VOLUME 21 NUMBER 9
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MAY 30, 2015
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
DeKalb’s oncea-week garbage pickup starts July 6 DeKalb County will begin collecting garbage once-a-week beginning July 6. DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May announced the launch and timeline for the program at a press conference on May 28. Informational door hangers and direct mail correspondence telling residents when their new collection service day will be sent out over the next three to four weeks, officials said. New 65-gallon garbage carts will be delivered to residents beginning July 6. County officials decided to switch from twice-a-week collections to once-a-week after conducting a pilot program last year in some areas of DeKalb. There will be no fee increase with the switch, officials say. “Since 2006, DeKalb residents have not seen an increase in sanitation fees,” said May. “In addition to ensuring we continue this trend; the change brings us many internal and external benefits, including cost-savings to the county, neighborhoods that are cleaner and neater, and a reduction in injuries for our crews.” The program’s implementation timeline is as follows:
DeKalb opens one-stop haven to assist abuse victims By Joshua Smith Victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual assault and elder abuse now have a place to address all of their critical concerns under one roof. DeKalb officials held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the 8,000 square-foot Family Protection Center, a one-stop haven that will offer counseling, physical examinations and other services for abuse victims—both adults and children from throughout the metro Atlanta area. Some of the agencies that will have representatives and medical experts at the new center include the Department of Family and Children’s Services; Adult Protective Services; the District Attorney’s Office; Georgia Center for Child Advocacy; the Day League; and International Women’s
Monday once-a-week customers will begin on Monday, July 6. Tuesday once-a-week customers will begin on Tuesday, July 7. Wednesday once-a-week customers will begin on Wednesday, July 8. Thursday once-a-week customers will begin on Thursday, July 9. More details can be found at the “Rolling Forward to One” program: http://www.dekalbcountyga. gov/sanitation_SCSC/index.html
House. Championed by Georgia Center for Child Advocacy CEO Nancy Chandler
See Family Protection Center5 page 8
DeKalb Schools officially hires Green as new superintendent
The delivery process for county-provided green 65-gallon garbage roll carts will begin by Monday, July 6. Delivery will take six to eight weeks to complete. Brochures outlining the new collection and cart procedures, a frequently asked questions (FAQs) document, and the remaining 2015 and 2016 holiday collection schedule will be delivered with each roll cart. Once-a-week collection is scheduled to begin on Monday July 6, even for customers who have not yet received their county-provided green garbage roll cart. Garbage, recycling and yard trimmings will all be collected on the same day. Single-family residential customers will switch to once-aweek collection service as follows (subject to change)*:
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
and DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James, the facility is the first of its kind in the South region of the nation. “No longer do victims of terrible crimes have to go from place to place to receive services after a tragic occurrence. Before this center, some victims were becoming victims of the process, getting burned out taking their fight for justice to as many as 10 to15 different agencies,” said District Attorney James. “Metro Atlanta and DeKalb County are known across the country for being a hub for sex trafficking. This
Dr. R.Stephen Green
By Valerie J. Morgan The DeKalb County School District has hired Dr. R. Stephen Green, 61, as its new superintendent. The former superintendent of Kansas City, MO Public Schools (KCPS) will become DeKalb’s superintendent on July 1. The DeKalb County School Board made the appointment official on May 28, voting 6-1 to hire Green and give him a three-year contract with an annual base salary of $300, 000. Green will receive about $100,000 additional in other benefits and bonuses. His salary is in line with the Atlanta Public Schools’ superintendent who earns $375,000 annually. Fulton County’s superintendent earns $275,000 a year and Clayton County’s superintendent earns $220,000 a year. Green replaces Superintendent Michael Thurmond who was appointed in February 2013.
Dr. Joyce Morley was the only school board member who voted against hiring Green. She said she had concerns about PROACT, the search firm the school board used to help find DeKalb’s superintendent. The district abruptly fired PROACT in April, amidst an FBI investigation. PROACT’s subsidiary, SUPES Academy, received a $20.5 million no-bid contract with Chicago schools, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. SUPES Academy trains principals to become superintendents. The newspaper also explored the background of Gary Solomon, who owns both companies, reporting that Solomon in 2001 was accused of “immoral and unprofessional conduct.” Morley said Solomon should have disclosed that he had done business with Kansas City Public Schools and that he way also using SUPES graduates in the search for a DeKalb superintendents. She said she believes Solomon’s relationship with Green gave Green an unfair edge. “How could all of the other candidates who applied for the job have a fair chance? My belief is that the pool was tainted. He (Solomon) never disclosed to us that he had a relationship with Green,” Morley said. “The pool should have been thrown out and we should have started over.” Green emerged as the sole finalist from a search that was narrowed from 112 to eight candidates. Board Chair Melvin Johnson said he believes Green is well-suited to lead the DeKalb Schools District. “Dr. Green brings an impressive record to DeKalb not only from Kansas City, but also from New York, New Jersey
and Indiana. He was a stabilizing force in Kansas City, and will do the same here in DeKalb County,” Johnson said. Green is credited with leading Kansas City Public Schools back to provisional accreditation within two years of being named its superintendent in 2012. He had previously served as KCPS interim superintendent for several months. Under Green’s leadership, KCPS earned 92.5 points toward the state of Missouri’s school achievement standards in 2014. That was 8.5 points more than the school district earned in 2013, and a 54.5-point increase from the 2012 results. In August 2014, Missouri’s Board of Education recognized the district’s gains by granting KCPS provisional accreditation. Earlier this year, Green was recognized for his achievements by being named Missouri’s 2015 Pearce Award winner – “Best Superintendent of the Year” – by his peers, the Missouri Association of School Administrators. Dr. Green said he is excited about coming to DeKalb. Two of his four children live in the DeKalb County region, along with three of his four grandchildren. “I am looking forward to helping lead DeKalb schools to new elevations and to being able to spend a lot of quality time with my children and grandchildren,” Green said. Green replaces interim superintendent Michael Thurmond who was appointed in February 2013. Thurmond took leave from the Butler, Wooten, Wooten & Peak LLP law firm to fill the temporary role and said – at the time – he had no interest in holding the position long-term.
PAGE 2 •MAY 30, 2015
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EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com 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
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MAY 30, 2015 • PAGE 3
Rockdale Democrats link residents to community resources By Joshua Smith
A
bout 60 residents were connected with nearly 10 Rockdale County service groups at the May 27 Rockdale County Democratic Party’s Community Resource Center open house. Co-hosted by Post II Commissioner Doreen Williams, the event welcomed several local organizations to link people to services and volunteer opportunities. “I appreciated the opportunity to be here and help with this event because it is a great thing to introduce people to the party, some great elected officials and just a fraction of all the wonderful services that are offered in this county,” said Williams. Vendors at the event included Oakhurst Medical Center, Helping Hands Free Health Clinic, which did on-site medical screenings, the Grady Crisis Center, Viewpoint Health, Conyers Housing Authority, Department of Family and Children’s Services, Job Corps and Georgia Community Support Solutions. Rockdale Board of Commissioners Chairman Richard Oden, Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson and Sheriff Eric Levett attended the event and stressed the importance of the community partnering with like-minded organizations to better serve the needs of constitutents. “This kind of event is great because you get to really meet members of the community and share views and ideas on how we can improve,” said Sheriff Levett, who said he promoted the Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy and gun safety classes coming up in June as well as provided information on the county’s Code Red program and crime mapping program. Levett said overall crime in the county has decreased by 22 percent since 2012 with burglaries specifically decreasing by about 40 percent over the last two years. Saundra Johnson, a senior citizen who attended
the event, said she came out to get information for her daughter and grandchildren who are moving to Rockdale in a few months. Johnson said she enjoyed not only receiving helpful information but meeting some of Rockdale’s elected officials. “She will be here by the end of the summer to make sure her children are all squared away for the start of school,” said Johnson. “It was really nice to meet the sheriff and the chairman. As a Democrat, I take pride in seeing a Party host an event like this for the community.” Rockdale County Democratic Party President Elaine Davis-Nickens said she hopes the Party can offer the event to the community on a monthly basis. The event also offered voter registration. “We are all about serving the people. Whether it
DeKalb’s District 5 Debate draws crowd at Lou Walker Senior Center A crowd packed the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia to hear from all 10 candidates running for the District 5 commission seat. The May 28 forum followed one that was sponsored by Restore DeKalb on May 26, where about 65 people turned out in the rain to hear eight of the 10 candidates who showed up. Political analyst Bill Crane served as moderator of the forum, which was hosted by Delta Sigma Theta-Decatur, Lithonia-Stone Mountain Chapter. He raised several hot-button topics including cityhood, the use of county P cards, and reducing crime in the county. At the Restore DeKalb forum, Emmy-award winning journalist Steen Miles started out the forum by posing questions to determine how well candidates knew the office they were seeking including the role of a commissioner, and specifically to name the sitting commissioners and the district they represented. Cityhood and economic development were two hotbutton issues at the forum. For more on the story, go to www.ocgnews.com.
Get Out To Vote June 16 Special Election
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
was connecting people who could not afford the Affordable Healthcare Act with the free clinic or connecting people to sources for food stamps and job training, we want to do all that we can to help our community,” said Davis-Nickens. “I am very pleased with the turnout and look forward to hosting this event again before school starts so we can tie in giving out school supplies and put a real focus on our youth.”
PAGE 4 •MAY 30, 2015
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Coming Up
National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Stone-Mountain Lithonia Chapter Wednesday, June 10, 8:30 a.m., Fairfield Inn and Suites Hotel-Stonecrest, 7850 Stonecrest Square, Lithonia, hosted the Stonecrest Business Alliance. Thursday, June 11, 7 - 8:30 p.m., DeKalb Medical Center at Hillandale Theatre, 2745 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia, hosted by Junior League of DeKalb County, Parent Councils United, South DeKalb Improvement Association and Leadership DeKalb. Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m. to noon, This Is It Banquet Hall, 2853 Panola Road, Lithonia, hosted by the Women in the DeKalb NAACP. The District 5 candidates are: Gregory Adams; Harmel Deanne Codi; Melvin Jerome Edmondson; Gwendolyn R. “Gwen” Green; Vaughn Irons, Mereda Davis Johnson; Gina Mangham; Kathryn T. Rice; Kenneth Saunders, III; and George Turner, Jr. Early voting started on May 26. The special election to fill the District 5 seat will be held on Tuesday, June 16. For more information, visit www.dekalbvotes.com or call 404-2984020.
GWINNETT
Fishing Derby for kids set in Norcross
Brown Bag Concert series comes to Lawrenceville
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winnett County welcomes its free summer Brown Bag Concert series at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville on June 12, July 10 and Aug. 14, at 11 a.m. Pick up lunch on the square from a local business or pack your own from home and enjoy the warm days of summer as music and entertainment fills the air. The series kicks off with “Havana Son,” which will perform its cool sounds and interactive music. Other performers set to take the stage this summer are Scott Douglas on the Steel Drums on July 10; and Princess and the Pea Musical on Aug. 14. The series includes lawn games, face painting, crazy hair, and an arts and crafts zone. 770-822-5450.
ATLANTA
Library system kicks off summer events The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System will kick off its children’s summer reading program and family workshops on June 1, 10:30 a.m. Support your neighborhood branch and the annual summer reading program by attending a children’s superhero story time. Kids are invited to come dressed as their favorite superhero for the programs.. Storytelling sessions, workshops, movie days, an insect zoo and “Beer 101” session for adults are just some of the events the library system has planned. For more information and a complete summer program schedule, call 404-7301700 or visit www.afpls.org.
Virginia Highland sets Summerfest The Virginia Highland Civic Association will host the Virginia Highland Summerfest on June 5 – 7, 6 – 7 p.m., at 833 Virginia Ave., N.E., Atlanta. The event celebrates the beginning of summer with diverse arts, food vendors and live music on two stages. Admission is free. You can enjoy an artists’ market, watch runners of all ages take part in a 5K road race and have the kids participate in a tot trot. There will also be a Kidsfest with plenty of games and crafts. For more information, call event organizer Robert Frazer at 404-262-1800 or visit http://vahi.org/summerfest.
DEKALB
St. Paul AME sets health fair St. Paul AME Worship Center, 1704 Stone Mountain Lithonia Road, Lithonia, is sponsoring a Life and Health Awareness Expo on May 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be various health screenings and information and several vendors. Life South will conduct a blood drive through its mobile bus. Blood donated through Life South is used in the community in which it’s donated. The community is invited.
District 5 candidates’ forums set Residents in DeKalb County’s District 5 can learn more about the candidates who are running to represent the area as commissioner at one of several forums hosted in the district. Here is a list of the upcoming forums: Tuesday, June 2, 6 p.m., Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia, hosted by the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce Monday, June 8, 7 p.m., Community Achievement Center, 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. Tuesday, June 9, 7 p.m., Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithoni, hosted by the
Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation will host a free fishing derby for kids on Saturday, June 6, at Jones Bridge Park, 4901 E Jones Bridge Road, Norcross. Reel in some fun. Bring the kids for food, games, door prizes and fishing for beginners to advanced. Rod and bait provided on a first-come, first-served basis. No fishing license necessary. All ages are welcome. For more information, call 678-277-0920 for more information.
ROCKDALE
North Georgia Live Steamers offers mini train rides The North Georgia Live Steamers (NGLS) will host mini train rides on Saturday, June 6 and July 11, 1 to 4:30 p.m., at the Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. The NGLS is an incorporated non-profit miniature outdoor railroad club that encourages and assists others interested in the construction of scale steam engines, locomotives and railroad equipment through fellowship with others in the Live Steam hobby. The train rides are $2 per person. Run days may be canceled for inclement weather. For more information, visit www.northgeorgialivesteamers.org
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Rutledge Park opens in DeKalb
District 2 Commissioner Jeff Rader and Greenspace Environmental Manager Dave Butler cut the ribbon with residents at Rutledge Park.
D
eKalb County officials officially cut the ribbon on May 21 to open Rutledge Park at 1812 Ridgewood Drive, Atlanta. “There are few parks out there that are as loved as this one is,” said District 2 Commissioner Jeff Rader. “It is an outpouring of love and support for the park that made it all possible. This is the culmination of our rigorous implementation of what the community said they wanted in this park.” The 1.5-acre park includes entry landscaping, walkway into the park, playground and a walking trail. The total cost of the project was $108,000 and was raised through a collaborative effort: The Friends of Rutledge Park put a visual plan together and raised $13,000 for the project, and also received a $50,000 grant from Park Pride. Commissioner Rader added $45,000 towards the project through a park bond.
Lou Walker Senior Center to host Savvy Bazaar The Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia, will host its Savvy Bazaar on Saturday, June 6, noon – 6 p.m. Members of the center and other seniors from the community will sell handmade jewelry and arts and crafts. There will also be food vendors, entertainment by line dancers and a book sale. The event will feature “The Savvy Six Authors,” six female authors who are products of the center’s advanced writing class. The group is comprised of retired women with various backgrounds: minister, homemaker, managers, supervisors, judge and entrepreneur. Collectively, the women have authored 20 books on such subjects as domestic violence, mental abuse, ministry, ancestry, coming of age and personal spiritual, growth and development. Representatives from the DeKalb County Fire and Rescue, DeKalb Medical Center and DeKalb Voter Registration will be on hand to provide information. For more information, call 404-299-8906 or 470-269-6425.
Brookhaven welcomes food trucks This summer, the City of Brookhaven will welcome dozens of food trucks at its third annual food truck round up, June 3 – Sept. 30, 5 – 9 p.m. at Blackburn Park, 3493 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Brookhaven. Parking is free. Each week will welcome 12 – 15 food trucks. Local vendors will be on hand selling items such as handmade jewelry and birdhouses. Beer and wine will be available for purchase and there will be live entertainment from local artists.
MAY 30, 2015 • PAGE 5
Atlanta seeks fellow for Google Fiber program The City of Atlanta’s Park and Recreation Department has been selected to be a part of the Google Fiber’s first-ever Digital Inclusion Fellowship. As part of the program, the Department of Parks and Recreation will collaborate with Google Fiber and the Nonprofit Technology Network, to select fellows to create digital features in Atlanta for everyone--from youths to senior citizens. Anyone interested in becoming a fellow should apply by Wednesday, June 10, through the Nonprofit Technology Network at www.nten.org/ community/dif. “With this fellowship, we can continue to build on efforts to make Atlanta the technology hub of the Southeast,” said Mayor Kasim Reed. “Our new Digital Inclusion Fellow will work with the Department of Parks and Recreation to expand technology enrichment programs for young people and seniors, and help bridge the digital divide in our city.” The Digital Inclusion Fellowship was designed to empower local organizations to create digital literacy and awareness campaigns. Through the fellowship, the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation has the opportunity to staff a fellow for one year who will build a campaign from the ground up that meets the digital needs of Atlanta residents. “We’re looking for emerging local leaders who are passionate about helping people in their community,” said Andrew Bentley, Google Fiber’s Digital Inclusion Program Manager. “Through the Digital Inclusion Fellowship, these leaders will have the chance to work with organizations that are committed to getting more people online. We’re excited about the projects that the Department of Parks and Recreation and their fellow will lead, and the impact they’ll have on closing the digital divide in Atlanta.”
Rock Baptist registering for Vacation Bible School Rock Baptist Church, 1012 Rockbridge Road, Norcross, is registering children in Pre-K to sixth grade for Vacation Bible School, to be held on Monday, June 15 – Friday, June 19, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Under the theme, “Camp Kilimanjaro,” the church will be transformed into a safari. Through the book of Proverbs, children will learn to have ears that hear and do, hearts that trust in the Lord, tongues that are tame, hands that get to work, and feet that walk with the wise. To register, call 770-925-1753 or visit www.answersvbs.com/vbs/RockBridgeBaptist.
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Rockdale Probate Judge Mays to seek re-election By Valerie J. Morgan Rockdale Probate Court Judge Charles K. Mays, who made history in 2012 as one of eight African American Democrats elected to the county’s top offices, says he will seek re-election in 2016. Mays’ announcement came during a press conference that he and his attorney, Gary Washington, held on May 26 to put to rest a longstanding dispute with Freya Pearson, a former contractor who worked for the judge. It had been widely speculated that Mays would step down amidst the controversy, which he has called a “political vendetta” to tarnish his reputation. Mays’ attorney, Gary Washington, said the case concerning Pearson has been dismissed in Superior Court and the judge plans to move forward “without distractions.” “It is finished. It is over. It is done,” Washington told reporters during the May 26 press conferenced at the Hawthorne Suites Hotel in Rockdale. Said Mays: “I was always confident because I hadn’t done anything wrong that justice would prevail.” Pearson, who had accused Mays of owing her nearly $20,000 in back pay for work she said she performed, filed a motion through her attorney, Mike Waldrop, to dismiss the application for an arrest warrant against Mays without prejudice.
Judge Charles K. Mays (center) is flanked by his attorney, Gary Washington, family and friends during a May 26 news conference.
Because the case was dismissed without prejudice, however, Pearson could still sue. Waldrop is already saying that he plans to take up the matter in Magistrate Court, according to news reports. In addition to working a private practice, Waldrop is both the attorney and the solicitor for the City of Conyers. Washington said, however, the charges are “baseless.” He said the false allegations against Mays
have been an embarrassment for the Rockdale County community and “legal temper tantrum” at the expense of its citizens. Washington said during the press conference that Pearson is facing a 9-count federal indictment accusing her of stealing $480,000 from an elderly woman in Kansans City, Missouri. Pearson has a history of civil cases against her in Missouri dating back to 1997. “Our courts exist to resolve legitimate legal disputes to maintain
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the rule of law,” Washington said. “This case, however, has been nothing more than a misuse of public resources and abuse of the judicial process for a selfish motive and personal gain by an individual with a questionable character and past.” Mays was flanked by his wife, Victoria, their two sons and two daughters, as well as friends including Bishop Sharon Henderson and her husband, Jerome, who came from Newton County. “We prayed with him before the press conference. We came out to support him and his family because we believe that he is a good man and they have been through a lot,” said Henderson. Mays said the Probate Court has not gone neglected because of his personal court battle with Pearson. He said in fact, it has made a number of improvements under his leadership including providing free legal advice to citizens through its monthly “Ask The Attorney” sessions, initiating a program to allow customers to comment on service they receive, earning a 100 percent satisfaction rating; hosting a Mental Health Summit to provide resources for families caring for loved ones with mental illness; and taking steps to purchase a scanner to allow the conversion of older vital records into a digital format.
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Gwinnett Leadership Class dedicates Little Free Library to housing authority Members of the Gwinnett County Executive Competence, Excellence and Leadership (EXCEL) management development program held a dedication ceremony for the Little Free Library that has been installed at the Rich Martin Community located at 160 Ezzard Street in Lawrenceville. The 20 EXCEL participants, who are Gwinnett County Government managers and supervisors, partnered with the Lawrenceville Housing Authority to build and install the Little Free Library in addition to an outdoor bench for the children residing in the Rich Martin Community to enjoy. In its most basic form, a Little Free Library is a box full of books where anyone may stop by to pick up a book (or two) and bring back another book to share. In January, the total number of registered Little Free Libraries in the world was estimated to be nearly
25,000, with thousands more being built. The Lawrenceville Housing Authority was established in 1950 and was funded through the Housing Act of 1937 for the purpose of providing decent, safe and sanitary housing to the low-income citizens of Lawrenceville and the surrounding areas. Since its establishment, LHA has developed nine housing sites with a total of 212 public housing units. The Rich Martin Community is one of the sites established and maintained by the Lawrenceville Housing Authority. “We believe that books are an essential part of a child’s early learning development,” said project spokesperson Sally Sherrington. “Through this project, the 2015 EXCEL class hopes to bring books to children who may not have access to a library, computer or the Internet.” Community response to the project has been
RSCO registering for gun safety class The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) is accepting applications until Monday, June 15, for its citizen gun safety class. The class will consist of a classroom portion and time at the RCSO range. The class will be limited to 25 participants. Class will be held on Saturday, June 20, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Attendees are required to bring their own lunch. Course topics will include basic firearms safety, current gun laws, and basic nomenclature of the revolver and semi-automatic handguns. At the end of the classroom portion of the course, participants will get the chance to use their firearm at the RCSO’s firing range under the supervision of certified firearms instructors. “It is very important for people who own a gun or are around firearms to be trained,” said Sheriff Eric J. Levett. “The purpose of this class is to educate citizens on the proper and safe use of firearms. The RCSO firearms instructors will not only go over the safe operations of firearms but
update the attendees on all the current gun laws.” Requirements for the course are as follows: You must be a resident of Rockdale; at least 21 years of age; must not have been convicted of a felony; must bring a legal, modern handgun that will pass instructor inspection for safety and reliability; must bring your own ammunition; and must adhere to all rules of the RCSO firing range, which will be taught during the classroom portion of the course. Those interested in taking the course can pick up an application in person at the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office from the Judicial Bureau or download a copy from the RCSO web site at www.rockdalesheriff.com. Applications include basic participant information, course requirements and a background check. Completed applications must be turned in at the RCSO to Lieutenant Darold Vissering at 911 Chambers Drive, N.W., Conyers, along with a copy of your driver’s license. The class is free.
generous. Lowes of Suwanee, Luxury Landscape of Lawrenceville and The First United Methodist Church of Lawrenceville have all helped bring the vision to life with donated materials and lunches for the children on the day of the dedication. EXCEL is a comprehensive, 153-hour management development program conducted by the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government. EXCEL class members traditionally complete a service learning project that helps participants develop leadership and team building skills while solving real-life issues outside the office. In addition to the installation of the Little Free Library and bench, the class will serve lunch and provide activities for the children in the Rich Martin community.
Commissioner Stan Watson to host Home Expo
Stan Watson
DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson will host the DeKalb Community Cabinet Breakfast and Home Expo on Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m., at Southwest DeKalb High School, 2863 Kelley Chapel Road, Decatur.
The June breakfast theme honors veterans and continues its tradition of recognizing National Homeowners Appreciation Month. Current, future and new homeowners can gather information on saving their home from foreclosure, purchasing their home, selling or finding homes, improving their home and its value, tips on recycling, and protecting their home and more at the breakfast. There is no charge to attend the community breakfast and RSVP is not required. For more information, call 404-371-3681.
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Family Protection Center continued from page 1
is a monumental day. This center gives us a great fighting chance to build a different reputation.” The center is housed within the county’s Fire & Rescue central office, adjacent to the DeKalb County Police Department’s headquarters in Tucker. Construction crews revamped existing space at the central office to open the center. Officials say the $800,000 renovation was paid for by the DeKalb Police Department’s forfeiture dollars, federal stimulus funds and other grants. Several local companies throughout the state donated supplies, furniture and artwork for the new center, officials said. “We can now help victims at a very fragile and vulnerable time in their lives, saving them embarrassment and giving them the privacy, respect and dignity they deserve,” said DeKalb County Deputy Chief operating Officer of Public Safety Cedric Alexander. He said first responders, including all local police agencies and fire fighters, will be trained to handle referrals to
the center. “Everyone involved here shares a common goal of ensuring the victims of these crimes have readily available experts and receive the assistance they need in a more timely matter than before,” Alexander said. It will be up to the independent agencies at the center to staff the center with their representatives. A host of elected officials and county leaders were on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony including State Sen. Ronald Ramsey, DeKalb County Commissioners Larry Johnson and Kathie Gannon, Sheriff Jeff Mann, Superior Court Clerk Debra DeBerry, Interim Police Chief James Conroy and Fire Chief Darnell Fullum. “Two of the top responsibilities of a government is to provide protection for its citizens and to improve the quality of life of its citizens. This center, this partnership does both for citizens who are coming to us at a time of great need,” said Interim CEO Lee May. “We believe this center and its professional staff will provide the essential
resources to be a maximum benefit to the victims of these violent crimes.” The Family Protection Center will operate Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.
– 5 p.m., inside DeKalb’s Fire and Rescue Headquarters at 1950 West Exchange Place, Tucker. 770-492-5484
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MAY 30, 2015 • PAGE 9
People
Movers & Shakers in the Community
Farewell to Browns Mill Elementary’s Principal Phyllis Daniel
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rowns Mill Elementary School Principal Phyllis Daniel received a big sendoff celebration from her faculty, district officials and friends on May 26. Daniels is retiring from the DeKalb County School System after working 32 years as an educator. The celebration, which was held at Browns Mill, followed Daniel’s final farewell to students where she waved goodbye to school buses on the last day of school on May 22. “I have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of support from my teachers and my students. They have had special celebrations for me for an entire week,” said Daniel, who attended the banquet with her son, Avery. “I love DeKalb. I have truly enjoyed my time with our school district.” Daniel began her career with the school system as a teacher at Henderson High School. She served as an assistant principal at Stone Mountain High School. One of the highlights of Daniel’s career was to open Stephen Middle School in 1996. She was among three female principals in the Stephenson cluster when she took the reigns as a new principal. At her retirement celebration banquet, Daniel was serenaded,
Stephenson Middle School officials roasted her, Browns Mill staff members made presentations to her on behalf of its students from Pre-K through fifth
grades, and Eric Hubbard presented a proclamation on behalf of Congressman Hank Johnson.
Photos by Gelnn L. MorganOCG News
Tim Keane to head Atlanta’s Department of Planning and Community Development
A
Tim Keane
tlanta Mayor Kasim Reed announced his appointment of Tim Keane as Commissioner for the Department of Planning and Community Development. Keane previously served as Director of Planning, Preservation and Sustainability for the City of Charleston, S.C. He is expected to begin his role with the city on July 1. The Atlanta City Council must confirm Keane before his appointment is final. Keane led Charleston’s sustainability initiatives and managed code enforcement and neighborhood beautification. In addition, his office also led the city’s tourism management planning efforts. Under his leadership, the city created a Century Five
Comprehensive Plan—a 10-to-15-year guide for growth and development. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Keane as the Commissioner of our Department of Planning and Community Development,” said Reed. “Tim brings the right expertise to help the Department the meet the long-term goals of my administration. I am confident that his experience, vision and exceptional commitment to public service will help our city continue to grow in ways that will benefit all our citizens.” Keane previously served as Director of Planning for the Town of Davidson, N.C., where he led all planning and regulatory operations. He also started a private design firm where he worked with private developers on notable projects including Mixson in North Charleston—a community of green and energy efficient homes. “I am honored to join Mayor Kasim Reed and his Administration as the Commissioner of Planning and Community Development,” said Keane. “I look forward to working with citizens to ensure everything that is planned, designed and built makes the city a better place to live and work.” Keane received his graduate degree in Architecture from the University of North Carolina—Charlotte. He was a Knight Fellow in Community Building at the University of Miami School of Architecture in 2001.
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Ready to Work Rockdale event draws dozens of job seekers
By Joshua Smith Some looking for employment were lined up even before Post I Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, Sr. started his Ready to Work Rockdale job fair on May 27. “My No. 1 goal is to do what I can to help get Rockdale County back to work,” Nesbitt said. “ It is my duty as a commissioner to match up job seekers with opportunities that are right here in our own backyard.” Job seekers of all ages—from teens to senior citizens—came to the job fair. One job seeker, 21-year-old Michael Anderson, said he’s looking for work to help with books and tuition as a communications student at Georgia Rockdale County Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, Sr. and county agencies welcomed plenty of Perimeter College. residents looking for jobs on May 27 at the commissioner’s annual Ready to Work Rockdale event “As a college student, it can held at Panera Bread in Conyers. get hard to make ends meet and any job I can get would be great, especialin this area,” said Stephanie Moore, who better job opportunity. ly in the summer when I can work longer owns Southern Staffing Services, which “I moved here in Sephours more days out of the week,” said helps job seekers in Rockdale, Newton, tember and I just feel like Anderson, who was one of the first in line at DeKalb and Henry counties. “Some jobs there will be more opporthe job fair. require skills assessment testing, but even tunity here,” said Moore Some positions up for grabs at the job if you fail, we offer free tutorials to help who moved from Durham, fair included restaurants looking for wait you take the tests again and pass. There is N.C. and is planning to get staff. The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office, always a chance at working and bettering married soon. “I would like which is looking to fill 20 vacancies in the yourself. We have linked hundreds of peoto work for the city or get a areas of detention deputies, certified sheriff ple to jobs and careers. We want to get you county position. That line of deputies and technical services IT jobs. The in the door and watch you succeed.” work would be great.” Rockdale Fire Department is also looking Southern Staffing Services, Inc. is lookNesbitt says this was for dispatchers and other positions to fill. ing to link people to companies needing about the tenth job fair he Southern Staffing Services, Inc. provid- data entry clerks, forklift drivers, shippers has hosted and he plans to ed on-site drug screenings and background and packers for warehouses and quality host another fair by fall. checks for job seekers. control inspectors. For more information “We are all about events like this when Brandon Moore, who works for a suon job placement and job we can link people to jobs in high demand permarket, came to the event looking for a services, call 770-483-5888.
DeKalb Watershed Management hosts rain barrel workshop The DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management (DWM) invites DeKalb residents to attend a rain barrel workshop. The workshop is set for Saturday, June 6, 1-2 p.m. at the Arabia Mountain Nature Center, 3787 Klondike Road, Lithonia. DWM recommends the collection of rainwater in rain barrels for use during dry months as an effective way for residents to conserve water and reduce water bills. During the workshop, residents will learn about rain barrel maintenance, water conservation landscaping, and runoff reduction. The rain barrel workshop is open to the first 20 DeKalb County residents who enroll, and there is a limit of two barrels per household. This is a “hands-on” workshop in which residents will make their own rain barrels with DWM assistance. The cost of the workshop is $20, and deadline to register is Wednesday, June 3. To register, contact Michael O’Shield at 770-724-1456 or msoshield@deklabcountyga.gov. For more information visit www.arabiaalliance.org.
2015 JABY Trailblazer Awards set July 19 DeKalb County’s Suite 20 Day Spa, through its non-profit foundation JABY, Inc., will host its 2015 International Trailblazer Awards on July 19 at the Porter Sanford Performance Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. The awards program, in its sixth year, recognizes outstanding community leadership and this year will honor: Senegal Ambassador Jane Gardner DeKalb Superior Court Judge Tangela Barrie Former WSB-TV anchor Monica Pearson Actor Ro Brooks (Tyler Perry’s “ The Haves and Have Nots”) Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church Pastor Dr. William E. Flippen Atlanta Rotary District 6900 Gov. Alicia Michaels, Community activist Darlene Lewis International Makeup Artist Ruby Polanco Florida State University Law Student Lauryn Collier (Miss Tallahassee NWFL 2015) The Red Carpet event, which will be hosted by WSB-TV’s Veronica Waters, will start at 5:30 p.m., followed by a buffet dinner. The master of ceremonies for the awards program will be McDaniel Anderson of Richmond,VA. Tickets, which are now on sale and must be purchased in advance, are $25 per person; $40 per couple; and $50 VIP admission. No ticket sales at the door. Go to www.jabyinc.com, eventbrite or call 404-286-9664.
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