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Serving DeKalb & Metro Atlanta Volume 16 Number 24
Countdown to Stardom
www.ocgnews.com MARCH 15, 2011
Kids pack McDonald’s talent search for most inspirational singer By Joshua Smith
Kevin Lipsey, who followed right behind a contestant who couldn’t finish her selection and began to cry, performed a gospel selection entitled “Vessel.”
FREE
CONYERS—For 15-year-old Kevin Lipsey, Jr., getting stage fright is not an option. He says he channels that nervous energy into drive to perform better. “It’s not easy to get up here and do this while everybody is looking at you waiting on your every word. I hope you can enjoy this, and sing along, if you like. Help me out a little bit,” Lipsey said to the packed crowd who turned out for The Gift™ Youth Inspirational Singing Competition 2011 sponsored by McDonald’s. The March 12 competition held in
Conyers was the second round of auditions the Greater Atlanta McDonald’s Operators Association has sponsored this year to find and showcase solo musical artists and groups between the ages of 9-15. A competition was held in College Park earlier this month and a third competition will be held March 19 at the McDonald’s restaurant, 5710 Fulton Industrial Boulevard, Atlanta, 30331. The big event is April 3 in Atlanta. That’s when 15 finalists (five from each of the three contests) will compete for a $2,500 scholarship and $5,000 in cash. The grand prize also includes a demo CD, vocal
lessons from a trained vocal coach and appearances on local radio stations. Kevin Lipsey, who was picked as one of the finalists in the Conyers event, is hoping that he will be the grand prize winner. So is his mom. “This is our first competition, but this is his passion so I figured why not support it,” said mother Veronica Lindsay, “He’s been singing since the age of 6 for family and friends but it really makes me proud to see him following his passion successfully.” See Big, page 6
CHAMPS AGAIN
Johnson puts people first in 4th District
Congressman Hank Johnson
Justin Colvin reaches for the Class AAAA state champion trophy during the post-game trophy presentation.
A homeless South DeKalb veteran spent more than 14 years of being unable to collect his disability benefits. After six months of Congressman Hank Johnson’s office working the case with the Veterans Benefits Administration, the man received more than $350,000. He is no longer homeless and continues to receive full disability benefits from the VA. The veterans’ story is just one of many examples of Johnson’s efforts to help those who have contacted his offices in Georgia’s 4th Congressional District, which includes more than 700,000 residents in DeKalb, See Johnson, page 7 INSIDE
Community News...............P 3 Class Notes.......................P 8 Business News.................P 10 Health & Wellness.............P 13 We Worship......................P 14 Home & Garden...............P 16 Classifieds.......................P 18 CONTACT THE NEWSROOM Phone: (678) 526-1910 n Fax: (678) 526-1909 E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com
Miller Grove Head Coach Sharman White proudly holds up three fingers, indicating the number of Class AAAA state champions the school has won, after its 67-59 victory over Rockdale County March 11.
D
eKalb County’s Miller Grove High School’s boys basketball team defended its two-time AAAA State Championship with its recent defeat of Rockdale County High School. The Wolverines won 67 – 59 at the Gwinnett Arena on March 11.
Miller Grove’s Tony Evans displays a Class AAAA state champion T-shirt.
The Lithonia school joins nine others in having the title of winning three championships in state history. However, Miller Grove is a little more special than most on the list because its titles have come back to back since 2009.
Miller Grove Coach Sharman White called the game “Mission Possible,” the quest for three. With the victory, Coach White’s prophecy came to be very possible and true for the high school’s basketball program, which debuted in 2005.
PAGE 2
MARCH 15, 2011
McNair Healthy Eating Conference
Where are the healthy foods in your community?
Take Action for Healthy Food
Would your family like more fresh foods? How can you improve your community’s access to healthy food? Join us for a discussion on food access and healthful eating in the McNair community. Together we can make a difference. Let’s Eat Healthy, DeKalb!
Saturday, March 19, 2011 "
McNair Middle School 2190 Wallingford Drive Decatur, GA 30032
(near Second Ave. & Tilson Rd.)
Facilitated by The Food Trust
Cost: Free (lunch provided) Register online at http://mcnairhealthyeating.event.brite.com or by calling Avian Wynn Dalton at 404-294-3803 ! 445 !
www.dekalbhealth.net
MARCH 15, 2011
PAGE 3
MARcH 15, 2011 Volume 16, NO. 24 Publishers Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com Staff Writer Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com
Community News DeKalb police officer ‘preyed’ on women
Augustine Academy honors unsung heroes
Advertising Manager Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com
About Us
On Common Ground News is published twice a month on the 1st and 15th by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.
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
Visit us on:
Former DeKalb Officer Javier Garces
DECATUR—Former DeKalb County Police Officer Javier Garces, 31, will be listed on the state’s registry as a sex offender after pleading guilty to violating his oath of office and two counts of sodomy with two alleged prostitutes he forced to perform oral sex with him in lieu of their arrests. “Garces’ actions were inexcusable and unacceptable for a sworn officer charged with keeping peace and justice. Instead of upholding his oath of office, he preyed on the very people he was tasked to protect,” said District Attorney Robert James. Garces was a DeKalb police officer and on duty at the time of the incidents, which occurred between January and February 2009. Garces said he See Former, page 7
Photo by Joshua Smith/OGC News
Augustine Preparatory Academy students performed Mary, Mary’s “Can’t Give Up Now” to parents, and other members of the community at the Second Annual LION Awards ceremony in Decatur.
By Joshua Smith Augustine Preparatory Academy of Atlanta honored several unsung heroes for their work in the community and around the world at its Second Annual LION Awards Ceremony. Hosted by school founders Robert and Vickie Turner, the
March 11 awards ceremony included performances from Augustine students, local entertainers and the Phusion Dance Troupe. The LION Lighthouse award was presented to Ozie “Jackie” Adams, who retired from the Atlanta Public School System after 30 years of service. She was honored
for her extensive community involvement with a list of organizations including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Vera Hollis Blackshear Education Fund, Inc. and nursing homes across the state. The LION Legend award was given to Clariece Miller See Lion, page 7
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MARCH 15, 2011
Coming up
DEKALB Decatur seeks local artists for postcard design contest The city of Decatur is inviting local artists to help create a series of postcards that depict the many aspects of Decatur. The postcards should represent images that tourists would want to mail across the country and around the world. The submissions can be a photograph, a drawing or any kind of creative media. The deadline for submissions is March 31. A jury of local artists and community leaders will select 10 images for a set of classic, tourist-style postcards. Each selected artist will receive a $150 honorarium and a credit line on the reverse side of his/her printed postcard. The cards will be presented at the Decatur Arts Festival Poster Unveiling on May 5. Artists may enter their work by e-mail at decaturpostcards@gmail.com, or by postal mail on CD: Decatur Arts Alliance, PO Box 401, Decatur, GA 30031. Attaching a cover sheet is suggested. 404-371-8386.
Greet the World with a New Smile! Braces for Children & Adults Complimentary Consultation Most Insurance Plans Accepted
CORE to host ‘Lunchtime in the Studio’ CORE Performance Company Studios will host “Lunchtime in the Studio� on March 17, 12 p.m. at the studio, 139 Sycamore St., Decatur. Lunchtime in the Studio gives audiences informal backstage introductions to dancers and directors and a glimpse at how contemporary dance is created and CORE’s programs. A complimentary lunch is provided by Johnny’s Pizza. CORE’s Performance Company offers renowned professional contemporary dance company tours internationally, performing the work of artistic director Sue Schroeder and guest choreographers from around the world. For more information on this session, visit http://coredance.org or call 404-373-4154.
DR. ERIC ECHOLS & HIS TEAM of professionals provide high quality orthodontic care to both children and adults. Appointments are available at any of our three locations and consultations are FREE!
Panel discussion set on ‘Immigration, Borders and Boundaries’
www.northgaorthodontics.com
The Columbia Theological Seminary will host a panel, “Immigration, Borders, and Boundaries,� on March 24, 7 p.m., in the Harrington Center auditorium, 701 S. Columbia Dr., Decatur. The program is the opening event of the 26th annual conference of the Pacific, Asian, and North American Asian Women in Theology and Ministry (PANAAWTM). Gale Yee of Episcopal Divinity School will preside over the panel. Participants include Anne W. John (Garrett Theological Seminary), Greer Anne Wenh-In-Ng (Toronto School of Theology), and K. Christine Pae (Denison University). Columbia faculty member Rodger Y. Nishioka, Benton Family Associate Professor of Christian Education, is the panel respondent. Founded in 1984, PANAAWTM is an interdisciplinary, transnational, crossgenerational, and inter-religious grassroots movement (see [http://www.panaawtm.org/ home.html). Admission to the panel is free and open to the public. For more information about the organization and conference, call 404.687.4545 or email wardh@ctsnet.edu.
Lithonia (770) 593-3336 Fayetteville (770) 716-0111 Newnan (678) 423-0100
Live  Well  with  Diabetes GMCF,  the  Medicare  Quality  Improvement  Organization for  Georgia,  is  promoting  a  “Know  Your  Numbers� in  Georgia  who  have  diabetes.
DeKalb NAACP to hold annual breakfast The NAACP DeKalb County Branch will host its 2011 Annual Membership Breakfast on March 26, 9 a.m., at DeKalb Technical College Conference Center, 495 N. Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston. This year’s “Living the Legacy� breakfast provides those attending the opportunity to network local community business leaders. This year, the organization will welcome Minister Reginald Sharpe, Jr. as the event’s guest speaker. Minster Sharpe has been singing and preaching God’s word throughout the state since he was an adolescent. 404-241-8006.
The  best  way  to  manage  and  control  diabetes  is  to  be  aware  of  the  latest  information  and  receive  key  tests. If  you  or  someone  you  know  has  diabetes, it  is  important  to  get  the  following  tests: Â
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City seeks input on development in Atlanta
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The City of Atlanta’s Department of Planning and Community Development will host a series of meetings this month for residents to give their input on new development the city should consider for the future—from retail districts, to parks and industrial sites. This is the second round of meetings. Nearly 200 attendees participated in the first round of community meetings. Meetings will be held from 6:30 to 8:30: March 15, Atlanta Ballet Center, 1695 Marietta Boulevard, NW, Atlanta. March 21, Adamsville Recreation Center Auditorium, 3201 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Atlanta. March 24, Rosel Fann Recreation Center, 365 Cleveland Avenue Southeast, Atlanta. For more information, visit http://www.atlantaga.gov/government/planning/ cdp.aspx or call 404-330-6145.Â
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  Spring  into  Action... See  Your  Doctor  This  Month  to Get  These  Important  Tests.
Bicyclists to head to the Capitol The Metro Atlanta Mayors Association (MAMA) and Georgia Bikes will host more than 1,000 cyclists from Metro Atlanta for Georgia Rides the Capitol on March 22. The event is held each year to raise support for the development of a regionalscale bicycle network of both on-road facilities and multi-use-trails, and cycling connections to major transit facilities, activity centers and schools. Sign up and ride by calling MAMA at 678- 686-6293 or email aharris@gmanet. com. Georgia Rides routes available at www.georgiaridestothecapitol.org/routes.php.
Paid  for  by  GMCF  under  contract  with  the  Centers  for  Medicare  &  Medicaid  Services,  an  agency  of  the  U.S.  Department  of  Health  and  Human  Services.
MARCH 15, 2011
PAGE 5
Emory stages free Tango performance The Emory Tango Ensemble will present a free tango performance on March 23, 8 p.m., at the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts at Emory, 1700 N. Decatur, Atlanta. The Emory Tango Ensemble and Tango Orchestra Club Atlanta, directed by Kristin Wendland, and special guest Osvaldo Barrios will present an evening of traditional and new Argentine tango music. This event is free to attend. For more information, call 404-727-5050.
Gwinnett Lilburn sets community garage sale The City of Lilburn will have a community garage sale for vendors who want to sell and browsers who want to find some treasures on March 19, 9 a.m., in the city’s overflow parking lot, 76 Main St., Lilburn. The popular event draws crowds. Come find something that may be your next favorite belonging. 770-921-2210 or http://cityoflilburn.com.
Gwinnett homeschoolers get ready for prom Gwinnett County will host the “Moon Over Paradise Prom” for home-schooled students on March 19, 7 – 10 p.m., at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 E. Crogan St., Lawrenceville. The paradise prom provides home-schooled students with the opportunity to enjoy a night with friends, live music, dancing and refreshments. The prom is for students in grades 9-12. Pre-registration is required. The cost to attend is $35 per person or $60 per couple. 770-822-5450.
Valor Awards to honor public safety workers Gwinnett County’s Valor Awards will be held March 25, 11:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m., at the Gwinnett Place Atlanta Marriott, 1775 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth. This special luncheon pays tribute to Gwinnett’s public safety professionals, including firefighters, police and emergency personnel. With presentations such as the Medal of Valor, Lifesaving Award, Public Safety Person of the Year, and the Purple Heart, the awards will honor local heroes who work to keep residents safe every day. Atlanta Fire Rescue Chief Kelvin Cochran will serve as the keynote speaker. Cochran formerly worked 26 years at Shreveport, LA fire department. He was appointed fire chief of the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department in January 2008. Cochran was appointed by President Barack Obama as the U.S. Fire Administrator for the U.S. Fire Administration in Washington, D.C. The cost to attend the luncheon is $55 per person. Table pricing is also available. For more information and to register, call 678-584-2266.
ROCKDALE Rotary Club sponsors St. Patrick’s Day run The Rotary Club of Rockdale County is sponsoring the 1/10th Mile Run in Olde Town Conyers on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. The run begins at the Depot at 901 Railroad Street in Olde Town and finishes .10 miles down Railroad Street at The Pointe. Registration is $20 per participant. Sign up is available at participating Olde Town locations. For more information, contact Tim Baker at 678-614-7374 or timuga@gmail. com or Gary Bridgewater at 770-598-0850 or gebo@bellsouth.net.
Conyers presents annual Cherry Blossom Festival The City of Conyers and Rockdale County will host its Annual Cherry Blossom Festival on March 26 – 27 at the Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. The event, in its 30th year, originated as a way to encourage cultural understanding and friendship through international music, dance, games, food and crafts. The festival offers multiple stages for continuous entertainment, more than 300 arts and crafts vendors, and various children’s activities. Festival hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Parking is $5 for one day or an $8 parking pass is an option to attend both days of the festival. There is no admission fee. No pets are allowed. 770-483-4411.
PAGE 6
MARCH 15, 2011
Contestants performed before a packed-out tent of contestants, family members and judges Cynthia Young, radio host at Kiss 104.1, Eric Newcomer of NU Entertainment and Mitch Henry of Praise 102.5 FM.
Photos by Joshua Smith/OGC News
Big prizes to be awarded continued from page 1
Lipsey, who attends Alcovy High School in Newton County, was contestant No. 58 among the 96 kids who showed up to perform under a big tent at the McDonald’s on Salem Road in Conyers. The youths were judged by Kiss 104.1 radio host Cynthia Young, Eric Newcomer of NU Entertainment and Mitch Henry of Praise 102.5. “When they called my name it was very overwhelming,” Lipsey said. “I just kept thinking if this is a dream, I’m going to be highly upset when I wake up.” The Gift™ competition has hosted more than 1,500 auditioning participants
Silent auction to mark History Center’s anniversary
T
he DeKalb History Center is hosting a silent auction to celebrate its 64th anniversary and raise money for the center. The free fundraiser, open to the public, will be held Friday, March 25, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Old Courthouse on the Square, Second Floor 101 East Court Square, Decatur, GA, 30030. The center has received several exciting donations for the auction. Past silent auction donations have included: event tickets, golf packages, dinner certificates, art, jewelry, hotel stays, special tours, books, professional services, fitness opportunities and more. For more information or to donate an auction item, call 404373-1088, ext. 26, or e-mail assistant@dekalbhistory.org.
since its start in 2005. Last year’s winner, MaRah Williams of Tucker, said the competition provides youths with a “giant launch pad” in accomplishing their goals. Williams currently volunteers at the Alliance Theatre, the True Colors Theater and the Georgia Special Olympics. President of the Greater Atlanta McDonald’s Operators Association, Donovan Groen, stressed the importance of the competition. “As a father, I hold the opportunities very dear to my heart that impact Atlanta’s
youth,” Groen said. “My family and I have been personally inspired by how the young contestants in The Gift™ competition reach for the stars and make their dreams a reality.” Lipsey was joined by Kidist Daniel of Alpharetta, Brianna Faulk of Monroe Amiyah Harris of Fairburn and Marianella Lopez of Sandy Springs, at the Rockdale Competition as finalists for the April 3 competition. Some finalists already have been chosen in other cities as well. In College Park, Christine Evans of Lithonia, Avunna
Jennings of Hampton, Jonathan Greenard of Douglasville, Jennifer Lazau of Buford, and Atiauna Grant of Grayson were also selected for the finals. Line-ups for the March 19 competition will begin at 8 a.m. at the McDonald’s restaurant, 5710 Fulton Industrial Boulevard, Atlanta, 30331. Auditions will begin promptly at 9 a.m. Participants with proper Georgia residential and qualifying age documentation will be allowed to audition. Applications are available at McDonalds locations throughout Metro Atlanta.
MARCH 15, 2011
PAGE 7
Johnson makes good on promises
Former cops pleads guilty
continued from page 1
continued from page 3
Rockdale and Gwinnett counties. Since taking office in 2007, Johnson has helped more than 3,500 constituents. His office tallied the sum of that help and reported this month that constituents collectively received $3.1 million in housing, health care, Social Security, IRS and veterans’ benefits. “Helping my constituents navigate the federal bureaucracy is one of the most important things I do,” Rep. Johnson said. “When I first ran for office in 2006, I promised I would take care of home first. I’m here to ensure that constituents receive the money and benefits due them from the federal government.” Recently, Johnson was able to assist a constituent from Decatur who asked for help obtaining Social Security benefits. After an inquiry was sent, Social Security Administration found in favor of the man and awarded him $53,682 in retroactive benefits. Some cases Johnson’s office has worked have not been as cut and dried. For six years, a woman had problems getting her tax refund. Johnson’s office worked on the case for more than two years and helped her get more than $34,000 in tax refunds. Johnson’s staff has helped more than 650 residents deal with pending foreclosures of their homes since 2009. Johnson said helping constituents remains a priority for him. “I appreciate helping constituents above everything else. Listening to residents and bringing their concerns to Washington is why I’m here,” Johnson said. Johnson’s staff has handled tens of thousands of pieces of constituent correspondence and engaged in numerous meetings with area residents to hear concerns. Johnson launched “Congress on Your Corner,” and participated in a host of community events to hear directly from constituents. In August 2009, Johnson held a town hall on health care reform that was a model for the nation, drawing an audience of more than 3,000 people. Johnson also launched the Partnership Alliance Learning Series (PALS), which teaches nonprofits and small businesses how to join forces to compete for federal grants and gain access to state and local resources. For a full list of services available from Johnson’s office, visit http:// hankjohnson.house.gov/services/assistance-with-federal-agencies.shtml. Johnson has offices in Lithonia, Conyers and Tucker, and in Washington, D.C. In Georgia, call 770-987-2291. In Washington, call 202-225-1605.
encountered the first women while he was working undercover. The woman offered to perform oral sex for $20. Garces identified himself as a police officer and told the woman she was going to jail. The woman them said she would perform oral sex for free, if he would not arrest her. Garces said he “made a bad judgment call” and agreed to have oral sex, according to court documents. He then drove the woman to Memorial College Avenue in Clarkston where she performed oral sex on him. A few weeks later, Garces encountered the same woman again. He was in uniform and in a police patrol car. He told her she was going to jail if she did not perform oral sex on him. She agreed and he drove her to an auto body shop near the intersection of Central Drive and Goldsmith Drive in Stone Mountain, where she performed oral sex on him. In another incident, Garces encountered a different woman in the same area as he had encountered the first woman. He told the second woman that he was going to arrest her for prostitution. She asked if there was something she could do to not go to jail. Garces said he “made another bad judgment call” and asked her to perform oral sex on him. He told her to lie down in the back of his car and then drove her to the same auto body shop as he had been to before and she performed oral sex on him. Judge Clarence Seeliger sentenced Garces to 3 years to serve 30 days in jail.
Lion awards capture spirit of giving continued from page 3
UGA Minority & Small Business
Expo III March 28, 2011
Clariece Miller Paulk (Right) poses with a family member after receiving the LION Legend award. Paulk brought several members of her immediate and church family on stage with her to except her award.
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
how to do business • Learn with the University of Georgia;
•
Session at 1:00 pm Discover opportunities for vendors just like you
with potential customers, • Meet 9:00 to 1:00 am
pm
Pre-register online now! www.busfin.uga.edu/procurement and click on UGA EXPO
Ozie “Jackie” Henson shares some words of wisdom before receiving the LION Lighthouse award.
Paulk for her groundbreaking work with the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit also known as Chapel Hill Harvester Church. As minister of Worship and Arts at the ministry, Paulk played a key role in leading the church in the 1970s. The church was one of the first integrated mega-congregations in America. A. Butts received the LION Humanitarian award for her mission work in Japan, Cambodia and South Africa. When Butts is at home, she raises funds for the Ronald McDonald House and volunteers with several ministries in the community. The awards ceremony concluded with the LION Legacy award, given to Byron Pitts. Pitts is a Chief National Correspondent for The CBS Evening News and a contributor to the news magazine, 60 minutes. Pitts has also won several awards throughout his career, including a national Emmy for his coverage during the Sept. 11 attacks where he served as a lead reporter. Augustine Preparatory Academy of Atlanta is located at 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. 404-212-7660.
On-site Registration begins at 8:00 am EXPO Kickoff: 8:30 – 9:00 am Tate Student Center, Grand Hall, 5th Floor Parking is available in the Tate Student Center parking deck (intersection of Baxter St. and Lumpkin St.) Athens, Georgia. All vendors are welcome to attend regardless of business classification. Registration is free.
Email UGAEXPO@uga.edu with questions or call 706-542-2361. Ask for Katy or Jessica
PAGE 8
MARCH 15, 2011
To Contact Us
By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
Class Notes
Our Schools, Students & Partners
Lithonia Middle School’s faculty unites to lose for better health
Loose-2-Win creator and director, Life Science teacher Donte Miller.
O
By Joshua Smith
ver the last eight weeks, Lithonia Middle School teachers and administrators have jumped into fitness for their second “Lose-2-Win� competition. The competition, created and directed by Life Science teacher Donte Miller, pushed the staff to the limit with fitness competitions such as “the stair challenge,� where staff members took on every stair in and around the school; obstacle courses; and new dieting suggestions. “I stress to everyone that if you don’t have good health, you don’t have anything. So with that being said, this isn’t all about who can loose the most pounds, it’s about getting our staff healthier one step at a time,� Miller said. Miller, who has been teaching at LMS since it opened in 2003, says
Lithonia Middle School teacher of the year, LaTonya Brown, checks her weight at the Loose-2- Win final weigh-in.
starting the competition has been a lifesaver for him and motivation to stay on the right path of health. “I was 293 pounds with high blood pressure and signs of asthma and allergy symptoms,� Miller said. “I had gone to the doctor more in two years than I did in my entire life. That was a real wake-up call for me. Now at 270 pounds, I look different and more importantly, feel different in a good way.� Lithonia Middle School’s newlyappointed principal, Lisa McGhee, says she supports “Lose-2-Win� and thinks it is a great idea for the faculty to follow.
Yvonne Watkins, Lisa Watkins and DaMeka Leslie warm up for a fitness challenge with some jumping jacks.
“I wasn’t here for last year’s competition, but I think what Mr. Miller is doing is very important. Our job can be stressful at times and many teachers don’t take out the time to focus on their own health,� said McGhee, who participated in some of the challenges over the eight-week period. “When you are healthier, you feel better about yourself and I believe that carries over into the classroom.� In the end, the defending champion, “Charlie’s Angles,� won the title for the school’s biggest losers. The victory came with not only bragging rights, but also a free “Lose-2-Win� T-shirt and
$230 in cash to be split between the four-member team. The Angels shed a combination of 24 pounds and racked up 85.5 points from the competition’s fitness challenges. Their cash reward came from the $10 registration fee teachers in the competition had to pay. Miller says with the continued support of the Lithonia Middle School coaching staff, his next step for the third competition will be to get staff members from other schools involved. He also wants to launch a “Lose-2Win� program for overweight children at Lithonia Middle School.
Fourth annual Youth Empowerment Summit set at Bouie After relocating to DeKalbCounty, Hurricane Katrina survivor Treva Jones wanted to do some good to help enrich the lives of students in the public school system where she enrolled her own children. Jones rolled up her sleeves, contacting leaders and lawmakers and launched the DeKalb Youth Empowerment Summit. “This was something I had done in New Orleans on a big scale and I wanted to bring the same concept to DeKalb,� said Jones. On Saturday, March 19, the summit, in its fourth year will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bouie Traditional Theme School, 5100 Rock Springs Rd., Lithonia, 30038. The school’s PTA is partnering to sponsor the event, which is open to the community. This year’s theme, “Feasting on Positive Energy,� will feature a panel discussion with county leaders including DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson and Chief Assistant District Attorney Nicole Marchand. Families and youths are invited to come out for a fun-filled and educational day that will include motivational workshops, a talent show, a Kappa Alpha Psi appearance, vendors and more. The event is free. For more information, call 678-676-8202.
High School Graduation Test set March 21-24 in DeKalb DeKalb County school officials are urging parents to help their students prepare for the upcoming High School Graduation Test, which is scheduled March 21-24. “It’s critical that they study and get the rest they need so that they can do well on the test,� said School Board member Jay Cunningham. Students must pass the standardized test in order to graduate. “That test dictates whether a student will walk across the stage and receive a diploma or a jacket cover with no diploma,� Cunningham said. “We’re urging parents to mark the dates on their calendars and work with the school system to see that their child does the best that he or she can on the test.�
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MARCH 15, 2011
PAGE 9
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
The DeKalb School District is spending $220,000 to replace the roof and provide other work deemed an emergency at Miller Grove Middle School in Lithonia.
Miller Grove Middle gets new roof LITHONIA—Miller Grove Middle School is finally getting a new roof to replace the leaky one that had plagued the school. Emergency work began this month after School Board member Jesse “Jay� Cunningham, who represents District 5 where the school is located, responded to parents’ outcries. “We responded as soon as possible. This was something that could not wait, despite budget shortfalls we’re still facing in the district,� said Cunningham, adding that Acting School Superintendent Ramona Tyson made the project a top priority upon learning of the critical need. Jesse “Jay� The addition where the roof had to be replaced is about 23 years old. Miller Grove, Cunningham which opened in 1985, is 26 years old. Students and faculty had been living with leaks off and on in recent years, but problems became unbearable after this January’s snow and ice storm, which forced schools in DeKalb and the metro Atlanta area to shut down for a week. “We had been patching up and trying to make do for a while. But after the snow storm, we had to address the problem. It was just getting worse,� Cunningham said. The district is spending $220,000 for the project, Cunningham said. Klein Contracting delivered roofing materials on March 10. A crane was used in the afternoon to place the materials directly on the roof of the facility with contractors working over the weekend, district officials said. The project will include repainting classrooms and replacing floor tiles. The school also will get new toilet fixtures and new drinking fountains. Cunningham said students have been assigned to other classrooms within the school while work is under way.
APS 8th grade students excel on writing test Â
ATLANTA –Atlanta Public Schools students improved their performance by four percentage points and eliminated the achievement gap between the district and students around the state on the new Georgia Grade 8 Writing Assessment in 2011. Eighty-three percent of APS 8th grade students scored at “meets� or “exceeds� standards, an increase from the 79 percent they scored last year. School officials say the results indicate steady improvement by APS students, putting them on par with other 8th graders around the state. A total of 3,093 APS students took the state writing test. APS students improved their performance The new Georgia Grade 8 Writing Assessment was administered for the first time in 2007. The purpose of the test is to assess student achievement on the Georgia Performance Standards in writing and to improve writing and writing instruction. Students are required to respond to writing prompts on either an expository or persuasive writing topic. “Consistent, incremental improvement over time constitutes positive proof that our reform programs implemented over the past decade are effective in escalating student academic performance,� said Superintendent Dr. Beverly L. Hall. “I congratulate our teachers and school-based staff and administrators for their dedication and hard work to achieve these very positive results.�
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Decatur 678.553.0226
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MARCH 15, 2011
Business News
Development, News Makers & Events
DeKalb Chamber sets forum on owning a franchise
T
hinking about owning a franchise? You can get the information you need at the upcoming DeKalb Chamber of Commerce’s Franchise Business Forum. FranchiseMart will present the event on March 24, 6 - 9:30 p.m., at the DeKalb Tech Conference Center. “Everyone who is interested in franchise opportunities will benefit,” said FranchiseMart owner Sheila Reed. “This is a rare opportunity to Sheila Reed mingle with and learn from several franchises coming together in one place.” Reed, who started her company in the midst of the recession in June of 2009, says the economic downturn motivated her to follow her dream. She says that’s the overall message of the event. “Even in a recession you can still grow. I’m a perfect example that if you get into business doing your passion, you truly can succeed,” Reed said. “That’s why this event is so important, we’re not about convincing you to buy into this company or that one. We will match people with the type of business they are passionate about.” Corey Brackins, who owns a franchise in DeKalb County, said the Chamber’s efforts to put everyone under one roof is a great idea. “I spent three years doing the research before I became a franchisee,” said Brackins. “After my research, I finally decided that I wanted something that offered an alternative choice for the
Liberty Tax and Supercuts are just two of the many franchises that will be on hand at the Franchise Business Forum on March 24 in Clarkston.
demographics I wanted to serve. It was a new concept for the area.” Brackins said because of his contractual agreement, he cannot name the franchise that he bought into. He said he invested $400,000 of his savings and that investment is finally paying off after five years. “It depends on the footprint of the company—whether it is a well-known brand that people know and love--on how quickly you’ll see a return,” Brackins said. “A good rule of thumb is 3 to 5 years, but there are many variables you have to look at including whether the area is saturated with what you want to offer.” This is the first franchise event the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce has
Forums to highlight business opportunities, jobs, surviving downturn DeKalb County Commissioners Larry Johnson and Stan Watson will host two separate forums on March 17 that are aimed at helping small businesses. In the morning, Johnson is hosting a roundtable, “Grow Your Business in Tough Economic Times, 10 to noon, at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center, at 3181 Rainbow Dr., Decatur. A panel of five entrepreneurs will share challenges and growth strategies: Mack Wilbourn – Popeyes Atlanta Airport, Edis, Larry Johnson Checkers, Mack ii - Franchise Owner & Distributor, Kesia Collins- Sweet Blessings - Bakery owner Waleed Shamsid Deen – Supreme Fish Delight Thay McCoy Humes - Thay Humes McCoy Aviation Douglas Burks – Burks Jewelers In the evening, Watson is hosting a forum from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia. Small businesses and the community at large will learn about upcoming opportunities and jobs that will be created as a result of the $1.9 billion DeKalb County Watershed Management Capital Improvements Projects (CIP) that will take place over the next 5 years. The county Stan Watson must update its water and sewer system to be in compliance with federal and state regulations. The speakers for Watson’s event include DeKalb County government representatives; former State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond; Ralph Cleveland, executive vice-president at AGL Resources; and Jerome Edmondson, president of the Entrepreneur Development Network (EDN)
906 Center Street Conyers,GA 30013
770-388-9644
hosted. Chamber officials say they are excited about taking on this new event. “It was really a no-brainer for us. We do anything to promote business in DeKalb. This event has that theme throughout,” said Chamber member Kim Davis-Mitchell. Mitchell says the forum will provide rare networking opportunities as well. “It isn’t often that you can get oneon-one time with franchisors like you will be able to do at the forum. Join us to learn how to turn your business into a franchise, too,” Mitchell said. Sport Clips, Cartridge World and Liberty Tax will be among the franchisors represented at the event. Access to Capitol and Guidant Financial also will
be on hand to provide information on micro-loans and other financing options. Honey Baked Ham will join with local restaurants and caterers to provide food for the event. DeKalb County Commissioners Lee May and Stan Watson, along with DeKalb Tax Commissioner Claudia Lawson plan to attend. The Franchise Business Forum is $15 to attend. You can register by calling 404-378-8000 or by visiting http:// franchiseforum2011.eventbrite.com. The DeKalb Technical College Conference Center is located at 495 N. Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston. Valerie J. Morgan contributed to this report.
MARCH 15, 2011
PAGE 11
Business Calendar ABL to host business enrichment seminar Business leaders in Rockdale to be honored The Atlanta Business League will host a business enrichment seminar on March 22, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., at Atlanta Technical College, 1560 Metropolitan Parkway S.W., Atlanta. Leading business experts will discuss topics ranging from business management and marketing to employment law and customer service in an interactive format with attendees. The cost to attend is $25. Register by March 21 at www.atlantabusinessleague.org or call 404-584-8126.
Lunch and Learn: Optimizing internet search engines The Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce will host the “Search Engine Optimization 101� Lunch and Learn on March 22, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Chamber, 235 Andrew Young International Blvd., N.W., Atlanta. Do you want to increase your company’s visibility on Google? Bring your laptop for a doit-yourself session with Jennifer Dunphy, Vayu Media vice president of marketing. Vayu Media is an Atlanta-based internet marketing company and a fellow chamber member. The company offers search engine optimization, search engine marketing, press release distribution, social media marketing and email campaign management. The cost to attend is $50. Lunch is included. Register by calling Catherine Pearson at 404586-8429.
Decatur Library offers resume workshop The Decatur Library branch, 215 Sycamore St., will host a workshop on resume writing on March 23, 1 to 2:30 p.m. The “Dynamic Professional Resume and Cover Letters� workshop will provide tips on producing professional resumes that will impress any employer. Those who attend will learn resume formats and how to make them stand out; different resume styles and when to use them; and keywords to include on resumes. Tabitha McGowan, program facilitator for Career Services, Goodwill of North Georgia, will facilitate the session. You must register in advance by calling 404-370-8450, ext. 2259.
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The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce will honor small business leaders in the community on March 24, 5 – 7 p.m., at its mix and mingle. The program will be held at 2 Guys & A Grill, 1035 Green St., Conyers. Mix, mingle and network as you enjoy local fare. Admission is $10. Register at www.conyers-rockdale.com or call 770-483-7049.
GSU to host business card exchange The Georgia State University Alumni Association will host a speed networking and business card exchange on March 30, 6 – 8:30 p.m., at the school’s Brookhaven Center, 4362 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. The event will begin with networking and the exchange of business cards. Casey Hawley, business communications consultant and teacher at GSU’s Robinson College of Business, will share tips and take questions from attendees. The pre-paid admission to the event is $10. The cost is $15 at the door. Register by calling 404-413-2190 or visit http://netcommunity.gsu.edu.
BBA welcomes Terri Denison The Buckhead Business Association will welcome District Director for the Georgia Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Terri Denison, on March 31, 7:30 – 9 a.m., at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Rd., Suite 1850, Atlanta. Serving in her current position since 1992, Denison began her career with the administration in 1987 as a Presidential Management intern at the Agency’s Washington, D. C. District Office. She has worked with the SBA in states including Indiana, Los Angeles, Wisconsin and Texas. She will discuss her career experiences and services the SBA offers small businesses across Metro Atlanta. The cost to attend is $20. 404-467-7607.
Terri Denison
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PAGE 12
MARCH 15, 2011
Activists mull lottery boycott in battle for Hope scholarships
By Valerie J. Morgan and Joshua Smith
A coalition of civil rights activists are galvanizing to boycott Georgia’s Lottery, saying the bill passed by both Chambers, would unfairly leave out many of Georgia’s most disadvantaged students. Opponents want to see the bill redrafted to grandfather all existing HOPE scholars, restore funding for books and college fees, and to allow students with a 3.0 GPA to qualify for a full scholarship. The new bill would pay for 90 percent of a student’s tuition with a 3.0 GPA and 100 percent tuition for those coming out of high school with a 3.7 GPA. “The very fact that state legislators want to cut out funding for books and they want the GPA to go from 3.0 to 3.7 is enough to frighten you. Black folks and poor folks will be hurt to a great extent by this bill the way it stands,� said President of the DeKalb NAACP John Evans. Evans, who was among the civil rights activists who protested March 14 at the Capitol, said he would urge the community to boycott the lottery, if Gov. Nathan Deal does not veto the bill. “Doing nothing is not an option. We have to get folks riled up about our kids,� Evans said. “We should at least have one day where we play no lottery. It’s a conspiracy on the part of the government to take that money from the poor and give it to the rich—it’s the haves versus the have nots.� But one prominent pastor in South DeKalb, Dr. William E. Flippen, Sr. of Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, said that he could not support a boycott against the lottery. He said his son benefitted as a Hope scholar and he it would hurt those who are
being helped by the lottery. Under HB 326, students with at least a 3.7 GPA and 1200 SAT reading and math score, as well as all valedictorians and salutatorians, will receive 100% of their tuition each year. The legislation also includes provisions for low-interest loans, reduces private college scholarship awards, and eliminates funding for books and fees.
County to review zoning changes for personal care homes, childcare centers DECATUR – DeKalb County Planning and Sustainability will host a series of public information meetings to review the proposed amendment to Chapter 27 of the DeKalb County Zoning Ordinance to regulate personal care homes and child care institutions, and associated definitions within single-family residential districts and non-residential districts, and for other purposes. Dates and meeting locations for the public information meetings are: Tuesday, March 22, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Lou Walker Senior Center 2538 Panola Road in Lithonia Thursday, March 24, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Dunaire Elementary School 651 South Indian Creek Drive in Stone Mountain Tuesday, March 29, 6:30 – 8 p.m. McNair Academy 2162 Second Avenue in Decatur Thursday, March 31, 6:30 – 8 p.m. OneDeKalb Northlake Resource Center Northlake Mall (lower level next to Macy’s) 4800 Briarcliff Road in Atlanta For more information, call Madolyn Spann, planning manager, at 404-3712155 or email mspann@dekalbcountyga.gov.
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Fulton County Fire Rescue to host area-wide disaster drill
The Fulton County Fire Rescue Department will host a multi-jurisdictional disaster drill on Saturday, March 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Fulton County Public Safety Training Center, 3025 Merk Road, College Park. Participants in the drill include Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteers from Alpharetta, Atlanta, and Sandy Springs. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency and the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency are also expected to participate. The drill is funded by a grant through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Urban Area Security Initiative. CERT educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, including fire safety and disaster medical operations. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community. For more information about Fulton County’s Fire Rescue Department, log on to www.fultoncountyga.gov or call Natalie Riggs at 404-612-5700. Â
Georgia NAACP President Edward DuBose said the scholarship should help the disadvantaged. Period. “House Bill 326 in its current form will provide access to higher education for the rich at the expense of the poor,� DuBose said. “A larger percentage of the poor play the lottery but their children will not be among the many recipients of the scholarship under the proposed legislation.�
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expanded local news coverage
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MARCH 15, 2011 To Contact Us
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PAGE 13
Health & Wellness
Resources & Lifestyle Tips
McNair Middle to host community summit on healthy eating
W
ith First Lady Michelle Obama urging communities across America to look for more healthy options, including growing vegetable gardens, DeKalb is
digging in to raise awareness locally. The DeKalb County Board of Health’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention is inviting families to attend a free conference on March 19 that will focus on local food sources and how to improve access to healthy foods in the McNair and South DeKalb community. The discussions will be facilitated by the Food Trust, a national leader in improving access to healthy, affordable food and in educating children and families about nutrition. Several activities are planned at the “McNair Healthy Eating Conference: Take Action for Healthy Food” event
Health Calendar Cancer survivors invited to “Irish Feast” Piedmont Hospital will host “Celtic Wisdom, Irish Feast” for cancer survivors on March 18, 12:30 – 3 p.m., at the Piedmont Hospital Cancer Center, 1800 Howell Mill Rd., Suite 700, Atlanta. Experience some of the richness of Celtic history and ideas and how they can apply to your own immune-enhancing journey. Enjoy a healthy, contemporary and what organizers call a delicious Irish feast in an atmosphere of music, laughter, pictures, poetry and stories. Dennis Buttimer, M.Ed., RYT and Chef Nancy Waldeck will facilitate the event. Registration is required. 404-425-7944.
101 New Dads class: Dos and don’ts New and expectant fathers are welcome to the free New Dads 101 Class on March 19, 12 – 1 p.m. at WalMart, 5401 Fairington Rd., Lithonia. Hosted by the Decatur Pediatric Group, P.A., the class offers dads the dos and don’ts of the delivery room, burping the baby, fun with your baby and supporting the cesarean birth. Other topics include childproofing the house, pets in the house and safety issues, along with other “new dad concerns.” New Dads 101 will be held on April 23 and May 21 at the same time and place as well. There is no cost to attend, but you must register by calling 404-542-3294 or email jphillips@ visionsusa.net.
Beulah Life Center to host CPR training Register by March 31 for Beulah Missionary Baptist Church’s one-day First Aid, CPR and AED course on April 9, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. The American Heart Association sponsors the class for emergency response training. All members of the community are invited to learn from a certified instructor who will provide first aid instruction on how to treat burns, shock, insect bites, falls, choking and the “Look, Listen and Feel” technique. A CPR instructor will teach attendees the proper way to check the incident scene and the correct way to give chest compressions on both children and adults. AED training will include the proper way to use the Automatic Electronic Defibrillator. The cost to attend is $30. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church is located at 2340 Clifton Springs Rd., Decatur. 404-241-3307.
Emory opens Voice Center for vocal disorders Emory Healthcare will host an open house for its new Voice Center in Atlanta on March 24, 4 – 6 p.m., at 550 Peachtree St., Atlanta. Attendees will have the chance to meet voice center physician Dr. Melissa McCarty Statham, MD. Dr. Statham is a laryngologist specializing in pediatric and adult voice, swallowing and airway disorders. The program features one of Dr. Statham’s patients, a student musician. Tours of the facility and refreshments will be provided. Organizers say the open house will be a special treat for physicians, physician office staff, speech pathologists, choral directors, music directors and vocal professionals. Call 404-7787777 or1-800-75-EMORY to register.
St. Joseph to host colon cancer informational St. Joseph’s Hospital, 5665 Dunwoody Rd., N.E., Atlanta, will host a free educational session addressing colon cancer, its effects, treatments and screenings on March 25, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Join families who have been impacted by colon cancer as physicians share preventive measures that can be taken. Genetic surgeries will be reviewed as well. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates this year there will be 101,700 cases of colorectal cancer cases expected in the United States. This session will be held in the Carroll Conference and Education Center, Classrooms one and two. Lunch will be provided. You must register online at www.stjosephsatlanta.org or call 678-843-7001.
Babysitting training offered at Gwinnett Medical Gwinnett Medical Center will host a babysitting training course on March 26, 9 a.m., at Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion, 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville. This is an American Red Cross class that teaches babysitters ages 11-15 general safety, basic care, first aid and critical emergency action skills. Successful participants receive a program certificate as well. The class is $50 per person. Register at www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org or call 678-3121000.
on Saturday, March 19. The program will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at McNair Middle School, 2190 Wallingford Drive (near Tilson Road) in Decatur. The community is invited to come out and learn and enjoy a free lunch. Bobby Wilson, president of the American Community Gardening Association and the Atlanta Urban Agriculture Program, will lead a gardening activity to wrap up the day. In general, households have five main sources of food: stores, restaurants, schools, food banks and
senior centers, farmer’s markets and roadside stands, and farms and home and community gardens. A 2007 assessment in the McNair area shows that many fresh items are missing from stores, including apples, bananas, oranges, lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes and meats. The DeKalb County Board of Health’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention is sponsoring the conference. Seating is limited and registration is required. For more information and to register, go to http:// mcnairhealthyeating.eventbrite.com or call Avian Dalton at 404-294-3803.
PAGE 14
MARCH 15, 2011
We Worship
To Contact Us
By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
Faith-Based News & Inspiration
Historic churches invite community to join in anniversary celebrations
T
By Valerie J. Morgan
Both churches want the community to come out and share in the fellowship, activities and worship services planned. Their pastors say the community will have a chance to see why they have remained great institutions in the community. Antioch will launch its celebration on March 19, 6 p.m., with a Praise Team concert hosted by Larry Tinsley of radio station V103 FM. The concert features praise teams from around metro Atlanta, including sister churches in the community. Pastor Ward is a big music fan and his church offers music from classical to foot-patting Negro Spirituals, something for all generations. Highlights for the week include Sunday, March 20, when the Howard University Gospel Choir will sing at the 10:30 a.m. worship service. Antioch’s revival will be held March 23-25, 7:30 nightly, with
his month, two African American congregations in our community will celebrate historic milestones: AntiochLithonia Missionary Baptist Church, where Pastor James C. Ward presides, turns 142 years old. New Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, where Pastor Ronald K. Owens is leader, turns 120 years old. Both churches are located on Highway 124, a thoroughfare that runs through DeKalb and Gwnnett counties, and with at least a half dozen churches along the way, the road is one that might very well be considered a highway to heaven. Antioch-Lithonia and New Bethel are observing their celebrations March 19-27 and they’re even supporting one another’s events.
Sunday School 9:30am Morning Worship 10:45am Rev. Albert Homes, Pastor Rev, Jake Butler, Associate Pastor 5171 Redan Road Stone Mountain, GA 30088 770-469-4145 woakshills@bellsouth.net
please send resumes to woakshills@bellsouth.net
1 Year Church Anniversary Be Thou Healed Global Church April 1-3, 2011 Theme: Stepping Into The Increase Pastor Tamara Verriett, Senior Pastor Guest pastor’s, churches, and vocalist will join us each night to help us celebrate this special occasion.
service. Highlights for the week of March 21 include revival services featuring the Rev. Stafford Wicker of Antioch AME Church, the Rev. R. Benjamin Gaither of Stronghold Christian Church, and the Rev. James C. Ward of Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church. The youths of New Bethel will celebrate through music, drama, poetry and dance on March 25, 7 p.m. A breakfast is set for March 26 at 8:30 a.m. Worship services will be held at 7:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. and will feature guest pastors. New Bethel is located at 8350 Rockbridge Road, Lithonia, 30058. For a complete schedule of anniversary events, call 770-4843350. Antioch-Lithonia is located at 2152 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia, 30058. For a complete schedule of events, call 770-482-1277.
“It’s Time” for healing, miracles, signs & wonders!!!!!
White Oak Hills Baptist Church
Organist Needed
preaching by Pastor Ward’s longtime friend, Pastor Eddie W. Thomas of Mary Magdalene Baptist Church in Abbeville, AL. Worship services will be held at 7:30 and 10:30 a.m. on March 27 with Pastor Ward preaching. New Bethel is planning a fish fry, Kidz Karnival and Talk with the Elders on March 19, starting at 11 a.m. You can hear the living history of New Bethel and the Promised Land Community come to life through a panel of elders during a program at 1 p.m. Festivities for the day run until 4 p.m. On Sunday, March 20, there will be a 10 a.m. Unity Worship Service. Bishop William Phillip DeVeaux, Presiding Prelate of the Sixth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, will bring the message. A fellowship dinner will follow the worship
Schedule Times: Friday - 6:30 p.m. - Night Service Saturday - 12 Noon - Luncheon Saturday - 6:30 p.m. - Night Service Sunday - 6:30 p.m. - Night Service
We are inviting all our friends, relatives, co-workers, and neighbors, to come celebrate with us for our first church anniversary. For further information you may visit us at our website at www.bethouhealedministries. webs.com, or call 770-875-5271. We look forward to seeing you there!
Chimain Douglas Ministries will host “It’s Time” Prayer Service on March 26, 2011 at 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., at the Colonnade Banquet Room, 8010 Rockbridge Rd., Lithonia, GA. You will learn how to hear the voice of God and how to operate in the Anointing and Power of God. Are you ready to go to another level in God? “Are you ready to operate in the Supernatural Power of God”. “It is time to hear the Voice of God”, “It is time for you to do greater works for God. Come experience the presence of God and His supernatural miracles, signs and wonders. Your life will never be the same after you have attended this service. I am so excited!! I want everyone to operate in this Anointing and Power. Invite a friend, relative, co-worker, guests, pastor, everyone is invited! For more info. call (678) 580-3310 or visit our website at www.chimaindouglasministries.org
Pastor Chimain Douglas
-“Pastor Chimain Douglas is such a blessing to our ministry. She came in and taught about the Power and Anointing of the Holy Spirit, now we are pastoring a mature congregation. Pastor George & Tanya Lawrence, New Breed Ministries. -“Chimain Douglas laid hands on five women at my home who wanted to have children, but could not due to medical reasons, she prophesize that all five women would conceive within that same year. All 5 women conceived in that year and all delivered healthy children. Pam Douglas
-“I attended Minister Douglas’ prayer service held on Feb 5. She is a Holy Spirit filled woman of GOD. I am a witness that you will not leave the way you came.” Janina Walton, Wise Wealthy Women Organization
MARCH 15, 2011
PAGE 15
we worship Calendar White Oak Hills honors women’s mission work
Hillside welcomes Patricia Russell-McCloud
White Oak Hills Women’s Missionary Union (WMU) in Stone Mountain will recognize the efforts, global projects and work of missionaries during its March 27, 10:45 a.m. service The theme is “Start Here,” as shared from the National WMU organization. WMU members and those who have just returned from traveling abroad and doing God’s work for the kingdom will share their stories and testimonials. White Oak Hills Baptist Church is located at 5171 Redan Road, Stone Mountain. The Rev. Albert Holmes, senior pastor, invites all to worship. 770-469-4144.
In celebration of National Women’s History Month, Hillside International Chapel and Truth Center in Atlanta will welcome guest speaker Patricia RussellMcCloud on March 27 at its 8 and 10 a.m. services. With the theme, “Our History is Our Strength,” Hillside will welcome McCloud to speak at both services. With more than 20 years of experience, McCloud is considered by many to be a “visual speaking experience.” She encourages her listeners to surmount every obstacle that stands between them and Russellthe possible. McCloud was also featured in Ebony magazine as one of the most Patricia McCloud influential people in the United States. Hillside says the purpose of Women’s History Month is to increase consciousness and knowledge of women’s history. Hillside International Chapel & Truth Center is located at 2450 Cascade Road, S.W., Atlanta. 404-758-6811.
Free conference set for future leaders Snellville United Methodist Church, 2428 East Main St., Snellville, will host a free conference for future leaders in church ministry on March 19, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. There is no cost to attend the Faith in Action Mission Conference and Ministry Fair. Some classes will have small fees for materials or background checks (needed to receive certification). Lunch is included. You must register in advance by calling 678-533-1455 or email ummen@ngcumm.org.
Sacred Chorale hosts free concert The Sacred Chorale group will host a free concert featuring several local choirs on March 19, 8 p.m. at the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts at Emory, 1700 N. Decatur Rd., N.E., Atlanta. Renowned for their exquisite artistry and transcendent sound, this chorus group hosts the annual Emory Community Choral Festival featuring Emory’s ensemble and other local choral groups for churches, choruses and other members of the community to enjoy. For more information, visit www.AtlantaSacredChorale.org or call 404-727-5050.
Shekinah Glory sets singles conference Shekinah Glory Tabernacle will host the “Singles Walking in the Supernatural Blessings” conference on March 25 – 26. The free conference starts on March 25, 7:30 p.m., with a word of encouragement from Co-Pastor Jewel Dawson. On March 26, the conference begins at 10:30 a.m. with the workshop, “Successful Finances and Budgeting.” The “Successful Christian Dating” workshop will follow, and the day will conclude at 12:30 p.m. with a message from Pastor Keith Rozier. Shekinah Glory Tabernacle is located at 6087 Covington Hwy, Decatur. No registration fee is required. 770-808-4647.
Lawrenceville UMC forming unique support group Lawrenceville United Methodist Church, 3142 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker, is forming a support group for those who have recently lost a loved one to death, divorce or for any other reason to join a newly-formed support group. The group will meet on March 26, 10:30 a.m., at the church. Participants will share experiences and discuss ways to cope with anxiety, stress and pain of recovering from the loss of a significant person in their lives. The group is open to adults of all ages who find it difficult to adapt to their loss. 770-939-3717.
FPC Covington sets Spring organ concert First Presbyterian Church, Covington will present a Spring organ concert on March 27, 3 p.m., to showcase its newly-upgraded Wicks pipe organ. The concert will feature four organists well known to Atlanta audiences: Tom Alderman; Jim Ingram; Beck Ramsey; and Alice Walker. The concert will contain classical works, along with theatre, gospel and pop favorites. First Presbyterian Church-Covington is located at 1169 Clark Street S.W., Covington. For more information, call Ellis Dunbar, 770-787-2657.
New Mercies offers support for children of divorce New Mercies Christian Church, 4000 Five Forks Trickum Rd., S.W., Lilburn, will host DC4K for children of divorced families on March 28, 6:30 – 8:15 p.m. The program is for children ages 5 to 12. Are your children angry, hurt and confused about your separation or divorce? Divorce Care (DC) and Divorce Care for Kids (DC4K) provide a safe place where you and your children can meet. The program will be held until May 2. The cost for DC is $20 and for DC4K is $15. DC and DC4K meet simultaneously at NMCC. Contact Jayme Gooding at 678-687-5459 or Yvette Searson at 678-925-4810 for more information.
Baptist churches to celebrate seniors The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Georgia will host a “Senior Celebration” on April 5, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church, 2715 Peachtree Rd., N.E., Atlanta. Seniors and other guests can enjoy worship, food, fellowship and keynote speaker Carolyn Weatherford Crumpler. A past CBF moderator, Crumpler is most known for leading the Woman’s Missionary Union from 1974 to 1989 where she developed many of the practices and offerings they use today. The Comedy duo “2forOne” will be on hand for attendees to laugh and sing along with as well. The registration for the event is $15 per person. Register online at www.cbfga.org or call Aimee Day at 478- 742-1191.
Carolyn Weatherford Crumpler
PAGEâ&#x20AC;Ż16
MARCHâ&#x20AC;Ż15,â&#x20AC;Ż2011
To Contact Us
By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
Home & Garden
Resources, Trends & Events
Spruce up your home with some creativity, professional help
I
By Barbara Elliott and Jennifer Ward Woods
know. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re tired of looking at that same furniture arrangement. Or perhaps the wall covering in the guest bathroom has seen better days. Maybe now is the very best time to give your space a fresh new lift. Here are a few decorating ideas that we think you should consider: Try rearranging what you already own. Sometimes moving furniture around a room or transferring pieces from one room to another makes a huge difference. If your room seems drab and dull, perhaps your lighting could use a facelift. Consider replacing an old shade, or installing new wall fixtures. Perhaps adding some new lamps will brighten up your world. What do you really like? If unsure, then I suggest you review design books and home decorating magazines. When you find a photograph of a room that you really like, spend some time analyzing what it is that you truly like. Start a redecorating notebook. Save pictures of your favorite rooms and favorite things. Make some notes as you study these photos. As yourself: Why do you like this
room? What would you change? How do the fabrics, colors, textures make you feel? By including the answers to these questions in your notebook, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll not only save yourself a lot of valuable time, but your design professional will be
thrilled with the thought youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve given to your upcoming project. Set a realistic project budget and completion timetable. If you have a special upcoming event thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspired you to redecorate, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that the entire process
start in enough time to meet your deadline. And I know that money is often a challenging topic. But knowing your budget really helps your design professional help you. Identify your focal point. Is it a fireplace, a beautiful view, a bed or an armoire? Your room arrangement should surround your focal point. Pulling furniture into attractive groups in the center of the room will not only add warmth to your room, but will be inviting to guests as well. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your theme? Selecting a theme for your room says something about you and your family. It also provides you with a way to display collections, themed items, or arts and crafts. Once your theme has been selected, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be surprised how your choices and shopping decisions will be simplified. For instant impact, nothing beats adding color to a room. To find the right color for you, find something you adore in a color that makes you happy. Once your color decision is made, fabrics, upholstery artwork and accessory selections will be a snap. Barbara Elliott and Jennifer Ward Woods are owners of Decorating Den Interiors, located in downtown Stone Mountain. (770) 469-7780.
Events Calendar Backyard vegetable and herb gardening forums set Get the scoop on backyard vegetable and herb gardening. Free lectures will be held March 19, 26, 10:30 a.m. to noon at St. Bedeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal Church, 2601 Henderson Mill Road, Atlanta. The St. Bedeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gardening Forum will be led by Julia Dalbom. For more information, contact Julia Dalbom at chere_julia@comcast.net or call 404-259-4360.
Beautiful blooms, food and fun set at Cherry Blossom Festival
 The city of Conyers will present the 30th Annual Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival on March 26 and 27 at the Georgia International Horse Park. The Cherry Blossom Festival will celebrate the blooming of the Cherry Blossom tree with international music, games, food and crafts. The festival offers multiple stages for continuous entertainment and over 300 arts and crafts vendors. The hours of the festival are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Parking is $5 for one day or $8 for a two-day parking pass. Admission is free. No pets allowed.
Learn about habitats from around the world The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center this month is presenting an exhibit, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your House, My House,â&#x20AC;? to teach how people around the world live based on geography, climate, availability of materials, lifestyle and other factors. This special exhibitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities include designing houses, building houses and visiting model homes from around the world to learn how a homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environment can affect its design. Step inside three model homes from around the world: a Mongolian herderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ger, a mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;bure from the tropics of Fiji and a stilt house from a Malaysian fishing village to learn how children in these places might live. When you come see this exhibit, you can: design your own house using the tools of the trade or make choices on house components using a computer program. Compare different building materials and house features or match houses with environments. Choose from four building materials and construct your own house. The exhibit runs through March 30. Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center is located 2020 Clean Water Drive, Buford, GA 30519.770-904-3500.
Compost with ease and satisfaction Are you throwing away your fresh kitchen scraps not knowing that you could use them to improve the soil in your garden? Oakhurst Gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Compost King, Daniel Ballard ,will delight you with the facts of composting in your own yard. Set-up, materials to include, turning, methods, and harvesting will all be discussed. Everyone will have an opportunity to work with the Gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own compost piles. The workshop will be held March 26, 1 to 3 p.m. Register online at www.oakhurstgarden.org and click on Classes. Contact andrea. zoppo@yahoo.com for assistance. Cost: $10 for Garden members and $15 non-member. Oakhurst Garden is located at 435 Oakview Road, Decatur, GA 30030.
Sale! Up to 30% off SPRING IS IN THE AIR!
YOUR TASTE â&#x20AC;˘ YOUR STYLE â&#x20AC;˘ YOUR BUDGET We work with YOU to create the look you have in mind. From custom window treatments to an entire room makeover, give us a call. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love us!
Barbara Elliott Jennifer Ward Woods Phone: 770-498-7780 Website: www.decdens.com/belliot
Creating Beautiful Rooms Since 1969
w w w. D e c o r a t i n g D e n . c o m
window treatments â&#x20AC;˘ furniture â&#x20AC;˘ lighting â&#x20AC;˘ floor coverings â&#x20AC;˘ accessories
BElliott Feb 2011 Wednesday, February 23, 2011 3:27:18 PM
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MARCH 15, 2011
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CBC Foundation, Wal-Mart scholarships available
Congressman Hank Johnson and his wife, Mereda Davis Johnson, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Spouses, are urging local high school students to apply for 2011 CBCF scholarships. “Education is the key – it opens doors, lays the foundation and provides the launching pad for your future,” said Rep. Johnson. Added Mrs. Johnson, “These scholarships can help our children become the doctors, scientists and engineers of the future,” she said. “Now is the time to apply.” CBC scholarships were created in response to federal cuts in spending for education programs and scholarships. Applications must be submitted online as early as April 1 at http://cbcfinc. org/cbcf-scholarships.html. Some scholarships have a June 1 deadline. For more information, e-mail Betty Dixon at betty.dixon@mail.house.gov or call her at the Lithonia office at 770-987-2291.
CBCF/Wal-Mart Strive for Excellence Scholarship Application Deadline: April 1 The Strive for Excellence scholarship was established in 2006 with a generous gift from Walmart to expand CBCF scholarship and internship programs. Walmart believes in a philosophy of operating globally and giving back locally. Accordingly, scholarship recipients have demonstrated the potential to make the greatest impact on the local community.
CBC Spouses Education Scholarship Application Deadline: June 1 This scholarship fund was established in response to federal cuts in spending for education programs and scholarships. This is the foundation’s first educational program. The CBC Spouses Educational Scholarship is a national program that awards scholarships to academically talented and highly motivated students who intend to pursue full-time undergraduate, graduate or doctoral degrees. The Educational Scholarship Fund was established in 1988 and has experienced substantial growth. CBC Spouses Cheerios Brand Health Initiative Scholarship
Application Deadline: June 1 This scholarship program focusing on health was established in 1998 as the CBC Spouses partnered with the naming sponsor, General Mills, to increase the number of minority students pursuing degrees in the fields of medicine, engineering, technology, nutrition and other health-related professions. Since the inception of the program, General Mills has invested more than $1,000,000 to underwrite this initiative. The CBC Spouses Cheerios Brand Health Initiative Scholarship has served hundreds of students over the years, and has helped to create leaders in the medical and health related fields.
Dr. J. Jason Thomas, CEO Board Certified Dr. Marvin Ngwafon
Stonecrest/Lithonia 2930 Turner Hill Rd. Suite A Lithonia, GA 30058 Phone: 770-484-SMILE 76455
PAGE 18
MARCH 15, 2011
To Contact Us
By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
CLASSIFIEDS
Services
For Sale
Music lessons available. Voice, keyboard, music theory and choir directing. Tutoring for reading also offered. Call 404-284-3935.
2 BR,2.5 BA, Condo, 6016 Regent Manor, off Hillandale, Lithonia, $22,500. Call 770482-6122 or 404-483-2526.
Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs. A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404281-6503.
Lithonia Foreclosure, Sandstone Estate. $700k house for $250, 5 BR, 3.5 BA 2 acres. 9k down, $1400 per month. Call 1-888-2696795 x198.
Free Energy Audits. Learn from the Experts how to Save Money on Your Utility Bills 770709-5535. The Home Energy Experts
Stone Mountain, Waters Edge, brick, 4BR 2.5BA, LR, Den, DR, $105,00, $1,000 down, $705 month. W R Brokers 1-888-269-6795 x 179.
Affordable Home Repairs/Remodeling, Interior/Exterior Painting, Basement Remodeling Pressure Washing Plumbing, Tile Licensed & Insured, Large & Small Jobs, Free Estimate Call Derrick 678-469-0071. Housing Counseling We may be able to help you save your home under new Obama modification program now in effect. Qualification based on assessment. For help, call Sandra Bynoe at the NARRI non-profit agency: 678-923-9124. School Home School, Summer Camp, Tutoring, GED Classes. Call for more Information 478357-3749 Location DeKalb County. Now Hiring 75-year-old company expanding in Lithonia/ St. Mountain. 14 positions available including customer relations, finance, sales, secretary, inventory. $15.00 an hour. 678-221-1850, Mr. Jones. The Saint Philip AME Church Child Development Center is in search of a Director. Person hired will be responsible for the overall management of the Center. Application packets include qualifications and salary range. Packets may be picked up during business hours and on Saturdays from the Receptionist’s desk in the Family Life and Administration Bldg located at the corner of Memorial and Richard Allen Drives (1607 Richard Allen Drive/Atlanta, GA 30317/404371-0749).
Stone Mountain, Southland, All brick 4BR, 2.5 BA, LR, DR, Den/fplc $153,000, $1,500 down, $821 month. W R Brokers 1-888-2696795 x191. DeKalb Foreclosure, 4BR 2BA, LR, DR, 2 Car Gar, $59,000. $1,000 down $489 per month, must qualify. 1-888-269-6795 x149.
Mini Mall
7173 coVington HwY • 678-755-5955
Banquet Hall For rent $ 00 $ 20 - 12500 Per. Hour BootH rent 1st MontH $100 Vacancies $500 sell Your stuFF For Free
MARCH 15, 2011
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MARCH 15, 2011
Celebrating Its 142nd Anniversary
“Bridging the Past Blessing the Present and Birthing the Future”
Pastor James C. Ward
Join Us for a Praise-filled Time March 19, 6 p.m., Praise Team Concert featuring Praise Teams from around Atlanta Master of Ceremonies, Larry Tinsley, V103.3 FM
March 20, 10:30 a.m., Howard University Gospel Choir March 23-25, 7:30 p.m., Revival Services Pastor Eddie W. Thomas Mary Magdalene Baptist Church Abbeville, AL
March 27, 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Pastor James C. Ward preaching both worship services
Antioch Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church 2152 Rock Chapel Road (Highway 124) Lithonia, GA 30058 770-482-1277