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VOLUME 23 NUMBER 42
JANUARY 13, 2018 IN THIS ISSUE
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MLK HONORING
Published Since April 1995
Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties
COMMEMORATIVE SPECIAL SECTION
Sam’s Club abruptly closes 63 stores nationwide, lays off thousands Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary outraged, seeks replace ment
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By Valerie J. Morgan
tonecrest Mayor Jason Lary said he is seeking another wholesale warehouse store after the abrupt Jan. 11 closing of the Sam’s Club at 2994 Turner Hill Road. The Stonecrest store is one of 63 that the warehouse giant abruptly closed across the nation, laying off thousands of employees. “I’ve already contacted Costco and they’re interested,” Lary said. Lary said he was outraged to learn the Stonecrest store was closing. Loyal members, who have supported the store for years, expressed their shock, and employees, who learned they no longer had jobs when they reported to work. “It caught us completely by surprise. There was no warning, not even to the employees. I saw some of them crying,” Lary said during a news conference he held on the closing day outside the store. The Bentonville, Arkansasbased Sam’s Club posted a statement on Twitter saying it was re-evaluating its strategies, in response to questions about the shutdowns nationwide. “After a thorough review of our existing portfolio, we’ve decided to close a series of clubs and better
Customers looking to shop at the Sam’s Club at 2994 Turner Hill Road were met with a security guard and a closed sign. The Stonecrest location is one of 63 stores that abruptly closed across the nation, laying off thousands of employees. Photos by Travis Hudgons/OCGNews
align our locations with our strategy. Closing clubs is never easy and we’re committed to working with impacted members and associates through this transition,” Sam’s Club tweeted. State Rep. Vernon Jones said he is planning to host a meeting with officials of Walmart, which owns Sam’s Club, on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road. “They told me it (the closings) was a business decision. They’re giving severance packages to some of the employees and relocating others but we’re going to hear from them and let people ask questions,” said Jones. At On Common Ground News press time, it was unclear if some employees would temporarily remain at the Stonecrest location. A recorded message at the store said the location will permanently close
City of Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary addressed members of the media outside of the Sam’s Club.
on Jan. 26. The message stated that customers who had prescriptions to be filled could go to the store in Tucker. An employee at the store said Sam’s Club plans to notify
customers by mail within the next week and send them other information they may need. Asked why the Stonecrest store was still SEE CLOSING, page 6
DeKalb continues push to wipe out blight CEO Michael Thurmond says Brannon Hill a top priority
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eKalb County demolished 17 singlefamily homes in 2017 in its targeted effort to wipe out blight from communities that have been plagued for years. In addition to demolishing singlefamily homes, DeKalb tore down four DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond dilapidated buildings containing 68 units at the notorious Brannon Hill condominiums. Now, the county plans to seek court approval to raze another four buildings and stabilize a large sinkhole in the condominium complex. “DeKalb citizens deserve to live in safe and healthy communities, and in 2017, we made fighting blight a priority by funding initiatives and collaborating with key partners and agencies,” said DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond. “There is not just one fix to rid a community of blight, and we will continue our progress to improve the county’s neighborhoods.”
Several dilapidated condominiums in the Brannon Hill complex. Photo by Travis Hudgons
In order to remediate blight on private property, DeKalb must first receive a court order issuing permission to proceed. In 2017, DeKalb Magistrate Court and the Solicitor-General’s office stepped up their blight-fighting initiatives. The Magistrate’s Court Ordinance Division implemented a calendar to target dilapidated properties with numerous code citations once a month, allowing the county to take action on properties not returned to code per court order.
In the 2017 midyear budget, Thurmond proposed and the Board of Commissioners approved to redirect $70,000 to fund additional staff and training in the solicitor-general’s office. As a result, Solicitor-General Donna ColemanStribling formed the Quality of Life Unit, which is responsible for the prosecution of all cases involving code violations, blight, nuisance and other issues plaguing communities.
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Two more suspects arrested in Walk of Heroes heist
wo more suspects have been arrested in connection the bronze heist at the Walk of Heroes Veterans Memorial in Rockdale County. The Rockdale Sheriff’s Office said that Bryan Sears of Union City was taken into custody today (Jan. 8). Keshia Martin Black of Coweta County was arrested on Jan. 3. The arrests follow that of Wendall Heath Tolbert, 51, of Coweta County, who was charged with felony theft and interference with government property, also a felony. “This case has taken us to Union City, Coweta County and Meriweather County,” Sheriff Eric J. Levett said. “We want to make sure that we send this message to the remaining suspect. This was a terrible crime. This was disrespectful to many men
Keshia Martin Black
and women who sacrifice their lives each and every day and have sacrificed their lives in the past for our country. We’re not going to tolerate this in Rockdale County. We’re coming after you and
we will find you.” Investigators said the suspects stole two heavy, bronze statues and military emblems over the weekend of Dec. 15. A park official who made the discovery on Sunday, Dec.
17, said a padlock had been cut from the gate leading to the memorial. Surveillance cameras captured images of the vehicle involved in the heist. A tip led investigators to the suspects.
Bryan Sears
DeKalb Sheriff’s Office arrests three men in murder case
Three men have been arrested in the murder of a 24-year old Decatur man, who died from injuries after the trio beat him. On Jan. 4, the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office received warrants for the arrests of Elton Calloway, 26; Kenneth Calloway, 30; and Bruce Anthony McDaye, 24, all of Decatur. The suspects are charged with felony murder for allegedly causing the death of Torin Davenport. Davenport died as a result of injuries sustained when he was assaulted at 2505
Elton Calloway
Kenneth Calloway
Bruce Anthony McDaye
Columbia Drive in Decatur on May 27, 2017. According to the warrants, the suspects are relatives of the victim's wife, and they allegedly participated in an assault against
Davenport in retribution for his assault against his wife. Warrants say that Davenport lost and never regained consciousness following the attack. He later died from “complications related to blunt force trauma.” On Jan. 8, 2018, the DeKalb Sheriff's Office Fugitive Unit located and arrested Kenneth Calloway on McCurdy Avenue in Stone Mountain, Elton Calloway on Glenwood Road in Decatur, and McDaye on Memorial Drive in Decatur. All suspects were transported without incident to the DeKalb County Jail.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
PUBLISHER Glenn L. Morgan
gmorgan1@ocgnews.com
EDITOR Valerie J. Morgan
editor@ocgnews.com
ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill
richardhill@ocgnews.com
STAFF WRITER Mackenzie Morgan
mackenzie@ocgnews.com
PRODUCTION MANAGER Travis Hudgons travis@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 P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 www.ocgnews.com
JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 3
Vince Evans sworn in as Conyers new mayor, first new mayor in 20 years
By Mackenzie N. Morgan
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ince Evans was sworn in as the City of Conyers’ new mayor on Jan. 10 before a packed audience that included his 90-year-old father-in-law at the Cherokee Run Golf Club in Conyers. Chief Superior Court Judge David Irwin administered the oath of office to Evans, as well as councilmembers Cleveland Stroud, who was re-elected, and the newly-elected Blair Barksdale. Evans is the city’s first new mayor in 20 years, succeeding Randy Mills, who served two decades as mayor and 8 years on the City Council. Evans served with Mills 18 years on the City Council, including 8 years as mayor pro tem. An overjoyed Evans thanked his wife, Cyndi, for her support during his campaign for mayor. He said members of his team knocked on 8,000 doors, with his wife always ready to help. “Her support and patience has been unending since this whole thing started,” said Evans, adding that he plans to take his wife on a getaway. During his remarks,
Vince Evans is sworn in as his wife, Cyndi, holds the Bible before Chief Superior Court Judge David Irwin. Below: Blair Barksdale(left photo) and Coach Cleveland Stroud (right) are sworn in. Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
he also said he is looking forward to continuing his work with Stroud, who has served on the council since 1994, and Barksdale to provide a blend of experience and new perspective. The swearing-in
Republican Victories Brian Strickland wins Senate District 17 seat, Geoffrey Cauble snags House District 111 Republican Brian Strickland soared to victory in the Nov. 9 special election for Senate District 17, which covers parts of Rockdale, Newton and Henry counties. The election was held to fill the unexpired term of Republican Rick Jeffares, who stepped down to devote more time to his bid for lieutenant governor. Strickland, who vacated the House District 111 seat to run for the Senate seat, received 61.99 percent (5,001 votes) in the four-way contest, according to unofficial results.
Brian Strickland
Geoffrey Cauble
Phyllis Hatcher, the lone Democrat in the race, placed second with 35.36 percent (2,772 votes). Ed Toney received 2.45 percent (198), and Nelva Lee received 1.19 percent (96 votes). Voter turnout for the special election was low. Only 6.99 percent (9,292) of 133,018 registered
voters in the Senate District participated, according to elections officials. Strickland was succeeded by Republican Geoffrey Cauble, who received 51.04 percent (1,864 votes) in the fourway race for the House District 111 seat. Democrat El-Mahdi Holly received 30.72 percent (1,122 votes); Tarji Leonard Dunn, Democrat, garnered 12.35 percent (451 votes); and Larry K. Morey, Republican, received 5.89 percent (215).
ceremony was followed by several awards and recognition to community leaders and the Mayor’s Annual State of the City Address. Evans pledged, during the address, to make crime, economic development and transportation his top priorities. He said citizens cited those as their chief concerns as he campaigned throughout the city. Evans said he plans to devote more resources to public safety, including officer training, hiring and seeking grants to enhance the Police Department as officers tackle growing problems ranging from family violence to Opiate use. In terms of economic development, Evans said he is looking forward to working closely with the Conyers Rockdale Economic Development Council to encourage expansion of existing businesses and attracting new companies throughout the city. “We are excited about the new possibilities in Olde Town with the coming of a wine shop, a new restaurant and a fresh look at Downtown…” Evans said. He said transportation
isn’t an easy fix but he would continue to use SPLOST funding to improve thoroughfares. He said he would continue to cultivate relationships with county and state legislators to ensure Conyers receives “our fair” for projects. He also promised to be transparent and engage citizens during his administration, and to create “a more inclusive environment.” “I will be hosting meetings on a regular basis at the mayor’s office with representatives of all areas of our communities including faith-based, business, homeowners associations, individuals, and pretty much anybody who wants their voice heard,” said Evans. He said maintaining relationships with Rockdale County government and the Rockdale County School Board are also critical and he looks forward to all of them attending the city’s upcoming annual retreat. “Obviously by working together all of the citizens of Conyers and Rockdale county benefit more,” Evans. To view the swearing in video visit ocgnews.com
Rockdale welcomes public input on parks and recreation master plan Rockdale County residents have two chances to weigh in on the Parks and Recreation master plan. The county will hold public information sessions on Jan. 24 and Jan. 25. “These meetings will give us an opportunity to share the department’s vision for the future,” said Recreation and Maintenance Director Sue Sanders. “Community involvement is critical to updating the plan.” The master plan’s consultant
team, Lose & Associates, will present the proposal on both days and ask citizens for their input. This is the first master planning effort for Parks and Recreation in over a decade. The process takes into account staff interviews, discussions with county officials, community needs, and residents’ concerns. The plan will outline goals, identify new opportunities, determine project phasing, and set the framework for
development and maintenance of facilities, offerings and services for the next several years. “We launched the master planning process in October,” said Jason Redmond, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Operations. “The proposal is the culmination of information gathering and a comprehensive look at our current park system and long-range possibilities.”
The dates and locations for the meetings are as follows: Wednesday, Jan. 24, 6 p.m. Johnson Park Recreation Center 1781 Ebenezer Road Thursday, Jan. 25, 6 p.m. First Baptist Church of Conyers 2100 Highway 138 NE
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Want less stress and more success? Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes offers free enrichment workshops
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he New Year is here and Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes is presenting a series of free workshops at its Conyers and Lawrenceville chapels to help you live your best life. The long-time family-owned business has partnered with healthcare professionals, financial planners, law professionals, grief counselors and others to discuss topics that impact everyday living. The Levett family rolled out the initiative during a weekend of free concerts it sponsored featuring jazz artist Kenny Lattimore at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in Decatur, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with special events all year. The Levett family said the concerts and the free workshops are their way of giving back to the community. As philanthropists, the Levetts have contributed to a number of causes and scholarships. The nationally-recognized funeral home has served many of Atlanta’s prominent families including Bishop Eddie Long and journalist Amanda Davis. Kimberly Y. Culp, “The JOB Life Coach,” kicked off the family’s free educational workshop series on Jan. 9 in Conyers. Culp didn’t focus on jobs, as her title might suggest, however. JOB is the acronym she uses for “Just Operate Better,” something, she said, that we all should be concerned about mastering. Drawing from 11 years of experience in personnel and client crisis management for two large plaintive law firms in metro Atlanta, the motivational speaker uses real-world skills and solutions for coping. Culp’s seminar, “I Have Goals, Now What?” focused
Rockdale Chapel 1999 Highway 138 SE, Conyers, GA 30013 • (770) 285-6673 Workshop Series 2: Developing a Healthy Lifestyle Tuesday, Jan. 23, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 3: Help, I'm In Debt! Tuesday, Feb. 6, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 4: How To Invest Your Money Tuesday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 5: Facing The Loss Of A Loved One Tuesday, March 6, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 6: Entrepreneurship 101 Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/ OCGNews Tuesday, March 20, 7 p.m.
on helping participants create a blueprint to jumpstart and stay on track for 2018. Gregory B. Levett, founder of Gregory B. Levett & Sons, said his daughter, Deana Levett, director of marketing, came up with the idea to offer the workshops as a way to fill a void. “She saw families who had lost loved ones and didn’t know how to pick up the pieces and begin again. They didn’t know how to go about searching for a job, they weren’t taking care of their health and couldn’t get on track,” said Levett. “Deana wanted to expand the grief counseling that we provide into a host of workshops that addressed various needs.” Deana Levett said it is really about helping people get on the right track. “When we provided our grief counseling workshops, we asked
people what was the source of their grief, what difficulties were they facing. We wanted to help them prepare and make sure they had things like their insurance policies updated and in place and providing professional help for consolidating debt. We found that many of them could not afford to pay a professional so we decided to provide the resources at no charge,” Deana Levett said. The workshops are not only providing education, but helping many to heal, Levett pointed out as three women talked with one another after the workshop. “Look, they’ve made friends,” Levett said. “They made a connection.” Anyone may attend any of the free workshops. Registration is appreciated so that facilitators may plan accordingly. Here’s a calendar of when and where the upcoming workshops will be offered:
Gwinnett Chapel 914 Scenic Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045 • (770) 338-5558 Workshop Series 1: I Have Goals, Now What? Tuesday, Jan. 16, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 2: Developing a Healthy Lifestyle Tuesday, Jan. 30, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 3: Help, I'm In Debt! Tuesday, Feb. 13, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 4: How To Invest Your Money Tuesday, Feb. 27, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 5: Facing The Loss Of A Loved One Tuesday, March 13, 7 p.m. Workshop Series 6: Entrepreneurship 101 Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 7 p.m.
DeKalb parks boards to host joint meeting Jan. 17
DeKalb Cooperative Extension plant sale underway
The joint regular meeting of the DeKalb Parks Bond Citizen Advisory Committee and the Initiative for a Green DeKalb Advisory Council is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 6 p.m., at the DeKalb County Fire Rescue Headquarters, 1950 West Exchange Place, Tucker. The meeting will take place on the first floor in room 111. Information will be provided on greenspace acquisitions and current parks and recreation projects. For more information, contact Carol Underwood, Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs administrative coordinator, at 404-371-2927 or cjunderw@ dekalbcountyga.gov.
DeKalb Cooperative Extension is now accepting plant orders through March 9 for its annual sale. Plant pickup is scheduled for Saturday, March 17, at the DeKalb Cooperative Extension Office, located at 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 200, Decatur. “Although this sale is just in its sixth year, we are excited to see it grow,” said Lynwood Blackmon, director of the DeKalb Cooperative Extension. “We are committed to helping citizens realize and understand the role they play in the beautification and sustainability of their own neighborhoods.” Plant varieties available include azaleas, blueberries, hydrangeas, gardenias and more. In addition, plant purchasers can attend one of the following homeowner gardening series seminars for free: • Backyard Berries, Tuesday, Feb. 13, at 6:45 p.m. • Care of Ornamental Plants in the Landscape, Thursday, March 1, at 6:45 p.m. Both classes are held at the Extension Office. Registration is required. Interested citizens not purchasing plants can register to attend for a $10 fee. For more information about ordering plants or to learn more about other programs and services contact the DeKalb County Cooperative Extension at 404-298-4080 or visit www.ugaextension.org/county-offices/dekalb.html.
Think Tank to present citizens’ State of the County The Rockdale County Think Tank organization will host its State of the County address by the citizens of Rockdale on Saturday, Jan. 23, noon to 2 p.m., at Ruby Tuesday’s, 1714 Highway 138, Conyers. Think Tank Founder Josie Dean said the meeting is an opportunity for citizens to discuss critical issues to address for 2018.
MLK HONORING
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
COM M E MOR ATIVE SPE CIAL SE C TI ON Jan. 15, 1929 - April 4, 1968
50 ye a r s later
PAGE 2 • JANUARY 13, 2018
SPECIAL SECTION
MLK site marks milestone as Georgia’s first National Historic Park
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he Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is celebrating a milestone as Georgia’s first National Historical Park. The announcement comes as the nation observes this year’s MLK National Holiday and the 50th anniversary of the civil rights leader’s death. The historic site will be the first national park honoring an African American. President Trump signed the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park Act into law on Jan. 8, a week before the King holiday. The president was on his way to visit Atlanta to attend the national college championship football game when he signed the new law as King’s niece, Alveda King, witnessed the signing aboard Air Force One, the White House said. Congressman John Lewis, who sponsored the legislation, praised the new law. The bill took Congress four years to pass. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill on Jan. 4, 2017, and the U.S. Senate adopted the legislation on Dec. 27, 2017. “I am so proud that we were able to work in a bipartisan, bicameral manner to establish Georgia’s first National Historical Park in Dr. King’s name and legacy before what would be his 89th birthday and the 50th anniversary of his tragic assassination,” said Lewis, who sponsored the bill and who represents Georgia’s Fifth District, which includes the park. “I hope that this moment will serve as a reminder of the constant work to realize Dr. King’s dream of building the Beloved Community–a community at peace with itself and our neighbors.” King was assassinated on April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel. He was 39 years old. This year also marks the 50-year anniversary that Coretta Scott King founded the King Center to carry on his legacy. Judy Forte, superintendent of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, said
By Mackenzie N. Morgan
Photo by Mackenzie N. Morgan/ OCGNews
the park’s new designation elevates its status. Now, as a national park attracting some 700,000 documented visitors annually, it can attract even more visitors to the Sweet Auburn District. “I am so happy that we finally got the new designation. It means a lot and will enable us to tell the complete story and have the historic fabric and the resources to do that,” said Superintendent Forte who said the auspicious news comes on the eve of us commemorating the fiftieth-year anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination,” said Superintendent Forte. “Our theme this year is ‘MLK 50 Forward: Together we win with love for humanity.’... We are going to use this as a moment to talk about the future and how we’re going to take his life and legacy and advance it forward. I
think moving from a historic site to a national historical park falls right in place with that 50 forward.” Forte said that while the new designation does not garner extra funding, the park’s resources will expand to include the Prince Hall Masonic Building on Auburn Avenue which operated as the first headquarters for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference where King served as SCLC’s founding president. The transition from historic site to historical park will also include new interstate signage along with park entryways, buildings, brochures and all media reflecting the park’s name change. Forte said that the historical park will roll out the park’s new name at a forthcoming community event.
Founded in April, 1995
On Common Ground News Celebrates the
Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
We thank the dreamer for paving the way for generations of storytellers.
Glenn and Valerie Morgan Publishers
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 3
Celebrating the King Holiday ATLANTA
DEKALB
Interactive Book Event, Jan. 14 The King Center, Yolanda D. King Theatre For The Performing Arts, 449 Auburn Ave. N.E., will present a free book event for children from 3 to 5 p.m. The day’s activities will include book readings, interactive activities, and conclude with a book signing. The event is targeted especially toward children ages 8 to 10. A book drive for new and used books will be held during the “We’ve Got Next: Turning Readers into Leaders” event. Materials for all languages will be accepted to help those impacted by hurricanes and homelessness. Everyone is asked bring at least one book for the book drive. The event will be hosted by Yolanda Renée King, the only grandchild of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and her cousin, Maryn Rippy, the great-granddaughter of A.D., and special guests including Martin Luther King, III, Arndrea King, Dr. Angela Farris Watkins, Dr. Andrea Lewis, Xernona Clayton, Donald Bermudez and DJ Willy Wow. For more information, call Juanita Robinson at 404-526-8900 or email: robinson@thekingcenter.org.
Interfaith Candlelight Vigil, Jan. 14 The MLK Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College presents the annual communitywide candlelight vigil from 6 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact the Rev. Terry Walker at 470-6390325 or terry.walker@morehouse. edu.
King Holiday March and Rally, Jan. 15 The 2 p.m. march will be held on Auburn Avenue from Peachtree Street to Jackson Street. The rally will held on Auburn Avenue following the march. Leaders will speak on several topics: education, technology, medical, investment, transportation, housing, environmental justice, job creation, conflict resolution, interfaith, cultural exchange, peace, justice, and voter registration. The event is free and open to the public.
Michelle Obama Trail Unveiling, Jan. 13 The DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs and Commissioner Larry Johnson invite the community to the Unveiling and Naming Ceremony for the Michelle Obama Trail. The ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. at the trailhead beginning at Georgia State University (Perimeter College), 2946 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur. Parking is available at the college.
MLK Day Parade, Jan. 15 The DeKalb NAACP DeKalb will host its 16th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. parade on Monday, Jan. 15. The parade will start at noon at Green Pastures Ministries, 5455 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, and end at Martin Luther King, Jr. High School. Parade participants will begin lining up at 10 a.m. This year’s theme is “Remembering the Dream, Honoring the Dreamer.” The parade’s grand marshal is Apostle Collette Gunby of Green Pastures Ministries.
GWINNETT
MLK Day Parade, Jan. 15 The MLK Day Parade and celebration program will be held 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the parade begins at the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration building and ends at Moore Middle School, where performances, vendors, and artwork will be on display. Keynote speakers include alumni of the historic Hooper Renwick School in Lawrenceville. The Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center is located at 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville. Moore Middle School is located at 1221 Lawrenceville Highway, Lawrenceville.
MLK Day of Service Workday Celebration, Jan. 15 Join volunteers for National Day of Service from 9 a.m. to noon for a cleanup at Rock Springs Park. Families, service organizations, and scout groups are welcome. For more information, call Tania Ballou at 678.277.0903 or email tania. ballou@gwinnettcounty.com. Rock Springs Park is located at 550 Rock Springs Road, Lawrenceville.
ROCKDALE
Annual Breakfast, Jan. 15 The Rockdale NAACP and Conyers Rockdale Chamber of Commerce will host the 15th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. commemorative breakfast at 7:30 a.m., Longhorn steakhouse, 1294 Iris Drive, Conyers. The keynote speaker will
be State Rep. Vernon Jones. Every year, the event draws a crowd. Plan to get in line early. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 children 3 and under. No advance ticket sales. Pay at the door. The breakfast benefits homeless initiatives in Rockdale.
MLK Day Parade, Jan. 15 Rockdale County will host its first ever parade in Olde Town honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade participants will line up beginning at 10 a.m. at Rockdale High School. There is no fee to participate. The parade kicks off at noon and travels down Main Street in the city of Conyers. The Think Tank organization, under founder Josie Dean, is organizing the historic event. A celebration and awards program will follow at the Rockdale Auditorium, 903 N. Main St. Several community leaders will be honored. In 2016, Dean made history with the first MLK parade in Rockdale. However, that one was held outside the county’s annex at 1400 Parker Road.
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Remembering the Dreamer Local clergy reflect on Dr. King’s Assassination
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r. Martin Luther King, Jr. was standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis Tennessee, when he was fatally shot on April 4, 1968. The pastor and civil rights leader was rushed to St. Joseph’s hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 7:05 p.m. This year marks the 50th anniversary of King’s assasination, and for many, that moment in time remains unforgettable. Pastor James C. Ward, senior pastor at Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, vividly remembers when he first heard the news of Dr. King’s assassination.
By Deanna Cauthen
years old when Dr. King was killed. She and her late husband, Ronald Gunby, who was then her boyfriend both walked in the three-mile procession from Ebenezer Baptist Church to Morehouse College.
Dr. Collette Gunby
Pastor James C. Ward “I was a Morehouse College student at the time and I was working as a waiter at the Regency Hyatt House. When we got the news, everybody was extremely sad and we all went home,” said Pastor Ward. “It was a devastating time. Folks had lost all hope.” Although Ward believes that there is still more work to be done, in terms of human rights, he said America is a far better place because of Dr. King’s leadership and others who were at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement. “I’ve seen so much change and it’s amazing. I have a granddaughter who has been recruited by every Ivy League school in the country and I have nieces and nephews who have graduated from places like Georgia Tech. We’re doing things that I never thought we would do. Looking back has made me see how far we’ve come and I tell my young people to take advantage of every opportunity,” said Ward, who leads a church that includes a line of great leaders including the Rev. Adam Daniel Williams, maternal grandfather of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. Collette Gunby, senior pastor at Green Pastures Christian Ministries in Decatur, was just 18
“I remember that it was a long walk, but everybody felt blessed and proud to be able to participate. There were the Black Panthers and commoners like us. There were adults and children. From that moment on, we realized that we had something to do. It was our first opportunity to be involved. I felt like it catapulted the youth into action. It was the most exciting time of my life to be able to march down that street,” said Dr. Gunby. Dr. Gunby talked about how desegregation and Dr. King’s work for equity and racial justice impacted her financially and the economics of African-Americans, in general. “[Because of desegregation], one of my first jobs was to work as a telephone operator at Southern Bell. I was working next to white people, was able to use the same bathrooms, and could get approved for credit. I went on to work at Equifax and was making $300 a week. It was phenomenal. It was a huge change,” said Dr. Gunby. “Nobody [I knew] had a professional job. We used to only be maids and the clean-up crew. There were black teachers, but black teachers could only teach black students. [Desegregation] allowed us to get jobs at places that were forbidden. It opened up our world,” shared Dr. Gunby. Dr. Gunby will serve as grand marshal for the DeKalb NAACP’s 16th Annual Dr. Martin King, Jr. Parade, which kicks off from her church at noon. Pastor Eric Lee, Sr., the senior pastor at Springfield Baptist Church in Conyers, was not yet born when Dr. King was assassinated, but he said that the civil rights leader made a powerful impression on his life.
remember our history. We’ve been encouraged to forget. Jewish people can remember their history, but African-Americans are encouraged to be silent”, said Pastor Lee. Dr. Billie Cox, who is pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church in Conyers, was just a child when Dr. King was assassinated, but says she remembers how his death affected her community.
Pastor Eric Lee, Sr. “I attended Morehouse College from 1989-1993. As a student, you can’t help but be impacted by the sacrifices of Dr. King. He had such a powerful imprint on human rights and justice”, said Pastor Lee. “I grew up in his shadow and he had a profound effect on my ministry. Dr. King believed that we’re not just here to make as much money that we want to make, and to get temporal things. We want to make an impact. He called it the ‘Beloved Community,’” continued Pastor Lee. Pastor Lee said he believes that the African-American community has forgotten some of the key ideals of Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement. “There’s been a substitution of self-promotion in place of community development. Even among civil rights leaders, there’s this competition and ambition to be the best. We’ve forgotten why Dr. King did what he did. We don’t think like a people. We think in terms of individualism. There’s an imbalance,” said Pastor Lee. “We must reclaim our history and we can’t be afraid to tell these stories. We need to remember what God has done for us in the past. We haven’t been encouraged to
Dr. Billie Cox “I remember the cries of the adults in my community, the looks of pain and mental anguish on their faces,” said Dr. Cox. She went on to express deep gratitude for the sacrifices that Dr. King and others in the Civil Rights Movement made. “I am grateful that his journey paved the way for many of the opportunities that I have benefited from. I worked in the federal government because Dr. King had a dream of a “ beloved community” that was inclusive and open to all. Because of his dream, doors opened that allowed me to earn my Bachelor, Masters, and Doctoral degrees,” Dr. Cox said. “His journey helps me to stay grounded and committed in my efforts to service the whole community of God. His dream still lives.”
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 5
Ruth Wilson
Rockdale County Clerk of Courts
Tisa Smart-Washington
Rockdale County Tax Commissioner
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Visiting MLK LANDMARKS Walking in the footsteps of Dr. King
F
rom Sweet Auburn to Stone Mountain, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s footsteps to freedom can be found in a number of noteworthy landmarks in the Atlanta area, his hometown. On Common Ground News compiled some of the most significant sites in King’s journey with information capsules about the landmarks:
By Mackenzien N. Morgan
The Sweet Auburn Curb Market is situated in the heart of the Sweet Auburn neighborhood where King grew up. Established in 1924 as a segregated market, the landmark now welcomes a diverse community of business people, creatives and students.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park (450 Auburn Ave. NE, Atlanta) is the final resting place of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King. The park includes several blocks of historic buildings and structures including the Birth Home of Dr. King and the original Ebenezer Baptist Church where MLK, his father and maternal grandfather preached. A few doors down are the historic Fire Station No. 6, a visitor’s center and museum, and several memorial structures. The park’s newest property includes the Prince Hall Masonic Building where King served as president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
Paschal’s Restaurant was opened in 1947 by brothers James and Robert Paschal at 831 West Hunter Street in Atlanta. The historic restaurant on Atlanta’s Westside was a popular venue used by King and other civil rights leaders such as John Lewis (now a Congressman) and activist Jesse Jackson as home base for the movement. Paschal’s became the place for leaders of the Civil Rights Movement to refuel, connect and strategize. Today, Paschal’s has a new location in Atlanta’s Castleberry Hill community at 180 Northside Drive, S.W., Atlanta. The restaurant sremains a mainstay for the city’s movers and shakers.
Nearby is the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Social Change (449 Auburn Ave. NE). The King Center contains artifacts and exhibits on Dr. King and other prominent social activists.
MLK’s alma mater, Morehouse College, is now home to a 13,000-item collection of Dr. King’s books, letters, annotations and personal belongings. MLK’s last home was 234 Sunset Ave. on the Westside of Atlanta. King moved into the modest home with his family in 1965 and lived there until his murder in 1968. The home remains untouched and is still owned by the family. Just a few blocks north of Martin Luther King Jr.’s childhood home, the remains of the David T. Howard School where King attended grades 3 through 6 can be found.
Founded in 1886, South-View Cemetery was the original burial site for MLK and is the final resting place for more than 80,000 African- Americans including King’s parents.
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 7
The phrase “Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia” from Dr. King’s infamous “I Have A Dream” speech refers to the massive natural wonder. The largest bas relief sculpture in the world, the Confederate Memorial Carving, which depicts three Confederate Civil War leaders, is carved into Stone Mountain. The second founding of the white supremacist Ku Klux Klan was established at the site in 1915. An 8-foot-bronze statue pays tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Georgia Capitol. The statue, which was unveiled on Aug. 28, 2017, stands on the northeast corner of the Capitol’s grounds. Atlanta artist Martin Dawe was commissioned in June 2016 to create the statue when the original sculptor, Andy Davis, died after his motorcycle was struck by a pickup truck.
The Center for Civil and Human Rights, 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. NW, Atlanta, uses technology and interactive exhibits to inspire and educate visitors about the civil rights movement. The museum is home to a special Martin Luther King, Jr. gallery, which features original King artifacts, papers and hand-written notes.
SHERRY BOSTON
DEKALB COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY
PAGE 8 • JANUARY 13, 2018
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DeKalb County’s King Tribute Celebration to feature Judge Penny Reynolds, distinguished panel
J
udge Penny Brown Reynolds will be the special guest speaker at DeKalb County government’s Martin Luther King, Jr. 34th Annual celebration, which will be held on Jan. 12, 11:30 a.m., at the Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, in Decatur. Reynolds, founder and executive producer of the “Judge Penny’s SisterTalk: A Women’s Empowerment Conference,” will provide the blueprint for the development of the “Beloved Community” in DeKalb County. Reynolds is a former prosecutor, state assistant attorney general, first African-American chief of staff and legal counsel to Georgia’s lieutenant governor, and first African-American executive counsel for a Georgia governor. “Dr. King’s revolutionary message that envisioned a Beloved Community based on justice, equal opportunity, and love of all human beings is the cornerstone of our 2018 MLK celebration,” DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond said. “This event will recognize and celebrate DeKalb’s diverse populations, cultures and unique perspectives.” WSB-TV anchor and reporter Sophia Choi will moderate a distinguished panel of community leaders who will discuss diversity and cooperation at the celebration. The program, “Together We Win: A Conversation on Cultural Diversity in DeKalb,” will feature: • Samia Abdulle, a community organizer and dialogue facilitator. Her work has focused on building and strengthening relationships with diverse communities throughout DeKalb County including the city of Clarkston, where more than 100 languages are spoken and 50 percent of the residents are foreign-born. She currently serves as the North American coordinator for Numbi Arts and sits on the DeKalb County School District Advisory Council and the boards for Children’s Interfaith Movement and Joe Beasley Foundation. • Victoria Chacón, the publisher of La Visión Newspaper, one of the largest print community publications owned and managed by a Latino in Georgia. Published for nearly 20 years, La Visión Newspaper is distributed on Fridays at 1,500 distribution points, and the print version reaches more than 35,000 readers every week. • Charlene Fang, a founding member of the Taiwanese American Women’s Club and the Chamblee Chamber of Commerce. A native of Taiwan, Fang immigrated to the United States in 1990. She is the vice president of the North Decatur Lions Club and currently serves on the boards of the Interfaith Outreach Home, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Atlanta Citizens Academy and the DeKalb Board of Assessors. • Ahmed Hassan, became the first former refugee and new immigrant to take elective office in the city of Clarkston. During his term, more than 35 new ordinances and 74 new resolutions have been passed including the institution of fair hiring practices, setting the minimum wage at $15 an hour and the adoption of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement non-detainer policy. The program also will pay tribute to Robert and Barbara Blazer, owners of Your DeKalb Farmer’s Market. The couple will be honored with the inaugural Nathaniel Mosby Humanitarian Award for embracing DeKalb County’s unique cultural differences. The Blazers have grown the farmer’s market into a global icon. The award the couple will receive is named for the second African American to the DeKalb County Commission. The late “Nate” Mosby was also chairman of the DeKalb Community Relations Commission, and served as the DeKalb community representative on the Atlanta Regional Commission. Mosby was employed as one of the first African-American managers of the Federal Aviation Administration.
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 9
WE HONOR DR. KING
“
An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualisitic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.
“
- DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
Commissioner Gregory Adams Sr. Dekalb Super district 7
Celebrating a Trailblazer “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable… Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.”
- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
George Levett
Rockdale County Coroner
Honorable Phinia Aten Rockdale Chief Magistrate Judge Rockdale’s First Black Female Judge
“Everyone can be great Because anyone can serve.” -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
kenley’s catering and restaurant 75 piedmont ave, atlanta ga • 404-217-2455
I encourage my constituents to participate where they can to help DeKalb County be all it can be. Please contact my office to learn more about opportunities to serve DeKalb County.
Commissioner Steve Bradshaw Humble beginnings carried him on a global journey. Thank you for creating a table where we all have a seat. I am the Dream...
Sheriff Eric J. Levett
DeKalb County Board of Commissioners District 4 Phone: 404-371-4749 email:srbradshaw@dekalbcountyga.gov
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Rockdale is ready for historic MLK celebration
Josie Dean is bursting with excitement over Rockdale County’s tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A parade is planned, followed by a program at the Rockdale Auditorium, where several community leaders will be honored. But it’s not just a parade. This one is going down Main Street in Olde Town Conyers. The event will mark the first time in Rockdale’s 148-year history that a King parade has been held on Main Street, said Dean, who worked with county leaders and the city of Conyers to coordinate the historic celebration. “We’ve gotten the blessings of the Rockdale Board of Commissioners
and the city of Conyers. We are excited that the day has finally come,” said Dean, executive director of the Rockdale Think Tank, a nonpartisan group that meets monthly to discuss issues relevant to the community. Dean said the parade line-up begins at 10 a.m. at Rockdale High School and kicks off at noon. Congressman Hank Johnson, former Conyers Mayor Randy Mills and newly-installed Mayor Vince Evans will serve as grand marshals. Dean said she’s received a great deal of support from businesses and others who wanted to help make the celebration a success.
“God has been good. We have people who have helped us to get the floats for the parade and put the program together,” said Dean. “We want the community to come out in great numbers.” The parade will have the same route as the Rockdale County Christmas Parade, from Rockdale High School through Ole Town Conyers, ending at the courthouse with a full program in the Rockdale Auditorium. Dean made history in 2017 when she organized the MLK parade in Rockdale. That event was held outside the county’s annex at 1400 Parker Road.
Josie Dean
MLK Annual Ecumenical Commemorative Service, Jan. 15 The Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Ecumenical Commemorative Service, the spiritual hallmark of the King Holiday Observance, will be held 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., at Ebenezer Baptist Church, Horizon Sanctuary, 101 Jackson St., Atlanta. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Bernice A. King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and CEO of The King Center. The program includes international greetings brought by Pastor David Yonggi Cho,Yoido Full Gospel Church - Assemblies of God, South Korea;and Dr. Deborah A. Bartlett, journalist and author (Nassau, Bahamas). Greetings also will be brought by Casey Cagle Lieutenant Governor, and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Tributes: Bree Newsome, film maker, activist and musician; and Javier Palomarez, President and CEO of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; the Rev. Robert Wright Lee, descendant of Robert E. Lee; and Ginger Howard, Georgia Republic National Committeewoman. There will be performances by Angelica Hale, “America’s Got Talent” contestant; Frederic Yonnet, producer and recording artist; Ayanna Gregory, songstress, educator and activist; Dottie Peoples, gospel vocalist, songwriter and producer; Dr. Earnest Pugh, singer and songwriter; and the Korean Christian Children’s Choir. The event is open to the public. Seating is limited.
Roll up your sleeves and serve The Global Love for Humanity: 50 Acts of Service or Kindness worldwide campaign will launch on the MLK National Holiday and conclude on April 4. Organizers say participants will commit to completing 50 acts of kindness or service during the campaign time period. These acts or service can be done individually or in conjunction with major civic organizations. Partners for the King Holiday Observance include: State Senator Emanuel Jones, who serves on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Advisory Council; Judy Forte, superintendent of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic National Park Service; and Jamida Orange,MLK March Committee. For more information, contact Barbara Harrison at 404-526-8900 or email bharrison@thekingcenter.org
Hands on Atlanta prepares to serve on the MLK Holiday Hands on Atlanta will offer many opportunities for volunteers to make a difference through various service projects on the King Holiday. In partnership with the King Center, the organization will mobilize 1,500 volunteers at 25 projects throughout metro Atlanta to unite in service. There will be a diverse range of projects for participants including school and park beautification, meal kit packing and working in homeless shelters, putting together literacy and calming kits, planting trees, spending time with seniors, and more. To view all of the MLK volunteer opportunities: visit www. handsonatlanta.org/mlk.
Beloved Community Talks: Let’s Bridge the Racial Divide Across Urban, Suburban and Rural America
“I am convinced that men hate each other because they don’t know each other, and they don’t know each other because they don’t communicate with each other, and they don’t communicate with each other because they are separated from each other.” —MLK address to Cornell College 1962
Pastor and author John Gray will moderate the “2018 Beloved Community Talks.” The panel discussion, “Let’s Bridge the Racial Divide Across Urban, Suburban and Rural America,” takes place on Jan. 15, 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Yolanda D. King Theatre For The Performing Arts. In keeping with the Dr. King’s assertion that people are divided because we are disconnected, The King Center launched The Beloved Community Talks, a two-year campaign during the 2017 King Holiday. The talks were designed to bridge the racial divide in America by providing a platform for candid conversations to address the pains and unrest of racism rooted in a historical context. The national campaign brings together people from different ideological, cultural, socioeconomic and geographical backgrounds to heal the racial divide. Confirmed panelists include: Pastor Mike Hayes, Founder of Covenant Church; Dr. Raphael Warnock, Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church; Rev. Robert E. Lee, Descendant of Confederate General Robert E. Lee; Daryl Davis, Musician, author, lecturer, actor and race relations expert; Scott Shepherd, former Grand Wizard, KKK; Bishop Harry Jackson, Pastor of Hope Christian Church. The panel discussion will take place before a live audience and will be streamed via Facebook.
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 11
King’s most remembered pearls of wisdom
T
imeless wisdom from the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther, King, Jr. American Civil Rights leader and Atlanta’s native son, Martin Luther King Jr., was just 39 years old when he was gunned down on April 4, 1968 while standing on his balcony at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee just one day after delivering the iconic ‘I’ve Been to the Mountaintop’ speech and King’s final address. Notorious for his captivating speeches, King’s speeches were bold, fiery and well thought. Known to be meticulous in his speechwriting process, King often scribbled several revisions of his speeches on notebooks, napkins and even newsprint. Here are some of King’s most remembered pearls of wisdom: 1: Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles. Cowardice is submissive surrender to circumstances. Courage breeds creativity; Cowardice represses fear and is mastered by it. Cowardice asks the question, is it safe? Expediency ask the question, is it politic? Vanity asks the question, is it popular? But, conscience ask the question, is it right? And there comes a time when we must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but one must take it because it is right.” 2: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” 3: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” 4: “If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run, then walk, if you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” 5: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” 6: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: Only love can do that.” 7: “I have decided to stick to love...Hate is too great a burden to bear.” 8: “Everybody can be great ... because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree
to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” 9: The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands
in moments of comfort and searching forget that the surest way convenience, but where he stands at to be happy is to seek happiness for times of challenge and controversy.” others.” 10: “Those who are not looking for happiness are the most likely to find it, because those who are
11: “Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children.”
“We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
jason lary stonecrest Mayor
stonecrestga.gov
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JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 5
Decatur Active Living launches new programs for 2018 Decatur Active Living is offering new and revised adult programs for 2018. In January, Walk Fit Decatur!, Trips for Seniors and our newly revised Lunch and Learn program launch. Walk Fit Decatur! will meet the second Saturday of each month in front of the Decatur Recreation Center for a 2.5 to 3-mile walk. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle. Each walk is co-led by a Decatur professional who will discuss various topics with the group. Our first Trip for Seniors will be Tuesday, Jan. 16. The group will tour The King Center to celebrate MLK Day then visit the Sweet Auburn Market for a tasty treat. Trip size is limited to the first 14 people who register with Sara Holmes at sara.holmes@decaturga.com or 678-553-6559. The Lunch and Learn program has been revised for 2018 and will include lunch provided by Decatur Active Living. The group will meet Friday, Jan. 26, at 11:30 a.m. Each participant must register and pay a $5 fee. Lunch will only be provided for those who register. For more information and to read about all the new activities planned for 2018, visit www.decaturga.com/activeliving or beactivedecatur.com.
Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary presents a proclamation to Flat Rock’s new pastor, Charles Bennafield, at the installation celebration. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Pastor Charles Bennafield takes helm of historic Flat Rock Community Church Pastor Charles Bennafield was installed on Jan. 6 to lead the historic Flat Rock Community Church, located in the new city of Stonecrest. The installation officially merged two churches in which Bennafield has been involved over the last 15 years: Crossroads Christian Community Church, which he launched in 1998, and Flat Rock Community Church, where he served 6 years before the launch. Congressman Hank Johnson, Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary and Stonecrest Councilmembers Diane Adoma and George Turner, who all live in the city where Flat Rock is located, were among the dignitaries who celebrated the occasion with family and friends of Flat Rock.
Congressman Johnson likened the church’s new leadership to the season of spring, saying “A new crop is coming up.” Mayor Lary brought greetings on behalf of the city and Union Missionary Baptist Church, where he is a deacon, and presented Bennafield with a proclamation. Flat Rock Community Church’s roots date back to 1860, when it was founded by former slaves after the Civil War. Both actor/comedian Chris Tucker, and former NFL quarterback Warren Moon’s family roots can be traced back to the Flat Rock community. To watch a portion of celebration, go to www.ocgnews.com.
Rep. Hank Johnson secures leadership post on IP subcommittee Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) has been elected by his peers to lead the Judiciary Subcommittee – Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet. The subcommittee has jurisdiction over administration of U.S. Courts, federal rules of evidence, civil and appellate procedure, judicial ethics, patent, copyright and trademark law, information technology and the Internet. A former judge and criminal defense attorney, Johnson has served on Judiciary since 2007, championing civil liberties, consumer protections and workers’ rights. Congressman “I am honored to be named the top Democrat on Hank Johnson the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet,” Johnson said. “At a time when the Trump Administration is trying to kill Net Neutrality, I am eager to take on the challenge of ensuring that the Internet remains open to all content regardless of source. Content must be available without discrimination and accessible to all. “I also look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as we examine how to improve our nation’s copyright and patent laws. Intellectual property industries create millions of jobs and affect virtually every segment of the U.S. economy. Georgia is home to a burgeoning tech and creative sector. As we work to modernize and streamline our patent and trademark laws and the administration of the U.S. Court system, I look forward to helping Georgia’s and the nation’s businesses grow while at the same time working to protect the rights of creators, artists and inventors.”
Applications for DeKalb Mobile Farmers Market stops now open DeKalb County Cooperative Extension is calling for applications for Fresh on DeK, the DeKalb Mobile Farmers Market, stops for 2018. The deadline to apply is Thursday, Feb. 1. Launched in May 2015, the mobile market has raised awareness about the importance of fruit and vegetable consumption for healthy living by providing fresh, affordable produce and food demonstrations to county residents. Communities, businesses or organizations can apply to be a Fresh on DeK stop. The proposed location must be able to provide a liaison to organize the site. The site must also have a street-level parking area that is highly visible, large enough to safely park a 60-foot bus and easy for customers to access and park without hazard. The market visits areas around the county each week, beginning in the spring and running 16 weeks. To apply to be a Fresh on DeK stop, visit www.freshondek.com and click “2018 Season Application.” For information regarding the application process or other Extension programs, contact DeKalb County Extension at 404-298-4080, freshondek@dekalbcountyga.gov or visit www.freshondek.com.
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Friends of Stonecrest to host meet-and-greet The Friends of Stonecrest Library will host a meet-and-greet and membership drive on Monday, Jan. 22, 6 to 8 p.m., at Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road. Come learn about the group’s initiatives and meet its officers. The Friends provide support and funding for library activities. Light refreshments will be provided at the meeting.
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CLOSING, continued from page 1 accepting new memberships the week of the national shutdowns, the employee said Sam’s Club did not tell employees in advance about its decision to close the stores. “We didn’t try to deceive anyone (by taking the memberships). They didn’t even tell us,” the woman said, adding that the memberships can still be used at any location and online. She said she did not know if Sam’s Club planned to refund money to those who did not wish to shop at another location. A manager at the store referred inquiries to corporate headquarters. On Common Ground News could not reach anyone at the number provided, however. DeKalb County Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, whose Commission District 5 includes the Stonecrest, said she learned of the closing on the morning that it made the news. She said out of courtesy, store officials should have notified elected officials. “The community has been patronizing that store since 2003. It just makes sense that they
could have given some type of notification,” Johnson said. The Stonecrest store is the only Sam’s Club in Georgia that is closing, according businessinsider. com. The 133,000-square-foot store opened on Aug. 7, 2003 as the 13th location in the Atlanta area. About 200 workers were hired, Richard Leaphart, who was the general store manager, said at the time. Lary said it’s hard to imagine that the Stonecrest store was underperforming as he witnessed a steady stream of vehicles passing by during his press conference. A security guard stood out in the rain telling stunned customers the store was no longer open and redirecting them to the Sam’s Club at 1940 Mountain Industrial Blvd. in Tucker, about 16 miles away. Sarah Anderson, a customer who drove from Stone Mountain, said that she shopped at the Stonecrest location weekly, and was shocked by the closing. “I didn’t know they were closing. This was my store of choice—I love this store,” Anderson said.
Mayor Lary speaks with Sarah Anderson about the store closing. Photo by Travis Hudgons/OCGNews
The Stonecrest Sam’s Club closing comes on the heels of other stores in South DeKalb closing including Kroger at 965 N. Hairston Road, Stone Mountain (closed Oct. 13, 2017); Publix, 2075 S. Hairston Road, Decatur (closing March 3, 2018); and Walmart supermarket, 6152 Covington Highway (closing Jan. 30, 2018).
Jones said elected officials have been invited to attend the Town Hall meeting at the Stonecrest Library. For more information, contact State Rep. Vernon Jones at 404-656-0287 or email friendsofvernonjones@gmail.com. Staff members Travis Hudgons and Glenn L. Morgan contributed to this report.
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber accepting applicants for 2018 Entrepreneurial Academy
The Conyers-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 2018 Entrepreneurial Academy. Starting on Monday, Feb. 12, the seven-week program offers individuals the essentials on starting and running a successful business. “The entrepreneurial program is a course designed with the small business owner in mind. If you have dreams of starting your own business or are already an established business owner seeking to expand, 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, loan options, marketing, social media, insurance and human resources. Workshops vary from panel discussions to lectures and 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 also have the opportunity to network with other like-minded individuals who hope to establish or expand a small business.” The academy, which graduated 55 participants in 2017, draws participants from College Park, Decatur, Lithonia, Stone Mountain, Covington, Forest Park, Stockbridge and McDonough. A recent 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 seven weeks at the Conyers-Rockdale 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. After graduation from the academy, Williams launched the Green Hygiene Company, LLC. The mail order business in Decatur offers environmentally-safe cleaning products for both the corporate and household level. The cost for the program is $175. Attendees who register by Feb. 1 will receive a $50 discount. The fee includes snacks for every session and a graduation dinner. After completing the Entrepreneurial Academy and starting your small business, participants will receive Continuing Education credits (CEUs) and a certificate of completion from Georgia Piedmont Technical College. Classes will be held from 6 – 9 p.m. Students are encouraged to arrive no later than 6 p.m. to network and to make sure they are fully prepared for each session, which starts promptly at 6:30 p.m. The course is open to the public and entrepreneurial experience is not necessary to apply. For more information or to register, visit www.conyers-rockdale.com or call 770-4837049. Paid Advertorial
Rockdale Planning & Development to host comprehensive plan open house Rockdale County Department of Planning and Development, with the Atlanta Regional Commission, will hold an open house event to kick off the County’s Comprehensive Plan for the next 20 years. The Rockdale 2040 Plan first Open House will be held Jan. 25, 4 p.m.-7 p.m., in the Rockdale County Government Annex Building, 1400 Parker Road SE, Conyers. The public is invited to attend anytime during the hours of the open house, as there will be multiple sessions to give feedback on the economic and infrastructure development for Rockdale County. During the open house, the
Planning and Development Department will provide posters, maps, and comment cards requesting detailed input from citizens on several topics, including economic development, social issues, land use, housing and more. Citizen input will aid the County
in outlining goals, enhancing coordination, and planning for future growth and progress in these areas. The County has also posted a survey, at http://bit.ly/2CTL7Lm. All citizens are encouraged to take the survey to participate in the
Comprehensive Plan Process. The Comprehensive Plan will be the guiding document used as the community’s vision for development. To shape that vision input is needed from all sectors of the community. There are multiple opportunities for citizens to be involved in the process. The timeline for the plan is nine months, culminating with the Board of Commissioners adoption in the fall of 2018. For more information: Contact Kellie Littlefield, County Planner, at 770-278-7140 or e-mail: kellie. littlefield@rockdalecountyga.gov.
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JANUARY 13, 2018 • PAGE 7
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900 N. Hairston Rd. Suite B Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-294-8500 Spalding Gentle Dentistry 6460 Spalding Drive Norcross, GA 30092 770-849-0006
JANUARY 13, 2018 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM