VOLUME 21 NUMBER 47
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MARCH 5, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Efforts to rename Pine Lake Post Office for fallen officer moves forward
to President Obama’s desk for his signature. The measure – H.R. 3274 – is supported by the entire Georgia House of Representatives congressional delegation. The Pine Lake Post Office is located located at the intersection of Rockbridge Road and Spring Drive. Last year marked the 10th anOfficer- Francis Manuel Ortega niversary of Officer Ortega’s death. City officials have been working with ongressman Hank Johnson Congressman Johnson to find a way says the bipartisan resoto honor Ortega. lution to rename the Pine Ortega, 25, was shot and killed in Lake Post Office in DeKalb Counfront of the Post Office while conty in honor of fallen police officer ducting a routine traffic stop on Aug. Francis Manuel Ortega has passed the 11, 2005. The gunman shot Ortega U.S. House of Representatives. and then ran inside the building and The resolution now goes to the killed himself in a shootout with poSenate for approval before heading lice, according to news reports.
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Ortega was a part-time officer of the Pine Lake Police Department and a full-time officer at Georgia Regional Hospital. Ortega was survived by his parents, Francisco and Luz Ortega, his sister, Joann, and his children, Frankey and Kaylie. “Officer Ortega made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life for the protection of his community,” said Johnson, who was a DeKalb County commissioner in 2005 when the incident occurred. “Officer Ortega’s commitment to justice and willingness to face danger when others turned away, his desire to stand up for what was right – not what was easy, and his compassion for those in need should be applauded, commended and recognized in perpetuity.”
Clinton, Trump emerge as front runners but some Republicans like Rubio, too
By Valerie J. Morgan
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emocrat former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Republican businessman Donald Trump claimed victories in their parties’ primaries on Super Tuesday, with each winning seven states including Georgia. Clinton swept DeKalb and neighboring Rockdale counties, according to initial results from the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office. She received a total of 82,348 votes (71.49 percent) in DeKalb, while garnering 7,930 votes (78 percent) in Rockdale. Bernie Sanders came in second in DeKalb’s Democratic contest with 32,572 votes (28.28 percent) and he
earned 2,212 votes (21.76 percent) in Rockdale. Although Rockdale’s Republicans chose Trump, who captured 3,785 votes (41 percent), DeKalb’s Republicans supported Marco Rubio, who earned 8,231 votes (41.17 percent). DeKalb’s Democratic voting total was 115,184. Republican voters totaled 44,280, the Secretary of State’s Office elections results show. In Rockdale, the voting totals for the two parties were close. Results show 10,165 Democrats voted in the election, while 9,221 Republicans participated. Statewide, 1, 292, 715 Republicans cast ballots in the Presidential Preference Primary, while 761,148
Hillary Clinton
Democrats participated. As frontrunners, Clinton and Trump appear headed for a showdown in November, according to political analysts. To win their parties’ nominations, candidates must have a certain number of delegates who will vote at the national conventions this summer.
Donald Trump
Democratic candidates must have at least 2,383 delegates to win the nomination. Republican candidates must have 1,237 delegates to be the nominee. Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose See Super Tuesday, page 6
Former DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis is released from prison
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Burrell Ellis
ormer DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis has been released from state prison. Ellis was granted an early release on March 1, after serving eight months of an 18-month sentence at Long State Prison located in Ludowici, GA, near Savannah. DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson sentenced Ellis last July after a jury of six men and six women found him guilty of perjury and one count of attempted theft by extortion. Ellis was cleared of five other counts including extortion and bribery. Ellis was tried twice, his first trial ending in a mistrial when jurors could not reach a decision on any of the charges. Prosecutors said Ellis tried to pressure county vendors into contributing to his 2012 re-election campaign and blocked those who didn’t contribute from getting county contracts. Prosecutors also said Ellis lied to a special purpose grand jury when he was asked about his role in county contracting, resulting into the perjury charge. Ellis maintained his innocence throughout both trials, saying he made phone calls to vendors but threatened no one. Ellis, whose sentence included probation, 300 hours of community service and a $1,000 fine, is appealing his conviction, his attorney Anthony Lake told On Common Ground News on March 3. Although Ellis, an attorney, did not lose his license, his license was suspended until his appeal is completed, sources close to the case said.
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Rockdale Chairman Richard Oden to deliver State of the County address
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ockdale County Chairman Richard Oden will share a review of the county’s 2015 accomplishments and his vision for 2016 during his State of the County address. Oden will speak during the breakfast hosted by the Council for Quality Growth and Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, March 17, at Springfield Baptist Church, 1877 Iris Drive, Conyers. Registration
Richard Oden
begins at 7:30 a.m. and the program will begin at 8 a.m. Oden will cover
several topics including new economic development tools, the impact of increased income and grants some county departments have earned, ways the county is going green and his new performance management initiative. The 2015 Charles P. Cole-Lewis Belcher, Jr. Citizen Involvement Award will be presented. Oden will honor someone he has selected because of their outstanding dedication and energy to the
Rockdale community. Additionally, Oden will recognize the 2015 Rockdale County Employee of the Year. Admission to the breakfast is $25 per person or $250 for a table of 10. To register or for more information, including sponsorship, visit www. councilforqualitygrowth. org or contact Amanda Janaskie at aj@councilforqualitygrowth.org or 770-813-3381.
Conyers offers annual Citizens Police Academy
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onyers Police Department (CPD) is offering another session of its Citizens Police Academy for local clergy and citizens this spring. The Citizens Police Academy is a 12-week course held every Tuesday beginning March 22, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Most sessions will take place in the Conyers Police Department training room at 1194 Scott Street. “The Citizens Police Academy is one of our most popular community outreach programs,” said Police Chief Gene Wilson. “This behind-the-scenes glimpse into law enforcement is a favorite with citizens because it is so hands-on and interactive.” Academy participants will learn about the various divisions of the CPD, solve a mock crime scene, obtain identity fraud and cybercrime
tips, and participate in various scenarios utilizing a judgmental shooting simulator. “The Citizens Police Academy was very informative. Every citizen should enroll in this class and should experience a shoot, no shoot scenario,” said the Rev. Al Sadler of the Church of New Beginnings. Rev. Sadler participated in the first ever Clergy Police Academy last year. Participants will also be educated on officers’ use of Tasers and have a chance to run laser devices on trafficked roadways. They will spend one evening with CPD’s Special Response Team as well. Those interested in participating in the Citizens Police Academy can go to the Conyers Police website to download an application. Applications are due by March 18. 2016. There is no charge to participate in
the academy. Participants must be over the age of 18. The class is limited to 20 participants. For an application, visit www.conyerspolice.com. For more information, contact Sergeant Peggy Franklin at 678-374-5603.
Two Bloods members convicted in DeKalb teen’s murder
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wo DeKalb County gang members were sentenced to life without parole Feb. 29 after a jury found them guilty of beating and killing a 19-yearold man as a form of gang discipline. The jury returned guilty verdicts for Ramon Nichols and Marques Nicholson, both high-ranking Bloods members, in connection to the 2012 murder of Derrick Jamal Linkhorn. The jury found the two gang members lured Linkhorn to an abandoned apartment at Southern Pine Apartments off Mountain Drive in DeKalb in March 2012. At the empty apartment, Nicholson, along with four others, kicked, punched and shot Linkhorn
in the head and neck as a form of gang discipline. The evidence showed Nichols ordered the discipline, but was not present at the empty apartment. The victim’s body was found a week later in the apartment. The jury found Nichols, 28, guilty of 14 counts, including murder, aggravated assault and violation of the state’s street gang terrorism and prevention act. Nicholson, 25, was found guilty of 13 counts, including murder and violating the gang statute. Following the trial, DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams sentenced Nichols to life without parole plus 100 years and Nicholson to life without parole plus 90
Ramon Nichols
Marques Nicholson
years. Four fellow Bloods members involved with Linkhorn’s murder are already serving prison sentences in connection to Linkhorn’s death. The following defendants previously entered guilty pleas: •Rahsin Narcisse was sentenced to 40 years with 20 years to serve in custody without parole. •Antarious Johnson
was sentenced to life with parole. •Malcolm Wilson was sentenced to 30 years with 25 years to serve in custody with parole. •Marcus Estes was sentenced to 25 years with 20 years to serve in custody with parole. The case was investigated and prosecuted by the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office Gang Unit.
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The Crystal Trio Comes to Stone Mountain
Coming Up
As part of DeKalb County Public Library diversity series enjoy The Crystal Trio on Mar. 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library, 952 Leon Street, Stone Mountain. The Crystal Trio is a unique Russian group that creates music using special glass instruments, including the glass harp, verrophone and glass pan flute. This harmonic glass ensemble is made up of three professional musicians - Igor Sklyarov, Vladimir Perminov and Vladimir Popras. For more information, call 770-413-2020
GWINNETT
Gwinnett Extension taking orders for plants
Arabia Nature Center offers Reading with Rangers program
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he Reading with Rangers Program will be held every Saturday from March 12 through December, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Davidson-Arabia Nature Center, 3787 Klondike Road, Lithonia. The program is free and open to children ages 5 to 8. The kids will learn about the various plants and animals that live in the nature preserve. Each month, participants will focus on a specific theme that will include: storytime, discussions and exploring the outdoors. For more information, contact LaShanda Davis 404-371-3643
You still have a little time to order your yard plants. The Gwinnett Extension is offering varieties of blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, figs, apples, goji berries, native azaleas, and other landscape plants as part of its annual sale. Orders will be taken through March 8. For more information, visit www.gwinnettextension.com. .
. Lawn care workshop helps homeowners treat for pests . The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources is hosting a workshop on lawn care with integrated pest management on March 10, 7 p.m., in the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center auditorium, 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville. Learn to identify plant problems and pesticide solutions for your lawn. The workshop is presented by Robert Brannen of the Gwinnett County Extension Service. If you live in unincorporated Gwinnett County, city of Lilburn, or city of Peachtree Corners, you may qualify for a maximum 5 percent credit on your storm water utility fee for participating. Space is limited, so register in advance by providing your name, address and phone number to dwrswreg@gwinnettcounty.com or call 678-376-7193.
Pickneyville recreation center to present coffee and movie
ATLANTA
College planning workshop set A college planning workshop will be held on March 7 and March 19, 6 p.m., at the Atlanta Fulton County Library, One Margret Mitchell Square, Atlanta. CoffeUSA presents this session to walk you through options to plan for the college years, ways you can pay for college and considerations when planning for college. Ideal event for adults and teens. For more information, call 404-730-1700.
Enjoy a leisure afternoon with friends, a movie and a hot beverage bar on Mar. 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Pickneyville Park and Recreation Center, 4560 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Norcross. The cost is $3 per person. Register online at www.gwinnettparks.com or by calling 678-277-0920.
ROCKDALE
Free job search class to be held at library
Searching for a new job? Let the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green Street, Conyers, help you with your career search on March Teen Tech Week will provide a variety of free classes 8, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Reference USA gives you access to thousands of Mar. 7-11, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m, the Atlanta Fulton County Library, 1 Margaret job listings all in one convenient database. The Reference USA Job Mitchell Square, Atlanta, will host a series of hands-on technology exercises de- Search Class will be held in the Computer Center classroom (lower level of the library). signed for teens. Topics will cover website design, coding, digital storytelling, For more information and to register, contact the Adult Services researching, social media and more. Department at 770-388-5040, ext. 118. This event is free and open to Schedule follows: the public. Space is limited. Register today. March 7 is Coding. . March 8 is website design March 9 is digital storytelling Curious Moon Puppets to perform at Rockdale Auditorium March 10 is social media March 11 is researching on the go Conyers Rockdale Council for the Arts will present Curious Moon PupThe classes are open to tweens and teens. Registration is required. Call 404pets performing “A Grand Expedition” as part of its Preschool Pops series. 730-1700. The performance takes place on March 8, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at the Rockdale Auditorium, 903 Main Street, Conyers. DEKALB Tickets are $4 for children and chaperones are free. Register by emailing jsavage@conyersarts.org or calling 770-922-3143.
DeKalb Medical Presentation on treatments for peanut allergies
Do you or someone you love have a peanut allergy? Attend a presentation on effective treatment options that exists on Mar. 10, 7 to 8 p.m. at DeKalb Medical Center, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur. The presentation will be held in the theatre, which is in the main hospital building on the ground floor. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), food allergies affect nearly 11 million people in the United States. Peanut allergy, however, is one of the most dangerous allergies. Join George Gottlieb, M.D., to learn about an effective new treatment that enables peanut allergy sufferers to reduce the risk of reaction to peanuts and peanut products. Please register for this complimentary program by calling 404-501-9355 to inform you of any scheduling changes.
Public Speaking workshop set Have a fear of public speaking? Join P&A Training Solutions at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green Street, Conyers, on Mar. 15, 2 to 4 p.m. to learn speech preparation, how to determine critical success factors, selecting a suitable topic, and writing a successful speech. The workshop will be held in the library’s meeting room on the lower level. Register at the Adult Services desk or for more information, call 770-3885040, ext. 118. —Coming Up is compiled by Empish Thomas—
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Rockdale Public Schools to host job fair March 12 Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) is recruiting and will host a job fair on Saturday, March 12, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., at Rockdale Career Academy, 1064 Culpepper Road, Conyers. The schools system is candidates for teaching positions and highly qualified paraprofessionals for the 2016-2017 school year. All 22 of Rockdale’s public schools will be represented and may provide on-site interviews. Bring several copies of your resume. To pre-register, go to https://form.jotform.com/60244433130946 or visit www.rockdale.k12.ga.us RCPS is made up of 11 elementary schools, four middle schools, three traditional high schools along with non-traditional schools and programs including the Rockdale Career Academy, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology, Rockdale Open Campus, and Rockdale Virtual Campus. In addition, RCPS offers specialty and choice programs focusing on STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), performing and visual arts, aerospace engineering, pre-medical science, business and leadership, radio and film entertainment, and much more. For more on the opportunities and community at RCPS, please visit www.rockdale.k12.ga.us .
How would a county manager change DeKalb? Several bills have been introduced in the General Assembly proposing a county manager for DeKalb County government. A group of DeKalb citizens is inviting the public to join them on March 8, 6:30 p.m. for “County Manager 101 - A Blueprints2 Panel Discussion” at the Maloof Auditorium in Decatur. The panel will explore the differences between DeKalb, Cobb and Gwinnett counties, which have a county manager and a county administrator. The panel is comprised of Zachery Williams, DeKalb Executive Assistant/COO; David Hankerson, Cobb County Manager and Glenn Stephens, Gwinnett County Administrator. All three are in charge of the day-to-day operations in their county governments. Blueprints2, a diverse group of DeKalb citizens who are studying forms of government in the region, is sponsoring the meeting.
Buckhead Church, North Point Ministries donate $75,000 to Atlanta’s Centers of Hope
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed announced that Buckhead Church and North Point Ministries, Inc., donated $75,000 to Atlanta’s Centers of Hope, which support kids and teens in the City of Atlanta. Managed by the Department of Parks and Recreation, the Centers of Hope serve more than 4,000 young people citywide each year through leadership development training, academic enrichment courses and mentorship opportunities. “Buckhead Church is an exemplary partner in our mission to ensure that young people have a fair shot at succeeding in life,” said Mayor Reed. “I want to express my gratitude for their ongoing support. Because of their commitment, Atlanta’s young people have a safe place to go after school, an opportunity to supplement their lessons, and a hotel meal to help them focus on learning, rather than on where their next meal will come from. Through the commitment of groups like the Buckhead Church, our kids and teens are able to reach their full potential.” To date, Buckhead Church and North Point Ministries, Inc., have contributed $350,000 to help fund programming under the Centers of Hope’s ‘five pillars,’ including academic enrichment, character leadership, health and fitness, technology and community engagement. Mayor Reed fulfilled his campaign commitment to reopen all 33 recreation centers in the City of Atlanta in 2010. Ten facilities were transformed into state-of-the-art, comprehensive learning centers with structured academic and recreational programs called “Centers of Hope.” Last year, the Centers of Hope provided more than 143,000 hot meals to their participants. “The programs we offer to kids and teens in Atlanta would not be possible without partnerships,” said Amy Phuong, Commissioner of the Department of Parks and Recreation. “With Mayor Reed’s leadership, we have accomplished a great deal, but we can do even more when we work together. We welcome partnerships with any organizations with a shared interest in helping to ensure that our next generation has the tools to excel.” “We love our city so much and feel deeply honored to partner with the Centers of Hope to help provide much-needed resources and safe havens for Atlanta’s youth. Our calling is to be consistently generous and prayerful for the welfare of our city. We thank the City of Atlanta for giving us the opportunity to partner together,” said Billy Phenix, pastor of Buckhead Church. Today, more than 90 percent of youths in the City of Atlanta live within 2.5 miles of a Center of Hope. The Department of Parks and Recreation has established numerous public-private partnerships and raised more than $5 million to fund Centers of Hope programs.
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South DeKalb Police Precinct to present community forum The South DeKalb Police Precinct, 2842 H.F. Shepherd Drive, Decatur, is hosting a Citizen Education Forum on Tuesday, March 8, 6:30 to 8 p.m. The forum will include a discussion on: • Navigating A Police Stop – Your rights and your obligations if you are stopped by the police. • Why do the police do that? – Your opportunity to get answers and a few laughs. • Community Policing – How the Major KD. Johnson Police Department can help you help your community. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 404286-7911.
Dawkins-Haigler to provide update on Stonecrest cityhood State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler will host a community meeting to provide a legislative update on the proposed city of Stonecrest. The meeting will be held Tuesday, March 8, 6:30 p.m., at ttonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. State Rep. Pam Stephenson has been invited to the meeting. Residents and other stakeholders are urged to attend.
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Elections 2016
Dawkins-Haigler announces bid for Senate District 43
Dee Dawkins-Haiglerler
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State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler has announced her candidacy for the State Senate District 43 seat, which covers parts of DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton counties. Former Rep. Tonya Anderson also has said she will run for the position. Both Democrats are seeking to unseat Republican JaNice Van Ness.
Calvin Sims withdraws from DeKalb CEO race
Calvin E. Sims announced today that he does not plan to run for DeKalb County CEO. Sims, a retired MARTA employee, said he is withdrawing his candidacy and throwing his support behind Michael Thurmond. Thurmond, who is former DeKalb County Schools superintendent, has received the support of several former and elected officials, as well as a group of prominent DeKalb pastors.
Calvin E. Sims
Donald Ferguson announces bid for Rockdale sheriff
onald Ferguson says he plans to qualify for the position of Rockdale County sheriff, vowing to make the county a safer place for residents and businesses. “I am concerned about the citizens, and am passionate about the quality of life and safety of all Rockdale County citizens and stakeholders,” Ferguson said in a statement announcing his candidacy. “Every day, you hear about businesses being burglarized, home invasions, deaths or shootings in the community, even negative interaction between citizens and law enforcement. There’s a disconnect. We need more visibility in our neighborhoods and community programs for our youth to keep them out of trouble.” This year will mark Ferguson’s third bid for sheriff. In 2012, he ran against Eric Levett, who is now the
incumbent, and in 2008, Rockdale. he ran against former Ferguson has 26 years sheriff Jeff Wigington. of law enforcement exFerguson said perience, having worked he plans to establish with the Fulton County community-oriented Sheriff’s Office. He is a patrols to aggressively candidate for a doctorate prevent home invasions, in education from Grand burglaries and robberies. Canyon University in orHe said establishing ganizational development Donald Ferguson youth substance abuse and leadership. He holds a programs, gang intervention programs, master’s degree in public administration combatting crime against seniors and from the Georgia Law Enforcement stopping sex trafficking in Rockdale are Command College at Columbus State among his top priorities. Ferguson said University (2008). Ferguson earned his enhancing Rockdale’s emergency preBachelor of Science degree in Criminal paredness plan also is one of his main Justice (1982) and Bachelor of Arts degoals. He said having a defined plan is gree (1981) from the University of West critical in ensuring safety for residents Georgia. Ferguson is a graduate of the in the event of a disaster. He prom93rd AOC Southern Police Institute at ised, if elected, to minimize language the University of Louisville, the Southbarriers with various ethnic groups in western Law Enforcement Institute
Super Tuesday continued from page 1
Porter congratulated Clinton on her win in Georgia and rebuked Trump, who has received growing criticism from Republican Congressional leaders about his style despite his victories at the polls. “First, I want to congratulate Secretary Clinton on her win in Georgia. Both she and Senator Sanders ran spirited campaigns and showcased the fact that our Party—the Democratic Party—has a substantive plan to build on the progress made over the last seven years under the Obama Administration. “I’d imagine that Georgia Republicans—up and down the ballot— would rather have a wasp in their mouth than have Donald Trump at the top of the ticket. But he is a monster of their own creation. His victory is perfectly illustrative of just how extreme and out of touch the Republican Party has become. Whether or not he clinches the nomination, Trump and the stranglehold he has held on the GOP pose very serious problems for their Party in November.”
(The Institute for Law Enforcement Administration), the 29th Georgia Law Enforcement Command College and is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Ferguson is a Georgia P.O.S.T certified master training instructor, served as the agency’s accreditation manager, and as an adjunct instructor in Criminal Justice at the West Georgia Technical College (Carrollton, Georgia). Ferguson has served as a member with the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #64, the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives; and the National and Georgia Sheriff’s Association. Ferguson is the father of three children, Donald DeAndre’, Kandace and Darius. He is also a member of Springfield Baptist Church in Conyers.
Atlanta NAACP, college students to register voters in five counties The Atlanta NAACP, which led college students in a successful voter registration campaign prior to elections in Ferguson, MO last spring, will register eligible voters in four Georgia counties in advance of this year’s elections. More than 60 students, mostly from the colleges and universities in the Atlanta University Center, will span out during their spring break, May 6-12, to register voters in 20 precincts in Fulton, DeKalb, Henry and Clayton counties. The effort includes coordination with NAACP chapters in DeKalb, Henry and Clayton counties. Atlanta NAACP President Richard Rose said the organizations are focusing on precincts with 1,000 or more unregistered African-Americans. “We continue to include young people in the development of their future, and voting is a big part of their future,” Rose said. “Our involvement in Ferguson helped the election of two African-American council members and changed the political dynamics in that city. That was truly an eye-opening experience for the students.” “Second, exercising the right to vote is particularly important in an election year. So much is at stake, the judiciary here and most notably on the Supreme Court, economic policies in Georgia and across the country and protecting people’s rights.” The students will go out daily from the Atlanta University Center in four vans and register voters simultaneously in each county. The registration effort kicks off with a training session on March 5, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Clark Atlanta Henderson Student Center, 223 James P. Brawley Drive SW at Fair Street in Atlanta.
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Class Notes
MARCH 5, 2016 • PAGE 7
Our Schools, Students & Partners
12 DeKalb high schools honored for AP achievements
welve of 22 high schools in the DeKalb County School District have been recognized for achievements in Advanced Placement (AP) exams by the Georgia Department of Education. A total of 272 schools were named an AP Honor School across the state in six categories based on results from the 2015 AP courses and exams. AP courses and exams are administered by the College Board, which oversees the SAT college entrance exam. “We are proud of this latest example of how the District is preparing students for their first year of college,” said Dr. R. Stephen Green, Superintendent of the DeKalb County School District. “On behalf of
the school district, I congratulate the students and teachers for their hard work and dedication.” Students who earn passing scores of 3, 4, or 5 are eligible for college credit and demonstrate greater preparedness for college-level work. The following schools in DeKalb County were recognized: • Challenge: Elizabeth Andrews High School. Challenge Schools have fewer than 900 students, who test in the four core areas. • Access and Support: DeKalb Early College Academy, DeKalb School of the Arts, Southwest DeKalb High School. Access and Support Schools have at least 30 percent of the AP exams taken by
Black or Hispanic students and 30 percent of students passed with a 3 or higher. • Merit: DeKalb School of the Arts, Dunwoody High School, Lakeside High School. Merit Schools have 20 percent of the students taking AP exams with 50 percent of those testing 3 or higher. • Humanities: Cross Keys High School, Chamblee Charter High School, Clarkston High School, Druid Hills High School, Lakeside High School, Lithonia High School. Humanities Schools have students test in at least one English Language Arts course (two social science, one fine arts, and one world language course). • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math): Arabia Moun-
tain High School, Chamblee Charter High School, Clarkston High School, Druid Hills High School, Lakeside High School, Southwest High School. STEM Schools have students testing in at least two math and science courses. • STEM Achievement: Chamblee Charter High School. STEM Achievement Schools have students with 40 percent of the STEM-related exam scores 3 or higher. “The DeKalb County School District is on the right track,” said School Board Chairman Dr. Melvin Johnson. “We have the right Board, the right leadership, and the right plan for preparing our students for college and careers.”
Heritage, Rockdale County high Greater Lithonia Chamber announces 2016 Scholarship Program schools receive AP honors
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eritage and Rockdale County high schools were named 2016 Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools by Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods, a distinction Rockdale County Public Schools high schools have achieved for more than six consecutive years. “I am proud of our teachers, students and administrators and recognize the hard work and dedication it takes to consistently reach this level of excellence,” said Superintendent Richard Autry. “For many years, they have achieved this level of recognition for their continued focus on rigorous Advanced Placement coursework. In addition to AP, many students choose Move On When Ready to obtain college credits while in high school. Opportunities for our students are boundless and clearly give our students an advantage whether choosing higher education, the military or the workforce after graduation.” Both Heritage and Rockdale were recognized in the AP Access and Support and the AP STEM categories. Rockdale County High School was also recognized in the AP STEM Achievement and AP Humanities categories. Advanced Placement classes and exams are administered by the College Board, which also administers the SAT. AP classes offer rigorous college-level learning opportunities to students in high school. Students who earn a 3, 4 or 5 on the AP exams may receive college credit. RCPS offers AP courses at every high school, including the Rockdale Career Academy and Virtual Campus. Examples of courses include: U.S. History, World History, Economics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Calculus, Statistics, American Literature, World Literature and Art. Definitions of each category provided by the Georgia Department of Education are: AP Access and Support Schools – Schools with at least 30 percent of their AP exams taken by students who identified themselves as African-American and/or Hispanic and 30 percent of all AP exams earning scores of 3 or higher. AP STEM Schools – Schools with students testing in at least two AP math courses and two AP science courses (AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics B, AP Physics C, AP Computer Science). AP STEM Achievement Schools – Schools with students testing in at least two AP math courses and two AP science courses and at least 40 percent of the exam scores on AP math and AP science exams earning scores of 3 or higher. AP Humanities Schools – Schools with students testing in at least one English Language Arts course, two social sciences courses, one fine arts course and one world language course.
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he Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce and On Common Ground News invite college-bound students in Lithonia to apply to the Chamber’s 2016 scholarship award program. Ten $500 scholarships will be awarded to seniors who attend one of four targeted schools: Miller Grove, Martin Luther King, Jr., Lithonia, and Arabia Mountain high schools. The deadline to apply for the scholarship program is March 29. Applicants will be evaluated on how compelling their essays or video presentations are, as well as compliance with the official rules of the scholarship. Winners will be notified by April 11 and receive their $500 college scholarship at the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce luncheon on April 20. The scholarship essay topics evoke thought and challenge participants to proactively respond to important social issues. The topics for 2016 deal with the impact of social media on child development, the environment, and journalism. Students may respond to either question with original ideas. The Chamber will look for essays or videos that demonstrate critical thought and highlight the students’ ability to analyze and find solutions to potential problems. Winning essays and videos will be made available to the public on the Greater Lithonia Chamber website after they are announced at the April luncheon. Scholarship details are available on the Greater Lithonia website, greaterlithoniachamber.com, and at each of the Lithonia high schools.
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PAGE 8 •MARCH 5, 2016
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Faith-Based News & Inspiration
One Heart Ministries celebrates first anniversary St. Paul AME set to host Parade
of Hats
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ne Heart Ministries will celebrate its one-year anniversary on March 6, at its 10:30 a.m. worship service, which will be held at 4515 Highway 78, Lilburn. . “We invite you to celebrate our first year in service to the Stone Mountain and Lilburn areas,” said Pastor Tracey Whaley, Sr. The church has Wednesday worship services at 7:15 p.m. and Wednesday morning prayer calls at 6 a.m.: 712-7757031 (PIN: 596-429-378). For more information, call 404-4834875 or visit www.oneheartministries14. org.
Pastor Tracey Whaley, Sr.
St. Paul AME sets Women’s Prayer Breakfast
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Dr. Shirley Browne
r. Shirley Browne, an author and minister, will be the guest speaker for the Women’s Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, March 12, 9 a.m., at St. Paul AME Church, 1704 Stone Mountain Lithonia Road, Lithonia. Tickets for the breakfast are $10 and may be purchased by contacting the church at 770-482-4361. The church is under the leadership of the Rev. Cheviene Jones.
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t. Paul AME Church, 1704 Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia, will host its Fourth Annual Parade of Hats and Luncheon on March 19, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come out for a fashion show featuring an array of beautiful hats just in time to usher in the Spring season. There will be entertainment by the fabulous Beulah Boys and vendors will be selling jewelry and other accessories as well as goods and services. Special invited guests include Mother Board representatives from various denominations,
City of Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson and the Rev. Dr. Earle H. Ifill, Presiding Elder East Atlanta District. The guest speaker for the luncheon will be Valerie J. Morgan, Editor of On Common Ground News. Tickets for the event are $15 per person and are available by contacting the event’s coordinator Joyce Reid at 770-482-1571 or St. Paul AME at 770-4824361. The deadline to purchase tickets is Feb. 27. St. Paul AME Church is under the leadership of the Rev. Cheviene Jones and the Rev. Berta Jones.
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People
MARCH 5,2016 • PAGE 9
Movers & Shakers in the Community
GSU’s Rialto Center presents Pioneer Award to Nancy Nolan
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ancy E. Nolan, chair of the Advisory Board of the Rialto Center for the Arts, is this year’s recipient of the Georgia State University’s Rialto Pioneer Award. The Rialto’s Pioneer Award is given to distinguished leaders who have contributed significantly to the vitality of the city’s arts and cultural communities. It was named to honor the “pioneering spirit” of the vision that led to the renovation of the Rialto by Georgia State University in the early 1990s. Nolan has long supported the
arts as patron, Atlanta Chamber of board member and Commerce and the donor. During her Georgia Institute of 30-year career as Technology (where an Urban Planner, she received her she has worked Masters Degree in on revitalization Urban Planning). projects in downPrevious Rialtown Atlanta and to Pioneer Award been responsible winners include Nancy Nolan for significant ecoDr. Mark Becker nomic development and Laura Voisinet, projects to Atlanta, most notably President and First Lady of GSU; the relocation of the headquarters Joanne McGhee, founder of Dancof UPS and CARE. She has held ers Collective and former GSU leadership positions at the Metro adjunct professor of dance; GSU
alumnae Peg and Bill Balzer, noted arts supporters whose name is on the Balzer Theater next door; Carl and Gretchen Patton, past President of GSU and his wife, who have been tireless supporters of the Rialto ; Jo Ann Haden-Miller, Director of Cultural and Heritage Tourism, Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau; Kathy and Ken Bernhardt, who have served tirelessly on boards and advising arts organizations around town; and the Atlanta City Council member Kwanza Hall, a longtime advocate for the arts and culture.
Dr. Johnny Jones takes helm of GPTC’s Newton campus
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Dr. Johnny Jones
eorgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) welcomed Dr. Johnny Jones as the new Dean for its Newton campus. “We are pleased to have Dr. Jones serving in the role of Dean of the Newton campus. Most important, he comes to us with a wealth of experience that will serve him well in this position,” said GPTC President Jabari Simama. “As a practitioner in higher
education, community engagement and development, he will be a great asset as he works to serve the communities of Rockdale, Newton and Morgan counties.” Jones will be responsible for strategic operational processes for the Student Affairs and Academic Affairs areas of the Newton campus. He will oversee the annual budget process and support the college’s strategic plan, and develop innovative programs and policies. He will report to Dr. Ivan Harrell, executive vice president of Academic and Student Affairs, GPTC. “As the college strives to bring new energy and direction to the Newton campus, we are excited to bring on a seasoned administrator to lead this charge,” Harrell said. “Georgia Piedmont’s service to Newton, Morgan and Rockdale counties is an important part of the college’s overall mission. We are working to ensure the campus is serving the
DeKalb Police officer Jonathan Lewis to be honored for heroism
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eKalb County Police Officer Jonathan Lamar Lewis will be honored by Rep. Hank Johnson on March 9, 4 p.m., at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 panola Road, Lithonia. Johnson will present the Congressional Badge of Bravery to Lewis for his acts of heroism in the line of duty on Dec. 12, 2014. DeKalb County Public Safety Director Dr. Cedric Alexander; U.S. District Attorney for Northern District of Georgia John A. Horn; fellow Police Officers; members of the Lewis family; members of the community have been invited. On Dec. 12, 2014, Lewis
and four other officers stopped a home invasion and armed robbery in progress at a DeKalb County apartment complex. The officers confronted two armed suspects. Two of the five officers were struck by gunfire during the incident but survived. Officer Lewis not only confronted the armed suspects with force, but rendered aid to his fallen colleagues as well. One suspect was arrested at the scene and the second was arrested after a fourhour manhunt. The other officers involved in this heroic act are also being honored by their respective congressmen.
evolving needs of the citizens and stakeholders in those counties.” Prior to joining Georgia Piedmont Technical College, Jones served as president of Little Priest Tribal College in Nebraska. He also held leadership positions with Mississippi Valley State University; Arkansas Baptist College; University of Arkansas; and Washington State University. Jones also is a tenured associate professor, lecturer and member of the faculty for institutions at which he was previously employed. “As the new Campus Dean, I am honored to serve students, community members, and faculty and staff who represent Georgia Piedmont Technical College,” Jones said. Jones said he plans to make increasing student enrollment, and building key relationships with local, state and regional stakeholders priorities, as well as securing new funding for the col-
lege and revitalizing the campus. Jones is a published author, having written or co-written numerous scholarly and refereed articles. Jones also has co-authored several books and book chapters. Over the years, he has served as a presenter at many higher education conferences and seminars. Jones has been involved in a broad variety of civic and professional organizations, including the American Indian Higher Education Consortium; the American Education Research Association; and the Washington Alliance of Black School Educators, among others. Jones completed his doctor of philosophy degree at Jackson State University. He holds a second doctorate in education leadership from Berne University. He earned his master’s degree at Springfield College and completed his bachelor’s degree at Mississippi Valley State University.
PAGE 10•MARCH 5,2016
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City of Lithonia police chief under investigation for using excessive force on teen
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he City of Lithonia Police Chief Roosevelt Smith is under investigation for allegedly using excessive force on a 17-yearold teen arrested for a home burglary. City Manager Eddie Moody is looking into the complaint, which also was submitted to the DeKalb District Attorney’s Office. Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson said the city’s internal investigation was launched after City Council members received the complaint. Attorney Frank Smith, who is not related to Chief Smith and is representing the teen, Isaiah Harvey, said Chief Smith choked Harvey during his arrest on Feb. 5. Harvey ran from police when they arrived at the burglarized home and escaped into nearby woods, Attorney
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Chief Roosevelt Smith
Smith told On Common Ground News. Police set up a perimeter and found him and arrested him. After Harvey was handcuffed and placed in the patrol car, the chief
turned Harvey’s head to examine scratches Harvey received while fleeing through the woods. “When Mr. Harvey turned his head in an unsatisfactory manner, Chief Smith quickly, and without provocation, became enraged, leaned over in his seat and made punching movements at the face of Mr. Harvey before grabbing him by the lower chin/jaw and squeezing tightly,” Smith said in a statement he filed with city officials. Harvey cried out for help to another police officer who was at the scene but received no assistance, Attorney Smith said. Once Chief Smith released Harvey’s throat, he asked an officer for a taser gun and held it to the teen’s head, Attorney Smith said in the statement. Chief Smith has served with the
city since November 2014, when Moody stepped down from the position to become City Manager. Moody had formerly worked as a DeKalb County police chief. Several complaints have been made questioning the leadership of Chief Smith, according to a document submitted to Attorney Frank Smith by past and present Lithonia Police officers. The complaints range from the chief allegedly showing favoritism to certain officers to failing to properly swear in an officer who had been employed with the city for nine months. In one example, three police officers tried to assist a battered woman who arrived from Covington and were reportedly yelled at by Chief Smith who said “It is DeKalb’s problem—not ours.”
Officer convicted of ordering beatings of detained suspects
jury on Feb. 26 count of simple found a former battery. DeKalb County Robinson, a 15police sergeant guilty of two year veteran offifelonies and four misdecer, ordered other meanor counts in connection officers to beat a with ordering beatings of teenage burglary detained teenage suspects. suspect who was Anthony Robinson, 49, handcuffed. He was convicted of two counts also ordered and Anthony Robinson of felony violation of oath of participated in the office, three misdemeanor counts of beatings of three juveniles in a sepasimple assault and one misdemeanor rate incident.
Robinson faces 14 years in prison. Sentencing will be scheduled for next week. The judge declared a mistrial in four counts after the jury was unable to unanimously reach a verdict. Former DeKalb Police Officers Blake Norwood and Arthur Parker entered guilty pleas last month to one count of making a false statement and one count of violation of oath of office in connection with the beatings. They both testified against
Robinson. They were both sentenced to 10 years of probation and community service under the First Offender Act. They also cannot work as law enforcement officers. Robinson was taken into custody immediately following the verdict. The case was tried by Assistant District Attorneys Buffy Thomas and Cynthia Hill of the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Public Integrity Unit.
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