VOLUME 21 NUMBER 4
FREE
APRIL 25, 2015
Celebrating 20 Years In Our Community
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
In The News
Siblings to carry on Ann Price’s legendary “Ghetto Burger” By Joshua Smith
Stone Mountain restores historic Rail Depot Page 3
Taste of Conyers and Car Show set in Olde Town. Page 4
Ann Price’s legendary “Ghetto Burger” will live on at Ann’s Snack Bar. The small East Atlanta burger joint that served giant “ghetto burgers” will reopen for business on April 28, according to the sign out front. Relatives say Price’s brothers and sisters plan to keep the restaurant open, using her recipes for the ghetto burger and other sandwiches. The family temporarily closed the restaurant after Price died on April 18, six days after she turned 72. Although her family released no details about her death, Price apparently worked up until the end. Several people posted on social media that “Ms. Ann” had recently served them at the restaurant. Ann’s Snack Bar, which opened in 1971, became an Atlanta institution, gaining international attention fol-
The one-of-a-kind “Ms. Ann” poses for a picture in the middle of doing what she did best-- making her famous sandwiches, especially the “Ghetto Burger.” –Photo via Facebook. lowing a Wall Street Journal news article on the burger joint which deemed Ann’s Snack Bar “World’s Greatest Burger” in 2007. The ghet-
to burger was as popular and as special as “Ms. Ann” herself, who was known for telling off customers who complained about service at
DeKalb opens electric charging stations for the public
David Manuel” I’m a Miricle” Page 6
By Valerie J. Morgan DeKalb County officials arrived in a convoy of electric cars to announce the opening of four electric charging stations that will serve those who drive electric cars.
McDonalds to honor outsatnding youths Page 10
“I’m excited. We are leading the charge in sustainability,” DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May said during the April 23 ribbon cutting ceremony for the new stations. The ceremony was held during
National Earth Week and served as a chance to promote steps the county is taking to be greener. “It’s a great day, another step forward for DeKalb County to being a greener, cleaner community,” said Larry Johnson, presiding officer of the Board of Commissioners. Partial funding for the installation of three of the charging stations is provided through the See Electric, page 9
the restaurant. With people flocking from as far as Canada, Brazil and even England, the wait often was two hours See Ghetto Burger, page 7
Deal signs sweeping education reform By Valerie J. Morgan Gov. Nathan Deal this week signed legislation to take over chronically failing schools in Georgia, saying “positive change” now rests with voters. But opponents say Deal’s sweeping reform to create an “Opportunity School District” throughout the state won’t work and they’re working to defeat it at the ballot box. Verdaillia Turner, president of the Georgia Federation of Teachers, says state takeovers haven’t improved education elsewhere. They don’t won’t work, she said, because they don’t address poverty, one of the fundamental issues of failing schools. “Schemes and gimmicks like state takeovers and privatizing schools simply don’t work to improve teaching and learning,” Turner said in a statement. “Just last month, the Coalition for the Future of Detroit recommended dispensing with the same failed strategies that Gov. Deal is promoting, recommending instead locally controlled schools and creation of strong neighborhood community schools and career-and-technical education programs.” Turner said she and other opponents are launching an education campaign to make sure voters press “no” on the ballot next year. See Voters, page 5
PAGE 2 • APRIL 25, 2015
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EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com
APRIL 25, 2015 • PAGE 3
Stone Mountain restores historic Train Depot
GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith joshsmith@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
1240 Sigman Road Suite 107 Conyers, GA 30012 (678) 526-1910 News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com
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he City of Stone Mountain’s historic Train Depot has undergone a $352,150 facelift. City officials hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 23 to celebrate the completion of exterior renovations on the project. “It has been exciting to watch the transformation of the outside of the building. A year ago, there were holes in the mortar and the roof was leaking,” says Mayor Pat Wheeler. The city received a Transportation
Enhancement Grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation to cover the cost of the project. The project took about four months to complete, according to city officials. “Without the help of GDOT, this project could not have happened. They have been a great partner to work with on the Depot. We know now that the building will be standing and dry for many years to come,” Wheeler said. The south side of the depot was built in 1857 shortly after the Georgia Railroad Company
DeKalb teacher who died from fallen tree devoted life to children
completed the line from Madison to Atlanta. The north side was built in 1914 as a passenger office and waiting room. Beginning in the 1960s the building served as City Hall and the City Jail. It remained in use until 2012 when the new Municipal Building was completed. Currently, City Council has designated the City of Stone Mountain Downtown Development Authority as lead on the further redevelopment of the building into a Visitors Center and
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
event space. The DDA is looking at plans for the building and will begin work this summer to secure grants and private donations for the extensive interior renovations. The City of Stone Mountain is located at the base of Stone Mountain, the largest exposed granite dome in North America. The city was founded in 1839 and currently has over 6000 residents. The city is known for its historic and walkable village center and its growing art scene.
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Family members and McNair Middle School are working on a way to honor Patricia Pusha.
By Joshua Smith The 60-foot tree still covers the roof of the house where Dr. Patricia “Pat” Pusha lived. The DeKalb County School teacher was sleeping in a recliner in her living room when the massive oak tree toppled and crashed through her roof on April 20 around 1:30 a.m. Pusha, 60, died from the impact. Pusha taught sixth grade science classes at McNair Middle School in Decatur for 15 years. She taught at Fulton County schools for five years before that, according to family members. Grief counselors are still on hand at McNair helping teachers and students cope with the loss of one of the school’s most popular teachers, according to school staff. McNair Principal Ronald Mitchell says Pusha’s will to help children at the school was larger than life and she will be greatly missed. He said school officials are working with the family now to establish a special way to honor the teacher. “Dr. Pusha was an advocate for the total student. More than just a wonderful
educator, she took on so many other duties to help other teachers and assist with school events. She loved working with our science club. She was the type of teacher that would come early and stay late to help all of us,” said Mitchell. “She was very vocal and friendly with everyone. Dr. Pusha was the type of person that would speak to everyone and you couldn’t help but cheer up a little bit, if you were down, because whether it was a teacher, parent or student, she would follow you until you spoke and she got a smile out of you.” It was raining hard the night the tree fell on Pusha’s home, but Atlanta officials say they are still trying to determine if the rain was a factor in the accident. Atlanta Fire Rescue workers spent more than two hours trying to get to Pusha, who lived on Oakcliff Road in East Point. Crews had to cut through furniture and other debris to reach her. Dr. Pusha’s younger brother, Tyrone See Pusha, page 5
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Edge Clubhouse. DeKalb County Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton, who represents District 4, and Commissioner Stan Watson, who represents the Super District 7, will field questions and provide pertinent community updates.
Coming Up
DYLA accepting applications DeKalb County Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton is now accepting applications for the DeKalb Youth Leadership Academy, which will run June 1 – July 10, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. DeKalb County Schools’ rising tenth graders are invited to enhance life skills through programs that teach the importance of education, enrichment, community service and leadership. Programs and workshop topics include cooperative games and socialization, leadership development, learning the seven habits of effective teens, self-esteem building, dressing for success, Toastmasters drills, PSAT/SAT prep and tutorial, pre-employment enhancements, job training programs, STEM programs, world languages, cultural diversity, life survivor skills training and personal development. Participants will also take field trips. Admission is free. For more information, call Commissioner Sutton’s office at 404-371-4907. Photo by Joshua Smith
Taste of Conyers set in Rockdale The Conyers Main Street Program is inviting everyone to the city’s Taste of Conyers and Conyers Car Show,which will be held on Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., in Olde Town Conyers, 901 Railroad St., N.W., Conyers. Taste and sip your way through delectable samples from a variety of Conyers restaurants. There will be vintage cars and live entertainment featuring country, Southern Rock, blues and soul. Admission is free. Tickets for samples range from $1-$4. 770-602-2606.
ATLANTA
Blue Knights to honor officers killed in the line of duty The Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club will honor police officers killed in the line of duty on Saturday, April 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Members of law enforcement and the general public are invited to participate in the ride. Streets between Memorial Drive and Pryor Street will be closed for the event. The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club is a non-profit fraternal organization consisting of active and retired law enforcement officers who enjoy riding motorcycles. In the spring of 1974, several law enforcement officers from the Bangor, Maine (USA) area met and formed a small, local motorcycle club. Soon, Blue Knight chapters were formed in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and beyond. With the addition of Canada, and later Australia, the Blue Knights became an international organization. For more information on registering to ride and the event route, visit www. blueknights.org or call organizer Edward Christian at 404-556-1911.
Free picnic celebrates California California lovers, this picnic is for you. Meet on Saturday, April 25, 12 – 10 p.m. at Washington Park, 1125 Lena St., N.W., Atlanta. Event organizer Ali Early says the picnic will serve as a celebration of California culture with an emphasis on community engagement by way of commerce exchange and traditional social networking. The event will feature music, food and various contests suitable for the entire family. For more information, call Early at 404-271-3215.
DEKALB
DeKalb 100 Black Women to host financial seminar The Decatur-DeKalb Chapter of the 100 Black Women will offer a financial seminar on Saturday, April 25, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., at Stronghold Christian Church, 724 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia. The free “My Sisters Keeper” seminar will focus on economic empowerment as well as effective strategies to purchase a home or keep their residence. 706-2500353
Water’s Edge Homeowners set meeting with Watson, Barnes Sutton The Water’s Edge Homeowners Association in Stone Mountain will host “An Evening With Our Commissioners” on Monday, April 27, 7 p.m. at the Water’s
Brookhaven hosts first police academy Anyone who lives or works in the City of Brookhaven is invited to apply to take part in the Brookhaven Police Department’s first Citizens’ Police Academy. Residents will get an overview of how their police department works, the basics of police work, logistics of department operations, enforcement and crime prevention programs. The academy will meet every Thursday, 7 - 9:30 p.m., April 30-June 2. The class is open for anyone over 21. Applicants must pass a criminal background check. Applications are available at City Hall, 4362 Peacthree Road, or at the Brookhaven Police Station, 2665 Buford Highway N.E. For more information or an application via email, contact Rossana Morales-Romero at rossana.morales-romero@brookhavenga.gov. 404-637-0500.
GWINNETT
Get tips on pest control for your vegetable garden The Snellville Community Garden at T.W. Briscoe Park, 2500 Sawyer Parkway, S.W. will host a free workshop, “Pest Control in the Vegetable Garden,” on Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Even in the best-managed vegetable gardens—ones with soil rich in compost, and a diversity of plants to encourage natural predators—certain pests will occasionally get out of hand. Come learn about ways to naturally control pests in organic gardens without using harsh chemicals on your fruits and vegetables. Popular recipes and realities behind gardening myths will be covered. 770-985-3535. Job seekers offered training in Norcross The Norcross Human Services, 5030 Georgia Belle Court, Norcross, will host a free job readiness workshop on Saturday, May 9, 9 a.m. – noon. Attendees on the job hunt can benefit from attending the workshop to hear from county employees share insight on planning your career, the smart way to job search, as well as get assistance with improving resumes and cover letters. 678225-5400.
ROCKDALE
Think Tank tackles issues in Conyers Community activist Josie Dean will host the Rockdale Think Tank meeting on Saturday, April 25, noon – 2 p.m., at Ruby Tuesday restaurant, 1714 Highway 138, Conyers. Dean says the meeting will be held to tackle issues and serve as a call to action. “Sometimes, as residents in a community, we can get comfortable with the way things are. We cannot do that,” said Dean. “We have to continue to meet, share ides and opinions so that we can continue to work on ways to make Rockdale County a better place.” For more information: 770-369-1507.
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APRIL 25, 2015 • PAGE 5 Pusha continued from page 3
Voters, continued from page 1
Voters to decide on Deal’s plan in 2016 In November 2016, voters throughout Georgia will be asked to decide on the governor ’s reform. This question will appear on the ballot as a yes or no vote: Shall the Constitution of Georgia be amended to allow the state to intervene in chronically failing public schools in order to improve student performance?
Gov. Nathan Deal
V. Turner
Deal’s constitutional amendment for the takeover must be approved by a majority of voters in the November 2016 general election in order to take effect. The state has identified 139 public schools across Georgia—more than 60 of them in urban areas of metro Atlanta—as failing. The legislation Deal signed on April 21 gives him the power to take charge of schools that scored below 60 for three consecutive years on a state performance index. Deal would appoint a superintendent who would report to him. The superintendent would have the power to fire the schools’ principals, dismiss teachers and decide the schools’ curriculums. “By signing the Opportunity School District bill, we are promising better days ahead for students trapped in failing schools,” Deal said. “The power of positive change now rests in the hands of Georgia’s voters, and I know they share my belief that every child can learn and should have access to a high-quality education that prepares them for the workforce or for college.” Rita Scott, a lobbyist for the Communications Workers of America and the Georgia Federation of Teachers, doesn’t buy Deal’s rationale for seizing failing schools. Scott pointed to New Orleans as an example of a school system that came under a state takeover plan after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 destroyed nearly 93,000 square miles across 138 parishes and counties. “The takeover didn’t work there. You have 70 percent of graduating seniors who still did not pass the college entrance exam,” said Scott.
R. Scott
P. Levesque
Scott says Deal’s plan is not so much about improving education as it is about padding the pockets of big business. A resident of DeKalb County, Scott said she would rather her tax dollars be spent on supporting teachers in the classroom. “It’s not about the students. It’s about money,” said Scott. “There are already businesses lining up to go after contracts to run the schools and provide other services to schools in the governor’s Opportunity School District. This is being pushed by big businesses. You’re talking about potentially generating $100 billion over 10 years off of children.” In Georgia, the state spends about $9,253 per pupil for education, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Scott says taking away those dollars from local school districts could cripple districts. Meanwhile, proponents, working to advance education reform across the country applaud the governor for taking action to intervene. “Education reform has been a top priority for Governor Deal, and he has worked tirelessly to deliver bold school improvement policies as a beacon of hope to Georgia’s students, said Foundation for Excellence in Education CEO Patricia Levesque said. “Because of his leadership and vision to create a high-quality education system in Georgia, the state now has a means for identifying struggling schools, and as a result, taking action to improve the educational experiences of students attending those schools.”
Conyers Police install 24-hour drop box for expired medications Conyers Police Department has installed a Drug Collection Unit in its front lobby for unused medications. The permanent receptacle at the police department, 1194 Scott St., was made possible through a CVS Pharmacy’s Safer Communities grant program. The drop box provides citizens with a safe and environmentally responsible way to dispose of unwanted, unused or expired medication. By reducing the amount of unneeded medicine in residents’ homes, one important result is to help reduce the risk of prescription drug abuse, especially among teenagers. Conyers Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have partnered with CVS in the past during Drug Take Back events at CVS locations. However, this permanent receptacle will allow anyone to dispose of their medications at any time right inside the lobby of the police department, officials said.
“Safely disposing of unused medication is critical to protecting our youths and we thank CVS Safer Communities program for assisting to reduce the amount of unneeded medications in our community,” said Chief Gene Wilson.
Accepted medications: • Prescription medications, patches • Over-the-counter medications,vitamins, samples • Pet medications Not Accepted: • Needles (sharps) • Liquids (hydrogen peroxide, lotions, ointments, etc.) Inhalers, aerosol cans
Pusha, was in the house with her when the tree fell. But he was unharmed because he was in the basement of the home. He said Dr. Pusha actually spoke a few words before she died. “When Uncle Reuben heard the crash, he came up from the basement and asked Auntie Pat was she OK and she said ‘Yes, I’m alright. I’m coming home.’ We think that was her way of telling the angles and us that she was OK,” said Pusha’s niece, Tanikka Echols. “We know that she is in eternal peace because she accomplished all of her goals, loved the Lord and made sure you knew the Lord by the time she finished a conversation with you. She woke up at 5 a.m. to pray before work.”
Recently, Pusha received her doctorate degree in education from Argosy University in Atlanta. She rented a house in Sarasota, Florida for the whole family to come celebrate, Echols said. “My aunt receiving her doctorate meant everything to her. We are so sad about this loss, but happy that she got to achieve her lifetime goal. Before her death, she was putting together her resume to begin submitting it to colleges. She really wanted to teach on the college level. She talked about it all the time. She was set to retire from McNair Elementary. That was her next step,” said Echols.
Gwinnet tax commissioner: Mobile home taxes due by May 1
G
Richard Steele
winnett County Tax Commissioner Richard Steele is reminding mobile home owners that their tax bills are due Friday, May 1. Once full payment is received, a decal for the current year is issued. “These decals are issued upon receipt of tax payment. If you pay in
person, your decal will be issued immediately. If you choose another method of payment, your decal will be mailed to you when payment is received,” said Steele. You can pay online, in mail or in person at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center in Lawrenceville and at one of the county’s five tag offices. The county website also has information on fees, the steps to follow after the purchase, changing ownership of a mobile home, registering a mobile home or moving a mobile home. All mobile homes in Gwinnett are required to have the current decal visibly posted. Please visit www.GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com for more information or to locate where you can pay.
PAGE 6 • APRIL 25, 2015
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David Manuel: ‘I’m a miracle’ By Valerie J. Morgan
T
here were hugs and tears, applause and cheers. As David Manuel sat taking in the tributes, serenades and other creative expressions during a celebration held on April 20 in his honor, he was filled with emotion. Manuel, the man who has run the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in South DeKalb, was welcomed back with an outpouring of love from the community. The executive director said although life didn’t look too promising as he battled acute liver and kidney failure last October, he believes prayers from the community helped him to pull through. The 49-year-old said the hundreds of posts on social media and support from his church family at Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain and from radio personality Wanda Smith kept him encouraged during his illness. Supporters welcomed back David Manuel, executive director of the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center, during a celebration on April 20. “For me to stand here and be back in six months or make the effort to be many faces,” Manuel told those who “We knew he was sick, but we little chair (in the hospital)… I am so back in six months, it’s all God,” said attended the celebration. “…I really feel didn’t know how sick he really was. thankful to have a partner in my life Manuel. like I got my flowers today. A lot of us The day he was put on the transplant who is so caring and so supportive.” The welcome back celebration for don’t get the opportunity to get your list, Oct. 27, he had just proposed to me Manuel said he recently attended Manuel was held at the Porter Sanford flowers while you’re here.” right before they came in and told us a reception at Piedmont Hospital in Performing Arts Center, where Manuel Manuel became ill with flu-like that he was going to need to have a liver celebration of National Transplant has served since January 2011. Manuel symptoms last October. He was running transplant,” said Mitchell. Month and received a warm welcome. received an award from his pastor, a fever and his eyes were jaundiced. Manuel underwent the liver “When I walked in, the doctors Kerwin B. Lee of Berean Christian He had no idea, however, that he was transplant on Oct. 29. He was are like ‘Wow, David’s here. He’s our Church. Manuel attended the event with experiencing acute liver and kidney discharged from the hospital on Nov. miracle man. And I was honored to his fiancé, Karren Mitchell; sons, Blake failure. After going to the doctor, he 14. hear that because I am a miracle. I and Branden; his 81-year-old mother, underwent some tests and was admitted “I was in the hospital about 40 days am a constant reminder to people that Barbara Manuel; and Karren’s mother into the hospital. About three weeks and she (Mitchell) was there for 39 of are in doubt that God is in the healing and spiritual father, Brenda Foster and later, doctors told him he would need those days,” said Manuel. “The only business,” said Manuel. the Rev. James Williams. a liver transplant. His skin had grown time she left was to take a nap in her For more photos, visit On Common “It’s just been touching to see so darker, his eyes more yellowed. own bed because she got tired of that Ground News’ Facebook page.
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APRIL 25, 2015 • PAGE 7
Ghetto Burger continued from page 1
Board Chairman Milton Jones, Jr. & President & CEO Leona Barr-Davenport
37th
Cordially Invite You to the...
Annual CEO Appreciation Luncheon
Tuesday | May 12, 2015 | 11:30 AM
Hyatt Regency Atlanta | 265 Peachtree Street | Atlanta, GA 30303 Networking Begins at 11:00 AM | Luncheon Begins at 11:30 AM
37th Annual CEO Awards Luncheon Honorees Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
or more as customers formed long lines. Ms. Ann took the orders, cooked the burgers and took the money for payment. Relatives say Price’s brothers and sisters know the recipes and are ready to keep the food coming for the masses. But some say Ann’s Snack Bar will not be the same without the woman behind the burger. “It just won’t be the same without her. People looked forward to getting fussed at and cussed out. That was all part of the experience of going there,” said Nate Hill of Lithonia. The burger joint attracted people from all walks of life: Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs; former U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, former Georgia Attorney General Thurbert Baker; former DeKalb County CEO Vernon Jones; former Clayton County Board of Commissioners Chairman Eldrin Bell; and former Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson. Thousands of others including police chiefs, politicians and foodies also came through the doors of Ann’s Snack Bar, which was owned and operated by Price since 1971. “When you went to her store, you have to follow the rules: no standing up, no cursing, no talking to her while she was cooking, etc. You never received your fries and your burger at the same time. You always received your fries first,” said William White of Atlanta. “But what I love most is that she would clean and scrub her workstation after every
single burger she made. I’ve never seen anyone more meticulous about cleaning and I loved it. I got cursed out a time or two. It just made me go back even more, bringing more people with me. The only place I know that if you didn’t get cursed out, you felt like you didn’t experience Ms. Ann’s Snack Shack.” “Ms. Ann” has been featured in the Wall Street Journal as having “The Best Burger in America.” The small burger joint was also featured in The New York Times, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, Creative Loafing and on The Food Network. Ann’s Snack Bar was also on CNN and was a Zagat listed restaurant.
So what’s a ghetto burger? For those who don’t know, the “World-Famous Ghetto Burger” consists of a huge toasted bun, two very large patties of beef cooked with cayenne pepper and other seasonings, half an onion, cheese, mayo, mustard, ketchup, chili, and topped with fried bacon, lettuce and tomato. “My mother used to bring the ghetto burgers home and it would take my kids two days to eat. Oh, the burgers would just melt in your mouth,” said Yalanda Lattimore of Atlanta. “Haven’t seen this kind of outpouring in a while. It’s great to see Atlanta’s love for one of its institutions and groundbreakers.”
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Edward Hartley President Hartley & Company, LLC
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Each year the Atlanta Business League (ABL) recognizes local chief executive officers (CEO) for outstanding participation in minority vendor development and community activities. The honors we confer are based in part on the willingness of extremely busy executives to take on work vital to carrying forward the agenda of the ABL and the business community, which is establishing and building economic equality for minority enterprises. In addition to CEOs, the ABL recognizes a number of individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions in the development of minority business in the metro Atlanta area.
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Conyers Latter-day Saints welcomes new bishop
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he Conyers Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has changed leadership. Frank Nolden, the church’s new bishop, replaces Bishop Phillip Kimble, who had served for five years with counselors Chris Zawadski, Lloyd Rasmussen and previously David Shipp. Bishop Kimble, in an address to the members of the congregation, said he had been honored and humbled to be a close part of so many members’ lives. “I will miss the hand on my shoulder that I have felt guiding me as I have been the bishop of the Conyers Ward,” Bishop Kimble said. Bishop Nolden will serve in his new volunteer capacity for about five years, the typical length of a bishop’s service in the church. He will be assisted by two newly called counselors, Adam Ashley and Kevin Casey. Nolden is a longtime employee of the IRS and a member of their Senior Executive Service made up of high ranking federal government employees. Nolden has lived in the Conyers area since July 2008 with his wife, Shayne, and three of their seven children.
L-R: Pictured are 1st counselor Adam Ashley, Bishop Frank Nolden, and 2nd counselor Kevin Casey.
As a young man, he served two years for the church in the Nevada Las Vegas Mission and then completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Weber State University in Ogden, Utah. In the years since, he has served as a counselor in a Bishopric, a ward clerk, a local mission leader, and most recently as a teacher in the church’s Addiction Recovery Program. He also served previously as a
bishop for 5 ½ years. As Bishop of the Conyers ward, he will be the presiding high priest and will preside over all the members in his congregation. In addition, he is the president of the priests’ quorum and, together with his counselors, is responsible to watch over and nurture the young men and young women in the ward. Nolden loves playing, coaching and refereeing baseball and
basketball. He is well known for his gentle attitude, kind heart, and firm testimony of the Savior, Jesus Christ. “I am honored and humbled to accept this calling. I love being in the service of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Nolden told congregation. “He is my personal Savior. I have a testimony that He lives and loves each of us.”
Rockdale Ethics Board Announcement Pursuant to the provisions of Rockdale County Code Section 2-261, the Rockdale Coalition of Homeowners and Civic Associations (RCHCA) will hold a called meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 6 p.m., in the JP Carr Services Community Room, 981 Taylor Street, Conyers. The meeting is being held for the purpose of electing a representative from the current membership of the RCHCA to serve on the Rockdale County Board of Ethics. The public is invited to attend. For more information, contact County Clerk Jennifer Rutledge at 770278-7001 or email: Jennifer.Rutledge@ rockdalecounty.org.
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Electric Car continued from page 1
Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations
Georgia Environmental Finance Authority’s (GEFA) “Charge Georgia” program, which allows for a 50 percent reimbursement of costs for the installation of electric car charging stations throughout the County.
DeKalb County Government Administration Building 1300 Commerce Drive Decatur,
The total cost of the stations is $37,494 and the
amount reimbursed to the County for construction was $17,982. The other station, donated by Capital City Nissan in Chamblee, is located at the DeKalbPeachtree Airport. Plans to build a fifth county station at the Seminole Road Landfill are under way, and construction should be complete within 60 days, May said. Electric cars are being touted as energy efficient and cleaner to operate than cars that use gasoline. Charles Mason, the county’s assistant director of Public Works, said he spends $249 to lease a Nissan Leaf but offsets that cost because he is saving $250 a month in gas. He led a demonstration of how the electric vehicles are charged at the Central Transfer Station on Leroy Scott Drive in Decatur. DeKalb Commissioner
DeKalb County Fleet Maintenance Building 5350 Memorial Drive Stone Mountain DeKalb County Sanitation Division Central Transfer Station 3720 Leroy Scott Drive Decatur Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
DeKalb County officials held a ribbon cutting ceremoney at the Sanitation Division’s Central Transfer Station.
Kathie Gannon, who was among those who rode in an electric car for the ribbon cutting ceremony, said the technology is increasingly being embraced, especially by millennials. “Millennials—they’re all buying Leafs (electric cars by Nissan),” Gannon said. Billy Malone, DeKalb County’s sanitation director, said the county
currently has 80 electric vehicles in its sanitation fleet and is looking at buying additional electric cars for other county officials. He said metro Atlanta is No. 2 in the nation for electric vehicles, behind San Francisco, CA. “Everybody is getting on board. They’re (electric vehicles) very energy efficient. These manufacturers have figured out the sys-
tem,” said Malone, adding that electric cars run well and are quiet. Malone said other sustainability efforts include the county converting methane gases into electricity and selling that electricity to Georgia Power. To see the video of the ribbon cutting ceremony, go to the “Watch This” section at www.ocgnews.
DeKalb-Peachtree Airport 2000 Airport Road Atlanta Dedicated alternating current (AC) Level II and direct current quick charging (DCQC) electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and associated parking stations are available for public use for any battery electric, plug-in hybrid and extendedrange vehicles.
PAGE 10 • APRIL 25, 2015
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Business News DeKalb has funds available to help employers with new hires DeKalb County Workforce Development has Innovation Funds available to help employers save on hiring costs. The Workforce Innovation Grant program provides work experience to those who are unemployed for one year or longer. Employers work directly with a staffing agency to identify qualified candidates for open positions. Employers receive wage
subsidies to provide work experience to the participants. The goal of the program is to provide recent work experience to the longterm unemployed and highlight an often overlooked pool of qualified candidates due to their length of unemployment. To date, the program has placed more than 80 candidates in industries ranging from administrative to health care. The flyer is
attached for more information. Employers must be established businesses and demonstrate financial viability. Employers and program participants will be screened by DeKalb Workforce Development for eligibility. Interested employers should contact Cynthia Robinson at 404-371-6217. Persons with hearing impairments may contact 1-800-255-0135.
McDonald’s USA seeks nominees for Community Choice Youth Award
B
usiness men and women aren’t the only ones who can impact the community. For the second consecutive year, McDonald’s USA is calling on communities nationwide to nominate this year’s 365Black Community Choice Youth Award recipients. Now through May 31, consumers can visit www.365Black.com to nominate a teen who has exemplified exceptional leadership in their communities. One male and one female recipient will each receive a $10,000 scholarship and will be honored alongside celebrities, philanthropists and influencers at the 12th annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards ceremony in New Orleans on July 3 during the 21st annual ESSENCE Festival® presented by Coca-Cola®. Open to young people between the ages 13-18, the McDonald’s 365Black Community
Choice Youth Award honors teens who make a difference within their communities through vision, compassion and diligence. In addition to completing the entry form, nominators must also answer three questions about the nominee, as well as submit a three-minute video highlighting his or her contribution to the community. All entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. CT on May 31, 2015. “At McDonald’s, we are committed to uplifting our youth and recognizing their achievements. We take great pride in working with neighborhoods across the country to find young, shining stars in our communities,” said William Rhodes, McDonald’s U.S. marketing director. “We applaud the achievements of future leaders and are honored to give them a platform of recognition.” Last year’s winners were Gabrielle Jordan
Williams and Skyler Grey, both 15 years old. Williams is a professional motivational speaker, owner of Jewelz of Jordan and is a #1 best-selling author. Grey, an urban artist and philanthropist, discovered art as therapy after losing his mother at an early age. He makes it a point to donate his work to various art programs across the nation and gives 10 percent of each of his sales to charities. The Community Choice Youth Award aligns with the goals of McDonald’s 365Black Awards, which salutes outstanding individuals who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American community. To learn more about the Community Choice Youth Award, visit http://www.365Black.com and follow @365Black on Twitter, using the hashtag #365BlackAwards.
Johnson forum: How to do business with the federal government
Hank Johnson
Congressman Hank Johnson will host a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Forum to show local small businesses how to do business with the federal government. The event will be held on Friday, May 8, 1 to 4 p.m. at Georgia Piedmont Technical College Conference Center, 495 N. Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston. The event is for eligible socially and economically disadvantaged business that have been in business for at least two years and have the
capacity to perform on government and nongovernment contracts. Businesses are invited to meet representatives from: • Centers for Disease Control (CDC) • Department of Defense (DOD) • General Services Administration (GSA) • Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) • U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) • Small Business Administration (SBA) • Veterans Administration (VA) • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) • FedBid Registration is limited to eligible Disadvantaged Business Enterprises. To register, visit: http://hankjohnson. house.gov/dbe-registration-form.
Atlanta Business League fielding for summer shadowing project The Atlanta Business League is currently fielding applications for students’ ages 15 to 17 to be a part of the business group’s Student Business Shadow Project. The deadline to apply is May 4. The program has been running for 10 years. ABL members say the program runs for eight weeks and is comprised of intensive life training classes, business field trips and the actual internship experience, which requires five days a week from the teenagers. The ABL is also reaching out to business to be a part of the program. This year’s program will run from June 1 to July 31. “This summer, great young people want to intern with your company,” said Leona Barr-Davenport, President & CEO of the ABL. “You can make a difference in their lives and your own.” The ABL says the Student Business Shadow Project provides youth, especially from the inner city, with hands-on, real-world access to African-American business owners and their companies for the purpose of encouraging them to explore careers in the business arena. The Student Business Shadow Project is coordinated by the Atlanta Business League (ABL), a 501(c)(6) organization that implements programs and initiatives that lead to the development of business relationships across the Atlanta and the Metro. To speak with someone about the program, call 404-584-8126, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT
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Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR SOLICITATION NO.
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Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030. For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise. By: Scott M. Callan, CPSM, Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
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APRIL 25, 2015 • PAGE 11
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