VOLUME 21 NUMBER 17
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AUGUST 1, 2015
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Browns Mill Arthur Blank eyes DeKalb for pro soccer team headquarters reopens after near drowning D By Joshua Smith
By Valerie J. Morgan
DeKalb County’s Browns Mill Family Aquatic Center is reopening following a near drowning and termination of the company that provided life guard services at the center. County officials closed the center after they learned the contractor, USA Management, did not have certification for its lifeguards. Officials said they are now investigating why the company was not properly vetted. The July 28 shutdown was prompted after Channel 11 broke the story that a 14-year-old boy nearly drowned at the pool on June 22. The television station reported lifeguards on hand called 911 for help, instead of reviving the child on their own. A bystander administered CPR and revived the boy during the frantic scene, while lifeguards watched, the reporter said. Brionne Sloan reportedly went down in seven feet of water, according to reports. He was rushed to a hospital, where he was placed on a ventilator. He is now breathing on his own. His mother, Melissa Sloan, said parents should question whether any DeKalb pool is prepared for an emergency. Speaking at the Board of Commissioners’ July 28 meeting, Interim CEO Lee May said was upset that USA Management did not have certification. “Oversight by the county is critical… I just frankly believe we dropped the ball,” said May, adding that he was “ticked off” after learning about the incident. May and the board were informed that 16 lifeguards at Browns Mill did not have proof of certification, a blatant violation of the county’s contract, May said. DeKalb officials could not explain how USA Management worked without the required certification. May said the company only had a contract at Browns Mill and not the county’s other eight pools. May’s staff said measurements were taken to staff Browns Mill with certified lifeguards. Roy Wilson, director of DeKalb’s Parks and Recreation, told DeKalb commissioners USA Management had provided lifeguards at Browns Mill since the center opened. “We assumed that they were all certified. This vendor has operated the facility since we opened in 2008 and they’ve always had certified lifeguards,” Wilson said. The Board of Commissioners voted to terminate USA Management’s contract and to begin looking for a replacement vendor.
eKalb County officials have until Aug. 4 to ink a multimillion dollar deal with Arthur Blank to build a practice stadium in DeKalb for his professional soccer team. The proposed deal would make DeKalb the headquarters for the Atlanta United, a Major League Soccer team owned by Blank, who also owns the Atlanta Falcons. The deal calls for the headquarters and stadium practice fields to be located on more than 40 acres of vacant land on Memorial Drive across the street from the Kensington MARTA station. The deal would serve as the catalyst for the revitalization of Memorial Drive and the new “Downtown DeKalb.” The DeKalb Board of Commissioners decided to defer a decision on the contract at its July 28 meeting but now the board is facing a deadline by Blank. “We just need time to look over all the legal documents that come with an agreement like this,” said Commissioner
Kathie Gannon. “Everybody wants it, so we’ll get it done and get it approved. I think
See Soccer Team, page 6
SUMMER’S LAST BLAST Sheriff’s back-to-school bash offers supplies, tons of fun By Joshua Smith More than 150 kids received backpacks stuffed with school supplies during the DeKalb County Sheriff Office’s sixth annual Back-to-School Community Day. This year’s event was held on July 29 at Stars and Strikes Bowling Center in Stone Mountain. “It’s critical for the Sheriff’s Office staff, especially the SWAT team, to get involved with our children and show them that we are regular people just like them and hopefully these kids can spread that message in their community,” said Major L.J. Roscoe on behalf of Sheriff Jeffrey Mann who was out of town representing the office at a national conference. “With all that they see in movies and video games with us as the bad guys, we have to continue to do things like this in the community.” While the Sheriff’s Office received ink pens donated by local businesses, deputies pitched in to buy more than 150 book bags, folders, notebook paper and other school supplies. Also lending a hand in the giveaway was the office of the Solicitor General Sherry Boston, which also provided book bags. “This event is all about getting our children excited about their future, their education and making good life choices so that they don’t end up in the criminal justice system,” said Boston. “This is one of the most amazing partnerships that I am excited to be a part of every year. We have law enforcement and the community coming together to have fun with the kids and stress the importance of taking your school work seriously.” The event was organized and emceed by bowling coach and former owner of Suburban Lanes, Tom Walker, Sr. After bowling and munching on some
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
DeKalb County Police Major T.S. Dedrick hugs a happy back-to-schooler at Stars and Strikes.
pizza, the students had a chance to meet not only Sheriff’s officials and Boston but District Attorney Robert James and employees from the DeKalb County Police Department, Juvenile Justice and S.W.A.T. “These kids know peers on probation. They know other kids who are already heading down the wrong path at a young age. We have to stress to them the importance of choices and the consequences or rewards that come from them,” said Major T.S. Dedrick, a commander with the county police department. “Everybody in this room wants these kids to grow up and be successful and we know they can do it.” Those thoughts were echoed from 6-year-old Tracey Everett. “I’m going to get good grades in high school, go to college and get a big house and
a nice car,” said Everett, who lives in Stone Mountain. “I’m going to get a good job. I’m going to be a great student.” After getting the school supplies, the excited back-to-schoolers went head-to-head in arcade games.
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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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DeKalb commissioners defer vote—again—on picking presiding officer
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By Joshua Smith
he DeKalb County Board of Commissioners is still at an impasse over who will serve as its presiding officer, despite finally having a full, sevenmember board and discussing the matter ahead of the vote. The presiding officer runs the meetings and assigns board members to committees. It’s a leadership role that continues to divide the board racially. The board has deferred a decision on the matter six times this year: Jan. 27, Feb. 10, March 10, April 14, May 26 and July 28. The board was expected to reach a decision at its July 28 meeting, but Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, whose election this month to the District 5 seat brought the board to full operating capacity, made a motion to defer the matter. The board supported Johnson’s motion 4-3 with all of the black commissioners voting to defer and all of the whites opposed. Commissioner Kathie Gannon, who represents DeKalb’s District 4, questioned the integrity of the board. She said board members had agreed before the meeting that Commissioner Jeff Rader would be named presiding officer and Commissioner Stan Watson would be named deputy presiding officer. Then, at the meeting, the agreement dissolved. “I was very surprised. We went into the meeting saying Jeff would be the presiding officer and Stan would continue to stay on as deputy, all of which were lies, I guess. Some people apparently had a new plan at the end. I thought it was very dishonest,” said Gannon. “People are not transparent and not
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
L-R: Commissioners Nancy Jester, Jeff Rader, Larry Johnson, Stan Watson, Sharon Barnes Sutton, Mereda Davis Johnson and Kathie Gannon.
interested in working together. We need a better sense of leadership on this board to get the regular things done. We are so behind and it’s deferments like this that hold us up from getting things done for the residents of this county.” Commissioner Mereda Johnson said discussions were had before the meeting but no plan was set in stone. “There was nothing concrete. We only had discussions on who would be the presiding officer. I just got on the board. I know who everyone is but I want to take these next coming weeks to better get to know who could be our next leader,” she said. “I just need a little more time to determine who should be the presiding officer.” Gannon also said some constituents brought to her attention that a robo call allegedly went out to residents in South DeKalb
GOOD SAMARITANS
RCCA gives away thousands of pounds of food By Joshua Smith
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he Resource Center for Community Action (RCCA) is one of Rockdale County’s longstanding Good Samaritans and Rockdale County Chairman and CEO Richard Oden acknowledged the group and its volunteers at the Board of Commissioners’ July 29 meeting. “It is a fine-tuned machine when you see all the volunteers coming together to distribute the food to the needy,” said Oden. “I had the opportunity to volunteer about four hours there and just to see the car detail fill up the parking lot was phenomenal. It was just amazing to see the youth, seniors, ministries and other community leaders bonding together to bag and distribute the food.” RCCA set up its drive-up pantry on July 23 at the Rockdale government annex at 1400 Parker Road in Conyers. People like Carrie Wilbern of Conyers say the mobile pantry is a big help for people on fixed incomes. “I was recently uprooted from a bad marriage after 30 years. I’ve had total knee replacement on both knees so it’s been hard just living on disability but I’m making it,” said Wil-
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
bern. “A lot of places just give you a bag with a few things but here, they really give you a lot of food and are really a big help.” RCCA founder Siddiya Swift says she enjoys giving back and the “thank you” and “God bless you” wishes she gets from recipients are what keep her going. “I can’t even explain the feeling you get when you see awesome people coming together to help those in need, people who are in emergency situations, some even homeless,” said Swift. “It’s awesome to volunteer. It’s awesome to give back and it’s awesome to see people in dire need get the help that they want.” Swift says more than 500
people and at least 3,000 households benefitted from the more than 30,000 pounds of food given away in July. Swift and about 20 to 50 volunteers come together once a month to distribute the food and other items. Home Depot and local grocery stores donate many of the items. U-Haul also donates a truck to haul all the goods. RCCA has been running the monthly food pantry for about six years at the Rockdale government annex. For more information on volunteering, making a donation or receiving help, visit www.rccaction.org or call 770-760-1346.
County telling them they should not support Rader for presiding officer. Rader said he, too, heard about the robo calls. “I have been informed that there was a racially-tinged robo call circulating in South DeKalb urging that “they”(whites) not be elected to the post. I have not heard it myself,” said Rader. “At this crucial time, I want to update and reiterate my platform to advance our shared efforts to serve the public interest.” Rader has actively campaigned for the presiding officer position for months. In January, he sent out a news release stating he wanted the position and he was actively seeking board members’ support. He said that leadership is critical to restoring the board’s See DeKalb Commissioners, page 6
Tax Assessor’s Office to get new HVAC It’s been hot not only outside but inside for employees of the Rockdale County Tax Assessor’s Office. The office has been forced to close shop early over the last few days because the air-conditioning system wasn’t working, officials say. County officials say the office has been opening up at the regular time of 8 a.m. but closing around 2 or 3 p.m., instead of 5 p.m. Employees in the assessor’s office have been using portable fans to get by. “The system in their office is old. The building is old. The county had been doing temporary fixes to the system to get by but the system is now beyond minor repairs,” said Tonya Parker, director of Community Affairs and Innovative Programs. “Crews have been working at the building everyday and should be done with installing a new system by Monday. Crews will work over the weekend to get it done.”
Stone Mountain to celebrate National Night Out The City of Stone Mountain and the Stone Mountain Police Department will celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 4 to 7 p.m., at the Stone Mountain Farmers Market on Main Street. Members of the police department will be on site to answer questions and a new patrol car will be on display. Gifts will be given to the first 100 children in in attendance. “We are excited to be participating in National Night Out. It is important that members of the community feel like they know our officers. This is a great opportunity to build our relationships in a positive manner,” said Chief Chauncey Troutman. In addition, to the National Night Out festivities, Wholesome Wave will be on site to assist people with EBT applications. The Stone Mountain Farmers Market participates in the Double Up Program which allows EBT clients to double their dollars at the market. First time Farmers Market attendees are also eligible to join the My Market Club which provides incentives to members for their first three market visits.
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Back-to-School bash set in Decatur
Coming Up
DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs (RPCA) will host a “Back-to-School Bash” on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2 – 6 p.m., at the Midway Recreation Center, 3181 Midway Road, Decatur. “This is a great opportunity for our community to learn about its recreation center and available services for families and residents,” said Roy Wilson, director of DeKalb County RPCA. The event will include activities and games, food, music, haircuts, manicures and a backpack giveaway (while supplies last). This event is free and open to the public and residents are encouraged to bring their family and friends. To learn more about DeKalb County RPCA, visit www.dekalbcountyga. gov/parks or follow @DeKalbRPCA on Facebook and Twitter.
House of Hope to host financial education fair
Georgia Track Club, Nike offer free day of family fitness
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The House of Hope (The Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church), 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, will host the “No Longer Bound” financial education fair for the community on Saturday, Aug. 15, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Attendees can learn from exhibits, workshops, seminars and panel discussions. Topics include student loans, wills, bankruptcy, credit rebuilding, debt elimination, investing, insurance, securities fraud and tax relief. Some fair participants include the Securities and Exchange Commission, Georgia Student Finance Commission, Small Business Administration, Wells Fargo Bank, Bank of America, Farmers Insurance, Prudential Financial and AFLAC. The information provided at the free event will equip attendees with the tools needed to take their finances to the next level. There will also be door prizes. To register, email contact information to nolongerbound10@gmail.com. E. Dewey Smith, Jr. is pastor of the church.
he Georgia Track Club and Nike will host “Family Fit Fun Run Day” on Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Anderson Park Recreation Center, 120 Anderson Ave., N.W., Atlanta. Events start with a 2-mile family fun run at 9 a.m. A fitness festival will be held from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. with games, fitness activities and entertainment from local performers. There will also be raffles for prizes and door prizes. This event will show families how to have fun and be fit. Race registration begins at 8:30 a.m. All registered participants will be eligible for a prize donated by Nike and entry into raffles. You can also receive autographs and tips for success from former Stonecrest Library to host Scribes and Vibes Olympians and professional athletes who ran or are currently with a professional Georgia track team. Join a monthly celebration of the arts at DeKalb County’s Stonecrest Library. Advance registration is suggested. For more information or to register, The Friends of the Libraray will present “Scribes and Vibes,” a blend of poetry, visit www.georgiatrackclub.org or register at the club office, 754 Peachtree musical performances and fine art, on Saturday, Aug. 8, 1 to 4 p.m., 3123 Klondike St., N.E., Atlanta. Road, Lithonia. For more information, call 404--482-3828.
ATLANTA
City of Atlanta’s Movie in the Park: “Million Dollar Arm” The City of Atlanta will present the outdoor movie, “Million Dollar Arm,” on Friday, Aug. 7, at Historic Old Fourth Ward, 665 North Ave., Atlanta. The free movie begins at 8:30 p.m. “Million Dollar Arm” is a biographical sports drama based on the true story of baseball pitchers Rinku Singh and Dinesh Patel. The pair were discovered by sports agent J.B. Bernstein after winning a reality show competition. The film stars Jon Hamm as Bernstein; Bill Paxton as pitching coach Tom House; Suraj Sharma as Singh; Madhur Mittal as Patel; and Alan Arkin. The film was released by Walt Disney Pictures on May 16, 2014. The Department of Parks and Recreation, Mayor’s Office of Film and Entertainment, and the Atlanta Police Department are sponsors of Movies in the Park. For more information: 404-590-7275.
DEKALB
DeKalb libraries offer movie series for adults The DeKalb County Library System is offering a movie series for adults on Fridays in August. The series begins on Friday, Aug. 7, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., with the Oscaraward-winning “American Sniper,” at the county’s Toco Hill-Avis G. Williams branch, 1282 McConnell Drive, Decatur. The 2014 release, which stars Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miller, is a biographical war drama film directed by Clint Eastwood. It is based on the memoir “American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History (2012)” by Chris Kyle. The film follows the life of Kyle, who became the deadliest marksman in U.S. military history with 255 kills from four tours in the Iraq War, 160 of which were officially confirmed by the Department of Defense. While Kyle was celebrated for his military successes, his tours of duty took a heavy toll on his personal and family life. Movies continue on Aug. 14 with “Jupiter Ascending,” 2 – 4 p.m., at the Stonecrest branch, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. DeKalb’s Toco Hills branch will show “The Birdcage,” on Aug. 21, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. The series closes on Aug. 28, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., at the Toco Hills location with “The Pianist.” 404-508-7190.
GWINNETT
Free container gardening class in Lawrenceville Gwinnett County will host a free workshop on container gardening on Wednesday, Aug. 5, noon – 1 p.m., at the Gwinnett County Government Annex Building, 750 South Perry St., #400, Lawrenceville. Container gardening is the practice of growing plants exclusively in containers instead of planting them in the ground. Pots, now more commonly made of plastic, and window boxes have been the most commonly seen. This method is also useful in areas where the soil or climate is unsuitable for the plant or crop in question. Learn how to keep your plants healthy, what you should plant, sunlight tips and more. For more information or to register in advance, call 678-377-4010.
ROCKDALE
HJ Fox Summer Classic showcases thoroughbreds The Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, will host the HJ Fox Summer Classic on Saturday, Aug. 15, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. This event is sanctioned by professional groups and features both lead-line and jumper horses. Four rings will be open for competition. The competition will be held in the park’s Charles Walker Arena and the Grand Prix Stadium. Admission is free. Four rings of Hunter/Jumper Competitions will be open in a stadium-like arena Horses and their owners will be competing for more than $2,000 in prize money in a safe, covered area. For more information, contact event promoter Vickie Bryans at 706-3423029 or email malonefarmseq@aol.com. The website for this event is www. HJFoxClassics.com.
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AUGUST 1, 2015 • PAGE 5
City of Atlanta partners with SCANA to distribute 500 fans
Left to Right: Daniel Lammons, Jordan Rubin, Philip Jenny, Nyota Edijidimo, Ronnie Taylor, Reagan Balog
Gwinnett lifeguards win state competition
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ive hundred senior citizens considered to be low-income, received fans to help them bear with the extreme summer heat thanks to a continued partnership between The City of Atlanta and SCANA Energy. This is the thirteenth consecutive year that SCANA Energy has donated 500 fans to the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department and the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services for distribution to low-income, elderly residents. Fans were distributed at the Pittman Park Recreation Center in Southwest Atlanta. Some fans were also delivered to homebound seniors. “Atlanta’s seniors are vital to our city, and it is important we do everything we can to ensure they stay cool and safe this summer,” said First Lady Sarah Elizabeth Reed. “The city values our 13-year partnership with SCANA Energy. Their donation of the new fans helps to ensure that our most vulnerable residents remain comfortable during the hot summer months.” Atlanta’s summertime temperatures make fan giveaways especially important. People 65 years old and older are more susceptible to heatrelated illnesses. Elderly people do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature. They are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes normal
body responses to heat. Seniors are more likely to take prescription medications that inhibit perspiration or impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature. “SCANA Energy is proud and honored to continue our longstanding partnership with Mayor Kasim Reed, the City of Atlanta, and the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department,” said George Devlin, vice president and general manager of SCANA Energy. “We are pleased to donate five hundred fans again this year to provide much needed cooling relief to low-income, elderly residents of Atlanta.” In the midst of the high temperatures, Mayor Kasim Reed is keeping cooling stations open to help residents beat the heat. The stations are open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. The Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department is offering free bottled water at all fire stations, and the staff of the Mayor’s Office of Constituent continues to visit seniors in various neighborhoods, delivering water and checking on their needs. The cooling stations are located at the Georgia Hill Neighborhood Center, 250 Georgia Avenue, S.E.; J.C. Burdine, 215 Lakewood Way, S.E.; and the Old Adamsville Emergency Shelter, 3403 Delmar Lane. To request a fan or for further assistance, please contact the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services at 404-330-6023.
Stonecrest Library to host Scribes and Vibes A local library invites you to join a monthly celebration of the arts at DeKalb County’s Stonecrest Library. The Friends of the Libraray will present “Scribes and Vibes,” a blend of poetry, musical performances and fine art, on Saturday, Aug. 8, 1 to 4 p.m., 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. The event is hosted by Queen Sheba and Reggie Love with Open Mic Performances and Back to School Giveaways. Reservations: 678-404-1644 or www.scribesandvibes.net Open Mic and Art Exhibition Registration: info@scribesandvibes. com
Info: www.twitter.com/ scribesandvibes. The DeKalb County Public Library (DCPL) is the public library system of DeKalb County, Georgia in the Atlanta metropolitan area. The library system headquarters are in the Decatur Library Decatur. Its collection includes over 800,000 books; collections of over 400 magazines, academic and scientific journals, and newspapers; and audiovisual materials including videotapes, audiobooks, CDs, and DVDs. For more information, call 404482-3828.
Property tax bills to be mailed in August Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner Richard Steele plans to mail the 2015 property tax bills by Saturday, Aug. 15 with a single due date on Thursday, October 15. The ad valorem tax, more commonly called the property tax, is the primary source of revenue for local governments in Georgia. Ad valorem means “according to
value,” and property is taxed based on its assessed value. By law, assessed value is based on 40 percent of the fair market value as of January 1 each year. For more information about ways to pay and to pay online, visit www. GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com. You can search for your property by owner name on the website.
For the fourth year in a row, Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation took first place at the annual Georgia Recreation and Park Association State Lifeguarding Competition held on Lake Oconee in Greene County on July 20. GCPR lifeguards come from several different park aquatics facilities throughout Gwinnett County. These lifeguards were selected for the Gwinnett County State Team based on their outstanding lifeguarding, CPR/AED, first aid, teamwork, and athletic skills. These guards practiced and honed their abilities throughout the summer with quizzing, skill practice sessions, conditioning and studying written materials. The team consisted of Jordan Rubin, a college student who spends his summers as a lifeguard at Rhodes Jordan Pool in Lawrenceville. Nyota Edijidimo, a high school student, and Ronnie Taylor, a college student, who both work at Mountain Park Aquatic Center in Lilburn. Daniel Lammons and Reagan Balog, both upcoming high school seniors
who spend their summers at Collins Hill Aquatic Center, alongside Philip Jenny, a recent high school graduate preparing for his first year of college this fall. The competition consisted of several events evaluating teamwork, athletic ability and lifeguarding knowledge. The Gwinnett team earned 27 points with high finishes in the majority of the events. The team took first in both, the triathlon and rescue events; second in the CPR and swim events; and third in the rescue paddleboard event. The team was coached by Aquatics Coordinators Christine Greenfield and Jason Cutchins. “Winning four years in a row has never been done in the history of the state competition. We are extremely proud of the lifeguard team for their victory at state,” said Christine Greenfield, Gwinnett Aquatics Director. “Our lifeguard team takes great pride in their training and skill execution and they were excited to use it in a competition setting.”
PAGE 6 •AUGUST 1, 2015
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DeKalb Commissioners continued from page 3
capacity to serve the public. “I have offered for the post and offered up my platform. No other commissioner has asked others for the vote,” said Rader. “At this crucial time, I want to update and reiterate my platform to advance our shared efforts to serve the public interest.” Several residents said they were disappointed by the board’s decision to defer taking action on the presiding officer position. “I don’t understand why they keep delaying it,” said Jerome Arnold of Decatur. “It just doesn’t make sense for them to keep playing around with it like this. Pick someone and move on.” John Evans, president of the DeKalb County NAACP, agreed. “We’re riding the same wagon. They said things would get better with a full board, but it appears we are still in the same boat,” said Evans. “People are scared to make decisions because they are too busy playing politics.”
Commissioner Larry Johnson, who is currently serving as presiding officer, said he was surprised by the most recent deferment. “I really thought a decision was coming at this meeting,” said Johnson, who will continue to hold the position until the board decides. Other commissioners shared their views on the deferment as well. “I’m disappointed. I don’t understand what the hold up is,” said Commissioner Nancy Jester. “We’ve failed to fully go through the process and have an affirmative choice. I’m sad it was deferred. I don’t understand why it was deferred.” “We’ve waited months for this so at this point, I don’t think waiting a few more weeks will hurt anyone,” said Commissioner Watson. The Board of Commissioners’ next meeting is scheduled Aug. 11, 9 a.m. at the Manuel Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur.
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once we get a full understanding of the financial and legal documents, we can get the ball rolling on it.” Commissioner Nancy Jester said she believes the board needs more time to check out the fine print before making a decision. “It’s a little rushed to want a decision by the beginning of August from us,” said Jester. “I would like more time to determine how taxpayer dollars will be used in this process.” Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson says she wants to make sure county attorneys look over the deal closely. “I’m on board to bring something great to the county. However, the county attorneys and the attorneys for Mr. Blank must reach an agreement first,” said Johnson, who is an attorney. “It would be great to bring that essence of sports diversity but I believe it’s in the hands of attorneys at this point.” County attorneys are looking over the contract, but have expressed Blank’s desires to get an answer soon. “Mr. Blank’s team told me that they will choose another jurisdiction if the county does not proceed with this transaction in early August,” County Attorney O.V. Brantley said in a prepared statement to the Board of Commissioners. The board is scheduled to vote on the contract on Tuesday, Aug. 4. Some major points of the proposed deal include the county spending
about $5 million to prepare the land. DeKalb would also pay Atlanta United $7 million over three years to set up and maintain operations. The team would move in with no property taxes and DeKalb workers would build a pedestrian bridge to connect from the MARTA Kensington Station to the facility site. Blank and partners would be required to build a practice stadium and practice fields, which potentially would be open to the public when the team is not using them. Blank’s group would also be required to build a new facility for the county’s parks and recreation department. Staff members in Interim CEO Lee May’s office say the deal is critical in revitalizing Memorial Drive in what has previously been described as “Downtown DeKalb.” “Our discussions have been positive and cooperative and we are encouraged, and excited by their (Atlanta United) interest to potentially become a part of the future of Downtown DeKalb,” said county spokesman Burke Brennan. Atlanta United will begin playing in 2017 in Atlanta’s new downtown stadium, which will be shared with the Atlanta Falcons. The training facility will need to be constructed no later than December 2016. Team president Darren Eales says the team is nearing 24,000 seasonticket pledges for the inaugural season.
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AUGUST 1, 2015 • PAGE 7
Beltline arts program gets $50,000 boost The City of Atlanta’s Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA) has been awarded a $50,000 grant for the development of the Atlanta BeltLine Arts and Culture Strategic Implementation Plan from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The “Our Town” grant program supports creative projects that help to transform communities into lively, beautiful, and resilient places with the arts at their core. Since the program’s inception in 2011 and including this year, the NEA will have awarded 325 “Our Town” grants totaling almost $26 million in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.
“We are thrilled to receive this award,” said Camille Russell Love, OCA executive director. “The facilities, partnerships and programs developed as a result of the implementation plan will add to the Atlanta BeltLine’s identity as a creative place, improving the quality of life for citizens throughout the region and driving continued economic development through the arts.” OCA will partner with Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. and Metropolitan Public Art Coalition to develop a long-range strategy for arts and culture along the Atlanta BeltLine through engagement with the Atlanta arts community.
Water Resources offers septic tank maintenance workshop The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources is hosting a free workshop for residents, “Septic Tank Maintenance,” on Thursday, Aug. 6, 7 – 8:30 p.m., at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center’s Auditorium, 75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville. Learn how your system works, how to prevent problems, and how to determine when a repair is necessary. Attendees from unincorporated Gwinnett County, city of Lilburn, or city of Peachtree Corners can qualify for a maximum five percent credit toward their Stormwater Utility Fee for the following year. A septic tank is a key component of
the septic system, a small-scale sewage treatment system common in areas that lack connection to main sewage pipes provided by local governments or private corporations. Other components, generally controlled by local governments, may include pumps, alarms, sand filters, and clarified liquid effluent disposal methods such as a septic drain field, ponds, natural stone fiber filter plants or peat moss beds. You are encouraged to pre-register by emailing your name, address, and phone number to dwrswreg@ gwinnettcounty.com or you can call 678-376-7193, extension 5.
L-R: Ro Brooks, an actor of Tyler Perry’s “The Have and Have Nots,” receives his award from Kristy and Ceasar Gaiters.
JABY, Inc. hosts 2015 Trailblazer Awards in Decatur
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uite 20 Day Spa’s owners Ceasar and Kristy Gaiters recently celebrated their sixth year honoring trailblazers who are making a difference in the community. The DeKalb County salon owners, through their nonprofit, JABY, Inc., hosted the 2015 International Trailblazer Awards at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in Decatur. Former WSB-TV anchor Monica Pearson and actor Ro Brooks were among this year’s honorees. The
program also honored Senegal Ambassador Jane Gardner, Dr. William E. Flippen, pastor of Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church in Decatur; Atlanta Rotary District 6900 Gov. Alicia Michaels; community activist Darlene Lewis; international makeup artist Ruby Polanco; Florida State University law student and Lauryn Collier. WSB-TV’s Veronica Waters hosted the event’s Red Carpet, which was followed by a buffet dinner and the awards program.
PAGE 8 •AUGUST 1, 2015
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Dottie Bridges’ tennis program wins third consecutive championship title
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he Dottie Bridges 12 and Under Tennis Team, comprised of kids from South DeKalb County, won the 2015 United States Tennis Association (USTA) Championship, maintaining its winning streak for three consecutive seasons. The team qualified for the Atlanta playoffs as the second seeded team from USTA Intermediate Division 2, where it finished regular season play behind Druid Hills Country Club, a team Dottie Bridges split contests with during the regular season. In the July 11 opening round of the USTA Atlanta city playoffs, the Dottie Bridges Team traveled to Kennesaw to take on the No. 1 seed Legacy Park, defeating the team 31 games to 21. In the semi-final, the Dottie Bridges Team defeated John’s Creek’s St. Ives Country Club 40 to 0. Then, in the July 18 finals, Dottie Bridges defeated White Columns of Alpharetta with a close-out performance, winning Girls Singles 4-0, 4-0; Boys Singles 4-0, 4-1; Boys Doubles 4-0, 4-1; Mixed Doubles pair going to a third-set tiebreaker but falling, 0-4, 4-3 (4), 0-1 (8). The team took 29 games to 18,
overall, to complete the championship win. The Dottie Bridges 12u team includes: Kennedy Talbert; Alexis Grant; Kenedy Hampton; Kendall Brutus; Aria Adams; Camille Irvin; Kamau MuseMorris; Michael Lawrence; Jeremiah Todd; Ajani Claxton-Warner, Declan Butts, and Logan Butts. The 12u Team, as well as all Dottie
Bridges Tennis Center Teams (age groups 8u, 10u, 12u, and 18u) are coached by Lance Davenport, Foster Bolton, Herman Lawrence, and Keith Taylor. The program credits great parental involvement with its success. The 2015 Championship is the third title for the Dottie Bridges program in the
last three seasons. In 2014, the 10u Team won the USTA Atlanta City Championship. In 2013, the 8u Team won the USTA Georgia State Championship, and in 2012, the Center’s 10u Team finished first in the USTA Atlanta – South Atlanta Division and was a Atlanta Championship semi-finalist. Since 2012, seven Dottie Bridges 18u Team members, six of whom attended and played scholastically at Southwest DeKalb High School, and one at Miller Grove, have received athletic scholarships to play collegiate tennis. Former member and 2012 SWD graduate Jasmine Riddick, a rising senior at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, N.C. She was named to the 2015 International Tennis Federation’s All Academic Team. Former member and 2014 SWD graduate Kaylin Roman, a rising sophomore, also at Johnson C. Smith, was recently named the 2015 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year. Roman was also named to the 2015 All-CIAA Team. The Dottie Bridges Tennis Center is located at 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur.
DeKalb delivering new garbage carts to single-family homes DeKalb County is delivering its new 65-gallon garbage carts to customers who live in single-family homes as part of its once-a-week pickup, which launched in July. County officials say they hope to have all of the carts delivered to single-family homes by the end of August. Customers who live in townhomes and condominiums should receive their new carts by this fall, during Phase II of the program, officials said. Pauline Andrea, a spokesperson for
the DeKalb County Sanitation Division, said the goal has always been to have the estimated 144,000 carts delivered by the end of August. “About 50 percent have already been distributed, so we have about half of the total number to still distribute,” said Andrea. Every single-family residential household in unincorporated DeKalb and the cities of Brookhaven, Dunwoody and Lithonia will receive a new garbage roll
cart, officials said. The new garbage carts are 40 inches tall and 28 inches wife. Willie Smith, Jr., who lives in Stone Mountain and is on a Wednesday pickup schedule, said he hasn’t been impacted much by the once-a-week pickup because he has a small household. However, he said, others on his street have been impacted. Not having the twice-a-week pickups shows. “When you drive through the neighborhood on trash day, you always
see extra bags sitting outside or beside the trashcans of people who have large families,” said Smith. “They need those bigger bins as soon as possible.” The once-a-week sanitation service began Monday, July 6. Garbage, recyclable materials and yard trimmings are all collected on the same day now. Reminder notices advising customers of their new collection day are being delivered with each roll cart.
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AUGUST 1,2015 • PAGE 9
Business News
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber’s Entrepreneurial Academy shows you how to turn your passion into a business
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onyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is ready to help you learn the ins and outs of the business world and turn your passion into a business with the 2015 Entrepreneurial Academy. Starting on Monday, Sept. 14, this seven-week program offers motivated individuals the essential information needed to start and run a successful business. “This entrepreneurial program is a course designed with the small business entrepreneur in mind. Whether you have an existing business or dreams of starting one in the future, the academy has something for you,” said Fred Boscarino, president/CEO of the Chamber. “Experienced business people who have been there, tried that, share their voices of experiences to help you avoid common pitfalls and be better prepared to establish your business for growth and prosperity.” Taught by business leaders in the community, the curriculum includes sessions on: legal entities, accounting,
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loan options, marketing, social media, insurance and human resources. Boscarino says through a series of workshops, seasoned entrepreneurs share their lessons learned. Each week, a new topic is introduced. The format ranges from panel discussions to lecture to hands-on training. “Of more than 300 academy graduates who have come through the program since it started in 2004, more than 50 percent are now in business for themselves,” said Boscarino. “In addition to gaining valuable information, you will also have the opportunity to network with other like-minded individuals who hope to establish or expand a small business.” The academy draws participants from Stockbridge, College Park, Stone Mountain, Forest Park, Lithonia, Decatur and even McDonough.
A 2014 graduate of the academy said it took her two years to earn her master’s degree in business administration at the University of Phoenix. Esther Williams says it took her six weeks at the ConyersRockdale Chamber of Commerce’s Entrepreneurial Academy to learn everything she needed to start her own business. “Everything—from insurance to opening policies—was covered. It’s really what I needed to get things up and running,” said Williams, a retired Rutgers University professor who completed the program last year. Since graduation, Williams has launched the Green Hygiene Company, LLC. The business offers environmentally-safe cleaning products for both, the corporate and the household level. She says right now she is running successful mail-order businesses in
Decatur. The cost for the program is $195. The fee includes snacks for every session and a graduation dinner. After completing the Entrepreneurial Academy and starting your small business, you will receive Continuing Education credits (CEUs) and a certificate of completion from Georgia Piedmont Technical College. If you register before Tuesday, Sept. 1, you will receive $20 off of the Fall registration fee. Classes will be held from 6 – 9 p.m. at the Rockdale Career Academy (RCA) building, 1064 Culpepper Drive, SW, Conyers. Students are encouraged to arrive no later than 6:00 p.m. to network and to make sure they are fully prepared for each session which start promptly at 6:30 p.m. Entrepreneurial experience is not necessary to attend. The course is open to the public, including those who are still pondering if they want to go out and start their own business. For more information or to register, call 770-4837049.
SBA, GSA to host Back-to-Business Week Aug. 4-6
he city of Atlanta’s fourth-annual Backto-Business Week will be held in Atlanta on Tuesday through Thursday, August 4-6. The three-day event, with opportunities for entrepreneurs and small-business owners, offers participants information on how to grow their businesses. Here’s a look at the schedule for the event: Tuesday, Aug. 4: There will be a free class on using social media to grow your business. Learn about optimizing an integrated social media strategy, driving traffic from multiple social media platforms, and more. The class runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the General Assembly in the Ponce City Market, 675 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta. Wednesday, Aug. 5: There will be a free networking event and panel discussion by business
leaders on starting your own company, accessing capital needs, and more. The event runs from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Proof and Provision, located in the Georgian Terrace Hotel, 659 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta. Thursday, Aug. 6: There will be a free business conference connecting small-business owners with public and private sector buyers to learn about procurement opportunities. Exhibitors scheduled to attend include: The Coca-Cola Company, Georgia Power, Porsche Cars North America, The Home Depot, Delta Airlines, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and others. There will be a panel discussion on the Atlanta Falcons New Stadium Project as well as a session by the Small Business Administration and the General Services Administration on growing your business. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Atlanta Metropolitan
DeKalb Chamber of Commerce announces key staff members The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce has hired three key staff members to help the organization continue to build on its 77-year legacy. “They bring new energy, enthusiasm and fresh ideas that will help propel our goals to support and strengthen the business community,” said Chamber President Katerina Taylor. The new staff members include: Kim Childs, Vice President of Operations, is responsible for streamlining all operational areas of the Chamber. Childs is a finance professional with more than 20 years of experience working in corporate retail and commercial banking. Emily Yang, Communications and Experiential Marketing Manager, is responsible for managing internal and external communications and oversee-
ing the Chamber’s signature events and programs. She is a communications and marketing professional with experience working with the DeKalb community. Rick Young, Director of Membership Development, is responsible for managing member acquisitions, retention and engagement and overseeing all member relation events. Young is a retail and commercial banker with more than 16 years of experience working in the Atlanta and DeKalb market. DeKalb Chamber members and the community can meet the new staff at the upcoming Business After Hours on Aug. 18, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Iberian Pig on 121 Sycamore Street in Decatur. For more information about the Chamber’s upcoming events, visit www.dekalbchamber.org.
State College, 1630 Metropolitan Parkway SW, Atlanta. Atlanta City Council President Ceasar C. Mitchell started Back-to-Business to give small and mediumsized businesses the opportunity to learn and grow within the City of Atlanta and the state of Georgia. This year marks the first year that the conference has been spread over three days to include roundtable meetings with business leaders, labor leaders, and large public events. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.atlantabacktobusiness. com. You may also contact Council President Ceasar C. Mitchell’s office at 404-330-6052 or jqelgar@ atlantaga.gov.
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Movers & Shakers in the Community
Alan Chapman named Gwinnett Transportation Director
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winnett County Administrator Glenn Stephens has appointed Alan Chapman has been transportation director, a role he has filled in an acting capacity since October of last year. “For nearly two decades, Alan has been working to improve Gwinnett County’s transportation network,” said Administrator Stephens. “His passion for this community and wealth of knowledge make him the ideal person to lead the department, and I am confident he will do an outstanding job.” Early in his career, Chapman worked
for the Georgia Department of Transportation and served as an engineering and construction consultant. In 1997, he joined the Gwinnett County Department of Transportation as project manager for the road improvements capital program, which included oversight of the department’s SPLOST programs and coordination of the citizens’ project selection committee. Chapman was promoted in 2004 to the position of deputy director over the department’s preconstruction and construction divisions. A registered professional
engineer in the state of Georgia, he holds an MBA from Georgia State University and a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Georgia Tech. Chapman lives with his wife, Anne, and two daughters in Lawrenceville. “Alan has done a great job over the past nine months as acting director. He transitioned into the role seamlessly and has proven himself to be a great leader for the department,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash “I am excited for the future of the Gwinnett County Department of Transportation.”
Alan Chapman
C. Bruce, N. Forman appointed to DeKalb Board of Ethics
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eKalb Interim CEO Lee May has appointed two members to the DeKalb County Board of Ethics. Attorney Christopher E. Bruce is a DeKalb County resident and a Workers’ Compensation Associate with Speed, Seta, Martin and Trivett in Lawrenceville. He previously worked in the office of the DeKalb Solicitor General and earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Georgia School of Law. Nikki Forman is a DeKalb County resident and a Marketing
Christopher E. Bruce
Miranda McKenzie, Baoky Vu appointed to DeKalb Development Authority
Miranda Mack McKenzie
Baoky Vu
DeKalb County Board of Commissioners (BOC) approved two appointments to the Development Authority of DeKalb County’s board of directors: Miranda Mack McKenzie and Baoky Vu on July 28. The Development Authority promotes trade, commerce, industry and employment. McKenzie, an executive with Atlanta Technical College, and Vu, an investment strategy, were confirmed at the Board of Commissioners’ July 28 meeting. Two other board members were confirmed in June: Don Bolia, a partner for Peachtree Government Affairs lobbying firm, and Tyrone Rachal, president of Urban Key Capital Partners. “We wish these volunteers all the best. We know that they will work diligently to move forward with economic development in DeKalb
County,” said Commissioner Larry Johnson, presiding officer of the BOC. Vu, who provides equity and strategic advisory services for Silverberry Capital, LLC, serves as a board member for the Technical College System of Georgia. He is also the vice president of Vet Connexx, a business focused on providing jobs to veterans. McKenzie previously worked as a director for community affairs for Anheuser-Busch, Inc. As the Development and Community Engagement Executive at Atlanta Technical College, McKenzie manages donor relations and executes capital campaigns for the college. She also is responsible for community engagement and representing the college to key community groups to increase awareness of institution and its programs.
Nikki Forman
Communications Coordinator for DeKalb Regional Health System in Decatur. She was previously a Communications Specialist with the South Georgia Medical center in Valdosta and earned her Masters of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. “These appointments bring a wealth of experience and perspective to the DeKalb Board of Ethics and restore the panel to full membership,” said Interim CEO May. “The Ethics Board can proceed with the myriad of important issues before it.”
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