Ocg 04 30 16 by On Common Ground News

VOLUME 22 NUMBER 5

FREE

APRIL30, 2016

Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews

NHSCA’S COACH OF THE YEAR Honors keep coming for Miller Grove’s Coach Sharman White By Valerie J. Morgan

In 2014, White was named the USA Today All-USA boys Coach of eKalb County’s Miller the Year. Grove High School has “It feels good to be honored. I another reason to be look at the recognition as a reflection proud: Head Coach Sharman White of a team effort. We had great players, has been named Coach of the Year by a great coaching staff. We all worked the National High School Coaches hard together,” said White. “While Association (NHSCA). being named Coach of the Year is an This year, the Miller Grove boys individual award, it’s a team award.” basketball team won its seventh state White said he received word championship in eight seasons, finish- about the national recognition on ing with a 30-2 record. White’s record April 26. As an honoree, White will as a head coach is 372-90. receive a trophy and will be honored Earlier this month, White was in the National High School Sports announced as an assistant coach for Hall of Fame Museum that the NHSthe 2016 USA Basketball Men’s U17 CA will be building in the near future. World Championship Team. Meanwhile, White said he is

looking forward to continuing to work hard at Miller Grove. “That’s the plan. If the right opportunity presents itself, I will just have to weigh it and see if it works for me,” said White. Georgia has had only one other coach to be named Coach of the Year by the NHSCA since it began giving out the awards in 2000: Doug Lipscomb of Cobb County’s Wheeler High School was named Coach of the Year in 2012.

Army of volunteers make Rockdale’s Great American Cleanup a huge success

Coach Sharman White

Activists demand action against Atlanta officer who beat Wal-Mart customer over tomato

ommunity activist Derrick Boazman and others are demanding action against an Atlanta Police officer who brutally beat a Wal-Mart customer who was falsely accused of stealing a tomato. Although the attack against Tyrone Carnegay, 53, happened in 2014, the incident came to the public’s Derrick Boazman attention only recently after fact that the charges were media reports. The off-duty dropped underscore the case officer, Trevor King, was working security at the Wal- is problematic. “The officer said Mr. Mart on MLK Drive in Atlanta when he began beating Carnegay was reaching for his gun. It’s the classic lanCarnegay as Carnegay was guage they’ve been trained leaving the store. to use in lawsuits to justify “This case is egregious beating a citizen,” Boazman on so many levels. Not only said. “We see this all the was Mr. Carnegay beaten Kingdom Builders Covenant Church in Rockdale County had a team of 41 volunteers to participate in time.” the cleanup initiative. Photo provided. and his leg broken, he was Boazman, who was falsely accused of stealing ockdale County demonstrated ington, who serves as chair of Keep Cojoined at a news conference what a small army of volunnyers-Rockdale Beautiful and is the county’s when he had a receipt for the on April 28 by Michael tomato and he spent three teers can do when they’re on Chief Deputy Tax Commissioner. “It was Langford, president of the days in jail,” said Boazman. a mission. County officials say this year’s great. We were extremely pleased.” United Youth-Adult ConferCarnegay said after Great American Cleanup, which was held More than 25 teams participated in ence, said he and other combeing handcuffed to his in partnership with Keep Conyers-Rockdale Rockdale’s cleanup event. They disbursed munity activists want Fulton Beautiful, was a huge success, thanks to around the county, including parks, schools hospital bed with a broken County District Attorney volunteers. A record number of them—over and neighborhoods, and along roadways and leg and a severed artery, he Paul Howard and Atlanta was jailed on felony assault 500—turned out for the April 23 event, orga- highways. Police Chief George Turner charges against the officer. nizers said. Richard Oden, Chairman of the Rockto review the case. Boazman Those charges, however, “Last year, we had 350 volunteers. This dale Board of Commissioners, said he was said Turner has asked the year, we decided to step it up. We wanted especially pleased that so many youths were were dropped after Carnegay Office of Professional Stanspent three days in jail. more but we didn’t expect that it would be Boazman said the See Cleanup, page 10 See Activists, page 10 that many more,” said Tisa Smart Wash-

PAGE 2 •APRIL 30, 2016

WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Valerie J. Morgan

editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER

Glenn L. Morgan

gmorgan1@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER

Richard S. Hill

richardhill@ocgnews.com

On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate. On Common Ground News

P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058

News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com FACEBOOK. COM/OCGNEWS

PURCHASE YOUR CLASSIFIED

$25 PER WEEK

678-526-1910

APRIL 30,2016 • PAGE 3

Rockdale Sheriff’s Office receives recertification by GACP By Valerie J. Morgan

he Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) was honored at the April 26 Board of Commissioners’ meeting for its recent recertification by the State of Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP). Sheriff Eric Levett thanked Deputy Holly LaFontaine, RCSO’s certification manager, and those working with her during the rigorous process, which took more than three years to complete. The state agency examined every aspect of the operations of the Sheriff’s Office and conducted an on-site visit as part of its processes. “This means a lot to us when we’re recertified with our state certification. It says a lot. It lets you know how the Sheriff’s Office is running,” said Levett. The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office was first certified in 2001, then re-certified in 2007, 2010 and 2013. Mark Bender, director of GACP, praised the Sheriff’s Office for its hard work, noting that Deputy La-

Fontaine remained committed to the tasks despite dealing with a family emergency—her husband had a heartache during the state’s onsite visit. “Having been a certification manager myself at my former agency before I retired, I understand the stresses and everything like that that goes on with the certification manager, especially when you’re getting ready for an onsite (visit) because you have all of these people coming in to evaluate you and what you’ve done,” said Bender, who presented LaFontaine a plaque at the BOC meeting. Of the 159 counties in Georgia, only 20 Sheriff’s Offices are state certified currently, Bender said.

The state’s certification’s process is designed to help law enforcement agencies calculate and improve their overall performances. Participating agencies conduct a thorough self-analysis to determine how existing operations can be adapted to meet objectives contained in specific standards. When the procedures are in place, a team of trained assessors verifies that applicable standards have been successfully implemented. The process culminates with a decision by a joint executive committee that the agency has met the requirements for certification. The GACP is the largest professional association for law enforcement administrators in Georgia

DeKalb NAACP refutes E-SPLOST story, offers apology to DeKalb schools’ chief

he NAACP DeKalb Branch has issued a statement refuting a news story in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) concerning the branch’s stance on the proposed E-SPLOST V ballot initiative scheduled for voters to consider on May 24 The AJC had reported on April 26 that the DeKalb NAACP was the latest opponent of the DeKalb School District’s E-SPOLST V proposal. NAACP President John Evans said, however, in a news release dated April 28 that the organization’s concerns about transparency concerning the educational special purpose local sales option tax were adequately addressed during a meeting with DeKalb Schools’ Superintendent Stephen Green and Board Chair Dr. Melvin Johnson on April 25. “The NAACP wanted an assurance that the funds generated by E-SPLOST V would be equitably expended throughout the County

John Evans

and would address the greatest school needs. The NAACP was completely satisfied with the outcome of that meeting,” Evans said in a the news release correcting the mishap. “The NAACP is wholeheartedly supportive of the DeKalb School System’s efforts to address the need for school safety and security, new facilities and additions, facility condition improvements, technology enhancements, school buses and vehicle purchases, and other capital equipment acquisitions for the DeKalb County schools. “The NAACP recognizes that there are entities which

Stephen Green

requested,” Evans stated. Evans had initially mailed letters to the media raising the issue of transparency regarding the process for E-SPLOST V, but he told On Common Ground News that he planned to sit down with the superintendent to discuss the matter and hear what his thoughts and plans were after he mailed the letters to the media on April 19. “The process of asking the voters to first approve the ballot initiative then to have a July-September period for public meetings on system and project selection list and a Dec.7 approval of the project list is somewhat disconcerting, Evans wrote. “This is not the transparencey that the citizens of DeKalb deserve.” Evans apologized to the superintendent for the confusion. “This is to again express my deep regret for not waiting for a reply from you

are indifferent, and in some cases hostile, to the advancement of public education in DeKalb. This is to state unequivocally that the NAACP is NOT aligned with those entities or any effort to undermine the efforts of the DeKalb School System to improve education and the academic environment for the students of DeKalb. “It is regrettable that the author of the online news article from such a renowned newspaper would deliberately and shamelessly post an untrue article such as the one being referenced. The statement about the NAACP opposing E-SPLOST is See E-Splost, page 10 false, and a retraction is

PAGE 4•APRIL 30,2016

WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Coming Up

DeKalb Senior Ball returns for 2016

Russell Gunn

Music in the Park comes to the historic West End

oin Atlanta City Councilmember Cleta Winslow for “Kebbi Williams Music in the Park” on Saturday, April 30, at the Wren’s Nest, located at 1050 Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard, and on Sunday, May 1 at Evan P. Howell Park, located at the corner of Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard and Peeples Street, S.W. On Saturday, from 3 until 7:30 p.m., Music in the Park will feature performances by young musicians at the Wren’s Nest. Sunday’s performances, from 1 until 7 p.m., in Howell Park will feature the following line-up: James Robertson Georgia State University Jazz Band Donnie Special guests from South Africa Russell Gunn Miguel Atwood Ferguson “In conjunction with the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs we are bringing some of the best jazz artists to the West End,” Councilmember Winslow said. “I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy two days of fabulous entertainment.”

DEKALB  Avondale Estates to host May Ham Fest Avondale Estates residents are preparing to ham it up. The community’s May Ham Fest, which will feature a competition for the best ham dish, will be held May 7, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Franklin and Pine Streets, Avondale Estates. A panel of local celebrity chefs and ham experts will judge the ham dishes starting at 11:30 a.m. Public tastings will start at noon. Enjoy a classic car show, vendors and 12 bands featuring a variety of music, from surf and garage, to rockabilly and country and sit back and watch 35mm films. Attendees are encouraged to wear ham costumes. For more information, visit: www.avondalemayhamfest.com.

Miller Grove High to host My Brother’s Keeper summit The DeKalb County school district is hosting the second annual My Brother’s Keeper DeKalb Summit on Saturday, May 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Miller Grove High School, 2645 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia. The event will offer students several workshops including: “Dress for Success,” “Healthy Teen Relationships,” “Violence Prevention and Goal Setting.” Workshops for parents include “Supporting Your Children’s Education,” “Raising Males of Color,” “Family Dynamics,” “Positive Behavior Intervention and Bullying Prevention.” Special invited guests include DeKalb County School District Superintendent R. Stephen Green, actor Tommy Ford, the 100 Black Men of America and Hank Stewart from the Stewart Foundation. My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) is President Barack Obama’s initiative to bridge the opportunity gap for boys and young men of color and to ensure that all young people reach their full potential. For more information about the initiative, visit www.whitehouse.gov/my-brothers-keeper. Breakfast, lunch and free childcare will be provided. For more information, contact Quinn Hudson at 678-676-0720 or email dcsd_ communications@dekalbschoolsga.org. To register, text @mbkdekalb to 81010.

DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James and the DeKalb County TRIAD are inviting more than 750 seniors to attend the 2016 Senior Ball and Resource Fair on Saturday, May 7, at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, 265 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta. “We started this tradition as a way to provide attendees with most up-to-date and impactful resources available to enrich their lives,” James said. “Our office is committed to making certain that the senior residents of DeKalb County are knowledgeable of the latest fraud schemes and able to prevent scammers from taking their money. We have to make sure that we not only protect our seniors, but teach our seniors how to protect themselves.” The Resource Expo, which begins at 5 p.m., features organizations from across metro Atlanta providing valuable information on how seniors can guard against fraud and remain healthy, safe and active in every facet of their lives. The Senior Ball, which begins at 6 p.m., will feature educational seminars as well as dinner. The event is free to adults ages 60 and over. E-mail seniorball@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 470-599-2075 to request tickets. Parking is $7 and $11 for valet parking. .

Peace Lutheran to present Spring Expo 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

Snellville Days Festival offers weekend of fun The Snellville Days Festival, featuring more than 150 arts and crafts booths, 20 food vendors and live entertainment, will be held April 30 to May 1, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Sunday, at T.W. Briscoe Park, 2500 Sawyer Parkway, Snellville. There will be a children’s activities area and plenty of festival food. The Snellville Days Festival will begin with a parade through downtown Snellville at 10 a.m. Admission to the festival is free.

ROCKDALE

Job fair set at VFW Post Jobseekers from all areas are invited to a job fair that will be held on May 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the VFW Post, 432 VFW Drive, SW, Conyers. The facility is located off the access road that runs behind the Dairy Queen on West Avenue in Olde Town. More than a dozen employers offering over 150 job openings will attend. Some of the industries include manufacturing, clerical, sales, general labor, and law enforcement. Dress to impress and come with a resume.

Monastery of the Holy Spirit offers architectural tour The Monastery of the Holy Spirit, 2625 Highway 212 SW, Conyers is offering architectural tours every third Saturday through November. Learn more about the beauty, architecture and history of this inspiring community. The tours, sponsored by the Arabia Mountain Alliance, will be held 1:30 to 4 p.m. Third Saturdays of the month remaining this year: The remaining tours are scheduled May 21, June 18, July 16, Aug. 20, Sept. 17, Oct. 15 and Nov. 19. To RSVP, visit http://monasterytours.brownpapertickets.com/. The cost is $10. To RSVP, visit http://monasterytours.brownpapertickets.com/. Cost is $10. 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.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

APRIL 30, 2016 • PAGE 5

Rep. Johnson announces 2016 Congressional Arts competition winners

ep. Hank Johnson (GA04) announced the winners of his 2015 Congressional Arts Competition and awarded four college scholarships worth a total of $35,000 on April 23 at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia. The grand prize winner was Demetria Coffee, a junior from Newton County High School. She won a $12,000 scholarship to The Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) for her work “Depression.” Coffee will travel to Washington, D.C. in June to see her art displayed in the Capitol, where it will hang with other award winners from around the country for a year. Miss Coffee also won two round-trip airline tickets from Southwest Airlines to Washington, D.C. for the National Recognition Ceremony. First runner-up was Jose Gomez, a senior from Meadowcreek High School in Gwinnett County. He won a $12,000 scholarship to The Art Institute of Atlanta for his work “Equality.” His work will be displayed in Congressman Johnson’s District office for a year. Second runner-up was Terrell Reese, a senior from Meadowcreek, for his work “Lost Ones.” He earned a $7,500 scholarship to The Art Institute of Atlanta. Third runner-up was Toni Hodges, a senior from Arabia Mountain High School in DeKalb. She earned a $3,500 scholarship to The Art Institute of Atlanta for her work “The Moon’s View.” Since 2007, Congressman

1. Grand prize winner Demetria Coffee. From left: David and Dajanine Coffee, Rockdale County Commissioner and competition judge Doreen Williams, Demetria Coffee and Congressman Johnson. 2.First runner-up Jose Gomez. From left: Congressman Johnson, Rockdale County Commissioner and competition judge Doreen Williams, Jose Gomez and Anthony Johnson of the Art Institute of Atlanta. 3. Second runner-up Terrell Reese: From left: Reese’s mom Beverly Andrews, Rockdale County Commissioner and competition judge Doreen Williams, Congressman Johnson, Terrell Reese and Anthony Johnson of the Art Institute of Atlanta. 4.Third runner up Toni Hodges. From left: Toni Hodges and Congressman Johnson.

Johnson has awarded more than $315,000 in arts scholarships to Fourth District students. “Every year, it warms my heart how such a diverse and talented group of students compete in this annual event,” said Rep. Johnson. “Again this year, we see the vision and artistry of Fourth District students on full display.” Johnson and his staff wore purple in honor of musical legend Prince. “We all have a stroke of genius

Celebrate World Red Cross Day by giving blood The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to make an appointment to give blood and help save lives in honor of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. Each year, the local and global impact of the Red Cross mission is celebrated on May 8, the birthday of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement founder Henry Dunant. Currently, donors of all blood types are needed to give and help save hospital patients’ lives. Every day, the Red Cross must collect approximately 14,000 blood donations to meet the needs of patients across the country. To make an appointment to give blood, download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1800-733-2767).

MARTA sets “Jazz Mondays” Starting Monday, May 2, the melodious sounds of “Jazz Mondays” return to select MARTA stations for a four-week engagement. “Jazz Mondays” is an annual event co-sponsored in partnership with the Atlanta Jazz Festival. The free, two-hour concerts are part of the “31 Days of Jazz” kickoff that celebrates the 2016 Atlanta Jazz Festival. Stop by one of these rail stations to unwind. All times are 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.: • Chamblee Station, May 2 – featuring Sander Pinheiro • Five Points Station, May 9 – featuring The Mike Walton Quartet • Lakewood/Ft. McPherson Station, May 16 – featuring Indie Revenge • Midtown Station, May 23 – featuring Grüt If you’re planning to attend this year’s Atlanta Jazz Festival (May 2729), take the train to MARTA’s Midtown or Arts Center stations and take a short walk to Piedmont Park.

Like Us On Facebook: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

inside us,” Johnson told the students. “Your genius is on display today. Just like Prince, we all must tap into our God-given talents and not be afraid to display them to the world.” More than 19 high school students from DeKalb, Gwinnett and Newton counties submitted artwork competing for the four college scholarships. The judges for Rep. Johnson’s 2016 Art Competition were: Kate McLeod of the High Museum of

Art; Jennifer Galloway, owner of Thirsty Mona Lisa Art Gallery; Doreen Williams, Rockdale County Commissioner; Michelle Bryant-Johnson of the Newton County Art Council; and Suzanne Lipe, AHF Clinic. The Chapel Hill Middle School Symphonic Ensemble also performed at the reception. Band director Natalie Brown was recognized by Rep. Johnson for her hard work and dedication to developing the middle school artists at Chapel Hill.

PAGE 6 •APRIL 30, 2016

WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Elections 2016 Your Voice Your Vote Congressman Hank Johnson endorses Sherry Boston for DeKalb DA

U.S. Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA4) has endorsed Sherry Boston for District Attorney of DeKalb County. Johnson’s endorsement, announced today, follows endorsements by former District Attorneys Bob Wilson and J. Tom Morgan and Thomas Brown, DeKalb’s former Sheriff and Public Safety Director. Boston, who has served as DeKalb’s Solicitor-General since 2011, is challenging incumbent DA Robert James. The primary election is May 24. Johnson said he is endorsing Boston because he believes she will bring “balanced experience” to the District Attorney’s Office. “DeKalb County needs new leadership in the office of District Attorney,” said Johnson in a written statement. “We deserve someone who knows the law, respects the law, applies the law fairly and consistently, and above all else---abides by the law themselves. When deciding serious due process issues affecting the many lives impacted by the DA’s work, our current Solicitor Sherry Boston will bring balanced experience, professionalism, maturity, integrity, and reasoned temperament.” Johnson has served five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, served 12 years as a magistrate judge, five years as a DeKalb County commissioner and he has practiced as a criminal defense attorney in Georgia for 27 years.

Candidate Forums Meet DeKalb candidates at “Conversations with the Candidates” Lambda Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., in partnership with other DeKalb County non-profit organizations, will host “Conversations with the Candidates” on May 5, 6:30 p.m., at Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur. DeKalb County candidates who are seeking offices will have the opportunity to present their qualifications and answer questions from voters. There are 54 offices up for election with 18 that are contested. The goal of this event is to increase community participation in local elections by giving voters the opportunity to have all of these candidates under one roof. The partners of this event include: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Lambda Epsilon Omega and Tau Pi Omega Chapters and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Nu Mu Lambda Chapter. These are non-partisan service organizations that do not endorse any political candidate.

Rockdale NAACP, Conyers-Rockdale Chamber to host forum

The Rockdale NAACP and the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce will host a two-part candidate forum at the Rockdale Auditorium, 903 Main St., Conyers. The first panel will be held Thursday, May 5, 6 p.m.: State Senate District 17 State Senate District 43 State Rep. District 91 State Rep. District 113 State Rep. District 114 Board of Education, Post 2 Board of Education, Post 4 Board of Education. Post 5 The second panel will be held May 12, 5:30 p.m. : Rockdale County Commission Chair Rockdale County Commission, Post 1 Rockdale County Clerk of Superior Court Rockdale County Probate Judge Rockdale County Sheriff

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

APRIL 30, 2016 • PAGE 7

State lawmakers set public hearing to discuss barriers to capital raising

he ad hoc committee on private investment and capital raising will hold its second public hearing on Thursday, May 26, 12 – 2 p.m., at Georgia Piedmont Technical College’s South DeKalb campus, 2460 Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur. The ad hoc committee is charged with examining private capital investment in Georgia and best practices for easing regulatory barriers to capital investment. The group of state legislators will advise on any updates needed to the Georgia Uniform Securities Act to ensure that Georgia law and regulation allows all sufficient avenues for raising capital; research and hear testimony on the current use of security offerings in Georgia, including Regulation D, Regulation A+, Title II and III crowdfunding, and the Invest Georgia Exemption, and advise on regulatory and legal updates needed to ensure that Georgia law facilitates capital raising while protecting investors; and hear testimony throughout the state about barriers to raising capital for small and emerging Georgia businesses and advise on how to remove those barriers. The following members serve on the ad hoc committee: Rep. Bubber Epps, Chairman of the House Small Business Development Committee; Rep. Ron Stephens, Chairman of the House Economic Development & Tourism Committee; Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick (D-Lithonia); Rep. Steve Tarvin (R-Chickamauga); Rep. Al Williams (D-Midway); Rep. Buzz Brockway (R-Lawrenceville); and Rep. Stacey Evans (D-Smyrna). The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce will help host the event. For more information, contact Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick’s office at 404-656-0109.

District Director Mr. Jesse “Jay” Cunningham Cordially Invites you to our District 11 PTA 2016 Spring Conference Awards and Vendor Fair May 14, 2016 (Saturday) 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Registration and breakfast begins at 9 a.m. Southwest DeKalb High School Auditorium 2863 Kelley Chapel Road Decatur, GA 30034

Contact Paula Tate, Conference Chair @ 404-683-3599

Like Us On Facebook: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

PAGE 8 •APRIL 30, 2016

WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

DeKalb Senior Expo and Ball returns for 2016

DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James and the DeKalb County TRIAD are inviting more than 750 seniors to attend the 2016 Senior Resource Expo and Ball on Saturday, May 7, 5 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, 265 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta. “We started this tradition as a way to provide attendees with the most up to date and impactful resources available to enrich their lives,” James said. “Our office is committed to making certain that the senior residents of DeKalb County are knowledgeable of the latest fraud schemes and able to prevent scammers from taking their money. We have to make sure that we not only protect our seniors, but that help our seniors protect themselves.” The Resource Expo features organizations from across metro Atlanta that will provide information on how seniors can guard against fraud and remain healthy, safe and active in every facet of their lives. The Senior Ball will feature educational seminars on healthy activities and preventing scammers, as well as dinner. The event is free and open to adults ages 60. To request a free ticket, email seniorball@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 470-599-2075. Parking is $7 and $11 for valet parking.

DeKalb Senior Olympic Games set to start May 2 See active seniors in action in a variety of sports competitions. The DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games will be held May 2-26. The event, in its 30th year, will be held at venues throughout the county. DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs will host the Olympic-style sports festival, which provides seniors, ages 50 and older, an opportunity to compete in their favorite sports. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each event. The DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games is open to all residents of DeKalb as well as residents from surrounding counties. Visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks and click “register now” on the department’s homepage or pick up registration packets at any county recreation center, library and select senior centers. For more information about the DeKalb Senior Olympic Games, call DeKalb County Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs at 404-371-2711. Seniors needing special assistance regarding transportation should call MARTA Mobility at 404-848-5389.

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.

ACA Accredited and voted best in Atlanta 2012.

5901 Hugh Howell Road Stone Mountain, GA. 30087 Contact Gregory Burdett Ed.S. 678-469-1377 daycamp@smokeriseministries.org

Convenient extended day (6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.)

www.SmokeRiseMinistries.org/camp

Braces for Children & Adults • Free Consultation

• Low Monthly Payments Starting at $89 • Metal and Clear Braces for Children & Adults • Invisalign Certified • Saturday Appointments

Advertise in the Marketplace. Call On Common Ground News 678-526-1910

Available Upon Request

770-482-7400 8200 Mall Parkway, Suite B 200, Lithonia, GA 30038 M-F 8:30am to 5:30 • www.Lithoniabraces.com

Dr. Jamal A. Duval, DDS, MS

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

DeKalb to host summer food program

he DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs is participating in the Summer Food Service Program, June 6 – July 29. Nutritious breakfasts and lunches will be provided to eligible children ages 18 and under. Many children who eat free or reduced-priced meals during the school year miss out on nutritious meals in the summer. The Summer Food Service Program was designed to ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session. “Children need healthy food all year long,” said Interim CEO Lee May. “When school lets out for the summer, there are a number of young people at risk of going hungry. The Summer Food Program helps to fill the gap while these kids are at home during the summer months. Last year DeKalb County was able to provide over 210,000 meals. Hopefully, even more youth will participate this summer.” The deadline to apply for the Summer Food Program is Friday, May 6. Applications for the program can be picked up Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340-B McConnell Drive, Decatur. To learn more about sites participating sites in the Summer Food Service Program, contact Rose Myrick at 404-414-2109. Sites serving summer meals are listed below:

APRIL 30,2016 • PAGE 9

PAGE 10•APRIL 30,2016 Activists continued from page 1

dards to investigate but he and other community activists plan to continue to press for charges against the officer. “I don’t understand why the officer still has a job. He never filed any form stating that he had beaten a citizen. Chief Turner owes the community an explanation as to why this officer has not been fired and charged with felony assault,” Boazman said. “This was one of the most vicious assaults that I have seen of a citizen by a police officer. It was hard to watch. Officer King was so out of control that his mental fitness to serve as an officer has to be called into question. You just don’t beat someone the way he did Mr. Carnegay for alledgedly stealing a tomato.” Carnegay is disabled as a result of the beating. He has filed a suit against Wal-Mart, the store manager on duty the day of the beating and the officer. Wal-Mart told Channel 2 action news that it had not been served but would respond appropriately with the court. E-Splost continued from page 3

regarding my letter of April 19, and I offer you my heartfelt apology. The meeting you so graciously held on Monday, April 26, and the promised data were sufficient to address the concerns of this Branch,” Evans stated. If the penny tax extension is approved, the school district would receive about $500 million from it. Cleanup continued from page 1

part of Rockdale’s teams. “Nearly half of the teams were comprised of youths who were under the age of 18,” said Oden. The volunteers collected 3 ½ dumptruck loads of waste from illegal dumping sites. Some of the waste included televisions, a dishwasher and even a boat, Oden said. Seventy-five tires also were rounded up, he said. Rockdale, which has 88,000 residents, is Georgia’s second-smallest county in terms of geographic area. The Great American Cleanup is an initiative of Keep America Beautiful. Local affiliates and partnering organizations, volunteers and corporate sponsors play a key role in the annual event. In 2015, there were more than 4 million volunteers and participants of the Great American Cleanup in more than 20,000 participating communities.

WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Important E-SPLOST Information •E-SPLOST V is NOT a new tax. It is a continuation of capital improvement projects voters  first approved in 1997. •E-SPLOST is a one-penny sales tax funded by residents and visitors who buy goods in DeKalb County. •The current E-SPLOST will expire June 30, 2017, unless DeKalb residents vote to continue capital improvements for schools on May 24, 2016. •The money set aside in E-SPLOST IV will be used for specific projects already identified and will NOT be used for projects for E-SPLOST V. •E-SPLOST is a significant funding source for capital improvements. It is an important part of how the district is able to fund new construction, improve educational facilities and upgrade technology for students. •E-SPLOST funds can be used ONLY for educational purposes. •If approved by the voters on May 24, 2016, $500 million in one-penny proceeds will fund  projects in five focus areas:  *Safety and Security (cameras, fire alarms & sprinkler systems, fencing) *New Facilities and Additions (additions, new or replacement schools) *Facility Improvements (roofing, heating & air conditioning, plumbing, etc.) *Technology Improvements (computers, wireless, data storage system) *Buses, vehicles and other capital equipment (school buses, furniture,  band instruments, kitchen equipment, etc.) •ESPLOST IV – $100+ million of work is occurring in Regions 3, 4 and 5 Region 3  •Redan HS - renovation/addition – Completed by fall 2016 •Rockbridge ES - new school construction - Completed by fall 2016 •Stone Mountain HS – renovations and capital improvements – General Contractor award  to be made in June 2016 Region 4 •Bob Mathis ES – ADA, Capital Renewal: roofing, restrooms HVAC – In design phase •Browns ES – Capital Renewal: HVAC, roofing – In design phase •Chapel Hill ES – Capital Renewal: HVAC, roofing – Completed by summer 2016 •Miller Grove MS – ADA, Capital Renewal: HVAC, restroom, roofing kitchen equipment –  Begin in fall of 2016 •Panola Way – ADA, Capital Renewal: Code Requirements – In design phase •Rainbow ES – Capital Renewal: Code Requirements: HVAC, Roofing, Electrical – In design  phase •Southwest DeKalb HS – addition and Renovations, Capital Renewal: Plumbing, roofing –  Completed by summer 2016 •William Buck Godfrey Stadium – Improvements completed by late fall 2016  Region 5 •Canby Lane ES – ADA, Capital Renewal: Code Requirements: HVAC, restroom, kitchen – In design phase •Cedar Grove ES – ADA, Capital Renewal: Code Requirements – In design phase •Hallford Stadium – Turf, track, fence – Completed by fall 2016 •Kelley Lake ES – ADA, Capital Renewal, Code Requirements – In design phase •McNair MS – new school construction – In design phase and community engagement  beginning Summer 2016 •Peachcrest ES – new school construction – Completed •Towers HS – Capital Renewal: Roofing – Completed  ESPLOST V – Proposed Projects (if approved by voters May 24, 2016)  Districtwide Priorities to include, but not be limited to: o Technology Enhancements o Band Equipment Purchase o School Buses Replacement o School Furniture Replacement o Kitchen Equipment Upgrades o Safety Cameras and Security Upgrades o Fire Alarms and Sprinklers •Two new elementary schools in the Cross Keys Cluster to address overcrowding •Roofs, HVAC, restrooms, kitchen upgrades (based on prioritized needs) •Parking Lots and paving repairs (based on prioritized needs) •New Schools and Additions (based on prioritized needs)

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

CLASSIFIEDS Hair Salon A Sisterlocks Explosion; happening in Tucker & surrounding areas!!! Call Brenda (Certified) for a Free Consultation: 770-725-0024.www. sisterlocks.com

APRIL 30, 2016 • PAGE 11

On Common Ground News Marketplace RESTAURANTS

Stress or Physical Pain?

For Rent Mni Mall All event facility. Parties, Church Meetings, Seminars, Business Meetings, Wedding, Graduation Parties. $20-$125 per hour. 7173 Covington Hwy 678-755-5955 Now Hiring

770-484-3355 2910 EVANS MILL ROAD, LITHONIA, GA

WEEKLY LUNCH SPECIAL

Now Hiring Sub-Contractors for Directv Installers/ Sales. Exp will cable, phone, electric a must. Must pass background. Must have van, truck, suv..$1000 weekly. Call Byram at 678-7760228

J U S T W E AV E S

NEW LOCATION!!

At Full Body Rejuvenation Center our staff offers the most effective quality health care to satisfy every individual's personal needs. Our combination of chiropractic therapy and physiotherapy allow us to focus on the physiological, as well as the biomechanical aspects of the body. Dr. Smith encourages you to come in and begin your healthy approach to pain management, weight loss or stress relief!

Chiropractic Treatment Physiotherapy Your path to Natural Health CHURCH

Bring in this ad and receive a

complementary chiropractic consultation

An Open Invitation To You

Come as you are & fellowship with us Sundays 11 a.m. & Wednesdays 7:30 p.m. Messiah’s House Assembly of God Church 1683 S. Hairston Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30088

FULL BODY REJUVENATION CENTER 3636 Panola Rd, Ste B

Rev. Patrick Findley

Lithonia, GA 30038

770-981-4136

“God Loves You”

1ST & 15TH ONLY

messiahs@comcast.net

Formally The Weave Stop 2091 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA

404-284-8833

CHRISTIAN HOUSE CLEANSINGS Deliverances & Blessings from a biblical perspective ONLY done over phone sometimes in person. I work on Donations only via PayPal.

Call Minister Sheila

at 678-525-2005

MOST MAJOR INSURANCES AND OBAMA CARE ACCEPTED! DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Thursday, April 28, 2016 Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR SOLICITATION NO.

ITEM

CLOSING DATE

16-100708

Pump Repair Services (Annual Contract with Two (2) Options to Renew)

May 26, 2016

16-100714

County Wide Commercial Janitorial Services (Annual Contract with Two (2) Options to Renew)

May 30, 2016

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 readvertise. By: Talisa R. Clark, MBA, CPPO, Interim Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County, Purchasing and Contracting Department

Exp. 05-14-16

PAGE 12 •APRIL 30, 2016

WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Cosmetic & General Dentistry Recline in Comfort & Watch TV During Your Treatment !!

Mon- Thurs 8am-5pm Every other Friday 8am-5pm

New Patients Welcome! Power Bleaching- Zoom Invisible Braces (Invisalign) Dental Implants Tooth-Colored Fillings Crown & Bridges Porcelain Veneers Low- Radiation X-Rays Amber Jenkins Dabney ,DDS

www.beautifulsmiledds.com

Se Habla Espanol!

8200 Mall Parkway , Suite #155 Lithonia, GA 30038 • (770) 484-4051 Shops at Turner Hill Plaza (Across from Panera Bread Company)