VOLUME 21 NUMBER 50
FREE
MARCH 19, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Bill to eliminate DeKalb CEO position advances
Kohl’s to close at Stonecrest, two other metro-Atlanta stores
T
he Mall At Stonecrest in Lithonia will lose anchor store, Kohl’s, this fall, company officials have announced. Kohl’s plans to close Fran Millar Dee Dawkins-Haigler the Stonecrest store at 2929 Turner Hill Road in Republican State Sen. Fran Millar’s bill to eliminate DeKalb Lithonia on Nov. 1 and County’s CEO position passed two other metro Atlanta the House Governmental Affairs stores this year: Committee and is expected to The Kohl’s at Northhead to the Rules Committee lake Mall, 4820 Briarcliff next. SB 378 would allow the Road, and the store at current election to take place 2342 Holcomb Bridge and the CEO could serve two Road in Roswell will years then the position would close on June 19. They change to an elected Chairman are among 18 Kohl’s that of the Board of Commissioners and a board-appointed county will close nationwide. manager who would run the The retailer is closretailer said. of this decision was to if they choose, can accept day-to-day operations. ing the underperforming Kohl’s officials say ensure we could take care a competitive severance Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, stores as part of its coma Democrat, said there was no they plan to offer store of every impacted store package,” the news reprehensive review of all Democratic support for the bill employees impacted by associate. We are proud lease said. as it cleared the Governmental markets, rent and custom- the cuts jobs at other to share every eligible Kohl’s stores employs Affairs Committee on March 16. er base, officials said in locations or severance store associate will be approximately 80-100 “They pulled us off the floor a release. The shutdowns packages. offered the opportunity to associates. for this bill while we were in represent less than 1 the middle of debate,” Daw“An important part work at a nearby Kohl’s, percent of total sales, the kins-Haigler said. “Basically, an announcement was made that those who were concerned about DeKalb County’s form of government needed to get to the committee meeting immediately. I’ve been serving eight mission District 5 seat was vacant zational act for an unexpired term years and I’ve never seen that for over two years and the board greater than 180 days. happen.” Dawkins-Haigler said the split along racial lines and were unMaxine Daniels, director of bill is expected to head to the able to decide on a number of issues DeKalb County Voter Registrations Rules Committee by March 24 The full board was restored—four and Elections office, said the special and she’s urging DeKalb County blacks and three whites—when election in May would require separesidents, especially those who Mereda Davis Johnson was elected rate ballots, additional voting malive in South DeKalb, to contact their legislators and speak out. last year to fill the District 5 post. chines and additional poll workers. She said the bill is being pushed She replaced Lee May, appointed “It’s too late to put the special through with little input from to serve as DeKalb’s Interim CEO, election on the May 24 General constituents. after he officially resigned to pave Election Primary ballot with the Millar, who lives in North the way for a special election to fill other questions. The deadline to DeKalb and has been an outspoStan Watson ken critic of the CEO form of his commission seat. have done that was Feb. 25,” Dangovernment, has said the goverCommissioner Larry Johnson, iels said. “The issue now is whether By Valerie J. Morgan nor has called for reform. the board’s presiding officer, said he it will be a stand–alone election or A few weeks ago, State whether it will be held in November he DeKalb County Board wants to avoid having another long Rep. Pam Stephenson and some vacancy on the board again. The with the General Election,” said DeKalb delegates, including of Elections has schedDawkins-Haigler, conducted Daniels. uled an emergency meet- board will have to choose another a meeting at the Stonecrest Daniels said the Board of Elecing on March 21 to determine when deputy presiding officer to replace Library in Lithonia so that Rep. Watson, who held the position. tions also would discuss whether a special election can be held to fill Scott Holcomb could explain “I’m recommending the counSarah Copelin-Wood is a valid the unexpired term of Stan Watson, his substitute House bill that ty put forth the $400,000 to hold candidate when it holds its spewould change DeKalb’s form of who had two years left to serve in government. the special election in May,” said cial-called meeting. Wood was the Commission District 7 seat. Millar’s bill would create seven Johnson, who said he is working in standing in line to qualify for the Watson resigned on March county districts, while the House concert with the House Delegation School Board District 3 seat but did 11 after paying his fee to run for version creates eight. for DeKalb County. not have her payment in the proper DeKalb tax commissioner on the If lawmakers approve either bill, The delegation sent a letter form by the noon deadline, Daniels the measure would go to counlast day of the qualifying period. ty voters in a referendum this dated March 14 to DeKalb’s elecsaid. Watson’s departure from the board November. The ballot question The DeKalb Board of Elections now leaves the County Commission tions director formally requesting would appear this way: “Shall the vacancy for the Commission will hold the special-called meetwith six members instead of sevthe act be approved which elimDistrict 7 seat be filled on May 24, ing on March 21, 4:30 p.m., at the en, making the board vulnerable to inates the Chief Executive Offiwhich falls between the 29-day Main Elections Office on Memorial cer of DeKalb County, creates a deadlocking on voting matters. county commission chairperson minimum and 45-day maximum Drive. The situation is one the board elected county wide and proas outlined in the county’s organifaced many times when the Comvides for a county manager?”
DeKalb officials to set special election to replace Commissioner Stan Watson
T
PAGE 2 •MARCH 19, 2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Stress or Physical Pain?
At Full Body Rejuvenation Center our staff offers the most effective quality health care to satisfy every individual's personal needs. Our combination of chiropractic therapy and physiotherapy allow us to focus on the physiological, as well as the biomechanical aspects of the body. Dr. Smith encourages you to come in and begin your healthy approach to pain management, weight loss or stress relief!
Chiropractic Treatment Physiotherapy Your path to Natural Health Bring in this ad and receive a
complementary chiropractic consultation
FULL BODY REJUVENATION CENTER 3636 Panola Rd, Ste B
MOST MAJOR INSURANCES AND OBAMA CARE ACCEPTED!
Lithonia, GA 30038
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
EDITOR/PUBLISHER
Valerie J. Morgan
editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER
Glenn L. Morgan
gmorgan1@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER
Richard S. Hill
richardhill@ocgnews.com
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. On Common Ground News
P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058
News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com FACEBOOK. COM/OCGNEWS
PURCHASE YOUR CLASSIFIED
$25 PER WEEK
678-526-1910
MARCH 19,2016 • PAGE 3
DeKalb breaks ground on new animal shelter
D
eKalb County Interim CEO Lee May and the Board of Commissioners put shovels to soil today during the official groundbreaking ceremony for the new DeKalb County animal shelter. “This facility is going to be an open and inviting place for people and pets. It will be a place where you want to come to expand your family by adopting a pet,” said Interim CEO May. “This shelter will be light years ahead of where we are now with our current facility.” The 33,440-square-
foot facility will have 12 adoption rooms for dogs and three for cats. Healthy Cats will stay in one of three different adoption rooms. The cat cages have glass windows
facing the lobby so the public can view them without entering the cat rooms and all the cages have portholes to adjacent cages so that cats can roam from space to space.
The dog rooms have separate air supply systems to control disease and to allow flexibility. Rooms connect directly to enclosed exercise yards and/or indirectly to large exercise fields. The 1,300-square-foot clinic will provide spay and neuter services, as well as a surgery prep room, surgery room, lab area, secure pharmacy storage, and holding areas for dogs and cats slated for surgery. The construction cost for the facility is $8.6 million dollars and is expected to be completed by March of 2017.
DeKalb Sheriff’s Office arrests South Carolina murder suspect
Bradford Hester Williams
The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Unit has arrested Bradford Hester Williams, a suspect charged with two counts of murder in Greenville, South Carolina. Williams was first arrested in Greenville in January 2014. After posting bond on Jan. 19, 2016, he was ordered to wear an ankle monitor. According to incident reports, Williams cut his ankle
DeKalb hiring E911 Operators
T
he DeKalb County 911 Communications Department is seeking qualified applicants to join our communications team. Eighteen E911 operator positions are currently open. Candidates can apply March 14-18. Individuals who are interested must submit and complete the online application listed in the “job opportunities” section on the county website: www.dekalbcountyga.gov. Minimum Requirements: • At least 18 years of age • U.S. Citizen • High School Diploma or GED Applicants must also successfully pass a computer skills test (keyboarding, data entry and prioritization), pass a background investigation and complete a physical. For more information on the E911 operator position, call the DeKalb County Police Department Background and Recruiting Unit at 770-724-7445.
Like Us On Facebook: WWW.FACEBOOK. COM/OCGNEWS
monitor on Feb. 25, 2016 and fled to Georgia. After being contacted by the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit located and arrested the suspect without incident on Friday, March 11, in Atlanta. Williams is being held in the DeKalb County Jail awaiting extradition.
PAGE 4•MARCH 19,2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
7 Meals in 70 Minutes
Coming Up
In this fun-filled, interactive class, presenter Joanne Simmons will show you how quick, time-saving methods to prepare a week of healthy meals and snacks. The class will be held Saturday, March 26, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Covington Library, 3500 Covington Highway, Decatur. The class is limited to 15 participants. To register, call 404-408-7180. edition-x2-tickets-18083211372
GWINNETT
GGC presents Lunch & Learn: Tupak Shakur Archival Collection
CAC to host Easter Extravaganza in South DeKalb
The Community Achievement Center, Inc. will host an Easter Extravaganza on March 26, 1 to 3 p.m., at Flat Shoals Park, 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. Parents are invited to bring their children for egg hunts, pictures with the Easter Bunny and face painting. The event is free and open to children ages 10 and under. Baskets for the hunt will be provided. About 1,000 plastic eggs will be hidden.
ATLANTA
Gallery 72 to host Artist Talk with Paul Benjamin The City of Atlanta’s Gallery 72, located at 72 Marietta St. N.W., will host an Artist Talk on Thursday, March 24, 6 to 8 p.m. Award-winning artist Paul Stephen Benjamin will discuss his new work, “Come Over,” which is on view at Gallery 72. . Benjamin’s use of language and visual ephemera to interrogate long-established cultural narratives and their casual acceptance and effect on the American public, has garnered national and international attention. Benjamin received his BA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his MFA from Georgia State University. Benjamin is a recipient of the 2014 Artadia Award. Recently, he was featured in the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center exhibition “Coloring.” He was also featured in the group exhibition Emerging Artist Award Winners 15th Year Retrospective Exhibition at The Swan Coach House. Among his awards to date are: the Winnie B. Chandler Fellowship, Diasporal Rhythms Artists Recognition Award, Hambidge Fellowship, The Atlanta Contemporary Art Center Studio Program and the Forward Arts Emerging Artists Award. Gallery 72 is operated by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and is dedicated to presenting stimulating and thought provoking contemporary art and programs that focus on advancing Atlanta’s arts offering. The Artist Talk event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://www.ocaatlanta.com/.
DEKALB
Miles for Autism ride set April 2 The Conner C Vernon Foundation Inc. will host its annual Miles for Autism Ride on Saturday, April 2, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with motorcycles starting at the parking lot at the Gallery at South DeKalb mall, 2801 Candler Road, Decatur. There will be health screenings, bounce houses, clowns, live entertainment, food, and a car and bike show. Registration for riders will be available on the day of the event onsite at 7 a.m. Breakfast will be available from 7 to 10 a.m. Day-of registration is $15 per rider and $12 per rider/passenger combo. Pre-registration is $12 per rider and $10 per rider/passenger combo. Pre-registration tickets are available @ https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ the-2016-2nd-annual-miles-for-autism-charitybenefit-ride-my-brotherskeeper-edition-x2-tickets-18083211372 .. NCNW to present Access to “Capital for Women” . The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) will present “Access to Capital for Women in Business” on Saturday, March 26, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Lithonia City Hall, 3950 Main St., Lithonia. Guest speakers include Lonnie Saboor, Charlotte Johnson, Sharnell Reynolds and Chataun Denis. To RSVP, contact Valee Smith at valeesmith@gmail.com.
Join archivists from the Atlanta University Center for a Lunch and Learn to discuss the Tupac Amaru Shakur Collection on April 5, noon to 2 p.m., at the Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC), 1000 University Center Lane, Lawrenceville. The workshop will be held in the Heritage Room on the third floor of the college’s library. Discover one of Hip Hop’s brightest artist in a whole new light. Highlights of the collection include Shakur’s handwritten song lyrics, track listings, video and audio treatments, short stories and poetry along with other materials such as, manuscripts written by members of Outlawz, media and publicity materials, correspondence, and legal documents. Find out how to use and search the collection, and ways to incorporate the Tupac Collection into the classroom. In 2009, the family of Tupac Amaru Shakur, along with Amaru Entertainment and the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation deposited the writings, correspondence, and other manuscripts and archival materials of Tupac Shakur in the Atlanta University Center Robert. W. Woodruff Library’s Archives Research Center. Until this partnership, Shakur’s papers were not available to the public for research and study. The Tupac Amaru Shakur’s Collection now serves as an example for the systematic preservation of archival collections related to hip hop music and culture. The accessibility of the collection in an archival repository allows Shakur’s creative legacy to be studied and incorporated into the classroom, academic settings, and for the public in ways it never has been before.
Purchasing Division to host annual networking for The Gwinnett County Purchasing Division will host the 10th annual Supplier Symposium on Thursday, April 21, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, 75 Langley Drive in Lawrenceville. The symposium provides vendors with an opportunity to meet buyers and contracting officers in Gwinnett County and other metro Atlanta agencies. Potential vendors are invited to attend. To register for this free event or view current projects open for bidding and explanations of bidding procedures in Gwinnett County, visit the Purchasing Division’s webpage at www.gwinnettcounty.com.
New hours for Gwinnett library system The Gwinnett County Public Library is expanding hours and revising schedules to make hours at the county’s 15 branches consistent. Effective Monday, May 16, Gwinnett County’s library branches will operate: Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: noon to 5 p.m. “We no longer need to memorize complicated sets of hours,” said Library Executive Director Charles Pace. “By adjusting staff schedules and our service model, we’re able to increase library access to the community while providing more morning and evening hours for our patrons.” The change will net a weekly gain of seven additional open hours for each branch.
ROCKDALE
Flashlight egg hunt at Johnson Park Each year, the Rockdale County NAACP sponsors an annual Freedom Fund Scholarship Banquet to raise money to award scholarships to a deserving minority student from each of the l three Rockdale high schools. This year the banquet will be held on March 19, 6 to 10 p.m., at the Georgia International Horse Park in the Carriage Room, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. Reserved tables are available for $500, adult tickets are $50 and tickets for children 12 and under are $20. For more information, contact Allene Eatman, chairperson, at 678-4139520 or 770-715-4836. Reminder: Always check with the event planner or web site provided to make sure no cancellations or changes have been made prior to going.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
Atlanta seeks input on how to handle hazards
The Office of Emergency Preparedness, in partnership with the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency (AFCEMA), is updating the Fulton County Hazardous Mitigation Plan. The Office of Emergency Preparedness is encouraging City of Atlanta residents to answer a brief survey to help AFCEMA and the City create strategies to mitigate a hazardous event. At any time, hazards such as floods, tornadoes, and severe storms could threaten life and property in our area. The survey is available until Friday, March 25, and input from residents will greatly help in the development mitigation strategies. For more information about the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency, visit http://fultoncountyga.gov/afcema.
Stonecrest cityhood bill advances
Jason Lary
The Stonecrest cityhood bill moved forward March 16, passing in the full House of Representatives with a vote of 144-17. Jason Lary, president of the Stonecrest City Alliance, said he is hopeful the measure will next clear the Senate for a simple upand-down vote for amendments to lower the salaries of elected officials for the proposed city.
DeKalb Clerk offers free eFile CLE Lunch and Learn DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk Debra DeBerry and Tyler Technologies are hosting another free eFile CLE lunch and learn training session on Friday, April 1, noon, in the Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur. The training workshop is recommended for any attorney and their staff who file documents in DeKalb County Clerk’s Office. “We are excited to begin the implementation of our new case management system, Odyssey. This has long been a goal for me that our county utilize and benefit from the best,” said DeBerry. Tyler Technologies is a leading provider of end-toend information management solutions and services for local governments and currently the only eFile vendor in the U.S. with an established portal. The deadline to reserve your seat is March 30. Contact Annette Taylor to reserve your seat by March 30 at 404371-2251 or e-mail ataylor@ dekalbcountyga.gov.
The amended legislation sets the part-time salaries at $20,000 annually for the mayor and $16,000 a year for City Council members. Full-time salaries had been set at $75,000 and $25,000 respectively. If the bill passes all of the legislative hurdles, voters who live in the proposed boundaries of the city will decide in May whether to incorporate. The proposed city would have about 50,000 residents and provide three main services: parks and recreation, planning and zoning and code enforcement. DeKalb County would provide police and fire services. State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler is the sponsor of the bill.
MARCH 19, 2016 • PAGE 5
DeKalb Board of Health to meet March 24
The next meeting of the DeKalb County Board of Health is scheduled for Thursday, March 24, 3 p.m., in the Bohan Auditorium, Richardson Health Center, 445 Winn Way, Decatur. The public is invited to attend. Agenda items for the meeting are the welcome of a new board member, the election of 2016 officers, a discussion of the public hearing on the new Georgia Department of Public Health rules on portable sanitation contractors, a director’s report and a financial status report. Anyone who would like to bring an issue before the board can be placed on the agenda by contacting Sandra Piñeyro at 404-294-3787. Written comments to the board will be accepted at: Office of the Director, DeKalb County Board of Health, P.O. Box 987, Decatur, Georgia 30031.
Gwinnett residents urged to attend public meeting on transportation Gwinnett County is inviting county residents and stakeholders for input on updating the Comprehensive Transportation Plan, also known as the CTP. The updated plan will summarize current and future multimodal transportation needs within the county and will recommend projects for the next 25 years. Community input is needed as county officials think about Gwinnett’s growth. The county’s roads, buses, trails, and sidewalks are shared by many users, so it is important to understand all perspectives. Access the Destination 2040 Comprehensive Transportation Plan survey here. Public meetings will be held around Gwinnett on the following dates: March 19 - Shorty Howell Park at 10:00am March 21 - Lucky Shoals Park at 6:00pm March 29 - Snellville City Hall at 6:00pm April 18 - Dacula Park Activity Building at 6:00pm April 21 - One Justice Square in Lawrenceville at 6:00pm For more information on the transportation plan process, visit www. Destination2040Gwinnett.com.
Like Us On Facebook: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
Gwinnett homeowners reminded to apply for homestead exemption Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner Richard Steele is reminding homeowners that the deadline to apply for a homestead exemption for 2016 is April 1 and urges them to apply. “Now is the time to make sure you are taking advantage of everything that can reduce how much you have to pay,” said Steele. You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence as of Jan. 1 of the tax year for which application is being made. No exemptions
are granted automatically; however, once an exemption is granted, there is no need to apply each year. Visit www.GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com to apply online and upload supporting documentation, check your application status or view exemption requirements. Email tax@gwinnettcounty.com or call 770822-8800 for exemption-related questions.
PAGE 6 •MARCH 19, 2016 TO CONTACT US
BY PHONE: 678-526-1910 BY FAX: 678-526-1909 BY E-MAIL: EDITOR@OCGNEWS.COM VISIT ONLINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Class Notes
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Our Schools, Students & Partners
DeKalb Solicitor-General, commissioners honor essay winners
D
eKalb County Solicitor-General Sherry Boston and the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners recently honored a special group of students. The “Creating a Safer DeKalb” essay winners were recognized during an awards ceremony on March 11. The winners were: Representing District 1: Claire Lin- Henderson Middle Representing District 2: Bana Fitwi- Freedom Middle *This set of essays represents a special category we created for ESOL students to recognize their efforts. These essays were assigned to District 2. Representing District 3: Maekaylia Jackson- Columbia Middle Representing District 4: Alyse
Dalomba-Stone Mountain Middle Representing District 5: Briana
Arabia Mountain High mourns loss of teacher Henry Joyner
T
he PTSA of Arabia Mountain High School, faculty and students are mourning the loss of one of the DeKalb County school’s teachers: Henry Joyner III, who passed this morning after being ill. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time,” said Robert K. Campbell, president of Arabia Mountain High School’s PTSA. “As you can imagine, Mr. Joyner was an intricate part of his students’ life (past and present) and many of the students will be affected by today’s news. Grief counselors will be at the school today but we encourage that you reach out to your student(s) at this time,” Campbell said in a release. Mr. Joyner taught calculus at Arabia and was beloved by his students, Campbell said. Information regarding funeral arrangements will be announced once the family releases the information.
Ross- Chapel Hill Middle In November 2015, the Solici-
tor-General’s Office extended an invitation to all DeKalb 8th graders to participate in the Office’s inaugural essay contest. The goal was to challenge students to think critically about their communities. More than 100 students submitted essays. Five winners representing each DeKalb County Commission District were chosen. Each winner received a new laptop donated by supporting sponsors (The Hormozdi Law Firm, Kimani I. King Attorney at Law, Shah Law Firm and Pak & McRae Law). Additionally, all of the students who submitted essays received certificates and special recognition from Congressman Hank Johnson, who represents Georgia’s Fourth District.
RCPS Foundation set to celebrate ‘Champions of Education’ gala
T
he Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation is seeking nominees from the community for its 2016 Champion of Education awards. Recipients will be honored during the Foundation’s spring gala on Saturday, April 23, at the Acuity People Center in Conyers. Champion of Education nominees can be either individuals or businesses that have demonstrated outstanding service, support or advocacy to further public education in Rockdale County. “We understand and embrace the importance of acknowledging those men, women and businesses that pour their heart into supporting public education in Rockdale,’ says Linda Owen, Foundation co-president and gala chair. “The gala gives us an opportunity to recognize them publically and to say thanks for being an education champion for all our students.” The Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation has provided more than $450,000 in funding for teacher grants and student achievement initiatives since 1988. The tax-exempt, nonprofit works in close partnership with the school system and is governed by a Board of Trustees. Visit www.RCPSFoundation.com for more information. Contact Kysa Daniels at 470-231-7277 or kysa@rcpsfoundation.com to request a Champion of Education nomination form, purchase gala tickets or make a Foundation donation.
Ribbon Cutting ceremony officially observes DESA move to its new school home
AVONDALE ESTATES, GA—A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the DeKalb Elementary School of the Arts (DESA) on March 17 to officially mark the school’s relocation to its new home at the former Avondale Middle School. DESA Principal Bianca Hamilton welcomed the large crowd of community members, students, parents, staff and DeKalb County School District (DCSD) leaders gathered in the school lobby. She recognized special guests in attendance, including Region 2 Superintendent Trent Arnold, Region 3 Superintendent Rachel Ziegler, SPLOST IV CIP Program Director John Wright, SPLOST IV CIP Program Manager Chante Lemon, Marbut Elementary School Principal Bridgett Allen, Performance Coach Jan Goodloe, Barbara O’Brian of Woodruff Arts Center (a DESA community partner) and D. Franklin of Franklin Productions (a DESA community partner). Ziegler, with historical ties to DESA as the former principle of Avondale Elementary, spoke during the ribbon-cutting event. As part of the ceremony, DESA students presented drama, vocal and dance performances to an excited audience. Principal Hamilton thanked everyone for their support of the school program and relocation to Avondale,
Pictured L-R: DESA Parent Robert Dotson, III; DESA Assistant Principal Ellen Malka; DESA Principal Bianca Hamilton; and DCSD Region 3 Superintendent Rachel Ziegler
saying “we are one.” After the ceremony, visitors toured the school. “This is a step forward in satisfying what DeKalb voters approved some five years ago as part of SPLOST IV, allocating $4.3 million for modifications, upgrades, and additions to Avondale Middle School for a comprehensive arts school. Without the voters, this would have never happened,” said Shevondah Leslie, a DESA School Council repre-
sentative. “We are so appreciative to the Board, Dr. Green and DeKalb citizens for allowing this move. Now, we can further spread our academic and arts “wings” in continuing to achieve academic and arts excellence.” DESA is the only K-7 magnet program in DeKalb where students are required to maintain a 3.0 grade average. Discussions are underway to add 8th grade to minimize transitions for the
school’s seventh grade students. Staff and students have occupied their new school home since Jan. 5, the start of the second semester of this school year as part of SPLOST IV directives. The school relocated from the 50+-year-old Terry Mill Elementary School where it had been since 2009. Prior to that, the school had been housed in Hooper Alexander Middle School for seven years. “Today is a celebration,” said DESA PTA Community Relations Committee Co-chair Candy Harper. “It’s a celebration of what can happen when school officials, parents and the community work together for a common goal, and we’re grateful for that. Being a Title 1 school, DESA offers students the opportunity to participate in and be exposed to the arts at an early age as part of their education. Now, we will continue to move forward in other action to serve our more than 500 students who represent all of DeKalb and all of the school districts. We continue to work with DeKalb County School District leaders on building out our new auditorium and dance rooms, and to complete our configuration by adding 8th grade—making us the only K-8 public, inclusive, fully arts-integrated school in DeKalb.”
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
MARCH 19, 2016 • PAGE 7
Business Spotlight
Stone Mountain entrepreneur promotes pride and education with unique shirt line By Chelsey Derks
A
Stone Mountain resident is promoting patriotism and pride while simultaneously educating the country – all with a clever shirt line. Michael McClellan’s shirt line, The Original Statehood Collection, emphasizes history, patriotism, quality, and comfort in a style unlike any other design currently on the market. His ability to create a look that highlights a love for both state and country while incorporating significant dates has landed him in the spotlight. The marketing and design firm owner first began dabbling in apparel several years ago when he combined his photography skills and knack for design to create game day shirts for his children’s sports teams. However, just last year, a fellow patriotic friend came to McClellan with a new idea. “It was just a few weeks before the Fourth of July,” McClellan said. “My friend knew I was doing shirts for the kids and made reference
T
Michael McClellan
to me creating a flag style shirt. It really planted the seed.” While he liked the flag idea, McClellan wanted to do something unique. He thought it’d be interesting to have a local and educational element. After doing some research, he found plenty of flag shirts, but items that also incorporated state pride and history were scarce. As a trial, he mocked up
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan
two shirts and had samples made, one for is current state, Georgia, and one for his home state, Tennessee. It still hadn’t clicked for to him that he might be on to something until his family was inundated in the Florida airport with questions about where they bought their unique shirts. “The idea really started stirring
in my head then,” he said. “I started putting the design on Facebook for feedback and people started taking note. I’d get questions about if we had them available for New Hampshire or Connecticut or wherever—it just grew from there. I thought, ‘I’d better get all 50 states designed.’” Design he did. The Original Statehood Collection, including all 50 states and Washington, D.C., was officially born – trademarked and everything. Each shirt is a history lesson in itself. Every design includes American flag art, a specific state name, state flag, the date the state became a state, and the order in which it became a state. For example, Georgia became a state Jan. 2, 1788 and is the fourth to become a state. “In school, you learn about the 50 states and what the capitals are, but that’s it,” he shared. “You don’t learn about the other states and to me, it just felt like something that was important. My wife’s a teacher and she even commented that they don’t teach that information and it’s See Shirts page 10
Travel to Cuba with the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber
he Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is inviting the public to travel to Cuba on an exciting cultural excursion that includes history, sightseeing, Salsa dancing, and riding around Havana, Cuba’s capitol, in one of the beautiful antique American cars for which the city is known. Cuba is now welcoming Americans who travel with groups licensed and authorized by the Department of Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Collette Travel Service, the licensed agency for the Chamber’s trip, has organized a 9-day itinerary for this fall—Oct. 13-21—that is packed with activities. Those who are interested in going must reserve their space with a deposit of $250 due by April 6. The fee is $4,299 per person for two sharing a room and $4,799 for solo travelers. The fee includes round-trip air fare from Hartsfield International Airport, transfers, hotel stays; 17 meals and all of the activities including a visit to the Sugar Museum, Province Botanical Gardens, historic Plaza Mayor (where you’ll find local artisans and unique gifts), a Cuban cigar factory and the Cuban Fine Arts Museum.
“This trip gives travelers a chance to not only see the cultural sights but interact with the people of Cuba,” said Fred Boscarino. “Travelers will have a chance to mingle and interact with locals as guides, historians and proprietors offer insight on the country.” The tour begins on a Thursday in Miami, the gateway to Cuba, which is just 90 miles away. Travelers will fly to Miami and get acquainted that evening during a welcome reception and briefing. The next day, the group
will fly to Cuba’s Santa Clara Airport and then transfer to Cayo Santa Maria, an island of pristine beaches located off Cuba’s north central coast. En route to the all-inclusive Iberostar Ensenachos resort where you’ll stay days 2-4, you’ll visit the Che Guevara Museum and later that evening, attend a welcome dinner with live traditional music and a fascinating discussion on the instruments used to produce the distinctive “sounds of Cuba.” See Cuba page 10 On Day 4, you’ll visit the Sugar
PAGE 8 •MARCH 19, 2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Miller Grove state champions honored at the State Capitol
M
iller Grove High School’s boys basketball team was honored at the Georgia Capitol by State Rep. Doreen Carter, District 92, on March 16. The team won the Class 6 AAAAA state title on March 4, defeating Allatoona High School 50 to 48 at the Macon Coliseum. The Miller Grove Wolverines have won eight out of the last nine region championships in one of the toughest regions (6-AAAAA) in the state while also going to seven consecutive “Final Fours.” The Wolverines opened this season ranked number #24 in the nation by USA Today and have risen to #17. The team posed for a picture with Gov. Nathan Deal during its March 16 visit to the Gold Dome.
Braces for Children & Adults • Free Consultation
• Low Monthly Payments Starting at $89 • Metal and Clear Braces for Children & Adults • Invisalign Certified • Saturday Appointments Available Upon Request
770-482-7400 8200 Mall Parkway, Suite B 200, Lithonia, GA 30038 M-F 8:30am to 5:30 • www.Lithoniabraces.com
Dr. Jamal A. Duval, DDS, MS
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
State Sen. Fort urges delay of “Creflo Dollar Highway” dedication
S
tate Sen. Vincent Fort (D – Atlanta) is urging Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Tommie Williams (R – Lyons) to hold Senate Resolution 805, which dedicates a portion of Old National Highway in Fulton County as “Creflo Dollar Highway.” “At a recent town hall meeting, 51 out of 55 residents from my district, which contains five of the 5.5 miles of Old National Highway, overwhelmingly opposed the rededication of the highway,” said Fort stated in news release today. “It is imperative that we listen to the people who are affected by this dedication and do not move forward with this legislation.” Dollar, a megachurch leader known for his prosperity teaching at his Atlanta-area World Changers Church International, came under scrutiny after news reports surfaced last year that he was seeking contributions to buy a luxury airplane. Dollar asked followers on the Creflo Dollar Ministries website for $60 million to buy a jet that he said was needed for ministry work around the world. The fundraising campaign was removed from the web site after public criticism. Sen. Donzella James (D-Atlanta) filed the resolution seeking to rename a portion of Old National Highway in honor of Dollar. His church is located in James’ Senate district.
Greater Lithonia Chamber announces 2016 Scholarship Program
T
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.
K
MARCH 19,2016 • PAGE 9
GRTA requests public comment on Xpress service changes
T
he Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) will open a 30-day public comment period and hold public hearingsto receive input on system-wide Xpress bus route modifications, schedule adjustments, and a limited number of fare changes. The proposed service changes are the result of GRTA’s Direct Xpress Comprehensive Operations Analysis, which is designed to make the existing Xpress service more reliable, effective, and easier to understand. Approved changes will be effective Sept. 6 or later. Comment is requested on the proposed service changes. The formal public comment period begins on March 21 and concludes on April 19. Additionally, GRTA will hold two public hearings on the proposed service changes. The same materials will be presented at each meeting. An open house will begin at 11 a.m., with a formal presentation beginning at approximately 11:45 a.m. Details of the public hearings are as follows: Tuesday, March 29 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fulton County Government Center Assembly Hall 141 Pryor Street SW Atlanta, GA 30303 Thursday, March 31 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 999 Peachtree 5th Floor Conference Room 999 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 Copies of the proposed service changes will be available by March 21, 2016, at the Xpress website at www.XpressGA.com, or by contacting GRTA at the electronic or physical address below. Comments on and requests for copies of the proposed service changes may be submitted: By email:
customerservice@xpressga.com
By U.S. Mail: GRTA Xpress 245 Peachtree Center Avenue, NE Suite 400 Atlanta, GA 30303 (Postmarked by April 19) By telephone:
Xpress customer service at 404-463-4782
In person: During the public hearings Online: By completing an online comment form available at www.XpressGA.com The public is asked to contact Xpress customer service at 404463-4782 by March 22 with any request by a person with disabilities or other special needs who requires special assistance in order to participate in the public meeting, if information is needed in another language, or if interpretation is required at the public meeting. The Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) addresses mobility and air quality in metro Atlanta and serves as the Governor’s voice for strategic direction in transportation planning for Georgia’s most populous region. GRTA operates the Xpress commuter coach service, whose 33 routes provides more than 2 million commutes to Georgians throughout metro Atlanta each year.
KCRB seeks volunteers for Great American Cleanup
eep Conyers-Rockdale Beautiful (KCRB) is seeking volunteers to participate in the upcoming Keep America Beautiful’s Great American Cleanup. The effort is the nation’s largest annual community improvement program with more than 4 million volunteers across the nation working together to beautify neighborhoods, reduce waste, initiate recycling programs, and plant trees. The Great American Cleanup Rockdale Challenge is hosted locally by Keep Conyers-Rockdale Beautiful. Registration is under way now for the event, which will be held Saturday, April 23, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Pine Log Park in
Conyers. The deadline to register is Friday, April 15. The event is open to community groups, businesses, school and church groups, civic groups, athletic teams and individuals to spruce up local roadways, subdivisions, commercial properties, parks and schools. Online registration is available at :http://rockdalecountyga.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/2016-Great-American-Cleanup.pdf The online registration form is compatible with Internet Explorer. If using Google Chrome, you may experience complications.
PAGE 10•MARCH 19,2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Shirts continued from page 7
really great information.” In addition to the state information, McClellan loves promoting America as well. The back of every shirt reads, “Together we stand, American,” a detail of the design that he says is most important. “No matter what we’re going through as a country, with all this political craziness, in the end, we’re all in this together,” he said. “In the end, we all come together and we’re all American. That’s important to remember.” It’s not just the design that’s unique, but also the process and materials. A key differentiator between The Original Statehood Collection and a typical flag T-shirt is that McClellan’s designs aren’t T-shirts at all. He exclusively uses a dry fit shirt material rather than a cotton T-shirt. It allows him to actually infuse the artwork onto the shirt, instead of having it sit on top of fabric the way the print would in a silkscreen printing process. The result is a better quality and more comfortable shirt. “With a silk screen T-shirt, the more you wash it, the design will start to come off and rub against your skin,” McClellan explained. “Since the artwork is infused into the fabric of our shirts, you can wash it and wash it and the quality will still be great. The only way you can mess up this shirt is if you bleach it.” While other active wear shirts of this kind can run upward of $100, McClellan works hard and takes personal cuts to keep his items at a fair, obtainable price point because he genuinely believes in the process and quality that comes with this material. “I’m putting the designs on a more expensive shirt because I want to create the artwork across the entire garment,” he shared. “With this process, I’m not limited to the amount of colors I can use like I would be with the silkscreen process. Since the art is infused into the fabric, when you put the shirt on, it feels like an actual shirt and because of the climate control aspects of the dry fit material, it keeps you cool.” McClellan is in the process of expanding the line, with more options for women like burnout styles and V-necks. For those wanting to proudly share their statehood and support this local businessman, visit www.mystatehood.com.
Cuba continued from page 7
Museum, where you’ll learn from local producers about the rise and fall of sugar cane production in Cuba. You’ll take a steam train ride to Remedios and learn from the conductors how they maintain and operate these trains, and after lunch, you’ll enjoy a walking tour with a priest to learn about Christianity during the Revolution and then visit a cigar factory, where you’ll meet cigar rollers and learn about this product that has become so popular in the U.S. You’ll spend Days 5-8 exploring Havana. Traveling across the countryside to Havana, you’ll attend a choral performance at the Thomas Terry Theater; visit the Literacy Museum and a healthcare program; meet the proprietors of a family-run restaurant, where you’ll enjoy dinner that comes from the family’s organic farm; learn about the religion of Santeria and the African slave communities of the 18th century; and learn about the Cuban national dance—Salsa—as you interact with professional dancers. On your final day in Havana, you will visit the Cuban Fine Arts Museum, hear a presentation by a local art historian, attend a presentation by a local scholar on the policies between the U.S. and Cuba and that evening, take a ride in the wildly popular antique American cars the Cuban people have maintained. You’ll enjoy dinner at one of Havana’s finest restaurants as your journey ends. For reservations or more information, contact Stephanie Layson at the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber at 770-483-7049 or e-mail Stephanie@conyers-rockdale.com.
IRVIN J. JOHNSON Tax Commissioner DeKalb County, GA
ATTENTION ALL DEKALB COUNTY HOMEOWNERS The 2016 Property Tax Exemption Deadline is Fast Approaching! If you owned and resided in a home in DeKalb County on January 1st, you may apply for a Basic Homestead Exemption and Property Assessment Freeze with the County by April 1st of this year. The home must be your primary domicile and legal residence for all purposes, including the registration of your vehicles and the filing of your Federal and State income taxes. Applications received after April 1st will be processed for 2017. In addition to the basic homestead exemption available to all homeowners, there are special exemptions available for residents 62 and older, disabled veterans or their un-remarried spouses, and other disabled residents. Eligibility for special exemptions is based upon age or disability, and total household income. They must be applied for in person. When applying, please bring your State and Federal income tax forms, Social Security 1099, and any other forms of income you may receive, to one of our three offices across the County.
North Office
1358 Dresden Dr., NE Atlanta, GA 30319
Main Office
4380 Memorial Dr. Suite 100 Decatur, GA 30032
South Office
2801 Candler Rd. #66 South DeKalb Mall Decatur, GA 30034
Remember, the deadline for applying for all homesteads is April 1st!
Like Us On Facebook: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
Apply for the Basic Homestead Exemption, the Property Assessment Freeze, or renew your tag registration online at: www.dekalbcountyga.gov/taxcommissioner Questions? Call (404) 298-4000 or email us proptax@dekalbcountyga.gov
4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 100, Decatur, Georgia 30032 (404-298-4000)
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
MARCH 19, 2016 • PAGE 11
MINI MALL
CLASSIFIEDS Now Hiring
Service
Residential Instructors/ Houseparent’s needed: Direct Care Live-In FT, PT and Hourly Positions Available in Decatur, Lithonia, Dallas, and Powder Springs. Medical Billing Clerk: Knowledge of Amerigroup, Medicaid, FFS, Insurance billing HS diploma required. Fax/email cover letter and resume to 770-808-3269 or artihardy@yahoo.com, call 770593-0913 Ext 114.
7173 Covington Hwy, Lithonia, GA 30058
Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs. A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404-281-6503.
ALL EVENT FACILITY
• Parties
• Church Meetings
• Seminars • Business Meetings • Wedding • Graduation Parties
Free Banquet Hall! Monday-Thursday only Community Events, Non-Profit, For Profit Events.
MINI MALL
75
$
Booth Rental $50 1st Month
$500 MOVES YOU IN A A CALL 678-526-1910 678-755-5955
A Sisterlocks Explosion; happening in Tucker & surrounding areas!!! Call Brenda (Certified) for a Free Consultation: 770-725-0024. www.sisterlocks.com
NEW LOCATION!!
40
Messiah’s House Assembly of God Church
Rev. Patrick Findley
770-981-4136
TH
“God Loves You”
messiahs@comcast.net
404-284-8833 DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Thursday, March 24, 2016 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:
16-100689
Copper Tubing and Fittings (Annual Contract with Two (2) Options to Renew) Honey Creek Pump Station Force Main & Gravity Sewer Improvements Candler Road Senior Center Parking Storm Water System and Video Services (Multiyear Contract)
CLOSING DATE March 24,31, 2016 March 24 April 7,14, 2016 March 24 & April 7, 2016 March 24, 31, 2016
16-500391
Engineering Services (Multiyear Contract)
March 24, 31, 2016
16-500388
Engineering & Design Services (Annual Contract with Two (2) Options to Renew
March 24, 31, 2016
16-100691 Storm Drainage Infrastructure System (Annual Contract with Two (2) Options to Renew)
March 24, 31, 2016
16-100698
March 24, 31, 2016
16-500395
Work Gloves (Annual Contract with Two (2) Options to Renew) Services and Instruction for Dislocated Workers Two (2) Year Contract)
An Open Invitation To You
Come as you are & fellowship with us
1683 S. Hairston Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30088
Formally The Weave Stop 2091 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA
ITEM
CHURCH Sundays 11 a.m. & Wednesdays 7:30 p.m.
1 & 15 ONLY ST
16-100662
WEEKLY LUNCH SPECIAL
CALL TODAY!
$
16-500393
770-484-3355 2910 EVANS MILL ROAD, LITHONIA, GA
J U S T W E AV E S
16-100685
RESTAURANTS
A$20 -$125 per hourA
PURCHASE ME FOR
Hair Salon
REQUEST FOR SOLICITATION NO.
On Common Ground News Marketplace
March 24, 31, 2016
Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2 nd 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: Talisa R. Clark, Interim Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County, Department of Purchasing and Contracting
Exp 3-31-16
Advertise in the Marketplace. Call On Common Ground News 678-526-1910
PAGE 12 •MARCH 19, 2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Cosmetic & General Dentistry Recline in Comfort & Watch TV During Your Treatment !!
Mon- Thurs 8am-5pm Every other Friday 8am-5pm
New Patients Welcome! Power Bleaching- Zoom Invisible Braces (Invisalign) Dental Implants Tooth-Colored Fillings Crown & Bridges Porcelain Veneers Low- Radiation X-Rays Amber Jenkins Dabney ,DDS
www.beautifulsmiledds.com
!
Se Habla Espanol!
8200 Mall Parkway , Suite #155 Lithonia, GA 30038 • (770) 484-4051 Shops at Turner Hill Plaza (Across from Panera Bread Company)