VOLUME 22 NUMBER 20
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AUGUST 20 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
DeKalb police implement leadership training to rebuild public’s trust
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he DeKalb County Police Department is receiving customized training that county officials hope will build trust between citizens and the police, thanks to a new partnership with Dale Carnegie of Georgia training program. DeKalb leaders, including Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Public Safety Cedric Alexander, DeKalb Police Chief James Conroy and Interim CEO Lee May, discussed the new training program at a press conference held on Aug. 18. Alexander, who was selected by President Obama for the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, helped DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May discusses recent training received by the Police Department’s command staff, as DeKalb County Police Chief James Conroy, Dale Carnegie Training of Geordeveloped the “pillars” for the gia CEO Wendy Johnson and Deputy COO for Public Safety Cedric Alexander look on. training program. The Presito include co-workers and communi- dations and actions items to create a dent’s task force was established to ty members, and managing diversity. roadmap for improved law enforcestrengthen community policing and The six pillars included ment. trust among law enforcement offi•Building trust and legitimacy “President Obama’s Task Force cers and the communities they serve •Policy and oversight on 21st Century Policing developed after several police involved shoot•Technology and social media several recommendations based ings across the nation. The training •Community policing and crime on six pillars. This training is part focused on leadership styles, unreduction of our efforts to incorporate those derstanding different personalities •Training and education recommendations into the everyday and traits, applying new methods of •Officer wellness and safety police operations for the DeKalb understanding to interact with others Each pillar contains recommenCounty Police Department,” said
May. “We are doing some tremendous things, from investing heavily in police body cameras to focusing on law enforcement policies and crisis intervention training. We are doing those proactive things in our police department to be forward-thinking, and hopefully, other departments, communities, cities and counties around the country will take note and even duplicate what we are doing.” Wendy Johnson, president of Dale Carnegie of Georgia, said law enforcement in DeKalb is now building bridges in the community with their new Dale Carnegie tools. “Our goal is to train officers on proven methods to improve communications and human relations in order to build trust within the community,” Johnson said. Chief Conroy said it is imperative that police develop new strategies for public safety. Events across the country in the past couple of years require a new way of policing and a new way of communicating. “Strong relationships between law enforcement agencies and the community that they serve is essential for public safety,” said Conroy. “This new relationship is built on trust, transparency and credibility.”
City of Decatur offers amnesty program to traffic violators The City of Decatur Municipal Court is offering amnesty to those who have past due traffic citations or active bench warrants for failure to appear in court. The city’s amnesty program runs Aug. 15 through Oct. 15. It is important to note that a failure to appear in court may have resulted in a driver’s license suspension. The goal and purpose of the amnesty program is to help restore as many drivers as possible to legal status to drive on Georgia roadways, and to avoid more harm to their driving history with additional charges and fines. Amnesty will save individuals money because warrant and other
fees, if any, will be waived. Individuals with outstanding violations may walk in to the City of Decatur Municipal Court, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., during the amnesty period. Walk-ins also are permitted on Saturday, Oct. 8, 9 to 11:30 a.m., to resolve their outstanding violations without facing any additional charges or costs. Any person with a failure to appear warrant, which resulted in a license suspension, who pays the fine to resolve the original citation violation, will receive documentation to submit to the Department of Drivers Services to have their driver’s license reinstated.
If the original violation, such as DUI, driving on a suspended license, or no insurance, requires a mandatory court appearance, individuals should appear on Amnesty Saturday, Oct. 8. The court encourages anyone who believes they may have an outstanding matter in the City of Decatur Municipal Court to take advantage of the Amnesty Program. The City of Decatur Municipal Court is located at 420 W. Trinity Place, Decatur. For more information, call 678-553-6655 or visit the city’s website at https://www.decaturga.com/city-government/city-departments/municipal-court/2016-amnesty-program
House study committee seeks to expand minority participation in film industry
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tate lawmakers will explore ways to encourage minority participation in Georgia’s film and television production industry with the appointment of a new House study committee. Speaker of the House David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) has appointed the following members to the House Study Committee on Georgia Minority Participation in the Film & Television Production Industry:
Rep. “Able” Mable Thomas – Chair (D-Atlanta) Rep. Patty Bentley (D-Butler) Rep. James Beverly (D-Macon) Rep. Pam Dickerson (D-Conyers) Rep. Brett Harrell (R-Snellville) Rep. Calvin Smyre (D-Columbus) ·Rep. Ron Stephens (R-Savannah) The study committee was created by House Resolution 1577.
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DeKalb Workforce Development wins $17K to promote digital careers
EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com
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DeKalb Workforce Development won $17,000 during a recent contest by the AT&T Aspire initiative to promote careers in digital media. DeKalb Workforce Development was one of the eight finalists which were awarded $12,000 from the initiative. With the assistance of various DeKalb County departments, partnering agencies and the DeKalb community at large, DeKalb Workforce Development won an additional $5,000 in the #MakeDeKalbSocial #20Kfor2020 Community Outreach Event. The $17,000 received from the initiative enabled DeKalb Workforce Development to launch the Go Digitize
DeKalb introductory career pathway program within the field of digital media. In partnership with various DeKalb County School District high schools, program participants will earn while they learn through paid internships, allowing them the opportunity to use their skills in a professional setting. During the #MakeDeKalbSocial event, which attracted more than 100 youth, Jerry T. Myers, a longstanding community advocate, shared helpful tips for career preparation and transitioning. Additionally, youths had the opportunity to work with The Scholarship Academy to learn how to research and competitively obtain funding for
post-secondary education via scholarships. Youths also were able to meet directly with various employers and community agencies to gain employment and learn about the resources available in DeKalb County. DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May engaged youths by sharing his personal experiences with continuing his education, scholarship resourcing and career planning. “It is imperative to have events such as this to continually expose our youth to opportunities that will enhance their future,” May said.
Dillard launches campaign as write-in candidate in Rockdale Democratic candidate Courtney Dillard has been certified by Rockdale County Board of Elections Supervisor Cynthia Welch as a write-in candidate for the office of Rockdale County Commission Chairman in the Nov. 8 general election. Dillard had petitioned to run as an Independent but failed to get the required 2,534 verifiable signatures for his name to go on the ballot in
November. Dillard then published a notice of his intention to run as a write-in
New Bethel AME to host voter registration/education event
New Bethel AME Church, 8350 Rockbridge Road, Lithonia, is hosting a voter registration/education event, “Social Action--A Commitment to Our Community,” on Sept. 10, 11 a.m. Local, state and community leaders will provide information, answer questions, and discuss your concerns. They will address issues many
of us share about voting irregularities, youths, seniors, and the working poor. This is a critical election year, which demands our attention and action not only on the national stage but also on “down-ballot” candidates such as senators, judges, county boards, and school boards. Please save the date.
Gwinnett hiring poll workers for Nov. election The Gwinnett Voter Registrations and Elections Division needs dedicated citizens to serve as paid poll officials. Successful poll officials are detailed oriented, demonstrate patience, enjoy working with people, do well with taking direction, and possess basic computer skills. Interested applicants should visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/gwinnett/jobs/1498759/elections-poll-official and select the “Elections Poll Official” position. Positions are available for the November 2016 election.
Conyers bank robbery suspect arrested in Ohio The FBI says a suspect has been arrested in connection with an armed bank robbery that occurred in Conyers on Aug. 3. Special Agent in Charge (SAC) J. Britt Johnson, FBI Atlanta, in conjunction with Conyers Police Chief Gene Wilson announced the arrest of Kevin Simons, aka “Kevmurda,” 28, of Cincinnati/Cleveland, Ohio. Simons was arrested on Aug. 12 in Steubenville, Ohio by FBI agents from Cincinnati FBI’s Cambridge Resident Agency and the Cleveland Field Office, working along with the Steubenville Drug Task Force. Simons is currently being held in Ohio on State of Georgia charges of armed robbery in connection with the robbery of the Wells Fargo Bank in Conyers. Additional federal charges are anticipated.
candidate in the county’s legal organ on Aug. 17. He officially kicked off his new campaign on Thursday, Aug. 18. Dillard is challenging Oz Nesbitt, who became the Democratic nominee in the July 26 runoff after defeating incumbent Richard Oden. Dillard’s move to run as a write-in candidate means two Democrats will square off in a battle to lead Rockdale County.
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Ghost Tours scheduled to spook Stone Mountain visitors
Coming Up
Prepare to be spooked out at The ART Station’s “Village Ghost Tours” Saturday, Aug. 27, at the Stone Mountain Village Art Station, 5384 Manor Drive, Stone Mountain. Ghost tours begin at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. and last approximately one hour. Guests on the tour ride the new ART Station Tram, which seats up to six people. Patrons are shuttled from ART Station to the Stone Mountain Cemetery where they are met by ART Station Master Storyteller David Hirt. Village Ghost Tours require a light to moderate amount of walking. Tours may be conducted in light rain, but will be canceled and rescheduled in the case of hard rain and severe weather. Tours are scheduled by reservation only and are $25 for adults and $18 for children 14 and under. The tour is not recommended for children 8 and under. For more information, visit www.artstation.org or call 770-469-1105.
GWINNETT
Dunwoody Nature Center hosts 23rd Annual Free gardening class offers instruction on herb gardening Butterfly Festival
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enture inside two enormous tents overflowing with hundreds of gorgeous, free-roaming butterflies Saturday, Aug. 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Dunwoody Nature Center, 5343 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody. Bring the family for a day of activities including a Birds of Prey show, live animal encounters, games, educational booths, crafts, music, food and drinks. The price is $8 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12 and free to children ages 3 and under. For more information, visit http:// www.dunwoodynature.org/ or call 770-394-3322.
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Musical production offers glimpse into the lives of women of color
Join Gwinnett County Extension Agent Tim Daly for an informative workshop on herb gardening Aug. 25, 7 to 8 p.m., at the Norcross Human Services Center, 5030 Georgia Belle Court, Norcross. Herbs are excellent garden plants that require minimal maintenance and come in a variety of scents, flavors, and colors. There is no charge, but you must register by Aug. 23. For more information or to register, contact Timothy Daly at 678-377-4010 or email timothy. daly@gwinnettcounty.com.
Senior center offers cool evening of smooth jazz It’s a hot night for some cool jazz! Come enjoy a delicious dinner and a soulfully smooth jazz show Monday, Aug. 29, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Bethesda Park Senior Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville. The cost is $11/person. You must register by Aug. 24. For more information, call 678-277-0179 or visit www.gwinnettparks.com.
Join the cast of “Da Kink in My Hair,” an ethnic play about black women, for multiple show dates that run through Aug. 27 at the Horizon Theatre, ROCKDALE 1083 Austin Avenue, Atlanta. “If you want to know a black woman, you touch her hair,” says Novelette, as she delves into the tresses and stresses of her clients to reveal their Monastery offers architectural tour of sacred grounds hidden stories. In the salon of their West Indian stylist, hurried women converge to have their hair done for dates, jobs and upkeep. They come away Learn more about the beauty and history of this inspiring community on with not just a new hairdo, but a lifted soul and a lightened heart. This amazSaturday, Aug. 20, 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, 2625 ing musical tells their incredible, uncensored, unforgettable tales through Highway 212 SW, Conyers. dance, song and stories that will move, inspire, and delight! This event is sponsored by the Arabia Mountain Alliance every third “Da Kink in My Hair” runs about 2 hours with an intermission. HandiSaturday of the month. cap seating is available but limited. Please call to reserve, if needed. Tickets The cost is $10 and participants must register at http://monasterytours. start at $25 (plus tax) and can be purchased at www.horizontheatre.com or brownpapertickets.com/. For more information, call 770-483-8705. by calling 404-523-1477.
DEKALB
Voices of Faith Ministries announces car and bike show, welcomes vendors Voices of Faith Ministries is hosting a car and bike show Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church’s Stone Mountain campus, 2500 Rockbridge Road SW. The event will include a health fair with free health checkups, performances, live music, raffles and prizes for cars and bikes that place. The event is free and open to the public. To be a vendor or to register for the car and bike show, visit www.voicesfaith.org or call 770-498-5850, ext. 330.
Stonecrest Library to host Savvy Traveler Workshop
Expo set for local children’s authors The Conyers-Rockdale Library System will host the Local Children’s Author Expo on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Nancy Guinn Memorial library, 864 Green St., Conyers. The expo will be held in the lower level library meeting room. The author expo provides an outlet for local children’s authors to showcase their books and network while giving patrons the opportunity to purchase autographed books and spend quality family time. This event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. For more information and author registration, contact the Adult Services Department at 770-388-5040 or visit www.conyersrockdalelibrary.org.
This week’s Coming Up was compiled by Empish Thomas Event details may change at any time. Please always check with the event Join Priscilla Smiley, author of The Savvy Traveler, Saturday, Aug. 27, 3 organizer before you go. to 4 p.m. at Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. To submit your event to Coming Up, email editor@ocgnews. Smiley has visited more than 26 countries in five years. She’ll share com. We choose events that are free or a nominal cost to our readher strategies for travelling abroad, no matter the size of your budget. This ers. workshop is free and intended for adults 18 years of age or older. For more information, call 770-482-3828 Calendar events are published weekly as space permits.
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Conyers Police to host Shop With a Cop 5K Race and Fun Run
The Conyers Police Department is hosting its first ever Shop with A Cop (SWAC) 5K race and fun run on Saturday, Oct. 1. Every December, law enforcement personnel accompany children from families experiencing financial hardships to the Conyers Wal-Mart to shop for Christmas gifts. Historically, SWAC has been funded through personal and business donations as well as fund-raising efforts by the Conyers Police Department’s Explorer and Volunteers in Police Services programs. This year, the department is offering the 5K race and fun run to help raise these funds while providing an opportunity for the community to get to know their local police department. The race will start and finish at the Rockdale County Government Complex, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers and route along the City of Conyers walking trails. The one-mile fun run will begin at 8:30 a.m. The 5K race will begin at 9:30 a.m. First, second and third place trophies will be awarded for the 5K and every race participant will receive a medal and goodie bag. The event is open to all ages and walkers are also welcome to participate. Walking clubs, Girl and Boy Scout troops, schools, gym members, prayer groups and other community partners are encouraged to participate. Early registration is $10 for the fun run and $20 for the 5K. On the day of the event, the registration fee will be $15 and $25 respectively. Sponsorship opportunities for business entities are also available: Platinum Sponsor: $500 – 5 runners, plaque, large print name on banner Gold Sponsor: $300 – 3 runners, name on banner displayed at the race and Shop With A Cop Silver Sponsor: $200 – 2 runners Bronze Sponsor: $100 – 1 runner Sponsors will receive recognition on Conyers Police Department’s social media platforms and other marketing. The Conyers Police Department thanks its first official sponsor, the Georgia Army National Guard, for providing the race bibs for the event.
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AUGUST 20, 2016 • PAGE 5
City of Stone Mountain to host “Rock the Block” celebration
Officials from the City of Stone Mountain and DeKalb County will hold a dedication ceremony for the Children’s Lending Library program on Saturday, Aug. 27, 11 a.m. at Randolph Medlock Park, 735 Ridge Ave. Park Pride and PNC Bank, which donated a collection of books to the lending library, will be recognized at the “Rock the Block” celebration. Speakers at the ceremony include Mayor Pat Wheeler, Stone Mountain Chief of Police Chancey H. Troutman and Steve Bradshaw, Democratic Candidate for DeKalb County Commission District 4. Activities will follow the dedication ceremony.
Father/Son fishing day at Black Shoals Park in Conyers Want a little bonding time with the little fellow or young man in your life? Catch a fun free fishing event on Sept. 17, 9 to 11 a.m., at Black Shoals Park, 3001 Black Shoals Road, Conyers. This event is designed to give father and son some time to enjoy fishing. Participants must bring bait, fishing tackle, and a fishing pole. There are only 40 slots available for this free event, so please register early. Registration begins on Sept. 1 at the Johnson Park Recreation Center or register online up until the day of the event. For more information, call 770-278-7529 or register at https://secure.rec1.com/GA/rockdale-county/ catalog.
Centerville Community Center hosts Carnival and Technology Fair
On Aug. 27, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., come and enjoy class demonstrations and receive information on educational, health, and wellness programs provided at the Centerville Community Center, 3079 Bethany Church Road, Snellville. There will be indoor, outdoor, and ongoing activities for the entire family from 9 a.m. until noon. Later in the day, enjoy a bilingual story time, craft project, and demonstrations of new technologies for all ages in the Centerville Branch Library from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 770-985-4713 or log on to www.centervillecommunitycenter.com.
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RCPS announces 2016 Teachers of the Year
ockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) announced its 22 school-level Teachers of the Year who will compete for the title of Rockdale County Teacher of the Year. One teacher at each school was selected by their peers for the honor of being named his/her school’s Teacher of the Year. All 22 Teachers of the Year are educators to whom others look for inspiration and direction. Competition for the Rockdale County Teacher of the Year begins with the school-level candidates completing a comprehensive application addressing their teaching philosophy and their reasons for deciding to serve the community as educators. The applications will be reviewed and scored by a panel of three judges. After totaling the scores, three finalists will be named. The judges will then personally interview each finalist and observe them teaching students in his/her classroom. “It is my privilege each year to recognize our 22 Teachers of the Year,” says Superintendent Richard Autry. “These educators are exemplars in our organization. They are passionate about teaching and helping children create their own future. It speaks volumes that they were nominated by their own peers for this honor. I truly believe it is the people who make an organization great and I am proud to recognize this group of teachers for their outstanding work in our schools. The entire Rockdale community is indebted to their service to young people and commitment to excellence.”
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Seated (left to right): Allison Dunlop (LES), Tiffany Jones (RMSST), Beth Duren (PSE), Haydee Daniel-Knight (SES), Kim Sanderson (DMS), Demetrise Brown (FSE), Kinyonka Turner (PCE), Kristi Roop (JHH). Standing (left to right): Kevin McKinney (RCHS), Applemania Bradford (CJH), Dameka Whitehead (MMS), Samantha Hodge (Alpha Academy), David Yancey (EMS), Yolanda Thomas (SCE), Tom White (RCA), Jean O’Kelley (CMS), Shauna Roddenberry (BES), Sabrina Smith (Open Campus), Shaun Evans (HCE), Daniel Meador (HTE).
All 22 school-level Teachers of the Year will be honored at the 2016 Teacher of the Year celebration on Sept. 26, 6 p.m., at Rockdale Career Academy, 1064 Culpepper Road, Conyers. The district-level winner who will represent RCPS at the state competition will be announced at end of the evening. are:
This year’s Teachers of the Year
Barksdale Elementary – Shauna Roddenberry C.J. Hicks Elementary – Applemania Bradford
Flat Shoals Elementary – Demetrise Brown Hightower Trail Elementary – Daniel Meador Honey Creek Elementary – Shaun Evans J.H. House Elementary – Kristi Roop Lorraine Elementary – Allison Dunlop Peek’s Chapel Elementary – Kniyonka Turner Pine Street Elementary – Beth Duren Shoal Creek Elementary – Yolanda Thomas
Sims Elementary – Haydee Daniel - Knight Conyers Middle – Jean O’Kelley Davis Middle – Kim Sanderson Edwards Middle – David Yancey Memorial Middle – Dameka Whitehead Heritage High – Katie Cobb Rockdale High – Kevin McKinney Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology – Tiffany Jones Salem High – Tapetress Ford Alpha Academy – Samantha Hodge Open Campus – Sabrina Smith Rockdale Career Academy – Tom White
DeKalb Workforce assists DeKalb Police Athletic League with at-risk youths Some DeKalb youths mixed nighttime basketball with learning life skills when DeKalb Workforce Development teamed up this summer with the DeKalb County Police Athletic League (PAL) Plus Midnight Basketball League. “Providing educational and life skills training along with this summer sports program is a win-win for DeKalb County and for the participating youth,” DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May said. Melfred Garrison, an employment and training analyst senior with DeKalb Workforce Development’s youth department, offered training and employment opportunities to youth participating in the league that targeted males and females ages 15-19, teens in need of community service hours or who are members of church groups. From 9 to 10 p.m., participants attended educational and life skills workshops on such topics as financial literacy and employment opportunities. Youth were required to attend the workshops before being allowed to participate in the games, which took place at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. During the youth workshops, Garrison shared employment and training prospects as well as life skills advice. Participants had the opportunity to sign up for DeKalb Workforce Development’s youth department and become eligible to receive grant-funded training or employment opportunities. Some of the youth from the league currently are exploring opportunities with DWD youth department which places youths in a variety of entry-level positions through its internship program. The DWD youth department is currently looking for out-of-school youths for training, employment and internships. For more information about DeKalb Workforce Development, including upcoming job fairs, go to www.dekalbworkforce.org or call 404-687-3400. All of the services offered by DWD are free to customers.
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Atlanta Police to get 1,200 body cameras
The Atlanta City Council approved the purchase of 1,200 body worn cameras and video storage equipment for the Atlanta Police Department at a cost of $5.6 million. The City of Atlanta is engaged with TASER International to purchase the cameras and video evidence storage system. TASER cameras are used by 34 major cities in the United States. The authorizing legislation was sponsored by City Councilmember Kwanza Hall. “I would like to thank Mayor Reed and Chief Turner for their leadership on this important issue, as well as the Department of Procurement for getting us to this point in an expeditious fashion,” Hall said. “I am also grateful to my colleagues on the Atlanta City Council. Our vote today sends a strong message that we want our officers to be equipped with every tool they need to ensure their safety and that we are committed to transparency for our citizens in their interactions with law enforcement.” The legislation is one of a number of criminal justice reform papers initiated by Hall in the past two years. In October 2014, the Atlanta City Council passed legislation codifying “banning the box” in hiring practices for those seeking employment with the City of Atlanta, after the city’s Department of Human Resources adopted it as an administrative practice under Mayor Reed. In December 2015, Hall sponsored legislation creating a design team for a pre-arrest diversion initiative between the city and Fulton County. And in July of this year, Hall introduced three papers aimed at increasing transparency and re-examining so-called “zero tolerance” law enforcement practices. Those papers are currently under discussion, with a Council work session planned in the coming weeks.
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GDOT’s Kimberly King to keynote South DeKalb Business Association luncheon
The South DeKalb Business Association will present Kimberly King, EEO Director of Georgia’s Department of Transportation, as its keynote speaker. The meeting will be held on Aug. 24, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at One Georgia Center, 600 W. Peachtree St., N.W., Atlanta. King has served as the Equal Employment Opportunity Director for DOT since Dec. 10, 2012. An attorney by trade, King has more than 20 years of legal experience in the practice areas of civil rights, human resources and collective bargaining. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Southern Illinois University School of Law and was licensed to practice law in 1990. A light lunch will be served. There is limited seating. RSVP @joinus@ sdba-inc.org.
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Thousands attend DeKalb ICEO Lee May’s 7th Annual DeKalb Family Fun Day
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Live music, horse rides, face painting and free school bags were all part of DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May’s Seventh Annual DeKalb Family Fun Day. “I am pleased with the turnout and support for this event which gave residents a chance to have one more family-friendly event before the summer is over,” said Interim CEO May. Musician JFly, V-103 and the DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs partnered with Interim CEO May for the event held at Bransby Outdoor YMCA in Lithonia. May presented JFly with a proclamation at the event. Approximately 800 book bags filled with school supplies were passed out to local students during the event. The Annual DeKalb Family Fun Day featured a live remote by V-103, entertainment by JFly’s How BIG Is Your Dream?! Foundation, food trucks, DeKalb’s Mobile Farmers’ Market, a game truck, rock climbing, swimming, basketball, bounce houses, face painting and free food.
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Discover DeKalb hires Neil Hibbert as Director of Sales
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eKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau (Discover DeKalb) announces the hiring of Neil Hibbert, CGMP to fill the newly created Director of Sales position. “We are excited to have such a great addition to our team. Neil brings years of industry experience and knowledge needed to support the execution of our business and fill in the gaps,” said James Tsismanakis, executive director of Discover DeKalb. Neil, a hospitality and sales Neil Hibbert industry veteran, will manage the DCVB sales team, as well as, focus on corporate group bookings in DeKalb. Since starting his career as a sales assistant, Hibbert has continuously held progressive roles at various hotels including InterContinental Buckhead, Grand Hyatt Buckhead and most recently as Director of Sales for DeKalb’s Holiday Inn Atlanta Perimeter. “I am genuinely excited for the opportunity to grow relationships, strengthen the brand and generate business,” said Neil Hibbert. “I understand the market and that will be the key to continuous growth.” Hibbert, Past President of the National Sales Network – Atlanta Chapter, is currently a member of Skål, a professional organization of tourism leaders to promote global tourism and friendship.
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AUGUST 20,2016 • PAGE 9
Author Spotlight
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tlanta author Darlene Caffey has published her fourth book, “Left For Dead, But Would Not Die,” the story of her life growing. For years, she envisioned herself writing and publishing her autobiography, and this vision has finally come to pass. The book, foreworded by gospel recording artist Danita Hadden, provides real-life scenarios of how God is a very present help in times of need and discouragement. It also challenges one to trust God to the end, and to recognize that your present situation is not your final destination. To back her claim of God’s goodness, mercy and undeniable love, Caffey provides scriptures she believes were God-ordained in each chapter. Her first desire is that others will be healed, delivered and set free after reading the book, and her next desire is to make it to the New York Times Best Sellers List by selling 100,000 copies. She acknowledges her family, friends, and church family, Voices of Faith Ministries, for all of their support this far. So to all of those whose lives she has touched, she is asking for their support and help make her dream come through. Darlene is in her 23rd year as an educator, and is an 8th Grade Language Arts Teacher at DATE Academy. “Left For Dead, But Would Not Die” is available on Amazon.com.
Leadership DeKalb announces 57 in Class of 2017
ifty-seven established and emerging leaders have been selected to participate in Leadership DeKalb’s Class of 2017. On the brink of its 30th year anniversary, Leadership DeKalb welcomes its new Program Chair Sandra Zayac ’15, Partner at Arnall Golden Gregory LLP. “The Class of 2017 will have an opportunity to explore the current issues faced by DeKalb government and businesses and to experience the largely overlooked beauty of DeKalb’s natural resources and culture. The program provides an emotional journey that will challenge assumptions and change perspectives,” said Sandy Zayac ‘15. Members of the Class of 2017 includes:
Brent Adams, President, Private Bank of Decatur Stephen Barresi, Director of Field Operations, DeKalb Co. General Solicitors Office Daniel Baskerville, Senior Managing Director, Dentons US LLP John Bayalis, Director of Government Relations, MARTA Candace Bazemore, Vice President Product Development Manager, SunTrust Bank Corlan Beasley, Recreation Center Director, DeKalb County Government Douglas Bentley, Lieutenant, DeKalb County Police Kimberly Bentley, VP/ Administrator, DeKalb Medical at Hillandale Kimberly Blackwell, Attorney/ Owner, The Blackwell Law Group LLC
Catherine Bonk MD, Managing Physician/CEO, Atlanta Gynecology & Obstetrics Todd Bruce, Assistant Director, Emory University Vonetta Daniels, President/CEO, VYD and Associates Araba Dowell, VP of Marketing & Communications, Decide DeKalb Development Authority George Dusenbery IV, Principle, Dusenbery Consulting LLC Fatima El-Amin, Judge, DeKalb County Juvenile Court Janeane Giarrusso, Principal Business Consultant, Brown and Caldwell Environmental Engineering Quinn Green, Associate Broker, Century 21 Connect Realty Neeru Gupta, Partner, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP MaLika Hakeem, Director of One DeKalb, DeKalb County Government Chris Hayward, Special Projects Manager, DeKalb County Government Ivan Harrell, Executive Vice President, Georgia Piedmont Technical College M. Cole Jones, Co-Founder, Covello, LLC Scott Kemp, Community Transportation Services Lead, CDC Felicia Kennedy, Executive Assistant to the Senior Pastor, St. Phillip AME Church Jacqueline Kimbro, Administrative Services, DeKalb County Public Library Kimani King, Attorney, Kimani King Law Sheri Lake, Partner/Owner, Smith & Lake LLC
Carolyn Lloyd, Director, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Melody Maddox, Assistant Chief of Police, Georgia Piedmont Technical College Russell Madison, Revenue & Technology Director, City of Decatur Manomay Malathip, Executive Director of Student Advancement, DeKalb County School District Jim McMahan, School Board Member, DeKalb County School District Adrianne McVeigh, Executive Director, Assessment Solutions, TalentQuest Garrett Miller, Partner, Smith, Currie & Hancock, LLP David Moore, Partner Smith, Gambell & Russell LLP Laine Morgan, Assistant Minister, Spiritual Living Center of Atlanta Keri Norris, Chief of Health Admin & Policy, The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority Kristy Offitt, Shareholder, Ogletree Deakins Sonya Porter, Major, DeKalb County Police Ronald Ramsey Sr., Judge, State Court of DeKalb County - Traffic Division Shanease Ray, Operations Coordinator - Business & Government Markets, Gas South Steven Richards, Consultant, Robert Half Management Resources Monica Richardson, Managing Editor, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Toni Roberts, Executive Director, DeKalb Volunteer Lawyers Foundation Janice Robinson, Executive
Director of United Way V.I.P., United Way of Greater Atlanta Lisa Robinson, Managing Director, LR Robinson, LLC Dasheika Ruffin, Policy/Legislative Analyst, City of Atlanta Shara Sanders, Interim Youth Director, Oak Grove United Methodist Church Carla Smith, HR/Policy & Talent Management Director, Signature HealthCARE Jason Smith, Deputy Fire Chief, DeKalb County Fire Rescue Ashton Staniszewski, Photographer, Jackson Spaulding Inc. Luke Story, Director of Communications & Operations, Georgia Association of Broadcasters ChaQuias Thornton, City Manager, City of Stone Mountain Vickie Turner, School Board Member, DeKalb County School District Nedra White-Shaw, Community Outreach Director, The Alliance of DeKalb County Derrica Williams, Internal Operations Manager, Concepts, Inc. Adela Yelton, Consultant, Self-Employed About Leadership DeKalb Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb, a 501©3 non-profit organization, is a community leadership program that continues to build a network who are committed to addressing and resolving the issues that impact the quality of life in DeKalb County and the metro region. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org.
PAGE 10•AUGUST 20,2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Business Spotlight
Atlanta attorney discusses how to protect your business
A
ttorney Dayna Thomas specializes in entertainment and entrepreneurship law. In this exclusive On Common Ground News Q&A, Attorney Thomas offers a look into the intricate world of business law and a legal perspective to business owners and entrepreneurs on how to best manage their businesses. “Entertainment and entrepreneurship are exciting areas of law for me because my clients are driven by passion – passion for their art or their business. As a creative business person, this provides a good foundation for a close attorney-client relationship.” The Emory Law graduate said she was inspired to start her own practice after a series of clerkships and internships with private practices. Thomas said it was these opportunities that gave her the exposure necessary to see what it takes to run a law office. “I had so many ideas for how to make the firms better. Many of those ideas, however, deviated from traditional lawyering, which made me feel creatively stifled. My ideas for my firm would keep me up at night, and I was motivated by the fact that I would be in control of how much money I could make.” Thomas said that having her own practice allows her to combine her legal education and zest for entrepreneurship. Thomas not only offers her clients legal counsel but also provides strategic marketing strategy services. This holistic approach to client care allows her to serve her clients in a more meaningful way that benefits both parties’ longevity.
Q: What does an entertainment/business lawyer do?
logo doesn’t mean you own it. These are legal traps that lawyers can make sure you avoid.
A: On the entertainment side, I represent talent and executives in the industry regarding music, film and television, fashion, and other artistic endeavors. Some common transactions are recording agreements, talent contracts for reality TV shows, film production agreements, trademark licensing, endorsement deals, and book publishing. It’s my job to make sure that my clients’ interests are protected from ensuring proper rights are granted and that they get adequate payment for their work. On the entrepreneurship side, I help aspiring and current business owners establish, maintain, and protect their businesses by making sure they have a solid legal foundation. A shrewd business lawyer is able to navigate several legal services such as trademarks, negotiations, commercial leases, product licensing and a variety of other transactions. I also handle pre-litigation disputes, which means that I help resolve business disputes out of court.
I think that if a small business opts out of having a lawyer, it’s because they don’t want to spend the money on a lawyer, or they think they don’t need one. Working with a good business lawyer to make sure your business is legally sound is one of the most important investments that an entrepreneur can make. Operating a business without having legal counsel is likely to cost you way more in the long run if something goes wrong. My goal as a business lawyer is to keep you in business, out of court, and making money. Q: What is a common misconception about business ownership? Attorney Dayna Thomas
Q: Why do small business owners need a lawyer? Why don’t they use them?
crucial for small business owners to have contracts for their business transactions and to have contracts that are presented to them reviewed. Not only do we draft and review the contracts, but we’re also skilled in negotiating so that clients are free to focus on maintaining positive relationships and still get what they want out of the deal.
A: A good business lawyer can help entrepreneurs stay in business. We can save our clients from entering into bad deals, which could result in financial loss. In my practice, it’s important for me to know what my clients’ business goals are so that I can help them decide if the deal is congruent with their needs. It’s
Business lawyers also help keep the business’s assets protected. We help clients think about things they haven’t considered such as who really owns their logo – an important part of their brand. I’ve come across so many business owners using a logo that they unknowingly did not own. Just because you paid for a
A: Maintaining your limited liability is something that is very important as a small business owner. Limited liability means that the business owner will not be personally liable for the debts of the business. However, just because you have a business entity setup (such as an LLC or a corporation) doesn’t mean that you’re automatically free and clear. Business lawyers can help make sure that the business is operating in a way that keeps the owners as separate as possible from the liabilities of the business. To reach Attorney Thomas, visit www.daynathomaslaw.com or email dayna@daynathomaslaw.com. To read the rest of the Q&A, visit us at www.ocgnews.com in the business section.
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AUGUST 20, 2016 • PAGE 11
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