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SERVING DEKALB, FULTON, GWINNETT, HENRY AND ROCKDALE COUNTIES
VOLUME 20 NUMBER 44
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber honors community heroes
Celebrating Black History Month
New luxury subdivision grand opening in South Rockdale
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DeKalb Sheriff ’s Office snares 200 in multi-agency ‘Operation Safe’ The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrests of some of the most dangerous offenders in the community, the result of a seven-day operation that included 20 law enforcement agencies in the county. Sheriff Jeffrey Mann said six people wanted for murder were among nearly 200 arrested after state, local and federal officials joined forces in “Operation Safe.” Mann called the initiative a “massive, highly successful countywide effort.” “In an average month, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office receives more
DeKalb Sheriff Jeffrey Mann is flanked by several law enforcement officials during the Jan. 29 press conference to discuss the multi-agency sweep in DeKalb.
than a thousand criminal arrest warrants from the courts,” said Mann. “The process of endeavoring warrants is continuous. We have an entire division whose job it is to find and arrest accused offenders. Our team of investigators works around the clock, seven days a week every day of the year seeking out and bringing in people that the courts say need
Atlanta Municipal Court offers amnesty for outstanding misdemeanor warrants The City of Atlanta Municipal Court is offering a warrant amnesty program for a limited time. The one-time program, which will run Feb. 2 through March 27, will offer individuals who face arrest and other penalties due to delinquent traffic, city ordinance or misdemeanor violations the opportunity to clear past violations without additional court penalties. Under the program, contempt fees for a past failure to appear will be waived and the outstanding warrant will be cancelled. “We are pleased to extend an
opportunity for individuals who previously failed to appear at a scheduled court appearance to come forward and resolve their case while saving money and avoiding arrest in the process,” said Chief Judge Herman Sloan. In order to qualify for the warrant amnesty program, individuals must have an unadjudicated citation filed at court before Nov. 18, 2014 and have failed to appear for that citation. Individuals who wish to clear penalties and warrants under the amnesty program are
encouraged to take the following steps: • Visit the court’s website at http://court. atlantaga.gov or contact the Warrant Department at 404658-6959 to confirm an outstanding warrant is active. • Complete the warrant amnesty registration form online, submit the form by mail, or register in person at the court • A court representative will contact registrants to provide instructions on next steps once the registration form has been processed. Depending on the violation, an in-person court appearance may be required
to be detained so they can answer to the charges that have been lodged against them.” Mann said the initiative lodged 3,600 hours involving over 300 law enforcement personnel. He said the Sheriff’s Office targeted 3,500 outstanding warrants with “good intelligence” about the whereabouts of the suspects. Mann said Operation Safe netted 74 felony and 64 misdemeanors arrests, along with other arrests. Brookhaven Police Chief Gary See Operation Safe, page 5
to resolve the case. • Pay the outstanding amount in full online, or by mail. Individuals may also appear in person, though court staff will advise if an in-person court appearance is required. •Once the final adjudication is entered, the court will provide written documentation the warrant has been cancelled, a court release (DDS 912) form, and a certified copy of case disposition, upon request. When the amnesty period ends, remaining outstanding warrants will be rigorously enforced. For more information, visit the court’s website at http://court.atlantaga.gov or contact the Municipal Court Warrant Department at 404-658-6959.
New Central DeKalb Senior Center welcomes baby boomers
Seniors will have a view of nearby Mason Mill Park from the large windows in the center’s dining room.
By Joshua Smith
DeKalb County’s baby boomers have a new place to recreate, fellowship and learn. The county is celebrating the grand opening of its Central DeKalb Senior Center, 1346 McConnell Drive, Decatur, on Feb. 2, 11 a.m. – noon. The 15,000-square-foot facility was constructed at a cost of $5.16 million and includes an 80-seat dining room, café, and rooms for classes and other activities. Located near Mason Mill Park, the two-story center offers views of the children’s playground and tennis courts. “This new center is part of an ongoing push to provide more services for a rapidly growing population of
The center’s dining room will serve as a community room for all ages to host events and hold meetings.
A serious Bridge game is under way as seniors try out the new center before the grand opening.
older adults. In fact, the Toco Hills neighborhood in this community is considered a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) by the government,” said Victoria Kingsland, manager of the new center. “Governments and non-profits across the state and country are recognizing the value of providing resources for older adults continuing to live in their own homes and neighborhoods.” A NORC is defined as communities where there are large populations of people ages 60 and older. The new center is equipped with some of the latest technology, including flat screen televisions and projectors, and Wi-Fi. The center will utilize the “My Senior Center” computer-based program to track attendance and activities and classes seniors sign up for and it will remind seniors of
those activities when they sign in for the day. Some classes the center plans to offer members include line dancing, ballroom dancing, card games, yoga, movie and book clubs, tai chi and art classes such as pottery, watercolor and acrylic painting. The center also plans to offer technology classes, language classes, travel groups and activities such as quilting and card games such as bridge. The Central DeKalb senior center is the newest senior facility in the county, since the opening of the 40,000-square-foot, $10 million Lou Walker Senior Center in South DeKalb. The center, which opened in 2005, See Baby Boomers, page 5
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Community News
EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com ABOUT US On Common Ground News is
published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.
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Pressure mounts to fill DeKalb’s BOC District 5 seat Board remains deadlocked By Valerie J. Morgan
The pressure to fill the DeKalb County Board of Commission District 5 seat continues to grow, along with disagreement over how the position should be filled. This week, State Rep. Earnest “Coach” Williams, D-87, said he asked Lee May to relinquish the seat immediately and allow an election to State Rep. Earnest “Coach” Williams be held to fill the position. “We can’t continue going this way,” Williams said. “This has gone on too long.” May, who was elected as the District 5 commissioner, has been serving as DeKalb’s interim CEO for the last 18 months. Gov. Nathan Deal appointed May, who was the presiding officer of the board at the time, to temporarily replace Burrell Ellis, who was suspended amidst corruption allegations. Ellis’ trial ended with a hung jury in October 2014, but now he is scheduled for a new trial in June. Williams said he doesn’t think May should hold on to the seat until a verdict is reached in the Ellis case.
“By holding onto this seat while serving as Interim CEO, you have effectively disenfranchised 144,000 DeKalb County citizens leaving them voiceless and without representation. This situation is unacceptable and can be remedied by your resignation of this seat,” Williams wrote in a letter to May dated Jan. 20. Sen. Ron Ramsey, however, disagrees. A few weeks ago, Ramsey filed a bill to expedite having the governor temporarily appoint someone to the District 5 seat. “The governor asked him (May) to temporarily serve as Interim CEO. That’s what he’s doing. He shouldn’t have to give up the seat he was elected for to take on an assignment the governor asked him to do temporarily,” Ramsey said. Meanwhile, the Board of Commissioners (BOC) remains divided over how the District 5 seat should be filled. While three of the board members want an election, the other three want to confirm the appointment of George Turner, a longtime South DeKalb activist who was selected last year through an applications process that included May’s review and nomination. Some on the board have said they don’t believe the state law for the applications process was designed to allow May to ultimately choose his successor. This week, the BOC deadlocked again on Turner’s appointment. Four votes are needed to confirm the appointment and the board did not have a consensus.
Rockdale welcomes new luxury subdivision Rockdale County Chairman Richard Oden helped celebrate the grand opening of a new luxury subdivision, Grand Cayman Estates, on Jan. 27.
“We’re excited to have this beautiful community here in Rockdale,” said Oden. Andy Morgan of Ankory Construction is the exclusive builder for the gated community,
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DeKalb Interim CEO May to hold series of Town Hall meetings DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May is hosting a series of town hall meetings throughout the county. Titled “A Look Ahead,” the meetings are an opportunity for May to discuss the county budget, government operations, the proposed countywide once-aweek sanitation pickup initiative and other topics of community concern. May kicked off his tour with a meeting on Jan. 27 at the Mainstreet Community Clubhouse in Stone Mountain. The rest of the meetings will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. as follows: Thursday, Feb. 5 Dunwoody City Hall 41 Perimeter Center East Dunwoody, GA Tuesday, Feb. 10 University Heights United Methodist Church 1267 Balsam Drive Decatur, GA Wednesday, Feb. 11 Central DeKalb Senior Center 1340 McConnell Drive Decatur, GA Tuesday, Feb. 17 Brookhaven City Hall 4362 Peachtree Road Brookhaven, GA Thursday, Feb. 26 Lithonia City Hall 6920 Main Street Lithonia, GA
L-R: Cornell McBride, Sr., CEO of McBride Research Laboratories, Inc., Broker Carmen Johnson, Cornell McBride, Jr., president of McBride Research and Rockdale Chairman Richard Oden stand outside the model estate home at Grand Cayman Estates.
which is located in South Rockdale. Nestled between 150 acres of rolling hills and a glistening 5-acre lake, the community features custom estate homes that range from the $600s to over $1 million. The five-bedroom model home, which offers soaring ceilings and fine architectural detail, boasts a fireside master suite on the main floor, gourmet island kitchen, formal dining room, parlor/office and a two-story family room. The community has 24-hour surveillance and a guard during prime hours. It is located near Arabia Mountain walking trails. Broker Carmen Johnson, who specializes in luxury homes, said the community offers European elegance with a Mediterranean charm. “Out of all the subdivisions I have marketed over the last 25 years, this one has the most unique architecture. It has an international flair, and details you don’t typically see in Georgia. I know we are going to sell out quickly,” said Johnson. “I can’t wait for people to come in and start creating their dream oasis.” Johnson said Grand Cayman already has four contracts. The community is comprised of 21 home sites situated on 1 to 3 acres. Grand Cayman Estates is located at 2899 Union Church Road. 678-898-3404.
BOC tug-of-war continues over Rockdale Chairman’s SUV By Joshua Smith
Rockdale Board of Commissioners couldn’t reach a decision at its Jan. 27 meeting on whether to approve the purchase of a new SUV for County Chairman Richard Oden. The board deferred its decision, saying more research is needed. The next BOC meeting is Feb. 3 and the matter could come up again then. The decision to grant Oden’s requisition for a new SUV to replace the 10-year-old model he has been driving for five years was tabled by Commissioners Oz Nesbitt, Sr. of Post I and Commissioner Doreen Williams of Post II. Nesbitt had previously said he supported the requisition, but asked to defer the matter when the issue came up at the meeting. Williams, a new commissioner, had said she thought the vehicle cost too much and hadn’t budged from her position. “I want to make it clear. In the past as new chairmen are elected, one of the first things they did was buy themselves a new vehicle. Our current chairman has not done that. He’s been driving a car bought in 2005 for five years. My concern has nothing to do with purchasing a new vehicle for the chairman,” said Williams. “Perhaps, we just want to look at something that is not quite as expensive but still comfortable with good quality. The Ford Explorer seats up to four and the Ford Expedition seats up to eight.
Rockdale BOC: Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, Chairman Richard Oden and Commissioner Doreen Williams
On those times when there is a need to transport more than four people at a time, an expedition rents for $79 a day. This is an alternate solution to paying for the Expedition with that additional $13 to 14,000.” The 2015 Ford Expedition XLT, which Oden requested, costs $44,756. County staff members say it is comparable to the 2005 Eddie Bauer Expedition he has been driving. The older car, purchased for $34,000 during former County Chairman Roy Middlebrooks’ tenure, is valued at about $7,000, according to the Kelly Blue Book. The SUV has accumulated more than 120,000 miles. The new model comes with a 3.5 liter, V6 Ecoboost engine, has seating for about eight adults and gets an estimated 15 miles per gallon
in city and 20 miles per gallon on the highway. The vehicle purchase was approved as part of the 2015 capital budget, along with a Ford Explorer at $29,947 for the coroner’s office and a Ford F250 crew cab truck at $24,068 for the county’s Recreation and Maintenance Department. The BOC approved the vehicle for the coroner’s office and the Recreation Department. “It is true the vehicle I am driving is a 10-year-old vehicle, the Eddie Bauer Expedition, which was the top of the line at the time of its purchase. The XLT is what I requested. The top of the line is the Platinum EL, which would be basically equal to what I’m driving today,” said Oden.
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Coming Up
JANUARY 31, 2015
Chapter. Jack and Jill is an organization that strives to promote community awareness and to create mediums of contact for children that stimulate growth and development and provide children constructive educational, cultural, civic, health, recreational and social programs. State Representatives Dawkins-Haigler, Tonya Anderson (D-Lithonia); Pam Stephenson (D-Decatur); Rahn Mayo (D-Decatur); Howard Mosby (D-Atlanta); Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson; DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May and Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton, along with representatives from Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Stone Mountain-Lithonia Chapter are expected to attend the Feb. 3 meeting. Joining Dawkins-Haigler at the Feb. 10 meeting will be State Reps. Anderson, Stephenson, Pam Dickerson (D-Conyers); State Sen. Ron Ramsey (D-Decatur); Conyers Mayor Randy Mills and Rockdale County Commissioner Doreen Williams.
AKAs “go red” for heart health The Chi Tau Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will host “Go Red for Women” on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2 p.m., at The Mall at Stonecrest, 2929 Turner Hill Road, Lithonia. The purpose of the event is to increase awareness about heart disease in women. “Go Red for Women” also features a fashion show where youth and adult models will wear red in support of the fight against heart disease in women. Informational literature pertaining to heart disease also will be distributed at the event. The event is free and open to the public. For more information and heart health, visit www.goredforwomen.org.
CORE presents on love at Callanwolde CORE continues its 29th annual Atlanta performance season with the world premiere of on love, a new dance work created especially for the historic Callanwolde Fine Arts Center by CORE’s founding Artistic Director, Sue Schroeder. The performances will take place on Friday, Feb. 13, and Saturday, Feb. 14, 8 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 15, 3 p.m., at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center 980 Briarcliff Rd. N.E., Atlanta. on love is an intimate program of contemporary dance and music inspired by the writings of poets Jalaluddin Rumi and Rainer Maria Rilke framed by the grandeur of Callanwolde’s magnificent historical architecture. Georgia State University’s acclaimed new music ensemble-in-residence, Bent Frequency, will provide live accompaniment for the performances including an original composition created specifically for the piece by Stuart W. Gerber, Co-Founder. CORE Performance Company dancers Stefanie Boettle, Anna Bracewell, Kristin D’Addario, Joshua Rackliffe, Rose Shields, and Erik Thurmond serve as co-creators for this original work. “This piece continues CORE’s rich history of multidisciplinary collaboration,” states Schroeder. “It melds elements of dance, music, literature, and architecture to create a truly distinct and immersive experience for the audience.” For more information about on love and all CORE performances, visit www.COREdance.org. General admission is $15. Tickets for students, artists, and seniors are $10. VIP tickets, which include a post-performance reception, are also available for $35 each or $60 per pair for Friday’s and Saturday’s performances. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at https://coredance.secure.force.com/ ticket/#details_a0SA000000MFEmWMAX or with cash, check, or credit card at the door.
ATLANTA RecruitMilitary expo partners vets with employers RecruitMilitary will host a job expo especially for veterans and veteran-friendly employers on Thursday, Feb. 5, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., at the Georgia Dome, One Georgia Dome Drive, NW, Atlanta. The expo is open to veterans who already have civilian work experience, personnel who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, members of the National Guard and reserves, military spouses, and other military family members. Among the franchisors, educational institutions, and government agencies that have already reserved exhibitor booths at the expo are DAV; Schneider National, Inc.; First Command Financial Planning; JDog Junk Removal; TJX Companies, Inc.; Military Sealift Command; Colonial Life; Quest Diagnostics; Aviation Institute of Maintenance; Outback GutterVac; Farmers Insurance; Edward Jones; USAA; Argosy University; The Art Institutes; and the Georgia College of Construction. In addition, USAA’s local wealth management team is presenting a seminar prior to the career expo at 10 a.m. The seminar, “Practical Advice for All Stages of Retirement Planning,” is open to all veterans. This session is intended to provide information for veterans and spouses to use as they consider their future retirement. Personnel will also be on hand to answer veterans’ questions about benefits. For more information, call expo director Robert Walker at 513-290-8233 or visit www.recruitmilitary.com.
“Journey to Literacy” offers interactive activities for children The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System will host “Journey to Literacy” on Saturday, Feb. 14, 3 p.m., 395 Mt. Vernon Highway, Atlanta. The interactive reading session will encourage children ages 3 – 7 to have a love for reading. Children and their parents can also make hearts and other crafts to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Children will receive a free book for attending. For more information, email leah.germon@fultoncountyga.gov.
DEKALB
Youth Town Hall meetings set to give students a voice
State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler (D-Lithonia) will host a series of Youth Town Hall meetings on the following dates: Tuesday, Feb. 3, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Lou Walker Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia Tuesday, Feb. 10, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Rockdale Career Academy Auditorium, 1064 Culpepper Dr. S.W., Conyers The events will give young people in DeKalb County an opportunity to meet their elected officials, voice their concerns, and engage in the political process. Youths in grades 5 through 12 are encouraged to attend. The event is in partnership with Jack and Jill of America, Inc.- East Suburban Atlanta
GWINNETT Department of Water Resources offers “Rain Gardens” workshop The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources will host a free workshop, “Rain Gardens,” on Thursday, Feb. 12, 7 – 8:30 p.m. at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center Auditorium, 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville. Attendees will learn how to select plants for a rain garden and help protect waterways from nonpoint source pollution. Residents from unincorporated Gwinnett County, city of Lilburn, or city of Peachtree Corners can qualify for a maximum five percent credit toward their stormwater utility fee for attending. Robert Brannen of the County Extension office will lead the workshop. Preregister by emailing your name, address, and phone number to dwrswreg@gwinnettcounty.com or by calling 678-376-7193, ext. 5.
Gwinnett Police Department sets Citizens Academy The Gwinnett County Police Department Citizens Police Academy is accepting applications for its next session, which will begin on Tuesday, March 3. Residents will receive training on topics including animal welfare and enforcement, crime scene investigations, criminal investigations, firearms, SWAT, traffic enforcement, vehicle pullovers, and more. If you are interested in participating, visit www.gwinnettcpa.com to get an application. Applications must be received by Friday, Feb. 13. The Police Department says graduates from the program gain a wealth of knowledge to share with others in their communities. “Many graduates go on to volunteer in the department or become active in the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association, which also serves the department and the community in a variety of ways,” said Corporal Jason Ayers. “Notably, the alumni association assists with searches for missing or endangered persons.” For more information about the academy, call 678-226-7758 or email CitizenPoliceAcademy@gwinnettcounty.com.
ROCKDALE High school students invited to participate in video contest The Metropolitan North Georgia Water District is inviting Rockdale County students to participate in its 2015 high school video contest. Students are asked to create a 30-60 second water education public service announcement on the topic, “Here’s the Scoop on Pet Waste.” Entries can be a team or individual effort. Videos must be submitted with an entry form,found on www.mydropcounts.org. Submissions will be judged on the incorporation of “Here’s the Scoop on Pet Waste” message, composition, entertainment value, accuracy of information and creativity. Teams or individuals who place first will receive a $1,500 prize, second place will receive a $1,000 prize and third place will receive a $500 prize. Fifty percent of the prize money will go to the individual or group who submits the video and 50 percent will go to the high school the participants attend. Winners will be notified directly. All entry/release forms must be submitted by Friday, March 27. Visit www.northgeorgiawater.org for official guidelines, resources and entry form. For more information concerning the video contest, contact Kostoula Vallianos at 404-463-3259 or kvallianos@atlantaregional.com.
RCA sets 5K fundraiser The Rockdale Career Academy, 1064 Culpepper Drive, S.W., Conyers, will host the “Focused on the Future” 5K on Saturday, Feb. 7, 10:30 a.m. Awards will be presented in various categories including overall male/female, masters male/female and top three male and female runners in age groups 10 and under through 75 and over. All participants will receive a finisher’s ribbon. Long-sleeved T-shirts are guaranteed to all pre-registered runners and walkers, and are available to race day entrants while supplies last. Participants also will be provided with refreshments. Registration is $25. Families and teams can pre-register for a rate of $60, with a limit of four per group. Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. on the day of the race, and checks should be made payable to RCA Focused on the Future 5K. Proceeds will benefit the academy and community awareness programs. Forms for registration can be accessed at www.active.com. For more information, contact Allison Bentley at 770-388-5677,ext. 31166.
JANUARY 31, 2015 PAGE 5
Operation Safe continued from page 1
Six Murder Suspects Captured in Operation Safe.
Stress or Physical Pain?
L-R: Aishadia Armstrong, Derrick Hepson, Martavis Mathis, Michael Bargainer, Isaish Leegrand, Devon Brown
Yandura, who is president of the DeKalb Chiefs Association, applauded the collaborative work of the law enforcement agencies, adding the streets should be safer as a result of the initiative.
“Ninety percent of the crimes are caused by 10 percent of the people. Hopefully, this will eliminate a lot of the crimes we’re having out on the streets, said Yandura.
Baby Boomers
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serves about 2,000 seniors. Staff members at the Central DeKalb center say they expect to serve just as many seniors at their center. The demand for more senior services in the area is growing. According to the Atlanta Regional Commission’s 2014 report, “The Graying of Atlanta,” baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, now make up the fastest-growing population in a 20-county region in Georgia and the population is one that is expected “to grow dramatically over the next two decades.” DeKalb County Commissioner Jeff Rader says he is glad to see a new senior center in Central DeKalb. “The Central DeKalb community is one of the earliest areas to be developed into a residential area in the history of the county. Many families came to Central DeKalb and never left, setting up generation after generation to live, work and play in DeKalb,” said Rader, who represents District 2 where the center is located. “Everything from card games
to political advocacy will be a part of this thriving center for a thriving seniors community.” Rader said planning for the Central DeKalb Senior Center and two others that are being built– the North (Shallowford Road) and South DeKalb (Candler Road) senior centers—began in 2008. Carole Herron, 75, of Decatur said she is looking forward to Central DeKalb’s grand opening. “We already went on a tour of the center, but we are still looking forward to the grand opening. The staff here has been taking surveys about the types of classes we would like to see. I really appreciate them asking us first,” said Herron. “I want to interact with people my own age. There is a certain appreciation we have for each other. I like doing senior exercises with seniors, not people in there 20s and 30s.” The center is signing up members who are 62 and older. Membership is $60 a year. Some classes and activities require additional activities. For more information, call 770-492-5464.
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JANUARY 31, 2015
Celebrating Black History Month in Metro Atlanta
The DeKalb History Center’s 2014 honorees included media history makers (L-R): Karyn Greer, Jennifer Ffrench-Parker, Steen Miles, Valerie J. Morgan, and Joyce Godfrey, who stood in for her daughter, Rashsan Ali. Carolyn Glenn, co-publisher of The Champion, is on the far right.
DeKalb History Center to honor African American trailblazers in medicine
Otis Brawley M.D.
The DeKalb History Center, 101 East Court Square, Decatur, will host its Eighth Annual Black History Month celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. This year’s celebration recognizes African Americans who have made great contributions in the field of medicine. This year’s honorees include Otis W. Brawley, M.D., who serves as Chief Medical Officer for the American Cancer Society. Brawley is responsible for promoting the goals of cancer prevention, early detection, and quality treatment through cancer research and education. He champions efforts in decreasing smoking, improving diet, detecting cancer at the earliest stage, and providing the critical support cancer patients need. Two honorees will be recognized posthumously: Dr. Roderick Badger and Dr. Charles Drew. Badger, known as the first AfricanAmerican dentist in Atlanta, will be recognized for his accomplishments in Atlanta’s history and in black history. Born to white slave owner, Dr. Joshua Badger, and slave, Martha Badger, Roderick Badger was taught dentistry by his father at the age of 16. Drew was an American physician, surgeon, and medical researcher. He researched in the field of blood transfusions, developing improved
Sweet Auburn District set for Black History Month parade The City of Atlanta and the Sweet Auburn Avenue District will host a Black History Month Parade on Saturday, Feb. 28, 12 – 5 p.m., in downtown Atlanta on Auburn Avenue. The Black History Month Parade celebrates the culture, heritage, history and accomplishments of black and African American people in the U.S. and from other countries.
techniques for blood storage, and applied his expert knowledge to developing large-scale blood banks early in World War II. Described as the most prominent African-American in the field, Drew protested against the practice of racial segregation in the donation of blood, as it lacked scientific foundation, an action that cost him his job on many occasions. Carolyn Jernigan Glenn, co-publisher of The Champion newspaper, will serve as the emcee of the event. The event will be catered by “Zest Atlanta.” Tickets are $35. 404-373-1088. Gwinnett Library to host “Diamonds and Pearls” event The Gwinnett County Public Library’s Snellville branch, 2740 Lenora Church Road, Snellville, will welcome members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for the Seventh Annual “Diamonds and Pearls” event on Saturday, Feb. 14, 1 – 2 p.m. The annual black history program will honor the many contributions of African Americans, both past and present. At the community reading event, Kappas, AKAs and their selected guests, will share and read from their favorite books that reflect famous figures in black history. All ages are invited to attend the free event. 770-978-5154.
Rosa Parks celebrated in Gwinnett County
A host of participants are expected including hip-hop artist “Lil Zae,” the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Pi Gamma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; the Greenforest Christian Academy Marching Band of Decatur; the Red Hatters; and the Sandtown Infinity Marching Band of Baltimore, Maryland. For more information, call 678-601-3729 or 404-478-7820.
North DeKalb Mall sets black cultural expo North DeKalb Mall will welcome the “Sights and Sounds” Black Cultural Expo throughout the month of February, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m., on most days. The month-long exhibit is hosted by James Horton, who was injured on the Edmund Pettis Bridge in Selma, Alabama, during the 1965 Civil Rights protests. Horton has more than 8,000 artifacts on display in a space near the Macy’s section of the mall. The artifacts chronologically show the historical passage of black Americans from their roots to present-day America. “It is very important to me to show our youth where they came from. It has been my passion for more than 20 years. I get the chance to show our youth a world
they never knew existed,” said Horton. “The best way to make the information transfer to all generations is to show them actual artifacts and the great works of black inventors.” The exhibit includes authors and storytellers such as Dr. Gloria Ward Wright, a minister who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and protested legalized segregation, and Dr. Danny Allen, a cultural anthropologist and former U.S. Army Sergeant who has preached in places such as the state of Washington; Naples, Italy; and Burmberg, Germany. The exhibit is free to view. Tours are available as well. To set up group tours, call 454-1462 or visit www. sightsandsoundsmuseum.org.
Rosa Parks, civil rights activist 1913 - 2005
The Gwinnett County Public Library System will celebrate the life of Rosa Parks as a part of Black History Month activities on Friday, Feb. 6, 7 – 8:30 p.m., at its Suwanee branch, 361 Main St. Rosa Louise McCauley Parks has been named by the United States Congress as “the First Lady of Civil Rights” and “the Mother of the Freedom Movement.” Her birthday, Feb. 4, and the day she was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, for not giving up her seat on the bus to a white man, Dec. 1, 1955, have both become Rosa Parks Day, commemorated in California and Ohio. The library will host a panel discussion featuring bestselling author of the “The Rosa Parks League,” Jon Odell and civil rights activist and poet Margaret Block. Block was very influential in the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi, contributing to march and other nonviolent protests. For more information or to attend, visit http://www.gwinnettpl.org.
Famous photo of Rosa Parks on a Montgomery, AL city bus, circa 1955
JANUARY 31, 2015 PAGE 7
“Son of Rockdale” Willie Gibson honored for work in the community By Joshua Smith
The Rockdale Board of Commissioners thanked Willie Gibson for tirelessly serving the community, including 10 years as president of the Rockdale NAACP. Described as a “Son of Rockdale County” by Rockdale County Chairman Richard Oden, Gibson stood in the spotlight as the board proclaimed Jan. 27 “Willie Gibson Recognition Day” in the county. The Rockdale NAACP isn’t the only place where Gibson has served for years. Gibson has attended the same church, Summer Hill Baptist Church, for 50 years, serving as a deacon. He also has been a member of the male chorus and served as an usher. “I am very thankful to the citizens of Rockdale for being so kind and considerate. Rockdale is a wonderful place to live. I was just thinking this morning. Every year when I’m on vacation, we get so excited about taking a week or so off and going somewhere but after a few days, I’m excited to get back to Rockdale,” said Gibson, who was joined at the presentation by his wife, Minister Ethel Gibson. “We have a love here in this county you can’t find nowhere else and I love all the people of Rockdale.” Oden said some of Gibson’s works would be seen in the county for many years to come. “Willie Gibson is a great men, great singer of the gospel and I know he will continue to work in the community on a regular basis. Sometimes he even does community service in the morning
and then he’ll go to singing engagements right after,” said Oden. open arms and embraced me since I came here in 1999. They have their hands in so many different things, youth groups, churches, the NAACP, through Willie and the Gibson family’s works, you can see how big their heart is all over this county.” Post I Commissioner Oz Nesbitt agreed, stating that Gibson “showed him the ropes” when he first moved to Rockdale from Augusta. “Willie taught me when I first came to the county 15 years ago that if you want to be connected with the right people in the community, you have to have the right temperament to deal with all kinds of situations,” said Nesbitt. “If you live in Rockdale and don’t know him, Mr. Gibson is a man you need to know. We thank him for all the hard work he and his wife have done and will continue to do for our community and our children.” Post II Commissioner Doreen Williams said no one has a heart like Gibson. “Willie has the heart for this. He loves the people her serves. Yes, he’s started numerous programs in the county but I have to say that it is his sweet heart that endears people to Willie.” Gibson is credited with launching the annual NAACP, United Way and Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce MLK Breakfast event, as well as an NAACP Scholarship Banquet and a community black history program. Gibson has also won several accolades such as the Freedom Award from the Rockdale Heritage Foundation.
DeKalb Watershed Management receives FOG Award
The Georgia FOG Alliance recently recognized the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management’s Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) program as the “2014 Outstanding Program of the Year” for the second consecutive year in the “large” category. “This award underscores our commitment to community involvement and outreach,” said DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May. “Educated customers help us prolong the life of our sewer system, and we’re proud of the work DeKalb’s FOG program does to keep residents informed.” The FOG Alliance is a nonprofit organization that educates and promotes a cleaner environment by controlling fats, oils
and grease. It includes all the municipalities and cities of Georgia. Each year, the FOG Alliance analyzes and evaluates various aspects of local FOG initiatives to determine the winner of the “Outstanding Program of the Year” award. DeKalb County was evaluated based on a comprehensive questionnaire that included 130 questions on several FOG program components, such as administration, engineering for food service establishments, inspections for food service establishments, waste management, pollution prevention, tracking, enforcement, laboratory and sampling; Capacity, Management, Operation, and Maintenance (CMOM); education and safety.
Commissioner Larry Johnson lauded by Korean American community
“Son of Rockdale”, Willie Gibson
Applications for youth leadership program underway
DeKalb County’s Office of Youth Services is accepting applications for the Young Women’s and Men’s Leadership Development Program. Both leadership development programs are free for youths ages 15 to 18 and will begin Thursday, March 5, 6:30 p.m. at the Lou Walker Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia. Participants will meet the second Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., until Dec. 2015 and will be provided free lunch. Youths who participate in the Young Women’s and Men’s Leadership
Development Program will have the opportunity to enhance their personal and professional development training skills. Participants will experience a variety of activities, including workshops, leadership development, college readiness and more. The applications deadline is Feb. 20. For more information, contact Kacey Venning at 404-687-7192 or Jashawn Williams at 404-687-7108.
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Commissioner Larry Johnson receives a special “thank you” from the Dekalb Korean American Association
The Korean American Association of Greater Atlanta came together recently to thank DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson for his tireless efforts in supporting DeKalb’s Korean American community. Uncha Yi Shreve, president of the Korean American Foundation of Atlanta, presented Johnson with an award commending his commitment to service. “This is an honor that I do not take lightly,” said Johnson. “I have found the Korean American community to be a great ally. I look forward to this lasting partnership.” Members of the Korean American Association of Greater Atlanta have worked diligently with Johnson to provide unique cultural programming, and present academic scholarships to deserving DeKalb high school students. Johnson and members of the Korean-American community also have partnered to facilitate several community service projects, in an effort to give back to DeKalb County residents in need.
PAGE 8
JANUARY 31, 2015
Letters to the Editor
Creation of City of Stonecrest benefits all We have a unique opportunity to mold our own future for years to come. We live in the southeast corridor of DeKalb County and can boast of good schools, affordable homes, several shopping districts, an abundance of worship choices, and By Jason Lary commercial and industrial growth potential. People want to live, work, play, and worship in their own communities. We have most of those keys to success, absent the work. Unfortunately, there are not enough new significant job opportunities - technical, commercial or industrial - seeking to move or develop in southeast DeKalb County. Simply put, our road to salvation is economic development. Good – We have one of the most beautiful areas in all of metropolitan Atlanta for sprawling homes, and luxury apartment and rental living. Our green space is unmatched with Arabia Mountain National Heritage area. This includes fantastic walking and bike trails and beautiful scenery. Better – Our commercial areas of Panola Road and Stonecrest Mall (including Evans Mill Road) districts boast of good restaurants, available grocery stores, banks, and convenient shopping. Our access to I-20 is quick and accessible. Best – The Lithonia Industrial Boulevard corridor (Evans Mill and Turner Hill Road access) and the Panola business and industrial areas have the most available and attractive business park offerings for light and heavy industry in this region. The areas are available for new or expanding manufacturing, custom built warehousing, and available space. Job, jobs, and more jobs. The problem – We are the best-kept secret in the region. We must “re-brand” our corridor and prove to potential corporations, large and small, that we are business friendly (industrial and commercial), our available workforce is smart and reliable, and an investment in the City of Stonecrest would yield the results they are desiring. This is difficult to achieve with DeKalb County
in the current political climate and without proper representation. The Stonecrest area (District 5) has been without a Commissioner for more than 18 months. And it has not been from a lack of trying on the part of Interim CEO Lee May and several other well-intended Commissioners. DeKalb County must shed the “skin of non-sense” cultivated by years of infighting and mistrust. It is unfair to the citizens and tax payers of our area to continue to allow this activity to further erode our community. It dramatically affects economic development and the reputation to draw business. If you were the CEO or president of a company looking to relocate, would you consider an area that had the reputation of “grudge holding” and political shenanigans? Would you tolerate politics that deprived one area from progress merely on personal or political strife? Is that a place you would “gamble” your company’s future and investment? Interim CEO Lee May is young, highly intelligent, personable and an experienced and skilled legislator. His senior staff members are responsive and extremely competent. In my opinion, he knows DeKalb County is going to change forever. DeKalb’s municipal, operational and business model will have to change with it. We submit that unincorporated territories will be the structure of the past and all areas will be municipalized. We view DeKalb County as an excellent partner for services that are crucial for survival (watershed management, courts, police, and fire), just to name a few. We feel as though the “boutique” structure of a new city would lend for more fluid reaction to the immediate desires of the people, such as code enforcement, parks and recreation, and planning and zoning. This is how you grow the business and economic foundation of a city. I recently attended the State of County address presented by Interim CEO Lee May. He presented a bold new vision of building a brand new municipal center complex located on Memorial Drive (Kensington Station), moving the County’s epicenter of all services away from downtown Decatur. May also spoke extensively on centering the County’s economic development around the CDC and Emory University. Great for Memorial Drive, Emory University, and the CDC. We should take the same approach and focus on building the Stonecrest corridor (industial
and commercial) as DeKalb County is doing with the aforementioned areas. It would be great to have multiple areas to thrive. You concentrate on yours, and I’ll concentrate on mine. Everyone wins. We must develop our own economic development department with dedicated professionals to attract new and relocating businesses (industrial and commercial). We want to build a governmental and convention center, and amphitheater in the heart of Stonecrest. We can drive our own cultural and business agenda by proving “quality lives here.” New city, new brand, new people in charge, and NO NEW TAXES. We would use the same tax base as we have today. Insted of paying an unincorporated tax line item on your bill, it would now be replaced with “City of Stonecrest.” Not both, just one or the other. We could focus on driving business to our area, not away from it. Additionally, this concentrated approach to our corridor would dramatically improve the condition of the Stonecrest Mall BEFORE it perishes. A new city would help the struggling neighboring City of Lithonia. Lithonia has great historic preservation but lacks the infrastructure and the reputation for significant business growth. However, a new neighboring City of Stonecrest (50,000) could help “pull along” Lithonia (1800) with a sheer influx of jobs and opportunities in the Lithonia Industrial area, including an intergovernmental agreement. The residual benefits would be profound. Now is the time to control our future. The City of Stonecrest is the answer. Jason Lary is an insurance and healthcare executive, and president and founder of Stonecrest City Alliance. Come and Experience
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RCSO, community must interact to build trust
With the start of 2015, I would like to thank all of the citizens for their continued support of all the hard work done by men and women By Rockdale Sheriff Eric Levett of the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office. The deputies of the RCSO continue to work hard in keeping the citizens of Rockdale County safe, and are credited for a second year in crime reduction at 20 % as compared to 2013. The year 2014 was a busy year for the Sheriff’s Office in which we accomplished many goals which I set and I look forward to continuing to build the RCSO into a 21st century law enforcement agency. In the year 2015, a main focus for the RCSO will be to continue to build, foster, and strengthen community relations. As Sheriff of Rockdale County, I am committed to a transparent, ethically operated law enforcement agency. Throughout 2015, the RCSO has planned numerous community events throughout the county to foster trust, transparency, and build a community-oriented policing relationship within our county. I will continue to hold town hall meetings, not only in person, but also through virtual town hall meetings to hear the needs and concerns of the citizens. In order for law enforcement to have the trust of the citizens, I believe that we must treat people fairly, ethically, and interact with the community on many different levels. The RCSO will continue to emphasize and build on community oriented policing throughout 2015. The RCSO plans to host many activities throughout the year for the citizens. The RCSO plans to hold block parties to bring neighbors together to partner and interact with our deputies. We also wish to increase the number of neighborhood watch programs in the county. The RCSO will be offering
two Citizens Sheriff’s Academy classes this year. These academies are a great opportunity for citizens to understand the aspects of law enforcement and what a deputy sheriff faces each day. Another popular class that we will continue to hold throughout the year is the gun safety class which allows the opportunity for firearm owners to be trained by qualified firearms instructors. I am extremely proud and excited to announce that on April 25, 2015, the RCSO will be holding our first annual open house at the Sheriff’s Office. The open house will allow everyone to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the RCSO and get a better understanding of the functions our deputies do every day. This is an event that will offer all of our citizens a great opportunity to come to the RCSO and tour the facilities, see demonstrations of RCSO equipment, see our K9s at work, tour the Jail and see a host of RCSO equipment in use to make and keep the county safe. Since before taking office, I truly believed that the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office needed a program for troubled youth. Later this year, I will be launching a program for troubled youth. This program will allow troubled youth to not only see the consequences of making bad decisions but receive mentoring from deputy sheriff’s to help get them on the right track. Again this year the RCSO will be conducting a community survey in order to gain community insight related to RCSO professionalism, crime related perceptions in Rockdale, community concerns, and desired law enforcement services. The survey will be open on February 1, 2015 and will close on March 1, 2015. Once the survey starts, it can be taken online or printed copies can be obtained from the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office located at 911 Chambers Drive. The online version of the survey will be available at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/RCSO2015. It can also be accessed from the RCSO website and the RCSO Facebook page.
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Business News
Atlanta launches initiatives to help small businesses, women entrepreneurs The city of Atlanta is launching two new initiatives to support entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses in Atanta. The City of Atlanta’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI) will provide resources to nurture the advancement of womenowned businesses. The incubator’s application process will open on Feb. Carol Tomé 9 and selected candidates will be announced in late March, officials say. “The launch of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative and the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses lending program in Atlanta represent our city’s commitment to helping entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses,” said Mayor Kasim Reed. “With the support of Goldman Sachs, we can empower entrepreneurs by providing them the tools and resources necessary to create well-paying jobs and strengthen our economy.” Goldman Sachs, through its 10,000 Small Businesses program, will provide loan capital to Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE), giving entrepreneurs in Atlanta more opportunity to growth capital and the chance to apply to a business education program offered nationally by Babson College. The WEI incubator, located in downtown Atlanta’s historic Flatiron Building, will offer educational workshops, mentorship, legal advice and assist with marketing efforts. In addition, Microsoft will provide development software, coaching and grants to WEI through its Microsoft Innovation Center (MIC), which also will be housed in the Flatiron Building. Through a competitive selection process, 15 women entrepreneurs will be selected to incubate their business at WEI. Over the course of 15 months, the entrepreneurs will
have access to practical business education, financial capital and business support services. In partnership with Invest Atlanta, the Reed administration secured funding and office space to maximize the success of WEI’s entry into Atlanta’s growing entrepreneurial community. “Serving as the chairperson for the advisory board of the City of Atlanta’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative offers a unique opportunity to have direct interaction and engagement with a driving force in Atlanta’s growing entrepreneurial community – women business owners,” said Carol Tomé, WEI Advisory Board Chairperson. “I am proud to lend my support to this exciting initiative and look forward to working with the City of Atlanta to further its commitment to championing the inclusion and success of women entrepreneurs.” Goldman Sachs will provide new loan funds for Atlanta small businesses as part of the firm’s 10,000 Small Businesses program. Goldman Sachs will provide ACE with $3 million, increasing ACE’s ability to provide loans between $50,000 to $250,000 to small businesses in Atlanta, including low- and moderate-income and minority- and women-owned businesses. Goldman Sachs selected ACE as a partner through a competitive bid process to select lenders that could expand the 10,000 Small Businesses program into underserved urban areas. ACE also received grant support to expand its technical assistance programming and to cover a loan reserve. “Getting capital into the hands of small business owners is critical in helping them grow their businesses and create jobs,” said David Fox, Goldman Sachs region head for Private Wealth Management in the Southeast and head of the Atlanta office. “We are pleased to work with ACE and Mayor Reed to give small business owners the funds that will contribute to the growth of their businesses and the broader Atlanta economy.”
Small business owners in Atlanta also are encouraged to apply for the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses national education program. This program is delivered in partnership with Babson College through a combination of online and in-person learning. Scholarships are provided to accepted small business owners to cover participation in the program, as well as reasonable travel expenses to participate in the in-person portions of the program. Applications are currently being accepted for the fall classes. To learn more, visit: www.10KSBapply.com. As a nonprofit community lender, ACE specializes in small-business loans coupled with business advisory services to support entrepreneurs and small businesses. Since 2000, ACE has loaned more than $28 million and helped create or retain more than 4,000 jobs. “The vote of confidence by the Mayor and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses allows ACE to provide additional capital and business advisory services to more Main Street businesses,” said Grace Fricks, president and CEO of ACE. “In 2014, 62% of ACE loans were to women and 43% were to minority business owners.” For more information on the Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative, visit www.weiatlanta.com or www.atlantaga.gov/wei. To apply for a loan, visit http:// www.aceloans.org/. Board Members Of The Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative
• Chair - Carol Tomé, Chief Financial Officer, The Home Depot • Kat Cole, President, Cinnabon
• Grace Fricks, President and CEO, Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE) • Claire “Yum” Arnold, CEO, Leapfrog Services
• Gerard Gibbons, President, U.S. Sales, United Parcel Service (UPS)
• Eloisa Klementich, Managing Director, Business Development, Invest Atlanta • Nzinga Shaw, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Atlanta Hawks and Phillips Arena
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber honors community heroes By Joshua Smith
The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce honored local heroes in the community and passed the gavel of leadership at its 31st Annual Meeting on Jan. 27. “Our board and entire staff sincerely thank the volunteers that make the Chamber work and the members of the community whose often unnoticed contributions of their time and talents make this county remarkable,” said Chamber CEO Fred Boscarino. “From our beginning more than 61 years ago, we have proudly served this community and look forward to working together for an even brighter future.” This year’s honorees included: The Gus Barksdale Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Pastor Al Sadler of the Church of New Beginnings. Sadler is a chaplain at the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office and president of the Citizens Progressive Club.
The Education Partner of the Year, DART Foundation. The foundation established in 1984, serves to advance and encourage youth education, primarily in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Community Spirit Award Winner, Gene Robinson and his Conyers Chick-Fil-A. The James Culpepper Volunteer of the Year Award winner, Marcie Howington, director of the Phoenix Pass transitional housing program for homeless women and children. “I’m so humbled by this. I never would have expected it. This is one of the few times I have been speechless behind a mic,” said Sadler. “I love this community. I grew up here. I plan to continue to serve this community until I am no longer physically able. When I die, I want a bridge placed on my tombstone. I have spent my entire life here building bridges and connecting all the people that make up Rockdale County.”
Pastor Al Sadler (center) receives the Gus Barksdale Lifetime Achievement Award from Conyers Mayor Randy Mills and T. Pat Cavanaugh.
Attendees filled Conyers’ Georgia International Horse Park’s carriage room while enjoying grilled sirloin steak, honey thyme chicken, mushroom cream pasta, sweet potato carrot mash and desserts. Keith “Mac Daddy” McGiboney was also there to dj and belt out some classics such as “Georgia on My Mind” and “Easy Like Sunday Morning.” The meeting concluded with the “passing of the gavel” to new Chamber chair Deborah Armstrong, the CEO of Rockdale Medical Center. “I am honored to serve as the chairman of the Chamber. As we enter 2015, I am challenging our current membership to focus some of your thinking on new ways to create activity and opportunity within our Chamber,” said Armstrong. “We must continue to strive to provide leadership and be the catalyst for prompting and maintaining a pro business environment.”
Incoming Chair Deborah Armstrong receives the gavel from outgoing Chair T. Pat Cavanaugh.
Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick to host hearing on ANGEL investor tax credits State Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick (D-Lithonia) will hold a hearing to discuss House Bill 109, legislation that would eliminate the accredited investor requirement for the Accelerating Neighborhood Growth via Equity and Lending (ANGEL) tax credit. The hearing is scheduled Wednesday, Feb. 4, 11 a.m., at the Coverdell Legislative Office Building, Room 514, 18 Capitol Square, Atlanta. At the hearing, Rep. Kendrick and Rodney
Sampson, founder of Opportunity Hub, will discuss House Bill 109. “The accredited investor requirement currently limits the amount of people who can invest and take advantage of the tax credit. This limitation narrows the access State Rep. Dar’shun to capital for businesses, and thus Kendrick reduces the ability for businesses
to create jobs and grow the Georgia economy,” said Kendrick. “My bill would eliminate the accredited investor requirement so that normal individuals like you and me can invest. More investment in high growth businesses means more jobs for Georgians and more economic development overall for our state.” For more information, contact Kierra McHenry at 404-656-0167.
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People
JANUARY 31, 2015
Movers & Shakers in the Community
Albert Edwards appointed to SBA Regulatory Fairness Board
Albert Edwards
Atlanta small business owner Albert G. Edwards has been appointed to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Region IV Regulatory Fairness Board by SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet. Edwards is founder and managing director of Corporate Environmental Risk Management, LLC (CERM) and serves as the 2015 chair-elect for the DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce board of directors. “Mr. Edwards brings 20 years of industry experience, strong leadership, and strategic advisory expertise, in addition to being a strong advocate for local small business owners,” Castro said. “The members of the Regulatory Fairness Board play a critical role in making sure the voice of small business is heard by regulators and help to support regulatory solutions that save small business time and money.” Regional Regulatory Fairness Boards in all 10 of SBA’s regions represent the voice of small business on regulatory fairness issues. Each board is comprised of five small business owners and serves as a resource and point of contact for small business owners who feel they have experienced excessive
Fulton Schools Superintendent named to Education Reform Commission Fulton County Schools’ Superintendent Robert Avossa has been appointed to a newlyformed committee to study education in Georgia and make recommendations for improvement. The Education Reform Commission, appointed by Gov. Nathan Deal, will study Georgia’s education system, including its funding formula, and make recommendations intended to improve the system. It also will focus on how Georgia can increase access to early learning programs, recruit and retain high-quality teachers, and expand school options. “This is an opportunity to both provide a voice for our stakeholders and learn from the collective experience of others,” said Superintendent Robert Avossa. “These issues are of critical importance to Fulton County Schools and this commission is well-timed given our recent efforts on teacher recruitment and Robert Avossa retention strategies as well as our exploration of more choice options for families.” The commission, comprised of 33 leaders from the education community, business sector and the Georgia General Assembly, will convene for its first meeting Feb. 5 and meet periodically throughout the year. The commission will comprehensively review the state’s education system and QBE funding formula in order to provide recommendations on possible executive, legislative and agency fixes, with recommendations sent to Governor Deal by Aug. 1. Avossa’s experience as the leader of a large charter district is often sought for study committees that seek to improve education and how organizations effectively operate. In July, he was asked to join the state’s Role of Federal Government in Education Study Committee and last year served on the Governor’s Severe Winter Weather Warning and Preparedness Task Force.
federal regulatory enforcement and compliance actions. SBA Region IV includes Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. Regional Regulatory Fairness Board members advise the National Ombudsman and Assistant Administrator for Regulatory Enforcement Fairness, Brian Castro. The National Ombudsman and board members host regulatory fairness hearings and outreach events nationwide where small business owners report concerns about burdensome federal regulations. As a Region IV Regulatory Fairness Board member, Edwards will serve as a local resource for small businesses and will work with small business trade groups and other entities to address regional concerns about federal regulatory enforcement and compliance issues. “We extend a warm welcome to Mr. Al Edwards to this honorable position. Furthermore, we look forward to working with Mr. Edwards to be assured that small businesses have an opportunity to express any regulatory concerns they may have,” says Cassius F. Butts, Regional Administrator, U.S. Small Business Administration.
MARTA welcomes four new board members
Roberta Abdul-Salaam
Jerry Griffin
Chris Tomlinson
Russell McMurry
MARTA is welcoming four new members to the mass transportation agency’s board of directors. The new members are: Roberta Abdul-Salaam, Jerry Griffin, Chris Tomlinson and Russell McMurry. Abdul-Salaam is a former state representative for District 74 in Riverdale. She helped to assist Friends of Clayton Transit, one of the organizations that coordinated the years-long campaign to ensure that Clayton County residents had access to quality public transportation. Griffin served for many years as executive director of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia. Abdul-Salaam and Griffin are voting members. Chris Tomlinson, executive director for the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority and the State Road and Tollway Authority, also joins the board, along with Russell McMurry, the newly appointed Commissioner for the Georgia Department of Transportation. Tomlinson and McMurry will be non-voting members. “My fellow board members and I are excited about adding these four members and adding their expansive knowledge to this endeavor, and we are thrilled to welcome Clayton County into the MARTA family as well,” said MARTA Board Chairman Robert L. Ashe III. The new members will serve at their first meeting on Feb. 5.
Friends of Conyers-Rockdale Library elect 2015 officers The Friends of the Conyers-Rockdale Nancy Guinn Public Library held its annual business meeting on Jan. 17 at the library, and elected officers for 2015.
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Advertisement for Thursday, February 2, 2015
Back row, L-R: Janet Wagman, Hospitality Chair; Peggi Lincoln, member at large; Juanita Canen, Treasurer; Linda Jarrett, vice president of programs; Gwen Ellington, co-vice president; Joy Maner, corresponding secretary Front row, L-R: Charlotte Gellert, recording secretary; Linda Kelly, member at large; Charlotte Bauer, co-vice president; Judy Anthony, Ways and Means; and Mary Ann Holder, president. (not pictured is Russell Worley, member at large)
Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR ITEM CLOSING DATE SOLICITATION NO. 15-500335 5 Yr. Parking Management Camp Road and March 6, 2015 Downtown Decatur Areas 15-500337 5 Yr. Architectural and Engineering Services March 6, 2015 14-100436 3 Yr. Contract for Reviewing Engineering Plans February 19, 2015 3003439 Annual Electrical Equipment Inspection and February 25, 2015 Repair Switchgear and Scan 3003414 Lifeguard Services and Pool Services at February 26, 2015 Browns Mill Family Aquatic Facility 14-100414 Contingency Revenue Discovery, Collection, February 22, 2015 and Audit Services Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030. For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise.
By: Scott M. Callan, CPSM, Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
JANUARY 31, 2015 PAGE 11
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• Church Meetings
• Seminars • Business Meetings • Wedding • Graduation Parties
Free Banquet Hall! Monday-Thursday only Community Events, Non-Profit, For Profit Events.
678-526-1910
A$20 -$125 per hourA
FOR SALE Melwood Cemetery and Mausoleums 5170 E.Ponce de Leon Ave., Stone Mountain. Year End Sale: Buy 1 plot, Get 2nd one half off. Buy 1 package, get the 2nd space free. $500 off single crypt. $1,000 off companion crypt. Package includes space, vault and marker. Offer expires 1/31/15. Code. Ad/CW 404-299-3966.
MINI MALL Booth Rental $50 1st Month
A $500 MOVES YOU IN A 678-755-5955 CALL TODAY!
NOW HIRING The Weave Stop in Decatur hiring braiders and stylists. Come prepared to do a demo. Call 404-284-8833.
BOGO AD
Specials Buy 2 Ads Get a 3rd FREE ~CALL~ On Common Ground News Advertising Department
678-526-1910
EXPIRES: 2-28-2015
40
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NEW LOCATION
THE
Sew ins
Weave STOP
4717 Covington Hwy Suite 103 • Decatur, GA 30035
404 - 284 - 8833
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JANUARY 31, 2015
MLB Transportation
Atlanta’s premiere Transportation service
Do you need Charter Bus Services from Atlanta? MLB Charter Tours has the solution for you!. Our 57 Passenger buses will get you to your destination on time and in style. The Charter Bus is equipped with the latest technology to make your trip as comfortable as possible. Want to watch a movie on your way to your destination? We have you covered. Our Charter Bus is less than a year old and comes with reclining seats, plenty of leg room, and a fashionable lavatory. MLB Charter tours is your trusted source in Atlanta motor coach transportation. “Striving to be your #1 Atlanta charter bus company.”
Contact Person: Sheila Willis at MLB Transportation
404-576-2360
“Striving to be your #1 Atlanta charter bus company.”