VOLUME 22 NUMBER 6
FREE
MAY 7,2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
National Day of Prayer in Rockdale
Former Lakeside High student pleads guilty to fatal prom-night auto collision
Ramiro Gerrardo Pedemonte
Around this time last year, Ramiro Gerrardo Pedemonte was on his way to the prom. Now, the former Lakeside High School Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News Peggy L. Clemons (holding microphone at far right) leads a cirlce of prayer warriors at noon on May 5. student is headed to prison. DeKalb County Superinder the cover of partly gray America,” using the biblical scripture, is not what it once was. Prayer is a way or Court Judge Linda Huntskies, Rockdale County Isaiah 38:1. “We all need prayer.” to evaluate ourselves and get back to er sentenced Pedemonte residents came together to The prayer day, in its 65th year, was honesty, caring and respect,” said Clemto 15 years in prison for pray in observance of the National Day created in 1952 by a joint resolution of ons. “We had some pastors come out and killing one of Lakeside’s of Prayer on May 5. the U.S. Congress and signed into law by just ordinary people who see the importeachers in a prom-night Peggy L. Clemons led a group President Harry S. Truman. tance of praying not only for America automobile crash last year. around noon on behalf of The Rockdale Clemons, a retired New York City but for our global issues.” In handing down the Leadership Team organization at the educator, said she has been participating The group Clemons led was among sentence on May 3, Hunter also ordered that PedemonWheeler Pavilion, located at the Rockin the national day since 1996. She said several who participated in the day te serve 15 years on prodale Tennis Center in Conyers. today, more than ever, prayer is necesof prayer. Businesses in Olde Towne, bation and that his license “We’re lifting up the country,” said sary because of so many urgent issues churches and other groups throughout be suspended for five years Clemons, who passed out posters with that exists. Rockdale helped to promote the daylong when he completes his pristhis year’s national theme: “Awake, “The government system in America event. on sentence. Pedemonte, 20, pleaded guilty to first-degree vehicular homicide, reckless driving and three counts of serious injury by vehicle for the wreck that killed 33-year-old Leah O’Brien on April 25, 2015. O’Brien, who had two young daughters, taught family and consumer sciences and was faculty adviser for Lakeside’s Purple Diamonds dance team. Pedemonte was travelling more than 100 mph on Scott Boulevard in Decatur when the rental car he was The DeKalb Office of Code Enforcement is a key component of Code Enforcement removes an illegal sign during a recent sign sweep. DeKalb’s revitalized Beautification Unit. driving T-boned O’Brien’s car at the intersection of corridors and intersections that were identified in the DeKalb ecognizing the need to identify opportunities to Ridley Circle. County Economic Development Strategic Plan.” create greater efficiencies and better response to the O’Brien was on her At the kickoff event, Interim CEO May will provide details needs of its constituents, DeKalb County is launchregarding the new unit, then deploy the coordinated enforcement way to drop off her 8-yearing its newly established Keep DeKalb Beautiful Beautification old daughter, Kori, before and conduct a county-wide cleanup. In addition, May will perUnit. The new one-stop-shop for beautification will include going to chaperone the sonally lead one of the cleanup crews that will comb roadsides Code Enforcement, Foreclosure/Vacant Property Registry, and Lakeside prom. O’Brien throughout DeKalb County. Mowing and Herbicide. was trapped in the vehicle “We encourage DeKalb County citizens to join us in this and died at the scene of The official launch begins May 12, 10 a.m. at the new office beautification initiative by organizing their own individual cleanthe accident. Kori suffered on 1807 Candler Road in Decatur. traumatic brain injury and up efforts in their communities,” said May. “We are strategically integrating complimentary county serwas in a coma for 13 days, To register a neighborhood for this day of cleaning or to vices that promote community beautification,” said Interim CEO Pedemonte and his participate in DeKalb’s ongoing beautification initiative, contact Lee May. “Utilizing a coordinated approach provides residents passenger, Zana McGrit, Nichole Simms atjnsimms@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 404with a comprehensive beautification approach and maximizes suffered non-life-threatenkey neighborhood quality of life issues. A coordinated approach 371-2552. To request clean-up supplies, call 404-294-2010. ing injuries in the wreck, also gives us the tools we need to address the key commercial authorities said.
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DeKalb launches revitalized Beautification Unit
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“Viewpoint” forum in Gwinnett to focus on Grand Jury reform, officer involved shootings
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community forum on legislation concerning Grand Jury Reform and Officer Involved Shootings will be held May 12, 6:30 p.m., at the Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center, 10 College Street N.W., Norcross. The Viewpoint forum will present opinion on both sides of House Bill 941: Grand Jury Reform and Officer Involved Shootings. “This legislation is important because officers would no longer be allowed to sit in hearings during grand juries and hear testimonies of witnesses that they could then use to tailor their own responses,” said State Rep. Dar’shun Kend-
A.A. “Butch” Ayers
Marissa Dodson
rick, who is helping to promote the forum. Kendrick, who represents District 93, which covers parts of DeKalb and Gwinnett counties, said organizers are urging the public to attend to become educated on critical issues. The Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rho Kappa Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. are sponsoring the event. “Upsilon Alpha Omega is proud to be one of the hosts for the public forum on Grand Jury Reform. “This event will be informative, educational and the community will have a chance to hear viewpoints from both sides,” said Andria Daniels, president of Upsilon Alpha
Gerald Griggs
Omega Chapter. The panelists will include Sen. Curt Thompson, District 5; Gwinnett District Attorney Danny Porter; Gwinnett Chief of Police A.A. “Butch” Ayers; Attorney Marissa Dodson, Southern Center for Human Rights; Attorney Gerald Griggs, 2nd vice president of Atlanta NAACP; and Attorney Mawuli “Mel” Davis, civil rights advocate. Brad Shrade, AJC journalist, also will be a contributor. In Georgia, there have been 184 officer involved shootings and no indictments. Community activists, issuing a call to action, helped spur the reform of Georgia law and judicial accountability. The Viewpoint forum is the first in a series planned, organizers say. “In 2014, Rho Kappa
Mawuli “Mel” Davis
Brad Shrade
Lambda heeded the call to initiate a dialogue regarding incidents involving police officers and minorities. We look forward to continuing this dialogue May 12,” said Daniel Walker, director of Educational Activities for the Alpha Phi Alpha Rho Kappa Lambda Chapter. “Sigma Mu Zeta supports the need for rigorous discussion of the Grand Jury Reform Act. This will aid in clear unbiased investigations of on duty police officers who have killed citizens as well as equal evaluations of the actions of citizens during these unfortunate situations,” said Sherry Pope, 2nd vice president Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Rockdale educators who punished special needs student facing termination
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fficials from Rockdale County Public Schools say one teacher and two paraprofessionals have been recommended for termination for their part in inappropriately disciplining a special needs student at Shoal Creek Elementary School. A 5-year-old boy was allegedly suspended on a hook to a chalkboard by his belt loop, Channel 2 Action News reported after interviewing the child’s grandmother, Tracy Davis. Davis told the news station that the school’s principal discovered the boy hanging from his belt loop from a hook on a chalkboard. Davis said her grandson was “hollering and screaming” because he was in distress. She said the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) interviewed the child and she learned that this was not the first time the boy’s teacher had punished him in this fashion. RCPS issued the following statement: “Rockdale County Public Schools will always respond
firmly and swiftly to ensure the safety and welfare of our young people. Immediate action is taken in cases where employee actions and decisions are contrary to district policies and training and may jeopardize student safety. In this matter, the school system acted quickly to remove three employees from the classroom and placed them on administrative leave. The school system also notified the DFACS and local law enforcement and will refer the matter to the Professional Standards Commission. “Our superintendent has pledged to this community that his primary duty and responsibility is to keep our students safe and provide a secure environment in which they can learn and grow. The superintendent will recommend the termination of the three employees (two paraprofessionals and one teacher) related to this incident. RCPS will continue to cooperate fully with local authorities in this matter,” said Cindy Ball, Chief of Strategy and Innovation Rockdale County Public Schools.
DWD to host Dart Container Corporation hiring event
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eKalb Workforce Development (DWD) has partnered with Dart Container Corporation for a hiring event scheduled for Tuesday, May 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., 774 Jordan Lane, Building #4, Decatur. Dart is headquartered in Mason, Michigan and makes a variety of food service packaging items such as cups, plates, containers, lids, and straws. In 2012, Dart purchased the Solo Cup Company, which doubled the size of the company, as well as diversified its paper product lines. Dart is looking to fill over 50 full-time positions in its Lithonia facility. Dart hopes to hire inspector packers and forklift operators for the second and third shifts. Inspector packers are required to have six months of production/manufacturing experience. Forklift operators must have one-year of related ex-
perience. Dart Container will be conducting on-site interviews, as well as making hiring offers on the spot to qualified candidates. “This is a great opportunity for DeKalb residents and I am pleased that Dart has chosen to partner with Workforce Development in its job search,” said Interim CEO Lee May. “I encourage those who are actively seeking employment to take advantage of this event.” Interested jobseekers must pre-register for the event at gaworkready.org and fill out an application through the employers’ website at www.dart.jobs. Jobseekers are also asked to mention they were referred by DeKalb Workforce Development on their online application. For more information, contact Tammy Patterson at (404) 6187-3400 or by email at tlpatterson@dekalbcountyga.gov.
PAGE 4•MAY 7,2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Spring lawn care class set
Coming Up
Want to have a lawn that everyone will envy? On May 9, 6 to 7:30 p.m., learn how to have the best looking grass in your neighborhood. The Redan-Trotti Library, 1569 Wellborn Road, Lithonia, will host a class that will teach you that by selecting the right turf and choosing the right care you can have a beautiful lawn. For more information, call 770-482-3821. .
DeKalb History Center sets Civil War Walking Tour
Mike Walton
MARTA presents “Jazz Mondays” MARTA passengers can enjoy some free jazz this month at select stations as the transit authority celebrates “Jazz Mondays.” “Jazz Mondays” is an annual event co-sponsored in partnership with the Atlanta Jazz Festival. The 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 on the corresponding Monday from 3 to 5 p.m.: • Five Points Station: May 9, featuring The Mike Walton Quartet • Lakewood/Ft. McPherson Station: May 16, :eaturing 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.
Atlanta
Hammonds House to host forum exploring history of Malcolm X, Pan African Nationalism The community is invited to a lecture, “Malcolm X and Pan-African Nationalism in the 21st Century” on May 19, 6:30 p.m , at the Hammonds House Museum, 503 Peoples Street, SW, Atlanta. This lecture will be held in recognition of the birth of Malcolm X (May 19, 1925). The Hammonds House, in collaboration with Georgia State University’s Department of African-American Studies, Malcolm X Grassroots Movement and the Auburn Avenue Research Library, is hosting the event. Jesus “Chucho” Garcia, the Consul General from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, and former Venezuelan Ambassador to Angola will facilitate the event. This community lecture will explore the history of Malcolm X’s work toward global African unity and its profound influence on the contemporary evolution of Pan-African nationalism in the 21st Century. For more information, call 404-7302130.
Free college planning workshop On May 19, 6 to 7:30 p.m., CoffeUSA presents College Planning at the Atlanta Fulton County Library, 1 Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta. You must plan for college. This educational session will walk you through the options available to plan for the college years, the various ways you can pay for college, and important considerations when preparing for college. Cost: free. Workshop will be in the 3rd floor meeting room. For more information, call 404-730-1700.
DeKalb
“Symphony in Your Neighborhood” returns to library branches For the fourth year, Symphony in Your Neighborhood, a partnership between the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and DeKalb County Public Library, will take place in several library branches and the Clarkston Community Center. During the months of May and June, attendees will enjoy chamber music performances provided by the Atlanta Symphony musicians. This is a great event for the whole family. Contact your local branch library for more information.
Experience Civil War history in a special walking tour that will be held on Friday, May 20, 3 p.m., at the DeKalb History Center, 101 East Court Square in downtown Decatur. Walking Tour. This hour-long guided walking tour allows you to learn in-depth information about the Battle of Decatur, the Atlanta Campaign and the social effects of the Civil War on the people living in DeKalb at the time. The tour is and10 for adults, $6 for children, and free for children ages 5 and younger. For more information, call 404-373-1088, ext. 20. or visit www.dekalbhistory.org.
GWINNETT
Gardening classes at Centerville Community Center Want to learn how to get a green thumb? Attend the summer-long gardening classes on May 9, 7 to 8 p.m., at the Centerville Community Center, 3079 Bethany Church Road, Snellville. Additional classes are as follows: May 9: Daylilies, Hostas, Ferns May 16: Herbs, Damp Soil, Plant Selection May 23: Turf Weeds, Identification, and Control June 6: Flowering Vines June 13: Encore Azaleas June 20: Grasses and Grass like Plants July 11: Shade Plants and Selection July 18: Hydrangeas Viburnums July 25: Retaining Walls, Patios and Water Features Aug. 8: Attracting Birds to the Garden Aug. 15: Locating, Selecting Material, and Building a Path; Aug. 22: Fescue Yard Maintenance and Growth. The cost is $2. Non-refundable per person, per topic (in exact cash notes, no coins). Walk-in registrations only. The class is limited to 20. For more information, email fergyche@bellsouth.net, 770-985-4713 or go online to www.centervillecommunitycenter.com.
Learn to manage your medications The Extension Service is blazing a healthy trail for Older American’s Month on May 16, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Bethesda Park Senior Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville. There will be presentation on medications, interactions and side effects, and cooking demonstrations. Space is limited. The workshop is $3/person and pre-registration must by May 12 online at www.gwinnettparks.com with code: BEP32903 or call 678-277-0179.
ROCKDALE
Finals study break set at Nancy Guinn Memorial Library Feeling stressed from finals? Students are invited to come to the Study Break on May 11, 5 to 6 p.m., k” at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green Street, Conyers. Play video games, free your mind with yoga, enjoy snacks or even take a nap! Your brain deserves a break. The break is for students ages 13 – 18. No Registration is required. For more information, call 770-388-5040.
—Coming Up is compiled by Empish Thomas—
Event details may change at any time. Please always check with the event organizer before you go. To submit your event to Coming Up, email editor@ocgnews.com.
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International Trailblazer Awards announces 2016 honorees
John Lewis
Forrest Tuff
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John Germ
Tregaye Fraser
Jeff Mann
Jasmine Twitty
LaVeda Bennett
James Murkison
Sonya Windham Wilder
uite 20 Day Spa through its non-profit foundation JABY, INC. has announced the 2016 International Trailblazer Awards honorees who will be honored on July 17 at the Sheraton Atlanta Airport Hotel, 1900 Sullivan Road, Atlanta. The 2016 honorees are: Congressman John Lewis; Rotary International President- elect John Germ; the honorable Jasmine Twitty (youngest appointed judge in America); DeKalb Sheriff Jeff Mann; Film Producer Forrest Tuff; Food Network Star Celebrity Chef Tregaye Fraser; Voices of Faith Ministries-South Pastor James Murkison; VA Volunteer LaVeda Bennett; and Lithonia Dentist Sonya Windham Wilder. The Red Carpet event will start at 5:30 p.m. with a silent auction. The Red Carpet will be hosted by WSB’s Veronica Waters and the event’s Mistress of Ceremonies will be Tensie Taylor of Rich Girl TV Network. Tickets for the event are $50 per person and must be purchased in advance. No ticket sales will be made at the door. Tickets include a plated dinner and entertainment by jazz saxophonist Tender G and Tensie Taylor the Dance Basil Entertainment Group. You can purchase tickets at www.eventbrite.com or at Suite 20 Day Spa, 4635 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. For more information: 404-286-9664.
DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court fee increases The filing fees for Superior Court will increase around the state under a new bill that becomes effective in Georgia on May 9. The fees have gone up for $4 to $5, depending on the county. DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court Debra DeBerry is notifying the public that the fees for a civil action in DeKalb County will increase to $214, the fee to become a notary public will be $41 and filing for a trade name will be $161. Gov. Nathan Deal signed HB 851 into law increasing the fees on April 25. For more information about DeKalb’s fees, contact the DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court at 404-371-2251.
DeBerry to host Mental Health and Wellness Fair DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk Debra DeBerry invites the community to a day of changing the way we look at mental healthcare in DeKalb on Saturday, May 14, 10 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., Manuel J. Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur. The mental health fair will include presentations by behavioral health care providers, information sessions, access to new and innovative therapy methods, numerous resources and representatives from DeKalb CSB, Behavioral Health Link, NAMI DeKalb, DeKalb County Jail, Veterans Affairs and local community behavioral health agencies and providers. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call Dana Patterson in the Clerk of Superior Court, Debra DeBerry’s office, at 404-687-4076.
Debra DeBerry
MAY 7, 2016 • PAGE 5
DeKalb Medical honored for quality care DeKalb Medical has received national recognition for providing quality services. The hospital in April received the 2016 Truven Health Advantage Award for Performance Improvement and Efficiency. The Performance Improvement and Efficiency Award recognizes DeKalb Medical, and particularly its Quality Institute, for creating processes that affect positive change. The award is one of eight that Truven Health Analytics gives each year. DeKalb Medical’s Quality Institute developed a dashboard that analyzes outcomes for Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including length of stay or mortality and compares the health systems performance to national standards each month. The Quality Institute also created a clinical leadership model that uses data to identify opportunities and facilitate processes for improvement. “We use our data to identify operational inefficiencies and assess effectiveness of business strategies,” said Ellen Hargett, director of Quality and Process Improvement. “DeKalb Medical is focused on understanding processes that drive both the observed and the expected outcomes in patients, rather than just finding a problem with an individual or department.” The clinical leadership model relies on collaboration between physicians, hospital operations staff, and Six Sigma Black Belt project Leaders serving on tactical teams. From 2014-2015, these tactical teams reduced complications and length of stay resulting in financial savings of $12,473,116. Mortality reductions netted 104 lives saved. “While our performance on the KPIs is improving, perhaps the most dramatic change has been in providing a structure for engaging physicians,” said Hargett. “Our success in these efforts is rooted in their participation, leadership support and facilitation by quality professionals. I look forward to our organization continuing to improve the quality of care under this clinical leadership model.” DeKalb Medical offers more than 700 doctors skilled in 55 medical specialties. The not-for-profit health care system consists of three campuses: DeKalb Medical at North Decatur, DeKalb Medical LTAC at Downtown Decatur,and DeKalb Medical at Hillandale. The DeKalb Physicians Group has more than 30 practices in DeKalb and Gwinnett counties.
DeKalb Medical to offer free skin screenings during Skin Cancer Awareness Month May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and DeKalb Medical is partnering with Dermatology Associates to provide complementary skin screenings. The free screening will be held Saturday, May 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the hospital’s Radiation Oncology Department, 2675 N. Decatur Road, Suite G09, Decatur. Spots are limited. Call 404-501-WELL to make a reservation. Free parking will be available in the parking lot outside of the Radiation Oncology Center as well as the Wellness Center. Parking in the deck require a fee.
PAGE 6 •MAY 7, 2016
PTA Spring Conference set for DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton
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arents and other community stakeholders are invited to attend the District 11 PTA Spring Conference on May 14, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Southwest DeKalb High School Auditorium, 2863 Kelley Chapel Road, Decatur. District 11, which includes DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton counties, is hosting the free breakfast and conference to help parents learn more about the importance of establishing PTAs in every school. “Sadly, there are a number of schools that have no PTA. That means they are lacking critical support—advocacy—for their school. We’re reaching out to change this,” said Jesse “Jay” Cunningham, who was recently elected director of Georgia PTA’s District 11. He said his primary responsibility in his new role will be to recruit and train stakeholders on how to keep PTAs active. Cunningham said he wants to make sure parents and others who are interested from the three counties District 11 covers attend the conference. “Even if you don’t have kids, but you want to help improve schools, we want you to come out. We all have to work together to make a difference in our communities and schools are a big part of that,” said Cunningham. Organizers will be discussing not only how to charter a PTA but provide training to officers who will run the organizations. At the conference, other topics also will be discussed including Gov. Nathan Deal’s proposed Opportunity School District legislation to overhaul local schools labeled as chronically failing. Awards will be presented to outstanding PTAs and vendors for schools will have tables at the conference. For more information, contact Paula Tate, conference chair, at 404-683-3599 or Jesse “Jay” Cunningham, District 11 director, Georgia PTA, at 404482-4857.
15 DeKalb students get full ride to college as 2016 Gates Millennium scholars The Gates Millennium Scholars Program announced this week that 15 DeKalb County School District students have been names Gates Millennium Scholars for the 2015-16 academic year and will have their entire post-secondary school studies funded. These students join a group of 1,000 recipients nationwide including 90 students in Georgia who will receive a full-ride scholarship for their entire college career, including masters and doctorate studies if they choose to pursue those degrees. “The DeKalb Board of Education and I join with the entire DCSD family of parents, principals, teachers, and staff in congratulating these exemplary students for their achievement,” said Superintendent Dr. R. Stephen Green. “We are also proud of the diversity of schools of our Gates Scholars. We have excellent students and teachers, everywhere.” The prestigious scholarship was funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to provide minority students with access and money for college and boost minority participation in high-need areas like computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health, and science. The students are: • Arabia Mountain High School- Jordan Jeffers • Chamblee High School- Mati Alemayehu and Marcus Strickland • Clarkston High School- Alice Mawi and Meh Sod Paw • Columbia High School- Tamar Harrison • Cross Keys High School- Adela Lopez and Jeremy Madina • DeKalb Early College- Yizra Ghebre • Druid Hills High School- Genesis Fortner • Lithonia High School- Kamal Hughes • McNair High School- KaTerra Johnson • Stephenson High School- Julian Walton • Tucker High School- Tro Nguyen and Haniel Paulos Students are chosen based on their academic achievements, their ethnicity, and their dedication to the communities in which they live.
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Elections 2016 Your Voice Your Vote
PAGE 8 •MAY 7, 2016
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Rockdale forming local chapter of national OK Program to mentor black male youths
Courtney Dillard
A
Sheriff Eric Levett
national program that focuses on black law enforcement officers mentoring black male youths is establishing a chapter in Rockdale County, thanks to The Leadership Team founded by community activist Courtney Dillard. The new chapter was formed in April after Dillard issued a call to action and held a meeting that brought together community leaders from churches, government, schools and law enforcement to address the growing epidemic of fatherlessness in the community. Executive Director of the OK Program Darron Story attended the April 21 event and a chapter of the national program was launched. Now, Dillard says he and his organization are working on putting together all of the pieces to launch the program. Dillard said Rockdale Sheriff Eric Levett and Conyers Police Chief Gene Wilson have agreed to provide support with the Sheriff’s Office recruiting a deputy or police officer to complete the training and become a mentor—a father figure—to black male students who are in the program. The program will start out serving students in middle school, where the deputy or officer would be housed, and would follow students all the way through 12 grade.
Darron Story
“We’re pushing to get the program started by next school year,” Dillard said. “Our goal is to recruit 100 boys into the program in the first year. Their parents will have to ask for them to be in the program.” Dillard said he is excited about the program. He said he believes it will provide the missing link in many families who can use the help in rearing their male children. “Over the years, mothers have said ‘We need help with our boys.’ This program will not only be open to households headed by single parents but all families that want help,” Dillard said. Officers who serve as father figures will check on students to make sure they are succeeding in school, Dillard said. The middle school years are especially critical and that is why the program will start will students in the 6th grades. Dillard said The Leadership Team also will set up an advisory board to help raise money to support the program. “We want to bring in the boys every other weekend for activities and field trips. We want to make sure these kids are able to focus on their school work and reward them for the good work they are doing,” Dillard said. “Our objective is for them not to wind up in the penal system.”
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MAY 7,2016 • PAGE 9
Miller Grove High to host My Brother’s Keeper summit Fairfield Baptist Church celebrates 131 years of service The DeKalb County school district is presenting 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 for parents who attend will be provided.
Jared’s Heart of Success teaches youths nutrition and self-esteem Jared’s Heart Of Success, Inc. will offer free nutrition and self-esteem workshops for youths and young adults on May 21 at 10 a.m. at the Lucious Sanders Recreation Center, 2484 Bruce St, Lithonia. Participants ages 8 to 23 are invited to a workshop geared toward teaching youth positive lifestyle habits that will contribute to overall wellness and self-respect. Jared’s Heart of Success is a nonprofit focused on empowering youths and young adults in the areas of academic achievement, health and fitness so that they may live a more successful life. Sharmain S. Brown started the nonprofit to honor her son, Jared Brown, who was tragically killed in 2015 when he was struck by a stray bullet as an innocent bystander. A licensed dietitian as well as a personal fitness instructor will lead two interactive workshops on proper nutrition and self esteem. The health and nutrition workshop will begin at 10 a.m. and will cover proper hygiene and the importance of exercise. The workshop will also discuss healthy cooking and alternatives to fast foods, sugar and saturated fat. The second workshop on self-esteem begins at 12:30 p.m. and will address issues around peer pressure and self respect. At the completion of each workshop the recipient will receive a gift bag containing educational materials and a prize. To register or for more information, call 678-643-2292 or visit www.jaredsheartofsuccess.com.
Pilgrim Cathedral to mark church’s birthday with pastors from throughout Atlanta
Join Pilgrim Cathedral of Atlanta as DeKalb County churches and leaders unite in white attire to celebrate the birthday of the church on Sunday, May 15, 2589 Tilson Road, Atlanta (off Candler Road). The event will include performances by a joint arts ministry, a mass choir and dynamic preaching as pastors from around Atlanta unite. The schedule is as follows: 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Business planning workshop and biblical classes 3:30 – 4:00 p.m. Corporate prayer 4:00 p.m. Pentecost Service begins For more information, call 404-241-1221.
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Hours of Operation: 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. Ages 3-12 Breakfast, Lunch, & Snack Included Academic Enrichment Field Trips include but are not limited to: Catch Air, Browns Mill Aquatic, Movies, Zoo Atlanta, Monkey Joes, Fun Junction, Roller skating, Stone Mountain Great Barn. Activities: arts and crafts, physical fitness, computer, indoor games. Academics: Math speed+ accuracy, Reading (phonics+ comprehension) Critical Thinking Skills.
New Generation Learning Center and Academy 3271 Turner Hill Rd, Lithonia, GA 30038 678-691-5187
Fairfield Baptist Church invites the public to attend two commemorative services in honor of the church’s 131st anniversary. The community is invited to help celebrate the milestone on Sunday, May 15, at the 7:30 and 10:45 a.m. worship services, which will be held at 6133 Redan Road, Lithonia. Fairfield Baptist Church was founded in 1885 and is a pillar of the Redan community. This year’s celebration, entitled “131 Years of Inspiring Believers,” will be led by the church’s pastor, the Rev. Micheal Benton. The celebration will continue Monday through Wednesday, May 16 -18 at 7 p.m., with guest revivalists. For more information, call the church at 770-482-7660.
Peace Lutheran presents Spring Family Fun Expo Peace Lutheran Church will host its Spring Exposition in collaboration with Partners in Action for Healthy Living (PAHL) and other community partners on Saturday, May 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 1679 Columbia Drive, Decatur. Activities will include animal exhibits (eagle, vulture, alligator, and more) conducted by the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, choir presentations, A Peace-full Reign dance presentation, healthy food preparation and tastings, a bounce house for children, face painting, aerobics and much more. Admission is free. For more information, contact Kerri Heywood at 678-891-8950. Would you like to become a Christian Counselor? Would you like to Teach or Preach with Greater Authority? Would you like to Learn the Bible from Genesis to Revelation? Would you like to Become a More Effective Leader in your Church? Would you like to Understand and Interpret the Bible Better? We have classes that meet each of these needs!
10 WEEK SUMMER CLASSES JUNE 2 - AUGUST 16
MEETING IN LITHONIA AND ONLINE
WWW.MWENOW.COM | 770-972-0091 INFO@MWENOW.COM
Flexible Tuition Options Earn a Diploma in Ministry
PAGE 10•MAY 7,2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Hatha Yoga & Wellness celebrates grand opening in Conyers
T
he Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 3 for Blume Yoga & Wellness, 1540 Highway 138, Suite 3C, Conyers. “We are proud to be the first official Hatha yoga studio in our area,” owner Taylor Duncan states on the studio’s web site. The word “hatha” means willful or forceful. Hatha yoga refers to a set of physical exercises (known as asanas or postures), and sequences of asanas designed to align your skin, muscles and bones. The postures are also designed to open the many channels of the body—especially the main channel—the spine—so that energy can flow freely. Blume Yoga & Wellness offers morning and evening classes seven days a week for all levels. You can drop in for $12 for an hour-long session or new students can take advantage of a special offer of two weeks unlimited sessions for $25. For more information: 404-855-7818 or visit www.blumeyoga.com
Education Champs honored at RCPS Foundation Gala
Specialists in the Detection and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Hepatitis and Colon Cancer
Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates is proud to announce the association of
Nader Dbouk, M.D. for the practice of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Conyers 678.745.3033
T
he Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation recognized its 2016 Champion of Education honorees during a gala celebration in April. This year’s recipients Front, L-R: Edward Cowan, Jr., Cowan Ace Hardware; Gladys Brown, Edwards Middle School and community volunteer; and Craig Johnson, Kumon Math and Reading Center. Also pictured Back, L-R: Earl Wise, Bank of North Georgia and Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce chair; Jim McBrayer, Rockdale County Board of Education member; and Rich Autry, Rockdale County Public Schools superintendent.
Lithonia 770.817.0224
www.atlantagastro.com AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.
Braces for Children & Adults • Free Consultation
• Low Monthly Payments Starting at $89 • Metal and Clear Braces for Children & Adults • Invisalign Certified • Saturday Appointments 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
CLASSIFIEDS Services Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs. A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404-281-6503
MAY 7, 2016 • PAGE 11
On Common Ground News Marketplace RESTAURANTS
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
770-484-3355 2910 EVANS MILL ROAD, LITHONIA, GA
WEEKLY LUNCH SPECIAL
Now Hiring 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
Advertise in the Marketplace. Call On Common Ground News 678-526-1910
CHURCH 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 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
Rev. Patrick Findley
770-981-4136
“God Loves You”
messiahs@comcast.net
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
Exp. 06-30-16
PAGE 12 •MAY 7, 2016
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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
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Se Habla Espanol!
8200 Mall Parkway , Suite #155 Lithonia, GA 30038 • (770) 484-4051 Shops at Turner Hill Plaza (Across from Panera Bread Company)