VOLUME 23,NUMBER 10
FREE
JUNE 3, 2017
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
“Hope & Recovery” mental health forum draws a crowd in Rockdale
Bill Carruthers
By Valerie J. Morgan
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ill Carruthers started drinking grain alcohol when he was 6 or 7 years old. He spent the next 40 years battling alcoholism and drug addiction and was locked up in jail or prison at least 18 times in Savannah alone for a cycle of criminal behavior. A recovery program helped Carruthers turn his life around. He shared his story before nearly 200 people who attended the “Community Conversations on Mental Health: Hope & Recovery” forum, which was held at the Rockdale Career Academy in Conyers. Doreen Williams, Rockdale’s Post 2 Commissioner, said Carruthers’ message was one that many families who attended the forum needed to hear. Today, he is the program man-
DeKalb pools ready for fun
ager for the Savannah Counseling Peer Program, a figure in National Alliance on Mental Illness and a speaker who travels across the nation sharing his story of recovery. “We invited him (Carruthers) to be our keynote speaker because our theme was Hope & Recovery,” said Williams, who chaired the planning committee. “I had heard him speak at the Capitol during Mental Health Day and I really wanted him to come to Rockdale.” Williams said the forum drew a cross-section of the community. “It was very representative in that it was not only attended by African-Americans, Hispanics and whites, but by mental health advo-
cates, judges, law enforcement, the Rockdale school system, consumers of mental health services—every aspect of the community,” Williams said. Williams said she was especially pleased with the participation from African Americans and Hispanics who do not readily discuss mental health. “The goal of the forum was to educate, raise awareness and reduce the stigma of mental health issues,” said Williams. “Many families are living with these See Mental health forum, page 9
“I AM a Father 5K” set for June 17 in Decatur
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avid Manuel is preparing to host his third annual DeKalb County’s pools I AM a Father 5K event for opened Memorial Day. The official seasons runs May 27 fitness, family fun and fathers. The event, which will through July 30. Select pools be held at the Porter Sanwill remain open on weekford Performing Arts Center ends through Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4. Residents in Decatur on Fathers’ Day weekend, June 17, focuses are encouraged to splash on health and wellness, youth into summer by visiting a development and mentoring, neighborhood pool. The and family engagement. Department of Recreation, Manuel says the event has Parks and Cultural Affairs also offers various programs expanded and includes an inaugural event that will be held including swim lessons, in his hometown of Birmingwater aerobics and more. ham, AL on June 3, at 8:30 For more information, visit a.m. The race starts at Kelly www.dekalbcountyga.gov/ Ingram Park, winds through downtown parks or contact (770) 414and returns to the park. The festivities 2113. include live entertainment. When the 5K is held in Atlanta on Pool locations and Father’s Day weekend, participants can hours of operation expect a big celebration as well. Stepp Stewart, live entertainment from local • Browns Mill Aquatic artists, vendors, and a Health Expo ofFacility, 4929 Browns Mill fering free screenings are planned. Rd, Lithonia, GA 30038 Last year, more than 500 people DeKalb Pools , page 9 attended the event. Manuel is hoping to
surpass the number this year. Manuel said he launched the 5K with the goal of strengthening families one mile at a time. “You constantly hear that Black men abandon their family; they don’t pay child support, they are abusive or are in jail,” said Manuel. “Although some of this is true, I want to celebrate the fathers for their loving and powerful relationships.”
The event is not only about strengthening families but uniting organizations focused on mentoring male youths and strengthening the family unit. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Let Us Make Man and the Leadership Academy of the DeKalb County Chapter of the 100 Black Men of America. To register for the I Am a Father 5K, visit www.iamafather5k.org.
PAGE 2 •JUNE 3, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
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Rent-to-Own Heating & Air Program Expands for Homeowners as Summer Months Approaches
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he National Sustainable Energy Group (NSEG) has expanded its Rent-ToOwn, Heating and Air Conditioning Program for homeowners that live in DeKalb, Rockdale, and Clayton County. This past week we have installed over 1500 new energy efficient Goodman HVAC units in the Metro Atlanta area. Over 850 homeowners have been assisted in DeKalb County this year. The program has 5000 slots available. We have recruited additional NATE/EPA Certified heating and air contractors to keep pace with the call volume said Percy Brooks, CEO of the NSEG. It’s truly amazing for $89.95 a month a homeowner will not have to suffer the hot and humid high 80’s and 90 degree temperatures this summer said Brooks. Qualification for approval: Homeowner property taxes must be current. Monthly payments range from $89.95 to $109.95 depending on the size of the heating & air conditioning unit and upgrades. All Goodman heating and air units come with a Warranty. Approval and installation can be completed within 5 business days. We are extremely honored to be able to assist so many homeowners that had given up on securing consumer financing to purchase a heating and air conditioning unit. We view this alternative option as one of the finest in the country said Brooks. I’m sure that we will exceed our goal of assisting 5000 homeowners across the Metro Atlanta area. We are expecting to see a record high of 50+ days of temperatures in the high 80’s and 90’s this summer season and through Fall. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for homeowners. Our customer testimonials have been heartfelt said Brooks. The program meets the EPA requirements for the new R-410A refrigerant upgrades. It also improves the quality of life and increases property value for homeowners. Our major objective is to share our program among the Faith-based community and Homeowners Associations (HOA’s) said Brooks. We needed an alternative option for homeowners with less than perfect credit, who paid their property taxes on time, but couldn’t obtain traditional consumer financing for heating & air service. We all hit speed bumps in life. Our typical Client has lived in their home for an average of 12+ years said Brooks. Energy home improvements are among the most expensive home improvement projects for homeowners said Brooks. There are over 120,000 homeowners without heating & air service and over 700,000 units working at less than 40% capacity or less. We see this as an excellent opportunity for homeowners to rent and relax. Home Number: 404-220-8719 Percybrooks.meb@live.com www.hvachomesystem.com Paid Advertisment
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EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com
JUNE 3,2017 • PAGE 3
Lee May to launch church in DeKalb County
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
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Pastor Lee May
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ee May has announced plans to launch his Transforming Faith Church in DeKalb County. May, who formerly served as interim CEO of DeKalb County for three years, said he plans to
hold what he calls “worship preview services” on June 11, July 9, Aug. 13 and Sept. 10, at 9 a.m., at Southwest DeKalb High School, 2863 Kelley Chapel Road in Decatur. He said the actual launch is scheduled for Sept. 10. That’s when the church will begin hosting weekly services, he said. “The preview services are just to give you a bit of flavor about how we worship. “Our goal is to minister to every aspect of life—our marriages, our communities, finances, our health, our wealth, our world,” said May. May said he hopes to help transform lives as he teaches those who come to
how to have a meaningful relationship with Christ. He said he has been working with a team of people to help him develop the church, which will serve people of all ages and was founded on the biblical scripture in Romans 12:2. May said he and his wife, Robin, are excited about this new chapter in their lives. The couple, who met and became college sweethearts while attending historic Clark Atlanta University, have three daughters “It’s one of the scariest things we’ve ever done but it’s also one of the most exciting,” said May, who grew up as a preacher’s kid
and went on to earn a Masters of Divinity degree from Emory University’s Candler school of Theology. “When we launch in September, our goal is to have a fully functioning church that ministers beyond the weekly worship service.” May invites the public to get to know him in ministry every Wednesday at noon as he hosts live talks on Facebook. More information about Transforming Faith Church can be found at www.transformingfaithchurch.com. Those who would like to get involved with the church may email May at tfcdekalb@gmail.com.
Rockdale workshop to focus on filming industry
Rockdale County government, Conyers Rockdale Council for the Arts (CRCA) and the Conyers Rockdale Economic Development Council Film Office are partnering to present a workshop on business and professional opportunities Georgia’s growing filming industry is providing. The workshop will be held on Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Black Box Theater at 910 Center St., Conyers.
Registration for the free event starts at 10 a.m. and closes at 10:30 a.m. Seating is limited. Workshop facilitators will discuss the $50 million impact the state’s film industry has made in Rockdale and the economic impact the industry has made on Georgia as a whole. In fiscal 2015 alone, for example, George films and television productions generated $6 billion in economic impact, according to
DeKalb woman awaits sentencing in bludgeoning murder of her husband
Pamela Ballin, 56, is awaiting sentencing for the bludgeoning murder of her husband, Derrick Ball, Sr., 53, a Lithonia businessman. DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston announced Pamela Ballin’s retrial ended in a conviction on May 26. Ballin was charged with murder, felony murder and aggravated assault in the nearly 8-year-old case. Mr. Ballin was attacked on Dec. 29, 2009 inside the couple’s Turnbridge Wells Road home in Lithonia and Pamela Ballin he later died in the hospital. Authorities say they believe Pamela Ballin was motivated by two life insurance policies totaling $1.2 million. Her husband owned a landscape company located on Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road in Lithonia. Authorities say Pamela Ballin staged the murder scene to look like a home invasion, after beating her husband in the head nearly a dozen times with a statue. The statue was found next to his bloodied body. Authorities were summoned to the home by Pamela Ballin, who called 911 claiming burglars were in her home. She told police she was hiding in her upstairs bedroom closet and could hear her husband and other unfamiliar voices downstairs. Police found the victim barely conscious near the front door. While several items of furniture were in disarray, authorities found no signs of forced entry or evidence of intruders. A crime scene reconstruction expert testified at trial that the crime could not have occurred in the manner described by the defendant and that various elements of the crime scene were purposely staged. Following an extensive investigation and several interviews during which Pamela Ballin presented a series of inconsistent statements, Pamela Ballin was arrested and charged with murder. She was indicted in 2013 and convicted of murder in 2014. She was granted a motion for a new trial in 2016, following a defense challenge regarding the testimony of a State expert. Ballin will be sentenced by DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Gail Flake, who presided over the trial. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Yolanda Mack with assistance from Senior ADA Zina Gumbs and DA Investigator Brooke Wandel. The DeKalb County Police Department led the initial investigation.
the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Information will be provided on the various opportunities that are available in the industry—from working as part of the production crew and extras to serving as vendors and suppliers catering, hospitality and other services. For more information about the Film Workshop, contact CRCA at 770-9223143 or rcaruso@conyersarts.org.
Rockdale County to host cleanup day on June 10 Rockdale County’s new code enforcement manager, Troy A. Smith, is spearheading a countywide cleanup day on June 10, 7 to 11 a.m. Free T-shirts and brunch will be provided to volunteers while available. Check-in and registration will be held at the Rockdale County Courthouse. Troy A. Smith Smith is encouraging community-wide participation and inviting citizens and groups to roll up their sleeves and work along side county staff members. For more information and advance registration, call 770-278-7052. Registration forms for the Rockin’ Rockdale Countywide Cleanup can be found at www.rockdalecountyga.gov.
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Coming Up
Compiled by Mackenzie N. Morgan.
Conyers monastery presents 5th Annual 5K Run & Fun Walk with the monks
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he Monastery of the Holy Spirit invites you to run with the monks on Saturday, June 10, 8 a.m., at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, 2625 Highway 212 SW, Conyers. Enjoy a run/walk through the beautiful monastery grounds on an open-air course over natural dirt or grass terrain or challenge yourself with an 8-mile run in celebration of the monastery’s 8th year of hosting the race. Participants may choose from the 8-mile trail race (advanced), 5K trail race or the1.2 mile race. Check out the monastery’s web site for registration costs, trail overview and suggested training for the 8-mile race. After the race, take the family to visit and enjoy the Monastic Heritage Center, which features a display of the history of monasticism, shopping in Abbey Book & Gift shop and the Garden Supply Center as well as taking a stroll through the Bonsai garden. Proceeds support the Haiti Humanitarian Fund outreach ministry, which is offering free pancakes for all participants after the race. For more information, visit www.trappist.net.
ATLANTA
Discover Atlanta at cycling fest The Atlanta Cycling Festival offers bike rides, classes, and parties for riders of all ages and abilities June 10-17 at various locations around Atlanta. The weeklong festival offers bike rides, bike art, bike films, bike technology, bike jobs, bike trends and more. The first day of The Atlanta Cycling Festival kicks off with the Big Opening Bash Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m. at 97 Estoria, 727 Wylie St SE, Atlanta. The free event will feature interactive demos and bicycle vendors, a Bike-In movie featuring “The Goonies,” beer, live music and more. For more information, visit www.atlantacyclingfestival.com. For more information, visit www.atlantacyclingfestival.com.
Birthday Bash to host free block party Birthday Bash will kick off its annual concert with a free Birthday Bash block party on Saturday, June 17, noon – 5 p.m., at Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta. Attendees will enjoy live performances, vendors, health screenings, product samplings and the opportunity to win Birthday Bash tickets for the evening ticketed concert at Philips Arena. For more information, visit www.hotspotatl.com.
DEKALB
Keep DeKalb Beautiful Hosting Rain Barrel Workshop Keep DeKalb Beautiful will host a rain barrel workshop on Wednesday, June 7, 6:30 p.m. at Mason Mill Park, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur. The session will use kits and recycled barrels and participants will take home a completed project. Several metro-Atlanta counties, including DeKalb, are in a Level 2 drought, which mandates outdoor water restrictions. Rain barrels harvest roof runoff, which can be used to irrigate landscape plants or gardens. Just one inch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof provides 623 gallons of water. The rain barrel workshop is $10 and limited to 25 participants. To register, call Keep DeKalb Beautiful at 404-298-4080. For more information about the Level 2 drought and water restrictions, visit www.dekalbwatershed.com. For more information about Keep DeKalb Beautiful, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/beautification/ keep-dekalb-beautiful.
Decatur beach party set Summer in the City (formerly the Decatur Beach Party) features 60 tons of sand on Friday, June 16, 5 to 11 p.m., on the square in Downtown Decatur. The event will bring back some Beach Party favorites including children’s activities, a rock climbing wall, a boardwalk with games, carnival food, beer and live music. Bogey and the Viceroy will perform on stage at the MARTA plaza beginning at 8 p.m.
A variety of pop-up performances, artists and activities will include the Apu Inka Peruvian Band, MBond Afrika African Dance Group – plus stilt walking, fire twirling, sidewalk chalk art, and more. DJ Quasi Mandisco will spin records and direct attendees to the various festivities as they pop up. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www. decaturdba.com.
GWINNETT
Family swim night set Gather the family and drop by for an evening swim on Friday, June 9, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., at Rhodes Jordan Park Pool, 100 East Crogan Street, Lawrenceville. Admission fees and all pool rules apply. For more information, call 678-277-0892.
Bethesda Park hosts family scavenger hunt Bethesda Park will host a fun-filled scavenger hunt on Saturday, June 10, 9 a.m., at Bethesda Park Aquatic Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a swimsuit. The hunt ends with a swim and prizes at the pool. Admission is $6 per person, ages 2 and under are free for Gwinnett County residents. Pre-registration is available online at www.gwinnettcounty.com by June 7 with code BEP35100 or call 678-277-0880.
ROCKDALE
Conyers Garden Club presents children’s gardening program The Conyers Garden Club along with Nancy Guinn Library will present a children’s gardening workshop on Tuesday, June 6, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m., at the Nancy Guinn Library, 864 Green Street, Conyers. Children will learn about the importance of gathering, planting and scattering heirloom seeds. Children ages 6 to 12 will get an opportunity to plant their own heirloom seeds. Jacob Wolfe, Agricultural and Natural Resource Agent for the Rockdale County Extension Service, will also speak at the presentation. The program is free and open to the public. For more information contact Gale Thomas at 404 790-7171 or thomas19546@ bellsouth.net or Carolyn Cathey at 770 388-5040 ext. 113 or ccathey@conyersrockdalelibrary.org.
Olde Town Summer Film Series features Disney film “Moana” Enjoy a family friendly movie under the stars at the Olde Town Summer Film Series on Saturday, June 10, 7 p.m., at the Olde Town Pavilion, 949 S. Main Street, Conyers. Gates open at 7 p.m. and the movie begins at dusk. Concessions and children’s activities will be available prior to the movie. Admission to the movie and activities are free. For more information or future outdoor movie event dates, call 770-602-2606.
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Sen. Tonya Anderson appointed to COPS Task Force
State Sen. Tonya Anderson (D – Lithonia) has been selected to serve on the Compensation of Police and Sheriffs (COPS) Task Force by Lt. Governor Casey Cagle. The task force will review compensation and benefits for law enforcement officers and consider ways to increase retention rates statewide. “I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the men and women who risk their lives State Sen. Tonya Anderson daily for the safety and protection of others,” said Anderson. “This task force is a step in the right direction to helping properly compensate our law enforcement while gaining insight from our local law enforcement agencies on ways to increase retention and attraction in the field. I look forward to examining these issues with my fellow senators and other agencies in the coming months.” “The service and dedication of our law enforcement officials is nothing short of heroic,” said Cagle. “We must make every effort to ensure local compensation packages are both competitive and fair to those who protect and serve. COPS will help local governments identify ways to maximize their support for the men and women who bravely protect our communities and neighborhoods.” The COPS Task Force is made up of six state senators who will work with counties, cities and other law enforcement officials to review retention issues, gain insight from local law enforcement agencies, and compare Georgia’s compensation rate to that of other states. Officials from the Georgia Sheriffs Association, Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, the Association County Commissioners of Georgia and the Georgia Municipal Association will also be joining the task force. The first meeting of the COPS task force will take place on June 19, 10 a.m., in room 450 of the Capitol. Senator Tonya Anderson represents the 43rd Senate District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Newton and Rockdale counties.
JUNE 3, 2017 • PAGE 5
John Noel announces bid for Georgia Public Service Commission John Noel, a 20-year resident of Atlanta, small business owner, and former member of the Georgia Legislature, officially announced his campaign for Georgia Public Service Commission on Wednesday (May 31) in Decatur. Surrounded by dozens of supporters, Noel spoke about his experience in energy consulting and environmental protection. “I’m looking forward to a positive campaign dedicated to debating the many environmental, utility and leadership challenges our Public Service Commission faces,” Noel said. “As our next Public Service Commissioner, I John Noel will ensure that Georgia keeps up with the best energy practices and technology. I will make sure we invests wisely in clean and renewable energy, battery storage, and have a healthy mix of energy sources which will save ratepayers money.” Noel also expressed concern over the management of the Votgle Nuclear Plant Project. “I will not allow Georgia ratepayer money to be wasted as it has in the past and continues to be. I will be open and transparent about any issue that comes before the Public Service Commission,” Noel said. “There has been a lack of proper oversight on certain recent projects, and it’s time for that to change. There is no excuse for something, paid for by Georgia ratepayers, to be billions of dollars over budget and years behind schedule, and at risk of never providing any benefit for the every-day people who footed the bill.” Noel is president and founder of Energy + Environment, an energy-efficiency company he started in Georgia nearly 20 years ago. Noel and his partner, Wendy Hogg, own an energy-efficient home in the neighborhood of Riverside in Atlanta. Noel was born and raised in Franklin, TN and served as both the Riverside Neighborhood Association President and a former State Representative in the Georgia House.
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Rotary Club of Conyers announces $1,000 interact scholarship winner
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ockdale County High School senior Galilea Garcia has been named the 2017 Interact Scholarship Winner. Garcia, who serves as president of the Rockdale County High School (RCHS) Interact Club, earned the $1,000 scholarship from the Rotary Club of Conyers. “I’m really excited. It’s awesome to see how much your community has your back. It feels really good to be recognized for something you love to do when you didn’t expect it at all,” said Garcia. Rotary Club of Conyers Youth Services Chair Ruth Wilson describes Garcia, who plans to become a Rotarian after college and mentor other minority girls pursuing STEM (Science, Technology Engineering and Math) careers, as a humble and sweet person with fire in her belly. “She will be the first person in her family to attend college and will inspire all those she meets. We are proud to recognize such
a role model for young people,” said Wilson. Interact is Rotary International’s service club for young people ages 12 to 18. The RCHS club is sponsored by the school’s AP US History teacher Kenneth Tucker. “I’m so proud of her. She is an all-around student who puts a
premium, not only on her education, but also on community service,” said Tucker. “Community service is integral to the community at large. Giving kids an opportunity to see how they can impact our community is why I continue to sponsor the club.” Garcia, who earned the schol-
arship by writing an essay describing her extensive volunteer and community service involvement, has a passion for service to others and plans to continue even after graduation from UGA as an Environmental Engineer with an MBA Dual Degree.
Rockdale announces new school leaders for 2017-2018
Dr. LaSharon McClain
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ockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) welcomes new additions and roles in school leadership positions for the 2017-2018 school year. Dr. LaSharon McClain was recently named the new principal of Flat Shoals Elementary (FSE). Tammy Smith, FSE principal for 2016-2017, is retiring after more than three decades as an educator. Dr. McClain comes to RCPS from Upson-Lee South Elementary where she has been principal since 2011. Before that, she worked in Newton County as an assistant principal at South Salem Elementary and Heard-Mixon Elementary and a second grade teacher at Ficquett Elementary. She was named 2004 Teacher of the Year at Ficquett
Susan Norton
Elementary. Dr. McClain earned her Bachelor’s in early childhood education at Georgia Southern University, Master’s in early childhood education at Fort Valley State University, and Doctorate in educational administration at Georgia Southern University. Three familiar faces will also take new positions within RCPS. , Barksdale Elementary School (BES) principal since 2014, will become principal at Honey Creek Elementary (HCE) for 2017-2018. Norton was previously assistant principal at BES from 2009-2014. She began her elementary teaching career in Jackson County and came to RCPS in 2001 as a teacher at BES. She earned her Bachelor’s in education from Georgia State
Dr. Jill Murphy
University in 1993, her Master’s in education from University of Georgia in 1996, and Education Leadership degree from GSU in 2004. Dr. Jill Murphy, BES assistant principal since 2014, was named BES principal for 2017-2018. Dr. Murphy began her career as a middle school math teacher in DeKalb County, joining RCPS at Edwards Middle in 1998 and moving to BES in 2004. She was named 2005 BES Teacher of the Year, 2005 Rockdale County 4-H Teacher of the Year, and 2006 Outstanding Technology Teacher of the Year at BES. Dr. Murphy earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s in middle grades math education at Georgia State University and Doctorate in teacher leadership from Walden University.
Amanda Baskett
Amanda Baskett, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology (RMSST) assistant director since 2014, was named RMSST Director for 2017-18. Baskett is a Magnet School Class of 2004 graduate and earned her Bachelor’s from Georgia Tech in 2007 and her Master’s from University of Texas Arlington in 2014. She joined RMSST in 2007 as a Research and Microbiology instructor. She was named the school’s Teacher of the Year in 2013. She serves on the board of the National Consortium of Secondary STEM Schools, co-directs the Rockdale Regional Science and Engineering Fair, and is the co-founder of the Georgia Tech K-12 In Venture Challenge.
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Rockdale launches free summer lunch and reading program June 5
ockdale County Public Schools (RCPS), Rockdale Emergency Relief (RER), and Bread of Life Deliverance (BOLD) Ministries partner this summer in the fourth annual “Be Bright, Eat Right Rockdale” Summer Feeding Program to ensure Rockdale County’s children receive healthy, balanced and delicious meals throughout the summer. If your child (up to age 18) lives in one of the neighborhoods served, they can receive a free lunch Monday through Friday during the summer (see locations and times below). Servers will be wearing bright blue “Be Bright, Eat Right Rockdale” T-shirts. RCPS will deliver bagged lunches and books via school bus to locations in several neighborhoods across Rockdale County. RCPS will also serve lunch at walk-in locations at C.J. Hicks Elementary (1300 Pine Log Road) and Peek’s Chapel Elementary (2800 Avalon Parkway). Meals must be eaten on location or on the buses, which are air-conditioned. In addition to food for the body, RCPS will also provide food for the mind with books from the RCPS Summer Reading list. Students will be able to select books to borrow and take home with them. For updated delivery times or more information, contact 770-860-4223 or go to www. rockdaleschools.org/summermeals RER will deliver bagged lunches to dozens of locations in neighborhoods around Irwin Bridge Road, Salem Road, and the city of Conyers. These meals are donated and prepared by volunteers, churches, civic groups, and more. For more information on volunteering or donating to the RER summer lunch program or for meal locations, contact summerlunch@ rockdalerelief.org or 770-922-9210. BOLD Ministries will deliver bagged lunches to neighborhoods in
Lakeview Estates and along Irwin Bridge Road and serves meals in Rockdale, Newton, DeKalb and Fulton counties. Rockdale County locations are listed below. Meals must be eaten on location. For more information, contact 770-929-3019 or www.boldministries.org MEAL LOCATIONS ROCKDALE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS June 5 - July 21 (not serving July 3-4), Monday-Friday Walk-In Locations: C.J. Hicks Elementary (1300 Pine Log Rd.) – 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Peeks Chapel Elementary (2800 Avalon Pkwy.) – 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Mobile Route Locations (Times may change, between 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.): Arbor Creek Apts. (1076 Main Street) Ashford Brook Apts. (1200 Rockmont Circle) Brandon Glen Apts. (1500 Eastridge Road) Briar Creek Apts. (893 Briar Creek Drive) Bridle Wood Apts. (1150 Sigman Road) Nancy Guinn Library (864 Green Street) Peaks Landing Apts. (1200 Peaks Landing) Milstead Park Splash Pad (1665 Main Street) Country Walk/Trace intersection Fairway Court (2136) Salem Woods (1666 Salem Woods Drive) Hunting Creek neighborhood (three stops) Sugar Hill neighborhood (two stops)
Rockland Road closure extended until July 30
The Rockland Road closure, between North Goddard Road and Klondike Road in Stonecrest, has been extended. The road is closed to complete the replacement of a sewer force main and will remain closed until July 30. Road closure and detour signs are placed in the area to advise motorists of construction work and traffic restrictions. For more information, contact Mellonee Rheams, DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management senior construction inspector, at 404771-7832.
Lakeridge neighborhood Stanton Woods (Almand Branch Road) Heritage Heights neighborhood ROCKDALE EMERGENCY RELIEF May 29 - July 28, Monday-Friday Barn Oak Court (Valley Oaks) 11 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. Wilson Court 11:15 a.m. - 11:25 a.m. Willows East Apts. 11:27 a.m. 11:37 a.m. Windgate Circle (Conyers Station/Hodges Lake) 11:39 a.m. - 11:49 a.m. McCord’s Corner (Conyers Station/Hodges Lake) 11:51 a.m. - 12:01 p.m. Knoll Court (Conyers Station/ Hodges Lake) 12:03 p.m. - 12:13 p.m. Lakeview Dr. (Conyers Station/ Hodges Lake) 12:15 p.m. - 12:25 p.m. Green Valley Dr. 12:27 p.m. 12:37 p.m. Laurel Ct. 12:39 p.m. - 12:49 p.m. Laurel Ln. 12:51 p.m. - 1:01 p.m. Phoenix Pass (Lighthouse Village) 11:05 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Pinedale Townhomes 11:20 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Meadow’s Crossing (Front) 11:35 a.m.- 11:45 a.m. Meadow’s Crossing (Back) 11:47 a.m. - 11:57 a.m. Forest Villas (Back) 12 p.m. 12:10 p.m. Forest Villas (Front) 12:12 p.m.12:22 p.m. Tillman St. 12:25 p.m. - 12:35 p.m. Beth Ln. 12:38 p.m. - 12:48 p.m. Cooper Circle 12:51 p.m. - 1:01 p.m. Tall Oaks Apts. 11:15 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
JUNE 3, 2017 • PAGE 7
Iris Glen Apts. 11:35 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. Woodland Trace Apts. 11:55 a.m. - 12:10 p.m. Terraces of Fieldstone 12:15 p.m. - 12:30 p.m. Wagon Train MHP 12:35 p.m. 12:50 p.m. BOLD MINISTRIES May 30 - July 28, Monday-Friday (Please note various dates and times for locations) Lakeview Estates Park (1501 Frontier Drive, Conyers), May 30July 28, Breakfast 9-10:30 a.m., Lunch noon - 1:30 p.m. Lakeview Estates at Skyline Park (Skyline Drive, Conyers), May 30July 28, Lunch noon-2 p.m., 2:303:30 p.m. Lakeview Community Center (1 Frontier Drive, Conyers), May 30July 28, Lunch 1-3 p.m., 3-4 p.m. Agape Fellowship Christian Center (1695 Flat Shoals Road SW, Conyers), May 30-July 28, Breakfast 8-9 a.m., Lunch noon-1p.m. Ebenezer United Methodist Church (2533 Stanton Road, Conyers), May 30-July 28, Breakfast 8-10 a.m., Lunch 11:30-1:30 p.m. Extraordinary Kids Camp (1879 Smyrna Road, Conyers), May 30-July 28, Breakfast 8-9 a.m., Lunch noon-1 p.m. Jym N Juice Fitness (1955 GA Highway 138 NE, Conyers), June 1-July 28, Breakfast 9-10:30 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Life Abundantly Church (2826 GA Highway 20, Conyers), May 30July 28, Breakfast 7:30-9 a.m., Lunch 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Strait Gate Enrichment Program (2360 Old Covington Highway, Conyers), June 5-July 28, Breakfast 7:30-9 a.m., Lunch noon-1 p.m.
PAGE 8•JUNE 3,2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Op/Ed: Opinions and Editorials
I
Jury automation improves juror experience
n a concerted effort to make it easier for people to serve as jurors, the Rockdale Clerk of Courts Office is embracing technologies aimed at reducing wait times, paperwork, and trips to the courthouse. We want jurors to have positive experiences with the courts. We recognize that while jury service is an important civic duty, it can be seen as an inconvenience, which is why we have implemented systems to foster better communication between jurors and our Office. One of the major innovations in recent years was adoption of an electronic jury records management system, which makes it easier to form jury pools. The Jury Management System stores jury questionnaire information and runs a computer algorithm to create a random pool of qualified people. Prior to the electronic system, the selection process was paper-based, and Clerk staff would manually process questionnaire data using a time-consuming and labor-intensive process to form jury pools. The Jury Management System allows us to save prospective jurors’ valuable time by only summoning those who have been selected for the next round of jury service.
Rockdale’s Constitutional Corner
Ruth A. Wilson Superior and State Court Clerk
Another innovation, the webbased questionnaire system, allows prospective jurors to complete jury questionnaires online rather than filling out paper forms and mailing them to us. Both prospective jurors and those chosen for pools can check their reporting status anytime online rather than calling the court or making a special trip to the courthouse. The next version of the questionnaire will be accessible on devices like iPhones and tablets. We have had a great return rate for jury questionnaires since implementing the online questionnaire. Jurors really appreciate the ability to fill out questionnaires electronically and check their reporting
status whenever they please. In the future, we will pursue an Integrated Voice Response system, an automated messaging system that can send email alerts, phone calls, and text messages reminding jurors to fill out questionnaires or to show up for jury service. In the past, jurors were usually contacted by phone by Clerk staff, which meant wait times or missed voicemail messages. We can now quickly notify jurors of last-minute cancellations, reducing the risk of jurors driving all the way to the courthouse to find out their service is no longer needed. The system does a great job at keeping jurors informed, especially in last-minute situations where it’s impossible for our small jury staff members to make hundreds of phone calls hours before jurors are expected to report to the courthouse. We have also implemented a jury kiosk system aimed at automating and speeding up juror check-ins for those who fail to complete the process online. The kiosk is located near the jury assembly room and allows prospective jurors to quickly check in by scanning their summons letters. The kiosk will also prompt them to
answer questions left incomplete in the questionnaires. Information entered into the kiosk is automatically uploaded into the Jury Management System, helping to keep contact information up-to-date and ensuring that notifications via questionnaire and the automated messaging system are sent to the correct email addresses and phone numbers. The kiosk system relieves Clerk staff of manually checking all jurors into the Jury Management System. Court staff will still need to conduct manual check-ins for reporting jurors with personal emergencies or travel issues. Kiosks are a huge timesaver for both jurors and court staff. Jurors appreciate that they aren’t stuck waiting in long lines and we are always standing by ready to assist if there is a problem with the kiosk. For those who prefer the traditional experience, we still offer the option of filling out paper questionnaires, speaking to actual people on the phone, and checking in manually. We find that more and more, people are gravitating to these new automated and web-based systems. Some have asked if we have a smart phone application for all these services, so there are always strides to be made in jury automation.
Government transparency is key to City of Stonecrest’s success
By Diane Daniels Adoma
P
ublic service is clearly not for the weak and faint of
heart. Many have disconnected from the legislative process and simply are not interested. However, the runoff election for Stonecrest Districts 5, 4 and 2 generated some unprecedented results with almost a 12% increase in voter return. Albeit, when this increase is compared to the total number of reg-
istered voters, this is still unacceptable. Therefore this cannot be defined as aggressive citizen engagement. Transparency was a key promise of my pre-election platform and remains a critical component of my current office agenda. Stonecrest citizens and stakeholders are firmly protected when the government is operating in an open environment subject public scrutiny and criticism. While many arguments can be made to the contrary, open government is essential to the preservation of a democratic society. I strongly believe that governmental Transparency will hold me accountable and will reduce possible government corruption, bribery and other types of malfeasance that may cause our city embarrassment. Just because it is legal does not necessarily
mean the official should take action. There have been many twists and turns as to what open government is and many arguments can be made as well as counter arguments. However, it is clear that when managing taxpayer dollars a high level of accountability and transparency reduces temptation and corruption and is trending as “best practice.” Utilizing technology is an efficient way to disseminate information to the greatest largest number of people in a short period of time. It also allows for immediate access to meetings, documents, events and other elected official activity. Technology can be a means by which one can better manage their government official as well. The city of Stonecrest can
be a model for government transparency by divorcing itself from traditional forms of transparency and adopt a more robust form of governing that will set the tone for many other new and existing cities. This can be best done by implementing processes to EASILY share and distribute information to keep the public informed and granting easy access for citizen feedback. Technology opens the path for sharing data and information and serve to increase our precious democratic form of government. I appeal to the citizens of Stonecrest to join me in this quest. Council meetings, town hall meetings, expenditures, partnerships, intergovernmental agreements, and the selection of vendors, key personnel are subject to the scrutiny and public over-
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sight. Thus, therefore it is smart government to provide easy access to documents pertaining to these activities. Although some documents are not subject to public scrutiny, such as dealing with some personnel, land and lease issues the others are open to the public. Transparency is both the bright line and the lifeline to good governance and accountability. It is a component of good leadership. This is a clarion to the citizens of Stonecrest District 5, so please continue to remain engaged and hold me accountable. In so doing, I will press on to represent you with integrity and the utmost openness possible. Diane Adoma is the Stonecrest District 5 City Council member and mayor pro tem.
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JUNE 3,2017 • PAGE 9
Mental health forum
DeKalb pools
continued from page 1
continued from page 1
issues and do not know where to turn for help.” Judge Robert Mumford moderated a panel, which included mental health professionals, social workers, those in recovery and parent peers. More than a dozen vendors participated, providing handouts and other information to those who attended Williams said she and her committee members planned for about 150 for the Wednesday night event, which was held on May 31. May is the month Mental Health Awareness is observed, she said. “The attendance was beyond our expectations. Doreen Williams, Rockdale’s We ran out of food,” Williams said. Post 2 Commissioner Correct Care Solutions, which has a contract to provide medical care at the county’s jail, provided the free, boxed dinners for the event, said Williams. The Hope & Recovery forum was the first in a series. Community Conversations on Mental Health “Suicide Awareness” forum will be held on Sept. 18. Sponsors who supported the May forum include the Rockdale Probate Court, Public Defender’s Office, Accountability Courts, Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families. Sponsors included Cigna, View Point, CCS, On Common Ground news, 4D Printing, Inc., Premier Medical Careers, Unidos Somos United, National Alliance on Mental Illness, United Way of Greater Atlanta in Rockdale County, View Point and On Common Ground News. Need Help? Here are a several resources to resources in Georgia. https://dso.georgia.gov/mental-health-resources https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/ https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/sites/dbhdd.georgia.gov/files/related_files/site_ page/2015%20AMH%20Directory%208.14.15.pdf https://aging.georgia.gov/mental-health-resources Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) 1-800-715-4225 (Toll-Free 24 hour access) View Point Health: 678-209-2411 (24 hour access to care line) Suicide Hotline 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) National Suicide Prevention Line 1-800-273 TALK (8255)
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, 1 to 7 p.m. • Exchange Splash Pad, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30034 Hours: Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday, noon to 7 p.m. • Gresham Park, 3113 Gresham Road, Atlanta, GA 30316 Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Monday closed; Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. • Kittredge Park, 2535 N. Druid Hills Road, Atlanta, GA 30329 Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Monday closed; Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. • Lithonia Park, 2501 Park Drive, Lithonia, GA 30058 Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Monday closed; Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. • Tobie Grant Park, 644 Parkdale Road, Scottdale, GA 30079 Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Monday closed; Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. • Kelly Cofer Park, 4259 N. Park Dr. Tucker, GA 30084 Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday closed; Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. • Midway Park, 3181 Midway Road, Decatur, GA 30032 • Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday closed; Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. • Medlock Park, 874 Gaylemont Circle, Decatur, GA 30033 Hours: Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday closed; Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.
City of Stonecrest
Diane Adoma, District 5, hosts free ACT Prep Boot Camp
Rob Turner, Stonecrest District 2, hosts first town hall meeting Stonecrest District 2 Councilmember Rob Turner hosted his first town hall meeting on June 1 at the Lou Walker Senior Center. About 40 people attended the meeting. Congressman Hank Johnson, DeKalb Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson and School Board member Vicki Turner, who are all residents of Stonecrest, spoke at the meeting. State Rep. Doreen Carter, Stonecrest Acting City Manager Michael Harris and Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary also provided brief updates.Stonecrest City Council member Jazzmin Cobble, District 3, will host a town hall meeting for constituents on June 8, 7 p.m., Ousley United Methodist Church, 3261 Panola Road, Lithonia. Stonecrest City Council member Jimmy Clanton, Jr., District 1, has scheduled two town hall meetings to provide citizens updates and to hear from them. The first meeting will be held on June 12; the second meeting is set for July 10. The times and locations are to be determined.
Stonecrest District 5 Councilwoman Diane Daniels Adoma helped coordinate a free youth intervention program called the ACT Prep Boot Camp. Adoma said the event was held at the Salem Panola Library with every seat occupied. The boot camp was sponsored by Henry C. Cotton, founder and CEO of Sage Group America, a leader and innovator in education and technology since 1991 with a focus on meeting state and national standardized test goals. Cotton was recently elected mayor of Bastrop, LA. Adoma said she partnered with SageGroup to present the boot camp because her goal is to help support students to become lifelong learners. Quality education, she said, is economic development, and it will take all in the community to address what she coined as an opportunity rather than a problem. Ed Patton, vice president of Political Affairs for the DeKalb Board of Realtors, provided lunch for the event. DeKalb school board member Vickie Turner was present to bring greetings. Also present were Barbara Lee, Fiesta Kagler, Charlotte Cain, Deborah Young and others.
PAGE 10•JUNE 3,2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Gospel Awards show seeks nominees to highlight great works in Christian community
The third annual Kingdom Builders Gospel Awards will take place on Saturday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m., at Georgia Piedmont’s Conference Center in Clarkston. The Kingdom Builders Gospel Awards is a national gospel awards show that recognizes outstanding contributions and achievement in the Christian community. Nominations are open for the public to nominate outstanding leaders, churches and organizations until June 30 by visiting www.kingdombuildersawards.com. The Kingdom Builders Gospel Awards is a multicultural, black-tie awards program that honors Christian men, women, youth and business owners who Alicia Cardell Alston exemplify a standard of excellence in carrying out the works of God for the uplifting of His kingdom. The awards show is a tribute to the faith community, churches and individuals serving others, standing in the gap and sharing the good news of the Gospel. The awards show will highlight nine categories of recognition through the outstanding achievement of pastors, first ladies, evangelists/missionaries, organizations, churches, gospel artists, ministers and youth. “This awards show provides an open forum to celebrate successes, share resources and promote innovative ideas that change lives in the faith community. The awards show recognizes pioneers, innovators and trailblazers that are making a difference in individual lives, churches and communities across the nation,” states Alicia Cardwell Alston, founder and executive producer of the Kingdom Builders Gospel Awards. Past honorees have included: Kim Parris, founder of the Resilience Foundation and recipient of the Kingdom Builders Organization Award; Bishop Richard Green with New Covenant Metropolitan Ministries and recipient of the Soul Harvest Award; First Lady Linda Williams of Judah House of Praise and recipient of the Queen Esther Award; Aryanna Brown of Revolutionary Grace Church and Benjamin Pollard of High Point Christian Tabernacle, recipients of the Young Star Award; Gospel artist Gary Fordham, recipient of the Rising Star Award; Pastor Karl Moore of Clarkston First Baptist Church, recipient of the Good Shepherd Award; and Chief Apostle Mary D. Lawrence of Open Door Outreach Center and recipient of the Kingdom Trailblazer Award. Save 20 percent on early bird registration by June 30. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kingdombuildersawards.com. Vendor space is also available. For more information, contact Laneatria Willis at 404-536-0864.
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JUNE 3,2017 • PAGE 11
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PAGE 12•JUNE 3,2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM