August 15, 2015

VOLUME 21 NUMBER 20

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AUGUST 15, 2015

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

Interim DeKalb CEO defends Atlanta United deal, corruption probe

By Joshua Smith Interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May is standing by the county’s deal to bring the Atlanta United soccer team headquarters to the county, despite objections of naysayers who don’t like the deal. May also reiterated his support for a corruption probe of county government, but rebuked the two two special investigators for stating in a letter that DeKalb is “rotten to the core.”

May said he believes the overwhelming majority of the county’s 6,500 employees are honest and hardworking. He said special investigators Michael Bowers and Richard Hyde should have stuck to facts—not expressed their opinions in their letter updating him and county officials on the progress of the probe. Bowers is a former State Attorney General and Hyde is a veteran investigator.

“We may have some bad apples and Interm CEO Lee May fields questions from Atlanta media outlets on Aug. 12.

Joshua Smith/OCG News we’ll deal with that after the results. We expect for the final report to be factual and commit theft by extortion and perjury. Other blistering letter hit the media the next day. professional,” said May. “We brought them county officials and former officials also are The letter was followed by a press conference (Bowers and Hyde) in and that was the right reportedly under investigation. held by the three commissioners who voted thing to do. I am anxiously awaiting their As for the pro soccer team deal, May against the soccer deal. Commissioners Kathdetailed report so we can begin to take on the said DeKalb would benefit from the deal. ie Gannon, Jeff Rader and Nancy Jester said proper actions.”

“Yes, we put cash on the table to make a the public should have had the opportunity to May said the special investigators are deal that allows Atlanta United to set up a $35 weigh in before county officials agreed to the expected to complete their report by the end million complex in an area of DeKalb that soccer team deal, committing $12 million of of August, but they may request more time. has not had any development in at least two taxpayer money to help build the $35 million May used his executive powers to hire the decades,” May said. “The deal is done. This is Atlanta United headquarters. high profile experienced investigators in a good deal for DeKalb County.”

May apologized for the public not having March because DeKalb was in the media May made his comments during a news the opportunity to speak at the special-called spotlight for government corruption. Longconference on Aug. 12 in response to the meeting concerning the deal. The board voted time former Commissioner Elaine Boyer went negative publicity in the last several days.

4-3 to reject a motion to allow public comto prison in March for bilking taxpayers of After the four commissioners who passed ment and then passed the deal in a 4-3 vote. thousands of dollars, while CEO Burrell Ellis the soccer deal held a joint news conference May said in hindsight, he wished the board was convicted in July of criminal attempt to with May to celebrate on Aug. 4, Bower’s had permitted citizens to speak.

“That was a mistake. I’ll take full credit for that,” May said. “I never run away from times when there were mistakes.”

May made it clear, however, that the soccer deal is one that will benefit DeKalb.

“I have a real problem with those people who would say that they are not in support of putting financial incentives in a corridor that is in need of revitalization and redevelopment,” said May. “At the end of the day, it shows not only were you not on the victorious side of this vote but you’re trying to make DeKalb County, in particularly me, look bad as a result of this.”

The complex will be built on 41 acres near the Kensington Road MARTA station and Memorial Drive, along I-285, behind the DeKalb County Jail.

Under the agreement, the county will spend about $12 million for land preparation and other incentives for the team. Atlanta United has agreed to construct a state-ofthe-art facility, which includes a 3,500-seat stadium, three practice fields and a two-story, 20,000 – 25,000 square foot corporate headquarters building. Blank said he expects to spend about $35 million for the construction.

The team would be exempt from property taxes for 30 years and then ownership of the land and facilities would revert to DeKalb County.

Atlanta United will also pay the county 15 percent of net revenue derived from any naming rights sold for the complex and any revenue generating branded events.

James Tsismanakis, executive director of See Press Conference, page 8

PRAYERS FOR FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER

‘We are rooting for you’ G

By Staff Reports

et-well wishes and prayers are flooding social media and Atlanta’s Carter Center for former President Jimmy Carter, who announced Aug. 12 that he is battling cancer.

The 90-year-old Carter recently had surgery to remove a small mass on his liver and he learned cancer had spread to other parts of his body.

“I will be rearranging my schedule as necessary so I can undergo treatment by physicians at Emory Healthcare,” Carter said in a statement.

Carter’s family has a history with cancer. His father, mother and three siblings all died of cancer. But supporters say they are remaining positive about the personable Plains, Georgia native who rose from peanut farmer to Georgia governor to President of the United States.

“Michelle and I send our best wishes to President Carter for a fast and full recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rosalynn and the entire Carter family as they face this challenge with the same grace and determination that they have shown so many times

before,” President Obama said in a release. “Jimmy, you’re as resilient as they come, and along with the rest of America, we are rooting for you.”

Vice President Joe Biden, who joined President Obama in a phone conversation with Carter just hours after the diagnosis was announced, tweeted: “Spoke with President Jimmy Carter tonight. A great man, always upbeat and optimistic. We’re praying for him.”

Carter’s grandson, former State Sen. Jason Carter, tweeted: “Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers for my grandfather and grandmother. I will pass them along!”

Carter was sworn in as the 39th President of the United States in 1977. DeKalb resident Miranda Mack McKenzie (far right) is one of many locals praying for Carter. Photo via Facebook He served until 1981 after one term in office. A year later, he founded Atof the Emory faculty for decades. appreciation every time you see him.” lanta’s Carter Center, a global human Former U.S. Ambassador Andrew The Georgia Democratic Party of rights center and remained active in Young, whom Carter appointed to the Georgia said it is pulling for President politics and foreign policies for decades. position in 1977, said Carter still has Carter.

Many political experts say Carter wisdom to bestow.

“Prayers and positive thoughts for will go down in history as one of the “The people running for president President Carter and his family. Geormost accessible presidents in public from both parties need to hear his (Jim- gia Democrats are with you, President life, teaching Sunday school lessons in my Carter) words about where we are Carter. Thoughts and prayers are going churches, and holding annual meetings in the world today,” Young told Atlanta for freshman students at Atlanta’s Emnews reporters. “You would always Praying for Carter, page 8 ory University, where he was a member leave with some word of inspiration and

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AUGUST 15,2015 • PAGE 3

Rep. Hank Johnson seeks to rename Pine Lake Post Office for slain officer

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.

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By Valerie J. Morgan Congressman Hank Johnson has introduced a bipartisan resolution to rename the Pine Lake Post Office in honor of the late police officer Francis Manuel Ortega.

Officer Francis Manuel Ortega This month marks the 10-year anniversary of Ortega’s death and city officials say they are pleased that Johnson is working on a permanent tribute to remember the young police officer.

“We’re just delighted that Congressman Johnson has taken this up as a cause,” said Pine Lake Mayor Kathie deNobriga.

“We’ve been looking for some time for a memorial that would be suitable and permanent. Lots of people have worked on this as a project. The Post Office was a perfect solution.” deNobriga said she still remembers the day that Ortega was killed.

“It affected our community very deeply. We have a small Police Department and it was a big loss. He put his life on the line for us and we will never forget him.”

Ortega, 25, was fatally shot in front of the Pine Lake Post Office while conducting a routine traffic stop on Aug. 11, 2005. As Ortega communicated with dispatch, the suspect got out of his vehicle and approached the police cruiser, where a struggle ensued and Ortega was fatally

Joshua Smith/OCG News People still remember the tragedy that took place in 2005 outside the Pine Lake Post Office at Rockbridge Road and Spring Drive.

shot in the head, according to reports. The suspect, an ex-convict who was wanted for violating his probation, then ran inside the Post Office where he ended up in a standoff with the DeKalb County Swat Team and committed suicide.

Police Chief Sarai Green said Ortega will never be forgotten.

“His death ripped through our entire community. He touched so many people during the time that he was with our Police Department,” Green said. “Some people just take a job, while others really love their work. He loved his work and the community. To have a Post Office named for him says a lot. It means a lot.”

Officer W.J. Regan, who serves on

Pine Lake’s Police Department as a volunteer, agrees. He said he wrote an online tribute to Ortega on the Officer Down Memorial Page, because “it’s hard to think of a way to talk to someone you’ve lost who meant so much to you.”

“I was 24 years old and I had recently gotten out of the Academy when he took me under his wing. He was extraordinary,” Reagan said. “If you knew him and needed anything, he always put you first. To hear that after all these years that he may finally, finally be honored with the Post Office be named after him is good news.” Regan said Ortega was a part-time officer of the Pine Lake Police Department and a

See Pine Lake page 8

RCSO installs emergency phone at Southside Precinct

T

he Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office recently installed an emergency telephone at its Southside Precinct. The phone is located in front of the main entrance to the Southside Precinct.

The telephone has the capability of connecting citizens to the Rockdale County E-911 center in case of an emergency or to the RCSO for non-emergency questions. The emergency phone is equipped with two buttons, a red button for emergency and a black button for information.

Once the emergency call button is pushed, it automatically connects the

person to the E-911 center via telephone.

The emergency phone is also equipped with a blue light that flashes when an emergency call is placed to not only notify law enforcement, but also to alert citizens in the area that an emergency may exist.

“Safety and customer service to the citizens of Rockdale County are a top priority,” said Sheriff Eric J. Levett.

“Unfortunately, the Southside Precinct cannot be manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The emergency phone allows people to call for help during an emergency or call the Sheriff’s Office to get information.“

Public invited to Atlanta Beltline chat The community is invited to learn about improvements planned for the Atlanta Beltline at a meeting on Aug. 17, 6 p.m., at Atlanta’s Park Tavern, 500 10th St., N.E., Atlanta.

“Trailside Chat: 10 Years of the Atlanta Beltline, Then Now and Into the Future,” will provide updates on design, construction, public art, and

transit and transportation.

Free parking is available in the restaurant’s gravel parking lot. Attendees are encouraged to consider car-pooling, biking or using MARTA. For more information, contact Lynette Reid, senior community planner at lreid@atlbeltline.org

Heart of South DeKalb Festival accepting vendors Mark your calendar for the annual Heart of South DeKalb Festivalset for Saturday, Sept. 26, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Gallery at South DeKalb Mall. The event kicks off with a parade featuring local high school bands and representatives from community organizations who will march down Candler Road from New Life Church to the mall, starting at 8:30 a.m.

DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson championed the event, now in its third year, to showcase the residents, schools, businesses and best of South DeKalb. The free outdoor festival, touted as the largest of its kind in South DeKalb, will offer food and retail vendors, a bike rodeo for kids, book and bike give-aways, a gaming truck, job fair and health screenings. DJ Rudy will be mixing music and live entertainment will be provided

by EZ Access and other performers throughout the day.

Bring your lawn chairs and join

DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson

“Discover DeKalb” for a day filled with fun for the whole family.

To register for the bike rodeo, which is open to ages 6 to 14 and will be limited to 75 participants, call 404-286-7900 or 770-482-0330.

For sponsorship, vendor space, advertising or scholarship information for District 5 students, contact Festival Coordinator Paula Tate at hosd13@yahoo.com or 404-683-3599.

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Coming Up

DEKALB

“Fun Bike Ride” promotes family, community The City of Decatur will host a “Fun Bike Ride” for the community on Friday, Aug. 21, 6:30 p.m. The ride, open to people of all ages, will start in front of the city’s recreation center, 231 Sycamore St., Decatur.

City of Decatur officials say the city continues to make infrastructure and programming improvements to promote bicycling. With the addition of bike lanes, bike valet parking at major events, bike safety training and more, the city has seen a large increase in the number of cyclists over the past years, officials say.

The city has a bike repair station in front of the city recreation center. 404-3704100.

3rd annual Fatherhood Conference to offer resources

South River paddling event set for Aug 22

G

eorgia River Network, a non-profit organization, is partnering with South River Watershed Alliance, Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, and Rockdale County for the upcoming South River Hidden Gem Paddling Event on Saturday, Aug 22.

More than 80 paddlers will spend a day making their way along 5.5 miles of the river. The paddle includes lunch provided by the Paprika House and presentations along the route ranging from water quality testing and river cleanups to cultural history and visual and performing arts. In addition, a live native fish demonstration will be provided courtesy of North American Native Fish Association. After the paddle, participants will enjoy a social and dinner with a special dragonfly presentation at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers.

“Ultimately, Georgia River Network hopes to see the South River become an established water trail in Georgia– bringing economic benefits to the surrounding communities, improving quality of life by providing recreation opportunities, and ensuring a healthy and clean river,” said Gwyneth Moody, Community Programs Coordinator at Georgia River Network.

The trip is suitable for novice paddlers as well as experienced paddlers. Past paddlers have ranged in age from 10 to 65, with many families participating. Registration ranges from $25 to $95.

To sign up, visit: http://www.south-river.eventbrite.com For more information about the South River Water Trail, contact Gwyneth Moody at: Gwyneth@garivers. org.

The DeKalb and Fulton County Departments of Family and Children Services (DFCS) will team up on Thursday, Aug. 27, 5 p.m., at New Life Community Center, 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur to host the third annual Fatherhood Conference and Resource Fair.

This year’s theme is “The Fatherhood Aneurysm: It’s about life or death to our families and communities.”

There will be booths filled with “father-friendly” resources such as legal, mental health, housing and child support. The annual event will also offer employment and educational/vocational opportunities. Food vendors will be on site.

For more information, call 678-205-4196.

GWINNETT

Registration begins for free emergency response training The Gwinnett County Office of Emergency Management is registering residents for free training sessions, which will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

These courses will educate residents on disaster preparedness for emergencies that may impact their community. Residents will be trained in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

Courses are open to all Gwinnett residents 18 years and older who pass a background check provided by the Gwinnett County Police Department.

The training consists of eight sessions that take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays. A course review and disaster simulation will take place on Saturday, Oct. 24, 8 a.m. to noon, to put the training to the test.

For more information or to sign up for the courses, email ema@gwinnettcounty.com. Interested residents are encouraged to sign up. Class size is limited to 25 participants.

ATLANTA

National Black Arts Festival to present Spike Lee classic The National Black Arts Festival (NBAF) will host a free screening of Academy Award winner Spike Lee’s classic 1988 film “School Daze” on Thursday, Aug. 27, 5 p.m. at the Morehouse College, Bank of America Auditorium, 830 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta.

The NBAF and Stephane Dunn, associate professor and director of Morehouse College’s Cinema, Television & Emerging Media Studies (CTEMS) program will host the event. NBAF staff say they are honored to showcase director Spike Lee’s second feature film, a sharply pointed interrogation of skin color politics at fictional Mission College. Dunn says Lee’s now iconic modern musical offers a dazzling display of modern dance numbers, too.

The film stars Laurence Fishburne, Giancarlo Esposito, and Tisha Campbell-Martin. Based in part on Spike Lee’s experiences at Atlanta’s Morehouse College, Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University, it is a story about fraternity and sorority members clashing with other students at a historically black college during homecoming weekend. It also touches upon issues of real and perceived racism related to skin tone bias and hair texture within the African-American community.

Admission is free, but advance registration is suggested because seating is limited. Register at www.nbaf.org.

Piedmont Park hosts Festival Peachtree Latino The South Latino Foundation and Piedmont Park, 1071 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta will host Festival Peachtree Latino on Saturday, Aug. 22 – 23, 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Organizers say Festival Peachtree Latino is the largest multicultural event in the Southeast. The event features dozens of exhibitors, family activities, arts and crafts, international foods, a kids’ zone, international recording artists and local artists.More than 10 performers, including “Dora the Explorer and Friends,” will hit the stage to perform for attendees. More than 200 exhibitors are expected to participate. Admission is free. For more information, call event organizer Ray Ortega at 404-551-0969.

5-Alarm 5K to benefit firefighters’ families The Gwinnett County Fire Employee Benevolent Fund will host the “5-Alarm 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Aug. 29, 8 a.m., on the Lawrenceville Lawn, 147 Luckie St., Lawrenceville.

All race proceeds will benefit the non-profit charitable organization whose mission is to help Gwinnett Fire employees and their families in times of crisis.

The race will take runners through mostly flat land through scenic downtown Lawrenceville. Awards will be given to the top overall finishers in three different categories and “the fastest firefighter” will be awarded as well.

T-shirts and cold towels will be provided to runners. Registration is $25 per runner. On-site registration begins at 7 a.m.

ROCKDALE

Novice state championship horse show set for Conyers The Georgia Quarter Horse Association will host a Novice State Championship on Saturday, Aug. 22, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., in the International Horse Park’s Charles Walker Arena, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers.

Saddles, buckles and trophies will be awarded in categories such as Best Rookie Amateur, Best Small Fry and Best Youth. Other competitions include youth, novice amateur and an open walk-trot.

Admission is free. For more information, visit www.gqha.com or contact Debbie Lisabeth at 678-478-7071.

To Advertise your event in our upcomming edition, Please contact On Common Ground News at 678-526-1910 or email editor@ocgnews.com

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Press Conference continued from page 1

the DeKalb County Convention & Visitors Bureau, said he believes the soccer headquarters will be great for the county. He called the move “big picture” economic development, saying sports teams bring people.

“It brings in teams, youth, a lot of hotel rooms, a lot of restaurants, shopping and families,” said Tsismanakis. “When you bring in any type of soccer and tournaments, you are bringing in huge economic development for the area… The national spotlight of this team is a good thing.”But not everybody is on board.

“We simply gave up too much,” said Decatur resident Timothy James, who was among a dozen citizens who attended May’s news conference. “DeKalb is getting the short end of the stick on this. There are no guarantees that our families will get to use the facilities or that any tournaments will come there.”

Commissioner Rader said he doesn’t like the way the deal was pushed through.

“The fact remains that the first time that the details of the deal were known were approximately three or four days before the item came onto our agenda. In spite of us asking to defer it for two weeks, as is our practice, the administration and other commissioners insisted it be voted on in the extraordinary special-called meeting where

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there would not be a public hearing,” said Rader. “The letter they (the CEO’s office) are circulating is a general endorsement of the team coming to DeKalb and Memorial Drive. I think we all support that. We are all excited about Atlanta United coming to DeKalb. We did not endorse the details of the deal.”

Commissioner Gannon said she wants to May provide more details on the deal.“We would like the CEO to come before the Board of Commissioners and make a public presentation on a timeline for the project and all of the expenditures,” Gannon said at her press conference. “The effects of this policy need to be evaluated because we all know that problems of corruption and lack of trust have not gone away.”

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Praying for Carter

up for President Carter and his family across the nation,” said Party Chair DuBose Porter. “President Carter is tougher than a lighter knot, and we have faith that he will come through this.”

Former Georgia senator and news anchor Steen Miles offered support to Carter on her Facebook page.

“Lifting up President Jimmy Carter.

The record will show him to be one of the nation’s finest presidents ever,” said Miles, who posted a picture of her posing with President Carter at the White House in 1979.

Angela Moore, a publicist who lives in Lithonia, posted a picture of herself and her son meeting Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn.

“Praying for President and Mrs.

Jimmy Carter. May God bless and heal you,” said Moore.

Miranda Mack McKenzie, who was recently appointed to the Development Authority of DeKalb County’s Board of Directors, posted a picture of her and the former First Couple and offered words of support.

“Sending up prayers for Former President Jimmy Carter and the Carter family!” said Mack.

The Carters’ grandson, former State Sen. Jason Carter, tweeted: “Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers for my grandfather and grandmother. I will pass them along!”

Carter, who is also the author of more than two dozen books, was born on Oct. 1, 1924.

⠀挀⤀ ㈀ ㄀㔀 䐀䘀伀Ⰰ 䰀䰀䌀

continued from page 1

㔀㌀㘀㠀 一⸀ 䠀攀渀爀礀 䈀氀瘀搀Ⰰ 匀琀漀挀欀戀爀椀搀最攀Ⰰ 䜀䄀 ㌀ ㈀㠀㄀ ㈀㄀㘀 匀挀攀渀椀挀 䠀眀礀⸀ 一Ⰰ 匀渀攀氀氀瘀椀氀氀攀Ⰰ 䜀䄀 ㌀ 㜀㠀 ㄀㜀 ㄀ 䈀爀漀眀渀猀 䈀爀椀搀最攀 刀搀⸀Ⰰ 䜀愀椀渀攀猀瘀椀氀氀攀Ⰰ 䜀䄀 ㌀ 㔀 ㄀

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Pine Lake continued from page 3

“A decade. You are still not forgotten. You will not be forgotten. We spoke of you in church on Sunday. If you can believe it, I am still with the City and I still cannot help but to stare at the post office every time I pass by. Miss you brother and I will see you again some day!”

--Pine Lake Officer W.J. Regan posted this tribute on Aug. 11 honoring the late Officer Francis Manuel Ortega on the Officer Down Memorial Page at www. odmp.org. full-time officer at Georgia Regional Hospital at the time he was killed.

Ortega was survived by his children, Frankey and Kaylie; his parents, Francisco and Luz; and his sister Joann.

Ortega’s daughter, Kaylie, who was an infant when he was killed, like Officer Reagan wrote a tribute to her father in July on the online site, Officer Down Memorial.

“Daddy, I miss you so much, like you wouldn’t understand how much i miss you!!! I was only one year old when this happened and by the stories my mom tells me and family also I could tell how much you loved me just like any father would love their daughter. You would always call me your princess and your little angel,” Kaylie wrote.

Johnson said he has received support for the resolution, H.R. 3274, to

rename the Pine Lake Post Office by the entire Georgia House of Representatives’ congressional delegation.

“Officer Ortega made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life for the protection of his community,” said Johnson, who was a DeKalb County commissioner in 2005 when the incident occurred.

“Officer Ortega’s commitment to justice and willingness to face danger when others turned away, his desire to stand up for what was right – not what was easy, and his compassion for those in need should be applauded, commended and recognized in perpetuity.”

The resolution now goes to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Once it is voted out of committee, it goes before the full House for a vote. Johnson said he hopes the measure will be approved by the end of the legislative year, which is Dec. 18.

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AUGUST 15,2015 • PAGE 9

Security guards face no charges after melee at Stonecrest mall

T

By Joshua Smith

hree former security guards will face no charges after pummeling a 15-year-old boy on June 27 at The Mall at Stonecrest in Lithonia.

DeKalb Magistrate Court Judge Howard Indermark ruled on Aug. 10 there was not sufficient evidence to arrest any of the guards involved in the melee. Indermark said it was difficult to determine who threw the first punch because of conflicting testimony by witnesses and police. He said it would have been helpful to have testimony from the teen, who was not present for the hearing. The cell phone recording of the security guards beating the teen went viral on YouTube and other social media platforms.

“We don’t have (the teen) here to say what happened from his version,” said Indermark, adding that the court was left to deduce what happened from from a video, third-party statements and hearsay. The judge said he couldn’t be sure how the fight started without hearing testimony from the teen.

Attorney Mawuli Davis, who represented the teen, said he did not ask his client to attend the hearing because he didn’t feel it was not necessary. He said the video was sufficient Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News evidence, along with the testimony of the Attorney Mawuli Davis shows the video that captures the security guards beating the teen. Bottom Left: Former mall security woman who shot the video. guards sit with their attorney, Ken Hodges, as they await a decision in Magistrate Court.

“It is really troubling that you can have Bottom Right: Chavella Ham, mother of the teen who was beaten. something as clear-cut as a video of a kid walking away trying to get away and an offiexample that underscores the conflict between from there. her son is “trying his best to heal” and succer throws his equipment down and goes after minorities and law enforcement.

Defense Attorney Ken Hodge applauded cessfully started school. the teen and viciously beats him,” said Davis.

“The officers testified the three men were the judge’s decision.

“I’m upset for the moment but we will “We disagree with the judge. His ruling was involved in an assault. There is no reason for “The judge felt there was not enough continue to move forward. Officers like the not based on the law.” three grown man to beat up a teenager who is evidence to determine who started the fight, ones we see today are simply taking advantage Davis says he plans to present the case to walking away. This is absurd,” Davis said. the very same reason DeKalb County police of their authority. You’re hurting our kids and DeKalb District Attorney Robert James for an The June 27 incident started when secudidn’t file charges in June,” Hodge said. “The building mistrust,” said Ham as she fought investigation. rity guards asked a group of minors to leave main thing the judge harped on was that the back tears. “Who are the kids to trust now?

“We won’t stop. We are still here to fight because of the mall’s curfew. Youths under 18 applicant himself was not there himself. The We can’t event trust simple security guards, or for justice,” Davis said. must be accompanied by a parent after 4 p.m. evidence was contradictory all over the place.” trust a judge. This is what we get at the end of Davis said the judge’s ruling is another Words were exchanged and things escalated The teen’s mother, Chavella Ham, said the day? It’s sad. It’s very sad.”

T

Atlanta Hawks donate teen room at Pittman Park

he Atlanta Hawks and the City of Atlanta’s Department of Parks and recreation teamed up to unveil a state-of the-art teen room at the Pittman Park Center of Hope in Atlanta.

Funded by the Atlanta Hawks Foundation, the cool new hangout spot for teens sports a modern décor with custom furniture, Samsung tablet stations, two 65-inch flat screen televisions and other electronic upgrades for the Center of Hope’s teen participants to enjoy.

“The Atlanta Hawks continue to be an exemplary community partner,” said Mayor Kasim Reed. “The entire Hawks organization shares my commitment to supporting Atlanta’s young people as they reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.”

As part of the teen program at the Pittman Park Center of Hope, Atlanta high school students have structured opportunities to get involved in their community and receive leadership training.

Training covers five priority youth development areas including: academic enrichment,

character and leadership development, health and fitness, community, and technology.

“Today was a wonderful day here at Pittman Park, but our relationship with the

Hawks doesn’t end today,” said Amy Phuong, commissioner of the Department of Parks and Recreation. “We are already working on our next project together and look forward to an

app. This makes it much easier to include a photo and exact location when reporting an issue.”

Anyone can go to SeeClickFix.com to create a login and report an issue or download the free app from the Apple or Google Play stores by searching for “MyDecaturGa.” When submitting issues via mobile app, users can provide locational, descriptive, and photographic information as they see the issue in real time.

Users can even create their own “watch areas” to receive notifications about all issues reported in their community, enabling them to follow the progress of all service requests, not just the ones they report. Additionally, people can view, comment on and vote to fix problems submitted by other users.

Once someone submits an issue, City of

Decatur staff and anyone ‘watching’ the area will receive an alert. Then, a City of Decatur employee will acknowledge the service request, and update the request once it’s been resolved.

Everyone watching an issue will be able to see each step of the process as it happens.

Currently, the list of reports that can be made are: animal complaints, car seat safety check request, cemetery issues, City Facilities Maintenance issues, city trees and park maintenance request, code violations, feedback on staff or service, fire inspection request, graffiti, missed sanitation collection, out-of-town house check requests, parking issues, potholes and sidewalks.

Launched in 2008, SeeClickFix allows citizens anywhere in the world to report and

enduring partnership with the Hawks.”

Atlanta Hawks forward Mike Muscala and Hawks’ cheerleads joined a group of team officials to open up the center to teens.

The Atlanta Hawks and the NBA recognized the positive impact the Pittman Park Center of Hope has on Atlanta youth and the local community, and identified the center as a partner during the team’s run to the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2014-2015 season.

“The Atlanta Hawks Foundation is proud to partner with the City of Atlanta to enhance Pittman Park and provide a great new space for youths in the Pittsburgh community to come together and engage in meaningful dialogue, learn and have fun,” said David Lee, senior vice president of External Affairs and the executive director of the Atlanta Hawks Foundation.

Pittman Park is located at 950 Garibaldi St., S.E., Atlanta. For more information on getting your child signed up for the teen leadership program, call 404-546-6744.

Decatur announces new MyDecaturGa web and mobile reporting platform

T

he City of Decatur has announced a new tool, MyDecaturGa, that allows users to report quality-of-life issues and request services online or with their smartphones. Powered by SeeClickFix, the placebased reporting platform allows residents to document neighborhood concerns and improvements alike, ranging from graffiti and code violations to damaged sidewalks and potholes. It also features useful information such as lists of restaurants and city parks as well as links to the city’s blog, Facebook page and Twitter account.

“MyDecaturGa replaces the city’s previous reporting system, GovPartner,” said City Manager Peggy Merriss. “The SeeClickFix interface is more robust and allows users to report concerns not only online but using the mobile

monitor non-emergency community issues.

Through web and mobile applications as well as embeddable widgets, SeeClickFix empowers citizens, community groups, media organizations, and governments to work together to improve neighborhoods. It is the most widely distributed citizen-reporting tool in the country, having recently surpassed 1 million issues.

SeeClickFix supports the Open311 standard that promotes improved communication between local municipalities and the citizens they serve.

“We are happy to welcome the City of Decatur to the SeeClickFix family,” said SeeClickFix CEO and co-founder Ben Berkowitz. “We look forward to an engaging partnership with the Decatur community.”

PAGE 10 • AUGUST 15, 2015

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Movers & Shakers in the Community

Gwinnett student selected for national music ensemble Keshay Kalathoor, a junior at Peachtree Ridge High School, has been selected to be a member of the All-National Honor Ensembles mixed choir. Kalathoor will sing Bass 2.

The All-National Honor Ensembles consist of a concert band, orchestra, mixed chorus, and jazz ensemble, and students were chosen by auditions. The concert band and symphony orchestra will each have approximately 150 instrumentalists, the jazz ensemble 20 instrumentalists, and the mixed chorus approximately 350 vocalists. Eligible students have qualified for their state-level honor ensemble program and competed against top students for a spot in these national honor ensembles.

The 2015 All-National Honor Ensembles program will take place in conjunction with the National Asso-

Keshay Kalathoor

ciation for Music Education National Conference at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Conference Center from Oct. 25–28. The final performance will be at the historic Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN.

Gerald Arpey named to Home Depot Board of Directors

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Gerard J. Arpey

he Home Depot, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, recently announced the appointment of Gerard J. Arpey to the company’s board of directors.

Arpey will serve on the company’s Finance Committee and its Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

His appointment gives the company 11 directors.

Arpey is the former CEO and chair-

man of AMR Corporation and American Airlines. His nearly 30-year career with American Airlines also included service as its President and Chief Operating Officer, senior vice president of Finance and Planning, and Chief Financial Officer. He is currently a partner in Emerald Creek Group, LLC, the private equity firm based in Southern California, which he joined in 2012 following his retirement from AMR. Arpey serves on the board of directors of S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc., a privately-held company. He is also a trustee of the American Beacon Funds and a member of The Business Council.

“I’m pleased to welcome Gerard to our board, where his extensive experience in organizational management, strategy and finance will serve our company and shareholders well,” said Craig Menear, chairman of the Home Depot Board of Directors.

DeKalb Medical Foundation welcomes board chair, capital campaign The DeKalb Medical The new architecFoundation recently welture features a “Super comed new board chair, Fast Track” check-in for Kathy Peters. urgent care patients and Foundation members a separate immediate say as a retired execucare area for patients tive, Peters will bring her experiencing stroke, corporate experience to heart attack or other focus on fundraising. Her life-threatening symphusband, Doug, a crimtoms. This streamlined inal defense lawyer and admissions process also a board member, will provides patients more work with her to network Kathy Peters privacy and quicker coto strengthen DeKalb ordinated care whether Medical’s community relationships. arriving by car or ambulance.

“We are excited and ready to have With more than 64,000 ED visits in this type of leadership driving the 2014, the renovated facility is expectFoundation. We will be an even more ed to help DeKalb Medical treat more incredible asset to our community bepatients in less time ensuring that no cause of her efforts,” said retiring chair, matter what their need, they receive the Judy McMahan. highest level of attention and personal Peters’ first matter of business will care. be a capital campaign for the EmergenThe DeKalb Medical Foundation cy Department (ED) at DeKalb Mediwas established in 1990 for the purpose cal’s North Decatur campus. “Building of raising funds for the direct support the Future of Emergency Medicine; of capital projects, special programs When Every Second Counts” is a camand research activities conducted by paign that looks to raise $2.1 million DeKalb Medical in furtherance of the to renovate and reinvent the ED so that Foundation’s purpose. The Foundation evaluations and care are administered is a volunteer organization. more efficiently to impact more lives.

DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT

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