VOLUME 21 NUMBER 51
FREE
MARCH 26, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Bloods gang members indicted after deadly crime spree
Jeffery Price
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eKalb County District Attorney Robert James announced a 50-count indictment on March 24 accusing seven gang members of the Fruit Town Brims, an East Coast set of the Bloods, with terrorizing the county during a four-month deadly robbing spree last fall. The violence ended with the home invasion robbery and shooting death of 23-year-old Marcus Wilder on Dec. 26, 2015 at his Decatur apartment. Wilder was returning home from visiting his roommate in the hospital when he was attacked by the gang members. Police said they believed Wilder’s roommate, Adrian Johnson, was pistol whipped earlier that morning by the same group. James said the group is suspected
Octavius Johnson
Quenterius Brown
of several other robberies in DeKalb. “There were 15 victims in all… We have robberies, burglaries, aggravated assault and felony murder involved,” said James, adding that gangs would not be tolerated in DeKalb. “If you’re in a gang, you need to get out. You need to stop what you’re doing because we’re going to work together with the law enforcement community, we’re going to hunt you down, we’re going to charge you, we’re going to indict you and we’re going to hold you accountable for this type of behavior,” said James. “The county does not belong to gang members.” The indictment names Jeffery Price, Octavius Johnson, Donovan Harrison (not pictured), Quenterius
Brown, Denzel Thomas (not pictured), Jalin McNease and Andrew Lovett for their parts in the crime spree. All of the men are charged with multiple counts of violating Georgia’s gang statute while committing the other crimes. “We want to make sure these violent offenders can no longer endanger innocent citizens,” James said. “The criminal gang menace is a cancer in our community that must be removed, and my office is working diligently to prosecute as many violent gang offenders as possible.” Price and Brown are charged with malice murder and felony murder for shooting and killing Wilder when he walked in on a burglary at his apartment on Dec. 26. The gang had beaten
DeKalb’s special election to fill District 7 seat to be held Nov. 8
Stan Watson
By Valerie J. Morgan
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n election to fill the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners District 7 seat vacated by Stan Watson will not be held until Nov. 8. Watson, who had two years left on his four-year term, resigned after qualifying on March 11 to run for DeKalb County tax commissioner. The DeKalb County Board of Elections (BOC) voted unanimously on Monday during an emergency meeting not to hold the special election to fill Watson’s seat on May 24 because there isn’t enough time to prepare, said Maxine Daniels, DeKalb’s director of elections. “The board did not believe that we
Jalin McNease
would have enough time to hold a standalone special election. We would have had to hire and train 500 additional people, get more voting machines, put the election on its own ballot and it would have cost $400,000,” Daniels said. Daniels said the board was able to make the decision to hold off on the election until November because state law(212-540) supersedes a DeKalb ordinance, which says a special law must be held no sooner than 19 days and no later than 45 days after a vacancy. Commissioner Larry Johnson, the presiding officer of the BOC, and state lawmakers of the DeKalb Delegation had urged the board to hold the election in May to avoid the District 7 seat from being vacant too long. The District 5 seat was vacant for over two years and wasn’t filled until last year, when Lee May resigned. Mereda Davis Johnson was elected to fill the seat in a special election. Daniels said holding the special election in November would not require any additional expense. During the emergency meeting, the Board of Elections also disqualified Sarah Copelin-Wood as a candidate for the District 3 School Board seat because she did not make the qualifying deadline in time.
Jalin McNease
and robbed Wilder’s roommate earlier that same morning. Harrison, Brown, Price and McNease are charged with attempted home invasion and criminal property damage for a different break-in that same day less than a mile away. Each of the defendants are charged with either armed robbery or attempted armed robbery for participating in separate incidents between September and December. Johnson also is charged with several counts of aggravated assault for shooting Marcus Curtis in the back as Curtis tried to escape a Sept. 22, 2015 robbery attempt. Curtis survived. Price, Lovett, Johnson, Brown and McNease are all being held without bond in the DeKalb County jail. Thomas and Harrison remain at large.
Stonecrest cityhood clears final hurdle in General Assembly
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he Stonecrest cityhood bill received final passage in the General Assembly as the 2016 Legislative Session came to a close. SB 208 passed 39-12 around 11:40 p.m. on March 24, paving the way for a voter referendum, once Gov. Nathan Deal signs the bill. “Three years waiting, but our time is now,” said an overjoyed Jason Lary, president of the Stonecrest City Alliance, which had pushed for the bill. SB 208 amended legislation setting the part-time annual salaries for mayor of the proposed city at $20,000 and $16,000 for City Council members. Full-time salaries had been set at $75,000 and $25,000 respectively. The referendum likely will be placed on the ballot in See Stonecrest, page 10
PAGE 2 •MARCH 26, 2016
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On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. 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
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GPTC flips switch on new electric vehicle charging stations
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s part of its efforts to improve campus sustainability, Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) now has two new electric vehicle charging stations on campus. The college recently hosted a ribbon-cutting event to introduce the two charging stations, as well as the college’s shuttle service. “One of my goals as president at Georgia Piedmont is to have our college be a leader in campus sustainability,” said GPTC President Jabari Simama. “We are cutting the ribbon at this event to introduce the community to our electric vehicle charging stations and campus shuttle service. These services will not only help reduce our carbon footprint, but they also move us closer towards achieving our sustainability goals.”
The new stations, provided and installed by EnviroSpark Energy Solutions, are located in the conference center parking at GPTC’s Clarkston campus at 495 N. Indian Creek Drive. The charging stations are designed to transmit a full (or near-full) charge on electric vehicles in two to four hours. “Atlanta is the second
largest market for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles,” said Sadie Dennard, metro east region external manager at Georgia Power and chair of the board of directors at Georgia Piedmont Technical College. “In response to demand, Georgia Power has expanded the infrastructure needed for electric vehicle charging stations. Georgia Power is
pleased to collaborate with the leadership team at Georgia Piedmont in coordinating this occasion. We’re also delighted to recognize Atlanta-based EnviroSpark Energy solutions, who provided and installed the charging stations, as well as Nissan and BMW, for their contributions to this event.” Georgia Piedmont Technical College’s electric vehicle charging stations are featured on www.plugshare.com, a website that provides maps that display charging station locations. The DASH shuttle, which was also introduced during the celebration, will help students, faculty and staff get to the main campus from the Kensington MARTA station. The shuttle service aids in sustainability efforts by reducing the number of cars on campus.
BOC honors DeKalb Sheriff’s Office for Triple Crown accreditation
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he DeKalb County Board of Commissioners acknowledged Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann and the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office with a proclamation for “meeting the highest standards of professional management, performance accountability, and operational integrity set by industry-recognized accrediting organizations.” The proclamation
recognized the agency’s distinction as being the only “Triple Crown” ac-
credited law enforcement agency in the metropolitan area for consecutive year
accreditation by the American Correctional Association (ACA), the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC), and the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). “We appreciate the Commission’s public commemoration of our achievements,” says Sheriff Mann. “Our team is diligent in its pursuit of excellence and professionalism. It is our privilege to serve DeKalb County citizens, and they deserve no less than our best.”
Rockdale’s Commissioner Nesbitt serves hundreds of seniors through ham drive
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undreds of seniors can look forward this Sunday to a traditional Easter dinner with a ham, thanks to Rockdale County Commissioner Oz Nesbitt. Nesbitt again organized his annual “Lend A Ham” drive, collecting
300 hams for needy seniors in time for the holiday. “Giving hams to seniors at this annual event shows love and support to Rockdale senior citizens,” said Nesbitt. “We want to try to do everything possible to help our seniors as they try to manage on a fixed
income.” The hams were distributed on March 20 at the Olivia Haydell Senior Center in Conyers. After many of the hams were given out at the senior center, Nesbitt went door to door in public housing communities to give away hams.
PAGE 4•MARCH 26,2016
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Coming Up
GWINNETT
GGC presents Lunch & Learn: Tupak Shakur Archival Collection
35th Annual Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival set
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uperior Plumbing presents the 35th Annual Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival from April 2-3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This annual festival celebrates the blooming of the beautiful cherry trees at the Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. The festival features arts and crafts vendors, two stages of entertainment, a children’s area, an international food court and more. Admission is free with a $5 parking fee. For more information, visit www.conyerscherryblossomfest.com.
ATLANTA
Starting a business like a boss workshop set If you are interested in starting a business, attend this workshop on March 26 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the West End Library, 525 Peoples Street, SW, Atlanta. In this workshop, you will learn how to create a business plan, how to get funding and grants; and how to market and diversify your business. The workshop is free. Teens, college students, adults and seniors are encouraged to attend. For more information, call 404-752-8741.
DEKALB
DeKalb Medical Hillandale hosts blood drive
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.
Earth Day Celebration at Coolray Field Come celebrate Earth Day with the Gwinnett County Solid Waste and Recovered Materials Division at Coolray Field, home of the Gwinnett Braves on April 9, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Coolray Field is located at 2500 Buford Drive, NE, Lawrenceville. This event will feature electronics and tire recycling and will also include free kids’ activities and the opportunity for residents to meet their haulers and learn about Gwinnett County’s solid waste and recycling program. Here are some things to remember before you come: • Paper shredding is limited to five copier paper boxes • Paint collection is limited to eight, one-gallon cans • Cans must contain at least 25 percent wet, usable paint; no rusted cans, no oil-based paints, stains, spackle, thinners, or dried paint • Tire recycling is limited to eight tires per vehicle; no dealer tires • Electronics recycling is free with the exception of TVs, monitors, and printers • There is a $10 cash fee per TV or computer monitor and a $5 cash fee per printer If you would like to volunteer at the event, please visit www. volunteergwinnett.net to sign up. For more information, call the Solid Waste and Recovered Materials Division at 770-822-7141 or email Schelly Marlatt at schelly.marlatt@gwinnettcounty.com.
ROCKDALE
Spring yard sale set at Rockdale Annex parking lot
DeKalb Medical Center-Hillandale, 2801 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia, will have a blood drive on March 28, noon to 5 p.m. The bloodmobile will be parked near the main entrance. Donors will receive a lunch voucher valued at $5 to use at the hospital’s cafeteria, or the voucher may also be used at Subway at the North Decatur Medical Center campus. The number to make an appointment to be a blood donor is 1-800-RED-CROSS.
It’s time to clean out those closets! Bring household goods, toys, clothes, and other items that have been pushed around for months. Join the community “yard sale” on Saturday, April 16, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Rockdale Government Annex parking lot, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers. The fee for county residents is $10 per parking space; and $15 for non-county residents. Fees can be paid the day of the yard sale. Set up time begins at 7 a.m. Participants must provide their own tables and chairs.
Healthy Brains four-part series at Doraville Library.
National Walk In The Park Day
Healthy Brains is an exciting new, four-part series that starts on March 29, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Doraville Library, 3748 Central Ave., Doraville. Learn beneficial lifestyle changes and techniques to maximize your quality of life. Led by a health care professional, the first class will feature an examination of sleep patterns. Get information on improving sleep and relieving fatigue. For more information, call 770-936-3852.
Decatur Library presents “The Global Village Chorus” The Global Village Chorus will perform on March 29, 7 to 8 p.m., at the Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur. The chorus, directed by Elise Witt, Jacqueline Howard and Elliot Ray, is made up of students from the Global Village Project, an accredited middle school in Decatur, for teen refugee girls with interrupted education. The students are from Afghanistan, Burma, Congo, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Iraq, Mozambique, Nepal, Rwanda, Somalia, Syria and the Central African Republic. For more information, call 404-370-3070.
Get those walking shoes out and come explore the trails at Johnson Park, South Rockdale, Lorraine Trailhead and others as we celebrate National Walk n the Park Day on March 30, from sunrise to sunset.
Johnson Park offers teen fun night Johnson Park, 1781 Ebenezer Road, S.W., Conyers, will host Teen Night (#SoundsLikeAPlan) on Friday, April 15, 6 to 9 p.m. Several activities are planned for teens ages 13 to 15 including dancing, swimming, a selfie photo booth, and dinner. The cost is $10 per person. Pre-registration is required by Friday, April 8. To register, go online to https://secure.rec1.com/GA/rockdale-county/ catalog.
—Coming Up is compiled by Empish Thomas—
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Rockdale seeks “Champions of Education”
The Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation seeks to recognize Champions of Education who are individuals and/or businesses that have demonstrated outstanding service and support to further public education in Rockdale County. The Champions of Education will be recognized at the Rockdale County Public Schools Champions of Education Gala on Saturday, April 23. Eligibility Requirements: • A person or business that has provided significant support to public education in Rockdale County and the students who attend Rockdale County Public Schools. • A person or business who has served as an advocate for public education in Rockdale County in support of the students who attend Rockdale County Public Schools. Selection Process: Complete the nomination form below and return to Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation by Friday, April 1, 2016. (Nomination forms that are mailed must be post-marked on or before April 1, 2016. Nomination forms that are sent via e-mail must be received by midnight on April 1, 2016.) The Selection Committee shall review nominations and present qualified nominees to the Foundation Board that will select the 2016 Champions of Education. Please send completed nomination form to: MAIL Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation PO Box 82724 Conyers, Georgia 30013
MARCH 26, 2016 • PAGE 5
Join Rockdale Chamber webinar to learn about trip to Cuba
It is time to go beyond the brochure. Join Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce April 4, 5:30 p.m. EDT, for an entertaining online travel presentation for its upcoming trip to Cuba, Oct. 13-21. Discover the people and places that make our tours special and do it from the comfort of your own computer. Ask real-time questions, learn from travel experts and lose yourself in incredible images of Cuba. This is the first step on what will be an amazing adventure. Unable to attend at the scheduled time? Register and you will be able to view the archived session as soon as it becomes: https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=714947&eventid=1159650&sessionid=1&key=28162AE9F315B34E52E20B0CE9015ED2&regTag=&sourcepage=register
The Leadership Team to host Rockdale barbecue cookoff April 9
EMAIL kysa@rcpsfoundation.org Deadline Mail: Postmarked no later than April 1, 2016. E-mail: Must be received by midnight on April 1, 2016. If you have any questions, please call Kysa Daniels, 770-235-8108.
DeKalb receives top award for Adopt-A-Stream
It’s time to get your grills ready! The Leadership Team is accepting registrations for its first Rockdale Cookoff on April 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Wheeler Park, located at the Rockdale Tennis Center on Parker Road, Conyers. Registration is $20 per team and may be made by calling 678-8063951 or by emailing ADAYOFUNITY@gmail.com. Rockdale’s public officials will serve as judges for the competition and winners for first, second and third place will be named. Families are invited to bring the kids for a fun-filled day at this community meet and greet equine children’s mentoring specialist Lilly Morgan will be there with horses for the children to enjoy. Admission to the event is free. The Leadership Team is a mentoring organization devoted to sharing resources within Rockdale and surrounding communities at its monthly event called A Day of Unity.
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PAGE 6 •MARCH 26, 2016
Sen. Gloria Butler to Honor Vietnam Veterans
State Sen. Gloria Butler (D – Stone Mountain) will honor Georgia’s Vietnam Veterans in two special ceremonies in April. If you are a Vietnam Veteran or know a Vietnam Veteran who would like to be honored for their service, please contact Sen. Gloria Butler’s Office by phone at 404-656-0075 or by mail at ATTN: Senator Gloria Butler, 206 Washington St., Suite 420-C, Atlanta, GA 30334. Please include the following information: full legal name, address, phone number, email address, branch of service, dates of service, rank and a copy of your DD214. The deadline is March 30, 2016. Butler will honor the vets on Saturday, April 16, 11 a.m., South Gwinnett High School, Performing Arts Auditorium, 2288 E. Main St., Snellville. Butler will also honor vets on April 16, 3 p.m., at the Maloof Auditorium,1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, GA 30030 Sen. Gloria Butler serves as vice chairwoman for the Minority Caucus. She represents the 55th Senate District, which includes portions of DeKalb and Gwinnett counties. She may be reached by phone at 404656-0075 or by email at gloria.butler@senate.ga.gov.
DeKalb Parks to hold Spring Break Camp DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will hold Spring Break Camp on April 4 – 8, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The fee for the week-long camp is $30 for children ages 5 – 12. Participants must provide their own lunch and snack. To access online registration, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks and click register online on the department’s homepage or register in person at any of the locations listed below: Browns Mill Recreation Center, 5101 Browns Mill Road, Lithonia, GA 30038 Exchange Recreation Center, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30034 Gresham Recreation Center, 3113 Gresham Road, Atlanta, GA 30316 Hamilton Recreation Center, 3263 Chapel Street, Scottdale, GA 30079 Lucious Sanders Recreation Center, 2484 Bruce Street, Lithonia, GA 30058 Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340-B McConnell Drive, Decatur, GA 30033 Midway Recreation Center, 3181 Midway Road, Decatur, GA 30032
City of Lithonia seeks 2 Americorps VISTAs for special projects The City of Lithonia has been approved by the State Office of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) to recruit two AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) to work with the community in the areas of financial literacy, safe housing, and healthy living. “We are glad we are able to recruit to fill the VISTA positions again,” said City of Lithonia Mayor Deborah A. Jackson. “The new VISTAs will build on the work started last May to identify and bring resources to the community in the areas of asset-building and access to healthy food resources.´ “He or she will complement the work of by our other VISTA who is focusing on job training and small business development.” The City’s VISTA project, Lithonia Action to Build Community-(Lithonia ABC) focuses on the CNCS goals of Economic Opportunity and Healthy Futures. The City is seeking two applicants to serve as a VISTA Community Liaison for Asset Building and VISTA Community Liaison for Healthy Futures. The positions are temporary, full-time and funded through the State AmeriCorps Office for a one-year period. A monthly stipend of $1,026 is provided along with health and other benefits. An educational award is available upon successful completion of the program. Outside employment is permitted that does not conflict with responsibilities to the VISTA project. Interested applicants can obtain additional information at the Corporation for National and Community Service website at: http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps under the link. Applications must be submitted online at the CNCS website by Monday, April 4, 2016. The selected applicant must be available to attend the VISTA training from May 23-26. The position will start on Friday, May 27. For more information or to learn how to apply, contact City Administrator Eddie J. Moody, eddie.moody@lithoniacity.org or Mayor Deborah A. Jackson, deborah.jackson@lithoniacity.org or call City Hall at 770-4828136.
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Hands Across Rockdale seeks project submissions Do you know a community project that could improve life in Rockdale and easily be finished with a few more hands? The fifth annual Hands Across Rockdale Day of Service returns April 30 and is now accepting submissions for community projects. This special event brings together service-minded volunteers to work for four hours on local projects that serve those in need and help make Rockdale a better place to live. Now’s the time to apply to become a Hands Across Rockdale project. Past projects have ranged from trash pickup to painting, planting, beautification, trail clearing, window washing and more. Work on the project must be able to be completed within four hours and not require skilled labor. Projects associated with a nonprofit group, school or park are preferred. Project organizers and leaders must be on site during the event to guide volunteers, must obtain materials for the project, which may be reimbursed, and obtain any necessary authorizations for the project site. The deadline to apply is March 30, 2016. Go to www.handsacrossrockdale.org for the application form. For more information, contact michael@ rockdalecoalition.org Hands Across Rockdale is also seeking sponsors to help reimburse the cost of project materials. To become a sponsor, go to www.handsacrossrockdale.org and donate online or fill out the application form. This is a great option for businesses and organizations that may not have the time but would like to pitch in. Sponsor names and logos will be featured on the T-shirts worn by volunteers and more. For more information, contact michael@rockdalecoalition.org
Rockdale County Think Tank to host candidates’ meet-and-greet The Rockdale County Think Tank will host a candidates Meet and Greet on Saturday, March 26, 12 noon – 2 p.m., Ruby Tuesday, 1714 Highway 138, Conyers. All candidates participating in the 2016 election cycle are invited to attend. The meeting will provide and opportunity to listen and speak with candidates one on one, regardless of party affiliation. For more information, contact Josie Dean at 770-369-1507.
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MARCH 26, 2016 • PAGE 7
DCTV’s “The Furry Files” highlights quality of life for animals
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CTV-23, DeKalb County’s Comcast Channel 23, unveils its latest addition to the broadcast lineup. Hosted by DCTV’s AvivA Hoffmann, The Furry Files is a show dedicated to all things “animal” in DeKalb County. The program highlights the hard work of county officials, employees, partners, community organizations and volunteers in a captivating format that includes feature stories, sit-down interviews and fun facts. The show also includes profiles on businesses and animal-related services available in DeKalb. “This new DCTV feature gives viewers an opportunity to learn and enjoy the numerous benefits and county efforts to create better services and improve the quality-of-life for its animals,” said Interim CEO Lee May. “A principal focus is on animal shelter operational improvements, animal adoption rates, and other county initiatives that lower the euthanasia rates and generally serve pet lovers and their
https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=mz6aTlgqMog DCTV invites you to share your animal questions, pictures and stories with The Furry Files. Send an email to: FurryFiles@dekalbcountyga. gov To find out more about DeKalb County Animal Services, contact: DeKalb Animal Services & Enforcement: (404) 294-2996 ext. 2 dekalbanimalservices. com Cruelty Report Hotline Number: (404) 294-2939 pets.” The first edition includes highlights of the work by DeKalb’s Animal Services and Enforcement Department with an in-depth look at the people behind the compassionate care and protection of our animals. One segment includes an interview with Animal Services Enforcement Division Director, Xan Rawls, highlighting her special relationship with her dog, Ace. Another feature
focuses on reoccurring animal expert and executive director of the AWARE Wildlife Center, Dr. Tarah Hadley, who introduces viewers to the wildlife center and the different animals cared for there. The Furry Files also incorporates feature stories of heart-warming, life transformations of animals and the people who love them. The first edition of The Furry Files showcases several
rescue stories, including an owl rescue, a puppy rescue, and the amazing story of “Xena the Warrior Puppy.” DCTV Director Diamond Miller Lewis shares Xena’s story and the positive impact this special dog has had on her adoptive family as well as organizations that work to help animal rescue and autism programs. Be sure to watch The Furry Files on DCTV Channel 23, or go to
DeKalb Animal Shelter: (404) 294-2949 845 Camp Road Decatur, GA 30032 Hours of Operation Monday – Friday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. For more information about DeKalb County Television, visit http://www. dctvchannel23.tv.
PAGE 8 •MARCH 26, 2016
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St. Paul AME’s Hat Parade
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t. Paul AME Church, 1704 Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia, drew a packed house for its annual hat parade on March 19. From tiny, veiled headpieces to big colorful crowns, women displayed an array of beautiful hats to usher in the spring season. The fashion show not only included the latest women’s fashions; a few children also were models in the fashion show. The event included lunch, live entertainment and vendors selling a variety of accessories and services. Event coordinator Joyce Reid said dozens of church members who volunteered helped to make the program a great success. St. Paul is under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Cheviene Jones. ---Photos by Glenn L. Morgan
GPTC, Atlanta Metropolitan State College sign transfer agreement
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eorgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) has executed a transfer agreement with Atlanta Metropolitan State College (AMSC) to provide a bridge program that will enable GPTC students to transfer to the AMSC bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. The agreement was signed by Dr. Gary McGaha, President, AMSC, and Dr. Jabari Simama, President, GPTC, following Georgia Piedmont’s recent State of the College. “I am excited that we are able to partner with Atlanta Metro State College in this way,” said Simama. “This collaboration allows our criminal justice students to continue their educations at AMSC, which, like GPTC, is committed to student success.” AMSC and GPTC officials say they believe that, because of opportunities made available through this transfer agreement, students will choose to continue their educations and complete a bachelor’s degree. AMSC currently serves about 3,200 students on its main campus located at 1630 Metropolitan Parkway S.W., Atlanta. GPTC is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. “I view this partnership as a win-win for all parties involved,”
said McGaha. “We believe in removing barriers and in helping students pursue baccalaureate degrees at state colleges. Like Georgia Piedmont, Atlanta Metropolitan State College provides a high-quality education at a low cost. I encourage eligible students to take advantage of this terrific opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degrees.” Under the terms of the agreement, Georgia Piedmont students who have earned an associate in applied science degree in criminal justice are eligible to transfer to AMSC as joint enrollment students and transfer students. Jointly enrolled students may take courses at both institutions as they pursue their bachelor’s degrees. “This is going to be a great opportunity for our criminal justice students,” said Dr. Ivan Harrell, executive vice president of Academic and Student Affairs at GPTC. “Institutions like Atlanta Metropolitan State College understand the value students who have completed studies at technical and community colleges bring with them,” he said. Administrators from both colleges will review the agreement on an annual basis to determine its effectiveness.
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Class Notes
MARCH 26,2016 • PAGE 9
Our Schools, Students & Partners
Rockdale schools present Superintendent’s Academic Awards
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ockdale County Public Schools honored the hard work and dedication of its top academic students at the 2015-16 Superintendent’s Academic Awards this week at Rockdale County High School. Each student also gave a rose to the teacher they selected as their Honor Teacher. Rockdale County High School teacher Heidi Smith, who passed away last semester, was selected by RCHS senior Logan Hull as his Honor Teacher. Her husband, Al Smith, accepted the rose in her memory. This year’s academic scholars are: Heritage High School Sophomores Nathaniel Tadao Buck; Samira Tarae Carter; Lena Gail Premero Curtis; Ronan Matthew Fitzgerald; Zemirah Glorielle Griffin; Tredarius Deandre Lassiter; Jeremy Daniel Lee; Jennifer Elizabeth Nelson; Tyrell Phillip Snagg; Gabriel Justin St. Jean. Juniors Julia Rene’ Garner; Emily Grace Howe; Kenneth Karl Jones; Kylie Elizabeth Kersh; Justine Annabelle McPherson; Smith S. Meach; Madeline Grace Moore; Michelle Rhiannon Tompkins; Eduardo Vega; Tony Lee Wilson, Jr.
Seniors Fathma Abdulkhader; Steven Andrew Bishop; Conner Elijah Domaleski; Michaela Jewel-Rene Finlayson; Ryan Brett Gaylor; Brian Scott Landers; Jacquelyn Rose Manning; Amanda Victoria Roberts; Kamryn Janee Toney; Maggie Ross Wigton. Rockdale County High School Sophomores Ariel Antoinette Alvarado; Sonjah Lourdes Dessalines; Willetta Stephanie Eley; Lillibeth Pearl Morillo Hunter; Annalesia Marie Law; Linzie Taylor Menteer; Terri Amaya Mitchell; Sadica Alexis Murphy; Julian Ashton Robinson; Janiece Andrea Stewart;.
Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology Sophomores Madeline Shaw Burkey; Christina Mone Griffin; Jestini Nelvia Jordan; Michelle Nguyen; Toni Elaine Norton; Yasin Walid Siddiquee; Zarek Farhan Syed; Caroline Rebecca Turner; Erin Nicole Wilson; Matthew G. York.
Juniors Kevin Jackson Crews; Bly Kudzai Doma; WiltLine Jean-Baptiste; Rosendo Lopez-Molina; Vladislav Alex Mandzyuk; Cian Michael Neal; Akash Raj Patel; Kaitlynn Iyana Randolph; Tylin Ja’mier Mugerwa Siwemuke; Manuel Omar Tapia.
Juniors Andrew Markham Bonar; Sierra Baylee Driver; Sydney Brooke Driver; Candace Kathryn Hill; Dominic Lal; Emmeline Wynn Lombard; Chyna Janell Mays; Vraj Patel; Nkima Jenell Stephenson; Dahlia Elise Walters.
Seniors Tavonnia Emanie Fisher; Kaitlynn Symone Grant; Mark Anthony Jones; Isaiah Butch Joseph; Zhnae Tyanne Murray-Baptiste; Leah Adell Reid; Darren Jacob Smith; Leilani Makini Smith; FerreGhian Jessie Trujillo; Kimani Shantell Williams.
Seniors Caira Isabella Anderson; Courtney Hogan; Matthew Juniors Thai Binh Le; Julia BenAudrey Sentara Banks; nett Long; Rajuan Denard Emily Rose Barrus; Jack Henry Dugan; Olivia Celine Nelson; Mai Nguyen; Molly Gibson; Doran Candice-Kim Grace Niemczyk; Kristin Johnson; Jina Mahesh Patel; Nkechi Nzerue; Bhaskar Ohanshyam Patel; Srusty Max Lessing Porter; Johanna Kate Stokes; Jahnei Imani Jignesh Patel. Turner; Kelly Zheng. Salem High School Seniors Sophomores Landy Alvarez; Sadiq Alexis Faith Berry; Arte Baker; Nia Logan Amaya Shamice Burch; Carson; Dajalyn Mahognay Jordan Ayania Cohen; Alexis Collins; Rasul Jasir Dent; Kaila Abree Gabaree; Logan Ann Hardy; Nazmokeem Kelon Harvey; Christina Christopher Hull; Kristen Gloria Mandzyuk; Keeley Brianna Stanley; Tatum Shaye Alease Turner; Aaron Alexis Owenby; Demetrious Dramon Sampson, Jr.; Zheng. Shannon Watson; Deshavon
Arabia Mountain High mourns teacher Henry Joyner, III
A
rabia
Nicola Wood.
School family was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Mountain High the popular calculus School in Lithoeducator. Robert K. nia is mourning Campbell, president of the loss of one of Arabia’s PTSA, said its teachers, Henthe school sends its ry Joyner, III. The thoughts and prayers funeral service for to Mr. Joyner’s family Mr. Joyner was during this time. held on Thursday, Mr. Joyner is the March 24 at Big son of Anne Wofford Bethel AME Church, 220 Auburn Joyner McKenzie and the late Ave. N.E., Atlanta. Rev. Henry Joyner, Jr. Mr. Joyner passed away on Pastor John Foster officiated the morning of March 16 after the service. Murray Brothers Fubattling cancer. neral Home handled the arrangeThe Arabia Mountain High ments.
Honor Teachers Joy Alford; Amani Amaizo; Lennox Amsterdam; Stacey Archer; Lauren Arrington; Imani Bailey; Stephen Bare; Sandra Bassett; Felicia Bradley; Sophia Bradley; Heather Bragg; Tre’nee Brooks; Tishanna Brown; R. Kevin Brown; Trina Burroughs; Lisa Campbell; Pam Carter; Jenni Caruso; Brett Creel; Michele Dailey; Audrey Dallas; Owen Daniel; Bren Daniels; Corbett Davis; Ryan Denison; Patrick Devane; Kim Donaldson; Kelly Elder; Paola Fachisthers; Seth Fields; Daniel Fisher; Darius Freeman; Dr. Charles Garner; Paul Hagan; Marion
Hanahan; Karen Hardy; Jim Hauck; Justin Hooks; Tyrone Huebsch; Jeanette Jackson; Andre Johnson; Nastasha Johnson; Shakita Johnson; Tiffany Jones; Diana Kennen; Julie Kimble; Urmia Layne; Whitney Logsdon; Kim Mathis; Judy McCart; Kevin McKinney; Clarence McNeil; Lynda Norton; Dr. Jodi Osborn; Nilesh Patel; Donna Payne; Dean Poole; Susan Powell; Richard Preston; Jason Price; Granville Ricketts; Shauna Roddenberry; Debraca Rodriquez; Linda Rollins; Lenae Rose; Allison Russell; Dr. Debra Russell; Dr. Dennis Russell; Karletta Sigman; Cheryl Sikes; Heidi Smith; Jesse Smith; Martin Snagg; Vincent Sneed; Caroline Snell; Robert St. John; John Starr, Sr.; Lydia Stephens; Chad Suddeth; Kevin Surrette; Margie Talevski; Miriam Thomas; Cherie Ullo; Sonja Vernon; Tammy White; Dametria Williams; Dr. Nathan Wisdom; Kimberly Wisnewski; Michael Zellous. The Superintendent’s Academic Awards Ceremony is sponsored by the Academic Booster Club and supported by individual contributors, including Bank of North Georgia, Cannon Financial Strategists, Conyers Flower Shop, Georgia Power Company, Hedrick & Dodson Family Dentistry. RCHS G.I.F.T.S. Club volunteers served at the event.
PAGE 10•MARCH 26,2016
Let Us Make Man conference, gala set
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ounders of the Let Us Make Man Conference will host its 10th Anniversary Scholarship and Awards Gala on March 31, 7 p.m., at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, 1630 Metropolitan Parkway, Atlanta. Dr. Michael Eric Dyson will be the keynote speaker and V-103 radio station’s Big Tigger will serve as host of the gala. The C.T. Vivian Medal of Courage will be awarded to Jonathan Butler, a graduate student at University of Missouri who led a successful hunger strike in protest of the racism he, classmates and community members faced on campus and throughout the nation. The Let Us Make Man Annual Conference, initially convened by former Atlanta City Councilman and radio personality Derrick Boazman, seeks to address issues and challenges African American youths face on a daily basis. This year’s conference is comprised of a week-long series of events including a Poetry Slam on March 29, Dramatic Performance entitled “The 11th Hour” on March 30, scholarship gala on March 31 and the culminating event, “The Gathering to Reclaim Black Manhood Conference” on Saturday, April 2, which is free and open to the
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Mike Thurmond to hold open house
Attorney Mawuli Davis
public. “Access to education is one of the most critical forms of support we can offer to the young people of our community. Let Us Make Man and its community partners have spent the past 10 years pouring into our young people and this scholarship gala is our opportunity to expand that effort. We will give away $20,000 in scholarships,” said Attorney Mawuli Davis, founding member of Let Us Make Man and Scholarship Gala Co-Chair. Tickets are $100 per person. Proceeds will benefit the Let Us Make Man Scholarship Fund. To purchase tickets or sponsor a table for the Scholarship Gala, visit lumm2016.eventbrite.com or contact committee co-chair Attorney Mawuli Davis at 404-244-2004. To register for the conference, visit www.letusmakeman.net
WHO: Mike Thurmond for CEO Campaign WHAT: Celebratory Office Opening for the entire family WHEN: Saturday, March 26, 2016, 11 a. m. – 2 p.m. WHERE: 2853 Panola Road, Lithonia, Georgia 30058 The open house event will include a message from Mike Thurmond at approximately 11:45 a.m. and messages from community leaders. Staff will distribute campaign materials such as yard signs and stickers. There will be light refreshments including cake and soft drinks.
Marc Fomby to lead “Let’s Talk” conversation in Rockdale The Rockdale County Drug-Free Community Coalition and Youth Action Team will present “Let’s Talk…A Community Conversation About Drugs Underage Drinking, Gangs and Consequences” on Tuesday, April 12, 5:30 to 8 p.m., at Rockdale Career Academy, 1064 Culpepper Drive, Conyers. Parents and students are invited to attend an enlightening discussion that will be led by Marc Fomby, CEO of FTC Prevention Services. Fomby specializes in youth development and training. His experience spans more than 19 years in law enforcement and program development as a prevention services coordinator.
Stonecrest continued from page 1
November rather than May, Lary speculated. “I think it would be too soon to have it in May, based on the DeKalb Board of Elections’ decision to move the special election for the DeKalb Commission District 7 seat to November,” Lary said. “The board did not want the expense of having a separate election for that seat so I don’t think it would have a stand-alone for the Stonecrest bill.” The proposed city of Stonecrest in east DeKalb would have 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.
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MARCH 26, 2016 • PAGE 11
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