Wen, who will discuss intellectual Professional Barbers property issues and other legal aspects Quality Cuts • Special Touch related to doing business in China. Warren is a partner of the Hui Ye Law 7986 Rockbridge Firm, which has offices in Shanghai and Road, Suite 102 Beijing, and the U.S. office in Roswell, Lithonia, GA 30087 Georgia. The workshop is free to attend. For 770-482-5033 more information, contact John R. West at jwest@amasia3.net, or 770-880-1918.
ABL ready for annual Men of Influence event The Atlanta Business League will host the Seventh Annual Men of Influence reception and induction ceremony on Tuesday, July 16, 6 – 8:30 p.m. at the Twelve Hotel, Atlantic Station , 361 17th St., N.W., Atlanta. ABL Board Chair Mary Parker said the organization will recognize business owners, professionals, community and civic leaders in metro Atlanta. The ABL will publish this year’s list of Atlanta’s Influential Black Men during the evening reception and induction ceremony. Some past inductees have included Andrew Young, Hank Aaron, Joseph Lowery, John Lewis and David Satcher, just to name a few. Attendees can enjoy complimentary wine and beverages, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction. For tickets and registration, visit www.atlantabusinessleague.org or call 404584-6206 and 404-584-8126.
Gwinnett Chamber, Medical Center set wellness class The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and the Gwinnett Medical Center will team up on Tuesday, July 9, 5:30 – 7 p.m., to host a free wellness class, “July Button Down Wellness Class.” The focus of the workshop is to teach runner fitness. Whether you are training for your first 5K or working on a personal best, you can attend this seminar to learn how to improve your running. An introduction to general fitness guidelines, Edward Gilbert Becky Thompson techniques and body composition will be shared as well. Guest speakers include Edward Gilbert, MS, CSCS and Becky Thompson, PT, CSCS, Cert. MDT of Gwinnett Sports Rehab—Duluth and Lawrenceville. The Chamber is located at 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. Participants meet in the Chamber’s John D. Stephens Education Room. For more information or to register, visit www.gwinnettchamber.org or call 770-232-3000.
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july 1., 2013 PAGE 9 To Contact Us
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We Worship
Light of the World welcomes pastors for convocation
L
ight of the World Christian Tabernacle International will host several pastors in July to celebrate the consecration of four bishop-elects: Jean Wilson; Nedenia and Ulysses Barber; and Kenneth Brown. Light of the World’s Archbishop Ruth W. Smith Holmes will consecrate the four bishop-elects on July 14, 5 p.m. Bishop Rickie Holmes will moderate the service. Bishop-elect Jean Wilson serves as an international evangelist with Jean V. Wilson Ministries, Inc. in McDonough, Georgia, traveling around the world spreading God’s word. Bishop-elects Nedenia and Ulysses Barber are members of the North Georgia United Methodist Conference. The Rev. Nedenia Parker Barber served as pastor of Asbury United Methodist Church in Waynesboro in 2003. Under her leadership, the church established a men’s ministry and Holy Communion was changed from every 90 days to once a month on the fourth Saturday. Bishop-elect Kenneth Brown is founder of Clarion Christian Ministries in Duluth. The first worship celebration to welcome the new bishops in the Kingdom will be on July 15, 7 p.m., with Pastor Kerwin B. Lee of Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain. Lee will be followed by Apostle Jean Porter of the WAM Leadership Alliance in Charlotte, North Carolina. On July 17, Bishop Frederick T. Nah of Divinity Church International in Norcross will speak. Bishop Nah will be followed by Pastor Jose Eli Chavez of the Mount Sinai Church in Norcross. Pastors Myles and DeLana Rutherford of Worship With Wonders Church in Kennesaw will close out the series on July 19. Light of the World is located at 5883 Highway 155 North, Stockbridge. For more information, call 678-565-7001 or visit www. comeintothelight.org.
Faith-Based News & Inspiration
Calendar Turner Monumental A.M.E. presents “Youth Just Being Social” Turner Monumental A.M.E., 66 Howard Street, N.E., Atlanta, will host “Youth Just Being Social” on July 6, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The cutting-edge event explores the “pitfalls” of texting, bullying, Facebook, drugs and alcohol. Experts from the DeKalb Department of Health, Fire Department, and local law enforcement agencies will be on hand to offer insight, information and input on these “pitfall” issues. The church says this will be a highly interactive session. Lunch will be served. Admission is free. For more information or to register, call 404-378-5970.
Emmanuel A.M.E. Zion Church to host yard sale Emmanuel A.M.E. Zion Church, 5746 Rockbridge Road, Stone Mountain, will have a yard sale July 13, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendor booths are available for $20. For more information, contact Elaine James at 770-413-9127. The Rev. Frederick A. Williamson is the pastor.
New Birth hosts American Red Cross blood drive New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, 6400 Woodrow Road, Lithonia, will host a blood drive for the American Red Cross blood on Sunday, July 7, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., in the church’s multipurpose room. All blood types are needed. For more information, call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit www. redcrossblood.org. 770-696-9600.
Saint Philip to bless road warriors at annual event Saint Philip A.M.E., 240 Candler Road, S.E., Atlanta, will host the Second Annual “Biker Blessing Sunday” on Sunday, July 14, 11 a.m. All bikers are invited to hear a special sermon Pastor William D. Watley has prepared. Bikers are encouraged to wear their “bike gear,” while still respecting the Lord’s house. There will be special parking for the bikes, as well as a security team to enure protection of attendees’ motorcycles. 404-371-0749.
Elizabeth Baptist Church seeks greenhouse volunteers Elizabeth Baptist Church, 4245 Cascade Road, S.W., Atlanta, is seeking volunteers to assist them with its youth ministry’s greenhouse. The church has a new greenhouse and would like to form relationships with youths, support youth’s spiritual growth. For more information, contact the Rev. Darrell Hall or Rev. Jason Caine at 404-564-8596.
PAGE 10
Health & Wellness
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july 1, 2013
Gamblers Anonymous sets support group meetings Gamblers Anonymous is offering a support group for those battling gambling addiction. The group meets Mondays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., at the Norcross Human Services Center, 5030 Georgia Belle Court, Norcross. The group is open to men and women. For more information, call 678-2345648.
AARP Driver Safety Program for seniors is set AARP will host a driver safety program for senior citizens on Tuesday, July 16, from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at Centerville Community Center, 3025 Bethany Church Road, Snellville. Seniors will learn defensive driving techniques as well as how to adjust to age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time. The class is designed for seniors, but anyone with a valid driver’s license is welcome. For your insurance discount, contact your provider. The cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers. For more information, call the Centerville Community Center at 770-985-4713.
DeKalb Medical to host breast care discussion Third annual Let’s Move! DeKalb Back to School Expo coming up The Center Helping Obesity In Children End Successfully (C.H.O.I.C.E.S.) will host its third annual Let’s Move! DeKalb Back to School Expo Saturday, July 28, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Exchange Park Intergenerational Center, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur. The family event, presented by the Fulton DeKalb Hospital Authority, is free and will feature nutrition learning labs, fun fitness activities, cooking demonstrations, free health screenings, live performances and more. DeKalb County District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson and a DeKalb County Board of Health representative will make opening remarks. More than 1,000 parents and children are expected to participate. For more information, call 678-819-3663 or visit www.choicesforkids.org.
Join Doris Jones, breast care specialist and nurse navigator, for a lecture on the importance of breast health on Friday, July 12, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., at DeKalb Medical North Decatur campus in the theater, 2701 N. Decatur Rd, Decatur. The discussion will cover how to spot signs of trouble during senior years, as well as male breast cancer. The lecture will be preceded by a complimentary light breakfast at 9:30 a.m. The class is free and suitable for men and women. For more information, call 404-501-1000.
Gwinnett Medical presents prenatal course Gwinnett Medical Center, 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville is offering its Healthy Beginnings class for pregnant couples who are in their first trimester. Topics include fetal development, prenatal care, healthy lifestyle choices, nutrition, current body changes, and more. The class is free, but requires advance registration. For more information, call 678-312-4790 or visit www. gwinnettmedicalcenter.org.
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