VOLUME 22 NUMBER 4
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APRIL23, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Gov. Deal signs Stonecrest bill for referendum Valerie J. Morgan
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esidents of the proposed city of Stonecrest in Southeast DeKalb County will finally get to have their say on whether they should incorporate and govern themselves. Gov. Nathan Deal signed the bill on April 21 clearing the way for a voter referendum on the measure. “We have worked hard for residents to be able to decide. It took three years to get this done and we are ecstatic,” said Jason Lary, president of the Stonecrest City Alliance, which had pushed for the bill. If voters approve the bill in November, elections for the pro-
posed city’s five-member council and mayor would take place in March 2017. The positions would be part time under SB 208, which received final passage in the General Assembly on March 24. With the amendments to a part-time structure, the part-time salaries were set at $20,000 a year for mayor and $16,000 for council members. The proposed municipality, which would include 50,000 residents, is bordered to the East by Rockdale County, to the South by Panola
Mountain State Park, and to the West and North by DeKalb County. The city would provide three main services: parks and recreation, planning and zoning and code enforcement. DeKalb County would provide police and fire services. The Stonecrest City Alliance’s feasibility study projects the city would have annual revenues of $9.8 million and annual expenses of $7.9 million, leaving almost a $2 million surplus. (L-R) Gov. Nathan Deal and Jason Lary share a lighthearted moment during a break in the 2016 Legislative Session. Photo Provided
Nine qualify for DeKalb’s District 7 Commission seat
T
he November special election to fill DeKalb County’s Super District 7 Commission seat will be crowded. When qualifying ended on April 20 at noon, nine candidates had officially thrown their names in the hat to run for the seat vacated by former Commissioner Stan Watson. There are two years left on Watson’s unexpired fouryear term. Watson is running in a three-way race for DeKalb tax commissioner in May. The District 7 candidates are Gregory Adams, Diane Daniels Adoma, George Chidi, Faye Coffield, Jerome Edmondson, Randal Mangham, Edward Patton, Rita Robinzine and John E. Tolbert, Jr. Adams, a police officer and military veteran who lives in Stone Mountain, said public safety, economic development and senior citizens and youths are among his top priorities. “I will be a champion and positive voice focusing on public safety, economic development and civic engagement. I am committed to public service and fighting for others—especially our youth and seniors. I will work diligently to gain the confidence of business owners to develop and move forward with a long-term
Custodian found dead at DeKalb’s Martin Luther King High
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economic development plan and engage residents to bring awareness to how the County works,” said Adams, who most recently ran in last year’s special election to fill the District 5 Commission seat vacated by Lee May. Diane Daniels Adoma, who lives in unincorporated DeKalb near Lithonia, said she is seeking the seat because she is committed to helping make DeKalb better. “I believe in DeKalb County. I’m dedicated to DeKalb County and I desire the absolute
Anthony Jacobs
tudents at Martin Luther King High School were diverted to neighboring schools on April 21 after a 52-yearold custodian was found dead at the school. The man, identified as Anthony Jacobs, 52, was a night janitor at the school. Jacobs had been ill for some time and appeared to have collapsed and died at the school, authorities said. A co-worker, another custodian, made the discovery. Authorities said they did not suspect foul play. Students in the 9th and 10th grades were relocated to Arabia Mountain High in Lithonia and 11th and 12 grade students were best for DeKalb County. I want to sent to Southwest DeKalb High in Decatur as bring my leadership and service to police sealed off the school to investigate. the board in order to enhance our Friends posted farewell notes to Jacobs’ legislative body and to bring my Facebook page, many of them saying how business, community and profesmuch they would miss him and were praying sional skills to help in moving for his family. He was remembered for his DeKalb County forward,” said soft voice and warm smile. Adoma, who is a business consulOne friend wrote that it was a sad day for tant and a franchise owner of H & classmates of the former Brown High School R Block. Adoma ran in the special in Atlanta, where Jacobs apparently attended election for State Senate District school. 43 in 2015 and State Representa“Today is a sad day for my Atlanta and tive District 81 in 2014. Brown High School family. RIP Anthony Jacobs. I will see you again,” the friend posted. See District 7, page 9
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Antioch-Lithonia Celebrating 147 Years of Service
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Grace First Lady Idell Ward
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Valerie J. Morgan
APRIL 23,2016 • PAGE 3
Taste of Conyers to feature food, cooking demonstration, vintage cars
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lde Town Conyers is preparing to host the annual Taste of Conyers and Conyers Car Show on Saturday, April 30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Taste of Conyers, held on Main Street, showcases local restaurants offering small samples, or tastes, of their specialties. Restaurants price their samples ranging from $1 to $4 per sample. Businesses scheduled to participate include: Beasley Drug Company, Greedy Beedy, Gyros to Go, Celtic Tavern, Rio’s Italian Ice, Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers, Gigi’s Place, Rolling N Dough, Atlanta Pizza and Gyro, Olde Town Bistro and Grill, Creamberry’s, Amici, The Chocolate Box, Sweet Row Cakes, Whistle Post Tavern, Mellow Mushroom, Frontera Mex-Mex Grill, Dairy Queen,
Awake Coffee Community and Just Loaf’N Poboys. Cooking demonstrations at the Olde Town Pavilion include Seven Gables’ Chef Alain Bouzoubaa, Aundrea Dumas of Shirley’s Cutie Cakes and other local chefs. The city of Conyers has once again partnered with the Conyers Car Show, presented by Redline Events, to present vintage cars parked along Railroad Street. People are encouraged to bring their youngsters to enjoy children’s activities. Live entertainment will be featured on the Conyers Depot stage on Railroad Street. Genres of music include country, Southern rock, blues and soul with a featured performance by Atlanta blues and classic rock favorite the Barry Richman Band. “The Taste of Conyers is always a popular event in which the public can come out and enjoy samples from a variety of local restaurants all in one setting, in historic Olde Town Conyers,” said Olde Town event coordinator Sandy Fowler. “The food vendors paired with our local merchants, car show and children’s activities make a great Saturday outing for the entire family.” There is a small fee for restaurants to participate in the Taste of Conyers. Admission to the Taste of Conyers and the Conyers Car show is free. For more information on the event or for restaurants to register to participate, contact the Conyers Welcome Center at 770-602-2606 or visit www.conyersga.com.
DeKalb Medical moves closer to capital campaign goal with donor pledge
DeKalb Medical has received a $100,000 anonymous pledge toward the Building the Future of Emergency Medicine: When Every Second Counts capital campaign. The purpose of this campaign is to fund a $2.1 million renovation and redesign of the Emergency Department at the North Decatur Campus. The pace-setting donor pledge comes with one condition. The DeKalb Medical Foundation and DeKalb community must match the gift dollar for dollar. The gift issues a call to action for area residents, healthcare employees and volunteers to step up in support of a new era of emergency medicine at DeKalb Medical. To date, the Foundation has raised more than $1.6 million to fund the ER renovation. “I’m so grateful to these generous donors who are committed to the success of our Emergency Center project. I know their philanthropy will inspire others to get involved and get us to the finish line on time,” said DeKalb Medical Foundation Vice-President Ty Tippett. The capital campaign proceeds are earmarked for architectural enhancements to the ER to optimize response times and better
meet patient needs. The new ER will feature dual check-in areas -- one dedicated to emergency patients and the other to “fasttrack” urgent care patients. As one of Atlanta’s busiest ERs, DeKalb Medical at North Decatur delivers care to more than 70,000 patients each year. That number continues to rise as the trend of patients utilizing ERs for urgent care increases. “The new ER will balance the delivery of care to meet this new and emerging need in our growing community while continuing to provide critical emergency care for those with life-threatening injuries or symptoms,” said DeKalb Medical President and CEO John Shelton Jr. The campaign is one of several that the DeKalb Medical Foundation has sponsored that strengthens the links between the hospital system and the communities it serves. If you are interested in supporting the Building the Future of Emergency Medicine: When Every Second Counts capital campaign, please contact the Foundation at 404-501-5956 or email foundation@dekalbmedical.org or visit online at dekalbmedicalfoundation.org.
KDB to host household hazardous waste recycling event Spring is in the air and it’s the time of year that many families spruce up their homes and throw away items accumulated over the winter. But what about potentially hazardous items, like paint or chemicals, that shouldn’t end up in a landfill? Keep DeKalb Beautiful (KDB), the community outreach unit of the DeKalb County Sanitation Division, has the solution. KDB will host a Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Event on Saturday, April 30, from 8 a.m. – noon, at the DeKalb County Sanitation Division’s Central Transfer Station, 3720 Leroy Scott Drive, Decatur. Participants will have an opportunity to properly dispose of dangerous household chemicals that are no longer in use. Hazardous materials such as aerosols, batteries, adhesives,
flammables, lawn care products, fluorescent light bulbs, photo chemicals, artist supplies, and paint-related products will be accepted. Items such as agricultural waste, ammunition, pharmaceuticals, radioactive materials, and bio-hazardous and biomedical waste will not be accepted. Donations will be limited to 10 gallons of paint per vehicle. Participation is free and only open to DeKalb County residents. Identification to prove DeKalb County residency may be requested, such as a Georgia Driver’s License. For more information on this event or how to plan a beautification project with KDB, contact KDB at 404-3712654 or kdb@dekalbcountyga.gov or visit www.keepdekalbbeautiful.org.
DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk Debra DeBerry is notifying citizens that the Board of Equalization is moving to the Manuel J. Maloof Annex, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur. The office will open there on Thursday, April 28. Limited parking is available at the location and additional
parking is provided directly across the street in the West Trinity Place Parking Deck for $6. All hearings scheduled on April 28 and after will be heard at the originally scheduled time in the new location. For more information, call 404-687-3876.
DeKalb Board of Equalization relocating April 28
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Money Smart Week event for children
Coming Up
Hear stories about savings and create a milk carton bank on April 26, 5 to 6:30 p.m., at Salem-Panola Library, 5137 Salem Road, Lithonia. Participants should bring a clean, empty, half gallon milk or juice carton with a cap. All additional supplies will be provided. Targeted age group is 5-12 years old. Groups of five or more should call the branch for an appointment. Open to first 18 participants. For more information, call 770-987-6900.
Driver safety for seniors class at Covington Library Developed by the National Safety Council and taught by a certified instructor, this is an essential class for senior drivers. The class will be on April 28, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Covington Library, 3500 Covington Highway, Decatur. Topics will include: •· Minimizing the effects of dangerous blind spots •· Maintaining proper following distance behind another car •· Proper use of safety belts, air bags, antilock brakes and new technology found in cars today •· Ways to monitor your own and others’ driving skills and capabilities •· The effects of medications on driving •· The importance of eliminating distractions, such as cellphone calls The class size is limited to 20. To register, call 404-508-7190, ext. 2257. Participants must stay for duration of class.
Shaquille O’Neal discusses latest book in “Little Shaq” series
NBA All-Star and bestselling author Shaquille O’Neal will discuss his latest book in the Little Shaq series, “Little Shaq Takes a Chance,” on April 30, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at First Baptist Church Decatur, 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. The community is invited. For more information, call404-370-3070..
ATLANTA
Auburn Avenue Research Library to host “Lyrics and Flows” In recognition of National Poetry Month (April), and in collaboration with Global Arts Partners, the Auburn Avenue Research Library will host Lyrics and Flows on April 30, 3 p.m., at the Hammonds House Museum, 503 Peoples St SW, Atlanta. This community event will feature original poetry and spoken word performances. For more information, call 404-730-2130.
AARP to offer free shredding fest Protect yourself against identity theft! Shred your private documents on April 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Cascade United Methodist Church, 3144 Cascade Rd SW, Atlanta. Join AARP, Better Business Bureau, Cascade United Methodist Church, and Action Ministries for this free shredding event. Documents will be shredded onsite by a professional shredding company and information will be provided on identity theft and strategies to protect against fraud. Also, you can help support families in need by donating canned goods onsite. All canned donations will go to Action Ministries. This shredding event is free to the public, but registration is required. To register, call 1-877-926-8300.
DEKALB DeKalb County Library Host Money $mart Week During the week of April 25-29, DeKalb County libraries will be conducting financial management workshops during Money $mart Week. Topics include: Protect Yourself from Identity Theft Budgeting Your Money for Success Your Credit Report Surviving on a Limited Budget Budgeting Your Money For more information, contact your local library branch or go online to dekalblibrary.org/.
“1000 Books before Kindergarten” kick-off set On April 28,10 to 11 a.m., learn how you can build strong language connections in your baby’s brain through the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program at the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur. The kick-off is sponsored by DeKalb County Public Library and the DeKalb Library Foundation. Learn how to participate and receive support materials, reading tips, book recommendations, as well as free books. For more information call 404-286-6980.
GWINNETT
Spring yard sale set at Mountain Park Clear out your clutter and make some cash at the spring yard sale on April 30, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Mountain Park Activity Building, 5050 Forks-Trickum Road, Lilburn. Reserve your space today. Outside vendors enjoy a 10x10 paved space or inside vendors have an 8’ table and chairs. Rain or shine event. Gwinnett County reserves the right to disallow items deemed inappropriate, no food items are allowed to be sold. Vendors must pre-register at www.gwinnettparks.com. The vendor fee for Gwinnett residents is: $26 for inside with code MPA11403 or $21 for outside with code MPA11402. There is an additional fee for vendors outside Gwinnett. For more information, call 678-277-0179.
ROCKDALE
Poetry Slam & Reading at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library Adults and teens are invited on April 28, 6 to 7:30 p.m., to join the Toast of Rockdale Toastmasters in recognition of National Poetry Month at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green Street, Conyers. There will be a “Spoken Word and Poetry Slam” featuring local spoken word artists, library patrons who sign up to participate and Toastmasters members. To register, visit or call the Adult Services department at 770-388-5040 ext. 118.
—Coming Up is compiled by Empish Thomas— Event details may change at any time. Please always check with the event organizer before you go. To submit your event to Coming Up, email editor@ocgnews.com.
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Ex-MARTA cop indicted on arson charges
A former MARTA Police officer was charged April 19 for setting his car on fire and reporting it stolen. A DeKalb County Grand Jury indicted Malasta Hill on charges of arson, false report of a crime and damaging property to defraud another. “Police are expected to maintain a high level of integrity,” DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James said. “Malasta Hill tried to cheat his insurance company, and did so in a very dangerous manner.” Malasta Hill In January 2015, then-MARTA Officer Hill called DeKalb County Police to report his 2010 Chevrolet Impala stolen from the Mall at Stonecrest parking lot in Lithonia. A day later, the car was found set on fire at 4878 River Road in Ellenwood. In October, a DeKalb County arson investigator filed charges against Hill.
DeKalb schools’ chief completes senior staff appointments
DeKalb County School District Superintendent R. Stephen Green has completed his senior staff appointments as follows: Lisa Lynne Martin, coief Academic and Accountability Officer, and Chezia A. Calloway, executive director for Exceptional Education. Martin will assume her position on June 1, and Calloway will join the district on Aug. 22. “After several months of a national search, we have filled the final senior leadership positions with two outstanding educators,” said Green. “The leadership is now in place for us to return rigor, relevancy, and relationships to the classroom where the work to prepare our students for college and careers gets done.” During her more than 20 years in education, Martin has held teaching and school leadership positions in various school systems in Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida. She earned a Doctorate Degree in educational leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University. A doctoral candidate (2016) in organizational leadership, Calloway has more than 20 years of experience in education including being the assistant director of student services for the Ministry of Education in St. David’s, Bermuda, where she managed special education programs. Also, Calloway had oversight and approval responsibilities for general education, special education and residential programs for the Maryland State Department of Education. Recently, Green filled senior leadership positions in human capital management, communications and community relations, legal affairs, student support and intervention, student advancement and charter schools.
DeKalb residents urged to help develop 2035 Comprehensive Plan DeKalb County encourages residents to participate in the development of the 2035 Comprehensive Plan, which plots the course of growth and development over the next 20 years. The public kickoff of the 2035 Comprehensive Plan is Thursday, April 28, 6:30 p.m. in the Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive in Decatur. “The DeKalb County 2035 Comprehensive Plan is essential in promoting, developing, sustaining and coordinating a comprehensive roadmap for DeKalb’s future,” said Interim CEO Lee May. “We can best serve our residents and stakeholders when we have a clear understanding of their priorities and thoughts for the future of our county.” Throughout the process, the community assesses its needs in a range of planning areas including population, economic development, housing, natural and cultural resources, solid waste management, community facilities, land use and transportation. Once an assessment is made, strategic solutions are developed to meet those needs. In addition to resident feedback, cooperation from state and regional partners also drives the planning process. Governing partners include the Governor’s Development Council, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), DeKalb County government and local municipalities.
APRIL 23, 2016 • PAGE 5
$5,000 reward offered in armed robbery of Tucker T-Mobile store
DeKalb County Police, Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta and T-Mobile are asking the public for information on an armed robbery. A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those responsible. On March 1, at approximately 8:10 p.m., three males, armed with handguns wearing dark colored hoodies, entered the store and forced employees to the back of the T-mobile store on LaVista Road in Tucker. The suspects stole money from the cash drawers and fled. Any information on the case can be submitted anonymously to the Crime Stoppers Atlanta tip line at 404-577-TIPS (8477), online www. crimestoppersatlanta.org or by texting CSA and the tip to CRIMES (274637). Persons do not have to give their name or any identifying information to be eligible for the reward.
Gwinnett Fire purchases chest compression devices
The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners on April 19 approved the purchase of the LUCAS device, a piece of equipment that delivers consistent and uninterrupted chest compressions to patients experiencing sudden cardiac arrest emergencies. Medical professionals use the device during the performance of CPR. “The placement of the LUCAS device on every first-out ambulance will allow our personnel to continue providing exceptional pre-hospital emergency medical care to residents and visitors,” Fire Chief Casey Snyder said. The American Heart Association recommends that a patient in cardiac arrest receive artificial chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 times per minute at a depth of 2 to 2.4 inches, with as few pauses as possible. Paramedics are often met with situations that cause interruptions to quality chest compressions lasting longer than 10 seconds. Such situations occur when a patient is being moved down a flight of stairs, while moving through narrow hallways or doorways, or when first responders are unable to access the patient’s side. The LUCAS device delivers continuous chest compressions at a rate and quality necessary to provide the greatest chance of survival for patients and will aid paramedics in getting the patient to the ambulance or transport vehicle without interrupting care. “Use of the device will eliminate the need for extra resources to be deployed on cardiac related calls, freeing up emergency personnel for other responses,” said Snyder. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services will purchase 31 LUCAS devices from Physio-Control Inc. The equipment comes at a total cost of $593,834.68 and includes batteries, disposable supplies and maintenance.
Smoke Rise Baptist Summer Day Camp Weekly sessions starting May 31- August 5 8:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m. Smoke Rise Baptist church offers a convenient extended day with a busy schedule of varied activities for children 5 to 16. Our day camps include: field trips, hot lunch, academics, and an experience to please any kid. Teens have a steady diet of team building, community service, academics and summer fun. Early enrolment discount, season pass to Both Six Flags and White Water – weekly tuition is all inclusive.
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Movers & Shakers in the Community
Jesse “Jay” Cunningham elected Georgia PTA District Director
F
ormer DeKalb County School Board member Jesse “Jay” Cunningham has been elected to serve as director of Georgia PTA’s District 11, which includes Rockdale, DeKalb and Newton counties. “I am very excited about this new servant leadership assignment,” said Cunningham. “I truly believe that there is no better way to make a real impact in life than by advocating and speaking up for our most precious commodity, our children.
Cunningham said he plans to work with schools in District 11 to charter PTAs. “I will do my very best to work as hard as I possibly can to make sure that both our families and children are well represented,” Cunningham said. The district is preparing to host its Spring Conference in May and will announce details so that parents and others who are interested may attend. In addition to Cunningham, the District 11 leadership team includes Tommy
Jesse “Jay” Cunningham
Travis (Secretary/Treasurer) and the following individuals: Region 1 DeKalb Council PTA President: Rueben Eudovique
Region 2 DeKalb Council PTA President: Tanya Smith Rockdale Council PTA President: Arkeitha Prince Legislative Chair: Doree Henry Membership Chair: Jewel Randolph Male Involvement CoChair: Reggie Johnson (7-12 grade) Male Involvement CoChair: Mark Pecke (K-6 grade) Communications Chair: Judith Williams Family Engagement Chair: Paula Tate
Education Chair: Dr. Bryant Thomas The Board of Directors also includes the following three individuals who are members of the Georgia PTA Board of Directors residing in District 11: Georgia PTA Family Engagement Chair: Keith Lamar Georgia PTA Resource Development Chair: Evelyn Cunningham Georgia PTA Reflections Chair: Janice Gurley
GPTC welcomes Ted Cummings as newest board member
“Ted Cummings
Ted R. H. Cummings has been appointed to serve a three-year term as a member of the Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) Board of Directors. “Ted Cummings brings an
impressive entrepreneurial background to Georgia Piedmont,” said GPTC President Jabari Simama. “His commitment to education and community service will be beneficial to our students and stakeholders. I look forward to working with him, as well as the other board members to create more opportunities to prepare our graduates for the 21st century workforce.” A small business owner, Cummings is a board member of the DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce. Since 2013, he has served as chairman of the Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee (MBEIC)
Professional Services Industry Group for the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC). As an advocate for education, he is currently president of the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and Chairman of the School Advisory Council at Liberty Middle School in Covington. Cummings founded ONYX MS Group in 2006. His company specializes in providing a wide range of advanced communications services, including audio/video services; theatrical lighting; and trade show management services. ONYX MS Group’s client list includes The Coca-Cola Company; International
Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP); Eli Lilly and Company; and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). “One of my favorite African proverbs is ‘If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together’,” said Cummings. “By serving as a member of the Board of Directors of Georgia Piedmont Technical College, I will work with a dedicated group of professionals to achieve common goals, such as enhancing the academic growth of students and expanding the college’s programs, now and well into the future,” he said.
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APRIL 23, 2016 • PAGE 7
Elections 2016 Your Voice Your Vote DeKalb community groups to host District Attorney, CEO candidate forum
Several DeKalb County organizations will host a forum for the CEO and DeKalb District Attorney candidates. The forum will be held on Thursday, April 28, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Oglethorpe University’s Conant Performing Arts Center, 4484 Peachtree Road, N.E, Atlanta. The candidates will share their positions and where they stand on key issues in DeKalb. The CEO candidates are Joe Bembry, Jack Lovelace, Connie Stokes and Michael Thurmond. The District Attorney candidates are incumbent Robert James and Sherry Boston, who is currently the DeKalb Solicitor General. 90.1 WABE Morning Edition Host Denis O’Hayer will moderate the discussion.
DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, Leadership DeKalb, Junior League of DeKalb and Parent Councils United, and other organizers are hosting the event. The schedule is as follows: 6:00 p.m. Guests arrive 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. DA Candidate Forum 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CEO Candidate Forum There is no charge to attend, but RSVPs are requested for planning purposes. The public can register online at www.bit.ly/DeKalbDA-CEOForum. Interested media can RSVP by contacting Emily Yang at eyang@dekalbchamber.org or 404-378-8000.
Gwinnett hiring poll officials for elections Gwinnett County Elections is looking to hire paid poll officials for the upcoming elections in May and July. “We have several busy elections ahead of us and with more than 150 polling precincts in the county, it will take several thousand poll officials to staff just one election,” said Elections Supervisor Lynn Ledford. Successful poll officials demonstrate patience, enjoy working with people, take direction well and are detail oriented. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, Gwinnett resident, at least 16 years old and able to read, write and speak English. Those who have been convicted of a felony or judicially determined to be mentally incompetent are not eligible to serve as a poll official. “Being a poll official gives residents an opportunity to be part of the elec-
tions process while giving back to their community,” Ledford said. Poll officials must have transportation to and from the polling location and have access to a computer to complete online training; some officials may require additional training. All officials must report to their polls by 6 a.m. on Election Day and work the whole day, which is approximately 14 hours. Also, poll officials who plan to vote will need to vote absentee by mail or advance in person. When possible, poll officials are assigned to their home precinct; however if there are no vacancies at the polling location, they will be asked to work at a different precinct. Applications are available at www.gwinnettcountyjobs.com. For more information, visit www.gwinnettelections.com.
Good News Notebook to host forum for Rockdale candidates The Good News Notebook will host a forum for candidates running Rockdale County Sheriff, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, Commissioner, Post 1 on Saturday, April 23, 5 to 7:30 p.m., 1432 VFW Drive, Conyers. The following candidates confirmed attendance: Sheriff Eric Levett will face challenger Donald Ferguson; Oz Nesbitt and RJ Hadley, who are
running for Chairman; and Thua Barlay, Franklin Beauford, Terry Mahaffey and Sherri Washington, who are all running for Commissioner, Post 1. DJ Scottie, owner of Just 4 Fun Radio, Michael Meyers and Connie Alsobrook, owner of the Good News Notebook magazine.
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Cyrus Steele, Ralph Williams to headline variety show in Conyers
S
tand-up comedian Cyrus Steele, who has appeared on The Jimmy Fallon Show, is bringing his act to Conyers on Friday, April 29, at the JP Carr Center, 90 Hardin St. S.W., Conyers. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. The Fellowship of Jesus Christ Church is hosting “A Night of Inspiration” and is offering an evening of fun and faith in a lineup that also includes Stellar Award-nominated singer,
Ralph Williams, powerhouse spoken word artists and other talent. “We are very excited and looking forward to this event. Three years ago, we had Cyrus Steele come for an Open Mic Social for our young adult group and he did an outstanding job,” said Rachel Loyd, who is coordinating the event. “We’re also looking forward to welcoming Ralph Williams. Those who come can expect a great performance by Williams and others.”
Loyd said the show is a fundraiser for the church’s building fund campaign. The Fellowship of Jesus Christ Church, which is located at 1581 Lester Road, Conyers, will turn 16 years old in September. Loyd said her parents, Pastors Micheal and Vanessa Loyd, founded the church. Tickets for the upcoming variety show are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For more information, call Rachel Loyd at 404-480-2367.
Cyrus Steele
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Business News
GLCC honors eight students with inaugural scholarships By Valerie J.Morgan
Rep. Doreen Carter, who serves as president of the GLCC. “When we started this process, we had only planned to award four $500 scholarships but ended up raising enough money at our November gala to provide 10 scholarships for high school seniors planning to go to college. Five Star Insurance, Residential Enhancement, Full Body Rejuvenation, On Common Ground News, Arabian Mountain Heritage Alliance and Peach State Federal Credit Union were
DeKalb Schools Superintendent R. Stephen Green keynoted the luncheon, encouraging students to always go the extra mile in putting their best foot forward. “I want to tell you that you’re good, but don’t get comfortable—complacent—with being good. We want you to be great—on purpose. Your talent will make you good but remember, your grit will make you great,” Green said. Green told students each would receive a copy of the book, “Great By Choice,” written by author Jim Collins. Peach State Federal Credit Photo by Glenn L. Morgan Union sponsored the luncheon, super sponsors for the event. CD which was held at This Is It banMoody and Juanita Baranco also quet facility in Lithonia. became sponsors during the gala. The Chamber will host its Carter said board member Coffee Connections networking Elaine Davis-Nickens, president event on Thursday, April 28, 7:30 of EDN & Associates, worked a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Holiday hard in chairing the scholarship Inn Stonecrest. program. “We invite business owners “She (Davis-Nickens) reand representatives to come out viewed all of the essays and and meet new potential clients. corresponded with each of the The Coffee Connections will help students then she made sure that develop your personal brand and each was present to attend the encourage new business opportuluncheon,” said Carter. “I really nities,” Carter said. appreciate all of her hard work.”
vital. Delivery of county services to 7th District residents must improve. Most importantly, there must be a wide open door between the 7th District Commissioner and all District residents. There is no room for questions of integrity and commitment. I will work on these issues and a lot more.” Lithonia resident Jerome Edmondson, president and CEO of Top Tell USA call centers, said he wants to restore trust in DeKalb county government, build a stronger economy and make safety a priority. As your Super District 7 Commissioner, I will work to restore trust by making Super District 7 and DeKalb County business transparent, so we can build a brighter future together. As a successful businessman, and the only person in this race that has created thousands of jobs by following one rule: Treat people right!! I will continue to fight to create good jobs through economic development and make DeKalb’s minimum wage a living wage. When our children aren’t safe, nothing else matters. That’s why I will work to ensure that our public safety workers have the tools they need to adequately do their jobs, so that our community continues to be a great place to live, work and raise
a family,” said Edmondson. Edward Patton, a real estate agent who lives in Stone Mountain, said he believes that he can bring a fresh start to the district and is prepared to serve all of the citizens in the county. “As a candidate for DeKalb County Commissioner District 7, I am the One Choice that can bring a fresh start and new direction with positive changes in DeKalb County,” said Patton. “As a businessman, I have advocated for private property rights for citizens of DeKalb at the local, state and national level. I am a member of the Redan Middle Local School Council, a voice for strong education and student development. I am a member of DeKalb Association of Realtors. I have advocated for economic development and community enhancement. A member of the North Georgia Water Planning Basin Advisory Council, I have participated in discussion on planning for smart growth. I am prepared to work for all citizen of DeKalb County.” Decatur resident Rita Robinzine, who teaches Social Studies at Druid Hills High School, said she sees economic development and public safety as critical issues. “As a proud Democrat, I am
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he Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce (GLCC) proudly honored students from Arabia Mountain, MLK, and Lithonia high schools at its April 20 luncheon meeting. The Chamber presented scholarships to eight students selected as winners of the organization’s inaugural essay competition. The competition was open to the four high schools located in Lithonia: Arabia Mountain, Lithonia, Miller Grove and MLK. Two students were awarded two scholarships totaling $1,000 each for submitting work in more than one category: Alana Barfield, who attends MLK High School, and Kenneth Doyle, who attends Arabia Mountain High School. The other six students were each awarded $500 scholarships: Jael Stanton, Arabia Mountain; Jalen Bobbitt, Arabia Mountain; James Profet, Martin Luther King High; Jason Flowers, Lithonia High; and Mary Kan, Arabia Mountain. “We were thrilled to honor such talented students,” said State District 7 continued from page 1
George Chidi, who is resigning from the Pine Lake City Council to run for the county seat, said he wants to restore competence, accountability and integrity to DeKalb County’s government. “We’ve been mired in scandal for years. We have roads we can’t pave and cops we can’t pay properly because our tax base has fallen. Much of that can be laid at the feet of businesses and people voting with their feet. Metro Atlanta has grown explosively. DeKalb has not, because bad governance drives away good people,” Chidi said. “We can pull South DeKalb’s property values out of freefall. We can knit together a shared identity as a county. But first, we need leaders we can trust.” Faye Coffield, a retired Atlanta police sergeant who lives in Lithonia, said she plans to work to improve services, infrastructure and integrity, if she is elected. “As a 36-year homeowner in the 7th, I believe in its potential for greatness and that of its residents. There is need for positive growth and economic development. Its roads and infrastructure must be repaired and maintained, not patched,” Coffield said. “Enhancements in public safety are
running for the Commission seat to ensure that the constituents will get someone to fight for the issues that are important to them,” said Robinzine. “My goals would be to increase economic development by encouraging more businesses like Acuity Lighting to come to the district, making police and firemen the highest paid in the metropolitan region for retention for safer neighborhoods, and reducing traffic by strongly encouraging the General Assembly to push for the extension of the MARTA rail which will not only help reduce traffic, but allow us to get much needed grant money to develop businesses.” On Common Ground News was unable to get a response from Randal Mangham, who lives in Stone Mountain. Mangham is a former state legislator. The newspaper also did not get a response by deadline from John Tolbert, who lives in Decatur. Tolbert is a manager for General Motors. The special election will be held on Nov. 8. The winner will represent about 350,000 residents in the Eastern half of DeKalb. If a runoff is required, which is likely because of the crowded field of candidates, it will be held Dec. 6.
PAGE 10•APRIL 23,2016
Summer engineering program for youths coming to 12 U.S. cities
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he National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) has announced the dates and locations for its 2016 Summer Engineering Experience for Kids (SEEK). SEEK, founded in 2007, is the nation’s largest summer engineering program geared toward African-American pre-college students. SEEK’s free day programs will take place in June, July and August this year, at 14 sites in 12 cities across the U.S. “We are very proud of the positive impact that NSBE has made on thousands of African-American and other youth through SEEK over the past nine years,” said NSBE National Chair Neville Green. “SEEK helps young people envision the limitless possibilities of an exciting, fulfilling career in engineering, and it moves NSBE closer to our goal of graduating 10,000 black engineers annually, with bachelor’s degrees, by 2025.” SEEK participants engage in team-based, competitive engineering design activities and learn science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts, under the guidance of SEEK mentors, NSBE collegiate members from across the U.S. The goal of the program is to increase the number of college engineering students and engineering professionals among African Americans, a community that is greatly underrepresented in this field. More than 15,000 students in grades 3–12, more than 20,000 parents and more than 2,500 mentors have participated in SEEK since its launch in Washington, D.C., nine years ago. SEEK has benefited from a broad base of sponsors over the years, including some of the most well-known names in American industry. “This year, because of the generosity of our sponsors, more than 3,500 students will participate in SEEK programs, nationwide,” said NSBE Executive Director Karl W. Reid. “Many of these young people would not otherwise have an opportunity to learn about STEM during the summer. By supporting SEEK, our sponsors, as well as our SEEK parents, mentors and volunteers, are increasing the proficiency of African Americans in STEM and increasing the competitiveness of the U.S. workforce of the future.” More information about SEEK is available at www.nsbe.org/seek or bit. ly/Xlxyz1. A listing of the SEEK programs for 2016 follows: Current Cities Atlanta, GA Birmingham, AL Chicago, Ill. Denver, CO (Site 1) Denver, CO (Site 2) Detroit, MI Houston, TX Jackson, Miss. Lancaster, TX Los Angeles, CA New Orleans, LA Philadelphia, PA Washington, D.C.
Start Date June 13 June 6 July 18 July 18 June 20 July 25 June 13 June 6 June 13 July 11 June 6 July 25 July 18
End Date July 1 June 24 Aug. 5 Aug. 5 July 8 Aug. 12 July 1 June 24 July 29 July 29 June 24 Aug. 12 Aug. 5
ABOUT NSBE Founded in 1975, the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) is one of the largest student-governed organizations based in the United States. With more than 31,000 members and more than 300 chapters in the U.S. and abroad, NSBE supports and promotes the aspirations of collegiate and pre-collegiate students and technical professionals in engineering and technology.
Rockdale Clerk of Courts to host e-filing CLE training
Rockdale County Clerk of Courts Ruth A. Wilson and Tyler Technologies are hosting a free e-Filing CLE lunch and learn training session on Friday, May 6, noon until 1:30 p.m., at the Cherokee Run Golf Club, 595 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. This training is highly recommended for all attorneys and their staff who make Civil filings in the Rockdale County Superior and State Courts. “This is a major step forward for the Rockdale Judicial Circuit. Our E-filing solution features an easy-to-use interface. It saves attorneys time and money and greatly reduces the manual paper processing in the Clerk’s Office,” said Wilson. Tyler Technologies is a leading provider of E-fling services for local governments and the only vendor in the U.S. with an established portal. Attorneys will receive one-hour CLE credit and gain first-hand exposure to the process. Reservations are required by emailing Carrie Bootcheck at rockdalebar@yahoo.com. The deadline to RSVP is April 29. Questions may be directed to the Clerk’s Office at 770-278-7911.
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Fulton County seeks youth leaders
Fulton County wants young people in search of leadership roles to apply to serve as Youth Commissioners. The Aging and Youth Services Department, Office of Children and Youth is seeking high school students between 9th and 11th grades. The Fulton County Youth Commission addresses the many issues presently facing youth through government mandates, policies and legislation. Youth commissioners become familiar with how local government resolves youth issues and they suggest solutions and help facilitate change. Youths who are accepted into the program will be expected to carry out the following responsibilities: •Impact policies and legislation •Interact with politicians on the local and state level •Speak out on behalf of all Fulton County youths •Help local government better understand the issues facing youth •Plan community events and participate in volunteer projects For consideration, students must: •Be a resident of Fulton County •Attend a school within Fulton County (City of Atlanta Public Schools, Private or Charter) •Be in the 9th -11th grade during the 2016-2017 academic year •Submit a completed application and a two-page essay Applications are due by May 20, 5:30 p.m. For more information and to obtain an application, contact Reginald Crossley at 404- 612-7386, email Reginald.Crossley@fultoncountyga.gov, or visit the Fulton County website at www.fultoncountyga.gov Applications must be submitted via postal mail or faxed to the attention of Reginald Crossley Fulton County Youth Commission, 5600 Stonewall Tell Road, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30349 Fax 404-224-2031. The completed application must include a two-page essay.
SPLOST to fund sidewalk, intersection improvements in Gwinnett
The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners has approved about $2.8 million in transportation contracts to build four sections of sidewalk and two intersection improvements. Funding comes from SPLOST. “With the weather warming up, it’s time to get to work pouring some sidewalks,” said District 3 Commissioner Tommy Hunter. “I want to thank Gwinnett voters for their approval of SPLOST that funds transportation improvements like the ones that will get under way soon.” Commissioners approved the low bid of $493,644.50 by Peach State Construction to install sidewalk in southern Gwinnett County. The sidewalks will run along the east side of Bethany Church Road from U.S. 78 to Overland Trail. Sidewalks will also be added along the east side of Killian Hill Road for 630 feet. Additionally, curb and gutter and drainage improvements will be constructed. These two projects total just over a half mile of sidewalk. Commissioners also awarded a contract for $609,654 to low bidder CMES to build sidewalks along Lee Road and Telida Trail, also in southern Gwinnett. Along with .65 miles of sidewalk, curb and gutter and drainage improvements will also be made. CMES was the low bidder as well on intersection improvements at State Route 124/Braselton Highway at Mount Moriah Road and Hamilton Mill Road at Old Hamilton Mill Road. The award of $1,690,389 calls for the contractor to add a traffic signal along with left-turn lanes and an eastbound right-turn lane on State Route 124/Braselton Highway at Mount Moriah Road. The Hamilton Mill Road at Old Hamilton Mill Road project will upgrade the intersection and add an eastbound right-turn lane on Hamilton Mill Road. Both projects also include curb and gutter and drainage improvements. Additional information about these and other SPLOST road improvement projects can be found on the County’s website at www.gwinnettcounty.com.
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