July 4, 2013 by On Common Ground News

VOLUME 21 NUMBER 14

FREE

JULY 4, 2015

Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews

NFL players to open 20 Denny’s

Ellis Convicted By Joshua Smith and Valerie J. Morgan

By Joshua Smith Donnell Thompson is changing the face of Denny’s. The former Baltimore (Indianapolis) Colts Defensive End says it’s a new day at the once troubled franchise, which was sued in a class action discrimination lawsuit in 1994 for mistreating minorities. “Denny’s has changed their whole model through the leadership of chairman John Miller and the Heritage theme, which celebrates all people that make up America,” said Thompson, whose operations are based in Snellville. Thompson and Ron Wooten, a friend who played football together in high school and college, have opened 10 Denny’s locations in metro Atlanta and the Carolinas so far under the company name RWDT Foods. They plan to open 20 more in the next four years. “We are already in Gainesville, Snellville, Stockbridge and close to opening in Suwanee,” Thompson said. “We are also looking at Marietta and have started the plans for one in Lithonia. We are really going to build this brand in and around Metro Atlanta.” Thompson and Wooten opened their first Denny’s restaurant in 2012 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. It was a huge success, Thompson said, largely because of its location near the large Fort Bragg military base. They opened their Snellville Denny’s on Jan. 29, 2015. “We’ve been opening them up at a rate of about one every 90 days. I love Metro Atlanta and the people here. My wife and I live in Buckhead. I have a daughter here and grandchildren here,” said Thompson. “We’ve got a nice little foot hole in Metro Atlanta and we look forward to building on that.” Thompson says their next Denny’s will open in Suwanee in about 80 days. He says full-size stores, which usually range from about 5,000 to 7,000 square feet, usually cost just over $1 million to open. “There are two sides to it, the development part of the business and then the operations part. I am See Denny’s, page 9

Burrell Ellis arose without a word as deputies escorted him out of the courtroom and off to jail after a jury returned its guilty verdict on July 1, ending six days of deliberation. Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson is scheduled to sentence him on July 8. It was unclear if Ellis would have to remain in jail until sentencing. The jury, comprised of six men and six women, found the Joshua Smith/OCG News Burrell Ellis is led out of the courtroom after he was found guilty on suspended CEO four counts. of DeKalb County berta Ellis, sat quietly. Neither of guilty on one count of Before the verdict was handed the three showed any emotion as the attempted extortion and three counts down, Ellis’ wife, Philippa, who was of perjury. Ellis was found not guilty seated behind him, stood and kissed See Ellis, page 9 of five other charges. him on the cheek. His mother, Ro-

Rockdale vet gets overdue Purple Heart By Valerie J. Morgan It’s been 53 years since retired Command Sgt. Maj. Simon Ramos was injured in Viet Nam. Though he served valiantly, the Rockdale County veteran was never recognized for the injuries he received in 1962, due to omissions in his military records. Until now. Congressman Hank Johnson presented the 83-year old Ramos the Purple Heart medal during a July 1 program that was held at the Walk of Heroes Park in Conyers. As Ramos’ wife of 62 years, Emily, and several family members looked on, Johnson pinned the long overdue medal on Ramos. Several dignitaries congratulated Ramos including Rockdale Board of Commissioners Chairman Richard Oden, Buddy Roebuck, director of the Walk of Heroes, and Tommy Clack, president of the board of directors for the Walk of Heroes and Deputy Peter Wolfe, who represented Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett. “For some reason, Mr. Ramos’ Congressman Hank Johnson pins the Purple Heart medal on Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News military records for his combat wounds Command Sgt. Major Simon Ramos. and hospitalization were never properly preserved. Sgt. Ramos’ journey to have his records corrected and to receive his received a letter from the Department of the on May 23, 1962 near the Vietnamese town Purple Heart medal began in 2011. Some Armies dated May 12, 2015 notifying him of Katum, Ramos and comrades came in say that we should not go back to try to right that he finally was recognized and awarded contact with the enemy. As they entered old wrongs, but there’s something healthy the Purple Heart. the town, they came under grenade attack. about being able to go back and correct an Ramos, who is the father of five sons Ramos’ left arm was seriously injured. He injustice, no matter how far back it was,” and one daughter, served his country with was hospitalized at Walter Reed Hospital Congressman Johnson said as he honored distinction for more than 35 years – on active near Washington, D.C. for a year. After Ramos. duty from 1952 to 1987 in the U.S. Army. He his discharge in 1963, Ramos rejoined the Johnson said his office was notified fought in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. Special Forces as an instructor. four years ago that Ramos had never been Ramos was assigned to the Special Forces For more photos of the ceremony, visit honored for his combat injuries and began in Vietnam, where he served as Operations the On Common Ground News (Official) looking into the matter. Johnson said Ramos Sergeant. While training Vietnamese rangers Facebook page.

PAGE 2 •JULY 4, 2015

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JULY 4,2015 • PAGE 3

DeKalb’s District 5 Commission runoff candidates square off in forums

GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate. On Common Ground News

P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com

By Valerie J. Morgan

ith an election that’s only days away—July 14—the two candidates vying for the DeKalb County District 5 Commission seat runoff are squaring off in a fresh round of community forums as they appeal to voters. Mereda Davis Johnson and George Turner participated in a forum on June 29, fielding questions from those who came to Salem Bible Church, 5460 Hillandale Drive, in Lithonia. About 100 people attended the “Community Conversation,” which was sponsored by the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce, Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.; DeKalb Section National Council of Negro Women; Zeta Phi Beta, Inc.; Alpha Kappa Alpha; Kappa Alpha Psi; East Metro Orchids; and the National Women’s Political Caucus of Georgia. Lyle V. Harris, a longtime journalist who lives in District, served as moderator.

Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

The candidates had participated in at least 10 forums the first time that they ran in June. Candidates are scheduled for at least three more forums before the runoff. The South DeKalb Parent Council plans to present a candidates’ forum at the Brooks Mill Subdivision Clubhouse on Tuesday, July 7, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., 4009 Brooks Mill Drive, Lithonia. Organizers are asking those who plan to attend to RSVP to ensure the clubhouse will have room for everyone. The meeting will be moved to the Salem Library, if more room is needed. Check the Facebook Pages for the South DeKalb Parent Council or On Common Ground News (Official) for updates or call 678-526-1910. A candidates’ forum is scheduled July 9, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at Fairfield Baptist Church, 6133 Redan Road, Lithonia. The forum will be hosted by Fairfield Baptist

Mereda Davis Johnson

George Turner Church, Georgia STAND UP, Metro Atlanta CBTU Chapter, Voter Empowerment ColSee District 5 page 9

Exploring THE GREAT Outdoors Mountain, enjoying popsicles to beat the heat, and they witnessed park rangers repairing an injured owl’s wings and a possum’s foot. The children also went canoeing, fishing, and they visited the historic Flat Rock Archive Center, a By Joshua Smith museum dedicated to the preservation of the history of Flat Rock, rchery, climbing trees and Georgia. The students also learned hiking to the top of Panola the importance of preserving their Mountain are just some parks by working on a community of the activities students of the South service project that included cleaning up the park and helping make DeKalb Family YMCA are experiencing in the Arabia Mountain Heritage trails more visible for others. Alliance’s free camp this summer. “My favorite thing to do was The program, running June 22 the archery. It was fun shooting to July 17, is a partnership between the arrows and I had a great time Arabia and metro Atlanta-area YMgetting better at it,” said South CAs to expose urban children ages DeKalb YMCA student Deon 6-11 to wildlife, horticulture and all King, who is 11 and attends Chapel things nature. Arabia wants the kids to Hill Middle Schoo in Decatur. learn early how to enjoy and preserve Other participating YMCAs surrounding wildlife gems for generainclude East Lake, Andrew & tions to come. Walter Young, and the Arthur M. Each week, about 30 students Blank Family YMCA. The YMCA from a participating YMCA will be provided lunch and snacks each a part of the program. The South day. DeKalb Y kicked off the program, “We are building memories which is being funded by the National they will never forget by providing Park Service. this once-in-a-lifetime experience. “This innovative summer camp is It’s a shame a lot of our youth so awesome because you take a group today have such a negative view of kids who normally may never take of wildlife and would rather stay the chance to come out and enjoy inside and play video games all these hidden treasures which are both day,” said Harclerode. “This heritage area is deemed by Congress as historic and natural sites,” said Arabia Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News Kids from South DeKalb County enjoyed several outdoor activities as a having historical significance. Only Mountain Heritage Area Alliance Program Coordinator Melody Harclerode. part of the Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance’s free summer camp. two parks in Georgia have that “I am so proud of these students for title. Augusta houses the other one. taking on these new challenges. The entire week they have anything. They take on anything thrown at them and succeed.” We want our youth to bring their family and claim ownership been well-mannered, inquisitive and just great to be around. During the week of summer fun, students participated in of this.” They haven’t complained about the heat, steep mountains or a range of activities. They hiked Arabia Mountain and Panola

Urban kids meet Mother Nature

PAGE 4 • JULY 4 2015

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School System hosts summer job fair

Coming Up

The DeKalb County School System will host a summer job fair on Wednesday, July 8, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at its headquarters, 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone Mountain. With the theme, “World Class District Seeking World Class Teachers,” the job fair offers positions to teachers in a school system that educates nearly 100,000 students at 143 schools. The system currently houses about 13,000 full-time employees. Potential job hires should bring copies of their resume, transcripts, teaching certificate and GACE scores. Interested applicants should apply online at www.pats.dekalb.k12.ga.us/recruit. 678-676-0092

GWINNETT

Parks and Rec set “Walk the Talks” with health professionals

City invites all to explore natural beauty of the beltline

he City of Atlanta will host free tours of its 22-mile beltline throughout the month of July. Starting on Friday, July 3, the 10 a.m. tours offer a look at unique artwork, trees and other natural beauties as you walk, skate or bike. City officials say this one-of-a-kind linear expanse forms a unique tapestry whose natural fabric reveals a plant-based narrative of the city’s rich history. The walking tours are guided by Trees Atlanta docents. They are considered experts on trees and other forms of horticulture. These walking tours explore the Eastside Trail, which is a combination of multi-use trail and linear green space. A walking tour of the Atlanta BeltLine is the best way to see the progress and be active at the same time. Tour groups meet Fridays and Saturdays behind Parish Restaurant, located at 240 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta in Inman Park. Tour guides may have participants meet at 9 a.m. on certain days when temperatures are expected to be hotter. Comfortable shoes, drinking water, bug spray and sunscreen are highly recommended. Advance registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Kate Baltzell at 404-681-4897 or kateb@treesatlanta.org.

ATLANTA

First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta sets “ArtSpark” The Atlanta Arts Council and First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta (FPC), 1328 Peachtree St., N.E., Atlanta, is hosting a week of activities at the church to promote art interest in the community. “ArtSpark,” a summertime celebration of the creative arts, is designed to celebrate and explore the gifts of creativity. This is an opportunity to grow your faith through music and the arts by discovering new and inspiring ways to enrich your spiritual and cultural life. Gifted members of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta will lead the classes, which will include offerings for both adults and children. In addition to the music, creative writing, and the visual arts, there will be concerts by ArtSpark participants, open mic opportunities, an artist demonstration by FPC’s own Holly Henson. All offerings are free of charge. Advance registration is required. For more information or to register, contact at Katherine Hamer at 404-228-7732 or khamer@firstpresatl.org.

DEKALB.

Stonecrest branch registering teens for Cosplay Competition The DeKalb County Public Library System’s Stonecrest branch, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia is registering youths ages 10 – 17 to take part in the Teen Cosplay Competition on Saturday, July 25, 2 – 3 p.m., in the branch’s auditorium. This will be a celebration of anime and will feature different costumes and characters from comics, cartoons and other shows. Show off your Cosplay skills in a friendly competition that includes chances to win prizes or join in the audience and enjoy the display of teen Cosplay talent. Competition is open to the first 30 participants. Audience is limited to 155. If you wish to compete, check dekalblibrary.org/cosplay for rules and more information. Contestants must arrive by 1 p.m. on July 25 for pre-judging. Funding provided by Anime Weekend Atlanta, Epic Cosplay, and the Friends of the Stonecrest, Stone Mountain and Hairston Crossing libraries. 770-482-3828. cs and Aquatics Recreation Program Manager, at (404)371-6270.

Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation will host “Walk the Talks” this month at parks throughout the county. The free informative walks are led by local health and wellness professionals to talk about benefits of walking and staying active, as well as healthy ways to beat the summer heat. You can also ask questions on issues concerning your family or neighborhood. The walks are hosted at an easy and enjoyable pace. “Walk the Talk” schedule is as follows: July 11, 9 a.m., at Shorty Howell Park, 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth; July 16, 6 p.m., at Vines Park, 3500 Oak Grove Rd., Loganville; July 25, 9 a.m., at Little Mulberry Park, 3800 Hog Mountain Rd., Dacula; and on July 30, 6 p.m., at Bay Creek Park, 175 Ozora Rd., Loganville. The walks will also promote an appreciation for nature and exercising, socializing and having fun. The program’s theme is “Out is In” and encourages people to try to do something out of the ordinary than what they usually do at the parks.

“Music and Scoops” in Lawrenceville Gwinnett County will host “Music and Scoops” in Lawrenceville on Friday, July 17, 5:30 p.m., at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville. A kid’s zone will be available for children to enjoy activities. Ice cream and other food concessions will be available for purchase or you can bring your own picnic. Free entertainment begins at the gazebo at 7 p.m. and features live music from “Havana Son.” “Havana Son” brings a Latin tropical paradise to the county. Cuban native Rene Herrera, who is a composer and recording artist, created the group. The group uses piano, vocals, guitars and a Tres (a traditional Cuban stringed instrument). The group will entertain attendees with salsa, merengue, son, cha cha, boleros, bachata, vallenato and cumbia music.

ROCKDALE

Free outdoor screening offers family fun The Conyers Main Street Foundation will hosts a free outdoor movie screening for the entire family to enjoy on Saturday, July 11, 8 – 10:30 p.m., at the Olde Town Pavilion, 949 South Main Street, Conyers. The movie to be featured is “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.” The 2014 American comedy stars Steve Carell, Jennifer Garner, and Ed Oxenbould. The film follows the exploits of Alexander Cooper, an ordinary 11-year-old boy and his “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.” He is left out by his family; his older brother, Anthony, his older sister, Emily, his mother, Kelly his father, Ben and his baby brother, Trevor. The day before Alexander’s twelfth birthday, he wakes up and finds gum in his hair and clips it off with a pair of scissors. The day goes down hill in a comedy adventure from here. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and arrive early for prime seating! The movie begins at dark. 770-602-2606.

North Georgia Live Streamers train rides in Conyers The North Georgia Live Steamers (NGLS) will host train rides for the community to enjoy on Saturday, July 11, 1 – 4:30 p.m., at the Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. NGLS is an incorporated non-profit miniature outdoor railroad club operating miniature trains on more than two miles of track. The club has constructed a real-life miniature train city with several different designs of steam trains you can ride. The train site is located inside the horse park next to the steeplechase field. The cost to ride is $2 per person. Run days may be canceled due to inclement weather. Visit www.northgeorgialivesteamers.org or www.georgiahorsepark.com for more information. The rides will also be offered on Saturday, Aug. 15.

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JULY 4, 2015 • PAGE 5

McDonough sculptor to create Capitol’s MLK statue

cDonough sculptor Andy Davis has been selected to create the statue of Martin Luther King, Jr. to stand on the Georgia Capitol grounds, Gov. Nathan Deal announced. Davis’ works include music legend Ray Charles, the Georgia Police Memorial, Chick-Fil-A founder Truett Cathy, Griffin County founder Gen. Lawrence Griffin and Patrick Henry. The sculpture of the civil rights leader will be placed on the northeast quadrant of the Capitol grounds overlooking Liberty Plaza. Deal tapped State Rep. Calvin Smyre (Columbus), dean of the Georgia General Assembly, earlier this year to head up the effort and act as liaison between the state, the King Estate, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Advisory Council and the Georgia Arts Standards Commission. “Placing a statue of Dr. King at the Capitol of his home state is a long overdue honor, and selecting an artist is an important step forward in this process,” Deal said. “I am confident that Andy

Davis’ past works, including a statue of Ray Charles in the singer’s hometown of Albany, have prepared him well for this historic project. I commend Rep. Smyre for his diligent efforts and leadership on this project and I look forward to seeing the final work of art.” Officials of the King Estate expressed gratitude for the project moving forward. “We believe the sculpture should capture the essence of Dr. King’s legacy — as a civil rights leader, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, a husband, father and a Georgian,” the King Estate said in a statement. “We also are grateful for Gov. Deal, Rep. Smyre and the other stakeholders who have worked to ensure this memorial appropriately honors Dr. King, a native son of Georgia who left his state, his nation and his world a better place.” Smyre said he was honored to play a role in the historic event. “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired our nation with his dream of hope, peace, justice, and human rights. I am honored to have played a role during the 2014 Legislative Session in passing House Bill 1080, which authorized the placement of a Capitol-grounds statue honoring Dr. King and was signed into law by Gov. Deal,” said Smyre. “It is now time for us as a state to make this a reality. Naming Andy Davis as the sculptor is the first step in that process. It was important that a Georgia sculptor be chosen for this historic project. I look forward to working with all the stakeholders as we undertake the statue’s design, likeness and private fundraising efforts.” Davis began his career as a full-time sculptor in 1999. He works from the Andy Davis Studio in the Hood Street Arts Center in McDonough, where he lives with his wife, Gerri. They have two children.

Chorale II community choir looking for a few good voices Chorale II community choir in DeKalb County is recruiting for its 20152016 season. The choir wants passionate singers who are eager to entertain and have fun. The choir currently has 65 members and is under the direction of James McRaney. Chorale II welcomes all voice parts, especially tenor and 2nd (low) bass. Rehearsals are held every other Thursday at Briarlake Baptist Church, 3175 LaVista Road, Decatur. If you would like to try your voice in the choir, you can email McRaney at

jmcraney@aol.com. You can also try out at upcoming 7 p.m. rehearsals on Aug. 27, Sept. 3 and Sept. 17, as well as Oct. 1 and Oct. 15. “As a member of the chorus, I am very happy with the varied selections and themes of each concert,” said chorus tenor Jack Sartain. “The accompanists are terrific, the musical instruction by Dr. McRaney is most professional and the concerts are very musically satisfying. Members are friendly and have the same goal—to make beautiful music.”

DeKalbs’ new schools’ chief R. Stephen Green sworn in In a packed courtroom of family members, former and current school board members and other supporters, DeKalb County Schools new chief, R. Stephen Green, was sworn in by Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams on July 1. Green was hired in June after the DeKalb Board of Education conducted a nationwide search and named him as its sole finalist. Green will earn $275,000 a year. “I am honored to serve the Board of Education and the citizens of DeKalb County in this important role, but I am even more honored and excited to serve the 100,000 students of the DeKalb County School District,” said Green, who was also accompanied by his wife, Kimberly, and his adult children and grandchildren. “Our focus from today forward will be on meeting the academic needs and goals of our schoolchildren, and ensuring that we are maximizing all of our community’s resources to achieve the best results on our students’ behalf.” School Board Chairman Melvin Johnson said he is looking forward to working with Green. “We have in Dr. Green a seasoned professional who has stabilized troubled school districts and knows the steps we must take to propel the district forward,” said Johnson. “Dr. Green will have the full support of the board and the community in moving our district forward.”

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PAGE 6 •JULY 4, 2015

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Rockdale’s “Ag Day” brings furry friends to many Text and Photos by Joshua Smith

he Rockdale County Extension Office welcomed hundreds of adults and children to its annual Agriculture and Natural Resources Day. The free event, which was held on June 30, featured several booths and demonstrators sharing information on topics ranging from the importance of water in the community to the various insects that live in and around the garden. “Ag Day” provided a great opportunity for kids to check out and even pet farm animals such as goats, chickens, pigs, rabbits and even a cow. Those who attended also munched on free snacks including whole grain chips and black bean dip salsa, watermelon and blueberries provided by the Rockdale County School Nutrition Program. Jule-Lynn Macie, program development coordinator for the Extension Service’s Northwest District, brought her collection of insects as well for petting and exploring. There were also big, tractors for kids to see, touch and pretend to ride. The Rockdale County Farmer’s Market also sold fruits, vegetables and other fresh goodies. For more photos, visit On Common Groud News (official)FB.

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Business News

Wal-Mart, Rockdale Sheriff’s Office partner to help animal shelter

he Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office recently delivered 11 bags of dog food to Rockdale County Animal Control. The Snellville Wal-Mart (store #3389) donated the food to the shelter. “The Snellville Wal-Mart has always been a great supporter of not only the RCSO, but also the entire community,” said Sheriff Eric J. Levett, who personally helped to deliver the food to the shelter. “When I received the phone call about the donation of the dog food, I knew it would be a great benefit to Animal Control. Animal Control and the Sheriff’s Office

often respond to calls together, and it is always great when we can partner and support each other to the benefit of Rockdale County.” Shelter Manager Ciji Baker said the shelter appreciates the donation. “Summer is always one of RCACC’s busiest times for picking up stray animals, and as you can imagine, there is a need for cat and dog food to feed these strays,” said Baker. “We sincerely appreciate any food donated to meet the needs required to feed them.” Joshua Smith/OCG News

ABL welcomes V-103’s Ryan Cameron

he Atlanta Business League (ABL) will welcome V-103 personality and Atlanta Hawks announcer

Ryan Cameron on Tuesday, July 14, 5:30- 7:30 p.m., at the Turner Field 755 Club Plaza, 755 Hank Aaron Drive, S.W., Atlanta. ABL is a membership-based organization focused on the growth and development of African-American business owners and professionals in metro Atlanta. “Join me along with successful ABL business owners and professionals as we gather in a relaxed atmosphere to learn how the League can help our businesses grow and prosper,” said Cameron. Attendees can meet and network with ABL leaders and members, visit expo tables and enjoy hot hors d’oeuvres. The Atlanta Braves and Aramark are sponsoring the event. The event is free. Register online at http://www.cvent.com or www.atlantabusinessleague.org. 404-584-6206.

DeKalb Workforce extends recruitment for youth work program DeKalb Workforce Development (DWD) has extended its recruitment for the Summer Youth Employment Training Program(SYETP). DWD has about 50 slots remaining for the summer program, which began on June 1, and will end on Sept. 11. Youths may work up to 32 hours per week over an eightweek period. Through partnerships with more than 50 public and private sector work sites, 250 youths will receive occupational training to help gain and develop professional skills. The jobs range from clerical and maintenance to technology-based assignments. During the academic school

City of Atlanta named “Best and Brightest Large Employer” The City of Atlanta has again been named one of “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR). “For the fourth year in a row, the NABR has recognized the City of Atlanta’s commitment to employ a best-in-class workforce committed to the ongoing success of the city and a high level of customer service,” said Mayor Kasim Reed. “During my administration, the City of Atlanta has raised the minimum wage for employees, launched a study of pay disparities for women, and has earned recognition as a top employer for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender and queer) workers. I am proud that our efforts and our employees are again celebrated for their accomplishments.” For the ranking, an independent research firm evaluated the City of Atlanta based on various categories including Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Employee Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Ed-

ucation and Development; Recruitment, Selection and Orientation; Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication and Shared Vision; Diversity and Inclusion; Work-Life Balance; and Community Initiatives and Strategic Company Performance. “The City of Atlanta has created impressive organizational value and business results through their policies and best practices in human resource management,” said Jennifer Kluge, president and CEO of NABR. “This award has become a designation sought after by hundreds of metro Atlanta area companies and is a powerful recruitment tool in the drive to attract and retain exceptional employees.” The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® is a program of the National Association for Business Resources that provides the business community with the opportunity to gain recognition, showcase their best practices and demonstrate why they are an ideal place for employees to work.

year, DWD prepares youths for summer employment through work readiness workshops that include mock interviews, electronic application completion, resume writing, and work place ethics. DWD also mentors youth enrolled in the Year-Round Program to become self-sufficient by offering life skills workshops designed to build competency in real world expectations. For more information or to become involved in the Workforce Investment Act - Youth Program, contact Latanya Lowery at llowery@dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-371-3038.

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DeKalb Lawyers Association mentors 1,100 students The DeKalb Lawthe next generation yers Association (DLA) of social advocates. mentored 1,100 DeKalb We want to reach County School students over 2,000 students through its “If You Can in the 2015-2016 See It, You Can Be It” school year. We leadership program. The will host a week program exposes students in the Fall and of color to lawyers of Spring.” colors who encourage The “If You them pursue careers in Can See It, You the legal field. Can Be It” program provides Attorney Mawuli Attorney Mawuli Davis interactive teaching Davis, president of the materials that were African American lawyers’ group, said he set a designed by Decatur-based educator goal of reaching 500 students to mentor, but the organization Jana Johnson-Davis. far surpassed the number—something The 12 DLA members who he’s excited about. participated in this school year’s “I am proud of our membership program were Charles W. Simmons, for working hard to reach the young DeNorris Heard, Joyce Neal, Latasha people in our community. It makes a Barnes, Miya Y. Griggs, Regina J. difference when students see people Matthews, Roodgine Bray, Ashley like them in positions they aspire to Lewis, Jacqueline Johnson, Robert attain,” said Davis. “The expansion Bozeman, Mawuli Davis and Candice of this program, to include the Fall McKinley. and Spring sessions, will undergird The DeKalb Lawyers Associaour theme for the 2015-2016 calendar tion was formed in DeKalb County in 1984 to promote the growth and year of ‘Black Lawyers Matter.’” development of African American Attorney Candice McKinley, a attorneys and to strengthen the social DLA board member and attorney and economic fiber of our communiat the Davis Bozeman Law Firm in ty. Decatur, organized the group who E-mail cmckinley@davisbozvisited four DeKalb schools—Murphy Candler Elementary, Tony Eleemanlaw.com for your school to mentary, Kelly lake Elementary and participate in “If You Can See It, You Stephenson Middle. Can Be It” for the upcoming school “As an attorney, this is what we year or to serve as a volunteer attorney. are meant to do,” McKinley said. “We are charged with training up

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District 5

Ellis

continued from page 3

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laborative and the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce. The DeKalb NAACP has said it will host a forum, but no date had been set as of the newspaper’s deadline. The information will be published as soon as On Common Ground News is notified.

Here’s how the candidates responded to some of the issues presented on June 29: Should DeKalb County change its form of government to one run by county manager instead of an elected CEO? Johnson: “No. It’s not the form of government that makes the difference. It’s the people who govern that makes the difference. Turner: “No. It’s the people who are attracted to the position. It’s not always best to change for change’s sake.” Do you support county purchasing cards for county employees and commissioners? Johnson: No. Turner: No. How will you balance your time on the board with your jobs? Johnson: She said she has law partners and staff to delegate duties at work. She said she is excellent at time management and pledged to vigorously engage and represent the community, if she is elected. Turner: He said although he is busy as a retiree in serving on various boards in the community, he would readjust his schedule to serve full time as a commissioner. What is your position on the Georgia Department of Labor closing its offices in South DeKalb? Johnson: She said she would work very hard to get it re-opened in District 5. She said she believes it was insensitive to close the office where so many people need jobs and utilize its services. Turner: He said he would work to put pressure on state officials to get the offices re-opened in South DeKalb. He said he is very concerned that people lack access to computers and the internet and now have to travel outside the district for help. Denny’s continued from page 1

Donnell Thompson

on both sides of the business,” said Thompson. “I’m lucky and blessed to have experience on both sides of the business and I’ll continue to use my experience to aid my business partner and great friend as we continue to grow this brand.” Thompson says he enjoys representing the new face of Denny’s as a black owner and operator. “Denny’s is stronger than it’s ever been. I’m proud and excited to grow the brand here. We have changed the whole persona of the Denny’s brand. When you come into the Denny’s restaurants now it’s a whole new look and feel,” said Thompson. “People are often surprised to know that I am the owner of a Denny’s but I enjoy surprising them and making new and returning customers out of them.”

In 1994, the full-service pancake house and casual family restaurant chain settled a $54 million discrimination lawsuit for providing inferior service to minorities, especially black people. The class action lawsuit made history and publicized stories of black customers being forced to pay up front and wait for hours while white customers were seated immediately. Since the historic settlement, Denny’s improved its service and image. In 2001, Fortune magazine named Denny’s the “Best Company for Minorities” and in 2006 and 2007, Denny’s was deemed one of Black Enterprise’s “Best 40 Companies for Diversity.” Denny’s has more than 1,700 franchised, licensed or company-owned restaurants globally. Thompson says stocks and profits with Denny’s are doing extremely well, especially in the last three years. Thompson says he looks forward to offering customers great prices through specials like Denny’s $2 $4 $6 $8 value menu. “We have something for everyone from seniors to kids. We love to feed people. We want people no matter who they are to have a great experience and come back and see us again and again. I guarantee when you come into one of our stores you will leave with a whole new thinking of Denny’s,” said Thompson, adding that the chain prides itself on restaurants that are clean inside and out and its great service. “Come as you are and enjoy some great food and even better service.”

District Attorney Robert James

Burrell Ellis’ mother, Roberta Ellis, sits quietly while she awaits the verdict for her son.

charges were read. The verdict came around 10:30 a.m., about 90 minutes after the jury deliberated that morning. District Attorney Robert James did not comment on the verdict. He said he could not discuss the case until after sentencing due to a gag order. Ellis’ team of attorneys, led by Craig Gillen, also did not comment because of the gag order. DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May issued a statement: “I encourage everyone to join me in keeping the Ellis family in our thoughts and prayers. I wish them strength in the days and months ahead. “Mr. Ellis remains under suspension during any appeal until the final disposition of his case or the expiration of his term of office, whichever comes first. While the suspension is in effect, I remain as Interim Chief Executive Officer. As Interim CEO, I will continue to stay focused on moving the county forward.” Viola Davis, who heads the Unhappy Taxpayers watchdog group in DeKalb, also issued a statement: “We have a long history of working with people who believe in Burrell Ellis’ innocence on one hand, and his quilt on another. However, we live in a country where everyone is “innocent” until proven guilty. “Today, 12 women and men on the jury have spoken to say that Burrell Ellis is guilty of extortion and perjury. We respect the jury’s decision. We continue to demand full RICO investigations and criminal forensic audits to restore the public’s trust, transparency, ethics and accountability in DeKalb County government…” Ellis was indicted in 2013 for extorting campaign contributions from county vendors and drying up contracts with vendors who refused to make a donation to his 2012 bid for re-election. Ellis was elected as CEO in 2008 and won a second term four years later. District Attorney James said county vendors lost as much as $250,000 in contracts for not giving to Ellis’ campaign. The three perjury counts carry a maximum sentence of up to 10 years. The attempt to commit theft by extortion count carries a maximum sentence of up to five years. Defense attorneys unrelated to the case said they speculate that Ellis will appeal. “Not only does he (Ellis) face prison time but he also faces not being a lawyer anymore because he is convicted of a felony. He can either surrender his license or the state bar will initiate disbarment proceedings,”

said Defense Attorney Jackie Patterson. “The jury sent the message that as a public official and even as a lawyer, you can never be untruthful in a courtroom proceeding.” Even County Attorney O.V. Brantley said she anticipates Ellis will appeal. In a July 1 memo to May and the Board of Commissioners, Brantley said the conviction means that Ellis’ salary stops effective immediately. She wrote: “I thought it prudent to remind you of the consequences of this conviction. After initial conviction, Mr. Ellis remains under suspension during any appeal, until final disposition of his case or the expiration of his term of office, whichever comes first. However, after initial conviction by the trial court, O.C.G.A. Section 45-5-6 ( c) provides that Mr. Ellis shall not be entitled to receive compensation from his office. If Mr. Ellis is subsequently reinstated to office, he shall be entitled to receive any compensation withheld under this law. I would anticipate an appeal but will keep you apprised of developments in that regard.” The CEO’s salary is about $153,000 annually. Ellis’ first trial ended in a mistrial in October 2014 when an all-female jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict after nearly two weeks of deliberations. Throughout the re-trial, Ellis’ attorneys repeatedly told jurors the state offered no evidence of criminal activity. Gillen insisted the state’s key witness, former purchasing director Kelvin Walton, was a “serial perjurer” used by the state to fill in the holes in their case. The three perjury charges Ellis was found guilty of stem from a special 2013 grand jury trial where Ellis repeatedly stated under oath that he wasn’t involved in county contracting and would never cancel a company’s county contract for not contributing to his campaign. Kellie Hill, the former assistant to the district attorney, asked Ellis the questions he perjured in that grand jury trial and said she was not surprised by Ellis’ conviction. “When I asked a question and I received an answer, I had an idea about whether or not it was a truthful answer, but the jury has spoken and justice has been served. It’s all about justice,” said Hill, who now has her own consulting firm. “Obviously, there was enough substantial evidence in this case to lead to a conviction. The jury’s verdict says business as usual in DeKalb County will no longer stand.”

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Movers & Shakers in the Community

GPTC adjunct instructor named Optician of the Year

eorgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) adjunct instructor Thomas Blair, Jr. has been named the “2015 Ophthalmic Optician of the Year.” The Ophthalmic Optician of the Year is presented annually by the Society to Advance Opticianry. “Thomas Blair’s selection as the 2015 Ophthalmic Optician of the Year underscores the extremely high quality instructors we have here,” said GPTC President Jabari Simama. “Our students have access to leading practitioners who bring a wealth of real world experience to the classroom.”

Thomas Blair

Blair was chosen for this award based on his high level of service to the profession. He will be recognized for his achievement at the OptiCon 2015 National Conference, scheduled Sept. 25-27 at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center in Nashville. “I am appreciative of the opportunity to share this honor with GPTC and with my students, in hopes that it may serve as an inspiration for them to achieve,” Blair said. Blair has served as an adjunct instructor in the Opticianry Program at Georgia Piedmont since January 2015. A longtime member of the Opticians

Association of Georgia, he is a former vice chairman of the Georgia State Board of Dispensing Opticians and the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation. In 2008, he was designated as an “Ambassador of the Year” by the National Academy of Opticianry. Blair has been a credentialed optician for more than 40 years. The Society to Advance Opticianry is a credentialing organization that promotes higher education and certification levels for opticians. It also provides mentoring services to its candidate members.

Driver Services Commissioner welcomes South DeKalb Rotary Club board member Rachel B. Little installs 2015-16 officers, receives Commissioner Rob Mikell, Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), is top honors pleased to announce the appointment of the newest board member by Gov. Nathan

Deal. Gwinnett County resident Rachel B. Little will assume her new role at the agency’s July board meeting. “I believe Rachel’s unique perspective and expertise will serve us well on the Board, and I look forward to working with her on many DDS initiatives,” said Mikell. Little works in the legal department of the U.S. headquarters for Merial, Inc., a global animal health company. She has over 18 years’ experience with international law firms and in-house legal departments. “I am humbled by the confidence and trust that Governor Deal has placed in me with this appointment to the Board of Driver Services. What a privilege to serve our great state in this capacity,” said Little. Little is a graduate of Leadership Gwinnett and currently serves on the Citizens Advisory Board for Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful. Little earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Georgia State University. She and her husband, Bill, reside in Loganville.

Ceasar Gaiters and Jennifer Friday

he South DeKalb Rotary Club has installed its 2015-2016 leaders, naming Jennifer Friday as president and Ceasar Gaiters as its president-elect. Friday, a college professor and owner of a consulting firm, will take the reigns from Patricia Seals, who served with distinction. Gaiters, who is owner of Suite 20 Day Salon in Decatur, will become president June 2016. The leadership roles are for one year. The organization’s outgoing District Gov. Alicia Michaels and Candace Klein, its assistant director governor, performed the installations on June 26. In addition to Friday and Gaiters, the group swore in the following officers: Watiki Hardeman – Secretary Al Lockhart - Membership William A. Murrain – Treasurer Willie Hinton – Sergeant-at-Arms Jennifer Ffrench-Parker – Public Relations Leaders said the installation was especially significant because the group received several accolades including being honored for its 100 percent member participation in the National Rotary Foundation’s giving initiative.and it was named a Paul Harris Fellow in in honor of the founder because 100 percent of its members contributed $1,000 to the Rotary Club. The South DeKalb Rotary Club is the only all African-American Rotary Club in the Eastern United States. The Rotary Club is one of the world’s first service organizations. During its 100-plus year history, the Rotary Club has led many service projects to make the world a better place including the fight against polio with a project to immunize 6 million children in the Philippines.

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