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march 22, 2014
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Thousands of seniors flock to AARP job fair in DeKalb By Valerie J. Morgan and Joshua Smith
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he parking lot at DeKalb County’s Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia was filled to capacity as job seekers lined up to enter an employment and resource fair held specifically for seniors. Hundreds had to park off site and walk to the center, which was packed inside. Organizers said nearly 2,000 seniors attended the American Association of Retired Persons’ 50+ Job Fair on March 20. “We had 700 people registered in advance but we’ve easily seen 2,000,” said Darryl Blackwell, director of the Lou Walker Senior Center. “This is the first job fair we have hosted with the AARP and they really brought the job fair concept to a new level.” The job fair was a partnership between the AARP, Congressman Hank
Johnson’s office and the Lou Walker Senior Center. About 34 vendors joined the AARP to offer jobs to senior citizens. Some employers looking to hire “baby boomers” included Comcast
cable, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, Jake 22 Management Company’s McDonald’s franchise and Lowes. “Seniors are warmer, friendlier and
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
the most welcoming group of people you can have on staff,” said Jake 22 Management Office Administrator Trakeisha Franklin, who was looking See Job fair, page 6
Rockdale officials spar over predominately white fire department
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By Valerie J. Morgan
ockdale County has hired 16 firefighters and sparked a public outcry because none of the new recruits are black. Fire Chief Dan Morgan said while there are no blacks among the new firefighters, the group has one woman and one man who identifies as Hispanic. “We had three African Americans who made the final cut, but did not make it through the whole hiring process for whatever reason,” said Morgan, adding that all recruits must pass a psychological profile, GBI polygraph, physical agility test, written test and panel interviews. Of the three blacks who made the final rounds, one didn’t pass the polygraph, another didn’t pass the psychological test, and the third decided to take a higher paying job, Morgan said. With the new recruits, Rockdale’s Fire Department has about 146 fire personnel, 8 or 9 of whom are black and two who are Hispanic, Morgan said. The department has three female firefighters, he said. On Common Ground News fielded several complaints this week about the new hires.
Dan Morgan Fire Chief
Oz Nesbitt Commissioner
Richard Oden CEO/Chairman
Rockdale Commissioner Oz Nesbitt is furious over the numbers, saying the county’s inaction is “absolutely embarrassing.” He said when he was elected in 2009, there were only five blacks in the department then and officials agreed to work to greatly improve the numbers. Blacks comprise nearly half of Rockdale’s population of 90,000, Nesbitt said. “I find it absolutely embarrassing that as much as we talk about being fair and equitable, and the fact that we are one of 13 metro counties, that we could not find one African American anywhere to serve as a firefighter in Rockdale County,” said Nesbitt. “Even more disturbing is that we could not find one right here in Rockdale. I put
the responsibility for this on the CEO of the county since he is in charge of the day-to-day operations.” CEO Richard Oden said the county’s Human Resources and Fire departments worked on the hiring project together. He said he is confident that they worked to get the best people for the jobs. “You can’t make African Americans apply to be a firefighter and you can’t waive criteria for them to pass the tests,” Oden said. “We can’t discriminate and give people jobs who don’t pass the tests. We lost one of the candidates because he took a higher-paying job. Nesbitt said he questions how the jobs were posted and where. “From what I’m hearing in the community, a lot of folks didn’t even know we were hiring firefighters,” said Nesbitt. “I’m not sure we made every effort to advertise those positions metro wide. ” Morgan said, however, the department made a concerted effort to advertise through various periodicals and fire journals. He said the hiring process began last September and ran through mid December. The new recruits, Morgan said, are a few weeks from completing their training. Their graduation exercises are scheduled April 19.
Lawmakers pass bill for tougher charges in strangulation cases
Mandi Ballinger
I
Sherry Boston
Mary Margaret Oliver
By Joshua Smith
f you choke your spouse or significant other out of anger, you could be looking at some serious time behind bars. State lawmakers passed a bill this session—HB 911—that makes strangulation an aggravated assault charge, a felony that carries a penalty of up to 20 years behind bars. Strangling a child during a rape could get you 25 to 50 years in prison. Lawmakers are using the bill to get tough on domestic violence and assaults in general.
“Standing laws are already in place for professional boxers or martial arts black belts where their hands are considered deadly weapons, but this addresses assaults, which typically result in misdemeanor charges,” said State Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R-Canton), who authored the bill. Lawmakers say they expect the bill to take effect in July, when other new laws take effect. DeKalb Solicitor General Sherry Boston applauds the new bill. “I have been lobbying for this bill because it strengthens laws against domestic violence. Under current law, perpetrators often do not face penalties for strangulation assault, or if they do, the charge is typically filed as a misdemeanor offense,” said Boston. “This new law could make it easier to prosecute and bring stronger penalties for strangulation.” Statistics from the Georgia Commission of Family Violence show that strangulation assaults are highly dangerous and potentially lethal. In a recent study, results showed that 44 percent of victims served by Georgia’s state-certified domestic violence programs
have been strangled and victims of prior attempted strangulation are eight times more likely to be killed by the same abuser. Before taking office as a state representative in 2013, Ballinger worked as a victim’s advocate at the Cherokee and Forsyth County District Attorney Offices. In that role, she says she deal with many domestic violence cases. “The bill will help D.A. offices, prosecutors, attorneys, the chief of the police, basically everyone in law enforcement, because we see so many cases where the victim comes into the offices to follow up on reports but by then all the bruises and marks on the neck are gone,” said Ballinger State Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver (D-Decatur) said she was glad to see the bill go through with no opposition . “This bill is critical for domestic violence in the state. Before the bill, there was awareness but we needed to raise the bar on this issue. I really think it will be a useful tool in deferring violent actions among couples,” said Oliver, who has more than 30 years as a probate and divorce attorney.
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march 22, 2014
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Community Cleanup, Community Appreciation and Signup for Coverage under ACA
COMMUNITY
COVERAGE
Community Appreciation Let’s Talk District 3 March 22, 2014 9:00 a.m. McDonald’s 2020 McAfee Road Candler/McAfee Plaza Decatur, GA 30032
ACA Enrollment Event March 22, 2014 9:00 a.m. Candler/McAfee Plaza Next to McDonald’s 2020 Candler Road Decatur, GA 30032
COVERAGE
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Tuesday, March 25, 2014 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Scott Candler Library 1917 Candler Road Decatur, GA 30034
Wednesday, March 26, 2014 co-hosted with State Rep. Pam Stephenson 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Wesley Chapel Library 2861 Wesley Chapel Road Decatur, GA 30034
CLEANUP DeKalb District 3
Community Cleanup April 12, 2014 9:00 a.m. Memorial Drive (Between Moreland Avenue & Covington Highway) & River Road (Between Flakes Mill Road & Bouldercrest Road) Commissioner Larry Johnson * Maloof Administration Building, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, GA 30030 404-371-2425 * larryjohnson@dekalbcountyga.gov
march 22, 2014 PAGE 3
Community News
march 22, 2014 Volume 19, NO. 51 EDITOR/Publisher Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com
Atlanta Beltline’s ‘PLAYDAY’ offers day of fun and fitness
Staff Writer Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com
Here’s a look at what’s planned:
Advertising Manager Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com
• Martial Arts • Flag Football • Kickball • Bubble Suit Soccer
About Us
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.
How To Reach Us On Common Ground News 1240 Sigman Road Suite 107 Conyers, GA 30012 (678) 526-1910 (P) (678) 526-1909 (F) www.ocgnews.com editor@ocgnews.com
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Upper Field for Adults with Atlanta Sport and Social Club
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he Atlanta BeltLine Partnership is teaming up with Atlanta ContactPoint (ACP) to present the Atlanta BeltLine PLAYDAY for children and adults on Sunday, March 30, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at Boulevard Crossing Park. The City of Atlanta Parks and Rec, Park Pride, the Atlanta Sport and Social Club, and other local organizations are sponsoring the event. PLAYDAY is a free, fun-filled day of sports, fitness, nutrition, and education, where local coaches and orga nizations come together to facilitate activities, drills and games for various sports and activities. There will be separate fields for family activities and adult activities. Everyone is invited to join the fun. “The Atlanta BeltLine is developing exciting new greenspaces that allow for Atlantans to engage in active lifestyles and embrace physical activity as a fun new way of life,” said Atlanta BeltLine Partnership Program Director Rob Brawner. “Through partnerships with organizations such as Atlanta ContactPoint, we are providing unique opportunities for people of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy their favorite sports as well as explore fun new fitness activities.” David Epstein, founder of ACP said the PLAYDAY program started last year at Candler Park with more than 600 people attending the event. “ACP is focused on creating ways to connect the dots between sports-centered and social-needs based organizations in Atlanta,” Epstein said.
Free Family Reunion Planning
Workshop & Showcase
1–1:30 p.m. Adult capoeira class 1-2:15 p.m. 2:15-3:30 p.m. 3:30-5 p.m.
Lower Field for families • Rugby 1–2 p.m. BallsOut, Atlanta Youth Rugby • Kickball 1–2 p.m. Atlanta ContactPoint (ACP) • Martial Arts 1:30–2 p.m. Capoeira Passo a Frente • Fitness 1:30–2 p.m. I.Robics Dance • Lacrosse 2–3 p.m. ACP • Golf 2-3 p.m. David Johnson Golf Design • Yoga 2:30–3 p.m. Tough Love • Flag Football 3–4 p.m. NFL FL/GA • Fitness 3–4 p.m. Mr. Cardio Tone • Softball 3–4 p.m. The Pitchers Mound • Soccer 4–5 p.m. Atlanta Silverbacks, Soccer in the Streets • Ul 4–5 p.m. ACP • Relay Races Inspired Mom • Fitness Playout: The Game • Double Double Dutch Intown Academy • Dance Good Moves • Volleyball/Dodgeball ACP
Health Initiatives and Education will be on hand provided by: • Café of Life • Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta • Culinary Kidz • Druid Hills Preschool
• Healthy Green Schools • Intown Academy • Kidz Fit Academy • Inspired Mom
Rockdale Sheriff Levett: Beware of “One Ring” telephone scam Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett is warning the public to beware of a new telephone scheme called the “One-Ring” scam. Con artists are calling victims using an auto-dialing computer program. After the phone rings once, the scammers hang up. When unsuspecting victims return the call, they are connected to a paid adult entertainment service located overseas. The victims are usually charged a $19.95 international calling fee and pay $9 or more per minute. Some of the area codes being used are 268; 284; Eric Levett 473; 809 and 876. Sheriff Levett said people should ignore incoming telephones they are not familiar with and do not return the calls. He also advises to check your telephone bill and call local law enforcement if you feel that you have been scammed.
Georgia Piedmont to host STEAM roundtable Bring Your Family Home to DeKalb Learn everything you need to plan the perfect Family Reunion.
Saturday, April 12, 2014 Fairfield Inn & Suites - Stonecrest 7850 Stonecrest Square, Lithonia, GA 30038 Seating is Limited! Call Discover DeKalb (770) 492-5018 to Pre-Register
AtlantasDeKalb.com
Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) will host a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) roundtable discussion on Tuesday, March 25, 10 a.m. at the college’s DeKalb campus. The roundtable is being presented by the college and the Georgia STEAM Alliance Network. Stakeholders, legislators, and members of the business and education communities will share best practices and strategies for the recruitment and retention of underrepresented students at all levels of the STEAM continuum. The U.S. Bureau of Labor estimates that at least 211,000 Georgia STEM jobs will exist in 2018. Through the roundtable, officials hope to work together to fill that need. “Understanding the critical importance of this issue, we are pleased the Georgia STEAM Alliance Network has chosen Georgia Piedmont Technical College to host these Roundtable discussions,” said GPTC President Dr. Jabari Simama. “I am encouraged they have chosen to tackle the problem head-on through its innovative upcoming roundtable discussions, which is a series of cross-sector mobilizing stimulations. This is a great step toward insuring our local communities are better prepared for the 21st Century economy.” Dr. Natoshia Anderson, Georgia Piedmont Technical College’s STEAM Director, said the roundtable discussions are just one example of how, through public, private, and non-profit collaboration, stakeholders can reverse some of the nation’s most challenging education realities.
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march 22, 2014
Coming Up
Discover your inner scientist Centennial Olympic Park will host a free science festival on Saturday, March 29, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Attendees can meet local scientists and engineers, touch a brain, grow your own bacteria, control robotic roaches with their mobile device, crawl into the inflatable planetarium, tour the GSU Bio-Bus and the STE(A)M Truck. Visitors can also tour the “Makers Village,” drop in on the “Science Café” and the nearby Georgia FIRST Robotics competition, all while exploring more than 80 interactive activities and performances that celebrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics in Atlanta. Students in grades K-12 can win $400 to enhance their science classrooms by entering a raffle at the festival welcome tent. This free event is open to adults, families, children and students of all ages and interests. For more information, visit www. atlantasciencefestival.org/expo or call 770-322-4992.
DEKALB School district seeks parents’ input
GWINNETT Celebrate your creative side at “Artopia”
The DeKalb County School District is seeking input from parents on the 2014-2015 Code of Student Conduct—Student Rights and Responsibilities and Character Development Handbook. The conduct handbook outlines the policies, rules and regulations that govern student discipline in the District, including dress code, behavior, bus information, electronic communication devices, violence against students, school personnel and other student responsibilities. The handbook is intended to inform students in grades K – 12 of the types of behaviors that are unacceptable. Students are taught and tested on the contents of the handbook. A copy of the current 2013-2014 Code of Student Conduct— Student Rights and Responsibilities and Character Development Handbook is available in all DeKalb schools and at www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/student-relations in English, Burmese, Nepali and Spanish. Parents’ comments or recommendations may be sent to: www. studentrelations@fc.dekalb.k12.ga.us; or, the Department of Safe Schools and Student Relations, 5823 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain, Georgia 30083. 678676-1811.
Families are invited to celebrate great artists on Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the Pinckneyville Community Recreation Center, 4758 South Old Peachtree Road, Norcross. Gwinnett’s best artists, instructors, and students will come together to show off their work. There will be complimentary food and drinks from local businesses. Entertainment includes musical performances from local artists and bands, martial arts and live performance art. You can also explore your own creativity with hands-on activities such as basic oil painting, watercolor, pottery, karate, Zumba, yoga, gymnastics, and dance workshops. 678-277-0920.
Extension Office sets “Spring Fling” college tour The DeKalb County Extension Office, 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur, is hosting the “4-H Spring Fling: College Bound” college tour for interested students and their families on April 8 – 10. The tour includes trips to Georgia State and Clayton State Universities on Tuesday, April 8, visits to Middle Georgia State College and Fort Valley State University on Wednesday, April 9, and will conclude on Friday, April 10, with visits to Georgia Gwinnett College and the University of Georgia. The college tour is $100. The price includes tours of the campuses, a college tour T-shirt, financial aid and admissions advice. Participants will take part in team building exercises and campus reality simulations as well. The registration deadline is March 31, 5 p.m. For more information or to register your student, call 404-298-4080 or visit www.ugaextension.com/dekalb.
Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation will host a yard sale on Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., at Rhodes Jordan Park Community Center, 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville. This outdoor yard sale will be held in the meadow by the lake. Your trash may be someone else’s treasure. Shoppers will find handmade items, both new and old products. Gwinnett County reserves the right to ban inappropriate items. Admission is free, but yard sale vendors must pay $21 for space. Food vendors must pay $51 for booth space. 678-288-0890.
ROCKDALE “Walk with Angeles” to benefit cancer research, patients
ATLANTA State Rep. Stacey Abrams to host ACA enrollment event State Rep. Stacey Abrams (D-89) will host an Affordable Care Act enrollment event on Monday, March 24, 6 to 8 p.m., at Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, 1879 Glenwood Ave. S.E., Atlanta. Open enrollment into the Healthcare Market Place ends on March 31, 2014. Navigators will be available at this event to help citizens enroll in an insurance plan using the federally-created insurance exchange system. The following items are needed when enrolling: * Social Security Numbers (or document numbers for legal immigrants) * Employer and income information for every member of your household who needs coverage (for example, from pay stubs or W-2 forms‹Wage and Tax Statements) * Policy numbers for any current health insurance plans covering members of your household * A completed Employer Coverage Tool (Obtain form at healthcare.gov) For more information, contact Emily Oh at 770-362-0123 or emily@gahousedems.com.
Spring cleaning yard sale
The Conyers-based Kimberley Chance Atkins Foundation will host the 4th annual Walk With Angels on Saturday, March 29, 8 a.m., in the Olde Town Pavilion, 949 South Main Street, Conyers. The eight-mile “walk-a-thon,” celebrates survivors and the memory of people who have lost their lives to breast cancer. To sign up, visit the www.kimatkins.net and follow the related links. You can register your team or make a donation online. Registration prices vary according to members on team. Each registered walker receives a T-shirt and a goodie bag. There will be prizes for individuals and teams, such as “Most Money Raised” by an individual walker/team, “Most Spirited Team,” and “Most Determined Walker.” Proceeds from the walk benefit people in Rockdale and Newton counties with education about breast self-exams, funded breast screenings and mammograms for women with limited financial resources.
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march 22, 2014 PAGE 5
ELECTIONS 2014
Rockdale Board of Commission, Post 2 race heats up
JaNice Van Ness
T
Josie Dean
By Joshua Smith
hree well-known community leaders are vying to represent the Democratic Party in the race to unseat Republican JaNice Van Ness for the Rockdale Board of Commission’s Post 2 seat. The hotly contested race could literally change the face of the Board of Commissioners, possibly producing an all-male board, all Democratic board or even the first black woman on the board. Currently, two black men, both Democrats, serve with Van Ness, who is white and the only woman on the three-member board. The three Democratic candidates running to unseat Van Ness are Josie Dean, a minister, community activist and home daycare owner; Arlan Gibson, also a minister and businessman; and Doreen Williams, a retired educator and the former chair of the Rockdale Democratic Party. Van Ness, a fourth generation Rockdale resident, faces no Republican challenger in the May 20 primary. Van Ness, who has served two, fouryear terms, said she is running for reelection on her record. “I have faced competition for this
Arlan Gibson
Doreen Williams
seat before. I will handle it this time the same way: by keeping my focus on economic development, finances, transportation, our seniors, and other aspects that keep Rockdale going,” said Van Ness, 45. “I deeply appreciate the trust and confidence residents have shown in me and my leadership in the past with their votes. I am honored to get that support.” Van Ness, who was first elected in 2006, won re-election in 2010, defeating Democratic challenger Courtney Dillard with 52 percent of the vote. Dean, 53, who supported Van Ness in the 2010 elections, said she is challenging her this time because she believes it’s time for new leadership. “After coming to every single meeting, I realized that I need to run for the seat, instead of just standing by and complaining about it,” said Dean, who is campaigning as the “people’s commissioner.” A resident of Rockdale for about 10 years, Dean founded the bi-partisan Rockdale County Think Tank civic group and is on the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) Citizens Oversight Committee. Dean has been on the forefront of addressing
Sen. Emanuel Jones leads reform on school discipline Sen. Emanuel Jones (D-Decatur) is leading the charge to reform school discipline policies throughout Georgia. Jones, who pushed for the passage of SR 1200, said he is concerned about disparities in school discipline standards and wants to create a comprehensive policy for the state. “Throughout this great state, school discipline standards and practices vary from school system to school system, often times leaving the fate of any one student in the hands of a single hearing officer that works directly for the school Emanuel Jones systems,” said Jones. SR 1200 creates a Senate Study Committee on School Discipline that will study the conditions, needs, issues, and problems related to how local school systems discipline their students. The committee includes five members of the Senate appointed by the Lieutenant Governor. The panel must report its findings Dec. 1, 2014. “Our students deserve a discipline process that is independent, impartial and balanced, something that is largely missing from the current system said Jones. “Reforms must be made and I look forward to traveling throughout the state to meet with students, parents and various stakeholders to discuss this important matter.”
several issues in the county, including protesting changing zoning regulations for houses of worship, as well as opposing the proposed 2012 T-SPLOST Transportation Tax. Gibson, 65, is campaigning on a platform to improve public safety and economic development. A resident of Rockdale for five years, Gibson has been active with youths in the community, volunteering with the Powerhouse Youth Organization, youth detention centers, the Men of Distinction and Men to Men Mentoring. Gibson says he has lived in Rockdale for approximately five years. The Vietnam veteran is currently working with Rockdale County Probate Judge Charles Mays to assist in establishing a special court focused on veterans who need rehabilitation. “My priority issues are having a strong public safety sector, attracting new businesses to the county and creating jobs,” said Gibson, an ordained minister at Grace Church International in Atlanta. “In me, voters will have someone who will fight to keep and expand the things that are working in government and will take responsibility for the things that are not. I will work tirelessly to make them right.” Gibson ran on the Republican ticket in 2007 for the Macon mayor’s race in 2007. He says that decision in 2007 should not negatively affect the minds of voters. “I’ve always been active in Democratic campaigns. I’m willing to compromise. I’m willing to reach across the aisle and I realize that members of both parties must find some kind of middle ground. That’s the only
way to get things done,” said Gibson. “I ran as a Republican. It was a strategic mistake. I was trying to bring a more moderate voice to a right wing situation because at the time, I was really aligned with studying Colin Powell. I’ve been a Democrat all my life and I’ve voted Democrat for the past 8 to 9 years.” Gibson said he worked with the campaigns to elect the Board of Commissioner’s Chairman Richard Oden, Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson and Sheriff Eric Levett, all Democrats. Williams, 62, who ran unsuccessfully for Georgia State Representative in 2012, said she is ready to use the skills she has acquired through many years of community service. A 20-year Rockdale resident, she serves as the secretary/treasurer of the Board of Directors for View Point Health, where she says the board oversees a multi-million dollar budget. Williams also serves as co-chair for the statewide Georgia Federation of Democratic Women’s Mental Health Committee and she formerly chaired the Rockdale County Democratic Party. She served as the Party treasurer from 2006 - 2012. “I think I can bring a new perspective to the seat because I have strengths in critical analysis and budget negotiations. In me, voters will have an elected official who is available and accessible,” said Williams, who is a retired educator with a Ph.D. Williams said she is already canvassing for votes. “Canvassing is my favorite part of this whole thing because you get to meet new people. I love doing that, plus I get to hear and share some ideas on the important issues in our community.
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State Rep. Stacey Evans applauds HOPE increases State Rep. Stacey Evans (D-Smyrna) says she’s pleased with the passage of House Bill 697, an education bill that increases the tuition assistance for HOPE Grant recipients at technical colleges. HB 697 passed on day 40 of the Legislative Session with a Senate amendment that made minor changes to the language of the bill. “HB 697 will present more opportunities for students to access higher education through our technical schools,” Stacey Evans said Evans. “If we strive to attract more competitive jobs and industries, it is imperative that we accept the responsibility and provide a skilled workforce. We cannot fill skilled jobs without technical college graduates, and we won’t have technical college graduates, if we do not provide these students the tuition assistance they need.” The bill was a bi-partisan effort and was included in the Georgia House Democratic Caucus’ Legislative Agenda for the 2014 Legislation Session. House Bill 697 will be sent to the Governor for his signature.
VIETNAM VETERAN RECIPIENT OF THE PURPLE HEART FOR A JOB WELL DONE CALL WELDON 678-413-9823 Otis L. Weldon, Esq. The Weldon Law Firm, LLC 1071 West Ave Conyers, GA 30013
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PAGE 6
march 22, 2014
RJ Hadley Tax Commissioner
Eric Levett Sheriff
Charles Mays Probate Court Judge
Ruth Wilson Clerk of Courts
Rockdale constitutional officers set joint Town Hall meeting By Joshua Smith
Rockdale County Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley, Sheriff Eric Levett, Probate Judge Charles Mays and Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson will host a joint town hall meeting on Thursday, March 27, 6:30 8:30 p.m. at the J.P. Carr Services Center Community Room, 981 Taylor Street in Conyers. The meeting will offer citizens an opportunity to learn about each office, ask questions, and meet with their constitutional officers. “We hope this event will give us the chance to show the community what each one of our positions entails. We will also have displays set up to highlight our respected departments and any special projects our departments are working on,” said Hadley, who is organizing the event. “We will have a question-and-answer session, but we will answer one-on-one questions too. As constitutional officers, we work together a lot and we want to bring the community together to share ideas and become fully educated on our offices.” Clerk of Court Wilson says all four of the officials leading the town hall are members of the Constitutional Officers Association of Georgia (COAG). “This will be a great opportunity to talk to us on a personal level about all the services our agencies provide together and individually. We come together all the time under COAG and this event is an extension of that,” said Wilson. “We want to make it clear how our offices interact with the Board of Commissioners and also serve as fiduciary agents of the state and federal government. We believe the public will be well served by having access
to firsthand information. Knowledge is power and we want citizens to be well informed.” Constitutional officers are elected county officials whose positions are required by the Constitution of the State of Georgia and whose duties are provided by general law. The clerk of courts, probate judge, sheriff and tax commissioner are the only four elected positions that are mandatory in each of Georgia’s 159 counties. Judge Mays says although this will be the first time he and the three other Rockdale constitutional officers have hosted a meeting of this kind, they plan to have many more in the community. “We have ideas to advance the county and we want the community’s feedback on how we can work together to make a better Rockdale. We’ve talked about quarterly meetings, based on the success of this one, but that’s not concrete yet,” said Mays. “We want the people to become familiar with our faces and the services we provide.” Sheriff Levett said he is looking forward to the Town Hall meeting. “We’ve had a very busy year already with the snow and ice storms and I want the community to know that the men and women at the RCSO continue to fight crime so that the citizens of Rockdale County feel safe,” said Levett. “I’m excited about the Town Hall because I will get to share with residents updates on the offices’ crime mapping program, our Facebook page, as well as some accomplishments coming out of the Sheriff’s office.” The town hall meeting is open to the public and citizens are encouraged to attend. For more information, call Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley at 770278-7604.
Job fair continued from page 1
to hire restaurant managers, maintenance workers, crew members and other positions. “Our seniors are self-motivated, disciplined and hard working. They know what they want and they know how to work,” said Tyrone Gates, who was looking to hire insurance reps and financial directors for American General Life Insurance Company. “This a very large population, the baby boomers want Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News to re-enter the workforce and we think that is a great thing.” For Yolande O’Neal, being a grandmother to her 3-year-old granddaughter, Lacey, has been one of the greatest jobs in the world. But she said she attended the fair hoping to get a job to supplement her retirement income. “ I applied to about four jobs here that deal with helping people. A lot of employers don’t want seniors, but this fair is looking for us,” said O’Neal, who came to the fair from Gwinnett County. “I need to work, so I decided to suit up and come out. I retired a year ago and I need something that will keep me comfortably sustained.” The fair wasn’t just limited to jobs. Seniors attended workshops providing information on housing benefits, healthcare policies, resume writing and interviewing skills, and social media techniques. “The event today was a great success,” said Tamika Condé, AARP Foundation’s DeKalb Senior Community Services Employment Program director. “AARP specializes in workforce development, and we were thrilled to help connect so many employers and job seekers.” John Matthews, regional manager for the AARP Foundation, praised Conde’ for organizing the event. “She took this idea and ran with it. This whole day has been wonderful,” said Matthews. “We brought together volunteers, both federal and state agencies, and with a lot of donations, we were able to make this a success.” Congressman Hank Johnson, said he was glad to be a part of the event. “Today’s turnout shows people are hungry for work,” said Johnson. “My office was pleased to work with the AARP Foundation to put on today’s event and hopefully, we’ll be able to do more in the very near future,” Johnson said.
march 22, 2014 PAGE 7
FOODIES DELIGHT
Gwinnett’s ‘Grow Your Own’ Festival to feature local farmers, gardeners
I
By Valerie J. Morgan
f you have a desire to grow your own food as a way to live a more healthy lifestyle, you won’t want to miss the “Grow Your Own – The Real Local Food Festival” on Sunday, March 30, 1 to 5 p.m., at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center (GEHC) in Buford. The festival, in its third year, is a nod at just how much the local food movement has grown in popularity as more and more people become attuned to the origins of their food. From classes on seed planting to workshops on operating a farm to a tour of wild edible and medicinal plants, the festival will provide a cornucopia of activities. Pilar Quintero of Rancho Alegre, a Dacula-based farm will share the story of her agricultural enterprise, which includes a small dairy operation, chickens, hogs and sheep. Anne-Marie Bilella with Bella Vista Farm will take visitors on a wild edible and medicinal plant hike around the GEHC forest and will share information on how to
grow these useful plants at home. Ned Jung of J&J Culinary Sensations will conduct a cooking demonstration with samples of his delicious fare made with organic products. The Gwinnett County Extension will also provide tips on how to prepare your garden for the growing season. Other festival participants include beekeepers (Dances with Bees); Whole Foods Market; Phoenix Gardens; the United States Department of Agriculture; Heirloom Living Market; Athens Food Tours; Golden Farms and Cedar Hill Enrichment Center. Honey, beeswax products, vegetables, herbs, breads, eggs and other products will also be available for purchase. The festival includes several activities for youngsters to enjoy. Live chickens, including baby chicks and a variety of adult breeds, will be on campus. There will be chicken and bee crafts, seed planting, face painting and worm composting to children the chance to dig in the dirt. The GEHC will also offer special Junior Master Gardener Wildlife
Visitors to the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center will enjoy learning about backyard gardening at the Grow Your Own Festival.
Gardening classes from 2 to 3 p.m. and 4 to 5 p.m. for ages 5 to 12 (preregistration for the Wildlife Gardening classes is required and can be done online at www.gwinnettEHC.org). Program fees for the event are $5 for ages 13 and older; $3 for ages 3 to 12;
and free for children 2 and younger and GEHC members. The Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, 2020 Clean Water Drive, Buford. For more information, visit www.gwinnettEHC.org or call 770-904-3500.
East Lake Farmers Market prepares to open for new season
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Y
By Joshua Smith
ou don’t have to travel all the way to East Asia for handpicked Shitake mushrooms or to Russia for homegrown Siberian kale. With one trip to the East Lake Farmers Market (ELF), you can have all this and more at your fingertips. The East Lake Farmers Market opens for the 2014 season on Tuesday, April 15. Local farmers and vendors selling organic and specialty items will welcome returning customers and new ones seeking local, fresh goods from April to October. “This season, we are trying something different by
operating on Tuesdays, instead of Saturdays. We will use Saturdays for education with the urban farm, hosting workshops and special events for the community,” said Doug Williams, who founded the market in 2009 and expanded the concept in 2011 to include an urban farm after receiving $82,000 in funding from DeKalb County, the Southeastern Horticultural Society and the Centers for Disease Control’s Communities Putting Prevention to Work program. Oakhurst, Agnes Scott, Decatur, Kirkwood, Edgewood, unincorporated DeKalb, Midway Woods and Avondale Estates have been big supporters of the farmer’s market every since it opened, Williams said.
Foodies like Thomas James, who lives in East Atlanta, are anxiously waiting for the April opening. The market gives them the excuse to not only shop, but walk and meet people in the community. “I think the market has been a great addition to this community,” said James, who makes visits to get fresh produce. “You can just walk up freely, meet new people, bring your dog and shop with some great farmers.” This season, the 4,800-square-foot market will feature organically harvested vegetables, fair trade teas, local flowers, freshly baked breads, sweet Georgia peaches, free range chickens and body soaps and other specialty items. “The growing popularity of the market and people wanting to eat fresh is a fantastic thing. With our market and urban farm, we can pour more energy into the goal I started with: building community through food,” said Williams. “This season will be like the others in that we will continue to strive to strengthen the local economy and encourage healthy lifestyles by promoting products and programs from local farmers, businesses and artisans.” The East Lake Farmers Market is located at the intersection of Second Avenue and Hosea Williams Drive in east Atlanta. It will be open April to October, Tuesdays, 4 to 8 p.m. or when the sun sets. For more information, call 404-428-8017 or visit http:// elfmarket.org.
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at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit. isitors are welcome year-round at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, the inspirational home of Georgia’s Trappist Monks. Nestled on 2,300 acres in Conyers, the Monastery offers a scenic and peaceful environment to explore. Experience a day in the life of a monk, or learn about the Trappists in Georgia at the Historic Museum. See the beautiful Abbey Church. Browse through the Bonsai Garden, Bonsai Nursery and gift shop. Visit the Abbey Store for monk-made biscotti, fruitcake, fudge, free trade items and the largest selection of Christian books in the state. Stay for the day – or experience our overnight retreats.
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PAGE 8
Class Notes
To Contact Us
By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
Aaron Barron
Hannah Brown
Sierra Fleming
Arely Lopez
Alexis Mathis
Brianna Patton
march 22, 2014
Our Schools, Students & Partners
Aquib Momin
Ajanae Parks
DeJai Mitchell
Julie Roseberry
Sheyenne Rowe
Snapping Shoals EMC awards $40,000 in scholarships to students Snapping Shoals EMC awards scholarships for 2014 Snapping Shoals EMC recently awarded $40,000 in scholarships to high school seniors. Twenty students from the Covington-based co-op’s territory were chosen to receive the scholarships from among more than 100 applicants. Fourteen students who will receive J.E. Robinson Memorial Scholarships in the amounts of $2,000 are: • District 1 (Newton, Walton, Morgan and Jasper counties) – Ifeoma Egbulem, Brandon Hayden, Tyler Smith, Lesley Ochei (not pictured) • District 2 (Rockdale County) – Alexis Mathis, Aquib Momin, Brianna Patton, Julie Roseberry • District 3 (DeKalb County) – Arely Lopez and DeJai Mitchell • District 4 (Henry and Butts counties) – Ablavi Degue, Forrest Elliott, Maggie Ivester, Rachel Stokes (not pictured) The selection of the J.E. Robinson Memorial Scholarship recipients is based on academic ability, financial need, school activities, community involvement and other criteria. The Snapping Shoals EMC Scholarships were created in 1993 and were renamed in memory of Snapping Shoals’ former manager, president and CEO J.E. Robinson after his death in 2004. Also worth $2,000 each, the first Snapping Shoals EMC All-Around Student Scholarships were created in 2007 to recognize the high school students throughout the co-op’s area who are able to balance involvement in extracurricular
activities while maintaining an excellent academic record. Involvement in school and community activities is the primary consideration for the All-Around Student Scholarship. Academic ability and financial need are also factors in the selection of the All-Around scholarship recipients. The six winners of All-Around Student Scholarships are • Aaron Barron, Conyers • Hannah Brown, McDonough • Sierra Fleming, Covington • Ajanae Parks, Covington • Bradford Porter, Covington (not pictured) • Sheyenne Rowe, Conyers SSEMC scholarships are funded by unclaimed capital credits. Capital credits are the revenues that are over and above the cost of providing service for customer-owners of an electric co-op for a specific year after financial obligations have been met. SSEMC routinely refunds these capital credits to its members when its Board of Directors determines it is appropriate to do so. The unclaimed funds are used to support such programs as the Bright Ideas program, the Snapping Shoals EMC scholarship program and other community and economic development projects. Snapping Shoals EMC is a consumer-owned cooperative providing electric service to approximately 95,000 homes and businesses primarily in Newton, Rockdale, Henry and southern DeKalb counties.
DeKalb schools culinary competition set at Le Cordon Bleu DeKalb County Council of PTAs will again partner with the DeKalb County School District to host the 9th annual Culinary Extravaganza & Competition at the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Atlanta. The event will be held Saturday, March 29, and is one
of the council’s signature wellness initiatives geared toward promoting healthy lifestyles, enhancement of students’ culinary skills and promoting culinary as a career choice. The following DeKalb high schools will participate in the competition: Clarkston, Columbia, Lakeside,
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march 22, 2014 PAGE 9 To Contact Us
By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
Health & Wellness
‘Get Covered America’ helps Georgians beat health insurance deadline
A
s the federal deadline approaches to sign up for health insurance, Get Covered America is holding events for people who want information about the Affordable Care Act and need help with enrollment. The deadline to enroll this year is March 31. The following Get Covered America events will take place through March 31. Licensed, in-person assisters will be onsite to help people enroll in health insurance plans in the Health Insurance Marketplace: Five Forks Gwinnett County Library, Lawrenceville, GA 2780 5 Forks Trickum Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044 Saturday, March 22, 10:00 AM Red Oak United Methodist Church, Stockbridge, GA 3894 Walter Stephens Rd., Stockbridge, GA 30281 Saturday, March 22, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM Friendship Community Church, Atlanta, GA 4141 Old Fairburn Road, Atlanta, GA 30349 Saturday, March 22, 1:00 to 3:00 PM Atlanta Civic Center, Atlanta, GA 395 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308 Tuesday, March 25, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Antioch Urban Ministries, Atlanta, GA 456 Northside Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 Tuesday, March 25, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Scott Candler Library, Decatur, GA 1917 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30034 Tuesday, March 25, 5:00 to 8:00 PM North Fulton Government Service Center, Sandy Springs, GA 7741 Roswell Road #104, Atlanta, GA 30350 Wednesday, March 26, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Wesley Chapel Library, Decatur, GA 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur, GA 30034 Wednesday, March 26, 5:00 to 8:00 pm Wade Walker Park YMCA, Stone Mountain, GA 512 Rock Meadow Drive, Stone Mountain, GA 30088 Thursday, March 27, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Travelers Rest Baptist Church, Morrow, GA 2112 Rex Road, Morrow, GA 30260 Thursday, March 27, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Lovejoy Community Center, Lovejoy, GA 11622 Hastings Bridge Road, Lovejoy, GA 30250 Saturday, March 29, 12:00 PM
Georgia International Convention Center, College Park, GA 2000 Convention Center Concourse, College Park, GA 30337 Friday, March 28, 10:00 AM
Office of Drs. Parris and Associates, Lawrenceville, GA 989 Lawrenceville Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30046 Saturday, March 29, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Consulate of Colombia, Sandy Springs, GA 270 Carpenter Drive Northeast, Suite #110, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 Friday, March 28, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Masjid Al-Hedaya for Marietta, Marietta, GA 968 Powder Springs Street, Marietta, GA 30064 Friday, March 28, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Plaza Fiesta, Atlanta, GA 4166 Buford Highway NE, Atlanta, GA 30345 Saturday, March 29, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Grand View Seventh Day Adventist Church, Austell, GA 750 Lansky Werber Road, Austell, GA 30168 Sunday, March 30, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Siloam Church International, College Park, GA 3695 Roosevelt Highway, College Park, GA 30349 Saturday, March 29, 10:00 AM
Southwest Branch Atlanta-Fulton Library, Atlanta, GA 3665 Cascade Road, Atlanta, GA 30331 Sunday, March 30, 1:30 to 4:30 PM
Rep. Shelia Jones District Office, Atlanta, GA 3585 MLK Jr. Drive, Atlanta, GA 30331 Saturday, March 29, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Santa Fe’ Mall, Atlanta, GA 3750 Venture Drive, Duluth, GA 30096 Sunday, March 30, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Trinity Fellowship Ministries, Atlanta, GA 2151 MLK Jr. Drive, Atlanta, GA 30310 Saturday, Mar 29, 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
For more information on these events, visit www. getcoveredamerica.org/events or contact us at 470.222.4460.
North Fulton Hospital, Roswell, GA 3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell, GA 30076 Saturday, March 29, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
About Get Covered America Get Covered America is a national campaign of Enroll America that is focused on educating consumers about the benefits of health insurance coverage and the new health care options that will be made available under the Affordable Care Act.
Greystone Power Company, Douglasville, GA 4040 Bankhead Highway, Douglasville, GA 30134
PAGE 10
march 22, 2014
Business News
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Global shipping company to bring 160 jobs to Gwinnett
G
winnett County will become home to the United Arab Shipping Company’s (UASC) North American headquarters, creating 160 new jobs in Gwinnett. The UASC’s 50,000-square-foot facility, located off of Spalding Drive in Peachtree Corners, will house shipping logistics, accounting, finance and customer service activities as well as executive management for the company. The new facility, which represents millions in investments into the county, will bring the company closer to its operations at the Port of Savannah. “UASC believes that Atlanta is the ideal spot to house our North American
Corporate office for a number of reasons,” said Anil Vitarana, president of United Arab Shipping - North America. “Traditionally, we’ve had a strong presence in the South Atlantic market and we believe that the Metro Atlanta area will offer us access to a pool of skilled employees. The excellent global airline network and the quality of life that the area will provide our staff also factored in our decision. In addition, we are excited about the prospect of bringing more than 160 new jobs to the Atlanta area.” The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, which worked on the UASC project as a collaborative effort, say the relocation is a good fit. “We are pleased that United Arab Shipping Company is relocating to metro Atlanta,” said vice president of global commerce for the Metro Atlanta Chamber Jorge Fernandez. “Our region is recognized as a global logistics hub and offers one of the best interconnected networks for rail, road, air and cargo. Home to the world’s busiest airport and more than 70 foreign consulates, metro Atlanta provides companies with opportunities to connect to markets all over the
world. Having UAS located here also provides a great link between Atlanta and markets in the Middle East.” UASC was formed jointly between the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Republic of Iraq, the State of Kuwait, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for the purpose of connecting the Middle East to the rest of the world. Today, UASC is a market leader and one of the most prominent carriers in terms of liner cargo as well as port coverage. Gov. Nathan Deal said Georgia has the skilled workforce to support the company’s relocation. “The strength of our ports is attracting global logistics companies such as United Arab Shipping Company to increase their presence here,” said Deal. “With our skilled workforce and solid logistics infrastructure, it is clear that this state-of-the-art company will continue to support the boom of the shipping industry.” Lauren Salas Lambiase, corporate solutions and data centers senior project manager at the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), assisted the company on behalf of the state of Georgia. “This new headquarters in Gwinnett
County underscores the pro-business assets that exist in Georgia,” said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. “Our interconnected highways and waterways, combined with a readyto-work community, create the ideal location for innovative companies like United Arab Shipping to relocate its headquarters.” Gwinnett County Commission Chairman Charlotte Nash said the relocation is a welcome addition to international businesses already in Gwinnett. “As metro Atlanta’s premier location for international business, Gwinnett County welcomes this global leader in shipping, and its U.S. headquarters, to our community,” said Nash. “We are excited to add another firm to the ranks of more than 500 internationally-based businesses that already call Gwinnett home.” Originally established in Kuwait with its corporate headquarters now in Dubai, UASC serves Asia from Singapore, Northern Europe from Hamburg, the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent from Dubai, the Mediterranean and North Africa from Istanbul, and the Americas from Cranford, N.J.
Lattimer Communications honored for developing creative promotions Lattimer Communications, an Atlanta marketing communications agency, was recently awarded Best Advertising (Multicultural) for its “Visit Orlando without Kids” promotion during the American Marketing Association, Atlanta Chapter’s Annual AMY Awards held at the Fox Theatre in downtown Atlanta. The promotional campaign encouraging affluent African-Americans to consider Orlando as an adult vacation destination featured a mix of digital advertising, sweepstakes, radio promotion, targeted email, video and blogger integration with the use of Lamar and Ronnie Tyler of Black and Married with Kids. “We are so honored to be recognized for our work by a committee of our peers in the American Marketing Association,” said Isadora Brown, vice president at Lattimer Communications. “We work hard to develop work that not only resonates with multicultural markets but is also respectful of those markets. We are extremely proud of the success
of the “Visit Orlando Without Kids” campaign.” In addition, Lattimer Communications picked up three awards from the International AVA Digital Awards. Lattimer Communications was recognized with Platinum and Gold Distinctions for promotions completed for DeKalb Medical at Hillandale and the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission. Lattimer Communications’ 30-second commercial for DeKalb Medical at Hillandale, “The Cure for the Common Hospital,” won a Platinum award in the “Commercial Hospital” category. Both, Platinum and Gold distinctions, were presented to Lattimer Communications for “Choose Albany, GA,” a promotional video shot solely on the iPhone 5s, developed for the AlbanyDougherty Economic Development Commission. These distinctions were awarded for “Creativity (Web Video) Videography” and “Video for the Web - Travel” respectively. Lattimer Communications Accepts Amy Award at Fox Theatre. Pictured L-R: Nicky Scott, Sarah Lattimer, Toni Scott-Daniel, Isadora Brown, Ronnie Tyler, Lamar Tyler, Gail Warren.
LEGAL NOTICE
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Advertisement for Thursday, March 27, 2014
Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.
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Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030. For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise. By: Kelvin L. Walton, Director/Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
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