VOLUME 21 NUMBER 42
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JANUARY 30, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
DeKalb starts “smoke” tests, begins repairs on aging sewer system By Valerie J. Morgan
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eKalb County has begun testing and rehabilitating its aging sewer system. The tests, which will be conducted on 770 miles of DeKalb’s sewer system (about a third of the county’s system), is part of a $326 million overhaul mandated by federal and state officials. The improvements kicked off in South DeKalb this week in areas that have been identified as priorities where pipes are 25 to 75 years old. The areas include Cedar Grove Road, Flat Shoals Road, Memorial Drive, Columbia Drive, Glenwood Road and Flat Shoals Parkway. After being fined for hundreds of sewage spills, DeKalb entered into a consent decree with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) in December 2011 to repair its system. County officials said areas will be assessed first to identify defects and repairs will be made where needed. The county plans to com-
plete the first phase of the work by June 2020. The other 70 percent of the sewer system will be repaired after that, officials said. Multiple testing methods, including closed circuit TV, acoustic wave and manhole inspections, will be used to determine defects in the sewer system but smoke tests are expected to be most noticed by residents, officials say. Residents in the impacted areas can expect to see gray/white smoke rising from pipes in the ground. The smoke will give county contractors a visual indication of places where rainwater, creek E. Tanner, deputy director of DeKalb County’s Watershed Management, exwater and other storm water runoff Margaret plains what the sewer system program will entail. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News enter the system, officials said. County officials say they want to won’t hurt pets or plants. If you through Friday (excluding major get the word out that the smoke tests see smoke, you should be vigilant holidays), 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Assessare not toxic. to check out what is going on but ment contractors will distribute door “Smoke tests are probably the where you see smoke, there should hangers 72 hours before starting biggest impact to people in the be a technician in the area.” work in communities. community. People see smoke The county has contracted with Officials said the areas where in the neighborhood and they’re three companies to conduct the test- the assessments are under way were concerned. We want to make sure ing and repairs: Camken, Metals & considered priorities based on sewthey know what is going on,” said Materials, Engineering and Woolpage overflows, age of the pipes and Margaret E. Tanner, deputy director ert, Inc. where future capacity growth was of Watershed Management. “The Testing and other work are See DeKalb Water page 7 smoke is not harmful to people. It scheduled to take place Monday
State legislators hold community meetings to discuss city of Stonecrest By Valerie J. Morgan
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bout 100 people turned out for a public hearing to discuss the proposed city of Stonecrest in Southeast DeKalb County. The Jan. 25 meeting was the first in a series of meetings state legislators say they plan to hold to solicit public input to determine the prospects of a city. “Our goal is to have it on the ballot this year,” said State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler (D-Lithonia), who led the meeting and was joined by State Representatives Karen Bennett (D-Stone Mountain), Doreen Carter (D-Lithonia) and Darshun Kendrick (D-Lithonia) and State Sen. JaNice VanNess (R-Conyers). Dawkins-Haigler plans to present legislation on the floor of the House of Representatives in February for a vote on the bill. Last year, the Senate passed the bill 45-1. “We feel really good about our chances and look forward to coming to the voters in May,” said Jason Lary, who is president of the Stonecrest City Alliance, organizers of the effort since 2013. Some of the issues that were raised at the recent meeting included how the city would maintain itself, how it would provide a better quality of life for its residents and the financial impact the
incorporation of Stonecrest would have on the county. “The Carl Vinson Institute study shows a 20 percent surplus of revenue by creating a city and we will be able to use that additional revenue to improve the quality of life,” said Lary. The proposed city of Stonecrest would include 50,000 residents in an area covering 29 square miles, according to the feasibility conducted by the Carl Vinson Institute at the University of Georgia. The new city’s three primary services would be limited to planning and zoning, code enforcement and maintenance and operation of parks facilities. DeKalb County would continue to provide police services, fire services and court systems.
The study estimates the city would have $7.5 million in annual operating expenses and a surplus of $1.9 million in the first year. Barbara Lee said she had some reservations about the proposal. “If I’m going to be put in a new city, I want to know there are going to be some things better than there are now. I was not asked if I wanted to be in a new city,” said Lee. Pat Smith said she was concerned about the revenue stream and the percentage of residential versus commercial properties in the proposed city. “If you have a lot of foreclosures, you’re not collecting money because they are not paying any taxes,” Smith said.
Michelle Harrington said she supports the Stonecrest proposal because a small city would bring government closer to the people, allowing voters to elect officials and hold them accountable. “I don’t feel like I’m being heard. I want to have a say in what my community looks like,” said Harrington. Jim Kelly, who said four generations of his family have lived in DeKalb, said he wants change and he believes cityhood is the way to go. Kelley said he recalled when he graduated from Lithonia High school in 1972, there were signs all over the county that read “Dynamic DeKalb.” He said he was grieved, however, at how the county had declined. “I think for the last 25 years, DeKalb County Commission has been sorry stewards of the money in this county. They’ve thumbed their noses at us down here. They’ve put in junkyards. They’ve put in trash dumps… Right now, we need a strong change in this county,” Kelly said. More information on the proposed city of Stonecrest is available at stonecrestcity.com State Rep. Doreen Carter will host a public hearing on the Stonecrest cityhood proposal on Feb. 3, 6:30 p.m., 2745 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia.
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Celebrating Sweet Blessings Bakery for 10 years!
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emarkably, Priscilla Bailey Armstrong never baked anything sweet until her mother, Gladys Armstead Bailey, The Chief Cook, The Connoisseur, The Top Shelf Cook, herself passed away in 1992 and The Gift was passed on! After 30 years of faithful service, she retired from OFS Technology and continued selling cakes and pies out of the trunk of her car using The Gift passed on from her mother! Out of all the daughters, it was Priscilla, the baby girl, confectionately known as Ms. Sweet Blessings, who grabbed her mother’s vision and carried The Gift to the World! Assisted by her oldest daughter, Kesia, affectionately known as “Cupcake,” Ms. Sweet Blessings has personally sweetened DeKalb County, Georgia and the metro area for over 10 years. It was Tori, Cupcake’s daughter, who convinced her grandmother she needed to do something bigger. Tori was her “Granny’s” first employee at 8 years old. Tori is now a freshman at Georgia Southern University.
al German chocolate and Italian crème As Priscilla sat in church, the name for the business landed in her thought process as guaranteed to have you speaking another language; the ever-moist carrot and humshe was reflecting on the products and what her mother might say: Sweet Blessings Bak- mingbird cakes; plus the many other baked goods including cupcakes ery, “There’s sweet“Thank you! We love you! God bless in a variety of flavors—red ness in the blessings velvet, key lime, carrot, of the Lord!” It was you for patronizing Sweet Blessings! A a name that would visit to Sweet Blessings is an experience!” vanilla, strawberry, lemon, bring honor to her –Priscilla Bailey Armstrong and more—and her cookies, which include peanut butter, mother’s memory. chocolate chip, potato chip Priscilla purchased a bakery, renovated and more; her pies include pecan, buttermilk, it, and opened shop to sell her delicious, coconut, and sweet potato; and banana pudmouthwatering homemade-from-scratch ding(including sugar-free banana pudding). goodies. There is much more to choose from! Ms. Sweet Blessings stirs a plain bag of Ms. Sweet Blessings epitomizes the flour and sugar to produce her famous red art of great leadership. She lives by somevelvet/key lime combination, which is by thing author John Maxwell said: “If you’re far the star of her vast inventory. She teases leading a group, and no one is following, the palette with an assortment of delicacies then you’re just on a good walk!” Ms. Sweet including her mother’s coconut cake, which is three layers high; her ever popular caramel Blessings is assisted by Cupcake, Jackie and cake with the whipped-to-perfection caramel Jessica, gifted cake decorators who make up her full-time employees and she has also 5 icing; the simply tantalizing-in-every-bite to 10 part-time employees (depending on the old-fashioned pound cake; the sensation-
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Ms. Sweet Blessings is immensely grateful to her loyal customers and she invites them, as well as the waiting public, to come and help celebrate Sweet Blessings Bakery on February 5, 2016, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 4808 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. 770-981-0136. Hours of Operation: Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. -6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. -5 p.m. www.mssweetblessingsinc.com
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Ms. Sweet Blessings delights in using the best of products to maintain her level of baking integrity and commitment to deliver her ever faithful customer base the absolute best product! No shortcuts at Sweet Blessings! Sweet Blessings sells wholesale to all restaurants and businesses.
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吀漀 氀攀愀爀渀 洀漀爀攀 愀戀漀甀琀 䐀漀渀渀攀氀氀 愀渀搀 刀圀䐀吀 昀漀漀搀猀 愀渀搀 攀洀瀀氀漀礀洀攀渀琀 漀瀀瀀漀爀琀甀渀椀琀椀攀猀 愀琀 琀栀攀 䐀攀渀渀礀ᤠ猀 䄀琀氀愀渀琀愀ⴀ愀爀攀愀 氀漀挀愀琀椀漀渀猀Ⰰ 瘀椀猀椀琀⸀ 眀眀眀⸀爀眀搀琀昀漀漀搀猀⸀挀漀洀 漀爀 挀愀氀氀 㐀㜀 ⴀ㈀㜀㔀ⴀ㐀㤀㌀㘀⸀ ⨀䔀砀挀氀甀搀攀猀 琀愀砀⸀
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EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com
JANUARY 30,2016 • PAGE 3
Elections 2016
Rockdale Tax Commissioner to run for County Chair
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Conyers Police seek public’s help in identifying GameStop robber
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J Hadley, who currently serves as Rockdale Tax Commissioner, will seek the office of County Commission Chair in the upcoming Democratic Primary Election on May 24. Hadley’s announcement brings to three the number who say they plan to seek the position: Incumbent Richard Oden and Oz Nesbitt, who currently sits on the three-member Board of Commissioners, also say they will be in the race.
“Through my Rockdale service as former Chief of Staff and currently as Tax Commissioner, I have shown the positive results of leadership through collaboration, teamwork and putting others first,” says Hadley. “We will make Rockdale a thriving, vibrant community and we will do it together.” As former Chief of Staff, Hadley was responsible for securing nearly $3 million in federal funds for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to rehabilitate foreclosed properties and provide homes for first-time homebuyers. Since becoming Tax Commissioner, Hadley was recognized in 2014 and again in 2015 by the National Association of Counties (NACO) for innovation and communication in local government. He was also honored by the Association County Commissioners of Georgia’s (ACCG) with the 2014 Civic and Community Engagement Advocate of the Year Award for his outreach programs. In 2015, he was a named a finalist for Tax Commissioner of the Year by the Georgia Association
of Tax Officials. Last year, Hadley also partnered with Georgia Power and Nissan North America to install Rockdale’s first public electric vehicle charging station. Hadley’s platform branches out from three initiatives that he plans to implement as Chair: You’re Hired, Public Safety 1st and Renewable Rockdale. You’re Hired focuses on fostering job skills training and small business growth partnerships. Public Safety 1st aims to build a spirit of teamwork and openness with public safety officials and county leaders. Renewable Rockdale seeks to promote a beautiful, sustainable community while accelerating green energy adoption throughout the county. Hadley said he plans to introduce and expand on these initiatives during his official campaign kickoff at the end of February. Neither Hadley, Nesbitt or Oden will have to give up their seats to run for office. Their terms expire in December.
Rockdale seeks volunteers to help register voters
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olunteers are needed to help register voters in Rockdale County for the 2016 elections. The Rockdale County Board of Elections & Voter Registration Office, 1400 Parker Road, is hosting a Voter Registration
Training class on Saturday, Feb. 13, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Individuals and organizations are invited to participate. To register, call 770-278-7333.
DeKalb files suit to remedy blighted condo complex
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onyers Police investigators are seeking to identify an armed robbery suspect who targeted a GameStop located at 1630 Dogwood Drive, Conyers. On Jan. 25, about 3:30 p.m., a black male suspect entered GameStop and told an employee he was going to purchase a video game. At that point, the suspect demanded money from the register acting as if he was going to pull a pistol from his waistline. The robber is described as a black male in his 30s or 40s, 6’1 – 6’2, and weighing 250-275 pounds. He was wearing a brown cap, brown sweater and khaki cargo pants. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers 404 577-TIPS (8477) or www.crimestoppersatlanta.org. View video surveillance here: https://youtu.be/kkL0cJy_I6o
Much of the Brannon Hill complex, built in 1973, is now uninhabitable with many of its structures burned down over the years Photos by Glenn L. Morgan
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he DeKalb County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the filing of a lawsuit that would allow the county to utilize its resources to remove debris from the privately-owned common areas in the run-down Brannon Hill Condominium Complex. “Our impediment to rectifying the situation at Brannon Hill Condominiums is that all of the conditions exist on private property,” said District 4 Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton, who convened a working group to address the problem in December 2014. “This lawsuit, if approved, gives us the legal
authority we need to get to work. Our collective success in reaching this consensus is transformative leadership which required vision and the cooperative commitment of many individuals working towards a common purpose.” Commissioner Stan Watson said a successful lawsuit would pave the way for cleanup in other areas. “If we are successful in our endeavors here, the same strategy can be applied to other areas of the county where we have community blight issues,” Watson said. The filing asks the Superior Court to declare the common areas of Brannon Hill a public nuisance and
seeks the authority for the county to abate conditions by removing trash and debris. This includes but is not limited to rubbish, commercial debris, laundry waste, garbage in standing water; tire piles and other waste conducive to attracting mosquitoes, rats and flies. Other actions include cutting and clearing overgrowth and taking steps necessary to control the spread of rats, feral cats, insects and other harmful animals. The complaint also requests that the condominium association reimburse the county for abatement. “This is a step in the right direction to remedy an ongoing hazard and blight
upon the residents of Brannon Hills and the surrounding areas,” said District 1 Commissioner Nancy Jester. “I want to acknowledge Interim CEO Lee May and COO Zach Williams for their collaborative leadership to find an innovative solution that can be applied in other areas of the county as well.” Commissioner Kathie Gannon said the lawsuit is a start for cleaning up the property. “As we move forward, we need to address the buildings and the relocation of residents who want to find other housing alternatives,” Gannon said.
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Coming Up
and Antioch AME’s Health Ministry seeks to facilitate the dissemination of faith-based HIV prevention and interventions via the P4 Women’s curriculum. Women in the targeted age group are invited to participate in the free program, which kicks off Feb. 20, 9 a.m. to noon, at Antioch’s Elam Road location in Stone Mountain. To register for the series, contact Jackie Cathey at 404-375-6900.
Northlake Mall to host Heart Health Fair
Watson sets outreach to assist in Flint, Michigan’s water crisis
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eKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson is asking those who attend his community breakfast meeting in February to donate a case of bottled water to help Flint, Michigan, where lead contamination is threatening the city’s drinking water supply. Those who would like to help are asked to bring the bottled water to Watson’s meeting on Feb. 6, 9 to 11 a.m., at Southwest DeKalb High School, 2863 Kelley Chapel Road, Decatur. Watson is partnering with the Georgia Chapter of the NFL Players Association and Georgia Pro Players to collect the water to send to Flint. This month’s breakfast speakers include DeKalb Solicitor Sherry Boston; DeKalb County Sheriff Jeff Mann; and Maxine Daniels, Director, DeKalb Voters Registration and Elections. There will be special performances by the Chapel Hill Elementary School Choir, Vanessa Bonner and Brandon Gray. In recognition of Black History Month, Commissioner Watson also will be honoring Eston Hood, who recently retired from the YMCA of metro-Atlanta, for the many ways DeKalb’s children have benefited through his leadership. The breakfast is free and everyone is invited.
ATLANTA
Scholarship Fund Inc. to host driving classes for young people When it comes to highway safety, beginner drivers need to know the dos and don’ts before getting behind the wheel. The Malcolm “Omari” Hill Scholarship Fund Inc. invites high school and college students to participate in a series of driver safety classes that begin on Saturday, Feb. 6, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Atlanta Metropolitan Branch Library, 1332 Metropolitan Parkway, Atlanta. Though this will not be a course involving behind-the-wheel instruction, the class will provide students with insightful information on how to avoid driving distracted and will feature interactive audio and video presentations as well as printed handouts. At the end of the class, students will receive a safe driving certificate, which may help to decrease their auto insurance rates, depending on the insurance provider. This class is certified under the National Safety Council and is presented in memory of Malcolm “Omari” Hill who lost his life in a car accident at the age of 23 because he was not wearing a seatbelt. This event is free and open to the public. Registration is not required. Lunch will be provided to attendees. For more information and for future times and locations, please visit http://www.omari-scholarship.org or call 404613-5590.
Brandi Rae Hicks to lead college prep workshop
There are 10 things every prospective college student needs to know to complete their college application, according to best-selling author, Brandi Rae Hicks, and she is prepared to reveal those invaluable tips at her “10 Things” workshop on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Metropolitan Branch Library, 1332 Metropolitan Parkway Atlanta. The free workshop, limited to 10 students, includes workbooks and supplies for each participant. To reserve your spot, and for information on future dates the workshop will be offered, call 404-613-5590.
DEKALB
Antioch AME, Emory partner to present HIV prevention series Antioch AME Church in Stone Mountain will offer a three-part series aimed at helping heterosexual, African-American single women ages 18 to 34 learn about HIV prevention. The collaborative between Emory University’s School of Public Health
As February ushers in matters of the heart, Northlake Mall is hosting a Heart Health Fair in support of the American Heart Associations’ Go Red for Women initiative. The health fair will be held Feb. 6, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the mall, 4800 Briarcliff Road N.E., Atlanta. Head to the mall’s Center Court for free blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose screenings, heart healthy recipes, heart health information, a drawing for a FitBit, and other activities. The Tau Pi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is partnering to put on the event with the Council for Community Enrichment, Inc., Northlake Mall, Sigma Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Golden Cure, DeKalb Medical Center, Alzheimer’s Association of Georgia, and National Alliance of Medical Illness (NAMI DeKalb).
Teacher of Color Recruitment Fair to be held at Agnes Scott College Young Horizons Indigo, an online news source for parents and teachers interested in private school education, is hosting the 11th annual Teacher of Color (TOC) Fair on Saturday, Feb. 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Agnes Scott College, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur. The fair offers opportunities for educators and those aspiring to become educators to private school education, is hosting the 11th annual Teacher of Color (TOC) Fair on Saturday, Feb. 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Agnes Scott College, 141 E. College Ave., Decatur. The fair offers opportunities for educators and those aspiring to become educators to learn about the many possibilities and benefits of teaching in private schools Pk-12th grades. Top hiring representatives from day and boarding schools will be present to provide information about their schools. TOC is accepting applications now until May 1. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required: www.teacherofcolor.info.
GWINNETT
Rhodes rec center to host Mother-Son Valentine’s Dance There’s no better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with your sweet mom. The Rhodes Jordan Park Community Recreation Center, 100 E. Crogan St., Lawrenceville, will host a Mother-Son Valentine Dance on Saturday, Feb. 6, 6 to 9 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. General admission is $8. Registration is required. Visit www.gwinnettparks.com, if you and your sweetheart are interested. For more information, call 678-277-0890.
Barnes and Noble to host author Eloisa James
Join New York Times bestselling author Eloisa James on Sunday, Feb. 7, 4 to 5 p.m., at the Barnes and Noble Bookstore, 5141 Peachtree Parkway, Norcross. James will discuss her acclaimed historical romances, and share insight on how she creates her stories. For more information, call the Norcross Barnes and Noble at 770-209-4244.
ROCKDALE
Nancy Guinn Library to host expo for local authors Calling all authors! Join the Local Author Expo on Saturday, March 5, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library in Rockdale, 864 Green St., Conyers. If you are a local author looking to promote your latest book and network with other local authors, you should plan to attend. Space is limited. To register for the expo, call the Adult Services Department at 770-388-5040, ext. 118.
Daddy-Daughter Sweetheart Dance set
She’ll be your little princess on a gentleman’s arm as you enjoy a memorable evening celebrating Valentine’s Day together. Enjoy music, dancing, light refreshments and take a keepsake photo at the Daddy-Daughter Sweetheart Dance on Friday, Feb. 12, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., at the J.P. Carr Community Center, 981 Taylor St., Conyers. Pre-registration is required by Tuesday, Feb. 2. All ages are welcome. The cost is $8 per person. To register, call 770-278-7529.
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United Way offers boost in tax refunds for low-income families
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epresentatives from the United Way of Greater Atlanta will discuss a new financial study program designed to help low-income, single adults in DeKalb County get a higher tax refund for the next three years. The Paycheck Plus program will be discussed on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Goodwill Career Center, 295 Columbia Drive, Decatur, Paycheck Plus is a project testing a new earnings supplement to help low-income single adults and promote employment across Greater Atlanta. Through this program, single adults in DeKalb County, ages 21-64, who earned less than $30,000 in the past year and who do not claim any children on their tax returns, may be eligible to receive up to $2,000 back after they file their taxes. This event is free and open to the public. The United Way invests in more than 200 programs in 13 counties through the Community Impact Fund and participate in Collaborative Networks with caring community partners to address issues in education, income, health and homelessness. For more information, call 404-728-8605.
Foundation fighting blindness to present Atlanta Vision Seminar Join the Foundation Fighting Blindness for a free informative seminar on age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and related diseases. The seminar will be held Saturday, Feb. 6, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Registration begins at 8 a.m.), at the Decatur Conference Center at the Courtyard Marriott, 130 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. Leading doctors and specialists will be presenting information on the latest research advances, current treatments for these diseases as well as information on vision enhancement and rehabilitation and clinical trials. Presentations will be made by: • Margaret Wong, MD, Eye Consultants of Atlanta • Benjamin Baumrind, MD, Eye Consultants of Atlanta •Ben Shaberman, Foundation Fighting Blindness •Anisio Correia, Vice President for Programs and Lynn Wade, Orientation and Mobility Specialist and Vision Rehabilitation Therapist with the Center for the Visually Impaired Local low vision organizations will be onsite to demonstrate their products and services and a light brunch will be provided. For more information or to register, call 800-647-0008 or visit www. FightBlindness.org/AtlantaSeminar. Seating is limited.
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FREE Customer Service Training Class
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Tuesday, February 9th Discover DeKalb Conference Room 1957 Lakeside Parkway Suite 510 Tucker, GA 30084
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Call 770-492-5014 Register online at AtlantasDeKalb.com
JANUARY 30, 2016 • PAGE 5
ARC honors Rockdale for commitment to sustainability
Members of the Rockdale County delegation celebrate receiving the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Bronze Green Community certification. It is the first for Rockdale County.
Rockdale County was one of five local governments to be recognized this week by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) for leadership in implementing policies and practices that contribute to efficient and sustainable use of resources in metro Atlanta. “Over the past 24 months, our Directors and leadership team were tasked with Rockdale becoming a Green Community,” Chairman and CEO Richard Oden said. “They worked very hard to accomplish this significant achievement to make this community sustainable for our future.” Rockdale was honored at ARC’s Jan. 27 board meeting for becoming a Bronze Certified Green Community. This is the first time the county has achieved certification in ARC’s Green Communities program. ARC also recognized the cities of Atlanta, Norcross, Peachtree Corners and Woodstock for certifying or upgrading their certification in ARC’s six-year-old Green Communities program. “These local governments are to be commended for making their communities more sustainable places,” said Kerry Armstrong, ARC board chairman. “Their efforts to conserve energy, reduce waste and protect natural resources set an example for the entire region.” Steps Rockdale took to become certified include: • Capturing rainwater to irrigate soccer fields at Earl O’Neal Park, using a rainwater retention pond. This saves 800,000 gallons of potable water a year. • Installing LED lighting at Johnson Park Recreation Center, resulting in an 83 percent reduction in energy use for lighting. This change will result in more than $99,000 in savings over the next five years. • Making fresh fruits and vegetables available at the Rockdale County-supported farmer’s market. Residents may also grow their own vegetables
year-round at the Parker Community Garden and the Senior Center Garden. • Installing bike racks at more than half of its community facilities, with plans to place bike racks at the remaining facilities in the next two years. Each bike rack features a sign with a QR code that be scanned via smart phones to pull up locations of other Rockdale County bike racks.
• Building Lorraine Park Trailhead on a brownfield site that had been contaminated by an auto salvage yard. The county purchased the riverfront property and remediated the soil and groundwater. A sight that once held more than 800 tons of concrete, 246 tons of trash and 27 tons of tires is now a beautiful part of the Arabia River Trail system. ARC developed the Green Communities Program in 2009 to recognize local governments that invest in programs and policies that lead to a more sustainable region. The nationally recognized program showcases the ways in which local governments are helping transform the region by reducing their environmental footprint. Since 2009, 20 jurisdictions in the 10-county region have been certified. Cities and counties earn Green Communities certification by implementing practices and policies in 10 categories, ranging from energy efficiency and green building to transportation and water efficiency. ARC’s Green Communities program was the first program in the country seeking to transform a region by promoting sustainability through a “green” certification program for local governments. Complete information about ARC’s Green Communities Certification Program, including the measures each community has implemented, is available on the agency’s website www.atlantaregional.com/greencommunities.
PAGE 6 •JANUARY 30, 2016
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Operation Prom in full swing to lend helping hand to needy students in Rockdale
By Chelsey Derks
community and Board’s relentless dedication to giving or many high school back. Throughout the year, seniors, excitement she collects donations in the builds throughout form of gowns and suits as the semester toward the well as monetary gifts to fund memorable event that caps hair appointments, make-up off their school year: prom. and nail services, accessories It’s a tradition each genand a professional photograeration looks forward to—a pher. She also gets some help rite of passage where teens from local businesses who transform themselves into donate time and services – elegant young women and including Men’s Wearhouse, handsome young men and which is joining the ranks celebrate with friends. Howthis year. ever, all the glamour the night “This is all the comentails adds up, and for some munity just volunteering families, the costs are overcleaners, seamstresses, and whelming. businesses that give actual So Cheryl Board created donations so that we get each Operation Prom in Rockdale student taken care of,” Board County. said. “We also give some “Operation Prom is part students a gift card so they of a larger non-profit group can purchase special underI started, Non-Profit Consorgarments for their dress, if tium,” Board said. “Unforneeded, or buy shoes if we tunately, I’ve buried three don’t have any in their size.” daughters. I wanted to honor Board makes sure each them but I didn’t want to do student who comes to her a scholarship fund that would gets the full prom experience. only help a few young girls She says she believes everyor students at a time. I wanted one deserves to feel like a to do more to give back to the princess at least once, and she community.” feels like she’s playing fairy Now in its fourth year, godmother. Operation Prom has done just If she doesn’t have that. Board has helped more something in the right size than 90 students look and for a student, she works with feel their best on prom night. local consignment shops to Last year, Operation Prom find the right item. She says also started catering to young it’s essential for the teens to men, helping 10 of them get feel glamorous from head to ready for the evening. toe, so she makes an effort to It works through generbe there for each step of the ous contributions from the process.
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like every time I’m reliving it with my own daughters and they’re not here to be with
DeKalb officials team up for food drive
ive DeKalb officials are encouraging the public to help replenish the shelves at the Atlanta Community Food Bank by donating canned goods and non-perishables. County Commissioner Kathie Gannon, Solicitor-General Sherry Boston, Clerk of Superior Court Debra DeBerry, Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson and Clerk of State Court Melanie Wilson have teamed up to sponsor the food drive, which runs this week until Feb. 19. “After the holidays, the pantry shelves at the Atlanta Community Food Bank are looking bare,” said Commissioner Gannon. “This year, we have enlisted the help of the DeKalb Public libraries and we hope DeKalb citizens will help restock the
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“I try to be part of the experience for each one of them,” she said. “I just feel
me to continue it on. I see my daughters in every one of these girls.” To connect with the students who need some help getting to prom, Board starts an application process each February. Students are referred by school counselors, the Department of Family and Children Services, or from other non-profits who know families who could benefit from Operation Prom. “There’s no income check or anything like that,” Board said. “You meet these girls and their moms and the stories behind them—once you see them get all dressed, it’s the most warm, amazing feeling.” While donations are accepted year round, it’s now officially Board’s busy season. Since most local proms fall in March or April, she’s getting ready now and needs the community’s help. For those who want to contribute to Operation Prom, they may email Board to make arrangements at CherylBoard@att. net. “I just really want people to understand what the Non-Profit Consortium was started for and why,” Board said. “It’s in memory of my lovely daughters and giving back to the community. Always being able to give back to the community is my way of saying thank you for letting me still be a part of it.”
shelves of the Atlanta Community Food Bank.” Donations may be dropped off
at any of DeKalb’s public libraries during normal operating hours, as well as any of the three Tax Com-
AKAs celebrate Founders Day
au Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. celebrated the sorority’s 108th Founders Day by dining at Coaxum’s Low Country Cuisine Restaurant in Rockdale County on Jan. 15. More than three dozen chapter members and sorority sisters from the surrounding greater Atlanta area came together for food and fellowship and were entertained by the establishment’s band, Collective Element. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is the first service sorority established for college-educated African American women, and was founded on the campus of Howard University on Jan. 15, 1908. Celebrations of the founding date were held throughout metro Atlanta and around the globe. On Jan. 22, 2016, Omega Theta Omega was chartered in the
missioners’ office. Hunger remains a persistent problem in metro Atlanta. Roughly 17 percent of the households and 28 percent of children in the area served by the Atlanta Community Food Bank, which includes DeKalb, do not always know where their next meal is coming from. Among the most needed items are canned tuna, peanut butter, fruit juices, canned vegetables and paper products. “In this day and age, no one in DeKalb County should go hungry,” said DeBerry, Clerk of the Court. “Last year,.our food drive collected more than one ton of food for the Atlanta Community Food Bank, and with the generous support of DeKalb County citizens and employees, we can break that record.”
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JANUARY 30, 2016 • PAGE 7
DeKalb Water continued from page 1
expected, among other things. The consent decree program for the improvements is being funded by customers who are paying about $7.14 more per month for their monthly water bill, officials said. County Commissioner Stan Watson, who chairs the Board of Commissioners’ Public Works Committee, said the work is a necessity. “The system was a tremendous asset when the housing boon came in the 1980s but we have to now take care of that aging system,” said Watson. “We’ve seen water pipes bursting, water main breaks. These are things we have to take care of. It’s an ongoing process because DeKalb County is one of the older counties and the third-largest in the state of Georgia. A series of public hearings are scheduled for residents to ask questions and learn more about what to expect from the sewer program. The DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management (DWM) is set to host a series of informational community meetings and residents are encouraged to attend. The following meetings are scheduled: Feb. 4 – Dunwoody Library, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, 6:30 p.m. Feb. 6 – Tucker Recreation Center, 4898 Lavista Road, Tucker, 10 a.m. Feb. 11 – Community Achievement Center, Inc., 4522 Flat Shoals Pkwy, Decatur, 6:30 p.m. For more information, residents may contact the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management’s outreach team Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-800-986-1108 or by e-mail at projectinfo@ dekalbcountyga.gov. For information on employment opportunities with the Consent Decree Program, contact DeKalb Workforce Development at 404-687-3400 or email FirstSourcejobs@dekalbcountyga.gov.
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Rockdale’s Regional Science and Engineering Fair winners shine
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udding STEM researchers, under the guidance of dedicated educators and with the support of tireless parents, explored tough science and engineering questions in the 2016 Rockdale Regional Science and Engineering Fair, held Jan. 25 after being postponed from Jan. 22 due to weather. The fair was held at the Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology and awards were presented at Rockdale County High School. The Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology’s fair was presented at Rockdale County High School. The Grand Champions in the Senior (high school) and Junior (middle school) Divisions will go on to the Georgia Science and Engineering Fair in downtown Athens, March 31-April 2. This year’s RRSEF winners are: Senior (high school) Division Third Place Megan Munroe; Chyna Maya, Gwendolyn Cothran; Adaugo Achionye, Karin Colburne; Sundiata Washington; Aja Weary; Bridgette Benefield; Danayah Dawkins; Josiah Thompson; Michaelia Ivie, Karimah Francis; Faith Buchanan; Marcus Cain; Jordan Davis; Jade McPike; Kalieh Shockley; Joyia Smikle; John Holinsworth, Nicholas Wilson; Kendal Hill, Rachel Hill; Zorey Wickham; Zeida Hickson; Alan Manene; Helen Addisu; Jamal Halley; Chiddima Anunobi; Monique Montgomery; Julaam Diop; Juana Olguin; Daniel Garner; Carissa Myers; Jashell Chupulco, Jada Johnson, Alyssa Palacios; Lauryn Wright; Dominic Lai, Vraj Patel; Jaedon Hanchard; Abigail Gayden; Julia Nnoko; Elysse Camp; Terrell Kong; Zahira Selman; Clair Smith; Felix Luu; Isabelle Kirkwood; Olivia Tomlinson; Yolana Thomas; Christina Griffin; Logan Birchmore; Elijah Cheban; Mykela Bolar; Amber Wright. Second Place Princess Kamuche; Alawn Henderson; Sarah Taphorn; Laney Norton; Tyler Bates; Julia Long, SallieKate Keffer; Jestini Jordan; Asiah McWhorter; Ashley Apolon; Imani Williams; Sydney Turner; Joshua Ferrell; Adrian Robbins; Galilea Garcia; Michelle Ibezim, Brinklie Thomas; M’Aeysha Jefferson; Nicholas Johnson; Martin Murphy, Jake Bosworth, Tristan Ricks; Trisha Adjumal; Dax Willette; John Lamondo; Kennedy Baker. First Place Michelle Nguyen; Rodina Cummings; Yasin Siddiquee; Isabella Castronova; Matthew York; Nkima Stephenson; Anna Lamontagne; Noah MacDonald; Sarah Beharry; Najifa Hossain; Lauryn McCray; Zarek Syed; Mai Nguyen; Jordan Holmes; Emmy Lombard; Molly Niemczyk; Jada Guilford; Laurel Holmes; Madeline Burkey; Erin Hardnett; Dahlia Walters; Caroline Norwood; Claire Bumgardner; Sierra Driver; Miranda Murphey; Jenna Farner; Kya Wide-
The RRSEF high school Grand Champions (advancing to State science fair) are: Ralph Dizon; Jada Guilford; Matthew York; Anna LaMontagne; Jordan Holmes, Emmy Lombard; CJ Hardnett; Laurel Holmes; Erin Hardnett; Cameron Bennett; Isabella Castronova; Molly Niemczyk; Mai Nguyen; Claire Bumgardner; Sierra Driver, Miranda Murphey; Kya Wideman, McKenna Commiskey; Caroline Turner; Madline Burkey; Jenna Farmer; Lauryn McCray; Caroline Norwood; Zarek Syed; Sydney Driver, Candace Hill; Sarah Beharry; Najifa Hossain; Nkima Stephenson; Yassin Siddiquee; Dahlia Walters; Noah MacDonald. — at Rockdale County High School.
man; McKenna Commiskey; Sydney Driver, Candace Hill; Cameron Bennett; Ralph Dizen; CJ Hardnett; Caroline Turner; Ifene Lews; Raeed Ahmed; Jazz Duncan, Tay Mortimer.
Emma MacDonald; Ryan Richardson; Lauren Moore, Ayana Moore; Layssa Bennett, Julie Gutsulyak, Mersha Russell; Nylah Ductan; Grant Tomlinson.
Grand Champions (advancing to state science fair) Ralph Dizon; Jada Guilford; Matthew York; Anna LaMontagne; Jordan Holmes, Emmy Lombard; CJ Hardnett; Laurel Holmes; Erin Hardnett; Cameron Bennett; Isabella Castronova; Molly Niemczyk; Mai Nguyen; Claire Bumgardner; Sierra Driver, Miranda Murphey; Kya Wideman, McKenna Commiskey; Caroline Turner; Madeline Burkey; Jenna Farmer; Lauryn McCray; Caroline Norwood; Zarek Syed; Sydney Driver, Candace Hill; Sarah Beharry; Najifa Hossain; Nkima Stephenson; Yassin Siddiquee; Dahlia Walters; Noah MacDonald. Junior (middle school) Division
Grand Champions (advancing to state science fair) Tiara Mitchelle, Cara Zheng, Brandon Gignilliat; Ava Bailey; Cole Nangle, Shivam Vohra; Grant Tomlinson; Imani Gunnison, Nicole Ofori, Laiana Humphries; Nylah Ductan; Josephine Slotnik; Alyssa Bennett, Julie Gutsulyah, Marsha Russell; Ryan Richardson; Lauren Moore, Ayana Moore; Emma MacDonald; Nathan Crafts.
Third Place Sarah Burkey; Camryn Caldwell; Helena Schaeffer; Sarah Goldgar; Steven Hua, Myles Jones, Satch Williams; Candy Zheng, Breanna Cowart; Isabelle Sanderson; Amaya Roberson; Nevaeh Robinson; Sahel Momin; Adriana Guadagne; Alison Sinclair; Kimani Heath; Efrem Cheban; Asianna Haughton; Devin Brookins. Second Place Nathan Chiraco; Corey Kidd; Nicole Mathews; Kaygen Hudson; Rylee Breese; Caitlyn Hildegran; Gabrielle Wood, Asia Terrell; Avion Levermore. First Place Rhaia Jackson, Faith Foster, Ashanah Gayden; Tiana Ervin, Nadia Foster; Imani Gunnison, Nicole Ofori, Laiana Humphries; Cole Nangle, Shivam Vohra; Josephine Slotnik; Tiara Mitchell, Cara Zheng, Branden Gignilliat; Nathan Crafts; Ava Bailey;
Specialty Awards Laura Anschutz Memorial Award – Grant Tomlinson AFCEA (Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association) Award – middle school, Shivam Vohra; high school, CJ Hardnett American Meteorological Society Award – Emmy Lombard, Jordan Holmes American Psychological Association Award – Molly Niemczyk ASU Walton Sustainability Solutions Initiatives Award – Rodina Cummings, Jada Guilford ASM Materials Education Foundation Award – Laurel Holmes Association for Women Geoscientists Award – Madeline Burkey Doubting Thomas Award – Mykela Bolar Intel Excellence in Computer Science Award – Erin Hardnett Intel STS Recommendation Award (top 11th grade projects) – Erin Hardnett; Irene Laws; Candace Hill, Sydney Driver; Jada Guilford; Dahlia Walters; Caroline Norwood; Kya Wideman, McKenna Commiskey; Raeed Ahmed; Jazz Duncan, Tay Mortimer; Claire Bumgardner; Sierra Driver, Miranda Murphey; Laurel Holmes; Jenna Farmer; John Lamon-
do; Kennedy Baker. Mu Alpha Theta Award – McKenna Commiskey, Kya Wideman NASA EARTH System Science Award – Rodina Cummings NOAA Taking the Pulse of the Planet Award – Rodina Cummings Ricoh Sustainable Development Award – Cameron Bennett Society for In Vitro Biology Award – Sydney Driver, Candace Hill Stockholm Junior Water Prize – Jada Guilford; Ralph Dizon, Amber Wright US Air Force Award – Sydney Driver, Candace Hill; CJ Hardnett; Caroline Turner US Metric Association SI Metric Award – Nicholas Johnson Office of Naval Research US Navy and Marine Corps Award – middle school, Grant Tomlinson, Nylah Ductan; high school, Mai Nguyen, Erin Hardnett, Michelle Nguyen Yale Science and Engineering Award – Erin Hardnett Jill Beach and Mary Mansell Awards (for teaching) – Caroline Snell, JoDi Osborn Broadcom MASTERS (top six middle school projects) – Cole Nangle; Shivam Vohra; Imani Gunnison; Laiana Humphries; Nicole Ofori; Nylah Ductan NCSSS Student Conference Award – CJ Hardnett, Matthew York; alternates Caroline Turner, Anna LaMontagne ISWEEP (International Sustainable World Engineering and Environmental Project) Olympiad participant (Houston, TX) – Cameron Bennett Intel ISEF (International Science and Engineering Fair) participant (Phoenix, AZ) (top three high school projects) – Isabella Castronova; Mai Nguyen; McKenna Commiskey, Kya Wideman Kardinal Award – Mai Nguyen 2015 International Sustainable World Project Olympiad – Bronze Medal, Ramar Allen; Bronze Medal, Carlan Ivey
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JANUARY 30,2016 • PAGE 9
School climate survey will be used to improve APS schools
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ll Atlanta Public Schools (APS) parents are encouraged to complete the 2015-2016 Georgia Parent Survey from the Georgia Department of Education, regarding the climate of their child’s school, by Friday, Feb. 26. Visit http://apps.gadoe. org/schoolclimate/parents.nsf/ Survey.xsp to complete the online survey. The survey results will be combined with data from the Georgia Student Health Survey II and the Georgia School Personnel Survey to determine each school’s Climate Star Rating. Individual data results from the Georgia Parent Survey will not be available to the public and will not be posted online. “Each school and school district that participates in the Survey receives a comprehensive report,” said Larry L. Wallace, State Accountability Manager, Research and Evaluation for the Atlanta Public Schools Data
and Information Group. “This allows school administrators and other staff members to compare outcomes and plan prevention and intervention strategies and programs.” School climate refers to the quality and character of school life as it relates to norms and values, interpersonal relations and social interactions and organizational processes and structures, according to the National School Climate Center. School climate sets the tone for the teaching and learning in schools and is predictive of students’ ability to learn and develop in healthy ways. The Georgia Parent Survey is modeled after the student survey and contains 24 questions. Parents may complete the survey t was a creepy, crawly, wonusing their personal computer, der-filled science lesson of a smartphone or tablet. Survey lifetime as Mr. Greg’s Represponses are anonymous and tile Roadshow visited fourth, third, will be submitted directly to the and second grade students at Peek’s Georgia Department of EducaChapel Elementary school on Jan. tion for analysis. 22. Students learned information
Reptiles visit Peek’s Chapel Elementary School
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about and had the opportunity to pet animals such as a Blue-Tongued Skink, a Corn Snake, a Milk Snake, a Pine Snake, an American Alligator, a Black-Throated Monitor, and an Albino Burmese Python (pictured with Mr. Greg).
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Business News
Small businesses invited to learn about transportation projects
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he Georgia Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Metro Atlanta District invites contractors and small business owners to attend the 2015 Transportation Funding Act and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise outreach session. Contractors and small business owners will learn about upcoming and current maintenance projects in Fulton,
DeKalb, Cobb, Clayton, Rockdale, and Douglas counties. The session will take place Wednesday, Feb. 3, 11 a.m., until 1 p.m., at the District 7 Office, 5025 New Peachtree Road Chamblee. “Contractors and small business owners who attend this session will learn more about our procurement process and the type of maintenance and construction projects planned
for District 7,” said Kathy Zahul, Metro District Engineer. “The District will need help from contractors to deliver much needed projects throughout Metro Atlanta. Motorists who travel in our District can expect major improvements to the interstates and state routes because of the available funds from the Transportation Funding Act of 2015.” Registration is avail-
able online: https://events. r20.constantcontact.com/ register/eventReg?llr=6forsuhab&oeidk=a07ec5gkxnhd75aef73&oseq= For more information, contractors and small business owners may contact Anthony Miles, GDOT DBE Supportive Services, at amiles#mhm-cpa. com or 404-631-1273 or Nykita Hurt, District 7 Office, at 770986-1787.
State Rep. Carter urges businesses to register for awards luncheon
S
tate Rep. Doreen Carter is encouraging businesses to participate in Georgia Small Business Week, Feb. 16-20, by registering for the upcoming ROCK STARS awards luncheon. The luncheon will be held on Monday, Feb. 16, at the Crown Plaza Midtown Atlanta hotel. The Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Georgia Economic Developers Association are hosting the event.
Registrations may be made by visiting the web site: www.geda.org. Small businesses (those with 100 employees or few-
er) also are encouraged to use social media to blog or talk about their business. Use #GASmallBiz. Georgia Small Business Week logos can be downloaded from the bottom of Georgia.org/smallbusinessweek and may be used in businesses’ promotional efforts. Georgia Department of Economic Development is featuring small business events from around the state on the website and GDEcD social feeds, so businesses
Hidden Hills to sponsor “curb appeal” contest
T
he Greater Hidden Hills Community Development Corporation is sponsoring a contest to encourage merchants in the Stone Mountain area to beautify their properties. The nonprofit organization also is offering a free curb appeal workshop on Feb. 4, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 5587 Redan Road, stone Mountain. Local merchants and the public are invited. Three panelists will discuss ways to improve curb appeal so that customers will notice and come into the business. The panelists are: • Jennifer Galloway, owner of Thirsty Mona Lisa on Main Street in Stone Mountain • Kerry Wright, owner of Calabar & Grill at Redan & Indian Creek • John Ernst, experienced business owner and consultant with the Georgia Small Business Development Corporation. The seminar will kick off the first annual Wow! Winning First Impressions contest. All businesses in the Greater Hidden Hills Community are invited to compete. The business that most improves and beautifies the front of its store will win a grand prize – a beautiful, tall planter filled with attractive perennials – and be recognized in a ceremony on March 17. Two businesses will receive honorable mention awards. The Greater Hidden Hills Community Development Corporation is a nonprofit committed to improving economic development and quality of life. www.GreaterHiddenHillsCDC.org
Notice of Abandoned Motor Vehicle Black 2003 Cadillac Escalade. VIN: 3GYFK66N33G301429. License No. and State: None To Whom It May Concern: The above automobile was abandoned at 1706 Little Brook Drive, Conyers in possession of Johnny Turner: 770-9189165. Attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful. The vehicle is deemed abandoned under O.C.G.A. & 40-11-2 and will be disposed of if not redeemed.
should remember to send events to Ryan Waldrep at rwaldrep@georgia.org. Immediately following the ROCK STARS awards luncheon, ann open house will be held at GDEcD offices, 75 Fifth St., NW, Suite 1200, Atlanta. For more information about the luncheon or registration, contact Karen Ewing at 404-962-4110 or KEwing@Georgia.org.
IRVIN J. JOHNSON Tax Commissioner DeKalb County, GA
ATTENTION ALL DEKALB COUNTY HOMEOWNERS The 2016 Property Tax Exemption Deadline is Fast Approaching! If you owned and resided in a home in DeKalb County on January 1st, you may apply for a Basic Homestead Exemption and Property Assessment Freeze with the County by April 1st of this year. The home must be your primary domicile and legal residence for all purposes, including the registration of your vehicles and the filing of your Federal and State income taxes. Applications received after April 1st will be processed for 2017. In addition to the basic homestead exemption available to all homeowners, there are special exemptions available for residents 62 and older, disabled veterans or their un-remarried spouses, and other disabled residents. Eligibility for special exemptions is based upon age or disability, and total household income. They must be applied for in person. When applying, please bring your State and Federal income tax forms, Social Security 1099, and any other forms of income you may receive, to one of our three offices across the County.
North Office
1358 Dresden Dr., NE Atlanta, GA 30319
Main Office
4380 Memorial Dr. Suite 100 Decatur, GA 30032
South Office
2801 Candler Rd. #66 South DeKalb Mall Decatur, GA 30034
Remember, the deadline for applying for all homesteads is April 1st! Apply for the Basic Homestead Exemption, the Property Assessment Freeze, or renew your tag registration online at: www.dekalbcountyga.gov/taxcommissioner Questions? Call (404) 298-4000 or email us proptax@dekalbcountyga.gov
4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 100, Decatur, Georgia 30032 (404-298-4000)
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