On Common Ground 5-26-18

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Landslide victories for DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson, Judge Courtney Johnson Gregory Adams, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson set for runoff in District 7 Commissioner race

By Valerie J. Morgan

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eKalb County voters overwhelmingly reelected District 3 Board of Commissioner Larry Johnson and Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson to offices on May 22. The two incumbents, who are unrelated, commanded landslide victories in their races, early results showed.

Johnson, who has served 16 years on the Board of Commissioners, received 80.53% (16,704 votes) as he celebrated turning 50 on election night.

Challenger Felton Wright, a retired AT&T communications employee running for the first time, received 19.47% (4,039 votes).

Judge Johnson earned a third term with 64.67% (55,028 votes). Challenger Attorney Genet Hopewell garnered 35.14 % (29,902 votes).

DeKalb Commissioner Gregory Adams is headed for a runoff against Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, vice president of business development for the Atlanta Daily World, for the District 7 seat. The super district represents the eastern portion of DeKalb County.

Adams received 44.74% (18,209). Cochran-Johnson garnered 41.69 (16,961).

Adams and Cochran-Johnson were the two top vote-getters in a four-way race. Since neither received more than 50 percent of the vote, they will face one anther in the July 24 runoff.

DeKalb District 3 Board of Commissioner Larry Johnson and his wife, Tanisha, thank supporters on election night. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan

Gregory Adams

Lorraine Cochran-Johnson

“We are thrilled to have received the most votes in this election,” said Adams. “As we head into the runoff, DeKalb voter should know that my record is clear: when it comes for fighting for DeKalb, no one will work and fight harder. In just a little over a year, we have moved DeKalb forward by investing in people and neighborhoods every single day. I’ll continue that work in my next term.”

In the hotly-contested races for DeKalb School Board seats, Incumbent M. Orson barely held an edge on his opponent, Candice D. Kinley. Orson received 50.65% (4,929) votes. Candice D. Kinley came in with 49.08%(4,776).

Voters chose Diijon DaCosta to fill the Board of Education, District 6 seat. The seat was vacated by former board chair Melvin Johnson.

DaCosta defeated Lance Hammonds, earning 55.29 percent (6,152) of the vote. Hammonds received 44.48 percent (4,949).

Two veteran incumbent state legislators lost their seats on election night. State Rep. Earnest “Coach” Williams, House District 87, lost to Viola Davis, a government watchdog. State Rep. Howard Mosby, District 83, lost to Becky Evans.

Key Races in DeKalb County BOC, District 3, Democrat Larry Johnson (I), 80.53% (16,704 Felton Wright, 19.47 % (4,039) BOC, District 7, Democrat Gregory Adams (I) 44.74% (18,209) Lorraine Cochran-Johnson 41.69 (16,961) John Tolbert, Jr. 7.9% (3215) Ed Williams 5.66% (2303)

Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson waves to drivers on the first day of early voting. Photo by Travis Hudgons

Board of Education, District 2 Candice D. Kinley, 49.08% (4776) Marshall Orson (I) 50.65% (4,929) Board of Education, District 6 Diijon DaCosta, 55.29% (6,152) Lance Hammonds, 44.48% (4,949) State Senate 41, Democrat Steve Henson (I) 50.42 % 6918 Sabrina McKenzie 49.58% 6,803 State Senate 40 Incumbent Fran Millar received 7,860 votes on Tuesday in the uncontested Republican primary. In November, Millar will face Sally Harrell, Democrat, who received 76.19% (7484). Harrell defeated Tamara Johnson-Shealey, who garnered 32.81% (3655 votes) in the Democratic Primary.

State Senate 43, Democrat Tonya P. Anderson 84.44% (13,080)*

SEE ELECTION page 4

GBI rules Rockdale Jail inmate dies of dehydration, cause ruled “undetermined” was outraged by the GBI’s findings. internal investigations report, along Sheriff Eric Levett Tilson was arrested on March 9 by with video footage. The reports will Police on misdemeanor be thoroughly investigated and I will vows co-operation, Conyers charges of disorderly conduct and take direction from our attorney.” obstruction of a law enforcement Tilson’s family was briefed on the thorough investigation officer. investigation and autopsy during a

By Valerie J. Morgan Shali Tilson, 22, died of a blood clot due to dehydration while he was in custody on misdemeanor charges for nine days at the Rockdale County Jail, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has determined.

The autopsy, conducted at the GBI Crime Lab in Decatur, stated that Tilson died on March 12 as a result of “pulmonary thrombi due to dehydration.” The autopsy also found that Tilson had “subdural hemorrhaging” and he was alone in his cell when he died. The manner of death was undetermined, the GBI said in a news release on May 24.

Attorney Mawuli Davis, who is representing the Tilson family, said he

“The community should be outraged. How do you get arrested on misdemeanor charges and die in a cell alone?” Davis said. “He was severely dehydrated. This is a horrible torturous way to die. They (jail attendants) let him deteriorate to the point of death.”

Rockdale Sheriff Eric Levett said the case is being forwarded to the District Attorney and he would continue to fully cooperate with authorities.

“My condolences are with the family and their friends. I’m not going to hide behind anything. If anyone under my supervision has done anything, they will be held accountable,” said Levett. “We will continue to cooperate with the GBI and the District Attorney. I’m waiting to review the GBI’s report and our

meeting on May 14, the GBI said.

Tilson’s mother, Tynesha Tilson, has said she is heartbroken over her son’s death.

“My son was a good kid who graduated from Rockdale County High school in 2014,” the mother said.

She said her son did not have any health issues when he was arrested.

Davis said Tilson was put on “suicide watch” for a mental health crisis, according to the GBI’s report.

He said the GBI said Tilson had six incidents of “use of force” while he was in custody at the jail.

“Basically, they got physical with him. There were six incidents while he was in there for nine days where he had violent encounters with them (jailers),” Davis said. “Our hope is that the District Attorney will look into this.”

Shali Tilson

PAGE 2 • MAY 26, 2018

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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.

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Murder suspect apprehended Roden Meadows, the 22-year-old suspect wanted for the murder of Jason Williams, 24, has been arrested.

Meadows was apprehended May 22 by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit. He was charged with murder for allegedly shooting and killing Williams on May 15 at a Citgo gas station on Columbia Drive in Decatur.

Surveillance video showed the victim and suspect together sitting inside a vehicle at the Citgo gas station. An altercation occurred inside the vehicle.

The victim was shot, exited the vehicle and collapsed in the parking lot.

MAY 26, 2018 • PAGE 3

Stonecrest City Council votes to retain Grice Consulting for SPLOST program

By Valerie J. Morgan

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he Stonecrest City Council voted 4-2 to continue contract negotiations for the city’s SPLOST program management with Grice Consulting Group. The company has been in limbo with the city since last fall when city staff members questioned the “high” costs and scope of services that Grice billed the city for pre-SPLOST work.

City Councilwoman Diane Adoma, who made the motion at the April 21 City Council meeting to renew negotiations with Grice, said council members wanted to act in good faith in honoring the contract. The council approved the motion after a heated, lengthy debate.

The agreement, which Adoma said is worth at least $2 million, is the first substantial opportunity the city has awarded to an African-Americanowned firm. The council’s decision to retain Grice came after public criticism that the city had awarded a multimillion contact to CH2M to oversee the management of the new city without seeking out an African American firm.

CH2M, whose top officials are white, was selected because it is among the largest companies in the nation that specialize in setting up new cities, city officials said.

Adoma said she made the motion to continue working with Grice after getting a legal opinion from City Attorney Tom Kurrie. She said she wanted to avoid any legal action that might come from Grice’s CEO, John Funny.

“His attorney (John Funny) was sending letters to us. We were trying to find a way to work with them,” Adoma said. “If it was a bad contract, it should have come back to the Council— not the city manager, assistant city manager and the mayor just taking things into their own hands…. What has happened now is that the contract process can begin. It’s really saving ourselves from ourselves.”

Funny said in an e-mail he sent to City Manager Michael Harris and forwarded to On Common Ground News that he is looking forward to working on the project.

“I’m looking forward to working with the City on this effort. I’m excited about the opportunity to assist the City of Stonecrest with managing

Stonecrest City Council voted 4-2 to continue contract negotiations for the city’s SPLOST program management with Grice Consulting Group. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan

its SPLOST initiatives,” Funny stated in the e-mail dated May 22.

Relationship with Grice deteriorated after billing Grice and city officials had been at odds for months. The relationship soured shortly after the council voted unanimously to retain Grice on Aug. 21, 2017. Ten days after the council’s vote, Grice invoiced the city $56,840 and then sent a second invoice for an additional $14,840, Mayor Jason Lary said. Grice invoiced the city a total of $162,000 through November 2017, including $20,000 for setting up and conducting SPLOST community meetings, Lary said.

City Manager Harris said things came to a “pause” after receiving the initial invoice. He said the invoice did not match up with the amount of work stated for the three-month period.

“That was the point at which I felt we needed to stop and reconcile this before going any further,” Harris said.

Harris, other staff members and Kurrie worked to negotiate a payment of $40,000 to Grice for the work performed. The company accepted the payment, city officials said.

Bewildered council members Councilmembers Rob Turner and Jazzmin Cobble said City Attorney Kurrie and staff members should have brought the matter back to the City Council, rather than negotiate the

CHANGE MEETING DATES AND TIMES FOR CITY OF STONECREST Beginning in the month of June 2018, the City Council and Work Session Meetings will change to the following: Every first Wednesday City Council Meetings will begin at 9:00am and Work Sessions will follow immediately.

Every third Monday Work Sessions will begin at 6:00 pm and City Council Meetings at 7:00p.m.

$40,000 payment to Grice “This was done without our knowledge and then we’re looking like “What’s going on here?’” said Rob Turner. “If we made the decision to choose a company like Grice, why didn’t you come to us to make changes or alterations when it was time to do that?”

Said Cobble: “You never came back to council and said ‘Here is where we are.’ Decisions were made after that and that, and we were caught up on the back end.”

Mayor Lary blasts City Council Mayor Lary said city officials were shocked when they received the invoices from Grice. They asked for supporting documents for the work, but did not receive substantive evidence.

Lary blasted the council for its decision to continue working with Grice, rather than to approve a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to find another company to manage the SPLOST program.

“It smells to high hell to me. I don’t understand why we are steering this down one street,” said Lary. “The whole thing is so shady. Why wouldn’t we put it out for RFQ)?”

Councilmember Jimmy Clanton, who voted with the mayor against the motion to continue negotiations with Grice, said he failed to see how the city was moving forward by going back to the table to give Grice another try. He said the city had no obligation to automatically give Grice a contract

SEE STONECREST page 4

PAGE 4 • MAY 26, 2018

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ELECTION continued from page 1 Joel Thibodeaux 15.56% (2,410)* * Totals for the three counties in District 43.

State Senate 55 Incumbent Gloria Butler received 16,372votes in the uncontested Democratic primary. She will face Republican Annette Davis Jackson in the Nov. 6 General Election.

Jackson, who was also uncontested in the Republican primary, received 3,130 votes.

State House 83, Democrat Becky Evans, 64.61% (5,596) Howard Mosby (I), 35.39% (3,065) State House 86, Democrat Michele Henson (I), 71.57% (3,983) Jocelyn C. O’Neil, 28.43% (1,582) State House 87, Democrat Viola Davis, 56% (3,536).

Earnest “Coach” Williams, (I), 44% (2,778 ) State House 90 Incumbent Pam Stephenson won the Democratic primary, soundly defeating Gregory Shealey. Stephenson received

73.73% (5,437 votes), while Shealey received 26.27% (1,937 votes). Stephenson will face Republican Takosha Swan in the Nov. 6 General Election. Swan received 1,253 votes on election night.

State House 94, Democrat Karen Bennett (I), 79.30% (4,355) L. Dean Heard, 20.70% (1,137) Superior Court, Stone Mountain to replace Judge Coursey LaTisha Dear-Jackson and Tunde Akinyele are headed for a runoff, since no candidate in the six-way race received more than 50 percent of the vote on Tuesday.

Tunde Akinyele 22.43% (18,845) Gina Bernard 16.79 (14,102)% Roderick Bridges 6.15% (5,166) Kirby Clements Jr. 7. 33% (6,154) LaTisha Dear-Jackson, 37.59% (31,582) Nicholas Smith, 9.44% (7,927) Superior Court Judge Genet Hopewell, 35.14% (29,902) Courtney Johnson (I), 64.67% (55,028) More election stories on page 5

STONECREST continued from page 3 because it was his understanding the council’s vote was to negotiate a contract with Grice.

“What if we don’t reach an agreement” Clanton said. “We agreed to negotiate with Grice. We never agreed to hire them.”

Dave Marcus scolds the City Council Citizen Dave Marcus, who frequently attends the city’s council and zoning meetings, lashed out at the council during public comments near the evening.

“Well, children, that was an enlightening debate on Grice. It’s been a year since you’ve been in office. I suggest you figure out who the city attorney reports to. I suggest you figure out the history of whether you have a contract with Grice or not. And I suggest that before you start spending $3 or $4 million of our tax money that you have an RFQ and an RFP. That’s all. Mr. Mayor, thank you for your objection to this process. Councilman Clanton, I believe you also voted with the mayor, thank you. The rest of you: I’m disgusted.”

Rockdale voters reject $140 million bond referendum, Conyers says yes to $13 million bond Rockdale County voters on May 22 defeated a $140 million bond referendum for the construction of a new courthouse, while city of Conyers approved a $13 million bond referendum for a new City Hall and upgrades to the Police Department.

Voters rejected the county’s proposal by 69.66 percent (8,943 votes). The measure received 3,895 yes votes.

Mounting opposition killed the county’s bond referendum, despite a campaign that included a blitz of printed fliers, mailers, videos, community meetings and tours of the existing Rockdale courthouse.

Opponents spoke out at public meetings, complaining they were against the bond because of the costs and the increase in property taxes to support it.

Citizens also said county officials never sought their input before placing the referendum on the ballot.

County officials had estimated that the bond would result in a 4-mill increase in property taxes, (an additional $13 more per month in property taxes on a home valued at $100,000). Several people on fixed incomes expressed they could not afford the increase.

Meanwhile, citizens in Conyers approved a $13 million bond referendum to build a new City Hall and upgrade the city’s Police Department. They were faced with the county’s bond referendum on top of the city’s.

The city’s proposal got the buy-in it needed to pass.

Voters in the city of Conyers approved the measure by 62 percent(752 votes). The measure was rejected by 38 percent (461 votes).

City officials said over the last 30 years, the city’s population and number of employees have grown, creating a shortage on space at the city’s facilities.

City Hall, which was established in 1965 and the last expansion was 1988.

The approval of the city’s bond is expected to result in the addition of approximately $71 to the annual property tax bill for a $100,000 property, city officials say.

ng class of Tucker High School!

Congratulations to the 100th graduati

Photos courtesy of DeKalb County Schools District

PAGE 2 • MAY 26, 2018

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Celebrating our Graduates

Towers High students take first international trip in school history

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owers High School senior Michael Elliott ended his last semester on a high note like none other. He was among a group of 18 Towers’ students who traveled to Europe during Spring Break. The trip marked the first-ever international trip in the history of the 52-year-old school, which was founded in 1966.

The Towers Titans Band traveled to London and Paris for a week filled with music education and cultural activities from March 28-April 4.

The band, band director, parents and school principal visited cultural landmarks and worked with brass band music masters.

Elliott called the trip phenomenal.

He said the trip would leave a legacy for future classes at Towers High.

“I never thought I would be able to go abroad, unless I was in the military or something. The way I was raised, I was never supposed to leave Decatur. I’m still in shock,” Elliott said. “Our prom was themed ‘A night in Paris,’ and we were in Paris. It was amazing. People doubted us, but we left our mark and will continue to leave our mark. You have to be committed. Towers will be going again next year. We’re going to go to Tokyo.”

The band received a proclamation from the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners honoring the school’s accomplishment in May. “The trip was phenomenal—it was explosive, it was beyond our wildest dreams,” said Towers band director Shawan Baptiste. “From the day we hit the ground running until we returned, it was great.”

Photo provided

The Titans visited cultural landmarks including Westminster Abbey, English Parliament and Trafalgar Square during their time in London. The travelers were also able, but not required, to observe the Easter celebration at St. Paul’s Cathedral, a historical landmark originally founded in the year 604.

In Paris, the group visited such landmarks as The Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. Students saw The Mona Lisa and other world-famous artwork, and the Eiffel Tower.

“The kids actually climbed all of the Eiffel Tower stairs all the way to the top,” Baptiste said. “And why not? We had gone that far, why not see the peak of Paris?”

For Baptiste, a highlight of the trip was when band members took part in a master class with experts from the London Regional Brass

fish fries, car washes, performances, and setting up a GoFundMe campaign. An anonymous benefactor also gifted the group $5,000.

Baptiste said the effort to raise money brought the Towers community together. The group raised about $35,000 within six months.

Towers junior Jelena Herriott, who baked cupcakes on a daily basis to help fund the trip, said the entire process was a great experience. She said she would always remember the trip.

“We went to the museum—that was one of my favorite places,” Herriott said. “The artwork, seeing it in person, physically, made such a big difference.”

Sophomore Jermaine Taylor said he enjoyed experiencing a different Band, including an internationallyculture.

He said he is proud to be a renowned conductor. The class student at Towers after seeing what included one-on-one lessons, an could be accomplished. advanced music rehearsal and a “I enjoyed everything,” Taylor performance of New Orleans-inspired said.

“We believed in ourselves. We jazz music. went out there, didn’t play around, “It was a very true cultural and raised the money for the trip. We exchange,” Baptiste said. “This was made it.” a pivotal point of why we went on Towers principal Vincent Denson the trip in the first place: to conduct also played a key role by purchasing a music exchange and be taught by the passport for each of the 18 professionals.” students selected for travel.

Baptiste credits Dunwoody “I’m ecstatic.

To be the first High School band director William international trip in school history, Henderson, who also attended, it speaks volumes,” Denson said. for providing guidance and “It gave us a chance to visit cultures ambassadorship throughout the trip. outside of Decatur, DeKalb County She said Henderson helped her plan, and Georgia, period.

[Most of] our map out and tour both cities in an kids had never been on a flight, effective manner. much less overseas. There was so The Titans held several much love for the process. It was so fundraisers for the trip including selling cupcakes and popcorn, holding profound.”

DeKalb senior athletes earn top academic awards

By Mark Brock, DCSD

tudent athletes are performing well on the field and in the classroom as 26 (16 valedictorians, 10 salutatorians) earn top academic honors from 16 of DeKalb County School District’s 19 schools that participate in varsity athletics.

The group of 26 represents 13 of the 15 varsity sports offered by the district with three valedictorians and three salutatorians who participated in two sports during their high school careers. The athletes represent 59 percent (59.1) of those receiving the highest honors from the 19 schools with varsity sports.

Arabia Mountain’s Resident Valedictorian Odette Nawoue (UGA) was a two sport athlete for the Rams participating in volleyball and soccer.

She was in the Top 10 in the county in kills and blocks as a senior on the volleyball team and contributed three goals and one assist from her position as a defender on the soccer squad.

McNair’s Skyler Walker-Harris (UGA) played softball (captain) and basketball for the Mustangs while setting the standard in academics as the school’s Valedictorian for 2018. Harris was in DeKalb’s Top 10 in RBI (25) and triples (3) during softball season last fall and was a contributor on the basketball team.

Stephenson defensive end/post

S

Skyler Walker-Harris

Odette Nawoue

player Frank Smith (UGA) rounds out the two-sport-athlete valedictorians.

Smith had two tackles for a loss, a pass breakup and two quarterback hurries for the Jaguars’ playoff team this season.

He also contributed 3.7 rebounds per game as part of the Region 4-6A champion basketball team.

Maya Rajan (GA Tech) was selected as a DeKalb County AllStar Girls’ Soccer participant for her defensive play on the field this past season for the Druid Hills Red Devils.

She scored a pair of goals despite being on the defensive end most of the time during matches. Rajan did so while becoming the Druid Hills’ Valedictorian for 2018.

Other student-athlete valedictorians include Arabia Mountain Magnet’s Camille Jones (cheerleading; UGA), Columbia Magnet’s Kariyah Muhammad (soccer; GA Southern), Columbia Resident’s Rayeanna Motley (cross country; SCAD), Dunwoody’s Shreya Nainwall (lacrosse; Penn. State or GA Tech), Martin Luther King Jr.’s Jamie Dillard (swimming; already

Maya Rajan

Frank Smith

graduated from Clayton State; GA Tech), Miller Grove’s Imani Morrison (track, 2 years; Emory), Redan’s Liliana Reyes (softball/track, junior year; GA Tech), Southwest DeKalb Magnet’s Morgan Banks (cheerleading; Tuskegee), Southwest DeKalb’s Resident Tea’ White (softball; UGA), Stone Mountain’s Cameron Moore (tennis, GA State), Towers’ Midjina Richard (soccer, 1 year; UGA) and Tucker’s Revaz Sharma (tennis; GA Tech).

The 16 valedictorians represent 11 sports with soccer leading the way with four followed by tennis, basketball, track and cheerleading with two each. Thirteen of the top students will be attending college in the state of Georgia.

The 2018 Salutatorian class from the 19 schools participating in varsity sports includes 10 individual student athletes representing eight schools and eight sports.

Soccer was again the leader with four salutatorians having participated in soccer during high school including

Southwest DeKalb’s Magnet Kayla McKinney (FL A&M), Columbia’s James Karanja (UGA), Arabia Mountain’s Resident Chandler Shaw (GA Southern) and Towers Michael Pollard (Brandeis University).

Druid Hills’ twin sisters Lydia (UGA) and Lisa Medford (GA Tech) were both two-sport athletes competing in both cross country and swimming for the Red Devils as the pair were both honored as Salutatorian at their school.

They also served as co-captains for both sports.

Towers’ Pollard participated in both wrestling (2 years) and soccer while excelling in the classroom to earn Salutatorian honors at Towers.

Arabia Mountain’s Magnet honoree Richard Taylor (football; Missouri) and Resident Chandler Shaw (soccer) gave student athletes a clean sweep of all four top honors at the school.

Cross Keys’ Salutatorian Yuyan Ke (Emory) led her Indians’ basketball team in scoring with 10.5 points per game in 2018. Lithonia golfer Erys Murchison-Wyche (GA State/UGA) was another of the 10 salutatorians named for 2018.

Cheerleading had a pair of salutatorians including Southwest DeKalb’s McKinney and Miller Grove’s Zaniah Dameron (undecided).

Six of the salutatorians are making plans to stay in Georgia to work on their college degrees.

SPECIAL SECTION

MAY 26, 2018 • PAGE 3

Celebrating our Graduates PRESSING FOR HIGHER ACHIEVEMENT

Over 50 DeKalb high school seniors earn associate’s degrees in Class of 2018 Thanks to a partnership with Onward Academy, more than 50 DeKalb County School District (DCSD) high school graduates earned associate’s degrees in business management this year.

Stone Mountain High School led the pack with 19 graduates this year who earned associate’s degrees through the dual enrollment program.

Onward Academy is a DCSD dual enrollment program that allows students to earn an associate’s degree or 65 college credits through Georgia Piedmont Technical College while attending high school.

DCSD partnered with Georgia Piedmont in August 2016 to offer Onward Academy at four high schools—Clarkston, Cross Keys, McNair and Stone Mountain. Onward Academy reverses the traditional dual enrollment format by having college professors on campus at DCSD schools and removes the transportation barriers that many students face when having to make a decision about taking college classes.

This year, Georgia Piedmont Technical College on May 19 awarded the following 52 students their Associate’s Degree. The following week, as part of DCSD’s standard graduation schedule, the students also walked in their respective commencement ceremonies.

The following students also were honored by the DeKalb County Board of Education on May 14:

CLARKSTON

McNAIR

Saryah Beard Bao-Long Ho Takiya Lancelin Albert Luai Mang Reena Manger Dmyah Mattox Keisha Mezadieu Deqon Mitchell Vraj Patel Lens Sant-Armand Russell Salih Tlandrea Spence Richard Tran Iradukunda Tresor Rickey Tubbs

Nakiya Brown Adah-Lashay Dawson Keturah Dickey Kendall Fisher Ekove Gaba Hannah Hosley Devin Maximus Amanda Olgetree Ana Salmeron Skyler Walker-Harris

CROSS KEYS Micah Cohn Victor Flores Padierna Da’Jah Harris Marilyn Jimenez Ashby Justo-Servin Abigail Mayo-Reyes Angel Perez

STONE MOUNTAIN Anttwan Alford Aiyana Ali Kyra Chism Diomonay Cole Monnigan Crowell Gissell Duran Kayla Jenkins Jordan Johnson Nyisha Jones Lisa Le Lyndy Le Arletha McClendon Cameron Moore DeMonte Peeples Cristian Reyes Mariama Sheriff Valdina Tchoute Kiara Thomas Mu Nisah Ujima

Congressman Awards Art Scholarships

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Arabia Mountain High students receive $51,500 in art scholarships

tudents at Arabia Mountain High School have received scholarships worth $51,500, thanks to Congressman Hank Johnson.

Seniors Arantza Pena Popo and Esther Gibbs participated in the 2018 Congressional Arts Competition, which recognizes and rewards talented high school students nationwide.

Selected by Congressman Hank Johnson, the students represents Georgia’s 4th Congressional District in portions of DeKalb, Gwinnett Newton and Rockdale counties.

Arantza Pena Popo was awarded a fourCongressman Hank Johnson year scholarship worth $12,000 per year to attend Savannah College of Art & Design.

Esther Gibbs received a $3,500 scholarship from the Art Institute of Atlanta.

Arantza Peno Popo also was awarded the grand prize for her charcoal piece, “Cultural Portrait,” which she describes as “facial adornment from different cultures.” Esther Gibbs’ pencil drawing, “Picture of Myself in African Adornments,” earned her selection as third runner up.

The students joined students from both St. Pius X Catholic High and Brookwood High in being selections. More than 30 high school students from throughout the 4th Congressional District submitted pieces for consideration.

Both pieces will sit alongside last year’s selections in an art exhibit debuting on May 19 at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta.

Toney Valley Civic Association to honor scholarship winners, all graduating seniors in their community

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he Toney Valley Civic Association is proud of Columbia High School’s Class of 2018, especially those who live in the Toney Valley community of South DeKalb.

The civic association is presenting scholarships to three Columbia High students who live in the Toney Valley community: Jaimesha Calhoun, Janet L. Pierce Book Stipend James Karanja, Toney Valley Civic Association Scholarship Mikeya Jones, Toney Valley Civic Association Scholarship This year marks the second that the civic association has awarded scholarships. The book stipend is named in honor of former longtime resident Janet L. Pierce.

All high school seniors and their parents who live in the Toney Valley community are invited to attend the scholarship awards program on June 1, 6:30 p.m. at the DeKalb County South Precinct, 2842 H.F. Shepherd Drive, Decatur.

The guest speaker for the program will be Sterling Johnson, MPA, CCA. At the program, scholarship winners will be honored, along with all graduating seniors who live in the Toney Valley community.

RSVP at toneyvalleycivicassociation@gmail.com. Include the senior’s name, high school and number of attendees.

Photos by Glenn L. Morgan

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Celebrating our Graduates Cedar Grove High senior and former DeKalb County School District pins 70 certified nursing assistant students intern shares advice for success Now that Cedar Grove High School senior Jamile Ollison has graduated, he is ready for his summer job.

Ollison will join 400 youths in DeKalb who will be working at businesses throughout the county as part of the DeKalb Works summer youth employment program.

Last summer, Ollison boarded a MARTA bus four days a week to work at Corporate Environmental Risk Management (CERM), an environmental engineering and project management firm located in Tucker.

While on the job, he visited work sites and helped with administrative tasks around the office. He was surprised Jamile Ollison at the amount of networking he was able to do when CERM leadership brought him to Chamber of Commerce meetings.

“The internship let me experience and get a feel for working,” said Ollison. “It’s a good way to try out different jobs.”

Ollison encourages new interns to observe while on the job, but not be afraid to jump in.

“Always ask your supervisors what else you can do,” said Ollison. “Be confident and don’t just sit around.”

This summer, Ollison will intern with an accounting-focused agency and prepare to attend Clark Atlanta University, where he received a full scholarship. He was accepted to nine universities, including Clark Atlanta, Mercer, George Mason and Brenau.

The DeKalb Works internship program has filled all traditional internship slots this year, but 50 spots still exist for youth between 16 and 24 years old who are not enrolled in any school. For more information on the program or for more information on other youth employment opportunities, visit www.worksourcedekalb.org or call 404-687-3400.

DeKalb County School District officials held a pinning ceremony for 70 high school students who have completed its inaugural Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. The pinning ceremony was held on May 15 at the Robert R. Freeman Administrative Instructional Complex.

The students from high schools throughout the district completed the nursing course work, preparing them to enter the medical career field. Upon receiving their certification, the students became immediately employable in nursing career paths.

By Spring 2019, the DeKalb School District plans to offer students enrolled in the CNA pathway further opportunities for success. This includes paths to licensed practical nurse (LPN) and registered nurse (RN) degrees at both Georgia Piedmont Technical College and Georgia State University.

These students from the following schools completed DeKalb’s 20172018 program:

Arabia Mountain High Jade Stewart Sydney Allen Casey Barnes Dyamond Brown Erin Roberson Cedar Grove High Aniah Rayner Southwest DeKalb Tationna Almond Jaelyn Jefferson Cross Keys High

Dunwoody High Sandibel Cuevas Crinne Sinisgalli Lakeside High Yaadani Abjobir Michelle Camando Diana Gron Maxsuma Shahzodova Jermaine Stokes ChinZhang ML King High

Karina Castillo

Gabriella Besley Kamira Williams

Druid Hills High

Redan High

Cherysh Tisdol

Cari Tolen

Southwest DeKalb High Tationna Almond Aniya Aiken LaRon Anderson Mykia Conyers Coby Ficklin Amber Herrera Makayla Hicks Jade’Jones Evelyn McCoy Jasmine McFarlane Ariel Parker Kennedy Ross Hana Safeeullah Tiffani Seals Breanna Smiley Tiffany Stovall Tierra Thomas Ana’Ya Whitaker Ashonti Williams

Stephenson High Kimberly Cuffie Jada Daniels Catlin Washington Stone Mountain High Kemba Ilham Towers High Nyrobi Piller Rekeishah Sanders Tucker High Marilee Bales Jameka Dilipree

SPECIAL SECTION

MAY 26, 2018 • PAGE 7

Celebrating our Graduates

High school graduates earn $2,500 scholarship from Chick-fil-A

The Turner Hill Road Chick-fil-A is celebrating the accomplishments of 14 of its graduating high school seniors.

Of the 14 who have worked for Chick-fil-A, 11 of the students are recipients of the 2018 Chickfil-A Leadership Scholarship. The scholarships total $27,500. Each winner received $2,500 for their leadership, influence in the community and outstanding accomplishments academically.

“It is our pleasure to offer our congratulations to the Class of 2018.

The Chick-fil-A team members receiving the scholarships have played a very important and indispensable role in the restaurant and the community,” said Sam L. West, owner/ operator.

The students, West said, have made a positive difference in the lives of others, while building a legacy for future generations. They have been shining lights in their schools, achieving academic success at every level.

“We are so proud they are a part of the Chick-fil-A Family,” said West and his wife, Diann. “Many of the students have been a part of the Chick-fil-A family for over three years, and it has been an honor to have them apart of theChick-fil-A family and team. Their generosity, dedication, and hard work has paid off, as each will be attending prestigious universities in the fall.”

Turner Hill Road Chick-fil-A salutes: Amber Dukes, Xavier University Aliyyah Abdul-Latif, Valdosta State Kendall Bessent, Georgia State Leon Guthrie, Kennesaw State Rebecca Kebbeh, Xavier University

Tredarius Lassiter,Tennessee State Akaela Scott, Xavier University Nathaniel Williams Mississippi State Edwin Hicks, Savanna College of Art Design

Tylar Grimes, Tuskegee University Hellenia Grubbs, Alabama State Leroryal King Tuskegee University Janay McBird, West Georgia Jaelen McBrid, West Georgia

PAGE 8 • MAY 26, 2018 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Celebrating our Graduates

Photos by Glenn L. Morgan

Bishop Gary Hawkins, Sr. salutes the young graduates of Voices of Faith’s Christian Daycare No. 2 Georgia Pre-K program. The 22 students in the program, which is under the directorship of Minister Antoniette Woodside, will matriculate to kindergarten in the fall.

PAGE 5 • MAY 26, 2018

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Gubernatorial candidate Abrams leads with big victory over Evans Democrat Stacey Abrams swept the first contest in her bid to become Georgia’s first black female governor. She received a whopping 76.43% (422,482 votes) after an all-out television advertising campaign against her challenger, Stacey Evans, who received 23.57%( 130,264 votes).

Abrams will learn the Republican challenger she will face in November after the July 24 runoff is held between S. “Casey” Cagle and Brian Kemp.

Cagle received 39%(236,319 votes), while Kemp received 25.56% (154,864 votes). Five Republicans competed in the gubernatorial race. Other Key Statewide Races

State School Superintendent Otha Thornton, Jr., Democrat, is in a runoff with Sid Chapman. Thornton received 43.86% (207,503 votes.

Chapman received 36.48% (172,562 votes.

Richard Woods won the Republican nomination with 60.13 percent (324,027 votes) in a two-way race.

Secretary of State John Barrow won the Democratic nomination with 51.51% (263,951) Brad Raffensperger, who received 34.97% (184,948), will compete with David Belle Isle, who received 28.53% (150,908), for the Republican nomination for Secretary of State.

Commissioner of Labor Mark Butler, Incumbent, Republican, ran uncontested in the primary and received 476,740 votes Richard Keatley, Democrat, received 51.53%(234,902) in a two-way primary.

Public Service Commissioner, District 3, Metro Atlanta Lindy Miller, Democrat, 65.46 %(311,296) John Noel, 18.92% (89,964) Johnny C. White, 15.62% (74,259) To view the results of all of the statewide and local races, go to http://sos.ga.gov

Congressman Hank Johnson wins primary Congressman Hank Johnson easily defeated a virtually unknown challenger in the Democratic primary.

Johnson, who lives in DeKalb County, received 79.79 percent or 54,925 votes.

Challenger Juan Parks received 20.21% or 13,916 votes.

Johnson will face Republican Joe Profit, who received 15,355, in the Nov. 6 General Election.

Profit is a former running back for the Atlanta Falcons.

Johnson thanked supporters for his victory.

“I want to thank everyone for all your support,” Johnson said. “I take voters’ trust in me very seriously and will do all I can to maintain your faith in me. I look forward to continuing to be your voice in Georgia and in Washington.”

Johnson represents Georgia’s Fourth Congressional District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Gwinnett and Newton counties and all of Rockdale County. He has been serving as Congressman since 2007.

Spotlight on Patricia Willis:

Six Degrees of Synergy, Inc., creator of Stonefest The power of connection is amazing and infinite, especially when people, circumstances, and resources come together for a common good. Such is the aim of Six Degrees of Synergy, Inc., a DeKalb-based company specializing in strategic organization and project management. The company is led

by Patricia Willis, an IT professional who has implemented financial systems in the United States, Europe, and Asia. She has more than 25 years of admirable and accelerated experience with global corporate entities in the industries of banking, media and entertainment, and telecommunications.

A visionary leader, Willis’ most recent venture is her role as creator of StoneFest, the premiere outdoor festival that will celebrate the people, culture, and community of one of Georgia’s newest cities, Stonecrest.

StoneFest takes place June 9,

Patricia Willis

10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Atlanta Sports City at Stonecrest Resorts (the former Kohl’s location). The festival promises to be a day of connections, community, and celebration.

Willis was deeply compelled, as an extension of herself and her company, to present something meaningful to the community that would be rewarding in more ways than one.

“StoneFest is certainly something that our community can look forward to. It is a familyfriendly event that promises something for everyone,” states Willis.

Willis adds, “African Americans most certainly have to be more proactive about our health. Being a breast cancer survivor made me become more physically fit. I want to share the knowledge gained with others as it truly has made a difference in my life.”

Willis said empowering others is the reason a health and wellness component will be an integral part of StoneFest.

Additionally, one of the goals of Six Degrees of Synergy is to engage

in projects that embrace technology.

“There are too many African Americans who are not grasping the plethora of opportunities in technology,” Willis explains. “We have to be proactive about getting prepared to have careers in this field. The preparation for these careers is not only for our youth, but also for adults who need to retool themselves.”

As such, StoneFest will help bring greater awareness of new technologies and STEM career opportunities.

Willis adds, “Six Degrees of Synergy is all about connecting people to our community. I believe the most successful people know how to work together to accomplish goals. Yes, you may be able to get to the finish line faster with one person. However, you can get more done collectively.”

To see more of Six Degrees of Synergy in action, be sure to attend StoneFest 2018 on June 9th.

Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce invites travelers to experience Thailand

T

he Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is accepting reservations from the public for its Thailand Odyssey set for late this summer.

The trip, open to anyone who wants to go, will transport visitors to some of Thailand’s most popular places offering a glimpse into the culture, history and lives of its people.

The nine-day adventure, Sept.

11-19, will provide an abundance of sightseeing, shopping and sampling of authentic Thai cuisine. Highlights of the trip include exploration of the country’s capital, Bangkok, and a visit to the nearby province, Kanchanaburi, known for its role during World War II. The group will visit the Allied War Cemetery and take a historic ride on Death Railway Train, passing over an original wooden viaduct constructed

by Allied Prisoners of War. After departing Kanchanaburi, the group will travel to the ruins of Ayutthaya, once known as the ancient capital Siam. The UNESCO World

Heritage Site, located about 50 miles north of Bangkok, was formerly a prosperous international trading port.

Tourists will also get a glimpse

of The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most highly revered Buddha image carved from a single block of jade.

The Chamber is excited to

offer the trip at the attractive rate of $2,449 per person for double occupancy. Solo travelers pay an additional $475. The package includes round-trip airfare from Atlanta, hotel accommodations, daily buffet breakfasts, four lunches and one dinner, ground transportation and transfers, tours with English-speaking guides, attraction entrance fees, and the Grand Pearl Cruise from Ayuthaya to Bangkok.

The Chamber is also offering a three-day extension to Phuket for an additional $390 per person for doubles (the cost is an additional $600 for single occupants). Enjoy an optional tour of the city and/or a speedboat tour of Coral Island with lunch for an additional fee.

To see the full itinerary and brochure, visit www.conyersrockdale.com. To book now, contact Stephanie Layson at the ConyersRockdale Chamber at 770-483-4837049 or e-mail Stephanie@conyersrockdale.com.

PAGE 6 • MAY 26, 2018 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

DeKalb’s Amnesty Day disposes 264 tons of waste The DeKalb County Sanitation Division processed 264 tons of materials, including garbage, furniture and appliances, during the “2nd Annual Landfill Amnesty Day.” The Operation Spring Clean Sweep 2018 event provided a free disposal opportunity for DeKalb County residents, and was held on Saturday, May 19, at the countyowned Seminole Road Landfill located in Ellenwood.

Among the items dropped off and processed were 194 tons of garbage and bulky items, 40 tons of yard trimmings, 30 tons of construction and demolition materials and 512 tires. More than 850 county residents participated in the event, saving residents a total of $9,224 in disposal fees.

“Along with other county departments, the Sanitation Division was delighted to support the launch of Operation Spring Clean Sweep 2018 by providing DeKalb residents with an opportunity to dispose of

unwanted items,” said Sanitation Division Director Tracy Hutchinson. “We remain committed to maintaining clean, safe and aesthetically pleasing communities throughout DeKalb.”

Seventy county employees staffed the all-day event, which was a collaborative effort between the Sanitation Division, Code Enforcement and Police Services.

Operation Spring Clean Sweep 2018 is a multi-departmental initiative focused on litter collection, illegal dumping, and removing debris, trash and grass from streets, neighborhoods, sidewalks, roadway drains and county rights of way.

For more information on Operation Spring Clean Sweep 2018, contact the Sanitation Division’s customer service team at 404-294-2900 or sanitation@ dekalbcountyga.gov, visit www. dekalbsanitation.com, or follow the Sanitation Division on Twitter @ DKalbSanitation.

DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond and Sanitation Division Director Tracy Hutchinson welcome DeKalb residents to “2nd Annual Landfill Amnesty Day.” Photo provided

Splash Down!

DeKalb County pools to open May 26

DeKalb County’s pools will open Memorial Day weekend starting on Saturday, May 26.

The official season runs May 26 through July 27. Select pools will remain open on weekends through Labor Day, Sept. 3.

Residents can splash into summer by visiting a neighborhood pool.

The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs also offers various programs including swim lessons, water aerobics and more. For more information, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks or contact (770) 414-2113.

Pool locations and hours of operation

*Browns Mill Aquatic Facility 4929 Browns Mill Rd, Lithonia, GA 30038 Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. *Exchange Splash Pad 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30034 Hours: Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday, noon to 7 p.m. *Gresham Park 3113 Gresham Road, Atlanta, GA 30316 Hours: Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Monday closed; Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.

Kittredge Park 2535 N. Druid Hills Road, Atlanta, GA 30329 Hours: Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday closed; Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. *Lithonia Park 2501 Park Drive, Lithonia, GA 30058 Hours: Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Monday closed; Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.

Tobie Grant Park 644 Parkdale Road, Scottdale, GA 30079 Hours: Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Monday closed; Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. *Midway Park 3181 Midway Road, Decatur, GA 30032 Hours: Sunday, 1 p.m to 6 p.m.; Tuesday closed; Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. *Medlock Park 874 Gaylemont Circle, Decatur, GA 30033 Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday closed; Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.

*Select pools will remain open through Sept 3.

DeKalb County Public Library offers fine-free summer on all materials Library officials say parents can let their children can check out all the books and materials they want this summer without the worry of fines.

The Library Board of Trustees has approved a Fine-Free Summer for materials in the children’s and teen’s collections beginning June 1 and running through Aug. 31.

Library Director Alison Weissinger wants parents and caregivers to encourage their children to read and enjoy library resources all summer.

“We know children lose ground in academics over the summer break.

We want to take away any barrier to children and teens having books to read and enjoy over the summer,” Weissinger said. “We just ask that

items are returned to the library in a timely manner, so others may enjoy them.”

The Fine-Free Summer only applies to books, audiobooks, music CDs and some DVDs in the children’s and teen’s collections.

Fees will still be assessed on lost or damaged items.

“The primary purpose of the library is to get books in the hands of children,” Weissinger says. “We want to provide easy access to our materials at a time when children and teens need them the most. We know families are busy in the summer and this is one more way we can help kids read while school is out.”

For more details, please visit dekalblibrary.org.

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MAY 26, 2018 • PAGE 7

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